{"database": "press", "table": "releases", "is_view": false, "human_description_en": "where chamber = \"House\", party = \"Republican\" and state = \"AR\" sorted by date descending", "rows": [["https://westerman.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/westerman-cosponsors-introduction-bipartisan-legislation-support", "Westerman Cosponsors the Introduction of Bipartisan Legislation to Support Veterans' Right to Build Their Own Homes", "2026-09-28", "2026", "2026-09", "Republican", "House", "AR", "Bruce Westerman", "W000821", "westerman.house.gov", "westerman", "https://westerman.house.gov/media-center/press-releases", "scraper", "This week, Reps. Bruce Westerman (R-AR) and Marie Gluesenkamp Perez (D-WA) 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\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 Congressman 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\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 Congresswoman 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\nBackground:\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.", 1, "2026-09-29T11:07:12Z", "2026-09-29T11:08:49Z"], ["https://hill.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=10450", "RELEASE: HILL, LOCAL LEADERS ANNOUNCE $4.5 MILLION EDA GRANT FOR PORT OF LITTLE ROCK", "2026-09-25", "2026", "2026-09", "Republican", "House", "AR", "J. French Hill", "H001072", "hill.house.gov", "hill", "https://hill.house.gov/media-center/press-releases", "scraper", "Today, Rep. French Hill (AR-02) joined Little Rock Mayor Frank Scott Jr., Port of Little Rock Executive Director Bryan Day, Pulaski County Judge Barry Hyde, Little Rock Regional Chamber representatives, and state and local economic development leaders to announce a $4.5 million Economic Development Administration (EDA) grant for critical infrastructure improvements at the Port of Little Rock.\n\nThe grant will support construction of infrastructure that will provide secondary access to the southwest portion of the Port and a more direct route to Interstate 530. According to EDA, the project is estimated to create 1,050 new jobs and generate more than $1 billion in private investment.\n\nRep. French Hill said, \u201cThe Port is one of the great economic development assets in central Arkansas and across our state, with tremendous untapped potential, which is why I have worked for more than a decade to remove barriers to development so local leaders and private industry can put that potential to work for communities across central Arkansas. This $4.5 million federal grant will help Pulaski County continue that momentum by improving access to the Port and helping businesses take full advantage of its river, rail, road, and air connections, making the Port and central Arkansas even more attractive for businesses, investment, and jobs.\n\n\u201cI have been proud to work alongside Bryan Day, Judge Hyde, Mayor Scott, Jay Chesshir, and our state and local partners to advance this vision, and I look forward to continuing that work with them until the job is complete.\u201d\n\nLittle Rock Mayor Frank Scott Jr. said, \u201cI\u2019m grateful to the Economic Development Administration and our partners for their continued investment in Little Rock. Riverport Road Phase II will improve access to the Port and help connect our residents to high-wage, high-demand jobs. Together, we have secured more than $51 million in state and federal funding for infrastructure and Port projects since 2019. Each investment reinforces what makes Little Rock a unique platform for growth: rail, river, road, and runway coming together in one place. We are primed and poised for substantial growth, and this partnership helps us make the most of it.\u201d\n\nPulaski County Judge Barry Hyde said, \u201cThis may be a relatively short stretch of road, but what it connects us to is enormous. It will provide access to more than 1,000 new jobs, open the door to more than $1 billion in private investment, and make the Port of Little Rock even more attractive to businesses looking for a place to grow. Economic development does not happen by accident. It happens when people come together around a shared vision and keep moving it forward, and I\u2019m proud to be part of the team here in Pulaski County that has worked to turn that vision into reality. I want to thank Congressman Hill, Mayor Scott, Bryan Day, Jay Chesshir, and all of our state and local partners who have helped make this possible.\u201d\n\nLittle Rock Port Authority Executive Director Bryan Day said, \u201cEconomic development is a complex and competitive process. The construction of this road allows the Port of Little Rock to be more competitive and to be better prepared to attract industry from around the world. We are grateful to Congressman Hill and Pulaski County Judge Barry Hyde for their support of the Economic Development Administration grant. Roads are critical to job growth, and this project will see significant returns in the not-too-distant future.\u201d\n\nLittle Rock Regional Chamber CEO Jay Chesshir said, \u201cIndustrial-grade access to new and existing sites creates more quality jobs, capital investment and increased revenues for local government and school districts. Without this required infrastructure, companies choose to build elsewhere. Today\u2019s announcement is a great example of the teamwork it takes to invest in our future. Thank you to Representative French Hill for championing this grant to help fund the infrastructure. Our dedicated economic development team, led by County Judge Barry Hyde and Mayor Frank Scott, continues to produce success for the betterment of our citizens.\u201d\n\nBackground\n\nThe $4.5 million grant was awarded to Pulaski County through EDA\u2019s Fiscal Year 2025 Disaster Supplemental program. The total project cost is approximately $5.6 million.\n\nRep. Hill has worked with local, state, and federal partners for more than a decade to expand the Port of Little Rock\u2019s infrastructure and economic development capacity. Those efforts have included federal investments to expand dock and rail capacity, improve road infrastructure, expand barge fleeting capacity, and increase freight rail capacity.", 1, "2026-09-29T11:07:12Z", "2026-09-29T11:08:49Z"], ["https://womack.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=410980", "From the Front: September 25, 2026", "2026-09-25", "2026", "2026-09", "Republican", "House", "AR", "Steve Womack", "W000809", "womack.house.gov", "womack", "https://womack.house.gov/news", "scraper", "From the Front Newsletters\nFrom the Front: September 25, 2026\nShare on Facebook\nShare on X\nPrint this Page\nShare by Email\nWashington,\r\n      September 25, 2026\nClick here to read this edition.\nRead more.\nJOIN MY EMAIL LIST\nSUBSCRIBE", 1, "2026-09-29T11:07:12Z", "2026-09-29T11:08:49Z"], ["https://womack.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=410979", "Womack Presents Purple Heart Medal to Retired Army Staff Sergeant George F. O\u2019Dell", "2026-09-24", "2026", "2026-09", "Republican", "House", "AR", "Steve Womack", "W000809", "womack.house.gov", "womack", "https://womack.house.gov/news", "scraper", "BELLA VISTA, Arkansas\u2014September 24, 2026\u2026Today, Congressman Steve Womack (AR-3) presented the Purple Heart Medal to Retired Army Staff Sergeant George F. O\u2019Dell who was seriously injured while deployed to Iraq in 2009.\n\nThe Purple Heart Medal is awarded in the name of the President of the United States to servicemembers who are killed or wounded by enemy action. For unknown reasons, no award was made to SSG(R) O\u2019Dell in the years after his injury. In 2026, Congressman Womack advocated to the U.S. Army on behalf of SSG(R) O\u2019Dell for him to receive the Purple Heart Medal.\n\nCongressman Womack said, \u201cStaff Sergeant O\u2019Dell answered the call to serve his country, and because of his selfless service and personal courage, he suffered serious bodily harm. For too long, the record did not reflect that measure of devotion and sacrifice. Yet, despite the hardship and frustration that followed, Staff Sergeant O\u2019Dell never lost sight of his commitment to his country or his fellow veterans. No medal can erase the pain of an injury, and no ceremony can fully alleviate the burden carried by those who have seen combat or who have returned home changed by war. But recognition matters, and today, I am exceedingly proud to honor Staff Sergeant O\u2019Dell and to present him with the Purple Heart Medal on behalf of the President of the United States and a grateful nation.\u201d\n\nDetails:\n\nRetired Army Staff Sergeant George F. O\u2019Dell was born on January 8, 1966, in Newark, New Jersey. After graduating high school in 1984, he relocated to south Florida and enlisted in the United States Army in 1991.\n\nSSG(R) O\u2019Dell attended Basic Training and Advanced Individual Training at Fort Knox, Kentucky, where he became a 19D Cavalry Scout. In 1994, he reclassified at Fort McClellan, Alabama, where he became a 95B Military Police Officer. Assigned to the 978 Military Police Company, Fort Bliss, Texas, he deployed to Saudi Arabia and Kuwait in support of Operation Vigilant Warrior.\n\nAfter transitioning from active service into the United States Army Reserve in 1995, he reentered active service in 1997, attending training at Fort Sam Houston, Texas, where he became a 91B Combat Medic.\n\nIn 2008, while assigned to Carl R. Darnall Army Medical Center, Fort Hood, Texas, SSG(R) O\u2019Dell was attached to the 10th Combat Support Hospital, Fort Carson, and deployed to Baghdad, Iraq, in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom (OIF 08-10).\n\nWhile deployed, he served as the Critical Care Noncommissioned Officer-In-Charge. On July 8, 2009, while providing security and overwatch during an Iraqi patient ambulance exchange for transfer to an Iraqi hospital, SSG(R) O\u2019Dell sustained significant injuries when a vehicle-borne improvised explosive device detonated approximately 100 meters from his position.\n\nIn 2013, SSG(R) O\u2019Dell was medically discharged from the Army.\n\nSSG(R) O\u2019Dell and his wife Nancy are current residents of Pea Ridge. SSG(R) O\u2019Dellis an active volunteer with Sheep Dog Impact Assistance, a life member of Disabled American Veterans and the Veterans of Foreign Wars (Post 8109 Pea Ridge), as well as a member of American Legion Post 341 in Bella Vista.\n\nCongressman Steve Womack would like to extend special recognition and thanks to Sheep Dog Impact Assistance for their support and stewardship of the Veterans Wall of Honor.\n\nPhoto Highlights:\n\nCongressman Steve Womack (AR-3) has represented Arkansas\u2019s Third Congressional District since 2011. He is a member of the House Appropriations Committee.\n\nwomack.house.gov\n\n###", 1, "2026-09-25T10:04:52Z", "2026-09-25T10:05:46Z"], ["https://womack.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=410976", "From the Front: September 18, 2026", "2026-09-18", "2026", "2026-09", "Republican", "House", "AR", "Steve Womack", "W000809", "womack.house.gov", "womack", "https://womack.house.gov/news", "scraper", "From the Front Newsletters\nFrom the Front: September 18, 2026\nShare on Facebook\nShare on X\nPrint this Page\nShare by Email\nWashington,\r\n      September 18, 2026\nClick here to read this edition.\nRead more.\nJOIN MY EMAIL LIST\nSUBSCRIBE", 1, "2026-09-22T09:42:49Z", "2026-09-22T09:44:35Z"], ["https://womack.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=410975", "Womack Supports Sanctioning Russia\u2019s War Machine and Businesses Supporting Iran\u2019s Terror Regime", "2026-09-16", "2026", "2026-09", "Republican", "House", "AR", "Steve Womack", "W000809", "womack.house.gov", "womack", "https://womack.house.gov/news", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C.\u2014September 16, 2026\u2026Congressman Steve Womack (AR-3) today issued the statement below regarding his support for the Senate Amendment to H.R. 5334, the Lindsey O. Graham Sanctioning Russia and Iran Act of 2026. The legislation leverages expanded sanctions, trade measures, and financial restrictions to combat the economic backing of Russian aggression, in addition to extending the expiring Iran Sanctions Act (ISA) of 1996 through 2031.\n\nDue to a family member\u2019s serious medical issue, Congressman Womack was unable to be in D.C. to vote in support of the Senate Amendment to H.R. 5334. His intended YES vote has been entered into the Congressional Record.\n\nCongressman Womack said, \u201cHad I been in D.C. today, I would have voted in support of the Lindsey O. Graham Sanctioning Russia and Iran Act of 2026 because Russia\u2019s war machine is only as strong as its weakest link: its economic overdependence on energy exports. Today\u2019s bill targets this vulnerability and others\u2014hitting Moscow where it hurts. Combating Russian aggression and supporting Ukraine continues to be vital in protecting not only our national security but freedom around the globe.\u201d\n\nCongressman Womack continued, \u201cSimilarly, the legislation extends our longtime sanctions against foreign companies that fuel the Islamic regime in Iran, including their nuclear ambitions and state-sponsored terror. Together, these provisions tell the rest of the world that the United States will not tolerate those who enrich our adversaries and threaten global stability.\u201d\n\nCongressman Steve Womack (AR-3) has represented Arkansas\u2019s Third Congressional District since 2011. He is a member of the House Appropriations Committee.\n\nwomack.house.gov\n\n###", 1, "2026-09-17T09:52:05Z", "2026-09-17T09:53:00Z"], ["https://womack.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=410973", "Chairman Womack Questions FAA Administrator Bryan Bedford at Fiscal Year 2027 Budget Hearing", "2026-09-15", "2026", "2026-09", "Republican", "House", "AR", "Steve Womack", "W000809", "womack.house.gov", "womack", "https://womack.house.gov/news", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C.\u2014September 15, 2026\u2026Today, House Appropriations Transportation, Housing and Urban Development (THUD), and Related Agencies Subcommittee Chairman Steve Womack (AR-3) led a public hearing on the Federal Aviation Administration\u2019s (FAA) Fiscal Year 2027 budget request with Administrator Bryan Bedford serving as witness.\n\nChairman Womack delivered the following remarks during the hearing \u201cOur eye is on a common goal that benefits not just the traveling public, but the economy as a whole. If we all row in the same direction, we will build a truly modern, efficient, world-class system. [\u2026] I am pleased that our FY27 bill continues to provide the FAA with resources to modernize the system. The facilities and equipment funding in our bill, coupled with the reconciliation dollars, is giving the agency a strong downpayment to make our aviation system the gold standard of the world. [\u2026] This is a big undertaking, but I am confident that with good faith and hard work on both sides, we will get this right for the American people.\u201d\n\nHouse Appropriations Committee Chairman Tom Cole (OK-4) delivered the following remarks during the hearing, \u201cWhether at the gate, on the flight deck, in the skies above, or just landed\u2014your mission is clear: safety, security, and efficiency. Congress is here to reinforce those key pillars and provide the investment and oversight necessary to ensure the FAA has the resources, workforce, and capabilities to carry them out. When we discuss safeguarding our national airspace, supporting U.S. aviation manufacturing, overseeing drones, and advancing emerging technologies, I am proud to say this subcommittee does more than just talk about these priorities. We fund them. We oversee them. And we work to ensure America continues to lead the world in aviation.\u201d\n\nChairman Womack\u2019s full remarks as prepared are available HERE.\n\nA video of Chairman Womack\u2019s opening remarks is available HERE.\n\nA video of Chairman Womack\u2019s questions for Administrator Bedford can be found HERE.\n\nA full recording of the hearing is available HERE.\n\nCongressman Steve Womack (AR-3) has represented Arkansas\u2019s Third Congressional District since 2011. He is a member of the House Appropriations Committee.\n\nwomack.house.gov\n\n###", 1, "2026-09-16T09:43:13Z", "2026-09-16T09:44:22Z"], ["https://womack.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=410974", "From the Front: September 11, 2026", "2026-09-11", "2026", "2026-09", "Republican", "House", "AR", "Steve Womack", "W000809", "womack.house.gov", "womack", "https://womack.house.gov/news", "scraper", "From the Front Newsletters\nFrom the Front: September 11, 2026\nShare on Facebook\nShare on X\nPrint this Page\nShare by Email\nWashington,\r\n      September 11, 2026\nClick here to read this edition.\nRead more.\nJOIN MY EMAIL LIST\nSUBSCRIBE", 1, "2026-09-16T09:43:13Z", "2026-09-16T09:44:22Z"], ["https://womack.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=410971", "From the Front: September 4, 2026", "2026-09-04", "2026", "2026-09", "Republican", "House", "AR", "Steve Womack", "W000809", "womack.house.gov", "womack", "https://womack.house.gov/news", "scraper", "From the Front Newsletters\nFrom the Front: September 4, 2026\nShare on Facebook\nShare on X\nPrint this Page\nShare by Email\nWashington,\r\n      September 4, 2026\nClick here to read this edition.\nRead more.\nJOIN MY EMAIL LIST\nSUBSCRIBE", 1, "2026-09-09T09:27:09Z", "2026-09-09T09:29:04Z"], ["https://hill.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=10368", "RELEASE: HILL, BERA, VAN DREW, SHERMAN INTRODUCE BIPARTISAN RESOLUTION RECOGNIZING 80TH ANNIVERSARY OF FULBRIGHT PROGRAM", "2026-09-01", "2026", "2026-09", "Republican", "House", "AR", "J. French Hill", "H001072", "hill.house.gov", "hill", "https://hill.house.gov/media-center/press-releases", "scraper", "Rep. French Hill (R-AR-02), Rep. Ami Bera (D-CA-06), Rep. Jeff Van Drew (R-NJ-02), and Rep. Brad Sherman (D-CA-32) yesterday introduced H. Res. 1501, a bipartisan House companion to S. Res. 830, Recognizing the 80th anniversary of the Fulbright Program, introduced by Sen. John Boozman (R-AR) and Sen. Cory Booker (D-NJ).\n\nRep. French Hill said, \u201cThe Fulbright Program is one of Arkansas\u2019s great contributions to the world. For 80 years, Senator J. William Fulbright\u2019s vision has brought students, scholars, and professionals from around the globe together to learn from one another, strengthen international partnerships, and build greater understanding between nations. I'm proud to recognize this important milestone, celebrate the program\u2019s enduring contribution to American leadership around the world, and reaffirm Congress\u2019s support for its important work.\u201d\n\nRep. Ami Bera said, \u201cThe Fulbright Program represents the very best of American leadership by giving our nation\u2019s best and brightest the opportunity to experience other cultures, pursue world-class academic opportunities, and build lasting relationships abroad. I\u2019m proud to join my colleagues in recognizing this historic anniversary and reaffirming bipartisan support for the Fulbright Program and other educational and cultural exchanges that advance American interests abroad.\u201d\n\nRep. Jeff Van Drew said, \u201cSouth Jersey is home to incredible students and educators who understand that some of the best learning happens when you get outside of your comfort zone and experience the world firsthand. For 80 years, the Fulbright Program has given Americans that opportunity while allowing us to share our values with people around the world. I am proud to recognize this milestone and the generations of Americans who have represented our country through this program.\u201d\n\nRep. Brad Sherman said, \u201cIf Senator J. William Fulbright were with us today, he would be proud of the international scholarship and friendships that the Fulbright Program has made possible since he established it in 1946. Today, the Fulbright Program\u2019s modest investments in educational exchanges continue to yield incalculable goodwill towards the United States around the world. I am proud to help recognize 80 years of this important program.\u201d\n\nResolution overview:\n\nRecognizes the 80th anniversary of the Fulbright Program.\n\nEncourages Congress to support the work of the Fulbright Program and other educational and cultural affairs programs.\n\nCongratulates current and previous Fulbright award recipients.\n\nEncourages students, scholars, and professionals globally to engage and promote international understanding and partnership.\n\nBackground on Fulbright Program:\n\nOn Aug. 1, 1946, President Harry Truman signed former Arkansas Senator J. William Fulbright\u2019s legislation into law. That legislation created the Fulbright Program, which is an international exchange program designed to increase mutual understanding between the people of the U.S. and other countries. The Fulbright Program has educated more than 370,000 students from 165 countries, including 54 Nobel Laureates and 33 heads of state.\n\nIn 2016, Rep. French Hill led the House effort to recognize the 70th anniversary of the Fulbright Program, introducing a resolution commemorating the milestone and encouraging continued support for the program. Hill also sponsored the planting of an American elm on the U.S. Capitol Grounds in honor of the anniversary, joining members of the Arkansas congressional delegation, Fulbright scholars, and Harriet Fulbright for the dedication ceremony. The tree was planted in view of Senator Fulbright\u2019s former office in the Russell Senate Office Building.\n\nHill\u2019s resolution complemented a Senate effort led by fellow Arkansan Sen. John Boozman, whose resolution passed the Senate in July 2016.", 1, "2026-09-02T09:19:58Z", "2026-09-02T09:20:51Z"], ["https://womack.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=410944", "Womack Votes to Fund Government, Prevent End of Fiscal Year Shutdown", "2026-09-01", "2026", "2026-09", "Republican", "House", "AR", "Steve Womack", "W000809", "womack.house.gov", "womack", "https://womack.house.gov/news", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C.\u2014September 1, 2026\u2026Congressman Steve Womack (AR-3) today voted in support of the Senate Amendments to H.R. 6500\u2013The Continuing Appropriations Act, 2027. This continuing resolution funds the federal government through December 11, 2026.\n\nCongressman Womack said, \u201cWhile Congress should always prioritize passing full-year appropriations before the fiscal year ends, another government shutdown would be far worse for the American people. But let\u2019s be clear about what happens next: We cannot allow this additional time to pass only to end up in the same situation. Congress must make progress towards funding agreements that can be approved by both chambers and signed into law, providing American taxpayers a functioning government.\u201d\n\nThe bill text is available HERE.\n\nCongressman Steve Womack (AR-3) has represented Arkansas\u2019s Third Congressional District since 2011. He is a member of the House Appropriations Committee.\n\nwomack.house.gov\n\n###", 1, "2026-09-02T09:19:58Z", "2026-09-02T09:20:51Z"], ["https://womack.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=410943", "From the Front: August 28, 2026", "2026-08-28", "2026", "2026-08", "Republican", "House", "AR", "Steve Womack", "W000809", "womack.house.gov", "womack", "https://womack.house.gov/news", "scraper", "From the Front Newsletters\nFrom the Front: August 28, 2026\nShare on Facebook\nShare on X\nPrint this Page\nShare by Email\nWashington,\r\n      August 28, 2026\nClick here to read this edition.\nRead more.\nJOIN MY EMAIL LIST\nSUBSCRIBE", 1, "2026-09-01T09:48:49Z", "2026-09-01T09:49:51Z"], ["https://hill.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=10369", "RELEASE: REP. HILL AWARDS USPS HIS GOLDEN FLEECE AWARD FOR FAILING TO STOP FRAUDULENT POSTAGE", "2026-08-28", "2026", "2026-08", "Republican", "House", "AR", "J. French Hill", "H001072", "hill.house.gov", "hill", "https://hill.house.gov/media-center/press-releases", "scraper", "Today, Rep. French Hill (AR-02) announced the United States Postal Service (USPS) is the latest recipient of his Golden Fleece Award for failing to properly identify and stop fraudulent postage.\n\nThe United States Postal Service Inspector General found that the USPS struggled to intercept packages and letters going through its sorting and shipping process that had invalid or fraudulent postage. This puts the USPS and the services it provides at risk as over $1.7 billion is estimated to be lost yearly to fraudulent stamps or postage. This is revenue that the USPS could be using to reduce its $9 billion loss posted in 2025.\n\nRep. Hill said, \u201cThe USPS no doubt provides important services, especially for rural central Arkansans who rely on it to deliver everything from letters to medicine. But at a time when the USPS is posting yearly losses and the package transportation industry is becoming more dynamic, the USPS must adapt. Commonsense steps can be taken to stop the bleeding, and USPS already has statutory authorities to do so. While I am encouraged to see USPS agree with the recommendations the Inspector General has made, they must go further and rigorously follow through.\u201d\n\nIn his letter to Postmaster General David Steiner, Rep. Hill writes:\n\nDear Postmaster General Steiner\n\nI am writing today to inform you that the United States Postal Service (USPS) is this month\u2019s recipient of my Golden Fleece Award. I am awarding this to USPS because of its inability to detect and properly stop counterfeit postage.\n\nUSPS is an important facilitator of connection and commerce for the United States. A secure and effective USPS benefits all Americans. That is why I am troubled by reports that the USPS has insufficient controls in place to detect and stop counterfeit postage from being used. This includes postage for small envelopes and larger packages.\n\nReports from the Inspector General of the USPS estimate that $1.7 billion could be lost due to counterfeit stamps. It may be that the USPS Advanced Facer Canceller Systems (AFCS), which is used to read stamps and labels, is not adequate by itself to detect and intercept fraudulent postage. In fact, during an audit conducted by the Inspector General of the USPS, the AFCS did not catch a single piece of fraudulent postage when running in its low-revenue protection mode. This mode improves mail processing speed, but it checks only one of two possible tests and is clearly not effective.\n\nOther alerts by the Inspector General of the USPS have indicated that the USPS also struggles to detect counterfeit labels and postage for larger packages. These findings are especially troubling since criminals could exploit this loophole to ship illegal or illicit materials at no cost and courtesy of the USPS. From 2024 to 2025, package and shipping revenue made up roughly $9 billion of the $22 billion USPS generated in revenue, the largest single line of service by revenue. If the USPS cannot adequately capture revenue from this service, it will be increasingly difficult to maintain its viability, and commerce will suffer as a result.\n\nDespite technical limitations like the AFCS, the USPS also appears to struggle with prosecuting the creators of fraudulent postage. I am pleased that USPS will be improving its fraudulent postage enforcement activities under existing legal authorities like the Lanham Act. Under this authority, the USPS has prosecuted individuals who used USPS logos without authorization. To tackle this challenge, the USPS will need to use all of its statutory authorities.\n\nThe challenges faced by the USPS are existential. In 2025, the USPS reported a $9 billion net loss and a $2.7 billion controllable net loss. While this is an improvement over 2024 financial results, this is not sustainable, and the USPS must do everything it can to ensure its long-term viability.\n\nWhile I recognize some of the Inspector General of the USPS\u2019 recommendations to tackle fraudulent postage will cost money, implementing them would improve the USPS\u2019 ability to capture revenue and offset some of this loss. That said, I urge the USPS to seriously heed the Inspector General's concerns and implement their recommendations immediately.\n\nWhile the USPS is funded by its sales and operations, it should be a better steward of its resources to ensure those funds are not wasted. Should you require additional authority from Congress, I ask that you notify me. I look forward to working with you.\n\nSincerely,\n\nFrench Hill\n\nMember of Congress\n\nCC: Inspector Gary Barksdale, Chief Postal Inspector; Inspector General Tammy Hull, Inspector General of the United States Postal Service", 1, "2026-09-02T09:19:58Z", "2026-09-02T09:20:51Z"], ["https://womack.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=410937", "Womack Hosts House Armed Services Committee Chairman Mike Rogers in Arkansas\u2019s Third District", "2026-08-27", "2026", "2026-08", "Republican", "House", "AR", "Steve Womack", "W000809", "womack.house.gov", "womack", "https://womack.house.gov/news", "scraper", "ARKANSAS\u2014August 27, 2026... Senior member of the House Appropriations Defense Subcommittee Congressman Steve Womack (AR-3) welcomed House Armed Services Committee Chairman Mike Rogers (AL-3) to Arkansas\u2019s Third Congressional District this week. Together, they visited key locations and met with individuals who are contributing to a stronger national defense through advancing research and innovation, as well as bolstering military readiness and global alliances.\n\nCongressman Womack said, \u201cIt brings me incredible pride to welcome Chairman Mike Rogers to the Third District and showcase how Northwest Arkansas and the River Valley are integral partners in strengthening our national defense. Chairman Rogers\u2019 leadership in guiding defense policy is crucial to Congress\u2019 efforts to meet the evolving needs of our military, and I am proud of the work happening across our region to support our men and women in uniform. From executing critical missions to developing cutting-edge technologies and capabilities, our district is helping ensure our servicemembers are equipped and prepared to meet emerging threats.\u201d\n\nChairman Rogers said, \u201cI was excited to visit Arkansas\u2019s Third Congressional District with my friend, Rep. Steve Womack. The U.S. defense industrial base is growing for the first time in many years, and districts like ours are the hub of this innovation. I am thankful to Rep. Womack for his leadership and his steadfast support for our nation\u2019s defense.\u201d\n\nChairman Rogers oversees the drafting of the annual National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) that authorizes defense policy and spending for the next year. As a senior defense appropriator, Rep. Womack builds on the authorities established in the NDAA to allocate funding to the Department of War (DOW). Rep. Womack has worked closely with Chairman Rogers to secure language to strengthen Arkansas defense equities in the annual NDAA. Read more HERE.\n\nVisit Highlights\n\nDuring a working lunch at the University of Arkansas, Rep. Womack and Chairman Rogers discussed strategies for safely and efficiently transporting troops and the resources they depend on in contested environments\u2014the central focus of the Sam M. Walton College of Business\u2019 upcoming Contested Logistics Consortium. This event will leverage Northwest Arkansas\u2019s supply chain expertise to help address the complex logistics challenges facing our military.\n\nRep. Womack and Chairman Rogers toured the Grady E. Harvell Civil Engineering Research and Education Center (CEREC) laboratories where students and researchers are developing rapid-setting cement and other innovative solutions to help our military deploy resources and infrastructure quickly and safely.\n\nAt the Multi-User Silicon Carbide (MUSiC) Research and Fabrication Laboratory, Rep. Womack and Chairman Rogers saw firsthand how students and researchers are testing the next generation of Silicon Carbide (SiC) electronics to ensure our military always has the technological edge.\n\nRep. Womack and Chairman Rogers participated in a fireside chat moderated by Arkansas State Chamber of Commerce CEO Randy Zook at the 2026 Mid-America Aerospace and Defense Summit. During their discussion, Rep. Womack highlighted the importance of revitalizing the defense industrial base and maximizing defense spending.\n\nAt Ebbing Air National Guard Base, Rep. Womack and Chairman Rogers engaged with commanders of the Arkansas National Guard and 188th Wing\u2014including BG Chad Bridges, CMSgt Scott Manamon, Col. Daniel Wynn, Col. Jonathan Esparza, and CMSgt Jeffrey Weaver\u2014who showcased how the 188th Wing\u2019s current Remote Piloted Aircraft activities and Foreign Military Sales (FMS) F-35 mission are strengthening military readiness and global alliances.\n\nCongressman Steve Womack (AR-3) has represented Arkansas\u2019s Third Congressional District since 2011. He is a member of the House Appropriations Committee.\n\nwomack.house.gov\n\n###", 1, "2026-08-27T16:10:01Z", "2026-08-27T16:10:50Z"], ["https://womack.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=410930", "From the Front: August 21, 2026", "2026-08-21", "2026", "2026-08", "Republican", "House", "AR", "Steve Womack", "W000809", "womack.house.gov", "womack", "https://womack.house.gov/news", "scraper", "From the Front Newsletters\nFrom the Front: August 21, 2026\nShare on Facebook\nShare on X\nPrint this Page\nShare by Email\nWashington,\r\n      August 21, 2026\nClick here to read this edition.\nRead more.\nJOIN MY EMAIL LIST\nSUBSCRIBE", 1, "2026-08-25T05:31:37Z", "2026-08-25T05:33:09Z"], ["https://womack.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=410928", "What They Are Saying: Leaders Stress Need for Womack\u2019s Budgeting for a Better America Act as National Debt Hits $40 Trillion", "2026-08-19", "2026", "2026-08", "Republican", "House", "AR", "Steve Womack", "W000809", "womack.house.gov", "womack", "https://womack.house.gov/news", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C.\u2014August 19, 2026\u2026Representatives Steve Womack (AR-3), Ed Case (HI-1), Bill Huizenga (MI-4), and Scott Peters (CA-50) recently introduced the Budgeting for a Better America Act. This bill would require Congress to adopt a biennial budget framework, establish a bipartisan fiscal commission, and implement other good governance reforms.\n\nThe time for reform is now as the national debt surpassed $40 trillion this week.\n\nIn response to this grim milestone, Congressman Womack said, \u201cThis is yet another sobering realization for lawmakers that we can no longer delay addressing the fiscal state of our nation. Our record level of debt threatens our national security, strains our vital safety net programs, and creates a cascade of negative consequences for Americans from Main Street to Wall Street. Congress must come together expeditiously to pursue bipartisan solutions that responsibly rein in runaway spending before it is too late\u2013the future prosperity of our nation depends on it.\u201d\n\nIn 2018 as House Budget Committee Chairman, Congressman Womack led the Joint Select Committee on Budget and Appropriations Process Reform tasked with addressing Congress\u2019 broken budget process. Building on the Committee\u2019s recommendations, the Budgeting for a Better America Act incorporates additional reforms to improve transparency and develop policies to address the long-term debt.\n\nHere\u2019s what leading experts across the country are saying:\n\nMaya MacGuineas, President of Committee for a Responsible Federal Budget, said, \u201cRepresentatives Womack, Case, Huizenga, and Peters, along with other supporters, deserve real credit for putting forward a serious bipartisan bill to help Congress budget more responsibly. It is especially encouraging to see leaders in the Bipartisan Fiscal Forum continue advancing constructive, bipartisan ideas to improve the budget process and confront our fiscal challenges. Getting back to a responsible budget will not be easy, and tough choices still lie ahead, but improving the budget process and creating a credible commission are important steps in the right direction.\u201d\n\nLeon Panetta, former Director of the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) and former Chairman of the House Budget Committee, said, \u201cIn our democracy, we govern either by leadership or by crisis. For too long, Washington has governed by crisis, delaying the hard fiscal decisions until the last minute while our debt climbs to record levels and the current budget process has stopped working. This is not sustainable and threatens the future of our economy, our national security, and the promise that our children can have a better, more prosperous life. I commend Representatives Womack, Peters, Huizenga, and Case for their courage to lead. Their Budgeting for a Better America Act would create a bipartisan path to stabilize the debt, improve our budget process, and empower Congress with the tools and foresight needed to confront our long-term challenges before they become a crisis.\u201d\n\nRob Portman, former Director of OMB and former senator from Ohio, said, \u201cAs a former Director of OMB and a former member of the House and Senate Budget Committees, I know firsthand the difficulties Congress faces in getting our fiscal house in order. It is clear we need creative solutions addressing the shortfalls in our current budget and appropriations process, and this legislation provides that path forward. The Budgeting for a Better America Act is an all of the above approach. It addresses the delays that plague our current budgeting process, asks more of our budget resolutions to ensure Congress has the full fiscal picture, and shines light on the nation's long-term fiscal outlook\u2014making members accountable for our untenable fiscal state. I thank Representatives Womack, Case, Huizenga, and Peters for their work on this legislation.\u201d\n\nJohn Yarmuth, former Chairman of the House Budget Committee, said, \u201cI strongly support the Budgeting for a Better America Act by Representatives Womack, Peters, Huizenga, and Case. Congressman Womack and I worked together on this legislation in the 117th Congress in order to promote a more thoughtful and farsighted perspective on our national finances. Annual budgeting has failed to be a sensible and effective process, and it is time to try a new approach.\u201d\n\nAsa Hutchinson, former Governor of Arkansas and former member of Congress, said, \u201cThe challenge of deficit federal spending has been neglected for over 25 years. Our budget was last balanced at the turn of the century when our country was debating the threat of Y2K. The deficit crisis is a fixable problem, and the Budgeting for a Better America Act is a bold bipartisan strategy that will work. The legislation gives Congress a biennium budget, specific deficit reduction targets, and a Fiscal Commission to provide longer term solutions to our debt crisis. I fully support Representatives Womack, Peters, Huizenga, and Case for their work and thank them for their courage to lead this effort.\u201d\n\nMichele Stockwell, President of Bipartisan Policy Center (BPC) Action, said, \u201cCongress needs a budget process that clearly presents the nation\u2019s fiscal challenges and adequately focuses on long-term planning. The Budgeting for a Better America Act advances practical reforms to strengthen fiscal transparency, improve budget planning, and create a bipartisan process for addressing the nation\u2019s growing debt. BPC Action supports this thoughtful bill by Representatives Womack, Case, Huizenga, and Peters.\u201d\n\nMatthew Dickerson, President of Baseline Policy, said, \u201cThe 50-year-old federal budget process is outdated and clearly broken. Our national debt is growing unsustainably and putting America\u2019s prosperity at risk. The Budgeting for a Better America Act, led by Representatives Steve Womack, Scott Peters, Ed Case, and Bill Huizenga, is important bipartisan legislation that would help bring transparency to the budget process and a much-needed focus on addressing today\u2019s fiscal challenges.\u201d\n\nKent Conrad, former Senate Budget Committee Chairman, said, \u201cA well-functioning budget process is necessary for a functioning federal government. However, the current federal budget process is little more than a charade, and America is denied the opportunity to have a fiscal blueprint for the country. I know these problems firsthand from my years as Chairman of the Senate Budget Committee, and I know they can be fixed. I commend Representatives Womack, Peters, Huizenga, and Case for proposing their bipartisan Budgeting for a Better America Act. It advances practical reforms, such as a move to biennial budgeting, and would establish a bipartisan fiscal commission to stabilize the debt. These reforms will not solve every fiscal challenge we face, but they give Congress the tools to finally address them.\u201d\n\nDr. Douglas Holtz-Eakin, former Director of the Congressional Budget Office (CBO) and President of American Action Forum, said, \u201cThree truths are unavoidable. First, the U.S. has a dangerous federal debt problem. Second, the current budget process has failed to prevent the emergence of this threat. Third, it is hard to imagine dramatically improving the outlook without wholesale changes to the budget process. The bipartisan Budgeting for a Better America Act is a valuable set of tools\u2014 biennial budgeting, fiscal targets, a commission of experts\u2014to address this great challenge. Congress should waste no time in reforming the budget process and getting to work on reducing the danger posed by the federal debt.\"\n\nDr. Carolyn Bourdeaux, Executive Director of Concord Action, said, \u201cThe Budgeting for a Better America Act is a serious, bipartisan step toward restoring fiscal responsibility. Key provisions include moving to a biennial budget and establishing a credible fiscal commission focused on reducing the deficit to 3 percent of GDP. Concord Action supports this effort to bring greater transparency, accountability, and long\u2011range planning back into the federal budget process.\u201d\n\nAllan B. Hubbard, former Director of the National Economic Council, said, \u201cI commend Congressman Steve Womack for tackling our budget deficit through the Budgeting for a Better America Act. Our current budget trajectory is guaranteed to bankrupt our country and diminish the standard of living for all Americans. A responsible Congress and a responsible President would support his effort.\u201d\n\nBen Ritz, Vice President of Policy Development at the Progressive Policy Institute, said, \u201cIt's no secret that the current budget process isn't working for a Congress that refuses to follow it. Instead of carefully deliberating fiscal tradeoffs, today's lawmakers routinely dither past deadlines and pile on debt. The Budgeting for a Better America Act offers one possible vision for reform that is long overdue.\u201d\n\nBrett Loper, Executive Director of Peterson Solutions Fund, said, \u201cRight now, the United States is adding trillion after trillion to our national debt with seemingly no plan in place for the future. The Budgeting for a Better America Act is common sense, bipartisan legislation that would help fix our broken budget process. In particular, a bipartisan fiscal commission dedicated to reforms that would bring our deficit-to-GDP down to 3 percent would be a meaningful step forward for our fiscal and economic future.\u201d\n\nTom Kahn, former Staff Director of the House Budget Committee from 1997-2016, said, \u201cOur national debt is on an unsustainable trajectory which is detrimental to the economic future of our country. The time is long overdue for Congress and the President to act. I commend the authors of this measure for their leadership in advancing a serious and credible legislative effort to address the problem.\u201d\n\nWill McBride, Chief Economist at the Tax Foundation, said, \u201cThe weaknesses of the budget process have become increasingly apparent over the last 50 years, as the major drivers of federal spending and debt have been left to grow on autopilot. A bipartisan fiscal commission provides an opportunity to break through the impasse and find real solutions that would put the debt on a sustainable course.\u201d\n\nWilliam A. Galston, Senior Fellow at The Brookings Institution*, said, \u201cThe Budgeting for a Better America Act would move the United States toward a sustainable long-term fiscal course and help renew confidence, at home and abroad, in our ability to govern ourselves.\u201d\n\nDemian Brady, Vice President of Research at the National Taxpayers Union Foundation, said, \u201cThe Budgeting for a Better America Act clearly addresses the fundamental weakness that have undermined congressional budgeting for decades. While any meaningful fiscal reforms will ultimately depend on congressional action, this legislation provides a framework that encourages earlier and more accountable budget decisions. At a time of trillion-dollar deficits, rising interest costs, and the approaching insolvency of the Medicare and Social Security trust funds, Congress cannot afford to continue budgeting from one deadline to the next. This bipartisan legislation would provide Congress with a more transparent, accountable, and forward-looking framework for confronting the nation\u2019s fiscal challenges.\u201d\n\n*Institutional affiliation for identification purposes only.\n\nA one-pager is available HERE.\n\nA section-by-section bill summary is available HERE.\n\nThe bill text is available HERE.\n\nCongressman Steve Womack (AR-3) has represented Arkansas\u2019s Third Congressional District since 2011. He is a member of the House Appropriations Committee.\n\nwomack.house.gov\n\n###", 1, "2026-08-20T05:28:41Z", "2026-08-20T05:29:58Z"], ["https://hill.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=10354", "RELEASE: REP. HILL AWARDS GOLDEN FLEECE TO FAA AND TSA FOR GAPS IN CYBERSECURITY", "2026-08-17", "2026", "2026-08", "Republican", "House", "AR", "J. French Hill", "H001072", "hill.house.gov", "hill", "https://hill.house.gov/media-center/press-releases", "scraper", "Rep. French Hill (AR-02) today announced that the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) are the latest recipients of his Golden Fleece Award for recently identified shortcomings in their oversight of aviation cybersecurity risks.According to GAO, nearly 44,000 flights carrying 3 million passengers fly the skies of the United States every day. As aviation systems become increasingly connected, protecting avionics and ground systems from cyber threats is essential to maintaining the safety and reliability of America\u2019s aerospace.\n\nRep. Hill said, \"Air travel is an essential part of American life and critical to the economic health of our nation. It's imperative that passengers, as well as pilots and flight attendants, have confidence that we\u2019re doing everything in our power to make sure they take off and land safely. Guarding the cyber systems that keep our nation's aviation infrastructure protected is a major part of that effort. While the FAA and TSA have taken steps to address cybersecurity challenges, gaps remain that require continued attention. Federal agencies responsible for keeping our planes flying must ensure they have defined responsibilities and effective risk management practices in place.\"\n\nIn his letter to Federal Aviation Administration Chief Information Security Officer Gina Fisk, Rep. Hill writes:\n\nDear Director Fisk,\n\nI write to inform you that the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) are the latest recipients of my Golden Fleece Award for shortcomings in their cybersecurity strategies. Nearly 44,000 flights and 3 million passengers travel through the National Airspace System (NAS) each day, underscoring the need for robust cybersecurity as avionics and ground systems become increasingly interconnected.\n\nBetween 2020 and 2025, the aerospace sector reported nearly 2,000 cybersecurity incidents to the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA). These incidents highlighted vulnerabilities such as inadequate software patching, internet-accessible operational technology, outdated software, vulnerable remote services that could enable unauthorized access to avionics, and ground systems or manipulation of critical information.\n\nThe Departments of Transportation (DOT) and Homeland Security (DHS) share responsibility for overseeing cybersecurity risk across America's transportation sector. Their authorities are established through federal statutes, including Federal Information Security Modernization Act (FISMA), the FAA Extension, Safety, and Security Act of 2016, and the FAA Reauthorization Act of 2024. The National Institute of Standards and Technology's (NIST) Cybersecurity Framework (CSF) 2.0 further provides guidance for managing cybersecurity risk and transitioning to a Zero Trust architecture.\n\nWhile the FAA's cybersecurity strategy clearly defines agency roles and responsibilities, comparable TSA planning documents do not. For example, the TSA Strategy for 2018\u20132026 does not explicitly establish cybersecurity-specific goals or objectives to support aviation security. Moreover, it is no longer fully aligned with DHS's broader cybersecurity strategy. Other planning documents, including Administrator's Intent 3.0 and the 2018 TSA Cybersecurity Roadmap, similarly lack clear objectives and fail to define TSA's roles and responsibilities for overseeing airport and aircraft cybersecurity programs.\n\nThese documents also do not clearly identify the offices responsible for implementing their stated goals and objectives. Although Administrator's Intent 3.0 directed TSA to update its cybersecurity roadmap between 2018 and 2026, the agency has yet to do so.\n\nThe absence of clearly defined cybersecurity roles has contributed to confusion among manufacturers, airlines, and other aviation stakeholders regarding TSA's cybersecurity responsibilities. Although FAA has defined its role, greater interagency clarity would strengthen coordination across the aviation sector.\n\nThe Office of Management and Budget (OMB) requires agencies to report cybersecurity expenditures through the Cyber Budget Data Request process to inform the President's budget. However, FAA did not report complete information on its Information Security/Cybersecurity Program because it was not required to report all cybersecurity spending. Consequently, the Administration and Congress could lack a complete understanding of the agency's cybersecurity investments, including research and development activities.\n\nWhile the FAA's Cybersecurity Strategy aligns with several federal Zero Trust practices, it does not fully align with NIST's Zero Trust Architecture guidance. The strategy fully aligns with only three of seven identified practices, and partially addresses the remaining four. Full implementation is necessary to effectively manage cybersecurity risks.\n\nI appreciate the FAA's efforts to implement federal and industry best practices to mitigate cybersecurity vulnerabilities affecting avionics and ground systems. The FAA must continue implementing its cybersecurity posture to ensure the safety, security, and resilience of the National Airspace System.\n\nIf additional statutory authority is necessary to address these concerns, I encourage you to notify me promptly. I also welcome any technical assistance the FAA can provide to assist Congress in addressing these issues. Thank you for your attention to this matter.\n\nSincerely,", 1, "2026-08-26T05:33:32Z", "2026-08-26T05:34:56Z"], ["https://womack.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=410929", "From the Front: August 14, 2026", "2026-08-14", "2026", "2026-08", "Republican", "House", "AR", "Steve Womack", "W000809", "womack.house.gov", "womack", "https://womack.house.gov/news", "scraper", "From the Front Newsletters\nFrom the Front: August 14, 2026\nShare on Facebook\nShare on X\nPrint this Page\nShare by Email\nWashington,\r\n      August 14, 2026\nClick here to read this edition.\nRead more.\nJOIN MY EMAIL LIST\nSUBSCRIBE", 1, "2026-08-25T05:31:37Z", "2026-08-25T05:33:09Z"], ["https://womack.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=410927", "From the Front: August 7, 2026", "2026-08-07", "2026", "2026-08", "Republican", "House", "AR", "Steve Womack", "W000809", "womack.house.gov", "womack", "https://womack.house.gov/news", "scraper", "Press Releases\nFrom the Front: August 7, 2026\nShare on Facebook\nShare on X\nPrint this Page\nShare by Email\nWashington,\r\n      August 7, 2026\nClick here to read this edition.\nRead more.\nJOIN MY EMAIL LIST\nSUBSCRIBE", 1, "2026-08-11T05:54:29Z", "2026-08-11T05:56:25Z"], ["https://womack.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=410923", "Womack Remembers Tommy Ratzlaff, John Brown, and 28 American Servicemembers Who Perished 15 Years Ago in Extortion 17 Shootdown", "2026-08-06", "2026", "2026-08", "Republican", "House", "AR", "Steve Womack", "W000809", "womack.house.gov", "womack", "https://womack.house.gov/news", "scraper", "ARKANSAS\u2014August 6, 2026\u2026Fifteen years ago, on August 6, 2011, a U.S. Army CH-47D Chinook helicopter with the call sign Extortion 17 was shot down by Taliban insurgents in Afghanistan. All 38 people on board were killed, including Special Warfare Operator Senior Chief Petty Officer (SEAL) Thomas A. Ratzlaff of Green Forest and Air Force Tech. Sgt. Pararescueman John W. Brown of Siloam Springs. The downing of Extortion 17 is the largest single-incident loss of life during the War in Afghanistan.\n\nRemembering the tragedy, Congressman Womack said, \u201cToday, we remember the thirty United States servicemembers aboard Extortion 17 who lost their lives in defense of our nation while aiding fellow troops under fire. I especially honor the two exceptional men from Northwest Arkansas, Thomas A. Ratzlaff and John W. Brown, who gave the last full measure of devotion for our country that day.\u201d\n\nWomack continued, \u201cRatzlaff was lauded as a skilled Navy SEAL who exhibited excellence in every mission he executed. Brown embodied the courage and precision required to be a warrior-medic in his duties as a pararescueman. These men exemplified service and duty, sacrificing their lives in devotion to something greater than themselves\u2014a sacrifice that speaks to their extraordinary level of character and bravery.\u201d\n\nWomack concluded, \u201cJohn Brown and Thomas Ratzlaff\u2019s legacy of courage and selfless service endures in the young men and women\u2014many from Northwest Arkansas\u2014who have sworn an oath to defend the United States against all enemies, foreign and domestic. We are forever indebted to the sacrifices made by them and the other 28 fallen American servicemembers aboard Extortion 17, and their families, and we will never forget.\u201d\n\nBackground:\n\nOn August 5, 2011, American intelligence determined that a senior Taliban leader, Qari Tahir, was operating in Tangi Valley, Wardak province, Afghanistan. A capture or kill order was subsequently given, and that night, a platoon of U.S. Army Rangers were deployed from a Forward Operating Base (FOB) in neighboring Logar province to execute the mission.\n\nAfter the U.S. Army Rangers infiltration, support intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance (ISR) aircraft reported several people leaving the compound where it was believed Tahir was located. The U.S. Army Rangers, focused on finding Tahir, did not engage this small contingent of insurgents.\n\nISR aircraft began noticing this group of insurgents growing, and intelligence suggested that Tahir may have escaped the compound and joined the group. This prompted American leadership to determine reinforcements were required. Their mission would be to focus on this separate contingent.\n\nJust after midnight, a group of Navy SEALs in reserve were activated to reinforce the U.S. Army Rangers as part of an Immediate Reaction Force (IRF). SOCS Thomas Ratzlaff was one of the U.S. Navy SEALs assigned to this team. In addition, before departing the FOB, a group of non-Navy SEAL reinforcements were added to the IRF. Tech. Sgt. John Brown was a member of this non-Navy SEAL group.\n\nThe IRF set off from the FOB with two CH-47D aircraft, call signs \u201cExtortion 16\u201d and \u201cExtortion 17\u201d. Extortion 16 acted as a decoy for the duration of the flight, while Extortion 17 held the entire IRF. Before making its final approach, Extortion 16 broke off and began its return to the FOB.\n\nAt approximately 2:38 a.m. local time, Extortion 17 was making its final approach. One minute from the landing zone, the aircraft made its last radio transmission.\n\nThe group of separate insurgents, just minutes before, had broken into two separate groups. One group stayed in the trees. The other entered a building in the compound, located about 2 kilometers away from where the U.S. Army Rangers were engaged.\n\nAs the aircraft made its approach, a rocket-propelled grenade was launched at the aircraft by a group of insurgents previously unknown and unaffiliated with the splintered insurgents intelligence was tracking. Striking the aft rotor assembly, the aircraft was immediately disabled and crashed within seconds of being struck.\n\nTwo hours later, at around 4:15 a.m. local time, the U.S. Army Rangers arrived at the crash site after concluding their mission. No survivors were found.\n\nQari Tahir was never captured.\n\nDays after the incident, General John Allen, the U.S. Commander in Afghanistan, stated that the militants who had shot down Extortion 17 had been tracked down and killed in a NATO airstrike.\n\nOn September 21, over a month later, the NATO-led International Security Assistance Force (ISAF) reported that Qari Tahir and an associate were located in a dry riverbed in Sayd Abad district. A precision airstrike was conducted, targeting Tahir.\n\nOn September 22, it was widely reported that Tahir was killed in the strike.\n\nThe Extortion 17 incident represents the largest single-incident loss of lives during the War in Afghanistan.\n\nPhotos:\n\nCongressman Steve Womack (AR-3) has represented Arkansas\u2019s Third Congressional District since 2011. He is a member of the House Appropriations Committee.\n\nwomack.house.gov\n\n###", 1, "2026-08-07T06:11:19Z", "2026-08-07T06:12:42Z"], ["https://womack.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=410891", "From the Front: July 31, 2026", "2026-07-31", "2026", "2026-07", "Republican", "House", "AR", "Steve Womack", "W000809", "womack.house.gov", "womack", "https://womack.house.gov/news", "scraper", "From the Front Newsletters\nFrom the Front: July 31, 2026\nShare on Facebook\nShare on X\nPrint this Page\nShare by Email\nWashington,\r\n      July 31, 2026\nClick here to read this edition.\nRead more.\nJOIN MY EMAIL LIST\nSUBSCRIBE", 1, "2026-08-04T07:35:49Z", "2026-08-04T07:37:27Z"], ["https://womack.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=410890", "From the Front: July 24, 2026", "2026-07-24", "2026", "2026-07", "Republican", "House", "AR", "Steve Womack", "W000809", "womack.house.gov", "womack", "https://womack.house.gov/news", "scraper", "From the Front Newsletters\nFrom the Front: July 24, 2026\nShare on Facebook\nShare on X\nPrint this Page\nShare by Email\nWashington,\r\n      July 24, 2026\nClick here to read this edition.\nRead more.\nJOIN MY EMAIL LIST\nSUBSCRIBE", 1, "2026-07-29T07:41:48Z", "2026-07-29T07:42:57Z"], ["https://crawford.house.gov/media/press-releases/crawford-delivers-major-national-security-and-eod-wins-as-house-passes-ndaa", "Crawford Delivers Major National Security and EOD Wins as House Passes NDAA", "2026-07-23", "2026", "2026-07", "Republican", "House", "AR", "Eric A. \"Rick\" Crawford", "C001087", "crawford.house.gov", "crawford", "https://crawford.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 On Wednesday, Rep. Rick Crawford, R-Ark., voted in favor of H.R. 8800, the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for Fiscal Year 2027, which passed through the House of Representatives.\n\nThe bill strengthens America\u2019s defense industrial base, enhances global deterrence, and supports service members and their families. The final House package includes four amendments authored by Rep. Crawford that bolster Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) capabilities and homeland defense.\n\n\"This year\u2019s NDAA represents a strong step toward restoring American military strength,\" said Rep. Crawford. \"Rebuilding our munitions stockpiles, securing supply chains, and investing in new technologies ensures our military remains the most lethal force in the world. My amendments will better support our EOD technicians and improve our missile and drone defenses.\"\n\nHighlights of the NDAA:\n\nSupports Service Members: Provides a 5-7% pay raise for service members along with targeted retention bonuses and special pay.\n\nQuality of Life Improvements: Modernizes barracks and military family housing with over $1.8 billion in investments.\n\nRebuilds the Munitions Arsenal: Authorizes $39 billion in funding to grow munitions inventories, including Joint Air-to-Ground Missiles, Javelins, Stingers, and Tomahawks.\n\nSecures Supply Chains: Expands domestic manufacturing and develops a skilled American workforce to reduce reliance on foreign adversaries.\n\nGlobal Deterrence: Funds technologies including autonomous systems, hypersonics, and artificial intelligence while maintaining counterterrorism pressure against adversaries.\n\nRep. Crawford\u2019s Amendments Included in H.R. 8800:\n\nEOD Incentive Pay: Establishes an incentive pay schedule for EOD technicians to properly compensate them for their exceptionally hazardous missions.\n\nEOD to Law Enforcement Transition Program: Creates a fast-track pipeline for honorably discharged EOD personnel to enter Federal Law Enforcement Training Centers and transition into special agent roles.\n\nNational Guard Homeland Defense Pilot Program: Establishes a pilot program enhancing Guard EOD units\u2019 capabilities to respond to missile or drone attacks on the homeland.\n\nOffice of Bombing Prevention Realignment: Relocates the Department of Homeland Security Office of Bombing Prevention to the Office of Intelligence and Analysis to improve intelligence integration and training.\n\nThe bill will now move to the Senate for consideration.", 1, "2026-08-10T06:13:07Z", "2026-08-10T06:14:46Z"], ["https://hill.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=10266", "RELEASE:\u00a0HOUSE PASSES HILL'S\u00a0MAIN STREET CAPITAL ACCESS ACT", "2026-07-22", "2026", "2026-07", "Republican", "House", "AR", "J. French Hill", "H001072", "hill.house.gov", "hill", "https://hill.house.gov/media-center/press-releases", "scraper", "The U.S. House of Representatives yesterday passed H.R. 6955, Rep. French Hill's (AR-02) Main Street Capital Access Act, by a vote of 270-155-1. As Chairman of the House Financial Services Committee, Rep. Hill led the effort to pass the bill alongside Financial Institutions Subcommittee Chairman Andy Barr (KY-06). The bipartisan bill revitalizes local bank formation and ensures community lenders can focus on serving families, small businesses, and local economies, making life more affordable for Americans and empowering Main Street.\n\nRep. Hill said, \u201cAs a former community banker in central Arkansas, I know how important our Main Street banks are to our local economy. From growing cities like Conway to our smallest rural towns, community banks drive economic growth. Whether a young couple wants to open a coffee shop in downtown Little Rock, a local manufacturer is looking to expand in Jacksonville, or a farmer in White County needs a loan for a new combine, it's our local banks that step up.\n\n\u201cYet for decades, Washington has forced these local banks to operate under rules written for the nation's largest institutions, stifling local lending, accelerating industry consolidation, and making big banks even bigger. This bill fixes that. It right-sizes regulations for our community banks, freeing them up to lend so entrepreneurs can invest, businesses can grow, and families can build wealth. It will spur new bank formation, increase competition, remove barriers to lending, and benefit communities from coast to coast.\"\n\nWatch Chairman Hill's floor remarks here.\n\nClick here for bill text.\n\nClick here for a section-by-section.\n\nClick here for a one-pager.\n\nFurther Background:", 1, "2026-07-23T07:31:02Z", "2026-07-23T07:32:26Z"], ["https://hill.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=10267", "RELEASE:\u00a0HILL VOTES TO STRENGTHEN AMERICA'S MILITARY READINESS", "2026-07-22", "2026", "2026-07", "Republican", "House", "AR", "J. French Hill", "H001072", "hill.house.gov", "hill", "https://hill.house.gov/media-center/press-releases", "scraper", "Today, Rep. French Hill (AR-02) voted for H.R. 8800, the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for Fiscal Year 2027, which passed the House by a vote of 216-212. The bipartisan bill supports our military personnel and families, strengthens our national defense, modernizes our military capabilities, and includes four amendments introduced by or cosponsored by Rep. Hill, three of which will directly benefit the Arkansas National Guard.\n\nRep. Hill said, \u201cIt is critical that Beijing, Moscow, and Tehran have no doubt about the lethality of the United States military or our ability to project power anywhere in the world. This NDAA advances peace through strength by restocking critical munitions, strengthening defense supply chains, and accelerating weapons production. It also raises pay for the men and women who wear the uniform and invests in the technologies that will define tomorrow's battlefield. It redirects billions from lower-priority spending to our warfighting mission and eliminates distractions that have nothing to do with winning wars. This bill ensures our military has what it needs to deter our adversaries and defend American interests around the globe.\n\n\u201cI am also proud that several of my priorities were included in this year\u2019s NDAA to support our Guardsmen in central Arkansas.\u201d\n\nBackground:\n\nH.R. 8800, the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2027, authorizes $1.15 trillion in national defense discretionary spending. The bill revitalizes the defense industrial base, revives the organic industrial base, provides the certainty industry needs to expand capacity, and grows and develops the defense industrial workforce. It advances small business participation in the defense industrial base, secures our supply chains, furthers acquisition reform, and improves collaboration on data rights. The legislation also raises pay for all servicemembers by 5 to 7 percent and improves housing, education, and childcare access for military families.\n\nRep. Hill\u2019s Amendments and Priorities:", 1, "2026-07-23T07:31:02Z", "2026-07-23T07:32:26Z"], ["https://womack.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=410885", "Womack on Appropriations Hearing: Americans Deserve a Functioning Government", "2026-07-22", "2026", "2026-07", "Republican", "House", "AR", "Steve Womack", "W000809", "womack.house.gov", "womack", "https://womack.house.gov/news", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2014 July 22, 2026\u2026Today, Congressman Steve Womack (AR-3), a senior appropriator and Chairman of the House Appropriations Transportation, Housing and Urban Development (THUD), and Related Agencies Subcommittee, stressed the need for policy reform to prevent future government funding lapses during a full committee hearing.\n\nThe hearing witnesses were Senator James Lankford (OK), Representative Tom McClintock (CA-5), as well as former Director of the U.S. Office of Management and Budget, and current New York University School of Law Distinguished Scholar Shalanda Young.\n\nCongressman Womack said, \u201cGovernment shutdowns reflect a complete failure of Congress to do our primary job: fund the government according to the needs and wants of the American people. Accepting these failures as the status quo is impermissible, and I am grateful for the leadership of Chairman Tom Cole to examine the stumbling blocks that contribute to our system\u2019s breakdown and potential solutions. Americans deserve a functioning government, and today\u2019s hearing represents our commitment to delivering this and reliable access to the essential services it provides.\u201d\n\nDuring the hearing, Congressman Womack asked Young to outline the benefits of moving Congress to a biennial budget framework\u2014a key pillar of his newly introduced bill, the Budgeting for a Better America Act. Her response: \"You were in my opening remarks as one of the proposals. I've always thought that was just commonsense.\"\n\nRead more about the Budgeting for a Better America Act HERE.\n\nA video of Congressman Womack\u2019s questions for the witnesses can be found HERE.\n\nA full recording of the hearing is available HERE.\n\nCongressman Steve Womack (AR-3) has represented Arkansas\u2019s Third Congressional District since 2011. He is a member of the House Appropriations Committee.\n\nwomack.house.gov\n\n###", 1, "2026-07-23T07:31:02Z", "2026-07-23T07:32:26Z"], ["https://womack.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=410886", "Womack Votes for Fiscal Year 2027 National Defense Authorization Act", "2026-07-22", "2026", "2026-07", "Republican", "House", "AR", "Steve Womack", "W000809", "womack.house.gov", "womack", "https://womack.house.gov/news", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2014 July 22, 2026\u2026Congressman Steve Womack (AR-3) today voted in support of H.R. 8800, the Fiscal Year (FY) 2027 National Defense Authorization Act that was passed by the U.S. House of Representatives.\n\nCongressman Womack said, \u201cPeace through Strength requires us to address supply chain vulnerabilities, strengthen competition and innovation across the defense industry, and provide manufacturers with the certainty needed to replenish our arsenal. The Fiscal Year 2027 National Defense Authorization Act is instrumental in advancing these goals by implementing critical reforms to enable our defense industrial base to produce at speed and scale. I look forward to building on the authorities established in this bill through the defense appropriations process to ensure our warfighters are equipped to meet the challenges of tomorrow and the decades ahead.\u201d\n\nBill highlights:\n\nStrengthens Arkansas defense equities by:\n\nIncluding Congressman Womack\u2019s amendment to direct the Department of War (DoW) to conduct and publish an analysis evaluating the full life-cycle costs of F-35 basing options for aircraft delivered between FY30-FY35.\n\nAuthorizing the Secretary of the Army to conduct a no-cost land exchange between the Arkansas National Guard (ARNG) and the U.S. Army Reserve to provide the ARNG with a new Joint Force Headquarters building.\n\nExtending a 2024 project authorization for a 3-bay maintenance hangar at Ebbing Air National Guard Base to support the force beddown of F-35 aircraft.\n\nStrengthens readiness and efficiency by:\n\nIncreasing end-strength across the DoW to support national security priorities, homeland security, and disaster response.\n\nAuthorizing multi-year procurement authority for certain munitions, the F-35 aircraft, and F-15EX aircraft, and constrains the retirement of legacy aircraft like the E-3 and MQ-9 before replacements are ready.\n\nAuthorizing the establishment of Joint Task Force Audit to support achieving an unmodified financial statement audit opinion by 2028.\n\nRevitalizes the defense industrial base by:\n\nProviding the capital needed to expand and accelerate production by providing multiyear procurement authority for critical systems, munitions, and components, including those for F-35 Aircraft and spares.\n\nInvesting in research, development, testing, and evaluation of innovative technologies, including autonomous capabilities, cybersecurity, biotechnology, and advanced materials.\n\nImproves servicemember quality of life by:\n\nAuthorizing appropriators to increase servicemember pay by 5 to 7 percent.\n\nAuthorizing over $1.8 billion for new construction of barracks and family housing.\n\nExpanding eligibility for the Basic Needs Allowance (BNA), an initiative closely related to Congressman Womack\u2019s BNA Fairness Act of 2025.\n\nImproving DoW school assistance, increasing access to childcare, and authorizing programs to recruit and train military spouses to teach in DoW schools.\n\nExpanding access to healthcare by developing further dental and women\u2019s health care at Military Treatment Facilities.\n\nA summary of the bill is available HERE.\n\nThe bill text is available HERE.\n\nCongressman Steve Womack (AR-3) has represented Arkansas\u2019s Third Congressional District since 2011. He is a member of the House Appropriations Committee.\n\nwomack.house.gov\n\n###\n\nRelated News\n\nWomack Votes to Bolster Defense and Election Security\n\nJuly 22, 2026 | Posted in Press Releases\n\nWomack Votes to Pass Amended Full-Year Spending Package\n\nFebruary 3, 2026 | Posted in Press Releases\n\nWomack Votes for Full-Year Spending Package to Fund Departments of State, Treasury, and More\n\nJanuary 14, 2026 | Posted in Press Releases\n\nWomack Votes to Pass Final FY26 NDAA, Raising Pay for Troops and Bolstering National Security\n\nDecember 10, 2025 | Posted in Press Releases", 1, "2026-07-23T07:31:02Z", "2026-07-23T07:32:26Z"], ["https://womack.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=410887", "Womack Votes to Prevent Insider Trading and Election Fraud", "2026-07-22", "2026", "2026-07", "Republican", "House", "AR", "Steve Womack", "W000809", "womack.house.gov", "womack", "https://womack.house.gov/news", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2014 July 22, 2026\u2026Congressman Steve Womack (AR-3) today voted in support of H.R. 7008, the Stop Insider Trading Act. This legislation aims to prevent Members of Congress from using their positions and nonpublic information to benefit financially from purchases or sales made on the U.S. stock market. The legislation also includes measures to strengthen voter ID laws nationwide.\n\nCongressman Womack said, \u201cOur government is built on a foundation of mutual trust. Americans should be able to trust that their elected officials in Congress have their constituents\u2019 best interests at heart\u2014not their own bank accounts. Likewise, citizens should be able to trust that their government conducts free and fair elections. The Stop Insider Trading Act strengthens that trust with guardrails that improve transparency, accountability, and integrity in government.\u201d\n\nBill highlights:\n\nPrevents insider trading in Congress by:\n\nRequiring Members of Congress, as well as their spouses and dependents to report most purchases or sales of a stock between 7-14 days prior to the sale or purchase.\n\nProtects election integrity by:\n\nRequiring a potential voter to present a valid photo I.D., such as\u2014but not limited to\u2014a driver\u2019s license, to vote in person.\n\nRequiring a potential voter to submit a copy of a valid photo I.D., such as\u2014but not limited to\u2014a driver\u2019s license, to vote by mail.\n\nThe bill text is available HERE.\n\nCongressman Steve Womack (AR-3) has represented Arkansas\u2019s Third Congressional District since 2011. He is a member of the House Appropriations Committee.\n\nwomack.house.gov\n\n###", 1, "2026-07-23T07:31:02Z", "2026-07-23T07:32:26Z"], ["https://womack.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=410888", "Womack Votes to Bolster Defense and Election Security", "2026-07-22", "2026", "2026-07", "Republican", "House", "AR", "Steve Womack", "W000809", "womack.house.gov", "womack", "https://womack.house.gov/news", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2014 July 22, 2026\u2026 Congressman Steve Womack (AR-3) today voted in support of H. Con. Res. 113. This budget resolution instructs relevant House committees to provide $95 billion for defense and intelligence capabilities, aid for farmers, and election security.\n\nCongressman Womack said, \u201cSecuring our elections and supplying the Department of War with the resources necessary to protect the homeland, counter emerging threats, and win conflicts is a critical undertaking. While the appropriations process is the ideally-suited mechanism to provide funding for federal agencies, the current political landscape in which Congress operates is not ideal. We must pursue all viable paths to provide for our Common Defense and ensure election integrity because not doing so threatens the national security of the United States.\u201d\n\nThe bill text is available HERE.\n\nCongressman Steve Womack (AR-3) has represented Arkansas\u2019s Third Congressional District since 2011. He is a member of the House Appropriations Committee.\n\nwomack.house.gov\n\n###", 1, "2026-07-23T07:31:02Z", "2026-07-23T07:32:26Z"], ["https://womack.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=410884", "Womack Votes to Prevent Threat of Shutdown, Continue Work on Full-Year Funding Priorities", "2026-07-21", "2026", "2026-07", "Republican", "House", "AR", "Steve Womack", "W000809", "womack.house.gov", "womack", "https://womack.house.gov/news", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2014 July 21, 2026\u2026Congressman Steve Womack (AR-3) today voted in support of H.R. 9770, the Continuing Appropriations Act, 2027. This continuing resolution would fund the federal government at Fiscal Year 2026 levels through December 4, 2026.\n\nCongressman Womack said, \u201cThe end of the fiscal year is approaching fast, and while the House has made sizable progress in approving funding bills for the next year, the upper chamber has not. A continuing resolution is not the optimal choice, but it is a practical strategy to avoid a costly funding lapse. I look forward to continuing the Fiscal Year 2027 appropriations process while simultaneously preventing the American public from experiencing yet another government shutdown and the negative, reverberating consequences that come with it.\u201d\n\nCongressman Womack\u2019s floor remarks are available HERE.\n\nThe bill text is available HERE.\n\nCongressman Steve Womack (AR-3) has represented Arkansas\u2019s Third Congressional District since 2011. He is a member of the House Appropriations Committee.\n\nwomack.house.gov\n\n###", 1, "2026-07-22T07:34:13Z", "2026-07-22T07:35:16Z"], ["https://womack.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=410874", "Womack Tours Francis Scott Key Bridge Rebuild Site", "2026-07-20", "2026", "2026-07", "Republican", "House", "AR", "Steve Womack", "W000809", "womack.house.gov", "womack", "https://womack.house.gov/news", "scraper", "BALTIMORE, MD\u2014 July 20, 2026\u2026 Today, House Appropriations Transportation, Housing and Urban Development (THUD), and Related Agencies Subcommittee Chairman Steve Womack (AR-3) toured the Francis Scott Key Bridge rebuild site in Baltimore, Maryland, with Maryland Governor Wes Moore, Senators Shelley Moore Capito (WV) and Angela Alsobrooks (MD), as well as Representatives Steny Hoyer (MD-5), Johnny Olszewski (MD-2), Glenn Ivey (MD-4), and Kweisi Mfume (MD-7).\n\nChairman Womack said, \u201cProper oversight of the American taxpayer dollars being used to rebuild the Francis Scott Key Bridge is a responsibility I do not take lightly. This bridge is a vital artery for the movement of people and goods, and its success unlocks the full potential of commerce along our Eastern seaboard. As Chair of the House Appropriations Transportation, Housing and Urban Development Subcommittee, I am committed to working with President Trump, Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy, and Maryland Governor Wes Moore to ensure this project receives the necessary resources for a safe and efficient rebuild that will prevent a future catastrophe.\u201d\n\nGovernor Moore said, \u201cThe Francis Scott Key Bridge was a vital economic engine and our commitment to rebuilding it is crucial to the continued prosperity of our nation. Together with our federal and regional partners, we will rebuild this bridge as quickly, safely, and cost efficiently as possible to ensure that this vital corridor bounces back stronger for generations to come.\u201d\n\nBackground:\n\nOn March 26, 2024, the Francis Scott Key Bridge in Baltimore, Maryland, collapsed after a container ship lost power and struck one of the bridge\u2019s supporting piers. The incident disrupted a major freight corridor and access to the Port of Baltimore\u2014one of the nation's largest ports for automobiles, farm equipment, and construction machinery.\n\nAs THUD Chairman, Congressman Womack plays a key role in providing funding for the Department of Transportation, including the Federal Highway Administration\u2019s Emergency Relief (ER) Program. This account provides federal funding for the repair or reconstruction of highways and roads damaged by natural disasters or catastrophic failures. The rebuild of the Francis Scott Key Bridge, which carries the I-695 Baltimore Beltway, is one of the projects that receives funding through the ER Program.\n\nDuring the tour, Chairman Womack observed the site's transition from critical demolition clean-up to early construction work, including the installation of vessel protection piles\u2014with piling materials supplied by AFCO Steel of Arkansas. These piles are a key structural element designed to protect the new bridge's piers from future vessel strikes.\n\nPhoto highlights:\n\nCongressman Steve Womack (AR-3) has represented Arkansas\u2019s Third Congressional District since 2011. He is a member of the House Appropriations Committee.\n\nwomack.house.gov", 1, "2026-07-21T07:32:02Z", "2026-07-21T07:33:33Z"], ["https://hill.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=10259", "RELEASE: HILL VOTES TO STRENGTHEN AMERICAN DIPLOMACY AND ACCOUNTABILITY ABROAD", "2026-07-17", "2026", "2026-07", "Republican", "House", "AR", "J. French Hill", "H001072", "hill.house.gov", "hill", "https://hill.house.gov/media-center/press-releases", "scraper", "Today, Rep. French Hill (AR-02) voted for H.R. 8595, the National Security, Department of State, and Related Programs Appropriations Act, 2027, which passed the House with a bipartisan vote of 217-209. The bill strengthens American diplomacy and national security abroad, cuts foreign aid and counters our adversaries while supporting key allies, and supports education programs abroad like the Fulbright Exchange Program.\n\nRep. Hill said, \u201cHouse Republicans are bringing sanity back to foreign spending and making sure every dollar we send abroad serves America's national security. Arkansans never asked for their hard-earned tax dollars to be spent pushing 'woke' fads like DEI programs and gender ideology experiments on our strategic partners and allies. I voted for this bill to fund the things that actually advance our best interests, our diplomatic and intelligence operations, security assistance for real allies, and programs that reflect American values like religious freedom, the fight against human trafficking, and the Fulbright Exchange program. We're also cutting off the regimes that work against America and demanding more accountability from those receiving our money. This bill respects taxpayers, advances our actual interests, and delivers the foreign policy Americans have been asking for.\u201d\n\nBackground:\n\nH.R. 8595, the National Security, Department of State, and Related Programs Appropriations Act, 2027, provides a total discretionary allocation of $47.32 billion, which is $2.69 billion, or 6 percent, below the FY26 enacted level. The bill champions a foreign policy agenda that supports our allies, counters our adversaries, and eliminates contributions to organizations that are wasteful and contradictory to American values. It codifies President Trump's executive orders to completely defund DEI programs, climate change mandates, and radical gender ideology programs, and maintains all long-standing pro-life provisions. It also counters the malign influence of the Chinese Communist Party by fully funding the Countering PRC Influence Fund at $400 million, denying the CCP access to U.S.-backed resources, and prohibiting countries from using U.S. aid to repay debts owed to Communist China.\n\nRep. Hill\u2019s Priorities", 1, "2026-07-18T06:58:50Z", "2026-07-18T07:31:57Z"], ["https://womack.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=410872", "From the Front: July 17, 2026", "2026-07-17", "2026", "2026-07", "Republican", "House", "AR", "Steve Womack", "W000809", "womack.house.gov", "womack", "https://womack.house.gov/news", "scraper", "From the Front Newsletters\nFrom the Front: July 17, 2026\nShare on Facebook\nShare on X\nPrint this Page\nShare by Email\nWashington,\r\n      July 17, 2026\nClick here to read this edition.\nRead more.\nJOIN MY EMAIL LIST\nSUBSCRIBE", 1, "2026-07-21T07:32:02Z", "2026-07-21T07:33:33Z"], ["https://womack.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=410870", "Womack Votes for Fiscal Year 2027 Funding Bill to Protect America\u2019s Interests Abroad", "2026-07-15", "2026", "2026-07", "Republican", "House", "AR", "Steve Womack", "W000809", "womack.house.gov", "womack", "https://womack.house.gov/news", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2014 July 15, 2026\u2026Congressman Steve Womack (AR-3) today voted in support of the Fiscal Year (FY) 2027 National Security, Department of State, and Related Programs Appropriations Act that was passed by the U.S. House of Representatives.\n\nThis bill allocates $47.32 billion in discretionary spending to fund the Department of State and related agencies.\n\nCongressman Womack said, \u201cOur national security is strongest when we invest wisely, and thanks to the leadership of my friend, Subcommittee Chairman Mario D\u00edaz-Balart, this bill does exactly that. It strategically supports our allies while ensuring American taxpayer dollars do not benefit our foreign adversaries. I am encouraged that House leadership recognizes the importance of advancing this measure swiftly\u2014not only to protect our national interests abroad, but also to restore regular order to the appropriations process.\u201d\n\nBill highlights:\n\nBolsters United States national security and protects American interests abroad by:\n\nProviding unwavering support for Israel by including $3.3 billion in Foreign Military Financing Program funds.\n\nProviding robust assistance for key United States partners Egypt and Jordan.\n\nIncluding $500 million in Foreign Military Financing Program funding for Taiwan and $200 million for the Philippines.\n\nFully funding the Countering PRC Influence Fund at $400 million.\n\nProviding $1.8 billion for United States national security interests in the Indo-Pacific and to counter the PRC\u2019s malign influence.\n\nDenying the Chinese Communist Party access to U.S.-backed resources.\n\nProhibiting assistance to individuals or entities that support, finance, or facilitate the operations or commercial activities of the Cuban Revolutionary Armed Forces, Ministry of Interior, or their affiliates.\n\nProhibiting funds to the Taliban.\n\nProhibiting funds for organizations who may have hired terrorists that took part in the October 7th, 2023, mass atrocities\u2013including the murder of 50 Americans since the initial attack\u2013but refuse to cooperate with United States Inspector General investigations.\n\nSupporting religious freedom programs abroad and religious freedom protections for faith-based organizations delivering foreign aid.\n\nHolding foreign governments and bad actors accountable for persecuting people of faith, including by restricting assistance to Nigeria until measurable actions are taken to protect Christian communities suffering from religious violence.\n\nConfronting human trafficking by prohibiting funding for countries and organizations that exploit Cuban doctors, while directing the Secretary of State to pull visas for officials involved in such practices.\n\nA summary of the bill is available HERE.\n\nThe bill text is available HERE.\n\nCongressman Steve Womack (AR-3) has represented Arkansas\u2019s Third Congressional District since 2011. He is a member of the House Appropriations Committee.\n\nwomack.house.gov\n\n###", 1, "2026-07-16T07:21:44Z", "2026-07-16T07:23:13Z"], ["https://womack.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=410869", "Womack Cosponsored Bill to Protect 2nd Amendment Privacy Passes House", "2026-07-14", "2026", "2026-07", "Republican", "House", "AR", "Steve Womack", "W000809", "womack.house.gov", "womack", "https://womack.house.gov/news", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2014 July 14, 2026\u2026Today, Congressman Steve Womack (AR-3) voted in support of H.R. 1181, the Protecting Privacy in Purchases Act. He is an original cosponsor of the bill, which prohibits credit card companies and other entities from implementing Merchant Category Codes that distinguish a firearms retailer from general merchandise or sporting goods retailers.\n\nCongressman Womack said, \u201cThe right to bear arms is a fundamental freedom for every law-abiding American. The use of Merchant Category Codes to unconstitutionally track firearm purchases remains a radical, left-wing endeavor by anti-Second Amendment activists. I am proud to build on the work of Arkansas Governor Sanders at the federal level to protect the financial privacy and Second Amendment rights of all Americans.\u201d\n\nBackground:\n\nCredit card companies and other financial institutions use Merchant Category Codes (MCCs) to organize businesses by the types of goods or services purchased. These MCCS are set by the International Organization for Standardization (ISO).\n\nIn 2022, the ISO created a new code specifically for gun retailers. This policy has raised concerns that specific firearm MCCs can be used to track law-abiding Americans exercising their constitutional rights.\n\nSince the creation of this code, states like California and New York have mandated the use of MCCs for firearm retailers while several other states have banned the use, including Arkansas.\n\nThe bill text is available HERE.\n\nCongressman Steve Womack (AR-3) has represented Arkansas\u2019s Third Congressional District since 2011. He is a member of the House Appropriations Committee.\n\nwomack.house.gov\n\n###", 1, "2026-07-15T07:12:08Z", "2026-07-15T07:13:45Z"], ["https://westerman.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/westerman-wrda-priorities-advance-house-floor-0", "WESTERMAN WRDA PRIORITIES ADVANCE TO THE HOUSE FLOOR", "2026-07-14", "2026", "2026-07", "Republican", "House", "AR", "Bruce Westerman", "W000821", "westerman.house.gov", "westerman", "https://westerman.house.gov/media-center/press-releases", "scraper", "Today, the U.S. House Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure held a markup to advance the Water Resources Development Act (WRDA) of 2026. Congressman Bruce Westerman (AR-04) released the following statement:\n\n\u201cAs a water-rich state, Arkansas depends heavily on the passage of the Water Resources Development Act (WRDA),\u201d says Congressman Bruce Westerman. \u201cIn my capacity as a member of the House Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure, I had the privilege of securing several maintenance and development provisions to expedite repairs for the Dardanelle Lock and Dam, strengthen efficiency requirements for the MKARNS, improve flood control, and maintain recreational access during projects on Arkansas\u2019 parks, lakes, trails, and waterways. I\u2019m grateful for Chairmen Graves and Collins\u2019 dedicated work to ensure we receive needed investments to continue improving our nation\u2019s inland waterways and water resources infrastructure.\u201d\n\nBACKGROUND:\n\nThe Water Resources Development Act (WRDA) of 2026 is biennial, bipartisan legislation that supports the viability, effectiveness, and conservation of waterways for commercial and recreational use.\n\nWesterman secured the following policy priorities in the 2026 WRDA:\n\nExpedited repairs and study completion for the Dardanelle Lock & Dam\n\nEnsures slope stabilization and recontouring to prioritize efficiency while keeping what is best for the surrounding environment in mind. This will protect navigation, prevent shutdown risks, and safeguard economic activity along the Arkansas River.\n\nStrengthening the McClellan\u2013Kerr Arkansas River Navigation System (MKARNS)\n\nIncreased efficiency requirements for inland waterway project management within the Corps.\n\nEnhanced dredging coordination and beneficial use policies improving sediment management in navigable waterways.\n\nPolicies improving contracting efficiency that accelerate navigation construction and maintenance.\n\nLower Mississippi River Comprehensive Management Study\n\nArkansas directly benefits from a basin wide plan to improve flood control, navigation reliability, sediment management, and long-term river system resilience.\n\nSupports eastern Arkansas farmers, industries, and communities vulnerable to repeat Mississippi River flooding.\n\nRecreational Access Requirements\n\nAny Corps project affecting parks, lakes, trails, or waterways in Arkansas must:\n\n- Maintain recreational access\n\n- Provide alternatives during construction\n\nUpdates to national flood risk policy\n\nRequire nonstructural solutions to be evaluated equally, benefiting rural Arkansas communities.\n\nImprove levee certifications and safety assessments.\n\nStreamline real estate requirements for maintaining levees.\n\nArkansas counties with levee districts (e.g., along the Arkansas and Mississippi Rivers) benefit from faster approvals and clearer standards.", 1, "2026-07-17T07:15:58Z", "2026-07-17T07:17:05Z"], ["https://hill.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=10258", "RELEASE: REP. HILL\u2019S LANDMARK HOUSING BILL BECOMES LAW", "2026-07-11", "2026", "2026-07", "Republican", "House", "AR", "J. French Hill", "H001072", "hill.house.gov", "hill", "https://hill.house.gov/media-center/press-releases", "scraper", "Today, Rep. French Hill (AR-02), Chairman of the House Financial Services Committee, held a press conference to celebrate his bill, the 21st Century ROAD to Housing Act, becoming law. The bipartisan, bicameral bill is the first major housing legislation in decades. It cuts red tape, increases housing supply, and makes homeownership more attainable for families across Arkansas and the nation. The bill passed the Senate 85-14 and the House 358-32.\n\nRep Hill said, \"When I first ran for Congress, I set out to author and pass legislation that improves the lives of central Arkansans and prove that Washington could still work for the American people. Having this historic housing bill become law today is the realization of those goals, that by working together, debating in good faith, and putting the interests of Americans ahead of politics, good policy can become law.\n\n\"This legislation strengthens community banks, modernizes building codes, and cuts red tape. More houses will be built, more families will enter the market, and homes across the country will be more affordable. The bill also delivers on one of the President\u2019s goals by restricting institutional investors from outcompeting American families for homes. After years of work and months of negotiations with the Senate, this bicameral, bipartisan bill is a win for families from Arkansas to every corner of this country, and I am pleased to have successfully collaborated on this priority with the Financial Services Ranking Member Maxine Waters (D-CA).\"\n\nWorking in partnership with Chairman Tim Scott (R-SC), the 21st Century ROAD to Housing Act includes more than 45 provisions to reduce unnecessary regulatory barriers to new home construction and modernize HUD programs, nine community banking bills to expand local lending for housing construction and mortgages, and measures to prevent large institutional investors from unfairly competing with individual homebuyers for homes.\n\nCommunity banks are the backbone of Arkansas's economy, and the bill provides targeted relief to strengthen their ability to lend in local housing markets. The legislation also modernizes building codes, makes local zoning rules more competitive, and increases congressional oversight of HUD. This gives Arkansas communities greater flexibility to address their own housing needs.\n\nClick here to watch the press conference.\n\nClick here for the text of the bill.\n\nClick here for a one-pager.\n\nClick here for a section-by-section.", 1, "2026-07-12T07:28:31Z", "2026-07-12T07:30:18Z"], ["https://womack.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=410868", "From the Front: July 10, 2026", "2026-07-10", "2026", "2026-07", "Republican", "House", "AR", "Steve Womack", "W000809", "womack.house.gov", "womack", "https://womack.house.gov/news", "scraper", "From the Front Newsletters\nFrom the Front: July 10, 2026\nShare on Facebook\nShare on X\nPrint this Page\nShare by Email\nWashington,\r\n      July 10, 2026\nClick here to read this edition.\nRead more.\nJOIN MY EMAIL LIST\nSUBSCRIBE", 1, "2026-07-15T07:12:08Z", "2026-07-15T07:13:45Z"], ["https://womack.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=410867", "From the Front: July 3, 2026", "2026-07-03", "2026", "2026-07", "Republican", "House", "AR", "Steve Womack", "W000809", "womack.house.gov", "womack", "https://womack.house.gov/news", "scraper", "From the Front Newsletters\nFrom the Front: July 3, 2026\nShare on Facebook\nShare on X\nPrint this Page\nShare by Email\nWashington,\r\n      July 3, 2026\nClick here to read this edition.\nRead more.\nJOIN MY EMAIL LIST\nSUBSCRIBE", 1, "2026-07-03T08:00:00Z", "2026-07-03T08:01:30Z"], ["https://hill.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=10207", "MEDIA ADVISORY: REP. HILL TO HOST UNVEILING OF A BUST HONORING AN ARKANSAS HERO AT THE ARKANSAS STATE CAPITOL", "2026-07-02", "2026", "2026-07", "Republican", "House", "AR", "J. French Hill", "H001072", "hill.house.gov", "hill", "https://hill.house.gov/media-center/press-releases", "scraper", "LITTLE ROCK, AR \u2013 On Tuesday at 10:00 AM CT at the Arkansas State Capitol, Rep. French Hill (AR-02) will host the unveiling of the bust of former Lt. Governor and World War II hero Maurice \u201cFootsie\u201d Britt.\n\nMaurice \u201cFootsie\u201d Britt of Carlisle, Arkansas, was the first American soldier in World War II to receive all of the Army's top decorations for valor in a single war, earning the Medal of Honor, the Distinguished Service Cross, the Silver Star, the Bronze Star, and four Purple Hearts while fighting across North Africa, Sicily, and Italy with the 3rd Infantry Division. He later served two terms as Lieutenant Governor of Arkansas alongside Governor Winthrop Rockefeller.\n\nWHO: Rep. French Hill, Arkansas State Representative Joey Carr, Deputy Secretary Dr. Paul Lawrence (U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs), Dr. Charles Robinson (Chancellor, University of Arkansas), members of the Britt family, the U.S. Air Force, Arkansas National Guard, 106th Army Band, and the bust's artist, Kevin Kresse, who also created the statue of Arkansas icon Johnny Cash that resides in the U.S. Capitol.\n\nWHAT: Maurice \u201cFootsie\u201d Britt Bust Unveiling\n\nWHEN: 10:00 AM CT, Tuesday, July 7, 2026\n\nWHERE:\n\nArkansas State Capitol Rotunda, Second Floor\n\n500 Woodlane StLittle Rock, AR 72201\n\nPress:", 1, "2026-07-03T08:00:00Z", "2026-07-03T08:01:30Z"], ["https://hill.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=10208", "RELEASE: HILL AWARDS LATEST GOLDEN FLEECE TO USDA", "2026-07-02", "2026", "2026-07", "Republican", "House", "AR", "J. French Hill", "H001072", "hill.house.gov", "hill", "https://hill.house.gov/media-center/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2014 Today, Rep. French Hill (AR-02) announced the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) as the latest recipient of his Golden Fleece Award for failing to stop the rampant theft of SNAP benefits from vulnerable families.\n\nThe Government Accountability Office (GAO) found that states replaced more than $320 million in stolen SNAP benefits between October 2022 and December 2024. Criminals used scams like card skimming, card cloning, and phishing to steal SNAP EBT card information and drain SNAP benefits before families could use them to buy groceries. In Arkansas, more than 1,100 families had their SNAP benefits stolen using card skimmers in 2024, totaling more than $550,000. USDA should stop this fraud before criminals can drain benefits from vulnerable Americans.\n\nRep. Hill said, \"SNAP dollars should go to hungry families, not fraudsters. Every dollar stolen is a dollar taken from someone who needs help buying groceries. I appreciate the Trump Administration's work to go after criminals stealing SNAP benefits, and I urge the USDA to bring that same urgency to stopping electronic theft before it happens, not just chasing it after the fact. Families who rely on SNAP need to know the money will be there, and taxpayers in Arkansas and across America deserve to know their hard-earned tax dollars are being protected.\"\n\nIn his letter to U.S. Department of Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins, Rep. Hill writes:\n\nDear Secretary Rollins,\n\nI write today to inform you that the U.S. Department of Agriculture\u2019s (USDA) Food and Nutrition Administration is this month\u2019s recipient of my Golden Fleece Award. I am awarding this to USDA because of its failure to properly protect Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits from electronic theft and fraud.\n\nSNAP is intended to help low-income families, seniors, individuals with disabilities, and children put food on the table. That mission matters. In Fiscal Year 2025, SNAP was expected to provide approximately $96 billion in benefits to about 43 million people nationwide. In Arkansas alone, about 240,400 people received SNAP benefits each month in Fiscal Year 2025, representing 7.7 percent of the state\u2019s population.\n\nThis is how serious the problem is: the Government Accountability Office (GAO) found that states replaced more than $320 million in stolen SNAP benefits between October 2022 and December 2024. Criminals used scams like card skimming, card cloning, and phishing to steal SNAP EBT card information and drain SNAP benefits before families could use them to buy groceries.\n\nArkansas families have been hit by SNAP fraud. According to the Arkansas Department of Human Services, more than 1,100 Arkansas families had their SNAP benefits stolen using card skimmers in 2024, totaling more than $550,000. Arkansas Attorney General Tim Griffin has warned that scammers are accessing EBT card funds without the recipient\u2019s knowledge and then immediately spending that money outside Arkansas, leaving vulnerable Arkansans without the funds they need to purchase groceries. In addition, USDA has acknowledged that criminals are using electronic schemes such as skimming, cloning, phishing, and other methods to steal SNAP benefits before recipients can use them. This is especially concerning because these stolen benefits are intended for low-income families, seniors, individuals with disabilities, and children, not criminals exploiting weaknesses in outdated EBT security systems.\n\nEvery dollar stolen from SNAP is a dollar taken from a person who needs help buying groceries. It is also a dollar taken from taxpayers who expect the SNAP program to serve the vulnerable. Protecting SNAP from fraud is how we preserve SNAP for Americans who truly need it. That is exactly why fraud in this program is so unacceptable.\n\nI appreciate that the Trump Administration has made SNAP program integrity a priority and that USDA has already taken steps to target criminals stealing SNAP benefits. USDA has stated that fraud will not be tolerated by the Trump Administration, and USDA\u2019s Special Investigations Unit has worked with federal law enforcement partners to target criminals engaged in stealing SNAP benefits. USDA has also stated that the SNAP Fraud Framework supports state efforts to improve and expand fraud prevention, detection, and investigation. That work is welcome. Now USDA should bring that same urgency to stopping electronic SNAP theft before criminals can drain benefits from vulnerable Americans.\n\nTaxpayers deserve to know that USDA is safeguarding their dollars. Families who depend on SNAP deserve to know their benefits will not be stolen before they can buy groceries. I urge USDA to provide Congress with clear, state-by-state data on SNAP theft, including the number of households affected, the dollar amount stolen, and the steps being taken to protect recipients going forward. Should you require additional authority from Congress to accomplish this task and protect SNAP beneficiaries from electronic theft, I ask that you notify me. I look forward to working with you on this important matter.\n\nSincerely,\n\nFrench Hill\n\nMember of Congress\n\nCC: Acting Administrator of the USDA Food and Nutrition Administration, Shiela Corley", 1, "2026-07-03T08:00:00Z", "2026-07-03T08:01:30Z"], ["https://womack.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=410830", "From the Front: June 26, 2022", "2026-06-26", "2026", "2026-06", "Republican", "House", "AR", "Steve Womack", "W000809", "womack.house.gov", "womack", "https://womack.house.gov/news", "scraper", "From the Front Newsletters\nFrom the Front: June 26, 2022\nShare on Facebook\nShare on X\nPrint this Page\nShare by Email\nWashington,\r\n      June 26, 2026\nClick here to read this edition.\nRead more.\nJOIN MY EMAIL LIST\nSUBSCRIBE", 1, "2026-06-30T06:29:10Z", "2026-06-30T06:30:42Z"], ["https://hill.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=10206", "RELEASE: HILL, VEASEY, WILLIAMS, DELBENE, SCHWEIKERT, AND BEYER RELAUNCH BIPARTISAN ENTREPRENEURSHIP CAUCUS", "2026-06-26", "2026", "2026-06", "Republican", "House", "AR", "J. French Hill", "H001072", "hill.house.gov", "hill", "https://hill.house.gov/media-center/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2014 Rep. French Hill (R-AR-02) this week relaunched the bipartisan House Entrepreneurship Caucus alongside Co-Chairs Rep. Marc Veasey (D-TX-33), Rep. Roger Williams (R-TX-25), Rep. Suzan DelBene (D-WA-01), Rep. David Schweikert (R-AZ-01), and Rep. Don Beyer (D-VA-08).\n\nFirst established in 2019, the House Entrepreneurship Caucus brings Republicans and Democrats together to address the steady, decades-long decline in new business formation. Too many would-be entrepreneurs never get off the ground, often held back by limited access to capital, regulatory complexity, and a startup environment that has grown increasingly difficult to enter, particularly in communities that have never fully shared in the innovation economy.\n\nThe relaunch of the House Entrepreneurship Caucus marks a renewed commitment to change that. Through policy discussions, stakeholder engagement, and targeted legislation, the caucus will work to build an environment where American entrepreneurs, startups, and small business owners can thrive.\n\nRep. Hill said, \u201cThe 'startup slump' is a real concern and something I have been working to tackle throughout my time in Congress. Entrepreneurship is the engine that drives our economy forward, and as an entrepreneur myself, I know how difficult it can be to get a business off the ground. It's critical that the policies coming out of Washington encourage innovation and risk-taking. Supporting startups and small business owners is not a partisan issue, and I'm looking forward to working with my colleagues on both sides of the aisle as Co-Chair, all of whom have either started or ran a business, to promote strategies and policies that create an environment where entrepreneurs can thrive.\u201d\n\nRep. Veasey said, \u201cI am proud to join the Congressional Entrepreneurship Caucus and support efforts to strengthen innovation, support small businesses, and empower entrepreneurs who drive economic growth and opportunity across the nation. I look forward to working with my colleagues to advance initiatives that help current and future entrepreneurs succeed.\u201d\n\n\u201cAs a second-generation small business owner, I know firsthand that every successful business starts with someone willing to take a risk,\u201d said Rep. Williams. \u201cAs Chairman of the House Small Business Committee, I have spoken with entrepreneurs across the country and seen both the opportunities they create and the challenges they face. Today, I am proud to rejoin the Entrepreneurship Caucus and work alongside my colleagues to support the next generation of innovators. Together, we can ensure the next generation of entrepreneurs has every opportunity to achieve the American Dream.\u201d\n\nRep. DelBene said, \u201cAs a former entrepreneur, I know firsthand the challenges of starting and growing a new business. This bipartisan caucus will help Congress better understand the needs of entrepreneurs and ensure we craft smart, effective policies informed by small business and startup leaders. When innovators bring new ideas, products, and services to our communities, they strengthen our economy. I look forward to leading this bipartisan group and advocating for the entrepreneurs driving growth and innovation across the country.\u201d\n\n\u201cEntrepreneurs in Arizona are critical job creators who help build economic growth,\u201d said Rep. Schweikert. \u201cI am pleased to Co-Chair the Entrepreneurship Caucus again this Congress to work with my colleagues on bipartisan policies that support innovators across the nation. No startup should face impossible barriers while working to improve our communities and drive the local economy. Through this caucus, we will keep pushing for a more competitive tax and regulatory environment that allows entrepreneurs to take risks, create jobs, and build the next generation of American businesses.\u201d", 1, "2026-07-03T08:00:00Z", "2026-07-03T08:01:30Z"], ["https://womack.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=410827", "Womack, Case, Huizenga, and Peters Introduce Bill to Fix America\u2019s Budget", "2026-06-24", "2026", "2026-06", "Republican", "House", "AR", "Steve Womack", "W000809", "womack.house.gov", "womack", "https://womack.house.gov/news", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2014 June 24, 2026\u2026Representatives Steve Womack (AR-3), Ed Case (HI-1), Bill Huizenga (MI-4), and Scott Peters (CA-50) today introduced the Budgeting for a Better America Act, aimed at reforming Congress\u2019 broken budget process. This bill would require Congress to adopt a biennial budget framework, establish a bipartisan fiscal commission, and implement other good governance reforms.\n\nRepresentative Womack said, \u201cEach year, Congress operates from the same broken blueprint when it comes to our budget process. These failures have compounded, leading to runaway debt and the impending depletion of our social trust funds. We need a better solution, which is why I am introducing the Budgeting for a Better America Act\u2014building on the work I accomplished as Chairman of the House Budget Committee and Co-Chair of the Joint Select Committee on Budget and Appropriations Process Reform. Bad budgeting bankrupts our future, and our nation cannot afford to delay these overdue reforms any longer. I thank Representatives Case, Huizenga, and Peters for leading this legislation alongside me, and I am eager to build consensus around this critical issue\u2014the fiscal state of our nation depends on it.\u201d\n\nRepresentative Case said, \u201cEvery business and family knows that sound finances start with sound budgeting, and governments are no different. Yet the reality of no federal budgets, annual spending without any budgetary direction, fiscal brinkmanship, continuing resolutions and government shutdowns, ballooning federal deficits and debt, depletion of social trust funds, and more are stark symptoms of a broken federal budget system in crying need of reform. I appreciate my continued partnership with Representatives Womack, Peters, Huizenga, and other bipartisan colleagues to overcome denial and advance the real solutions that are desperately needed.\u201d\n\nRepresentative Huizenga said, \u201cTackling the debt requires all-hands on deck and a willingness to examine innovative approaches in order to get our nation\u2019s fiscal house in order. The Budgeting for a Better America Act takes serious steps to increase fiscal oversight by enacting a biennial budgeting process and creating a fiscal commission to address our nation\u2019s long-term debt. Washington is littered with debt deniers who downplay the seriousness of the fiscal crisis facing our nation. I am proud to stand with Representatives Womack, Case, and Peters and put forward another bipartisan solution to address our nation\u2019s unsustainable fiscal situation.\u201d\n\nRepresentative Peters said, \u201cOur national debt is now almost $40 trillion and under the current budget process, we borrow almost $2 trillion every year just to pay our expenses. Congress holds the power of the purse, but a year-to-year budget process is no match for the scale of our fiscal problems. This bill would address the immediate crisis with a fiscal commission, set an achievable deficit target at 3 percent of GDP, and help fix the budget process with a two-year budget cycle to end the short-term thinking that got us here. I look forward to working with Rep. Womack to show the American people that Congress is serious about getting our economy back on track.\"\n\nThe bipartisan bill is supported by original cosponsors Representatives Tom Cole (OK-4), Ken Calvert (CA-41), Don Davis (NC-1), Chuck Fleischmann (TN-3), Jimmy Panetta (CA-19), Hal Rogers (KY-5), Pete Sessions (TX-17), and Jefferson Shreve (IN-6).\n\nBackground:\n\nThe annual budget process, largely unchanged in the last 50 years, has not helped Congress develop an overall fiscal plan and complete appropriations on time to avoid Continuing Resolutions (CRs) and government shutdowns. The challenges for the country are mounting:\n\nMissed Deadlines: Since 1974, Congress has only adopted a budget resolution by the statutory deadline six times. Congress has not completed all 12 appropriations bills before the start of the fiscal year since FY1997. Hopping from crisis to crisis makes it more challenging to focus on long-term and strategic issues.\n\nImpending Fiscal Disaster: Our national debt is nearly $40 trillion, net interest on the debt has eclipsed $1 trillion annually, and the Social Security and Medicare trust funds are projected to be depleted in the coming years.\n\nIn 2018, Chairman Steve Womack (AR-3) led the Joint Select Committee on Budget and Appropriations Process Reform tasked with addressing some of these challenges. Building on the Committee\u2019s recommendations, the Budgeting for a Better America Act incorporates additional reforms to improve transparency and develop policies to address the long-term debt.\n\nBill highlights:\n\nThe Budgeting for a Better America Act would restore fiscal responsibility by:\n\nEstablishing an 18-member bipartisan commission to aid in identifying and developing policies to achieve a 3 percent annual deficit-to-GDP ratio within 10 years and work towards long-term fiscal stabilization.\n\nAdopting a biennial budgeting framework to offer a practical step towards addressing persistent delays in the current budget process and reducing the risk of government shutdowns and CRs.\n\nRequiring budget resolutions to include debt, deficit, and tax metrics\u2014providing Congress and the public with a clearer understanding of fiscal impacts.\n\nEstablishing an annual televised bicameral hearing with the Comptroller General to address the nation's long-term fiscal outlook.\n\nRequiring the annual President\u2019s Budget Request to include a better analysis on the health of unfunded obligations, including Social Security and Medicare.\n\nRequiring an administrative supplemental budget submission from the President by December 1st to enable Congress to begin their work earlier.\n\nRequiring the Congressional Budget Office (CBO) to conduct an introductory debt and deficit briefing for new members of Congress.\n\nA one-pager is available HERE.\n\nA section-by-section bill summary is available HERE.\n\nThe bill text is available HERE.\n\nCongressman Steve Womack (AR-3) has represented Arkansas\u2019s Third Congressional District since 2011. He is a member of the House Appropriations Committee.\n\nwomack.house.gov\n\n###", 1, "2026-06-25T06:30:03Z", "2026-06-25T06:31:21Z"], ["https://womack.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=410828", "House Appropriators Approve FY27 Defense Bill, Advancing All Twelve Funding Measures", "2026-06-24", "2026", "2026-06", "Republican", "House", "AR", "Steve Womack", "W000809", "womack.house.gov", "womack", "https://womack.house.gov/news", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2014 June 24, 2026\u2026Congressman Steve Womack (AR-3) today voted in support of the Fiscal Year (FY) 2027 Defense Appropriations bill that advanced out of the House Appropriations Committee. This bill allocates $1.072 trillion in discretionary spending to fund Department of War operations.\n\nCongressman Womack said, \u201cMaintaining our military dominance is not an inexpensive endeavor, but it is an investment worth making to protect our homeland and preserve our way of life. This defense bill provides the resources needed to begin replenishing our munitions stockpile, invest in cutting-edge technologies, and support our military personnel\u2014who remain our nation\u2019s greatest strategic asset. I thank Defense Subcommittee Chairman Calvert for his leadership in advancing this legislation, and I look forward to continuing our work to ensure our common defense remains well-equipped to respond to emerging threats.\u201d\n\nCongressman Womack continued, \u201cThis Committee, under the leadership of Chairman Cole, has worked tirelessly to move all twelve appropriations bills out of committee and provide ample time to negotiate with the Senate and refine our work. This gives Congress a real opportunity to fund the government on time and in full\u2014an opportunity that should not be squandered. I am encouraged that our chamber is bringing these bills to the floor and encourage my colleagues to continue this work so we can do the job the American people sent us here to do. We have made meaningful progress\u2014let\u2019s not stop here.\u201d\n\nBill highlights:\n\nEnhances America\u2019s strategic military advantage and preparedness by:\n\nProviding $836 million to procure, for the first time, new-entrant low-cost munition systems and providing multiyear procurement authority.\n\nProviding over $7.5 billion for hypersonic weapons and test infrastructure.\n\nIncreasing funding for research and development of state-of-the-art defense capabilities, including funding for research into contested logistics, advanced materials, and next-generation power electronics at the University of Arkansas.\n\nIncreasing funding for facilities at the United States Military Academy, where Congressman Womack serves as Chairman of the Board of Visitors.\n\nProviding funding for the National Guard and Reserve Equipment Account (NGREA), which supports the Arkansas National Guard\u2019s efforts as they protect and support our community in times of need.\n\nStrengthens support for service members and military families by:\n\nImplementing a military pay raise of 7 percent for all military personnel ranked E-5 and below, 6 percent for E-6 to O-4, and 5 percent for O-4 and above.\n\nProviding an additional $15 million for the Military and Family Life Counseling Program, which provides counseling services to service members and their families to support operational readiness and resilience.\n\nOptimizes the Department of War and improves transparency by:\n\nSupporting business modernization efforts, including $250 million to accelerate the transition to a modern, secure, and audit-ready financial management environment.\n\nDigitizing acquisition processes through $72.5 million for Acquisition Visibility\n\nProtecting and preserving competition and readiness by mandating a Modular Open Systems Approach (MOSA).\n\nModernizing requirements and resourcing by including $140.1 million for the Mission Engineering and Integration Activity and $92.7 million for Acquisition Integration and Interoperability.\n\nDisrupts transnational drug trafficking by:\n\nProviding $1.2 billion for counter-drug programs.\n\nIncreasing funding for the National Guard Counter-Drug Program.\n\nProviding $464.8 million for United States Southern Command, which supports enhanced detection and monitoring, theater-wide operations, improved command and control, and increased force protection to pursue drug cartels and terrorist networks.\n\nTransferring Mexico from United States Northern Command\u2019s jurisdiction to United States Southern Command for better coordination and prioritization.\n\nA summary of the bill is available HERE.\n\nThe bill text, before adoption of amendments, is available HERE.\n\nCongressman Steve Womack (AR-3) has represented Arkansas\u2019s Third Congressional District since 2011. He is a member of the House Appropriations Committee.\n\nwomack.house.gov\n\n###", 1, "2026-06-25T06:30:03Z", "2026-06-25T06:31:21Z"], ["https://womack.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=410822", "Womack Hosts U.S. Service Academy Send-Off Picnic", "2026-06-19", "2026", "2026-06", "Republican", "House", "AR", "Steve Womack", "W000809", "womack.house.gov", "womack", "https://womack.house.gov/news", "scraper", "BENTONVILLE, Arkansas\u2014June 20, 2026\u2026Today, Congressman Steve Womack (AR-3) hosted his annual picnic honoring Third District students who accepted Offers of Appointment to U.S. military service academies this year, as well as 2026 military service academy graduates from the district.\n\nCongressman Womack said, \u201cIt is one of my highest honors as Congressman for Arkansas\u2019s Third District to nominate bright, determined, and selfless students who will be shaped into the leaders of tomorrow at our nation\u2019s esteemed U.S. military academies. This fall, the U.S. Military Academy, U.S. Naval Academy, U.S. Air Force Academy, and U.S. Merchant Marine Academy will welcome some of the Third District\u2019s finest students, and I extend my congratulations and best wishes as these young people begin their appointments.\u201d\n\nCongressman Womack continued, \u201cWe are also here to celebrate the Class of 2026 as they embark on a new chapter as commissioned officers. I am exceedingly proud of the sacrifice, discipline, and hard work that earned them both their diplomas and officer commissions. These men and women are exceptionally prepared to lead our military, and I have no doubt they will serve with distinction and excel in the years ahead.\u201d\n\n2026 Academy Appointees\n\nUSMA\n\nWeston Arnett of Greenwood\n\nCasey Elliot of Springdale\n\nJack Hooe of Bentonville\n\nJacob McCrary of Garfield\n\nConstantin Shatilenko of Rogers\n\nSullivan Shepard of Rogers\n\nUSNA\n\nVaughn Fields of Rogers\n\nHannah Hanson of Bentonville\n\nColt Hood of Fayetteville\n\nWilliam Stewart of Fayetteville\n\nUSAFA\n\nKenneth Dufault of Little Flock\n\nWilliam Neumann of Bentonville\n\nJoseph Rouse of Fayetteville\n\nSydney Seymour of Bella Vista\n\nJustus Thurlby of Bentonville\n\nUSMMA\n\nCarter Muth of Rogers\n\nCharles Quayle of Fayetteville\n\nUSAFA Preparatory School\n\nOlivia Whitt of Fort Smith\n\nClass of 2026 Academy Graduates\n\nUSMA\n\nEllery Doyna of Fayetteville\n\nLuke Monk of Fort Smith\n\nSydney Rhuda of Bentonville\n\nJoey Sta Romana of Centerton\n\nLuke Welcher of Fayetteville\n\nUSNA\n\nDylan Talbot of Centerton\n\nNoah Wilson of Springdale\n\nUSAFA\n\nJuan Andrade of Rogers\n\nElise Bell of Harrison\n\nJace Sutulovich of Siloam Springs", 1, "2026-06-21T06:40:40Z", "2026-06-21T06:42:26Z"], ["https://womack.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=410823", "From the Front: June 19, 2026", "2026-06-19", "2026", "2026-06", "Republican", "House", "AR", "Steve Womack", "W000809", "womack.house.gov", "womack", "https://womack.house.gov/news", "scraper", "From the Front Newsletters\nFrom the Front: June 19, 2026\nShare on Facebook\nShare on X\nPrint this Page\nShare by Email\nWashington,\r\n      June 19, 2026\nClick here to read this edition.\nRead more.\nJOIN MY EMAIL LIST\nSUBSCRIBE", 1, "2026-06-23T06:27:52Z", "2026-06-23T06:29:20Z"], ["https://hill.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=10167", "RELEASE: HILL AND JACKSON RELAUNCH BIPARTISAN CAUCUS TO CHAMPION CAREER TRAINING AND WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT", "2026-06-18", "2026", "2026-06", "Republican", "House", "AR", "J. French Hill", "H001072", "hill.house.gov", "hill", "https://hill.house.gov/media-center/press-releases", "scraper", "Today, Congressman French Hill (R-AR-02) and Congressman Jonathan Jackson (D-IL-01) announce the relaunch of the bipartisan Congressional Skilled Workforce Caucus to champion skilled workforce development and inform Members of Congress on issues facing American workers and employers who depend on a trained, capable workforce. Hill and Jackson will serve as Co-Chairs of the caucus for the 119th Congress.The Skilled Workforce Caucus will serve as a forum for Members to coordinate on federal policy priorities related to skilled workforce training, career and technical education, apprenticeships, and the pipeline of workers needed across healthcare, aviation, technology, and the sectors that build and power our nation.\n\nThe need is urgent. The construction industry alone is projected to need 349,000 additional workers in 2026, with roughly 41% of the current construction workforce expected to retire by 2031. The healthcare sector faces a parallel crisis, with more than 189,100 registered nurse job openings projected annually through 2034. Across aviation, technology, and energy, the story is the same as demand continues to outpace the pipeline. If left unaddressed, the skilled labor shortage could cost the U.S. economy billions of dollars in lost economic output.\n\nRep. French Hill said, \u201cFor decades, we pushed young people toward four-year degrees, which had the unintended consequence of making trade schools and skilled labor look like a second-rate career path. The fact is, our skilled workers are the backbone of our economy, integral to everything that makes this nation great, from our healthcare and technology industries to the workers who build our homes and maintain our infrastructure. While we continue to applaud those who attend our great colleges and universities, this caucus will make sure Congress pays equal attention to the skilled workers who make modern American life possible. I am proud to work with Congressman Jonathan Jackson to ensure their voices are heard in Washington.\u201d\n\n\u201cOur nation needs a skilled workforce prepared to meet the challenges and opportunities of the 21st-century economy,\u201d said Rep. Jonathan Jackson. \u201cI am honored to join Rep. Hill in relaunching the Skilled Workforce Caucus to bring Members of Congress together around a shared commitment to strengthening workforce development and expanding opportunity for working families. By investing in career and technical education, apprenticeships, and workforce training, we can create more pathways to family-sustaining careers, close skills gaps across critical industries, and build an economy where prosperity reaches every community.\u201d", 1, "2026-06-19T06:50:32Z", "2026-06-19T06:53:40Z"], ["https://womack.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=410821", "What They Are Saying: Third District Stakeholders Welcome Community Projects Funding", "2026-06-18", "2026", "2026-06", "Republican", "House", "AR", "Steve Womack", "W000809", "womack.house.gov", "womack", "https://womack.house.gov/news", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C.\u2014June 18, 2026\u2026Congressman Steve Womack (AR-3), a senior member of the House Appropriations Committee and Chairman of the Subcommittee on Transportation, Housing and Urban Development (THUD), and Related Agencies, secured and voted to advance more than $105.4 million in Community Project Funding (CPF) for 19 local projects in the Third District of Arkansas.\n\nThe bills that include the funding have been approved by the House Appropriations Committee and now await consideration by the full House of Representatives.\n\nRead what stakeholders are saying about these efforts and the impact that the funding will have on the community.\n\nThe Arkansas Department of Transportation (ARDOT) received $5 million for Arkansas Highway 10 improvements, $10 million for Arkansas Highway 59 improvements, and $7.736 million for Arkansas Highway 72 improvements in the city of Pea Ridge.\n\nARDOT Director Jared Wiley said, \u201cAs transportation construction costs continue to outpace revenues, I am especially grateful for Congressman Womack and his commitment to providing much-needed infrastructure funding for projects in Arkansas\u2019s Third District. Womack\u2019s efforts have infused over $100 million for vitally important transportation projects in the past five years. This funding enabled the progression of many projects including the Springdale Northern Bypass, the XNA Connector, the Greenwood Bypass, and the Interstate 49 Extension. The 2027 appropriations package includes an additional $22.7 million for highway projects in the Third Congressional District that will improve mobility and safety for countless Arkansans.\u201d\n\nPea Ridge Mayor Nathan See said, \u201cOn behalf of the city of Pea Ridge, I would like to express our sincere gratitude to Congressman Womack for his support in securing $7.736 million in federal funding for the Highway 72 intersection improvement project through the FY2027 THUD bill. This investment represents a significant milestone for our community and will have a lasting impact on the safety, mobility, and future growth of Pea Ridge. As one of the fastest-growing communities in Northwest Arkansas, improvements to Highway 72 are critical to meeting the transportation needs of our residents, businesses, and visitors. Congressman Womack's leadership and advocacy on behalf of our city have helped make this important project a reality. The funding will enhance traffic flow, improve safety for motorists and pedestrians, and support the continued economic development of our community for years to come. We greatly appreciate Congressman Womack's commitment to Northwest Arkansas and his partnership in addressing the infrastructure needs of growing communities like Pea Ridge. This project is a testament to what can be accomplished when local, state, and federal leaders work together toward a common goal.\u201d\n\nBenton County received $2.1 million for the construction of a new fire and EMS station in Avoca.\n\nNortheast Benton County (NEBCO) Volunteer Fire Department Chief Rob Taylor said, \"Northeast Benton County FIRE-EMS greatly appreciates Congressman Womack's help in securing funding to build and equip an EMS station in the city of Avoca that will greatly help reduce response time to the citizens of Northeast Benton County. Benton County is one of the fastest growing areas in the US. This funding will allow us to finalize our project and stay ahead of the major growth period. Without this investment, this project would not be possible since our funding comes from dues-paying members and fundraisers. Again, thank you, Congressman Womack.\"\n\nThe city of Bentonville received $12.75 million for road improvements.\n\nBentonville Mayor Stephanie Orman said, \"Investing in transportation infrastructure is essential to ensuring growing communities remain connected, accessible, and able to meet the demands of continued growth. This project will improve mobility, strengthen connectivity, and support the long-term transportation needs of Bentonville residents and businesses. We appreciate Congressman Womack's leadership and commitment to Northwest Arkansas. His work to advance projects like this helps cities like Bentonville prepare for continued growth, remain competitive, and maintain the quality of life that attracts people and investment to our region.\u201d\n\nThe city of Cave Springs received $9 million for water system improvements.\n\nCave Springs Mayor Randall Noblett said, \"We are very thankful for Congressman Womack and his team\u2019s hard work in securing funding for a new water tower. The city of Cave Springs is a fast-growing city, operating one of Arkansas\u2019s largest water systems without a tower. This creates a regional strain on the system for the city that supplies water to our residents and other cities. We are grateful for Congressman Womack\u2019s support of this essential infrastructure project, which is critical in providing for the current and future needs of the Cave Springs Water Utility.\"\n\nCommunity Clinic received $1.026 million to renovate and modernize the Springdale Dental Clinic.\n\nCommunity Clinic President and CEO Judd Semingson said, \"A healthy community starts with healthy people\u2014and oral health is far more connected to overall wellbeing than most people realize. From cardiovascular health to diabetes management to childhood development, a healthy mouth matters deeply to the whole body. This investment allows Community Clinic to expand dental care and imaging for a greater impact to Northwest Arkansas, strengthening the full continuum of care our community counts on. We are very appreciative to Congressman Womack for his commitment to the health and vitality of this region. Because of this opportunity, more families across Northwest Arkansas will have access to the preventive and restorative dental care that keeps people healthy, productive, and thriving for years to come.\"\n\nThe city of Dyer received $5 million for water system improvements.\n\nDyer Mayor Lynn Hubbard said, \u201cThis funding will help us greatly to improve our water infrastructure within the city of Dyer. In my conversation with Congressman Womack last fall, he emphasized his commitment to helping rural communities in Arkansas, and his work to secure this funding reflects the kind of leader he is. I want to thank Congressman Womack and his team for their hard work in securing this funding for our water utility.\u201d\n\nThe city of Gentry received $12 million for water system improvements.\n\nGentry Mayor Kevin Johnston said, \u201cOn behalf of the Gentry community, I want to thank Congressman Womack for his support and for recognizing the significance of wastewater system improvements and the positive impact they will have on our region. These improvements will expand the capacity of our collection and treatment infrastructure, help to address the housing shortage crisis, lessen the impact of rate increases, and improve water quality within the Third District and beyond. Because of this support, our community will continue to grow and better the quality of life in Northwest Arkansas.\"\n\nThe city of Green Forest received $6.838 million for water system improvements.\n\nGreen Forest Mayor Jerry Carlton said, \u201cA huge thanks to Congressman Womack and all of his staff for securing funding for our growing infrastructure needs. With this funding, we will be able to align our aging water and sewer systems with our current needs and accommodate future growth in this fast-growing part of the state. This funding also ensures our water system stays safe for public use and that the sewer system stays in compliance with all local, state, and federal regulations. Thank you once again, Congressman, for fighting for small towns.\u201d\n\nThe city of Lincoln received $675,000 for water system improvements.\n\nLincoln Mayor Doug Hutchens said, \"The city of Lincoln would like to thank Congressman Womack for his support of a crucial infrastructure improvement in our community. This sewer rehabilitation project will provide increased sewer capacity for our wastewater plant as we prepare for the anticipated growth in our region. Receiving these federal funds would help alleviate a financial strain and move us one step closer to replacing an aging wastewater system. I appreciate Womack\u2019s staff and their time and effort put in to supporting the various communities in our great state.\"\n\nThe city of Lowell received $1 million for a food bank initiative.\n\nPresident and CEO of Northwest Arkansas Food Bank in Lowell Taylor Speegle said, \"We are grateful to Congressman Womack for his leadership and support of Northwest Arkansas families. As our region continues to grow, so does the need for a reliable food supply during emergencies and natural disasters. This investment would help ensure the Northwest Arkansas Food Bank can continue providing food to our neighbors when they need it most, even during extended power outages. We appreciate Congressman Womack's commitment to strengthening our community's emergency preparedness and food security infrastructure.\u201d\n\nMadison County received $6 million for water system improvements.\n\nMadison County Judge Larry D. Garrett said, \"Madison County is so thankful to be receiving funding for a water project in the western part of our county around Hindsville through Community Project Funding. This investment will allow for the growth that we know is coming but could not afford to fund. We appreciate Congressman Womack and his efforts to make infrastructure available.\"\n\nThe Northwest Arkansas Regional Airport Authority received $9 million for its western concourse expansion.\n\nCEO of the Northwest Arkansas National Airport Aaron Burkes said, \u201cWe are incredibly grateful for Congressman Womack\u2019s continued support of Northwest Arkansas National Airport and the Western Concourse project. This funding would represent a meaningful investment in the future of XNA and in the continued growth of Northwest Arkansas. As our region grows, so does the need for expanded airport capacity, improved passenger amenities, and infrastructure that supports long-term economic development. We appreciate Congressman Womack\u2019s leadership in helping move this important project forward.\u201d\n\nThe NorthWest Arkansas Community College (NWACC) received $4.5 million for campus infrastructure improvements.\n\nNorthWest Arkansas Community College President Dr. Dennis C. Rittle said, \u201cNorthWest Arkansas Community College is grateful to Congressman Steve Womack for his long-standing support of the college and the communities we serve. The Eagle Way Tunnel and the bike and pedestrian trails on the NWACC campus will provide a safe connection point between the Razorback Greenway and trails in Bentonville to the Rogers Railyard Loop and trails in Rogers. The improved multi-modal transportation connectivity will be transformative and unifying for the college and the region. Congressman Womack, thank you for your unwavering support to the college and this region, the place we call home!\u201d\n\nSpringdale Water Utilities received $4 million for water system improvements.\n\nExecutive Director of the Springdale Water Utilities Heath Ward said, \u201cOn behalf of the Springdale Water Utilities, the Water and Sewer Commission, and the city Of Springdale, we are grateful to Congressman Womack for this funding opportunity. As our region grows at a rapid pace, the demand for improved infrastructure is critical. The funding will assist in our ability to build a more robust water system that will safely serve future residents on the eastern side of Springdale. As the city expands eastward, the demand and need for safe and plentiful water is more important than ever. This funding, coupled with local dollars, will enhance our ability to grow in a responsible manner and have a positive impact on the community and others we also serve just outside our city limits. This includes the cities of Lowell, Johnson, Elm Springs, and parts of Washington and Benton counties. It will have a regional impact.\u201d\n\nThe University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences (UAMS) received $2.5 million for improvements to their workforce training center at the Northwest Regional Campus.\n\nUAMS Chancellor C. Lowry Barnes, M.D. said, \u201cOn behalf of UAMS, I want to thank Congressman Steve Womack for his steadfast support of our mission and for championing this funding, which will allow us to renovate and modernize classroom and workforce training spaces on our Northwest Arkansas campus. These improvements will expand classroom capacity, enhance instructional technology, and create innovative learning environments that strengthen our ability to educate and train future healthcare professionals. Modern learning spaces equipped with advanced technology are essential to preparing students for today\u2019s rapidly evolving healthcare environment. This federal investment will help us meet the growing workforce needs of Northwest Arkansas and communities across our state.\u201d\n\nThe city of Van Buren received $5 million for bridge improvements.\n\nVan Buren Mayor Joe Hurst said, \u201cCongressman Womack has consistently stepped up to help our district, and the funds he has secured to repair the Flat Rock Creek Bridge in Van Buren is another example of his outstanding efforts. This bridge is essential to our city as thousands of vehicles travel on it daily. These federal funds will help support small businesses and improve community safety and economic development. Van Buren is grateful to Congressman Womack for his continual support.\u201d\n\nThe city of Winslow received $1.28 million for water system improvements.\n\nWinslow Mayor Randy Jarnagan said, \u201cWorking with Congressman Womack and his staff has been a great opportunity for the City of Winslow's water system. This funding will allow us to totally refurbish all three of our forty-year-old potable water tanks so we can continue to provide clean water to our citizens at a reasonable cost. We appreciate Congressman Womack's continued interest in our town and this project.\u201d\n\nCongressman Steve Womack (AR-3) has represented Arkansas\u2019s Third Congressional District since 2011. He is a member of the House Appropriations Committee.\n\nwomack.house.gov\n\n###", 1, "2026-06-19T06:50:32Z", "2026-06-19T06:53:40Z"], ["https://womack.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=410820", "From the Front: June 12, 2026", "2026-06-12", "2026", "2026-06", "Republican", "House", "AR", "Steve Womack", "W000809", "womack.house.gov", "womack", "https://womack.house.gov/news", "scraper", "From the Front Newsletters\nFrom the Front: June 12, 2026\nShare on Facebook\nShare on X\nPrint this Page\nShare by Email\nWashington,\r\n      June 12, 2026\nClick here to read this edition.\nRead more.\nJOIN MY EMAIL LIST\nSUBSCRIBE", 1, "2026-06-17T06:49:24Z", "2026-06-17T06:50:53Z"], ["https://womack.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=410818", "Womack Slams Democrats for Blocking FISA Extension", "2026-06-11", "2026", "2026-06", "Republican", "House", "AR", "Steve Womack", "W000809", "womack.house.gov", "womack", "https://womack.house.gov/news", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C.\u2014June 11, 2026\u2026Congressman Steve Womack (AR-3) today released the following statement after Democrats blocked the passage of H.R. 9238 to extend the authorities of Section 702 of the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act (FISA) through July 2, 2026. FISA Section 702 authorities expire on June 12, 2026.\n\nCongressman Womack said, \u201cIt is unconscionable that lawmakers would choose to let such a critical tool of the U.S. intelligence community lapse when we are in the midst of a conflict overseas, preparing to host foreign nationals for the World Cup, and on the cusp of our 250th birthday celebration. Our adversaries around the world who are plotting to do harm to our nation and citizens are celebrating, and I pray we do not reap the consequences that these nefarious actors believe we deserve. Congress must put aside their spiteful and extraneous disputes and restore FISA Section 702 authorities expeditiously\u2014our national security counts on it.\u201d\n\nSection 702 allows the U.S. government to collect the electronic communications of foreign nationals overseas who raise reasonable intelligence concerns. Section 702 cannot be used to target American citizens.\n\nCongressman Steve Womack (AR-3) has represented Arkansas\u2019s Third Congressional District since 2011. He is a member of the House Appropriations Committee.\n\nwomack.house.gov\n\n###", 1, "2026-06-12T06:37:16Z", "2026-06-12T06:39:00Z"], ["https://womack.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=410817", "Womack Votes to Fund Immigration Enforcement Agencies", "2026-06-09", "2026", "2026-06", "Republican", "House", "AR", "Steve Womack", "W000809", "womack.house.gov", "womack", "https://womack.house.gov/news", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2014 June 9, 2026\u2026 Today, Congressman Steve Womack (AR-3) voted in support of S.2, the Secure America Act. This package includes $38.5 billion for Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and $26 billion for Customs and Border Protection (CBP) to fund operations for the next three years.\n\nCongressman Womack said, \u201cOur federal immigration enforcement agencies carry out a crucial mission to protect our homeland and uphold the rule of law. To fulfill this work, they must be properly equipped at every level. Funding these agencies through budget reconciliation is not the ideal approach, but it has become the necessary one due to political grandstanding. In the future, I hope Congress can return to implementing the regular appropriations process to fund all critical government functions, especially those vital to our national security.\u201d\n\nThe bill text is available HERE.\n\nCongressman Steve Womack (AR-3) has represented Arkansas\u2019s Third Congressional District since 2011. He is a member of the House Appropriations Committee.\n\nwomack.house.gov\n\n###", 1, "2026-06-10T06:36:00Z", "2026-06-10T06:37:32Z"], ["https://hill.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=10137", "RELEASE: HILL AWARDS LATEST GOLDEN FLEECE TO CMS", "2026-06-08", "2026", "2026-06", "Republican", "House", "AR", "J. French Hill", "H001072", "hill.house.gov", "hill", "https://hill.house.gov/media-center/press-releases", "scraper", "HHS Inspector General reports show MA plans are misusing prior authorization, a practice used to pre-approve expensive care before it is provided, at the expense of seniors. In one study, 18% of denied claims were for services that already met coverage rules or had been previously approved. The yearly cost of insurance paperwork to the U.S. economy totals $31 billion, a portion of which comes from prior authorization filings and appeals for improper denials. CMS could reduce that amount and save taxpayers' money by fixing its prior authorization oversight.\n\nRep. Hill said, \"CMS failing to efficiently or appropriately use prior authorization is unacceptable. Medicare is one of our largest federal health care expenditures and increasingly strains our already difficult fiscal situation. Every dollar matters. So when the HHS IG finds that 18% of denied claims were improper, CMS deserves to be called out. Medicare exists to protect our seniors, and they are the ones who suffer most when the system fails. CMS needs to fix this now. Our seniors are counting on it.\"\n\nIn his letter to CMS Administrator Dr. Mehmet Oz, Rep. Hill writes:\n\nDear Administrator Oz,\n\nI write today to inform you that the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) is this month\u2019s recipient of my Golden Fleece Award. I am awarding this to CMS because of its failure to properly oversee Medicare Advantage (MA) plans prior authorization practices.\n\nCMS is responsible for ensuring federal health care programs, including Medicare, operate smoothly. This duty is made even more important as seniors are increasingly choosing to enroll in privately managed MA plans. These plans can improve care coordination, reduce costs, and maintain or improve care.\n\nMA plans often use prior authorization, the practice of pre-approving certain complicated or expensive care before services are provided, to contain costs and cut down on fraud and abuse. However, I am concerned that some MA plans are misusing prior authorization in a way that harms Medicare and our seniors.\n\nSpecifically, I am concerned about reports from the Department of Health and Human Services Inspector General (HHS OIG) showing that MA plans are failing to efficiently or appropriately use prior authorization. In one study, the HHS OIG found that 18% of denied claims were for services that met MA plan coverage rules or had already been approved through prior authorization. The report also identified multiple instances where MA plans claimed that records were lost, not properly linked, or software failed. I hope you agree with me that basic record-keeping failures should not be common, and that CMS has a duty to ensure plans prevent these kinds of issues.\n\nPrior authorization failures can delay care for seniors and create unnecessary burdens for health care providers. This should not be tolerated when taxpayer dollars are funding the MA plans responsible. Estimates suggest that prior authorization abuse or errors consume physician time, lead to adverse outcomes, and can even reduce productivity due to missed work.\n\nMore importantly, the impact on patients is severe. According to studies, prior authorization can lead to worse health outcomes for children and adults, including for behavioral care like opioid use disorder and even cancer treatments. In addition, delays, including time spent appealing denials, lead to worse health outcomes now and more expensive care later.\n\nThe economic cost of prior authorization is also striking. Research suggests that the yearly cost of insurance paperwork to physicians is $68,274, with a total cost to the U.S. economy of $31 billion. It is important to note that most of those costs fall on small, independent practices. Further, some portion of that $31 billion is spent on filing prior authorizations and appeals for improper denials. That money could be spent on better, or more care, but instead is essentially wasted. This kind of failure, which demonstrably harms patients Medicare is designed to protect, can be avoided.\n\nCMS must address the problem of inefficient or harmful prior authorization practices in Medicare. Should you require additional authority from Congress to conduct oversight of MA plans, I ask that you notify me. I look forward to working with you in the near future.\n\nSincerely,\n\nFrench Hill\n\nMember of Congress\n\nCC: Inspector General March Bell, Department of Health and Human Services.", 1, "2026-06-09T06:27:37Z", "2026-06-09T06:30:10Z"], ["https://hill.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=10110", "RELEASE:\u00a0HILL PUSHES TO PRESERVE LITTLE ROCK LANDMARK", "2026-06-05", "2026", "2026-06", "Republican", "House", "AR", "J. French Hill", "H001072", "hill.house.gov", "hill", "https://hill.house.gov/media-center/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Rep. French Hill (AR-02) yesterday introduced H.R. 9148, the Scipio Jones House Assessment Act. If passed, this bill would require the Department of the Interior (DOI) to do a special resource study of the Scipio Jones House with a report to Congress three years after enactment. The study would lay the groundwork for preserving the house and potentially bringing it into the National Park System.\n\nRep. Hill said, \u201cScipio Jones is one of the most important figures in American civil rights history, and a proud Arkansas native. He saved 12 men from death row, took their case all the way to the Supreme Court, won, and changed constitutional law for every American who has ever stood accused. While I\u2019m grateful to the City of Little Rock for helping to save this landmark, I\u2019m concerned that the Scipio Jones property continues to be vacant and to deteriorate, and I\u2019m proud to lead the effort to restore it in a way that honors this great Arkansan's legacy.\u201d\n\nBackground\n\nSpecifically, this bill would evaluate:\n\nThe national significance of the study area,\n\nThe suitability and feasibility of designating the study area as a unit of the National Historic Landmark and affiliated area of the National Park System.\n\nThe feasibility of making the home an extension of the Little Rock Central High School National Historic Site.\n\nAlternatives for preservation and protection of the study area\n\nCost estimates for any Federal acquisition, development, interpretation, operation, and maintenance associated with the alternatives.\n\nIn 2020, Rep. Hill's bill to permit a portrait of Scipio Jones to be displayed at the Little Rock post office that bears his name was signed into law. The portrait, painted by Arkansas artist Wade Hampton, was unveiled at the post office in February 2022.\n\nAbout Scipio Jones:\n\nScipio Africanus Jones, who was born to an enslaved person in 1863, attended Walden Seminary (now Philander Smith University) and then attended Bethel Institute (now Shorter College), earning his bachelor\u2019s degree in 1885. In 1889, Jones passed the bar and was admitted to practice before the Supreme Court of Arkansas in 1900 and by the U.S. Supreme Court in 1905.\n\nAfter the horrific massacre of Black Americans in Elaine, Arkansas, in 1919, Scipio Jones defended 12 wrongly accused Black men who had been charged with murder and condemned by all-white juries.\n\nDespite the Elaine Massacre being described as a \"race riot,\" most of the victims were Black and most of the aggressors were white. With his clients already facing execution, Jones fought their convictions in both state and federal courts. An appeal was filed with the U.S. Supreme Court arguing that the accused had been denied due process of law. After reviewing the case, the Supreme Court agreed and overturned the convictions. Moore v. Dempsey changed the nature of the Fourteenth Amendment\u2019s due process clause. The landmark ruling allows federal courts to hear and examine evidence in state criminal cases to ensure that the defendants\u2019 constitutional due process rights are protected.", 1, "2026-06-06T06:16:30Z", "2026-06-06T06:17:47Z"], ["https://womack.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=410816", "From the Front: June 5, 2026", "2026-06-05", "2026", "2026-06", "Republican", "House", "AR", "Steve Womack", "W000809", "womack.house.gov", "womack", "https://womack.house.gov/news", "scraper", "From the Front Newsletters\nFrom the Front: June 5, 2026\nShare on Facebook\nShare on X\nPrint this Page\nShare by Email\nWashington,\r\n      June 5, 2026\nClick here to read this edition.\nRead more.\nJOIN MY EMAIL LIST\nSUBSCRIBE", 1, "2026-06-09T06:27:37Z", "2026-06-09T06:30:10Z"], ["https://womack.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=410814", "Womack Votes for Fiscal Year 2027 Funding Bill to Empower Arkansas Producers and Rural Communities", "2026-06-04", "2026", "2026-06", "Republican", "House", "AR", "Steve Womack", "W000809", "womack.house.gov", "womack", "https://womack.house.gov/news", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2014 June 4, 2026\u2026Congressman Steve Womack (AR-3) today voted in support of the Fiscal Year (FY) 2027 Agriculture, Rural Development, Food and Drug Administration, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act that was passed by the U.S. House of Representatives.\n\nThis bill allocates $26.27 billion in discretionary spending to fund the Department of Agriculture, the Food and Drug Administration, and more.\n\nCongressman Womack said, \u201cThe Fiscal Year 2027 Agriculture, Rural Development, and Food and Drug Administration funding bill is an important step forward in supporting our nation\u2019s farmers, ranchers, and producers. It also provides targeted relief for our poultry industry and other businesses in Arkansas\u2019s Third District who work tirelessly to keep food on our shelves and on our kitchen tables. I am proud that the House passed this bill well before the end of the fiscal year, and I look forward to collaborating with our Senate colleagues.\u201d\n\nBill highlights:\n\nEmpowers American producers and rural communities by:\n\nAllowing broiler chicken farmers to sell their surplus eggs into the breaker market for pasteurization and mixture into everyday grocery products.\n\nReining in Biden-era regulations aimed at dictating how poultry and livestock producers raise and market their animals.\n\nIncreasing resources for the Food Safety and Inspection Service to fund frontline meat and poultry inspectors and bolster support for state inspection programs.\n\nImproving the tracking of foreign-owned U.S. agricultural land by countries such as China, Russia, North Korea, and Iran.\n\nFunding agricultural research and rural development programs.\n\nStreamlining the pet food labeling regulatory environment by eliminating a burdensome patchwork of requirements, thereby increasing economic productivity and employment opportunities for AR-3 pet food producers.\n\nSupporting the FDA's work related to contaminated poppy seeds and directing the agency to carry out enforcement measures to ensure only safe poppy seeds are available for consumption.\n\nA summary of the bill is available HERE.\n\nThe bill text is available HERE.\n\nCongressman Steve Womack (AR-3) has represented Arkansas\u2019s Third Congressional District since 2011. He is a member of the House Appropriations Committee.\n\nwomack.house.gov\n\n###", 1, "2026-06-05T06:35:23Z", "2026-06-05T06:36:42Z"], ["https://womack.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=410813", "Committee Approves Womack's Fiscal Year 2027 Funding Bill to Strengthen Transportation and Housing Programs", "2026-06-03", "2026", "2026-06", "Republican", "House", "AR", "Steve Womack", "W000809", "womack.house.gov", "womack", "https://womack.house.gov/news", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2014 June 4, 2026\u2026Today, the House Appropriations Committee met to consider the Fiscal Year 2027 Transportation, Housing and Urban Development (THUD), and Related Agencies Appropriations Act. The measure was reported favorably by the Committee to the full House by a vote of 34-27.\n\nHouse Appropriations THUD Subcommittee Chairman Steve Womack (AR-3) said:\n\n\u201cAmerica\u2019s outstanding level of mobility and housing affordability has long set our nation apart and represents key components of the American Dream. My Fiscal Year 2027 Transportation, Housing and Urban Development funding bill builds on that reputation of excellence by investing in the modernization of our national airspace system, providing resources to properly maintain and improve our roads, bridges, and railways, and giving vulnerable Americans the resources they need to keep a roof over their heads\u2014setting them up for future success.\u201d\n\n\u201cI am also proud of the investments this bill makes in Arkansas\u2019s Third District. From water systems to bridges and highways, this legislation brings Third District taxpayer dollars back home to strengthen infrastructure as our region continues to grow.\u201d\n\n\u201cI thank Ranking Member Jim Clyburn for his partnership on this bill and Chairman Tom Cole for his leadership in swiftly bringing it before the committee for consideration.\u201d\n\nChairman Womack\u2019s full opening remarks, as prepared for delivery, are available HERE.\n\nHouse Appropriations Committee Chairman Tom Cole (OK-4) delivered the following remarks during the markup, \u201cAmerica's future will be shaped not only by what we envision, but by what we build. The FY27 THUD bill invests in modernized infrastructure, mobility, and community priorities that will keep our nation moving forward. Whether on our highways, in our ports, across our waterways, or through our skies, the measure reinforces the networks that keep America safely connected and competitive. It further supports local development efforts and assistance for vulnerable Americans, ensuring communities have the resources to grow, adapt, and thrive. As a former mayor, Chairman Womack understands that strong infrastructure and strong communities go hand in hand. His legislation reflects a practical commitment to delivering results that will benefit Americans for generations to come. With this action, we have now advanced nine FY27 appropriations bills, continuing to move both the appropriations process and the nation's priorities forward through regular order.\u201d\n\nChairman Cole's full opening remarks, as prepared for delivery, are available HERE.\n\nBill highlights:\n\nInvests in Arkansas\u2019s Third District by allocating:\n\n$9 million to the Northwest Arkansas Regional Airport for its western concourse expansion.\n\n$5 million for Arkansas Highway 10 improvements.\n\n$7.736 million for Arkansas Highway 72 improvements.\n\n$10 million for Arkansas Highways 59 improvements.\n\n$675,000 to the city of Lincoln for water system improvements.\n\n$1 million to the city of Lowell for a food bank initiative.\n\n$2.1 million to Benton County for the construction of a new fire and EMS station in Avoca.\n\n$2.5 million to the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences (UAMS) for training space improvements.\n\n$4.5 million to the NorthWest Arkansas Community College (NWACC) for campus infrastructure improvements.\n\n$5 million to the city of Dyer for water system improvements.\n\n$5 million to the city of Van Buren for bridge improvements.\n\n$6 million to Madison County for water system improvements.\n\n$6.838 million to the city of Green Forest for water system improvements.\n\n$9 million to the city of Cave Springs for water system improvements.\n\n$12 million to the city of Gentry for water system improvements.\n\n$12.75 million to the city of Bentonville for road improvements.\n\nInvests in transportation safety and rebuilds America by:\n\nProviding $22.7 billion for the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to hire 2,300 new air traffic controllers and replace dated telecommunication infrastructure.\n\nRebuilding America with more than $6.3 billion in new budget authority for highways, rail, airports, and maritime infrastructure.\n\nRedirecting $7.9 billion in wasteful Democrat priorities from the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA), and investing those funds in safety, stronger freight movement, and more reliable travel for the traveling public.\n\nProviding $200 million to develop safe and accessible truck parking infrastructure.\n\nSupporting America\u2019s maritime dominance through investments in our maritime workforce and infrastructure.\n\nEnsures a responsible safety net for our most vulnerable citizens by:\n\nEmpowering the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) to refocus housing assistance to promote self-sufficiency.\n\nProviding $3.3 billion for the Community Development Block Grant program, $60 million for the Self-Help and Assisted Homeownership Opportunities Program (SHOP), and $500 million for the HOME Investment Partnerships program to support affordable housing development across the nation.\n\nBolsters U.S. national security and border protections by:\n\nFunding the U.S. Merchant Marines, state Maritime Academies, shipyards, and the strategic sealift programs\u2014including the Cable Security Fleet, Maritime Security Program, and Tanker Security Program.\n\nSupporting America\u2019s vehicle and aircraft manufacturers to ensure global leadership and to counter China\u2019s malign influence.\n\nMaintaining \u201cBuy American\u201d provisions that maximize the federal government\u2019s use of services, goods, products, and materials produced and offered in the United States.\n\nProviding $92 million for new Department of Transportation (DOT) cybersecurity infrastructure initiatives.\n\nA summary of the bill is available HERE.\n\nThe bill text, before adoption of amendments, is available HERE.\n\nA video of Chairman Womack\u2019s opening remarks is available HERE.\n\nA full recording of the markup is available HERE.\n\nCongressman Steve Womack (AR-3) has represented Arkansas\u2019s Third Congressional District since 2011. He is a member of the House Appropriations Committee.\n\nwomack.house.gov\n\n###", 1, "2026-06-04T06:38:12Z", "2026-06-04T06:39:44Z"], ["https://womack.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=410781", "From the Front: May 29, 2026", "2026-05-29", "2026", "2026-05", "Republican", "House", "AR", "Steve Womack", "W000809", "womack.house.gov", "womack", "https://womack.house.gov/news", "scraper", "From the Front Newsletters\nFrom the Front: May 29, 2026\nShare on Facebook\nShare on X\nPrint this Page\nShare by Email\nWashington,\r\n      May 29, 2026\nClick here to read this edition.\nRead more.\nJOIN MY EMAIL LIST\nSUBSCRIBE", 1, "2026-06-02T06:40:38Z", "2026-06-02T06:42:17Z"], ["https://womack.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=410778", "Womack Celebrates West Point Class of 2026, Arkansas\u2019s Third District Graduates", "2026-05-23", "2026", "2026-05", "Republican", "House", "AR", "Steve Womack", "W000809", "womack.house.gov", "womack", "https://womack.house.gov/news", "scraper", "WEST POINT, N.Y. \u2014 May 23, 2026\u2026Congressman Steve Womack (AR-3), Chairman of the West Point Board of Visitors (BOV), today joined Secretary of War Pete Hegseth, Secretary of the Army Dan Driscoll, Superintendent of the U.S. Military Academy Lieutenant General Steven Gilland, and other Army senior leaders at the U.S. Military Academy\u2019s (USMA) graduation ceremony. The event honored nearly a thousand young men and women, including five cadets from Arkansas\u2019s Third District.\n\nCongressman Womack said, \u201cAs these cadets live out the principles of \u2018Duty, Honor, Country,\u2019 they also carry with them the knowledge, experience, and skills to lead the next generation of Army Soldiers. There were far easier paths they could have taken to earn undergraduate degrees, but these cadets chose to pursue service and a purpose greater than themselves. I am not only proud of their commitment and perseverance, but I am also hopeful for the future of this country, as it will undoubtedly be shaped and strengthened by the Class of 2026.\u201d\n\nCongressman Womack continued, \u201cAs the Chairman of the West Point Board of Visitors, I commend these men and women for their accomplishments. I also extend a special congratulations to Ellery Doyna, Luke Monk, Sydney Rhuda, Joey Sta Romana, and Luke Welcher\u2014who I had the privilege of nominating for this prestigious appointment.\u201d\n\nDuring the ceremony, the cadets\u2014after four years of rigorous academic, physical, and leadership training\u2014swore an oath as commissioned officers, pledging to preserve and protect the Constitution and to lead with character. Each newly commissioned officer received their second lieutenant \u201cbutter\u201d bars and will soon begin their first duty assignments.\n\nWest Point is the world\u2019s preeminent leadership development institution, dedicated to educating, preparing, and training the next generation of Army leaders. The BOV, chaired by Womack, provides independent advice and recommendations on Academy matters, including morale and discipline, curriculum, instruction, physical equipment, fiscal affairs, academic methods, and other issues deemed appropriate by board members. Womack was first appointed to the BOV in 2012 by Speaker John Boehner and elected Chairman in 2017. He is currently the only congressional representative from Arkansas serving on the BOV.\n\nRead more about the Third District natives graduating from U.S. military service academies this year, including USMA HERE.\n\nCongressman Steve Womack (AR-3) has represented Arkansas\u2019s Third Congressional District since 2011. He is a member of the House Appropriations Committee.\n\nwomack.house.gov\n\n###", 1, "2026-05-24T06:25:55Z", "2026-05-24T06:28:10Z"], ["https://womack.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=410780", "From the Front: May 22, 2026", "2026-05-22", "2026", "2026-05", "Republican", "House", "AR", "Steve Womack", "W000809", "womack.house.gov", "womack", "https://womack.house.gov/news", "scraper", "From the Front Newsletters\nFrom the Front: May 22, 2026\nShare on Facebook\nShare on X\nPrint this Page\nShare by Email\nWashington,\r\n      May 22, 2026\nClick here to read this edition.\nRead more.\nJOIN MY EMAIL LIST\nSUBSCRIBE", 1, "2026-05-23T06:08:46Z", "2026-05-23T06:10:20Z"], ["https://womack.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=410776", "Womack Leads Subcommittee Markup of Fiscal Year 2027 Transportation, Housing and Urban Development Funding Bill", "2026-05-21", "2026", "2026-05", "Republican", "House", "AR", "Steve Womack", "W000809", "womack.house.gov", "womack", "https://womack.house.gov/news", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2014 May 21, 2026\u2026 Today, House Appropriations Transportation, Housing and Urban Development (THUD), and Related Agencies Subcommittee Chairman Steve Womack (AR-3) led the markup of the Fiscal Year 2027 bill. The measure was approved by the Subcommittee.\n\nChairman Womack delivered the following remarks during the markup, \u201cThe bill prioritizes transportation safety\u2014on our railroads, highways, and in our skies\u2014and ensures a responsible safety net with housing support for our most vulnerable citizens, especially the elderly, the disabled, veterans, and the working poor. [\u2026] This bill represents a responsible approach that prioritizes core infrastructure needs, maintains an essential safety net for our most vulnerable citizens, and implements the fiscal discipline and regulatory relief that the American people demanded in the last election. I believe the decisions in this bill will have a positive impact in every Congressional district while meeting our responsibility to rein in spending and reduce regulatory overreach.\u201d\n\nFull remarks, as prepared for delivery, are available HERE.\n\nHouse Appropriations Committee Chairman Tom Cole (OK-4) delivered the following remarks during the markup, \u201cToday\u2019s Transportation, Housing and Urban Development bill is about building a stronger America. With a focus on modernizing infrastructure, improving travel, and supporting communities across the nation \u2013 this measure responsibly funds critical priorities while safeguarding taxpayer dollars. [\u2026] From our founding, America has always been a nation that builds. This bill continues that tradition by investing in the networks and infrastructure that power commerce, connect communities, and improve everyday life for families.\u201d\n\nChairman Cole\u2019s full remarks, as prepared for delivery, are available HERE.\n\nA video of Chairman Womack\u2019s opening remarks is available HERE.\n\nA summary of the bill is available HERE.\n\nThe bill text is available HERE.\n\nCongressman Steve Womack (AR-3) has represented Arkansas\u2019s Third Congressional District since 2011. He is a member of the House Appropriations Committee.\n\nwomack.house.gov\n\n###", 1, "2026-05-22T06:27:39Z", "2026-05-22T06:29:18Z"], ["https://womack.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=410777", "Chairman Womack Questions DOT Secretary Sean Duffy at Fiscal Year 2027 Budget Hearing", "2026-05-21", "2026", "2026-05", "Republican", "House", "AR", "Steve Womack", "W000809", "womack.house.gov", "womack", "https://womack.house.gov/news", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2014 May 21, 2026\u2026Today, House Appropriations Transportation, Housing and Urban Development (THUD), and Related Agencies Subcommittee Chairman Steve Womack (AR-3) led a public hearing on the U.S. Department of Transportation\u2019s (DOT) Fiscal Year 2027 budget request with Secretary Sean Duffy serving as witness.\n\nChairman Womack delivered the following remarks during the hearing, \u201cOur hearing today serves as an example of the reciprocal relationship between this Committee and the Executive Branch to ensure the appropriate resources are provided to DOT to meet our shared goals of safety, infrastructure improvements, and modernization of our transportation systems.\u201d\n\nChairman Womack continued, \u201cThe investments we have made together in air traffic control prove this concept. Funding to rebuild the controller workforce combined with long-overdue modernization of air traffic technologies reflects the kind of sustained, bipartisan commitment that a safety-critical mission demands. The work is far from finished, and the challenges ahead are significant. The progress we have made shows what\u2019s possible when Congress and DOT focus on common priorities and follow through with real resources.\u201d\n\nChairman Womack\u2019s full remarks as prepared are available HERE.\n\nA video of Chairman Womack\u2019s opening remarks is available HERE.\n\nA video of Chairman Womack\u2019s questions for Secretary Duffy can be found HERE.\n\nA full recording of the hearing is available HERE.\n\nCongressman Steve Womack (AR-3) has represented Arkansas\u2019s Third Congressional District since 2011. He is a member of the House Appropriations Committee.\n\nwomack.house.gov\n\n###", 1, "2026-05-22T06:27:39Z", "2026-05-22T06:29:18Z"], ["https://crawford.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-rick-crawford-announces-congressional-art-competition-winner", "Congressman Rick Crawford announces Congressional Art Competition Winner", "2026-05-19", "2026", "2026-05", "Republican", "House", "AR", "Eric A. \"Rick\" Crawford", "C001087", "crawford.house.gov", "crawford", "https://crawford.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Jonesboro, AR \u2014 Today, Congressman Rick Crawford (AR-01) announced the winners of the 2026 Congressional Art Competition. Each year Congressman Crawford holds a student art competition across the district for high school students as a part of an effort to recognize and encourage artistic talent across our nation. The student chosen as the overall winner has their artwork displayed in Washington D.C. for a year.\n\nThis year, Sophie Vanlandingham was selected the Best in Show of this year\u2019s competition. She attends Norfork High School under the art instruction of Keela Olson. Ms. Vanlandingham\u2019s winning artwork entitled \u201cCowboy Collection\u201d is an oil painting on canvas that portrays a pair of colorful cowboy boots in front of a deep blue background.\n\nHer artwork will be displayed in the Cannon Hall in Washington D.C. with the other winners from across the country. She will also receive two Southwest Airlines\u2019 vouchers to attend the Congressional Art reception this summer in Washington, D.C.\n\nThis year\u2019s judges, Jayson Mirafuentes of Jonesboro and Paige Branham, Art Instructor at UA-EACC, reviewed over 240 artwork submissions representing 29 schools across the First Congressional district. The competition is divided into seven categories, based on medium, and the first-place winners of each category were recognized by Congressman Crawford at a reception in Jonesboro.\n\n\u201cThis art competition is one of my favorite things my office does,\u201d said Crawford. \u201cI am always amazed at how the students\u2019 artwork reflects what is going on in our Nation.\u201d\n\nThe first-place winners of each category, the Best in Show, and the People\u2019s Choice winner are currently on display in the Craighead County Courthouse Annex Building.\n\nThe other first-place category winners include the following mediums: Collage, Audrey Crumpton, Cabot High School; Digital, Denaya Horton, West Memphis High School; Drawing, Jovee Webster, Norfork High School; Mixed Media, Sophia Cook, Flippin High School; Photography, Rylan Mutchler, Norfork High School; Print, Emily Sharp, Norfork High School; People\u2019s Choice, Sicily Mars, Trumann High School.\n\nSince the competition began in 1982, more than 750,000 high school students have participated. This is the 15th year Congressman Crawford\u2019s office has participated in this Competition.", 1, "2026-08-10T06:13:07Z", "2026-08-10T06:14:46Z"], ["https://hill.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=10035", "RELEASE: REP. HILL VOTES TO SUPPORT VETERANS AND THE ARKANSAS NATIONAL GUARD", "2026-05-15", "2026", "2026-05", "Republican", "House", "AR", "J. French Hill", "H001072", "hill.house.gov", "hill", "https://hill.house.gov/media-center/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. -- Rep. French Hill (AR-02) today released the following statement after voting for H.R. 8469, the Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2027, which passed the House by a vote of 400-15. The bipartisan bill fully funds veterans' health care and benefits while securing critical investments that can be used for the Arkansas National Guard.\n\nRep. Hill said, \"Our veterans and service members have earned every benefit they were promised, and it is Congress's job to make sure they receive it. This bill fully funds veterans' health care, protects veterans' mental health programs, and keeps faith with those who have sacrificed so much for our country. I am also proud that this bill gives the Arkansas National Guard a path to compete for critical infrastructure funding, including a new hangar and medical building our Guard members need. Taking care of the men and women in uniform and the families who stand beside them will always be one of my top priorities.\"\n\nBackground\n\nH.R. 8469, the Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2027, provides $469.49 billion in total funding, including $157 billion in discretionary spending and $329.9 billion in mandatory spending, approximately 3 percent above FY26 enacted levels.\n\nSeveral of Rep. Hill's priorities were included in the bill:\n\nA pathway for the Arkansas National Guard to compete for funding for a new hangar and medical building\n\nSupporting efforts to address the unique challenges facing female veterans\n\nFunding for the VA Office of Enterprise Integration\n\nSupport for the VA data governance and analytics efforts, which strengthen the VA\u2019s delivery of services and benefits\n\nFunding for VA medical services\n\nOther key wins in the bill include:", 1, "2026-05-16T06:05:00Z", "2026-05-16T06:06:37Z"], ["https://hill.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=10037", "RELEASE: REP. HILL CALLS OUT GSA FOR WASTING MILLIONS ON UNUSED FEDERAL PROPERTY", "2026-05-15", "2026", "2026-05", "Republican", "House", "AR", "J. French Hill", "H001072", "hill.house.gov", "hill", "https://hill.house.gov/media-center/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Last month, Rep. French Hill (AR-02) announced the General Services Administration (GSA) as the latest recipient of his Golden Fleece Award. GSA is receiving this award for its failure to efficiently dispose of unneeded federal property. Under the Federal Property and Administrative Services Act, GSA has the authority to dispose of surplus federal holdings, yet it has largely failed to do so in a timely manner, wasting millions of dollars to maintain unused buildings across the country.\n\nRep. Hill said, \u201cI have been trying to have the USFS convey a property to Perry County, Arkansas for years. The long-vacant building would be a big valuable asset for the community, including as a meeting space for 4-H and put to good use for youth programs, agricultural education, and local conservation efforts. This has been an incredibly long, difficult, and frustrating process and one that is completely unnecessary and should not require an Act of Congress. The government not only loses the trust of the local populace when they refuse to sell or convey unused federal properties, they waste millions in taxpayers\u2019 dollars.\"\n\nIn his letter to GSA Administrator, Mr. Ed Frost, Rep. Hill writes:\n\nDear Administrator Frost,\n\nI am writing to inform you that the General Services Administration (GSA) is the most recent recipient of my Golden Fleece Award. I am awarding the GSA for its failure to efficiently dispose of surplus federal real property, particularly its inability to convey or sell assets that no longer support the needs and missions of the federal agencies. While I know GSA has recently focused on accelerating unloading unneeded property, which I support, it does not change the fact that the cost to maintain these unused federal buildings costs the American public billions each year and has for years.\n\nUnder the Property Act, federal agencies may dispose of property that is no longer needed by a federal agency. Through this process, excess property is first reported as being surplus real property before being offered to other federal agencies for use. Should no federal agency need the surplus property, state and other local governments can obtain the property through a public benefits conveyance, also known as a PBC, through right of first refusal. Under current statute, GSA and the Department of Defense (DoD) are responsible for real property disposal, though, which agency is in control depends on if the property is a former Base Realignment and Closure (BRAC) property or non-BRAC property.\n\nMost of the recent attempts to dispose of unneeded property at the federal level involve selling property, however, for some counties, properties are best conveyed under the PBC process often due to lack of appropriate funds for another local or state entity to purchase them. The PBC process is overly complex and underused, leaving unneeded federal property sitting vacant and costing taxpayers\u2019 money.\n\nI have run into this issue within my district. For years, Perry County, Arkansas, has been trying to acquire a U.S. Forest Service building, along with 0.81 acres of Forest Service land it located on. Perry County is a rural area with a population of approximately 10,000 people. Because of the county\u2019s small size, it lacks the necessary funds to purchase the property at market value, as would be directed by law. However, the building has been vacant for some time within Perry County and would serve the county as the Perry County Conservation District, a meeting space for the 4-H Youth Development Program. Additionally, it is where the University of Arkansas Extension Program can provide permanent operations for Perry County.\n\nThough the USFS property in Perry County is eligible for a public benefit conveyance, it has been quicker for me to introduce and work on passing a bill conveying this building to Perry County legislatively than it would have been for the property to be conveyed through the PBC process. This outcome is unacceptable. Local communities like Perry County should not have to wait years to access property that is eligible for transfer and taxpayers should not foot the bill to maintain unused federal assets. Had the PBC process functioned more efficiently, Perry County could already be using the facility to better the county and serve its youth. It should not require an act of Congress to transfer unneeded property or to reduce unnecessary federal spending.\n\nAs I have begun the process of legislatively conveying the building in Perry County to the local government, I have also come across some startling and unfortunate information regarding the disposal of real property through GSA. For example, there is no consistent identifiable data on public benefit conveyances (PBC).\n\nMany sponsoring agencies have inconsistent data reporting on the number, types, and locations of properties conveyed, as well as with properties currently being monitored by GSA for potential PBC conveyance. This data is important for a variety of reasons. Not only is it important to ensure that property no longer needed by the federal government is disposed of, but it is also important to ensure that conveyances that have taken place are being used as agreed by grantees, an important element of managing and maintaining the program in the interest of the American people.\n\nI am committed to ensuring effective fiscal practices at our nation\u2019s federal agencies. Should you require any additional authority from Congress to address these concerns, I urge you to notify me as soon as possible. I would also welcome any technical assistance you could provide to Congress to correct statutory issues that may have contributed to this problem. Thank you for your consideration and I look forward to working with you to address this important issue.", 1, "2026-05-16T06:05:00Z", "2026-05-16T06:06:37Z"], ["https://womack.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=410773", "House Passes First Fiscal Year 2027 Funding Bill, Increasing Resources for Veteran Care and Critical Military Infrastructure", "2026-05-15", "2026", "2026-05", "Republican", "House", "AR", "Steve Womack", "W000809", "womack.house.gov", "womack", "https://womack.house.gov/news", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2014 May 15, 2026\u2026Congressman Steve Womack (AR-3) today voted in support of the Fiscal Year (FY) 2027 Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act that was passed by the U.S. House of Representatives. This bill allocates $157 billion in discretionary funding\u2014nearly $4 billion over the FY 2026 enacted level.\n\nCongressman Womack said, \u201cHouse Appropriators have made it a top priority to restore regular order to the annual government funding process, and today\u2019s House passage of the Military Construction and Veterans Affairs Appropriations bill brings us closer to achieving that objective. Moreover, this bill fully funds support systems for our veterans while also strengthening the infrastructure our servicemembers rely on to protect our nation. It is my hope that we can continue this momentum and pass full\u2011year funding bills on time for Fiscal Year 2027, fulfilling our responsibility to the American people.\u201d\n\nBill highlights:\n\nSupports our veterans by:\n\nFully funding veterans\u2019 health care programs.\n\nFully funding veterans\u2019 benefits.\n\nMaintaining funding for research, mental health programs, and other programs relied upon by veterans.\n\nInvesting over $2 billion in capital improvements for VA Medical Facilities and four national cemeteries.\n\nBolsters U.S. national security by:\n\nProviding robust funding for military construction, enabling continued investment in the Indo-Pacific region and infrastructure necessary to support United States advanced weapons systems.\n\nIncreasing funding for the design of barracks and child development centers, enhancing quality of life of servicemembers and their families.\n\nCongressman Womack\u2019s speech in support of the bill can be viewed HERE.\n\nA summary of the bill is available HERE.\n\nThe bill text is available HERE.\n\nCongressman Steve Womack (AR-3) has represented Arkansas\u2019s Third Congressional District since 2011. He is a member of the House Appropriations Committee.\n\nwomack.house.gov\n\n###", 1, "2026-05-16T06:05:00Z", "2026-05-16T06:06:37Z"], ["https://womack.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=410775", "From the Front: May 15, 2026", "2026-05-15", "2026", "2026-05", "Republican", "House", "AR", "Steve Womack", "W000809", "womack.house.gov", "womack", "https://womack.house.gov/news", "scraper", "From the Front Newsletters\nFrom the Front: May 15, 2026\nShare on Facebook\nShare on X\nPrint this Page\nShare by Email\nWashington,\r\n      May 15, 2026\nClick here to read this edition.\nRead more.\nJOIN MY EMAIL LIST\nSUBSCRIBE", 1, "2026-05-20T06:27:31Z", "2026-05-20T06:28:54Z"], ["https://crawford.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressional-steel-caucus-sends-letter-in-support-of-us-automotive-manufacturing", "Congressional Steel Caucus Sends Letter in Support of U.S. Automotive Manufacturing", "2026-05-15", "2026", "2026-05", "Republican", "House", "AR", "Eric A. \"Rick\" Crawford", "C001087", "crawford.house.gov", "crawford", "https://crawford.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, DC \u2013 Earlier this week, Congressional Steel Caucus Chairman Rick Crawford (AR-01) and Vice Chairman Frank J. Mrvan (IN-01) sent a letter to Treasury Secretary Bessent, Secretary of State Rubio, Trade Representative Greer, and Commerce Secretary Lutnick in light of President Trump\u2019s meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping in support of U.S. automotive manufacturing.\n\nIn the letter, the Caucus members urge the rejection of any proposal that lowers barriers to access for Chinese automakers into American markets or would allow Chinese automakers to enter the U.S. market through joint ventures, partnerships, licensing arrangements, or other collaborative structures with U.S. or third-country firms. The letter also states that maintaining the health of U.S. automotive manufacturing is vital to the success of the domestic steel industry, and that clear action should be taken to address the threat China poses to our domestic industry.\n\n\u201cAllowing Chinese automakers to flood our markets with government-subsidized cars or set up manufacturing on our soil would not only be a disservice to the American workforce but also poses a major national security threat,\u201d said Chairman Crawford. \u201cWe cannot afford to stand idly by and let our adversaries undermine the steel and manufacturing industries that employ thousands of Americans. Our dealing with the Chinese communists and every nation must prioritize our industries and reflect an America First mindset.\u201d\n\n\u201cThank you to Chairman Crawford for your leadership to highlight this critical issue for American manufacturing and good-paying jobs in light of the important trade discussions in China,\u201d said Vice Chairman Mrvan. \u201cWe must continue to do all we can to promote the American steel and automotive industries and ensure that all American workers can compete on a level playing field.\u201d\n\nThe Steel Manufacturers Association stated, \u201cSMA stands with Chairman Rick Crawford (AR-01) and Vice Chair Frank Mrvan (IN-01) of the Congressional Steel Caucus for their leadership in urging the Trump administration to reject any proposal that would allow Chinese automakers to enter the U.S. market. China\u2019s state-backed, non-market practices and persistent cheating pose a direct threat to American manufacturing, industrial capacity, and the livelihoods of American workers. Granting the Chinese Communist Party a foothold in the U.S. automotive sector would have devastating consequences for the men and women who produce America\u2019s steel and build America\u2019s automobiles. The steel and auto industries are foundational to our nation\u2019s economic strength and national security, industries that helped build this country and sustain generations of American communities.\u201d\n\nKevin Dempsey, President and CEO of the American Iron and Steel Institute, stated, \u201cAISI applauds the leadership of Congressional Steel Caucus Chairman Rick Crawford (AR-01) and Vice Chairman Frank J. Mrvan (IN-01) for their letter to the Trump administration about the clear threat China poses to our domestic auto industry. Chinese government subsidies fuel massive overproduction, which is dumped on global markets, devastating manufacturers who cannot withstand this surge of subsidized goods. Allowing Chinese automakers access to U.S. markets through any structure would undermine the very manufacturing base the administration has pledged to protect. Chinese connected automobiles are an economic and national security threat, and they should be kept out of the country.\u201d\n\nRoxanne Brown, International President of the United Steelworkers, stated, \u201cAmerican workers can compete with anyone in the world, but they shouldn\u2019t have to compete against the Chinese Communist Party\u2019s subsidies, overcapacity, and market manipulation. Our economic and national security depend on strong domestic manufacturing, resilient supply chains, and the workers who keep them running. The United Steelworkers thanks Rep. Mrvan and other congressional leaders who are pushing for strong trade enforcement to defend American jobs and industries.\u201d\n\nScott Paul, President of the Alliance for American Manufacturing, said, \u201cAllowing Chinese automakers to gain access to the U.S. market directly or through joint ventures would hollow out America\u2019s supply chains and undermine our ability to produce steel and other critical materials here at home. The Congressional Steel Caucus is right to draw this line, and the administration should use every available authority to protect domestic manufacturing and our national security.\u201d\n\nThe letter can be read here.\n\nThe Congressional Steel Caucus is a bipartisan group of over 100 Members of Congress dedicated to supporting the health and strength of the American steel industry and its workforce.", 1, "2026-08-10T06:13:07Z", "2026-08-10T06:14:46Z"], ["https://hill.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=10026", "RELEASE: REPS. HILL, ADAMS, TURNER, SEWELL, MCCORMICK, FIGURES INTRODUCE IGNITE HBCU EXCELLENCE ACT", "2026-05-14", "2026", "2026-05", "Republican", "House", "AR", "J. French Hill", "H001072", "hill.house.gov", "hill", "https://hill.house.gov/media-center/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Today, co-chairs of the Bipartisan HBCU Caucus Rep. French Hill (R-AR) and Rep. Alma Adams (D-NC) introduced H.R. 8791, the IGNITE HBCU Excellence Act, following years of bipartisan work to strengthen historically Black colleges and universities. The legislation is co-led by HBCU Caucus Vice Chairs Rep. Mike Turner (R-OH) and Rep. Terri A. Sewell (D-AL), and Caucus Members Rep. Rich McCormick (R-GA) and Rep. Shomari C. Figures (D-AL).\n\nThis bipartisan, bicameral legislation, IGNITE (I nstitutional Grants for New Infrastructure, Technology, and Education) Act, would direct the Department of Education to award competitive grants to historically Black colleges and universities for the renovation, repair, and construction of campus facilities, including classrooms, research labs, student housing, and broadband infrastructure, while expanding research capacity, developing workforce skills, building entrepreneurial capacity, and advancing AI education for generations to come.\n\nThe companion Senate legislation is led by HBCU Caucus co-chairs Sen. Tim Scott (R-SC) and Sen. Chris Coons (D-DE).\n\nRead the IGNITE HBCU Excellence Act one-pager.\n\nYou can watch the full press conference HERE.\n\nRep. French Hill (R-AR) and Rep. Alma Adams (D-NC), co-chairs of the Bipartisan HBCU Caucus, alongside HBCU presidents, at the press conference announcing the introduction of the IGNITE HBCU Excellence Act on Capitol Hill in Washington, D.C., Thursday, May 14, 2026. You can watch the full press conference HERE.\n\nCongressman French Hill said, \"Central Arkansas is home to four outstanding HBCUs, and I have seen firsthand the difference these institutions make for their students and communities. I have also seen how the lack of long-term investment and aging infrastructure limits what these institutions are able to offer their students. The IGNITE HBCU Excellence Act is a meaningful step toward addressing that. It would help ensure our HBCUs have the facilities and infrastructure to match the excellence of the students they serve. This is the kind of investment that will pay dividends for generations, and I am proud to partner with Congresswoman Adams and our Senate colleagues to get it done.\"\n\n\u201cFor generations, HBCUs have educated students who went on to lead in every corner of our country, often while operating with far fewer resources than their peer institutions,\u201d said Congresswoman Alma S. Adams, Ph.D., Founder and Co-Chair of the Bipartisan HBCU Caucus and a senior member of the Congressional Black Caucus. \u201cThe IGNITE HBCU Excellence Act is about making sure these institutions have the facilities and infrastructure needed to continue serving students and competing in today\u2019s higher education landscape. From academic buildings and research labs to student housing and technology infrastructure, this bill makes long-term investments that will strengthen our campuses, support workforce development, and expand opportunity for future generations. I am proud to continue this bipartisan work through the HBCU Caucus alongside Congressman French Hill and our Senate partners.\u201d\n\n\u201cHBCUs have long been engines of opportunity, but for far too long, too many have been asked to do more with less. The IGNITE HBCU Excellence Act will help modernize campuses, expand research and workforce training opportunities, and ensure students are prepared to succeed in a 21st-century economy,\u201d said Senator Tim Scott, co-chair of the Bipartisan HBCU Caucus. \u201cI\u2019m proud to partner with Senator Coons on this legislation to strengthen HBCUs in South Carolina and across the country for generations to come.\u201d\n\n\u201cHistorically Black Colleges and Universities like Delaware State University have long been institutions that create opportunity and academic excellence for future generations of community leaders, innovators, educators, and freedom fighters,\u201d said Senator Chris Coons, co-chair of the Bipartisan HBCU Caucus. \u201cFunding for HBCUs is critical to providing educational resources for low-income students, first-generation college students, and those most at risk of not entering college. Congress needs to take up and pass the IGNITE HBCU Excellence Act to modernize campuses across the country so that HBCUs have the technology, facilities, and resources they need to educate the next generation.\u201d\n\nCongressman Mike Turner (R-OH) said, \u201cHistorically Black Colleges and Universities, including Central State University and Wilberforce University, both here in Ohio\u2019s 10th congressional district, have opened doors of opportunity for generations of students and helped prepare the workforce that strengthens our economy, our research enterprise, and our national competitiveness. The IGNITE HBCU Excellence Act is a bipartisan effort to strengthen HBCUs, expand opportunity, and ensure students have the learning environments they need to succeed.\u201d\n\nCongresswoman Terri A. Sewell (D-AL) said, \u201cAs Vice Chair of the Congressional HBCU Caucus, I am proud to support the IGNITE HBCU Excellence Act. Alabama is home to some of the finest Historically Black Colleges and Universities in the nation, institutions that have shaped generations of leaders, innovators, educators, and changemakers. Despite their extraordinary impact, our HBCUs have endured decades of systemic underfunding. This bill represents a transformational investment in the future of HBCUs by modernizing campus facilities, expanding access to technology, preserving historic buildings, and ensuring students have access to the world-class learning environments they deserve.\u201d\n\nCongressman Rich McCormick (R-GA) said, \u201cThis legislation is an important step in assuring that students at our Historically Black Colleges and Universities have access to the best and most modern facilities possible. I am proud to support this commonsense legislation, which will help HBCUs across Georgia make critical investments in their students and cover much-needed maintenance costs.\u201d\n\nCongresswoman Shomari C. Figures (D-AL) said, \u201cDespite being historically underfunded and facing severe infrastructure needs, HBCUs have contributed significantly to our nation\u2019s workforce and success. This bipartisan, commonsense legislation helps get HBCUs the investments they need to update their facilities and to thrive, and will be especially impactful in Alabama, which has the most HBCUs in the country.\u201d\n\nWhat Others Are Saying about the IGNITE HBCU Excellence Act\n\n\u201cHistorically Black Colleges and Universities have a longstanding legacy of preparing students for lives of leadership, service, and impact across every sector of our society. The IGNITE our HBCU Excellence Act reflects an important recognition of the value these institutions bring to our nation\u2019s educational landscape and workforce development efforts. At Philander Smith University, we believe investments that strengthen student success, institutional capacity, and innovation create lasting benefits not only for HBCUs, but for the communities and industries we serve. We are encouraged by efforts that support excellence and expand opportunity for current and future generations of students.\u201d\n\n\u2014 Dr. Maurice D. Gipson, President, Philander Smith University\n\n\u201cThe IGNITE HBCU Excellence Act represents a critical investment in the future of historically Black colleges and universities and the students and communities we serve. Strengthening research capacity and modernizing infrastructure at HBCUs is essential to advancing workforce development, innovation, economic mobility, and the long-term competitiveness of our nation. We are grateful to Congressman Hill, Congresswoman Adams, and the bipartisan HBCU Caucus for their leadership and continued commitment to expanding opportunities for HBCUs across the country.\u201d Chancellor Graham\n\n\u2014Dr. Anthony Graham, Chancellor, University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff\n\n\u201cFor Shorter College, this moment is both timely and consequential. We serve students whose aspirations are often greater than the resources available to them, students seeking access, advancement, and in many cases, a second chance. That is why the IGNITE HBCU Excellence Act matters. It recognizes that HBCUs must have the infrastructure, technology, and institutional capacity to meet the needs of today\u2019s students and prepare them for the demands of tomorrow\u2019s workforce. For Shorter College, this investment would strengthen our ability to modernize learning environments, expand workforce-aligned programs, and create meaningful pathways for students who are determined to build a different future. As a private, two-year HBCU, Shorter College opens doors where barriers have too often existed. We are grateful to Congressman Hill, Congresswoman Adams, and the HBCU Caucus for advancing legislation that understands a fundamental truth: when HBCUs are strengthened, communities are strengthened, families are strengthened, and possibilities are expanded for generations to come.\u201d\n\n\u2014Dr Jeffery Norfleet, President, Shorter College\n\n\u201cLong before French Hill was elected to Congress, he was a huge supporter of HBCUs in Arkansas. Consequently, the IGNITE HBCU Excellence Act, a bipartisan legislation aimed at providing federal funding for infrastructure, technology, and facility modernization, is a game-changer to empower both students and the communities where our institutions reside. We are grateful for the support of Representatives Hill and Adams...they are committed to the sustainability of HBCUs, which are also educating the leaders for our country.\"\n\n\u2014Bill Walker, President, Arkansas Baptist College\n\n\u201cThe IGNITE HBCU Excellence Act will help transform our institutions. In order for our nation to reach its full potential, we must strategically invest in and support every postsecondary student population to ensure that our country has the robust workforce capable of meeting tomorrow\u2019s challenges. By passing the IGNITE HBCU Excellence Act, Congress is making an affirmative statement that investing in HBCUs and their students is a smart strategic investment to enhance our nation\u2019s global competitiveness. We thank Rep. Hill, Rep Adams, Sen. Scott and Sen. Coons of the bipartisan HBCU Caucus for bringing this smart piece of legislation forward and we urge Congress to pass the IGNITE HBCU Excellence Act this year.\u201d\n\n\u2014Dr. Harry L. Williams, President & CEO, Thurgood Marshall College Fund\n\n\u201cThe IGNITE HBCU Excellence Act has the potential to be a transformative investment in HBCUs and the students who depend on them. For generations, HBCUs have nurtured extraordinary talent, yet they have long struggled with unequal access to funding and modern infrastructure. This legislation could reverse those adverse circumstances by providing targeted resources that strengthen both research excellence and campus infrastructure, ensuring HBCUs have the tools to lead in a rapidly changing world.\n\n\u201cThe IGNITE HBCU Excellence Act will empower HBCUs by strengthening them financially. We\u2014at UNCF\u2014view strengthening HBCUs both from the financial and infrastructure perspectives as the maximum impact Congress can have on the institutions at this time. When HBCUs thrive, the entire nation benefits. These institutions have long been engines of social mobility and economic growth in our communities. By passing the IGNITE HBCU Excellence Act, Congress will ensure that HBCUs have the capacity to continue shaping leaders, advancing innovation, and serving as vital pillars of our national progress. We urge Congress to act without delay, pass the IGNITE HBCU Excellence Act, and make these vital investments in America\u2019s future.\u201d\n\n\u2014Dr. Michael L. Lomax, President and CEO, UNCF\n\n\u201cEntergy applauds Representatives Hill and Adams for reintroducing the IGNITE for HBCU Excellence Act. This important piece of legislation encourages public-private partnerships that will strengthen HBCUs in Arkansas, across the Gulf South region, and nationwide. It would also expand access to capital for campus infrastructure improvements and help build needed STEM and AI talent pipelines. This bill will be an essential tool to help Entergy and other businesses develop our workforce of the future.\u201d\n\n\u2014John Hudson, Entergy Chief External Affairs Officer and President, Entergy Charitable Foundation\n\nGoldman Sachs, Entergy, Century Foundation, Capital One, HomeFree-Usa, Farm Credit Council, Vanguard, LendingTree, TIAA, American Honda Motor Company, Center for Community Self-Help, and the International Franchise Association (IFA) have endorsed the bill.", 1, "2026-05-15T06:17:41Z", "2026-05-15T06:18:51Z"], ["https://westerman.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/westerman-reintroduces-comprehensive-health-care-reform-plan-lower-cost", "WESTERMAN REINTRODUCES COMPREHENSIVE HEALTH CARE REFORM PLAN TO LOWER COST AND EXPAND COVERAGE FOR ALL AMERICANS", "2026-05-14", "2026", "2026-05", "Republican", "House", "AR", "Bruce Westerman", "W000821", "westerman.house.gov", "westerman", "https://westerman.house.gov/media-center/press-releases", "scraper", "Today, Congressman Bruce Westerman (AR-04) introduced the Fair Care Act of 2026, a comprehensive health care reform plan that combines over 75 bipartisan proposals to lower costs, decrease the number of uninsured individuals, protect those with preexisting conditions, and expand coverage options. Congressman Westerman released the following statement:\n\n\u201cFor a health care system that is the largest contributor to our federal debt and where Americans spend over $5 trillion annually with 18%, and rising, of our GDP, we cannot afford to let partisan politics stand in the way of common sense and quality care. That\u2019s why I introduced the Fair Care Act, an overarching solution that increases the number of people with health insurance coverage, decreases patient costs, and lowers long-term government spending.\n\n\u201cThe Fair Care Act takes politics out of the equation and introduces common sense and competition to the health care marketplace, making health care more economical, straight forward, and accessible to all Americans.\u201d\u2014 Congressman Bruce Westerman\n\n\u201cThe Fair Care Act is the most rigorous, credible, carefully constructed, free-market health reform plan that Republicans have ever advanced. It expands coverage and reduces the deficit without raising taxes. The Fair Care Act works by reducing the underlying cost of health care, giving patients more affordable and innovative options for their coverage and care. I'm grateful to the Fair Care Act's sponsors, especially Rep. Westerman, for advancing these ideas.\"\u2014 Chairman and Co-Founder of The Foundation for Research on Equal Opportunity (FREOPP), Avik Roy\n\n\u201cThe Fair Care Act would transform American health care. As high health care costs crush working- and middle-class families, improving affordability and access to medical care could not come at a better time. The Fair Care Act would enable families to obtain much-needed care at competitive rates that work best for their budget while demonstrating that the United States can achieve broader coverage without a government-run health care system.\u201d\u2014 FREOPP resident health care fellow, Gregg Girvan\n\nBackground\n\nThe Fair Care Act of 2026 is the fifth version of the Fair Care Act of 2019, crafted with more than 75 bipartisan provisions.\n\nSome of the Fair Care Act of 2026 provisions include:\n\nCodifying the Affordable Care Act preexisting condition protections in HIPAA.\n\nOffering greater protections for patients with preexisting conditions through an \"Invisible Guaranteed Coverage Risk Pool\" and guaranteed coverage Medigap plans.\n\nEliminating the employer health insurance mandate and allowing those with Employer Sponsored Insurance (ESI) offers to receive premium assistance.\n\nStrengthening and increasing enrollment in the commercial marketplace through expanded assistance to 600 percent FPL and state innovation waivers.\n\nExpanding the use of pretax dollars to cover more medical expenses, including insurance premiums and direct primary care arrangements.\n\nPromoting transparency by publishing provider networks and prices for common services.\n\nRequiring medical providers to send timely, transparent bills to patients.\n\nDiscouraging hospital consolidation and anti-competitive behavior while protecting rural hospitals from closures.\n\nModernizing the prescription drug approval process to bring safe, effective medicine to patients faster.\n\nReforming Pharmacy Benefit Manager (PBM) practices, including eliminating Direct and Indirect Remuneration (DIR) fees.\n\nExpanding the number of health professionals that can provide telehealth services.\n\nModernizing Medicare enrollment through a competitive bidding process, which promotes Medicare Advantage plans.\n\nEstablishing a flexible Medicaid funding option for states and closing the gap between Medicaid eligibility and premium assistance in the individual market.\n\nPromoting fiscal accountability and solvency for Medicare and Medicaid.", 1, "2026-06-27T21:44:12Z", "2026-06-27T22:21:02Z"], ["https://womack.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=410770", "Chairman Womack Questions HUD Secretary Scott Turner at Fiscal Year 2027 Budget Hearing", "2026-05-12", "2026", "2026-05", "Republican", "House", "AR", "Steve Womack", "W000809", "womack.house.gov", "womack", "https://womack.house.gov/news", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2014 May 12, 2026\u2026Today, House Appropriations Transportation, Housing and Urban Development (THUD), and Related Agencies Subcommittee Chairman Steve Womack (AR-3) led a public hearing on the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development\u2019s (HUD) Fiscal Year 2027 budget request with Secretary Scott Turner serving as witness.\n\nChairman Womack delivered the following remarks during the hearing, \u201cWe share a common goal: constraining costs, promoting housing affordability, and serving our most vulnerable citizens. HUD's FY27 request is $62 billion in new budget authority, a reduction of about $15 billion below the FY26 enacted level. A significant portion of the proposed savings come from eliminating programs like CDBG, HOME, and self-sufficiency initiatives\u2014programs that have strong bipartisan support among our Members. Our markup may reflect some differences with the budget request as we weigh Member input. [\u2026] Our shared goal is to make HUD's programs as effective as possible\u2014creating opportunity for citizens to prosper while ensuring a responsible safety net for those who need it. Mr. Secretary, the work you are doing matters. This subcommittee is a partner in getting it right.\u201d\n\nChairman Womack\u2019s full remarks as prepared are available HERE.\n\nA video of Chairman Womack\u2019s opening remarks is available HERE.\n\nA video of Chairman Womack\u2019s questions for Secretary Turner can be found HERE.\n\nA full recording of the hearing is available HERE.\n\nCongressman Steve Womack (AR-3) has represented Arkansas\u2019s Third Congressional District since 2011. He is a member of the House Appropriations Committee.\n\nwomack.house.gov\n\n###", 1, "2026-05-13T06:12:22Z", "2026-05-13T06:13:52Z"], ["https://womack.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=410772", "Womack Votes to Combat Retail and Supply Chain Theft", "2026-05-12", "2026", "2026-05", "Republican", "House", "AR", "Steve Womack", "W000809", "womack.house.gov", "womack", "https://womack.house.gov/news", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2014 May 12, 2026\u2026Today, Congressman Steve Womack (AR-3) voted in support of H.R. 2853, the Combating Organized Retail Crime Act of 2025. This bill would expand criminal penalties for organized retail and supply chain crime, in addition to establishing a center within the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to coordinate related law enforcement activities.\n\nCongressman Womack said, \u201cOrganized retail theft is a serious and intensifying crisis that affects both Main Street shops and national retailers. Higher rates of organized retail and supply chain crime not only hurt these businesses\u2019 bottom lines but also increase prices for consumers\u2014a reality that hardworking Americans cannot afford. This bill builds upon the work I\u2019ve done as Chairman of the Transportation, Housing and Urban Development (THUD) Appropriations Subcommittee, and I\u2019m proud to support it.\u201d\n\nIn Chairman Womack\u2019s Fiscal Year (FY) 2026 THUD appropriations bill, he provided the Office of Multimodal Freight Infrastructure and Policy a $3 million increase in funding above FY 2025 levels. This office is tasked with coordinating with the Department of Justice (DOJ) and DHS to combat cargo theft on America\u2019s highways and rail lines.\n\nThe bill text for H.R. 2853 is available HERE.\n\nCongressman Steve Womack (AR-3) has represented Arkansas\u2019s Third Congressional District since 2011. He is a member of the House Appropriations Committee.\n\nwomack.house.gov\n\n###", 1, "2026-05-13T06:12:22Z", "2026-05-13T06:13:52Z"], ["https://womack.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=410769", "From the Front: May 8, 2026", "2026-05-08", "2026", "2026-05", "Republican", "House", "AR", "Steve Womack", "W000809", "womack.house.gov", "womack", "https://womack.house.gov/news", "scraper", "From the Front Newsletters\nFrom the Front: May 8, 2026\nShare on Facebook\nShare on X\nPrint this Page\nShare by Email\nWashington,\r\n      May 8, 2026\nClick here to read this edition.\nRead more.\nJOIN MY EMAIL LIST\nSUBSCRIBE", 1, "2026-05-09T06:00:32Z", "2026-05-09T06:02:31Z"], ["https://hill.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=9981", "RELEASE:\u00a0HILL STAFFER AWARDED WCSA OPERATIONAL EXCELLENCE AWARD", "2026-05-01", "2026", "2026-05", "Republican", "House", "AR", "J. French Hill", "H001072", "hill.house.gov", "hill", "https://hill.house.gov/media-center/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Rep. French Hill (AR-02) today announced that Savannah Berryman, his Director of Operations, was selected as the recipient of the 2026 Operational Excellence Award by the Women\u2019s Congressional Staff Association (WCSA).\n\nThe Operational Excellence Award recognizes a scheduler or operations professional whose organization, coordination, and execution are essential to the success of a congressional office. Ms. Berryman was nominated by other Hill staffers in recognition of her exceptional leadership, attention to detail, and unwavering commitment to serving Arkansas\u2019s Second Congressional District.\n\nRep. Hill said, \u201cSavannah is the backbone of this office. She ensures that central Arkansans have every opportunity to meet with my team and me, and she keeps my days on schedule, all while making sure the office runs smoothly. This award is well-earned. I couldn\u2019t be prouder of her, and I\u2019m deeply grateful to have such an outstanding performer on my team.\u201d\n\nMs. Berryman has been with Congressman Hill\u2019s office for nearly 3 years.\n\nThe award was presented on Friday, April 17 at the WCSA Awards Celebration, where Berryman was honored alongside other outstanding congressional staff on Capitol Hill.\n\nThe Women's Congressional Staff Association is a bipartisan organization dedicated to fostering professional development and strengthening support systems for women staffers on Capitol Hill, regardless of party affiliation, background, or job title.", 1, "2026-05-02T05:53:08Z", "2026-05-02T05:54:44Z"], ["https://womack.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=410768", "From the Front: May 1, 2026", "2026-05-01", "2026", "2026-05", "Republican", "House", "AR", "Steve Womack", "W000809", "womack.house.gov", "womack", "https://womack.house.gov/news", "scraper", "From the Front Newsletters\nFrom the Front: May 1, 2026\nShare on Facebook\nShare on X\nPrint this Page\nShare by Email\nWashington,\r\n      May 1, 2026\nClick here to read this edition.\nRead more.\nJOIN MY EMAIL LIST\nSUBSCRIBE", 1, "2026-05-05T05:58:12Z", "2026-05-05T05:59:44Z"], ["https://hill.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=9973", "RELEASE: HILL AMENDMENT TO STUDY MENTAL HEALTH RESOURCES FOR FARMERS AND RANCHERS PASSES AS PART OF THE 2026 FARM BILL", "2026-04-30", "2026", "2026-04", "Republican", "House", "AR", "J. French Hill", "H001072", "hill.house.gov", "hill", "https://hill.house.gov/media-center/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Today, Rep. French Hill (AR-02) voted to pass H.R. 7567, the Farm, Food, and National Security Act of 2026. The bill passed the House by a vote of 224-200 and includes Rep. Hill\u2019s and Rep. Rick Crawford\u2019s (AR-01) Farmer Assistance, Resilience, and Mental Health Evaluation Research Study (FARMERS) amendment, directing the United States Department of Agriculture\u2019s (USDA) Farm and Ranch Stress Assistance Network to study the availability and use of mental health services among farmers, ranchers, and agricultural professionals and report its findings to Congress.\n\nRep. Hill said, \"Farmers and ranchers have faced several brutal years in a row. Rising input costs, stagnant or falling commodity prices, historic floods, and now drought have tested the resilience of family operations across Arkansas and the country. Congressional Republicans passed the Working Families Tax Cuts Act, and the Trump administration has stepped up with direct relief. The Farm, Food, and National Security Act of 2026 builds on that work to make sure our agriculture workers and farm families have the support they need.\n\n\"I am also proud that my amendment in support of farm families was included in this farm bill. Too many farmers and ranchers are struggling in silence, and we don't have a clear picture of whether the mental health resources we have are actually getting to the people who need them. This amendment aims to change that. It gives us the data and recommendations needed to build smarter solutions and make sure no farmer or rancher has to face the hard times alone.\"\n\nBackground\n\nThe Farm, Food, and National Security Act of 2026 supports producers, protects crop insurance, and provides the certainty farmers need to plan for the future. Key provisions include:\n\nIncreases funding for the Market Access Program\n\nStrengthens broadband for rural communities\n\nUpdates USDA loan limits for guaranteed and ownership loans, direct operating loans, and microloans\n\nSupports funding for Ag research and education initiatives\n\nRep. Hill\u2019s FARMERS amendment helps address the mental health and suicide crisis that is impacting farmers and ranchers across rural America. Almost everyone living in rural America and our farming communities knows someone impacted by this public health crisis.\n\nThe amendment gives Congress the data we need to build smarter, more targeted solutions. It directs the USDA Farm and Ranch Stress Assistance Network, in coordination with its Regional Lead Institutions, to submit a report to Congress within one year of enactment, assessing:\n\nThe prevalence of mental health conditions, including depression, anxiety, trauma-related disorders, and suicidal ideation, among farmers, ranchers, and agricultural professionals.\n\nThe availability of care through traditional settings like counseling, psychotherapy, and support groups as well as innovative tele-mental health services in rural areas.\n\nRecommendations to improve access, reduce barriers, and strengthen the effectiveness of mental health care delivery for the agricultural community.\n\nThe USDA is explicitly allowed to work with the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS), the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, states, and NIFA Land-Grant University Extension Services.\n\nBeyond the Farm Bill: How Republicans Have Delivered for Farmers Since the Start of the 119th Congress:\n\nWorking Families Tax Cuts\n\nInvested over $59 billion over the next decade in the farm safety net, including major updates to Agriculture Risk Coverage and Price Loss Coverage programs to address persistent inflation and rising production costs.\n\nExpanded benefits for beginning farmers and ranchers and made crop insurance more affordable.\n\nIncreases reference prices by 10-20% for commodities to address persistent inflation and rising production costs.\n\nRaised the estate tax exemption to $15 million per individual ($30 million for married couples) to protect illiquid family farms.\n\nMade the qualified business income deduction permanent.\n\nTrump Administration Actions to Help Farmers and Ranchers", 1, "2026-05-01T06:06:26Z", "2026-05-01T06:08:22Z"], ["https://womack.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=410711", "Womack Supports Certainty and Commonsense Solutions for American Farmers", "2026-04-30", "2026", "2026-04", "Republican", "House", "AR", "Steve Womack", "W000809", "womack.house.gov", "womack", "https://womack.house.gov/news", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2014 April 30, 2026\u2026Congressman Steve Womack (AR-3) today voted in support of H.R. 7567, the Farm, Food, and National Security Act of 2026.\n\nCongressman Womack said, \u201cCongress took the first step toward addressing the issues that affect our nation\u2019s agricultural and rural communities by delivering historic tax cuts and needed reforms to our social programs last year in the Working Families Tax Cuts law. Today\u2019s package completes our unfinished business by tackling trade barriers, strengthening broadband connectivity, and supporting research and development.\u201d\n\nCongressman Womack continued, \u201cThanks to the efforts of the Arkansas congressional delegation, we secured language allowing SNAP beneficiaries to purchase hot rotisserie chicken\u2014providing a nutritious food option that is currently prohibited under existing law. I am also pleased to see that this legislation fixes California\u2019s left-wing Proposition 12 by clarifying that states and localities cannot impose unreasonable livestock production standards on producers across the country. America\u2019s agricultural producers and rural families deserve commonsense solutions and certainty, and this legislation delivers exactly that.\u201d\n\nMore bill highlights:\n\nStrengthens American farmers and rural communities by:\n\nIncreasing funding for the Market Access Program (MAP) and Foreign Market Development Program (FMD) to support enhanced market access and trade promotion.\n\nStrengthening Rural Broadband Program loans and grants to support increased broadband service to underserved rural communities.\n\nReauthorizing crucial USDA Rural Development business and grant programs.\n\nReauthorizing the Agriculture and Food Research Initiative and other grant programs that advance cutting-edge research and technology at our Land Grant Universities.\n\nThe bill text is available HERE.\n\nCongressman Steve Womack (AR-3) has represented Arkansas\u2019s Third Congressional District since 2011. He is a member of the House Appropriations Committee.\n\nwomack.house.gov\n\n###", 1, "2026-05-01T06:06:26Z", "2026-05-01T06:08:22Z"], ["https://crawford.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-crawford-statement-on-house-passage-of-the-2026-farm-bill", "Rep. Crawford Statement on House Passage of the 2026 Farm Bill", "2026-04-30", "2026", "2026-04", "Republican", "House", "AR", "Eric A. \"Rick\" Crawford", "C001087", "crawford.house.gov", "crawford", "https://crawford.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Congressman Rick Crawford (AR-01) released the following statement in response to the House of Representatives passing the 2026 Farm Bill.\n\n\u201cThis morning, I was proud to join my colleagues in passing the Farm, Food, and National Security Act of 2026, which included two of my own amendments. I applaud Chairman Thompson for his leadership throughout this process, and I cannot overstate how urgently my district needs this Farm Bill.\n\nFor the U.S. to be secure, independent, and healthy, we must be able to feed ourselves and keep our food safe, which is just what our nation\u2019s farmers do. With the American producer at the forefront of our minds, this Farm Bill secured many great wins for Arkansas agriculture and realigned our nation\u2019s agricultural policy in the right direction. I am especially proud that my amendments, which would keep the essential activities of the crucial USDA Circuit Rider program operating during government shutdowns and make hot rotisserie chickens SNAP eligible, were included in this Farm Bill. Additionally, I led multiple initiatives included in the Farm Bill\u2019s base text that expand the Gus Schumacher Nutrition Incentive program (GusNIP) to help needy families purchase fruits and vegetables, prevent Chinese solar companies from receiving USDA funds, and create an Agricultural Trade Enforcement Task Force to combat trade cheaters, especially India, hurting our farmers.\n\nThat being said, I recognize this legislation will not be sufficient in meeting the immediate challenges facing producers. I am still fighting for advanced PLC payments and payment limitation relief, and I also support exploring other avenues for additional direct assistance.\n\nToday was a momentous day for the agriculture community, and I strongly urge my Senate counterparts under Chairman Boozman\u2019s leadership to move this Farm Bill as soon as possible.\u201d", 1, "2026-08-10T06:13:07Z", "2026-08-10T06:14:46Z"], ["https://womack.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=410702", "Womack Votes to Renew Vital U.S. Intelligence Tool on Hostile Foreign Actors", "2026-04-29", "2026", "2026-04", "Republican", "House", "AR", "Steve Womack", "W000809", "womack.house.gov", "womack", "https://womack.house.gov/news", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2014 April 29, 2026\u2026 Today, Congressman Steve Womack (AR-3) voted in support of the House Amendment to S. 1318. This bill extends the authorities of Section 702 of the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act (FISA) through April 30, 2029.\n\nCongressman Womack said, \u201cSection 702 is a critical foreign intelligence authority that allows the United States to quickly and effectively stop foreign bad actors, such as spies, hackers, terrorists, and cartel leaders, from inflicting pain on the American public and threatening our national security. Extending this authority will help prevent dangerous gaps in intelligence and keep American lives safe\u2014both of which are especially important amid ongoing overseas military action.\u201d\n\nSection 702 allows the U.S. government to collect the electronic communications of foreign nationals overseas who raise reasonable intelligence concerns. Section 702 cannot be used to target American citizens. The House Amendment to S. 1318 builds on recent reforms to the Section 702 process and creates further safeguards for what is known as \"incidental collection\" of communications between American citizens and foreign nationals. These safeguards establish ample oversight and ensure that any identifiable information is removed before the Section 702 process continues.\n\nThe bill text is available HERE.\n\nCongressman Steve Womack (AR-3) has represented Arkansas\u2019s Third Congressional District since 2011. He is a member of the House Appropriations Committee.\n\nwomack.house.gov\n\n###", 1, "2026-04-30T06:05:15Z", "2026-04-30T06:07:09Z"], ["https://womack.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=410708", "Womack Votes to Empower Arkansas Producers and Rural Communities", "2026-04-29", "2026", "2026-04", "Republican", "House", "AR", "Steve Womack", "W000809", "womack.house.gov", "womack", "https://womack.house.gov/news", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2014 April 29, 2026\u2026Congressman Steve Womack (AR-3) today voted in support of the Fiscal Year (FY) 2027 Agriculture, Rural Development, Food and Drug Administration, and Related Agencies Appropriations bill that advanced out of the House Appropriations Committee.\n\nThis bill allocates $26.27 billion in discretionary spending to fund the Department of Agriculture, the Food and Drug Administration, and more.\n\nCongressman Womack said, \u201cThis funding bill reins in regulatory overreach and ensures that our federal programs empower American producers and rural communities\u2014all while maintaining the highest food and drug safety standards. Arkansas\u2019s Third District is a national leader in poultry production and agricultural research, and this legislation provides resources to strengthen that leadership.\u201d\n\nDuring the full committee markup, Congressman Womack spoke against an amendment that would continue to prevent broiler chicken farmers from selling their surplus eggs into the breaker market for pasteurization and mixture into everyday grocery products. The amendment was not adopted.\n\nWatch Congressman Womack\u2019s remarks HERE.\n\nMore bill highlights:\n\nEmpowers American producers and rural communities by:\n\nReining in Biden-era regulations aimed at dictating how poultry and livestock producers raise and market their animals.\n\nIncreasing resources for the Food Safety and Inspection Service to fund frontline meat and poultry inspectors and bolster support for state inspection programs.\n\nImproving the tracking of foreign-owned U.S. agricultural land by countries such as China, Russia, North Korea, and Iran.\n\nFunding agricultural research and rural development programs.\n\nStreamlining the pet food labeling regulatory environment by eliminating a burdensome patchwork of requirements, thereby increasing economic productivity and employment opportunities for AR-3 pet food producers.\n\nSupporting the FDA's work related to contaminated poppy seeds and directing the agency to carry out enforcement measures to ensure only safe poppy seeds are available for consumption.\n\nA summary of the bill is available HERE.\n\nThe bill text, before adoption of amendments, is available HERE.\n\nCongressman Steve Womack (AR-3) has represented Arkansas\u2019s Third Congressional District since 2011. He is a member of the House Appropriations Committee.\n\nwomack.house.gov\n\n###", 1, "2026-04-30T06:05:15Z", "2026-04-30T06:07:09Z"], ["https://womack.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=410710", "Womack Statement on Budget Resolution to Fund ICE and CBP", "2026-04-29", "2026", "2026-04", "Republican", "House", "AR", "Steve Womack", "W000809", "womack.house.gov", "womack", "https://womack.house.gov/news", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2014 April 29, 2026\u2026 Today, Congressman Steve Womack (AR-3) released the statement below regarding the House\u2019s passage of S. Con. Res. 33. This budget resolution instructs relevant House and Senate committees to provide funding for Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and Customs and Border Protection (CBP) operations for the next three years.\n\nCongressman Womack said, \u201cCongress has an Article I responsibility to fund our government in-full and on time through the regular appropriations process. Doing so ensures that taxpayer dollars are used wisely. Regrettably, political grandstanding on the other side of the aisle has forced us to isolate ICE and CBP funding\u2014jeopardizing our national security. As we work to fund these two critical agencies and provide paycheck certainty to personnel, I caution all of my colleagues against the pitfalls that come with replacing the annual appropriations process with budget reconciliation.\u201d\n\nThe bill text is available HERE.\n\nCongressman Steve Womack (AR-3) has represented Arkansas\u2019s Third Congressional District since 2011. He is a member of the House Appropriations Committee.\n\nwomack.house.gov\n\n###", 1, "2026-04-30T06:05:15Z", "2026-04-30T06:07:09Z"], ["https://westerman.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/westerman-announces-winners-2026-congressional-art-competition", "WESTERMAN ANNOUNCES WINNERS OF THE 2026 CONGRESSIONAL ART COMPETITION", "2026-04-29", "2026", "2026-04", "Republican", "House", "AR", "Bruce Westerman", "W000821", "westerman.house.gov", "westerman", "https://westerman.house.gov/media-center/press-releases", "scraper", "Last night, Congressman Bruce Westerman (AR-04) announced the Fourth District\u2019s winners of the 2026 Congressional Art Competition. First place winner Coley Rogers\u2019 piece, \"Chief Wolf\u2019s Robe and the Buffalo,\" will be displayed in the main hallway between the Cannon House Office Building and the U.S. Capitol for the upcoming year. Congressman Westerman released the following statement:\n\n\u201cEach year, the Congressional Art Competition displays the incredible talent of our high school students across the Fourth District of Arkansas. This year\u2019s submissions were no exception, with each entry showcasing true Arkansas excellence. Congratulations, Coley, and all of this year\u2019s competition winners and participants! Your talent is something to be immensely proud of.\u201d\n\nBackground:\n\nAnnually, a nationwide high school art competition is sponsored by members of the U.S. House of Representatives. This highly anticipated contest is an opportunity to recognize and encourage the artistic talent of our nation's youth, including those in the Fourth Congressional District.\n\nWinners were chosen by a panel of three judges from the following categories: design/composition, skill/technique, and overall execution.\n\nThe 2026 winners are:\n\n1st Place: \u201cChief Wolf\u2019s Robe and the Buffalo\u201d by Coley Rogers from Arkansas School for Mathematics, Sciences, and the Arts.\n\n2nd Place: \u201cFaceless Figures\u201d by Olivia Kimmel from Prescott High School.\n\n3rd Place: \u201cTransitional Period\u201d by Amy Wheat from Prescott High School.\n\n4th Place: \u201cFamily Ties\u201d by Amberly Humble from Jessieville High School.\n\nWinners of the 2026 Congressional Art Competition", 1, "2026-06-27T21:44:12Z", "2026-06-27T22:19:40Z"], ["https://crawford.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-crawford-testifies-on-his-hot-rotisserie-chicken-amendment-to-the-2026-farm-bill", "Congressman Crawford Testifies on His Hot Rotisserie Chicken Amendment to the 2026 Farm Bill", "2026-04-28", "2026", "2026-04", "Republican", "House", "AR", "Eric A. \"Rick\" Crawford", "C001087", "crawford.house.gov", "crawford", "https://crawford.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Yesterday, Congressman Rick Crawford (R-AR) testified before the House Committee on Rules during its consideration of The Farm, Food, and National Security Act of 2026, or the 2026 Farm Bill, on his amendment to allow for the purchase of hot rotisserie chicken with Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits.\n\nWatch Congressman Crawford's testimony here or below.\n\nRemarks as prepared for delivery.\n\nThank you, Madam Chair. I'll try to be as quick as I can, because I know everybody's got a ton of work to do.\n\nI thank you and the Ranking Member for giving me the opportunity to be here today. I come before you today to speak on my amendment number 272 to H.R. 7567, the Food, Farm, and National Security Act of 2026.\n\nMy amendment seeks to add hot rotisserie chicken to the list of foods eligible for SNAP recipients to purchase. By expanding access to hot rotisserie chicken, we're providing families with a high-quality, nutrient-dense protein source.\n\nThis directly aligns with the new dietary guidelines for Americans established by the USDA, and is a step toward ensuring that people can nourish themselves and their families with wholesome, fresh food.\n\nHot rotisserie chicken is available at most local grocery stores that accept SNAP, and the average price is around $5 to $6. That's a great bargain considering the multiple meals you can get from one chicken. Plus, there will be no additional financial burden on the taxpayer associated with this amendment. Instead, this targeted expansion provides families with a complete meal and greater flexibility in their meal planning while remaining affordable and within SNAP benefits.\n\nCurrently, SNAP participants may only purchase cold rotisserie chicken, which is simply refrigerated hot chicken due to an outdated technicality. This requirement not only degrades quality but also wastes energy and adds unnecessary costs.\n\nAdditionally, some Americans lack easy access to reheating methods, making it difficult for them to warm and consume the cold rotisserie chicken. By allowing the purchase of hot rotisserie chicken, we give families the opportunity to use it as a meal or an ingredient in countless recipes, such as chicken salad, enchiladas, soups, and casseroles, and the list goes on.\n\nThis meaningful change will allow families to enjoy a wider variety of wholesome meals, and the Governors from my state of Arkansas and seven other states have already requested waivers from USDA to allow their states to make hot rotisserie chicken SNAP eligible. Their leadership demonstrates the growing recognition that this amendment is not only practical and targeted but essential to our constituents.\n\nUSDA stated that it would grant these waiver requests; however, it does not believe it has the legal authority to do so without Congressional input. So it's time for us to act.\n\nI'll stop there, Madam Chair. And if anybody has any questions, I'd be happy to take those.", 1, "2026-08-10T06:13:07Z", "2026-08-10T06:14:46Z"], ["https://hill.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=9970", "RELEASE: HILL AND\u00a0GOLDMAN INTRODUCE BILL TO PROTECT PUBLIC SERVANTS", "2026-04-27", "2026", "2026-04", "Republican", "House", "AR", "J. French Hill", "H001072", "hill.house.gov", "hill", "https://hill.house.gov/media-center/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Today, Rep. French Hill (AR-02) and Rep. Dan Goldman (NY-10) introduced the Providing Resources and Oversight to Ensure Confidentiality of Those who serve (PROTECT) Act to strengthen data security and to prevent targeted threats against public officials. The bill directs the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to develop and disseminate best practices for protecting the personally identifiable information (PII) of public servants across all levels of government.\n\nCongressman French Hill said, \u201cPublic servants sign up to better their country and communities. Unfortunately, more and more are becoming the targets of threats and harassment, and some have already been hurt, like my friend Majority Leader Steve Scalise. Others have been killed, as we saw in Minnesota with the horrific assassination of State Representative Melissa Hortman and her husband Mark.\n\n\u201cThis past weekend, a would-be assassin targeted the president and administration officials. Yet while violence targeting politicians gets the most attention, this threat impacts public servants at every level, from local police officers and Border Patrol agents to county judges and game wardens. The PROTECT Act will give agencies at the state, local, and federal level the guidance they need to better protect the people who serve our communities.\u201d\n\nCongressman Dan Goldman said, \u201cIn a time of rising political violence, bad actors are taking advantage of the wealth of online information to attack public figures. The bipartisan PROTECT Act will direct the DHS to provide guidance to public servants across government agencies with the best practices to protect themselves. Public servants should be able to serve those whom they represent while feeling safe and secure.\u201d\n\nBackground:\n\nOver the last ten years, public servants at every level of government have been increasingly targeted with violence, doxxing, and harassment enabled by the exposure of personal data, often in their own homes and communities. In 2017, House Majority Whip Steve Scalise and several colleagues were shot during a targeted attack at a congressional baseball practice in Alexandria, Virginia. In 2020, a gunman went to the home of federal Judge Esther Salas and killed her son, Daniel Anderl, who answered the door.\n\nIn 2022, an armed man traveled to Justice Brett Kavanaugh's home intending to kill him after locating his address through public records. That same year, an intruder broke into the home of Speaker Nancy Pelosi and violently assaulted her husband. In 2025, an arsonist firebombed the official residence of Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro while he and his family slept inside. And in 2025, Minnesota State Representative Melissa Hortman and her husband were assassinated in their home, and State Senator John Hoffman and his wife were shot by the same assailant the same night. In each case, the attacker knew where to find them.\n\nNo public servant should have to wonder if their home address is the reason their family is in danger.\n\nHowever, there is currently no standardized, government-wide approach to protecting this information. By leveraging DHS expertise, this bill ensures that federal agencies and state and local governments across the country have access to clear, actionable guidance to better safeguard sensitive data and protect the individuals who serve their communities.\n\nWhat the PROTECT Act Does:\n\nEstablishes DHS Guidance: Requires DHS to develop and share guidance on best practices for handling personally identifiable information of government personnel.\n\nFocuses on Public Servant Safety: Includes recommended actions that officers, officials, employees, and contractors can take to protect themselves and their personal information.\n\nApplies Across All Levels of Government: Disseminates guidance to federal, state, local, territorial, and tribal governments.\n\nThe Gap This Bill Fills\n\nThere is currently no standardized, government-wide approach to protecting public servants\u2019 personal data. Agencies often rely on inconsistent or outdated practices, leaving vulnerabilities that can be exploited.\n\nThis bill equips agencies with actionable guidance so they can make informed, proactive decisions to reduce risk and prevent targeted violence.", 1, "2026-04-29T06:03:53Z", "2026-04-29T06:05:09Z"], ["https://womack.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=410707", "From the Front: April 24, 2026", "2026-04-24", "2026", "2026-04", "Republican", "House", "AR", "Steve Womack", "W000809", "womack.house.gov", "womack", "https://womack.house.gov/news", "scraper", "From the Front Newsletters\nFrom the Front: April 24, 2026\nShare on Facebook\nShare on X\nPrint this Page\nShare by Email\nWashington,\r\n      April 24, 2026\nClick here to read this edition.\nRead more.\nJOIN MY EMAIL LIST\nSUBSCRIBE", 1, "2026-04-28T06:05:12Z", "2026-04-28T06:07:17Z"], ["https://westerman.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/westerman-and-colleagues-launch-bipartisan-gulf-south-business-caucus", "WESTERMAN AND COLLEAGUES LAUNCH BIPARTISAN GULF SOUTH BUSINESS CAUCUS TO DRIVE INVESTMENT, JOBS, ENERGY, AND MANUFACTURING LEADERSHIP ACROSS THE REGION", "2026-04-23", "2026", "2026-04", "Republican", "House", "AR", "Bruce Westerman", "W000821", "westerman.house.gov", "westerman", "https://westerman.house.gov/media-center/press-releases", "scraper", "New Congressional caucus unites bipartisan Members from Alabama, Arkansas, Louisiana, Mississippi, and Texas to advance shared priorities on energy, manufacturing, infrastructure, and industrial growth\n\nToday, Congressman Bruce Westerman (R-AR), joined by Reps. Troy A. Carter, Sr. (D-LA), Lizzie Fletcher (D-TX), Michael Guest (R-MS), Gary Palmer (R-AL), Mike Rogers (R-AL), Terri Sewell (D-AL), Bennie Thompson (D-MS), and Randy Weber (R-TX), launched the Gulf South Business Caucus, a new bipartisan Congressional caucus dedicated to advancing the economic competitiveness, energy leadership, and industrial growth of the Gulf South region. Westerman will serve as Chair of the caucus, which brings together Members of Congress from Alabama, Arkansas, Louisiana, Mississippi, and Texas to coordinate on federal policy priorities that support the region\u2019s workers, communities, and employers. Additional members are expected to be announced in the coming weeks.\n\nIn 2024, the five Gulf South states contributed more than $3.7 trillion to the U.S. GDP, accounting for approximately 13% of the total U.S. economy. The region is home to many of the nation\u2019s most important hubs for energy production, advanced manufacturing, transportation and logistics, chemicals, and rapidly expanding technology and digital infrastructure investment. The caucus will focus on strengthening grid reliability, expanding infrastructure investment, supporting workforce development, and ensuring the region\u2019s priorities are reflected in national policy, opening the door to new investment, business development, and long-term job creation across the five states.\n\nFounding members and co-chairs of the caucus issued the following statements on today\u2019s launch:\n\n\u201cPlaying a pivotal role in our nation\u2019s economic success, the Gulf South region is integral to America\u2019s energy production, manufacturing, and workforce demand. The Gulf South Business Caucus is committed to empowering this region\u2019s local workers, communities, and employers through bipartisan, multi-state collaboration around shared economic interests of the region. We know that when the Gulf South succeeds, America succeeds. It is an honor to serve as chairman of this caucus, and I look forward to working alongside my colleagues to champion pro-growth policies and regional development within the halls of Congress that achieve this goal.\u201d \u2014 Rep. Bruce Westerman (R-AR), Chair, Gulf South Business Caucus\n\n\u201cI\u2019m proud to help lead this effort that reflects both the strength and the urgency of the Gulf South\u2019s economic future. Our region has long powered this nation\u2014through energy production, advanced manufacturing, and the movement of goods that keep our economy running. But we know our best days are still ahead. From the ports of Louisiana to the manufacturing hubs across our neighboring states, we are aligned in our mission to create good-paying jobs, drive innovation, and build a more resilient and competitive regional economy.\u201d \u2014 Rep. Troy A. Carter, Sr. (D-LA)\n\n\"The Gulf South powers American energy and manufacturing, and the businesses and workers driving that growth deserve a strong, unified voice in Washington. The Gulf South Business Caucus is an opportunity to bring stakeholders directly into federal conversations about permitting, infrastructure, workforce, and the policy conditions that will keep our region competitive for decades to come. I am glad to partner with Congressman Bruce Westerman, Congressman Troy A. Carter, Sr., Congressman Michael Guest, Congressman Gary Palmer, Congressman Mike Rogers, Congresswoman Terri Sewell, Congressman Bennie Thompson, and Congressman Randy Weber to help build a forum where we can do that work together.\" \u2014 Rep. Lizzie Fletcher (D-TX)", 1, "2026-06-27T21:44:12Z", "2026-06-27T22:19:40Z"], ["https://crawford.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-crawford-co-leads-effort-to-allow-for-the-purchase-of-hot-rotisserie-chicken-with-snap-benefits", "Congressman Crawford Co-Leads Effort to Allow for the Purchase of Hot Rotisserie Chicken with SNAP Benefits", "2026-04-23", "2026", "2026-04", "Republican", "House", "AR", "Eric A. \"Rick\" Crawford", "C001087", "crawford.house.gov", "crawford", "https://crawford.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C.- Yesterday, Congressman Rick Crawford (R-AR) introduced H.R. 8403, the Healthy Obtainable Tasty (HOT) Rotisserie Chicken Act, alongside 17 of his colleagues, to allow for the purchase of hot rotisserie chicken with Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits. As President Trump and Secretary Kennedy realigned our nation\u2019s approach to nutrition, the HOT Rotisserie Chicken Act expands access to high-quality, whole foods without expanding cost to the taxpayer.\n\nA hot rotisserie chicken, priced at around $5 or $6, offers unbeatable affordability and nutritional value. However, under current regulations, SNAP participants are only able to purchase cold rotisserie chickens. Allowing hot rotisserie chicken SNAP purchases gives working families a great, healthy option to put on their dinner table or use as an ingredient in other common meals.\n\nAdditionally, this is a bicameral bill with Senator Jim Justice (R-WV) leading the Senate version of the HOT Rotisserie Chicken Act.\n\n\u201cIt is just plain common sense to allow SNAP participants to purchase a rotisserie chicken with their benefits,\u201d said Congressman Crawford. \u201cHot rotisserie chicken is healthy, widely available, popular in grocery stores, and aligned with the new Dietary Guidelines for Americans.\"\n\nThis legislation, supported by both the National Chicken Council and Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders, would respond to the request made by multiple states, including Arkansas, to the USDA to include nutritious hot rotisserie chicken in SNAP benefits.\n\n\u201cThere are few better ways for families to get a healthy, affordable meal than by buying a hot rotisserie chicken - especially if it\u2019s from an Arkansas-raised broiler,\u201d said Governor Sanders. \u201cFor too long, this staple has been banned from SNAP purchases because of federal red tape, but Rep. Crawford is leading the way on getting it back on Americans\u2019 tables. I\u2019m grateful for his leadership and look forward to pairing this legislation with my administration\u2019s initiative to get unhealthy options like soft drinks and candy off taxpayer-funded food stamps.\u201d\n\n\u201cAllowing folks on SNAP to buy hot rotisserie chickens is truly just common sense. It\u2019s as basic as you can get to help busy parents or grandparents put something as simple as this on the table to feed their families. We have to give people the option to put a healthy, protein-dense choice on the table that actually tastes good and doesn\u2019t take an hour and a half to cook,\u201d said Senator Jim Justice.\n\n\u201cThe HOT Rotisserie Chicken Act is a commonsense solution to an unnecessary problem. Right now, a SNAP family can buy a cold rotisserie chicken \u2014 but the moment it's hot, it's off limits. There is no nutritional difference. There is no logical difference. There is only an outdated technicality that forces grocery stores to heat chickens and cool them back down just to comply, wasting energy, degrading quality, and adding cost.\n\n\"Rotisserie chicken - a real food - is the most affordable complete protein in the grocery store. At around $7, it can feed an entire family. For the 42 million Americans on SNAP, that matters enormously.\n\n\"I want to thank Rep. Crawford, and Sens. Justice, Bennett, Fetterman, and Capito for their leadership on this no-cost, commonsense, and long overdue legislation. The National Chicken Council is proud to support it, and we urge Congress to pass it without delay.\" said National Chicken Council (NCC) President Harrison Kircher.\n\nOriginal Cosponsors of the HOT Rotisserie Chicken Act: Costa (CA-21), Evans (CO-08), Figures (AL-02), Harris (NC-08), Harris (MD-01), Kiggans (VA-02), McBride (DE-AL), McDonald-Rivet (MI-08), McGarvey (KY-03), Moore (AL-01), Moore (UT-01), Moran (TX-01), Sorenson (IL-17), Van Orden (WI-03), Vasquez (NM-02), Westerman (AR-02), Wied (WI-08), Womack (AR-03)", 1, "2026-08-10T06:13:07Z", "2026-08-10T06:14:46Z"], ["https://womack.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=410705", "Womack Votes to Strengthen U.S. Financial Institutions and Regulatory Agencies", "2026-04-22", "2026", "2026-04", "Republican", "House", "AR", "Steve Womack", "W000809", "womack.house.gov", "womack", "https://womack.house.gov/news", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2014 April 22,2026\u2026 Congressman Steve Womack (AR-3) today voted in support of the Fiscal Year (FY) 2027 Financial Services and General Government (FSGG) Appropriations bill that advanced out of the House Appropriations Committee.\n\nThis bill allocates $25.3 billion in discretionary spending to fund the Department of the Treasury, the Federal Judiciary, the Federal Communications Commission (FCC), the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), the Small Business Administration (SBA), and related agencies.\n\nCongressman Womack said, \u201cOur nation\u2019s financial system, as well as the rules and regulations that govern how businesses\u2014both small and large\u2014operate, should benefit American consumers and maximize taxpayer dollars. This package accomplishes this goal and is further strengthened by provisions that ensure that the Lower 900 MHz Band of spectrum can continue to be used by devices critical to public safety and supply chain logistics. As the former Chairman of the Financial Services and General Government Appropriations Subcommittee, I commend Chairman Joyce for his leadership in crafting this bill and look forward to voting for it on the House floor.\u201d\n\nDuring the full committee markup, Congressman Womack spoke in support of an amendment to prevent the FCC from reconfiguring the Lower 900 MHz Band, or the portion of the 900-megahertz spectrum from 902-928 megahertz. Disrupting how this band of spectrum operates would negatively impact consumers and affect a wide range of licensed and unlicensed devices across industries such as supply chain logistics and public safety. The amendment was adopted.\n\nWatch Congressman Womack\u2019s remarks HERE.\n\nMore bill highlights:\n\nPromotes economic growth by:\n\nSupporting entrepreneurship and small business development programs at the SBA.\n\nProviding funding for the Community Development Financial Institutions (CDFI) Fund, which lends to small businesses, affordable housing developers, and similar endeavors.\n\nSafeguarding investors, consumers, and main street with a strong, nimble, and technology driven SEC.\n\nProtecting small businesses from burdensome and costly credit reporting mandates under the Equal Credit Opportunity Act (ECOA).\n\nBolsters U.S. national security by:\n\nEquipping the Treasury to adequately scrutinize investment by foreign adversaries; prevent cybersecurity threats; and block terrorists and criminals from using our financial system for their benefit.\n\nInvesting in the High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area (HIDTA) program to strengthen interdiction efforts and stop narcotics from entering our borders and communities.\n\nEnsures responsible use of taxpayer dollars by:\n\nContinuing to prohibit the IRS from targeting individuals for exercising their First Amendment rights.\n\nProhibiting federal government funding of climate change initiatives and other green new scam-style mandates; DEI and critical race theory programs; abortions; and gender-transitioning treatments and procedures.\n\nA summary of the bill is available HERE.\n\nThe bill text is available HERE.\n\nCongressman Steve Womack (AR-3) has represented Arkansas\u2019s Third Congressional District since 2011. He is a member of the House Appropriations Committee.\n\nwomack.house.gov\n\n###", 1, "2026-04-23T05:48:52Z", "2026-04-23T05:50:10Z"], ["https://westerman.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/westerman-announces-mobile-office-hours-april", "WESTERMAN ANNOUNCES MOBILE OFFICE HOURS IN APRIL", "2026-04-21", "2026", "2026-04", "Republican", "House", "AR", "Bruce Westerman", "W000821", "westerman.house.gov", "westerman", "https://westerman.house.gov/media-center/press-releases", "scraper", "Today, the office of Congressman Bruce Westerman (AR-04) announced mobile office hours for April 28-30. Staff will be available to assist constituents with casework matters related to passports, Social Security, Veterans Affairs, Internal Revenue Service, and other federal agency related issues. More mobile office hours for 2026 will be announced at a later date. For questions, please call 501-609-9796 or visit Westerman.house.gov/contact.\n\nMore details below:\n\nTuesday, April 28\n\nHoward County Courthouse\n\n12:00 \u2013 2:00pm\n\n421 N. Main Street, Nashville\n\nLittle River County Courthouse\n\n3:00-4:30pm\n\n351 N. Second Street, Ashdown\n\nWednesday, April 29\n\nPike County Courthouse\n\n9:00-11:00am\n\n1 Courthouse Square, Murfreesboro\n\nSevier County Courthouse\n\n12:00 \u2013 2:00pm\n\n115 N. 3rd Street, De Queen\n\nPolk County Courthouse\n\n3:00-4:30pm\n\n507 Church Ave, Mena\n\nThursday, April 30\n\nMontgomery County Courthouse\n\n10:00-11:30am\n\n105 Highway 270 E, Mount Ida\n\nScott County Courthouse\n\n1:00-2:30pm\n\n190 W. 1st Street, Waldron", 1, "2026-06-27T21:44:12Z", "2026-06-27T22:19:40Z"], ["https://crawford.house.gov/media/press-releases/crawford-leads-effort-urging-investigation-to-protect-us-rice", "Crawford Leads Effort Urging Investigation to Protect  U.S. Rice", "2026-04-20", "2026", "2026-04", "Republican", "House", "AR", "Eric A. \"Rick\" Crawford", "C001087", "crawford.house.gov", "crawford", "https://crawford.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Congressman Rick Crawford (AR-01) today led 16 of his Congressional colleagues in sending a letter to U.S. Trade Representative, Ambassador Jamieson Greer, requesting broad-based, rice specific Section 301 trade investigations against countries unfairly harming our rice producers.\n\nSection 301 of the Trade Act of 1974 authorizes the investigation of, and response to, unfair foreign trade practices that burden or restrict U.S. commerce. The letter also applauds Ambassador Greer for previously specifically mentioning rice as an area he expects to address with Section 301 investigations.\n\n\u201cDuring this critical time, when American farmers and ranchers are trying to rebuild economically, your continued support is of paramount importance,\u201d wrote Crawford, along with the other lawmakers. \u201cThe U.S. rice industry is at a crossroads, and we need an effective tariff policy to hold our competitors accountable and ensure producers in our states can compete on a more level playing field.\u201d\n\nThe letter highlights the U.S. rice industry's support of 125,000 American jobs and annual production of over 20 billion pounds of rice. However, rice imports into the U.S. have surged over the last two decades, displacing more than $1.5 billion in domestic sales each year. Unfair subsidies and trade distorting practices from countries like India, Thailand, Vietnam, China, Brazil, and the European Union are eroding the U.S. market and threatening family farms and processing jobs across the country.\n\n\u201cAmerican rice farmers can compete with any farmer anywhere in the world, provided they are on a level playing field,\u201d the lawmakers wrote. \u201cWe look forward to continuing to partner with [Ambassador Greer] to protect our domestic industries from nefarious foreign practices.\u201d\n\n\u201cOn behalf of USA Rice, I commend Congressman Crawford for spearheading this effort to provide support in USTR\u2019s efforts to push back on countries that are violating their international trade commitments and harming our domestic rice industry,\u201d said Keith Glover, USA Rice Chair. \u201cThe letter to Ambassador Greer is particularly timely as USTR continues to initiate Section 301 investigations, and we appreciate the board and bipartisan support from members of the U.S. House of Representatives.\u201d\n\n\"U.S. rice producers have champions in Congress, and we're grateful for it. The members leading this effort understand what's at stake: countries around the world are subsidizing their rice industries at a scale no U.S. producer can match, and the results are showing up in lost acres, lost markets, and lost livelihoods,\" said Mollie Buckler, President and CEO, US Rice Producers Association. \"USTR has the authority and the evidentiary record to act, and we're thankful these members are calling on them to do exactly that.\"\n\n\u201cArkansas\u2019 rice community is growing and producing an abundant and safe supply of nutritious rice to feed our hungry world, even in these challenging economic times,\" said J. Kelly Robbins, Executive Director, Arkansas Rice. \"We are grateful for this effort to encourage investigations to address ongoing unfair practices causing harm to our industry. We hope officials at both the state and federal levels will continue to work to get timely assistance on the international trade and domestic policy fronts.\u201d\n\n\u201cThe impact of rice to local and state economies across the MidSouth and in California is evident. But, the struggle to maintain that presence and grow the prosperity of rural communities is constantly under threat from foreign governments and bad trading partners who prey on our markets,\" said Richard Fontenot, President, Louisiana Farm Bureau. \"We greatly appreciate the support from Congressman Crawford and all of his Louisiana colleagues who, like Louisiana Farm Bureau, see the writing on the wall that the US Trade Representative needs to act before it is too late. This call for a Section 301 investigation is warranted and much appreciated from Louisiana farmers and rice farmers like myself.\u201d\n\nThe co-signers of this letter are the following Members of Congress: Brian Babin (TX-36), Mike Bost (IL-12), Troy Carter (LA-02), Michael Cloud (TX-27), Monica De La Cruz (TX-15), Mike Ezell (MS-04), Michael Guest (MS-03), Clay Higgins (LA-03), French Hill (AR-02), Trent Kelly (MS-01), Julia Letlow (LA-05), Michael McCaul (TX-10), Troy Nehls (TX-22), Bennie Thompson (MS-02), Randy Weber (TX-14), and Bruce Westerman (AR-04).", 1, "2026-08-10T06:13:07Z", "2026-08-10T06:14:46Z"], ["https://womack.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=410704", "From the Front: April 17, 2026", "2026-04-17", "2026", "2026-04", "Republican", "House", "AR", "Steve Womack", "W000809", "womack.house.gov", "womack", "https://womack.house.gov/news", "scraper", "From the Front Newsletters\nFrom the Front: April 17, 2026\nShare on Facebook\nShare on X\nPrint this Page\nShare by Email\nWashington,\r\n      April 17, 2026\nClick here to read this edition.\nRead more.\nJOIN MY EMAIL LIST\nSUBSCRIBE", 1, "2026-04-22T05:46:42Z", "2026-04-22T05:48:06Z"], ["https://hill.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=9941", "RELEASE: HILL, ADAMS, MCCORMICK, AND FIGURES INTRODUCE HBCU RESEARCH CAPACITY ACT TO EXPAND ACCESS TO FEDERAL RESEARCH FUNDING", "2026-04-14", "2026", "2026-04", "Republican", "House", "AR", "J. French Hill", "H001072", "hill.house.gov", "hill", "https://hill.house.gov/media-center/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON \u2013 Today, House Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCU) Caucus Co-Chairs Rep. French Hill (AR-02) and Rep. Alma Adams (NC-12), along with Caucus members Rep. Richard McCormick (GA-06) and Rep. Shomari Figures (AL-02), introduced the HBCU Research Capacity Act. The legislation is the House companion to S. 4167, introduced by Sen. Katie Britt (R-Ala.) and Sen. Raphael Warnock (D-Ga.) on March 24, 2026.\n\nHBCUs are cornerstones of American higher education, producing a disproportionately large share of Black STEM graduates and playing an outsized role in building the nation's workforce, yet they receive less than 1% of the roughly $60 billion in federal research and development funding allocated to colleges and universities each year. The HBCU Research Capacity Act fixes that by establishing a federal clearinghouse giving HBCUs a centralized, regularly updated source of federal grant opportunities across agencies, along with best practices for building research capacity and stronger coordination to reduce longstanding barriers to access.\n\n\"Historically Black Colleges and Universities, including the four we are blessed to have here in Arkansas, have been a source of opportunity and innovation for generations,\" said Rep. Hill, Co-Chair of the Congressional Bipartisan House HBCU Caucus. \"Despite their outsized contributions, HBCUs receive a fraction of the federal research funding available to them. The HBCU Research Capacity Act takes a practical step toward changing that by ensuring these institutions have the information and tools they need to compete for federal dollars and continue fulfilling their vital mission for generations to come.\"\n\n\"HBCUs have always punched above their weight. HBCUs contribute nearly $16.5 billion to the economy every year despite receiving less than 1% of federal research funding. That gap isn't a reflection of merit, it's a reflection of decades of systemic underfunding,\u201d said Rep. Alma Adams, Founder and Co-Chair of the Congressional Bipartisan HBCU Caucus. \u201cThe HBCU Research Capacity Act will help by giving our institutions a clear path to federal grant opportunities. I'm proud to champion this House companion with Representatives Hill, McCormick, and Figures and alongside Sen. Rev. Warnock and Sen. Britt in the Senate to ensure HBCUs receive the funding they have earned.\"\n\n\u201cThe time to act is now if we want to keep America leading in the world of STEM. Our nation\u2019s HBCUs are producing some of the brightest minds in science and technology, even as they face real funding challenges,\u201d said Congressman Richard McCormick. \u201cI\u2019m proud to co-sponsor the HBCU Research Capacity Act that ensures these students can stay ahead in the global technology race, which starts with investing in our own talent.\u201d\n\n\"HBCUs have a long-standing track record of making significant contributions to our nation\u2019s economy and workforce despite being consistently underfunded,\u201d said Rep. Shomari C. Figures. \u201cWith Alabama being home to the most HBCUs in the nation, this bill is a game-changer for the institutions in my state at the forefront of research and development because it creates a one-stop shop for all federal research funding opportunities. I'm proud to join my colleagues in introducing this bipartisan legislation, and I will continue fighting for HBCUs to receive the resources they need to continue training and educating the next generation of leaders, researchers, and scholars.\u201d\n\nBackground\n\nThe HBCU Research Capacity Act would:", 1, "2026-04-15T05:46:42Z", "2026-04-15T05:48:27Z"], ["https://westerman.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/bipartisan-resolution-introduced-declaring-april-second-chance-month-0", "BIPARTISAN RESOLUTION INTRODUCED DECLARING APRIL AS SECOND CHANCE MONTH", "2026-04-14", "2026", "2026-04", "Republican", "House", "AR", "Bruce Westerman", "W000821", "westerman.house.gov", "westerman", "https://westerman.house.gov/media-center/press-releases", "scraper", "Today, U.S. Representatives Bruce Westerman (R-AR) and Danny K. Davis (D-IL) alongside U.S Senators Kevin Cramer (R-ND) and Amy Klobuchar (D-MN) reintroduced the bipartisan, bicameral Second Chance Month Resolution that recognizes April as Second Chance Month. The members released the following statements:\n\n\u201cThis is a nation of second chances. Offering incarcerated Americans the opportunity to succeed by reducing barriers preventing them from establishing good-paying jobs and earning sought-after respect is a critical key to reducing recidivism rates. By investing in these individuals who have proven to be committed to rectifying their mistakes, we are investing in the future success and safety of our communities,\u201d said Congressman Westerman. \u201cI am proud to introduce this resolution to recognize April as Second Chance Month. This piece of legislation champions second chances while highlighting the importance of restoring hope to individuals looking to reintegrate back into their communities with dignity.\u201d\n\n\u201cThere are millions of individuals in our country who have civil and criminal records that serve as barriers to obtaining education, technical skills, training, jobs, and government benefits,\u201d said Congressman Davis. \u201cSecond chances - and especially the Second Chance Act \u2013 help to reduce and remove these barriers. Therefore, I am proud to join my colleagues in recognizing Second Chance Month. Second Chance Month honors the work of non-profit organizations, faith-based entities, communities, governments, employers, and individuals that help those with records gain the skills, education, and employment needed to thrive, thereby strengthening individuals, rebuilding families, and growing our economy.\u201d\n\n\u201cWay too often, the conversation around criminal justice ends at punishment,\u201d said Senator Cramer. \u201cI think, instead of dwelling on incarceration, we really ought to focus on what comes next. Our resolution simply recognizes the importance of another chance and ensuring individuals have another shot at rebuilding their lives, supporting their families, and most importantly, contributing to their communities. Those who have reconciled with society deserve an opportunity to succeed, and Second Chance Month really reinforces that commitment.\u201d\n\n\u201cAs a former prosecutor, I have seen firsthand the challenges facing those who have been formerly incarcerated,\u201d said Senator Klobuchar. \u201cPeople are capable of change and many deserve a second chance. This bipartisan resolution to recognize \u2018Second Chance Month\u2019 will bring awareness to these barriers and promote opportunities for those who have served their time to access stable jobs, continue their education, and become productive members of society again.\u201d\n\n\u201cAs Prison Fellowship marks its 50th anniversary, the Second Chance Month resolution reflects our longstanding commitment to justice that restores. We know that when unnecessary barriers to reentry are removed, people are better equipped to succeed, making our neighborhoods safer and stronger for everyone.\u201d Scott Peyton, Director of Government Affairs for Prison Fellowship\n\nBackground\n\nThis resolution recognizes April as Second Chance Month, raising awareness for unlocking opportunities for successful reentry into society following incarceration that ultimately reduces recidivism rates.\n\nMillions of American adults with a criminal record face enormous obstacles to successfully re-enter society upon release. When legal and social barriers prohibit a formerly incarcerated person from finding well-paying jobs, this not only negatively impacts them, but also has lasting negative effects for their families. Beyond that, securing gainful employment and being accepted in society has been proven to reduce the likelihood of these individuals returning to prison in the future, ultimately decreasing crime and improving public safety.\n\nThis resolution is supported by Prison Fellowship, American Correctional Association, Brennan Center for Justice, CPAC, Due Process Institute, FAMM, Major County Sheriffs of America, Modern Fortis, National District Attorneys Association, Niskanen Center, Right on Crime, and Unify.US.\n\nRead the full resolution text here.", 1, "2026-06-27T21:44:12Z", "2026-06-27T22:19:40Z"], ["https://womack.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=410682", "From the Front: April 10, 2026", "2026-04-10", "2026", "2026-04", "Republican", "House", "AR", "Steve Womack", "W000809", "womack.house.gov", "womack", "https://womack.house.gov/news", "scraper", "From the Front Newsletters\nFrom the Front: April 10, 2026\nShare on Facebook\nShare on X\nPrint this Page\nShare by Email\nWashington,\r\n      April 10, 2026\nClick here to read this edition.\nRead more.\nJOIN MY EMAIL LIST\nSUBSCRIBE", 1, "2026-04-14T05:46:13Z", "2026-04-14T05:48:07Z"], ["https://womack.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=410679", "Womack Announces Winner of 2026 Congressional Art Competition", "2026-04-08", "2026", "2026-04", "Republican", "House", "AR", "Steve Womack", "W000809", "womack.house.gov", "womack", "https://womack.house.gov/news", "scraper", "Bentonville, AR\u2014April 8, 2026\u2026Congressman Steve Womack (AR-3) today announced Keily Diaz, a junior at Berryville High School, as the winner of the 2026 Congressional Art Competition for Arkansas\u2019s Third Congressional District. Keily\u2019s artwork, entitled \u201cPaciencia y Fe,\u201d will now be displayed in the U.S. Capitol for one year.\n\nCongressman Womack said, \u201cCongratulations to Keily Diaz on winning the 2026 Congressional Art Competition. Keily\u2019s strong artistic skills are on full display in how she has painted her grandmother with exceptional technique and precision. This piece will soon be displayed in the U.S. Capitol for the next year, giving hundreds of visitors each day the opportunity to view the high caliber of talent we have in the Third District. I am remarkably proud of each student who participated in this year\u2019s competition, and I look forward to seeing their continued artistic growth.\u201d\n\nThis year\u2019s competition featured 62 pieces of art created by students attending 11 different high schools and homeschools in the Third District. Entries were reviewed by a panel of local judges, including Bentonville Public Library Director Hadi Dudley, Curatorial Assistant for Contemporary Art at Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art Jaiha Lee, and Ken Francis, a retired art teacher at Siloam Springs High School.\n\n\u201cTop 5\u201d Finalists:\n\n1st Place: Keily Diaz, Berryville High School, \u201cPaciencia y Fe\u201d\n\n2nd Place: Evan Brown, Haas Hall Academy \u2013 Rogers, \u201cAbandoned Truck\u201d\n\n3rd Place: Lila Eisele, Haas Hall Academy \u2013 Fayetteville, \u201cGreen Girl\u201d\n\n4th Place: Haven Hardy, Haas Hall Academy at the Jones Center, \u201cPatch Cat\u201d\n\n5th Place: Ann Feutcha, Bentonville West High School, \u201cPeek-A-Boo!\u201d\n\nSubmissions were also considered for the Patriot Award, which honors a piece that celebrates and artfully represents American ideals. This recognition was presented to Jude Martinez, a senior at Bentonville West High School, for his, \u201cHumility in Pursuit of Success\u201d artwork. This year\u2019s winner of the People\u2019s Choice Award, which was decided by the public via online vote, went to Tyler Quinn for her piece, \u201cPaw Paw.\u201d\n\nThis is the sixteenth year Rep. Womack has hosted the Congressional Art Competition in the Third District. This nationwide contest is held annually to recognize and encourage artistic talent across the United States and in each congressional district.\n\nWinning Artwork:\n\nCongressman Steve Womack (AR-3) has represented Arkansas\u2019s Third Congressional District since 2011. He is a member of the House Appropriations Committee.\n\nwomack.house.gov\n\n###", 1, "2026-04-09T05:39:42Z", "2026-04-09T05:40:59Z"], ["https://womack.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=410677", "From the Front: April 3, 2026", "2026-04-03", "2026", "2026-04", "Republican", "House", "AR", "Steve Womack", "W000809", "womack.house.gov", "womack", "https://womack.house.gov/news", "scraper", "From the Front Newsletters\nFrom the Front: April 3, 2026\nShare on Facebook\nShare on X\nPrint this Page\nShare by Email\nWashington,\r\n      April 3, 2026\nClick here to read this edition.\nRead more.\nJOIN MY EMAIL LIST\nSUBSCRIBE", 1, "2026-04-07T15:46:19Z", "2026-04-07T20:08:52Z"], ["https://hill.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=9911", "REP. HILL AWARDS GOLDEN FLEECE TO SBA INNOVATION OFFICE FOR ENABLING SBIR MILLS", "2026-04-02", "2026", "2026-04", "Republican", "House", "AR", "J. French Hill", "H001072", "hill.house.gov", "hill", "https://hill.house.gov/media-center/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2014 Rep. French Hill (AR-02) on Tuesday announced the Small Business Administration\u2019s Office of Investment and Innovation as the latest recipient of his Golden Fleece Award due to the misuse of Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) funding by repeat recipients, commonly referred to as \u201cSBIR mills.\u201d\n\nThe SBIR and Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) programs are intended to help startups and small businesses develop innovative technologies and bring new products to market. However, recent analysis shows that a small number of companies receive a disproportionate share of funding, often without producing meaningful commercial outcomes. Over the lifetime of the SBIR and STTR programs, more than 180 organizations have received more than 100 awards, and six organizations have received over 1,000 awards.\n\nRep. Hill said, \u201cPrograms like SBIR are meant to support innovation and give small businesses a chance to succeed. But when a handful of companies repeatedly receive funding without delivering results or bringing products to market, it undermines the entire purpose of these programs. Every dollar that goes to one of these 'SBIR mills' is a dollar taken away from a startup or entrepreneur striving to make America stronger and more competitive, whether developing a new medical device or agricultural technology, or creating the next breakthrough in telecommunications or American manufacturing.\u201d\n\nRep. Hill continued, \"Like so many states across America, small businesses are the backbone of Arkansas's economy. When tax dollars are put toward programs to help small businesses and drive innovation, Arkansans, like all Americans, expect a return on their investment, not to see their money given to repeat players gaming the system and delivering nothing.\"\n\nIn his letter to SBA Associate Administrator, Mr. Joshua Carter, Rep. Hill writes:\n\nDear Mr. Carter,\n\nI write today to inform you that the Small Business Administration Office of Investment and Innovation is this month\u2019s recipient of my Golden Fleece Award. The Golden Fleece is being awarded due to the overuse of Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) by a small number of companies.\n\nLet me be clear, I strongly support the mission of the SBIR and Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) programs. Congress created these programs to increase small business participation in federally funded research and development and to promote the commercialization of innovative technologies. These programs are critical to ensuring entrepreneurs and startups can compete and bring new products to market. That said, there is a longstanding issue within these programs that deserves urgent attention: the rise of \u201cSBIR mills.\u201d\n\nPolicy analysts, academic research, and Congressional oversight have all identified SBIR mills as organizations that specialize in securing large numbers of SBIR awards, while failing to translate those awards into meaningful commercial outcomes. SBIR mills repeatedly secure early-stage awards without bringing products to market.\n\nA small number of companies receive a disproportionate share of SBIR funding. A Defense Innovation Board analysis found that the top 25 companies, representing less than 1 percent of participants, received roughly 18 percent of early-stage funding. Throughout the lifetime of the SBIR and STTR programs, over 180 organizations have received more than 100 awards through the program and six companies have received over one thousand awards.\n\nThis concentration of funding raises concerns that the program may not be reaching the broader pool of small, innovative businesses it was designed to support. Every dollar that goes to a company that is not bringing products to market is a dollar that is not going to a startup developing a new medical device, a new agricultural technology, or a new manufacturing process.\n\nThis issue has real consequences for everyday Americans. When a small group of repeat players captures a disproportionate share of SBIR funding, fewer resources are available to true startups and first-time entrepreneurs who are trying to turn new ideas into businesses. For a state like Arkansas, where small businesses and startups are a key driver of economic growth, this means fewer opportunities for local innovators to access capital, grow their companies, and create jobs in their communities.\n\nThe existence of SBIR mills undermines the intent of the SBIR and STTR programs. Federal research funding is meant to seed innovation, expand participation, and help small businesses transition and succeed. When a small group of organizations captures a disproportionate share of awards without delivering commercialization results, it risks crowding out new program entrants and reducing the overall effectiveness of the programs.\n\nThe Small Business Administration plays a central role in coordinating these programs and ensuring they operate consistently with Congressional intent. As such, it is critical that the Administration take additional steps to ensure that SBIR and STTR awards are distributed in ways that promote innovation, accountability, and measurable outcomes.\n\nI remain committed to supporting these programs and ensuring their long-term success. However, long-term success includes restoring confidence that taxpayer dollars are being used effectively and that these programs are supporting the next generation of American innovators, rather than sustaining a cycle of repeated awards without results.\n\nShould you require additional authority from Congress to strengthen oversight or improve program integrity, I stand ready to work with you to ensure these programs meet their full potential.", 1, "2026-04-03T05:34:17Z", "2026-04-03T05:35:48Z"], ["https://womack.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=410584", "Womack Votes to Pay All Department of Homeland Security Personnel", "2026-03-27", "2026", "2026-03", "Republican", "House", "AR", "Steve Womack", "W000809", "womack.house.gov", "womack", "https://womack.house.gov/news", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C.\u2014March 27, 2026\u2026 Today, Congressman Steve Womack (AR-3) voted for the House amendment to the Senate amendment to H.R. 7147. This bill provides for a continuing resolution for the Department of Homeland Security through May 22, 2026.\n\nCongressman Womack said, \u201cWe should not be picking winners and losers when it comes to securing our homeland. Today\u2019s stopgap measure is neither a permanent fix nor does it provide long-overdue, updated levels in funding, but it does fund the Department of Homeland Security in its entirety\u2014a proposal that ensures all of the department\u2019s hard-working federal workers are paid and ultimately protects the American public.\u201d\n\nCongressman Steve Womack (AR-3) has represented Arkansas\u2019s Third Congressional District since 2011. He is a member of the House Appropriations Committee.\n\nwomack.house.gov", 1, "2026-04-04T05:28:40Z", "2026-04-04T05:30:10Z"], ["https://womack.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=410586", "From the Front: March 27, 2026", "2026-03-27", "2026", "2026-03", "Republican", "House", "AR", "Steve Womack", "W000809", "womack.house.gov", "womack", "https://womack.house.gov/news", "scraper", "From the Front Newsletters\nFrom the Front: March 27, 2026\nShare on Facebook\nShare on X\nPrint this Page\nShare by Email\nWashington,\r\n      March 27, 2026\nClick here to read this edition.\nRead more.\nJOIN MY EMAIL LIST\nSUBSCRIBE", 1, "2026-04-04T05:28:40Z", "2026-04-06T21:05:58Z"], ["https://womack.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=410582", "Chairman Womack Leads Hearing for Lawmakers to Share Transportation and Housing Funding Requests", "2026-03-25", "2026", "2026-03", "Republican", "House", "AR", "Steve Womack", "W000809", "womack.house.gov", "womack", "https://womack.house.gov/news", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2014 March 25, 2026\u2026 Today, House Appropriations Transportation, Housing and Urban Development (THUD), and Related Agencies Subcommittee Chairman Steve Womack (AR-3) led an open hearing, in which all Members of the House of Representatives were invited to testify on their priorities for the Fiscal Year 2027 THUD Appropriations bill.\n\nChairman Womack delivered the following remarks during the hearing, \u201cToday, we welcome our colleagues to testify on their priorities for the Department of Housing and Urban Development and the Department of Transportation for Fiscal Year 2027. Member engagement is key to the appropriations process, and especially important for our bill, because every district has housing and transportation assets. As a former Mayor, I value the local perspective from districts nationwide. That\u2019s why I am looking forward to hearing from our colleagues.\u201d\n\nChairman Womack\u2019s full remarks as prepared are available HERE.\n\nA full recording of the hearing is available HERE.\n\nCongressman Steve Womack (AR-3) has represented Arkansas\u2019s Third Congressional District since 2011. He is a member of the House Appropriations Committee.\n\nwomack.house.gov", 1, "2026-04-04T05:28:40Z", "2026-04-04T05:30:10Z"]], "truncated": false, "filtered_table_rows_count": 7239, "expanded_columns": [], "expandable_columns": [], "columns": ["url", "title", "date", "year", "month", "party", "chamber", "state", "member_name", "bioguide_id", "domain", "scraper", "source", "date_source", "text", "has_text", "collected_at", "updated_at"], "primary_keys": ["url"], "units": {}, "query": {"sql": "select url, title, date, year, month, party, chamber, state, member_name, bioguide_id, domain, scraper, source, date_source, text, has_text, collected_at, updated_at from releases where \"chamber\" = :p0 and \"party\" = :p1 and \"state\" = :p2 order by date desc limit 101", "params": {"p0": "House", "p1": "Republican", "p2": "AR"}}, "facet_results": {"party": {"name": "party", "type": "column", "hideable": false, "toggle_url": "/press/releases.json?chamber=House&party=Republican&state=AR", 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