{"database": "press", "table": "releases", "is_view": false, "human_description_en": "where chamber = \"House\", party = \"Republican\" and state = \"IL\" sorted by date descending", "rows": [["https://bost.house.gov/2026/9/bost-announces-1-million-grant-for-robinson-water-treatment-plant", "BOST ANNOUNCES $1 MILLION GRANT FOR ROBINSON WATER TREATMENT PLANT", "2026-09-29", "2026", "2026-09", "Republican", "House", "IL", "Mike Bost", "B001295", "bost.house.gov", "bost", "https://bost.house.gov/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. - U.S. Representative Mike Bost (IL-12) today announced that the Environmental Protection Agency has awarded a $1 million federal grant for the Robinson Palestine Water Commission to construct a new water treatment plant and campus.\n\n\u201cReliable access to clean, safe drinking water is something every Southern Illinoisan should be able to count on,\u201d said Bost. \u201cThis investment will make long-overdue upgrades to an aging water infrastructure that many local families depend upon for the water they use every day.\"\n\nThe grant will help the Robinson Palestine Water Commission modernize its water treatment system, including a new treatment plan, a new administration building, and a storage building.", 1, "2026-09-30T10:57:52Z", "2026-09-30T10:59:04Z"], ["https://lahood.house.gov/2026/9/icymi-lahood-delbene-introduce-bipartisan-meals-for-communities-tax-credit-act-to-encourage-charitable-prepared-meal-donations", "ICYMI: LaHood, DelBene introduce Bipartisan Meals for Communities Tax Credit Act to Encourage Charitable Prepared Meal Donations", "2026-09-21", "2026", "2026-09", "Republican", "House", "IL", "Darin LaHood", "L000585", "lahood.house.gov", "lahood", "https://lahood.house.gov/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2013 Representatives Darin LaHood (IL-16) and Susan DelBene (WA-01) introduced the bipartisan Meals for Communities Tax Credit Act. This legislation would encourage restaurants and retail food establishments to donate prepared meals to charitable organizations serving communities across the country by creating a new tax credit for prepared meal donations.\n\nThe legislation is supported by ReThink Food, a nonprofit organization that works to reduce food waste and food insecurity by transforming surplus food into nutritious meals for communities in need. Representative Nicole Malliotakis (NY-11) also joined the legislation as an original cosponsor.\n\n\u201cRestaurants and food retailers in Illinois and throughout the country have an opportunity to make a meaningful difference in their communities by donating prepared meals to organizations that can put them directly into the hands of people in need,\u201d said Rep. LaHood. \u201cThe Meals for Communities Tax Credit Act provides a commonsense incentive for businesses to be charitable and turn surplus prepared food into meals for families and individuals who need them. By encouraging these donations, we can help strengthen our communities and make sure good food reaches the people who need it most.\u201d\n\n\u201cMillions of families across the country are struggling to reliably put food on the table because of rising grocery bills and a more expensive economy. Our food pantries and local nonprofits are stretched thin and cannot meet the demand in their communities. Meanwhile, restaurants are also contending with higher overhead costs and fewer customers,\u201d said Rep. DelBene. \u201cThis legislation helps address both problems by providing restaurants with incentives to donate prepared meals directly to nonprofits serving hungry families. It will support restaurants, their workers, and families who don\u2019t have enough to eat.\u201d\n\n\"Restaurants are more than places where people eat \u2013 they are a vital part of our community infrastructure, with the kitchens, talent, and local relationships to help address food insecurity at scale,\u201d said Matt Jozwiak, Founder and CEO of Rethink Food. \u201cThe Meals for Communities Tax Credit creates a practical way to unlock that capacity, helping local restaurants stay strong while providing nutritious, chef-prepared meals to neighbors who need them. We\u2019re grateful to Representatives LaHood and DelBene for recognizing that supporting small businesses and strengthening food access can, and should, go hand in hand.\u201d\n\nBackground:\n\nUnder current law, businesses and individuals can receive tax deductions for bulk food donations based on the value of the donated goods. However, no deduction or credit exists for prepared meals donated to nonprofit organizations that take into consideration the added costs of food preparation.\n\nThe Meals for Communities Tax Credit Act establishes a new nonrefundable credit for eligible businesses that donate prepared meals to charitable organizations. Specifically, the bill would:\n\nProvide a tax credit equal to 50% of the fair market value of qualified prepared meal donations, with a maximum credit of $7 per meal, adjusted to inflation;\n\nCap the total allowable credit at $50,000 per year;\n\nInclude guardrails to prevent businesses from double dipping by claiming both the prepared meal credit and the existing charitable deduction for any food donation; and\n\nRetain the same health and food safety standards for kitchens and donated meals as already required for commercial restaurant service.\n\nTo view the text of the bill, click HERE.", 1, "2026-09-22T09:42:49Z", "2026-09-22T09:44:35Z"], ["https://lahood.house.gov/2026/9/lahood-s-change-act-passes-out-of-the-ways-and-means-committee", "LaHood's CHANGE Act Passes out of the Ways and Means Committee", "2026-09-17", "2026", "2026-09", "Republican", "House", "IL", "Darin LaHood", "L000585", "lahood.house.gov", "lahood", "https://lahood.house.gov/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2013 The House Ways and Means Committee voted unanimously to advance the Concentrating on High Value Alzheimer\u2019s Needs to Get to an End (CHANGE) Act, which was included as a provision in the Alzheimer's Screening and Prevention (ASAP) Act. This bipartisan legislation was led by Congressman Darin LaHood (IL-16), Congresswoman Linda S\u00e1nchez (CA-38), Congressman Gus Bilirakis (FL-12), and Congresswoman Doris Matsui (CA-07). The CHANGE Act coupled with ASAP Act works to remove roadblocks to care, support early detection efforts for Alzheimer's, and improve early assessment and diagnosis of Alzheimer\u2019s disease and related dementia.\n\n\u201cAlzheimer\u2019s impacts millions of Americans, and we must do everything we can to support the search for a cure. This bipartisan bill provides help to patients and clinicians through expanded early detection support and improved data collection,\u201d said Congressman LaHood. \u201cThe CHANGE Act, coupled with the ASAP Act, will strengthen existing tools to help streamline and broaden the ability for earlier diagnosis of Alzheimer's and other forms dementia. I thank Representatives S\u00e1nchez, Bilirakis, and Matsui for their collaboration on this critical legislation, and my Ways and Means colleagues for advancing this bill as we work to find ways to support patients, their families, and caregivers.\u201d\n\n\u201cThis is deeply personal for me. I lost both of my parents to Alzheimer\u2019s, and I know firsthand how much earlier detection could have meant for our family,\u201d said Congresswoman S\u00e1nchez. \u201cAdvancing this bill out of committee brings us one step closer to giving other families that chance. I\u2019m grateful to my Ways and Means colleagues for passing our bipartisan bill and will keep fighting to get it signed into law.\u201d\n\n\u201cAlzheimer\u2019s touches millions of families, and identifying the disease early can make a meaningful difference for patients and their loved ones,\u201d said Congresswoman Matsui. \u201cThe CHANGE Act brings us closer to giving healthcare providers the tools to recognize the warning signs sooner and connect families with the care and support they need. I\u2019m proud this bipartisan legislation is moving forward so more families can have more time, better care, and greater hope.\u201d\n\n\u201cAlzheimer\u2019s is a devastating disease that has touched my family personally, so I understand the tremendous toll it takes not only on patients, but also on the loved ones who care for them,\u201d said Congressman Gus Bilirakis. \u201cAs promising new treatments continue to emerge, early detection and diagnosis are more important than ever. The bipartisan CHANGE Act will help ensure patients and their doctors have better tools to identify cognitive decline earlier, when interventions may have the greatest impact. I am pleased to see this important legislation advance out of Committee as part of a broader package, bringing us another step closer to improving care, preserving quality of life, and ultimately finding a cure for this terrible disease.\u201d\n\n\u201cAnnual cognitive screening is critical to ensuring early diagnosis of dementia. The CHANGE Act will ensure primary care providers use validated tools to catch cognitive impairment early, when patients and families can act on it. Early diagnosis means more time for families and patients to plan, and the opportunity to consider treatments options or enrolling in a clinical trial. We thank Reps. LaHood, Sanchez, and Buchanan for their leadership and urge Congress to move forward with ensuring CHANGE and ASAP become law together,\u201d said Catherine Patterson, Acting COO, UsAgainstAlzheimer\u2019s.\n\n\"Rep. LaHood has been a persistent voice for early Alzheimer's detection, and his leadership on the ASAP Act is helping clear the path for Medicare to cover the blood-based screening tests families need,\" said Robert Egge, Alzheimer's Association chief public policy officer and executive director, AIM. \"We also appreciate his work on the CHANGE Act, further demonstrating his commitment to the Alzheimer's community.\"\n\nBackground:\n\nThe CHANGE Act would support, incentivize, and authorize high-value Alzheimer\u2019s patient care, and support caregivers and research initiatives to improve prevention and treatment for the disease. Specifically, it would require physicians to use any of the National Institute on Aging\u2019s cognitive impairment detection tools to help detect, refer and diagnose Alzheimer\u2019s and related dementias in their earliest stages.\n\nSpecifically, it would require physicians to conduct cognitive screenings at a patient's annual Medicare wellness visit by using any of the National Institute on Aging\u2019s cognitive impairment detection tools. With these annual screenings, physicians can track patients' cognitive abilities overtime to help detect and diagnose Alzheimer\u2019s and related dementias in their earliest stages.", 1, "2026-09-18T09:27:43Z", "2026-09-18T09:29:09Z"], ["https://marymiller.house.gov/media/press-releases/miller-lee-introduce-bill-protect-student-data-far-left-voter-operations", "Miller, Lee Introduce Bill To Protect Student Data From Far-Left Voter Operations", "2026-09-16", "2026", "2026-09", "Republican", "House", "IL", "Mary E. Miller", "M001211", "marymiller.house.gov", "marymiller", "https://marymiller.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2014 Today, Congresswoman Mary Miller (IL-15) introduced the Student Voter Data Protection Act to protect college students\u2019 personal information from being shared without their consent for partisan voter registration efforts. Senator Mike Lee (R-UT) is leading the legislation in the Senate.\n\nThe bill amends the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) to explicitly prohibit private student data from being shared for voter registration efforts without the student\u2019s consent and establishes an opt-in standard for such disclosures.\n\n\u201cThe Student Voter Data Protection Act puts a hard stop to Left-wing data harvesting, making student data strictly opt-in and cutting off the pipeline to non-consensual personal information,\u201d said Congresswoman Miller. \u201cI am proud to lead this effort in the House alongside Senator Mike Lee to stand up for our students' basic privacy rights.\u201d\n\n\"Partisan organizations should not have access to college students' personal data under the guise of civic engagement,\" said Senator Lee. \"Our bill closes the loopholes that allow institutions to disregard the consent of their students. If leftist groups want a student\u2019s info for electioneering, they can do it the old fashioned way: standing on campus with a clipboard.\"\n\nThe Student Voter Data Protection Act would:", 1, "2026-09-17T09:52:05Z", "2026-09-17T09:53:00Z"], ["https://bost.house.gov/2026/9/bost-announces-2-3-million-in-faa-grants-for-southern-illinois-airports", "BOST ANNOUNCES $2.3 MILLION IN FAA GRANTS FOR SOUTHERN ILLINOIS AIRPORTS", "2026-09-14", "2026", "2026-09", "Republican", "House", "IL", "Mike Bost", "B001295", "bost.house.gov", "bost", "https://bost.house.gov/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. - U.S. Representative Mike Bost (IL-12) today announced that the Federal Aviation Administration has awarded grants totaling over $2.3 million to enhance safety and infrastructure improvements at Veterans Airport in Marion and MidAmerica Airport in Mascoutah.\n\n\u201cSouthern Illinois is emerging as a transportation hub for our region, and Veterans Airport and MidAmerica Airport are critical transportation assets,\u201d said Bost. \u201cThese investments will help ensure both airports have safe and reliable infrastructure they need to continue protecting travelers and creating economic opportunities for the region.\"\n\nVeterans Airport will receive $1,176,548 to purchase a new aircraft rescue and firefighting vehicle, along with protective equipment and medical kits to enhance safety. MidAmerica Airport will receive $1,149,763 to bring the surrounding landscape into conformity with current FAA standards.\n\n###", 1, "2026-09-15T09:50:21Z", "2026-09-15T09:52:05Z"], ["https://lahood.house.gov/2026/8/lahood-colleagues-introduce-bipartisan-bill-to-expand-access-to-low-interest-mortgages-for-first-time-homebuyers", "LaHood, Colleagues introduce Bipartisan Bill to Expand Access to Low-Interest Mortgages for First-Time Homebuyers", "2026-08-10", "2026", "2026-08", "Republican", "House", "IL", "Darin LaHood", "L000585", "lahood.house.gov", "lahood", "https://lahood.house.gov/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2013 Today, Representatives Darin LaHood (IL-16), Jimmy Panetta (CA-19), Blake Moore (UT-01), and Tom Suozzi (NY-01) introduced the First-Time Homebuyer Affordability Act, bipartisan legislation to expand access to low-interest mortgages for first-time, low- to medium-income homebuyers.\n\n\u201cRising housing costs are being felt in rural, urban, and suburban communities across Illinois,\u201d said Rep. LaHood. \"The First-Time Homebuyer Affordability Act is a commonsense, bipartisan solution that will help more first-time homebuyers access affordable, low-interest mortgages without taking resources away from other critical housing programs. By expanding access to financing, we can help more hardworking families achieve homeownership, strengthen our communities, and build long-term financial security. I'm proud to work with my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to advance practical policies that make the American Dream more attainable.\" \"Too many working families and first-time homebuyers are locked out of homeownership by high mortgage rates and rising housing costs,\" said Rep. Panetta. \"Our bipartisan First-Time Homebuyer Affordability Act would remove Mortgage Revenue Bonds from the Private Activity Bond cap, allowing California to offer qualified homebuyers lower-interest mortgages while preserving resources for affordable rental housing. Housing affordability is no longer just a coastal issue nor just a Democratic issue, but an issue that requires this type of bipartisan solution for working families all across our country.\u201d \"Homeownership is becoming increasingly out of reach for young families,\u201d said Rep. Moore. \u201cRemoving Mortgage Revenue Bonds from the Private Activity Bond cap will make housing more accessible by allowing states to offer additional lower-interest mortgages to qualifying families, opening the door to homeownership for more Utahns and Americans across the nation. I\u2019m proud to co-lead the First-Time Homebuyer Affordability Act to lower the barrier to entry for homeownership.\" \u201cToo many Americans are being priced out of homeownership,\u201d said Rep. Suozzi. \u201cThe First-Time Homebuyer Affordability Act will make it easier for states and local governments to issue more mortgage revenue bonds, therefore lowering borrowing costs for more first-time and low- and middle-income homebuyers. I\u2019m proud to co-lead this commonsense bill to make homeownership more accessible and affordable for more families.\u201d The legislation is supported by the Illinois Housing Development Authority (IHDA), the National Council of State Housing Agencies (NCSHA), the Council of Development Finance Agencies (CDFA), the Mortgage Bankers Association (MBA), the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB), and RBC Capital Markets. \u201cThis year alone, the Illinois Housing Development Authority (IHDA) has helped more than 3,000 families purchase their first home through our down payment assistance programs,\u201d said IHDA Executive Director Kristin Faust. \u201cWith the passage of this legislation, IHDA will be able to provide even greater support through enhanced assistance and lower interest rates, doubling the number of homebuyers we can assist in overcoming the hurdles to homeownership. This bill will directly increase buyers\u2019 purchasing power, help the missing middle, and lower monthly mortgage expenses - creating more homes for families, strengthening communities, and stimulating local economies.\u201d \u201cThe First-Time Homebuyer Affordability Act is the most significant bipartisan federal legislation to lower the cost of homeownership for first-time home buyers in decades,\u201d said NCSHA Executive Director Stockton Williams. \u201cThe bill would provide lower-interest home mortgage loans to hundreds of thousands of working households who are ready to become homeowners but for today\u2019s relatively high-rate environment.\u201d \u201cThis bill represents a transformational opportunity for homeownership in America at a time when the affordability crisis has never been greater,\u201d said Cory Hoeppner, Head of National Housing Group at RBC Capital Markets. \u201cThe ability for State Housing Finance Agencies to offer significantly more lower rate mortgages to first time homebuyers will help boost the U.S. real estate market.\u201d\n\n\u201cIncreasing resources for programs that enable Americans to purchase their first home is critical. The First-Time Homebuyer Affordability Act will ensure that state housing finance agencies can fully fund affordable homeownership programs. We commend Reps. LaHood, Moore, Panetta, and Suozzi for working to make the American dream of homeownership more attainable,\" said Bill Owens, Chairman of the National Association of Home Builders.\n\nBackground:\n\nMortgage Revenue Bonds are a longstanding financing tool used by state and local housing agencies to support affordable homeownership opportunities \u2013 particularly for first-time, low- to moderate-income homebuyers. These bonds help reduce borrowing costs and expand access to below-market mortgage financing.\n\nUnder current law, mortgage bonds are subject to annual Private Activity Bond (PAB) volume caps, which limit the amount of financing states can provide each year. In many states, growing housing demand and rising home prices have strained these caps and reduced the availability of affordable mortgage assistance programs.\n\nThe First-Time Homebuyer Affordability Act would exempt qualified mortgage bonds from the PAB cap \u2013 expanding financing capacity and allow housing agencies to better meet housing needs in their communities.\n\nFull text of the bill can be found HERE.", 1, "2026-08-11T05:54:29Z", "2026-08-11T05:56:25Z"], ["https://bost.house.gov/2026/7/bost-responds-to-state-plan-to-cut-services-at-choate-mental-health-center-in-anna", "BOST RESPONDS TO STATE PLAN TO CUT SERVICES AT CHOATE MENTAL HEALTH CENTER IN ANNA", "2026-07-24", "2026", "2026-07", "Republican", "House", "IL", "Mike Bost", "B001295", "bost.house.gov", "bost", "https://bost.house.gov/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2014 U.S. Rep. Mike Bost (IL-12) today denounced plans for the Illinois Department of Human Services to significantly downsize operations at the Choate Mental Health and Developmental Center in Anna. The facility's intellectual and developmental disabilities general units will close by September 30th, with its 75 civil mental health beds phased down by March 2027. The Choate campus will only have a 40-bed developmental disabilities unit and state administrative offices remaining.\n\n###", 1, "2026-07-25T07:13:44Z", "2026-07-25T07:15:09Z"], ["https://bost.house.gov/2026/7/bost-votes-for-defense-authorization-bill", "BOST VOTES FOR DEFENSE AUTHORIZATION BILL", "2026-07-23", "2026", "2026-07", "Republican", "House", "IL", "Mike Bost", "B001295", "bost.house.gov", "bost", "https://bost.house.gov/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2014 U.S. Representative Mike Bost (IL-12) today voted for the National Defense Authorization Act, legislation that authorizes $1.15 trillion for the next fiscal year for national defense, including full funding for Boeing\u2019s MQ-25 Stingray built in Mascoutah, and provides a pay raise to servicemembers.\n\n\"Peace through strength isn't just a slogan,\" said Bost. \"It\u2019s about having the factories, shipyards, and supply chains to produce the equipment to keep us safe and never depending on our adversaries for the tools our troops need. I voted for this bill to bring defense production back home, strengthen our deterrence abroad, and give our servicemembers a well-earned pay raise, along with better housing and childcare. There\u2019s nothing more \u2018America First\u2019 than that.\"\n\nThe Fiscal Year 2027 NDAA includes:\n\n$1.15 trillion authorized for national defense\n\nA 5 to 7 percent servicemember pay raise, plus better housing, education, and childcare for military families\n\nFull funding for the MQ-25 Stingray, built in Mascoutah, Illinois, at $513.3 million, the full amount requested\n\nMultiyear procurement of F-35 and F-15EX aircraft, Arleigh Burke class destroyers, and Virginia class submarines\n\nArmy 155mm artillery production ramped to 100,000 rounds per month\n\nStronger nuclear deterrence and missile defense against China, Russia, Iran, and North Korea\n\nBillions cut in waste, driving toward a clean Pentagon audit within 24 months\n\n###", 1, "2026-07-24T07:30:11Z", "2026-07-24T07:31:13Z"], ["https://lahood.house.gov/2026/7/lahood-supports-fy27-national-defense-authorization-act", "LaHood Supports FY27 National Defense Authorization Act", "2026-07-23", "2026", "2026-07", "Republican", "House", "IL", "Darin LaHood", "L000585", "lahood.house.gov", "lahood", "https://lahood.house.gov/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2013 Yesterday, Congressman Darin LaHood (IL-16) voted in favor of the Fiscal Year 2027 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), which will rebuild America's defense industrial base, support our servicemembers and their families, and strengthen national security.\n\n\u201cThe FY2027 NDAA strengthens our national security, provides the men and women who serve our country with the resources they require, and improves our ability to counter the malign actions of bad actors around the world,\" said Rep. LaHood. \"With ever-evolving threats and foreign adversaries constantly working to undermine and harm the United States, this bill ensures that our military and intelligence community have the tools they need to handle any threat. I was proud to support the inclusion of the SAVE America Act to bolster our election integrity, which goes hand in hand with strengthening our national security. I will always vote for legislation that keeps Americans safe and supports the brave men and women who protect our freedoms and our nation.\"\n\nBackground:\n\nThe bill authorizes approximately 1.15 trillion in national defense spending. The spending includes allocations for rebuilding America\u2019s defense industrial base, restocking our munitions stockpiles, modernizing our shipbuilding aircraft, and building up our anti-drone defense capabilities. The bill also includes provisions to secure U.S. supply chains from China export controls, expand small business participation in defense manufacturing, and improve the quality of life for our servicemembers with a pay raise of 5-7%. The NDAA also renames the Department of Defense to the Department of War, cuts nearly 30 million in wasteful spending, and requires a full financial audit within 24 months. The House-passed NDAA includes the SAVE America Act, advancing election integrity alongside other national security priorities. Congressman LaHood has supported the SAVE America Act three times previously in the House.\n\nRep. LaHood's Priorities included in the FY2027 NDAA:\n\nProhibiting the Procurement of Semiconductors manufactured on silicon carbide wafers in the People's Republic of China\n\nThe U.S. has designated silicon carbide (SiC) as a critical material. China dominates the global SiC industry.\n\nRep. LaHood introduced an amendment that supports building out a robust domestic supply chain of SiC to combat the CCP\u2019s state-subsidized market strategy to control the entire SiC semiconductor supply chain.\n\nThe amendment:\n\nDirects the Secretary of Defense to revise the Defense Federal Acquisition Regulation Supplement to prohibit the procurement of non-commercial silicon carbide-based semiconductors manufactured in China;\n\nRequires the Pentagon to report back to Congress on American companies that manufacture said chips and the pressure they\u2019re facing from Chinese competition;\n\nPushes for U.S allies to keep Chinese manufactured chips and semiconductors out of their own defense supply chains, and further direct a broader strategy to stop China from dominating this part of the tech industry.\n\nRep. LaHood serves on the several committees including the House Select Committee on the Strategic Competition between the U.S and the Chinese Communist Party. Across these roles, Rep. LaHood has focused on strengthening American\u2019s national security and supply chains, countering the threat posed by the CCP, while also cutting wasteful federal spending.", 1, "2026-07-24T07:30:11Z", "2026-07-24T07:31:13Z"], ["https://lahood.house.gov/2026/7/lahood-supports-aadapt-act-to-better-support-alzheimer-s-and-dementia-patients", "LaHood Supports AADAPT Act to Better Support Alzheimer's and Dementia Patients", "2026-07-20", "2026", "2026-07", "Republican", "House", "IL", "Darin LaHood", "L000585", "lahood.house.gov", "lahood", "https://lahood.house.gov/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2013 Today, Congressman Darin LaHood (IL-16) spoke on the House floor in favor of the House-passed H.R. 3747 the Accelerating Access to Dementia & Alzheimer\u2019s Provider Training (AADAPT) Act. The passage of this legislation marks a significant milestone in the fight against Alzheimer\u2019s and other forms of dementia. The bipartisan AADAPT Act improves educational resources for health care workers, allowing them to better support individuals and families living with these dementias. Congressman LaHood co-led the bill alongside Rep. Troy Balderson (OH-12), Rep. Nanette Barrag\u00e1n (CA-44), and Rep. Paul Tonko (NY-20).\n\n\u201cAlzheimer\u2019s and dementia-related diseases impact too many individuals and families throughout America and Illinois\u2019 16th Congressional District,\u201d said Rep. LaHood. \u201cAs co-chair of the Alzheimer's Working Group, I am proud to co-lead legislation like the AADAPT Act to strengthen support for patients and ensure our local primary care providers have the specialized training they need to treat, diagnose, and care for those living with Alzheimer\u2019s and other forms of dementia. I thank my colleagues in the House for supporting this critical piece of legislation and I urge my colleagues in the Senate to send the bill to the President\u2019s desk so we can enhance the quality of care and strengthen our support for patients and their families.\u201d\n\n\u201cNew treatments and new diagnostic tools are transforming what is possible for people living with Alzheimer\u2019s. The AADAPT Act ensures that primary care providers across the country \u2014 especially in rural and underserved communities \u2014 have the resources they need to bring that progress to their patients. We thank the bipartisan champions of this legislation for helping make that possible,\u201d said Robert Egge, Alzheimer\u2019s Association chief public policy officer and AIM president.\n\nWatch Rep. LaHood's Full Remarks Below:\n\nBackground:\n\nAlzheimer\u2019s disease impacts over seven million Americans. However, many primary care providers, especially those serving rural or underserved populations, report they lack the proper resources and additional training necessary to diagnose and treat Alzheimer\u2019s and other dementias. Today, Alzheimer\u2019s disease and other dementias are under-detected in the primary care setting about 50 percent of the time.\n\nThe AADAPT Act ensures that individuals and families facing Alzheimer\u2019s and other forms of dementia receive earlier support, accurate information, and care that reflects their needs. This legislation is a critical step toward closing the diagnosis gap and reducing care disparities in rural communities.", 1, "2026-07-21T07:32:02Z", "2026-07-21T07:33:33Z"], ["https://bost.house.gov/2026/7/bost-announces-13-million-for-southern-illinois-truck-parking", "BOST ANNOUNCES $13 MILLION FOR SOUTHERN ILLINOIS TRUCK PARKING", "2026-07-09", "2026", "2026-07", "Republican", "House", "IL", "Mike Bost", "B001295", "bost.house.gov", "bost", "https://bost.house.gov/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 U.S. Rep. Mike Bost (IL-12) today announced the U.S. Department of Transportation has awarded the Illinois Department of Transportation more than $13 million in BUILD grant funding to expand truck parking at two Southern Illinois rest areas. The Fort Massac Rest Area in Massac County will be reconstructed to increase truck parking from 19 to as many as 64 stalls and add up to four family-assist restrooms and ADA-compliant stalls. The Salt Kettle Rest Area in Vermilion County will gain up to 41 new truck stalls, including four ADA-compliant stalls, along with additional road improvements.\n\n\"I grew up in a family trucking business, so I know what it means when a driver is running on fumes with nowhere safe to pull over,\" said Bost. \"This investment builds accessible parking right here in Southern Illinois and gives our truck drivers a safe place to rest. I was glad to back this project and work with federal officials to increase federal funding for this public safety improvement.\"\n\n###", 1, "2026-07-10T08:20:04Z", "2026-07-10T08:21:18Z"], ["https://marymiller.house.gov/media/press-releases/house-passes-rep-millers-screen-act-part-child-online-safety-package", "House Passes Rep. Miller\u2019s SCREEN Act as Part of Child Online Safety Package", "2026-06-29", "2026", "2026-06", "Republican", "House", "IL", "Mary E. Miller", "M001211", "marymiller.house.gov", "marymiller", "https://marymiller.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE\n\nWASHINGTON, D.C. \u2014 Today, the U.S. House of Representatives passed the Kids Internet and Digital Safety (KIDS) Act, a comprehensive legislative package to strengthen online protections for children. The package includes Congresswoman Mary Miller's Shielding Children's Retinas from Egregious Exposure on the Net (SCREEN) Act.\n\nThe SCREEN Act establishes a national age-verification requirement for commercial websites that distribute obscene material online.\n\n\"Today's internet has made explicit sexual content more accessible than ever before, and the House took an important step today to protect America's children,\" said Congresswoman Miller. \"This is a major victory for parents and families across America. I'm grateful to Chairman Guthrie for advancing my legislation as part of the KIDS Act and for taking a stand to restore accountability online.\"\n\nNearly 80 percent of American children are exposed to pornography before reaching adulthood, with research linking early exposure to anxiety, depression, addiction, low self-esteem, distorted views of relationships, and other harmful developmental outcomes.\n\nThe legislation follows the Supreme Court's decision upholding Texas' age-verification law, affirming that protecting children from online obscene material with age-verification requirements is constitutional.", 1, "2026-06-30T06:29:10Z", "2026-06-30T06:30:42Z"], ["https://lahood.house.gov/2026/6/lahood-introduces-legislation-to-expand-healthcare-options-for-families", "LaHood Introduces Legislation to Expand Healthcare Options for Families", "2026-06-29", "2026", "2026-06", "Republican", "House", "IL", "Darin LaHood", "L000585", "lahood.house.gov", "lahood", "https://lahood.house.gov/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2013 Today, Congressman Darin LaHood (IL-16) introduced the Health Savings for Families Act. This legislation would allow individuals to maintain a Health Savings Account (HSA) even if the individual\u2019s spouse is enrolled in a Flexible Spending Arrangement (FSA), giving patients more choice and control of their own healthcare dollars.\n\n\"As we continue our to work to make healthcare more accessible and affordable, I was proud to introduce the Health Savings for Families Act,\" said Rep. LaHood. \"This legislation is a commonsense policy that will help Americans have more control and choice over their healthcare dollars. Instead of penalizing families for responsibly managing their money, the Health Savings for Families Act removes an unnecessary barrier to allow couples to access healthcare services and spend their money how they see fit.\"\n\nBackground:\n\nUnder current law, FSAs can be used to reimburse expenses for an individual and their spouses and dependents. This eligibility for FSA benefits disqualifies an otherwise eligible FSA enrollee\u2019s spouse from contributing to an HSA, even when each spouse is covered under a separate health plan.\n\nThe Health Savings for Families Act fixes this flaw, allowing spouses of FSA enrollees the option to contribute to a separate HSA plan, giving families more flexibility and control over their healthcare decisions.\n\nFull text of the bill can be found HERE.", 1, "2026-07-01T06:34:07Z", "2026-07-01T06:35:35Z"], ["https://lahood.house.gov/2026/6/lahood-congratulates-gregory-gilmore-as-new-u-s-attorney-for-the-central-district-of-illinois", "LaHood Congratulates Gregory Gilmore as New U.S. Attorney for the Central District of Illinois", "2026-06-08", "2026", "2026-06", "Republican", "House", "IL", "Darin LaHood", "L000585", "lahood.house.gov", "lahood", "https://lahood.house.gov/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2013 Congressman Darin LaHood (IL-16) released the following statement in reaction to the swearing in of Gregory Gilmore as the U.S. attorney for the Central District of Illinois.\n\n\"Throughout his career, Gregory Gilmore has displayed tremendous integrity, professionalism, and commitment to the rule of law,\" said Rep. LaHood. \"He is an excellent choice to head the Central District of Illinois as U.S. Attorney and it was an honor to support his nomination for the role. I have the utmost confidence he will lead with fairness and work tirelessly to serve and protect the citizens of the Central District.\"\n\nBackground:\n\nGilmore has served the office since 1994 in a variety of roles including, First Assistant U.S. Attorney, and civil chief, criminal chief, and criminal supervisor of the Springfield division. He was nominated by President Trump on January 13th, confirmed by the Senate on May 18th, and sworn in on June 1st.", 1, "2026-06-09T06:27:37Z", "2026-06-09T06:30:10Z"], ["https://lahood.house.gov/2026/6/lahood-budzinski-introduce-bill-to-support-veterans-battling-parkinson-s", "LaHood, Budzinski Introduce Bill to Support Veterans Battling Parkinson's", "2026-06-04", "2026", "2026-06", "Republican", "House", "IL", "Darin LaHood", "L000585", "lahood.house.gov", "lahood", "https://lahood.house.gov/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2013 Today, Representatives Darin LaHood (IL-16) and Nikki Budzinski (IL-13) introduced the Boxing Therapy for Parkinson\u2019s Access Act to expand access to evidence-based boxing programs for veterans and individuals living with Parkinson's.\n\n\"I was fortunate to recently visit a Rock Steady Boxing class at K-Fit Minooka to listen to members' personal stories and see firsthand how this program helps individuals manage Parkinson\u2019s symptoms,\" said Rep. LaHood. \"Boxing therapy significantly improves mobility and helps those with Parkinson\u2019s remain more independent in their daily lives. I am grateful to Congresswoman Budzinski for joining me to introduce the Boxing Therapy for Parkinson's Access Act to ensure that all veterans have access to this therapy to slow the progress of Parkinson's and reclaim their lives from this disease. We owe veterans that and much more.\" \"Our veterans sacrificed so much for our country, and we owe it to them to make sure they get the care and support they need following their service,\" said Rep. Budzinski. \"For some with Parkinson\u2019s and movement disorders that looks like access to boxing-based exercise classes that can be critical for improving mobility, as well as supporting mental health. I\u2019m proud to help lead this bill, that will help more veterans access these services freely without having to worry about the financial burden.\" \"Access to an innovative wellness program like Rock Steady Boxing improves mobility, mental health, and overall quality of life for those diagnosed with Parkinson's Disease or similar movement disorders. Reimbursing veterans for participation in this program would remove financial barriers to a proven, community-based program that complements traditional medical care and supports long-term wellness. Supporting this legislation demonstrates a commitment to providing veterans with effective resources that promote mobility, independence, and connection.\" said Senior Services Plus CEO, Theresa Collins.\n\n\u201cThe American Parkinson Disease Association (APDA) stands behind veterans living with Parkinson\u2019s disease in its support for expanding access to exercise and movement-based programs, like boxing,\u201d said Leslie A. Chambers, President & CEO, APDA. \u201cExercise is a critical component of Parkinson\u2019s care and evidence shows it can help people maintain mobility, balance, strength, function, and quality of life. For the more than 110,000 veterans living with Parkinson\u2019s disease, The Boxing Therapy for Parkinson\u2019s Access Act is an important step toward increasing access and choice for veterans seeking programs that support function, independence, and overall well-being.\u201d\n\n\u201cResearch consistently links exercise to reduced Parkinson\u2019s risk and slower disease progression,\u201d said Dan Feehan, chief policy and government affairs officer at The Michael J. Fox Foundation. \u201cThat\u2019s why the Boxing Therapy for Parkinson\u2019s Access Act will be an important step to ensure that military veterans living with Parkinson\u2019s have access to the exercise they need to live well. We\u2019re grateful to Representatives LaHood and Budzinski for their bipartisan leadership and commitment to supporting more than 110,000 veterans living with Parkinson\u2019s disease in the United States.\u201d \u201cThe Boxing Therapy for Parkinson\u2019s Access Act is an important step in expanding access to exercise programs for veterans living with Parkinson\u2019s disease. Boxing classes and other exercise opportunities are a vital part of Parkinson\u2019s disease management, helping maintain mobility, coordination, and overall quality of life. Research from the Parkinson\u2019s Foundation\u2019s Outcomes Project shows that consistent exercise can slow symptom progression and improve physical and emotional wellbeing,\u201d said Andi Fristedt, Executive Vice President, Chief Strategy and Policy Officer for the Parkinson\u2019s Foundation.\n\n\"Rock Steady Boxing for me has not only been important for my physical strength, it is just as important for my mental health. The staff and participants have one goal in mind, to make life a little easier with Parkinsons. As a veteran I can appreciate the comradery formed with people who understand what I'm going through,\" said Tom Zielinski, USMC Veteran and member of Rock Steady Boxing Minooka, IL.\n\nBackground:\n\nNon-contact boxing fitness programs, like Rock Steady Boxing, have been shown to improve balance, coordination, mobility, and overall quality of life by helping patients manage symptoms and maintain independence. The Boxing Therapy for Parkinson\u2019s Access Act will reduce financial barriers and ensure greater access to these programs for our nation's veterans living with Parkinson's and movement disorders.\n\nFull text of the legislation can be found HERE.", 1, "2026-06-05T06:35:23Z", "2026-06-05T06:36:42Z"], ["https://marymiller.house.gov/media/press-releases/house-passes-rep-millers-bill-end-child-care-fraud", "House Passes Rep. Miller\u2019s Bill to End Child Care Fraud", "2026-06-03", "2026", "2026-06", "Republican", "House", "IL", "Mary E. Miller", "M001211", "marymiller.house.gov", "marymiller", "https://marymiller.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE\n\nWASHINGTON, D.C. \u2014 Today, the U.S. House of Representatives passed Congresswoman Mary Miller\u2019s (IL-15) H.R. 7726, the Stop Child Care Scams Act of 2026.\n\nThis legislative package advanced out of the House Education and Workforce Committee includes key provisions aimed to strengthen federal oversight of the Child Care and Development Block Grant program.\n\n\"Criminals have exploited government assistance programs for years, stealing millions of taxpayer dollars and diverting resources away from vulnerable children and working families,\" said Congresswoman Mary Miller. \"The House's passage of my Stop Child Care Scams Act ensures that fraud will no longer be met with inaction.\n\n\u201cI am grateful to Chairman Walberg for his leadership and my colleagues for moving this bill through the Education and Workforce Committee and helping House Republicans deliver on our promise to root out waste, fraud, and abuse throughout the federal government,\u201d Congresswoman Miller added.\n\n\u201cAmericans work too hard to watch their tax dollars disappear into fraud, waste, and government incompetence,\u201d House Republican Conference Chairwoman Lisa McClain (R-Mich.) said. \u201cFor years, Democrats looked the other way while programs meant to help families became targets for abuse. House Republicans are restoring accountability and making sure these programs serve the people they were created for, not fraudsters looking for an easy payday.\u201d\n\nThe federal government loses an estimated $600 million annually to improper payments in childcare programs.\n\nThe Stop Child Care Scams Act:\n\nRequires the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) to withhold federal funds from states that repeatedly fail to address fraud, abuse, and serious program violations.\n\nEstablishes mandatory enforcement by replacing the word \u201cmay\u201d with \u201cshall\u201d in federal law, ensuring that penalties for violations are applied consistently and not left to administrative discretion.\n\nSafeguards assistance for eligible families by helping ensure childcare resources are directed to low-income children and working families rather than diverted through fraudulent activity.", 1, "2026-06-27T21:44:12Z", "2026-06-27T22:11:26Z"], ["https://lahood.house.gov/2026/6/icymi-lahood-feenstra-tokuda-and-schrier-introduce-legislation-to-strengthen-rural-maternal-healthcare", "ICYMI: LaHood, Feenstra, Tokuda, and Schrier Introduce Legislation to Strengthen Rural Maternal Healthcare", "2026-06-02", "2026", "2026-06", "Republican", "House", "IL", "Darin LaHood", "L000585", "lahood.house.gov", "lahood", "https://lahood.house.gov/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2013 U.S. Representatives Darin LaHood (IL-16), Jill Tokuda (HI-02), and Kim Schrier (WA-08), and Randy Feenstra (IA-04) introduced the Rural Maternity Options for Medical Support (MOMS) Act of 2026 to strengthen and stabilize maternal healthcare in rural communities nationwide.\n\nThe bill would ensure that beds used exclusively for labor and delivery are not counted toward the 25-bed limit required for Critical Access Hospital (CAH) designation under Medicare. This change would help rural hospitals maintain labor and delivery services while preserving critical federal support.\n\n\u201cOne of the most urgent challenges facing our rural communities is the diminishing access to maternal healthcare,\u201d said Rep. LaHood. \u201cExpecting mothers deserve access to high-quality care regardless of where they live, which is why I was proud to join my colleagues in introducing the bipartisan Rural MOMs Act. This legislation supports our critical access hospitals by allowing them to continue to provide labor and delivery services without jeopardizing their inpatient room capacity. I will continue my work to advance policies that strengthen and support mothers, children, and families in our rural communities.\u201d\n\n\u201cExpecting mothers deserve access to high-quality, maternal healthcare, wherever they live,\u201d said Rep. Feenstra. \u201cRepresenting one of the most rural districts in the country, I regularly hear from Iowa mothers who drive sometimes over an hour just to access maternal care. I am proud to lead this commonsense legislation to support rural mothers, strengthen access to maternal care, and help ensure the best outcomes in rural communities across the country.\u201d\n\n\u201cNo family should have to worry about how far they are from a delivery room or whether their local hospital can keep its maternity ward open. That\u2019s why I am proud to join Rep. Feenstra on this effort to ensure expectant mothers in Hawai?i and across rural America can get the care they need closer to home,\u201d said Rep. Tokuda. \u201cBy removing outdated regulatory requirements that currently limit how Critical Access Hospitals provide labor and delivery services, the Rural MOMS Act addresses a major barrier that has forced too many rural hospitals to scale back or discontinue maternity care. This legislation is about more than capacity\u2014it\u2019s about giving rural providers the flexibility they need to put the health and safety of families first.\u201d.\n\nThis legislation has received broad support from hospital associations across the country.\n\n\u201cI applaud Rep. LaHood\u2019s leadership and commitment to ensuring rural families have access to the high-quality maternity care they need close to home,\u201d said A.J. Wilhelmi, Illinois Health and Hospital Association President and CEO. \u201cThis commonsense legislation represents an important step toward strengthening access to essential maternal health services, supporting critical access hospitals, and improving outcomes for mothers and babies. By helping preserve care in the communities where families live and work, this measure will make a meaningful difference for rural Illinois and rural communities across the country.\u201d\n\n\u201cNew and expecting moms deserve access to high-quality labor and delivery services,\u201d said Lisa Kidder Hrobsky, American Hospital Association\u2019s Senior Vice President for Advocacy and Political Affairs. \u201cThe Rural Maternity Options for Medical Support Act of 2026 strengthens access to maternal health services for mothers in rural areas by ensuring that higher volume critical access hospitals have labor and delivery beds available, even if their other patient beds are full. The AHA appreciates Rep. Feenstra\u2019s leadership to support critical access hospitals and families across the nation.\"\n\n\"The National Rural Health Association (NRHA) applauds the release of the Rural MOMS Act, led by Representatives Feenstra, LaHood, Tokuda, and Schrier,\u201d said Alan Morgan, CEO, NRHA. \u201cThis bill excludes beds used solely for labor and delivery services from counting towards critical access hospitals' 25-bed total, providing more opportunities for rural hospitals to provide obstetric services. As rural labor and delivery units are closing at alarming rates nationwide, this legislation will help retain and expand access to these services.\"\n\nFull bill text can be found HERE.", 1, "2026-06-03T06:40:39Z", "2026-06-03T06:42:22Z"], ["https://lahood.house.gov/2026/6/lahood-feenstra-sewell-evans-reintroduce-bill-to-strengthen-manufacturing-and-agriculture", "LaHood, Feenstra, Sewell, Evans Reintroduce Bill to Strengthen Manufacturing and Agriculture", "2026-06-02", "2026", "2026-06", "Republican", "House", "IL", "Darin LaHood", "L000585", "lahood.house.gov", "lahood", "https://lahood.house.gov/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2013 Today, Representatives Darin LaHood (IL-16), Randy Feenstra (IA-04), Terri Sewell (AL-07) and Dwight Evans (PA-03) reintroduced the Modernizing Agricultural and Manufacturing Bonds Act to help small and medium manufacturers and farmers generate good-paying jobs in Illinois and throughout the country.\n\n\u201cHaving robust agriculture and manufacturing industries is vitally important to the success of communities throughout the 16th District,\u201d said Rep. LaHood. \u201cThe Modernizing Agricultural and Manufacturing Bonds Act will provide entrepreneurs and first-time farmers with the financing tools they need to expand their operations, create good-paying jobs, and strengthen our local economies. I am proud to lead this bipartisan effort to ensure farmers and manufacturers have the resources they need to be successful and support our region.\u201d\n\n\"The Industrial Development Bonds (DBS) and First Time Farmer (Aggie Bonds) are a key component to economic growth, manufacturing, supporting the next generation of farmers, and our farm economy here in rural Iowa,\u201d said Rep. Feenstra. \u201cHowever, outdated rules and regulations created unnecessary barriers for our domestic manufacturers and generational family farmers from utilizing these bonds. I am happy to work with my colleagues Rep. LaHood, Rep. Kildee, and Rep. Evans to reauthorize this critical legislation and ensure modern law reflects the intensive capital needs of Iowa farmers and manufacturers to remain competitive and productive. I remain committed to supporting policies that have not only worked, but continue to grow our manufacturing capabilities, generate robust economic activity, and help our beginning farmers thrive.\u201d\n\n\u201cMany Pennsylvania farmers and manufacturers are struggling, and this is one way we can help them. In the Philadelphia region alone, there are more than 60 certified manufacturing businesses that could benefit from expanded eligibility to retain or create jobs,\u201d said Rep. Evans. \u201cAnd the farming sector is vital to Pennsylvania and the nation, both because of its sizable role in the economy and because we all need food!\u201d\n\n\u201cManufacturing and agriculture support good-paying jobs and drive growth in communities across Alabama,\u201d said Rep. Terri Sewell. \"Yet outdated federal rules have made it harder for small manufacturers and farmers to access the financing they need to compete and succeed. The Modernizing Manufacturing and Agricultural Bonds Act will help unlock new investment, strengthen domestic supply chains, and create opportunities for the next generation of American farmers and manufacturers. I am proud to join this bipartisan effort to modernize these critical economic development tools and ensure that Alabama\u2019s workers, farmers, and businesses have the resources they need to thrive in the 21st-century economy.\u201d\n\n\u201cWe are thrilled that MAMBA has been reintroduced in the U.S. House with bipartisan support,\u201d said CDFA President & CEO Toby Rittner. \u201cWith our country facing great economic opportunity, it has become clear that investments in farmers and manufacturers are necessary to strengthen the United States\u2019 global competitiveness. By updating the 40-year-old rules around agricultural and manufacturing bonds, MAMBA allows for the innovative financing tools necessary to invest in local communities by expanding and growing American manufacturing and farming. Representatives LaHood and Sewell have been great champions of farmers and manufacturers and the development finance industry as a whole, and I am thankful for their commitment to those key pillars of the U.S. economy.\u201d\n\nBackground:\n\nThe Modernizing Agricultural and Manufacturing Bonds Act updates the federal rules for manufacturing and agricultural bonds. These bonds are exempt from federal tax and are important tools used by state and local agencies to support small manufacturers and farmers and spur economic development. Over the last decade, use of these types of bonds has declined due to their outdated rules and regulations.\n\nThis legislation would:\n\nRaise the maximum manufacturing bond size from $10 million to $30 million, updating this threshold for inflation and economic changes. Additionally, the bill ties future bond size increases to inflation.\n\nModernize the definition of a \u201cmanufacturing facility\u201d to include high-tech manufacturing processes, including bio-technology, design and formula development.\n\nEliminate restrictions that prevented bond proceeds from being used towards offices space, locker rooms, and cafeterias at small manufacturing facilities.\n\nIncrease the amount of bond proceeds that can go to first-time farmers from $450,000 to $1 million and allow new farmers to use bond proceeds to upgrade existing agricultural buildings and property and purchase farm equipment.\n\nAlign the definition of \u201csubstantial farmland\u201d in the federal tax code with existing law.\n\nFull text of the bill can be found HERE.", 1, "2026-06-03T06:40:39Z", "2026-06-03T06:42:22Z"], ["https://bost.house.gov/2026/5/bost-announces-congressional-approval-of-1-6-billion-investment-for-st-louis-va-hospital", "BOST ANNOUNCES CONGRESSIONAL APPROVAL OF $1.6 BILLION INVESTMENT FOR ST. LOUIS VA HOSPITAL", "2026-05-21", "2026", "2026-05", "Republican", "House", "IL", "Mike Bost", "B001295", "bost.house.gov", "bost", "https://bost.house.gov/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 U.S. Rep. Mike Bost (IL-12) today announced that Congress has approved a Department of Veterans Affairs budget request of $1.6 billion to modernize the John Cochran Veterans Hospital in St. Louis. The VA funding bill, which is expected to be signed into law by President Trump, provides for construction of a new bed tower, mental health and substance abuse clinic, administrative facilities, parking garages, and central utility plant.\n\n.\n\n\"Our veterans deserve world-class care, and that means making sure the facilities serving them are up to the task,\" said Bost. \"The John Cochran Division is a critical lifeline for veterans in Metro East Illinois and beyond. This investment would go a long way toward making sure it can continue to serve them for decades to come. As Chairman of the House Veterans' Affairs Committee, I will do everything I can to make sure Congress follows through.\u201d\n\n.\n\nThe John Cochran Division serves thousands of veterans across the Metro East region of Southern Illinois and the greater St. Louis region. Initial funding for design, construction and land acquisition was authorized and appropriated in 2010. This request will help address funding gaps created when previous budget requests were not authorized or appropriated.\n\n###", 1, "2026-05-22T06:27:39Z", "2026-05-22T06:29:18Z"], ["https://bost.house.gov/2026/5/house-passes-bost-bill-to-protect-veterans-second-amendment-rights", "HOUSE PASSES BOST BILL TO PROTECT VETERANS' SECOND AMENDMENT RIGHTS", "2026-05-21", "2026", "2026-05", "Republican", "House", "IL", "Mike Bost", "B001295", "bost.house.gov", "bost", "https://bost.house.gov/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 U.S. Rep. Mike Bost (IL-12) today applauds the passage of H.R. 1041, the Veterans Second Amendment Protection Act. This legislation introduced by Bost prevents the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) from stripping veterans of their Second Amendment rights solely because they require financial assistance in managing their benefits.\n\n\u201cTonight the House passed my Veterans 2nd Amendment Protection Act. No veteran should lose their Second Amendment rights simply because they need help managing their finances, but that is exactly what's been happening,\u201d Chairman Bost said. \u201cWithout a judge's ruling or any finding that a veteran is a danger to anyone, a VA bureaucrat could report them to the FBI's background check system and strip them of their right to bear arms. That is not how we treat the men and women who defended our Constitution. This bill puts a permanent end to that injustice, and as a Marine, proud gun owner, and Chairman of the House Veterans' Affairs Committee, I could not be more proud to have led the charge for its passage.\u201d\n\nThe Veterans Second Amendment Protection Act prevents the VA from sending a veteran\u2019s information to the DOJ background check system based only on a fiduciary determination. It also requires the VA to notify the Attorney General when past referrals were made on that basis alone.\n\n###", 1, "2026-05-22T06:27:39Z", "2026-05-22T06:29:18Z"], ["https://bost.house.gov/2026/5/bost-celebrates-american-airlines-contract-with-marion-airport", "BOST CELEBRATES AMERICAN AIRLINES CONTRACT WITH MARION AIRPORT", "2026-05-20", "2026", "2026-05", "Republican", "House", "IL", "Mike Bost", "B001295", "bost.house.gov", "bost", "https://bost.house.gov/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 U.S. Representative Mike Bost (IL-12) today announced that the U.S. Department of Transportation has selected American Airlines to provide Essential Air Service at Veterans Airport of Southern Illinois in Marion. Beginning later this summer, the airline will operate 12 round trips per week between Marion and Chicago\u2019s O'Hare International Airport using 65-passenger regional jets.\n\n\"Southern Illinois deserves reliable air service, and that's exactly what this development should deliver,\u201d said Bost. \"I've worked closely with airport officials, American Airlines, and the U.S. Department of Transportation in recent months to make this happen, and I couldn\u2019t be more thrilled it came to fruition. With connections to O'Hare and access to American's full route network, I\u2019d expect this to be a big boost for the region.\"\n\nWith the addition of one of the country\u2019s largest national carriers, the new service will nearly double the current capacity.\n\n###", 1, "2026-05-21T06:28:16Z", "2026-05-21T06:29:43Z"], ["https://lahood.house.gov/2026/5/lahood-gottheimer-tenney-boyle-reintroduce-legislation-to-cover-dietary-supplements-under-flex-health-spending-accounts", "LaHood, Gottheimer, Tenney, Boyle, Reintroduce Legislation to Cover Dietary Supplements under Flex/Health Spending Accounts", "2026-05-20", "2026", "2026-05", "Republican", "House", "IL", "Darin LaHood", "L000585", "lahood.house.gov", "lahood", "https://lahood.house.gov/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2013 Today, Representatives Darin LaHood (IL-16), Josh Gottheimer (NJ-05), Claudia Tenney (NY-24), and Brendan Boyle (PA-02) reintroduced the Dietary Supplements Access Act. This legislation would allow for the use of Health Savings Accounts (HSAs) or Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs) to purchase dietary supplements, modernizing the availability and coverage of vitamins and minerals, supporting cost savings, and giving millions of Americans increased health and wellness options. Companion legislation was introduced in the Seante by Senators Kevin Cramer (R-ND) and John Curtis (R-UT).\n\n\u201cAs enrollment in HSA\u2019s continues to grow, it is critical we remove unnecessary barriers to give Americans more flexibility and options when making personal healthcare choices for their families,\u201d said Congressman LaHood. \"This bipartisan bill will allow over-the-counter nutrition and dietary supplements to be considered as qualified medical expenses under HSAs and FSAs so that a patients have more flexibility and preventative care options.\u201d\n\n\u201cAmericans should be able to use their own hard-earned healthcare dollars on commonsense preventive health products they already rely on every day,\u201d said Congresswoman Tenney. \u201cMillions of families, especially seniors, use vitamins, probiotics, and dietary supplements to support their health, but outdated tax rules make that harder than it should be. The bipartisan Dietary Supplements Access Act cuts red tape, expands access to affordable preventive care, and gives the more than 270,000 seniors in New York\u2019s 24th District greater flexibility in managing their healthcare costs.\"\n\n\"Dietary supplements and wellness products are essential health care products that hard-working families rely on each and every day. We need to cut red tape and make sure people can afford them. This bipartisan legislation protects consumer choice, supports small businesses, and takes a commonsense approach to keeping products safe, affordable, and accessible,\u201d said Congressman Gottheimer.\n\n\"At a time when more science is supporting the use of dietary supplements to maintain health and wellness, expanding HSA and FSA eligibility to include supplements is smart healthcare policy,\u201d said CHPA President & CEO Scott Melville. \u201cGiving consumers the ability to use their own pre-tax dollars to purchase supplements makes healthcare more affordable and accessible and send empowers Americans to take a more proactive approach to their health and wellness. This legislation builds on bipartisan efforts to expand access to trusted self-care products, and CHPA applauds Senator Cramer for championing greater flexibility and affordability for consumers.\u201d\n\n\u201cModernizing HSA eligibility can better reflect how consumers think about investing in their health and wellness. We support the Dietary Supplements Access Act as an important step toward aligning federal health policy with the growing body of science connecting nutrition, the gut microbiome, and long-term health outcomes. At Novonesis, we produce the biological cultures and probiotic solutions that millions of Americans use every day to support their health. Making these products eligible for pre-tax HSA spending enables consumer access to preventative health \u2014 and we look forward to working with Congress to see this legislation across the finish line,\" said Novonesis President Tue Micheelsen.\n\nBackground:\n\nRoughly 80% of Americans use vitamins and dietary supplements for a range of benefits, from addressing nutrient deficiencies to strengthening bones and helping to prevent osteoporosis. Vitamins and dietary supplements can be a part of preventative care that can create cost savings to employers, consumers, and the entire healthcare system.\n\nCurrently, Americans with health-related savings accounts cannot be reimbursed for the out-of-pocket expenses they pay for nutritional and dietary supplements. This bipartisan legislation would amend the Internal Revenue Code (IRC) to include over-the-counter dietary supplement products as a qualified medical expense. This change would allow single filers to contribute $250, and joint filers can contribute $500 to their HSA/FSA for the use of dietary supplements annually.\n\nThis legislation is supported by the National Products Association, the Consumer Healthcare Products Association, the Council for Responsible Nutrition, and Novonesis.", 1, "2026-05-21T06:28:16Z", "2026-05-21T06:29:43Z"], ["https://bost.house.gov/2026/5/bost-introduces-bill-highlighting-farmers-mental-health-needs", "BOST INTRODUCES BILL HIGHLIGHTING FARMERS' MENTAL HEALTH NEEDS", "2026-05-19", "2026", "2026-05", "Republican", "House", "IL", "Mike Bost", "B001295", "bost.house.gov", "bost", "https://bost.house.gov/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 U.S. Representative Mike Bost (IL-12) this week joined Rep. Kim Schrier (WA-8) in introducing a resolution to recognize the mental health crisis facing America's agricultural producers and workforce. According to the National Rural Health Association, the suicide rate among farmers is 3.5 times higher than the general population. This bill would designate May 29th of this year as \u201cMental Health Awareness in Agriculture Day,\u201d recognizing the unique pressures faced by farmers, ranchers, and farmworkers across the country and raising awareness about the resources available to those in need.\n\n\"Our farmers are proud, salt of the Earth people, but they face tremendous pressures in a tough industry. The stress that comes with the profession is real, with a suicide rate 3.5 times higher than the general population,\u201d said Bost. \u201cVolatile markets, rising input costs, and unpredictable weather don't just threaten a family farm\u2019s bottom line, they take a toll on mental health, too. This legislation is a step towards making sure they know that if they\u2019re struggling, they don\u2019t have to struggle alone.\"\n\nThe full text of the resolution can be found here.\n\n###", 1, "2026-05-20T06:27:31Z", "2026-05-20T06:28:54Z"], ["https://lahood.house.gov/2026/5/house-passes-lahood-led-fostering-the-future-act", "House Passes LaHood-Led Fostering the Future Act", "2026-05-19", "2026", "2026-05", "Republican", "House", "IL", "Darin LaHood", "L000585", "lahood.house.gov", "lahood", "https://lahood.house.gov/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2013 Today, the U.S. House of Representatives passed the Fostering the Future Act; a bipartisan piece of legislation focused on strengthening and modernizing the John H. Chafee Foster Care Program for Successful Transition to Adulthood (Chafee) to improve outcomes for foster youth across America. Congressman LaHood Chairs the Ways and Means Work and Welfare Subcommittee, where he worked alongside First Lady Melania Trump, Ways and Means Committee Chairman Jason Smith (MO-08), and his colleagues to usher this bill through the legislative process.\n\n\"As Chairman of the Ways and Means Work and Welfare Subcommittee, I have been proud to work alongside the First Lady and my colleagues over the last year to develop and introduce the first comprehensive reforms to the Chafee program since 1999,\" said Work and Welfare Subcommittee Chairman Darin LaHood. \"This bipartisan legislation ensures that federal resources make it to those that need them most, and expands access to education, housing, and workforce training for foster youth to assist in their transition to adulthood. I thank my colleagues in the House for supporting this legislation, and I look forward to continuing my work to uplift and support the most vulnerable among us.\"\n\n\u201cThe historic passage of the Fostering the Future Act is a testament to the dedicated leadership of Chairman LaHood and our colleagues on the Ways and Means Committee, particularly on the Work and Welfare Subcommittee, who worked across the aisle and built strong, bipartisan support for reform,\u201d said Ways and Means Committee Chairman Jason Smith. \u201cI commend Chairman LaHood for taking the time to listen directly to the lived experiences of foster youth and turn their stories into meaningful, bipartisan legislation that addresses the unique challenges facing foster youth today as they transition to adulthood. These reforms will meet the inspirational call for change from our First Lady, Melania Trump, whose Fostering the Future initiative has given a voice to the voiceless and helped shine a spotlight on desperately needed solutions. This legislation will help ensure young people in the foster care program are given a fair shot in their path to self-sufficiency and work to achieve a brighter, more independent future.\u201d\n\nBackground:\n\nThe Fostering the Future Act is comprised of six different pieces of legislation, all contributing to reforming the foster care system and providing more opportunities for foster youth to successfully transition to adulthood. All six bipartisan bills were approved unanimously in the House Ways & means Committee in April of 2026.\n\nThe bills included are:\n\nH.R. 7432 - Foster Youth Housing Opportunity Act\n\nLed by Chairman LaHood and Rep. Gwen Moore\n\nH.R. 7529 - Fresh Starts for Foster Youth Act\n\nLed by Chairman LaHood and Ranking Member Danny Davis\n\nH.R. 7995 - Chafee Opportunities for New Networks and Existing Connection Trust (CONNECT) Act\n\nLed by Rep Mike Carey and Rep. Gwen Moore\n\nH.R. 7655 - Support for Expectant Foster Youth Act\n\nRanking Member Danny Davis and Rep. Rudy Yakym\n\nH.R. 7343 - Foster Youth Workforce Opportunity Act\n\nLed by Rep. Max Miller and Rep. Dwight Evans\n\nH.R. 7463 - Foster Youth Postsecondary Education Access and Success Act\n\nLed by Rep. Nathaniel Moran and Rep. Judy Chu", 1, "2026-05-21T06:28:16Z", "2026-05-21T06:29:43Z"], ["https://marymiller.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-mary-miller-introduces-god-we-trust-act-commemoration-america-250", "Rep. Mary Miller Introduces \u201cIn God We Trust Act\u201d in Commemoration of America 250", "2026-05-14", "2026", "2026-05", "Republican", "House", "IL", "Mary E. Miller", "M001211", "marymiller.house.gov", "marymiller", "https://marymiller.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE\n\nWASHINGTON, D.C. \u2014 Today, Congresswoman Mary Miller (IL-15) introduced the House companion bill to Senator Josh Hawley\u2019s (R-MO) In God We Trust Act, which requires the General Services Administration (GSA) to display or inscribe the national motto of the United States on all federal buildings.\n\nThe legislation comes ahead of Rededicate 250: A National Jubilee of Prayer, Praise & Thanksgiving, taking place on May 17, 2026.\n\n\u201cFor nearly 70 years, our national motto, \u2018In God We Trust,\u2019 has served as a declaration of faith that has guided our nation,\u201d said Congresswoman Miller. \u201cAs we approach America\u2019s 250th anniversary, I\u2019m proud to introduce the House companion to Senator Hawley\u2019s In God We Trust Act to permanently display our national motto in every federal building across this country. We will never apologize for being one nation that places its trust in Almighty God.\u201d\n\nIf enacted, the legislation would require the GSA to display or inscribe the national motto of the United States in a prominent location within all federal buildings within one year.\n\n\u201cIn God We Trust\u201d was first minted on U.S. coins in 1864, during the Civil War. In 1956, it was designated as the national motto after the bill was passed unanimously by Congress and signed into law by President Dwight D. Eisenhower.\n\nClick here to read the full bill text.\n\nClick here to read more about the legislation on the Christian Post.\n\nCosponsors: Diana Harshbarger (TN-01), Chuck Flieschmann (TN-03), Burgess Owens (UT-04), Mike Kelly (PA-16), John Rose (TN-06), Pat Harrigan (NC-10), Barry Moore (AL-01), Rick Allen (GA-12), Sheri Biggs (SC-03), Harriet Hageman (WY-AL), and Ben Cline (VA-06).", 1, "2026-06-27T21:44:12Z", "2026-06-27T22:21:02Z"], ["https://lahood.house.gov/2026/5/lahood-hosts-11th-annual-16th-district-congressional-art-competition-reception", "LaHood Hosts 11th Annual 16th District Congressional Art Competition Reception", "2026-05-06", "2026", "2026-05", "Republican", "House", "IL", "Darin LaHood", "L000585", "lahood.house.gov", "lahood", "https://lahood.house.gov/press-releases", "scraper", "Peoria, Illinois \u2013 Congressman Darin LaHood (IL-16) hosted his 11th annual reception for the Congressional Art Competition at the Peoria Riverfront Museum alongside President John Morris, where he announced this year\u2019s finalists for Illinois\u2019 16th Congressional District.\n\n\u201cEvery year, I am amazed by the creativity and tremendous artistic talent of high school students throughout Illinois\u2019 16th Congressional District,\u201d said Rep. LaHood. \u201cThis year was unique as we had a tie for second place \u2013 both pieces will be displayed in my Washington, D.C. Office. I thank all the teachers, families, and students who made this year's competition a success. Congratulations to all our finalists, and particularly this year\u2019s winner, Namratha Dinesh, and her piece, \u2018Just Like Amma,\u2019 which will be hung in the United States Capitol for the next year. I look forward to seeing it again in Washington, D.C.!\u201d\n\nPictured below is Namratha\u2019s winning piece, \u201cJust Like Amma\u201d\n\nBackground:\n\nThis year was Congressman LaHood's eleventh Congressional Art Competition. Participants were judged anonymously by a volunteer panel, and award winners were chosen by a cumulative vote. There were 75 pieces of art submitted from 13 schools throughout the 16th District. This year\u2019s pieces were on display throughout April at the Peoria Riverfront Museum.\n\nWinning Piece to be Hung in the Capitol:\n\nSecond Place Winners to be hung in Rep. LaHood's D.C. office:\n\n\u201cDunquin Pier, April 2, 7:47PM\u201d by Elizabeth Jones, Metamora Township High School\n\n\u201cStillness Before the Verdict\u201d by Halle Pfeiffer, East Peoria Community High School\n\nHonorable Mentions to be hung in Illinois\u2019 16th Congressional District offices:\n\n\u201cThe Ocean Remembers\u201d by Mallory Pierce, Homeschool", 1, "2026-05-13T06:12:22Z", "2026-05-13T06:13:52Z"], ["https://marymiller.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-mary-miller-votes-advance-farm-bill-delivering-certainty-illinois-farmers", "Rep. Mary Miller Votes to Advance Farm Bill, Delivering Certainty for Illinois Farmers", "2026-04-30", "2026", "2026-04", "Republican", "House", "IL", "Mary E. Miller", "M001211", "marymiller.house.gov", "marymiller", "https://marymiller.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE\n\nWASHINGTON, D.C. \u2014 Congresswoman Mary Miller (IL-15), a member of the House Agriculture Committee, voted to pass H.R. 7567, the Farm, Food, and National Security Act of 2026, out of the U.S. House of Representatives.\n\nAfter years of short-term extensions, this legislation locks in key priorities and provides the long-term stability that farmers, producers, and rural communities across Illinois\u2019 15th District depend on.\n\n\u201cToday, I proudly voted to advance a Farm Bill that delivers the certainty farmers, producers, and rural communities across IL-15 deserve,\u201d said Congresswoman Mary Miller. \u201cOur agriculture community is the backbone of our economy, and this legislation ensures they have the tools to manage risk, stay competitive, and continue feeding and fueling not only our nation, but the world.\u201d\n\nThe Farm, Food, and National Security Act of 2026 reauthorizes critical USDA programs while modernizing farm policy to meet the challenges facing producers. This legislation strengthens risk management tools for farmers and ranchers, invests in the long-term vitality of rural communities, and takes decisive steps to safeguard American agricultural land from foreign adversaries.", 1, "2026-06-27T21:44:12Z", "2026-06-27T22:19:40Z"], ["https://lahood.house.gov/2026/4/icymi-lahood-joins-first-lady-melania-trump-and-ways-and-means-colleagues-for-roundtable-discussion-on-improving-outcomes-for-foster-youth", "ICYMI: LaHood Joins First Lady Melania Trump and Ways and Means Colleagues for Roundtable Discussion on Improving Outcomes for Foster Youth", "2026-04-20", "2026", "2026-04", "Republican", "House", "IL", "Darin LaHood", "L000585", "lahood.house.gov", "lahood", "https://lahood.house.gov/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2013 Last week, Congressman Darin LaHood (IL-16), joined First Lady Melania Trump and fellow members of the Ways and Means Committee for a roundtable discussion focused on improving outcomes for youth aging out of foster care through reforms to the John H. Chafee Foster Care Program for Successful Transition to Adulthood (Chafee). The Chafee program provides support to foster youth and former foster youth as they transition to adulthood. Congressman LaHood is the Chairman of the Work and Welfare Subcommittee, which has held multiple hearings on ways to modernize the Chaffee program to better serve the most vulnerable among us.\n\n\"The First Lady has been instrumental in creating meaningful, positive change for foster youth through her 'Be Best' and 'Fostering the Future' initiatives,\" said Rep. LaHood. \"It was an honor to have her in attendance today to provide her insight and discuss the policies we are focused on to improve the foster care system. I look forward to continuing to partner with the First Lady, and my colleagues in a bipartisan manner, to ensure that our foster youth have the tools they need to achieve greater opportunity and long-term success.\"\n\nWatch Rep. LaHood's Opening Statement Below\n\nBackground:\n\nCongressman LaHood is the Chairman of the Work and Welfare Subcommittee, where he leads oversight of federal child welfare programs and efforts to modernize support for foster youth.\n\nThe Subcommittee on Work and Welfare has been examining how technology and innovation can strengthen federal child welfare programs and better support transition-age foster youth.\n\nThis roundtable follows a series of hearings led by Chairman LaHood on the Chafee Foster Care Program and his participation in the White House signing of the Fostering the Future for American Children and Families Executive Order, which called for modernizing state child welfare systems.\n\nRecent hearings have highlighted that many foster youth are unaware of available Chafee resources and that some states face challenges accessing federal funds.", 1, "2026-04-21T05:46:59Z", "2026-04-21T05:48:34Z"], ["https://marymiller.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-mary-miller-introduces-legislation-end-dangerous-unethical-practices", "Rep. Mary Miller Introduces Legislation to End Dangerous, Unethical Practices by Abortion Pill Providers", "2026-03-18", "2026", "2026-03", "Republican", "House", "IL", "Mary E. Miller", "M001211", "marymiller.house.gov", "marymiller", "https://marymiller.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE\n\nWASHINGTON, D.C. \u2014 Today, Congresswoman Mary Miller (IL-15) introduced the Clean Water for All Life Act. This legislation seeks to crack down on the dangerous and unethical practices associated with chemical abortion pills and to protect both human dignity and America\u2019s water systems.\n\nThis legislation amends Title 18 of the United States Code to prohibit chemical abortions conducted without the physical presence of a healthcare provider and establishes safeguards to ensure proper medical oversight and responsible disposal of abortion-related medical waste.\n\n\"The murder-for-profit abortion industry has completely ignored the dangerous and unethical disposal of pre-born baby remains and toxic chemical waste produced by abortion pills,\u201d said Congresswoman Mary Miller. \u201cI introduced the Clean Water for All Life Act to put an end to their reckless and inhumane practices.\u201d\n\n\u201cThe loss of human life from Chemical Abortion Pills every day sickens so many Americans, but very little thought is given to what happens after a Chemical Abortion. Heroic efforts to confront these deadly drugs are underway on a lot of fronts, but Students for Life has been unique in adding environmental concerns to the reasons to scrap the current FDA policy. We are proud and grateful to Rep. Miller and her unapologetic leadership in this innovative bill. Babies deserve better, and many of us are being exposed to abortion water pollution in our drinking water,\u201d said Kristan Hawkins, President, Students for Life of America.\n\nChemical abortion pills are now the most common method of abortion in the United States. According to analysis from Students for Life Action, more than 50 tons of chemically tainted medical waste\u2014including blood, placental tissue, and human remains\u2014are flushed into U.S. water systems each year as a result of these drugs.\n\nStudies indicate that the active components of these drugs are not fully filtered out by wastewater treatment facilities, raising serious concerns about environmental contamination and public health exposure. At the same time, the Biden Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has rolled back key safety regulations, removing critical medical oversight while failing to address environmental risks.\n\nThe Clean Water for All Life Act would prohibit chemical abortions conducted:\n\nWithout the physical presence of a healthcare provider.\n\nWithout a medical examination of the patient.\n\nWithout providing a medical waste \u201ccatch kit\u201d and red bag disposal system, along with instructions for returning the waste to a healthcare provider for proper handling.\n\nRead more about Rep. Miller\u2019s legislation in the Daily Wire.\n\nCosponsors: Reps. Michael Cloud (TX-27), Pat Harrigan (NC-10), Sheri Biggs (SC-03), Paul Gosar (AZ-09), Diana Harshbarger (TN-01), John McGuire (VA-05), Greg Steube (FL-17), Lauren Boebert (CO-04), Chuck Fleischmann (TN-03), Kat Cammack (FL-03), Andy Ogles (TN-05), John Rose (TN-06) and Ralph Norman (SC-05), and Tim Burchett (TN-02).", 1, "2026-06-27T21:44:12Z", "2026-06-27T22:18:47Z"], ["https://marymiller.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-mary-miller-applauds-farm-bill-advancing-out-house-agriculture-committee", "Rep. Mary Miller Applauds Farm Bill Advancing Out of House Agriculture Committee", "2026-03-05", "2026", "2026-03", "Republican", "House", "IL", "Mary E. Miller", "M001211", "marymiller.house.gov", "marymiller", "https://marymiller.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Congresswoman Mary Miller (IL-15), a member of the House Agriculture Committee, released the following statement after the Farm, Food, and National Security Act of 2026 passed out of committee.\n\n\u201cAs a third-generation farmer, I know firsthand that farming is not easy work, and I am committed to ensuring our Illinois producers receive support,\u201d said Congresswoman Miller.\n\n\u201cThis Farm Bill provides the tools and certainty our agricultural producers need to remain the strongest and most productive in the world. I look forward to bringing this legislation to the House floor and delivering the stability our farmers need to plan for the future.\u201d\n\nThe legislation secured several key provisions to support producers, including:\n\nMore than $1 billion for specialty crop programs.\n\nProtections ensuring California\u2019s Proposition 12 cannot be imposed on producers outside the state.\n\nExpanded access to credit for beginning farmers.\n\nCodification of President Trump\u2019s reforms to the national dietary guidelines.\n\nWatch Rep. Miller\u2019s Remarks at the Farm Bill Markup:", 1, "2026-06-27T21:44:12Z", "2026-06-27T22:18:47Z"], ["https://marymiller.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-miller-sen-budd-lead-bill-close-loophole-exploited-illegal-aliens-employed", "Rep. Miller, Sen. Budd Lead Bill to Close Loophole Exploited by Illegal Aliens Employed as Police Officers", "2026-02-25", "2026", "2026-02", "Republican", "House", "IL", "Mary E. Miller", "M001211", "marymiller.house.gov", "marymiller", "https://marymiller.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2014 Congresswoman Mary Miller (IL-15) and Senator Ted Budd (R-NC), led several of their Republican colleagues in introducing the bicameral Stop Illegal Alien Cops Act today. The legislation is aimed at prohibiting illegal aliens who work as armed law enforcement officers from possessing firearms or ammunition provided to them by a government entity, such as a police department. This bill aligns with existing federal law that already prohibits illegal aliens from possessing firearms or ammunition in the United States.\n\n\u201cSanctuary policies in states like Illinois have gone so far as to allow illegal aliens to wear the badge and carry a firearm. That is a disgrace to every honorable officer and a threat to public safety. Law enforcement authority must be reserved for those who respect and uphold our laws, not those who are in violation of them,\u201d said Congresswoman Miller.\n\n\u201cIllegal aliens have no Second Amendment rights. It is irresponsible for police departments to arm illegal aliens who have blatantly ignored our immigration laws with firearms and ammunition, let alone on the taxpayers\u2019 dime. Federal law already prohibits those who enter our country illegally from possessing firearms, and it\u2019s time we ensure illegal aliens working at local police departments are held to the same legal standard,\u201d said Senator Budd.\n\n\u201cIllegal aliens do not have the right to possess firearms or ammunition in America. The Stop Illegal Alien Cops Act would ensure local police departments that try to hire illegal aliens cannot provide them with guns or ammunition,\u201d said Senator Blackburn.\n\n\u201cThis is common sense. Illegal aliens who have already broken our nation's laws should certainly not be carrying a badge or a firearm. We hold our brave men and women in law enforcement to the highest standards and the Stop Illegal Alien Cops Act will only bolster those standards,\u201d said Senator Mullin.\n\n\u201cThe Stop Illegal Alien Cops Act closes a dangerous loophole by ensuring that individuals who are unlawfully present in the United States cannot be armed and sworn in as police officers . This commonsense fix strengthens public safety, upholds federal law, and ensures those entrusted to enforce our laws are here legally,\u201d said Congressman Gosar.\n\n\u201cIllegal aliens should not be allowed to remain in our country, much less become a police officer. If an illegal somehow manages to get hired by a police department, well\u2026 they\u2019re a short walk to a cell when we find out,\u201d said Congressman Higgins.\n\n\u201cThis commonsense legislation addresses a serious gap in current law by making clear that illegal aliens in the United States \u2013 who have no right to be in the country in the first place \u2013 cannot and should not be entrusted with the authority and firearms of a sworn law enforcement officer. The Stop Illegal Alien Cops Act reinforces the rule of law and ensures that those charged with enforcing our laws meet the same legal standards as every peace officer in America is expected to meet,\" said Congressman Roy.\n\n\u201cThe Stop Illegal Alien Cops Act reinforces a simple and necessary principle: individuals who are in our country unlawfully should not possess firearms or ammunition. This legislation closes a dangerous loophole while preserving commonsense exceptions for visiting law enforcement partners and lawful sporting activities. As a former law enforcement officer, I believe public safety must always come first, and this bill helps ensure our laws are clear, consistent, and focused on protecting American communities,\u201d said Congressman Ezell.\n\n\u201cIllegal aliens are actively disobeying American law and corrupting American culture. Allowing illegals to be cops is ludicrous. Not only would it encourage narco terrorists to infiltrate law enforcement, but it would erode public trust and civil society. Enforcing American law requires American law enforcement officers,\u201d Congressman Ogles said.\n\n\u201cI\u2019m proud to cosponsor the Stop Illegal Alien Cops Act because the rule of law isn\u2019t optional. We\u2019ve seen outrageous cases in places like Illinois and within the New Orleans Police Department where individuals who were in this country illegally were handed a badge and put in positions of authority. That\u2019s unacceptable and it sends the wrong message to the American people. If you\u2019re going to enforce America\u2019s laws and wear the uniform, you must respect our laws first, and that means being here legally,\u201d said Congressman Moore.\n\n\"An outrageous loophole in federal law gives non-Americans more gun privileges than law-abiding citizens with Second Amendment rights. Through the Law Enforcement Officers Safety Act illegals who are police have a statutory right to nationwide carry that is denied to every day Americans. What's worse, California, Illinois, Massachusetts, Maine, and perhaps others are already empowering illegals as police to infringe on the Second Amendment rights of American gun owners. Congress must pass the Stop Illegal Alien Cops Act immediately, to prevent anti-gun states from using illegal aliens to enforce unconstitutional gun control laws,\" said Aidan Johnston, from Gun Owners of America.\n\nRead the full bill text HERE.\n\nSenate cosponsors: U.S. Senators Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.), Lindsey Graham (R-S.C.), John Cornyn (R-Texas), and Markwayne Mullin (R-Okla.).\n\nHouse cosponsors: U.S. Representatives Paul Gosar (R-Ariz.-09), Clay Higgins (R-La.-03), Chip Roy (R-Texas-21), Mike Ezell (R-Miss-04), Andy Ogles (R-Tenn.-05), Harriet Hageman (R-Wyo.-at-large), Barry Moore (R-Ala.-01), Randy Fine (R-Fla.-04), Scott DesJarlais (R-Tenn.-04), Pete Stauber (R-Minn.-08), Russell Fry (R-S.C.-07), Pat Harrigan (R-N.C.-10), Mike Collins (R-Ga.-10), Rudy Yakym (R-Ind.-02), Anna Paulina Luna (R-Fla.-13), Michael Rulli (R-Ohio-06), Cory Mills (R-Fla.-07), John Rose (R-Tenn.-06), and Sheri Biggs (R-S.C.-03).\n\nThe Stop Illegal Alien Cops Act has been endorsed by: Gun Owners of America (GOA), National Shooting Sports Foundation (NSSF), Federation for American Immigration Reform (FAIR), and Immigration Accountability Project (IAP).\n\nRead more about Rep. Miller\u2019s bill in The Washington Times.\n\nBackground:\n\nRecent reports have revealed that law enforcement agencies across the country have hired illegal aliens to serve as police officers:\n\nIn 2022, the California state legislature passed a law to allow illegal aliens to work as police officers. Reportedly, in 2023, about a dozen illegal aliens had been hired as police officers in California, including at such agencies as the Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD).\n\nICE has arrested alleged illegal alien police officers around the country working for such agencies as the Hanover Park Police Department in Illinois and the Old Orchard Beach Police Department in Maine.\n\nICE also recently arrested an alleged illegal alien police recruit at the New Orleans Police Department Academy in Louisiana who had been issued a firearm by the department.\n\nThe Stop Illegal Alien Cops Act preserves existing laws such that this prohibition does not apply, for example, to:", 1, "2026-06-27T21:44:12Z", "2026-06-27T22:17:58Z"], ["https://bost.house.gov/2026/2/bost-issues-statement-on-president-trump-s-state-of-the-union-speech", "BOST ISSUES STATEMENT ON PRESIDENT TRUMP'S STATE OF THE UNION SPEECH", "2026-02-24", "2026", "2026-02", "Republican", "House", "IL", "Mike Bost", "B001295", "bost.house.gov", "bost", "https://bost.house.gov/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. - U.S. Representative Mike Bost (IL-12) issued the following statement in response to President Trump's State of the Union address to a Joint Session of Congress on Tuesday evening:\n\n\"President Trump\u2019s State of the Union address capped off a tremendous year of putting America first. Inflation has cooled, while the job market and stock market heat up. We\u2019ve locked in historic tax relief for working families. Our borders are secured and crime rates are dropping by double digits in cities across the country. And after four years of Joe Biden\u2019s failed foreign policy, America\u2019s might is respected by the world again.\"", 1, "2026-04-04T05:28:40Z", "2026-04-04T05:30:10Z"], ["https://marymiller.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-miller-introduces-bill-protect-children-sexually-explicit-content-schools", "Rep. Miller Introduces Bill to Protect Children from Sexually Explicit Content in Schools", "2026-02-24", "2026", "2026-02", "Republican", "House", "IL", "Mary E. Miller", "M001211", "marymiller.house.gov", "marymiller", "https://marymiller.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2014 Today, Congresswoman Mary Miller (IL-15), Chairwoman of the Congressional Family Caucus, introduced the Stop the Sexualization of Children Act to protect children from being exposed to explicit material in the classroom.\n\nThis bill will amend the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965 to prohibit the use of funds at schools that promote any program or activity that includes sexually oriented material, while preserving instruction in science, classic literature, art, and world religions.\n\n\u201cParents deserve complete confidence that their tax dollars are being used to promote academic excellence \u2014 not to expose children to harmful and explicit material that undermines their innocence,\u201d said Congresswoman Miller. \u201cMy legislation draws a clear and enforceable line to ensure our schools remain focused on education, not explicit ideological agendas or radical indoctrination.\u201d\n\nClick here to read the full bill text.\n\nRead more about Rep. Miller\u2019s bill on the Daily Signal.\n\nCosponsors: Reps. Greg Steube (FL-17), Paul Gosar (AZ-09), Andy Ogles (TN-05), Harriet Hageman (WY), Marlin Stutzman (IN-03), Barry Moore (AL-01), Troy Downing (MT-02), Randy Fine (FL-06), Sheri Biggs (SC-03), Julia Letlow (LA-05), Chip Roy (TX-21), Claudia Tenney (NY-24), Warren Davidson (OH-08), Randy Weber (TX-14), John Rose (TN-06), Burgess Owens (UT-04), and Keith Self (TX-03).", 1, "2026-06-27T21:44:12Z", "2026-06-27T22:17:58Z"], ["https://marymiller.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-miller-responds-president-trumps-state-union-address", "Rep. Miller Responds to President Trump\u2019s State of the Union Address", "2026-02-24", "2026", "2026-02", "Republican", "House", "IL", "Mary E. Miller", "M001211", "marymiller.house.gov", "marymiller", "https://marymiller.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE\n\nWASHINGTON, D.C. \u2014 Today, Congresswoman Mary Miller (IL-15) released the following statement after President Donald J. Trump delivered his State of the Union address.\n\n\u201cTonight, President Trump made it unmistakably clear that the State of our Union is strong and growing stronger because we are once again putting America First,\u201d said Congresswoman Miller. \u201cUnder this administration, we are reversing the destructive decisions of Joe Biden and seeing lower costs, a secure border, American energy dominance, and policies that empower families, farmers, and small businesses across Central Illinois.", 1, "2026-06-27T21:44:12Z", "2026-06-27T22:17:58Z"], ["https://bost.house.gov/2026/2/bost-issues-statement-on-house-passage-of-the-save-america-act", "BOST ISSUES STATEMENT ON HOUSE PASSAGE OF THE SAVE AMERICA ACT", "2026-02-11", "2026", "2026-02", "Republican", "House", "IL", "Mike Bost", "B001295", "bost.house.gov", "bost", "https://bost.house.gov/press-releases", "scraper", "\u201cI voted for the SAVE America Act because the right to vote in American elections belongs to American citizens, period. This bill puts commonsense safeguards in place by requiring proof of citizenship to register, photo ID to cast a ballot, and real accountability to clean up voter rolls. If we can require an ID to board a plane, rent an apartment, drive a car, or buy prescription medication, we can require it to vote. The American people deserve elections they can trust, and I will never apologize for fighting to protect the integrity of their vote.\u201d", 1, "2026-04-04T05:28:40Z", "2026-04-04T05:30:10Z"], ["https://lahood.house.gov/2026/2/lahood-votes-for-save-america-act-to-bolster-election-integrity", "LaHood Votes for SAVE America Act to Bolster Election Integrity", "2026-02-11", "2026", "2026-02", "Republican", "House", "IL", "Darin LaHood", "L000585", "lahood.house.gov", "lahood", "https://lahood.house.gov/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2013 Today, Congressman Darin LaHood voted in favor of the Safeguard American Voter Eligibility (SAVE) America Act to strengthen our current election laws by requiring proof of citizenship when registering to vote in federal elections.\n\n\"I was proud to vote for the SAVE America Act on the House floor today, and believe it is an important step toward strengthening the American public's confidence in our elections,\" said Rep. LaHood. \"My home state of Illinois, and others across our country, have failed to properly maintain their voter rolls and implement basic election security practices such as requiring voter ID. By establishing clear, consistent standards to verify voter eligibility, this legislation helps ensure that only the American people decide our elections. Protecting election integrity is fundamental to maintaining public trust and the SAVE America Act provides commonsense measures to help secure our electoral process.\"\n\nBackground:\n\nThe SAVE America Act amends the National Voter Registration Act to require states to obtain proof of citizenship regardless of where the individual registers and allow for an alternative route for U.S. citizens who might not have documentary proof.\n\nAlong with obtaining proof of citizenship, the bill directs states to create programs that update their voter rolls promptly and accurately.\n\nThe SAVE America Act will assist in this process by providing states access to Department of Homeland Security and Social Security Administration databases and for these programs to remove noncitizens from the voter rolls without inconveniencing U.S. citizens.", 1, "2026-04-04T05:28:40Z", "2026-04-04T05:30:10Z"], ["https://marymiller.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-miller-votes-pass-save-america-act-protect-election-integrity", "Rep. Miller Votes to Pass the SAVE America Act to Protect Election Integrity", "2026-02-11", "2026", "2026-02", "Republican", "House", "IL", "Mary E. Miller", "M001211", "marymiller.house.gov", "marymiller", "https://marymiller.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE\n\nWASHINGTON, D.C. \u2014 Today, Congresswoman Mary Miller (IL-15) voted to pass S. 1383, the SAVE America Act. This legislation secures federal elections by ensuring that only American citizens vote in American elections.\n\nAs a member of the House Administration Committee, Congresswoman Miller was a critical proponent of this legislation.\n\n\u201cCongress has a constitutional responsibility to secure our elections and ensure the voices of American voters are protected. That\u2019s why I was proud to vote to pass the SAVE America Act,\u201d said Congresswoman Miller. \u201cThis bill ensures that only U.S. citizens can register and vote in federal elections. Over 80 percent of Americans support voter ID, including a majority of Democrats. Today, House Republicans delivered on that demand.\u201d\n\nClick here to watch the Congresswoman\u2019s remarks on the House floor.\n\nThe SAVE America Act establishes commonsense, nationwide standards to protect federal elections, including:\n\nRequiring proof of identity by photo ID to vote in federal elections.\n\nRequiring documentary proof of U.S. citizenship when registering to vote.\n\nDirecting states to remove non-citizens from existing voter rolls.\n\nEmpowering citizens to bring legal action against officials who fail to enforce the law.\n\nUpdating federal election guidance to ensure smooth implementation.\n\nContrary to misinformation spread by opponents, the SAVE America Act:\n\nDoes not disenfranchise women who change their names.\n\nDoes not impact military members voting overseas.\n\nDoes not require a passport to register to vote.\n\nIs fully constitutional under Congress\u2019s authority to regulate federal elections.", 1, "2026-06-27T21:44:12Z", "2026-06-27T22:17:58Z"], ["https://lahood.house.gov/2026/2/lahood-moore-introduce-bipartisan-bill-to-increase-access-to-housing-for-foster-youth", "LaHood, Moore Introduce Bipartisan Bill to Increase Access to Housing for Foster Youth", "2026-02-10", "2026", "2026-02", "Republican", "House", "IL", "Darin LaHood", "L000585", "lahood.house.gov", "lahood", "https://lahood.house.gov/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2013 Congressman Darin LaHood (IL-16) and Congresswoman Gwen Moore (WI-04) introduced the Foster Youth Housing Opportunity Act. This legislation aims to help youth transitioning out of foster care obtain housing by partnering with states and local services to better coordinate housing vouchers and opportunities. The bill builds on First Lady Melania Trump's commitment to providing America\u2019s youth with the necessary resources as they age out of the foster system.\n\n\"As Chairman of the Work and Welfare Subcommittee, I take seriously our responsibility to ensure that future generations have the best chance to succeed,\" said Congressman LaHood. \"I thank Congresswoman Moore for her leadership and joining me to introduce the Foster Youth Housing Opportunity Act to better help youth transitioning out of foster care find stable housing. We must continue our work to uplift the most vulnerable among us and provide them with resources to pursue the American Dream.\"\n\n\u201cWe must boost investments in our foster youth and foster families. That is one of my priorities as co-chair of the bipartisan Caucus on Foster Youth, and why I joined Rep. LaHood in introducing the Foster Youth Housing Opportunity Act. Our bill would help improve coordination between existing housing programs at HUD and child welfare systems while providing states more flexibility to use Chafee funds to help cover housing-related costs and services for foster youth as they age out. These efforts will better support foster youth and their long-term stability,\u201d said Congresswoman Moore.\n\nBill Highlights:\n\nImproves access to housing by strengthening coordination with federal Foster Youth to Independence (FYI) vouchers available through public housing agencies.\n\nAllows Chafee funds to be used for housing supportive services outside of the existing 30% cap on \u201croom or board,\u201d provides flexibility to determine the cap based on a rolling average over five years, and aligns age eligibility with FYI vouchers.\n\nThe legislation supports the First Lady's Foster Youth to Independence Initiative, which provides a clear path for foster youth transitioning to adulthood to obtain critical resources that advance independence, stability, and well-being.\n\nBackground:\n\nNearly 35 percent of former foster youth experienced homelessness by age 21. Lack of stable housing is one of the biggest barriers to adulthood for transition-age foster youth.\n\nThe Foster Youth Housing Act clarifies that the John H. Chafee Foster Care Program for Successful Transition to Adulthood (Chafee) is intended to strengthen coordination between federal housing and child welfare programs.\n\nThe full text to the legislation can be found HERE.\n\n###", 1, "2026-04-04T05:28:40Z", "2026-04-04T05:30:10Z"], ["https://lahood.house.gov/2026/2/lahood-issa-introduce-legislation-to-ensure-diaspora-access-to-lebanon-elections", "LaHood, Issa Introduce Legislation to Ensure Diaspora Access to Lebanon Elections", "2026-02-05", "2026", "2026-02", "Republican", "House", "IL", "Darin LaHood", "L000585", "lahood.house.gov", "lahood", "https://lahood.house.gov/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2013 Congressman Darin LaHood (IL-16) joined Congressman Darrell Issa (CA-48) to introduce the SAFE Lebanon Act to ensure that members of the eligible Lebanese diaspora are not prevented from voting in Lebanon\u2019s elections by authorizing sanctions on foreign individuals and entities that obstruct Lebanon\u2019s electoral process.\n\n\u201cFree and fair elections will be essential to paving the way to Lebanon\u2019s long-term stability, sovereignty, and prosperity. That is why the demonstrated obstruction of Lebanon\u2019s electoral process must be met with clear consequences. The United States has high expectations for the government of Lebanon, and this Administration stands at the ready to play a lasting role in the nation\u2019s progress. Authorizing the use of sanctions against those who seek to derail or defraud this process is a uniquely strong deterrent, will bolster needed election integrity, and strengthen confidence in the democratic system. We must put an end to the paradox that millions of Lebanese citizens around the world have a voice everywhere except Lebanon,\u201d said Congressmen LaHood and Issa.\n\n\"Lebanon must continue in the positive trajectory it undertook in 2018 and 2022 by allowing full diaspora absentee voting. The American Task Force on Lebanon thanks Reps. Darrell Issa and Darin LaHood for standing with the people of Lebanon as they seek full participation in their democratic system,\" said Amb. (ret.) Ed Gabriel, President and CEO of the American Task Force on Lebanon.\n\nBackground:\n\nLebanon\u2019s parliamentary elections have faced interference from Hezbollah, corrupt\n\npolitical elites, and foreign actors who have engaged in intimidation, manipulation of\n\nelectoral administration, and obstruction of reforms. These actions have also affected the ability of Lebanese citizens living abroad to participate in elections, despite legal provisions allowing diaspora voting. Lebanon\u2019s large global diaspora plays an important civic, political, and economic role, and protecting their voting rights is considered a national security interest of the United States.\n\nThe full text of the legislation can be found HERE.", 1, "2026-04-04T05:28:40Z", "2026-04-04T05:30:10Z"], ["https://lahood.house.gov/2026/2/lahood-secures-nearly-19-million-for-critical-projects-in-the-16th-district", "LaHood Secures Nearly $19 Million for Critical Projects in the 16th District", "2026-02-03", "2026", "2026-02", "Republican", "House", "IL", "Darin LaHood", "L000585", "lahood.house.gov", "lahood", "https://lahood.house.gov/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2013 Today, Congressman Darin LaHood (IL-16) announced that he secured nearly $19 million for community and infrastructure projects in the 16th District during the House of Representatives appropriations process.\n\n\"I was proud to vote today to fund the government and ensure it remains open and functioning for the American people,\" said Rep. LaHood. \"Throughout this appropriations process, I have advocated for critical projects that directly address the needs of communities across the 16th District. I am happy to announce that I have secured nearly $19 million for meaningful investments in public safety, economic growth, and critical infrastructure projects in communities across Central and Northwestern Illinois. I will continue my work to be a strong voice for my district and to deliver real results for the families, workers, and communities I have the privilege to represent.\"\n\nBackground:\n\nMembers of Congress are able to submit Community Project Funding requests during the annual appropriations process to support infrastructure and community projects in their district. This cycle, Representative LaHood was able to secure nearly $19 million for 11 projects that strengthen economies, update critical infrastructure, increase public safety, and improve the quality of life for families throughout the 16th District.\n\nMore information on these projects can be found below.\n\nGalena Road Industrial Park Infrastructure Update in Peoria\n\nRecipient: City of Peoria\n\nFunding Received: $600,000\n\nProject Description: The funding will be used to help make necessary infrastructure upgrades to the businesses looking to locate to the Galena Road Industrial Park, sparking economic activity in the surrounding area. This will ensure the necessary infrastructure is in place to retain Peoria area community investment. The current lack of industrial buildings in the area prohibits businesses from growing, causing them to leave the Peoria area, which impacts jobs and other opportunities for constituents in my district. The improved infrastructure will provide a clear economic development benefit to the greater Peoria region through the creation of high paying jobs in growing industries employing a skilled workforce.\n\nRadnor Road Street Corridor Plan in Peoria\n\nRecipient: Peoria County\n\nFunding Received: $1,000,000\n\nProject Description: The funding will be used to complete NEPA documentation, including preliminary design and planning, for Radnor Road, a vital north-south connector for the City of Peoria. This will improve public safety, increase economic development, and expand transportation accessibility for Peoria county residents. The update will provide additional access for economic development in the Medina Plains Corporate Park and connectivity for the extension of Pioneer Parkway. These proposed developments will increase traffic and the rural road needs improvement to provide adequate levels of safety and capacity for the predicted traffic increase.\n\nFurrow Bridge Replacement in Pekin\n\nRecipient: Tazwell County\n\nFunding Received: $500,000\n\nProject Description: The funding will be used for the replacement of the Furrow Road Bridge and address safety concerns for what is currently an outdated and unsafe bridge. The bridge serves a large agricultural area, and the ability for farmers to get their crops to market safely is fundamental to local agriculture in central Illinois. The project will provide further access and support for safe transportation of agricultural products and ensure the community has the necessary resources to properly maintain a vital transportation system.\n\nPark and Bilger Bridges Replacement in Streator\n\nRecipient: City of Streator\n\nFunding Received: $1,000,000\n\nProject Description: The funding will be used for the replacement of the Park Street and Bilger Street box culvert bridges. This will support the maintenance of a vital section of Streator\u2019s infrastructure system and improve accessibility for a roadway used by first responders, commercial, and residential traffic in the City of Streator. The removal and replacement of the Park Street and Bilger Bridges will prevent the closure of critical infrastructure junctions in Streator and ensure individuals, families, and businesses in Central and Northwestern Illinois have a robust infrastructure system that provides a reliable, efficient, and safe transportation network.\n\nDesign and Construction of Air Cargo Road at the Central Illinois Regional Airport\n\nRecipient: Bloomington-Normal Airport Authority\n\nFunding Received: $1,500,000\n\nProject Description: The funding will be used for the design and construction of a new air cargo road. Constructing this air cargo road will allow the Airport Authority to redirect this truck activity to a different road, and in turn, immediately improve traffic safety for all vehicles accessing the air cargo and passenger terminal areas.\n\nDesign and Construction of new Interchange at Minooka Road and I-80\n\nRecipient: Grundy County\n\nFunding Received: $5,000,000\n\nProject Description: The funding will be used for the design and construction of a new interchange at Minooka Road and Interstate 80 in Grundy County. The interchange would improve access to the neighboring industrial district, which has seen significant growth in freight-generating business and support the potential for substantial additional job growth. The project includes comprehensive planning, capacity, and mobility improvements by Grundy County, ensuring the long-term functionality of the region.\n\nTechnology Update for the Bloomington Real Time Information and Crime Center\n\nRecipient: City of Bloomington\n\nFunding Received: $556,000\n\nProject Description: The funding will be used to acquire essential technology and software for the regions only Real Time Information and Crime Center (RTICC) \u2013 a state-of-the-art facility designed to enhance public safety, provide real-time intelligence, and support law enforcement across the city, surrounding communities and the State of Illinois. The essential technology includes live crime mapping, predictive analytics, and expanded public safety camera infrastructure \u2013 tools that the department cannot currently afford but are vital for modern policing.\n\nFargo Creek Flooding Mediation Project in Dixon\n\nRecipient: City of Dixon\n\nFunding Received: $2,000,000\n\nProject Description: The funding will be used for the installation of retention ponds to mitigate flooding, floodways, and floodplain in the Fargo Creek Redevelopment Project Area. This public/private partnership will feature the development of retention ponds to the west of the current Gateway Project. Fargo Creek is the number one contributor to the floodway and floodplain designations in Dixon's downtown commercial business district along the Rock River.\n\nLift Station and Force Main Improvements Project in South Beloit\n\nRecipient: City of South Beloit\n\nFunding Received: $750,000\n\nProject Description: The funding will be used for the replacement of the failing Lift Station No. 1 and the associated Force Main that transports sewage from the west side of the Rock River to the new South Beloit Wastewater Treatment Plant. The original lift station and Force Main were constructed in 1956 and have exceeded useful life.\n\nConstruction of new Fire Department and EMS Facility in Metamora\n\nRecipient: Village of Metamora\n\nFunding Received: $4,000,000\n\nProject Description: The funding will be used for the construction of a new public safety building to serve the Village of Metamora and the surrounding rural area. The project will alleviate safety concerns for the area\u2019s first responders, address the severe shortage of EMTs and Paramedics, and ensure our first responders have the necessary tools and resources to meet the immediate safety demands of the Metamora community.\n\nConstruction of Behavioral Health Services & Workforce Training Center in Princeton\n\nRecipient: Arukah Institute\n\nFunding Received: $2,000,000\n\nProject Description: The funding will be used for the construction of a 32,000 sq. ft. rural behavioral health services and workforce training center in Princeton, Illinois. The Arukah Institute of Healing serves patients struggling with substance use or mental illness regardless of their ability to pay. The project will allow Arukah to increase rural healthcare services, address the root causes of mental health and substance use, and continue to support the healthcare needs of our rural communities.\n\n###", 1, "2026-04-04T05:28:40Z", "2026-04-04T05:30:10Z"], ["https://bost.house.gov/2026/2/reps-bost-miller-lahood-request-answers-from-illinois-election-board-on-voter-roll-integrity", "REPS. BOST, MILLER, LAHOOD REQUEST ANSWERS FROM ILLINOIS ELECTION BOARD ON VOTER ROLL INTEGRITY", "2026-02-02", "2026", "2026-02", "Republican", "House", "IL", "Mike Bost", "B001295", "bost.house.gov", "bost", "https://bost.house.gov/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2014 Today, Congresswoman Mary Miller (IL-15) led a letter with Congressman Mike Bost (IL-12) and Congressman Darin LaHood (IL-16) to the Illinois State Board of Elections requesting answers regarding the accuracy of the state\u2019s voter rolls and its compliance with federal election law.\n\n.\n\nAs Illinois prepares to begin early voting on February 5, the letter raised serious concerns about the state\u2019s compliance with the National Voter Registration Act (NVRA) and the overall integrity of federal elections conducted in Illinois.\n\n.\n\n\u201cFor years, Illinois Democrats have refused to take even the most basic steps to secure our elections,\u201d said Congresswoman Miller. \u201cThe state will not require voter ID, continues counting mail-in ballots long after Election Day, and has failed to implement a serious statewide program to clean up voter rolls. These failures undermine public confidence and raise legitimate questions about whether Illinois is complying with federal law.\u201d\n\n.\n\n\u201cBoth parties can agree that the American people\u2019s faith in our elections is at a dangerous low point. If we\u2019re going to restore the public\u2019s trust, it needs to happen long before Election Day,\u201d said Congressman Bost. \u201cThat process begins with ensuring voter rolls are fully maintained and that every responsible effort is being made to remove ineligible voters. When certain jurisdictions report limited removal data \u2013 or even no data at all \u2013 to the Election Assistance Commission, it raises critical questions. We intend to get the answers our constituents rightly deserve.\u201d\n\n.\n\n\u201cFor years, Illinois has failed to perform proper voter roll maintenance and implement commonsense election security practices such as requiring voter ID,\u201d said Congressman LaHood. \u201cThe House Administration Committee\u2019s request falls within its oversight role to ensure Illinois is following federal election laws. The State of Illinois has an obligation\n\nto provide a transparent and complete response to this inquiry to ensure our elections are secure and strengthen Illinoisans faith in our state\u2019s electoral process.\u201d\n\n.\n\nClick here to read the letter.\n\n.\n\nBackground:\n\nThis letter follows an oversight inquiry sent by the House Administration\n\nCommittee on January 22, 2026, which identified deficiencies in Illinois\u2019 voter list maintenance practices, including counties reporting few or no voter removals in 2024 and widespread failures to provide required data to the Election Assistance Commission.\n\n.\n\n###", 1, "2026-04-04T05:28:40Z", "2026-04-04T05:30:10Z"], ["https://lahood.house.gov/2026/2/lahood-miller-bost-urge-illinois-state-board-of-elections-to-comply-with-house-administration-committee-oversight-request", "LaHood, Miller, Bost Urge Illinois State Board of Elections to Comply with House Administration Committee Oversight Request", "2026-02-02", "2026", "2026-02", "Republican", "House", "IL", "Darin LaHood", "L000585", "lahood.house.gov", "lahood", "https://lahood.house.gov/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2013 Today, Congressman Darin LaHood (IL-16) joined Congresswoman Mary Miller (IL-15) and Congressman Mike Bost (IL-12) in sending a letter to the Illinois State Board of Elections requesting answers regarding the accuracy of the state\u2019s voter rolls and its compliance with the National Voter Registration Act (NVRA).\n\n\u201cFor years, Illinois has failed to perform proper voter roll maintenance and implement commonsense election security practices such as requiring voter ID,\u201d said Congressman LaHood. \u201cThe House Administration Committee\u2019s request falls within its oversight role to ensure Illinois is following federal election laws. The State of Illinois has an obligation to provide a transparent and complete response to this inquiry to ensure our elections are secure and strengthen Illinoisans faith in our state\u2019s electoral process.\u201d \u201cBoth parties can agree that the American people\u2019s faith in our elections is at a dangerous low point. If we\u2019re going to restore the public\u2019s trust, it needs to happen long before Election Day,\u201d said Congressman Bost. \u201cThat process begins with ensuring voter rolls are fully maintained and that every responsible effort is being made to remove ineligible voters. When certain jurisdictions report limited removal data \u2013 or even no data at all \u2013 to the Election Assistance Commission, it raises critical questions. We intend to get the answers our constituents rightly deserve.\u201d\n\n\u201cFor years, Illinois Democrats have refused to take even the most basic steps to secure our elections,\u201d said Congresswoman Miller. \u201cThe state will not require voter ID, continues counting mail-in ballots long after Election Day, and has failed to implement a serious statewide program to clean up voter rolls. These failures undermine public confidence and raise legitimate questions about whether Illinois is complying with federal law.\u201d\n\nBackground:\n\nAs Illinois prepares to begin early voting on February 5th, this letter follows an oversight inquiry sent by the House Administration Committee on January 22nd, 2026, which identified deficiencies in Illinois\u2019 voter list maintenance practices, including counties reporting few or no voter removals in 2024 and widespread failures to provide required data to the Election Assistance Commission.\n\nThe full letter can be read here.\n\nRead more in the Washington Examiner.", 1, "2026-04-04T05:28:40Z", "2026-04-04T05:30:10Z"], ["https://marymiller.house.gov/media/press-releases/reps-miller-bost-lahood-request-answers-illinois-elections-board-voter-roll", "Reps. Miller, Bost, LaHood Request Answers from Illinois Elections Board on Voter Roll Integrity", "2026-02-02", "2026", "2026-02", "Republican", "House", "IL", "Mary E. Miller", "M001211", "marymiller.house.gov", "marymiller", "https://marymiller.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE\n\nWASHINGTON, D.C. \u2014 Today, Congresswoman Mary Miller (IL-15) led a letter with Congressman Mike Bost (IL-12) and Congressman Darin LaHood (IL-16) to the Illinois State Board of Elections requesting answers regarding the accuracy of the state\u2019s voter rolls and its compliance with federal election law.\n\nAs Illinois prepares to begin early voting on February 5, the letter raised serious concerns about the state\u2019s compliance with the National Voter Registration Act (NVRA) and the overall integrity of federal elections conducted in Illinois.\n\n\u201cFor years, Illinois Democrats have refused to take even the most basic steps to secure our elections,\u201d said Congresswoman Miller. \u201cThe state will not require voter ID, continues counting mail-in ballots long after Election Day, and has failed to implement a serious statewide program to clean up voter rolls. These failures undermine public confidence and raise legitimate questions about whether Illinois is complying with federal law.\u201d\n\n\u201cBoth parties can agree that the American people\u2019s faith in our elections is at a dangerous low point. If we\u2019re going to restore the public\u2019s trust, it needs to happen long before Election Day,\u201d said Congressman Bost. \u201cThat process begins with ensuring voter rolls are fully maintained and that every responsible effort is being made to remove ineligible voters. When certain jurisdictions report limited removal data \u2013 or even no data at all \u2013 to the Election Assistance Commission, it raises critical questions. We intend to get the answers our constituents rightly deserve.\u201d\n\n\u201cFor years, Illinois has failed to perform proper voter roll maintenance and implement commonsense election security practices such as requiring voter ID,\u201d said Congressman LaHood. \u201cThe House Administration Committee\u2019s request falls within its oversight role to ensure Illinois is following federal election laws. The State of Illinois has an obligation to provide a transparent and complete response to this inquiry to ensure our elections are secure and strengthen Illinoisans faith in our state\u2019s electoral process.\u201d\n\nClick here to read the letter.\n\nClick here to read more on the Washington Examiner.", 1, "2026-06-27T21:44:12Z", "2026-06-27T22:17:58Z"], ["https://bost.house.gov/2026/1/bost-secures-7-million-for-southern-illinois-infrastructure-and-emergency-response-projects", "BOST SECURES $7 MILLION FOR SOUTHERN ILLINOIS INFRASTRUCTURE AND EMERGENCY RESPONSE PROJECTS", "2026-01-22", "2026", "2026-01", "Republican", "House", "IL", "Mike Bost", "B001295", "bost.house.gov", "bost", "https://bost.house.gov/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2014 Representative Mike Bost (IL-12) applauded House approval today of a transportation, health, and security funding package that provides a 3.8% pay raise for members of the military, invests in education and healthcare, and strengthens roads and infrastructure. The package includes $7 million Bost worked to secure for local infrastructure improvements in Clay, Crawford, Jackson, Jasper, and Washington counties.\n\n\u201cThis legislation will make a big difference for hardworking Americans, with a pay hike for our troops, investment in rural hospitals, support for students, and $200 million to expand access to safe truck parking \u2013 a priority I\u2019ve fought for years to accomplish. I\u2019m proud to say that, on top of all these important victories, we were able to secure funding to improve our roadways, restore critical infrastructure, and strengthen emergency response in Southern Illinois. These are real results that people will see and feel.\u201d", 1, "2026-04-04T05:28:40Z", "2026-04-04T05:30:10Z"], ["https://marymiller.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-miller-introduces-bill-stop-large-investors-crowding-families-out-homes", "Rep. Miller Introduces Bill to Stop Large Investors From Crowding Families Out of Homes", "2026-01-21", "2026", "2026-01", "Republican", "House", "IL", "Mary E. Miller", "M001211", "marymiller.house.gov", "marymiller", "https://marymiller.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE\n\nWASHINGTON, D.C. \u2014 Today, Congresswoman Mary Miller (R-IL) introduced the American Family Housing Act, following President Donald Trump\u2019s executive order, \u201cStopping Wall Street From Competing With Main Street Homebuyers.\u201d\n\nThe American Family Housing Act directs the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) to restrict large institutional investors from purchasing single-family homes, putting an end to Wall Street firms driving up prices and pushing American families out of the housing market.\n\n\u201cHomeownership is the foundation of the American Dream,\u201d said Congresswoman Mary Miller. \u201cBut today, hardworking families are competing with massive Wall Street firms that are buying up single-family homes and pricing Americans out of their own communities. President Trump is right to confront this crisis, and my American Family Housing Act ensures homes are owned by families, not large institutional investors.\u201d\n\nAccording to the National Association of Realtors, the average first-time homebuyer is now 40 years old, with first-time buyers making up just 21 percent of the market. A 2024 Government Accountability Office study estimated that institutional investors collectively own roughly 300,000 homes nationwide, with ownership heavily concentrated in metropolitan areas. In some cities in America, institutional investors own 25% of single-family rentals.\n\nThe American Family Housing Act:\n\nDirects the Securities and Exchange Commission to monitor and enforce restrictions preventing large institutional investment firms from purchasing single-family homes.\n\nApplies to companies with more than $100 billion in assets under management, ensuring small landlords and local investors are not affected.\n\nProhibits indirect ownership schemes designed to evade enforcement.\n\nImplements restrictions 100 days after enactment to ensure market stability.\n\nApplies only to future home purchases, with no forced divestment of existing properties.", 1, "2026-06-04T06:38:12Z", "2026-06-04T06:39:44Z"], ["https://bost.house.gov/2026/1/bost-backs-responsible-funding-package-to-secure-the-nation-and-rein-in-spending", "BOST BACKS RESPONSIBLE FUNDING PACKAGE TO SECURE THE NATION AND REIN IN SPENDING", "2026-01-14", "2026", "2026-01", "Republican", "House", "IL", "Mike Bost", "B001295", "bost.house.gov", "bost", "https://bost.house.gov/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2014 Representative Mike Bost (IL-12) today voted for a foreign operations and financial services funding bill for the remaining fiscal year that prioritizes national security and core government responsibilities. The legislation reduces spending by more than $9 billion compared to current stopgap funding and blocks the continuation of Biden-era priorities.\n\n\u201cWhen we\u2019re talking about the security of the American people, we need to spend smartly and do what it takes to protect our interests in a dangerous world,\u201d said Bost. \u201cToday\u2019s vote strengthens the focus on our national security while saving taxpayers more than $9 billion. We\u2019re aligned with President Trump and not apologizing for putting America first.\u201d\n\nThe funding package supports financial solvency and national security, holds federal agencies accountable, and ensures taxpayer dollars are spent responsibly. Key provisions of H.R. 7006 include:\n\nStrengthening national security and supporting allies like Israel and Taiwan\n\nCracking down on fentanyl trafficking and stopping taxpayer-funded programs that encourage illegal immigration\n\nModernizing the IRS to better serve taxpayers while preventing political targeting and fraud\n\nMaintaining long-standing protections to ensure taxpayer dollars are not used to fund abortions\n\nFully funds the Committee on Foreign Investment in the United States to ensure it has the tools needed to investigate foreign investment by countries like China\n\nHolding the United Nations accountable by cutting funding, tying assistance to reforms, and withholding taxpayer dollars until real reforms are made\n\n###", 1, "2026-04-04T05:28:40Z", "2026-04-04T05:30:10Z"], ["https://bost.house.gov/2026/1/bost-secures-funding-for-seven-local-infrastructure-projects", "BOST SECURES FUNDING FOR SEVEN LOCAL INFRASTRUCTURE PROJECTS", "2026-01-08", "2026", "2026-01", "Republican", "House", "IL", "Mike Bost", "B001295", "bost.house.gov", "bost", "https://bost.house.gov/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2014 Representative Mike Bost (IL-12) today applauded House passage of a commerce, energy, and interior funding bill for the remaining fiscal year that includes nearly $9 million for seven local infrastructure projects he championed in Congress. The community projects, spanning Clinton, Crawford, Edwards, Monroe, Randolph, St. Clair, and Union counties, will improve water safety, sanitation, public safety, and emergency communications.\n\n\u201cThis spending package provides the certainty needed to unleash America\u2019s energy potential, invest in our military, and modernize our aging infrastructure,\u201d said Bost. \u201cI\u2019m proud to say, it\u2019s an impact that will be felt across Southern Illinois. I worked with local leaders on key priorities to strengthen the safety of our water systems and the effectiveness of emergency response services. All told, we\u2019ve delivered nearly $9 million dollars to make our communities safer and healthier, and that makes a big difference for small communities.\u201d\n\nThis funding package includes targeted investments secured by Rep. Bost for Illinois\u2019 12th District, including:\n\n$2.1 million for Clinton County to upgrade a countywide emergency radio and communication system\n\n$1.636 million for the Village of Maeystown for wastewater treatment facility improvements\n\n$1.2 million for the Village of West Salem for water main replacement\n\n$1 million for the City of Anna for sewer infiltration and inflow improvements\n\n$1 million for the Robinson Palestine Water Commission for a new water treatment plant\n\n$1 million for the City of Casey for sanitary sewer relining\n\n$750,000 for the City of Sparta for a raw water transmission line project\n\n.\n\nMore information regarding these Community Project Funding requests can be found here.\n\n.\n\n###", 1, "2026-04-04T05:28:40Z", "2026-04-04T05:30:10Z"], ["https://lahood.house.gov/2025/12/lahood-announces-winner-and-runner-up-of-the-2025-congressional-app-challenge", "LaHood Announces Winner and Runner-up of the 2025 Congressional App Challenge", "2025-12-31", "2025", "2025-12", "Republican", "House", "IL", "Darin LaHood", "L000585", "lahood.house.gov", "lahood", "https://lahood.house.gov/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2013 Representative Darin LaHood (IL-16) announced today Kavi Praanesh of Dunlap High School as the winner of the 2025 Congressional App Challenge for Illinois' 16th District. Kavi developed an application titled \"MeloCognia,\" using Python and C/C++ as her programming language. MeloCognia is an AI powered health assistant designed to help detect Parkinson's in its early stages. The runner-up, Agrini Neekhra of Dunlap High School, developed an app titled \"Febrile Neutropenia Intervention eXpert\" (FENIX), which works to combat the issue of delayed antibiotic treatment in pediatric febrile neutropenic patients.\n\n\u201cMy office has been proud to host the Congressional App Challenge for the past 10 years to encourage students in the 16th Congressional District to pursue their passion in STEM fields,\u201d said Rep. LaHood. \u201cEach year, I have been amazed by the talent of our students and the creativity of the applications they put together to solve real-world problems and improve the lives of others. I want to congratulate this year's winner Kavi, and our runner-up Agrini, for their outstanding work in this competition and developing two incredible apps. Thank you to all the students who participated and made this year's Congressional App Challenge a success!\u201d\n\n\"I was inspired to create MeloCognia after seeing my grandfather struggle with Parkinson\u2019s, as he wasn\u2019t diagnosed until the disease had already heavily impacted his daily life and treatment options were limited,\" said Kavi. \"That experience made me realize how hard early detection can be and how much the delay can cost patients. MeloCognia is an AI-powered health assistant that uses voice analysis and symptom tracking to provide fast, accessible early screening, giving users a quick insight in minutes that encourages them to seek medical evaluation sooner.\"\n\n\"The Congressional App Challenge has given me the incredible opportunity to explore new fields. Before my app, I had never coded before and teaching myself was a great experience for me to build the skill and perseverance,\" said Agrini. \"FENIX is an app aiming to prioritize the small details in healthcare systems that may go unnoticed and improve diagnosis and treatment times. Oftentimes, chemo patients with compromised immune systems will need to receive a straightforward antibiotic treatment. However, delivery system variability and delays can prolong the treatment process, increasing mortality rates. FENIX helps to predict that delay and alert healthcare personnel to prioritize those patients. Being named runner-up for Congressman LaHood's Congressional App Challenge is a great honor and encourages me to keep developing my programming skills to create stronger, improved healthcare delivery initiatives. I am very grateful for this program and hope that all students see coding as an outlet to make their own mark on the world.\"\n\nBackground:\n\nThe Congressional App Challenge is an annual competition hosted by the U.S. House of Representatives aimed at encouraging students to pursue careers in STEM fields. Since its inception in 2015, the Challenge has grown to become the largest student computer science competition in the United States.\n\nThe 2025 Congressional App Challenge set new records including:\n\nLargest student participation with 13,830 students competing across the U.S.\n\n4,650 original applications submitted - an increase of nearly 800 from 2024\n\nOver 56% of this year's applications incorporated Artificial Intelligence\n\nThe winner will receive an invitation to demonstrate their application in Washington, D.C., have their application featured on the House of Representatives website, www.house.gov, and receive a copyright fee waiver provided through the Arts Act. A video link to the winning group\u2019s application can be found here.", 1, "2026-04-04T05:28:40Z", "2026-04-04T05:30:10Z"], ["https://bost.house.gov/2025/12/bost-budzinski-introduce-bill-to-modernize-usda-loan-programs", "BOST, BUDZINSKI INTRODUCE BILL TO MODERNIZE USDA LOAN PROGRAMS", "2025-12-18", "2025", "2025-12", "Republican", "House", "IL", "Mike Bost", "B001295", "bost.house.gov", "bost", "https://bost.house.gov/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 U.S. Reps. Mike Bost (IL-12) and Nikki Budzinski (IL-13) introduced legislation Wednesday to remove outdated eligibility barriers that prevent modern family farms from accessing U.S. Department of Agriculture loan programs. The USDA Loan Modernization Act updates eligibility standards to better reflect the structure of today\u2019s multi-generational, family-run farms, expanding access to operating, emergency, and real estate loans for producers in Southern Illinois and across the country.\n\n\u201cFor too long, USDA loan rules have failed to keep up with the reality of modern farming,\u201d said Bost. \u201cFamily farms shouldn\u2019t be punished for choosing a path that helps them manage risk or plan for the next generation. Our legislation cuts through red tape, brings common sense back to USDA lending, and makes sure farmers who are doing things the right way aren\u2019t locked out from the capital they need to keep their operations running.\u201d\n\n\"While farming operations have changed drastically over time, our loan rules haven\u2019t kept up,\" said Budzinski. \"This legislation closes that gap by updating USDA loan rules and making sure small and multi-generational family farmers aren\u2019t penalized for using responsible, modern business structures. Most importantly, it puts decisions back in farmers\u2019 hands \u2014 giving them the freedom to set up their operations and land in ways that work best for their families without putting their existing FSA loans at risk.\"\n\n\"Farm Credit thanks Reps. Bost and Budzinski for introducing the USDA Loan Modernization Act,\" said Farm Credit Council President and CEO Christy Seyfer. \"This small but meaningful update to FSA loan program eligibility requirements will allow the next generation of producers to utilize modern farm business structures while still accessing FSA loan programs. We look forward to working with Reps. Bost and Budzinski to ensure this important legislation is included in Farm Bill 2.0.\"\n\nThe USDA Loan Modernization Act updates eligibility requirements to allow producers with at least a 50 percent operational interest to qualify for loans and gives the Farm Service Agency greater flexibility to consider a range of family farm entities. The legislation is supported by groups including the Farm Credit Council, Illinois Corn Growers Association, Illinois Pork Producers Association, Farm Credit Illinois, Compeer, National Rural Lenders Association, Independent Community Bankers Association, Illinois Farm Bureau Federation, and the National Council of Farmer Cooperatives.\n\n###", 1, "2026-04-04T05:28:40Z", "2026-04-04T05:30:10Z"], ["https://bost.house.gov/2025/12/illinois-congressional-republicans-urge-no-pardon-for-madigan", "ILLINOIS CONGRESSIONAL REPUBLICANS URGE NO PARDON FOR MADIGAN", "2025-12-16", "2025", "2025-12", "Republican", "House", "IL", "Mike Bost", "B001295", "bost.house.gov", "bost", "https://bost.house.gov/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2014 Illinois\u2019 U.S. House Republican delegation urged President Trump in a letter today to reject former Illinois House Speaker Michael Madigan\u2019s request for a presidential pardon. U.S. Reps. Mike Bost (IL-12), Darin LaHood (IL-16), and Mary Miller (IL-15) expressed concerns that granting Madigan clemency following his sentencing to seven and a half years in prison for conspiracy, wire fraud, and bribery would undermine accountability and public trust.\n\n\u201cWe write with a unified message as Republican Members of the United States House of Representatives for the State of Illinois to express our concerns regarding a request for a presidential pardon from former Illinois House Speaker Michael J. Madigan,\u201d the members said. \u201cIllinois families and taxpayers have suffered for decades under entrenched corruption, and a pardon in this case would send a dangerous message that public officials can betray the public trust with impunity.\n\n\u201cThe bribery and corruption scheme involved the misuse of state resources, including directing public utility contracts and payments to benefit private political allies. This was a deliberate, long-running pattern of abuse of public office.\n\n\u201cGranting clemency in this case would not only reward a lifetime of unethical behavior but also embolden other public officials to exploit their offices for personal gain. For these reasons, we respectfully urge you to deny any request for a presidential pardon from Michael Madigan. Denying his request is the best way to ensure Illinois residents know their leaders are held to the highest standards of integrity.\u201d\n\nThe full letter to President Trump is available here.\n\n###", 1, "2026-04-04T05:28:40Z", "2026-04-04T05:30:10Z"], ["https://lahood.house.gov/2025/12/illinois-congressional-republicans-urge-trump-to-reject-madigan-pardon-request", "Illinois Congressional Republicans Urge Trump to Reject Madigan Pardon Request", "2025-12-16", "2025", "2025-12", "Republican", "House", "IL", "Darin LaHood", "L000585", "lahood.house.gov", "lahood", "https://lahood.house.gov/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2013 Today, U.S. Representatives Darin LaHood (IL-16), Mary Miller (IL-15), and Mike Bost (IL-12) sent a letter to President Trump urging him to reject former Illinois House Speaker Michael Madigan\u2019s request for a presidential pardon.\n\nThe letter from Illinois\u2019 U.S. House Republican delegation reads in part:\n\n\u201cWe write with a unified message as Republican Members of the United States House of Representatives for the State of Illinois to express our concerns regarding a request for a presidential pardon from former Illinois House Speaker Michael J. Madigan. Illinois families and taxpayers have suffered for decades under entrenched corruption, and a pardon in this case would send a dangerous message that public officials can betray the public trust with impunity.\n\n\u201cThe bribery and corruption scheme involved the misuse of state resources, including directing public utility contracts and payments to benefit private political allies. This was a deliberate, long-running pattern of abuse of public office.\n\n\u201cGranting clemency in this case would not only reward a lifetime of unethical behavior but also embolden other public officials to exploit their offices for personal gain. For these reasons, we respectfully urge you to deny any request for a presidential pardon from Michael Madigan. Denying his request is the best way to ensure Illinois residents know their leaders are held to the highest standards of integrity.\u201d\n\nThe full letter to President Trump can be read here.", 1, "2026-04-04T05:28:40Z", "2026-04-04T05:30:10Z"], ["https://bost.house.gov/2025/12/bost-votes-to-strengthen-national-security-bolster-support-for-troops", "BOST VOTES TO STRENGTHEN NATIONAL SECURITY, BOLSTER SUPPORT FOR TROOPS", "2025-12-10", "2025", "2025-12", "Republican", "House", "IL", "Mike Bost", "B001295", "bost.house.gov", "bost", "https://bost.house.gov/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2014 U.S. Representative Mike Bost (IL-12) today voted for the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2026, legislation that strengthens America\u2019s national defense, advances President Trump\u2019s peace through strength agenda, and supports the men and women who serve our nation in uniform. The bill authorizes $900.6 billion for national defense programs, provides a 3.8% pay raise for servicemembers, allocates $6 million for Scott Air Force Base hangar improvements, secures our southern border, and ends the woke policies and DEI mandates that have distracted from military readiness.\n\n\u201cSupporting our troops and keeping America safe must always come before politics,\u201d said Bost. \u201cThis national defense funding backs President Trump\u2019s peace through strength approach, secures the southern border, reins in wasteful spending, and gets rid of the DEI and woke policies that have no place in our military. It ensures our servicemembers have the resources they need to do their jobs and I\u2019m proud to support legislation that puts our national defense and our troops first.\u201d\n\n.\n\nThe Fiscal Year 2026 NDAA includes:\n\n.\n\n- $900.6 billion for national defense programs\n\n- 3.8% pay raise for all servicemembers\n\n- $6 million for Scott Air Force Base hangar improvements\n\n- Over $1 billion to combat drug trafficking and support border security operations\n\n- Fully funds National Guard and active-duty deployments to assist Border Patrol at the southwest border\n\n- Permanently repeals of all Department of War DEI offices, programs, and training\n\n.\n\n###", 1, "2026-04-04T05:28:40Z", "2026-04-04T05:30:10Z"], ["https://lahood.house.gov/2025/12/lahood-supports-fy26-national-defense-authorization-act", "LaHood Supports FY26 National Defense Authorization Act", "2025-12-10", "2025", "2025-12", "Republican", "House", "IL", "Darin LaHood", "L000585", "lahood.house.gov", "lahood", "https://lahood.house.gov/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2013 Today, Congressman Darin LaHood (IL-16) voted in favor of the Fiscal Year 2026 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), to fund and support our military, their families, and key national security priorities.\n\n\"The FY2026 NDAA strengthens our national security, gives the men and women serving our nation the resources they need, and enhances our ability to counter the malign actions of bad actors around the globe,\" said Rep. LaHood. \"With ever-evolving threats and foreign adversaries working every day to undermine the United States, this bill makes certain our military and intelligence community are equipped with the tools they need to handle any threat. I was proud to vote for this bill and I will continue to support the brave servicemembers who safeguard our freedoms.\"\n\nBackground:\n\nThe bill codifies 15 of President Trump's Executive Orders focused on strengthening our military and authorizes $900 billion for national defense to provide our troops with the tools and resources they need to remain the world's premier fighting force. It includes provisions to counter the hostile actions of our adversaries, invest in cutting edge technology to ensure military preparedness, and improve the quality of life for our servicemembers with a 3.8% pay raise and improved benefits for military families.\n\nThe NDAA also includes the Fiscal Year 2026 Intelligence Authorization Act, which authorizes funds to support our Intelligence Community, broaden Congressional oversight, protect the U.S. from counterintelligence threats, and expedites the Intelligence Community\u2019s adoption and implementation of emerging technologies.\n\nRep. LaHood's Priorities included the FY2026 NDAA:\n\nAdvanced AI Security Readiness Act\n\nRequires the Director of the National Security Agency to develop guidance to protect artificial intelligence (AI) technology from adversaries by engaging with AI developers and leveraging industry expertise to address vulnerabilities and threats.\n\nThe BIOSECURE Act\n\nPrevents U.S. federal funds from supporting biotechnology companies tied to foreign adversaries.\n\nThe Outbound Investment Transparency Act\n\nCreates targeted restrictions for outbound U.S. investments that would fund military and advanced technology capabilities of foreign adversaries.\n\nCongressman LaHood also supported provisions to authorize local, state, and federal agencies, including the DHS and DOJ, with new authority to take counter-drone measures for large scale public gatherings or events, critical infrastructure, and correctional facilities.", 1, "2026-04-04T05:28:40Z", "2026-04-04T05:30:10Z"], ["https://lahood.house.gov/2025/12/lahood-sorensen-applaud-passage-of-legislation-to-rename-rockford-post-office-in-honor-of-jay-larson", "LaHood, Sorensen Applaud Passage of Legislation to Rename Rockford Post Office in Honor of Jay Larson", "2025-12-09", "2025", "2025-12", "Republican", "House", "IL", "Darin LaHood", "L000585", "lahood.house.gov", "lahood", "https://lahood.house.gov/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2013 Today, the U.S. House of Representatives passed legislation led by Congressman Darin LaHood (IL-16) and Congressman Eric Sorensen (IL-17) to dedicate the Harrison Avenue Post Office in Rockford in honor of fallen letter carrier Jay Larson.\n\n\"Over his 25 years as a letter carrier, Jay Larson exemplified the best of our Midwestern values and fully embraced his role as a public servant,\" said Rep. LaHood. \"His work ethic and compassion for others during his time with the United States Postal Service were unmatched. I was proud to co-lead this legislation to rename the Harrison Avenue Post Office with Representative Sorensen to cement Jay's legacy and honor the positive impact he made on the Rockford community. I am grateful to my colleagues in the House of Representatives for supporting this legislation and I look forward to it being signed into law.\"\n\n\u201cJay Larson remains missed by his neighbors who remember his warm smile and welcoming face as he delivered mail for more than 25 years,\u201d said Rep. Sorensen. \u201cWe\u2019re now another step closer to permanently honoring his life, legacy, and years of admirable service to the Rockford community.\u201d\n\nBackground:\n\nJay Larson tragically lost his life during a stabbing attack in March of 2024 while delivering mail along his route. Larson served the Rockford community as a letter carrier for the Harrison Avenue Post Office for 25 years.\n\nCongressmen LaHood and Sorensen originally introduced this legislation in the 118th Congress. They reintroduced the legislation on March 27th, 2025 during the 119th Congress to honor the one year mark of Jay Larson's passing.", 1, "2026-04-04T05:28:40Z", "2026-04-04T05:30:10Z"], ["https://lahood.house.gov/2025/12/lahood-s-nchez-reintroduce-roth-ira-rollover-legislation-to-bolster-retirement-security", "LaHood, S\u00e1nchez Reintroduce Roth IRA Rollover Legislation to Bolster Retirement Security", "2025-12-04", "2025", "2025-12", "Republican", "House", "IL", "Darin LaHood", "L000585", "lahood.house.gov", "lahood", "https://lahood.house.gov/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2013 U.S. Representatives Darin LaHood (IL-16) and Linda T. Sanchez (CA-38), along with Senators John Barrasso (R-WY) and Michael Bennet (D-CO), reintroduced the Retirement Rollover Flexibility Act. This bipartisan, bicameral legislation will allow retirement savers to roll over their Roth IRA savings into a Roth account within a workplace retirement plan.\n\n\"Building retirement security is critical to the wellbeing of American families and the long-term strength of our economy,\" said Congressman LaHood. \"Our bipartisan bill will allow for the consolidation of assets, reduce duplicative fees, simplify retirement savings, and help families across the country better plan for their future. Congress must continue to remove unnecessary barriers and find solutions that help American workers build for a comfortable retirement. I am proud to join my Ways and Means colleague, Representative Sanchez, and Senators Barrasso and Bennet on this commonsense legislation.\"\n\n\u201cMillions of Americans rely on Roth IRAs to help prepare for retirement. As more people use these accounts, we need to make it easier for workers to move their savings into the Roth options offered through their jobs,\u201d said Congresswoman S\u00e1nchez. \u201cI\u2019m grateful to work with Congressman LaHood and Senators Barrasso and Bennet on this bipartisan, bicameral effort to give people a simple way to roll over their savings to build a stronger foundation for retirement.\u201d\n\n\u201cRetirement savings belong to the workers who earn them, and those savings should follow them throughout their careers,\u201d said Senator Barrasso. \u201cThe Retirement Rollover Flexibility Act creates new options for workers to bring retirement savings with them when changing jobs. This commonsense reform will strengthen retirement security and help Wyoming families build stronger financial futures.\u201d\n\n\u201cWorkers shouldn\u2019t lose track of their retirement savings just because they change jobs,\u201d said Senator Bennet. \u201cRight now, outdated rules prevent Roth retirement accounts from moving with workers the way traditional accounts can. This bill fixes that gap\u2014ensuring all workers can consolidate their retirement savings, reduce fees, and keep their nest egg growing no matter where their career takes them.\u201d\n\n\u201cWith the rapid expansion of state auto-IRA programs\u2014nearly all of which default savers into Roth IRAs\u2014and with Americans changing jobs more often than ever, the need for true retirement savings portability has never been greater,\u201d said Brian Graff, CEO of the American Retirement Association. \u201cAllowing workers to move their Roth IRA balances into designated Roth accounts within employer-sponsored retirement plans is a smart, timely, and sensible solution. The Retirement Rollover Flexibility Act will reduce duplicative fees associated with maintaining multiple accounts, curb retirement savings leakage through seamless auto-portability, and ensure workers can carry their Roth savings with them as they move through their careers. The American Retirement Association applauds Senators Barrasso and Bennet and Representatives LaHood and S\u00e1nchez for their leadership on this critical issue.\u201d\n\nBackground:\n\nCurrent law prohibits workers from rolling Roth IRA savings into workplace-based Roth retirement plans offered by employers. The Retirement Rollover Flexibility Act would specifically allow the transfer of contributions from Roth IRA plans to a workplace designated Roth account, such as a Roth 401(k). Allowing this consolidation will let workers choose the retirement savings option that best suits their need while reducing the risk of savings being lost or withdrawn early.\n\nThe legislation is supported by the American Retirement Association.", 1, "2026-04-04T05:28:40Z", "2026-04-04T05:30:10Z"], ["https://lahood.house.gov/2025/11/lahood-panetta-introduce-bipartisan-bill-to-simplify-retirement-options-for-seniors", "LaHood, Panetta Introduce Bipartisan Bill to Simplify Retirement Options for Seniors", "2025-11-26", "2025", "2025-11", "Republican", "House", "IL", "Darin LaHood", "L000585", "lahood.house.gov", "lahood", "https://lahood.house.gov/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2013 Congressman Darin LaHood (IL-16) introduced the Retirement Simplification and Clarity Act, alongside his Ways and Means colleague Congressman Jimmy Panetta (CA-19). This legislation works to remove barriers and provide individuals with clearer guidance and more flexibility while planning for retirement.\n\n\"Hardworking Americans planning for retirement shouldn\u2019t have to face extraneous complications that create uncertainty about their financial future,\" said Rep. LaHood. \"Providing more flexibility and a better guidance during the process will help ensure Americans can properly prepare for retirement and feel confident in their decisions. I am proud to lead this bipartisan effort with Representative Panetta to help eliminate needless hurdles and reduce the confusion surrounding retirement.\u201d\n\n\u201cNavigating the various processes of saving for retirement can get very complicated, very fast,\u201d said Rep. Panetta. \u201cThis bipartisan bill helps Americans plan for retirement by making the process simpler and giving them more flexibility. By helping Americans make informed decisions about their savings, we can strengthen their financial security for retirement and the years ahead.\u201d\n\n\u201cThe National Association of Insurance and Financial Advisers (NAIFA) is pleased to endorse the Retirement Simplification and Clarity Act, introduced by Rep. Panetta (D-CA) and Rep. LaHood (R-IL)\u201d announced NAIFA CEO Kevin M. Mayeux. \u201cAs the largest national association of insurance and financial advisers with members assisting hard-working, everyday Americans in all states and Congressional districts with retirement savings choices, we applaud any effort to simplify the rules for retirement savings and to enhance the ability of retirees to ensure they do not outlive their savings through guaranteed income options. This bill will advance those worthy goals, and NAIFA looks forward to working with the sponsors to see it enacted.\u201d\n\nBackground:\n\nA 402(f) Notice is a document that lays out the action steps that someone can take with their retirement savings. It is issued to participants who have separated from their employer and requested a distribution from their plan.\n\nIt is the only disclosure that plans are required to provide to participants who are eligible for a rollover that is specifically about the options for their plan savings and its related tax consequences.\n\nA 2024 Government Accountability Office (GAO) Report found that 401k participant understanding of their distribution options remains a challenge despite treasury\u2019s required 402(f) notices. This is in part due to the complexity of the notices and lack of clarity.\n\nParticipants also cannot use in service rollover rules to buy annuities while continuing to save in their 401k, limiting their options for income streams into retirement.\n\n402(f) notices are overly complex and unclear and in-service rollover restrictions limit 401k participants\u2019 options.\n\nTo combat these issues, the Retirement Simplification and Clarity Act implements GAO recommendations to simplify 402(f) notices that outline options when individuals request distributions from their retirement plans.\n\nThis bill creates a new in-service rollover option to allow individuals aged 50+ to roll over some or all their existing retirement savings into an annuity product for guaranteed lifetime income while continuing to save in their 401(k) plan.\n\nThese adjustments simplifies information for individuals and expands income stream options for retirement.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:52:45Z"], ["https://marymiller.house.gov/media/press-releases/miller-harris-lead-28-republicans-slamming-brakes-abortion-tourism-program", "Miller & Harris Lead 28 Republicans in Slamming Brakes on \u201cAbortion Tourism\u201d Program for Illegals", "2025-11-20", "2025", "2025-11", "Republican", "House", "IL", "Mary E. Miller", "M001211", "marymiller.house.gov", "marymiller", "https://marymiller.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE\n\nWASHINGTON, D.C. \u2014 On Thursday, Congresswoman Mary Miller (IL-15) and Congressman Mark Harris (NC-08) led a group of 28 lawmakers in introducing legislation that would prohibit taxpayer-funded abortion travel for illegal aliens.\n\n\u201cJoe Biden turned federal agencies into abortion traffickers by directing the Office of Refugee Resettlement to arrange and finance abortion travel for illegal alien minors,\u201d said Congresswoman Miller. \u201cPresident Trump's administration is rightfully moving to reverse this shocking abuse of taxpayer dollars, and I'm proud to partner with Congressman Mark Harris on legislation that permanently ends it.\u201d\n\n\u201cNo American should ever have their tax dollars used to shuttle illegal aliens across state lines for abortions,\u201d said Congressman Harris. \u201cThat\u2019s why we're fighting to stop these outrageous Biden-era policies that turned federal programs into a taxpayer-funded Uber for abortions. We\u2019re going to end it.\u201d\n\nThe No Taxpayer-Funded Abortion Travel For Illegal Aliens Act aligns with anticipated movement from the Trump Administration to eliminate a Biden-era regulation and properly enforce the Hyde Amendment, which prohibits taxpayer-funded abortions.\n\nCo-sponsors include: Reps. John Rose (TN-06), Barry Moore (AL-01), Eli Crane (AZ-02), August Pfluger (TX-11), Clay Higgins (LA-03), Chip Roy (TX-21), Marjorie Taylor Greene (GA-14), Randy Fine (FL-06), Robert Aderholt (AL-04), Randy Weber (TX-14), Marlin Stutzman (IN-03), Keith Self (TX-03), Eric Burlison (MO-07), Jefferson Shreve (IN-06), Glenn Grothman (WI-06), John McGuire (VA-05), Warren Davidson (OH-08), Andy Harris (MD-01), Daniel Webster (FL-11), Scott Fitzgerald (WI-05), Byron Donalds (FL-19), Thomas Massie (KY-04), Jim Baird (IN-04), Doug LaMalfa (CA-01), Brian Babin (TX-36), Tim Moore (NC-14), Bob Onder (MO-03), and Sheri Biggs (SC-03).\n\nSupporting organizations include: Family Research Council, March for Life Action, Students for Life Action, CatholicVote, and Center for Urban Renewal and Education\n\nRead the full piece of legislation for the No Taxpayer-Funded Abortion Travel For Illegal Aliens Act here.", 1, "2026-05-15T06:17:41Z", "2026-05-15T06:18:51Z"], ["https://lahood.house.gov/2025/11/lahood-chairs-house-ways-and-means-subcommittee-on-work-and-welfare-to-discuss-chafee-reform", "LaHood Chairs House Ways and Means Subcommittee on Work and Welfare to Discuss Chafee Reform", "2025-11-19", "2025", "2025-11", "Republican", "House", "IL", "Darin LaHood", "L000585", "lahood.house.gov", "lahood", "https://lahood.house.gov/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2013 Yesterday, Congressman Darin LaHood, Chairman of the House Ways and Means Subcommittee on Work and Welfare, chaired a hearing on ways to harness innovation and implement new technology to help America's foster youth succeed.\n\nClick Here to Watch Rep. LaHood's Opening Remarks\n\n\"Youth aging out of foster care are one of the most vulnerable populations in our country,\" said Rep. LaHood. \"80% of former foster youth experienced trauma before adulthood and nearly half have been diagnosed mental health conditions. Foster youth have higher rates of educational dropout, early pregnancy, and unemployment. One of the most significant barriers that I\u2019m concerned about is access to stable housing. One estimate finds that nearly 35 percent of former foster youth experienced homelessness by age 21. Programs like Chafee play a critical role in assisting our youth by helping them develop life skills, access housing, and enroll in education and training \u2013 and we know caseworkers are at the forefront of a youth\u2019s experience. Caseworkers help youth navigate programs, plan for their future, and work toward successful independence.\"\n\nClick here to Watch Rep. LaHood's Full Questioning\n\nBackground:\n\nToday, the Subcommittee on Work and Welfare held a hearing on technology and innovation in federal child welfare programs and how they can be utilized to empower caseworkers and support transition-age foster youth (ages 14 to 21).\n\nThis hearing follows Chairman LaHood joining President Trump and First Lady Melania Trump last week at the White House for the signing of the Fostering the Future for American Children and Families Executive Order, which included a call to modernize state child welfare programs and expand the use of technology.\n\nThe hearing is part of the Committee\u2019s work to modernize and reform the John H. Chafee Foster Care Program for Successful Transition to Adulthood (\u201cChafee\u201d).\n\nDuring the last Subcommittee hearing, held on June 12th, \u201cAging Out is\n\nNot a Plan: Reimagining Futures for Foster Youth,\u201d witnesses highlighted that many foster youth are not aware of resources offered through Chafee and some states face challenges drawing down federal dollars.\n\nAt this hearing, witnesses discussed technology and innovative tools that are actively being used by caseworkers to more effectively support foster youth.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:52:45Z"], ["https://lahood.house.gov/2025/11/lahood-votes-to-release-epstein-files", "LaHood Votes to Release Epstein Files", "2025-11-18", "2025", "2025-11", "Republican", "House", "IL", "Darin LaHood", "L000585", "lahood.house.gov", "lahood", "https://lahood.house.gov/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2013 Today, Congressman Darin LaHood (IL-16) released the following statement after voting to release the Epstein files and provide transparency to the American public.\n\n\u201cToday, I voted to release all documents related to Jeffrey Epstein\u2019s heinous crimes and provide full transparency to the American people,\" said Rep. LaHood. \"I will continue to support the Oversight Committee\u2019s ongoing efforts to release any remaining documents from the Epstein estate to ensure all the facts surrounding this case are made public. As investigations continue, we must remain focused on delivering justice for the victims. Anyone who participated in these crimes or aided Epstein must be held fully accountable and be criminally charged under the full extent of the law.\"", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:52:45Z"], ["https://lahood.house.gov/2025/11/icymi-lahood-smith-join-president-trump-and-first-lady-for-historic-investment-in-foster-youth", "ICYMI: LaHood, Smith Join President Trump and First Lady for Historic Investment in Foster Youth", "2025-11-14", "2025", "2025-11", "Republican", "House", "IL", "Darin LaHood", "L000585", "lahood.house.gov", "lahood", "https://lahood.house.gov/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2013 Yesterday, Work and Welfare Subcommittee Chairman Darin LaHood (IL-16) and Ways and Means Committee Chairman Jason Smith (MO-08) joined President Trump and First Lady Melania Trump at the White House for the signing of the Fostering the Future for American Children and Families Executive Order.\n\n\"It was a privilege to join President Trump and First Lady Melania Trump today at the White House for the signing of the Fostering the Future for American Children and Families Executive Order,\" said Representative LaHood. \"This Executive Order delivers real results for youth transitioning out of foster care by expanding opportunities to further their education, obtain housing, and access resources that will help them lead successful lives.\n\n\"As Chairman of the Ways and Means Work & Welfare Subcommittee, I\u2019ve been proud to partner with the Administration to strengthen families and improve outcomes for children in foster care. Today's signing was a historic investment in the success of future generations. I look forward to continuing to work with the President, First Lady, and my colleagues to advance meaningful reforms to our foster care system and ensure every child has the opportunity to thrive.\"\n\n\u201cThrough this executive order, President Trump and the First Lady are helping foster youth have better futures. Before I came to Congress, I practiced family law and saw firsthand the impacts of the child welfare system on children and families,\" said Chairman Smith. \"At the Committee on Ways and Means, one of our top priorities has been to elevate the voices of regular Americans, including children in foster care, and finding ways to work together to improve the child welfare system. This latest action by the Trump Administration will help inform our work on the Committee to advance solutions to improve our foster youth programs.\n\n\u201cLast Congress, our Committee passed a historic reauthorization of child welfare programs under Title IV-B of the Social Security Act, enacting the most significant reforms to the program since 2008.\n\n\u201cWe have spent this year looking at another program in our jurisdiction, the Chafee Foster Care Program for Successful Transition to Adulthood, with the same goal of enacting needed bipartisan reforms. This program exclusively serves some of our nation\u2019s most vulnerable youth, those aging out of foster care without connections to family or supportive adults. We are holding a second hearing on the program next week to learn from industry leaders about how technology can be used to improve outcomes.\n\n\u201cWe look forward to continuing our partnership with the Trump Administration to do everything we can to maximize support for youth in foster care.\u201d\n\nThe text of the Executive Order can be found in the link below:\n\nBACKGROUND:\n\nOn Thursday, November 13th at 2:00pm the White House held a signing ceremony for an Executive Order (EO) titled, \u201cFostering the Future for American Children and Families.\u201d The EO focuses on ways to strengthen support for youth in foster care and those transitioning into adulthood by improving coordination of federal programs. Fostering the Future is an initiative led by the First Lady.\n\nThe EO includes a focus on supporting foster youth, including assistance with housing, education, and training.\n\nThis aligns with Chairman LaHood's work in the 118th Congress where he was the lead sponsor of the Supporting America\u2019s Children and Families Act (H.R. 9076), which was ultimately signed into law in January 2025, marking the first meaningful reform to Title IV-B program since 2008.\n\nIn the 119th Congress, the Work & Welfare Subcommittee is focused on ways to improve outcomes for foster youth to support success in adulthood and life. Nearly 16,000 youth age out of foster care each year without permanent connections to family. These youth face significant challenges living independently:\n\nOnly 50% of foster children finish high school, and only three percent of former foster children obtain a college degree. Twenty percent of the children in foster care will become homeless after aging out of the system, and only half will have gainful employment by the age of 24.\n\nSUBCOMMITTEE WORK ON CHAFEE:\n\nHearings: On Tuesday, Nov. 18th, the Subcommittee will hold its second hearing in 2025 on Chafee to look at ways to modernize the program to better serve foster youth and former foster youth.\n\nJune 12, 2025: \u201cAging Out is Not a Plan: Reimagining Futures for Foster Youth\u201d (The full hearing can be found HERE)\n\nNovember 18, 2025: \"Leaving the Sticky Notes Behind: Harnessing Innovation and New Technology to Help America\u2019s Foster Youth Succeed.\" (The hearing advisory can be found HERE)", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:52:45Z"], ["https://bost.house.gov/2025/11/bost-delivers-on-local-public-safety-infrastructure-projects", "BOST DELIVERS ON LOCAL PUBLIC SAFETY, INFRASTRUCTURE PROJECTS", "2025-11-13", "2025", "2025-11", "Republican", "House", "IL", "Mike Bost", "B001295", "bost.house.gov", "bost", "https://bost.house.gov/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 U.S. Representative Mike Bost (IL-12) today announced the Continuing Resolution passed by Congress this week to reopen the government included $1.4 million for three local projects he championed in the House this year. Once signed into law by the President, funding will be allocated for water infrastructure improvements in Sesser and public safety projects in Mt. Vernon and Effingham.\n\n\u201cPart of good government is ensuring the health and safety of the people we represent,\u201d said Bost. \u201cThese investments will help ensure families have access to safe drinking water, firefighters can train more effectively, and first responders have the modern facilities they need to protect lives and property. I\u2019m proud to have worked with our local leaders to make these projects a reality.\u201d\n\nProjects funded in the package include:\n\nJefferson Fire Protection District \u2013 New Fire Station Headquarters and Regional Training Facility (Mt. Vernon, IL)\n\nAward: $253,365\n\nFunding will support construction of a state-of-the-art training facility designed to simulate real-world fire scenarios in modern residential structures. The facility will improve readiness and hands-on training for firefighters serving a 230-square-mile district across multiple towns and rural areas.\n\nCity of Sesser \u2013 Water System Improvements, Phase 3 (Sesser, IL)\n\nAward: $471,000\n\nThe project will replace approximately 2,500 feet of aging cast iron and asbestos cement water mains with new PVC piping. This investment will enhance water safety, reliability, and overall system performance for residents.\n\nEffingham Fire Department \u2013 Platform Ladder Truck Replacement Project (Effingham, IL)\n\nAward: $700,000\n\nFunding will help the department replace its 25-year-old platform ladder truck with a modern, state-of-the-art vehicle. The new truck will improve firefighting and rescue capabilities, particularly for vulnerable populations in multi-story residential and healthcare facilities.", 1, "2026-04-04T05:28:40Z", "2026-04-04T05:30:10Z"], ["https://marymiller.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-miller-votes-end-democrat-shutdown-and-deliver-major-investments-illinois", "Rep. Miller Votes to End the Democrat Shutdown and Deliver Major Investments for Illinois Communities", "2025-11-13", "2025", "2025-11", "Republican", "House", "IL", "Mary E. Miller", "M001211", "marymiller.house.gov", "marymiller", "https://marymiller.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE\n\nWASHINGTON, D.C. \u2014 Congresswoman Mary Miller (IL-15) released the following statement on her vote for the Senate Amendment to H.R. 5371, which officially reopened the federal government:\n\n\u201cDemocrats spent more than 40 days inflicting unnecessary hardship on American families, veterans, and farmers in a desperate attempt to gain leverage for their radical agenda. I voted to reopen the government, put Americans first, and ensure Congress gets back to regular order,\u201d said Congresswoman Miller.\n\nThe continuing resolution delivers full-year funding for key appropriations bills, including Military Construction\u2013Veterans Affairs and Agriculture, Rural Development, FDA, and Related Agencies. The agriculture bill includes $4.5 million in community project funding that Congresswoman Miller secured for the Delbert Mundt Water Treatment Plant Expansion in Shelby County. This investment will modernize rural water infrastructure and ensure safe, reliable water for Illinois communities.\n\nThe agriculture bill also increases support for critical agricultural research and rural water programs, which were among Congresswoman Miller\u2019s key appropriations priorities.", 1, "2026-05-01T06:06:26Z", "2026-05-01T06:08:22Z"], ["https://bost.house.gov/2025/11/bost-votes-to-end-democrat-shutdown", "BOST VOTES TO END DEMOCRAT SHUTDOWN", "2025-11-12", "2025", "2025-11", "Republican", "House", "IL", "Mike Bost", "B001295", "bost.house.gov", "bost", "https://bost.house.gov/press-releases", "scraper", "\u201cWashington Democrats inflicted 43 days of pain on the American people just to score points with their political base. Their shutdown was senseless from the start, hurting working families, farmers, and veterans every step of the way,\" said Bost. \"The Republican-led agreement passed by the House today restores access to critical services and provides some certainty at a time when our constituents desperately need it. The People\u2019s House is open once again, and we owe it to them to act responsibly and not pull this country back over a cliff when funding expires in January.\u201d\n\nKey provisions in the Continuing Resolution include:\n\nA full year\u2019s funding for the Department of Veterans Affairs, the Department of Agriculture, and military construction\n\n$263.7 billion for mandatory veterans programs, including disability compensation, education benefits, and job training; additional funding ensures veterans healthcare and benefits will be fully funded\n\n$107.5 billion for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)\n\n$26.65 billion for agriculture and rural development programs\n\n$19.7 billion for military construction projects", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:52:45Z"], ["https://lahood.house.gov/2025/11/lahood-statement-on-ending-the-government-shutdown", "LaHood Statement on Ending the Government Shutdown", "2025-11-12", "2025", "2025-11", "Republican", "House", "IL", "Darin LaHood", "L000585", "lahood.house.gov", "lahood", "https://lahood.house.gov/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2013 Tonight, Congressman Darin LaHood (IL-16) issued the statement below following the House of Representatives' vote to reopen the government.\n\n\u201cIn September, I voted to avoid the Schumer Shutdown. Tonight, I proudly joined my colleagues in voting to put an end to it,\u201d said Rep. LaHood. \u201cWhile I'm glad a handful of Senate Democrats finally came to their senses and broke away from Chuck Schumer, this shutdown was entirely avoidable and went on far too long. Over the last 42 days our families have faced uncertainty, workers have gone unpaid, and our economy has been damaged all because Democrats wanted to use Americans' suffering as political leverage. I hope moving forward they recognize that this decision was reckless and grossly irresponsible. I look forward to picking up where we left off and continuing to deliver for the people of Illinois\u2019 16th District.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:52:45Z"], ["https://marymiller.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-miller-introduces-bill-requiring-military-academies-accept-classical", "Rep. Miller Introduces Bill Requiring Military Academies to Accept Classical Learning Test", "2025-11-10", "2025", "2025-11", "Republican", "House", "IL", "Mary E. Miller", "M001211", "marymiller.house.gov", "marymiller", "https://marymiller.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE\n\nWASHINGTON, D.C. \u2014 Congresswoman Mary Miller (IL-15) introduced the House companion to Senator Jim Banks\u2019 (R-IN) Promoting Classical Learning Act. This legislation would ensure America\u2019s service academies recognize the Classic Learning Test (CLT) as a standard for academic excellence. The bill codifies Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth\u2019s directive requiring the U.S. Military Academy, Naval Academy, Air Force Academy, Coast Guard Academy, and Merchant Marine Academy to accept the CLT for admissions.\n\nThe Promoting Classical Learning Act also mandates that federally operated secondary schools, including Department of Defense and Bureau of Indian Education schools, administer the CLT to all 11th-grade students. Currently, there are 161 Department of Defense schools nationwide.\n\n\u201cAmerica\u2019s service academies should represent the highest ideals of our nation\u2014courage, integrity, and intellect. The Classic Learning Test upholds those same ideals,\u201d said Congresswoman Miller. \u201cRequiring our military academies to accept the CLT will help cultivate a new generation of leaders who are not only exceptionally capable but deeply grounded in the principles that make America strong.\u201d\n\nFounded in 2015 by Jeremy Tate, the CLT was developed as an alternative to the SAT and ACT, providing a standardized assessment rooted in classical education. It evaluates reading, writing, and arithmetic using texts from great thinkers of Western and Christian traditions.\n\nIn May 2025, Secretary Hegseth announced his intention to direct the military academies to accept the CLT. In September, the Pentagon confirmed the CLT would be accepted beginning with the 2027 admissions cycle. The Promoting Classical Learning Act codifies this policy to ensure its permanence.", 1, "2026-04-04T05:28:40Z", "2026-04-04T05:30:10Z"], ["https://bost.house.gov/2025/11/illinois-congressional-republicans-urge-end-to-democrat-shutdown", "ILLINOIS CONGRESSIONAL REPUBLICANS URGE END TO DEMOCRAT SHUTDOWN", "2025-11-03", "2025", "2025-11", "Republican", "House", "IL", "Mike Bost", "B001295", "bost.house.gov", "bost", "https://bost.house.gov/press-releases", "scraper", "\"We proudly voted with our Republican colleagues on September 19th to keep the government open and protect vital services for hardworking families. Senate Democrats have had over a month to do the same, but instead they have chosen to hold the government hostage and use our families as political pawns to extort $1.5 trillion in far-left partisan spending. Their reckless obstruction is damaging Illinois\u2019 economy and putting nutrition benefits for Illinoisans at risk. It\u2019s time for Senators Durbin and Duckworth to end the political games and vote to pass the clean Continuing Resolution sitting in the Senate,\u201d said Reps. Bost, Miller, and LaHood.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:52:45Z"], ["https://lahood.house.gov/2025/10/illinois-congressional-republicans-urge-end-to-democrat-shutdown", "Illinois Congressional Republicans Urge End to Democrat Shutdown", "2025-10-30", "2025", "2025-10", "Republican", "House", "IL", "Darin LaHood", "L000585", "lahood.house.gov", "lahood", "https://lahood.house.gov/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2013 As the government shutdown reached its 30th day, U.S. Representatives Darin LaHood (IL-16), Mike Bost (IL-12), and Mary Miller (IL-15) released a joint statement urging Senate Democrats to reopen the federal government before key programs, including the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), experience a lapse in funding at month\u2019s end. Each week of the shutdown costs Illinois nearly $600 million in economic output, according to the President\u2019s Council of Economic Advisors.\n\n\u201cWe proudly voted with our Republican colleagues on September 19th to keep the government open and protect vital services for hardworking families. Senate Democrats have had over a month to do the same, but instead they have chosen to hold the government hostage and use our families as political pawns to extort $1.5 trillion in far-left partisan spending. Their reckless obstruction is damaging Illinois\u2019 economy and putting nutrition benefits for Illinoisans at risk. It\u2019s time for Senators Durbin and Duckworth to end the political games and vote to pass the clean Continuing Resolution sitting in the Senate.\u201d\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:32:54Z"], ["https://marymiller.house.gov/media/press-releases/illinois-congressional-republicans-urge-end-democrat-shutdown", "Illinois Congressional Republicans Urge End to Democrat Shutdown", "2025-10-30", "2025", "2025-10", "Republican", "House", "IL", "Mary E. Miller", "M001211", "marymiller.house.gov", "marymiller", "https://marymiller.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE\n\nWASHINGTON, D.C. \u2014 As the government shutdown reached its 30th day, U.S. Representatives Mary Miller (IL-15), Mike Bost (IL-12), and Darin LaHood (IL-16) issued a joint statement urging Senate Democrats to reopen the federal government before key programs, including the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), experience a lapse in funding at month\u2019s end. According to the President's Council of Economic Advisors, each week of the shutdown costs Illinois nearly $600 million in economic output.", 1, "2026-04-04T05:28:40Z", "2026-04-04T05:30:10Z"], ["https://lahood.house.gov/2025/10/lahood-applauds-stellantis-for-investment-in-belvidere-assembly-plant-and-illinois-workers", "LaHood Applauds Stellantis for Investment in Belvidere Assembly Plant and Illinois Workers", "2025-10-14", "2025", "2025-10", "Republican", "House", "IL", "Darin LaHood", "L000585", "lahood.house.gov", "lahood", "https://lahood.house.gov/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2013 Today, Congressman Darin LaHood (IL-16) released the following statement after Stellantis announced an investment of more than $600 million in the Belvidere Assembly Plant. This investment will create 3,300 new jobs and support two new vehicle lines to manufacture the Jeep Compass and the Jeep Cherokee.\n\n\u201cStellantis\u2019 announcement of a more than $600 million investment to reopen and expand production at the Belvidere Assembly Plant is excellent news for Belvidere and our state,\u201d said Rep. LaHood. \u201cThis tremendous investment will bring 3,300 new high-paying jobs to northern Illinois, providing more opportunities for Illinoisans, boosting our state\u2019s economy, and strengthening the future of American manufacturing. I thank President Trump and his administration for their support and focus on revitalizing American manufacturing. I look forward to working with the Administration, Stellantis, and Belvidere officials throughout this process.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:32:54Z"], ["https://lahood.house.gov/2025/10/lahood-statement-on-phase-one-of-the-israel-hamas-peace-deal", "LaHood Statement on Phase One of the Israel Hamas Peace Deal", "2025-10-09", "2025", "2025-10", "Republican", "House", "IL", "Darin LaHood", "L000585", "lahood.house.gov", "lahood", "https://lahood.house.gov/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2013 Congressman Darin LaHood (IL-16) released the following statement on Israel and Hamas agreeing to phase one of a peace deal:\n\n\"The announcement that Israel and Hamas have agreed to the first phase of a peace deal and the long-overdue release of all hostages marks a significant step towards stability in the region,\" said Rep. LaHood \u201cI am grateful for President Trump and Secretary Rubio\u2019s leadership and tireless efforts to negotiate this deal, once again proving that peace through strength is the most effective approach to foreign policy. We must continue to work with our allies to ensure that this agreement is upheld as we move towards lasting peace in the Middle East.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:32:54Z"], ["https://bost.house.gov/2025/10/government-shutdown-resources", "GOVERNMENT SHUTDOWN RESOURCES", "2025-10-01", "2025", "2025-10", "Republican", "House", "IL", "Mike Bost", "B001295", "bost.house.gov", "bost", "https://bost.house.gov/press-releases", "scraper", "As of October 1st, many federal operations have been shut down pending approval of a new government funding resolution. I appreciate Southern Illinois\u2019 frustrations with the shutdown and the uncertainties it brings. That\u2019s why I supported a House-passed funding package to keep the government running at current funding levels until November 21, 2025; however, the proposal did not pass the Senate.\n\nDespite the shutdown, our offices in Washington, D.C., Mascoutah, Murphysboro, and Effingham remain open to assist you. While many federal agencies may have slower response times and minimal staffing, we can still submit requests and advocate on your behalf.\n\nOur offices will not be able to process flag orders or arrange tours of the United States Capitol or other landmarks for constituents visiting Washington, D.C. While certain popular tourist sites, such as the Smithsonian museums, remain open in the early days of the shutdown, I encourage you to research online or contact the locations you\u2019re interested in directly to confirm accessibility.\n\nImpacts vary by agency. Visit the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) website and read below for more details.\n\nI am committed to keeping you informed about how the shutdown may affect your government services, and I will continue to do so throughout the process.\n\nSincerely,\n\nMike Bost\n\nHow did we get here?\n\nThe U.S. Congress must pass annual appropriations measures to fund federal government agencies by October 1st. On September 19th, I voted for a measure that passed the House of Representatives extending current federal funding until November 21st while we finish our work for the full fiscal year. This was a clean, straightforward extension of existing funding without extraneous policy.\n\nUnfortunately, this proposal did not pass the Senate. This means many federal agencies do not currently have the authority to operate. Other programs deemed essential are allowed by law to continue.\n\nWhat services will continue?\n\nWhile the programs listed below will continue, the agencies responsible for administering them may see reduced workforces impacting operations. This is not a comprehensive list as we are continuing to gather information.\n\nSocial Security payments, including SSI benefits\n\nMedicare and Medicaid benefits\n\nVA medical care and benefits (although some regional offices may be closed)\n\nSNAP benefits (although a prolonged shutdown could create disruptions)\n\nDisability payments\n\nMail delivery\n\nFederal law enforcement and military operations\n\nAir travel\n\nFederal employee retirement payments\n\nStudent aid such as Pell Grants and Federal Direct Student Loans\n\nVisits to national Smithsonian Museums (until at least Monday, October 6)\n\nVisa and passport services (although longer wait times are possible)\n\nResources for Federal Employees\n\nAs agencies shut down, federal employees will either be furloughed, or in some cases required to work without pay. Under federal law, employees are entitled to back pay upon the government reopening.\n\nOPM Operating Status\n\nOPM Shutdown Furlough Guidance\n\nThrift Savings Plan - Lapse in Appropriations", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:32:54Z"], ["https://marymiller.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-millers-legislation-would-reinstate-safety-regulations-dangerous-abortion", "Rep. Miller\u2019s Legislation Would Reinstate Safety Regulations on Dangerous Abortion Pill", "2025-09-26", "2025", "2025-09", "Republican", "House", "IL", "Mary E. Miller", "M001211", "marymiller.house.gov", "marymiller", "https://marymiller.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE\n\nWASHINGTON, D.C. \u2014 Congresswoman Mary Miller\u2019s (IL-15) Restoring Safeguards for Dangerous Abortion Drugs Act comes following Health and Human Services (HHS) Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr.\u2019s announcement of a new review of abortion pills such as mifepristone.\n\nThis legislation aims to reinstate in-person medical requirements for mifepristone. As the House companion to Senator Josh Hawley\u2019s (R-MO) measure, the bill would end the mail-order distribution of abortion drugs, which are now used in nearly two-thirds of all abortions in the United States.\n\nA landmark study, reviewing more than 865,000 chemical abortions, has revealed that the risks of the abortion pill are far greater than the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) admits. The study found that nearly 11% of women who take mifepristone suffer serious complications within 45 days, including sepsis, infection, hemorrhaging, or an emergency room visit. This complication rate is at least 22 times higher than the less than 0.5% adverse event rate listed on the FDA-approved drug label.\n\n\u201cChemical abortion drugs are dangerous, and women are suffering life-threatening complications because critical safeguards were recklessly removed,\u201d said Congresswoman Mary Miller. \u201cIt is time to restore commonsense protections, guarantee adequate medical care for women, and hold Big Abortion accountable for putting profit over safety.\u201d\n\nMifepristone was first approved by the Clinton administration in 2000 with strict safety protocols. In 2016, the Obama administration weakened these protections by reducing in-person doctor visits, eliminating the physician prescription requirement, and ending mandatory adverse event reporting. The Biden administration then went further, allowing the abortion pill to be prescribed through telehealth and shipped by mail\u2014leaving women to face serious complications without any medical supervision.\n\nThe Restoring Safeguards for Dangerous Abortion Drugs Act would:\n\nDirect the FDA to reinstate longstanding safeguards for mifepristone use, including prescription by physicians, in-person dispensing in a clinical setting, and in-person safety checkups.\n\nCreate a private right of action for women who suffer bodily injury or harm to mental health from their use of mifepristone to sue individuals and entities that mail the drug\u2014 including telehealth providers and pharmacies\u2014in federal or state court for damages.\n\nBan foreign companies from importing, mailing, or otherwise bringing mifepristone into the United States.\n\nCosponsors: Reps. Barry Moore (R-AL), Sheri Biggs (R-SC), Randy Weber (R-TX), and Pat Harrigan (R-NC).\n\nSupporting Organizations: American Family Project, American Principles Project, Eagle Forum, Moms for America, Students for Life, National Right to Life, Ethics and Religious Liberty Commission.", 1, "2026-04-04T05:28:40Z", "2026-04-04T05:30:10Z"], ["https://marymiller.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-mary-miller-introduces-constitutional-amendment-enshrine-parental-rights", "Rep. Mary Miller Introduces Constitutional Amendment to Enshrine Parental Rights", "2025-09-19", "2025", "2025-09", "Republican", "House", "IL", "Mary E. Miller", "M001211", "marymiller.house.gov", "marymiller", "https://marymiller.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE\n\nWASHINGTON, D.C. \u2014 Congresswoman Mary Miller (IL-15) introduced a constitutional amendment to permanently establish the God-given right of parents to direct the upbringing and education of their children.\n\n\"For too long, unelected bureaucrats and activist judges have trampled on the role of parents, treating them as obstacles instead of the primary protectors and decision-makers for their children. That must end,\u201d said Congresswoman Mary Miller. \u201cMy Parental Rights Amendment will enshrine this truth in the United States Constitution, ensuring once and for all that parents, not the government, hold the ultimate authority and responsibility for the upbringing, education, and care of their children.\"\n\nThe Parental Rights Amendment establishes:\n\nThe liberty of parents to direct the upbringing, education, and care of their children is a fundamental right;\n\nThe parental right to direct education includes the right to choose, as an alternative to public education, private, religious, or home schools, and the right to make reasonable choices within public schools for one's child;\n\nNeither the United States nor any state shall infringe upon these rights without demonstrating that its governmental interest as applied to the person is of the highest order and not otherwise served; and\n\nThe parental rights guaranteed by this amendment shall not be denied or abridged on account of disability.\n\nCosponsors: Reps. Sheri Biggs, Ashley Hinson, Mike Collins, Addison McDowell, Ben Cline, and Greg Steube.\n\nSupporting Organizations: Parental Rights Foundation, Concerned Women for America, Eagle Forum, Advance USA, Family Research Council, American Association of Christian Schools, Independent Women\u2019s Forum, Moms for America, Parents Defending Education, Military Families in Support of Parental Rights, Moms for Liberty, American Family Project, and Alliance Defending Freedom.", 1, "2026-04-04T05:28:40Z", "2026-04-04T05:30:10Z"], ["https://lahood.house.gov/2025/9/lahood-reintroduces-bipartisan-bicameral-legislation-to-designate-route-66-as-a-national-historic-trail", "LaHood Reintroduces Bipartisan, Bicameral Legislation to Designate Route 66 as a National Historic Trail", "2025-09-18", "2025", "2025-09", "Republican", "House", "IL", "Darin LaHood", "L000585", "lahood.house.gov", "lahood", "https://lahood.house.gov/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2013 Today, Congressman Darin LaHood (IL-16) reintroduced the Route 66 National Historic Trail Designation Act, alongside Congresswoman Teresa Leger Fern\u00e1ndez (NM-3), Senator Ted Cruz (R-TX), Senator Mark Kelly (D-AZ), Senator Alex Padilla, (D-CA), Senator Eric Schmitt (R-MO), and Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL). The bipartisan, bicameral legislation would designate Route 66 as a National Historic Trail, expanding economic and historic development opportunities for all communities and states along its route.\n\n\"From Main Street businesses to local tourism, Route 66 continues to be an engine of economic growth in Illinois' 16th Congressional District and beyond,\" said Congressman LaHood. \"The Mother Road connects America's heartland to the West, serving as a vital transportation artery for commerce and individuals alike. Designating Route 66 as a National Historic Trail will help rehabilitate and preserve this iconic highway, while supporting the economic wellbeing of communities along its route. As we prepare to celebrate the Route 66 Centennial, I am proud to join my colleagues in this effort to designate the highway as a National Historic Trail.\"\n\n\u201cFrom Tucumcari to Gallup, Route 66 runs through the heart of New Mexico, carrying with it the stories, cultures, and dreams of communities and travelers,\u201d said Congresswoman Teresa Leger Fern\u00e1ndez. \u201cThis legislation honors the legacy of the Mother Road while creating opportunities for economic development, cultural preservation, and tourism in rural and Tribal communities. From the siren song of the road, and the songs of the road (let\u2019s be honest, everyone reading this is now humming Get your kicks on Route 66,) we must preserve this history and beauty. The designation of Route 66 as a National Historic Trail will do just that.\u201d\n\n\u201cThe National Trust for Historic Preservation has long advocated for the preservation of historic Route 66 and we enthusiastically endorse the bipartisan and bicameral legislative effort to designate Route 66 as a national historic trail ahead of the upcoming Route 66 centennial celebration in 2026,\u201d said Pam Bowman, Senior Director of Public Lands Policy at the National Trust for Historic Preservation. \u201cThank you to Representative LaHood for his steadfast leadership and for championing this bill\u2014and to all the Senators and Representatives from across the eight Route 66 states for their dedication to the preservation of the corridor. Route 66 is an iconic symbol representing America\u2019s love of the open road with a rich history associated with Dustbowl migration, World War II, music, literature, television, movies, and popular lore, and we look forward to Congress approving this designation and celebrating this important route.\u201d\n\n\u201cAs Route 66 approaches its centennial, the Route 66 Road Ahead Partnership can think of no better birthday present for the road than to make it a National Historic Trail,\u201d said Road Ahead Partnership Chair Bill Thomas. \u201cWe commend the efforts of Congressman LaHood and Congresswoman Leger Fern\u00e1ndez in introducing legislation to accomplish this designation.\u201d\n\nBackground:\n\nRoute 66 was established in 1926 and spans roughly 2,400 miles across eight states, beginning in Chicago and ultimately ending in Santa Monica, California. In Illinois\u2019 16th Congressional District, the historic highway crosses through Grundy, Livingston, and McLean County.\n\nThe full text of the bill can be read HERE.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:10:29Z"], ["https://bost.house.gov/2025/9/bost-miller-lahood-introduce-resolution-honoring-illinois-native-charlie-kirk", "BOST, MILLER, LAHOOD INTRODUCE RESOLUTION HONORING ILLINOIS NATIVE CHARLIE KIRK", "2025-09-11", "2025", "2025-09", "Republican", "House", "IL", "Mike Bost", "B001295", "bost.house.gov", "bost", "https://bost.house.gov/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2014 U.S. Representative Mike Bost (IL-12) today joined U.S. Representatives Mary Miller (IL-15) and Darin LaHood (IL-18) in introducing a House resolution honoring the life and legacy of conservative leader and Illinois native Charlie Kirk.\n\n\u201cThe murder of Charlie Kirk is a tragic reminder of just how far our nation has spiraled from the days of political discourse to the depths of political violence,\u201d said Bost. \u201cCharlie was a native son of Illinois whose faith, love of family, and commitment to thoughtfully engaging young people in the political process will leave a lasting mark. I am humbled to join my Illinois Republican colleagues in introducing a House resolution honoring Charlie\u2019s life and legacy. My prayers go out to his wife, Erika, their two young children, and all who were impacted by this horrific attack.\u201d\n\n\u201cCharlie Kirk was more than a Conservative trailblazer, he was a devoted husband, a loving father, and a Martyr for Conservatism and Christianity,\u201d said Miller. \u201cAs a proud Illinois native, his courage inspired millions to stand boldly for their faith, to love America, and defend freedom. As we honor his legacy with this Congressional Resolution, we lift Erika and their children in prayer and recommit ourselves to advance the values he boldly championed.\u201d\n\n\"Charlie Kirk\u2019s murder was a despicable act of political violence,\u201d said LaHood. \u201cHe was a husband and father who did not deserve to die simply because of his political beliefs. Charlie dedicated his life to advocating for free speech, engaging in civil discourse, and investing in the next generation of Americans. I was proud to join my colleagues in the Illinois Delegation to introduce a resolution honoring his legacy and commitment to the bettering of America. My prayers remain with Charlie\u2019s family and loved ones in light of this tragedy.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:10:29Z"], ["https://lahood.house.gov/2025/9/lahood-miller-bost-introduce-congressional-resolution-honoring-the-legacy-of-charlie-kirk", "LaHood, Miller, Bost Introduce Congressional Resolution Honoring the Legacy of Charlie Kirk", "2025-09-11", "2025", "2025-09", "Republican", "House", "IL", "Darin LaHood", "L000585", "lahood.house.gov", "lahood", "https://lahood.house.gov/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2013 Today, Congressman Darin LaHood (IL-16) joined his fellow Illinois Republicans, Congresswoman Mary Miller (IL-15) and Congressman Mike Bost (IL-12), to introduce a Congressional Resolution denouncing the political killing and honoring the legacy of Illinois native and political activist, Charlie Kirk.\n\n\u201cCharlie Kirk\u2019s murder was a despicable act of political violence,\u201d said Congressman LaHood. \u201cHe was a husband and father who did not deserve to die simply because of his political beliefs. Charlie dedicated his life to advocating for free speech, engaging in civil discourse, and investing in the next generation of Americans. I was proud to join my colleagues in the Illinois Delegation to introduce a resolution honoring his legacy and commitment to the bettering of America. My prayers remain with Charlie\u2019s family and loved ones in light of this tragedy.\u201d \u201cCharlie Kirk was more than a Conservative trailblazer, he was a devoted husband, a loving father, and a Martyr for Conservatism and Christianity,\u201d said Congresswoman Miller. \u201cAs a proud Illinois native, his courage inspired millions to stand boldly for their faith, to love America, and defend freedom. As we honor his legacy with this Congressional Resolution, we lift Erika and their children in prayer and recommit ourselves to advancing the values he boldly championed.\u201d\u201cThe murder of Charlie Kirk is a tragic reminder of just how far our nation has spiraled from the days of political discourse to the depths of political violence,\u201d said Congressman Bost. \u201cCharlie was a native son of Illinois whose faith, love of family, and commitment to thoughtfully engaging young people in the political process will leave a lasting mark. I am humbled to join my Illinois Republican colleagues in introducing a House resolution honoring Charlie\u2019s life and legacy. My prayers go out to his wife, Erika, their two young children, and all who were impacted by this horrific attack.\u201d\n\nThe full resolution can be read HERE", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:10:29Z"], ["https://marymiller.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-miller-bost-lahood-introduce-congressional-resolution-honoring-illinois", "Rep. Miller, Bost, LaHood Introduce Congressional Resolution Honoring Illinois Native and American Martyr, Charlie Kirk", "2025-09-11", "2025", "2025-09", "Republican", "House", "IL", "Mary E. Miller", "M001211", "marymiller.house.gov", "marymiller", "https://marymiller.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE\n\nWASHINGTON, D.C. \u2014 Today, Congresswoman Mary Miller (IL-15), joined by Congressman Mike Bost (IL-12) and Congressman Darin LaHood (IL-16), introduced a Congressional Resolution condemning the assassination and honoring the life and legacy of Illinois native and American Martyr, Charlie Kirk.\n\n\u201cCharlie Kirk was more than a Conservative trailblazer, he was a devoted husband, a loving father, and a Martyr for Conservatism and Christianity,\u201d said Congresswoman Mary Miller. \u201cAs a proud Illinois native, his courage inspired millions to stand boldly for their faith, to love America, and defend freedom. As we honor his legacy with this Congressional Resolution, we lift Erika and their children in prayer and recommit ourselves to advancing the values he boldly championed.\u201d\n\n\u201cThe murder of Charlie Kirk is a tragic reminder of just how far our nation has spiraled from the days of political discourse to the depths of political violence,\u201d said Congressman Mike Bost. \u201cCharlie was a native son of Illinois whose faith, love of family, and commitment to thoughtfully engaging young people in the political process will leave a lasting mark. I am humbled to join my Illinois Republican colleagues in introducing a House resolution honoring Charlie\u2019s life and legacy. My prayers go out to his wife, Erika, their two young children, and all who were impacted by this horrific attack.\u201d\n\n\u201cCharlie Kirk\u2019s murder was a despicable act of political violence,\u201d said Congressman Darin LaHood. \u201cHe was a husband and father who did not deserve to die simply because of his political beliefs. Charlie dedicated his life to advocating for free speech, engaging in civil discourse, and investing in the next generation of Americans. I was proud to join my colleagues in the Illinois Delegation to introduce a resolution honoring his legacy and commitment to the bettering of America. My prayers remain with Charlie\u2019s family and loved ones in light of this tragedy.\u201d", 1, "2026-04-04T05:28:40Z", "2026-04-04T05:30:10Z"], ["https://marymiller.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-miller-introduces-bill-crack-down-sanctuary-states-issuing-cdl-licenses", "Rep. Miller Introduces Bill to Crack Down on Sanctuary States Issuing CDL Licenses to Illegal Aliens", "2025-09-11", "2025", "2025-09", "Republican", "House", "IL", "Mary E. Miller", "M001211", "marymiller.house.gov", "marymiller", "https://marymiller.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE\n\nWASHINGTON, D.C. \u2014 Today, Congresswoman Mary Miller (IL-15) introduced the SAFE Driving Laws Act, legislation to stop sanctuary states from granting driver\u2019s licenses, including Commercial Driver\u2019s Licenses (CDLs), to illegal aliens. The bill ensures that sanctuary states issuing licenses to illegals will face a strict penalty that includes the loss of federal transportation funds.\n\n\u201cSanctuary states like Illinois are gambling with American lives by handing out driver\u2019s licenses and CDLs to illegal aliens,\u201d said Congresswoman Mary Miller. \u201cIt\u2019s a dangerous, irresponsible policy that puts innocent Americans in grave danger. My bill will ensure that these states comply or risk losing federal funding.\u201d\n\nSpecifically, the legislation:\n\nWithholds federal transportation funds from states that issue licenses to illegal aliens or fail to share criminal alien information with federal authorities.\n\nTargets key funding streams by cutting 50% of allocations from the National Highway Performance Program and the Surface Transportation Block Grant Program for non-compliant states.\n\nClarifies accountability by making states, not the federal government, solely responsible for CDLs issued within their borders.\n\nRequires transparency by directing the Secretaries of the Departments of Homeland Security and Transportation to maintain a public compliance database tracking each state.\n\nUnder the bill, states must come into compliance by the beginning of FY27 or face funding cuts every fiscal year thereafter.\n\nClick here to read more about the bill on Fox News.", 1, "2026-04-04T05:28:40Z", "2026-04-04T05:30:10Z"], ["https://lahood.house.gov/2025/9/lahood-statement-on-the-murder-of-charlie-kirk", "LaHood Statement on the Murder of Charlie Kirk", "2025-09-10", "2025", "2025-09", "Republican", "House", "IL", "Darin LaHood", "L000585", "lahood.house.gov", "lahood", "https://lahood.house.gov/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2013 Congressman Darin LaHood (IL-16) released the following statement on the murder of Charlie Kirk and rise of political violence:\n\n\"The murder of Charlie Kirk was a heinous act of political violence that has become too common in our country. We must ensure the perpetrator is caught and held fully accountable for this horrific crime.\n\n\u201cCharlie was a husband and father to two young children before anything else. He did not deserve to die because of his ideological views. Elected officials, the media, and we as Americans must hold ourselves to a higher standard and work to ease the political tensions that have embroiled our nation. My prayers remain with Charlie's family and loved ones in light of this tragedy.\"", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:10:29Z"], ["https://lahood.house.gov/2025/9/lahood-beyer-introduce-bipartisan-bill-to-protect-victims-of-fraud-from-irs-delays", "LaHood, Beyer Introduce Bipartisan Bill to Protect Victims of Fraud from IRS Delays", "2025-09-05", "2025", "2025-09", "Republican", "House", "IL", "Darin LaHood", "L000585", "lahood.house.gov", "lahood", "https://lahood.house.gov/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2013 Today, Congressmen Darin LaHood (IL-16) and Don Beyer (VA-08) introduced the Federal Receivership Fairness Act. This bipartisan bill will expedite IRS procedures to ensure victims of Ponzi Schemes and other fraud receive compensation in a timely manner. \u201cVictims of fraud should not be forced to wait through a multi-year bureaucratic process before receiving compensation,\u201d said Rep. LaHood. \u201cThe bipartisan Federal Receivership Fairness Act will cut through red tape at the IRS to ensure receivership proceedings move quickly and victims are made whole. I\u2019m grateful to Congressman Beyer for joining me in introducing this commonsense bill.\u201d \u201cThis legislation would provide desperately needed relief for victims of fraud who often must wait years to receive the compensation they are entitled to for no good reason,\u201d said Rep. Beyer. \u201cThe Federal Receivership Fairness Act would establish an orderly and efficient process to expedite the distribution of funds and help get victims back onto their feet. I appreciate Rep. LaHood\u2019s leadership on this bill and look forward to working together to see it passed into law.\u201d \"The National Association of Federal Equity Receivers (NAFER) strongly supports this long-overdue legislation that protects fraud victims from being harmed twice by establishing a fair and expedited court process to prevent lengthy IRS delays from blocking timely distribution of funds in receivership proceedings,\" said Kathy Bazoian Phelps, President of NAFER.\n\nBackground:\n\nReceivers are court-appointed agents who are given legal control over properties and businesses, often in cases of fraud or other financial mismanagement.\n\nWhen these cases occur, receivers are responsible for selling assets to compensate victims and creditors.\n\nReceiverships are also required to pay outstanding taxes owed to the federal government \u2013 unfortunately, it can take several years for the IRS to determine what is actually owed.\n\nThis differs from bankruptcy proceedings, where the IRS is required to determine tax liability within just 180 days.\n\nThe Federal Receivership Fairness Act will correct this bureaucratic unfairness by requiring the IRS to determine receivership tax liability within 180 days \u2013 ensuring victims of fraud can receive compensation as quickly as possible.\n\nThe legislation is supported by the National Association of Federal Equity Receivers (NAFER), the National Association of Bankruptcy Trustees (NABT), the Turnaround Management Association (TMA), and the Public Investors Advocate Bar Association (PIABA)\n\nRead the full text of the legislation HERE.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:10:29Z"], ["https://marymiller.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-miller-senator-banks-cotton-introduces-bill-protect-children-united-states", "Rep. Miller, Senator Banks, Cotton Introduces Bill to Protect Children in the United States", "2025-09-03", "2025", "2025-09", "Republican", "House", "IL", "Mary E. Miller", "M001211", "marymiller.house.gov", "marymiller", "https://marymiller.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE\n\nWASHINGTON, D.C. \u2014 Today, Congresswoman Mary Miller (IL-15) introduced the Empower Parents to Protect Their Kids Act. This bill prohibits K\u201312 schools from concealing or supporting a student\u2019s adoption of an identity that does not align with their biological sex. The bill also grants parents the right to sue school districts that violate this Act by withholding information about their child. Senators Jim Banks (R-Ind.) and Tom Cotton (R-Ark.) introduced the bill in the Senate.\n\n\u201cParents have the God-given right and duty to raise their children without being deceived by extremists in public education,\u201d said Congresswoman Mary Miller. \u201cWe must end the radical gender ideologies being pushed on our children and give parents the power to fight back.\u201d\n\n\u201cParents should never be kept in the dark about their own kids,\u201d said Senator Jim Banks. \u201cThis bill makes sure schools can\u2019t push radical gender ideology behind parents\u2019 backs and puts families back in charge where they belong.\u201d\n\n\u201cSchools should never be allowed to impose radical, harmful ideologies on children \u2013 especially without their parents\u2019 consent,\u201d said Senator Tom Cotton. \u201cOur bill protects students and ensures parents are in control of their children\u2019s education. Schools should remain institutions of education, not a place for radical liberal propaganda.\u201d\n\nKey Provisions of the Empower Parents to Protect Their Kids Act are:\n\nPrevents K-12 schools from hiding or facilitating a child\u2019s adoption of an identity that is incongruent with their sex.\n\nEmpowers parents to sue school districts that violate this Act by withholding information about their child.\n\nBans school employees from providing any accommodation to affirm the purported identity unless the employees have express parental consent to do so.\n\nPrevents school employees from withholding and encouraging children to withhold information from their parents about their discomfort with their sex.\n\nIncludes a rule of construction to ensure that school employees who contact legal authorities about an imminent threat to a student\u2019s physical safety are protected.\n\nBackground:\n\nAcross the U.S., over 1,200 school districts have policies that tell staff to withhold information from parents if a child expresses gender discomfort, according to Defending Education. This violates long-established parental rights upheld by the Supreme Court. Parents deserve the right to take legal action when schools interfere with raising their children.\n\nOn January 29, 2025, President Trump signed Executive Order #14191 to enforce parental rights in federally funded K-12 education.\n\nRep. Mary Miller cosponsored the Empower Parents to Protect Their Kids Act in 2023.\n\nSupporting Organizations: Family Research Council, American Principles Project, Family Policy Alliance, Eagle Forum, Advance USA, Moms for America, American Family Project, Parents Defending Education, and Family Policy Alliance.\n\nHouse Cosponsors: Reps. Anna Paulina Luna, Sheri Biggs, Keith Self, Lauren Boebert, Pat Harrigan, Barry Moore, Diana Harshbarger, Elise Stefanik, and Nancy Mace.\n\nSenate Cosponsors: Senators Roger Marshall, Rick Scott, Tommy Tuberville, and Marsha Blackburn.", 1, "2026-04-04T05:28:40Z", "2026-04-04T05:30:10Z"], ["https://marymiller.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-miller-introduces-measure-strengthen-title-ix-protections", "Rep. Miller Introduces Measure to Strengthen Title IX Protections", "2025-08-26", "2025", "2025-08", "Republican", "House", "IL", "Mary E. Miller", "M001211", "marymiller.house.gov", "marymiller", "https://marymiller.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE\n\nWASHINGTON, D.C. \u2014 Today, Congresswoman Mary Miller (IL-15) reintroduced the Safety and Opportunity for Girls Act to protect women's sports, spaces, and locker rooms on the 105th anniversary of the certification of the 19th Amendment.\n\nThe legislation reaffirms Title IX\u2019s original intent by clearly defining sex as \u201cmale\u201d and \u201cfemale\u201d as biologically determined. This ensures Title IX cannot be reinterpreted by radical leftists or activist judges to erase women\u2019s opportunities, fairness, or privacy.\n\nThe bill further clarifies that Title IX allows schools to maintain sex-segregated bathrooms, locker rooms, and athletic or academic programs, and it prevents the Department of Education from stripping funding from schools that uphold biological truth.\n\n\u201cThe Left is erasing decades of progress for women by forcing girls to compete and share private spaces with men. We cannot let this continue,\u201d said Congresswoman Mary Miller. \u201cOn the 105th anniversary of the certification of the 19th Amendment, my bill will secure Title IX\u2019s original purpose of protecting biological girls\u2019 sports, privacy, and opportunities.\u201d\n\nCurrent Cosponsors: Reps. Nancy Mace, Diana Harshbarger, Ben Cline, Tim Burchett, Lauren Boebert, Glenn Grothman, and Sheri Biggs.\n\nSupporting Organizations: Concerned Women for America, Moms for America, American Principles Project, Moms for Liberty, Parents Defending Education, Family Research Council, and Family Policy Alliance.", 1, "2026-04-04T05:28:40Z", "2026-04-04T05:30:10Z"], ["https://bost.house.gov/2025/8/bost-announces-300-000-hhs-grant-to-support-lawrence-county-opioid-response-efforts", "BOST ANNOUNCES $300,000 HHS GRANT TO SUPPORT LAWRENCE COUNTY OPIOID RESPONSE EFFORTS", "2025-08-18", "2025", "2025-08", "Republican", "House", "IL", "Mike Bost", "B001295", "bost.house.gov", "bost", "https://bost.house.gov/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2014 U.S. Representative Mike Bost (IL-12) today announced a $300,000 grant from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services to Lawrence County. The funding, awarded through the Rural Communities Opioid Response Program, will be used to strengthen overdose response efforts in the region.\n\n\u201cFar too many families in Southern Illinois have felt the devastating impact of the opioid crisis,\u201d said Bost. \u201cThis funding will help Lawrence County expand its response efforts, save lives, and provide much-needed resources to combat addiction in our communities.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T14:57:50Z"], ["https://marymiller.house.gov/media/press-releases/breaking-rep-miller-introduces-bill-combating-illinois-law-requiring-student", "BREAKING: Rep. Miller Introduces Bill Combating Illinois Law Requiring Student Mental Health Screenings", "2025-08-15", "2025", "2025-08", "Republican", "House", "IL", "Mary E. Miller", "M001211", "marymiller.house.gov", "marymiller", "https://marymiller.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE\n\nWASHINGTON, D.C. \u2014 Today, Congresswoman Mary Miller (IL-15) reintroduced the Parents Opt-In Protection Act to protect parental rights and combat Illinois\u2019 new mandate for student mental health screenings.\n\nCongresswoman Miller\u2019s bill requires prior written consent from a parent or the student (if an adult or emancipated minor) before any school survey on sensitive personal information can be administered.\n\n\u201cJ.B. Pritzker\u2019s plan to impose invasive \u2018mental health screenings\u2019 on kids, forcing parents to jump through hoops to opt out, is ridiculous and unacceptable,\u201d said Congresswoman Mary Miller. \u201cMy bill will put parents back in charge by requiring written consent before these screenings happen.\u201d\n\nOn July 31, Illinois Governor J.B. Pritzker signed SB1560 into law, and it will go into effect in the 2027-2028 school year. Rep. Miller's bill would give parents and students a clear way to stop the screenings before they happen, instead of navigating burdensome opt-out processes.\n\nCurrent Cosponsors: Reps. Michael Cloud, Andy Harris, Lauren Boebert, Keith Self, Russ Fulcher, Diana Harshbarger, Brian Babin, Clay Higgins, and Eric Burlison.\n\nSupporting Organizations: American Principles Project, Parents Defending Education, Moms for America, Parental Rights Foundation, Family Research Council, Eagle Forum, Concerned Women for America, Alliance Defending Freedom, and Independent Women\u2019s Forum.", 1, "2026-04-04T05:28:40Z", "2026-04-04T05:30:10Z"], ["https://bost.house.gov/2025/8/bost-responds-to-results-of-st-louis-postal-processing-center-audit", "BOST RESPONDS TO RESULTS OF ST. LOUIS POSTAL PROCESSING CENTER AUDIT", "2025-08-14", "2025", "2025-08", "Republican", "House", "IL", "Mike Bost", "B001295", "bost.house.gov", "bost", "https://bost.house.gov/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2014 U.S. Representative Mike Bost (IL-12) highlighted the results of an audit released today by the U.S. Postal Service Office of the Inspector General of the St. Louis and Hazelton, Missouri, processing and distribution facilities serving Southern Illinois. The independent report confirmed widespread problems that have fueled months of delivery delays, lost packages, and substandard service impacting local families, small businesses, and municipalities.\n\n\u201cThe simmering frustrations of people in my district have been validated with today\u2019s report,\u201d said Bost. \u201cI appealed to the U.S. Postal Service for an audit of the St. Louis postal processing center because Southern Illinoisans have faced service failures, late utility bills, missed medications, and lost family documents for far too long. I\u2019m thankful the Trump administration conducted the audit, identified the problems, and demanded accountability. It is past time to fix these staffing shortages, hold supervisors accountable, and get the machines in top working order.\u201d\n\nThe Inspector General\u2019s report included 12 recommendations, from filling vacant positions and improving supervisor oversight to fixing dock congestion and enforcing proper handling of registered mail, that USPS must implement to restore timely, reliable service. The Postal Service has agreed to implement all 12 recommendations by January of next year.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T14:57:50Z"], ["https://lahood.house.gov/2025/8/lahood-hosts-roundtable-on-tax-provisions-in-the-one-big-beautiful-bill-act", "LaHood Hosts Roundtable on Tax Provisions in the One Big Beautiful Bill Act", "2025-08-01", "2025", "2025-08", "Republican", "House", "IL", "Darin LaHood", "L000585", "lahood.house.gov", "lahood", "https://lahood.house.gov/press-releases", "scraper", "Peoria, Illinois \u2013 Congressman Darin LaHood (IL-16) \u2013 a member of the House Committee on Ways and Means \u2013 hosted a roundtable focused on the tax provisions in the One Big Beautiful Bill Act alongside the U.S. Chamber of Commerce and the McLean County Chamber of Commerce.\n\n\u201cWith the passage of the One Big Beautiful Bill Act, Republicans created predictability and certainty in our tax code by permanently extending the 199A deduction, full research and development expensing, and business interest deductions,\u201d said Rep. LaHood. \u201cThroughout the drafting process, I was proud to champion policies that would benefit Illinois\u2019 16th Congressional District including the expansion of the affordable housing tax credit and the extension of the 45Z biofuels tax credit. Through deregulation, promoting fair trade deals, and providing certainty in our tax code, Congressional Republicans and President Trump are delivering for our economy while creating an environment that allows workers, businesses, and investors to thrive.\u201d\n\n\"The U.S. Chamber extends its gratitude to Congressman LaHood for his leadership in advocating for legislation that supports a competitive tax code, which in turn expands opportunities for small businesses and workers in Illinois and across the country,\u201d said Kevin Courtois, Vice President, Great Lakes Region at the U.S. Chamber of Commerce. \u201cBy supporting pro-growth policies, Congressman LaHood is helping to build a stronger, more resilient economy that benefits all Americans.\u201d\n\n\u201cOur members appreciated the opportunity to have dialogue with Congressman LaHood about the importance of pro-growth, pro-business tax policy,\u201d said Charlie Moore, President and CEO of the McLean County Chamber of Commerce. \u201cWe are grateful for his leadership in advocating for a competitive business tax environment that allows our members to invest in the future of their businesses, employees, and our local communities.\u201d\n\nBackground:\n\nJoining Rep. LaHood at the roundtable were U.S. Chamber of Commerce Vice President of the Great Lakes Region Kevin Courtois, McLean County Chamber of Commerce, and local business owners.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T14:57:50Z"], ["https://lahood.house.gov/2025/8/lahood-visits-all-world-machinery-to-highlight-impact-of-one-big-beautiful-bill", "LaHood Visits All World Machinery to Highlight Impact of One Big Beautiful Bill", "2025-08-01", "2025", "2025-08", "Republican", "House", "IL", "Darin LaHood", "L000585", "lahood.house.gov", "lahood", "https://lahood.house.gov/press-releases", "scraper", "Roscoe, Illinois \u2013 Congressman Darin LaHood (IL-16) toured All World Machinery to hear about the positive impacts that the One Big Beautiful Bill Act will have on their manufacturing production.\n\n\u201cThe One Big Beautiful Bill Act delivers real, tangible benefits for American manufacturing\u2014especially right here in Illinois\u2019 16th Congressional District,\u201d said Rep. LaHood. \u201cIt was great to tour All World Machinery to hear directly from company leadership about the importance of complete expensing for research and development and the positive impact the extension of the 199A small business tax credit will have on their company. This generational investment in the manufacturing industry is a strong step in the right direction towards revitalization and the protection of high-paying jobs in central and northwest Illinois.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T14:57:50Z"], ["https://bost.house.gov/2025/7/bost-joins-president-trump-at-white-house-for-va-home-loan-bill-signing", "BOST JOINS PRESIDENT TRUMP AT WHITE HOUSE FOR VA HOME LOAN BILL SIGNING", "2025-07-30", "2025", "2025-07", "Republican", "House", "IL", "Mike Bost", "B001295", "bost.house.gov", "bost", "https://bost.house.gov/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, DC \u2013 U.S. Representative Mike Bost (IL-12) joined President Trump at the White House today for a bill signing ceremony for the VA Home Loan Program Reform Act. The new law, a priority for Bost as chairman of the House Veterans\u2019 Affairs Committee, creates a VA partial claim program empowering veterans who have fallen behind on their mortgages to receive federal assistance through other available federal housing programs.\n\n!\n\n\u201cIt was an honor to stand by President Trump\u2019s side at the White House this afternoon as he signed important legislation into law providing our veterans a lifeline to keep their homes and avoid foreclosure when suffering financial hardship,\u201d said Bost. \u201cThe VA Home Loan Program Reform Act will modernize the VA Home Loan to meet veterans\u2019 needs and reduce the risk of veteran homelessness. I was proud to help lead the fight to get this important legislation to President Trump\u2019s desk.\u201d\n\n!\n\nH.R. 1815, the VA Home Loan Program Reform Act, is supported by a number of key stakeholders including: Mortgage Bankers Association, Rocket, National Association of Realtors (NAR), Freedom Mortgage, National Association of Mortgage Brokers (NAMB), Lyft, Mission Roll Call, New England Center and Home for Veterans (NECHV), National Coalition for Homeless Veterans (NCHV), Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW), and The American Legion.\n\n!\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T14:40:33Z"], ["https://lahood.house.gov/2025/7/lahood-colleagues-praise-trump-administration-for-trade-deal-with-the-eu", "LaHood, Colleagues Praise Trump Administration for Trade Deal with the EU", "2025-07-30", "2025", "2025-07", "Republican", "House", "IL", "Darin LaHood", "L000585", "lahood.house.gov", "lahood", "https://lahood.house.gov/press-releases", "scraper", "Peoria, Illinois \u2013 Today, Congressman Darin LaHood (IL-16) \u2013 Co-Chair of the Digital Trade Caucus \u2013 led a letter alongside his colleagues to President Trump, congratulating him on reaching a landmark deal with the European Union (EU) and asking him to continue holding the EU accountable to its commitments in addressing its discriminatory digital trade policies.\n\nThe current trade negotiations offer an opportunity to counter the EU\u2019s unfair treatment of American firms and establish a level playing field.\n\n\u201cThe current trade negotiations provide a historic moment to stand up against the EU\u2019s unfair treatment of American firms and establish a level playing field,\u201d the lawmakers wrote. \u201cWe strongly support comprehensive commitments that ensure the EU addresses its existing discriminatory laws and refrains from imposing similar measures in the future. Otherwise, the EU will simply replace existing policies with new laws that disadvantage American companies.\u201d\n\nThe full text of the letter can be found here and below:\n\nDear President Trump:\n\nWe write to congratulate you on reaching a landmark deal with the European Union (EU) and to express our support for your efforts in addressing the EU\u2019s discriminatory digital policies. During this administration\u2019s ongoing trade negotiations, we encourage you to hold the EU to its commitment in addressing its digital trade barriers by eliminating discriminatory features of laws like the Digital Markets Act (DMA) and refraining from enacting similar discriminatory laws in the future, such as the EU Space Act.\n\nThe EU continues to target American innovators with extortionate and extraterritorial taxes, regulations, and fines, many of which were rightfully identified in your presidential memorandum on \u201cDefending American Companies and Innovators from Overseas Extortion and Unfair Fines and Penalties.\u201d Laws like the DMA, the Digital Services Act, and the Data Act are scoped to almost entirely capture American companies while leaving their European competitors untouched. They empower European regulators to make arbitrary and unreasonable compliance demands and then issue abusive fines that are completely divorced from any alleged harm. Perhaps most concerning is that by shutting out U.S. companies, Europe is simply opening its doors to Chinese technology and infrastructure.\n\nIt is widely understood within Europe and by outside observers that Europe\u2019s regulatory experiment has been an abject failure. Europe\u2019s overregulation and attempt to spur domestic technology champions by restricting and taxing American technology companies has resulted in a less competitive and innovative society. Reversing the status quo of overregulation is clearly in the best interest of both the United States and Europe.\n\nUnfortunately, the lack of strong U.S. government leadership during the Biden administration gave the EU and member states like Germany the green light to target American innovators, and it has empowered other governments to consider similar policies, including Australia, Brazil, India, Japan, Korea, Singapore, Turkey, the United Kingdom and others. Your recent success in eliminating Canada\u2019s discriminatory digital services tax shows what can happen with strong leadership and demonstrates to foreign governments that this administration will not sit idly by as they extort American companies.\n\nThe current trade negotiations provide a historic moment to stand up against the EU\u2019s unfair treatment of American firms and establish a level playing field. We strongly support comprehensive commitments that ensure the EU addresses its existing discriminatory laws and refrains from imposing similar measures in the future. Otherwise, the EU will simply replace existing policies with new laws that disadvantage American companies. Thank you for your leadership. We stand ready to support you in these efforts.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T14:40:33Z"], ["https://marymiller.house.gov/media/press-releases/breaking-rep-miller-joins-senator-hawley-effort-ban-chinese-ownership-american", "BREAKING: Rep. Miller Joins Senator Hawley in Effort to Ban Chinese Ownership of American Land", "2025-07-24", "2025", "2025-07", "Republican", "House", "IL", "Mary E. Miller", "M001211", "marymiller.house.gov", "marymiller", "https://marymiller.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE\n\nWASHINGTON, D.C. \u2014 Congresswoman Mary Miller (IL-15) introduced the House companion to Senator Josh Hawley\u2019s (R-MO) Protecting Our Farms and Homes from China Act. This legislation would ban Chinese corporations and individuals affiliated with the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) from purchasing American agricultural land and residential property.\n\nThis effort comes in direct response to growing concerns over the CCP\u2019s aggressive campaign to acquire U.S. farmland and real estate. According to the United States Department of Agriculture, Chinese entities own around 265,000 acres of agricultural land across the country.\n\n\u201cPrized American land is not for sale to our enemies,\u201d said Congresswoman Mary Miller. \u201cThe Chinese Communist Party is the greatest threat to our national security, and their aggressive push to buy up our farmland and homes is a direct attack on our sovereignty. It\u2019s long past time we take back control and put America\u2019s food supply and communities back in American hands \u2014 where they belong.\u201d\n\nThe legislation aligns with President Trump\u2019s recently announced National Farm Security Action Plan, a bold initiative led by the U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke L. Rollins alongside U.S. Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth, U.S. Attorney General Pam Bondi, and U.S. Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem to safeguard American agriculture and prevent foreign adversaries from exploiting American land and resources.\n\nThe Protecting Our Farms and Homes from China Act would:\n\nProhibit Chinese corporations and individuals affiliated with the CCP from acquiring or leasing United States\u2019 agricultural land;\n\nProhibit Chinese corporations and individuals associated with the CCP from purchasing residential real estate in the United States for a period of at least two years, with an option for the President to renew the prohibition biennially;\n\nRequire Chinese corporations and individuals affiliated with the CCP to divest ownership of United States\u2019 agricultural land and residential real estate within one year.\n\nEstablish civil fines and criminal penalties for noncompliance, including forfeiture.", 1, "2026-04-04T05:28:40Z", "2026-04-04T05:30:10Z"], ["https://bost.house.gov/2025/7/bost-announces-upgrades-for-marion-st-louis-va-facilities", "BOST ANNOUNCES UPGRADES FOR MARION, ST. LOUIS VA FACILITIES", "2025-07-23", "2025", "2025-07", "Republican", "House", "IL", "Mike Bost", "B001295", "bost.house.gov", "bost", "https://bost.house.gov/press-releases", "scraper", "\u201cSouthern Illinois veterans deserve the highest standard of support,\u201d said Bost. \u201cThese upgrades can make a life-changing difference for veterans in need of cutting-edge care. As Chairman of the House Veteran Affairs\u2019 Committee, I\u2019ll continue working closely with the Trump administration to get our local VA facilities the resources they need to serve those who served our country.\u201d\n\n\u201cThis is another step forward in our efforts to make VA work better for the veterans, families, caregivers, and survivors we are charged with serving,\u201d said VA Secretary Doug Collins. \u201cImproved facilities, equipment, and infrastructure means better care for veterans, and these additional funds will help us achieve that goal.\u201d\n\nMarion VA Medical Center upgrades include:\n\nRenovating patient privacy and intensive care unit\n\nRenovating room for new Spect CT machine\n\nRelocating endoscopy unit\n\nUpgrading electronic health records system\n\nJohn Cochrane Veterans Hospital upgrades include:\n\nCreating a new GI anesthesia procedure room\n\nConducting hazardous material abatements\n\nRepairing the energy plant cooling tower\n\nConducting electrical testing, maintenance, and repairs\n\n!\n\nJefferson Barracks upgrades include:\n\nEstablishing an emergency medical surgical ward\n\nConducting hazardous material abatements\n\nUpgrading infrastructure of the data center\n\nCorrecting campus features and safety issues\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T14:40:33Z"], ["https://lahood.house.gov/2025/7/lahood-illinois-congressional-delegation-introduce-legislation-to-rename-va-clinic-after-civil-war-medal-of-honor-recipient", "LaHood, Illinois Congressional Delegation Introduce Legislation to Rename VA Clinic After Civil War Medal of Honor Recipient", "2025-07-23", "2025", "2025-07", "Republican", "House", "IL", "Darin LaHood", "L000585", "lahood.house.gov", "lahood", "https://lahood.house.gov/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2013 Today Congressman Darin LaHood (IL-16), with the support of the entire Illinois Congressional Delegation, introduced legislation to rename the Department of Veterans Affairs clinic in Bloomington, Illinois, as the \u201cAndrew Jackson Smith Medal of Honor Department of Veterans Affairs Clinic.\u201d\n\n\u201cCorporal Andrew Jackson Smith served our nation with pride alongside fellow Union soldiers during the Civil War,\u201d said Rep. LaHood. \u201cI am proud to introduce legislation alongside the entire Illinois Congressional Delegation to rename the Department of Veterans Affairs community-based outpatient clinic in Bloomington in his honor. This clinic provides important primary care and specialty health services to our veterans. Renaming the facility will serve as a humble reminder of the sacrifice made by those who defend our country. Together, the Illinois delegation is honored to recognize his immense dedication and service to our nation.\u201d\n\nBackground:\n\nAndrew Jackson Smith was the last African American Civil War soldier to receive the Medal of Honor. He was born into slavery, but he escaped and arrived at a Union Army encampment. Smith became a member of the 41st Illinois Volunteer Regiment. After President Lincoln\u2019s decision to allow enslaved African American men to fight for the Union, he enlisted with the 55th Massachusetts Colored Volunteers.\n\nThe regiment deployed to South Carolina, where Smith distinguished himself by saving his regimental colors after the color bearer was killed during a bloody charge at the Battle of Honey Hill.\n\nIn 2001, 137 years after the Battle of Honey Hill, President Bill Clinton presented Andrew Jackson Smith\u2019s descendants with a posthumous Medal of Honor in an official ceremony at the White House.\n\nRead the full text of the legislation HERE.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T14:40:33Z"], ["https://lahood.house.gov/2025/7/lahood-applauds-american-peace-through-strength-priorities", "LaHood Applauds American Peace Through Strength Priorities", "2025-07-21", "2025", "2025-07", "Republican", "House", "IL", "Darin LaHood", "L000585", "lahood.house.gov", "lahood", "https://lahood.house.gov/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2013 Congressman Darin LaHood (IL-16) \u2013 a member of the House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence \u2013 praised the passage of the Fiscal Year 2026 Department of Defense Appropriations Act to invest in America\u2019s military superiority.\n\nTo further show Rep. LaHood\u2019s commitment to strengthening U.S. national security, Rep. LaHood voiced his support for a piece of standalone legislation, the Sanctioning Russia Act of 2025, targeting Russia\u2019s unprovoked aggression in Ukraine.\n\n\u201cTo confront the generational threat posed by our foreign adversaries, the United States must invest in our military and enforce substantive mechanisms to deter further aggression,\u201d said Rep. LaHood. \u201cI am proud to support the FY 2026 Defense Appropriations Act to deliver critical resources to our armed forces and maintain our strategic advantage.\n\n\u201cThe United States must stand firmly with our allies and send a clear message that aggression will not go unpunished. To advance Republicans' Peace Through Strength agenda, I am proud to co-sponsor Rep. Brian Fitzpatrick\u2019s Sanctioning Russia Act of 2025 to hold Putin accountable for his unprovoked and brutal aggression against Ukraine. I look forward to working with my colleagues on a bipartisan basis to bolster our national security.\u201d\n\nBackground:\n\nThe Fiscal Year 2026 Department of Defense Appropriations Act invests in America\u2019s military superiority, protects against threats from the United States' southern border, and supports our service members and their families.\n\nRecent use of drones in the Ukraine-Russia conflict has highlighted the urgency of accelerated research to counter Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) to protect U.S. forces in combat. Rep. LaHood's amendment would provide an increase in funding for UAS research and development.\n\nKey takeaways from the Fiscal Year 2026 Department of Defense Appropriations Act:\n\nChampions America\u2019s military superiority by investing in our aircraft, submarines, and shipbuilding;\n\nSupports our service members and their families by increasing pay for military personnel; and\n\nCombats international actors who facilitate drug trafficking and manufacturing.\n\nIf Russia continues to refuse to engage in good-faith negotiations to end the war in Ukraine, Rep. LaHood supports sanctions against the country. The Sanctioning Russia Act of 2025 implements expansive sanctions on Russia\u2019s government officials, individuals, financial institutions, and entities affiliated or owned by Russia\u2019s President, Vladimir Putin. Additionally, the legislation enacts 500 percent tariffs on all imports to the United States from Russia and from any countries that continue to fund Putin\u2019s war machine by purchasing Russian-origin oil, petroleum, or uranium products.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T14:40:33Z"], ["https://lahood.house.gov/2025/7/lahood-krishnamoorthi-introduce-legislation-to-confront-the-ccp-s-global-basing-ambitions", "LaHood, Krishnamoorthi Introduce Legislation to Confront the CCP\u2019s Global Basing Ambitions", "2025-07-16", "2025", "2025-07", "Republican", "House", "IL", "Darin LaHood", "L000585", "lahood.house.gov", "lahood", "https://lahood.house.gov/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2013 Today, Congressman Darin LaHood (IL-16) \u2013 a member of the Select Committee on China \u2013 joined Select Committee on China Ranking Member Raja Krishnamoorthi (IL-08) in introducing the Combating PRC Overseas and Unlawful Networked Threats through Enhanced Resilience (COUNTER) Act of 2025. This bipartisan legislation requires the United States government to develop and execute a comprehensive strategy to counter the Chinese Communist Party\u2019s (CCP) growing military basing network.\n\n\u201cThe Chinese Communist Party\u2019s pursuit of expanding overseas military bases threatens the United States\u2019 national security and stability in the Indo-Pacific,\u201d said Rep. LaHood. \u201cIt is critical that we have a clearly defined and coordinated strategy to combat the CCP\u2019s goal of expanding strategic military bases overseas to project power and increase its global influence. The bipartisan COUNTER Act will help ensure that we have the necessary resources to counter the CCP\u2019s global basing activities and protect our interests and those throughout the region.\u201d\n\n\u201cThe Chinese Communist Party is quietly building a network of overseas military bases that threatens our ability to defend our allies, secure vital trade routes, and maintain American influence globally,\u201d said Ranking Member Krishnamoorthi. \u201cWe cannot afford to be caught flat-footed. The COUNTER Act demands a coordinated, whole-of-government response to stop Beijing\u2019s basing ambitions before they irreversibly harm U.S. interests.\u201d\n\nBackground:\n\nIn recent years, the CCP has expanded its global military footprint, opening and operating military facilities in the Indo-Pacific. This growing network of bases enables to CCP\u2019s military to surveil and disrupt U.S. operations while undermining American influence in the region.\n\nThe COUNTER ACT of 2025 requires:\n\nThe Director of National Intelligence to conduct a full assessment of the risks posed by the CCP\u2019s global basing to U.S. and our allies\u2019 power projection and freedom of movement;\n\nThe Secretaries of State and Defense to identify at least five priority locations of concern where the CCP is attempting to establish bases, assess U.S. activities to counter those efforts, and develop a strategy to counter the CCP\u2019s global basing plans;\n\nThe creation of an interagency task force to implement this strategy and proactively prevent the CCP from establishing new bases, including through joint response with U.S. allies; and\n\nRegular reviews and updates to ensure the U.S. response remains aligned with the evolving threat.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T14:40:33Z"], ["https://bost.house.gov/2025/7/bost-announces-11-million-federal-grant-for-crab-orchard-trails", "BOST ANNOUNCES $11 MILLION FEDERAL GRANT FOR CRAB ORCHARD TRAILS", "2025-07-09", "2025", "2025-07", "Republican", "House", "IL", "Mike Bost", "B001295", "bost.house.gov", "bost", "https://bost.house.gov/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 U.S. Representative Mike Bost (IL-12) today announced the Federal Highway Administration has delivered $11.1 million for the Crab Orchard Greenway Multimodal Network, supporting construction of 12 miles of new multi-use trails. The project is expected to strengthen access and safety for local drivers, pedestrians, and cyclists.\n\n!\n\nThe 12 miles of new trails will contribute to a larger 50-mile trail network along the Illinois Route 13 corridor.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T14:40:33Z"], ["https://lahood.house.gov/2025/7/lahood-votes-to-deliver-economic-relief-for-the-american-people", "LaHood Votes to Deliver Economic Relief for the American People", "2025-07-07", "2025", "2025-07", "Republican", "House", "IL", "Darin LaHood", "L000585", "lahood.house.gov", "lahood", "https://lahood.house.gov/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2013 Congressman Darin LaHood (IL-16) voted to pass the One Big Beautiful Bill Act to deliver much-needed economic relief, secure our southern border, and bolster the United States\u2019 national security.\n\n\u201cToday, House Republicans voted to give rocket-fuel to the United States\u2019 economy, provide predictability and certainty for small businesses, and deliver historic tax relief for the American people,\u201d said Rep. LaHood. \u201cThe One Big Beautiful Bill Act is a generational piece of legislation that creates more opportunities to live the American Dream. The Republican bill eliminates taxes on tips, overtime, and auto loans for hardworking Americans. This legislation invests in the future of Illinois agriculture and protects high-paying manufacturing jobs in Illinois\u2019 16th Congressional District while boosting local economies across central and northwest Illinois. This is a win for the 16th District and the American People. I look forward to the One Big Beautiful Bill Act being sent to President Trump\u2019s desk to be signed into law on our nation\u2019s Independence Day.\u201d\n\nImpact on Illinois\u2019 16th Congressional District:\n\nPrevents a 22% tax increase set to begin next year;\n\nIncreases the Child Tax Credit for 69,000 families from being cut in half;\n\nSaves 11,000 family-owned farms from the Death tax;\n\nDelivers up to a $13,500 increase in year take-home pay for a typical family of four; and\n\nPreserves 10,000 manufacturing jobs while generating $1.6 billion in economic growth.\n\nRep. LaHood\u2019s Priorities Included in the One Big Beautiful Bill Act:\n\nExpanding and improving the Low-Income Housing Tax Credit\n\nThis bill would renew the Low-Income Housing Tax Credit, expand the reimbursement rate, increase the number of projects that can be built using private activity bonds, and accelerate the construction of much-needed low-income housing development in rural communities. These provisions were originally included as part of the Affordable Housing Credit Improvement Act, which Rep. LaHood introduced with over 100 bipartisan cosponsors in April 2025.\n\nSince he was elected to Congress, Rep. LaHood has been a strong advocate for addressing the shortage of affordable housing for the growing workforce throughout Illinois\u2019 16th Congressional District and across the country. Read the press release on his bill HERE.\n\nSupporting farmers and the biofuels industry\n\nRural communities across the Midwest have seen the benefits of the 45Z Clean Fuel Production Credit through new job opportunities and increased markets. The bill extends this key tax credit through 2029, supporting broader industry growth and directly supporting farmers and the biofuels economy in Illinois\u2019 16th District.\n\nImproving access to health savings\n\nRep. LaHood has been a strong advocate for creating health savings plans. Included in the legislation is language that would give American families increased choices to save and afford healthcare costs through a health savings account. This would make these accounts more accessible for patients and families.\n\nTax fairness and relief for employees in the beauty and salon industry\n\nRep. LaHood has long championed creating parity and extending the Federal Insurance Contribution Act (FICA) tip tax to salon and beauty service establishments and their employees. In April 2025, Rep. LaHood introduced the Small Business Tax Fairness and Compliance Simplification Act to level the playing field for beauty salons whose employees rely on tips for a large portion of their income, similar to the law already applied to the restaurant industry.\n\nThe One Big Beautiful Bill Act includes this legislation and will provide immediate tax relief to these small businesses and their employees. Read his press release HERE.\n\nKey Pieces of Tax Legislation:\n\nMakes President Trump\u2019s historic tax cuts permanent;\n\nDelivers on President Trump\u2019s priorities of no tax on tips, overtime pay, or car loan interest, and provides additional tax relief for seniors;\n\nBoosts the doubled Child Tax Credit for more than 40 million families;\n\nSupports working families by expanding access to childcare and making permanent the paid leave tax credit;\n\nExpands and makes permanent the 199A small business deduction to 23%, creating over one million new Main Street small businesses and generating $750 billion in economic growth;\n\nMakes permanent and increases the doubled Death Tax Exemption for family-owned farms;\n\nGenerates $284 billion in new economic growth from American manufacturers; and\n\nSecures six million jobs for American workers.\n\nOther Key Pieces of Legislation:\n\nKeeps the southern border secure\n\nMakes the largest investment in border security in American history;\n\nProvides resources to finish the border wall; and\n\nGives our border patrol agents and immigration enforcement agencies the resources they need to detain and deport illegal aliens.\n\nPromotes government efficiency and efficacy\n\nReduces the size and scope of government;\n\nRoots out waste, fraud, and abuse;\n\nBrings bloated and inefficient programs back to their original intent; and\n\nPuts the United States on a sound fiscal trajectory.\n\nBolsters our national security\n\nProvides the military with the resources it needs to counter our foreign adversaries like China, Russia, Iran, and North Korea.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T14:40:33Z"], ["https://bost.house.gov/2025/7/bost-votes-for-one-big-beautiful-bill-to-make-trump-tax-cuts-permanent", "BOST VOTES FOR \u201cONE BIG BEAUTIFUL BILL\u201d TO MAKE TRUMP TAX CUTS PERMANENT", "2025-07-03", "2025", "2025-07", "Republican", "House", "IL", "Mike Bost", "B001295", "bost.house.gov", "bost", "https://bost.house.gov/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 U.S. Representative Mike Bost (IL-12) voted Thursday for the final version of the One Big Beautiful Bill Act, landmark legislation that makes the tax relief enacted during President Trump\u2019s first term permanent; provides critical resources to secure the border; and reduces wasteful spending. The Trump-backed bill now heads to the President\u2019s desk, where he pledged to sign it into law by Independence Day.\n\n\u201cPresident Trump and conservative majorities in Congress were elected to shut down the border invasion and put America\u2019s taxpayers first,\u201d said Bost. \u201cI voted to lock in the Trump tax cuts and avert the largest tax hike in our nation\u2019s history, while securing the border and kicking fraudsters off benefits intended for families in need. I\u2019m proud to work closely with President Trump to deliver on our promises to the American people.\u201d\n\nThe One Big Beautiful Bill Act was developed through the budget reconciliation process in the House and amended in the Senate. It delivers sweeping reforms that support economic growth, defend national security, and promote energy independence.\n\nThe One Big Beautiful Bill Act:", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T14:40:33Z"], ["https://marymiller.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-miller-votes-pass-one-big-beautiful-bill", "Rep. Miller Votes to Pass the One Big, Beautiful Bill", "2025-07-03", "2025", "2025-07", "Republican", "House", "IL", "Mary E. Miller", "M001211", "marymiller.house.gov", "marymiller", "https://marymiller.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE\n\nWASHINGTON, D.C. \u2014 Today, Congresswoman Mary Miller (IL-15) issued the following statement after voting in favor of H.R. 1, the One Big, Beautiful Bill Act:\n\n\u201cThe One Big, Beautiful Bill is a once-in-a-generation victory for the American people,\u201d said Congresswoman Mary Miller. \u201cIt delivers on President Trump\u2019s America First agenda with bold, decisive, and immediate action. This is the most pro-worker, pro-family, pro-America legislation I have voted for during my time in Congress, and I was proud to help get it across the finish line for the hardworking Americans across my district.\u201d\n\nThe One Big, Beautiful Bill Act is a historic victory for American workers, families, and farmers. It eliminates taxes on tips and overtime, delivers permanent tax relief for small businesses and working families, and expands critical support for American agriculture.\n\nThis bill fulfills President Trump\u2019s America First agenda by securing the border, funding mass deportations, and ending radical \u201cGreen\u201d New Scam tax subsidies. It unleashes American energy, strengthens our military, and protects federal benefits like SNAP and Medicaid, ensuring these vital programs serve American citizens, not illegal aliens. Every single Democrat in the House of Representatives voted against this bill.\n\nAs a member of the House Committee on Agriculture, Congresswoman Miller successfully fought to include her provision in the bill to strip illegal immigrants from receiving taxpayer-funded SNAP benefits. This common-sense reform passed the House and is headed to the President\u2019s desk to become law. Click here to read more.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T14:40:33Z"], ["https://bost.house.gov/2025/6/bost-applauds-new-federal-actions-to-support-america-s-truck-drivers", "BOST APPLAUDS NEW FEDERAL ACTIONS TO SUPPORT AMERICA\u2019S TRUCK DRIVERS", "2025-06-27", "2025", "2025-06", "Republican", "House", "IL", "Mike Bost", "B001295", "bost.house.gov", "bost", "https://bost.house.gov/press-releases", "scraper", "\u201cGrowing up in a family trucking business, I know how hard it can be to find a safe place to stop and rest,\u201d said Bost. \u201cThat\u2019s why I\u2019ve led efforts in Congress to expand truck parking and fight for common sense reforms that make life easier and safer for truckers. I\u2019m proud to see President Trump and Secretary of Transportation Sean Duffy stepping up to the plate with meaningful action that reflects what drivers have been telling us for years.\u201d\n\n!\n\nBost has been a leading advocate for truck parking access, most recently reintroducing the Truck Parking Safety Improvement Act to fund the construction of safe, accessible parking spaces for commercial drivers. The DOT\u2019s announcement includes more than $275 million in truck parking investments, the withdrawal of an unnecessary speed limiter rule, the preservation of the ELD exemption for older trucks, and the launch of pilot programs that give drivers more control over their schedules. FMCSA is also modernizing key digital systems to improve support and accountability for drivers.\n\n!\n\nMore information about this announcement can be found here.\n\n!\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T01:08:28Z"], ["https://lahood.house.gov/2025/6/icymi-lahood-op-ed-building-a-21st-century-rail-system-that-drives-america-forward", "ICYMI LaHood Op-ed: Building a 21st Century Rail System That Drives America Forward", "2025-06-26", "2025", "2025-06", "Republican", "House", "IL", "Darin LaHood", "L000585", "lahood.house.gov", "lahood", "https://lahood.house.gov/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2013 Congressman Darin LaHood (IL-16) penned an op-ed in the Washington Times highlighting his transportation priorities, such as the FREIGHT RAILCAR Act, the LICENSE Act, water infrastructure, and his work over the years on the bipartisan Bus Caucus.\n\nWashington Times\n\nBuilding a 21st Century Rail System That Drives America Forward\n\nBy Rep. Darin LaHood\n\nJune 24, 2025\n\nResilient and reliable transportation infrastructure is a foundation of our country. Freight rail systems, highways, bridges and waterways all are critical tools for economic growth for our communities. From agricultural products to energy, transportation routes keep our supply chain efficient and products moving.\n\nIn Congress, one of my top priorities is to help ensure Illinois continues to lead as the transportation hub of the Midwest. I have introduced multiple pieces of legislation to support America\u2019s trucking and rail industries, been a leading voice for increased access to public transportation and advocated for and secured federal investments for water infrastructure.\n\n[\u2026]\n\nUnfortunately, many of our railcars are outdated. These older railcars are less efficient, prone to mechanical issues, and risk the chance of failing safety standards. To support these overdue upgrades, Congress can encourage private investment and market certainty for the rail sector. Earlier this year, I was proud to introduce the FREIGHT RAILCAR Act of 2025 alongside my colleague from Illinois, Rep. Brad Schneider, to improve the efficiency of railcars and address supply chain constraints.\n\n[\u2026]\n\nAs Congress debates the next surface transportation reauthorization bill, I look forward to continuing to work with my colleagues to slash bureaucratic red tape to simplify the application process, continue funding core infrastructure projects, and take bold actions to improve the United States\u2019 domestic manufacturing sector.\n\nBuilding and maintaining infrastructure requires policies and investments that support the hardworking Americans who keep our infrastructure, supply chains, and economy moving. Congress must work together in a bipartisan manner to ensure that the United States\u2019 transportation infrastructure is safe, reliable, modern, and efficient.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T01:08:28Z"]], "truncated": false, "filtered_table_rows_count": 5241, "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": "IL"}}, "facet_results": {"party": {"name": "party", "type": "column", "hideable": 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