{"database": "press", "table": "releases", "is_view": false, "human_description_en": "where chamber = \"House\", party = \"Democrat\" and year = 2026 sorted by date descending", "rows": [["http://houlahan.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=5228", "Rep. Houlahan Boards USS Lincoln at Sea, Finds Service Members Endured Grueling Deployment for Trump and Hegseth\u2019s Unjustified Iran War", "2026-09-29", "2026", "2026-09", "Democrat", "House", "PA", "Chrissy Houlahan", "H001085", "houlahan.house.gov", "houlahan", "https://houlahan.house.gov/news/rss.aspx", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Representative Chrissy Houlahan (PA-06) joined a bipartisan Congressional embark led by Acting Secretary of the Navy Hung Cao to visit the sailors of the USS Lincoln as they traveled home from the Middle East to the ship\u2019s San Diego base.\n\nSailors on this deployment spent a record-breaking 321 days at sea, and 200 of those days without a single stop at a port of call. The original deployment was supposed to be to be for six months, with port calls roughly once a month. Rep. Houlahan, the lead Democrat on the House Military Personnel Subcommittee, sought answers about conditions on the USS Lincoln following reports of a grueling tempo of operations, inadequate food and showers, and far more suicide attempts than experienced in similar deployments.\n\n\u201cFirst and foremost, we have remarkable, talented, and resilient men and women in service of this country,\u201d said Rep. Houlahan. \u201cI had the opportunity to meet with support services, officers, and enlisted service members \u2013 including some who are my constituents from PA-06. I learned what went right and what went wrong. For the sake of our troops\u2019 safety and security, many of the lessons, personnel details, and adjustments to be made cannot be shared publicly.\u201d\n\n\u201cI will say this: no servicemember should ever feel like they have been denied decent treatment. Ever. And not one family member back home should have to worry that their loved one is not being treated well,\u201d Rep. Houlahan continued. \u201cBut the real problem here goes beyond the USS Lincoln and beyond the stressors our troops face in times of war. The problem is the war itself.\u201d\n\n\u201cPresident Trump and Secretary Hegseth have waged war with Iran for over seven months, despite neither the American public nor Congress approving it. If we ask our servicemembers to endure conditions like those on the USS Lincoln, we must be absolutely sure that their sacrifices are necessary and justified,\u201d Rep. Houlahan concluded. \u201cThis Administration\u2019s failure to prove that is an insult to the sailors I met this weekend, and to all of our brave men and women in uniform.\u201d\n\nRead Rep. Houlahan\u2019s full reflection on her USS Lincoln visit here.", 1, "2026-09-30T10:57:52Z", "2026-09-30T10:59:04Z"], ["https://bell.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-bell-helps-bring-billion-dollar-navy-fighter-contract-st-louis", "Congressman Bell Helps Bring Billion-Dollar Navy Fighter Contract to St. Louis", "2026-09-29", "2026", "2026-09", "Democrat", "House", "MO", "Wesley Bell", "B001324", "bell.house.gov", "bell", "https://bell.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Today, St. Louis-based Boeing Defense, Space & Security (BDS) announced the company's successful bid for the U.S. Navy's next-generation carrier fighter that will replace the F/A-18E/F Super Hornet\n\nIn total, the contract is worth billions and is expected to bring new, high-paying jobs for St. Louis-area workers and suppliers\n\nAs a member of the House Armed Services Committee, Rep. Bell has worked to support St. Louis's defense industry and the workers who power it\n\nSt. Louis, Missouri \u2013 Today, Congressman Wesley Bell (D-MO-01) issued the following statement on the St. Louis-based Boeing Defense, Space & Security (BDS) winning the bid for the Navy's next-generation stealth fighter.\n\nThe contract is estimated to be worth billions and will bring jobs to the St. Louis region and help spur economic growth.\n\n\"For decades, St. Louis has been a cornerstone of America\u2019s aerospace and defense industrial base, helping build the aircraft and advanced capabilities that keep our nation and allies safe. Throughout that time, Boeing Defense, Space & Security has been at the front lines of innovation, powered by the proud and dedicated machinists, engineers, and skilled tradespeople who call this region home.\n\nThis win underscores that unwavering commitment to our national security and reflects the unparalleled skill that local machinists bring to crafting every aircraft.\n\nAs a member of the House Armed Services Committee, I know how vital it is that our Navy has the most capable aircraft in the world, and this contract moves us one step closer to putting that capability in the hands of our naval aviators.\n\nThis award is a proud moment for our entire region, and I'll keep fighting to make sure St. Louis remains at the center of America's national security, defense, and aerospace. That means making sure this investment delivers for our families, and that the people doing the work have the training, wages, and protections they deserve.\"\n\n###", 1, "2026-09-30T10:57:52Z", "2026-09-30T10:59:04Z"], ["https://case.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=4982", "Case Seeks Applicants For Appointments To Our Nation's Service Academies For The 2027 Incoming Class", "2026-09-29", "2026", "2026-09", "Democrat", "House", "HI", "Ed Case", "C001055", "case.house.gov", "case", "https://case.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27&Page=1", "scraper", "(Washington, DC) -- U.S. Representative Ed Case (HI-01) is seeking qualified applicants for his Congressional nomination to our nation\u2019s four service academies: the U.S. Military Academy (West Point/Army); U.S. Naval Academy(Annapolis/Navy); U.S. Air Force Academy (Colorado Springs/Air Force) and U.S. Merchant Marine Academy (Kings Point/Merchant Marines).\n\n\u201cOne of my favorite and most serious duties as a member of the U.S. Congress is nominating Hawaii\u2019s best and brightest young men and women to our nation\u2019s service academies,\u201d said Case.\n\n\u201cI have had the privilege for over ten years now of nominating many candidates to our service academies, many of whom are in service or now attending.\n\n\u201cI\u2019m again honored to do my part to ensure that Hawai\u02bbi continues our long tradition of contributing to the next generation of America\u2019s outstanding military leaders.\u201d\n\nA Congressional nomination is the exclusive avenue for appointment to our nation\u2019s service academies for most applicants. A nomination does not guarantee an appointment, but it is a requirement for final consideration for the U.S. Military Academy, U.S. Naval Academy, U.S. Air Force Academy and the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy. Successful applicants must have high moral character, a strong academic record and a motivation to dutifully serve our nation.\n\nFully completed applications must be postmarked or received by the District office for Congressman Case at 1003 Bishop Street, Suite #1110, Honolulu, Hawaii 96813 no later than October 9, 2026.\n\nPlease also visit the military academy nomination webpage at https://case.house.gov/services/service-academy-nominations.htm.\u201d\n\nCase continued: \u201cAdditionally, please note that I can only consider applicants who are legal residents of the First Congressional District which I represent (Honolulu from Makapu\u2018u through Downtown and Pearl City up to Mililani and then through Waipahu and \u2018Ewa Beach to Kapolei). My office can assist in verifying this requirement, but you can check yourself by entering your home address here: https://www.house.gov/representatives/find-your-representative.\n\n\u201cI encourage and invite students and school officials assisting candidates with their applications to mail in application packets to my Honolulu Office or submit applications electronically in a Portable Document Format (.pdf) to HI01.Academy@mail.house.gov. Should you have any questions, please contact Kekoa Kaluhiwa in my Honolulu office at (808) 650-6688.\u201d\n\n###", 1, "2026-09-30T10:57:52Z", "2026-09-30T10:59:04Z"], ["https://clarke.house.gov/clarke-issues-statement-on-the-passing-of-calypso-icon-slinger-mighty-sparrow-francisco/", "CLARKE ISSUES STATEMENT ON THE PASSING OF CALYPSO ICON, SLINGER \u201cMIGHTY SPARROW\u201d FRANCISCO", "2026-09-29", "2026", "2026-09", "Democrat", "House", "NY", "Yvette D. Clarke", "C001067", "clarke.house.gov", "clarke", "https://clarke.house.gov/category/press-release/", "scraper", "FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:\n\nSeptember 29, 2026\n\nMEDIA CONTACT:\n\ne: jessica.myers@mail.house.gov\n\nc: 202.913.0126\n\nBROOKLYN, N.Y. \u2014 Congresswoman Yvette D. Clarke (NY-09) issued the following statement on the passing of singer, composer, and calypso icon, Slinger \u201cMighty Sparrow\u201d Francisco:\n\n\u201cOn behalf of the people of the 9th District of New York, the Clarke family, and myself, I wish to extend my heartfelt condolences to the many loved ones and countless fellow fans of the internationally renowned Mr. Slinger Francisco, the Mighty Sparrow, as we grieve this peerless icon\u2019s transition to paradise. Though he was born in Grenada and raised in Trinidad and Tobago, the Mighty Sparrow\u2019s talent was so substantial and his art so impactful, it could not be confined to the nations of the Caribbean, but instead came to be beloved across the globe. Indeed, the \u201cCalypso King of the World\u201d earned his crown through his remarkable talent, generous spirit, and unrelenting commitment to his craft. I have no doubt that incomparable legacy will persist long past the loss of our Legend. We will remember the Mighty Sparrow as a consummate entertainer, celebrate him as a cultural institution, and honor him as the trailblazer, charitable soul, and innovator he was. And, though our sorrow is great, may we find comfort in knowing that tonight, the Kingdom of Heaven will ring alive with sweet steel melodies and the songs and sounds of our people.\u201d\n\n\u201cWell done, thou good and faithful servant; enter thou into the joy of thy Lord.\u201d \u2013 Matthew 25:23", 1, "2026-09-30T10:57:52Z", "2026-09-30T10:59:04Z"], ["https://crow.house.gov/media/press-releases/crow-earns-perfect-score-on-stop-corruption-now-congressional-scorecard", "Crow Earns Perfect Score on Stop Corruption Now Congressional Scorecard", "2026-09-29", "2026", "2026-09", "Democrat", "House", "CO", "Jason Crow", "C001121", "crow.house.gov", "crow", "https://crow.house.gov/news", "scraper", "AURORA \u2014 Congressman Jason Crow (D-CO), co-chair of the End Corruption Caucus, earned a perfect 10/10 score from anti-corruption, pro-democracy group Democracy Defenders Action on their Stop Corruption Now Congressional Scorecard. The legislative score reflects Crow\u2019s work to end corruption, defend the rule of law, and protect free and fair elections.\n\n\u201cDonald Trump has turned our government into a racket to enrich himself, his family, and his billionaire donors. Their corruption isn\u2019t just an abstract concept. It\u2019s stealing from taxpayers, making things more expensive, and costing the American people every day,\u201d said Congressman Crow. \u201cColoradans deserve leaders focused on making life easier for working people, not catering to special interests, the elite, or wealthy. I\u2019m fighting to take on a broken system in Washington, clean up corruption, and make government work better.\u201d\n\nCrow has also received an A+ from good governance group End Citizens United for his work to root out corruption in politics, the only member of Colorado\u2019s House delegation to receive the grade.\n\nThroughout his time in Congress, Crow has stood up to special interests and has not taken a dime of corporate PAC money. He is an original cosponsor of the TRUST in Congress Act to ban members of Congress and their families from owning or trading stocks and has led the call to ban members of Congress and their staff from insider trading on prediction markets. Crow is leading the fight to root out corruption in our elections, including through his End Dark Money Act and SHINE Act to crack down on dark money\u2019s influence on U.S. elections.\n\nCrow is also leading the charge against this Administration's corruption. He\u2019s demanding answers about potential corruption and favoritism with federal contracts benefiting the Trump family; uncovering conflicts of interest at the Pentagon stemming from Pete Hegseth\u2019s special adviser Tim Parlatore; and is leading a slate of historic pro-democracy reforms aimed at preventing presidential abuses of power, rooting out corruption, strengthening checks and balances, and protecting American elections against foreign influence.", 1, "2026-09-30T10:57:52Z", "2026-09-30T10:59:04Z"], ["https://debbiedingell.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=7428", "Dingell, Colleagues Introduce Bipartisan, Bicameral Legislation to Bolster Great Lakes Conservation Efforts", "2026-09-29", "2026", "2026-09", "Democrat", "House", "MI", "Debbie Dingell", "D000624", "debbiedingell.house.gov", "debbiedingell", "https://debbiedingell.house.gov/media-center/press-releases", "scraper", "U.S. Representatives Debbie Dingell (D-MI-06), Tim Walberg (R-MI-05), Marcy Kaptur (D-OH-09), Bill Huizenga (R-MI-04), David Joyce (R-OH-14), Haley Stevens (D-MI-11), Tom Barrett (R-MI-07), and Hillary Scholten (D-MI-03) introduced the Regional Great Lakes Partnership Act, a bipartisan, bicameral bill to bolster federal support for Great Lakes research and conservation. This legislation designates the Great Lakes Commission (GLC) as the official Regional Great Lakes Partnership within the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration\u2019s (NOAA) Regional Ocean Partnerships Program.\n\nThis designation ensures that the Great Lakes region receives a fair share of program funding, delivering federal resources to support the GLC\u2019s longstanding work to coordinate Great Lakes research and conservation efforts.\n\n\"The Great Lakes and their connected waterways are invaluable resources for Michigan and the United States,\" said Congresswoman Dingell. \"As a co-chair of the Congressional Great Lakes Task Force, I am proud to help introduce this bipartisan bill to strengthen federal support for Great Lakes research and conservation for future generations to enjoy these national treasures.\"\n\n\"As the largest freshwater system in the world, the Great Lakes are central to Michigan\u2019s economy, identity, and long\u2011term prosperity,\u201d said Congressman Walberg. \"The bipartisan Regional Great Lakes Partnership Act ensures the region receives its fair share of federal support, strengthening the research and conservation work needed to protect this indispensable resource. We must equip our partners with the tools necessary to safeguard the waters and communities that rely on a healthy Great Lakes ecosystem.\"\n\n\"As a Co-Chair of the bipartisan Congressional Great Lakes Task Force, I helped introduce this legislation to close a gap in a national program that benefits only coastal ocean states. The bill continues our work together to ensure the Federal Government levels the playing field to commit equivalent, well\u2011deserved resources to our Great Lakes region,\" said Congresswoman Kaptur. \"The Great Lakes are central and essential to Northwest Ohio\u2019s livelihood and economic wellbeing, and enabling the Great Lakes Commission to participate in this NOAA program will strengthen data sharing, enhance information access, and improve management of our coastal and ecosystem resources. In Lake Erie\u2019s Western Basin, home to the shallowest and southernmost shoreline in the Great Lakes system, we face these challenges in real ways and will continue to lead in advancing research and information exchange for the benefit of our entire region.\"\n\n\"As Co-Chair of the bipartisan Congressional Great Lakes Task Force, I have made it my mission to have the federal government recognize the Great Lakes as a national priority,\" said Congressman Huizenga. \"The Regional Great Lakes Partnership Act furthers this objective by enhancing the Great Lakes Commission\u2019s steadfast work to protect and conserve Michigan\u2019s most valuable natural resource.\"\n\n\"The Great Lakes are a critical resource for the economies and communities that surround them,\" said Congressman Joyce. \"As Co-Chair of the Congressional Great Lakes Task Force, I am proud to be an original co-sponsor of this bipartisan legislation, which will strengthen federal partnerships and expand funding opportunities to advance the research, coordination, and conservation efforts needed to protect the Great Lakes \u2014 ensuring they remain a resource our communities can rely on for generations to come.\"\n\n\"Michigan is the Great Lakes state, period. Jobs, recreation, and tourism across the Midwest depend on a healthy and flourishing Great Lakes ecosystem,\" said Congresswoman Stevens. \"I\u2019m proud to work alongside my colleagues of both parties to ensure that Michigan receives our fair share of federal investment that will protect and preserve our Lakes for generations to come.\"\n\n\"Protecting the Great Lakes means protecting our water, wildlife, and communities throughout the region,\" said Congressman Barrett. \"This bipartisan legislation will help bring federal resources to the table and strengthen the partnerships already working to preserve our state's natural resources. I\u2019m proud to work with colleagues from across the region to ensure our Great Lakes remain healthy for generations to come.\"\n\n\"As the largest freshwater system in the world, the Great Lakes are one of Michigan\u2019s greatest assets,\" said Congresswoman Scholten. \"I\u2019m proud to join my colleagues on both sides of the aisle in supporting the Regional Great Lakes Partnership Act. This commonsense bill will strengthen the research and coordination that keeps the Great Lakes region healthy. Investing in our Great Lakes is investing in our future, and it\u2019s crucial that we conserve this resource for the next generation.\"\n\n\"The Great Lakes Commission is grateful to Rep. Walberg for introducing this important legislation to designate the GLC as a regional partnership for the Great Lakes,\" said GLC Chair Timothy Bruno, \u201cGreat Lakes Program Coordinator at the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection. \"This designation will allow the agency to build on its more than 70 years of regional leadership \u2014 fostering dialogue, building consensus, and advancing coordinated solutions to the Great Lakes\u2019 most pressing challenges \u2014 to ensure the Great Lakes region continues to speak with a strong, unified voice. We look forward to working with our partners to realize the full benefits of this program for the region.\"\n\nThe Great Lakes Commission (GLC) brings together eight U.S. states and two Canadian provinces to protect the Great Lakes and promote economic growth in the Great Lakes basin. The GLC is composed of the States of Illinois, Indiana, Michigan, Minnesota, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, and Wisconsin.\n\nNOAA\u2019s Regional Ocean Partnerships (ROPs) coordinate interstate ocean and coastal resource management efforts and create opportunities for increased efficiency and cost-effectiveness. Although NOAA administers four Regional Ocean Partnerships (ROPs) across the Northeast, Mid\u2011Atlantic, Gulf, and West Coast, the Great Lakes currently lack an ROP. Designating the GLC as the region\u2019s ROP will ensure the Great Lakes region receives its fair share of program funding.\n\nCompanion legislation, introduced in the Senate by U.S. Senators Gary Peters (D-MI) and Bernie Moreno (R-OH), has been advanced by the Senate Commerce, Science, and Transportation Committee.", 1, "2026-09-30T10:57:52Z", "2026-09-30T10:59:04Z"], ["https://deluzio.house.gov/media/press-releases/deluzio-announces-october-town-hall-tour-across-western-pennsylvania", "Deluzio Announces October Town Hall Tour Across Western Pennsylvania", "2026-09-29", "2026", "2026-09", "Democrat", "House", "PA", "Christopher R. Deluzio", "D000530", "deluzio.house.gov", "deluzio", "https://deluzio.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "CARNEGIE, PA \u2013 Today, Congressman Chris Deluzio (PA-17) announced his upcoming three-part October Town Hall Tour across Pennsylvania\u2019s 17th Congressional District. These events are a chance for residents from Pennsylvania\u2019s 17th Congressional District to share their opinions with Congressman Deluzio and hear directly from their elected voice in the U.S. House of Representatives. Congressman Deluzio regularly participates in open-question town hall events, with more than twenty such events during the current congressional session alone (2025-2026).\n\n\u201cA lot has happened down in Washington this year,\u201d said Congressman Deluzio. \u201cFrom the White House launching this reckless Iran War and ballooning the national debt, to devastating healthcare and SNAP cuts across our Commonwealth\u2014there is a lot to discuss. Now, I\u2019m home from Washington to hear directly from Western Pennsylvanians by launching my October Town Hall Tour. The tour is kicking off in Penn Hills on Monday, October 5th and will also stop in Carnegie and Beaver Falls. Hope to see you this October!\u201d\n\nCongressman Deluzio\u2019s entire October Town Hall Tour is open to the public and the press upon RSVP. Each event has a limited capacity, and registration will be first come, first served. This is an event hosted by the congressional office. Members of the public can RSVP to next Monday\u2019s Penn Hills stop of Deluzio\u2019s October Town Hall Tour at bit.ly/DeluzioPennHills. The Carnegie stop of the Town Hall will be on Tuesday, October 13th at 5:30 PM and the third stop of the Town Hall Tour will be in Beaver Falls on Saturday, October 17th at 2:00PM.\n\nMembers of the press should RSVP by emailing or calling Communications Director Zoe Bluffstone at pa17comms@mail.house.gov or 202-225-2301.\n\n###", 1, "2026-09-30T10:57:52Z", "2026-09-30T10:59:04Z"], ["https://dexter.house.gov/media/press-releases/congresswoman-maxine-dexter-md-connects-wood-village-leaders-and-community", "Congresswoman Maxine Dexter, M.D. Connects with Wood Village Leaders and the Community", "2026-09-29", "2026", "2026-09", "Democrat", "House", "OR", "Maxine Dexter", "D000635", "dexter.house.gov", "dexter", "https://dexter.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "WOOD VILLAGE, OR \u2013 Today, Congresswoman Maxine Dexter, M.D. (OR-03), joined Wood Village Mayor Jairo Rios-Campos for a walk through the city before holding a community listening session with Wood Village and Fairview residents.\n\nThe visit gave Congresswoman Dexter an opportunity to hear from local leaders and community members about the issues affecting their neighborhoods, including youth recreation, transportation and economic development.\n\n\u201cThe best way for me to represent our communities in Congress is to show up and listen,\u201d Congresswoman Dexter said. \u201cToday, I heard from local leaders and neighbors about what they need and where the federal government can be a better partner. I\u2019ll take those conversations with me back to Washington as I continue working for East Multnomah County.\u201d\n\nDuring the visit, Congresswoman Dexter and Mayor Rios-Campos toured Wood Village and discussed expanding recreational opportunities for young people. Wood Village currently does not have a community center or indoor youth recreation space. Mayor Rios-Campos, the city\u2019s first Hispanic mayor, also leads PlayEast!, a partnership between Wood Village and Fairview that provides recreational activities and programs for local children and families.\n\n\u201cWe are grateful to welcome Congresswoman Dexter back to Wood Village,\u201d Mayor Rios-Campos said. \u201cWe are proud of the diversity of our community and the people, cultures, and experiences that make Wood Village such a special place. While we may be a small city, the diversity of our community also means we face a wide range of needs and challenges. Her willingness to spend time here, listen to our community members and local businesses, and better understand those challenges reflect the kind of partnership we value. Whether helping people navigate immigration and other federal issues, supporting our local economy, or advocating for resources that strengthen City services, we appreciate having a representative who takes the time to hear directly from the people she serves. We look forward to continuing that relationship.\u201d\n\nThe Congresswoman also visited Northeast Halsey Street to see improvements aimed at making crosswalks safer and supporting economic growth in the area. She later hosted a community listening session with more than 70 Wood Village and Fairview residents to hear about the issues affecting their families and communities.\n\n###", 1, "2026-09-30T10:57:52Z", "2026-09-30T10:59:04Z"], ["https://fletcher.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=7496", "Two Federal Courts Rule Trump Administration\u2019s Elimination of Solar For All Program Unlawful,  Advancing the Effort of Congresswoman Lizzie Fletcher, Congressman Emanuel Cleaver, Senator Sheldon Whitehouse, Senator Bernie Sanders, and Senator Jeff Merkley To Save the Program", "2026-09-29", "2026", "2026-09", "Democrat", "House", "TX", "Lizzie Fletcher", "F000468", "fletcher.house.gov", "fletcher", "https://fletcher.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx", "scraper", "Congress created the $7 billion renewable energy program to deliver solar projects to 900,000 households in disadvantaged communities, saving families $350 million every year on energy costs\n\nTwo federal courts have ruled that the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) unlawfully eliminated the Inflation Reduction Act\u2019s Solar for All Program. On September 22, the U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia granted summary judgement to Harris County. Congresswoman Lizzie Fletcher (TX-07), Congressman Emanuel Cleaver (MO-05), Senator Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI), Senator Bernie Sanders (I-VT), and Senator Jeff Merkley (D-OR) supported Harris County\u2019s case in an amicus brief they filed earlier this year, joined by 81 Members of Congress. The court vacated EPA\u2019s decision to eliminate the program and warned that it will consider further relief if EPA fails to comply.\n\nOn September 18, the U.S. District Court for the District of Rhode Island also ruled against EPA in a separate case brought by the Rhode Island AFL-CIO.\n\nSolar for All was designed to lower electricity bills for low-income families, create thousands of well-paying jobs, boost American manufacturing, and make the grid more reliable.\n\n\u201cSolar for All is one of the most important affordable energy programs in our country\u2019s history,\u201d said Congresswoman Lizzie Fletcher. \u201cCongress created it. Congress appropriated the funds for it. No president or political appointee can unilaterally eliminate a program Congress has created, and two federal courts have now said so. I have been glad to support Harris County in this case and this effort to hold the Trump administration accountable and deliver for Harris County residents. EPA should comply with these rulings now and reinstate the grants it terminated. I will keep working to make sure Harris County families benefit from this investment in our community and to hold the administration accountable to the Congress and to the people we represent.\u201d\n\n\u201cI am pleased that multiple courts have affirmed our belief that the power of the purse belongs to people\u2019s representatives, and that no administration has the unilateral power to defund programs authorized by Congress, including the Solar for All program enacted in 2022,\u201d said Congressman Emanuel Cleaver. \u201cWhile these decisions are a major victory for our communities, who will benefit from a $7 billion investment in renewable energy at a time when gas prices are skyrocketing, we must remain vigilant against an administration that continues to show contempt for the constitution and the separation of powers that our founders designed to protect against a would-be tyrant.\u201d\n\n\u201cTrump\u2019s EPA cancelled the wildly popular Solar for All program as part of its corrupt war on clean, affordable energy,\u201d said Senator Sheldon Whitehouse, Ranking Member of the Senate Environment and Public Works Committee. \u201cRhode Island District Court and the D.C. District Court agreed: EPA has no authority to cancel the program and low-cost solar energy will soon be back on its way to the American people. I want to give a special thanks to Rhode Island AFL-CIO for their leadership in securing this victory.\u201d\n\n\u201cSolar for All is critical to connecting families in Oregon and across the nation with the affordable, renewable energy of the future,\u201d said Senator Jeff Merkley. \u201cThe Trump Administration is pushing to rip away this funding from our communities, which has already been approved by Congress and signed into law, but two federal courts have rejected the Administration\u2019s senseless effort. Now, the EPA must swiftly follow suit and reinstate these federal funds.\u201d\n\nThe Solar for All program is a $7 billion investment to help working families lower their electricity bills, strengthen local economies, and build a more resilient future. Harris County won one of the program\u2019s largest awards: $250 million to deliver solar and battery storage to more than 28,000 low-income and working-class households throughout the community. Families were set to save an average of $468 per year in energy costs before the program\u2019s termination in August 2025.", 1, "2026-09-30T10:57:52Z", "2026-09-30T10:59:04Z"], ["https://gluesenkampperez.house.gov/posts/gluesenkamp-perez-announces-mobile-office-hours-in-cowlitz-county-2", "Gluesenkamp Perez Announces Mobile Office Hours in Cowlitz County", "2026-09-29", "2026", "2026-09", "Democrat", "House", "WA", "Marie Gluesenkamp Perez", "G000600", "gluesenkampperez.house.gov", "gluesenkampperez", "https://gluesenkampperez.house.gov/press", "scraper", "RYDERWOOD, WA \u2013 Today, Rep. Marie Gluesenkamp Perez (WA-03) announced her office will be holding mobile office hours in Cowlitz County. Residents of Washington\u2019s Third District will be able to walk in to get assistance with federal agencies like the VA, IRS, and State Department.\n\nThe Congresswoman\u2019s team will be available on Wednesday, October 7th, 2026 from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at Ryderwood Community Hall 305 Morse St, Ryderwood, WA 98581.\n\nRep. Gluesenkamp Perez has held thirty-three mobile office hours in every part of Washington\u2019s Third District without easy access to an office, as a part of her commitment to ensure every community can access her services.\n\nRep. Gluesenkamp Perez has already recovered more than $16.2 million for over 3,800 constituents owed to them by federal agencies.\n\n\u201cMy bipartisan team is working each day to directly assist folks across Southwest Washington with federal agencies \u2013 whether it\u2019s recovering Social Security checks, tax refunds, or veterans benefits you\u2019re owed,\u201d said Rep. Gluesenkamp Perez. \u201cOur services shouldn\u2019t be any less accessible because of where you live \u2013 so I\u2019ve made it my priority to bring mobile office hours to every county across Southwest Washington. I appreciate everyone who has taken the time to stop by, and I\u2019ll keep working to ensure we can reach more of our rural communities.\u201d\n\nConstituents looking to receive updates about future office hours in their communities can follow Rep. Gluesenkamp Perez on Facebook, X, Instagram, or Threads or subscribe to her newsletter.\n\nThose not able to make it can always reach out online, by phone at (360) 695-6292, or in person at the Congresswoman\u2019s Vancouver or Kelso offices.\n\nExamples of how Rep. Gluesenkamp Perez has assisted constituents across Southwest Washington can be found here.\n\n####", 1, "2026-09-30T10:57:52Z", "2026-09-30T10:59:04Z"], ["https://grijalva.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-grijalva-responds-to-closure-of-public-lands-for-border-wall-construction", "Rep. Grijalva Responds to Closure of Public Lands for Border Wall Construction", "2026-09-29", "2026", "2026-09", "Democrat", "House", "AZ", "Adelita S. Grijalva", "G000606", "grijalva.house.gov", "grijalva", "https://grijalva.house.gov/media", "scraper", "\u201cUsing border wall construction to justify closing dozens of acres of public lands at a moment's notice through January 2029 is unnecessary and deeply troubling - especially when these lands include sensitive ecosystems and world-class biodiversity that cannot simply be replaced. We have already seen the devastating consequences when DHS and its contractors operate without oversight along the border, including the destruction of the Las Playas Intaglio.\"\n\n\"Arizonans deserve transparency about what is happening on our public lands. We have a right to know why such a sweeping closure is necessary and what is being done to protect these areas \u2014 not be shut out from documenting the impacts of border wall construction.\"", 1, "2026-09-30T10:57:52Z", "2026-09-30T10:59:04Z"], ["https://hernandez.house.gov/media/press-releases/comisionado-residente-anuncia-mas-de-27-millones-para-programas-de-head-start", "Comisionado Residente anuncia m\u00e1s de $27 millones para programas de Head Start en Puerto Rico", "2026-09-29", "2026", "2026-09", "Democrat", "House", "PR", "Pablo Jos\u00e9 Hern\u00e1ndez", "H001103", "hernandez.house.gov", "hernandez", "https://hernandez.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Image\n\nSeptember 29, 2026\n\nCAGUAS, Puerto Rico \u2014 El Comisionado Residente de Puerto Rico, Pablo Jos\u00e9 Hern\u00e1ndez, anunci\u00f3 $27,168,345 en fondos federales para programas Head Start en Puerto Rico, destinados a apoyar servicios de educaci\u00f3n temprana y desarrollo infantil para ni\u00f1os y familias en la Isla.\n\n\u201cHead Start es una inversi\u00f3n en el futuro de nuestros ni\u00f1os. Seguiremos trabajando para que estos programas tengan los recursos que necesitan y puedan continuar apoyando a las familias de Puerto Rico\u201d, expres\u00f3 el Comisionado Residente.\n\nLos fondos son otorgados por el Departamento de Salud y Servicios Humanos de Estados Unidos (HHS), para apoyar la operaci\u00f3n de programas Head Start y Early Head Start en Puerto Rico.\n\nEntre las principales asignaciones se encuentran:\n\n$14,762,898 para el Departamento de la Familia, para la administraci\u00f3n y operaci\u00f3n de programas de Head Start.\n\n$4,524,653 para el Municipio de Caguas\n\n$2,425,902 para la Red por los Derechos de la Ni\u00f1ez y Juventud de Puerto Rico\n\n$2,138,598 para el Programa Head Start Iglesia Bautista de Quintana\n\n$1,259,940 para el Municipio de Bayam\u00f3n\n\n$646,750 para el Municipio de Mayag\u00fcez\n\n$426,298 para el Municipio de San Germ\u00e1n\n\n$349,946 para el Municipio de Carolina\n\n$241,468 para el Municipio de Humacao\n\n$220,000 para la Fundaci\u00f3n para el Desarrollo de Hogar Propio\n\n$114,944 para Christian Military Academy\n\n$56,948 para el Centro de Fortalecimiento Familiar de Puerto Rico\n\n###\n\nIssues: Education", 1, "2026-09-30T10:57:52Z", "2026-09-30T10:59:04Z"], ["https://hoyle.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-hoyle-calls-on-fda-to-take-action-around-estrogen-patch-shortage", "REP. HOYLE CALLS ON FDA TO TAKE ACTION AROUND ESTROGEN PATCH SHORTAGE", "2026-09-29", "2026", "2026-09", "Democrat", "House", "OR", "Val T. Hoyle", "H001094", "hoyle.house.gov", "hoyle", "https://hoyle.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "EUGENE, OR \u2013 Today, Representative Val Hoyle (OR-04), released the following statement after joining her colleagues in the Democratic Women\u2019s Caucus in sending a letter to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) demanding they treat the ongoing Estradiol patch supply disruption with the urgency it deserves:\n\n\"Women across the country can't get their prescriptions filled and aren't given answers why,\" said Rep. Hoyle. \"This isn't just an inconvenience; it's a direct threat to their long-term health. This Administration cannot keep looking the other way while women's health is sidelined. The FDA must treat this crisis with the urgency it needs.\"\n\nBackground:\n\nEstradiol patches are used by millions of peri- and post-menopausal individuals to manage menopause symptoms and protect long-term health, including bone density.\n\nIn 2025, the removal of the black box warning on menopausal hormone therapy products contributed to a significant increase in prescriptions at a time when manufacturing capacity was already strained. This surge has outpaced the supply chain\u2019s ability to keep pace.\n\nPatients nationwide have been reporting significant difficulties filling estradiol patch prescriptions. Treatment interruptions can mean the return of debilitating symptoms and for some, real risk to their long-term bone and cardiovascular health.\n\n44 Cosigners: Ansari, Yassamin; Barrag\u00e1n, Nanette; Bonamici, Suzanne; Clarke, Yvette; Dexter, Maxine; Dingell, Debbie; Escobar, Veronica; Fletcher, Lizzie; Frankel, Lois; Friedman, Laura; Garcia, Sylvia; Gillen, Laura; Grijalva, Adelita; Hayes, Jahana; Houlahan, Chrissy; Hoyle, Val; Jayapal, Pramila; Johnson, Julie; Kamlager-Dove, Sydney; Leger Fernandez, Teresa; McClain Delaney, April; McIver, LaMonica; Morrison, Kelly; Pettersen, Brittany; Pingree, Chellie; Pou, Nellie; Pressley, Ayanna; Ramirez, Delia; Randall, Emily; Rivas, Luz; Ross, Deborah; Salinas, Andrea; Scholten, Hillary; Simon, Lateefah; Stansbury, Melanie; Stevens, Haley; Tlaib, Rashida; Tokuda, Jill; Trahan, Lori; Vel\u00e1zquez, Nydia; Waters, Maxine; Watson Coleman, Bonnie; Williams, Nikema; Wilson, Frederica.", 1, "2026-09-30T10:57:52Z", "2026-09-30T10:59:04Z"], ["https://jeffries.house.gov/2026/09/29/leader-jeffries-on-pbs-everyday-americans-need-us-to-decisively-act-in-order-to-make-life-more-affordable/", "LEADER JEFFRIES ON PBS: \u201cEVERYDAY AMERICANS NEED US TO DECISIVELY ACT IN ORDER TO MAKE LIFE MORE AFFORDABLE\u201d", "2026-09-29", "2026", "2026-09", "Democrat", "House", "NY", "Hakeem S. Jeffries", "J000294", "jeffries.house.gov", "jeffries", "https://jeffries.house.gov/category/press-release/page/", "scraper", "Today, House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries appeared on PBS News Hour, where he made clear that House Democrats are committed to fighting for an affordable America and holding the crooks accountable who are ripping off the American people.\n\nGEOFF BENNETT: The latest national polling shows Democrats with a solid shot of regaining control of the House of Representatives in the midterm elections. If they do, Congressman Hakeem Jeffries could go from Minority Leader to Speaker of the House, with debates over the economy, government funding and President Trump\u2019s agenda all unfolding. House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries joins us now. Thanks for being with us.\n\nLEADER JEFFRIES: Great to be with you.\n\nGEOFF BENNETT: I want to start with AI, what with President Trump meeting with those tech leaders at the White House today. You have said that Congress needs to lean in on AI safety. What does that mean in practice? What guardrails should Congress put in place?\n\nLEADER JEFFRIES: Our fundamental responsibility as Members of Congress is to protect the general welfare, the health, the safety and the well-being of the American people. And you have industry stakeholders raising alarms that the pace of AI development is going so fast that the ability to make sure we ensure the safety of the American people is in question. And that, of course, in our view, means that congressional action that is decisive, working with all of the relevant parties involved, is important. Unfortunately, Donald Trump has come to the conclusion that self-policing is appropriate. It is not. This is a nation of laws, and Congress is here for a reason: to ensure, yes, of course, that science and innovation and technology can continue to develop at a pace that exceeds what\u2019s going on in China with the Chinese Communist Party. At the same period of time, we also want to make sure we protect the American people from bad actors and harms that could befall them.\n\nGEOFF BENNETT: Let\u2019s shift our focus to the economy because Democrats are making affordability central to the midterm argument. What would Democrats actually do with control of the House that would make life less expensive for the American public?\n\nLEADER JEFFRIES: Life is far too expensive for the American people, and everyday Americans need us to decisively act in order to make life more affordable. There are too many people\u2014they\u2019re working hard, they\u2019re playing by the rules, they can\u2019t thrive and can barely survive. People are drowning in this failed Trump economy and have had enough. There are a variety of different things that need to happen. One, we need to end the Trump Tariffs, which have cost everyday Americans thousands of dollars per year in additional expenses, particularly as it relates to groceries and goods. We need to stop this reckless war of choice in Iran, which has skyrocketed gas prices on the American people and also had an impact on increasing food prices because of the increase in fertilizer expenses, as well as the increase in diesel prices. And certainly, we need to reverse the Medicaid cuts, which have ripped healthcare away from more than 10 million Americans or is threatening to do so. And at the same period of time, we certainly need to restore the Affordable Care Act tax credits so we can reverse the increases in health insurance premiums that tens of millions of Americans are experiencing.\n\nGEOFF BENNETT: Another fight playing out in Washington right now is over Congress\u2019s power of the purse. And I raise this because for the second year in a row, President Trump is trying to cancel money that Congress has already approved, this time more than $800 million. If this money expires before Congress or the courts can act, hasn\u2019t the White House found a way around Congress\u2019s power to appropriate funds?\n\nLEADER JEFFRIES: It has been incredibly unfortunate that my Republican colleagues have become nothing more than a reckless rubber stamp for Donald Trump\u2019s extreme agenda and, as opposed to behaving like separate and co-equal parts of a branch of the federal government that is not subservient to Donald Trump but is co-equal to the executive branch, they continue to allow the President to try to get away with anything he wants to do, including changing the allocation of funds that Congress previously appropriated in a bipartisan way. And so, in connection with the upcoming spending debate and agreement that we\u2019ll need to reach by December 11, certainly, I think it\u2019s important for the American people that Congress reasserts its authority.\n\nGEOFF BENNETT: If the White House can simply refuse to spend parts of a bipartisan funding agreement, I\u2019m sure people will ask the question: why should Democrats ever make another deal, another spending deal with Republicans?\n\nLEADER JEFFRIES: Certainly, it\u2019s the case that we cannot proceed in entering into an agreement when it\u2019s clear that the other side of the aisle is not going to, in good faith, adhere to that agreement. It\u2019s going to be one of the things that certainly will be part of the discussion as we move forward, because when decisions are made to allocate taxpayer dollars in ways that are designed to uplift the health and the safety and the economic well-being of the American people, that money should be spent in a manner consistent with what the law says should happen. And when that doesn\u2019t occur, of course, Congress is going to have to respond, in our view, and certainly the courts are going to have to respond as they\u2019ve previously done in other instances.\n\nGEOFF BENNETT: If Democrats retake control of the House come November, what\u2019s the first bill a Democratic House under your leadership would pass?\n\nLEADER JEFFRIES: We\u2019ll have that discussion at the appropriate time. Right now, we are running through the finish line, but we\u2019re going to make sure that dealing with the affordability crisis is a top priority. And we\u2019ve established working groups in five different areas where we believe action needs to be taken on affordability. That\u2019s housing. That\u2019s healthcare. That\u2019s gas and utilities and energy affordability. It\u2019s groceries and goods. And it\u2019s caregiving. We believe that decisive action needs to be taken at minimum in all five of these areas and that certainly will be our intention.\n\nGEOFF BENNETT: On accountability, there are some Democrats who are already talking about impeachment. Of course, as you well know, you were a former House impeachment manager. The President was impeached twice, acquitted twice in the Senate. How are you thinking about impeachment or, more broadly, accountability, if Democrats take control of the House?\n\nLEADER JEFFRIES: We certainly haven\u2019t ruled anything in and we haven\u2019t ruled anything out because our focus is going to be delivering accountability in areas where you have individuals who have stolen from the American people, are shortchanging the American people or have been screwing over the American people. And when you have people in high office who are so focused on enriching themselves, their family members, their friends or their donors, then what it means is that they\u2019re not actually doing the job to make life more affordable, more comfortable and more livable for everyday Americans. And so, we\u2019ve promised on the accountability front, beginning on day one, to make sure that we\u2019re holding the crooks accountable. We will follow the facts, apply the law, be guided by the Constitution and then, of course, let the chips fall where they may in the best interest of the American people.\n\nGEOFF BENNETT: House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries, thanks again for joining us this evening.\n\nLEADER JEFFRIES: Thank you.\n\nFull interview can be watched here.\n\n###", 1, "2026-09-30T10:57:52Z", "2026-09-30T10:59:04Z"], ["https://kaptur.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/kaptur-secures-additional-investment-northwest-ohio-head-start-programs", "Kaptur Secures Additional Investment in Northwest Ohio Head Start Programs In Lucas and Erie Counties", "2026-09-29", "2026", "2026-09", "Democrat", "House", "OH", "Marcy Kaptur", "K000009", "kaptur.house.gov", "kaptur", "https://kaptur.house.gov/media-center/press-releases", "scraper", "Toledo, OH \u2014 Today, Congresswoman Marcy Kaptur (OH-09) announced that two Northwest Ohio Head Start programs will receive a total of $233,955 in awards to support their efforts in preparing young children and families for school. Toledo Public Schools will receive $70,955, and the Community Action Commission of Erie, Huron, and Richland Counties will receive $163,000. These investments are in addition to a a $5,131,429 award the Northwestern Ohio Community Action Partnership based in Defiance received just last week. These awards were made possible through the United States Department of Health and Human Services\u2019 Administration for Children and Families.\n\n\u201cEquipping our region\u2019s youth and families with the resources they need to succeed in life has ripple effects on our entire community,\u201d said Congresswoman Marcy Kaptur (OH-09). \u201cOur Head Start programs are privileged to have countless dedicated and caring adults that invest in our children each day, serving as positive role models and demonstrating that every child can reach their full potential. I am honored to have secured these Federal awards to allow the next generation of children to continue to grow and blossom through Head Start programs, and I will always fight to ensure our communities have the funds they need to make sure our children get ahead.\u201d\n\nHead Start, along with its companion program Early Head Start, helps children under the age of 5 and their families prepare for school. Through learning experiences, health assessments, family support, and early intervention, Head Start serves more than 25,000 young children throughout Ohio.\n\nAs a senior member of the House Appropriations Committee, Congresswoman Kaptur is dedicated to ensuring that Head Start programs both here in our region and across the country have the resources they need to provide for youth and their families. When the Trump Administration\u2019s failure to provide funding to Ohio Head Start programs in 2025 forced Toledo-area programs to halt, Kaptur fought for answers until funding was restored.", 1, "2026-09-30T10:57:52Z", "2026-09-30T10:59:04Z"], ["https://kaptur.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/ukraine-caucus-urges-trump-administration-strengthen-russia-sanctions", "Ukraine Caucus Urges Trump Administration To Strengthen Russia Sanctions, Fully Implement Graham Sanctioning Russia and Iran\u00a0Act", "2026-09-29", "2026", "2026-09", "Democrat", "House", "OH", "Marcy Kaptur", "K000009", "kaptur.house.gov", "kaptur", "https://kaptur.house.gov/media-center/press-releases", "scraper", "\"Two weeks ago, Congress passed the most significant Russia sanctions legislation since 2017. As long as Russia\u2019s full-scale invasion to conquer Ukraine and threaten our European allies continues, the United States must take every step necessary to stop war criminal Vladimir Putin in his tracks. Sanctions relief will embolden Russia and prolong the war.\n\n\"We look forward to the Administration\u2019s first round of new sanctions designations ahead of October 18, the first deadline in the Lindsey O. Graham Sanctioning Russia and Iran Act, and urge the Administration to act swiftly to step up economic pressure on Russia. Peace in Europe can only be achieved through strength.\"", 1, "2026-09-30T10:57:52Z", "2026-09-30T10:59:04Z"], ["https://liccardo.house.gov/media/press-releases/city-san-jose-and-monterey-county-advance-protections-preventing-ice-facility", "City of San Jos\u00e9 and Monterey County Advance Protections Preventing ICE Facility Construction", "2026-09-29", "2026", "2026-09", "Democrat", "House", "CA", "Sam T. Liccardo", "L000607", "liccardo.house.gov", "liccardo", "https://liccardo.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "San Jos\u00e9, CA \u2013 Today, several members of Congress representing our region\u2013 U.S. Representatives Sam Liccardo (CA-16), Zoe Lofgren (CA-18), and Jimmy Panetta(CA-19)\u2013 congratulated the City of San Jos\u00e9 and Monterey County for adopting interim ordinances that temporarily restrict the development of ICE detention facilities within their jurisdiction.\n\n\u201cLocal communities cannot control ICE rogue agents, but federal courts have upheld the authority of cities and towns to determine how and where DHS can build the infrastructure that enables this cruelty and chaos, namely ICE detention centers and processing facilities,\u201d said Liccardo. \u201cWith a federal judge blocking a potential ICE facility at Gilroy, we expect the Department of Homeland Security will accelerate its search for new sites. By advancing these ordinances, the City of San Jos\u00e9 and Monterey County will make it far more difficult for DHS to convert large industrial and commercial sites for ICE detention centers, supporting our communities\u2019 safety and public health. Thank you to Mayor Matt Mahan and the San Jos\u00e9 City Council in San Jos\u00e9, along with Supervisor Luis Alejo, Board Chair Wendy Root Askew, and the Monterey County Board of Supervisors for leading by example, and for expanding this regional effort to protect our communities.\u201d\n\nLiccardo, who represents portions of Santa Clara and San Mateo Counties, released a toolkit in August to help local governments use zoning laws and building regulations to mitigate the expansion of ICE detention facilities and safeguard community health and safety. San Mateo County, and Napa County have already advanced such ordinances. Several other city councils have now directed their staff to begin this process, and several more ordinance changes are in the pipeline.\n\n\u201cThe Administration\u2019s overreaching mass deportation policy has led to chaos in many communities and pain in our local economies,\u201d said Rep. Panetta. \u201cDetention centers are an extension of that cruel policy, and I applaud Monterey County and the City of San Jos\u00e9 for their leadership in moving to temporarily block this Administration from establishing these types of facilities. We must continue to work together at every level of government to take these types of bold actions to restore accountability, ensure our economic vitality, and keep our communities safe.\u201d\n\n\"Earlier this year, I introduced amendments that would block funding for the construction of new ICE detention facilities, but Republicans voted no and wrote a blank check. I\u2019m thankful that our local leaders in San Jos\u00e9 and Monterey County have stepped up and implemented these temporary moratoriums on new detention centers,\u201d said Rep. Lofgren. \u201cI'm also thankful for Sam Liccardo's leadership on this issue, which he understands well as a former Mayor. We need to continue overseeing conditions at the existing facilities, and we need to keep fighting against this Administration\u2019s mass deportation agenda, which is wreaking havoc on our communities.\"\n\n\u201cWe\u2019re grabbing the bull by its horns,\u201d said San Jos\u00e9 Mayor Matt Mahan. \u201cThese facilities don\u2019t exist in our region \u2013 and we\u2019re not going to wait until after they are built to understand the impacts. I want to thank my Council colleagues for joining me in pushing this moratorium forward and Congressmember Liccardo for leaning in and helping unite each city in the pursuit of public safety and health.\u201d\n\n\u201cAn ICE detention center in our region would intimidate immigrant workers and their families, spreading fear and anxiety far beyond its walls. It would threaten the dignity of our communities and the values we share across the Central Coast and Bay Area. Our immigrant neighbors are our family members, coworkers, and friends. We will stand up for them,\u201d said Monterey County Supervisor Luis Alejo. \"On May 19, Monterey County became the first county government to vote unanimously to join the County of Santa Clara in opposing the proposed ICE detention facility in Gilroy. We knew then that the fear it would spread would not stop at the county line. We later led an effort to file an amicus brief in that federal litigation with 25 other local governments.\u201d\n\nBecause county ordinances only govern unincorporated land, Liccardo encourages cities and towns throughout the region to adopt their own protections. Local leaders interested in introducing protections can utilize Liccardo\u2019s ordinance toolkit call his office at 408-245-2339 with questions.\n\n###", 1, "2026-09-30T10:57:52Z", "2026-09-30T10:59:04Z"], ["https://morelle.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-joe-morelle-demands-trump-stop-using-taxpayer-dollars-political", "CONGRESSMAN JOE MORELLE DEMANDS TRUMP STOP USING TAXPAYER DOLLARS FOR POLITICAL ADVERTISING", "2026-09-29", "2026", "2026-09", "Democrat", "House", "NY", "Joseph D. Morelle", "M001206", "morelle.house.gov", "morelle", "https://morelle.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "(Rochester, N.Y.)\u2014Today, Congressman Joe Morelle, the top Democrat on the Committee on House Administration, led top senior House Democrats in demanding President Donald Trump immediately stop airing a new television advertisement bearing the disclaimer \u201cPaid for by the U.S. Government\u201d amid serious questions about whether taxpayer dollars and federal resources are being illegally used for political purposes. Members are demanding the Trump Administration disclose who authorized and paid for the advertisement, what legal authority was used to fund it, and whether it underwent a legal review before being broadcast.\n\n\u201cAt a time when families are struggling with the cost of groceries, housing, healthcare, and other everyday necessities, taxpayer dollars should be used to make their lives easier\u2014not to bankroll political advertising,\u201d said Congressman Joe Morelle. \u201cThe American people deserve to know who authorized this advertisement, how much it cost, where the money came from, and whether federal laws designed to protect taxpayers from political misuse of government resources were followed. We are demanding answers, accountability, and an immediate end to this advertisement.\u201d\n\n\u201cThis advertisement indicates a potential significant misuse of taxpayer funds and federal government resources for what appears to be political advertising. Given the proximity to the November midterm elections, this advertisement\u2014and the circumstances surrounding its development and production\u2014warrants an immediate investigation,\u201d the Members wrote.\n\nThe Members further emphasized that while presidents have broad authority to publicly advocate for their policies, federal resources cannot simply be treated as political campaign funds.\n\nAs chair of the Anti-Corruption and Democracy Reform Task Force, Congressman Morelle has consistently pushed for greater transparency and accountability in government and, as the top Democrat on the Committee on House Administration, has worked to protect the integrity of American elections and ensure government institutions serve the public interest.\n\nRead the full letter here.\n\n###", 1, "2026-09-30T10:57:52Z", "2026-09-30T10:59:04Z"], ["https://pelosi.house.gov/news/press-releases/pelosi-statement-passing-leona-bridges", "Pelosi Statement on the Passing of\u00a0Leona Bridges", "2026-09-29", "2026", "2026-09", "Democrat", "House", "CA", "Nancy Pelosi", "P000197", "pelosi.house.gov", "pelosi", "https://pelosi.house.gov/news/press-releases", "scraper", "San Francisco \u2013 Speaker Emerita Nancy Pelosi issued the following statement on the passing of San Francisco public servant Leona Bridges.\n\n\"Leona Bridges was a devoted public servant and dear friend whose life was a blessing to San Francisco. From her work serving the public on San Francisco\u2019s retirement board to supporting students at San Francisco State, Leona leaves an historic legacy of service that lives on in the countless lives she enriched.\n\n\"I was proud to recommend Leona to President Biden for the Federal Retirement Thrift Investment Board and appoint her to the California Democratic Party Central Committee. Wherever there was a need, Leona and her beloved Deltas were there.\n\n\"May it be a comfort to her family that so many mourn with them and are praying for them at this sad time.\u201d", 1, "2026-09-30T10:57:52Z", "2026-09-30T10:59:04Z"], ["https://pingree.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=6867", "Top House, Senate Interior Appropriators Lead Bipartisan Bill to Prevent Demolition of the Kennedy Center", "2026-09-29", "2026", "2026-09", "Democrat", "House", "ME", "Chellie Pingree", "P000597", "pingree.house.gov", "pingree", "https://pingree.house.gov/media-center/press-releases", "scraper", "Maine Congresswoman Chellie Pingree and Oregon\u2019s U.S. Senator Jeff Merkley, Ranking Members of the House and Senate Interior-Environment Appropriations Subcommittees, today unveiled legislation to protect presidential monuments like the Kennedy Center from demolition. The bicameral, bipartisan Protecting Presidential Memorials Act would prohibit any Congressionally designated memorial honoring a U.S. President\u2014including the Kennedy Center, Lincoln Memorial, and Jefferson Memorial\u2014from being demolished unless authorized by an act of Congress.\n\n\u201cThe Kennedy Center is our nation\u2019s living memorial to President John F. Kennedy\u2014someone who truly cherished the arts. For Donald Trump to attempt to usurp this great memorial by putting his own name above JFK\u2019s\u2014and then threaten to demolish the building if he doesn\u2019t get his way\u2014is beyond the pale,\u201d said Pingree. \u201cWhen Congress designates a place to memorialize a president, no administration should be able to tear it down on a whim. This bill establishes a simple safeguard: if Congress created the designation, only an act of Congress can authorize its demolition.\u201d\n\n\u201cTrump\u2019s threats to tear down the Kennedy Center\u2014all because the law says he can\u2019t put his name on the building\u2014are straight out of the authoritarian playbook and should infuriate every American who values our history and the rule of law,\u201d said Merkley. \u201cThe Kennedy Center is one of our nation\u2019s great contributions to the human spirit, honoring our slain president who championed the arts. This one-page bill is a straightforward solution to protect this treasure and other presidential memorials.\u201d\n\nOn Monday night, Merkley attempted to pass the Protecting Presidential Memorials Act\u2014which he co-led with Republican Sen. Lisa Murkowski of Alaska\u2014by unanimous consent in the Senate, but that effort was blocked by Sen. Mike Lee (R-Utah).\n\nThe National Cultural Center was established by Congress in 1958, renamed in honor of John F. Kennedy shortly after his death, and opened to the public in 1971. For more than 50 years, it has celebrated artistic excellence, fostered creativity and reflected Kennedy\u2019s steadfast belief that equitable access to the arts is essential to democracy.\n\nPingree, who co-chairs the bipartisan Congressional Arts Caucus, has been a leading voice in Congress to protect the Kennedy Center since Trump installed himself as board chair in 2025. As Ranking Member of the House Appropriations Interior, Environment, and Related Agencies Subcommittee, Pingree successfully stripped language from the 2026 Appropriations bill that would have renamed the Kennedy Center Opera House after Melania Trump.\n\n###", 1, "2026-09-30T10:57:52Z", "2026-09-30T10:59:04Z"], ["https://pou.house.gov/media/press-releases/congresswoman-pou-secures-over-2-million-hire-more-clifton-firefighters", "Congresswoman Pou Secures Over $2 Million to Hire More Clifton Firefighters", "2026-09-29", "2026", "2026-09", "Democrat", "House", "NJ", "Nellie Pou", "P000621", "pou.house.gov", "pou", "https://pou.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "PATERSON, NJ \u2013 Congresswoman Nellie Pou (D-NJ-09) today announced that she helped secure a $2,139,724.80 federal Staffing for Adequate Fire and Emergency Response (SAFER) grant for the Clifton Fire Department. Awarded through the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), the funding will allow the department to hire additional firefighters.\n\n\u201cClifton\u2019s firefighters put themselves in harm\u2019s way seven days a week. They deserve to have the people they need beside them when the alarm sounds,\u201d said Congresswoman Pou. \u201cI am proud to help bring more than $2.1 million home to Clifton to put additional firefighters on the job. More firefighters mean a stronger department and more support for the men and women already serving on the front lines. I will always fight to make sure our local fire departments have the federal money they need to protect our communities and bring their firefighters home safely.\u201d\n\n\u201cAs a vibrant, growing community, Clifton\u2019s fire heroes need every dollar of federal resources to do their jobs. Thanks to this federal funding secured by Congresswoman Pou, Clifton will be able to hire more firefighters and protect our residents when the worst strikes,\u201d said Clifton Mayor Ray Grabowski.\n\nCongress created the SAFER program in 2003 to address staffing shortages at fire departments across America. While existing federal fire grants largely helped departments purchase equipment and improve training, SAFER was designed specifically to help communities put more firefighters on the job and ensure departments have adequate personnel to respond to emergencies. Earlier this year, Congresswoman Pou sent a letter to the leaders of the House Appropriations Committee requesting increased funding for the SAFER program.\n\nSAFER was created through the efforts of the late Congressman Bill Pascrell, Jr., who was also the longtime head of the Congressional Fire Services Caucus.\n\nAdministered by FEMA, SAFER supports two primary activities: hiring additional career firefighters and recruiting and retaining volunteer firefighters. Over 20 years, the program has provided billions of dollars to fire departments across America.\n\n###", 1, "2026-09-30T10:57:52Z", "2026-09-30T10:59:04Z"], ["https://pou.house.gov/media/press-releases/pou-introduces-resolution-celebrating-bangladeshs-global-leadership", "Pou Introduces Resolution Celebrating Bangladesh\u2019s Global Leadership", "2026-09-29", "2026", "2026-09", "Democrat", "House", "NJ", "Nellie Pou", "P000621", "pou.house.gov", "pou", "https://pou.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "PATERSON, NJ \u2013 Congresswoman Nellie Pou (D-NJ-09), the co-chair of the Congressional Bangladesh Caucus, has introduced a bipartisan House resolution congratulating the People\u2019s Republic of Bangladesh on assuming the presidency of the 81st session of the United Nations General Assembly and reaffirming the importance of the longstanding partnership between Bangladesh and the United States. The Republican lead cosponsor is Congressman Joe Wilson (R-SC-02).\n\n\u201cBangladesh\u2019s leadership at the United Nations is a proud moment for Bangladeshis around the world, including the thousands of Bangladeshi Americans I am honored to represent in North Jersey,\u201d said Congresswoman Pou. \u201cOur two nations share deep economic, security, and personal ties that have grown stronger over more than half a century. As co-chair of the Bangladesh Caucus, I want Congress to recognize this historic achievement and continue building a relationship that benefits the people of both our nations.\u201d\n\n\u201cWe are grateful for Congresswoman Nellie Pou\u2019s leadership in introducing this important resolution and working hard to deepen the ties between the United States and Bangladesh,\u201d said Paterson Second Ward Councilman Shahin Khalique.\n\nPou represents one of the largest Bangladeshi-American communities in the United States. In Congress, she has worked to elevate the voices of Bangladeshi Americans in Washington and strengthen the relationship between the United States and Bangladesh. As her new resolution notes, an estimated 300,000 people of Bangladeshi heritage live in the United States.\n\nThe United States and Bangladesh established diplomatic relations in 1972 and maintain important economic, military, security, and humanitarian ties. The Congresswoman\u2019s resolution finds that bilateral trade in goods and services totaled an estimated $13.7 billion in 2025 and highlights Bangladesh\u2019s major contributions to U.N. peacekeeping and its hosting of more than one million Rohingya refugees.\n\nBangladeshi Foreign Minister Khalilur Rahman was elected President of the 81st General Assembly on June 2, 2026 and began serving as President when the session opened on September 8, 2026.\n\n###", 1, "2026-09-30T10:57:52Z", "2026-09-30T10:59:04Z"], ["https://scottpeters.house.gov/press-releases/peters-demands-answers-for-afghan-allies-and-military-families-stranded-abroad", "Peters Demands Answers for Afghan Allies and Military Families Stranded Abroad", "2026-09-29", "2026", "2026-09", "Democrat", "House", "CA", "Scott H. Peters", "P000608", "scottpeters.house.gov", "scottpeters", "https://scottpeters.house.gov/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, DC \u2013 Today, U.S. Representatives Scott Peters (D-CA) led 19 Members of the House and Senate on a letter to U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio and U.S. Secretary of Homeland Security Markwayne Mullin urging the Administration to reunite the families of U.S. service members with their loved ones stranded overseas, and to reconnect Afghans with immediate family already lawfully in the United States. This comes days after two Afghan nationals arrived safely in the United States on September 22nd through the U.S. Refugee Admissions Program under an exception to current policy.\n\n\u201cThis decision shows that the process to exempt certain migrants from both entry restrictions on foreign nationals as well as refugee resettlement works when leaders choose to use it,\u201d the Members wrote. They highlighted that nearly 3,000 immediate family members of U.S. service members and veterans, including spouses, children, and parents of Americans who have worn this country's uniform, remain stranded overseas. Roughly 150 of them are at Camp As Sayliyah in Qatar, alongside more than 1,000 Afghan allies and family members who were vetted by the U.S. government and flown there on U.S. government aircraft.\n\n\"No service member should have to choose between serving this country and being reunited with their family,\" the Members wrote.\n\nThe Members called on the Departments to prioritize immediate family members of U.S. service members and veterans for exemption determinations and refugee processing, beginning with those at Camp As Sayliyah. The Members also urged the Administration to prioritize family reunification cases, including Afghans whose spouses, parents, or children are lawfully in the United States, and to name them as refugees so these families no longer depend on one-off exceptions.\n\n\"This week, your Departments showed what is possible,\u201d the Members wrote. \u201cThe families of the men and women who serve this nation, and the Afghans who stood beside them, deserve the same decision.\u201d\n\nThe letter was also signed by Reps Andr\u00e9 Carson (IN-07), Chris Deluzio (PA-17), J. Correa (CA-46), Sylvia Garcia (TX-29), Julie Johnson (TX-32), Mike Levin (CA-49), Stephen Lynch (MA-08), Betty McCollum (MN-04), Gwen Moore (WI-04), Seth Moulton (MA-06), Eleanor Norton (DC-AL), Andrea Salinas (OR-06), Shri Thanedar (MI-13), Norma Torres (CA-35), and Juan Vargas (CA-52), as well as by Senators Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Christopher Coons (D-DE), Tim Kaine (D-VA), Andy Kim (D-NJ), Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), Chris Van Hollen (D-MD), and Peter Welch (D-VT).\n\nRead the full letter here.\n\nBackground:\n\nSan Diego has served as a primary hub for incoming Afghan refugees, with nearly 5,000 resettling in the region. Rep. Peters has been a staunch advocate for the safe relocation, protection, and legal adjustment of Afghan wartime allies who served alongside U.S. forces. He is a cosponsor of the Enduring Welcome Act to codify and permanently authorize the Office of the Coordinator for Afghan Relocation Efforts (CARE) within the State Department. He also previously led the Afghan Adjustment Act, which aids in resettling Afghans and their families who supported U.S. and international forces in Afghanistan.\n\nIn February, Rep. Peters attended a shadow hearing where he highlighted the consequences of the Trump administration's decisions to freeze the U.S. refugee admissions program, eliminate Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for Afghans. In July, led a congressional delegation in a virtual town hall with Afghan allies stranded at the Camp As Sayliyah facility in Doha.\n\n###", 1, "2026-09-30T10:57:52Z", "2026-09-30T10:59:04Z"], ["https://sherman.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/joint-statement-congressman-brad-sherman-and-congresswoman-judy-chu-0", "Joint statement from Congressman Brad Sherman and Congresswoman Judy Chu on Talks with North Korea", "2026-09-29", "2026", "2026-09", "Democrat", "House", "CA", "Brad Sherman", "S000344", "sherman.house.gov", "sherman", "https://sherman.house.gov/media-center/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 On September 29th, Congressman Brad Sherman (CA-32), senior member of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, and Congresswoman Judy Chu (CA-28) issued the following statement:\n\n\u201cWe welcome President Trump\u2019s recent efforts to restart talks with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un and \u2013 despite North Korea\u2019s rebuff \u2013 believe that serious dialogue and diplomacy are our most effective tools for protecting US national security interests in the region, addressing nuclear proliferation concerns, and achieving a durable peace on the Korean Peninsula.\n\nWe sincerely hope that President Trump will direct the State Department to take steps to lay a foundation for successful, meaningful discussions with North Korea. Those steps could include revisiting the ban on U.S. citizen travel to North Korea; pursuing a formal treaty, legally ending the Korean War; and starting negotiations with North Korea to establish liaison offices in each country.\n\nThese actions would lay the groundwork for a productive and successful summit between President Trump and Kim Jong Un and advancement of US interests.\u201d\n\n###", 1, "2026-09-30T10:57:52Z", "2026-09-30T10:59:04Z"], ["https://shontelbrown.house.gov/media/press-releases/reps-brown-mcbath-sen-merkley-introduce-legislation-reduce-class-sizes", "Reps. Brown, McBath, Sen. Merkley Introduce Legislation to Reduce Class Sizes", "2026-09-29", "2026", "2026-09", "Democrat", "House", "OH", "Shontel M. Brown", "B001313", "shontelbrown.house.gov", "shontelbrown", "https://shontelbrown.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2013 Congresswoman Shontel Brown (OH-11), Senator Jeff Merkley (OR) and Congresswoman Lucy McBath (GA-07) have reintroduced the Smaller Class Sizes for Students and Educators Act. This legislation would provide funding for schools to reduce class sizes and increase individualized attention from instructors\u2014improving the overall school experience for both students and educators.\n\nResearch shows students achieve better academic results with more individualized attention from instructors, especially in kindergarten through third grade. However, the continued strain on our public education system from staff shortages and tighter budgets has meant class sizes have continued to grow.\n\nThe Smaller Class Sizes for Students and Educators Act (H.R. 10631) would establish a $2 billion competitive grant program to help school districts reduce K\u20133 class sizes in low-income public elementary schools to not more than 18 students per class. The grants could be used to recruit, hire, and support qualified teachers; obtain additional space or renovate school buildings; or provide professional development for teachers, among other purposes.\n\nFull text of the bill can be found by clicking here.\n\n\u201cSmaller class sizes can help ensure that every child gets the time and attention they need to succeed. I am proud to join Congresswoman McBath and Senator Merkley in reintroducing the Smaller Class Sizes for Students and Educators Act so that students get the support they need and educators are able to instruct every student. Importantly, this legislation provides school districts with an opportunity for federal funding to make smaller class sizes a reality,\u201d said Congresswoman Shontel Brown.\n\n\u201cEvery student deserves the chance to learn, participate, and get the individual attention they need to thrive,\u201d said Senator Jeff Merkley. \u201cGrowing up as an Oregon public school student, I remember having around 20 children in my first-grade class. When I dropped my son off for his first day of school, his class had 34 children, and I wondered how his teacher could organize and teach such a large group. It\u2019s time to make sure our schools have the resources they need to support educators and help every child receive a quality learning experience.\u201d\n\n\u201cSmaller class sizes help personalize education in ways that can fuel a child\u2019s love of learning. When teachers have more opportunities for one-on-one time with their students, they can provide tailored instruction, individualized feedback, and the support each child needs to thrive,\u201d said Congresswoman Lucy McBath. \u201cI am deeply appreciative of Senator Merkley for his continued leadership on this important legislation and his advocacy for students and educators. Investments like these, which strengthen learning environments and support teacher well-being, are essential to improving educational outcomes and ensuring every child has the opportunity to succeed.\u201d\n\nThe Smaller Class Sizes for Students and Educators Act is cosponsored by U.S. Senators Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Cory Booker (D-NJ), Dick Durbin (D-IL), and Elizabeth Warren (D-MA).\n\nThe bill is also supported by the American Federation of Teachers, First Focus Campaign for Children, National Education Association, and National Parent Teacher Association.\n\n\u201cParents, students and educators all agree that overcrowded classrooms do not make a successful learning environment. Class size matters because it is directly linked to higher rates of student success: Students are more engaged and teachers can provide the individualized instruction students need and deserve. The Smaller Class Sizes for Students and Educators Act, led by Sen. Jeff Merkley and Reps. Lucy McBath and Shontel Brown, helps all of America\u2019s school districts reduce class size and is a vote of confidence in the future success of our nation\u2019s public schools,\u201d said Randi Weingarten, president of the American Federation of Teachers.\n\n###", 1, "2026-09-30T10:57:52Z", "2026-09-30T10:59:04Z"], ["https://stanton.house.gov/2026/9/stanton-ranking-member-raskin-demand-answers-after-congressional-access-blocked-at-immigration-courtroom-inside-fema-headquarters", "Stanton, Ranking Member Raskin Demand Answers After Congressional Access Blocked at Immigration Courtroom Inside FEMA Headquarters", "2026-09-29", "2026", "2026-09", "Democrat", "House", "AZ", "Greg Stanton", "S001211", "stanton.house.gov", "stanton", "https://stanton.house.gov/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 U.S. Representative Greg Stanton (AZ-04), Ranking Member of the House Transportation and Infrastructure Subcommittee on Economic Development, Public Buildings and Emergency Management, and U.S. Representative Jamie Raskin (MD-08), Ranking Member of the House Committee on the Judiciary, sent a letter to Trump Administration officials raising serious concerns about public access to \u201cpop-up\u201d immigration courtrooms, including one at FEMA headquarters in Washington, D.C.\n\nOn Wednesday, September 23, ICE officers barred Ranking Member Stanton, his staff, and House Judiciary Committee staff from entering the courtroom to observe proceedings. Over the next several hours, the Department of Justice, ICE, and FEMA congressional affairs offices each pointed to another agency as the one in charge of access. DHS eventually authorized entry for Stanton alone and did not admit any accompanying staff. When Stanton returned on Thursday, September 24, he waited about 20 minutes before being let in. Once inside, the presiding judge confirmed for the record that the proceedings were open to the public.\n\nThe lawmakers note that under federal regulation (8 C.F.R. \u00a7 1003.27) and EOIR's own policies, immigration court hearings are presumptively open to the public. A hearing may be closed only if the presiding judge determines that closure is necessary to protect a party. No such determination was made or cited.\n\n\"The back-and-forth finger pointing regarding agency jurisdiction over the court was completely unwarranted given that the judge reiterated that the court is open to the public,\" Stanton and Raskin write. The letter also warns that because each agency disclaimed responsibility, it appears \"EOIR's authority over courtroom access is being exercised, in practice, by DHS and its components.\" It asks DOJ to clarify how EOIR is exercising, or delegating, that responsibility.\n\nThe White House has reportedly directed DHS to find space for more immigration courtrooms nationwide, including in Washington, D.C., Los Angeles, Denver, Miami, New York, and San Antonio.\n\n\"It is essential that any additional courtrooms operate in full compliance with applicable law and regulation, including public access, and that respondents appearing without counsel receive adequate notice, no less than ten days, if their hearings are relocated to one of these facilities,\" the lawmakers wrote.\n\nThe lawmakers also flagged troubling reports from immigration attorneys. \"We are concerned by reports from immigration attorneys of a pattern in which respondents scheduled for hearings at the FEMA headquarters courtroom lack counsel, and in which a respondent's hearing is moved to a more established, publicly accessible court once that respondent retains counsel and counsel enters an appearance,\" they wrote.\n\nStanton and Raskin requested written answers within one week to questions that courtroom personnel could not answer during Stanton's visit. The questions include:\n\nHow many respondents have been noticed to appear and have appeared at the courtroom;\n\nHow many judges are assigned to it;\n\nHow many in absentia removal orders it has issued;\n\nHow many respondents may be scheduled for the same hearing time;\n\nWhy congressional staff were denied entry; and\n\nWhy the courtroom has no identifying signage.\n\nThe lawmakers also requested a staff briefing within one week.\n\nThe full letter is available HERE.", 1, "2026-09-30T10:57:52Z", "2026-09-30T10:59:04Z"], ["https://subramanyam.house.gov/media/press-releases/after-reports-suicide-attempts-sea-subramanyam-and-walkinshaw-seek-independent", "After Reports of Suicide Attempts at Sea, Subramanyam and Walkinshaw Seek Independent Review of Military Mental Health Care", "2026-09-29", "2026", "2026-09", "Democrat", "House", "VA", "Suhas Subramanyam", "S001230", "subramanyam.house.gov", "subramanyam", "https://subramanyam.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Congressman Suhas Subramanyam (VA-10), Ranking Member of the Subcommittee on Military and Foreign Affairs, and Congressman James R. Walkinshaw (VA-11), a member of the House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform Subcommittee on Military and Foreign Affairs, are pressing the Government Accountability Office (GAO) to examine whether service members have sufficient access to mental health care during deployments.\n\nIn their letter, the lawmakers point to concerning conditions aboard the USS Gerald R. Ford during its 326-day deployment. A fire spread from a laundry room to sleeping quarters, displacing approximately 600 sailors. Some had to sleep on floors and tables. The carrier also experienced plumbing and sewage problems.\n\nThe letter also raises concerns about the USS Abraham Lincoln carrier strike group\u2019s extended deployment. The Acting U.S. Secretary of the Navy has said eight sailors across ships in the strike group attempted suicide and several sailors attempted to jump overboard the USS Lincoln. The lawmakers cite reports of inadequate food and supplies and say it remains unclear what mental health resources service members can access while deployed and if they are sufficient to address their urgent needs.\n\n\u201cExtended deployments place enormous strain on servicemembers and their families,\u201d the lawmakers write. \u201cAt a minimum, they deserve safe and adequate places to sleep, access to basic necessities, and living conditions that protect their physical and mental health.\u201d\n\nWalkinshaw and Subramanyam ask GAO to examine mental health screenings before, during, and after deployment; access to treatment at sea; how the Navy responds when symptoms escalate; and the obstacles it faces in delivering care.\n\n\u201cWhen those deployments are compounded by inadequate living conditions, Congress has a responsibility to understand the impact on morale, mental health, readiness, and retention, and ensure the Department of Defense (DOD) is doing everything possible to support the service members we ask to serve,\u201d the lawmakers write.\n\nRead the full letter here.\n\n###", 1, "2026-09-30T10:57:52Z", "2026-09-30T10:59:04Z"], ["https://torres.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congresswoman-torres-calls-for-immediate-action-after-california-is-left-out-of-federal-manufacturing-funding-for-second-year-in-a-row", "Congresswoman Torres Calls for Immediate Action After California is Left Out of Federal Manufacturing Funding for Second Year in a Row", "2026-09-29", "2026", "2026-09", "Democrat", "House", "CA", "Norma J. Torres", "T000474", "torres.house.gov", "torres", "https://torres.house.gov/media-center/press-releases", "scraper", "The Manufacturing Extension and Partnership program helps small and medium-sized manufacturers strengthen supply chains, expand domestic production, and train workers for high-skilled, good-paying jobs\n\nWashington, D.C. \u2013 Today, Congresswoman Norma Torres (CA-35), a member of the House Appropriations Committee and longtime advocate for manufacturing jobs in the Inland Empire, called on the Department of Commerce\u2019s National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) to immediately restore California\u2019s Manufacturing Extension Partnership (MEP) Center after the state was left without federal MEP funding for the second year in a row.\n\nMEP centers play a critical role in helping manufacturers secure their supply chains, expand connections with domestic suppliers, and develop their workforces by creating good-paying, high skill jobs. California has not had an active MEP Center since fall 2025. NIST\u2019s choice to leave out California yet again, despite numerous applicants, means that the largest manufacturing state in the nation and the world\u2019s 4th largest economy will now go more than two years without the expertise, support, and guidance that MEP centers and their networks provide.\n\nOn September 15, 2025, the Department of Commerce\u2019s National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) awarded more than $30 million to support MEP centers in 11 states and Puerto Rico as part of the Fiscal Year 2026 MEP Center State Competition. At that time, California and Alaska were the only eligible states where no selection was made. NIST\u2019s July funding opportunity anticipated up to $15.6 million annually for a California MEP Center. Now, more than a year later, California\u2019s manufacturers are again being ignored by the Trump Administration.\n\n\u201cCalifornia manufacturers should not have to wait another year for resources that businesses across the country are already receiving,\u201d said Congresswoman Torres. \u201cI have repeatedly called for the Department of Commerce to restore California\u2019s MEP Center because I know how important these resources are to manufacturers in the Inland Empire and across our state. Every month of delay means missed opportunities to help small and midsize businesses adopt new technology, strengthen our supply chains, create jobs, and compete in a rapidly changing global economy. This delay cannot become the new normal. The Department of Commerce must work with California stakeholders and ensure a strong MEP Center is restored as quickly as possible. As the largest manufacturing state in the nation, supporting American manufacturing means supporting California manufacturing.\u201d\n\nEarlier this year, Torres led members of the California Congressional delegation in encouraging Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick to restore California\u2019s MEP Center after the state was left out of a December 2025 MEP Center funding opportunity. The lawmakers warned that leaving California without an MEP center would deny manufacturers access to technical assistance and resources that help strengthen domestic production and workforce development.\n\nAs a member of the Appropriations Committee, Torres has pushed for strong funding and safeguards for the MEP program, and is a longtime supporter of the program, including getting her bill, the National Supply Chain Database Act, signed into law as part of the CHIPS and Science Act . NIST\u2019s latest decision to leave out California does not comply with the Commerce, Justice, Science; Energy and Water Development; and Interior and Environment Appropriations Act, 2026 (Public Law 119-74) signed into law in January 2026, which directed the Department to fund the MEP at fiscal year 2024 levels, and to \u201crapidly execute funding competitions\u201d in order to minimize \u201cthe periods of time when no MEP Center is active in any State or Puerto Rico.\n\n###", 1, "2026-09-30T10:57:52Z", "2026-09-30T10:59:04Z"], ["https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases/vasquez-nm-delegation-secure-key-funding-rebuild-roads-outside-wipp-carlsbad", "Vasquez, NM Delegation Secure Key Funding to Rebuild Roads Outside of WIPP in Carlsbad", "2026-09-29", "2026", "2026-09", "Democrat", "House", "NM", "Gabe Vasquez", "V000136", "vasquez.house.gov", "vasquez", "https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 On Thursday, September 24, U.S. Representative Gabe Vasquez (NM-02), U.S. Senator Martin Heinrich (D-NM), and U.S. Senator Ben Ray Luj\u00e1n (D-NM) secured $10 million in federal funding to repair the US 285 Relief Route, a critical road for freight trucks transporting nuclear materials to the Waste Isolation Pilot Plant (WIPP) near Carlsbad. The New Mexican delegation, along with the New Mexico Governor\u2019s Office, worked closely to ensure that the federal government fulfilled its promises related to this project.\n\n\u201cWIPP serves a critical role for nuclear waste storage in our state and for our nation,\" said Vasquez. \"This funding is much needed to ensure the safety and improvement of transportation of volatile materials to the facility. We cannot accept any shortcuts or funding shortfalls with a mission this sensitive, and this important. I am proud to have secured this funding working with Senator Heinrich despite the ongoing challenges releasing these funds from the Department of Energy.\u201d\n\n\u201cLast appropriations cycle, I fought like hell to secure this funding \u2013 to get New Mexico more of the funding we deserve for our role in maintaining the nation\u2019s only deep geologic repository for radioactive defense waste. I am extremely proud to have succeeded in delivering this $10 million to help rebuild the roads to, from, and around WIPP and strengthen the infrastructure that workers and the Carlsbad community rely on every day,\u201d said Heinrich. \u201cBut our work isn\u2019t done. I\u2019ll keep fighting to increase the federal government\u2019s support of road and infrastructure improvements in New Mexico, including through my WIPP Economic Assistance Assurance Act.\u201d\n\n\u201cWIPP is critical to our national security, and it is vital that we have the infrastructure needed to support its operations and safely manage the disposal of nuclear waste,\u201d said Luj\u00e1n. \u201cI\u2019m proud to have worked to bring this $10 million in federal funding home to rebuild the roads around WIPP that workers and the Carlsbad community rely on. I look forward to continuing my work to deliver for communities in every corner of New Mexico.\u201d\n\nWIPP, located near Carlsbad, New Mexico, is the nation\u2019s only deep geologic repository for the disposal of transuranic waste generated by the United States\u2019 nuclear weapons program. Since opening in 1999, WIPP has played a critical role in supporting the national defense mission by managing legacy nuclear materials and supporting national security-related cleanup efforts across the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE).\n\nIn 2025, Rep. Vasquez\u2019s proactive and vocal efforts working alongside local stakeholders prevented the federal government from closing WIPP and leaving New Mexico without a key nuclear waste treatment plant.\n\n###", 1, "2026-09-30T10:57:52Z", "2026-09-30T10:59:04Z"], ["https://walkinshaw.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=851", "After Reports of Suicide Attempts at Sea, Walkinshaw and Subramanyam Seek Independent Review of Military Mental Health Care", "2026-09-29", "2026", "2026-09", "Democrat", "House", "VA", "James R. Walkinshaw", "W000831", "walkinshaw.house.gov", "walkinshaw", "https://walkinshaw.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Congressman James R. Walkinshaw (VA-11), a member of the House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform Subcommittee on Military and Foreign Affairs and Congressman Suhas Subramanyam (VA-10), Ranking Member of the Subcommittee on Military and Foreign Affairs, are pressing the Government Accountability Office (GAO) to examine whether service members have sufficient access to mental health care during deployments.\n\nIn their letter, the lawmakers point to concerning conditions aboard the USS Gerald R. Ford during its 326-day deployment. A fire spread from a laundry room to sleeping quarters, displacing approximately 600 sailors. Some had to sleep on floors and tables. The carrier also experienced plumbing and sewage problems.\n\nThe letter also raises concerns about the USS Abraham Lincoln carrier strike group\u2019s extended deployment. The Acting U.S. Secretary of the Navy has said eight sailors across ships in the strike group attempted suicide and several sailors attempted to jump overboard the USS Lincoln. The lawmakers cite reports of inadequate food and supplies and say it remains unclear what mental health resources service members can access while deployed and if they are sufficient to address their urgent needs.\n\n\u201cExtended deployments place enormous strain on servicemembers and their families,\u201d the lawmakers write. \u201cAt a minimum, they deserve safe and adequate places to sleep, access to basic necessities, and living conditions that protect their physical and mental health.\u201d\n\nWalkinshaw and Subramanyam ask GAO to examine mental health screenings before, during, and after deployment; access to treatment at sea; how the Navy responds when symptoms escalate; and the obstacles it faces in delivering care.\n\n\u201cWhen those deployments are compounded by inadequate living conditions, Congress has a responsibility to understand the impact on morale, mental health, readiness, and retention, and ensure the Department of Defense (DOD) is doing everything possible to support the service members we ask to serve,\u201d the lawmakers write.\n\nRead the full letter here.\n\n###", 1, "2026-09-30T10:57:52Z", "2026-09-30T10:59:04Z"], ["https://walkinshaw.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=852", "Walkinshaw Calls for Investigation into Trump's DHS-Funded Political Ads", "2026-09-29", "2026", "2026-09", "Democrat", "House", "VA", "James R. Walkinshaw", "W000831", "walkinshaw.house.gov", "walkinshaw", "https://walkinshaw.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, DC -- Congressman James R. Walkinshaw (VA-11), the only Democrat who sits on both the House Homeland Security and Oversight and Government Reform Committees, called for an investigation into President Trump's use of Department of Homeland Security funds to bankroll his political TV ads.\n\n\u201cTrump is using your tax dollars at the Department of Homeland Security to pay for his own political TV ads.\n\nRepublicans handed DHS historic levels of funding. Now it turns out Trump is spending it on himself.\n\nThese aren't PSAs. One is nearly identical to a Trump 2024 campaign ad. And they're illegal. Federal law bans spending taxpayer money on political ads and propaganda.\n\nHis approval is at rock bottom, so he's buying airtime while families are drowning in gas and grocery prices.\n\nWe need a full investigation, with everyone who signed off on this answering under oath.\u201d\n\n###", 1, "2026-09-30T10:57:52Z", "2026-09-30T10:59:04Z"], ["https://adams.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/reps-adams-brown-lead-house-colleagues-urging-usda-distribute-delayed", "Reps. Adams, Brown Lead House Colleagues in Urging USDA to Distribute Delayed Funding for Urban Agriculture Grants", "2026-09-28", "2026", "2026-09", "Democrat", "House", "NC", "Alma S. Adams", "A000370", "adams.house.gov", "adams", "https://adams.house.gov/media-center/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2014 On Thursday, September 24, Congresswomen Alma Adams, Ph.D. (NC-12), and Shontel Brown (OH-11)sent a letter to U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Under Secretary Richard Fordyce and Natural Resources Conservation Service Chief Colton Buckley, urging the USDA to immediately release a Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO) for the Urban Agriculture and Innovative Production (UAIP) competitive grants program. The letter was joined by 24 Members of Congress.\n\nThe UAIP program was created by the 2018 Farm Bill, establishing an office to support and fund urban and innovative farming practices through competitive grants for planning and implementation projects. The program targets areas with limited fresh food access, helping expand efforts by farmers, gardeners, schools, and local governments to build food security, lower local food costs, and support economic development in underserved urban and suburban communities.\n\nUSDA has received $12 million in appropriated funding for UAIP: $7 million in Fiscal Year 2025 and $5 million in Fiscal Year 2026. However, the agency has not released any of the allocated funds, with no explanation for the delay. The letter calls on the USDA to open a 60-day application window no later than December 31, 2026, and requests answers on what caused the delay, when the NOFO will be released, and what the department's regular funding cycle will look like going forward.\n\n\u201cAddressing agricultural needs in North Carolina\u2019s 12th District is one of my top priorities,\u201d saidCongresswoman Adams, a senior member of the House Committee on Agriculture.\u201cUAIP was created to support local family farms and increase access to affordable healthy foods in urban districts across the country; the program must continue to do that. I am calling on the USDA to distribute these funds as they have been directed by Congress.\u201d\n\n\u201cCongress created and funded the Urban Agriculture and Innovative Production grant program with bipartisan support. We need answers from USDA as to why UAIP grants are not being made available. My Cleveland district has a long and great tradition of urban agriculture, and USDA needs to explain why it is failing to deliver resources Congress intended for these communities,\u201dsaid Congresswoman Shontel Brown, Vice Ranking Member of the House Committee on Agriculture.\n\n\u201cFarmers and communities need federal programs they can rely on. Since 2020, the Office of Urban Agriculture and Innovative Production has been one of those programs. However, since 2025, the Office has nearly disappeared. NSAC supports this effort to ensure the Office continues to invest in community-based food systems nationwide as Congress intended,\u201d commented Hannah Quigley, Policy Specialist with the National Sustainable Agriculture Coalition.\n\nEstablished by the 2018 Farm Bill, UAIP supports urban farms, innovative production methods, and municipal composting initiatives while helping address food insecurity in surrounding communities. Since 2020, the program has funded 199 grants and 146 cooperative agreements across 43 states and Puerto Rico, working alongside 27 USDA Urban Service Centers to support incubator farms, workforce development, K-12 education programs, and community gardens.\n\nThe letter follows significant staff turnover and reorganization at USDA, which the lawmakers say should not prevent the department from implementing congressionally funded programs.", 1, "2026-09-29T11:07:12Z", "2026-09-29T11:08:49Z"], ["https://amo.house.gov/press-release/amo-pappas-trahan-ruiz-lead-bipartisan-house-effort-pushing-hhs-to-distribute-liheap-funds", "Amo, Pappas, Trahan, Ruiz Lead Bipartisan House Effort Pushing HHS to Distribute LIHEAP Funds", "2026-09-28", "2026", "2026-09", "Democrat", "House", "RI", "Gabe Amo", "A000380", "amo.house.gov", "amo", "https://amo.house.gov/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, DC \u2013 Representatives Gabe Amo (D-RI-01) Chris Pappas (D-NH-01), Lori Trahan (D-MA-03), and Dr. Raul Ruiz (D-CA-25) led a bipartisan group of 113 members in calling on the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) to take all necessary steps to ensure that the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) funds are distributed to the states as soon as possible and no later than November 1, 2026.\n\nThe lawmakers write:\n\n\u201cWith a history of repeated funding delays by HHS to states, we are especially concerned for households facing high energy prices this winter who rely on LIHEAP... It is of the utmost importance that the agency ensures funds are released as soon as possible and without congressional intervention throughout Fiscal Year 2027.\u201d\n\n\u201cSince February, crude oil prices have significantly increased, topping significantly more than $100 per barrel at its peaks in April 2026 and recently on September 15, 2026. These price spikes impact home heating oil prices especially, as it is refined from crude oil.\u201d\n\n\u201cHome heating oil will not be delivered without payment in full, up front, which can average $2,300 for just the winter season. For the many families that cannot afford these high costs, LIHEAP is a lifeline. If households don\u2019t receive these funds on schedule, families will go without heat or be forced to make remarkably difficult decisions in order to afford it.\u201d\n\n\u201cOnce again we urge you to do everything possible to distribute LIHEAP funds to states and families expeditiously. Families should not have to choose between staying warm and affording other essential items like food, medication, or rent. We appreciate your attention on this urgent matter and stand ready to support the agency in assisting the American people.\u201d\n\nThe full letter can be found here.\n\nThe letter was signed by Representatives Gabe Amo (D-RI-01), Chris Pappas (D-NH-01), Lori Trahan (D-MA-03), Dr. Raul Ruiz (D-CA-25), Josh Riley (D-NY-19), William Keating (D-MA-09), Bennie Thompson (D-MI-02), Joseph Morelle (D-NY-25), Andrew Garbarino (R-NY-02), Dan Goldman (D-NY-10), Madeleine Dean (D-PA-04), John Mannion (D-NY-22), Adriano Espaillat (D-NY-13), Lucy McBath (D-GA-06), Sanford Bishop, Jr. (D-GA-02), Vicente Gonzalez (D-TX-34), Chrissy Houlahan (D-PA-06), Joyce Beatty (D-OH-03), April McClain Delaney (D-MD-06), Sarah McBride (D-DE-AL), Eleanor Holmes Norton (D-DC-AL), Steny Hoyer (D-MD-05), Stephen Lynch (D-MA-08), Kevin Mullin (D-CA-15), Brittany Pettersen (D-CO-07), Terri Sewell (D-AL-07), Patrick Ryan (D-NY-18), Becca Balint (D-VT-AL), John Larson (D-CT-01), Mark Takano (D-CA-39), Sylvia Garcia (D-TX-29), Henry \u201cHank\u201d Johnson, Jr (D-GA-04), Luis Correa (D-CA-46), Sydney Kamlager-Dove (D-CA-37), Rashida Tlaib (D-MI-12), Seth Moulton (D-MA-06), Paul Tonko (D-NY-20), Debbie Dingell (D-MI-06), Jim Costa (D-CA-21), Jahana Hayes (D-CT-05), Dina Titus (D-NV-01), Shontel M. Brown (D-OH-11), Marilyn Strickland (D-WA-10), Glenn Ivey (D-MD-04), Emanuel Cleaver (D-MO-05), Joe Courtney (D-CT-02), Maggie Goodlander (D-NH-02), Chellie Pingree (D-ME-01), Michael Lawler (R-NY-17), Betty McCollum (D-MN-04), Pramila Jayapal (D-WA-07), Troy Carter, Sr. (D-LA-02), Jimmy Panetta (D-CA-19), Nikki Budzinski (D-IL-13), Wesley Bell (D-MO-01), Angie Craig (D-MN-02), Frank J. Mrvan (D-IN-01), Adam Smith (D-WA-09), Salud Carbajal (D-CA-24), Seth Magaziner (D-RI-02), Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D-NY-15), Chris Deluzio (D-PA-17), Timothy Kennedy (D-NY-26), Marie Gluesenkamp Perez (D-WA-03), Bonnie Watson Coleman (D-NJ-12), James McGovern (D-MA-02), James Walkinshaw (D-VA-11), Jake Auchincloss (D-MA-04), Nanette Diaz Barrag\u00e1n (D-CA-44), Cleo Fields (D-LA-06), Mary Gay Scanlon (D-PA-05), Sarah Elfreth (D-PA-03), Adelita Grijalva (D-AZ-07), Marcy Kaptur (D-OH-09), Greg Landsman (D-OH-01), Deborah Ross (D-NC-02), Al Green (D-TX-09), Gwen Moore (D-WI-04), Eric Sorensen (D-IL-17), Nancy Pelosi (D-CA-11), Rick Larsen (D-WA-02), Josh Gottheimer (D-NY-05), Haley Stevens (D-MI-11), Andr\u00e9 Carson (D-IN-04), Steve Cohen (D-TN\u201309), Jes\u00fas Garc\u00eda (D-IL-04), Donald Norcross (D-IL-11), Ayanna Pressley (D-MA-07), Bill Foster (D-IL-11), Gregory Meeks (D-NY-05), Jasmine Crockett (D-TX-30), Summer Lee (D-PA-12), Shri Thanedar (D-MI-13), Mark Pocan (D-WI-03), Alma Adams (D-NC-12), Diana DeGette (D-CO-01), Christian Menefee (D-TX-18), Brian Fitzpatrick (R-PA-01), Melanie Stansbury (D-NM-01), Lois Frankel (D-FL-22), Jonathan Jackson (D-IL-01), Nellie Pou (D-NJ-09), John Garamendi (D-CA-08), Mark DeSaulnier (D-CA-10), Jan Schakowsky (D-IL-09), LaMonica McIver (D-NJ-10), Jerrold Nadler (D-NY-12), Lauren Underwood (D-IL-14), Robert Menendez (D-NJ-08), Danny Davis (D-IL-07), Kelly Morrison (D-MN-03), Jennifer McClellan (D-VA-04), Jared Huffman (D-CA-02), Everton Blair Jr. (D-GA-13), Herbert Conaway, Jr. (D-NJ-03), Kathy Castor (D-FL-14), and Delia C. Ramirez (D-IL-03).\n\nBackground\n\nLIHEAP helps low-income individuals and families pay for heating and cooling and mitigates the impacts of rising energy costs and extreme weather events. Across the nation, LIHEAP helps nearly 6 million households afford their energy bills. As temperatures continue to drop, it is essential that the Department of Health and Human Services release the highest possible amount of funding available to ensure that seniors and working-class families don\u2019t go cold at night.\n\nRhode Islanders can learn more about LIHEAP assistance at the Rhode Island Department of Human Services website, by contacting their local Community Action Program Agency, or the National Energy Assistance Referral (NEAR) hotline toll-free at: 1-866-674-6327. Households can also easily identify possible eligibility for assistance by using the LIHEAP Eligibility Tool on energyhelp.us.\n\nIn 2025 and 2024, Congressman Amo joined lawmakers in urging the release of the highest possible amount of LIHEAP funding.\n\n###", 1, "2026-09-29T11:07:12Z", "2026-09-29T11:08:49Z"], ["https://bonamici.house.gov/media/press-releases/bonamici-announces-october-town-hall-meetings", "Bonamici Announces October Town Hall Meetings", "2026-09-28", "2026", "2026-09", "Democrat", "House", "OR", "Suzanne Bonamici", "B001278", "bonamici.house.gov", "bonamici", "https://bonamici.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, DC [9/28/26] \u2013 Today Congresswoman Suzanne Bonamici (OR-01) announced her fall town hall series with three meetings across the First Congressional District.\n\nBonamici will answer questions from attendees and provide an update about her work in Congress. The town hall meetings will be in Beaverton, St. Helens, and Astoria.\n\n\u201cHearing from the people of NW Oregon is essential to my work in Congress,\u201d said Congresswoman Suzanne Bonamici. \u201cI know many people are worried about the high cost of living, threats to our democracy, and more. I invite everyone to attend one of my town hall meetings to discuss their concerns and ask questions.\u201d\n\nMembers of Bonamici\u2019s staff will be at the town hall meetings to assist anyone who is experiencing problems with federal agencies, including the VA, Social Security Administration, immigration, and IRS.\n\nBeaverton Town Hall Meeting\n\nTuesday, October 6th \u2013 7 p.m.\n\nArts & Communication Magnet Academy\n\n11375 SW Center Street, Beaverton\n\nSt. Helens Town Hall Meeting\n\nWednesday, October 7th \u2013 6 p.m.\n\nSt. Helens Senior Center\n\n375 S 15th Street, St. Helens\n\nAstoria Town Hall Meeting\n\nSaturday, October 17th \u2013 1 p.m.\n\nTo be announced\n\nFor everyone\u2019s safety and security, large bags and backpacks are not allowed at the town hall meeting. Small purses no larger than 4.5 by 6.5 inches are permitted. Attendees will not be allowed inside if they do not comply with these safety regulations. Doors will open an hour before each event.\n\n###", 1, "2026-09-29T11:07:12Z", "2026-09-29T11:08:49Z"], ["https://boyle.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/icymi-boyle-unveils-new-legislation-support-firefighter-health-and", "ICYMI: Boyle Unveils New Legislation to Support Firefighter Health and Wellness", "2026-09-28", "2026", "2026-09", "Democrat", "House", "PA", "Brendan F. Boyle", "B001296", "boyle.house.gov", "boyle", "https://boyle.house.gov/media-center/press-releases", "scraper", "PHILADELPHIA, PA \u2013 Today, Congressman Brendan F. Boyle (PA-02) joined Philadelphia firefighters and local labor leaders at IAFF Local 22 to unveil the Public Safety Wellness Tax Credit Act, new federal legislation to improve health protections for the firefighters who put their lives on the line to keep the public safe. Boyle\u2019s bipartisan legislation would create a federal tax credit for publicly funded, not-for-profit fire and EMS agencies that offer preventive medical and behavioral health programs.\n\n\u201cFirefighters put their lives and their health on the line every single day to protect us,\u201d said Congressman Boyle. \u201cThe risks of the job can stay with firefighters long after they're on the job. Years or decades into retirement, they can feel the adverse health effects of such a difficult job. That is why I'm proud to announce new legislation that is focused on one simple goal: helping firefighters stay safe and get healthier. I think it's our moral obligation as a society to ensure that they get those services they need and that they've earned.\u201d\n\nFirefighters are at increased risk for occupational illnesses\u2014including cancer, cardiac events, and post-traumatic stress. Congressman Boyle\u2019s new targeted tax credit would improve firefighter health outcomes and reduce long-term municipal costs. To be eligible, fire and EMS agencies must be publicly operated and explicitly codify preventive health and wellness services through collective bargaining agreements (CBAs) with their employees.\n\nBoyle was joined at today\u2019s announcement by Mike Bresnan, President of the Philadelphia Firefighters\u2019 & Paramedics\u2019 Union, International Association of Fire Fighters (IAFF) Local 22, members of IAFF Local 22, and other local labor leaders.\n\n\u201cI just want to take a moment to thank Congressman Boyle. He's always been there for us when we need some help with something,\u201d said IAFF Local 22 President Mike Bresnan. \u201cI want to thank Congressman Boyle for stepping up and spearheading this, and hopefully everybody gets on board and supports this.\u201d\n\nThe Public Safety Wellness Tax Credit Act is co-led in the House by Congressman Mike Carey (OH-15).", 1, "2026-09-29T11:07:12Z", "2026-09-29T11:08:49Z"], ["https://bynum.house.gov/media/press-releases/bynum-calls-review-epas-microplastics-monitoring-and-research", "Bynum Calls for Review of EPA\u2019s Microplastics Monitoring and Research", "2026-09-28", "2026", "2026-09", "Democrat", "House", "OR", "Janelle S. Bynum", "B001326", "bynum.house.gov", "bynum", "https://bynum.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "The lawmakers argue that to continue protecting Americans\u2019 health, they need to understand what the EPA has accomplished in its work on microplastics and what progress still needs to be made. They also emphasize the urgency of this review amid emerging research connecting microplastics to adverse health consequences and serious environmental risks.\n\nIn the letter, the lawmakers write:\n\n\u201cEven as the EPA's FY2023-FY2026 research plan approaches its conclusion, Congress lacks a clear assessment of what the EPA has accomplished in its work on microplastics and what work remains necessary to support reliable monitoring, risk assessment and potential regulatory action.\u201d\n\nLater in the letter, they write:\n\n\u201cAddressing microplastic pollution is critical for protecting the health of Americans and safeguarding our waterways and ecosystems. Our constituents deserve to know what microplastic exposure means for their families\u2019 health, and the requested information above will be critical in informing Congress\u2019s work in tackling this challenge.\"\n\nThe letter was also signed by Senator Jeff Merkley (D-OR) and Representatives Jes\u00fas G. \"Chuy\" Garc\u00eda (IL-04), Jared Huffman (CA-02), Dan Goldman (NY-10), Eleanor Holmes Norton (D-D.C), Emanuel Cleaver II (MO-05), Mike Quigley (IL-05), Melanie Stansbury (NM-01), Dave Min (CA-47), Rashida Tlaib (MI-12), Laura Friedman (CA-30), Jasmine Crockett (TX-30), Judy Chu (CA-28), Kevin Mullin (CA-15), Sylvia R. Garcia (TX-29), Adelita S. Grijalva (AZ-07), Steve Cohen (TN-09), Mike Levin (CA-49), Betty McCollum (MN-04), Nanette Diaz Barrag\u00e1n (CA-44), and Zoe Lofgren (CA-18).\n\nIn July, Rep. Bynum led a bicameral letter, urging the Environmental Protection Agency to add microplastics to the agency's recently published Sixth Unregulated Contaminant Monitoring Rule (UCMR 6). This letter urged the EPA to begin monitoring microplastics in America's drinking water, citing a growing body of research linking the emerging contaminant to serious adverse health effects.\n\nRep. Bynum also introduced the bicameral, bipartisan Microplastics Safety Act to require the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to conduct a study on the health impacts of microplastics in food, water, and other products. The new legislation is a critical step forward in better understanding the threat of microplastics to human health.\n\nBackground\n\nResearchers at the Environmental Protections Agency (EPA) define microplastics as plastic particles ranging in size from 5 millimeters to one nanometer. Microplastics have been found in every ecosystem on the planet, as well as in food, beverages, and animal and human tissue. When Environment Oregon sampled 30 of Oregon\u2019s most iconic rivers, lakes, and urban waterways, they found microplastic fibers in 100% of the samples.\n\nThe full text of the letter is available here.\n\n###", 1, "2026-09-29T11:07:12Z", "2026-09-29T11:08:49Z"], ["https://castro.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/castrocasarlead60democratsdemandinganswers-onsecuringlegalrepresentationforunaccompanied-children", "Castro,\u00a0Casar\u00a0Lead\u00a060+\u00a0Democrats\u00a0Demanding\u00a0Answers on\u00a0Securing\u00a0Legal\u00a0Representation\u00a0for\u00a0Unaccompanied Children", "2026-09-28", "2026", "2026-09", "Democrat", "House", "TX", "Joaquin Castro", "C001091", "castro.house.gov", "castro", "https://castro.house.gov/media-center/press-releases", "scraper", "\u201cChildren's Legal Protections Should Never Be The Currency Of Political Patronage\u201d\n\nWASHINGTON, D.C. \u2014 Today, Congressman Joaquin Castro (TX-20) and Congressman Greg Casar led (TX-35) 61 House Democrats in a letter to Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy, Jr., and the Office of Refugee Resettlement (ORR) Acting Director Angie Salazar demanding transparency in its process for awarding contracts to organizations providing legal representation to unaccompanied children. In August, the Burke Law Group, a firm with Trump Administration ties, declined a $150 million no-bid contract only after public scrutiny. The group of lawmakers slammed the Secretary and Acting Director for awarding organizations, such as the Burke Law Group, without relevant experience and expertise, resulting in putting migrant children at risk.\n\nThe members demanded a more transparent process for awarding experienced organizations to represent unaccompanied children, writing,\"Burke Law Group and Our Rescue lack experience, proficiency, and capacity to appropriately implement essential legal services to thousands of unaccompanied children. We are gravely concerned that ORR would entrust a vulnerable population with firms so plainly unqualified for the task. Weurge ORR to find the best organizations to handle this contract through a competitive, public process.\"\n\nThe members criticized no-bid contracts awarded to firms that were connected to the president, writing, \u201cThe Trump administration has made a practice of issuing awards based on politics and cronyism rather than in the public interest. We are not surprised that leadership in both Burke Law Group and Our Rescue includes individuals who previously served in various roles during the first Trump administration. Derek Benner, the current CEO of Our Rescue, previously served as the Executive Associate Director for Homeland Security Investigations during the first Trump administration. Children's legal protections should never be the currency of political patronage.\u201d\n\nThe lawmakers demanded answers about ORR\u2019s current contracts by September 25, 2026.\n\nMembers who signed the letter include: Reps. Joaquin Castro (TX-20), Greg Casar (TX-35), Nanette Barrag\u00e1n (CA-44), Suzanne Bonamici (OR-01), Andr\u00e9 Carson (IN-07), Judy Chu (CA-28), Gilbert Cisneros (CA-31), Yvette Clarke (NY-09), J. Correa (CA-46), Jasmine Crockett (TX-30), Madeleine Dean (PA-04), Diana DeGette (CO-01), Christopher Deluzio (PA-17), Mark DeSaulnier (CA-10), Maxine Dexter (OR-03), Debbie Dingell (MI-06), Lloyd Doggett (TX-37), Veronica Escobar (TX-16), Adriano Espaillat (NY-13), Lizzie Fletcher (TX-07), Bill Foster (IL-11), Maxwell Frost (FL-10), Jes\u00fas Garc\u00eda (IL-04), Robert Garcia (CA-42), Sylvia Garcia (TX-29), Daniel Goldman (NY-10), Jimmy Gomez (CA-34), Adelita Grijalva (AZ-07), Pablo Hern\u00e1ndez (PR), Jonathan Jackson (IL-01), Sara Jacobs (CA-51), Pramila Jayapal (WA-07), Henry Johnson (GA-04), Sydney Kamlager-Dove (CA-37), Raja Krishnamoorthi (IL-08), Summer Lee (PA-12), Stephen Lynch (MA-08), Seth Magaziner (RI-02), Seth Moulton (MA-06), Jerrold Nadler (NY-12), Eleanor Norton (DC), Brittany Pettersen (CO-07), Mark Pocan (WI-02), Mike Quigley (IL-05), Delia Ramirez (IL-03), Luz Rivas (CA-29), Andrea Salinas (OR-06), Mary Gay Scanlon (PA-05), Janice Schakowsky (IL-09), Lateefah Simon (CA-12), Melanie Stansbury (NM-01), Shri Thanedar (MI-13), Rashida Tlaib (MI-12), Paul Tonko (NY-20), Norma Torres (CA-35), Ritchie Torres (NY-15), Lauren Underwood (IL-14), Juan Vargas (CA-52), Marc Veasey (TX-33), Nydia Vel\u00e1zquez (NY-07), Debbie Wasserman Schultz (FL-25), Frederica Wilson (FL-24).\n\nRead the full letter here.", 1, "2026-09-29T11:07:12Z", "2026-09-29T11:08:49Z"], ["https://chu.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/reps-chu-takano-meng-and-sen-hirono-recognize-asian-american-and-native", "Reps. Chu, Takano, Meng and Sen. Hirono Recognize Asian American and Native American Pacific Islander Serving Institutions Week", "2026-09-28", "2026", "2026-09", "Democrat", "House", "CA", "Judy Chu", "C001080", "chu.house.gov", "chu", "https://chu.house.gov/media-center/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Last week, Rep. Judy Chu (CA-28), Chair Emerita of the Congressional Asian Pacific American Caucus (CAPAC), Rep. Mark Takano (CA-41), and Rep. Grace Meng (NY-06), Chair of CAPAC, introduced a bipartisan resolution recognizing Asian American and Native American Pacific Islander Serving Institutions (AANAPISI) Week, from September 27 \u2013 October 3, 2026. Senator Mazie K. Hirono (D-HI) introduced companion legislation in the Senate.\n\nThis week honors the vital role of AANAPISIs in expanding access to quality higher education for American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander (AANHPI) students. Since its authorization under the 2007 College Cost Reduction and Access Act, the AANAPISI program has provided grants to institutions with high populations of AANHPI students, helping colleges expand their capacity to serve all students. These institutions have played a crucial role in opening the door to higher education for minority students, especially those who are low-income or first-generation. Today, AANAPISIs enroll over 40 percent of all AANHPI undergraduate students in the United States, and award nearly half of all associate degrees and bachelor\u2019s degrees attained by all AANHPI college students across the country.\n\nThis resolution comes days after the Trump Administration diverted an additional $235 million in federal funding that Congress had designated for Minority-Serving Institutions (MSIs), to Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) and Tribal Colleges (TCUs). Instead of increasing investment in HBCUs and TCUs, this Administration has chosen to take money and resources from schools serving historically underserved students, including AANAPISIs, Native Hawaiian Serving Institutions (NHSIs), Predominantly Black Institutions (PBIs), and Hispanic Serving Institutions (HSIs). The Congressional Tri-Caucus condemned the decision and urged the Administration to restore the funding Congress appropriated to support MSIs.\n\nLast year, the Trump administration also recklessly decided to end Congressional-approved funding for MSIs, calling them unconstitutional. AANAPISIs alone have had over $23 million in annual grant funding terminated since the beginning of the Trump Administration, which will force many to gut support services for students and lay off staff. These cuts will destabilize the education of thousands of students and ultimately harm our nation's economic future.\n\n\u201cAs a former community college professor, I\u2019ve seen what happens when students get real support. They don\u2019t just graduate, they can transform their families and their communities for generations. AANAPISIs make that possible for students who need it the most, including first generation, and low-income students of color, by breaking down barriers and making sure all students have an equal shot at higher education,\u201d said Rep. Chu, CAPAC Chair Emerita. \u201cThat\u2019s why the Trump administration\u2019s decision to terminate MSI funding, and now redirect $235 million of it to HBCUs and tribal colleges, is so disappointing. Every MSI deserves full investment, but pitting them against each other isn\u2019t the solution, it is a step backward. This AANAPISI Week, I remain committed to fighting for these institutions and for every student\u2019s right to the education they deserve.\u201d\n\n\u201cAsian American and Native American Pacific Islander Serving Institutions, their funding, and their success are vital to our nation\u2019s future and competitiveness,\u201d said Rep. Takano. \u201cI am proud to represent the University of California, Riverside, which has held AANAPISI status since 2018, and to fight the Department of Education\u2019s dismantling and weaponization of Minority Serving Institution grants. These programs make higher education attainable for students from diverse backgrounds, bringing more talent, expertise, and knowledge to our workforce.\u201d\n\n\"Far too often, Asian Americans, Native Hawaiians, and Pacific Islanders are treated as a 'model minority'\u2014a harmful stereotype that hides the educational barriers facing our diverse communities. That is why Asian American and Native American Pacific Islander-serving institutions are so important. For decades, they have expanded access to higher education and opened pathways to economic mobility for millions of underserved AANHPI students. I am proud to introduce this resolution with my CAPAC colleagues to recognize AANAPISI Week and fight back against the Trump administration's efforts to terminate federal funding for these institutions. We will not stop until the next generation of Asian Americans, Native Hawaiians, and Pacific Islanders is more successful than the last,\" said Rep. Meng, Chair of CAPAC.\n\n\u201cIn Hawaii and nationwide, Asian American and Native American Pacific Islander-Serving Institutions help students thrive in the classroom and prepare them for success after graduation. As the Trump regime continues its ideological attacks on Minority-Serving Institutions, supporting AANAPISIs and the communities they serve is critical,\u201d said Sen. Hirono. \u201cBy establishing AANAPISI week, this resolution celebrates diversity in education and recognizes these institutions and the services they provide.\u201d\n\n\u201cDuring this AANAPISI Week, APAHE extends our deepest gratitude to CAPAC for their steadfast leadership in defending the federal AANAPISI designation amid ongoing efforts by the Department of Education to dismantle these critical programs. AANAPISIs are vital to educational equity and AA&NHPI student success, and we must aggressively defend this essential resource from being stripped away,\u201d said Dr. Rowena M. Tomaneng, President, Asian Pacific Americans in Higher Education (APAHE).\n\nThe full resolution text is available HERE.\n\nThe resolution is cosponsored by Reps. Yassamin Ansari (AZ-03), Nanette Barrag\u00e1n (CA-44), Wesley Bell (MO-01), Suzanne Bonamici (OR-01), Ed Case (HI-01), Yvette Clarke (NY-09), Lou Correa (CA-46), Danny Davis (IL-07), Suzan DelBene (WA-01), Debbie Dingell (MI-06), Dwight Evans (PA-03), Laura Friedman (CA-30), Jimmy Gomez (CA-34), Pramila Jayapal (WA-07), Hank Johnson (GA-04), Kimberlyn King-Hinds (CNMI), Raja Krishnamoorthi (IL-08), Ted Lieu (CA-36), Doris Matsui (CA-07), Dave Min (CA-47), Jerry Nadler (NY-12), Deborah Ross (NC-02), Brad Sherman (CA-32), Lateefah Simon (CA-12), Marilyn Strickland (WA-10), Tom Suozzi (NY-03), Mike Thompson (CA-04), Norma Torres (CA-35), Dina Titus (NV-01), Jill Tokuda (HI-02), and Bonnie Watson Coleman (NJ-12).", 1, "2026-09-29T11:07:12Z", "2026-09-29T11:08:49Z"], ["https://clarke.house.gov/clarke-leads-letter-to-revlon-demanding-answers-following-findings-of-dangerous-contaminants-in-cosmetics/", "CLARKE LEADS LETTER TO REVLON DEMANDING ANSWERS FOLLOWING FINDINGS OF DANGEROUS CONTAMINANTS IN COSMETICS", "2026-09-28", "2026", "2026-09", "Democrat", "House", "NY", "Yvette D. Clarke", "C001067", "clarke.house.gov", "clarke", "https://clarke.house.gov/category/press-release/", "scraper", "FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:\n\nSeptember 28, 2026\n\nMEDIA CONTACT:\n\ne: jessica.myers@mail.house.gov\n\nc: 202.913.0126\n\nWASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Representative Yvette D. Clarke (NY-09) led a letter signed by nine Members of Congress to CEO of Revlon Group Holdings LLC, Michelle Peluso, following the FDA\u2019s recent findings that the cosmetics company failed to adequately test products for the presence of contaminants \u2013 including cancer-causing chemicals and mold \u2013 putting the health of its customers at risk, particularly its Black customers who are disproportionately represented in the beauty and personal care market.\n\n\u201cBlack consumers, specifically women and girls, occupy a significant space within the overall U.S. beauty landscape. In 2026, beauty spending among Black consumers reached $16.2 billion, representing a 9 percent increase from the previous year. Given their prevalence in your customer base, it is our serious concern that Black women and girls would be disproportionately exposed to carcinogenic chemicals in contaminated beauty products,\u201d wrote the Members. \u201cProducts that pose a risk to consumers have no place in our markets. Black women and girls should be able to use beauty and personal care products, including over-the-counter (OTC) drug products, without worrying about potential exposure to harmful chemicals.\u201d\n\nThe letter was signed by: Representatives Clarke, Carson, Crockett, DeLauro, Grijalva, Holmes Norton, Thanedar, Tlaib, and Wilson (FL).\n\nFull text of the letter can be found HERE.\n\n###", 1, "2026-09-29T11:07:12Z", "2026-09-29T11:08:49Z"], ["https://davids.house.gov/media/press-releases/davids-secures-new-grant-deliver-emergency-shelter-counseling-legal-support", "Davids Secures New Grant to Deliver Emergency Shelter, Counseling, Legal Support for Kansas Crime Victims", "2026-09-28", "2026", "2026-09", "Democrat", "House", "KS", "Sharice Davids", "D000629", "davids.house.gov", "davids", "https://davids.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Today, Representative Sharice Davids announced that the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) has awarded $11,407,514 to the State of Kansas. The federal investment, which Davids voted to support, will directly fund victim assistance programs, providing essential support services \u2014 including crisis counseling, emergency shelter, legal advocacy, and therapy \u2014 to survivors of crime across Kansas.\n\n\"When someone experiences a crime, they shouldn't have to figure out how to rebuild their life alone,\" said Davids. \"Whether it's finding a safe place to stay in the middle of the night or having someone stand by your side in a courtroom, our local crisis centers and victim advocates do incredible, heavy work every single day. I was glad to vote for the funding that brought these dollars home to Kansas, and I'll keep working to make sure our local support networks and law enforcement have what they need to keep people safe and supported.\"\n\nAdministered through the DOJ\u2019s Victim Assistance Formula Grant program, funds are subgranted by the state to local, community-based nonprofits and public agencies that serve crime victims directly. The $11,407,514 award will support a range of critical services, including:\n\nCrisis Counseling & Therapy: Onsite emergency support, mental health counseling, and specialized trauma care for victims and survivors.\n\nEmergency Shelter & Relocation: Safe housing, emergency shelter, and basic needs assistance for domestic violence survivors and victims of crime.\n\nLegal Advocacy & Criminal Justice Support: In-person courtroom advocacy, legal aid, and help navigating the criminal justice process.\n\nInformation & Referrals: 24/7 hotlines, emergency intervention, and referral networks for health, housing, and social services.\n\nThis investment builds on Davids' long-standing effort to deliver federal public safety resources directly to Kansas communities. She has secured more than $27 million in law enforcement and safety grants for the Third District, including grants to recruit police officers in Olathe and Wyandotte County, to stop illicit fentanyl, and for officer mental health and emergency operations infrastructure across Johnson County.", 1, "2026-09-29T11:07:12Z", "2026-09-29T11:08:49Z"], ["https://debbiedingell.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=7398", "Dingell Statement on Trump Administration Lowering Fuel Economy Standards, Ceding Ground to China", "2026-09-28", "2026", "2026-09", "Democrat", "House", "MI", "Debbie Dingell", "D000624", "debbiedingell.house.gov", "debbiedingell", "https://debbiedingell.house.gov/media-center/press-releases", "scraper", "U.S. Representative Debbie Dingell (D-MI-06) released the following statement in the wake of the Trump Administration\u2019s decision to lower fuel economy standards in internal combustion engine-powered cars:\n\n\u201cToday\u2019s decision risks putting the American automotive industry at a competitive disadvantage while the rest of the world races ahead, and it also ignores the more pressing issue working men and women are facing right now with the cost-of-living crisis and the rising price of gas. Americans should have the freedom to choose the vehicle that works best for them, whether that\u2019s electric, hybrid, or an internal combustion engine. But consumer choice and American leadership are not mutually exclusive,\u201d said Congresswoman Dingell. \u201cThe global auto industry is changing rapidly, and China and other countries are investing heavily in the technologies that will define the future. The global market wants electric vehicles, and we cannot afford to fall behind. Our auto industry cannot continue to be a political ping-pong ball every four years. We need stable policies that make transportation more affordable, support good-paying American jobs, and give our industry the certainty they need to invest, innovate, and compete. Michigan put the world on wheels, and I intend to make sure we remain competitive in the global marketplace. We need policies that give consumers choices while ensuring the next generation of vehicles, including EVs, are developed and built right here in America.\u201d", 1, "2026-09-29T11:07:12Z", "2026-09-29T11:08:49Z"], ["https://dexter.house.gov/media/press-releases/congresswoman-maxine-dexter-md-meets-sandy-mayor-discuss-community-priorities", "Congresswoman Maxine Dexter, M.D. Meets with Sandy Mayor to Discuss Community Priorities and Infrastructure Investments", "2026-09-28", "2026", "2026-09", "Democrat", "House", "OR", "Maxine Dexter", "D000635", "dexter.house.gov", "dexter", "https://dexter.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "SANDY, OR \u2013 Today, Congresswoman Maxine Dexter, M.D. (OR-03) met with Sandy Mayor Kathleen Walker and city officials to discuss the community's infrastructure needs, explore local parks and visit a small business serving Sandy residents.\n\nDuring the visit, Dexter learned more about Sandy's investments in public parks, efforts to support local businesses and ongoing challenges with the city's wastewater treatment system. She was joined by Mayor Walker, City Manager Tyler Deems and Deputy City Manager Jeff Aprati.\n\n\u201cStrong communities need reliable infrastructure, successful small businesses and public spaces where families can come together,\u201d Congresswoman Dexter said. \u201cSandy is investing in its future, and I want to make sure the federal government is doing its part. I\u2019m grateful to Mayor Walker and local leaders for sharing their priorities and showing me where federal investments can make a difference.\u201d\n\nThe visit included an opportunity to learn about improvements underway at Meinig Memorial Park and explore Cedar Park, Sandy's newest community park. Cedar Park features the Base Camp Action Sports Park, which offers year-round recreational opportunities, including skating, biking and other activities for residents of all ages.\n\n\u201cWe were excited to welcome Congresswoman Dexter to Sandy today to show her the work we\u2019re doing to keep our community a great place to live,\u201d Mayor Walker said. \u201cFrom improving our parks to modernizing critical wastewater infrastructure, these projects are investments in Sandy\u2019s future. We\u2019re especially grateful for the Congresswoman's partnership in securing federal funding for our wastewater system upgrades, which helps reduce future utility rates for our residents. She understands how important infrastructure investments like these are for growing communities like Sandy.\u201d\n\nCongresswoman Dexter also visited AntFarm Caf\u00e9 & Bakery, a local business that serves as a community gathering space while supporting youth and family services, arts programming and educational opportunities.\n\nThe Congresswoman has secured more than $1.8 million in proposed federal funding to help Sandy improve its wastewater system, including $1.09 million to plan a pipeline connecting Sandy to Gresham and $746,868 to repair aging wastewater pipes.\n\n###", 1, "2026-09-29T11:07:12Z", "2026-09-29T11:08:49Z"], ["https://dondavis.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressmen-davis-and-vindman-introduce-legislation-help-fund-childcare-first", "Congressmen Davis and Vindman Introduce Legislation to Help Fund Childcare for First Responders", "2026-09-28", "2026", "2026-09", "Democrat", "House", "NC", "Donald G. Davis", "D000230", "dondavis.house.gov", "dondavis", "https://dondavis.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2014 Congressmen Don Davis (NC-01) and Eugene Vindman (VA-07) introduced H.R. 10614, Providing Childcare for Firefighters and EMS Act, legislation that would help states fund childcare services for the minor children of firefighters, emergency medical technicians (EMTs), and paramedics during shift work and non-traditional hours.\n\nThe Providing Childcare for Firefighters and EMS Act would authorize the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) to award competitive grants to help states fund childcare programs tailored to the shift schedules and non-traditional work hours of covered first responders.\n\n\u201cFirst responders across eastern North Carolina work long shifts, nights, weekends, and holidays to keep our communities safe, but finding childcare that works around those hours can be a real challenge,\u201d said Davis. \u201cI am proud to co-lead the Providing Childcare for Firefighters and EMS Act to help communities expand childcare options that reflect the realities of first responders\u2019 schedules. Our firefighters, EMTs, and paramedics are there for us at all hours of the day, so we should ensure their families have the support they need to continue serving our communities.\u201d\n\nGrants would be awarded for three-year periods, with matching requirements increasing over the grant term. Eligible beneficiaries would include career and volunteer firefighters, certified emergency medical technicians, and licensed paramedics who are employed by or affiliated with state, local, tribal, or territorial agencies.", 1, "2026-09-29T11:07:12Z", "2026-09-29T11:08:49Z"], ["https://gluesenkampperez.house.gov/posts/rep-gluesenkamp-perez-introduces-legislation-to-support-veterans-right-to-build-their-own-homes", "Rep. Gluesenkamp Perez Introduces Legislation to Support Veterans\u2019 Right to Build Their Own Homes", "2026-09-28", "2026", "2026-09", "Democrat", "House", "WA", "Marie Gluesenkamp Perez", "G000600", "gluesenkampperez.house.gov", "gluesenkampperez", "https://gluesenkampperez.house.gov/press", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, DC \u2014 This week, Reps. Marie Gluesenkamp Perez and Bruce Westerman (R-AR) introduced the Veterans Owner-Builders\u2019 Rights Act to expand VA home loans and provide rural veterans with the ability to use a VA home loan to build their own homes. This bill would establish a five-year pilot program under the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) to make direct housing loans to veterans in rural areas for the construction of new homes.\n\nAs the U.S. continues to face a shortage of starter homes, giving veterans the flexibility to build a home creates a new path to home ownership. In rural communities especially, housing demand frequently outpaces construction. Many veterans already have the skills and knowledge to build a home, but without benefits that give them the freedom to use those skills, they don\u2019t have an opportunity to build. This means veterans are forced into a narrow band of options for how to use VA home loans. As a result, only about 30% of veterans use VA home loans. Owner-builder opportunities, like the ones this bill creates, simultaneously build wealth for veterans and their families, while adding to the overall housing supply.\n\nSpecifically, this legislation would:\n\nCreate a new direct home loan program at VA for rural veterans who want to build their own homes, utilizing the framework and eligibility requirements of an existing VA direct home loan program;\n\nProvide blueprints with American wood sourcing and manufacturing requirements to stimulate domestic timber economies;\n\nStreamline the permitting application process by requiring permit furnishment within 45 days of submission and covering all associated fees;\n\nProvide technical assistance for veterans through the VA or a contracted third party related to the skills necessary to construct or repair a home, as well as for the permit application process; and\n\nSafeguard against home-flippers by requiring the veteran to live in the home for at least two years, or otherwise accelerate repayment of their loan.\n\nMarie Gluesenkamp Perez meets with the Raymond American Legion to discuss Veterans housing options.\n\n\u201cBuilding our own home was one of the hardest and most rewarding things I\u2019ve ever done. While many vets have the relevant skills, they functionally can\u2019t use their VA home loans and leverage their skills to build a home. In fact, only 30% of vets use their VA home loans at all.\u201d Said Rep. Gluesenkamp Perez, \u201cMy bill creates a pilot program for rural vets to use provided blueprints and expedited permitting to start building wealth and community-while increasing the housing supply for all of us.\u201d\n\n\u201cStable, reliable housing directly contributes to the health and well-being of our veterans. Unfortunately, high construction costs and interest rates keep many from investing in their future as homeowners.\u201d Said Rep. Westerman, \u201cBy working directly with the VA to expand construction loan access and investing in the domestic building materials we have in our own backyard, this bill initiates an innovative pilot program that lowers housing costs and provides more access for our veterans in addition to supporting rural America and bolstering our domestic wood supply chain. I\u2019m grateful for the opportunity to work alongside my colleague from Washington to deliver real, bipartisan solutions that address the needs of our veteran community.\u201d\n\n\u201cAt HEVIN, we work directly with veterans and their families, and we know how important safe, stable housing is to building long-term stability. For veterans living in rural communities, the path to homeownership can come with additional barriers and fewer options. This bipartisan legislation creates another practical pathway by giving eligible veterans the opportunity to use a VA loan to build a home, while also providing the technical assistance and permitting support they may need along the way. We believe removing barriers to homeownership and giving veterans more opportunities to build a stable future for themselves and their families is an important investment in those who have served our country.\u201d \u2013 HEVIN, Helping Every Veteran in Need, Longview, WA\n\nCurrently, eligible veterans can get a VA-backed Home Loan to access the funds they need to buy, build, or improve a home. Yet in practice, the program remains underutilized for owner-builders. The Veterans Owner-Builders Rights Act creates a pilot program to prescriptively bypass these barriers and allow veterans the flexibility to build their own homes and start on a pathway to durable wealth.\n\nIn developing this legislation, the Congresswoman discovered there is not consistent process for Members to introduce legislation with images included in the bill text, such as blueprints or maps. As a result, the Congresswoman fought to include language in the Fiscal Year 2026 Legislative Branch Appropriations Act and recently sent a letter to House leadership requesting clarification of best practices for adding images to bill text.\n\nIn addition to the Veterans Owner-Builders Rights Act, Rep. Gluesenkamp Perez has worked from day one to ensure veterans have access to services and housing, especially in rural communities. This Congress, she passed the Rural Veterans\u2019 Improved Access to Benefits Act, aimed at expanding access to disability exams to veterans living in rural areas, and introduced the Rural Veterans Transportation to Care Act to expand eligibility for rural veterans to get transportation to VA health facilities.\n\nShe also included report language in the FY27 Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies appropriations bill to permit the use of the VA Home Loan Guaranty Program for the purchase of land on which an RV, manufactured, or mobile home could be permanently sited as a primary residence, as well as report language to encourage the development of Safe Parking programs that provide allow veterans to park at VA facilities overnight to make it easier for them to access medical services.\n\nThis Veterans Owner-Builders Rights Act is supported by HEVIN and is budget neutral.\n\n####", 1, "2026-09-29T11:07:12Z", "2026-09-29T11:08:49Z"], ["https://golden.house.gov/media/press-releases/golden-bipartisan-colleagues-introduce-smile-for-veterans-act", "Golden, bipartisan colleagues introduce SMILE for Veterans Act", "2026-09-28", "2026", "2026-09", "Democrat", "House", "ME", "Jared F. Golden", "G000592", "golden.house.gov", "golden", "https://golden.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON \u2014 Congressmen Jared Golden (ME-02), Jack Bergman (MI-01), Don Davis (NC-01) and Jeff Van Drew (NJ-02) introduced the SMILE for Veterans Act, to expand affordable dental care for veterans in rural communities across the country.\n\n\u201cVA health care is an essential benefit for our nation\u2019s veterans, but for too long a lack of dental coverage has been a massive gap in care. The mouth is part of the body, and our veterans shouldn\u2019t have to jump through hoops to get basic dental care. I\u2019m proud to work with Reps. Bergman, Davis and Van Drew on the SMILE for Veterans Act, which takes a smart first step toward more comprehensive coverage by focusing on rural areas where barriers to care are the highest and community providers that can help close the gap,\u201d Golden said.\n\nUnder current law, only about 15 percent of the nearly nine million veterans enrolled in health care through the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) are eligible for VA dental services. Eligibility is generally limited to veterans with a service-connected dental condition, a 100 percent disability rating or former prisoner-of-war status.\n\nEfforts to broadly expand dental coverage through the VA have faced significant cost and capacity challenges, including the need for additional personnel, facilities, and community-care infrastructure.\n\nThe SMILE for Veterans Act takes a targeted approach by creating a pilot program to reimburse existing community-based dental providers to serve rural veterans. By leveraging providers and infrastructure already in place, the legislation would expand access to dental care in underserved communities without requiring the VA to build a new system from the ground up.\n\nResearch from the CareQuest Institute in 2024 found that more than one-third of veterans surveyed rated their oral health as only fair or poor, while more than 75 percent of respondents reported losing two or more teeth to decay or gum disease. Nearly four in 10 veterans reported having no dental insurance.\n\n\u201cFor too many Veterans in rural communities, basic dental care is either too far away or simply out of reach,\u201d Bergman said. \u201cThe SMILE for Veterans Act offers a practical solution by connecting Veterans with trusted dental providers already serving their communities. Rather than building an expensive new federal system from the ground up, this legislation uses existing local providers to deliver care efficiently and closer to home.\u201d\n\n\u201cI spent 30 years as a dentist, and I can tell you that putting off dental care usually only makes things worse,\u201d Van Drew said. \u201cFor veterans living in rural communities, sometimes the hardest part is simply finding a dentist close enough to get the care they need. That should not be the case. The SMILE for Veterans Act is a practical way to connect veterans with that care closer to home. To me, that is common sense.\u201d\n\n\u201cQuality dental care is a critical part of keeping our veterans healthy, and too often, veterans in rural communities face significant challenges getting the care they need. The bipartisan SMILE for Veterans Act would give community providers across eastern North Carolina a way to deliver that care closer to home. Our veterans kept their promise to our nation, and we must always keep ours to them,\u201d Davis said.\n\n\u201cThe National Rural Health Association (NRHA) is grateful to see the introduction of the SMILE Act, led by Representative Bergman, Representative Davis, Representative Van Drew, and Representative Golden. This legislation would establish a pilot program to improve rural Veterans\u2019 access to dental care, addressing a critical need in rural communities where Veterans often face significant barriers to accessing essential health services. With one in four Veterans living in a rural area, ensuring access to dental care is an important part of ensuring rural Veterans can receive the comprehensive care they deserve,\u201d said Alan Morgan, CEO, National Rural Health Association.\n\nFull text of the bill can be found here.\n\n###", 1, "2026-09-29T11:07:12Z", "2026-09-29T11:08:49Z"], ["https://goldman.house.gov/media/press-releases/goldman-announces-he-secured-15464700-new-york-city-public-housing-authority", "Goldman Announces He Secured $15,464,700 for New York City Public Housing Authority", "2026-09-28", "2026", "2026-09", "Democrat", "House", "NY", "Daniel S. Goldman", "G000599", "goldman.house.gov", "goldman", "https://goldman.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "New York, N.Y. \u2013 Today, U.S. Representative Dan Goldman (NY-10) announced that he has secured $15,464,700 for the New York City Housing Authority (NYCHA) through the Community Funding Project award program. This funding will go towards improving the standard of safety, security and quality of living at New York City Public Housing developments.\n\nThis funding will advance several key goals to improve quality of life in public housing developments across New York's 10th Congressional District. Working alongside Senator Schumer, Congressman Goldman secured $5 million to remediate mold conditions at Red Hook East in Brooklyn and won $1.5 million to restore the community center at the Jacob Riis Houses in partnership with Vision Urbana.\n\nGoldman also secured grants to upgrade safety infrastructure at eight NYCHA developments, funding improvements to fire safety technology, security cameras, elevator upgrades and lighting systems.\n\nGoldman secured $39,344,968 for 49 community projects in NY-10 across the three appropriations processes during his time in office.\n\nRepresentative Goldman was joined by NYCHA CEO Lisa Bova-Hiatt at the press conference.\n\n\"From the moment I was elected to Congress, representing the historically underserved working-class neighborhoods in my district has been my top priority,\" said Congressman Dan Goldman. \"I am proud to announce that my office has secured more than $15.4 million in federal grants for NYCHA residents at 11 different developments. Public housing should be safe and livable, and I'm proud to have worked alongside so many incredible community leaders to make that a reality. A special thank you is in order for NYCHA, as well, whose leaders have worked with me to pass these projects into law. I am proud to share their commitment to a better future for their residents.\u201d\n\n\"Every New Yorker deserves a safe, healthy, and dignified home, and this investment will help to make meaningful improvements in the quality of life for thousands of NYCHA residents,\" said NYCHA Chief Executive Officer Lisa Bova-Hiatt. \"From making safety and security upgrades to restoring vital community spaces, these projects reflect the kinds of investments that make a significant difference in residents' everyday lives. We are deeply grateful to Congressman Goldman for his ongoing partnership and unwavering commitment to NYCHA residents.\"\n\nManhattan Borough President Brad Hoylman-Sigal said: \"NYCHA's capital needs have never been greater. I\u2019m deeply grateful to Congressman Dan Goldman for his advocacy in Washington on behalf of the hundreds of thousands of Manhattanites who call NYCHA home. This $15.4M investment, which includes fire safety upgrades, security camera installations, and refurbished community centers, will make a real difference in the lives of thousands of Manhattanites who depend on NYCHA for safe, affordable housing. I look forward to working with my elected colleagues and NYCHA CEO Lisa Bova-Hiatt to continue advocating for the needs of Manhattanites living in NYCHA units.\u201d\n\n\"On behalf of the Board of Directors of Vision Urbana, Inc., I extend our profound gratitude to Congressman Dan Goldman for securing this historic $1.5 million federal investment to transform the former Virginia Day Care Center at the NYCHA Jacob Riis development into a Community Resiliency Center,\" said Rev. Dr. Marcos Rivera, Chairperson of Vision Urbana. \"This is a NYCHA development recovering from the effects of Superstorm Sandy making this investment more than just a renovation of a center\u2014it is an investment in the resiliency of a community facility designed for families and older adults who have called Jacob Riis their home for generations.\u201d\n\n\"Vision Urbana now has an executed agreement with HUD providing us a critical foundation from which to develop this facility into a fully functional resource hub that will continue beyond any future superstorm Sandy for NYCHA residents at Jacob Riis and throughout the Lower East Side\", said Eric Diaz, Executive Director of Vision Urbana. \"Community stakeholder sessions have started this Summer with support from sister agencies and the tenants themselves to ensure this facility becomes a resilient center Jacob Riis himself would have been proud to report as a prime example of social infrastructure within NYC public housing.\"\n\nThe projects for which he\u2019s won funding are:\n\nFiscal Year 2024\n\nJacob Riis / Vision Urbana Community Center - $1,500,000\n\nFiscal Year 2026\n\nRed Hook East Building Line Initiative - $5,000,000\n\nRed Hook Community Center Elevator Upgrades - $1,100,000\n\nGowanus Fire Upgrades - $850,000\n\nBaruch Fire Upgrades - $850,000\n\nLES Group V Windows - $850,000\n\nFirst Houses Cameras - $1,031,000\n\nWyckoff Gardens Cameras - $1,039,000\n\nFiscal Year 2027 - (Yet to be signed into law)\n\nLaGuardia Fire Upgrades - $850,000\n\nWald Fire Upgrades- $850,000\n\nVladeck Cameras- $772,700\n\nBaruch Addition Lighting- $772,000\n\n###", 1, "2026-09-29T11:07:12Z", "2026-09-29T11:08:49Z"], ["https://gottheimer.house.gov/posts/photo-release-gottheimer-hosts-hispanic-heritage-month-roundtable-with-north-jersey-community-leaders-and-advocates", "PHOTO RELEASE: Gottheimer Hosts Hispanic Heritage Month Roundtable with North Jersey Community Leaders and Advocates", "2026-09-28", "2026", "2026-09", "Democrat", "House", "NJ", "Josh Gottheimer", "G000583", "gottheimer.house.gov", "gottheimer", "https://gottheimer.house.gov/press", "scraper", "Above: Gottheimer Hosts Roundtable for Hispanic American Heritage Month.\n\nBERGENFIELD, NJ \u2014 Congressman Josh Gottheimer (NJ-5) hosted a Hispanic Heritage Month Roundtable in Bergenfield, bringing together community leaders, advocates, educators, local elected officials, county officials, faith leaders, veteran advocates, and workforce professionals from across North Jersey to celebrate the contributions of the Hispanic and Latino community and discuss the challenges families continue to face.\n\n\u201cIt\u2019s this diversity of Hispanic and Latino cultures, honestly, that makes North Jersey strong and such a vibrant place to live, work, and raise a family,\u201d Congressman Josh Gottheimer (NJ-5). \u201cIf we work together to lift one another up and highlight the diversity that gives us our strength, in the greatest country in the world, our best days will always be ahead of us.\u201d\n\nIn New Jersey\u2019s Fifth District, more than 151,000 constituents are part of the Hispanic and Latino community, with towns like Hackensack, Englewood, and Bergenfield \u2014 where roughly a third of residents are Hispanic \u2014 among the fastest-growing ethnic groups in the state.\n\nThis roundtable was hosted during National Hispanic American Heritage Month, which is celebrated every year from September 15th to October 15th to honor the cultures and contributions of both Hispanic and Latino Americans. First, this observance originated as Hispanic Heritage Week under President Lyndon Johnson in 1968. Then, it was expanded by President Ronald Reagan in 1988 to cover this 30-day period, from mid-September to mid-October.\n\nThis event discussed a range of priorities, including access to affordable and culturally competent health care and mental health care, rising costs and housing affordability, community safety and immigration enforcement concerns, language barriers, and barriers to education.\n\nGottheimer was joined by Camelia Valdes, Passaic County Prosecutor; Ra\u00fal Ruiz, President of the New Jersey Coalition of Latino Pastors and Ministers; John Lucas, President of the Statewide Hispanic Chamber of Commerce of New Jersey; Gladis Cuadros, Career Services Supervisor at the Women\u2019s Rights Information Center; Matilde Villacorta, Career Counselor at the Women\u2019s Rights Information Center; Ramon Hache, Ridgewood YMCA President and former Bergen County Commissioner; Francisco Galindo, Director of Coaching and Mentoring at ALPFA New Jersey; Bol\u00edvar Flores, Vice President of the New Jersey Coalition of Latino Pastors and Ministers; Larry F. Mantilla, President of Latino Veterans of NJ; Zoila Cassanova, Surrogate Judge of Passaic County; Roberto Diaz, Hackensack Councilman; Daisy Velez, Washington Township Councilwoman;Germaine Ortiz, Bergen County Commissioner; Nathalie Salinas, Councilwoman and Vice President of the Fair Lawn Latin Heritage Committee; Arvin Amatorio, Mayor of Bergenfield; Hernando Rivera, Bergenfield Councilman; Matthew Gonzalez, Social Media and Student Outreach Fellow at the New Jersey Center for Hispanic Policy, Research and Development; and Gladys Ciron-Ricci, Program Officer at the New Jersey Center for Hispanic Policy, Research and Development.\n\nBelow: Gottheimer Hosts Roundtable for Hispanic American Heritage Month.\n\n###", 1, "2026-09-29T11:07:12Z", "2026-09-29T11:08:49Z"], ["https://huffman.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/huffman-padilla-schiff-california-colleagues-condemn-trump-administration-efforts-to-repeal-roadless-rule", "Huffman, Padilla, Schiff, California Colleagues Condemn Trump Administration Efforts to Repeal Roadless Rule", "2026-09-28", "2026", "2026-09", "Democrat", "House", "CA", "Jared Huffman", "H001068", "huffman.house.gov", "huffman", "https://huffman.house.gov/media-center/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2014 U.S. Representative Jared Huffman (D-Calif.-02) Ranking Member of the House Committee on Natural Resources, U.S. Senators Alex Padilla and Adam Schiff (both D-Calif.) led 38 members of the California congressional delegation in opposing the Trump Administration\u2019s rescission of the Roadless Rule, a landmark U.S. Forest Service conservation policy adopted in 2001 that protects nearly 60 million acres of undeveloped National Forest System lands. It prohibits new road construction, reconstruction, and commercial timber harvesting to preserve these areas\u2019 ecological and recreational value. The Trump Administration issued its final proposed rule to advance the rescission of the Roadless Rule, allowing only a 47-day public comment period.\n\nIn their letter to Department of Agriculture (USDA) Secretary Brooke Rollins, the lawmakers underscored the importance of the Roadless Rule to California\u2019s preservation of public lands and natural resources.\n\n\u201cUnpaved and poorly maintained forest roads are notoriously the largest source of human-made sediment in public waterways,\u201d wrote the lawmakers. \u201cProtected roadless areas actively safeguard California's water quality by preventing the severe erosion and landslides that choke pristine rivers with silt and other pollution that inevitably follows road construction. Roadless areas directly anchor the vulnerable origin points of the Sacramento, San Joaquin, American, Kern, Smith, and Eel Rivers, and these protected areas capture, clean, and regulate more than 11 trillion gallons of water annually.\u201d\n\nThe lawmakers warned of the possible impacts on California\u2019s water and natural resources if the Roadless Rule is fully repealed, especially with the growing threat of devastating wildfires in California.\n\n\u201cMost alarming is that when new areas are opened up to roads, wildfires become much more likely,\u201d continued the lawmakers. \u201cMoreover, when fires do burn through roadless areas, they often burn at lower, more natural intensities which keeps the underlying soil healthy and minimizes post-burn soil erosion impacts. The State of California currently spends billions of dollars each year toward wildfire mitigation and suppression, so removing this rule will result in even more fires and will unnecessarily cost California taxpayers more to support the State\u2019s wildfire response efforts.\u201d\n\nThe lawmakers further emphasized the Roadless Rule\u2019s importance to the outdoor economy by protecting access to trails, promoting outdoor recreation, and supporting small businesses and local economies that rely on public lands. The lawmakers highlighted that Americans across the country have supported the Roadless Rule since its implementation, and that efforts to overturn the rule undoes previous bipartisan support. Since the announcement of the repeal, the rule received a significant amount of public support within the Administration\u2019s brief public comment period.\n\n\u201cThe proposed repeal of the Roadless Rule is deeply unpopular among our constituents,\u201d the lawmakers concluded. \u201cAt the time of its adoption, the Rule received over 600 public hearings and over 1.6 million comments\u2014more comments than any other rule in the nation\u2019s history. Despite the significant amount of public consultation that went into the 2001 Roadless Rule, this Administration only gave our constituents 21 days to comment on the initial announcement for the Roadless Rule repeal\u2014during which more than 600,000 comments were submitted and 99% of which supported retaining the rule.\u201d\n\nPadilla has been a longtime champion of public land conservation, fighting tirelessly against Republican efforts to undo environmental protections. Last week, Padilla led a bipartisan group of 153 lawmakers in urging the Department of the Interior (DOI) to abandon a proposed transfer of federally managed public land within Yosemite National Park that would facilitate private access to and development of an 83-acre parcel adjacent to the park known as Hazel Green Ranch. In June, Padilla co-led an effort to push back against Republicans\u2019 efforts to codify the repeal of the Roadless Rule and proposed an amendment to the Wildfire Prevention Act to expand critical benefits for federal firefighters. Last year, Padilla reintroduced a public lands package, the Protecting Unique and Beautiful Landscapes by Investing in California (PUBLIC) Lands Act, which would protect and restore more than 1.7 million acres of California\u2019s public lands throughout northwest California, the Central Coast, and Los Angeles County.\n\nFull letter is available here or below:\n\nDear Secretary Rollins:\n\nWe write to oppose the proposed rescission of the 2001 Roadless Area Conservation Rule (\u201cRoadless Rule\u201d) that prohibits new road construction and commercial timber harvesting in inventoried roadless areas (\u201croadless areas\u201d). Eliminating the Roadless Rule will harm California\u2019s already overburdened water sources, will counterintuitively decrease communities\u2019 fire resilience, and will have negative economic impacts throughout our state.\n\nFor 25 years, the Roadless Rule has protected nearly 60 million acres across the United States from new road construction and commercial timber harvesting in some of our nation\u2019s most intact and environmentally significant areas. In California, the U.S. Forest Service manages 20 million acres of national forests, including over 4.4 million acres of roadless areas. California\u2019s national forests act as the state's natural water infrastructure, supplying roughly 65% of California\u2019s total water supply, despite making up only 20% of the state's land area. Unpaved and poorly maintained forest roads are notoriously the largest source of human-made sediment in public waterways. Protected roadless areas actively safeguard California's water quality by preventing the severe erosion and landslides that choke pristine rivers with silt and other pollution that inevitably follows road construction. Roadless areas directly anchor the vulnerable origin points of the Sacramento, San Joaquin, American, Kern, Smith, and Eel Rivers, and these protected areas capture, clean, and regulate more than 11 trillion gallons of water annually. The raw, wholesale market value of the water produced by California's national forests is estimated at roughly $3.2 billion annually, and serves as the underlying foundation for our multi-billion dollar agricultural, municipal, and energy industries.\n\nDespite what opponents of the Roadless Rule argue, it does not ban firefighting or fuel reduction activities in our national forests. Agencies retain full authority to remove trees, clear brush, and construct temporary emergency access roads to protect public safety. Local managers frequently conduct thinning, remove small-diameter trees and underbrush, and execute prescribed burns within roadless areas\u2014particularly along existing boundaries where ignitions are most likely.\n\nMost alarming is that when new areas are opened up to roads, wildfires become much more likely. Recent research demonstrates that wildfires are four times more likely to start near roads than in roadless areas. Because California\u2019s national forests\u2014such as the Los Padres and Angeles National Forests\u2014directly border massive urban populations, human-caused ignitions are the state's primary wildfire threat to communities. By limiting road construction, the Rule isolates rugged terrain from vehicles, campfires, and equipment sparks. Moreover, when fires do burn through roadless areas, they often burn at lower, more natural intensities which keeps the underlying soil healthy and minimizes post-burn soil erosion impacts. The State of California currently spends billions of dollars each year toward wildfire mitigation and suppression, so removing this rule will result in even more fires and will unnecessarily cost California taxpayers more to support the State\u2019s wildfire response efforts.\n\nRoadless areas are also essential to maintaining and supporting our state\u2019s outdoor recreation economy that draws people from around the world. California\u2019s national forests host 33 million visitors per year, shifting hundreds of millions of dollars from urban centers directly into rural gateway communities through hotel taxes and local sales taxes. This tax revenue directly funds essential rural municipal services that many counties in California otherwise could not afford. The Roadless Rule also protects thousands of miles of hiking and mountain biking trails and hundreds of miles of whitewater paddling runs across the country, which allow outfitters and other small businesses to thrive. The strength of our outdoor economy is intrinsically tied to these roadless areas remaining protected from industrial development.\n\nFinally, as you will undoubtedly find during this comment period, the proposed repeal of the Roadless Rule is deeply unpopular among our constituents. At the time of its adoption, the Rule received over 600 public hearings and over 1.6 million comments more comments than any other rule in the nation\u2019s history. Despite the significant amount of public consultation that went into the 2001 Roadless Rule, this Administration only gave our constituents 21 days to comment on the initial announcement for the Roadless Rule repeal\u2014during which more than 600,000 comments were submitted and 99% of which supported retaining the Rule. Now, the Administration is only allowing a 47-day comment period on the draft Environmental Impact Statement. Beyond all that, any new roads that are built would leave taxpayers on the hook for road maintenance, all while the U.S. Forest Service already has a $7-8 billion road maintenance backlog.\n\nFor these reasons and more, we strongly oppose the rescission of the Roadless Rule. We urge you to leave the Rule intact so that it can continue to provide its time-tested benefits to our state and nation. Thank you for your consideration.\n\nSincerely,\n\nTo view the release online, click here.\n\n###", 1, "2026-09-29T11:07:12Z", "2026-09-29T11:08:49Z"], ["https://jeffries.house.gov/2026/09/28/leader-jeffries-on-squawk-box-people-are-drowning-in-this-failed-republican-economy/", "LEADER JEFFRIES ON SQUAWK BOX: \u201cPEOPLE ARE DROWNING IN THIS FAILED REPUBLICAN ECONOMY\u201d", "2026-09-28", "2026", "2026-09", "Democrat", "House", "NY", "Hakeem S. Jeffries", "J000294", "jeffries.house.gov", "jeffries", "https://jeffries.house.gov/category/press-release/page/", "scraper", "Today, House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries appeared on CNBC\u2019s Squawk Box, where he made clear that unlike Donald Trump and Republicans, House Democrats are committed to fiscally responsible behavior in the fight for an affordable America.\n\nANDREW ROSS SORKIN: Welcome back to Squawk Box. We are just five weeks away now from the midterm elections. Joining us right now is House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries. Good morning to you. Really wanted to spend some time thinking about what you think the Democratic agenda would be if you do win the House and how things change or shift under those circumstances.\n\nLEADER JEFFRIES: Well, good morning, great to be with you. Our focus right now, of course, will be over the next 36 days making our case to the American people that we are committed to fighting for an affordable America. The cost of living in this country is way too high. Life is way too expensive. Donald Trump and Republicans promised to lower the high cost of living on day one. That\u2019s what they said. Of course, costs haven\u2019t gone down, costs have gone up. So we\u2019re committed to driving down the high cost of groceries, driving down the high cost of gas, driving down the high cost of housing and also fighting to make healthcare affordable for every single American.\n\nANDREW ROSS SORKIN: Leader, how much of the next two years do you think, if you\u2019re to win in the House, would be a series of hearings effectively about Trump, about Trump\u2019s family, about business executives, about giving to ballrooms and all of that?\n\nLEADER JEFFRIES: We\u2019re committed to an affordability agenda. As I travel the country, speak to people whether that\u2019s in urban America, rural parts of America, the heartland of America, small-town America or Black and Brown communities throughout America, the one thing that is clear is that people are struggling. They are drowning in this failed Republican economy.They\u2019re working hard, they\u2019re playing by the rules, but they cannot thrive and can barely survive. It\u2019s an unacceptable situation. And so, when we say we\u2019re focused on affordability, we mean it. At the same period of time, we have seen unprecedented corruption unleashed on the American people. And if you have folks who are so focused on enriching themselves, their family members, their friends or their donors, then it means they\u2019re not focused on making life more affordable for the American people. And we have a responsibility to visit the type of accountability that is consistent with the House as a separate and co-equal branch of government.\n\nANDREW ROSS SORKIN: The reason, Leader, I raised this question is because there is a question about just how much of this will be about recrimination versus affordability, and where the energy in the party comes from right now. I found\u2014I don\u2019t know if you agree with this, you\u2019re talking about affordability now. One of the things that\u2019s been very interesting about watching some of the folks, maybe on the far left, considered sort of the DSA world is they rarely actually talk about Trump or talk about Republicans per se or the family or all of these things. They almost always simply talk about affordability or other kinds of sort of forward-looking issues. How do you think about that versus this accountability issue? Because I know that there are others in the Democratic Party that have a real, you know, thirst for both accountability\u2014maybe it\u2019s a blood, but they want something.\n\nLEADER JEFFRIES: Well, in the new Congress, there are going to be progressives, there are going to be New Dems, moderate Democrats, centrist Democrats, Blue Dogs, more socially conservative Democrats. But what does unite everyone is this commitment to lowering the high cost of living, to making sure that we can actually bring the American dream back to life for people all across this country. When it comes to the accountability aspect of what needs to happen, cleaning up the rampant corruption that exists in Washington, D.C., wherever that may be, whether that\u2019s the Congress, the Supreme Court or certainly with the Trump cartel, our view is that we\u2019re going to follow the facts, apply the law, be guided by the Constitution and then let the chips fall where they may on behalf of the American people. We have a responsibility, of course, as a Congress, to serve as a check and balance on an out-of-control executive branch. That\u2019s not partisan, that\u2019s patriotic.\n\nANDREW ROSS SORKIN: Where do you think AI and the debate around data centers, but increasingly\u2014the conversation we were just having with Jensen Huang around regulation around some of these models, agentic models, getting out of sandboxes and the like\u2014how much of that do you think is going to become a political football, not just in the midterms, but over the next two years?\n\nLEADER JEFFRIES: Well, Congress, pursuant to the Constitution, has a responsibility to provide for the common defense of the American people and protect the general welfare of the American people. So when it comes to AI safety, it certainly seems to me that we need to actually lean in boldly and responsibly now. That\u2019s why it was so extraordinary that, in light of pleas coming from people within the artificial intelligence industry itself that Congress needs to act, that Speaker Johnson, Republicans decided to get out of town and cancel votes for two weeks so they could save themselves on the campaign trail, as opposed to trying to save the American people from pending harm if this thing gets out of control with respect to AI safety.\n\nANDREW ROSS SORKIN: Leader, I want to go back to the affordability issue because one of the big issues\u2014we\u2019re watching the price of treasuries right now, which is also affecting mortgages and the like. One of the things that clearly, at least, the bond investor community is demanding, is that we get our fiscal house in order. And my question to you is whether you think Democrats have any plan to spend less money rather than more.\n\nLEADER JEFFRIES: Well, here\u2019s the thing. The American people have made clear throughout the last several months that they trust Democrats on the economy, trust us on fighting inflation, trust us on lowering the high cost of living, trust us on ending this reckless war of choice in Iran, trust us on immigration and trust us on the deficit because what they\u2019ve seen from Republicans is fiscally irresponsible behavior. They ripped away, these Republicans, Medicaid from 14 million Americans in order to provide massive tax breaks to their billionaire donors and then skyrocket the debt and the deficit by trillions of dollars. You\u2019re not going to see that type of fiscally irresponsible behavior from Democrats. We\u2019re going to put the American people first.\n\nANDREW ROSS SORKIN: Do you see or could you imagine over the next two years any kind of real fiscal responsibility, also Democrats and Republicans coming together to try to deal with this budget?\n\nLEADER JEFFRIES: Well, I don\u2019t want to get out ahead of what we\u2019ll talk about as Democrats in the new Congress, but what is clear is that we can\u2019t continue down this unsustainable path that Republicans have brought us along. I mean, when you think about a $40 trillion debt, 25% of that debt has basically been accumulated during the approximately six years that Donald Trump is President. That\u2019s extraordinary. It\u2019s unacceptable. It\u2019s hurting us. And, certainly, we\u2019ve got to find a path forward to change course from what Republicans have done\u2014\n\nANDREW ROSS SORKIN: Leader, I think people want to understand what that path looks like. Obviously, a lot of Democrats have talked about taxes. They\u2019ve talked about wealth taxes, raising money on one end. But I\u2019m asking, is there a balanced approach where, and maybe it includes tax increases, but is there any effort in your mind, are there things that you could point to today that you can say to yourself, you know, we\u2019ve got to cut this, it\u2019s the only way?\n\nLEADER JEFFRIES: What I\u2019m saying, and of course, as Democrats, we\u2019ve repeatedly made clear that we actually are authentically interested in dealing with waste, fraud or abuse where it exists. And we certainly have seen an unprecedented amount of waste, fraud, abuse and corruption unleashed on the American people by Donald Trump and the Trump cartel. But our focus has to be on lowering the high cost of living. That is what the American people want us to address decisively. Republicans have failed in that regard. Democrats will not.\n\nANDREW ROSS SORKIN: Leader Jeffries, we\u2019re going to leave the conversation there. We appreciate it. Good to see you.\n\nLEADER JEFFRIES: Thank you.\n\nFull interview can be watched here.\n\n###", 1, "2026-09-29T11:07:12Z", "2026-09-29T11:08:49Z"], ["https://kaptur.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/kaptur-colleagues-introduce-bipartisan-bicameral-legislation-bolster", "Kaptur, Colleagues Introduce Bipartisan, Bicameral Legislation to Bolster Great Lakes Conservation Efforts", "2026-09-28", "2026", "2026-09", "Democrat", "House", "OH", "Marcy Kaptur", "K000009", "kaptur.house.gov", "kaptur", "https://kaptur.house.gov/media-center/press-releases", "scraper", "Toledo, OH \u2014 Today, Congresswoman Marcy Kaptur (OH-09), Congressman Tim Walberg (MI-05), Congresswoman Debbie Dingell (MI-06), Congressman Bill Huizenga (MI-04), Congresswoman Haley Stevens (MI-11), Congressman Dave Joyce (OH-14), Congresswoman Hillary Scholten (MI-03), and Congressman Tom Barrett (MI-07) introduced H.R. 10639, the Regional Great Lakes Partnership Act, a bipartisan, bicameral bill to bolster Federal support for Great Lakes research and conservation. This legislation designates the Great Lakes Commission (GLC) as the official Regional Great Lakes Partnership within the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration\u2019s (NOAA) Regional Ocean Partnerships Program.\n\nThis designation ensures that the Great Lakes region receives a fair share of program funding, delivering Federal resources to support the GLC\u2019s longstanding work to coordinate Great Lakes research and conservation efforts.\n\n\"As a Co-Chair of the bipartisan Congressional Great Lakes Task Force, I helped introduce this legislation to close a gap in a national program that benefits only coastal ocean states. The bill continues our work together to ensure the Federal Government levels the playing field to commit equivalent, well\u2011deserved resources to our Great Lakes region,\" said Congresswoman Marcy Kaptur (OH-09). \"The Great Lakes are central and essential to Northwest Ohio\u2019s livelihood and economic wellbeing, and enabling the Great Lakes Commission to participate in this NOAA program will strengthen data sharing, enhance information access, and improve management of our coastal and ecosystem resources. In Lake Erie\u2019s Western Basin, home to the shallowest and southernmost shoreline in the Great Lakes system, we face these challenges in real ways and will continue to lead in advancing research and information exchange for the benefit of our entire region.\"\n\n\u201cAs the largest freshwater system in the world, the Great Lakes are central to Michigan\u2019s economy, identity, and long\u2011term prosperity,\u201d said Congressman Tim Walberg (MI-05). \u201cThe bipartisan Regional Great Lakes Partnership Act ensures the region receives its fair share of Federal support, strengthening the research and conservation work needed to protect this indispensable resource. We must equip our partners with the tools necessary to safeguard the waters and communities that rely on a healthy Great Lakes ecosystem.\u201d\n\n\"The Great Lakes and their connected waterways are invaluable resources for Michigan and the United States,\" said Congresswoman Debbie Dingell (MI-06). \"As a co-chair of the Congressional Great Lakes Task Force, I am proud to help introduce this bipartisan bill to strengthen Federal support for Great Lakes research and conservation for future generations to enjoy these national treasures.\"\n\n\"As Co-Chair of the bipartisan Congressional Great Lakes Task Force, I have made it my mission to have the Federal Government recognize the Great Lakes as a national priority,\" said Congressman Bill Huizenga (MI-04). \"The Regional Great Lakes Partnership Act furthers this objective by enhancing the Great Lakes Commission\u2019s steadfast work to protect and conserve Michigan\u2019s most valuable natural resource.\"\n\n\"Michigan is the Great Lakes state, period. Jobs, recreation, and tourism across the Midwest depend on a healthy and flourishing Great Lakes ecosystem,\" said Congresswoman Haley Stevens (MI-11). \"I\u2019m proud to work alongside my colleagues of both parties to ensure that Michigan receives our fair share of Federal investment that will protect and preserve our Lakes for generations to come.\"\n\n\"The Great Lakes are a critical resource for the economies and communities that surround them,\" said Congressman Dave Joyce (OH-14). \"As Co-Chair of the Congressional Great Lakes Task Force, I am proud to be an original co-sponsor of this bipartisan legislation, which will strengthen Federal partnerships and expand funding opportunities to advance the research, coordination, and conservation efforts needed to protect the Great Lakes \u2014 ensuring they remain a resource our communities can rely on for generations to come.\"\n\n\"As the largest freshwater system in the world, the Great Lakes are one of Michigan\u2019s greatest assets,\" said Congresswoman Hillary Scholten (MI-03). \"I\u2019m proud to join my colleagues on both sides of the aisle in supporting the Regional Great Lakes Partnership Act. This commonsense bill will strengthen the research and coordination that keeps the Great Lakes region healthy. Investing in our Great Lakes is investing in our future, and it\u2019s crucial that we conserve this resource for the next generation.\"\n\n\"Protecting the Great Lakes means protecting our water, wildlife, and communities throughout the region,\" said Congressman Tom Barrett (MI-07). \"This bipartisan legislation will help bring Federal resources to the table and strengthen the partnerships already working to preserve our state's natural resources. I\u2019m proud to work with colleagues from across the region to ensure our Great Lakes remain healthy for generations to come.\"\n\n\"The Great Lakes Commission is grateful to Rep. Walberg for introducing this important legislation to designate the GLC as a regional partnership for the Great Lakes,\" said GLC Chair Timothy Bruno, Great Lakes Program Coordinator at the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection. \"This designation will allow the agency to build on its more than 70 years of regional leadership \u2014 fostering dialogue, building consensus, and advancing coordinated solutions to the Great Lakes\u2019 most pressing challenges \u2014 to ensure the Great Lakes region continues to speak with a strong, unified voice. We look forward to working with our partners to realize the full benefits of this program for the region.\"\n\nBackground\n\nThe Great Lakes Commission (GLC) brings together eight US states and two Canadian provinces to protect the Great Lakes and promote economic growth in the Great Lakes basin. The GLC is composed of the States of Illinois, Indiana, Michigan, Minnesota, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, and Wisconsin.\n\nNOAA\u2019s Regional Ocean Partnerships (ROPs) coordinate interstate ocean and coastal resource management efforts and create opportunities for increased efficiency and cost-effectiveness. Although NOAA administers four Regional Ocean Partnerships (ROPs) across the Northeast, Mid\u2011Atlantic, Gulf, and West Coast, the Great Lakes currently lack an ROP. Designating the GLC as the region\u2019s ROP will ensure the Great Lakes region receives its fair share of program funding.\n\nCompanion legislation, S. 4573, introduced in the Senate by US Senators Gary Peters (D-MI) and Bernie Moreno (R-OH), has been advanced by the Senate Commerce, Science, and Transportation Committee.", 1, "2026-09-29T11:07:12Z", "2026-09-29T11:08:49Z"], ["https://mcclellan.house.gov/2026/09/28/mcclellan-launches-2026-veteran-of-the-year-program/", "McClellan Launches 2026 Veteran of the Year Program", "2026-09-28", "2026", "2026-09", "Democrat", "House", "VA", "Jennifer L. McClellan", "M001227", "mcclellan.house.gov", "mcclellan", "https://mcclellan.house.gov/category/press-releases/", "scraper", "Washington D.C. \u2013 Today, Congresswoman Jennifer McClellan (VA-04) announced the launch of her 2026 Veteran of the Year Program to recognize, honor and appreciate veterans living in Virginia\u2019s Fourth Congressional District for their service.\n\n\u201cVeterans gave their time and put their bodies on the line to protect our nation, and they continue to serve after their military careers. Their commitment, courage and selflessness deserves our respect and deepest gratitude,\u201d said Congresswoman McClellan. \u201cMy fourth annual Veteran of the Year Program honors veterans living in Virginia\u2019s Fourth and celebrates their continued efforts to give back to our communities. I encourage all those who know a veteran who\u2019s continued to serve people in our district to send in their nominations today!\u201d\n\nEligible nominees must be honorably discharged veterans of any branch of the U.S. Armed Forces and must currently live in Virginia\u2019s Fourth Congressional District. Nominations for Rep. McClellan\u2019s Veteran of the Year Program are due by October 28, 2026.\n\nLast year, Congresswoman McClellan recognized U.S. Air Force Colonel William Butler, who dedicated over 30 years of service to saving lives, advancing medical research and educating his community. In 2024, she recognized Lt. Col. Curt Powell, a U.S. Marine Corps veteran who served two combat deployments before volunteering as a mentor for local veterans. In 2023, she honored Chief Warrant Officer Four Charles H. Talley, Jr., who dedicated 34 years of his life to the U.S. Army before continuing to support aspiring young professionals and active-duty servicemembers in Virginia\u2019s Fourth.", 1, "2026-09-29T11:07:12Z", "2026-09-29T11:08:49Z"], ["https://neal.house.gov/2026/09/28/neal-statement-on-trumps-china-capitulation/", "Neal Statement on Trump\u2019s China Capitulation", "2026-09-28", "2026", "2026-09", "Democrat", "House", "MA", "Richard E. Neal", "N000015", "neal.house.gov", "neal", "https://neal.house.gov/category/press-releases/", "scraper", "SPRINGFIELD, MA\u2014 Ways and Means Committee Ranking Member Richard E. Neal (D-MA) released the following statement after the Trump Administration announced its intention to lower tariffs on China:\n\n\u201cBy every measure, President Trump\u2019s trade war with the world has failed. Coupled with his war of choice with Iran that has sent fuel prices to historically high levels, Trump has brought nothing but higher costs for families, less opportunity for workers, chaos for small business owners, and fractured partnerships abroad. Desperate for a way out of his abysmal economic record, Trump is again selling out American workers and businesses by cowering to China when they\u2019ve done nothing to address their manipulative trade and market behavior.\n\n\u201cThis capitulation comes as he unjustifiably doubles down on his trade war with our most important trading partners. Treating the world\u2019s greatest trade cheat with kid gloves while socking our allies with more job-killing, price-hiking tariffs isn\u2019t a strategy. It\u2019s more weakness that families can\u2019t afford. Enough of the red-carpet rollouts and backroom deals, it\u2019s beyond time to return to sensible trade policy that actually delivers for the American people.\u201d\n\n###", 1, "2026-09-29T11:07:12Z", "2026-09-29T11:08:49Z"], ["https://pallone.house.gov/media/press-releases/pallone-calls-nj-federal-officials-survey-damage-after-storm-anticipating", "Pallone Calls for NJ, Federal Officials to Survey Damage After Storm, Anticipating Federal Disaster Declaration", "2026-09-28", "2026", "2026-09", "Democrat", "House", "NJ", "Frank Pallone, Jr.", "P000034", "pallone.house.gov", "pallone", "https://pallone.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "LONG BRANCH, NJ \u2013 Following heavy rain and coastal flooding caused by a powerful nor\u2019easter that impacted areas across New Jersey, Congressman Frank Pallone, Jr. (NJ-06) today called on the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (DEP), the New Jersey Office of Emergency Management (NJOEM), as well as the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, and the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), to conduct a prompt survey to assess the damage to the state in anticipation of the necessity for a federal disaster declaration.\n\n\u201cIn some parts of my district 6 to 7 feet of tidal flooding inundated businesses and homes, municipal infrastructure such as piers and bulkheads are severely damaged, and cars on the street are submerged in flood water,\u201d Pallone wrote. \u201cWhile it appears that flood control projects, berms, and raised homes saved many areas from even worse damage, the destruction left behind from this storm is significant.\u201d\n\nPallone also thanked Governor Sherrill for her proactive state of emergency declaration, and reiterated his willingness to work with state officials to provide the necessary federal funds to help towns, businesses, and residents recover from the storm.\n\nFull text of the letter is available here and below:\n\nDear Commissioner Potosnak and Acting State Director Hengemuhle:\n\nOver the weekend, my district and areas across New Jersey were hit by a powerful nor\u2019easter storm that resulted in intense rainfall, tidal surges, and forceful winds. I appreciate your willingness to conduct a prompt survey to assess damage to our state. This is necessary in my effort to secure a federal disaster declaration, should the damage survey thresholds be met.\n\nFrom power outages to substantial coastal erosion, this nor\u2019easter has brought dangerous conditions to our state. In its most recent forecast, the National Weather Service warned that the nor'easter would likely continue heavy rain and tidal surges on mid-Atlantic and northeastern states through Monday night. Coastal sections of New Jersey are seeing significant flooding. In some parts of my district, six to seven feet of tidal flooding inundated businesses and homes, municipal infrastructure such as piers and bulkheads are severely damaged, and cars on the street are submerged in flood water. While it appears that flood control projects, berms, and raised homes saved many areas from even worse damage, the destruction left behind from this storm is significant.\n\nI appreciate Governor Sherrill\u2019s proactive state of emergency declaration, and I urge the DEP and OEM to gather information on the full extent of the damage as soon as it is safe to do so.\n\nThank you for your prompt attention to this matter. I stand ready to work with you to provide the necessary federal funds to help towns, businesses, and residents recover from this devastating storm.\n\nSincerely,\n\nFRANK PALLONE, JR.\n\nMember of Congress\n\nCC: US Army Corps of Engineers\n\nFederal Emergency Management Agency", 1, "2026-09-29T11:07:12Z", "2026-09-29T11:08:49Z"], ["https://pallone.house.gov/media/press-releases/pallone-urges-ferc-protect-pjm-customers-stronger-data-center-rules", "Pallone Urges FERC to Protect PJM Customers with Stronger Data Center Rules", "2026-09-28", "2026", "2026-09", "Democrat", "House", "NJ", "Frank Pallone, Jr.", "P000034", "pallone.house.gov", "pallone", "https://pallone.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Energy and Commerce Committee Ranking Member Frank Pallone, Jr. (D-NJ) wrote to the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) today urging the Commission to use its authority to approve and strengthen recent proposals put forth by PJM surrounding its handling of data centers.\n\n\u201cAmericans are deeply frustrated and concerned that the rapid and unceasing development of data centers is driving up their monthly energy bills. At the end of the day, protecting Americans\u2019 power bills is FERC\u2019s responsibility,\u201d Pallone wrote in his letter to FERC Chairman Laura Swett. \u201cWhile I support many of the provisions included in the proposals, I am concerned that they do not go far enough and believe [FERC] should use its authority to improve PJM\u2019s proposals to protect families across the mid-Atlantic region.\u201d\n\nPallone explained that data centers are responsible for an increase in PJM capacity market costs of nearly $30 billion since the summer of 2024. Meanwhile, demand for electricity over the next decade is expected to explode, with PJM forecasting a roughly four percent increase in peak demand each year driven almost entirely by data centers.\n\nPJM is therefore suggesting it implement three reforms: requiring data centers to pay for new power plants to make PJM\u2019s grid reliable, requiring data centers to bring their own new generation capacity online, and creating a registry of data centers within PJM\u2019s boundaries.\n\nPallone writes that while he supports these goals, FERC should impose the following improvements to strengthen them:\n\nEnsure that data centers are responsible for all the costs they cause, not just for new power plants designed to shore up reliability;\n\nMake the requirement for data centers to bring their own new generation capacity online permanent; and\n\nMake the proposed data center registry public so that every American has access to the information they need to protect and empower their communities.\n\n\u201cLast year, my constituents saw an outrageous 20 percent increase in their power bills, fueled by skyrocketing prices in PJM\u2019s capacity market. Over 90 percent of the increased demand PJM expects to see on its system by the end of the decade is from data centers,\u201d Pallone continued. \u201cIf FERC gets this right, then it will have granted American families a measure of protection from the costs imposed by data centers. If the Commission falls short, then American families will pay the price.\u201d\n\nPallone has publicly and repeatedly called for substantial federal guardrails to protect communities against data centers\u2019 impact on their air, water, power grid, and monthly utility bills. If Congress fails to adopt strong guardrails, he has said a federal moratorium on data centers should be put in place.\n\nWhile the guardrails proposed by PJM are not sufficient to fully protect consumers, Pallone writes that they represent important progress, and FERC should incorporate the critical improvements highlighted in his letter and approve them.", 1, "2026-09-29T11:07:12Z", "2026-09-29T11:08:49Z"], ["https://patryan.house.gov/media/press-releases/one-month-left-congressman-pat-ryan-invites-hudson-valley-middle-and-high", "ONE MONTH LEFT! CONGRESSMAN PAT RYAN INVITES HUDSON VALLEY MIDDLE AND HIGH SCHOOL STUDENTS TO ENTER 2026 CONGRESSIONAL APP CHALLENGE", "2026-09-28", "2026", "2026-09", "Democrat", "House", "NY", "Patrick Ryan", "R000579", "patryan.house.gov", "patryan", "https://patryan.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "The Congressional App Challenge encourages tech innovation among middle and high school students as they compete for a chance to have their app displayed in the U.S. Capitol\n\nHudson Valley middle and high school students are encouraged to submit by October 26, 2026; more information on submission can be found on Congressman Ryan\u2019s website\n\nLast year\u2019s winner, \u201cHudson Connect,\u201d was designed by New Windsor 11th grader Aarna Patel; the app is a community resource navigation tool designed to help residents quickly find local services and programs across New York\u2019s 18th Congressional District\n\nWASHINGTON, DC \u2013 Today, Congressman Pat Ryan is encouraging Hudson Valley middle and high school students to participate in the 2026 Congressional App Challenge.\n\nThe Congressional App Challenge is an annual nationwide competition that encourages U.S. middle and high school students in each congressional district to learn coding and develop their own software applications, fostering STEM education and engagement with their local Representative.\n\nThis challenge is open to middle and high school students; students must either attend school or reside in NY-18. Submissions are due October 26, 2026; the portal can be found on Congressman Ryan\u2019s website.\n\n\u201cI look forward to this every year. The Congressional App Challenge gives young people across the Hudson Valley a chance to build and demonstrate their entrepreneurial spirit for the benefit of the community we love,\u201d said Congressman Pat Ryan. \u201cI am consistently so impressed with what our students submit \u2013 it truly gives me hope for the next generation of innovators growing up right here in the Hudson Valley. There\u2019s one month left to submit, and I can\u2019t wait to see what everyone comes up with!\u201d\n\n\u201cParticipating in the Congressional App Challenge and attending the House of Code has been an incredible honor. I created Hudson Connect to help people find local and accessible resources and to bring the community closer together,\u201d said Aarna Patel, New Windsor, 2025 winner. \u201cHaving the app recognized on a national stage was both exciting and deeply meaningful. Connecting with other student innovators and speaking with Congressman Ryan and his team reinforced how powerful technology can be in supporting and uplifting a community. The support from Congressman Ryan\u2019s team throughout the process made the experience even better and truly memorable.\u201d\n\nThe Congressional App Challenge is a competition organized by Members of Congress across the country for middle school and high school students to create their own software applications and gain experience with computer coding.\n\nSubmissions are due by October 26, 2026; more information and submission instructions can be found on Congressman Ryan\u2019s website.\n\n###", 1, "2026-09-29T11:07:12Z", "2026-09-29T11:08:49Z"], ["https://plaskett.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=6159", "CONGRESSWOMAN PLASKETT MOURNS THE PASSING OF CALYPSO LEGEND - THE MIGHTY SPARROW", "2026-09-28", "2026", "2026-09", "Democrat", "House", "VI", "Stacey E. Plaskett", "P000610", "plaskett.house.gov", "plaskett", "https://plaskett.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27", "scraper", "For Immediate Release Contact: Tionee Scotland\n\nSeptember 28, 2026 202-808-6129\n\nPRESS RELEASE\n\nCONGRESSWOMAN PLASKETT MOURNS THE PASSING OF CALYPSO LEGEND - THE MIGHTY SPARROW\n\nU.S. Virgin Islands\u2014 Congresswoman Stacey E. Plaskett (D-VI) issued the following statement on the passing of Slinger Francisco, internationally renowned calypsonian also known as, \"The Mighty Sparrow\":\n\n\"It is with deep sadness that I join the people of the Virgin Islands and the entire Caribbean family in mourning the passing of Slinger Francisco, the Mighty Sparrow. For more than six decades, he gave voice to the joys, struggles, humor, and truths of Caribbean life.\n\n\u201cSparrow was known as the 'Calypso King of the World. He was a master storyteller and social commentator who used his wit and his music to hold a mirror up to society, and he carried our region's culture to stages around the globe. Generations of Virgin Islanders have danced to his music at Carnival, at family gatherings, in our local communities and far into the Caribbean diaspora. His songs are woven into the fabric of our shared Caribbean identity.\n\n\"We are profoundly grateful that Sparrow chose to share his extraordinary artistry and gift with the world. He inspired countless calypsonians and artists who followed him, and his legacy will live on through the beauty of our Calypso and Soca music.\n\n\"On behalf of the people of the U.S. Virgin Islands, I extend my heartfelt condolences to his wife, his children, grandchildren, loved ones, the people throughout our Caribbean region and the diaspora, and to all who loved him. May he rest in eternal peace.\"", 1, "2026-09-29T11:07:12Z", "2026-09-29T11:08:49Z"], ["https://pou.house.gov/media/press-releases/pou-introduces-safe-water-schools-act-protect-students-lead", "Pou Introduces Safe Water for Schools Act to Protect Students from Lead", "2026-09-28", "2026", "2026-09", "Democrat", "House", "NJ", "Nellie Pou", "P000621", "pou.house.gov", "pou", "https://pou.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "PATERSON, NJ \u2013 Congresswoman Nellie Pou (D-NJ-09), a member of the House Subcommittee on Water Resources and Environment, last week introduced H.R. 10596, the Safe Water for Schools Act, legislation to help schools across the country replace aging drinking water fountains and monitor their water for dangerous lead contamination.\n\n\u201cEvery parent should be able to send their child to school knowing the water they drink is safe,\u201d said Congresswoman Pou. \u201cLast year, testing in Paterson in our district found lead in water fountains and faucets throughout our schools, including dangerous levels that forced some fixtures out of service. This is a problem we can fix. My new bill will help schools in New Jersey and across America replace old fountains, monitor water, and keep lead away from our children. Safe drinking water isn\u2019t political and should be something every family can count on, no excuses.\u201d\n\nThe Safe Water for Schools Act would reauthorize a federal grant program under the Safe Drinking Water Act at $7 million annually from fiscal years 2027 through 2029. The program helps local school districts replace older drinking water fountains and cover the costs of monitoring lead levels in school drinking water.\n\nThe legislation is endorsed by the New Jersey School Boards Association and the American Federation of Teachers.\n\nThe need for this investment has hit close to home in the Garden State. Testing conducted in Paterson Public Schools last year found excessive lead levels in fountains and faucets at 10 schools. Fourteen fixtures registered above the federal action level (15 parts per billion, or ppb), while testing found some amount of lead in a whopping 29.5 percent of the district's fountains and faucets.\n\nCongresswoman Pou has made improving water infrastructure a major focus of her first term in Congress. Earlier this month, the House overwhelmingly passed the Water Resources Development Act, which includes more than a dozen priorities Pou championed to advance flood protection and water projects across North Jersey. The legislation also includes Pou\u2019s bipartisan CLEAN-UP Act, designed to remove barriers that have delayed environmental remediation and flood mitigation projects by the U.S. Army Corps.\n\nEarlier this Congress, Pou also introduced H.R. 5072, the Water Crisis Prevention Act, to strengthen the federal response to major water infrastructure failures and direct a federal review to improve infrastructure resilience against flooding.\n\nPou helped secure $500,000 to improve the Lower Saddle River channel and, with Senator Andy Kim, delivered another $1.2 million this year for stormwater improvements along River Street in Paterson.\n\n###", 1, "2026-09-29T11:07:12Z", "2026-09-29T11:08:49Z"], ["https://pressley.house.gov/2026/09/28/pressley-wu-announce-lawsuit-against-trump-administration-to-protect-20-million-federal-grant-for-roxburys-street-improvements/", "Pressley, Wu Announce Lawsuit Against Trump Administration to Protect $20 Million Federal Grant for Roxbury\u2019s Street Improvements", "2026-09-28", "2026", "2026-09", "Democrat", "House", "MA", "Ayanna Pressley", "P000617", "pressley.house.gov", "pressley", "https://pressley.house.gov/news/", "scraper", "City Argues that the USDOT Illegally Withdrew Funds for Safety, Transit, Accessibility, and Traffic Flow Improvements to Melnea Cass Boulevard, Malcolm X Boulevard, and Warren Street in Roxbury\n\nBOSTON, MA \u2013 Today, Congresswoman Ayanna Pressley (MA-07) and Mayor Michelle Wu announced that the City of Boston is filing a lawsuit challenging the Trump Administration\u2019s unlawful withdrawal of a $20 million federal grant for critical street infrastructure improvements along three major corridors in Roxbury. In 2022, Rep. Pressley helped deliver these investments which would fund safety, transit, accessibility, and traffic flow improvements to essential roadways in Roxbury.\n\nThe grant, awarded to the City in 2022 under the Rebuilding American Infrastructure with Sustainability and Equity (RAISE) Grant Program, would fund the Roxbury Resilient Corridors project, including state of good repair, safety, transit, accessibility, and traffic flow improvements to Melnea Cass Boulevard, Malcolm X Boulevard, and Warren Street.\n\n\u201cThese funds are an essential investment in Roxbury and the unlawful cancellation of this grant is more evidence of Sean Duffy and Donald Trump\u2019s contempt for the people we serve,\u201d said Congresswoman Ayanna Pressley (MA-07).\u201cOur shared constituents should be able to get where they need to go and public transit is a public good. The law is on our side here and this lawsuit is a critical step in defense of this project that our office fought hard to secure funding for. There was no good reason to rescind these funds \u2013 DOT should reverse course so we can move this project forward, improve the daily lives of commuters, and enhance the climate resilience of at-risk communities\u2014just as Congress intended.\u201d\n\n\u201cWe\u2019re fighting for every dollar of investment to improve quality of life for Roxbury residents, commuters, and businesses,\u201d said Mayor Michelle Wu. \u201cBoston earned this competitive grant to meet community needs and address long-needed infrastructure upgrades. The City of Boston will continue to fight back against lawless federal attacks, and we urge the court to reverse the Trump administration\u2019s illegal actions and restore these critical funds for Roxbury.\u201d\n\nThe lawsuit seeks to reverse the U.S. Department of Transportation\u2019s (DOT) September 2025 decision to cancel the City\u2019s $20 million grant award. In abruptly withdrawing the award, the City argues that DOT acted against the instruction of Congress, which created the grant program. In its letter cancelling the grant, DOT cited just one reason: the project included a small amount of money for electric vehicle charging (less than 1% of the project costs), which DOT had encouraged the City to include, yet DOT revoked the entire grant on that sole basis.\n\n\u201cFor decades, Roxbury has waited for significant investments to improve our roads and sidewalks, add more trees and public spaces, and keep our families safe. These federal funds are critical in delivering much needed improvements, making it easier for everyone but especially our kids and elders to breathe clean air and get to where they need to safely in their community,\u201d said Rev. Willie Bodrick, II, senior pastor of Twelfth Baptist Church and president & CEO of The American City Coalition. \u201cI\u2019m thankful to Mayor Wu and the City of Boston for standing up for our residents and look forward to continued partnership to ensure Roxbury receives this significant federal investment.\u201d\n\nThe City\u2019s lawsuit argues that DOT\u2019s overtly political decision was illegal. Congress created the RAISE program with the explicit goal of making transportation and environmental investments in historically underserved communities. The Roxbury Resilient Corridors project was designed to do just that, bringing needed upgrades, safety, traffic management, and quality of life improvements to some of Roxbury\u2019s busiest corridors.\n\n\u201cBoston lost a $20 million infrastructure grant over electric vehicle chargers that represented a fraction of 1% of the funding\u2014infrastructure the federal government itself encouraged,\u201d said Toby Merrill, litigation director at Public Rights Project. \u201cThat decision is arbitrary and unlawful. Federal agencies can\u2019t rewrite Congress\u2019s rules or their commitments to cities to fit changing political priorities, especially when residents pay the price. Public Rights Project is proud to represent Boston as it stands up for its residents.\u201d\n\n\u201cFor six decades, Madison Park Development Corporation has invested in the people and families who make Roxbury the vibrant community it is today. This $20 million investment is about more than roads and infrastructure\u2014it is about safer streets for our children, more accessible sidewalks for our seniors and families, better transit for our workers, and a neighborhood that receives the investment it deserves,\u201d said Monica Dean, CEO of Madison Park Development Corporation. \u201cWe thank Mayor Wu, Congresswoman Pressley, and our federal, state, and local partners for standing with Roxbury and fighting to ensure that commitments made to our community are honored.\u201d\n\n\u201cYears ago, I volunteered to work with the City of Boston, and saw acres and acres of land that were cleared for highways and not for the benefit of Roxbury residents and the neighborhood. I agree with Representative Pressley and Mayor Wu\u2019s efforts to restore funding for the Roxbury Resilient Corridors Project,\u201d said Norman Stembridge, co-chair of the Roxbury Strategic Master Plan Oversight Committee (RSMPOC).\n\nThe City\u2019s lawsuit, City of Boston v. Duffy, was filed in the United States District Court for the District of Massachusetts, Docket No. 1:26-cv-14419. The City is represented by attorneys from the City of Boston Law Department and pro bono counsel from Public Rights Project.\n\nRep. Pressley has been advocating for federal funding to support the Roxbury Resiliency Corridors Project and submitted a letter of support for the project to DOT in April 2022. In September 2025, Rep. Pressley vehemently condemned the Trump administration\u2019s cancellation of this essential federal grant.\n\nMore information about the Roxbury Resiliency Corridors Project and the benefits it would bring is available here.\n\nIn July 2025, Congresswoman Pressley and Senator Markey re-introduced the Freedom to Move Act, their legislation to support state and local efforts to establish public transportation as a public good through fare-free services. In August 2025, Rep. Pressley, Sen. Markey, and Mayor Wu announced their continued efforts to implement fare-free public transportation in Boston and across the Commonwealth.\n\nIn August 2026, Rep. Pressley and Sen. Markey released a new report, Making Transit Free, Frequent, and Reliable: Massachusetts shows the need for federal investment in fare-free transit, detailing the need for increased federal investments in fare-free transit.\n\nIn December 2025, Rep. Pressley led 14 colleagues in sending a letter to House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee Chair Sam Graves and Ranking Member Rick Larsen urging they prioritize affordability, accessibility, and sustainability in crafting the Surface Transportation Reauthorization bill\u2014including by investing in fare-free transit. These priorities reflect the mission of the Future of Transportation Caucus, which reimagines America\u2019s transportation systems to center equity, access, and sustainability.\n\nIn October 2019, Rep. Pressley founded the Future of Transportation Caucus, a Congressional caucus focused on centering equity, access, and sustainability in our transportation systems. Rep. Pressley also co-chairs the Congressional Bike Caucus.\n\n###", 1, "2026-09-29T11:07:12Z", "2026-09-29T11:08:49Z"], ["https://schakowsky.house.gov/media/press-releases/schakowsky-booker-colleagues-reintroduce-abortion-health-care-everywhere-act", "Schakowsky, Booker, Colleagues Reintroduce Abortion is Health Care Everywhere Act to Repeal Harmful Helms Amendment", "2026-09-28", "2026", "2026-09", "Democrat", "House", "IL", "Janice D. Schakowsky", "S001145", "schakowsky.house.gov", "schakowsky", "https://schakowsky.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Full Text of Bill (PDF)\n\nWASHINGTON - Today, on International Safe Abortion Day, U.S. Representative Jan Schakowsky (IL-09) and Senator Cory Booker (D-NJ) reintroduced the Abortion is Health Care Everywhere Act, legislation that would repeal the harmful Helms Amendment and ensure U.S. foreign assistance can support comprehensive reproductive health care, including abortion care.\n\nRepresentatives Diana DeGette (CO-01), Ayanna Pressley (MA-07), Norma Torres (CA-35), and Marilyn Strickland (WA-10) joining Schakowsky as House co-leads of the legislation. More than 80+ House Members have joined the effort.\n\n\u201cAbortion is health care, no matter where you live. For over 50 years, the racist, harmful Helms Amendment has blocked U.S. foreign assistance from supporting abortion care, even where abortion is legal. That is wrong,\u201d said Congresswoman Jan Schakowsky. \u201cToday, on International Safe Abortion Day and every day, we must stand with people around the world who deserve the freedom to make their own decisions about their bodies and their futures. The Abortion is Health Care Everywhere Act will repeal Helms and help make reproductive health care accessible to everyone, everywhere.\u201d\n\n\u201cFor more than 50 years, the Helms Amendment has restricted the use of U.S. foreign assistance for abortion care, with real consequences for women around the world,\u201d said Senator Cory Booker. \u201cWomen are turned away from safe care and denied information and counseling about their options. Providers are forced to treat abortion differently from other essential health services. That is not a policy grounded in science, compassion, or dignity. The Abortion Is Health Care Everywhere Act would end these restrictions and make clear that U.S. global health assistance can support comprehensive reproductive health care, including safe abortion care.\u201d\n\n\"The right to decide what is best for your body, health and family should not be dictated by borders,\" said Congresswoman Diana DeGette, Co-Chair of the Reproductive Freedom Caucus. \"The Helms Amendment is a draconian policy that has blocked access to essential health care for far too long. It's time that Congress acts and ensures that no matter what community she calls home, every woman can access the full range of health care she needs \u2014 including abortion care.\"\n\n\"For decades, the reproductive health of millions of people\u2014especially those in developing nations\u2014has suffered as a result of the Helms Amendment barring U.S. foreign assistance from going to NGOs and clinics that provide abortion care,\" said Congresswoman Ayanna Pressley, Co-Chair of the House Reproductive Freedom Caucus. \"U.S. foreign aid to support health care in other countries falls desperately short by excluding reproductive health, and reinforces the criminalization and stigmatization of abortion care and reproductive health at home and abroad. This Administration\u2019s cruel approach to gutting foreign aid has cost people around the globe their lives. The United States must reverse course, reinvest in foreign aid, and treat reproductive care as essential care.\u201d\n\n\u201cHealth care should not depend on your ZIP code, your income, or the country you call home,\u201d said Congresswoman Norma Torres. \u201cFor more than 50 years, the Helms Amendment has denied people around the world access to comprehensive reproductive health care. The Abortion is Health Care Everywhere Act is important because every woman deserves the freedom to make decisions about her own body, health, and future.\u201d\n\n\u201cAs MAGA extremists unleash their assault on women\u2019s rights, it is imperative to ensure reproductive health care for all,\u201d said Congresswoman Marilyn Strickland. \u201cThe Helms Amendment makes it impossible for millions of women across the globe to seek reproductive care \u2013 including routine preventative screenings \u2013 barring economic mobility and worsening the maternal health crisis. I am introducing the Abortion is Health Care Everywhere Act with Representative Schakowsky and over 80 of my colleagues today to repeal Helms, ensure equality, and continue the fight for women\u2019s rights worldwide.\u201d\n\nThe Abortion is Health Care Everywhere Act would repeal the Helms Amendment and replace it with language authorizing U.S. foreign assistance for comprehensive reproductive health care services, including abortion services, training, and equipment.\n\nThe legislation is endorsed by leading reproductive health, global health, and human rights organizations.\n\n\u201cWith the Trump Administration undermining foreign aid for sexual and reproductive health care, the stakes couldn\u2019t be higher. Repealing the Helms Amendment, which has long prohibited U.S. support for abortion services around the world, is a critical step toward ensuring people everywhere can access safe abortion care,\u201d said Kelly Baden, Vice President of US Policy & Communications, Guttmacher Institute. \u201cWe thank Sen. Booker, Rep. Schakowsky and their co-leads for introducing the Abortion Is Health Care Everywhere Act. Guttmacher\u2019s research makes the impact clear: ending Helms and supporting health care systems around the globe would avert 19 million unsafe abortions and 17,000 maternal deaths annually.\u201d\n\n\u201cFor more than 50 years, the Helms Amendment has denied people around the world reproductive freedom. It undermines global health and human rights. It\u2019s an archaic remnant of U.S. abortion politics that has always been completely divorced from the reality of the lives of the people it harms,\u201d said Brian Dixon, Sr. Vice President, Population Connection Action Fund. \u201cIt\u2019s long past time to repeal this disgraceful law and we are grateful to Senator Booker and Congresswoman Schakowsky for introducing this important legislation. We look forward to its passage.\u201d\n\n\u201cEveryone deserves to be able to get the healthcare they need when they need it,\u201d said Alexis McGill Johnson, President and CEO, Planned Parenthood Federation of America. \u201cFor over 50 years, the Helms Amendment has put safe abortion care out of reach for people around the world served by U.S. foreign assistance, including global health, gender-based violence, and humanitarian programs. As we continue to fight back against abortion bans and restrictions in the U.S., we must also work to expand access and eliminate barriers abroad. We\u2019re thankful to Rep. Schakowsky, Sen. Booker, and their co-leads for their leadership in expanding access to essential healthcare.\u201d\n\n\u201cComprehensive abortion care is health care. That is not a political assertion, it is a public health reality,\u201d said Nabeeha Kazi Hutchins, President and CEO, PAI. \u201cWhen safe abortion care is not available, abortions do not stop. They become more dangerous, contributing to preventable maternal death and morbidity. For more than 50 years, the Helms Amendment has restricted U.S. foreign assistance for this care, putting women\u2019s health and lives at risk. U.S. global health policy should be grounded in evidence and focused on preventing needless maternal deaths and illness. It\u2019s time for Congress to pass the Abortion is Health Care Everywhere Act and repeal Helms.\u201d\n\nThe Helms Amendment was first enacted in 1973 and restricts U.S. foreign assistance from being used for abortion as a method of family planning.\n\n###", 1, "2026-09-29T11:07:12Z", "2026-09-29T11:08:49Z"], ["https://schrier.house.gov/media/press-releases/congresswoman-schriers-bill-bolster-clean-affordable-hydropower-energy-and", "Congresswoman Schrier\u2019s Bill to Bolster Clean, Affordable Hydropower Energy and Enhance River Health Signed Into Law", "2026-09-28", "2026", "2026-09", "Democrat", "House", "WA", "Kim Schrier", "S001216", "schrier.house.gov", "schrier", "https://schrier.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Today, Congresswoman Kim Schrier, M.D. (WA-08) announced that her Hydropower Licensing Transparency Act was signed into law. The bipartisan legislation supports Washington\u2019s clean, affordable hydropower and the healthy management of rivers by enhancing efficiency and transparency for parties involved in the hydropower dam licensing process. Congresswoman Schrier introduced this legislation alongside Congressman Russ Fulcher (ID-01).\n\n\u201cI am thrilled to announce that my bipartisan Hydropower Licensing Transparency Act was signed into law,\u201d said Congresswoman Schrier. \u201cThis law will bring transparency and clarity to the licensing process, better informing our communities and dam operators on license status and providing Congress with tools to further streamline the licensing process. I look forward to continuing this work to reduce energy costs, manage river resources, and cut red tape.\"\n\nThe legislation is supported by the National Hydropower Association, American Whitewater, and American Rivers.\n\n\"I am proud to see the Hydropower Licensing Transparency Act signed into law. This is an important piece of legislation that will effectively cut federal red tape around hydropower relicensing applications. With nearly 600 water storage dams across Idaho, we must focus on efficient licensing processes to keep our dams running and support clean energy growth,\" said Congressman Fulcher.\n\n\u201cHydropower provides 30 million Americans clean, reliable power; it's the shock absorber of the grid, delivering 24/7 power when other resources can't. It also provides other public benefits like flood control, irrigation, and recreation. The Hydropower Licensing Transparency Act shines an important light on our broken permitting process. I commend Representatives Schrier and Fulcher and Senators Cortez Masto and Daines for leading the charge,\u201d said National Hydropower Association President and CEO Malcom Woolf.\n\n\u201cWe thank Representatives Schrier and Fulcher for their leadership in advancing greater transparency in the hydropower licensing process,\" said Kelly Catlett, Senior Advisor at American Rivers Action Fund. \"Greater transparency into the status of licensing proceedings can help identify opportunities to improve efficiency and bring greater clarity and accountability to the process. A more efficient licensing process can help move projects toward resolution while creating better opportunities to protect and restore healthy rivers.\u201d\n\nBACKGROUND: Hydropower dams must relicense their dams with the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) in order to continue operating a facility every 30 to 50 years. On average, relicensing a hydropower facility takes between seven and ten years to complete. According to a recent DOE report, FERC relicensing activity is expected to more than double in the coming decade, threatening resource adequacy. In addition, applicants seeking licenses for new hydropower dams are the most sensitive to licensing costs and delays. Existing projects have existing revenue streams to finance relicensing costs, but new project costs are covered by the project developer.\n\nThis new law will streamline and enhance the efficiency of this process by requiring the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) provide an annual report to Congress on the status of each hydropower dam license or relicense application. This will increase transparency for project stakeholders and give Congress a tool to improve the FERC process.\n\nYou can watch Congresswoman Schrier\u2019s full remarks on the legislation HERE.\n\n###", 1, "2026-09-29T11:07:12Z", "2026-09-29T11:08:49Z"], ["https://sewell.house.gov/2026/9/rep-sewell-leads-bipartisan-letter-to-mexican-government-demanding-resolution-for-birmingham-based-vulcan-materials-and-alabama-workers", "Rep. Sewell Leads Bipartisan Letter to Mexican Government Demanding Resolution for Birmingham-Based Vulcan Materials and Alabama Workers", "2026-09-28", "2026", "2026-09", "Democrat", "House", "AL", "Terri A. Sewell", "S001185", "sewell.house.gov", "sewell", "https://sewell.house.gov/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington D.C. \u2014 Today, U.S. Rep. Terri Sewell (AL-07) led a bipartisan letter to Mexican Ambassador Roberto Lazzeri Monta\u00f1o expressing concern and outrage regarding the Mexican government\u2019s treatment of Birmingham-based Vulcan Materials Company and American workers. The letter is co-led by Reps. August Pfluger (TX-11), Salud Carbajal (CA-24), and Gary Palmer (AL-06).\n\n\u201cI am proud to lead this bipartisan letter demanding the fair treatment of Vulcan Materials and Alabama workers in Mexico,\u201d said Rep. Sewell. \u201cFor almost a decade, senior members of the Mexican government have used illegal tactics to intimidate Vulcan Materials and their workers, including a military seizure of Vulcan-owned property in Mexico. I have worked closely with my colleagues in Congress as we pursued all diplomatic and legislative options, including passing the Defending American Property Abroad (DAPA) Act. I will continue to fight for all the workers in my district who have suffered from illegal trade actions by foreign nations.\u201d\n\n\"Mexico's seizure of Vulcan Materials is a direct threat to American jobs, economic security, and national security,\" said Rep. Pfluger. \"Even after an international tribunal found that Mexico violated its trade obligations by shutting down part of Vulcan's operations, the Mexican government has continued to target this company. That's why the House passed my Defending American Property Abroad Act, making clear the United States will not tolerate the illegal capture of American-owned assets by foreign governments. I'm proud to join my colleagues in this bipartisan effort and advocate for Vulcan Materials.\"\n\n\u201cAmerican companies and workers operating abroad deserve to be treated with fairness,\u201d said Rep. Carbajal. \u201cThe actions taken against Vulcan Materials are unacceptable and a clear violation of international trade norms. I am joining a bipartisan coalition of my colleagues in demanding an immediate resolution to these illegal actions.\u201d\n\n\u201cThe Mexican government\u2019s continued targeting of Vulcan Materials is unacceptable,\u201d said Rep. Palmer. \u201cNo American company should have its property seized or its operations threatened by a foreign government acting outside the rule of law. Mexico must end these actions, respect Vulcan\u2019s property rights, and demonstrate that it intends to be a trustworthy trading partner of the United States. I\u2019m proud to join my colleagues in standing up for Vulcan and American workers.\u201d\n\nBackground\n\nOn May 5, 2022, the Mexican government illegally shut down Vulcan\u2019s operations via military force. In March of 2023, the Mexican government invaded and occupied Vulcan\u2019s property again to benefit CEMEX, a private Mexican company.\n\nOn September 23, 2024 President L\u00f3pez Obrador decreed the property a Naturally Protected Area (NPA) on September 23, 2024, precluding Vulcan from using its property for productive purposes. Now, the Government of Mexico is utilizing baseless criminal charges to re-invade Vulcan\u2019s property and potentially seize Vulcan\u2019s assets.\n\nEarlier this year, Rep. Sewell helped to pass the Defending American Property Abroad (DAPA) Act through the House of Representatives. Sewell previously led Alabama's House delegation in a letter to Mexico\u2019s Foreign Relations Secretary Alicia B\u00e1rcena demanding a remedy to their illegal invasion and warning of consequences.\n\nThe letter was also signed by Reps. Robert B. Aderholt (AL-04), Brian Babin (TX-36), Tom Barrett (MI-07), Aaron Bean (FL-04), Sheri Biggs (SC-03), Julia Brownley (CA-26), Tim Burchett (TN-02), John R. Carter (TX-31), Troy A. Carter, Sr. (LA-06), Ben Cline (VA-06), James Comer (KY-01), J. Luis Correa (CA-46), Henry Cuellar (TX-28), Donald G. Davis (NC-01), Mike Ezell (MS-04), Pat Fallon (TX-04), Shomari Figures (AL-02), Clay Fuller (IN-08), Craig A. Goldman (TX-12), Vicente Gonzalez (TX-34), Josh Gottheimer (NJ-05), Val Hoyle (OR-04), Addison P. McDowell (NC-06), John J. McGuire III (VA-05), Barry Moore (AL-01), Tim Moore (NC-14), Troy E. Nehls (TX-22), Jimmy Panetta (CA-19), Mike Rogers (AL-03), David Rouzer (NC-07), Pete Stauber (MN-08), Dale W. Strong (AL-05), William R. Timmons IV (SC-04), Beth Van Duyne (TX-24), James R. Walkinshaw (VA-11), Randy K. Weber, Sr. (TX-14), and Daniel Webster (FL-11).\n\nThe full letter can be found here.\n\n###", 1, "2026-09-29T11:07:12Z", "2026-09-29T11:08:49Z"], ["https://troycarter.house.gov/media/press-releases/reps-carter-ezell-thompson-introduce-fema-workforce-planning-act-ensure", "Reps. Carter, Ezell, Thompson Introduce the FEMA Workforce Planning Act to Ensure the Federal Government Has Capacity for Disaster Response", "2026-09-28", "2026", "2026-09", "Democrat", "House", "LA", "Troy A. Carter", "C001125", "troycarter.house.gov", "troycarter", "https://troycarter.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Today, Congressman Troy A. Carter Sr. (D-LA), alongside Reps. Mike Ezell (R-MS) and Bennie Thompson (D-MS) introduced the Federal Emergency Mobilization Accountability (FEMA) Workforce Planning Act. This legislation requires the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to develop and submit detailed workforce plans to Congress to ensure the agency can effectively respond to natural disasters and other emergencies. It also requires FEMA to improve employee recruitment and retention efforts, develop strategies to train and deploy its workforce efficiently, and use data to address and fix staffing gaps.\n\n\u201cAmericans rely on FEMA in our most desperate moments,\u201d said Congressman Carter. \u201cAs storms grow more intense and last longer, our commitment to preparedness must grow stronger too. I\u2019m proud to champion this bipartisan legislation that will ensure FEMA has the support they need to maintain an effective and efficient workforce prepared to respond wherever and whenever disaster strikes.\u201d\n\n\u201cCommunities across South Mississippi know firsthand how important it is to have a prepared and capable FEMA workforce when disaster strikes,\u201d said Congressman Ezell. \u201cI\u2019m proud to help introduce the FEMA Workforce Planning Act to ensure FEMA has the right people, training, and resources in place to respond quickly and effectively when Americans need help most. By improving workforce planning and addressing staffing gaps before the next emergency, we can strengthen FEMA\u2019s readiness and better serve communities recovering from disasters.\u201d\n\n\u201cUnfortunately, FEMA\u2019s longstanding workforce problems have only worsened over the last year and a half. In order to respond to worsening disasters, we need FEMA to have the proper analysis, strategies, and plans to ensure its workforce is effective and meeting the needs of the nation. I thank Congressman Carter for introducing this necessary legislation,\u201d said Congressman Thompson.\n\nBackground\n\nThe Federal Emergency Mobilization Accountability (FEMA) Workforce Planning Act requires the FEMA Administrator to develop a human capital operating plan, in accordance with best practices outlined by the Director of the Office of Personnel Management (OPM) and the Comptroller General of the United States, to shape and improve the Agency's workforce. The plan must be submitted to the Senate Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs and the House Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure every 3 years.\n\nThe workforce plans must include:\n\nPerformance measures to evaluate progress towards the human capital goals of FEMA, including filling staffing gaps, closing skills gaps in mission-critical occupations, and implementing workforce training and, if applicable, progress towards meeting those goals;\n\nDetails of the types of employees of FEMA, including by hiring authority and cadre;\n\nA comprehensive analysis of the projected costs associated with implementing the plan;\n\nStrategies and practices designed to increase cost-efficiency within the workforce operations of FEMA, including reducing overhead costs, improving resource utilization, and avoiding unnecessary expenditures;\n\nA detailed analysis of how FEMA determined its current overall staffing goals;\n\nAn analysis of the current workforce of FEMA and possible gaps in the current staffing structure needed to fulfill FEMA\u2019s mission; and,\n\nA plan of action with specific recommendations for developing and reshaping the workforce of FEMA to address the gaps in critical and emerging skills.\n\nRead the full bill text here.\n\n###", 1, "2026-09-29T11:07:12Z", "2026-09-29T11:08:49Z"], ["https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases/reps-vasquez-nunn-introduce-bipartisan-beef-act-protect-american-ranchers-and", "Reps. Vasquez, Nunn Introduce Bipartisan BEEF Act to Protect American Ranchers and Lower Beef Prices", "2026-09-28", "2026", "2026-09", "Democrat", "House", "NM", "Gabe Vasquez", "V000136", "vasquez.house.gov", "vasquez", "https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 U.S. Representative Gabe Vasquez (NM-02) and U.S. Representative Zach Nunn (IA-03) introduced the BEEF (Banning External Entry of Foreign Beef) Act, legislation to stop the Administration\u2019s latest expansion of foreign beef imports and advance a long-term strategy to rebuild the American cattle herd, strengthen domestic beef production, and lower costs for consumers.\n\nThis bill is in response to the Administration\u2019s announcement that it would import an additional 300,000 metric tons of foreign lean beef trimmings into the United States, hurting ranchers and raising prices for consumers. Vasquez has repeatedly opposed efforts by both Democratic and Republican administrations to increase foreign beef imports at the expense of American cattle producers.\n\n\u201cIf we want more affordable beef, the answer is to grow American production, strengthen competition, and make it easier for the next generation of ranchers to stay in business \u2013 not make our country more dependent on un-vetted foreign imports,\u201d said Vasquez. \u201cCattlegrowers in New Mexico and across the nation have made it clear \u2013 they want to reverse the President\u2019s foreign beef imports and they need more time, and more tools, to grow their herds and fix the domestic supply chain. My bipartisan BEEF Act does just that, and I hope that my colleagues from both sides of the aisle can join me in supporting American cattlegrowers and this commonsense proposal.\u201d\n\n\u201cLowering beef prices for Iowa families and supporting our cattle producers should go hand-in-hand,\u201d said Nunn. \u201cIf we want more affordable beef for the long term, we need more American beef being raised and produced here at home. After years of a shrinking cattle herd, that means giving our producers the stability and confidence to invest, rebuild, and grow. Our bipartisan bill puts producers at the table to develop a long-term plan to increase our domestic beef supply, while giving Congress a say before future decisions are made to expand foreign imports.\u201d\n\nThe BEEF Act would:\n\nSuspend the Administration\u2019s latest expansion of foreign beef imports.\n\nRequire congressional approval before future presidential actions expanding beef imports can take effect.\n\nEstablish a four-year Beef Import and Domestic Supply Advisory Board within USDA and direct it to develop strategies to rebuild the American cattle herd and increase domestic beef production.\n\nAdvance policies to expand domestic processing capacity, improve livestock market competition, and lower beef costs for American families over the long term.\n\nRep. Vasquez has long been an ardent supporter of New Mexico\u2019s ranchers and cattle growers. Some of his recent work to support them includes:\n\nIn June, he introduced the Protecting America\u2019s Herds Act, an innovative, bipartisan solution to combat the spread of the New World Screwworm parasite, herd loss, and a jump in beef prices.\n\nHe was also integral in securing the necessary funding to build a sterile fly production and dispersal facility through the STOP Screwworms Act, legislation that required the Secretary of Agriculture to establish a New World Screwworm fly rearing facility to combat the spread of Screwworms.\n\nOn March 3, 2026, Rep. Vasquez secured unanimous, bipartisan support in the House Agriculture Committee for his Farm Bill amendment condemning the Administration\u2019s push to prioritize Argentinian beef imports at the expense of our American cattle ranchers. The amendment ultimately passed out of the House in the Farm Bill.\n\nIn 2024, Vasquez adamantly opposed the Biden administration\u2019s push to import beef from Paraguay. No matter the political party, Rep. Vasquez is fully committed to fighting for American ranchers.\n\n###", 1, "2026-09-29T11:07:12Z", "2026-09-29T11:08:49Z"], ["https://vindman.house.gov/2026/09/28/vindman-joins-virginia-west-virginia-delegations-in-introducing-bill-to-protect-historic-battlefields-in-shenandoah/", "Vindman Joins Virginia, West Virginia Delegations in Introducing Bill to Protect Historic Battlefields in Shenandoah", "2026-09-28", "2026", "2026-09", "Democrat", "House", "VA", "Eugene Simon Vindman", "V000138", "vindman.house.gov", "vindman", "https://vindman.house.gov/category/press-releases/", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2014 Congressman Eugene Vindman (Va.-07) joined every member of the bipartisan, bicameral congressional delegations from Virginia and West Virginia in supporting the Shenandoah Valley Access, Legacy, and Outdoor Recreation (VALOR) Act.\n\nThis legislation expands the Shenandoah Valley Battlefields National Historic District and its proven record of historic preservation and economic development to three counties in West Virginia\u2019s Eastern Panhandle as well as Rockbridge Country in Virginia.\n\n\u201cThe Shenandoah VALOR Act recognizes the important role the Shenandoah Valley and the Eastern Panhandle play in our nation\u2019s Civil War history while creating new opportunities for communities to preserve that history and share it with visitors,\u201d said Vindman. \u201cI\u2019m proud to support this legislation that will protect these historic sites, invest in our local communities, support tourism, and ensure that future generations can learn from the stories that shaped Virginia and West Virginia.\u201d\n\nIn addition to expanding the National Historic District, this bill would also protect its existing federal funding and provide resources for battlefield preservation, visitor facilities, historic properties, grants, technical assistance, and the acquisition of land from willing sellers. Specifically, the legislation authorizes $1.25 million annually beginning in Fiscal Year 2027 for management, operations, battlefield parks, visitor facilities, and preserved historic properties, along with $2.5 million annually from FY2027 through FY2033 for grants, technical assistance, and land acquisition.\n\nThe legislation further directs the Secretary of the Interior to report to Congress on ways the Shenandoah Valley Battlefields partnership model could be replicated at other locations within the National Park System.\n\nThe legislation is led in the U.S. House by Riley Moore (W.Va.-02).\n\nIn addition to Vindman, the bill is supported by Rob Wittman (Va.-01), Jen Kiggans (Va.-02), Bobby Scott (Va.-03), Jennifer McClellan (Va.-04), John McGuire (Va.-05), Ben Cline (Va.-06), Don Beyer (Va.-08), Morgan Griffith (Va.-09), Suhas Subramanyam (Va.-10), James Walkinshaw (Va.-11), and Carol Miller (W.Va.-01).\n\n\u201cThe Shenandoah Valley is home to some of the most hallowed battlefields in our nation\u2019s history. For 30 years, the Shenandoah Valley Battlefields National Historic District has proven its ability to preserve that history, attract millions of visitors, and generate a positive effect on local economies, said Moore. \u201cThe Shenandoah VALOR Act builds on that success by expanding the District to include Jefferson, Berkeley, and Morgan counties in West Virginia as well as Rockbridge County in Virginia. This expansion will support preservation efforts that protect our shared heritage, open it to locals and visitors alike, and bring new economic opportunities to the whole region. I am proud to introduce this bill with the full bipartisan support of the West Virginia and Virginia House delegations.\u201d\n\n\u201cVirginia\u2019s historic sites help tell the story of our nation,\u201d said Scott. \u201cThe Shenandoah Valley Battlefields National Historic District educates Virginians and those visiting our Commonwealth on the true history of the battles fought in the Shenandoah Valley during the Civil War. I am proud to cosponsor the Shenandoah VALOR Act to expand the National Historic District\u2019s reach and to authorize new resources that support this critical work.\u201d\n\n\u201cI am proud to support this measure to preserve the Commonwealth\u2019s battlefields and history. This important bill will help expand access to resources for our historic battlefields and districts for generations to come,\u201d said Subramanyam.\n\n\u201cThe Shenandoah Valley is an important part of our nation\u2019s history, and we have a responsibility to preserve the places that tell that story. I\u2019m proud to support the Shenandoah VALOR Act to expand these preservation efforts and ensure future generations can experience and learn from these historic landscapes,\u201d said Walkinshaw.\n\n\u201cThe Shenandoah Valley helped shape the course of the Civil War, and today its historic landscapes continue to draw visitors from across the country. Our Shenandoah VALOR Act would expand the National Historic District to additional communities in Virginia and West Virginia and strengthen the local partnerships that preserve and share this legacy. I\u2019m proud to join Congressman Moore in this effort to ensure future generations can experience and learn from these historic places,\u201d said Beyer.\n\n\u201cVirginians recognize the historical value of the Shenandoah Valley Battlefields and the critical role this beautiful landscape played in the Civil War,\u201d said McClellan. \u201cBy expanding the boundaries of the Shenandoah Valley Battlefields National Historic District, the Shenandoah VALOR Act will strengthen the federal government\u2019s ability to preserve these hallowed lands for generations to visit, enjoy and learn from this site. I thank Congressman Moore for his leadership in this space.\u201d\n\n\u201cOur nation\u2019s rich history and beautiful landscapes must be preserved,\u201d said McGuire. \u201cThe Shenandoah VALOR Act is crucial for safeguarding the historic landscapes our country is known for. As tourists from across the globe visit these sites, we must do what we can to ensure they\u2019re maintained for generations to come.\u201d\n\n\u201cShenandoah is more than a scenic landscape. It is a place where Virginia\u2019s history and culture come to life. The Shenandoah Valley Battlefields National Historic District Boundary Expansion and Partnership Act of 2026 expands the National Historic District to include four additional counties. This legislation preserves and strengthens the partnership among local communities, the state, and the district, while ensuring these historic resources continue to be supported at the local level rather than federally managed,\u201d said Cline.\n\n\u201cThe Shenandoah Valley is home to some of the most significant sites in our nation\u2019s history, and we have a responsibility to preserve that history for generations to come,\u201d said Wittman. \u201cThe Shenandoah VALOR Act will help protect historic battlefields, expand opportunities for Americans to experience the outdoors, and support the local tourism economy. I am proud to cosponsor this legislation to ensure the Shenandoah Valley is preserved for future generations.\u201d\n\n\u201cA part of what makes Virginia so special is the Commonwealth\u2019s rich history and the generations of Americans that have helped shape it. The Shenandoah VALOR Act will help preserve the historic battlefields and sites that tell the story of the Shenandoah Valley while expanding opportunities for future generations to learn about and experience this important part of our nation\u2019s history. I\u2019m proud to join Congressman Moore in this effort to protect these historic sites and ensure their stories are preserved for the next generation to learn and enjoy,\u201d said Kiggans.\n\n\u201cVirginia\u2019s history, good and bad, is worth studying. The Shenandoah VALOR Act helps promote this history and serve local economies. As a student of history with family ties to the region, I am excited to join a Congressional effort that expands the Shenandoah Valley Battlefields National Historic District,\u201d said Griffith.\n\n\u201cWest Virginia came to be during the Civil War, and it is essential that we protect the rich history of our state. Expanding the Shenandoah Valley National Historic District into Jefferson, Berkeley, and Morgan counties will help preserve significant historic sites while also creating new opportunities for tourism and economic growth in the Eastern Panhandle. This legislation is an investment in West Virginia\u2019s past that will give our communities the resources they need to create jobs, attract visitors, and help local communities share their stories with visitors from across the country,\u201d said Miller.\n\nSenator Jim Justice (R-WV) is leading the companion legislation in the Senate, which is supported by U.S. Senators Mark Warner (Va.), Tim Kaine (Va.), Shelley Moore Capito (W.Va.)\n\n\u201cThis is a big day for West Virginia. This bill would add critical Civil War sites in our Eastern Panhandle to the Shenandoah Valley Battlefields National Historic District. Berkeley, Jefferson, and Morgan Counties saw some of the first actions of the conflict and suffered through all four years of the war\u2014from Harpers Ferry and the Battle of Hokes Run to the Gettysburg Campaign and the battles of 1864, West Virginia\u2019s Eastern Panhandle played a significant role. West Virginia was born in the fire of the Civil War. Our people lived it, fought in it, and were shaped by it in ways no other state can claim. Expanding this District is about recognizing that unique role and making sure West Virginia\u2019s chapter of the story is preserved and told for generations to come. West Virginia\u2019s Civil War history is not a footnote,\u201d said Justice. \u201cIt is central to who we are as a state. This bill makes sure that history gets the recognition and the resources it deserves, and it does it with both of our states working side by side. That\u2019s the way it ought to be.\u201d\n\n\u201cThe Shenandoah Valley played a vital role in our nation\u2019s history, and preserving these battlefields will ensure that future generations can understand the events that shaped our country. This bipartisan legislation reflects our shared commitment to protecting these historic landscapes by expanding the Shenandoah Valley Battlefields National Historic District to include additional sites in Virginia and West Virginia, which will support tourism and local communities across the region,\u201d said Warner.\n\n\u201cThe Shenandoah Valley Battlefields National Historic District is one of Virginia\u2019s great historical treasures, preserving the Valley\u2019s Civil War battlefields so that Americans from across the country can visit them and reflect on our country\u2019s history,\u201d said Kaine. \u201cI\u2019m glad to be working with my colleagues to expand the district into Rockbridge County and strengthen the partnerships that protect these valued sites for years to come.\u201d\n\n\u201cExpanding the boundaries of the Shenandoah Valley Battlefields National Historic District will help preserve key Civil War sites in our Eastern Panhandle that played a significant role in our state\u2019s history. The battlefield provides an incredible opportunity for people to learn about the formation of West Virginia and the important role our state holds in the foundation of our nation. By expanding the boundaries, we are able to enhance the Shenandoah Valley Battlefields National Historic District partnership model, helping provide necessary resources and funding to preserve and improve this historic site for future generations,\u201d said Moore Capito.\n\nThe bill is also supported by the Shenandoah Valley Battlefields Foundation and American Conservation Coalition Action.\n\n\u201cThe Shenandoah VALOR Act brings together two states, once divided by war, in a bi-partisan effort to preserve the Shenandoah Valley as the national treasure that it is \u2013 reminding us that our shared history and natural wonders can unite and lift up diverse communities and provide a brighter future for us all,\u201d said the Shenandoah Valley Battlefields Foundation.\n\n\u201cAs conservatives, we must conserve our natural heritage in places like the Shenandoah Valley. The American Conservation Coalition Action applauds Representative Moore\u2019s leadership to build a bipartisan consensus around this effort,\u201d said Chris Barnard, American Conservation Coalition Action President.\n\nBACKGROUND\n\nThe Shenandoah Valley Battlefields National Historic District was established by Congress 30 years ago, in the fall of 1996, to preserve and interpret Civil War battlefields and historic sites throughout the Shenandoah Valley. The District operates on a partnership-based management model involving local communities, organizations, landowners, and preservation partners.\n\n###", 1, "2026-09-29T11:07:12Z", "2026-09-29T11:08:49Z"], ["https://vindman.house.gov/2026/09/28/vindman-mfume-urge-netanyahu-to-contain-settler-violence-protect-communities-in-the-west-bank/", "Vindman, Mfume Urge Netanyahu to Contain Settler Violence & Protect Communities in the West Bank", "2026-09-28", "2026", "2026-09", "Democrat", "House", "VA", "Eugene Simon Vindman", "V000138", "vindman.house.gov", "vindman", "https://vindman.house.gov/category/press-releases/", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2014 Congressman Eugene Vindman (Va.-07) and Kweisi Mfume (M.D.-07) sent a letter to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, urging his government to take immediate steps to contain settler violence in the West Bank.\n\n\u201cWe write with urgent concern regarding the growing outbreak of extremist settler violence in the West Bank, including violence that has killed and threatened American citizens,\u201d wrote the lawmakers. \u201cWe do so out of concern for Israel\u2019s long-term security as well as for the safety of Palestinians. Continued settlement expansion and violence in the West Bank will harm that security and the prospects for lasting peace, prosperity, and freedom for Israelis and Palestinians alike.\u201d\n\n\u201cAmidst this violence, we are especially concerned for the safety of American citizens in the West Bank,\u201d the lawmakers continued. \u201cNine American citizens have been killed in the West Bank since January 2022. To date, no one has been held accountable for any of these nine deaths. Many of us have heard directly from constituents, including American citizens who have themselves been threatened or harassed by settlers without cause.\u201d\n\n\u201cRestoring the rule of law in the West Bank serves the security of Israelis and Palestinians alike,\u201d the lawmakers concluded. \u201cThe safety of our constituents matters to us as the safety of your citizens matters to you. We also hope to see conditions improve so that Israelis and Palestinians may one day live alongside one another without fear of terrorism or lawless violence.\u201d\n\nIn the letter, the representatives request that the Israeli government take the following actions to uphold the rule of law and end the violence in the West Bank:\n\nInstruct the Israeli Police and the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) to defend Palestinian communities in the West Bank when they come under attack, and to apply that standard consistently, whoever the attackers are;\n\nEstablish a transparent and credible mechanism to investigate and prosecute violence against Palestinians, including Palestinian Americans, and complete the pending investigations into the deaths of the nine American citizens killed in the West Bank since January 2022.\n\nHalt further settlement approvals and continue to take steps to remove illegal outposts in the West Bank.\n\n###", 1, "2026-09-29T11:07:12Z", "2026-09-29T11:08:49Z"], ["https://mcbath.house.gov/2026/09/28/mcbath-merkley-brown-champion-legislation-to-improve-educational-outcomes-and-experiences/", "McBath, Merkley, Brown Champion Legislation to Improve Educational Outcomes and Experiences", "2026-09-28", "2026", "2026-09", "Democrat", "House", "GA", "Lucy McBath", "M001208", "mcbath.house.gov", "mcbath", "https://mcbath.house.gov/category/press-releases/", "scraper", "Washington, DC\u2014U.S. Representatives Lucy McBath (GA-06) and Shontel Brown (OH-11) have joined U.S. Senator Jeff Merkley (OR) to introduce H.R. 10631, the Smaller Class Sizes for Students and Educators Act. This legislation would make investments to address overcrowded classrooms and set students up for success.\n\nResearch shows students achieve better academic results with more individualized attention from instructors, especially in kindergarten through third grade. However, the continued strain on our public education system from staff shortages and tighter budgets has meant class sizes have continued to grow. McBath, Brown, and Merkley are making a bicameral push for better student outcomes with their legislation to boost funding for schools to reduce class sizes and increase individualized attention from instructors\u2014improving the overall school experience for both students and educators.\n\n\u201cSmaller class sizes help personalize education in ways that can fuel a child\u2019s love of learning. When teachers have more opportunities for one-on-one time with their students, they can provide tailored instruction, individualized feedback, and the support each child needs to thrive,\u201d said Rep. McBath. \u201cI am deeply appreciative of Senator Merkley for his continued leadership on this important legislation and his advocacy for students and educators. Investments like these, which strengthen learning environments and support teacher well-being, are essential to improving educational outcomes and ensuring every child has the opportunity to succeed.\u201d\n\n\u201cEvery student deserves the chance to learn, participate, and get the individual attention they need to thrive,\u201d said Sen. Merkley. \u201cGrowing up as an Oregon public school student, I remember having around 20 children in my first-grade class. When I dropped my son off for his first day of school, his class had 34 children, and I wondered how his teacher could organize and teach such a large group. It\u2019s time to make sure our schools have the resources they need to support educators and help every child receive a quality learning experience.\u201d\n\n\u201cSmaller class sizes can help ensure that every child gets the time and attention they need to succeed. I am proud to join Congresswoman McBath and Senator Merkley in reintroducing the Smaller Class Sizes for Students and Educators Act so that students get the support they need and educators are able to instruct every student. Importantly, this legislation provides school districts with an opportunity for federal funding to make smaller class sizes a reality,\u201d said Rep. Brown.\n\nThe Smaller Class Sizes for Students and Educators Act would establish a $2 billion competitive grant program to help school districts reduce K\u20133 class sizes in low-income public elementary schools to not more than 18 students per class. The grants could be used to recruit, hire, and support qualified teachers; obtain additional space or renovate school buildings; or provide professional development for teachers, among other purposes.\n\nThe Smaller Class Sizes for Students and Educators Act is cosponsored by U.S. Senators Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Cory Booker (D-NJ), Dick Durbin (D-IL), and Elizabeth Warren (D-MA).\n\nThe bill is also supported by the American Federation of Teachers, First Focus Campaign for Children, National Education Association, and National Parent Teacher Association.\n\n\u201cParents, students and educators all agree that overcrowded classrooms do not make a successful learning environment. Class size matters because it is directly linked to higher rates of student success: Students are more engaged and teachers can provide the individualized instruction students need and deserve. The Smaller Class Sizes for Students and Educators Act, led by Sen. Jeff Merkley and Reps. Lucy McBath and Shontel Brown, helps all of America\u2019s school districts reduce class size and is a vote of confidence in the future success of our nation\u2019s public schools,\u201d said Randi Weingarten, president of the American Federation of Teachers.", 1, "2026-09-30T10:57:52Z", "2026-09-30T10:59:04Z"], ["https://mcdonaldrivet.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-mcdonald-rivet-honors-anniversary-grand-blanc-church-jesus-christ-latter", "Rep. McDonald Rivet Honors the Anniversary of the Grand Blanc Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints Attack", "2026-09-28", "2026", "2026-09", "Democrat", "House", "MI", "Kristen McDonald Rivet", "M001237", "mcdonaldrivet.house.gov", "mcdonaldrivet", "https://mcdonaldrivet.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "FLINT\u2014 Today, Congresswoman Kristen McDonald Rivet (MI-08) released the following statement commemorating the one-year anniversary of the attack on the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Grand Blanc, Michigan.\n\n\u201cOne year ago, while gathering to worship, parishioners at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Grand Blanc suffered an unimaginable terror attack. I join the community in remembering the four victims, extending our prayers to their families and fellow congregants, and standing with the community as we remember the tragedies of that day.\n\n\u201cToday, we also honor the heroic first responders who were on the scene in a matter of seconds. The remarkable speed and decision-making of our 911 dispatchers, law enforcement officers, firefighters, and paramedics saved lives.\n\n\u201cIn the days, weeks, and months since, neighbors have come together to grieve, heal, and find the light under the motto, \u2018Grand Blanc, Better Together.\u2019 In the wake of an unimaginable tragedy, the Church and its community have shown us the power of faith and hope. As they break ground tonight, all of mid-Michigan will be behind them with love and support.\u201d\n\nLater tonight, Congresswoman McDonald Rivet will join the Church at the groundbreaking of its new stake center.", 1, "2026-09-30T10:57:52Z", "2026-09-30T10:59:04Z"], ["https://pressley.house.gov/2026/09/28/pressley-schakowsky-booker-colleagues-reintroduce-abortion-is-health-care-everywhere-act-to-repeal-harmful-helms-amendment/", "Pressley, Schakowsky, Booker, Colleagues Reintroduce Abortion is Health Care Everywhere Act to Repeal Harmful Helms Amendment", "2026-09-28", "2026", "2026-09", "Democrat", "House", "MA", "Ayanna Pressley", "P000617", "pressley.house.gov", "pressley", "https://pressley.house.gov/news/", "scraper", "On International Safe Abortion Day, Lawmakers Renew Effort to Expand Access to Abortion Care Around the World\n\nBill Text (PDF)\n\nBOSTON \u2013 Today, on International Safe Abortion Day, Congresswoman Ayanna Pressley (MA-07) \u2013 alongside Representatives Jan Schakowsky (IL-09), Diana DeGette (CO-01), Norma Torres (CA-35), Marilyn Strickland (WA-10) and Senator Cory Booker (D-NJ) \u2013 reintroduced the Abortion is Health Care Everywhere Act, legislation that would repeal the harmful Helms Amendment and ensure U.S. foreign assistance can support comprehensive reproductive health care, including abortion care. More than 80 House Members have joined the effort.\n\n\u201cFor decades, the reproductive health of millions of people\u2014especially those in developing nations\u2014has suffered as a result of the Helms Amendment barring U.S. foreign assistance from going to NGOs and clinics that provide abortion care,\u201d said Congresswoman Ayanna Pressley, Co-Chair of the House Reproductive Freedom Caucus. \u201cU.S. foreign aid to support health care in other countries falls desperately short by excluding reproductive health, and reinforces the criminalization and stigmatization of abortion care and reproductive health at home and abroad. This Administration\u2019s cruel approach to gutting foreign aid has cost people around the globe their lives. The United States must reverse course, reinvest in foreign aid, and treat reproductive care as essential care.\u201d\n\n\u201cAbortion is health care, no matter where you live. For nearly 50 years, the racist, harmful Helms Amendment has blocked U.S. foreign assistance from supporting abortion care, even where abortion is legal. That is wrong,\u201d said Congresswoman Jan Schakowsky. \u201cToday, on International Safe Abortion Day and every day, we must stand with people around the world who deserve the freedom to make their own decisions about their bodies and their futures. The Abortion is Health Care Everywhere Act will repeal Helms and help make reproductive health care accessible to everyone, everywhere.\u201d\n\n\u201cFor more than 50 years, the Helms Amendment has restricted the use of U.S. foreign assistance for abortion care, with real consequences for women around the world,\u201d said Senator Cory Booker. \u201cWomen are turned away from safe care and denied information and counseling about their options. Providers are forced to treat abortion differently from other essential health services. That is not a policy grounded in science, compassion, or dignity. The Abortion Is Health Care Everywhere Act would end these restrictions and make clear that U.S. global health assistance can support comprehensive reproductive health care, including safe abortion care.\u201d\n\n\u201cThe right to decide what is best for your body, health and family should not be dictated by borders,\u201d said Congresswoman Diana DeGette, Co-Chair of the Reproductive Freedom Caucus. \u201cThe Helms Amendment is a draconian policy that has blocked access to essential health care for far too long. It\u2019s time that Congress acts and ensures that no matter what community she calls home, every woman can access the full range of health care she needs \u2014 including abortion care.\u201d\n\n\u201cHealth care should not depend on your ZIP code, your income, or the country you call home,\u201d said Congresswoman Norma Torres. \u201cFor more than 50 years, the Helms Amendment has denied people around the world access to comprehensive reproductive health care. The Abortion is Health Care Everywhere Act is important because every woman deserves the freedom to make decisions about her own body, health, and future.\u201d\n\n\u201cAs MAGA extremists unleash their assault on women\u2019s rights, it is imperative to ensure reproductive health care for all,\u201d said Congresswoman Marilyn Strickland. \u201cThe Helms Amendment makes it impossible for millions of women across the globe to seek reproductive care \u2013 including routine preventative screenings \u2013 barring economic mobility and worsening the maternal health crisis. I am introducing the Abortion is Health Care Everywhere Act with Representative Schakowsky and over 80 of my colleagues today to repeal Helms, ensure equality, and continue the fight for women\u2019s rights worldwide.\u201d\n\nThe Abortion is Health Care Everywhere Act would repeal the Helms Amendment and replace it with language authorizing U.S. foreign assistance for comprehensive reproductive health care services, including abortion services, training, and equipment.\n\nThe legislation is endorsed by leading reproductive health, global health, and human rights organizations. Text of the bill can be accessed here.\n\n\u201cWith the Trump Administration undermining foreign aid for sexual and reproductive health care, the stakes couldn\u2019t be higher. Repealing the Helms Amendment, which has long prohibited U.S. support for abortion services around the world, is a critical step toward ensuring people everywhere can access safe abortion care,\u201d said Kelly Baden, Vice President of US Policy & Communications, Guttmacher Institute. \u201cWe thank Sen. Booker, Rep. Schakowsky and their co-leads for introducing the Abortion Is Health Care Everywhere Act. Guttmacher\u2019s research makes the impact clear: ending Helms and supporting health care systems around the globe would avert 19 million unsafe abortions and 17,000 maternal deaths annually.\u201d\n\n\u201cFor more than 50 years, the Helms Amendment has denied people around the world reproductive freedom. It undermines global health and human rights. It\u2019s an archaic remnant of U.S. abortion politics that has always been completely divorced from the reality of the lives of the people it harms,\u201d said Brian Dixon, Sr. Vice President, Population Connection Action Fund. \u201cIt\u2019s long past time to repeal this disgraceful law and we are grateful to Senator Booker and Congresswoman Schakowsky for introducing this important legislation. We look forward to its passage.\u201d\n\n\u201cEveryone deserves to be able to get the healthcare they need when they need it,\u201d said Alexis McGill Johnson, President and CEO, Planned Parenthood Federation of America. \u201cFor over 50 years, the Helms Amendment has put safe abortion care out of reach for people around the world served by U.S. foreign assistance, including global health, gender-based violence, and humanitarian programs. As we continue to fight back against abortion bans and restrictions in the U.S., we must also work to expand access and eliminate barriers abroad. We\u2019re thankful to Rep. Schakowsky, Sen. Booker, and their co-leads for their leadership in expanding access to essential healthcare.\u201d\n\n\u201cComprehensive abortion care is health care. That is not a political assertion, it is a public health reality,\u201d said Nabeeha Kazi Hutchins, President and CEO, PAI. \u201cWhen safe abortion care is not available, abortions do not stop. They become more dangerous, contributing to preventable maternal death and morbidity. For more than 50 years, the Helms Amendment has restricted U.S. foreign assistance for this care, putting women\u2019s health and lives at risk. U.S. global health policy should be grounded in evidence and focused on preventing needless maternal deaths and illness. It\u2019s time for Congress to pass the Abortion is Health Care Everywhere Act and repeal Helms.\u201d\n\nThe Helms Amendment was first enacted in 1973 and restricts U.S. foreign assistance from being used for abortion as a method of family planning.\n\nIn her time serving in Congress, Rep. Pressley has fought persistently to protect and advance reproductive justice and ensure fundamental life-saving reproductive health care for all.\n\nIn September 2026, Rep. Pressley reintroduced the Affordability is Access Act, would require insurers to fully cover over-the-counter birth control without any fees or out-of-pocket costs\n\nIn July 2026, alongside Senator Patty Murray (D-WA), Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY), Senator Ron Wyden (D-OR), House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries (D-NY), Whip Katherine Clark (D-MA), and Representatives Frank Pallone Jr. (D-NJ), Diana DeGette (D-CO), and Jamie Raskin (D-MD), led more than 250 Senate and House Democrats in filing an amicus brief to the Fifth Circuit in Louisiana v. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) focused on pushing back against Louisiana\u2019s attempt to reinstate the in-person dispensing requirement for mifepristone.\n\nIn July 2026, in recognition of the 250th anniversary of American independence and the work still to be done to create a nation that lives up to the founding ideals of liberty and justice for all, Rep. Pressley, alongside Representatives Lateefah Simon and Sydney Kamlager-Dove, introduced the America 250 Reproductive Justice Resolution.\n\nIn June 2026, in marking the fourth anniversary of the devastating Dobbs decision, Rep. Pressley uplifted and engaged families impacted by Republicans attacks on abortion care and issued a call to action to restore and expand access to abortion care, birth control, IVF, and true reproductive freedom.\n\nIn June 2026, during a speech on the House floor, Rep. Pressley commanded a moment of silence to honor those who have died because they were denied essential abortion care.\n\nIn June 2026, Rep. Pressley led a press conference with House Democratic Leadership to mark the fourth anniversary of the devastating Supreme Court Dobbs decision and offer her vision of seeing true reproductive justice realized and essential reproductive healthcare protected and expanded.\n\nIn June 2026, Rep. Pressley joined impacted individuals and abortion storytellers to initiate a powerful day of action for the fourth anniversary of the devastating Dobbs decision, offering a message of resilient community support and a commitment to ensure abortion care is treated as the fundamental human right it is. Video is available here.\n\nOn the anniversary of the Dobbs decision, Rep. Pressley introduced the Abortion Justice Act, sweeping, intersectional legislation to address access to abortion care and put forth a comprehensive vision of a just America where abortion care is readily available\u2014without stigma, shame or systemic barriers\u2014for all who seek it, regardless of zip code, immigration status, income, or background.\n\nRep. Pressley is a lead co-sponsor of the Women\u2019s Health Protection Act (WHPA), bicameral federal legislation to guarantee equal access to abortion care, everywhere.\n\nRep. Pressley is also a lead co-sponsor of the EACH Act, bold legislation to repeal the Hyde Amendment and help guarantee abortion coverage\u2014regardless of how a patient gets their health insurance.\n\nShortly before the Supreme Court\u2019s overturning of Roe v. Wade, Rep. Pressley led a group of her Black women colleagues in writing to President Biden urging him to declare a public health emergency amid the unprecedented threats to abortion rights nationwide.\n\nRep. Pressley condemned the Supreme Court\u2019s leaked draft opinion to overturn Roe v. Wade., and implored the Senate to protect abortion rights and slammed the white supremacist roots of anti-abortion efforts.\n\nRep. Pressley has been outspoken in demanding justice for Adriana Smith, a 30-year-old pregnant mother who was declared brain dead in February and was forced to remain on life support due to Georgia\u2019s abortion ban. In June 2025, Rep. Pressley delivered an impassioned floor speech in which she underscored that Adriana\u2019s case is far too common in the unjust history of denying Black women their dignity, humanity, and right to bodily autonomy \u2013 and that GOP abortion bans such as Georgia\u2019s deepen this pain and bar critical healthcare freedom. Rep. Pressley issued a statement after Adriana\u2019s infant son Chance was delivered via emergency Cesarean section and Adriana was taken off life support.\n\nIn May 2026, Pressley and her colleagues led 250 House and Senate Democrats in filing an amicus brief to the Supreme Court urging them to overturn a Fifth Circuit decision that would upend the FDA approval process and restrict access to mifepristone.\n\nOn August 18, 2025, Rep. Pressley issued a statement applauding the passage of the updated Shield Act in Massachusetts, signed into law by Governor Maura Healey this month. The expanded Shield Act strengthens legal protections for people seeking reproductive and gender-affirming care in Massachusetts.\n\nOn July 3, 2025, Rep. Pressley issued a statement on the final passage of Republicans\u2019 Big, Ugly Bill that will rip healthcare and food assistance away from millions of people, including in Massachusetts, push reproductive healthcare further out of reach nationwide, and fuel Trump\u2019s unlawful mass deportation agenda.\n\nOn July 1, 2025, Rep. Pressley filed an amendment to Republicans\u2019 Big, Ugly Bill to protect and expand reproductive healthcare.\n\nOn June 26, 2025, Rep. Pressley issued a statement on the harmful Medina v. Planned Parenthood ruling, the Supreme Court\u2019s decision to allow South Carolina to bar Medicaid patients from receiving healthcare services at Planned Parenthood.\n\nOn June 24, 2025, Rep. Pressley joined House Democratic Leadership for a press conference to mark the somber anniversary and renew her calls for comprehensive legislation to protect abortion care and expand access to reproductive healthcare.\n\nOn June 23, 2025, Rep. Pressley and the women of the Massachusetts delegation, Whip Katherine Clark (MA-05), Senator Elizabeth Warren (D-MA), and Rep. Lori Trahan (MA-03) joined Planned Parenthood Advocacy Fund of Massachusetts President Dominique Lee for a press conference in solidarity with Planned Parenthood as they collectively fight to stop Republicans\u2019 latest attack on reproductive freedom in the GOP\u2019s Big, Ugly Bill.\n\nIn June 2025, Rep. Pressley demanded justice for Adriana Smith, a 30-year-old pregnant mother who was declared brain dead in February and was forced to remain on life support due to Georgia\u2019s abortion ban.\n\nOn May 29, 2025, Rep. Pressley reintroduced a resolution demanding equitable access to reproductive and sexual healthcare for people with disabilities, and designating a day in May as \u201cDisability Reproductive Equity Day.\u201d\n\nOn May 21, 2025, Rep. Pressley delivered a powerful speech on the House Floor in which she slammed Republicans\u2019 reconciliation bill that would slash Medicaid, which is necessary to ensuring safe, healthy reproductive care and maternal health nationwide.\n\nOn April 3, 2025, Rep. Pressley, alongside Reps. DeGette, Chu, Leger Fern\u00e1ndez, Fletcher, Davids, Williams, sent a letter signed by 162 Members urging Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. to restore all appropriated funding for Title X providers and coordinate an urgent meeting on the matter.\n\nOn April 2, 2025, Rep. Pressley rallied with Planned Parenthood Federation of America (PPFA), colleagues, and advocates outside the U.S. Supreme Court for Medicaid patients\u2019 ability to access routine care at Planned Parenthood health centers.\n\nOn March 5, 2025, Rep. Pressley and the Reproductive Freedom Caucus issued a statement condemning Donald Trump\u2019s plans to drop the U.S. government\u2019s case against Idaho\u2019s violation of Emergency Medical Treatment and Active Labor Act (EMTALA) protections for emergency abortion care.\n\nIn January 2025, Rep. Pressley gave an impassioned speech condemning H.R. 21, Republicans\u2019 cruel anti-abortion bill that criminalizes providers and denies families care.\n\nIn January 2025, Rep. Pressley was announced as Co-Chair of the Reproductive Freedom Caucus for the 119th Congress.\n\nIn October 2024, Rep. Pressley issued a statement on Josseli Barnica, who died on Sept. 3, 2021 after being denied emergency abortion care in Texas as she suffered a miscarriage.\n\nIn September 2024, in a House Democratic Steering and Policy Committee Hearing, Rep. Pressley highlighted the harmful and deadly impact of abortion bans in America to date, and outlined in detail the shameful circumstances under which Amber Nicole Thurman died after being denied necessary abortion care in Georgia.\n\nIn May 2024, Rep. Pressley issued a statement on a Louisiana bill that would classify medication abortion drugs mifepristone and misoprostol as controlled substances.\n\nIn April 2024, at a House Oversight Committee hearing, Rep. Pressley played \u201cFact or Fiction\u201d with Food and Drug Administration (FDA) Commissioner Robert Califf to emphasize the safety and efficacy of medication abortion drug mifepristone.\n\nShortly before the Supreme Court\u2019s overturning of Roe v. Wade, Rep. Pressley led a group of her Black women colleagues in writing to President Biden urging him to declare a public health emergency amid the unprecedented threats to abortion rights nationwide.\n\nRep. Pressley condemned the Supreme Court\u2019s leaked draft opinion to overturn Roe v. Wade., and implored the Senate to protect abortion rights and slammed the white supremacist roots of anti-abortion efforts.\n\nIn August 2023, Rep. Pressley issued a statement on the Fifth Circuit Court decision in Alliance for Hippocratic Medicine v. FDA.\n\nIn July 2023, Rep. Pressley, alongside Senator Patty Murray (D-WA), Rep. Cori Bush (MO-01), and Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), reintroduced the Reproductive Health Care Accessibility Act, legislation to help people with disabilities\u2014who face discrimination and extra barriers when seeking care\u2014get better access to reproductive health care and the informed care they need to control their own reproductive lives.\n\nIn July 2023, Rep. Pressley applauded the Food and Drug Administration\u2019s (FDA) approval of over-the-counter birth control.\n\nIn May 2023, Rep. Pressley applauded the FDA Advisory Committee\u2019s unanimous, 17-0 vote to recommend the approval of the first-ever application for over-the-counter birth control. She and Senator Murray also held a press conference applauding the decision and urging the FDA to approval over-the-counter birth control without delay.\n\nIn May 2023, Rep. Pressley, along with Representatives Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (NY-14) and Ami Bera, MD (CA-06) and Senators Mazie Hirono (D-HI) and Catherine Cortez Masto (D-NV), reintroduced their bicameral Affordability is Access Act to ensure that once the FDA determines an over-the-counter birth control option to be safe, insurers fully cover over-the-counter birth control without any fees or out-of-pocket costs.\n\nIn April 2023, Rep. Pressley issued a statement condemning the Texas court ruling on mifepristone, and discussed the Texas case in a recent floor speech in which she affirmed medication abortion as routine medical care and access to mifepristone as essential. She later joined Governor Maura Healey, Senator Elizabth Warren (D-MA), and local leaders in announcing action to protect Mifepristone in Massachusetts.\n\nIn March 2023, Rep. Pressley, along with Senator Cory Booker (D-NJ) and Reps. Schakowsky, Lee, DeGette, Torres and Strickland, reintroduced the Abortion is Healthcare Everywhere Act harmful and discriminatory Helms Amendment and expand abortion access globally.\n\nIn March 2023, Rep. Pressley and Senator Hirono led their colleagues in reintroducing a bicameral congressional resolution honoring abortion providers and clinic staff.\n\nIn March 2023, Rep. Pressley delivered a speech in which she discussed the pending court case in Texas, which aims to restrict access to medication abortion across the entire nation. In her remarks, Rep. Pressley affirmed medication abortion as routine medical care, and accessibility to the abortion pill mifepristone as essential.\n\nIn September 2021, Rep. Pressley issued a statement condemning the Supreme Court\u2019s inaction on SB-8, Texas\u2019 restrictive abortion law. Later that month, she participated in a House Oversight Committee hearing to examine the threat posed by abortion bans and underscored the urgency of the Senate passing the Women\u2019s Health Protection Act.\n\nIn April 2021, Rep. Pressley, along with Congresswomen Barbara Lee (CA-13), Diana DeGette (CO-01) and Jan Schakowsky (IL-09), led a group of 131 Democratic members in reintroducing the Equal Access to Abortion Coverage in Health Insurance Act or the EACH Act, which would repeal the Hyde Amendment and ensure that all people, regardless of income, insurance or zip code, can make personal reproductive health care decisions without interference from politicians. She re-Introduced the legislation In January 2023.\n\nRep. Pressley has led calls in Congress for the FDA to remove medically unnecessary restrictions on the medication abortion drug mifepristone, and applauded the FDA\u2019s action in January 2023 to allow retail pharmacies to dispense abortion medication pills.\n\nAs Chair of the Pro-Choice Caucus\u2019s Abortion Rights and Access Task Force, Congresswoman Pressley led the fight to repeal the Hyde Amendments from annual Labor, Health and Human Services, Education and Related Agencies appropriations bills and in July 2020 published a Medium post on the importance of doing so. She applauded the removal of the Hyde Amendment in President Biden\u2019s FY2022 budget.\n\nIn May 2020, she led more than 155 Members of Congress in calling on House Democratic leadership to ensure that any future COVID-19 relief packages rejected Republican efforts to use the public health crisis to diminish abortion access.\n\nIn August 2021, Rep. Pressley, Oversight Chairwoman Carolyn Maloney, and Pro-Choice Caucus Co-Chairs Reps. Diana DeGette and Barbara Lee led more than 70 of their House Democratic colleagues in introducing a resolution in support of equitable, science-based policies governing access to medication abortion care.\n\nIn January 2023, Rep. Pressley introduced a resolution to condemn all forms of political violence in the U.S., regardless of its target or intent. That same day, she delivered a powerful speech on the House floor slamming Republicans\u2019 harmful, misleading anti-abortion resolution.\n\nIn September 2022, Rep. Pressley hosted U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Secretary Xavier Becerra at the Codman Square Health Center in Dorchester for a convening on their work to address the Black maternal health crisis and the criminalization of abortion care in states across the nation following the harmful U.S. Supreme Court decision in Dobbs v. Jackson Women\u2019s Health.\n\nIn May 2019, she led more than 100 colleagues in introducing H.Con.Res.40, a resolution reaffirming the House of Representative\u2019s support for Roe v. Wade.\n\nIn June 2019, Rep. Pressley introduced H.R. 3296, the Affordability is Access Act, to make oral contraception available without a prescription.\n\nIn September 2016, as a member of the Boston City Council, Pressley championed a resolution calling on Congress and President Obama to repeal the Hyde Amendment and reinstate insurance coverage for abortion services.\n\n###", 1, "2026-09-30T10:57:52Z", "2026-09-30T10:59:04Z"], ["https://schrier.house.gov/media/press-releases/congresswoman-schrier-joins-wa-delegation-supporting-request-major-disaster", "Congresswoman Schrier Joins WA Delegation in Supporting Request for Major Disaster Declaration for Individual Assistance Following Devastating Wildfires", "2026-09-28", "2026", "2026-09", "Democrat", "House", "WA", "Kim Schrier", "S001216", "schrier.house.gov", "schrier", "https://schrier.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Today, Congresswoman Kim Schrier, M.D. (WA-08) joined Washington state\u2019s entire Congressional delegation in a letter to President Donald Trump urging him to approve Governor Bob Ferguson\u2019s request for a Major Disaster Declaration for Individual Assistance to help families recover and repair damage due to the devastating wildfires that swept through Central and Eastern Washington from July 23 through August 31.\n\n\u201cAs members of the Washington state delegation, we write in support of Washington state\u2019s September 28th request for a Major Disaster Declaration for Individual Assistance due to devastating wildfire damages incurred from July 23 through August 31. We implore you to approve the request for assistance as quickly as possible,\u201d members of the delegation wrote. \u201cA record-setting drought and an unusually small snowpack contributed to numerous large and fast-moving wildfires in Central and Eastern Washington, devastating communities in Benton, Spokane, Stevens, and Okanogan Counties, as well as on the Spokane Indian Reservation. These fires spread rapidly, jumping roads and rivers, forcing thousands of residents to evacuate quickly, with many escaping with little more than they could carry.\u201d\n\nCongresswoman Schrier joined the effort led by Senator Murray (D-WA) alongside Senator Maria Cantwell (D-WA) and Representatives Suzan DelBene (D, WA-01), Rick Larsen (D, WA-02), Marie Gluesenkamp Perez (D, WA-03), Dan Newhouse (R, WA-04), Michael Baumgartner (R, WA-05), Emily Randall (D, WA-06), Pramila Jayapal (D, WA-07), Adam Smith (D, WA-09), and Marilyn Strickland (D, WA-10).\n\n2026 was one of Washington state\u2019s worst wildfire seasons on record, with fires causing severe damage and devastating lives. Weather conditions, exacerbated by extended drought, heat, and wind, caused over 900,000 acres, or 1,400 square miles, to burn across Washington state \u2013 taking homes and lives. Three massive fires broke out and tore through neighborhoods across Spokane, the Old Trails Fire burned in northwest Spokane, the Autumn Lane Fire burned near Nine-Mile Falls, and the Fairview Fire burned in Mead.\n\nIn the Eighth District, the Little Giant, Three Queens, Sisi, King, Goat, and West Fork fires \u2013 among others \u2013 devastated communities, property, livestock, and businesses. The damages from this wildfire season continues to overwhelm state, local, Tribal, nonprofit, and private-sector capabilities.\n\nThe lawmakers continued, \u201cLocal, state, and federal resources responded quickly to the wildfires. Firefighting crews from around the country, as well as international firefighting forces and the National Guard, deployed to Washington state to assist local first responders with evacuations and firefighting. While their heroic efforts helped to contain these devastating fires, federal assistance is required to support communities as they begin to rebuild. The fires destroyed over 2,500 structures, including entire neighborhoods, and forced tens of thousands of residents to evacuate their homes. Ultimately, over 650 primary residences were destroyed by these fast-moving wildfires, leaving hundreds of Washingtonians displaced.\u201d\n\n\u201cThroughout this crisis, state, local, Tribal, and federal first responders have stepped up and worked tirelessly to keep our communities secure. We are incredibly grateful for their diligent work and careful coordination to keep Washingtonians safe and informed throughout this disaster, as well as for your prompt approval of the state\u2019s Emergency Declaration request submitted on August 2nd, which allowed for critical federal assistance that supported fire suppression, emergency shelter operations, and other vital needs. We reiterate our full support for the September 28th request for a Major Disaster Declaration for Individual Assistance,\u201d the delegation concluded.\n\nThe full letter is availableHERE.\n\n###", 1, "2026-09-30T10:57:52Z", "2026-09-30T10:59:04Z"], ["https://subramanyam.house.gov/media/press-releases/reps-subramanyam-rutherford-announce-bipartisan-legislation-support-first", "Reps. Subramanyam, Rutherford Announce Bipartisan Legislation to Support First Responder Behavioral Health", "2026-09-28", "2026", "2026-09", "Democrat", "House", "VA", "Suhas Subramanyam", "S001230", "subramanyam.house.gov", "subramanyam", "https://subramanyam.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, DC \u2013 Representative Suhas Subramanyam (VA-10) and Representative John Rutherford (FL-05) announced the First Responder Behavioral Health Access Act, bipartisan legislation to expand access to behavioral health resources for first responders.\n\nResearch shows that first responders face elevated suicide risks. Across the country, there is a lack of behavioral health care providers and resources available. The First Responder Behavioral Health Access Act takes an innovative approach to address this.\n\n\u201cFirst responders put their lives on the line for our safety. Their quality of life should never be in jeopardy. We should not be losing them to mental health struggles when there are evidence-based solutions like clinicians and peer-to-peer counseling that could improve their well-being. This bipartisan, commonsense legislation delivers for our first responders and provides them with the necessary support they deserve,\u201d said Congressman Suhas Subramanyam (VA-10).\n\n\u201cAs a former sheriff and law enforcement officer, I know how important it is for the men and women who keep our communities safe to have someone they can turn to that understands the unique demands of the job,\u201d said Congressman John H. Rutherford (FL-05). \u201cBy strengthening partnerships between first responder agencies and local public health departments, this legislation will help bring trusted behavioral health professionals directly into the workplace, expand peer-to-peer support programs, and strengthen the workforce serving our first responders.\u201d\n\n\"Counties run 911 centers, emergency medical services and public health departments, and our first responders and 911 telecommunicators answer the call in our residents' worst moments,\" said National Association of Counties Executive Director Matthew Chase. \u201cThis bill would give county health agencies the federal support to place mental health clinicians within emergency agencies and reach under-resourced communities. We thank Representatives Subramanyam and Rutherford for introducing this bipartisan legislation and urge Congress to act swiftly.\"\n\n\u201cBehavioral health is a top priority for our Loudoun County Combined Fire and Rescue System members,\u201d said Systemwide Fire Chief James S. Williams, Loudoun County Combined Fire and Rescue. \u201cWe are committed to strengthening our awareness, resources, and support so that every member of our Fire and Rescue community feels valued, heard, and cared for. I truly value the support of lawmakers, like Congressman Subramanyam, who bring much needed attention to the health and wellness of first responders and the need for expanded behavioral health resources.\u201d\n\nThe legislation:\n\nExpands access to grants to support the recruitment and field placement of behavioral health care providers to serve in first responder agencies, helping build a pipeline into the profession.\n\nCreates a pilot grant program to partner local, county, regional, and state governments with first responder agencies to embed clinicians with first responder agencies, establish peer-to-peer programs, and assist in training peer-to-peer behavioral health care providers.\n\nRep. Subramanyam, along with Reps. Rutherford and Alford, previously introduced the Peer Support for Our First Responders Act to establish an interagency working group to review ways to improve behavioral and mental health outcomes for first responders.\n\nThe First Responder Behavioral Health Access Act is also supported by The Major County Sheriffs of America and the National Narcotic Officers\u2019 Associations\u2019 Coalition.\n\n###", 1, "2026-09-30T10:57:52Z", "2026-09-30T10:59:04Z"], ["https://sarajacobs.house.gov/news/press-releases/rep-sara-jacobs-conducts-in-person-oversight-of-uss-abraham-lincoln", "Rep. Sara Jacobs Conducts In-Person Oversight of USS Abraham Lincoln", "2026-09-27", "2026", "2026-09", "Democrat", "House", "CA", "Sara Jacobs", "J000305", "sarajacobs.house.gov", "sarajacobs", "https://sarajacobs.house.gov/news/press-releases", "scraper", "Today, Rep. Sara Jacobs (CA-51) joined a bipartisan delegation to conduct in-person oversight of the USS Abraham Lincoln, which is currently en route to its home port of San Diego. The lawmakers spoke with sailors, Marines, and leadership aboard the ship, conducting oversight of the extended deployment and its reported issues.\n\nRep. Sara Jacobs said: \u201cFor months, I\u2019ve taken the concerns shared with me about mail delays, food and supply shortages, low morale, and mental health crises aboard the USS Abraham Lincoln straight to CENTCOM and the Navy. Unfortunately, their answers have been wholly insufficient.\n\n\u201cOversight can\u2019t wait until the USS Abraham Lincoln comes home to San Diego. We deserve answers and accountability now. That\u2019s why I traveled aboard the ship today to conduct oversight in-person. I raised my concerns directly with the ship\u2019s command and received a briefing on logistics, supply issues, and lessons learned for future deployments. I also met with sailors and Marines on board who painted a very different picture of this war; they shared stories of the deployment and their struggles to wash clothes, get medicine and health care, and eat enough food. I don\u2019t blame the ship\u2019s leadership for the past conditions; they did the best they could under difficult circumstances. The blame lies squarely with President Trump who knowingly launched a war without the required planning and strategy needed. He put these service members in the position where the conditions were so horrific that some attempted suicide.\n\n\u201cI\u2019m relieved that the USS Abraham Lincoln will soon be back in San Diego, and I\u2019m looking forward to welcoming them home. But our demand for accountability won\u2019t end when they make port. I will continue pushing for an OIG investigation into these conditions and a House Armed Services Committee field hearing in San Diego to hear directly from these service members. We need to prevent this crisis from happening ever again, and ultimately end the Iran war and bring all our service members home.\u201d\n\n###", 1, "2026-09-28T11:29:07Z", "2026-09-28T11:30:58Z"], ["https://subramanyam.house.gov/media/press-releases/subramanyam-and-kaine-applaud-bill-designating-george-c-marshall-house", "Subramanyam and Kaine Applaud Bill Designating George C. Marshall House As National Park Service Affiliated Area Becoming Law", "2026-09-27", "2026", "2026-09", "Democrat", "House", "VA", "Suhas Subramanyam", "S001230", "subramanyam.house.gov", "subramanyam", "https://subramanyam.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 U.S. Representative Suhas Subramanyam (D-VA-10) and U.S. Senator Tim Kaine's (D-VA) bill designating the General George C. Marshall House in Leesburg, known as Dodona Manor, as a National Park Service (NPS) affiliated area was signed into law.\n\n\u201cDodona Manor has been a pillar of the Northern Virginia community for hundreds of years. I am proud to honor George C. Marshall\u2019s legacy by ensuring the property is preserved for many years to come. The International Center right here in Leesburg has so much to offer visitors from around the world, including educational programming for people of all ages. I am proud that Senator Kaine and I delivered for Virginians and made this bill law,\u201d said Subramanyam.\n\n\u201cGeorge C. Marshall was educated at Virginia Military Institute, served as the US Army\u2019s Chief of Staff during World War II and then earned the Nobel Peace Prize for his work as Secretary of State,\u201d said Kaine. \u201cThis NPS designation of Dodona Manor will help preserve his home, honor General Marshall\u2019s legacy, and ensure future generations understand the critical role he played in our history. I\u2019m grateful to the many advocates and partners who have worked with us to get this done.\u201d\n\n\u201cWe are deeply grateful to Representative Subramanyam and Senators Kaineand Warner for their leadership in advancing this legislation to preserve and elevate General Marshall\u2019s legacy,\u201d said Paul Michaels, chairman of the George C. Marshall International Center Board of Directors. \u201cThis measure marks a historic milestone for Dodona Manor and is wonderful news for the Leesburg and Loudoun County community. The increased visibility and expertise that come with National Park Service affiliation will help preserve this nationally significant landmark and help ensure future generations can learn from General Marshall\u2019s extraordinary character and example.\u201d\n\nThe official designation is the final step in many years of advocacy for recognition of Dodona Manor as a unit of the National Park System. Designation as an NPS affiliated area provides new resources to preserve and celebrate General Marshall\u2019s legacy at the site, including technical assistance to support restoration efforts, accessibility improvements, and new programming.\n\nGeneral Marshall dedicated his life to public service, holding pivotal roles such as Chief of Staff of the Army during America's entry into World War II, Secretary of State where he designed the transformative Marshall Plan to rebuild post-war Europe, and Secretary of Defense during the early stages of the Korean War. In 1941, while serving as Army Chief of Staff, he purchased Dodona Manor, where he lived until his passing in 1959.\n\n###", 1, "2026-09-29T11:07:12Z", "2026-09-29T11:08:49Z"], ["https://dondavis.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-davis-urges-caution-nc-12-floods-closures-continue", "Congressman Davis Urges Caution as NC 12 Floods, Closures Continue", "2026-09-26", "2026", "2026-09", "Democrat", "House", "NC", "Donald G. Davis", "D000230", "dondavis.house.gov", "dondavis", "https://dondavis.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "North Carolina - Congressman Don Davis (NC-01) issued the following statement regarding the severe impacts of the Nor\u2019easter on North Carolina\u2019s Outer Banks:\n\n\u201cThe Nor\u2019easter has resulted in severe flooding, dangerous ocean overwash, and has shown once again the challenges facing NC 12. I have been in direct communication with Congressman Greg Murphy\u2019s office, Governor Josh Stein\u2019s office, and county officials. Given the current road closures, I encourage everyone to follow the guidance of state and local emergency officials, avoid closed roads, and monitor road conditions.\n\n\u201cNC 12 is the lifeline connecting our Outer Banks communities. Families depend on it to get to work, take their children to school, and reach the people they love. When the road closes, the impact is felt in homes and businesses up and down the coast. As NCDOT and local officials work to assess the situation, I extend my deep gratitude to all emergency management personnel and our first responders who are working tirelessly to keep everyone safe.\u201d", 1, "2026-09-27T10:23:37Z", "2026-09-27T10:25:08Z"], ["https://jayapal.house.gov/2026/09/26/ranking-member-jayapal-statement-on-trumps-pocket-rescissions/", "Ranking Member Jayapal Statement on Trump\u2019s Pocket Rescissions", "2026-09-26", "2026", "2026-09", "Democrat", "House", "WA", "Pramila Jayapal", "J000298", "jayapal.house.gov", "jayapal", "https://jayapal.house.gov/category/press-releases/", "scraper", "SEATTLE, W.A. \u2014 U.S. Representative Pramila Jayapal (WA-07), Ranking Member of the Subcommittee on Immigration, Integrity, Security, and Enforcement, released the following statement regarding Trump\u2019s pocket rescissions, targeted primarily at immigration services.\n\n\u201cCongress has the power of the purse, the constitutional authority to appropriate funding. Trump\u2019s pocket rescissions are illegal and further proof that he has no regard for the Constitution of the United States.\n\n\u201cThis illegal rescission is a continuation of Trump\u2019s cruel mass deportation and anti-DEI efforts that whitewash American history and make certain communities targets of hate. He has illegally refused to carry out Congress\u2019s authorizations for critical essential services for immigrants, including assistance for unaccompanied children, legal services for people working to obtain citizenship, and assistance in integration efforts, as well as essential education programs that help us ensure equity and inclusion of all our communities. Meanwhile, even as he cuts these essential programs for working people across our country, he has continued to enrich himself and his family to the tune of billions of dollars \u2014 all while driving up gas prices and grocery prices, slashing healthcare and mocking the idea that life under Trump is completely unaffordable.\n\n\u201cCongress must reclaim our constitutional authorities from this out-of-control administration. I will do everything in my power to prevent these illegal recissions and stand up for Congress\u2019s sole Article 1 powers to appropriate funds.\u201d\n\n###", 1, "2026-09-27T10:23:37Z", "2026-09-27T10:25:08Z"], ["https://jeffries.house.gov/2026/09/26/leader-jeffries-on-cnn-the-american-people-are-disgusted-with-the-performance-of-donald-trump-and-republicans/", "LEADER JEFFRIES ON CNN: \u201cTHE AMERICAN PEOPLE ARE DISGUSTED WITH THE PERFORMANCE OF DONALD TRUMP AND REPUBLICANS\u201d", "2026-09-26", "2026", "2026-09", "Democrat", "House", "NY", "Hakeem S. Jeffries", "J000294", "jeffries.house.gov", "jeffries", "https://jeffries.house.gov/category/press-release/page/", "scraper", "Today, House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries appeared on CNN This Morning Weekend, where he made clear that House Democrats are relentlessly focused on fighting for an affordable America.\n\nMANU RAJU: House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries, who wants to be the next Speaker of the House, he is joining me live now to talk about the midterm elections 38 days away. Mr. Jeffries, good morning to you and thanks for being here. As you know, Cook Political Report is now predicting that Democrats will take the House in November. You\u2019ve actually been saying that for months, making that prediction. So right now, what are you exactly predicting? Are you\u2014do you anticipate a Democratic wave or a narrow victory?\n\nLEADER JEFFRIES: We\u2019re going to work as hard as we can to get to 218, and then win as many seats on top of that as possible because we\u2019re focused on fighting for an affordable America. Life is way too expensive, Manu, here in the United States of America. There are too many people, millions of folks, working hard, playing by the rules, can\u2019t thrive and can barely survive. The Republican economic policies have been a disaster. They promised to lower costs on day one, costs haven\u2019t gone down, they\u2019ve gone up. Democrats are determined to do something about that.\n\nMANU RAJU: Mr. Leader, are you worried about the amount of GOP spending that is coming in late from Trump\u2019s outside organization and GOP outside groups? They\u2019re really bombarding the airwaves and they\u2019re dwarfing Democrats by nearly $200 million in House and Senate races. How concerned are you about that?\n\nLEADER JEFFRIES: We always understood that MAGA Republicans were going to try to unload as much of their special interest money as possible. This is part of the problem with why Republicans have failed. They\u2019re not interested in promoting the public interest. They haven\u2019t done a damn thing to make life more affordable for the American people. Instead, they spend all their time raising money from their MAGA big donors, who they rewarded with a massive tax break in the One Big Ugly Bill, while at the same time ripping Medicaid, healthcare and nutritional assistance away from the American people. We\u2019re going to stay focused, continue to communicate our message. We know the most important issues in this election are not going to be about MAGA money. It\u2019s going to be about the economy, the high cost of living and combating inflation, which Donald Trump and Republican economic policies have dramatically worsened in this country.\n\nMANU RAJU: Mr. Leader, let\u2019s talk about the generic ballot. The CNN poll from this week has Democrats with an eight-point advantage when voters are asked which party should control Congress. But in 2018, that\u2019s when Democrats had picked up 41 seats, at this time, Democrats had a 12-point advantage in the generic ballot. Now, given how bad the environment is for Republicans, why aren\u2019t Democrats holding an even bigger advantage now?\n\nLEADER JEFFRIES: The plus-eight advantage is incredibly strong, and we\u2019re going to continue to run through the finish line. And remember, Manu, in 2018 we needed to flip 24 seats. We were at 194, we needed to get to 218. Right now we\u2019re at 215. It\u2019s one of the reasons why Republicans are running scared all across the country because we only need to flip a handful of seats to take back control of the majority, and that\u2019s exactly what we\u2019re going to do at minimum.\n\nMANU RAJU: But does the fact that your advantage isn\u2019t even higher have anything to do with your own approval ratings, Mr. Leader? In that same poll, the approval of Democratic leaders is abysmal. It stands at 26%. And that is just two points better than GOP leaders. So why are the approval ratings of Democratic leaders still so low?\n\nLEADER JEFFRIES: We\u2019re not running a popularity contest. We\u2019re working hard to run Republicans out of power because they\u2019ve done so much damage to the American people. And the American people clearly deserve better. They clearly deserve a party\u2014House and Senate Democrats\u2014which are going to focus on making life better for the American people, Manu. Those are the stakes at this moment.\n\nMANU RAJU: But do you think the public is not sold yet on Democrats leading Congress?\n\nLEADER JEFFRIES: I think that we\u2019ll cross that bridge when we get to it. Right now, we have to accomplish the mission. And the mission is to make sure that we take back control of the House, which we\u2019ve maintained we were on track to do now for months. In fact, we were very confident about our ability to change direction in January 2025 and began to say so publicly. And we\u2019ve had two goals: push back against the Republican extremism that has been unleashed on the American people and chart a better course forward, so that the American people actually can live a comfortable life, an affordable life and a good life.\n\nMANU RAJU: I want to drill down to one critical district that you know very well: New York\u2019s 17th congressional district. That\u2019s where the incumbent Republican Mike Lawler\u2014one of the top Democratic targets in the country\u2014he\u2019s one of three Republicans who sit in districts that Kamala Harris won last cycle. You need to flip that seat. And just last week, a member of your Caucus, Jared Golden, Democrat of Maine, issued an endorsement of Lawler. Are you okay with that?\n\nLEADER JEFFRIES: I issued a statement making clear that I thought the endorsement effort by Mike Lawler was a desperate attempt to head off what\u2019s coming on November 3, which is that Cait Conley, a decorated combat veteran, a patriotic hero, is about to flip that seat. In fact, I was with Cait last evening. I\u2019ll be spending some time with her in the district at some point soon. We\u2019re all in to make sure that she wins. Mike Lawler is an unmitigated fraud. He voted to cut Medicaid of his own constituents. He\u2019s consistently voted to rubber-stamp Donald Trump\u2019s reckless and costly war of choice in Iran, which has skyrocketed gas prices\u2014\n\nMANU RAJU: What about the fact that you have a member of your Caucus endorsing him?\n\nLEADER JEFFRIES: You have to talk to Jared Golden about that. The Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee, House Democrats, leadership, the members of the New York congressional delegation across the ideological spectrum\u2014we all stand behind Cait Conley. And mark my words, she\u2019s going to win.\n\nMANU RAJU: Okay, I want to ask you about something many people saw last night when watching the Northwestern-Indiana college football game. There\u2019s a taxpayer-funded ad from the White House. Watch this.\n\nRECORDING OF AD: And nothing was going to stop him from fighting so hard for the country he loves.\n\nMANU RAJU: Mr. Leader, the administration says that these are public service announcements with the goal of educating Americans and to ensure they are unapologetically patriotic. Any issue with that?\n\nLEADER JEFFRIES: These aren\u2019t public service announcements. These are ads designed to elevate Donald Trump because he has record-low approval ratings across the board. Certainly, the American people are disgusted with the performance of Donald Trump and Republicans in the House, who are nothing more than reckless rubber stamps for his extreme agenda. And this is another example of how taxpayer dollars are being misused by the Trump cartel to try to elevate themselves or enrich themselves, their family members, their friends and their donors, as opposed to actually doing what Democrats will be focused on, which is spending taxpayer dollars to make life more affordable for hardworking American taxpayers.\n\nMANU RAJU: Trump is also saying that he wants this election to be about him. He said, \u2018Vote like I\u2019m on the ballot.\u2019 He is suggesting he could be in a few dozen battleground districts as well. Do you want Trump on the campaign trail?\n\nLEADER JEFFRIES: Yes. And the reality is, Donald Trump is effectively on the ballot. His failed economic policies are on the ballot. The Trump Tariffs, which have increased costs on everyday Americans by thousands of dollars per year, on the ballot. His One Big Ugly Bill that ripped Medicaid away from about 14 million Americans\u2014that\u2019s on the ballot. The Epstein cover-up is on the ballot. The failure of this administration to actually keep its promise not to start wars in the Middle East, but to stop them, is on the ballot because they turned around and did the exact opposite with the reckless war of choice in Iran. So certainly, Republican policies are on the ballot. The Democratic vision to make life more affordable for the American people, that\u2019s on the ballot as well.\n\nMANU RAJU: I do want to ask you about the Wall Street Journal. It\u2019s reporting that President Trump has told aides he expects to resume bombing Iran after the midterm election. So if you become Speaker, will you vow to end the Iran war?\n\nLEADER JEFFRIES: Absolutely. In fact, we\u2019ve made that clear. We\u2019ve now successfully on the House Floor passed three different War Powers Resolutions to end this reckless and costly war of choice in Iran. That\u2019s in the best interest of the American people\u2014\n\nMANU RAJU: You would cut off all funding?\n\nLEADER JEFFRIES: Listen, we\u2019ll deal with the appropriations process when we deal with the appropriations process. Right now, the mechanism that is in front of us will be to aggressively move War Powers Resolutions until we end this war in the best interest of the American people.\n\nMANU RAJU: Alright, we\u2019re going to have to leave it there. Leader Hakeem Jeffries, thank you so much for joining me this morning. Really appreciate it.\n\nLEADER JEFFRIES: Thank you, Manu.\n\nFull interview can be watched here.\n\n###", 1, "2026-09-27T10:23:37Z", "2026-09-27T10:25:08Z"], ["https://hernandez.house.gov/media/press-releases/comisionado-residente-lleva-cabo-el-service-academy-day-2026", "Comisionado Residente lleva a cabo el Service Academy Day 2026", "2026-09-26", "2026", "2026-09", "Democrat", "House", "PR", "Pablo Jos\u00e9 Hern\u00e1ndez", "H001103", "hernandez.house.gov", "hernandez", "https://hernandez.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "SAN JUAN, Puerto Rico \u2014 La oficina del Comisionado Residente de Puerto Rico Pablo Jos\u00e9 Hern\u00e1ndez, realiz\u00f3 hoy el Service Academy Day 2026, una actividad dirigida a estudiantes puertorrique\u00f1os interesados en conocer las oportunidades de educaci\u00f3n y servicio que ofrecen las academias militares de Estados Unidos.\n\nLa actividad, celebrada en la Fundaci\u00f3n Luis Mu\u00f1oz Mar\u00edn, cont\u00f3 con la participaci\u00f3n de m\u00e1s de 100 personas, entre ellas estudiantes y sus familiares, as\u00ed como representantes de la U.S. Air Force Academy, U.S. Coast Guard Academy, U.S. Merchant Marine Academy, U.S. Naval Academy y la U.S. Military Academy at West Point.\n\nDurante la actividad, los estudiantes y sus familias recibieron informaci\u00f3n sobre las academias, el proceso de admisi\u00f3n y los requisitos para solicitar una nominaci\u00f3n congresional. Tambi\u00e9n tuvieron la oportunidad de conversar directamente con representantes de las instituciones y hacer preguntas sobre la experiencia acad\u00e9mica y militar.\n\n\u201cMuchos j\u00f3venes tienen el talento y la disciplina para estudiar en una de estas academias, pero si no conocen el proceso, la oportunidad se pierde. Por eso nuestra oficina de Distrito en Caguas tiene la responsabilidad de proveer las herramientas a estos j\u00f3venes y que sepan que desde Puerto Rico tambi\u00e9n se puede llegar lejos\u201d, expres\u00f3 el Comisionado Residente.\n\nLa jornada comenz\u00f3 con una orientaci\u00f3n sobre el proceso de nominaci\u00f3n congresional. La oficina del Comisionado Residente tambi\u00e9n puso a disposici\u00f3n de los estudiantes el paquete de solicitud para las nominaciones correspondientes al a\u00f1o acad\u00e9mico 2027. La fecha l\u00edmite para presentar la solicitud de nominaci\u00f3n congresional es el 30 de octubre de 2026.\n\nLa Oficina del Comisionado Residente continuar\u00e1 ofreciendo orientaci\u00f3n a los estudiantes interesados en el proceso de nominaci\u00f3n a las academias militares.\n\n###", 1, "2026-09-30T10:57:52Z", "2026-09-30T10:59:04Z"], ["https://ansari.house.gov/media/press-releases/ansari-stanton-grijalva-kelly-gallego-push-for-federal-funding-to-restore-grand-canyon-after-floods-wildfires", "Ansari, Stanton, Grijalva, Kelly, Gallego Push for Federal Funding to Restore Grand Canyon After Floods, Wildfires", "2026-09-25", "2026", "2026-09", "Democrat", "House", "AZ", "Yassamin Ansari", "A000381", "ansari.house.gov", "ansari", "https://ansari.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Lawmakers call for resources to repair damaged infrastructure, restore visitor access, and support long-term recovery after successive disasters\n\nWASHINGTON \u2013 Today, Representatives Yassamin Ansari (AZ-03), Greg Stanton (AZ-04), Adelita Grijalva (AZ-07), alongside Senators Mark Kelly (D-AZ) and Ruben Gallego (D-AZ), urged House and Senate appropriators to provide additional federal resources to restore the Grand Canyon National Park following the catastrophic August flooding and last summer\u2019s Dragon Bravo and White Sage Fires.\n\nIn a letter to the leaders of the House and Senate Appropriations Committees, the lawmakers called for sufficient funding to repair and rebuild damaged infrastructure, address ongoing hazards, safely restore visitor access and services, and support the park\u2019s long-term recovery.\n\n\u201cOver the past year, Grand Canyon National Park and the surrounding landscapes have suffered a devastating series of disasters that have damaged critical infrastructure and disrupted communities across the region,\u201d the lawmakers wrote. \u201cThese successive disasters have created recovery needs that cannot be adequately addressed through existing National Park Service resources.\u201d\n\nOn August 29, 2026, severe flash flooding tore through Bright Angel Canyon and the Phantom Ranch area, causing extensive damage to trails, bridges, and critical water infrastructure. The flooding damaged the water intake and pipeline that supply the South Rim and forced closures and restrictions across the park. The National Park Service continues recovery and repair work, including efforts to restore a reliable water supply and repair damaged infrastructure.\n\nThe flooding comes as the Grand Canyon and surrounding communities continue recovering from last summer\u2019s Dragon Bravo and White Sage Fires. The Dragon Bravo Fire burned nearly 150,000 acres and destroyed more than 100 buildings and structures, including the historic Grand Canyon Lodge, while the White Sage Fire forced evacuations around Jacob Lake and temporarily cut off access to the North Rim.\n\nThe lawmakers warned that the effects of these disasters are compounding. Damage from the Dragon Bravo Fire increased the risk of flash flooding and debris flows in North Rim watersheds, creating new threats to infrastructure and visitor safety even as recovery from the fires continues.\n\n\u201cA year after the fires, these same communities are being asked to recover from another major disaster before the last recovery is complete,\u201d the lawmakers wrote. \u201cWe strongly urge the Committee to ensure sufficient funding is available to address the emergency response, repair, reconstruction, and long-term recovery needs resulting from the August 29 flooding and the Dragon Bravo and White Sage Fires.\u201d\n\nThe Grand Canyon supports nearly 10,000 local jobs and generates approximately $1 billion in economic output. The lawmakers emphasized that closures of trails, lodging, and other portions of the park have consequences for workers, families, and businesses across northern Arizona and southern Utah.\n\nRead the full letter HERE.\n\n###", 1, "2026-09-26T09:43:57Z", "2026-09-26T09:44:55Z"], ["https://correa.house.gov/news/press-releases/correa-urges-california-to-accept-10-million-in-federal-funding-for-orange-county-veterans-cemetery", "CORREA URGES CALIFORNIA TO ACCEPT $10 MILLION IN FEDERAL FUNDING FOR ORANGE COUNTY VETERANS CEMETERY", "2026-09-25", "2026", "2026-09", "Democrat", "House", "CA", "J. Luis Correa", "C001110", "correa.house.gov", "correa", "https://correa.house.gov/news/press-releases", "scraper", "SANTA ANA, Calif. \u2014 U.S. Representative Lou Correa (CA-46), who has long advocated for bringing a veterans cemetery to Orange County, sent a letter today urging Governor Gavin Newsom to ensure the California Department of Veterans Affairs (CalVet) accepts $10 million in federal funding offered by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) for the Southern California Veterans Cemetery at Gypsum Canyon. Representatives Ken Calvert, Young Kim, Mike Levin, Dave Min, Derek Tran, and State Senator Thomas J. Umberg and Assemblymembers Sharon Quirk-Silva and Avelino Valencia joined Correa in signing the letter.\n\n\u201cAfter more than a decade of work, we are closer than ever to fulfilling our promise to Orange County\u2019s veterans and their families,\u201d said the lawmakers. \u201cWe should not allow $10 million in federal funding secured for this purpose to be left on the table.\u201d\n\nIn July 2025, Rep. Correa led a letter to the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs urging federal support for construction of the Southern California Veterans Cemetery at Gypsum Canyon in Anaheim Hills.\n\nA copy of the letter can be found HERE and below\n\nDear Governor Newsom:\n\nWe write to respectfully urge your administration to take all necessary steps to preserve the $10 million in federal funding offered by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) for the Southern California Veterans Cemetery at Gypsum Canyon in Orange County.\n\nAfter more than a decade of work by veterans, local communities, and elected officials at every level of government, we have made extraordinary progress toward finally delivering a veterans cemetery for Orange County. The project enjoys broad and bipartisan support, including the County of Orange, all 34 cities in Orange County, our state and federal legislative delegations, and veterans organizations throughout the region. The County has also dedicated 200 acres of public land to the cemetery project.\n\nAt the federal level, the Orange County congressional delegation has worked diligently and on a bipartisan basis to secure federal funding for this project. Importantly, our efforts to secure this funding were undertaken at the express recommendation of the California Department of Veterans Affairs (CalVet). In October 2025, the VA moved the Gypsum Canyon project to its conforming list, confirming that CalVet\u2019s revised pre-application satisfied federal eligibility requirements. In February 2026, the VA accepted CalVet\u2019s pre-application and offered $10 million in federal funding for the project. The VA further indicated that the funds could be provided by the end of the federal fiscal year upon receipt of CalVet\u2019s completed grant application.\n\nBased on that history, we are deeply concerned that CalVet is now indicating that acceptance of the federal funding is premature. The congressional delegation pursued this funding at CalVet\u2019s request and successfully secured a $10 million federal commitment for the project. We should not place those funds at risk because CalVet has determined that the project does not align with its preferred development timeline.\n\nWe cannot allow this opportunity to be lost.\n\nFederal funding through the Veterans Cemetery Grants Program is limited and appropriated annually, with projects across the country competing for available resources according to federal priorities. There is no assurance that $10 million will remain available for Gypsum Canyon in a future federal fiscal year. Declining or failing to act upon the current federal commitment therefore risks forfeiting these funds altogether, not simply postponing their receipt.\n\nCalifornia has already made a substantial investment in this project. Your administration recently dedicated $19 million in the 2026\u201327 State Budget to advance the cemetery, including $9 million for an access road and $10 million in expenditure authority for preliminary plans, working drawings, and Phase I construction. Your administration appropriately described these investments as another major milestone toward delivering the cemetery.\n\nThe federal government\u2019s $10 million commitment should build upon that investment, not be forfeited because the State is unwilling to complete the steps necessary to receive it within the federal funding window.\n\nThe Veterans Cemetery Grants Program exists specifically to assist states in establishing and improving veterans cemeteries. Federal funding offsets eligible costs associated with establishing a state veterans cemetery, while the State assumes responsibility for its continued operation. California and Orange County have spent years positioning Gypsum Canyon to take advantage of precisely this federal partnership.\n\nGovernor, we appreciate your administration\u2019s continued commitment to the Southern California Veterans Cemetery and the significant resources the State has dedicated to bringing it to fruition.\n\nWe respectfully ask that you direct CalVet and the appropriate agencies within your administration to take the steps necessary to preserve the $10 million federal commitment and ensure that these funds are not forfeited.\n\nAfter more than a decade of work, we are closer than ever to fulfilling our promise to Orange County\u2019s veterans and their families. We should not allow $10 million in federal funding secured for this purpose to be left on the table.\n\nWe stand ready to work with you, CalVet, the VA, and our state and local partners to resolve any remaining issues necessary to protect this funding and keep the project moving forward.", 1, "2026-09-26T09:43:57Z", "2026-09-26T09:44:55Z"], ["https://crow.house.gov/media/press-releases/crow-introduces-legislation-to-innovate-care-for-military-trauma", "Crow Introduces Legislation to Innovate Care for Military Trauma", "2026-09-25", "2026", "2026-09", "Democrat", "House", "CO", "Jason Crow", "C001121", "crow.house.gov", "crow", "https://crow.house.gov/news", "scraper", "AURORA \u2014 Congressman Jason Crow (D-CO), a former paratrooper and Army Ranger who serves on the House Armed Services Committee and House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence, introduced the Cooperative Overseas Military Battlefield Advancement in Trauma (COMBAT) Care Act to ensure our military is innovating and developing new approaches to trauma care on the battlefield.\n\nHis bipartisan bill authorizes the establishment of joint education and training programs with foreign countries to develop new techniques that can save lives on the battlefield. It will allow for groundbreaking research to be conducted alongside partners around the world who have made advancements in the space. As warfare evolves, so must the care American servicemembers receive.\n\nCrow introduced his bipartisan bill alongside Congressman Jeff Crank (R-CO). It was endorsed by the University of Colorado Anschutz.\n\n\u201cThe future of warfare is changing, as we are seeing in Ukraine right now. The United States must be ready for the new challenges we face, and ensure that our servicemembers receive world-class care when they need it most,\u201d said Congressman Crow. \u201cI\u2019m proud to work with the University of Colorado Anschutz to introduce legislation that will help take care of the men and women who keep our country safe.\u201d\n\n\"It is important that the advancement in education and research partnerships regarding military trauma continues to grow, so that we can take care of the men and women who serve our country. The COMBAT Care Act works to grant the Department of War and the State Department the authority to work together to study military trauma and look towards better treatment options for our service members and veterans. Pleased to work with my Colorado colleague Congressman Jason Crow to get this bill introduced,\u201d said Congressman Crank.\n\n\u201cEstablishing joint education and training programs with foreign allies is crucial to ensure our military trauma teams are best equipped to care for our warfighters,\u201d said Vik Bebarta, MD, founding director of the CU Anschutz Combat Medicine Research Center (COMBAT) and chair of emergency medicine at the University of Colorado Anschutz. \u201cWe are grateful to Representatives Crow and Crank for introducing the COMBAT Care Act and their leadership in investing in our nation\u2019s military trauma care capabilities.\u201d\n\nAs a combat veteran and member of the Armed Services Committee, he has voted for pay raises for servicemembers and fought to get them other benefits that improve their quality of life, including expanding dental care to reservists and access to quality healthcare for servicemembers and their families. He\u2019s also worked to improve care for active-duty servicemembers suffering from traumatic brain injuries. Crow led the charge demanding that the Administration answer for horrible conditions reported aboard the USS Abraham Lincoln. Crow has also introduced legislation to prevent the Secretary of Defense from manipulating government data on troop casualties, which could impact the benefits troops and their families may receive.", 1, "2026-09-26T09:43:57Z", "2026-09-26T09:44:55Z"], ["https://gottheimer.house.gov/posts/photo-release-gottheimer-celebrates-bergen-county-seniors-at-annual-senior-citizens-festival", "PHOTO RELEASE: Gottheimer Celebrates Bergen County Seniors at Annual Senior Citizens Festival", "2026-09-25", "2026", "2026-09", "Democrat", "House", "NJ", "Josh Gottheimer", "G000583", "gottheimer.house.gov", "gottheimer", "https://gottheimer.house.gov/press", "scraper", "Above: Gottheimer with Bergen County seniors.\n\nPARAMUS, NJ \u2014 Congressman Josh Gottheimer (NJ-5) attended Bergen County\u2019s Annual Senior Citizens Festival. Gottheimer helped serve lunch, greeted and thanked local seniors and veterans for their contributions to the community, and enjoyed the festival\u2019s games, music, and food at Van Saun County Park. He also spoke to seniors about his focus on helping them battle back senior scams and ensure their veterans benefits, Social Security, Medicare, and Medicaid are protected.\n\n\u201cBergen County\u2019s Annual Senior Citizens Festival is one of the great North Jersey traditions, and there\u2019s nothing I enjoy more than spending the day with our Fifth District seniors,\u201d said Congressman Josh Gottheimer (NJ-5). \u201cBergen County seniors make invaluable contributions to our North Jersey community, and I\u2019ll always work to make their lives more affordable by cutting taxes, lowering the cost of prescription drugs and healthcare, and helping them access the Social Security they\u2019ve earned.\u201d\n\nGottheimer is fighting to support Jersey\u2019s seniors by:\n\nLowering the cost for prescription drugs and health care: Gottheimer helped pass legislation to lower prescription drug costs by capping the cost of insulin under Medicare at $35 per month for thousands of residents from the Fifth District and for more than 77,000 residents across New Jersey. The legislation also caps annual out-of-pocket prescription costs at $2,000 under Medicare. Gottheimer is also working to expand Medicare coverage for lung cancer and expand Alzheimer\u2019s testing, helping seniors get timely answers about their health and the care they need.\n\nMaking life more affordable for Jersey seniors by helping lower property taxes: Gottheimer announced that New Jersey\u2019s Fifth District has now clawed 357% more federal tax dollars back from Washington and the Moocher States since he took office, helping to lower property taxes, make life more affordable and safer, and improve North Jersey communities amount to an average of more than $750 clawed back for each household in the Fifth District.\n\nProtecting Social Security and helping North Jersey seniors access their benefits: Gottheimer has helped more than 6,100 seniors access their earned Social Security checks since taking office and is continuing to fight to protect the vital Social Security program that North Jersey seniors paid into for their entire lives.\n\nStopping financial scams targeting our seniors: Building on his past record of protecting seniors, Gottheimer introduced the GUARD Act, which passed the House by a vote of 414-7 on September 15, 2026. The GUARD Act empowers state, local, and Tribal law enforcement to fight back against the fraud epidemic targeting older Americans.\n\nAs an active member of the Expand Social Security Caucus, Gottheimer is also working to pass bipartisan legislation to support organizations that operate senior legal hotlines. This will help seniors access free legal information, advice, and referrals on topics related to health, long-term care, finances, housing, and disability.\n\nBelow: Gottheimer with Bergen County seniors.\n\n###", 1, "2026-09-26T09:43:57Z", "2026-09-26T09:44:55Z"], ["https://gottheimer.house.gov/posts/photo-release-gottheimer-hosts-local-veterans-100th-birthday-celebrates-american-heros-achievements", "PHOTO RELEASE: Gottheimer Hosts Local Veteran\u2019s 100th Birthday, Celebrates American Hero\u2019s Achievements", "2026-09-25", "2026", "2026-09", "Democrat", "House", "NJ", "Josh Gottheimer", "G000583", "gottheimer.house.gov", "gottheimer", "https://gottheimer.house.gov/press", "scraper", "Above: Gottheimer celebrates August \u201cAugie\u201d Caccavone\u2019s 100th Birthday.\n\nFORT LEE, NJ \u2014 Today, Friday, September 25, 2026, Congressman Josh Gottheimer (NJ-5) hosted a 100th birthday celebration for local WWII veteran August \u201cAugie\u201d Caccavone, honoring his life and his service to his country.\n\nWatch Gottheimer\u2019s remarks here.\n\n\u201cAugie is a living symbol of perseverance, strength, and service. From fighting in the Battle of the Bulge to earning the Bronze Star for his heroism, he represents the very best of the Greatest Generation,\u201d said Congressman Josh Gottheimer (NJ-5). \u201cIt\u2019s an honor to celebrate this incredible milestone with him. Augie and every veteran who wore the uniform had our backs when our country needed them most, and we will always have theirs \u2014 that\u2019s a promise I\u2019ll never stop working to keep.\u201d\n\nRetired U.S. Army Sergeant August \u201cAugie\u201d Caccavone is a lifelong Bergen County resident and a proud World War II veteran. A veteran of the Battle of the Bulge, Augie served as a Sergeant in the 7th Army and was awarded the Bronze Star for destroying two German machine guns. He also served in the Philippines and with the 8th Army in Japan, exemplifying courage in defense of our nation. At 100 years old, Augie remains an active member of VFW Post 2342, where he continues to support fellow veterans with kindness and good humor.\n\nGottheimer was joined by; Bergen County Clerk John Hogan; Deputy Commissioner of the NJ Dep. of Veterans Affairs Esther Chucaralao; 108th Mission Support Group Commander, Colonel Eric Balint; Bergen County Commissioner Dr. Joan Voss; Senator Gordon Johnson; Fort Lee Mayor Mark J. Sokolich; Fort Lee Councilman Harvey Sohmer; Fort Lee Council President Bryan Drumgoole; Fort Lee Councilman Paul Yoon; Upper Saddle River Mayor Arman Fardanesh; Vernon Township Mayor Anthony Rossi; Alpine Mayor Paul Tomasko; Leonia Mayor Bill Ziegler; Tenafly Mayor Mark Zinna; Palisades Park Mayor Paul Kim; Palisades Park Councilman Charlie Shin; Palisades Park Councilman Christopher Kwak; Tenafly Councilwoman Jenny Jackson; Harrington Park Mayor Joon Chung; Allendale Mayor Amy Wilczynski; Allendale Council President Susanne Lovisolo; Waldwick Councilwoman Alyson Wingate; Waldwick Councilwoman Angela Smith; Glen Rock Councilman Jon Hendl; Paramus Councilman Alfredo Nadera; New Milford Councilman Matt Seymour; Fort Lee Police Chief Matthew Hintze.\n\nBelow: Gottheimer celebrates August \u201cAugie\u201d Caccavone\u2019s 100th Birthday.", 1, "2026-09-26T09:43:57Z", "2026-09-26T09:44:55Z"], ["https://hoyle.house.gov/media/press-releases/merkley-wyden-hoyle-announce-1-million-for-lane-county-emergency-communications-infrastructure", "Merkley, Wyden, Hoyle Announce $1 Million for Lane County Emergency Communications Infrastructure", "2026-09-25", "2026", "2026-09", "Democrat", "House", "OR", "Val T. Hoyle", "H001094", "hoyle.house.gov", "hoyle", "https://hoyle.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Eugene, OR \u2013 Today, Oregon\u2019s U.S. Senators Jeff Merkley and Ron Wyden, along with U.S. Representative Val Hoyle (D-OR-04), announced $1 million in federal funding for Lane County\u2019s Emergency Communications Resiliency and Interoperability Project. The funding will support a key portion of the project to replace aging radio communications infrastructure at Bear Mountain.\n\n\u201cWhen an emergency strikes, first responders need to know they can reach each other and coordinate a response,\u201d said Merkley, who helped secure funding for this project as a key member of the Senate Appropriations Committee. \u201cCommunity-initiated projects like this one are rooted in the fact that no one knows the unique needs of communities across Oregon quite like the folks who are a part of them, and that\u2019s why I fight so hard to deliver them back to Oregon. These federal dollars will help Lane County replace aging infrastructure and build a more resilient communications network, strengthening the ability of firefighters and other emergency personnel to keep Oregonians safe when they need help most.\u201d\n\n\u201cFirst responders being able to reliably communicate can be the difference between life and death when emergencies hit rural communities,\u201d said Wyden. \u201cThis federal investment will replace outdated radio equipment and deploy modern network technology so rural Oregon fire agencies can maintain uninterrupted contact during crises. I\u2019ll keep fighting to deliver the federal resources that Oregon\u2019s local emergency crews need to stay safe and protect our communities.\u201d\n\n\u201cSupporting our rural communities means investing in resilient infrastructure and modernization projects so no one gets left behind,\u201d said Hoyle. \u201cThis $1M grant will invest in new radio systems to strengthen regional connectivity, limit service interruptions and advance emergency response capabilities across Lane County.\u201d\n\nThe project was developed by Lane County and supported by Merkley, Wyden, and Hoyle as part of the FY24 agriculture funding bill. The $1 million federal investment will help advance upgrades at the Bear Mountain communications site, which is an important component of the county\u2019s emergency communications infrastructure. Lane County has identified resilient communications as critical to coordinated emergency response and public safety.\n\n\u201cThese funds will help make sure our first responders can communicate as they patrol and respond to emergencies in South Lane County,\u201d said County Commissioner Heather Buch, whose district includes Bear Mountain. \u201cThe continued advocacy of our federal delegation is helping us make our communities safer and healthier for everyone.\u201d\n\n###", 1, "2026-09-26T09:43:57Z", "2026-09-26T09:44:55Z"], ["https://jayapal.house.gov/2026/09/25/reps-jayapal-larsen-and-sen-markey-announce-legislation-to-expand-workforce-opportunities-for-communities-impacted-by-substance-use/", "Reps. Jayapal, Larsen and Sen. Markey Announce Legislation to Expand Workforce Opportunities for Communities Impacted by Substance Use", "2026-09-25", "2026", "2026-09", "Democrat", "House", "WA", "Pramila Jayapal", "J000298", "jayapal.house.gov", "jayapal", "https://jayapal.house.gov/category/press-releases/", "scraper", "Bill Text (PDF)\n\nWashington (September 25, 2026) \u2013 In recognition of National Recovery Month, Representatives Pramila Jayapal (WA-07) and Rick Larsen (WA-02) announced the reintroduction of the Workforce Opportunities for Communities in Recovery Act, legislation that would strengthen and expand grants for community partnerships that promote employment opportunities for workers in recovery and support communities affected by widespread substance use. Senator Edward J. Markey (D-Mass.) lead the legislation in the House of Representatives.\n\n\u201cAddiction and substance use are deeply tied to economic instability and the shortage of behavioral health professionals,\u201d said Congresswoman Jayapal. \u201cOur bill takes these issues head on by investing in local organizations that help those affected by substance use gain employment and empower more people to pursue the behavioral health field. By promoting economic stability and increasing the number of healthcare specialists, we can get to the root of the substance abuse crisis and help communities across the country.\u201d\n\n\u201cFor National Recovery Month, we celebrate those working to achieve and maintain recovery from addiction, and everyone who helped them along the way. Especially as families struggle to get ahead, it\u2019s more important than ever that we help people in recovery overcome barriers to employment,\u201d said Senator Markey. \u201cThis legislation will strengthen community partnerships that connect people with good jobs, peer support, and mentorship, supporting lasting recovery and helping communities heal.\u201d\n\n\u201cThe opioid epidemic continues to devastate communities in Northwest Washington,\u201d said Rep. Larsen. \u201cThis legislation would break down barriers to employment for people in recovery and fund local organizations to address the nationwide behavioral health workforce shortage. I will keep working to get this bill over the finish line and to regain momentum in the fight against the opioid crisis.\u201d\n\n\u201cSubstance use disorder has become a far too common barrier to employment,\u201d said Cole Angley, Massachusetts Workforce Association\u2019s Executive Director. \u201cThe Workforce Opportunities for Communities in Recovery Act filed by Sen. Markey builds upon a successful model and puts the necessary tools in the hands of workforce development professionals to help address these barriers with impacted job-seekers across Massachusetts and the nation.\u201d\n\nThe legislation would reauthorize, strengthen, and expand a pilot grant program first authorized under the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act and later extended through the 2018 SUPPORT Act. The pilot grants have funded community partnerships that promote employment for individuals affected by substance use and those interested in professions that address the impacts of substance use across the country. The Workforce Opportunities for Communities in Recovery Act would authorize $187.5 million to continue this lifesaving and community-strengthening work.\n\nThe legislation was first introduced by Senator Markey and Representatives Jayapal and Larsen in July 2024.", 1, "2026-09-26T09:43:57Z", "2026-09-26T09:44:55Z"], ["https://kaptur.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/kaptur-celebrates-800000-award-equip-first-responders-substance-abuse", "Kaptur Celebrates $800,000 Award to Equip First Responders with Substance Abuse Treatment Skills", "2026-09-25", "2026", "2026-09", "Democrat", "House", "OH", "Marcy Kaptur", "K000009", "kaptur.house.gov", "kaptur", "https://kaptur.house.gov/media-center/press-releases", "scraper", "Sandusky, OH \u2014 Today, Congresswoman Marcy Kaptur (OH-09) announced that the Erie County Department of Health has been awarded an $800,000 grant award through the United States Department of Health and Human Services\u2019 Center for Substance Abuse Treatment. The award will support first responders across Erie County will skills and training as they respond to calls related to substance abuse or mental health disorders.\n\n\"First responders are the first ones on the scene for a wide variety of emergencies, including to assist individuals experiencing mental health crises or substance abuse disorders,\u201d said Congresswoman Marcy Kaptur (OH-09). \u201cOur community has an ever-increasing need to improve the lives of our neighbors suffering from mental health disorders and substance abuse disorders. Federal support will allow Northwest Ohio\u2019s brave and skilled first responders to better meet the needs of all people who are in need of their expert assistance.\u201d\n\n\u201cOn behalf of our Northwest Region of Ohio, The Erie County Health Department is pleased to accept these grant funds, for the third time,\u201d said Pete Schade, Erie County Health Commissioner. \u201cClearly, we are providing services with this funding that enable lives to be saved and souls to recover from the scourge of addiction. We are poised to provide the needed gaps in recovery that so many covet.\u201d\n\nAs a senior member of the House Appropriations Committee, Congresswoman Kaptur works tirelessly to secure vital Federal funding for our Northwest Ohio community. In May of 2026, she announced over $1.8 Million in funding for the Erie County Health Program and in July of 2026 she delivered $250,000 in awards for Drug Free Communities programs to encourage youth to live drug-free lives.\n\n# # #", 1, "2026-09-26T09:43:57Z", "2026-09-26T09:44:55Z"], ["https://kaptur.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/kaptur-secures-major-51-million-investment-defiance-head-start-program", "Kaptur Secures Major $5.1 Million Investment in Defiance Head Start Program", "2026-09-25", "2026", "2026-09", "Democrat", "House", "OH", "Marcy Kaptur", "K000009", "kaptur.house.gov", "kaptur", "https://kaptur.house.gov/media-center/press-releases", "scraper", "Defiance, OH \u2014 Today, Congresswoman Marcy Kaptur (OH-09) announced that the Northwestern Ohio Community Action Commission will receive a $5,131,429 award for renovations of its Defiance Head Start building. The award is funded through the United States Department of Health and Human Services\u2019 Administration for Children and Families.\n\n\u201cSupporting our Head Start programs is critical for preparing the next generation of children to thrive throughout their education,\u201d said Congresswoman Marcy Kaptur (OH-09). \u201cOur region\u2019s family services organizations need continuous Federal support in a timely manner to meet the needs of all that they serve. Fighting for answers on behalf of the Northwestern Ohio Community Action Commission ensured that they got the funding necessary to expand their services for many Northwest Ohio families today and in the years to come. I look forward to seeing the future of this Head Start facility, as well as the futures of all the children who come through its doors.\u201d\n\n\u201cNorthwestern Ohio Community Action Commission is deeply grateful to receive a grant from the US Department of Health and Human Services. The grant will fund the renovation of a space dedicated to Head Start and Early Head Start within an existing 37,200-square-foot building in Defiance,\u201d said Angie Franklin, executive director of the Northwestern Ohio Community Action Commission. \u201cBuilt in 1971, the building sits in a plaza area that has long needed investment. We are excited to make it a welcoming place for children and families while bringing new life to the surrounding area. This project reflects NOCAC\u2019s mission to minimize the effects of poverty by connecting people with opportunities and resources that support a secure future. We are proud of what it will mean for our community, grateful for Congresswoman Kaptur\u2019s commitment to Northwest Ohio, and eager to share the progress and impact of this investment.\u201d\n\nHead Start, along with its companion program Early Head Start, helps children under the age of 5 and their families prepare for school. Through learning experiences, health assessments, family support, and early intervention, Head Start serves more than 25,000 young children throughout Ohio. NOCAC\u2019s upcoming renovations to their Defiance Head Start building will allow for expanded space for both their preschool program and their Early Head Start program. The programs will give more than 80 preschoolers, along with pregnant women, infants, and toddlers, a space to seek resources they need to grow, succeed, and thrive.\n\nAs a senior member of the House Appropriations Committee, Congresswoman Kaptur is dedicated to ensuring that Head Start programs both here in our region and across the country have the resources they need to provide for youth and their families.\n\n# # #", 1, "2026-09-26T09:43:57Z", "2026-09-26T09:44:55Z"], ["https://kevinmullin.house.gov/2026/09/25/prompted-by-constituents-death-rep-mullin-introduces-bill-to-designate-lethal-airguns-as-firearms/", "Prompted by\u00a0Constituent\u2019s Death,\u00a0Rep.\u00a0Mullin Introduces Bill to\u00a0Designate Lethal\u00a0Airguns\u00a0as Firearms", "2026-09-25", "2026", "2026-09", "Democrat", "House", "CA", "Kevin Mullin", "M001225", "kevinmullin.house.gov", "kevinmullin", "https://kevinmullin.house.gov/category/press_release/", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2013 Modern airguns can be powerful enough to cause serious injury or death, yet face far fewer safeguards than traditional firearms simply because they use compressed air instead of gunpowder. To close this dangerous gap, Rep. Kevin Mullin (CA-15) introduced Garrett\u2019s Law today after one of his constituents lost her son to suicide involving a high-powered airgun.\n\nExisting law requires licensed firearms manufacturers and dealers to conduct a background check on prospective buyers to identify individuals who are prohibited from owning a firearm, such as felons or those with certain severe mental health conditions. Yet, lethal airguns are regulated by the Consumer Product Safety Commission as consumer products, rather than as dangerous weapons regulated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. As a result, any individual can bypass a background check to purchase a type of airgun that is as deadly as a firearm, regardless of criminal history or ability to otherwise legally own a firearm.\n\nThis loophole has caused irreparable and, in some cases, fatal harm. Garrett Edwards, a constituent of Rep. Mullin, struggled with mental health during the pandemic and was prohibited from possessing a firearm by law. Yet, sadly, when his condition worsened, Garrett legally purchased a lethal airgun online and used it to take his own life. To prevent similar tragedies, Garrett\u2019s Law would close this dangerous gap in federal lawby designating high-powered, lethal airguns as firearms.\n\n\u201cGarrett should still be here today,\u201d said Rep. Mullin. \u201cIf a weapon is powerful enough to kill, it should be subject to the same common-sense safety standards as any other gun. It makes no sense that someone prohibited by law from purchasing a firearm can still walk into a store or go online and legally obtain an airgun capable of killing. This bill closes that gap and, hopefully, helps prevent another family from facing this kind of unimaginable loss.\u201d\n\n\u201cGarrett\u2019s Law represents every person\u2019s right to be protected from a needless death,\u201d said Garrett\u2019s mother, Ann Edwards. \u201cGarrett was an elite athlete, scholar, and meant the world to me. Despite the countless efforts made by his community, his late onset psychosis was unforgiving, and in a moment of crisis, he was able to access a lethal airgun through Amazon. Garrett ran out of time to fully live his life. I hope this law gives another child the chance to keep fighting.\u201d\n\n\u201cAirguns can be lethal, and current federal law ignores that by allowing unfettered access to them,\u201d said Emma Brown, Executive Director at GIFFORDS. \u201cWe\u2019re glad to see Rep. Mullin introducing this legislation to create basic guardrails for these previously unregulated weapons, and we urge Congress to swiftly pass it.\u201d\n\n\u201cLethal weapons should be treated like lethal weapons,\u201d said Jaclyn Corin, Co-Founder of March For Our Lives Foundation. \u201cMarch For Our Lives supports Garrett\u2019s Law because our laws should reflect the real-world risks posed by high-powered airguns capable of taking a life. We\u2019re grateful to Congressman Mullin for his leadership in addressing this gap in federal law and advancing a common-sense measure to help prevent gun violence and save lives.\u201d\n\nGarrett\u2019s Law, introduced by Rep. Mullin, would designate lethal airguns as firearms under the purview of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives. This would ensure that they receive the same common-sense gun safety protections as traditional firearms, such as background check and serialization requirements.\n\nSpecifically, Garrett\u2019s Law would:\n\nDesignate lethal, high-powered airguns as firearms under the Gun Control Act;\n\nExclude paintball and airsoft guns that are unlikely to cause serious injury; and\n\nRequire the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives to produce guidance on how manufacturers and sellers can comply with this change.\n\nThis bill has been endorsed by GIFFORDS and March For Our Lives.\n\nThe bill text can be found here.\n\nWatch Rep. Mullin\u2019s speech on the House Floor about Garrett\u2019s Law here.\n\n###", 1, "2026-09-26T09:43:57Z", "2026-09-26T09:44:55Z"], ["https://larsen.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=4271", "Larsen Reintroduces Bill to Expand Workforce Opportunities for Communities Facing Substance Use Disorders", "2026-09-25", "2026", "2026-09", "Democrat", "House", "WA", "Rick Larsen", "L000560", "larsen.house.gov", "larsen", "https://larsen.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx", "scraper", "Today, U.S. Representatives Rick Larsen (WA-02) and Pramila Jayapal (WA-07) and Senator Edward J. Markey (D-MA) reintroduced the Workforce Opportunities for Communities in Recovery Act to promote employment opportunities for workers in recovery and provide support to communities impacted by widespread substance use.\n\n\u201cThe opioid epidemic continues to devastate communities in Northwest Washington,\u201d said Rep. Larsen. \u201cThis legislation would break down barriers to employment for people in recovery and fund local organizations to address the nationwide behavioral health workforce shortage. I will keep working to get this bill over the finish line and to regain momentum in the fight against the opioid crisis.\u201d\n\n\u201cFor National Recovery Month, we celebrate those working to achieve and maintain recovery from addiction, and everyone who helped them along the way. Especially as families struggle to get ahead, it\u2019s more important than ever that we help people in recovery overcome barriers to employment,\u201d said Senator Markey. \u201cThis legislation will strengthen community partnerships that connect people with good jobs, peer support, and mentorship, supporting lasting recovery and helping communities heal.\u201d\n\n\u201cAddiction and substance use are deeply tied to economic instability and the shortage of behavioral health professionals,\u201d said Rep. Jayapal. \u201cOur bill takes these issues head on by investing in local organizations that help those affected by substance use gain employment and empower more people to pursue the behavioral health field. By promoting economic stability and increasing the number of healthcare specialists, we can get to the root of the substance abuse crisis and help communities across the country.\u201d\n\nThe Workforce Opportunities for Communities in Recovery Act would reauthorize and expand a pilot grant program first authorized in the 2014 Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act and later extended by the 2018 SUPPORT Act. The bill would authorize a total of $187.5 million over six years to continue this lifesaving and community-strengthening work and award grants to state and local workforce development boards to partner with treatment providers, employers, education providers, Tribal organizations, legal services organizations, or other designated community-based organizations to support individuals impacted by substance use. These partnerships would leverage grant funding to implement innovative approaches to support workers and to provide wraparound services to its participants.\n\nThe full text of the Workforce Opportunities for Communities in Recovery Act is available here.\n\nA one-pager on the Workforce Opportunities for Communities in Recovery Act is available here.\n\nLarsen Focused on Combating Opioid and Fentanyl Crisis\n\nLarsen continues to focus on supporting local efforts to fight the opioid epidemic and save lives. In 2024, he published a districtwide opioid report outlining a four-pillar framework to combat the crisis. In addition to the Workforce Opportunities for Communities in Recovery Act, Larsen leads three bills aimed at combating the opioid epidemic:\n\nIn May 2026, Larsen reintroduced the bipartisan End Fentanyl Trafficking with Local Task Forces Act to establish a dedicated federal funding stream to help multi-jurisdictional drug task forces combat opioid trafficking in Washington state and across the country.\n\nIn June 2025, Larsen reintroduced the bipartisan Protection for Reservation Occupants against Trafficking and Evasive Communications Today (PROTECT) Act to give Tribal courts and law enforcement more tools and resources to combat the opioid epidemic.\n\nLarsen also leads the Closing the Substance Use Care Gap Act to expand access to lifesaving, community-based harm reduction initiatives and services and enhance the federal response to the opioid and fentanyl epidemic.", 1, "2026-09-26T09:43:57Z", "2026-09-26T09:44:55Z"], ["https://mcbride.house.gov/media/press-releases/icymi-rep-mcbride-presses-state-department-over-delay-annual-trafficking", "ICYMI: Rep. McBride Presses State Department Over Delay of Annual Trafficking in Persons Report", "2026-09-25", "2026", "2026-09", "Democrat", "House", "DE", "Sarah McBride", "M001238", "mcbride.house.gov", "mcbride", "https://mcbride.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "WILMINGTON, Del. \u2014 In case you missed it, last week, U.S. Representative Sarah McBride (D-Del.), member of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, led 20 of her Democratic colleagues in writing to Secretary of State Marco Rubio demanding the immediate release of the 2026 Trafficking in Persons (TIP) Report, an annual report that serves as a key tool in U.S. efforts to combat human trafficking internationally and hold foreign governments accountable for protecting victims and prosecuting traffickers.\n\nThe report, which was due to Congress on June 30, is nearly three months past the deadline. This follows last year\u2019s unprecedented delay of the report by three months. Read the full letter to Secretary Rubio here.\n\n\u201cWe write to raise serious concerns regarding the Department of State\u2019s failure to release the Trafficking in Persons (TIP) Report, which is now more than two months past its statutory deadline\u2026The repeated failure to issue this congressionally mandated report on time is unacceptable and raises serious questions about whether the State Department is giving the fight against human trafficking the priority and resources it demands,\u201d the lawmakers wrote.\n\nThe letter raises concerns about the Trump administration\u2019s commitment to combating human trafficking and the capacity of the State Department\u2019s anti-trafficking office to carry out its mission. The lawmakers pressed the department on staffing levels and permanent leadership in the office, as well as its decision to omit the TIP Report Heroes Program from the 2025 release.\n\n\u201cThe repeated delays in the publication of the TIP Report follow the Administration\u2019s decision to significantly reduce staffing in the State Department\u2019s Office to Monitor and Combat Trafficking in Persons (TIP Office). Reports indicate that fewer than three dozen employees remain to carry out the federal government\u2019s central anti-trafficking mission, including producing reports that assess anti-trafficking efforts across 188 countries. The loss of institutional expertise and lack of urgency in filling these gaps in personnel is deeply troubling,\u201d the lawmakers continued.\n\nThe lawmakers called on the State Department to explain when the 2026 report will be published and to provide answers by September 30 on staffing and leadership in its anti-trafficking office. They also urged the department to restore the staffing and institutional capacity needed to meet its reporting responsibilities and ensure future reports are published on time.\n\n\u201cWe urge the Department of State to immediately release the TIP Report and demonstrate that combating human trafficking remains a serious priority of this Administration. We further urge the Department to promptly appoint permanent leadership to the TIP Office and restore the staffing and institutional capacity necessary to fulfill its statutory responsibilities and ensure the timely publication of future reports,\u201d the lawmakers concluded.\n\nRep. McBride has been committed to transparency from the Department of State, specifically regarding the TIP Report. In July 2025, shequestioned Deputy Secretary of State Michael Rigas at a House Foreign Affairs Committee hearing about a 71 percent reduction in staff at the TIP Office. That September, Rep. McBride secured bipartisan committee approval of an amendment directing the department to report to Congress on how the cuts affected the TIP Report\u2019s timeliness and accuracy. After Rep. McBride's continued efforts, the State Departmentreleased the 2025 report on September 29, nearly three months late.", 1, "2026-09-26T09:43:57Z", "2026-09-26T09:44:55Z"], ["https://mejia.house.gov/media/press-releases/mejia-secures-six-new-jersey-water-infrastructure-priorities-in-house-passed-bill", "Mejia Secures Six New Jersey Water Infrastructure Priorities in House-Passed Bill", "2026-09-25", "2026", "2026-09", "Democrat", "House", "NJ", "Analilia Mejia", "M001246", "mejia.house.gov", "mejia", "https://mejia.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "For Immediate Release: September 21, 2026\n\nContact: Beth Wiesinger | NJ11AMPress@Mail.House.Gov\n\nThe bipartisan water resources bill includes provisions to advance flood protection, protect wetlands, address harmful algal blooms, and improve access to U.S. Army Corps programs across NJ-11\n\nWASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Congresswoman Analilia Mejia (NJ-11) announced that six priorities she championed to strengthen flood protection and protect waterways across New Jersey\u2019s 11th Congressional District were included in the House-passed version of the Water Resources Development Act (WRDA) of 2026, which passed the U.S. House of Representatives last week by a vote of 415-9. The bill now awaits consideration by the Senate.\n\nThe legislation includes provisions directing the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) to advance flood mitigation efforts along the Whippany River, Rockaway River, and Den Brook, and throughout the Passaic River Basin. It also expands support for natural flood protection, calls for additional federal attention to harmful algal blooms affecting Lake Hopatcong, and makes it easier for communities to navigate USACE programs and access technical assistance.\n\n\u201cFlooding is one of the greatest natural threats to families and businesses across New Jersey\u2014it is something our communities have experienced again and again. I fought to make sure that the voices of our communities were heard and that these initiatives moved forward,\u201d said Congresswoman Mejia. \u201cThese projects will help us better prepare for flooding, protect our waterways, and give local communities more tools to build the resilient infrastructure they need, before disaster strikes. I will continue working to make sure New Jersey gets its fair share of federal support as we confront the growing impacts of climate change.\u201d\n\nThe House-passed WRDA includes six priorities championed by Congresswoman Mejia:\n\nWhippany River Flooding: The bill directs USACE to expedite its ongoing study of flooding along the Whippany River, helping move the project closer to potential design, funding, and construction of flood-control improvements.\n\nRockaway River and Denville Flooding: The legislation calls for an update on efforts to reduce flooding along the Rockaway River and Den Brook, including solutions that can protect homes and businesses without relying solely on major construction projects.\n\nPassaic River Basin Flooding: WRDA directs USACE to accelerate its work on the Passaic River Basin and report on the status of flood-management efforts, helping identify projects that could provide flood protection while broader regional strategies continue to move forward.\n\nProtecting Wetlands and Natural Flood Protection: The bill expands support for wetlands, floodplains, green infrastructure, and other natural solutions that can reduce flooding and strengthen long-term resilience. These natural systems can absorb and store stormwater while complementing traditional infrastructure.\n\nLake Hopatcong and Harmful Algal Blooms: WRDA requires an update on USACE efforts to combat harmful algal blooms, with Lake Hopatcong identified as a priority area. Harmful algal blooms can threaten water quality, restrict recreational activities, and affect businesses that depend on the lake.\n\nMaking USACE Programs Easier for Towns to Use: The legislation includes reforms intended to provide communities with additional technical assistance and a more workable federal feasibility process. These changes can help smaller municipalities with limited staff and resources navigate USACE programs and advance local water infrastructure projects.\n\n###", 1, "2026-09-26T09:43:57Z", "2026-09-26T09:44:55Z"], ["https://mejia.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-mejia-supports-victims-calls-for-immediate-resignation-of-lt-governor-caldwell", "Rep. Mejia Supports Victims, Calls for Immediate Resignation of Lt. Governor Caldwell", "2026-09-25", "2026", "2026-09", "Democrat", "House", "NJ", "Analilia Mejia", "M001246", "mejia.house.gov", "mejia", "https://mejia.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "For Immediate Release: 9/25/2026\n\nContact: Beth Wiesinger | NJ11AMPress@Mail.House.Gov\n\nGlen Ridge, NJ \u2014 Congresswoman Analilia Mejia (NJ-11) released the following statement on the independent investigation into Lieutenant Governor Dale Caldwell:\n\n\"Lieutenant Governor Caldwell\u2019s conduct is deeply disappointing and falls far short of the standard we should expect from anyone entrusted with public office. I stand with the victims who had the courage to come forward, and they deserve to be heard, supported, and protected. I have spent my life fighting for accountability and justice for workers facing harassment, which is why I support the actions taken by Governor Sherrill and her call for the Lieutenant Governor\u2019s resignation,\" said Congresswoman Mejia. \"When harassment and ethical violations go unchecked, it sends a message to the public and to state employees that this kind of conduct is tolerated. That is simply unacceptable. Government officials have a responsibility to protect workers, stand up for our values, and fight every day to make life better for everyday New Jerseyans.\"\n\n###", 1, "2026-09-26T09:43:57Z", "2026-09-26T09:44:55Z"], ["https://menefee.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-menefee-s-statement-on-the-tragic-deaths-of-two-houston-high-school-students", "Congressman Menefee's Statement on the Tragic Deaths of Two Houston High School Students", "2026-09-25", "2026", "2026-09", "Democrat", "House", "TX", "Christian D. Menefee", "M001245", "menefee.house.gov", "menefee", "https://menefee.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "HOUSTON, TX \u2014 Today, Congressman Christian D. Menefee (TX-18) released the following statement after two Houston-area high school students, a 17-year-old from Westbury High School and a 15-year-old from Westfield High School, were killed in separate shootings this week:\n\n\u201cMy heart breaks for the two families in Houston who are forced to bury their sons instead of watching them walk the graduation stage. One a student at Westfield, one a student at Westbury. Both with bright futures ahead of them. Both were Black young students who should have had decades left to live. But in an instant, gun violence took their lives.\n\nWe cannot accept this as normal. Our students deserve to learn at school and enjoy their friends free from fear. They deserve leaders who treat this crisis with urgency, in Congress, in Austin, and at every level of government. We must keep fighting for solutions that keep guns away from those who seek to do harm and keep our students safe.\n\nTo every student in Houston reading this: your life matters, your future matters, and we will keep working to protect you.\u201d", 1, "2026-09-26T09:43:57Z", "2026-09-26T09:44:55Z"], ["https://nikemawilliams.house.gov/posts/congresswoman-nikema-williams-statement-on-the-supreme-court-permitting-trump-administration-to-use-expanded-database-for-potential-voter-purges", "Congresswoman Nikema Williams\u2019 Statement on the Supreme Court Permitting Trump Administration to Use Expanded Database for Potential Voter Purges", "2026-09-25", "2026", "2026-09", "Democrat", "House", "GA", "Nikema Williams", "W000788", "nikemawilliams.house.gov", "nikemawilliams", "https://nikemawilliams.house.gov/press", "scraper", "ATLANTA, GA \u2013 Congresswoman Nikema Williams (GA-05) released the following statement in response to the Supreme Court permitting the Trump administration to use an expanded federal database to purge voter rolls.\n\nCongresswoman Nikema Williams (GA-05) said:\n\n\u201cI led a Congressional letter in December 2025 demanding that DHS not overhaul the Systematic Alien Verification for Entitlements (SAVE) system. The Supreme Court\u2019s decision to allow Trump and DHS to use this system to purge voter rolls is a disgrace to our constitutional right to vote. This action is a direct assault on Americans\u2019 right to privacy and an affront to the power of Congress.\n\nInformation from the overhauled SAVE system will almost certainly include errors and other inaccuracies, leading to Americans being incorrectly removed from the voter rolls and denied their right to vote for no reason. The use of the SAVE system for the purpose of determining voter eligibility is dangerous and unreliable, and it will be used as a tool against our democracy and free and fair access to the ballot.\u201d\n\nCongresswoman Nikema Williams sent a Congressional Oversight letter in December of 2025 concerning the SAVE system and its use to purge voters. Read more here.", 1, "2026-09-26T09:43:57Z", "2026-09-26T09:44:55Z"], ["https://pettersen.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=1941", "Congresswoman Brittany Pettersen, Congressman Joe Neguse Lead Bill to Permanently Fund Payments to Rural Counties with Federal Lands", "2026-09-25", "2026", "2026-09", "Democrat", "House", "CO", "Brittany Pettersen", "P000620", "pettersen.house.gov", "pettersen", "https://pettersen.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27", "scraper", "LAKEWOOD \u2014 Congresswoman Brittany Pettersen (CO-07) and Congressman Joe Neguse (CO-02) this week introduced the Permanently Authorizing PILT Act to guarantee reliable federal payments to Colorado counties that provide essential services on and around tax-exempt federal lands. Without predictable mandatory funding, counties will never have the true assurance of the federal revenue that they receive.\n\nThe Payment in Lieu of Taxes (PILT) program provides payments to counties, including 56 in Colorado, and other local governments with non-taxable federal lands within their borders to offset lost property tax revenue. These payments are key for local governments to fund services including transportation infrastructure projects, education, law enforcement, healthcare, and emergency services. While PILT has operated under reauthorizations for previous fiscal years, this legislation would make the program a mandatory funding effort by Congress not subject to the federal appropriations process. A permanent authorization will provide certainty for counties, ensuring they can maintain their services without disruption.\n\n\u201cOur rural communities provide essential services on and around federal lands\u2014from roads and schools to emergency response\u2014and they deserve funding they can count on. These counties shouldn\u2019t have to wonder every year whether the federal government will provide needed support for these services,\u201d said Congresswoman Brittany Pettersen. \u201cI\u2019m proud to work with my friend, Rep. Neguse, to make PILT permanent so these counties can plan for the future and keep delivering for Coloradans.\u201d\n\n\u201cColorado\u2019s 2nd District spans from the Front Range to the Western Slope, including many communities that rely on federal PILT payments for essential local services \u2014 from firefighting and search-and-rescue operations to the construction of public schools and roads. Our bill, the Permanently Authorizing PILT Act, makes this program permanent, ensuring local governments can rely on a consistent stream of federal support to keep their communities thriving,\u201d said Congressman Joe Neguse.\n\n\u201cMany Western Counties depend on PILT to balance our budgets. The services, (Search and Rescue, Fire, law Enforcement, Road maintenance etc.) we must provide on public land are a huge strain on our budgets,\u201d said Dwayne McFall, Fremont County Colorado Commissioner and National Association of Counties Western Interstate Region President, \u201cWithout PILT many services would have to be cut. Permanent funding of PILT would create a long-term sustainable solution for counties.\u201d\n\n\u201cPublic lands may be national treasures, but their footprint is local. In Chaffee County approximately 80% of the land is federally owned and is completely exempt from local property taxes. PILT is a crucial tool of fairness and fills the structural revenue gap so our small taxpayer base isn't forced to single-handedly foot the bill for essential services, from rural road maintenance, to emergency response and public safety for millions of visitors each year. I greatly appreciate Congresswoman Pettersen\u2019s efforts in pushing to make PILT a reliable and permanent fixture in the appropriations process.\u201d said Gina Lucrezi, Chaffee County Commissioner.\n\n\u201cCounties with federal public lands are responsible for delivering essential services \u2014 from public safety and search and rescue to roads, infrastructure and wildfire mitigation \u2014 even though they cannot collect property taxes on those lands,\u201d said National Association of Counties Executive Director Matthew Chase. \u201cPILT helps counties offset those lost revenues and meet these responsibilities in the 62 percent of America\u2019s counties with federal lands. We applaud Representatives Pettersen and Neguse for introducing the bipartisan Permanently Authorizing PILT Act, which would give public lands counties the long-term certainty they need to plan, budget and deliver for their residents and visitors. We urge Congress to pass this critical legislation into law quickly.\u201d\n\nThe Department of Interior makes PILT payments to over 1,850 counties in 49 states, the District of Columbia, Guam, Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands. Counties have used these payments for more than 40 years to fund essential county services. In 2026, Colorado was compensated more than $53 million through the PILT program.\n\nCongresswoman Pettersen previously introduced the bipartisan Permanently Authorizing PILT Act of 2023. She has led a bipartisan letter to the Appropriations Committee requesting full and robust funding for the PILT program in every Appropriations cycle since being elected to Congress. She has advocated and secured funding for local and county governments, including for rural communities, to ensure they have the funding and support to address the needs of all residents.\n\nFull text of the bill can be found HERE.\n\n###", 1, "2026-09-26T09:43:57Z", "2026-09-26T09:44:55Z"], ["https://ramirez.house.gov/media/press-releases/ramirez-garcia-host-election-protection-roundtable-local-advocates-election", "Ramirez, Garcia Host Election Protection Roundtable with Local Advocates, Election Officials", "2026-09-25", "2026", "2026-09", "Democrat", "House", "IL", "Delia C. Ramirez", "R000617", "ramirez.house.gov", "ramirez", "https://ramirez.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Chicago, IL \u2014 Today, Congresswoman Delia C. Ramirez (IL-03) and Congressman Jes\u00fas \u201cChuy\u201d Garc\u00eda (IL-04) hosted an election security and polling location safety roundtable with public officials, government agencies, community stakeholders, and other partners to discuss preparedness and coordination efforts to keep polling locations safe, secure, accessible, and free from intimidation or disruption.\n\nThe roundtable comes after months of constant threats of the presence of armed federal officials at polling locations made by the Trump administration and the recently released plan for Election Infrastructure Security by the Department of Homeland Security. Just today, the Supreme Court ruled in favor of the Trump administration\u2019s SAVE program, a flawed voters database that removes eligible voters from the rolls.\n\n\u201cIn the face of an authoritarian attack on our democracy, it is up to an intergovernmental coalition to protect our elections and ensure every person\u2019s vote is counted and represented. It is up to us to roll up our sleeves and step into the work of cooperation, organizing, and solidarity to protect our democracy,\u201d said Congresswoman Ramirez. \u201cOur message is clear: We will not be bullied, we will not be intimidated, and we will not let our constituents be dissuaded from exercising their constitutional rights.\u201d\n\n\"We all know the lengths Trump will go to discredit our elections,\" said Congressman Garc\u00eda. \u201cBut after hearing from the participants of this roundtable today, I'm confident we'll be ready for November. Every eligible citizen deserves to know when, where, and how to cast their ballot, and they should get that information from people they trust, not from Trump's lies and misinformation. While Trump and his anti-voting allies in Congress keep working to undermine confidence in our elections, Congresswoman Ramirez and I will keep working just as hard to defend them.\"\n\nThe members of Congress and organizations reminded constituents that:\n\nIn IL, you don\u2019t need an ID if you are registered to vote.\n\nIn IL, you can vote early at any early voting site.\n\nIn IL, you can register the same day with proper identification.\n\nYou do not need to speak English to vote in any state.\n\nYou do not need to pass a test to vote in any state.\n\nIf you are in line before polling closes, you have the right to vote.\n\n\u201cWe know this administration has consistently abused power, attacking our most basic civil rights and liberties. The ACLU has been there at every turn to push back to make sure that Illinoisans are protected and supported. Access to the ballot is no different. The Trump Administration is attempting to limit access to voting, and the ACLU is working in Illinois and across the country to empower and educate voters about their rights, to protect voting from federal interference, and to continue to show up for all Illinoisans. And, at the same time, we are making it clear to communities that their vote continues the work of standing up for our neighbors and for democracy. Each of us must vote in this election \u2013 vote for the policies we want, vote for the changes we need, and vote like our rights depend on it. Because they do,\u201d said ACLU, Aisha N Davis.\n\n\u201cAll eligible citizens have the right to vote, and at ICIRR we\u2019ve long made it our mission to educate, get out the vote AND protect the rights of all voters at the polling place,\u201d said Bassem Kawar, Sr. Director of Political Department. \u201cHere at ICIRR, we are committed to working with our longstanding partners, many of whom are here with us today and others, to ensure the rights of all voters are respected and upheld on Election Day. We encourage people to visit the 866OURVOTE.org website or call 1-866-OUR-VOTE in advance of early voting and getting in touch with trusted election experts.\u201d\n\n\u201cElection security is built into every part of our process, from our voting equipment to our well-trained Election Judges and our coordination with law enforcement and community partners,\u201d said Cook County Clerk Monica Gordon. \u201cOur job is to make sure every polling place is a safe and protected civic space where voters can cast their ballots without fear or intimidation, and we will be ready to deliver a secure election.\u201d\n\nFor the Homeland Security Committee one-pager on the legality of deploying ICE agents to polling locations, CLICK HERE.\n\nFor the Know Your Rights at the Poll card, CLICK HERE.", 1, "2026-09-26T09:43:57Z", "2026-09-26T09:44:55Z"], ["https://ramirez.house.gov/media/press-releases/ramirez-jayapal-and-garcia-urge-trump-administration-respect-brazils-electoral", "Ramirez, Jayapal, and Garc\u00eda Urge the Trump Administration to Respect Brazil\u2019s Electoral Process", "2026-09-25", "2026", "2026-09", "Democrat", "House", "IL", "Delia C. Ramirez", "R000617", "ramirez.house.gov", "ramirez", "https://ramirez.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, DC \u2013 Yesterday, Congressmembers Delia C. Ramirez (IL-03), Congressmembers Pramila Jayapal (WA-07), Jes\u00fas \u201cChuy\u201d Garc\u00eda (IL-04) led 28 colleagues in a letter to Secretary of State Marco Rubio raising serious concerns about the Trump administration\u2019s efforts to undermine the Western Hemisphere\u2019s second-largest democracy ahead of Brazil\u2019s presidential election next month.\n\nIn the letter, the Members of Congress asked Secretary Rubio to confirm whether the administration will commit to respecting Brazil\u2019s electoral process and to recognizing its certified outcome.\n\n\u201cOver the course of President Trump\u2019s second term, we have seen U.S. officials engage in a sustained, multifaceted campaign of interference and destabilization in Brazil,\u201d wrote the members.\n\nLast year, the Trump administration began imposing tariffs and sanctions to pressure Brazil\u2019s Supreme Court over its trial of former president Jair Bolsonaro for his role in an attempted coup, intended to overturn Brazil\u2019s 2022 presidential elections. Recently, the administration designated Brazilian gangs as \u201cforeign terrorist organizations\u201d (FTOs) two days after right-wing presidential candidate Fl\u00e1vio Bolsonaro, Jair Bolsonaro's son, reportedly made such a request to President Trump in the Oval Office.\n\n\u201cRather than helping defend Brazilian democracy, the United States is acting as an agent of interference and destabilization\u2014using diplomatic, economic, and political pressure in ways that risk weakening the country\u2019s democratic institutions, undermining confidence in Brazil's electoral process, and inflicting further damage on our relationship with a strategic U.S. ally and trading partner,\u201d concluded the members.\n\nThe Trump administration\u2019s efforts reflect a deeply troubled pattern of interference in recent electoral processes across Latin America, including Argentina\u2019s midterm elections and the presidential elections in Honduras and Colombia. The pattern risks eroding electorates\u2019 confidence in democratic processes and institutions across the region.\n\nThe letter was also signed by Senator Bernie Sanders (I-VT) and Reps. Jasmine Crockett (TX-30), Maxine Waters (CA-43), Summer Lee (PA-12), Jonathan Jackson (IL-01), Eleanor Holmes Norton (DC-00), Henry C. \u201cHank\u201d Johnson (GA-04),Rashida Tlaib (MI-12), Andr\u00e9 Carson (IN-07), Maxwell Frost (FL-10), Yvette D. Clarke (NY-09) Mark Pocan (WI-02), Ilhan Omar (MN-05), Greg Casar (TX-35), Nydia M. Vel\u00e1zquez (NY-07), Jim Costa (CA-21), Robert Garcia (CA-42), Jim McGovern (MA-02), Adelita Grijalva (AZ-07), Mike Quigley (IL-05), Mark DeSaulnier (CA-10), Stephen L. Lynch (MA-08), Sylvia R. Garcia (TX-29), Jan Schakowsky (IL-09), Ro Khanna (CA-17), Joaquin Castro (TX-20), Steve Cohen (TN-09), and Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (NY-14),\n\nThe letter has been endorsed by the Center for Economic and Policy Research (CEPR), Washington Brazil Office (WBO), the Washington Office on Latin America (WOLA), the Latin American Working Group (LAWG), and the Maryknoll Office for Global Concerns.", 1, "2026-09-26T09:43:57Z", "2026-09-26T09:44:55Z"], ["https://schrier.house.gov/media/press-releases/congresswoman-schrier-introduces-bipartisan-bill-improve-life-saving-newborn", "Congresswoman Schrier Introduces Bipartisan Bill to Improve Life-Saving Newborn Health Screenings", "2026-09-25", "2026", "2026-09", "Democrat", "House", "WA", "Kim Schrier", "S001216", "schrier.house.gov", "schrier", "https://schrier.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "September 25, 2026\n\nWASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Yesterday, Congresswoman Kim Schrier, M.D. (WA-08) introduced the Surge to Save Newborns Act alongside Congressman Nick Langworthy (NY-23). This legislation would provide states with federal resources to implement newborn screening for conditions included on the Recommended Uniform Screening Panel (RUSP), ensuring more newborns benefit from early detection and timely care.\n\n\u201cAs a pediatrician, I\u2019ve taken care of patients whose conditions were discovered early on their newborn screen. Because we had the resources to screen for these diseases, we were able to help babies right away and save lives. However, states often lack the resources to screen for each condition listed on the recommended panel, which puts our children at risk,\u201d said Congresswoman Schrier. \u201cI am proud to introduce this bipartisan legislation to ensure that newborns in Washington state and across the country are screened for all of these treatable conditions at birth.\u201d\n\nBACKGROUND: Newborn screening helps identify certain serious health conditions shortly after birth so that affected children can receive appropriate follow-up care. The federal government maintains a Recommended Uniform Screening Panel (RUSP), which identifies conditions recommended for inclusion in state newborn screening programs. However, adding a condition to the federal recommended panel does not necessarily mean that every state immediately implements screening for that condition.\n\nThe Surge to Save Newborns Act would provide states with dedicated federal resources to help implement newborn screening for conditions included on the RUSP. However, it can still be a challenge for children to access primary care. This legislation would address this issue by bolstering the pediatric vaccine delivery system and supporting primary care physicians who participate in the program.\n\nThe Surge to Save Newborns Act would:\n\nHelp states move recommended newborn screening conditions from federal recommendation to implementation.\n\nProvide dedicated resources to address state implementation needs while preserving state responsibility for operating newborn screening programs.\n\nCreate annual visibility into which recommended conditions each state has and has not yet implemented.\n\nPair federal funding with accountability by requiring HHS to assess grant effectiveness and report back to Congress.\n\n\u201cOne of our most sacred duties as a society is to protect our newborn babies,\u201d said Congressman Langworthy. \u201cWe already have the technological advancements to detect serious conditions\u2014now we must do everything in our power to ensure that every single newborn has access to them. Adding a condition to the federal recommended panel is a good first step, but we need to make sure that states have the resources to put the screenings into practice. This bill will literally save lives and help get these precious babies into treatment before it\u2019s too late. We have to get this done.\u201d\n\nThe legislation is supported by a broad coalition of rare-disease patient advocacy organizations, family foundations and children\u2019s health organizations representing families affected by conditions that can be detected through newborn screening, including the Children\u2019s Hospital Association, ALD Alliance, ALD Connect, Aicardi-Goutieres Syndrome Advocacy Association, Association for Creatine Deficiencies, Believing for Bryleigh Foundation, Conner's Crusade, CTX Alliance, Cure ALD, HCU Network America, Hunter\u2019s Hope Foundation, Judson's Legacy, Katelynn\u2019s Butterfly Kisses, Krabbe Connect, Little Hercules Foundation, MLD Foundation, Parent Project Muscular Dystrophy, Project Alive, the RARE Foundation, Remember The Girls, The Global Foundation for Peroxisomal Disorders, United Leukodystrophy Foundation, United MSD Foundation for Peroxisomal Disorders , and the National Organization for Rare Disorders (NORD).\n\n###\n\nIssues:CongressHealth", 1, "2026-09-26T09:43:57Z", "2026-09-26T09:44:55Z"], ["https://scottpeters.house.gov/press-releases/reps-peters-miller-meeks-introduce-bill-to-make-safer-products-program-permanent", "Reps Peters, Miller-Meeks Introduce Bill to Make Safer Products Program Permanent", "2026-09-25", "2026", "2026-09", "Democrat", "House", "CA", "Scott H. Peters", "P000608", "scottpeters.house.gov", "scottpeters", "https://scottpeters.house.gov/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2014 Today, U.S. Representatives Scott Peters (D-CA) and Mariannette Miller-Meeks, M.D. (R-IA) introduced the Safer Choice Program Authorization Act, legislation to formally codify and strengthen the Environmental Protection Agency's (EPA) Safer Choice Program. The Safer Choice Program gives producers a voluntary framework to evaluate the human health, environmental, and economic effects of the chemicals and technologies they use. This also helps consumers identify safer alternatives for cleaning and other products.\n\n\u201cSan Diegans and families across the country rely on safe, effective products every day, and they should know if these products have been vetted against the highest health and safety standards,\u201d said Rep. Peters. \u201cOur bipartisan bill would permanently give consumers that peace of mind and provide American producers the competitive advantage of a trusted, nationally recognized label. I\u2019m glad to lead this bipartisan effort to ensure the Safer Choice Program benefits consumers and producers for years to come.\u201d\n\n\u201cAmerican families shouldn\u2019t have to be chemists to know whether the products they buy meet high standards for health, safety, and performance,\" said Dr. Miller-Meeks. \"This bipartisan legislation gives consumers clearer information while encouraging manufacturers to develop safer products, all without creating a new mandatory regulatory regime. As a physician, I\u2019m proud to support a voluntary, science-based approach that gives Americans more confidence in the products they use every day.\u201d\n\nEPA\u2019s Safer Choice Program has helped drive innovation in safer chemistry for decades but has never been formally authorized by Congress. The Safer Choice Program Authorization Act would permanently authorize the program so that producers have clear health and safety standards and consumers can rely on a trusted federal label for safer products.\n\nThe Safer Choice Program Authorization Act would:\n\nFormally authorize EPA\u2019s \u201cSafer Choice\u201d and \u201cDesign for the Environment\u201d programs;\n\nMaintain rigorous, science-based standards for participating products;\n\nStrengthen protections against conflicts of interest in product reviews;\n\nEnsure continued maintenance of EPA\u2019s Safer Chemical Ingredients List; and\n\nSupport transparency, stakeholder engagement, and public access to safer product information.\n\nThe legislation is supported by a wide variety of stakeholders including industry leaders, manufacturers, sustainability groups, and cleaning product organizations. Read statements of support and endorsing organizations here.", 1, "2026-09-26T09:43:57Z", "2026-09-26T09:44:55Z"], ["https://stevens.house.gov/media/press-releases/icymi-rep-haley-stevens-has-new-bill-lower-retirement-age-americans-who-work", "ICYMI: Rep. Haley Stevens Has New Bill to Lower Retirement Age For Americans Who Work With Their Hands", "2026-09-25", "2026", "2026-09", "Democrat", "House", "MI", "Haley M. Stevens", "S001215", "stevens.house.gov", "stevens", "https://stevens.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "September 25, 2026\n\nWASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 In case you missed it, Michigan Congresswoman Haley Stevens introduced the Blue Collar Social Security Fairness Act to lower the Social Security retirement age to 60 for workers in physically demanding careers.\n\nThe legislation would apply to physically demanding occupations, including jobs in manufacturing, construction, roofing, nursing, and more. The Social Security Administration would be responsible for identifying and regularly updating the list of qualifying occupations.\n\nHere\u2019s what Michiganders are seeing about Rep. Haley Stevens\u2019 Blue Collar Social Security Fairness Act:\n\nCNBC: New bill would lower Social Security retirement age for physically demanding jobs\n\nBy Lorie Konish\n\nRep. Haley Stevens, D-Mich., on Wednesday introduced a new bill that would lower Social Security\u2019s full retirement age for workers in physically demanding jobs.\n\nCurrently, the earliest Social Security retirement age is 62, though beneficiaries receive reduced monthly checks for starting that soon. By waiting until full retirement age \u2014 that\u2019s 67 for individuals born in 1960 or later \u2014 they may receive 100% of the benefits they\u2019ve earned.\n\nYet for blue-collar workers, staying longer in physically demanding jobs in order to reach those age milestones may be difficult, according to Stevens\u2019 proposal.\n\nIndividuals who have physically demanding jobs are at risk of exiting the workforce earlier than planned, which can interfere with their ability to have a secure retirement, according to 2022 research from the Schwartz Center for Economic Policy Analysis at The New School.\n\nCBS News: New bill would lower Social Security retirement age for some workers\n\nBy Mary Cunningham\n\nAmong the various proposals for bolstering Social Security is raising the retirement age at which Americans can claim full benefits. One lawmaker instead wants to lower it.\n\nStevens has said that lowering the retirement age for blue-collar workers is necessary to help those who may struggle working into their 60s, given that such jobs are often physically demanding.\n\n\"Michiganders who work with their hands shouldn't be forced to wait until their bodies give out to retire,\" she said in a statement on Thursday in unveiling the legislation in Washington, D.C.\n\nNewsweek: Millions of Americans Could Claim Social Security Early Under New Bill\n\nBy Aliss Hingham\n\nSome Americans working in physically demanding jobs could claim full Social Security retirement benefits at age 60 under a new bill introduced in Congress.\n\nThe proposal would create an exception to existing Social Security rules for workers who have spent enough of their careers in physically demanding jobs, allowing them to receive unreduced retirement benefits seven years before the current full retirement age.\n\n\u201cIf we want to honor the dignity of work in this country, we need to lower the retirement age for physical laborers,\u201d said Stevens.\n\nFast Company: Social Security retirement age would be lower for \u2018blue collar\u2019 workers under proposed bill: What that means\n\nBy Sarah Fielding\n\nAs things stand, any American born in 1960 or later can\u2019t access their full Social Security benefits until the age of 67. A new bill is hoping to change that.\n\n\u201cMichiganders who work with their hands shouldn\u2019t have to work until their bodies give out to retire,\u201d Stevens said in a statement shared on X. \u201cIf you put in the work, you deserve the retirement you earned.\u201d\n\nAlmost 40% of working U.S. civilians work a job that requires lifting, carrying, pushing, pulling, and other physically demanding activities.\n\nMLive: Proposal would lower Social Security\u2019s full retirement age to 60 for some workers\n\nBy Leada Gore\n\nA new proposal would lower Social Security\u2019s full retirement age for some workers in physically demanding jobs.\n\nRep. Haley Stevens, D-Michigan, introduced the \u2018Blue Collar Social Security Fairness Act\u2019 this week. The bill would change full retirement age (FRA) \u2013 the point at which people can qualify for full Social Security benefits \u2013 to 60 for people in fields such as construction, roofing, manufacturing and nursing.\n\nUnder the bill, the Social Security Administration would set a list of qualifying jobs and update it every three years.\n\nDeadline Detroit: Haley Stevens Introduces Bill To Lower the Social Security Age For Americans With Physically Demanding Jobs\n\nBy Allan Lengel\n\nDemocratic Congresswoman Haley Stevens on Wednesday announced proposed legislation \u2014 the Blue Collar Social Security Fairness Act \u2014 that would allow people with physically demanding jobs to collect full Social Security benefits at age 60.\n\n\u201cMichiganders who work with their hands shouldn\u2019t be forced to wait until their bodies give out to retire,\u201d Stevens said.\n\nThe Independent: New Social Security bill would lower retirement age to 60 for some workers\n\nBy Rachel Dobkin\n\nThe Blue Collar Social Security Fairness Act was introduced by Representative Haley Stevens, a Michigan Democrat, Thursday. The bill would allow Americans who work with their hands to collect full Social Security retirement benefits when they turn 60.\n\n\u201cI look forward to bringing together my colleagues in Congress to fix this glaring issue for Michigan workers, strengthen Social Security, and ensure its solvency for generations of Americans to come,\u201d said Stevens.\n\nThose eligible for full retirement benefits at 60 would include workers in construction, roofing, nursing, manufacturing and other physically demanding jobs\n\nWDIV-DET (NBC) \u2014 Detroit, MI\n\nA new bill in Congress could lower the full Social Security retirement age to 60 for some workers.\n\nMichigan Congresswoman Haley Stevens, introducing the Blue Collar Social Security Fairness Act, aimed at people in physically demanding jobs like construction, nursing and manufacturing.\n\nUnder this proposal, workers would need to work a certain amount of years in qualifying jobs to get those full benefits at 60, the current full retirement age is 67.\n\n###", 1, "2026-09-26T09:43:57Z", "2026-09-26T09:44:55Z"], ["https://trahan.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=3852", "Trahan, Pappas Lead Bipartisan Calls for RFK Jr. to Distribute Energy Assistance Funding Amid Rising Heating Costs", "2026-09-25", "2026", "2026-09", "Democrat", "House", "MA", "Lori Trahan", "T000482", "trahan.house.gov", "trahan", "https://trahan.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27", "scraper", "Today, Congresswoman Lori Trahan (MA-03), a member of the House Energy and Commerce Committee, and Congressman Chris Pappas (NH-01), led dozens of colleagues in a letter to U.S Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. demanding that funding from the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) be distributed to states no later than November 1, 2026, as required by the Continuing Appropriations and Extensions Act for FY 2027, in preparation for the coming colder season.\n\n\u201cWith a history of repeated funding delays by HHS to states, we are especially concerned for households facing high energy prices this winter who rely on LIHEAP. We appreciate the agency\u2019s responsiveness to Congressional requests for expeditious LIHEAP fund releases over Fiscal Year 2026, but with households facing skyrocketing high energy costs, it is of the utmost importance that the agency ensures funds are released on time and without congressional intervention through Fiscal Year 2027,\u201d the lawmakers wrote.\n\nSince February, crude oil prices have significantly increased, topping significantly more than $100 per barrel at its peaks in April 2026 and recently on September 15, 2026. These price spikes impact home heating oil prices especially, as it is refined from crude oil. While states do what they can to protect households with utility shutoff moratoriums throughout the coldest months out of the year, these moratoriums do not protect households who rely on home heating oil and face large upfront costs early in the season to fill their home heating oil tank,\u201d the lawmakers continued.\u201d\n\nThe Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) helps low-income Americans pay for heating or cooling bills as well as receive emergency services during an energy crisis. During the winter season, home heating can average $2,300. Since the start of the Iran war, energy bills have risen for families across America. In the Commonwealth, home heating oil prices jumped nearly 75% from a year ago. Over the past year, Massachusetts has received $163,276,528 in LIHEAP funding, including $6,492,479 from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law.\n\nThe letter sent today requests that funding for the upcoming fiscal year, which starts on October 1st, be released expeditiously.\n\nThe LIHEAP program has historically been underfunded, with just 20 percent of eligible households currently receiving assistance through the program each year on average. Despite a temporary increase in funding in the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, the program still hasn\u2019t met the need in states across the country. In 2023, Trahan spearheaded an effort to increase federal LIHEAP funding.", 1, "2026-09-26T09:43:57Z", "2026-09-26T09:44:55Z"], ["https://vindman.house.gov/2026/09/25/vindman-introduces-legislation-to-help-fund-childcare-for-first-responders/", "Vindman Introduces Legislation to Help Fund Childcare for First Responders", "2026-09-25", "2026", "2026-09", "Democrat", "House", "VA", "Eugene Simon Vindman", "V000138", "vindman.house.gov", "vindman", "https://vindman.house.gov/category/press-releases/", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Congressmen Eugene Vindman (Va.-07) and Don Davis (N.C.-01) today introduced the Providing Childcare for Firefighters and EMS Act, legislation that would help states fund childcare services for the minor children of firefighters, emergency medical technicians (EMTs), and paramedics during shift work and non-traditional hours.\n\n\u201cAs a father, I know how important reliable, affordable childcare really is for families across Virginia. Our community\u2019s firefighters, EMTs, and paramedics deserve to know their kids are taken care of when they answer the call to serve,\u201d said Vindman. \u201cThis legislation will support more childcare options for our neighbors that work long hours. I will always fight for Virginia\u2019s families and first responders to succeed.\u201d\n\nThe Providing Childcare for Firefighters and EMS Act would authorize the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) to award competitive grants to help states fund childcare programs tailored to the shift schedules and non-traditional work hours of covered first responders.\n\nGrants would be awarded for three-year periods, with matching requirements increasing over the course of the grant term. Eligible beneficiaries would include career and volunteer firefighters, certified emergency medical technicians, and licensed paramedics who are employed by or affiliated with state, local, tribal, or territorial agencies.\n\n\u201cFirst responders across eastern North Carolina work long shifts, nights, weekends, and holidays to keep our communities safe, but finding childcare that works around those hours can be a real challenge,\u201d said Davis. \u201cI am proud to co-lead the Providing Childcare for Firefighters and EMS Act to help communities expand childcare options that reflect the realities of first responders\u2019 schedules. Our firefighters, EMTs, and paramedics are there for us at all hours of the day, so we should ensure their families have the support they need to continue serving our communities.\u201d\n\nThis legislation is endorsed by the International Association of Fire Fighters (IAFF) and the Prince William County IAFF.\n\n\u201cIn more than two decades as a firefighter and paramedic, I\u2019ve watched talented colleagues walk away from this profession entirely because they couldn\u2019t reliably find childcare,\u201d said the Prince William County IAFF. \u201cOur work doesn\u2019t stop at 5 p.m. We work 24-hour shifts, often leaving home well before sunrise to report for duty, and we cover nights, weekends, and holidays. Traditional childcare simply isn\u2019t built for that. The Providing Child Care for Firefighters and EMS Act tackles a problem that\u2019s quietly costing us good people.\u201d\n\nBACKGROUND\n\nSince coming to Congress, Vindman has been a champion for law enforcement and first responders across Virginia and the United States.\n\nIn 2026, Vindman secured more than $2,750,000 for law enforcement and public safety projects in Virginia\u2019s Seventh District as part of a U.S. House-passed Fiscal Year (FY) 2026 appropriations bill.\n\nVindman has also led key congressional efforts \u2014 like the Nitazene Control Act, the Targeting Online Sales of Fentanyl Act, and the Enhancing Southbound Inspections to Combat Cartels Act \u2014 to give law enforcement the tools they need to tackle the fentanyl and nitazene crises.\n\nVindman has cosponsored the Providing Child Care for Police Officers Act, the Officer John Barnes and Chief Michael Ansbro Public Safety Officers\u2019 Benefits Program Expansion Act, and the COPS Reauthorization Act.\n\n###", 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