{"database": "press", "table": "releases", "is_view": false, "human_description_en": "where chamber = \"House\", state = \"GA\" and year = 2024 sorted by date descending", "rows": [["https://mcbath.house.gov/press-releases?ID=57D24F5B-B5B5-45B8-9865-72F8AFCF3F99", "McBath Delivers $223 Million for Georgia District, Recounts Success of 118th Congress", "2024-12-30", "2024", "2024-12", "Democrat", "House", "GA", "Lucy McBath", "M001208", "mcbath.house.gov", "mcbath", "https://mcbath.house.gov/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, DC \u2014 Congresswoman Lucy McBath is announcing more than $223 million in federal funds, benefits, and grants secured by her office for Georgia\u2019s families during the 118th Congress. As part of the historic work of the United States Congress and the Biden-Harris Administration in the past two years, McBath helped send more than $67 billion in federal investments to the state of Georgia.\n\n\u201cAs a member of Congress, it\u2019s important that I bring back as many federal resources to Georgia as possible. We were incredibly successful in the 118th Congress, delivering hundreds of millions of dollars to keep our communities safe and prosperous,\u201d said McBath. \u201cI\u2019m also very humbled that our office\u2019s dedicated casework program was recognized for providing the Best Constituent Services and recovered millions in federal benefits for our neighbors. As always, I sought common-ground for Georgia\u2019s families and passed four bills into law. None of this could be possible without the engagement of my constituents, so I extend my gratitude to you all for being a part of our mission and ushering in a future we can all be proud to share with our families.\u201d\n\nIn 2024, McBath\u2019s office was named the Best Congressional Office for Constituent Service, making her the first member from Georgia to receive such an award. McBath\u2019s office provides Georgians with assistance with federal agencies and has yielded positive outcomes that have been shared by neighbors, garnered more than 6 million views on social media, and been documented in the New York Times.\n\nMcBath has earned a reputation as one of the most effective lawmakers in Congress and one of the most important voices in the House Democratic Caucus. Her legislation to support veterans was deemed the \u201cbiggest bill\u201d passed by a first term member.\n\nDuring the 118th Congress and in a Republican-led House, McBath passed four bills into law:\n\nFederal Prison Oversight Act: Improves transparency and safety protocols for staff and incarcerated individuals in the federal prison system.\n\nStop Campus Hazing Act: Prevents hazing on college campuses by requiring institutions to provide prevention programs and transparency to students and families. It was approved by the House and Senate and will soon be transferred to President Biden\u2019s desk for signature into law.\n\nEND Child Exploitation Act: Helps stop online child exploitation by empowering law enforcement to hold perpetrators accountable and bring missing children home.\n\nVictims Voices Act: Ensures those who act on behalf of victims can receive restitution for costs incurred during the case, including transportation, lost income, and child care.\n\nIn the 118th Congress, McBath\u2019s federal casework program returned over $8 million dollars in benefits and her work has secured more than $215 million in community investments for her Metro Atlanta constituents, including:\n\n$25,347,982 Bus and Bus Facilities grant for Metro Atlanta Rapid Transit Authority\n\n$20,000,000 Rebuilding American Infrastructure with Sustainability and Equity (RAISE) grant for the Gwinnett Place Transit Center redevelopment\n\n$7,726,607 in critical infrastructure funding to repair, rehabilitate, or replace aging pipeline infrastructure in Lawrenceville as part of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law McBath voted to approve\n\n$7,500,000 Byrne State Crisis Intervention Program award to fund Extreme Risk Protection Orders for crisis intervention in Georgia, a provision McBath championed that was included in the Bipartisan Safer Communities Act\n\n$6,100,000 Charging and Fueling Infrastructure grant for the Atlanta Regional Commission\n\n$1,750,000 Regional Infrastructure Accelerators Program grant to Metro Atlanta Rapid Transit Authority\n\n$1,600,000 Safe Streets for All grant for the Gwinnett County Department of Transportation\n\n$1,053,400 Strengthening Mobility and Revolutionizing Transportation (SMART) grant to Gwinnett Department of Transportation to fund safety improvements along the Singleton Road corridor\n\n$1,008,333 Healthy Start Initiative: Eliminating Disparities in Perinatal Health grant for the Center for Black Women\u2019s Wellness\n\n$888,000 Railroad Crossing Eliminations Program grant to study feasibility of eliminating three CSX crossings in Gwinnett County, authorized under the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law\n\n$600,000 Legal Assistance for Victims grant to Mosaic Georgia\n\n$500,000 award to Emory University to fund an apprenticeship program in the School of Nursing for which McBath made an FY2023 Community Project Funding/Congressionally-DirectedSpending request\n\n$445,500 General Departmental Sexual Risk Avoidance Education for Obria Gwinnett\n\n$309,600 Safe Streets for All grant to the City of Peachtree Corners to develop a comprehensive safety action plan and to pilot traffic camera/sensors at targeted intersections where there are high volumes of traffic and pedestrians, authorized under the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law\n\n$260,000 Safe Streets for All grant to the City of Lilburn to develop a city-wide comprehensive safety action plan and pilot temporary traffic calming measures, authorized under the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law and for which McBath sent a request\n\n$248,000 Safe Streets for All grant for the City of Norcross\n\n$150,000 Nonprofit Security Grant for a local school\n\n$125,000 COPS Hiring Program grant to the City of Lilburn\n\n$25,000 Teaching with Primary Sources grant for Student Leadership Johns Creek\n\nDuring her time representing Georgia\u2019s Seventh Congressional District, McBath has resolved nearly 3,500 federal casework inquiries. Here\u2019s what constituents had to say about their experience with her office:\n\n\u201cYour office\u2019s intervention was crucial in ensuring my nephew received a fair chance during his visa interview. Specifically, you facilitated communication with the US Embassy in Kathmandu, which made a significant difference in the processing and outcome of his application. Your efforts expedited the process and provided us with clear guidance and support throughout. Without your office\u2019s assistance, it is unlikely that we would have achieved such a positive result in a timely manner. Thanks to your help, my nephew is now in the United States and will be completing his residency in Alabama, which is a dream come true for him and our family. We are immensely grateful for your dedication and support.\u201d - Lok from Duluth\n\n\u201cWhen I first sent an email I was amazed to get a reply within the first 24 hours. Your team constantly monitored my issues with SBA and followed up with updates till the issue got resolved. I was so very impressed with your professionalism and concern for helping in solving my issues with SBA.\u201d - Deepa from Duluth\n\n\u201cMy daughter's passport was missing with USPS although I had a tracking number through priority mail. Tracking number was pointing to an endless loop within USPS. I had opened 3 cases and mail intercept per USPS recommendation. They charged me extra for mail intercept on top of priority charges. Since then still no movement/track of my daughter's passport. I made at least 50 phone calls with no answers. Finally I reached out to my Congresswoman's office. And they resolved the matter in a matter of 3-4 days by contacting USPS. We are so relieved that we can travel now. THANK YOU SO MUCH! It's been such a great experience working with your office and staff. You and your staff\u2019s professionalism is just outstanding. Great to have you as my representative.\u201d - Mohammad from Johns Creek\n\nAs part of the historic work of the United States Congress and the Biden-Harris Administration, McBath has helped send more than $67 billion in federal investments to the state of Georgia, including:\n\n$41.9 billion in private sector manufacturing and clean energy investments.\n\n$13.7 billion in public investments in clean energy, infrastructure, and manufacturing.\n\n$9.2 billion announced for transportation investments in roads, bridges, public transit, ports and airports, as well as electric buses and EV charging.\n\n$2.8 billion in funding to provide affordable, reliable high-speed internet to everyone in Georgia.\n\n$359 million for clean water and water infrastructure.\n\n$219 million in home energy rebates to help hardworking families cut their energy costs by weatherizing their homes and replacing old appliances with more efficient models.\n\n$7.5 million in funding to support Extreme Risk Protection Orders for crisis intervention and to stop gun violence.\n\nMcBath has put the national spotlight on her community, bringing members of President Biden\u2019s cabinet to her district and showcasing the rich diversity of Georgia\u2019s Seventh Congressional District and the growth and progress that is continuing to develop with the support of bold federal investments that have been championed by McBath and the Biden-Harris Administration. Since the start of 2023, McBath has welcomed the following officials from President Biden\u2019s Cabinet to her district and the surrounding metro Atlanta area:\n\nVice President Kamala Harris visited Atlanta to participate in a roundtable conversation on voting rights\n\nDepartment of Health and Human Services Deputy Secretary Andrea Palm visited Gwinnett for a tour and briefing at the Norcross OneStop and Senior Center to discuss lowering healthcare and prescription drug costs for seniors.\n\nDepartment of Housing and Urban Development Secretary Marsha Fudge visited Gwinnett to tour the Good Samaritan Health Center and participate in an affordable housing roundtable with local leaders\n\nDepartment of Education Secretary Miguel Cardona visited Atlanta and participated in a roundtable discussion with Gwinnett and Fulton-based school counselors at the American School Counselor Association annual conference. Secretary Cardona also visited Lawrenceville to announce new investments in student mental health made possible by the Bipartisan Safer Communities Act.\n\nDepartment of Veterans Affairs Secretary Denis McDonough visited Atlanta for a Regional Office renaming ceremony in honor of the late Senator Johnny Isakson\n\nSmall Business Administration Administrator Isabella Guzman visited Norcross and participated in a local chamber briefing and toured small businesses in downtown Norcross\n\nUnited States Trade Representative Ambassador Katherine Tai visited Peachtree Corners to discuss trade and American investments in electric vehicle charging infrastructure\n\nFederal Railroad Administration Administrator Amit Bose visited Duluth to discuss rail concerns in local cities and highlight federal resources for elected officials in the district\n\nSenior White House Advisor Mitch Landrieu visited Peachtree Corners and convened a transportation and infrastructure roundtable with local mayors, government leaders, and regional transportation advocates\n\nAny constituent who is in need of federal casework assistance is encouraged to contact McBath\u2019s district office by calling (470) 773-6330 or by visiting mcbath.house.gov/help.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:07:19Z"], ["https://www.collins.senate.gov/newsroom/senator-collins-autism-cares-act-signed-into-law", "Senator Collins\u2019 Autism CARES Act Signed into Law", "2024-12-30", "2024", "2024-12", "Republican", "House", "GA", "Mike Collins", "C001129", "www.collins.senate.gov", "collins", "https://www.collins.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2013 The President signed into law the Autism CARES Act of 2024, bipartisan legislation introduced by U.S. Senators Susan Collins and Ben Ray Luj\u00e1n (D-N.M.), members of the Senate Committee on Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions. The bill will renew and expand federal support for research, services, and training related to autism spectrum disorder and other developmental disabilities. Autism CARES is the main source of federal funding for autism research, services, training, and monitoring.\n\n\u201cThis bill will continue the successful programming across HHS that helps us better understand the causes and the symptoms of the Autism Spectrum Disorder and improve the lives of families affected by it,\u201d said Senator Collins. \u201cI am proud that we have reauthorized this important law, which is critical to expanding research at the NIH, supporting the CDC's effort to increase public awareness and early detection of autism spectrum disorder, and strengthening and expanding the Health Research and Services Administration's workforce training to identify and support children and youth with autism as well as their families.\u201d\n\n\u201cDue to the research and increased training and awareness spurred by the Autism CARES Act, children are being diagnosed earlier and are receiving appropriate services from trained providers,\u201d said Senator Luj\u00e1n. \u201cNot only does the Autism CARES Act of 2024 renew federal support for autism spectrum disorder and other developmental disabilities, but it also expands critical research and training programs that benefit people with autism and their families. I\u2019m proud to see this bill pass the Senate, and now I am calling on the House for swift passage to continue to drive research and support individuals with autism and other developmental disabilities for years to come.\u201d\n\nSpecifically, the Autism CARES Act:\n\nIncludes over $2 billion in authorized federal spending on autism research and training programs for the next five years;\n\nIncludes new language that directs the NIH Director to ensure a more inclusive approach to autism research;\n\nRequires the Government Accountability Office to issue a study and report on how to increase the number of developmental behavioral pediatricians;\n\nIncludes the study of the aging process as a focus area of autism research activities to help propel future research on autism and aging; and\n\nCreates a new Autism Intervention Research Network for Communication Needs that will benefit autistic individuals who may be unable or limited in using speech or language to communicate.\n\n\"We greatly appreciate the leadership of Senators Ben Ray Luj\u00e1n and Susan Collins in advancing the Autism CARES Act of 2024 through the Senate,\u201d said Keith Wargo, President & CEO of Autism Speaks. \u201cFamilies have benefited from the tremendous impact of this law over the past two decades. This next iteration expands efforts to address gaps in autism healthcare and services and represents a forward-looking approach to driving progress in research, supports and services for autistic individuals across the spectrum and lifespan for years to come.\"\n\n\"AUCD commends Congress on its unwavering commitment to improving the lives of people with autism and their families. We are grateful to Senator Luj\u00e1n, Senator Collins, Representative Smith, and Representative Cuellar for their unwavering leadership to get the Autism CARES Act reauthorized this Congress. The Autism CARES Act that includes the Leadership Education in Neurodevelopmental Disabilities will have a tremendous impact on making sure people with autism and other neurodevelopmental disabilities and their families in every state and territory receive the care needed from trained professionals to support and improve their health and wellbeing,\u201d said AUCD Public Policy Director Cindy Smith. \u201cWe look forward to continuing to work with leaders in Congress and the community to continue to make a positive impact in the lives of people with autism and their families.\u201d\n\n\u201cThe reauthorization of Autism CARES brings us one step closer to ensuring stronger, more meaningful inclusion for the entirety of the spectrum in research, supports, and services. This is in great part because of the inspired leadership and deep commitment of Senator Lujan and Senator Collins to autistic people in their own districts and across the nation. Hope is on the horizon, and we are grateful,\u201d said Cofounder and President of Profound Autism Alliance Judith Ursitti.\n\nAccording to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), approximately 1 in 36 children have been diagnosed with autism \u2013 an increase of approximately 300 percent since 2006.\n\nThe legislation is supported by Autism Speaks, the Profound Autism Alliance, the Association of University Centers on Disabilities, and the Autism Society.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:07:19Z"], ["https://www.collins.senate.gov/newsroom/senator-collins-championed-5-of-15-health-care-bills-signed-into-law-in-118th-congress", "Senator Collins Championed 5 of 15 Health Care Bills Signed into Law in 118th Congress", "2024-12-30", "2024", "2024-12", "Republican", "House", "GA", "Mike Collins", "C001129", "www.collins.senate.gov", "collins", "https://www.collins.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2013 In the 118th Congress, there were 1,868 standalone health care bills introduced in both the U.S. Senate and the U.S. House of Representatives. Of those bills, 600 received Committee consideration, 53 passed at least one chamber of Congress, and 15 passed both chambers and were signed into law. U.S. Senator Susan Collins led or co-led 5 of those 15 bills to passage with strong bipartisan support. They are as follows:\n\nThe National Alzheimer's Project Act (NAPA) Reauthorization \u2013 A bill to reauthorize NAPA until 2035 and update language in recognition of the need to include underserved populations, including individuals with Down syndrome.\n\nThe Alzheimer\u2019s Accountability and Investment Act (AAIA) \u2013 A bill to require the Director of the National Institutes of Health to submit an annual budget to Congress estimating the necessary funding to fully implement NAPA.\n\nThe Building Our Largest Dementia (BOLD) Infrastructure for Alzheimer\u2019s Reauthorization Act \u2013 A bill to authorize $33 million per year over the next five years to support Alzheimer\u2019s Disease and Related Dementias Public Health Centers of Excellence dedicated to promoting effective Alzheimer\u2019s disease and caregiving interventions, as well as State Health Department cooperative agreements with the CDC to meet local needs in promoting brain health.\n\nSupporting and Improving Rural EMS Needs (SIREN) Reauthorization Act \u2013 A bill to extend funding for five additional years for SIREN Act grants to rural fire and EMS agencies nationwide. These grants support rural EMS agencies in training and recruiting staff, conducting certification courses, and purchasing equipment, including naloxone to address the opioid overdose epidemic.\n\nThe Autism CARES Act of 2024 \u2013 A bill to authorize over $2 billion over the next five years for autism research and training programs, as well as required studies on how to increase the number of developmental behavioral pediatricians and on the aging process as a focus area of autism research activities. The bill will also create a new Autism Intervention Research Network for Communication Needs that will benefit autistic individuals who may be unable or limited in using speech or language to communicate.\n\n\u201cThese five bills will combat some of the largest public health challenges of our time by enhancing care for individuals with Alzheimer\u2019s, autism, and substance abuse issues through improved research funding, strengthened public health programs, and workforce development,\u201d said Senator Collins. \u201cThey also provide critical support for rural EMS agencies in Maine, equipping them to better serve their communities and address the opioid epidemic. Together, these laws represent meaningful steps to improve health care access, services, and outcomes. Throughout my Senate service, health care, biomedical research, and rural workforce development have been among my greatest priorities and I am proud to have led to passage these bills that will benefit Maine families and communities across the state.\u201d\n\n###\n\nRelated Issues", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:07:19Z"], ["https://allen.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=6576", "Rep. Rick Allen Statement on the Passing of President Carter", "2024-12-29", "2024", "2024-12", "Republican", "House", "GA", "Rick W. Allen", "A000372", "allen.house.gov", "allen", "https://allen.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27", "scraper", "Today, Congressman Rick W. Allen (GA-12) released the following statement on the passing of James Earl Carter Jr., 39th President of the United States:\n\n\u201cIt is with a heavy heart that Robin and I join the nation in mourning the loss of former President Jimmy Carter. President Carter was a devoted father, loving husband, and decorated patriot.\n\n\u201cGrowing up on a peanut farm in Central Georgia, President Carter learned the value of an honest day\u2019s work at an early age. His sense of duty led him to the Naval Academy in Annapolis, where he began a lifetime of public service. He was also a champion of philanthropic efforts in the decades following his presidency. President Carter was living proof that public service does not end with elected office.\n\n\u201cOn behalf of Georgians everywhere, Robin and I offer our deepest sympathies and prayers to the Carter family.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T22:13:55Z"], ["https://bishop.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressman-bishop-statement-on-the-life-and-legacy-of-president-jimmy-carter", "CONGRESSMAN BISHOP STATEMENT ON THE LIFE AND LEGACY OF PRESIDENT JIMMY CARTER", "2024-12-29", "2024", "2024-12", "Democrat", "House", "GA", "Sanford D. Bishop, Jr.", "B000490", "bishop.house.gov", "bishop", "https://bishop.house.gov/media-center/press-releases", "scraper", "PLAINS, Ga. \u2013 Congressman Sanford D. Bishop, Jr. (GA-02) issued the following statement regarding the life and legacy of former President, and beloved resident of Southwest Georgia, Jimmy Carter, who passed from labor to reward on December 29:\n\n\u201cToday, the world lost a giant \u2013 a force for peace and democracy, someone who lived a life of service to others, and a compassionate leader who sought to bring people together. Jimmy Carter\u2019s legacy \u2013 from his humble beginnings in Southwest Georgia, through his time as Georgia\u2019s governor and America\u2019s president and through his eventual leadership on the world stage \u2013 will remain uplifting and inspirational.\n\n\u201cI have been blessed to call him friend and mentor for over 50 years and to be his Congressman for 32 of those years. He and his late wife, Rosalynn, were shining lights of faith, love, and devotion to each other and to humankind. Their work to promote health, housing, human rights, democracy, and peace put their Christian values into action.\n\n\u201cMy wife, Vivian, and I \u2013 along with countless others across the globe \u2013 extend our deepest condolences to the Carter family. The immense depth of sadness we feel in his passing reflects the soaring heights of altruism and selflessness he lived and for which his hometown of Plains, Georgia, and the world are all the better.\u201d\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:07:19Z"], ["https://hankjohnson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressman-johnsons-statement-passing-president-jimmy-carter", "Congressman Johnson\u2019s Statement on the Passing of President Jimmy Carter", "2024-12-29", "2024", "2024-12", "Democrat", "House", "GA", "Henry C. \"Hank\" Johnson, Jr.", "J000288", "hankjohnson.house.gov", "hankjohnson", "https://hankjohnson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases", "scraper", "Congressman Hank Johnson (GA-04) released the following statement:\n\n\u201cPresident Carter restored honest competence, integrity, and humility to the Office of the Presidency. He led the nation with vision and courage, although his Southern heritage was used to belittle him in the eyes of many. I know of no man in his post presidency who has had a greater impact on humanity than President Carter. His selfless service to mankind is unparalleled, as was his humbleness and fortitude. Rest In Peace, humble servant!\u201d\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:07:19Z"], ["https://www.collins.senate.gov/newsroom/senator-collins-statement-on-passing-of-president-jimmy-carter", "Senator Collins\u2019 Statement on Passing of President Jimmy Carter", "2024-12-29", "2024", "2024-12", "Republican", "House", "GA", "Mike Collins", "C001129", "www.collins.senate.gov", "collins", "https://www.collins.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2013 U.S. Senator Susan Collins issued the following statement on the passing of President Jimmy Carter, the 39th President of the United States:\n\n\u201cAs President, Governor, and a Navy officer, Jimmy Carter served our country with distinction and integrity. President Carter always remained grounded in his ideals, true to his roots, and guided by his deep faith.\n\n\u201cAfter returning to his hometown of Plains, Georgia, President Carter continued to give back in many ways, from alleviating poverty, partnering with Habitat for Humanity, and working to improve the quality of life in more than 80 countries through the Carter Center. He also taught Sunday school in his community. As a peacemaker and a humanitarian, he left behind a powerful and inspiring legacy.\n\n\u201cIn this time of sorrow, it is my hope his family will find comfort in knowing how much President Carter meant to people throughout the world.\u201d\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:07:19Z"], ["https://mcbath.house.gov/press-releases?ID=225E966C-FA64-40FF-AFB6-511C2127941B", "McBath Bill to Stop College Campus Hazing Signed Into Law", "2024-12-24", "2024", "2024-12", "Democrat", "House", "GA", "Lucy McBath", "M001208", "mcbath.house.gov", "mcbath", "https://mcbath.house.gov/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2014 Legislation led by Representative Lucy McBath (D-GA) to stop hazing on college campuses was recently signed into law by President Biden. H.R. 5646, the bipartisan Stop Campus Hazing Act combats hazing and dangerous practices towards students on college campuses by ensuring transparency and preventative action.\n\n\u201cI know what it's like to lose a loved one to violence\u2014no parent should ever have to bury their child. The Stop Campus Hazing Act empowers students and their families to make informed decisions about the schools they attend and the organizations they join. That information could be life-saving,\u201d said Representative McBath. \u201cOur bipartisan legislation helps make sure that schools have the tools they need to foster safe learning environments. I thank my colleagues for this bipartisan effort and President Biden for swiftly passing this into law.\u201d\n\nBackground\n\nThe bipartisan Stop Campus Hazing Act:\n\nDefines Hazing and Promotes Transparency: This bill creates a uniform definition of hazing and requires colleges and universities to report hazing incidents annually.\n\nStrengthens Prevention Efforts: Schools are mandated to implement hazing prevention programs aimed at educating students, faculty, and staff.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:07:19Z"], ["https://bishop.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressman-bishop-supports-bipartisan-bill-that-keeps-government-open-provides-disaster-relief-extends-farm-bill-delivers-economic-aid-to-farmers", "CONGRESSMAN BISHOP SUPPORTS BIPARTISAN BILL THAT KEEPS GOVERNMENT OPEN, PROVIDES DISASTER RELIEF, EXTENDS FARM BILL, & DELIVERS ECONOMIC AID TO FARMERS", "2024-12-21", "2024", "2024-12", "Democrat", "House", "GA", "Sanford D. Bishop, Jr.", "B000490", "bishop.house.gov", "bishop", "https://bishop.house.gov/media-center/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON \u2013 Congressman Sanford D. Bishop, Jr., (GA-02) a senior member of the U.S. House Appropriations Committee and member of the House Agriculture Committee, supported the passage of a bipartisan bill that provides continued funding for federal departments, agencies, and programs as well as an extension of Farm Bill programs. The bill also includes urgently needed disaster relief for Americans as well as $10 billion in long overdue economic aid for farmers. This morning President Biden signed the bill into law.\n\n\u201cWhile it is not a perfect bill, I am happy that Democrats and Republicans, in the end, were able to come together in the best interests of the American people,\u201d said Congressman Bishop. \u201cIt is our Constitutional duty as Members of Congress to ensure that the government is open and working for the people. Additionally, this bill provides billions in supplemental economic aid for farmers and extends vital Farm Bill programs that affect every-single American from the materials that help build our country to the clothes we wear to the food we eat. Finally, this bill delivers urgently needed recovery aid, now, to Americans still reeling from natural disasters across the country.\u201d\n\nHad the temporary funding bill not passed, it would have triggered a government shutdown of federal departments, agencies, and programs that would have hindered a wide range of services \u2013 from national security to veterans, from healthcare to housing, and from Social Security and Medicare to nutrition \u2013 on which millions of Americans depend.\n\nPassage of this temporary funding bill also provided $100 billion for disaster assistance to help communities recover from Hurricanes Helene and Milton as well as other storms, floods, and wildfires.\n\nCongressman Bishop, along with Congressman Austin Scott (GA-08), led a bipartisan group of their Congressional colleagues and joined with Georgia State leaders \u2013 the Governor, Ag Commissioner, State Forester, University of Georgia, and state industry partners \u2013 and their counterparts from other affected states, to expedite the federal emergency response to these recent natural disasters.\n\nWorking together, Bishop and Scott invited Congressional leaders to see, first-hand, why disaster relief and the Farm Bill safety net are vital to Georgia\u2019s and America\u2019s farmers and producers.\n\nHurricane Helene affected every commodity that Georgia produces.\n\nOver 36% of Georgia\u2019s forest land was damaged and timber landowners lost $1.3 billion in downed trees.\n\nCotton producers sustained $350 million in crop production and quality losses.\n\nPecan growers lost nearly 400,000 trees, totaling over $196.8 million in tree and nut losses.\n\nChicken growers and cattlemen sustained $650 million in direct losses to facilities like chicken houses, barns, water tanks, and shelters.\n\nAll told, University of Georgia estimates that the hurricane caused at least $2.5 billion in direct damages to agriculture and forestry. If you add in the indirect loses to manufacturers, sawmills, input suppliers, and other industries that support our farmers and ranchers \u2013 the damage is closer to $6 billion.\n\nThe bill includes $674 million in economic and disaster relief for Georgia agriculture as well as $1.6 billion in funding that Thomas County, Richmond County, McDuffie County, Laurens County, and the entire state need to recover after losing lives and property due to Hurricanes Helene and Milton.\n\nCongress has yet to complete a new, five-year authorization of the Farm Bill. Negotiations are ongoing and the current, 2018 Farm Bill was already extended at the end of 2023 to the end of 2024. The temporary funding bill also extended the 2018 Farm Bill provisions for another year while negotiations continue.\n\nHad the Farm Bill extension not passed, it would have jeopardized the economic safety net that Georgia farmers rely on to produce the highest quality, most affordable and abundant, food and fiber.\n\nFor some time now, Congressman Bishop has been fighting to secure supplemental economic assistance for farmers who have experienced extraordinary financial stress due to increases in their input costs and decreases in their income margins over the last several years.\n\nThe $10 billion in economic assistance included in the temporary funding bill will help farmers until a new Farm Bill is finalized.\n\n\u201cThankfully, a bipartisan agreement was reached, putting the needs of people over politics,\u201d said Congressman Bishop. \u201cBut our work is not done, and I look forward negotiating with my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to complete a full-year funding bill before the new March deadline as well as finalize and pass the Farm Bill as quickly as possible.\u201d\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:07:19Z"], ["https://www.collins.senate.gov/newsroom/icymi-congress-approves-full-social-security-benefits-for-public-sector-retirees", "ICYMI: \u201cCongress Approves Full Social Security Benefits for Public Sector Retirees\u201d", "2024-12-21", "2024", "2024-12", "Republican", "House", "GA", "Mike Collins", "C001129", "www.collins.senate.gov", "collins", "https://www.collins.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases", "scraper", "Congress Approves Full Social Security Benefits for Public Sector Retirees\n\nThe New York Times | Maya C. Miller\n\n\u201cThe Senate passed bipartisan legislation early Saturday that would give full Social Security benefits to a group of public sector retirees who currently receive them at a reduced level, sending the bill to President Biden.\n\n\u201cThe vote to clear the measure was a lopsided 76 to 20, reflecting the broad popularity of an effort to allow approximately more than 2.8 million public pension recipients \u2014 some of them teachers, firefighters and police officers \u2014 to collect Social Security benefits at the same level as other beneficiaries.\n\n\u201cThe House passed the bill by a wide margin of 327 to 75 last month after a bipartisan group of lawmakers forced it to the floor, and President-elect Donald J. Trump recently threw his support behind it.\n\n\u2026\n\n\u201cThe bill eliminates two provisions set up decades ago to shore up Social Security\u2019s solvency. Projections show the Social Security fund will run out of money in 2038 and, if no action is taken before then, beneficiaries would see a 27 percent cut in benefits. Passage of the measure speeds up that timeline by six months.\n\n\u201cTwenty-seven Republicans joined Democrats in support.\n\n\u201cThe two provisions were designed to prevent what is known as \u201cdouble dipping\u201d on retirement benefits by certain public employees and their relatives.\n\n\u201cIt primarily affects two groups. One is public employees who receive pensions that are exempt from Social Security payroll taxes, but who also worked at least 10 years in jobs that required them to pay into the system. Such workers appear in the Social Security system as though they earned far less over their lifetimes than they actually did, and since the program pays out a higher proportion of low earners\u2019 incomes in benefits, they receive a larger retirement benefit than they otherwise would. Another is people who receive public pensions but also become eligible for Social Security survivor benefits upon the death of a spouse or family member.\n\n\u201cUnder the current law, both groups face a reduction in their benefits. The legislation on its way to enactment would allow them to receive the full amount.\n\n\u2026\n\n\u201cSenator Susan Collins, Republican of Maine and a lead sponsor of the measure, framed the issue as a \u2018long overdue\u2019 matter of fairness affecting teachers, firefighters and police officers as well as some federal employees who were hired before 1984, when the federal pension system was brought under the Social Security system.\n\n\u201cIn a floor speech Wednesday, Ms. Collins cited one of her constituents, a retired female schoolteacher who had to return to work at age 72 after her husband\u2019s death to make financial ends meet. The woman\u2019s husband was a Navy veteran who paid into Social Security for 40 years, but since she received a public pension from the school system, her surviving spousal benefits through Social Security were reduced by two-thirds.\n\n\u201c\u2018This is an unfair, inequitable penalty,\u2019 Ms. Collins said. Public sector workers who are currently being penalized, she said, \u2018have earned these benefits.\u2019\n\n\u201cPublic sector retirees and their allies on Capitol Hill in both parties have pressed for the measure for decades. It has sailed through Congress over the last several weeks, bypassing the usual committee process after proponents in the House collected 218 signatures on a so-called \u2018discharge petition\u2019 to force it to the floor. Senate leaders also skipped committee consideration.\u201d\n\n\u2026\n\nClick HERE to read the full article.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:07:19Z"], ["https://www.collins.senate.gov/newsroom/senator-collins-social-security-fairness-act-to-be-signed-into-law", "Senator Collins\u2019 Social Security Fairness Act to be Signed into Law", "2024-12-21", "2024", "2024-12", "Republican", "House", "GA", "Mike Collins", "C001129", "www.collins.senate.gov", "collins", "https://www.collins.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2013 Today, the Senate overwhelmingly passed the Social Security Fairness Act, bipartisan legislation authored by Senators Susan Collins and Sherrod Brown (D-OH), by a vote of 76-20. This bill, which passed the House last month by a vote of 327-75, will restore full Social Security benefits for teachers, law enforcement officers, firefighters, and other public servants by repealing two provisions of current law \u2013 the Windfall Elimination Provision (WEP) and the Government Pension Offset (GPO) \u2013 that unfairly reduce the Social Security benefits that public employees receive.\n\nEarlier this year, Senators Collins and Brown called on Senate leadership to immediately bring their legislation, which has 62 Senate cosponsors\u2014above the margin needed for passage\u2014to the Senate floor for a vote. Senator Collins held the first Senate hearing on this policy in 2003 as Chair of the Senate Government Affairs Committee. She along with the late Senator Dianne Feinstein first introduced the Social Security Fairness Act in 2005.\n\n\u201cIn 2003, I held the first-ever Senate hearing on the WEP and the GPO, and I am pleased that now these unfair provisions in our Social Security system will finally be done away with,\u201d said Senator Collins. \u201cThis is a victory for thousands of teachers, first responders, and public servants in Maine who, through service to their communities, have been forced to forego their earned retirement benefits. I thank my colleagues for the overwhelming support this legislation has received, as it will help millions of Americans retire with dignity and receive the Social Security benefits they earned through years of work.\u201d\n\nMore than 25,000 Mainers, who dedicated their lives to public service, are prevented from receiving the full Social Security benefits they earn due to two laws from the 1970s and 1980s. The Windfall Elimination Provision, enacted in 1983, reduces the Social Security benefits of workers who receive pensions from a federal, state, or local government for employment not covered by Social Security. The Government Pension Offset, enacted in 1977, reduces Social Security spousal benefits for spouses, widows, and widowers whose spouses receive pensions from a federal, state, or local government.\n\nThe Social Security Fairness Act will repeal both of these laws, ensuring teachers, law enforcement, firefighters, park rangers, and other public sector workers and their families receive the full Social Security benefits they\u2019ve earned.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:07:19Z"], ["https://allen.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=6575", "Congressman Allen Selected as Vice Chair of Subcommittee on Communications and Technology", "2024-12-20", "2024", "2024-12", "Republican", "House", "GA", "Rick W. Allen", "A000372", "allen.house.gov", "allen", "https://allen.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27", "scraper", "Today, the House Energy and Commerce Committee announced that Congressman Rick W. Allen (GA-12) has been selected to serve as the Vice Chair of the Subcommittee on Communications and Technology (C&T). Following the announcement, Congressman Allen issued the statement below:\n\n\"I am honored to have been selected as the Vice Chair of the Communications and Technology Subcommittee for the 119th Congress. We have much work to do over the next two years, including promoting the great work that is sure to come from the Trump Administration. I look forward to leading efforts, alongside Subcommittee Chair Richard Hudson, to reauthorize the FCC\u2019s spectrum auction authority, enact broadband permitting reform, reform Section 230, combat robocalls, and protect our communications infrastructure. Additionally, as many communities in Georgia continue to face significant challenges with connectivity and reliable broadband access, we will prioritize efforts to bridge the digital divide in rural America. I am grateful for this opportunity and remain committed to assisting Chairman-Elect Guthrie and Chairman-Elect Hudson in carrying out the Committee's mission,\" said Congressman Allen.\n\n\"Congratulations to Congressman Allen on being selected to serve as Vice Chair of the Subcommittee on Communications and Technology. Congressman Allen's deep expertise of our nation's telecommunications system will help propel our country into the next generation economy. I look forward to working with Rick to close the digital divide for rural America, affirm U.S. leadership in next generation telecommunication networks, and protect our critical communications infrastructure from adversarial attacks,\" said Energy and Commerce Committee Chairman-Elect Guthrie.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T22:13:55Z"], ["https://austinscott.house.gov/press-releases?ID=68A23EB9-7226-42BB-B8E2-792A3759546B", "Rep. Austin Scott Votes Yes on the American Relief Act", "2024-12-20", "2024", "2024-12", "Republican", "House", "GA", "Austin Scott", "S001189", "austinscott.house.gov", "austinscott", "https://austinscott.house.gov/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C.-- U.S. Representative Austin Scott (GA-08) today voted in favor of the American Relief Act and released the following statement:\n\n\"I voted again in support of our farmers receiving critical disaster relief, economic assistance, and a Farm Bill extension. I also voted to keep our government open, which I believe is in the best interest of our country,\" Rep. Scott said.\n\nThe full text of the American Relief Act can be found here.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:07:19Z"], ["https://buddycarter.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=15295", "Carter selected to chair Energy and Commerce Subcommittee on Health", "2024-12-20", "2024", "2024-12", "Republican", "House", "GA", "Earl L. \"Buddy\" Carter", "C001103", "buddycarter.house.gov", "buddycarter", "https://buddycarter.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Rep. Earl L. \u201cBuddy\u201d Carter (R-GA) today was selected by Energy and Commerce Committee Chair-Elect Brett Guthrie (R-KY) to serve as Chair of the House Energy and Commerce Committee Subcommittee on Health for the 119th Congress.\n\n\"As a pharmacist for more than forty years, I am thrilled to sit atop the Health Subcommittee for the 119th Congress under the stalwart leadership of Chair-Elect Guthrie. The goal of this subcommittee is as straightforward as it is consequential: help Americans live healthier and longer lives. We will work towards this goal, in lockstep with President Trump, to tackle our nation\u2019s chronic disease epidemic, increase price transparency, incentivize competition, combat harmful health care consolidation, fight the scourge of fentanyl, and build a health care system that puts patients before profits. Through transparency, competition, and innovation, we will Make America Healthy Again,\" said Rep. Carter.\n\n\"I look forward to working with Congressman Carter in his new role as Chair of the Subcommittee on Health. Congressman Carter\u2019s life-long work as a community pharmacist has given him the unique understanding of the challenges facing our health care system and the work Congress needs to undertake to lower health care costs for hard-working Americans and their families. Congressman Carter is focused on increasing transparency in our health care system and lowering the costs of prescription drugs by holding middlemen accountable. I look forward to working with Congressman Carter to develop conservative health solutions for the American people,\" said Chairman-Elect Guthrie.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T22:13:55Z"], ["https://buddycarter.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=15303", "Carter statement on EPA approving California\u2019s gas-powered car ban", "2024-12-20", "2024", "2024-12", "Republican", "House", "GA", "Earl L. \"Buddy\" Carter", "C001103", "buddycarter.house.gov", "buddycarter", "https://buddycarter.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Rep. Earl L. \u201cBuddy\u201d Carter (R-GA), Chair of the Energy and Commerce Subcommittee on Environment, Manufacturing, and Critical Materials, today released the following statement after the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) approved California\u2019s waiver to implement its de facto ban on gas-powered vehicles:\n\n\u201cThe dangerously radical Biden-Harris administration is doubling down on its rush-to-green agenda that forces Americans to drive unaffordable, less reliable electric vehicles. Governments don\u2019t create markets, consumers do. California\u2019s de facto ban will have ripple effects throughout our economy, and we cannot allow a few liberal elites to decide what vehicle is best for a family in my district of South Georgia.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T22:13:55Z"], ["https://buddycarter.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=15304", "Carter successfully pushes for disaster relief funds in end of year spending package", "2024-12-20", "2024", "2024-12", "Republican", "House", "GA", "Earl L. \"Buddy\" Carter", "C001103", "buddycarter.house.gov", "buddycarter", "https://buddycarter.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Rep. Earl L. \u201cBuddy\u201d Carter (R-GA) successfully pushed House Leadership to include disaster relief funding in the end of year spending package, which funds the government through March 2025 and passed the House of Representatives today.\n\nThe bill includes more than $100 billion to refill the Federal Emergency Management Agency\u2019s (FEMA) coffers, fund the Small Business Administration\u2019s (SBA) disaster loan program, bring financial relief to farmers and foresters, and repair highways and roads, among other priorities.\n\n\u201cHurricane Helene devastated GA-01, and everywhere I go in the district I hear stories from people who lost their home or business and have been completely hung out to dry,\u201d said Rep. Carter. \u201cFully funding FEMA and SBA\u2019s disaster relief funds, along with getting financial assistance for Georgia\u2019s number one industry, agriculture, was my top priority in this package. I am thrilled that leadership listened to states impacted by what has been a devastating hurricane season and is bringing relief to South Georgia.\u201d\n\nHighlights from the bill include:\n\n$31 billion in natural disaster aid for farmers,\n\n$29 billion for the FEMA fund,\n\n$12 billion through the Housing and Urban Development Department\u2019s Community Development Block Grant program,\n\n$8 billion to repair federal highways and roads,\n\n$356.5 million for Emergency Forest Restoration Program,\n\n$10 billion in economic assistance for farmers,\n\n$3.3 billion in state and tribal grants for water infrastructure, and\n\n$2.2 billion through the SBA\u2019s disaster loan program.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T22:13:55Z"], ["https://www.collins.senate.gov/newsroom/senator-collins-bipartisan-outdoors-for-all-act-to-be-signed-into-law", "Senator Collins\u2019 Bipartisan Outdoors for All Act to be Signed into Law", "2024-12-20", "2024", "2024-12", "Republican", "House", "GA", "Mike Collins", "C001129", "www.collins.senate.gov", "collins", "https://www.collins.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2014 U.S. Senators Susan Collins and Alex Padilla (D-CA) announced that the Senate unanimously passed their bipartisan Outdoors for All Act, legislation that will expand outdoor recreational opportunities in low-income communities across the nation. The bill passed today as part of the Expanding Public Lands Outdoor Recreation Experiences (EXPLORE) Act, which previously passed the U.S. House of Representatives and now heads to the President desk to be signed into law.\n\n\u201cOur state is fortunate to have abundant natural resources that allow Mainers and visitors to enjoy our pristine environment,\u201d said Senator Collins. \u201cHowever, many Americans, particularly those living in urban and low-income areas, lack access to outdoor green spaces that give them the ability to experience the beauty of nature close to home. The bipartisan Outdoors for All Act will invest in these communities to support parks, playgrounds, trails, and other projects to help ensure Americans have outdoor recreation opportunities.\u201d\n\n\u201cEveryone deserves access to the outdoors regardless of where they live. Having grown up in Los Angeles, I\u2019ve seen firsthand how urban and low-income communities often lack access to adequate park space,\u201d said Senator Padilla. \u201cThe Outdoors for All Act will invest in new parks and open spaces \u2014 and upgrade existing ones \u2014 to bring critical natural benefits like shade, tree cover, and cleaner air to urban neighborhoods.\u201d\n\n\u201cWe are thrilled to see the outdoors bring people together and showcase the broad, bipartisan support for more recreation access,\u201d said Nicole Zussman, President and CEO of the Appalachian Mountain Club. \u201cPassage of the EXPLORE Act through Congress, including the Outdoors for All Act, is a major victory for our collective work to foster equity in the outdoors and facilitate joyous, meaningful outdoor experiences. We are especially grateful to Senator Susan Collins for her leadership on the issue, including her co-sponsorship of the Outdoors for All Act. Outdoor recreation contributes $3 billion each year to Maine\u2019s economy, and the Outdoors for All Act will help even more Mainers enjoy the physical, social, and mental benefits of recreating outside.\u201d\n\n\u201cThe passage of the EXPLORE Act is a pivotal achievement for outdoor recreation in Maine and across the country,\u201d said Jenny Kordick, Executive Director of Maine Outdoor Brands. \u201cThis legislation will ensure outdoor spaces are welcoming and accessible to all, while bolstering Maine\u2019s $3.4 billion outdoor recreation industry, supporting jobs, and driving economic growth in communities across our state. We are especially grateful for Senator Collins\u2019 leadership in championing the Outdoors for All Act, which is included in this legislation and will expand opportunities for everyone to connect with nature, fostering healthier communities and a stronger appreciation for Maine\u2019s incredible outdoor heritage.\u201d\n\n\u201cThe unanimous passage of the Outdoors for All Act in the Senate marks a historic milestone in expanding outdoor access for all Americans,\u201d said Dr. Carrie Besnette Hauser, President and CEO of Trust for Public Land. \u201cAs one of Congress\u2019 final acts of 2024, this bipartisan achievement underscores the vital role parks and green spaces play in uniting us. For the first time, this legislation ensures that tribal nations can directly access funding from the Land and Water Conservation Fund, while also providing essential resources to underserved urban communities. With this measure now heading to the President\u2019s desk, we are one step closer to making the benefits and joys of the outdoors a reality for every community \u2014 regardless of location or income. The Outdoors for All Act wouldn\u2019t have been possible without the leadership of Senators Alex Padilla and Susan Collins and Representatives Nanette Barrag\u00e1n and Mike Turner. We applaud their bipartisan efforts to prioritize equitable park access, and we look forward to working with communities across the country to bring this transformative legislation to life.\u201d\n\nThe Outdoors for All Act codifies the Outdoor Recreation Legacy Partnership (ORLP) program in federal law. ORLP improves and funds new trails, green spaces, playgrounds, and cultural gathering spaces in underserved communities. As our cities grow and the effects of climate change intensify, the Outdoors for All Act would promote equitable access to the benefits of local parks \u2014 from job creation, to shade and tree cover, to clean air.\n\nCongress established the ORLP program in 2014 to support urban parks in underserved communities across the country. It is administered by the National Park Service and funded through the Land and Water Conservation Fund (LWCF) as a nationally competitive grant program to increase access to the outdoors for disadvantaged communities. While LWCF is a popular program with strong bipartisan support and mandatory funding, ORLP still remains a discretionary grant program, which jeopardizes funding for underserved communities who lack access to outdoor recreation.\n\nThe Outdoors for All Act has been endorsed by organizations including The Wilderness Society, KABOOM!, Sierra Club, Trust for Public Lands, National Recreation and Park Association, City Parks Alliance, National Association of State Outdoor Recreation Liaison Officers (NASORLO), National Association of State Park Directors (NASPD), LWCF Coalition, Outdoor Industry Association, REI Co-op, Latino Outdoors, Kids Speak for Parks, Safe Routes Partnership, National League of Cities, Appalachian Trail Conservancy, American Heart Association, American Forrest, American Hiking Society, Outdoor Alliance for Kids (OAK), Vista Outdoor, PeopleForBikes, and Children and Nature Network.\n\nThe bill is cosponsored in the Senate by Senators Tammy Baldwin (D-WI), Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Cory Booker (D-NJ), Bob Casey (D-PA), Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), John Fetterman (D-PA), John Hickenlooper (D-CO), Tim Kaine (D-VA), Angus King (I-ME), Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), Ben Ray Luj\u00e1n (D-NM), Edward J. Markey (D-MA), Chris Murphy (D-CT), Patty Murray (D-WA), Jon Ossoff (D-GA), Gary Peters (D-MI), Bernie Sanders (I-VT), Chris Van Hollen (D-MD), Elizabeth Warren (D-MA), Peter Welch (D-VT), Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI), and Ron Wyden (D-OR).\n\nThe complete text of the Outdoors for All Act can be read here.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:07:19Z"], ["https://www.collins.senate.gov/newsroom/senators-collins-smith-introduce-bipartisan-bill-to-build-rural-health-care-workforce", "Senators Collins, Smith Introduce Bipartisan Bill to Build Rural Health Care Workforce", "2024-12-20", "2024", "2024-12", "Republican", "House", "GA", "Mike Collins", "C001129", "www.collins.senate.gov", "collins", "https://www.collins.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2013U.S. Senators Susan Collins and Tina Smith (D-MN) introduced bipartisan legislation to improve access to health care and address the physician shortage in rural areas. The Rural Residency Planning and Development Act of 2024 would authorize the Rural Residency Planning and Development Program to continue providing start-up funding to rural hospitals, medical schools, and other organizations to establish new rural residency programs. Among current medical residency programs, only two percent of residency training occurs in rural areas. Maine has received two Rural Residency Planning and Development (RRPD) Program Awards to support Maine Medical Center Psychiatry Rural Training Track Program and Maine Medical Center\u2019s Rural Residency in Family Medicine at Franklin Memorial Hospital.\n\n\u201cExpanding residency training opportunities in rural areas will help increase the number of physicians choosing to serve patients in these communities throughout their careers,\u201d said Senator Collins. \u201cThis bipartisan legislation will build on the success of the Rural Residency Planning and Development Program to directly address the health care workforce shortages that continue to challenge rural hospitals in Maine and across the country.\u201d\n\n\u201cWhen I meet with families, farmers, businesses and Tribal and community leaders in rural Minnesota, one of the first issues that comes up is health care,\u201d said Senator Smith. \u201cThere is a severe lack of access to health care in rural communities in Minnesota and across the country, and this bill is the first step to addressing that problem. Establishing more residency programs at rural hospitals and medical schools will incentivize doctors and nurses to work in these areas, help address physician shortages, and ensure Minnesotans living in small towns and rural places have access to the care they deserve.\u201d\n\nThe Rural Residency Planning and Development Program was established in 2019 and has supported the creation of 46 new accredited rural residency programs spanning family medicine, internal medicine, psychiatry, and general surgery, creating 575 new rural residency jobs in 36 states. Codifying this program into law within the Public Health Service Act would help to create even more residency programs in rural areas, therefore improving access to health care for rural communities across the country.\n\nThe complete text of the bill can be read here.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:07:19Z"], ["https://bishop.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/bishop-ferguson-kildee-smith-lead-house-approval-of-the-beagle-brigade-act", "BISHOP, FERGUSON, KILDEE, & SMITH LEAD HOUSE APPROVAL OF THE BEAGLE BRIGADE ACT", "2024-12-19", "2024", "2024-12", "Democrat", "House", "GA", "Sanford D. Bishop, Jr.", "B000490", "bishop.house.gov", "bishop", "https://bishop.house.gov/media-center/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, DC \u2013 Yesterday, U.S. Representatives Sanford D. Bishop, Jr. (D-GA-02), Drew Ferguson (R-GA-03), Dan Kildee (D-MI-08), and Adrian Smith (R-NE-03) led U.S. House approval of S.759, the Beagle Brigade Act. The bill was approved by the U.S. House with an overwhelmingly bipartisan vote of 381-20 and previously passed the U.S. Senate by unanimous consent last month. Having passed both chambers, the bill now heads to the President\u2019s desk to be signed into law.\n\nLast year, Reps. Bishop, Ferguson, Kildee, and Smith introduced the House companion bill, H.R. 1480, which was approved by the U.S. House Agriculture Committee by a unanimous vote.\n\nThe bill will permanently authorize the National Detector Dog Training Center, located in Newnan, Georgia. The Center extensively trains detector dogs and their U.S. Customs and Border Protection handlers to sniff out prohibited agricultural items that could carry foreign plant or animal pests and diseases into our country.\n\nIn leading debate on the bill, Congressman Bishop noted, \u201cThe U.S. agriculture sector is a $1 trillion industry constantly under the threat of foreign pests and diseases\u2026 that could be introduced through our nation\u2019s ports of entry, including airports, harbors, and mail and cargo facilities. Some of these diseases could cost the American economy tens of billions of dollars to contain and eradicate, if they are found to be in the country. Agriculture detector dogs \u2013 known as the \u2018Beagle Brigade\u2019 \u2013 are an important tool in preventing these threats and eradicating them in the event they overcome our safeguards\u2026 An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. The Brigade is well worth its value.\u201d\n\nAs the Republican co-lead of the House-version of the bill, Congressman Ferguson noted during debate that, \u201cthe Beagle Brigade Act would permanently authorize the training center to ensure that America\u2019s food supply stays protected from potentially devastating foreign pests and diseases. The National Detector Dog Training Center in Georgia\u2019s 3rd Congressional District does important work to properly train detector dogs to sniff out prohibited agricultural items in domestic and international trade.\u201d\n\n\u201cI\u2019m pleased to see the House pass our bill, the Beagle Brigade Act, to strengthen the inspection of food imports. Michigan's farmers work hard to feed our families every day, and this bill will help to protect our local food supply,\u201d said Congressman Kildee. \u201cThis legislation will help defend American agriculture from foreign diseases that could harm our livestock and increase food prices.\u201d\n\n\u201cProtecting American consumers and our agriculture industry from foreign threats to food safety before they enter our food supply is a critical task,\u201d said Congressman Smith. \u201cOur hardworking farmers and ranchers are tirelessly vigilant to safeguard their stock from contaminants, and the passage of this bill will augment Customs and Border Protection efforts to effectively identify and stop foreign pests and diseases before they can enter our food supply chain. I thank Reps. Bishop, Ferguson, and Kildee for their collaboration on this bipartisan bill, and I encourage President Biden to sign it into law.\u201d\n\n\u201cEvery day, USDA\u2019s National Detector Dog Training Center in Newnan plays an essential role in keeping our food supply safe from contamination. This legislation permanently authorizes their work and will continue to strengthen our nation\u2019s agriculture industry and the well-being of our communities,\u201d said Senator Reverend Warnock. \u201cAs a member of the Senate Agriculture committee and champion for Georgia\u2019s farmers, I am proud to have worked with my Senate and House colleagues, including Congressman Bishop, to get this bipartisan legislation over the finish line, and I urge President Biden to swiftly sign it into law.\u201d\n\n\u201cIowans know firsthand how important prevention and preparedness efforts are in combatting diseases like avian influenza, foot-and-mouth disease, and African swine fever. The Beagle Brigade is our first line of defense against foreign animal diseases that have the potential to devastate our farmers, producers, and food supply chain,\u201d said Senator Ernst. \u201cThe House and Senate have done our jobs to protect our agricultural community, and the president must sign this bipartisan legislation into law immediately.\u201d\n\nWATCH: The full debate regarding the Beagle Brigade Act during on the U.S. House Floor, led by Congressman Bishop\n\nS.759 was introduced in the U.S. Senate and led by Senators Rev. Raphael Warnock (D-GA) and Joni Ernst (R-IA).\n\nAuthorizing the United States Department of Agriculture\u2019s National Detector Dog Training Center ensures the United States has a crucial tool in its fight against foreign pests and diseases that have the potential to devastate all sectors of the agriculture economy. Over 50 prominent agricultural, veterinary, and trade organizations support the legislation.\n\nThe Center trains dogs\u2014mostly beagles\u2014and their handlers to detect prohibited fruits, vegetables, and meats in international passenger baggage, mailed packages, and vehicles entering the United States. Dogs are selected from animal shelters, rescue groups, and private owners. Those that retire from the program or do not complete training are offered for adoption.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:07:19Z"], ["https://www.collins.senate.gov/newsroom/maine-delegation-secures-congressional-approval-for-cherryfield-fishway", "Maine Delegation Secures Congressional Approval for Cherryfield Fishway", "2024-12-19", "2024", "2024-12", "Republican", "House", "GA", "Mike Collins", "C001129", "www.collins.senate.gov", "collins", "https://www.collins.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2014 This week, U.S. Senators Susan Collins and Angus King, and U.S. Representative Jared Golden, secured final congressional approval for the replacement and restoration of the Cherryfield Fishway. Passed as a provision of the Thomas R. Carper Water Resources Development Act, the fishway will allow anadromous fish such as herring, alewives, and the endangered Atlantic salmon to migrate upstream.\n\nPreviously, the Cherryfield dam which was built in 1961 to address flooding caused by ice jams in the Narraguagus River, blocked passage of the fishway. The removal of the dam will support the Town of Cherryfield in its efforts to conserve local habitats and recreation. The bill passed the House 399-18 last week and the Senate 97-1 last night. It now awaits President Biden\u2019s signature to become law.\n\n\u201cResponsible stewardship of Maine\u2019s woods and waters has protected generations of business and recreation,\u201d Collins, King and Golden said. \u201cOpening the Narraguagus back up to fish migration is a recommitment to that responsibility and will benefit both Maine\u2019s ecosystems and the communities that rely on them.\u201d\n\nFollowing a five-year study by the Army Corps of Engineers that concluded a natural fishway should replace the dam, Cherryfield voters approved the move in 2023. The Downeast Salmon Federation received a $9.1 million grant from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration\u2019s (NOAA) Fish Passage Grant Program to spearhead the project, and construction is estimated to begin in 2026.\n\n\u201cThe bipartisan effort to advance the Water Resources Development Act of 2024 is incredible news for the Narraguagus River and the communities connected to it,\u201d Hadley Couraud, Aquatic Restoration Manager for The Nature Conservancy in Maine said. \u201cThis bill will support the Town of Cherryfield in its effort to remove this structure and significantly improve access to an astonishing 320 miles of river, creating tremendous opportunities for habitat conservation, restoration and fish passage, while retaining the ice control and alewife harvest important for the town. TNC and our local partners are ready to support the town in replacing the dam with a more resilient, fish-friendly structure that benefits everyone.\u201d\n\n\u201cThis natural fishway has been decades in the making and will revitalize one of the most ecologically important rivers in the eastern United States,\u201d Jacob van de Sande, Project Manager of the Maine Coast Heritage Trust said. \u201cGetting this project over the finish line has truly been a team effort between the Town of Cherryfield; community partners like Maine Coast Heritage Trust, Atlantic Salmon Federation, Downeast Salmon Federation, and the Nature Conservancy; and Maine\u2019s Congressional Delegation. Now, it\u2019s time to make it happen.\u201d\n\n\u201cThe passage of the Water Resources Development Act of 2024 will greatly support a 10 year effort led in partnership by the Town of Cherryfield, Downeast Salmon Federation, Maine Coast Heritage Trust, Atlantic Salmon Federation, and the Nature Conservancy. ,\u201d Ellie Mason, Habitat Restoration Program Manager of the Downeast Salmon Federation said. \u201cThe advancement of this bill is a testament to the dedication of all the project partners and the collaborative nature of restoration work in Downeast Maine. We\u2019re looking forward to supporting the town in their ongoing efforts to replace the dam with a nature-like fishway that continues to allow for alewife harvest and ice control.\u201d\n\nMore information about the project can be found here.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:07:19Z"], ["https://www.collins.senate.gov/newsroom/senators-collins-shaheen-introduce-bipartisan-legislation-to-improve-medicare-beneficiaries-access-to-diabetes-treatments-and-education", "Senators Collins, Shaheen Introduce Bipartisan Legislation to Improve Medicare Beneficiaries\u2019 Access to Diabetes Treatments and Education", "2024-12-19", "2024", "2024-12", "Republican", "House", "GA", "Mike Collins", "C001129", "www.collins.senate.gov", "collins", "https://www.collins.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2013 U.S. Senators Susan Collins and Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH) are introducing new, bipartisan legislation, the Diabetes Interventions Addressing Barriers to Enrollment, Technology and Education Services (DIABETES) Act, to improve access to diabetes treatments and respond to the ongoing need for diabetes technology education among Medicare beneficiaries.\n\n\u201cDelays or disruptions to coverage of diabetes technologies can significantly diminish patient health, particularly for those enrolling in Medicare,\u201d said Senator Collins. \u201cThis bipartisan legislation would streamline coverage for insulin pumps and expand education and training for patients and providers, improving care for individuals managing diabetes.\u201d\n\n\u201cFar too often, Medicare beneficiaries have to jump through hoops to access life-saving diabetes care or are forced to change treatments simply because of outdated coverage requirements,\u201d said Senator Shaheen. \u201cThis bill would improve access to supportive services, eliminate disruptions in coverage and remove significant obstacles so that those on Medicare can continue with the treatment regimens that work best for them.\u201d\n\n\u201cFor too long, Americans with diabetes have been frustrated in trying to access diabetes care that works for them. For the thirty two percent of Medicare beneficiaries who have diabetes, they need access the care that works for them, ranging from pharmaceutical and technological interventions to behavioral interventions, like diabetes self-management training. This is essential since individuals experience their diabetes uniquely. This bill would dramatically improve access to diabetes care for our seniors, and DTAC applauds Senators Shaheen and Collins for their leadership and commitment to ensuring that all individuals have access to a comprehensive and flexible set of diabetes treatment options,\u201d said Tim Trysla, Executive Director of the Diabetes Technology Access Coalition.\n\nAs co-chairs of the U.S. Senate Diabetes Caucus, Shaheen and Collins have led action in the U.S. Senate to advance priorities that will lower the costs of insulin, invest in treatment and prioritize diabetes research. Shaheen and Collins recently delivered remarks on the U.S. Senate floor to recognize American Diabetes Month and to push for the passage of their bipartisan Improving Needed Safeguards for Users of Lifesaving Insulin Now (INSULIN) Act, which would comprehensively address the skyrocketing costs of insulin, removing barriers to care and making it more accessible for millions more Americans.\n\nLast summer, Shaheen and Collins introduced the Special Diabetes Program Reauthorization Act of 2023, bipartisan legislation to reauthorize and strengthen vital type 1 diabetes research. In March, Senators Collins and Shaheen secured a short-term reauthorization of the Special Diabetes Program (SDP) through the end of 2024. Earlier this month, the senators led a bipartisan letter to Senate leadership emphasizing the importance of the Special Diabetes Program (SDP) that was signed by a total of 55 Senators.\n\nThe Senators also introduced the bicameral, bipartisan Strengthening Collective Resources for Encouraging Education Needed (SCREEN) for Type 1 Diabetes Act, to improve early detection and screening for type 1 diabetes.\n\nThe bill has been endorsed by the Diabetes Technology Access Coalition and the American Diabetes Association.\n\nA copy of the bill text can be found here.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:07:19Z"], ["https://buddycarter.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=15293", "Carter, Merkley, Cornyn, Tuberville, and Khanna Joined by Paris Hilton in Celebrating the Stop Institutional Child Abuse Act Passing the House, Heads to President's Desk", "2024-12-18", "2024", "2024-12", "Republican", "House", "GA", "Earl L. \"Buddy\" Carter", "C001103", "buddycarter.house.gov", "buddycarter", "https://buddycarter.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, DC \u2013 Today, Representatives Earl L. \u201cBuddy\u201d Carter (GA-01), Ro Khanna (CA-17), along with Senators Jeff Merkley (D-OR), John Cornyn (R-TX), and Tommy Tuberville (R-AL), were joined by Paris Hilton in celebrating the passage of the Stop Institutional Child Abuse Act (SICAA) in the House. The legislation, which passed the Senate last week by unanimous consent, will head to the President\u2019s desk to be signed into law.\n\nParis Hilton, a survivor of institutional child abuse in the so-called \u201ctroubled teen\u201d industry who has led reform efforts for years, joined the lawmakers for a press conference this week on Capitol Hill to discuss how the legislation will ensure accountability and protect over 100,000 youth in America. This bipartisan, bicameral bill will provide greater oversight and data transparency for institutional youth treatment programs and will help identify and prevent institutional child abuse.\n\n\u201cOne child experiencing abuse is too many. Hundreds of thousands of children being funneled into seemingly safe institutional care facilities only to be dehumanized and abused is a crisis, one that I am thrilled Congress took action to address today. When this bill is signed into law, parents and children alike will have an accurate understanding of the practices, goals, and ethics of residential youth treatment centers before it\u2019s too late. This bill adds transparency and oversight to an industry with too many bad actors in it, and I want to thank Paris Hilton for her bravery that made this bill passage possible,\u201d said Rep. Earl L. \u201cBuddy\u201d Carter.\n\n\u201cChildren across the country are at risk of abuse and neglect due to a lack of transparency in institutional youth treatment programs. The industry has gone unchecked for too long. Paris Hilton and other survivors of abuse in this broken system have bravely shared their stories and inspired change. I\u2019m proud to lead this legislation with my colleagues to protect the safety and well-being of kids,\u201d said Rep. Ro Khanna.\n\n\u201cSince releasing my documentary four years ago and sharing my story about the abuse I endured in youth residential treatment facilities, the response has been overwhelming. I made a vow to do everything in my power to advocate for survivors and shine a light on the harsh reality that hundreds of thousands of children still face. After years of fighting for this bill and countless trips to the Capitol, I am so proud that the Stop Institutional Child Abuse Act has officially passed Congress. I never imagined my voice could create such change, and I am committed to using my platform to protect children, amplify the voices of survivors, and ensure no child is ever harmed in the name of \u201ctreatment\u201d again. I look forward to this bill being signed by President Biden and hope to celebrate this achievement at a bill signing,\u201d said Paris Hilton.\n\n\u201cOften, a child seeking help is harmed instead\u2014this must end. This strongly bipartisan effort to bring oversight to the troubled teen industry has been years in the making, and now, our bill to shine a light on the horrifying cases at these centers is on the way to becoming law,\u201d said Senator Jeff Merkley, the lead sponsor of the Stop Institutional Child Abuse Act in the Senate.\n\n\u201cSome children in residential youth programs have faced unimaginable abuse and neglect, and I am proud to have introduced this legislation to help ensure institutional child abuse comes to an end. Now that both the Senate and the House have passed this critical legislation, I look forward to the President signing it into law to help protect vulnerable youth from these horrific conditions,\u201d said Senator John Cornyn.\n\n\u201cI dedicated my life to mentoring young people because they are the most precious commodity that we have. If we get everything else right, but neglect our young people, our country has no future. There\u2019s an old saying that sunlight is the best disinfectant. We need some more sunlight on these facilities so we can put a stop to the waste, and the fraud, and abuse in the system. I\u2019m proud to support the Stop Institutional Child Abuse Act and stand with our kids,\u201d said Senator Tommy Tuberville.\n\nFor the full text of the legislation, click here.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T22:13:55Z"], ["https://www.collins.senate.gov/newsroom/bill-to-strengthen-national-defense-with-provisions-championed-by-senator-collins-to-be-signed-into-law", "Bill to Strengthen National Defense with Provisions Championed by Senator Collins to be Signed into Law", "2024-12-18", "2024", "2024-12", "Republican", "House", "GA", "Mike Collins", "C001129", "www.collins.senate.gov", "collins", "https://www.collins.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2013 U.S. Senator Susan Collins, Vice Chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee and Ranking Member of the Defense Appropriations Subcommittee, announced that the Fiscal Year (FY) 2025 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), which authorizes $895.2 billion in total defense spending, passed the Senate by an overwhelmingly bipartisan vote of 85-14. This annual defense bill authorizes spending levels and sets policy for the military and critical national defense priorities, while the defense appropriations bill, which is under the jurisdiction of the Senate Appropriations Committee appropriates the funding for the Department of Defense (DOD) each fiscal year. The Senate Appropriations Committee advanced the FY25 DOD funding bill in August by a unanimous vote of 28-0. The NDAA, which passed the U.S. House of Representatives on December 11 by a 281-140 vote, now heads to the President\u2019s desk to be signed into law.\n\n\u201cEach year for the past six decades, Congress has fulfilled one of their most important Constitutional responsibilities\u2014providing for our national defense\u2014by passing the NDAA,\u201d said Senator Collins. \u201cThis legislation addresses the many national security threats facing our nation today and better supports the brave men and women of our armed forces. Additionally, the NDAA authorizes funding that will support hardworking Mainers at BIW, PNSY, Pratt & Whitney, and elsewhere across the State, who make invaluable contributions to our national defense.\u201d\n\nSeveral provisions and amendments authored or co-authored by Senator Collins were included in the final bill that passed the Senate today:\n\nBlast Overpressure and Traumatic Brain Injury. The NDAA includes multiple provisions based off the Blast Overpressure Safety Act, of which Senator Collins is an original cosponsor. The provisions would direct DOD to enact measures to help mitigate and protect service members from blast overpressure, which is the wave caused by the firing of a weapon or munition. Recent research indicates repeated exposure to these waves can cause traumatic brain injury (TBI). In June, Senator Collins joined a bipartisan group of senators in sending a letter requesting the Government Accountability Office (GAO) review DOD research on blast overpressure and TBI. GAO accepted the request and shortly after the Pentagon released updated policies aimed at mitigating servicemembers' exposure to blast overpressure, including updating standoff distances for specific weapons and proposing limits on expending excess rounds during training.\n\nTRICARE Coverage of Certain Alzheimer\u2019s Therapies. The NDAA includes an amendment authored by Senator Collins that requires DOD to review its TRICARE coverage of monoclonal antibodies (MABs) for prevention, treatment, or mitigation of the symptoms related to mild cognitive impairment or Alzheimer\u2019s disease. TRICARE\u2019s coverage policy specifically excluded coverage of MABs for the treatment of Alzheimer\u2019s disease even though such drugs have had full FDA-approval since July 2023.\n\nContraceptive Coverage Parity under TRICARE. The NDAA contains language from a bill led by Senators Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH) and Senator Collins to eliminate copays for contraceptives for servicemembers and their families. This provision brings TRICARE\u2019s coverage in-line with private health care requirements.\n\nThe NDAA also includes a number of provisions Senator Collins strongly advocated for that will benefit Maine:\n\nSupport for U.S. Troops. The NDAA supports a 4.5% raise for servicemembers and DOD civilians.\n\nSupport for Maine Air National Guard. The NDAA authorizes $48 million for construction of a universal fuel cell hangar at the Bangor Air National Guard base. As the Vice Chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee, Senator Collins secured nearly $9.6 million for MEANG projects in Bangor and Saco in the Fiscal Year 2024 Military Construction Appropriations bill. In May, she highlighted the important role the MAINEiacs play in our national defense at a hearing to review the Fiscal Year 2025 budget request for military construction. Senator Collins hosted Air Force Secretary Frank Kendall earlier this year on June 7, in what was the first time that the Secretary of the Air Force has made a dedicated visit to the 101st ARW.\n\nSupport for Bath Iron Works. The NDAA not only authorizes the President\u2019s request for $5.4 billion for the two Arleigh-Burke class destroyers for FY25, but also includes $700 million in incremental funding for a third DDG-51 option ship. The bill also authorizes $41.5 million in advance procurement for a FY26 option ship. Senator Collins announced in August that she secured funding for a third DDG-51 in the FY 2025 Defense Appropriations bill.\n\nSupport for Portsmouth Naval Shipyard. The NDAA authorizes $400.6 million for an extension of the multi-mission Dry Dock #1 military construction project at PNSY. The bill also authorizes $28.7 million for power plant resiliency improvements at the shipyard.\n\nSupport for Defense Contractors in Maine. The NDAA authorizes funding to procure a total of 68 F-35 jets. It also authorizes the procurement of 20 CH-53K helicopters. Pratt & Whitney\u2019s North Berwick facility manufactures the F135 engine for the F-35s, and Hunting Dearborn in Fryeburg has made important contributions to the F-35 and CH-53K program for years.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:07:19Z"], ["https://www.collins.senate.gov/newsroom/senate-overwhelmingly-advances-senator-collins-social-security-fairness-act", "Senate Overwhelmingly Advances Senator Collins\u2019 Social Security Fairness Act", "2024-12-18", "2024", "2024-12", "Republican", "House", "GA", "Mike Collins", "C001129", "www.collins.senate.gov", "collins", "https://www.collins.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases", "scraper", "Click HERE to watch her full floor remarks.\n\nWashington, D.C. \u2013 Today, the Senate overwhelmingly advanced the Social Security Fairness Act, a bipartisan bill authored by Senators Susan Collins and Sherrod Brown (D-OH), by a margin of 73-27. Today\u2019s successful procedural vote indicates the bill likely has the support necessary for final passage later this week.\n\nThis bipartisan bill, which passed the House last month by a vote of 327-75, would restore full Social Security benefits for teachers, law enforcement officers, firefighters, and other public servants by repealing two provisions of current law \u2013 the Windfall Elimination Provision (WEP) and the Government Pension Offset (GPO) \u2013 that unfairly reduce the Social Security benefits that public employees receive.\n\nEarlier this year, Senators Collins and Brown called on Senate leadership to immediately bring their legislation, which has 62 Senate cosponsors\u2014above the margin needed for passage\u2014to the Senate floor for a vote. Senator Collins held the first Senate hearing on this policy in 2003 as Chair of the Senate Government Affairs Committee. She along with the late Senator Dianne Feinstein first introduced the Social Security Fairness Act in 2005.\n\n\u201cSocial Security is the foundation of retirement income for most Americans. Yet many teachers, firefighters, police officers, and other public servants often see their earned Social Security benefits unfairly reduced by two provisions: the so-called Windfall Elimination Provision and the Government Pension Offset,\u201d said Senator Collins during her remarks. \u201cAccording to the Social Security Administration, in November 2024, more than 2 million people, including more than 20,000 in Maine, had their Social Security benefits reduced by the WEP. Similarly, more than 650,000 people were affected by the GPO in November of 2024, including more than 6000 in Maine.\u201d\n\n\u201cLet me give you one example. Catherine Sjogren from Bangor, Maine, told me about having to reenter the workforce at age 72 after retiring from teaching for many decades,\u201d Senator Collins continued. \u201cHer husband, a Navy veteran, paid into Social Security for 40 years. When he passed away, the GPO reduced Catherine's widow benefits by two-thirds. She did not have the financial security any longer to remain retired, and the GPO penalty left her with few choices but to return to work. Our dedicated public servants, such as our teachers who help prepare our children for future success, or our police officers and firefighters who help keep our communities safe, should receive the full Social Security benefits that they have earned.\u201d\n\n\u201cSenator Collins has been at this bill for now more than two decades. And I know from our pension bill, I know from the child tax credit, I know from the PACT Act, I know from a whole lot of issues, that this stuff takes time, but 21 years is ridiculous. And we need to move forward on this, and I so appreciate that she kept this alive,\u201d said Senator Brown during remarks on the Senate Floor.\n\nMore than 25,000 Mainers, who dedicated their lives to public service, are prevented from receiving the full Social Security benefits they earn due to two laws from the 1970s and 1980s. The Windfall Elimination Provision, enacted in 1983, reduces the Social Security benefits of workers who receive pensions from a federal, state, or local government for employment not covered by Social Security. The Government Pension Offset, enacted in 1977, reduces Social Security spousal benefits for spouses, widows, and widowers whose spouses receive pensions from a federal, state, or local government.\n\nThe Social Security Fairness Act would repeal both of these laws, ensuring teachers, law enforcement, firefighters, park rangers, and other public sector workers and their families receive the full Social Security benefits they\u2019ve earned.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:07:19Z"], ["https://buddycarter.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=15292", "WATCH: Carter bill providing holocaust education resources heads to President\u2019s desk", "2024-12-17", "2024", "2024-12", "Republican", "House", "GA", "Earl L. \"Buddy\" Carter", "C001103", "buddycarter.house.gov", "buddycarter", "https://buddycarter.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Rep. Earl L. \u201cBuddy\u201d Carter (R-GA) spoke in favor of his bill, the Never Again Education Reauthorization Act, which passed the House of Representatives today and reauthorizes a program that provides funding and resources for schools to properly educate students about the horrors of the Holocaust.\n\nWatch Rep. Carter\u2019s remarks here\n\nRead Rep. Carter\u2019s full remarks, as prepared for delivery, in favor of the bill:\n\n\u201cMr. Speaker, I rise today in strong support of Senate Bill 3448, the Never Again Education Reauthorization Act.\n\n\u201cI am proud to lead this important bipartisan bill with Senator Rosen, and I thank her for her work.\n\n\u201cThe bill before us today reauthorizes the United States Holocaust Museum\u2019s program to disseminate Holocaust education resources through Fiscal Year 2030.\n\n\u201cSince the horrific attacks of October 7th, 2023, pervasive discrimination and bias against Jews has been on full display.\n\n\u201cThe Anti-Defamation League reports more than 10,000 incidents of antisemitism in the United States between October 2023 and September of 2024.\n\n\u201cThis is hateful, disgusting, and despicable.\n\n\u201cNowhere is this more visible than on college and university campuses, where there was a staggering 321 percent increase of antisemitic incidents in just one year.\n\n\u201cDuring that time, the American people watched antisemitic mobs rule over so-called elite universities, including Columbia University, Harvard University, George Washington University, and many, many more.\n\n\u201cNot only were these demonstrations morally reprehensible, but they also incited violence against Jewish students and staff.\n\n\u201cYet, as these mobs raged on campuses, the American people witnessed three Ivy League presidents refuse to unequivocally state that calling for the genocide of Jews would violate their institutions\u2019 codes of conduct.\n\n\u201cThink about the example that set for today\u2019s college students. Three adults, in a position of power, believed calling for the genocide of Jews would be in line with their school policies.\n\n\u201cJewish students deserve better.\n\n\u201cWe must speak out against hate and educate our students on the history of antisemitism to ensure that the horrors of the Holocaust are never repeated.\n\n\u201cYou\u2019ve heard the saying \u2013 those who don\u2019t know their history are bound to repeat it.\n\n\u201cWe must set a better example than that for our children, and the recent pro-Hamas demonstrations happening at colleges and high schools across the nation are proof of that.\n\n\u201cNo one, no one should be discriminated against because of their faith, or their culture, or their heritage. When we say, \u2018never again,\u2019 we mean it.\n\n\u201cLet me be clear: October 7th was the worst day in Jewish history since the Holocaust, and this bill will ensure that we learn from history instead of hiding from it.\n\n\u201cThat is why I applaud Senator Rosen for working with me on this bipartisan bill, and I urge my colleagues to support it.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T22:13:55Z"], ["https://www.collins.senate.gov/newsroom/12/17/2024/senators-collins-and-king-announce-maine-nominees-to-the-united-states-military-service-academies", "Senators Collins and King Announce Maine Nominees to the United States Military Service Academies", "2024-12-17", "2024", "2024-12", "Republican", "House", "GA", "Mike Collins", "C001129", "www.collins.senate.gov", "collins", "https://www.collins.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2014 U.S. Senators Susan Collins and Angus King today announced their nominees to the United States Military Service Academies. To be considered for an appointment to a service academy, applicants must be nominated by an authorized nominating source, which includes Members of Congress. Admission to the United States Coast Guard Academy, also a federal service academy, does not require a congressional nomination.\n\n\u201cWe are proud to have the honor to nominate such an impressive group of Maine students to our nation\u2019s distinguished service academies,\u201d said Senators Collins and King in a joint statement. \u201cThe young people we have nominated have earned this honor through a strong commitment to scholarship, leadership, and good character.\u201d\n\nThe following students from Maine have received nominations as candidates to the service academies from Senators Collins and King:\n\nUnited States Air Force Academy \u2013 Colorado Springs, CO\n\nName Home Town High School\n\nCaroline Benson Scarborough Scarborough High School\n\nRiley Bryant Knox Mount View High School\n\nAva Candage Manchester Maranacook Community High School\n\nDante Cody Springvale Sanford High School\n\nEvan Fossum Rockport Camden Hills Regional High School\n\nJoseph Lathwood Arundel Thornton Academy\n\nQuinn Michaud Fort Kent Fort Kent Community High School\n\nLily Oliver St. John Plantation Fort Kent Community High School\n\nMatilda Schroeder Port Clyde Camden Hills Regional High School\n\nBlake Wilson York York High School\n\nSamuel Yoon Falmouth Falmouth High School\n\nTravis Dow Falmouth Falmouth High School\n\nHayden Meffert Wells Wells High School\n\nEmma Richard North Yarmouth Greely High School\n\nPatrick Delaney Gorham Gorham High School\n\nFelicity Jackson Brunswick Brunswick High School\n\nMichael Rene Hermon Hermon High School\n\nJacob Biberstein Orrington Bangor High School\n\nUnited States Merchant Marine Academy - Kings Point, NY\n\nName Home Town High School\n\nHannah Hills Boothbay Boothbay Regional High School\n\nCole Tomaschat Scarborough Scarborough High School\n\nAlden Hughes Cape Elizabeth Maine School of Science and Mathematics\n\nChristopher King Cumberland Greely High School\n\nAva Candage Manchester Maranacook Community High School\n\nJacob Biberstein Orrington Bangor High School\n\nRiley Bryant Knox Mount View High School\n\nUnites States Military Academy - West Point, NY\n\nName Home Town High School\n\nNicholas Gondolfo Scarborough Scarborough High School\n\nJack Fenton Portland Cheverus High School\n\nZachary Lattanzi Yarmouth Yarmouth High School\n\nPatrick Downey Gorham Gorham High School\n\nFinnegan Calderwood Union Islesboro Central School\n\nRiley Record Cumberland Greely High School\n\nXavier De La Torre Biddeford Biddeford High School\n\nJoseph Lathwood Arundel Thornton Academy\n\nAnthony Boyce West Gardiner Gardiner Area High School\n\nNathan Lewis Monmouth Monmouth Academy\n\nJoshua Stineford LaGrange Penquis Valley High School\n\nJacob Biberstein Orrington Bangor High School\n\nQuinn Michaud Fort Kent Fort Kent Community High School\n\nRiley Bryant Knox Mount View High School\n\nMatilda Schroeder Port Clyde Camden Hills Regional High School\n\nAva Candage Manchester Maranacook Community High School\n\nUnited States Naval Academy \u2013 Annapolis, MD\n\nName Home Town High School\n\nJacob Biberstein Orrington Bangor High School\n\nSean Allen Cumberland Greely High School\n\nFelicity Jackson Brunswick Brunswick High School\n\nHayden Meffert Wells Wells High School\n\nXavier De La Torre Biddeford Biddeford High School\n\nAlden Hughes Cape Elizabeth Maine School of Science and Mathematics\n\nOtto Schoenthal Southport Lincoln Academy\n\nChristopher King Cumberland Greely High School\n\nMatilda Schroeder Port Clyde Camden Hills Regional High School\n\nTravis Dow Falmouth Falmouth High School\n\nRiley Bryant Knox Mount View High School\n\nNathaniel Raineault Mount Vernon Lake Braddock Secondary School\n\nNathan Lewis Monmouth Monmouth Academy\n\nMichael Rene Hermon Hermon High School\n\nLauren Dugal Presque Isle Presque Isle High School\n\nGracie Rooney West Bath Morse High School\n\nFinnegan Calderwood Union Islesboro Central School\n\nRiley Record Cumberland Greely High School\n\nCole Tomaschat Scarborough Scarborough High School\n\nAva Candage Manchester Maranacook Community High School\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T22:13:55Z"], ["https://www.collins.senate.gov/newsroom/maine-delegation-demands-answers-on-closure-of-bangor-tax-assistance-center", "Maine Delegation Demands Answers on Closure of Bangor Tax Assistance Center", "2024-12-17", "2024", "2024-12", "Republican", "House", "GA", "Mike Collins", "C001129", "www.collins.senate.gov", "collins", "https://www.collins.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2014 U.S. Senators Susan Collins and Angus King and U.S. Representative Jared Golden today urged the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) to reverse its closure of the Bangor Taxpayer Assistance Center (TAC). In a letter to IRS Commissioner Daniel Werfel, the Delegation shared the reality that the misguided decision \u2014 which went into effect yesterday \u2014 would leave Mainers with just two options to meet with the IRS in-person: Augusta or South Portland.\n\n\u201cSome of Maine\u2019s most disadvantaged counties rely on the Bangor TAC as their primary service center, and eliminating this staffed office would create significant hardship for hard-working rural Mainers,\u201d Collins, King, and Golden wrote. \u201cMany of these communities have limited Internet and broadband access, making in-person TAC services essential.\u201d\n\nTACs provide in-person, personalized tax assistance, can accept tax payments, and even help taxpayers access specific forms and transcripts from previous years. In fiscal year 2023, TACs conducted 782,000 appointments across the country \u2014 a 22 percent increase from FY2022.\n\nWith the former Presque Isle TAC already having been shuttered, taxpayers in northern and eastern Maine have had to travel to Bangor to receive in-person help with preparing taxes \u2014 a roundtrip of more than 400 miles for many. Bangor\u2019s closure for the foreseeable future would see some Mainers\u2019 trips increase nearly 150 miles for a nearly ten-hour drive to and from Augusta.\n\nCollins, King and Golden\u2019s letter included several questions for Secretary Werfel, including how the IRS plans to provide sufficient services to Mainers with limited internet access, whether affected households will be eligible for an extension on filing their taxes this April, and the agency\u2019s reopening plans for closed Maine centers.\n\nThe lawmakers\u2019 letter can be read in full here.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:07:19Z"], ["https://clyde.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=2835", "Rep. Clyde, Sen. Lee Introduce Legislation to Repeal Impoundment Control Act", "2024-12-16", "2024", "2024-12", "Republican", "House", "GA", "Andrew S. Clyde", "C001116", "clyde.house.gov", "clyde", "https://clyde.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2014 Today, Congressman Andrew Clyde (GA-09) and Senator Mike Lee (R-UT) introduced legislation to repeal the Impoundment Control Act (ICA) of 1974.\n\n\u201cRolling back the unconstitutional Impoundment Control Act is one of the most effective ways Congress can help President Trump in the fight to deliver the spending cuts and government efficiency that the American people overwhelmingly voted for,\u201d said Clyde. \u201cThe Impoundment Control Act of 1974 has unjustly complicated the President\u2019s constitutional impoundment authority for far too long. Every President from George Washington to Richard Nixon possessed this tool to cut wasteful spending until the ICA purported to divest the President of this critical power. In the fifty years since, America\u2019s national debt and Washington\u2019s spending habits have soared out of control. We must defend the presidential power of impoundment to get America\u2019s fiscal house back in order.\u201d\n\nBill text is available HERE.\n\nOriginal cosponsors include Representatives Andy Biggs (AZ-05), Dan Bishop (NC-08), Lauren Boebert (CO-03), Tim Burchett (TN-02), Eric Burlison (MO-07), Byron Donalds (FL-19), Bob Good (VA-05), Marjorie Taylor Greene (GA-14), Clay Higgins (LA-03), Mary Miller (IL-15), Alex Mooney (WV-02), Barry Moore (AL-02), Troy Nehls (TX-22), Ralph Norman (SC-05), Chip Roy (TX-21), Tom Tiffany (WI-07), and Randy Weber (TX-14).\n\nBackground\n\nImpoundment is the President\u2019s constitutional power, vested in Article II of the U.S. Constitution, to decline to spend the full amount of funds that Congress appropriates. In other words, congressionally appropriated funds present a ceiling, not a floor. This authority was utilized by Presidents for nearly 200 years for reasons ranging from efficiency to foreign affairs.\n\nAt the height of the Watergate scandal, Congress unnecessarily and unlawfully complicated the presidential power of impoundment with passage of the Impoundment Control Act of 1974. The ICA is unconstitutional, as it violates the President\u2019s Article II authority.\n\nWith a ballooning national debt, an out-of-control deficit, soaring interest payments, and crushing inflation, returning fiscal sanity is central to getting our country and our economy back on track. The President\u2019s constitutional power of impoundment is essential to carrying out this mission for the American people.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T22:13:55Z"], ["https://hankjohnson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressman-johnson-celebrates-92k-cops-grant-awarded-stone-mountain-de", "Congressman Johnson Celebrates $92k COPS Grant Awarded to Stone Mountain for De-Escalation and Crisis Response Training", "2024-12-16", "2024", "2024-12", "Democrat", "House", "GA", "Henry C. \"Hank\" Johnson, Jr.", "J000288", "hankjohnson.house.gov", "hankjohnson", "https://hankjohnson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Congressman Hank Johnson (GA-04) announced today that the City of Stone Mountain has been awarded $92,985 from the Department of Justice\u2019s Office of Community Oriented Policing Services (COPS Office) as part of the Fiscal Year 2024 Safer Outcomes: Enhancing De-Escalation and Crisis Response Training for Law Enforcement grant program.\n\nThis funding will support training initiatives designed to equip law enforcement officers, support personnel, and associated mental health professionals with the skills needed to de-escalate crises safely and effectively. Stone Mountain is among the 42 agencies nationwide receiving a portion of the $15.4 million in award dedicated to advancing community safety through innovative training programs.\n\n\u201cInvesting in de-escalation and crisis response training strengthens the trust between law enforcement and the communities they serve,\u201d said Congressman Johnson. \u201cI am proud to see Stone Mountain secure this funding to promote safer outcomes for both officers and residents during high-stakes situations.\u201d\n\nThe Safer Outcomes program underscores the federal government's commitment to community policing by enhancing collaboration between law enforcement agencies and mental health professionals. These grants aim to address urgent safety needs while promoting long-term strategies for reducing confrontations and preventing harm.\n\n\u201cWe are deeply honored to receive this grant, which reflects our commitment to advancing community policing and enhancing the safety and trust of our community,\u201d said Stone Mountain Police Chief James Westerfield Jr. \u201cThese funds will enable us to provide vital de-escalation and crisis response training for our officers, equipping them with the tools to better serve and protect our citizens.\u201d\n\nAbout Congressman Hank Johnson:", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:07:19Z"], ["https://www.collins.senate.gov/newsroom/in-a-win-for-maine-dog-owners-border-communities-and-the-can-am-crown-international-dog-sled-race-cdc-announces-intent-to-restart-process-and-write-new-rules-for-bringing-dogs-into-the-united-states", "In a win for Maine dog owners, border communities, and the Can-Am Crown International Dog Sled Race, CDC Announces Intent to Restart Process & Write New Rules for Bringing Dogs into the United States", "2024-12-16", "2024", "2024-12", "Republican", "House", "GA", "Mike Collins", "C001129", "www.collins.senate.gov", "collins", "https://www.collins.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2013 The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) announced that it will revisit a previous final rule related to the transport of dogs across the U.S.\u2013 Canada border following continued pushback from U.S. Senator Susan Collins and other northern border state senators and stakeholders. When previewing the new rulemaking process with Senator Collins, the CDC Director acknowledged the agency had erred in not balancing the concerns of dog owners and those in border communities with its goal of limiting the spread of canine rabies when its previous final rule was decided earlier this year.\n\n\u201cToday\u2019s CDC announcement is good news for Maine dog owners, border communities, and the Can-Am International Dog Sled Race. I am pleased that the CDC has acknowledged its previous error and committed to restarting the rulemaking process for bringing dogs into the United States,\u201d said Senator Collins. \u201cI will continue to advocate for Maine dog owners and our border communities as the CDC works to develop a more appropriate solution to personal dog importation.\u201d\n\nThis update comes as part of the Fall 2024 Unified Agenda. In the Agenda, CDC announced its intention to amend and clarify the requirements for the importation of dogs, including requirements for dog importations from rabies-free and low-risk countries into the United States. The goal of the new proposed rule will be to ensure the agency strikes the right balance of preventing the importation of dog-maintained rabies virus variant, while minimizing the burden on people traveling with their dogs from rabies-free and low-risk countries. Canada is recognized by the U.S. CDC as a dog rabies-free country.\n\nThis summer, Senator Collins raised concerns that the importation rule proposed by the CDC would create unnecessary requirements for individuals traveling with their dogs across Canada's borders into the United States. She wrote to the CDC twice in July calling on the federal agency to not implement this misguided rule on August 1st as planned, and instead postpone implementation until a regulation can be drafted that incorporates feedback from stakeholders and affected parties, allows the importation of dogs from canine-rabies-free countries like Canada as well as low-risk countries, and protects public health.\n\nFollowing feedback from Senator Collins and other border state Senators, Canadian health officials, and key stakeholders like the American Kennel Club, the CDC delayed and simplified a burdensome component of the rule. Dogs entering the U.S. from low-risk or dog rabies-free countries like Canada no longer need veterinarian signed or endorsed forms through an implementation period lasting until at least April 1, 2025. CDC\u2019s decision to revisit the rule altogether provides clarity that more burdensome components of the May 2024 final rule will not go into effect as planned.\n\nFor dogs entering the U.S. from low-risk or dog-rabies-free countries like Canada, the revised rule currently requires travelers to fill out one form\u2014the CDC Dog Import Form. The CDC Import Form can be filled out the day of travel, and the receipt can be shown to airlines and border officials as a printed copy or by phone. This form requires a simple self-attestation that the dog has not been in a high-risk country in the past six months. Additionally, based on revisions announced by CDC, the form will be good for travel into the U.S. for six months from the date of issuance and can be used for multiple entries.\n\nThe announced changes have alleviated some of the cost and time spent on compliance, such as having to get paperwork certificated frequently. This would have been particularly burdensome for regular travelers and those that travel between Maine and Canada for sled dog races or other dog competitions. Despite this meaningful update, CDC has continued to require all dogs entering the U.S., including those from low-risk and dog-rabies-free countries, to be at least six-months old and be microchipped. New rulemaking will allow CDC to revisit \u2013 and stakeholders to weigh in on \u2013 these previously unchanged components.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T22:13:55Z"], ["https://www.collins.senate.gov/newsroom/senators-collins-king-celebrate-frances-perkins-national-monument-designation", "Senators Collins, King Celebrate Frances Perkins National Monument Designation", "2024-12-16", "2024", "2024-12", "Republican", "House", "GA", "Mike Collins", "C001129", "www.collins.senate.gov", "collins", "https://www.collins.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2013 U.S. Senators Susan Collins and Angus King, the Chairman of the Senate National Parks subcommittee, are applauding the official designation of the Frances Perkins Homestead in Newcastle as a National Monument. The announcement was made today by President Biden, who signed a proclamation honoring the historic contributions of Frances Perkins, the first woman to serve in a Presidential Cabinet and the country\u2019s longest-serving Secretary of Labor.\n\nPerkins served for 12 years under President Franklin D. Roosevelt and briefly under President Harry Truman. Her confirmation to the Presidential Cabinet also made her the first woman to enter the presidential line of succession. She was instrumental in the development and passage of the Social Security Act, minimum wage laws, and working condition improvements.\n\n\u201cThe Frances Perkins Homestead National Monument ensures that the legacy of a truly remarkable Maine leader is preserved for generations to come,\u201d Collins and King said. \u201cA trailblazer in public service, Frances Perkins\u2019 intelligence and abiding commitment to her work transformed the lives of millions of Americans. From shaping Social Security to championing labor protections, her work continues to govern workplaces today and has bettered American lives for decades. Surrounded by the natural beauty of 57 acres in Newcastle, her ancestral homestead will now serve as a monument to her impressive legacy of service to our country.\u201d\n\nAccording to the Frances Perkins Center, the homestead, built in 1837, is a saltwater farm consisting of 57 acres of woods and fields along the Damariscotta River. The homestead served as a family summer home for Perkins in childhood, and she considered the property her true home. Perkins died in 1965 and is buried in Newcastle, near the site of her homestead. The core area of the homestead has been donated to the National Park Service ensuring its preservation and accessibility as a historic site.\n\nIn August, Senator Collins sent a letter to the President expressing her support for the National Monument designation for the Frances Perkins Homestead. Earlier that month, Senator King joined the initial campaign launched by the Frances Perkins Center to urge the President to declare the homestead a National Monument.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T22:13:55Z"], ["https://mcbath.house.gov/press-releases?ID=A3F22D87-C3F9-42CA-AF07-BEBC752E51CA", "McBath Announces Seventh District Service Academy Nominations for Class of 2029", "2024-12-13", "2024", "2024-12", "Democrat", "House", "GA", "Lucy McBath", "M001208", "mcbath.house.gov", "mcbath", "https://mcbath.house.gov/press-releases", "scraper", "Duluth, GA \u2014 This week, Rep. Lucy McBath (D-GA) announced Seventh District students who were nominated by her office to attend a United States military service academy. In total, 18 students from the Seventh District received nominations to the following academies: 12 students received a nomination to attend the United States Military Academy at West Point, 10 students received a nomination to attend the United States Naval Academy at Annapolis, 7 students received a nomination to attend the United States Air Force Academy at Colorado Springs, and 2 students received a nomination to attend the United States Merchant Marine Academy at Kings Point.\n\n\u201cEach year, I am privileged to nominate students from our community for appointments to our United States military service academies,\u201d McBath said. \u201cThese men and women represent the best and brightest of our community, and I know that they are highly qualified for an appointment to their chosen service academies. I offer my congratulations to these impressive young candidates for earning a nomination, and I wish them the best of luck in this latest step in their pursuit of a career in military service.\u201d\n\nAll students who received a nomination from McBath\u2019s office must now be selected by the service academy for a formal appointment to attend in the fall of 2025. The following students* received a congressional nomination to attend a United States military service academy in the 2025-2026 academic year:\n\nDiscovery High School student Muhammad L. Alcine of Lawrenceville received a nomination to the United States Air Force Academy\n\nArcher High School student Jalen Anderson of Lawrenceville received a nomination to the United States Naval Academy\n\nNorcross High School student Sean D. Balderas of Peachtree Corners received a nomination to the Unites States Naval Academy\n\nChattahoochee High School student Spencer T. Cavin of Alpharetta received a nomination to the United States Airforce Academy, United States Military Academy, and United States Naval Academy\n\nJohns Creek High School student Heidi J. Chung of Alpharetta received a nomination to the United States Air Force Academy, United States Military Academy, and United States Naval Academy\n\nWoodward Academy student Aidan P. Connors of Johns Creek received a nomination to United States Military Academy and United Stated Naval Academy\n\nJohns Creek High School Benjiman R. Coval of Johns Creek received a nomination to the United States Air Force Academy\n\nNorthview High School student Joshua Jung of Johns Creek received a nomination to the United States Military Academy and United Stated Naval Academy\n\nGwinnett Mathematics, Science, and Technology High School student Hortencia Kongolo of Lawrenceville received a nomination to United States Military Academy and United States Air Force Academy\n\nNorcross High School student Matthew D. Mitchell of Norcross received a nomination to United States Military Academy\n\nJohns Creek High School student Seojin J. Park of Alpharetta received a nomination to United States Air Force Academy, United States Naval Academy, and United States Military Academy\n\nParkview High School student Samuel E. Thompson of Lilburn received a nomination to United States Naval Academy\n\nDiscovery High School student Duc Duy Vo of Lawrenceville received a nomination to United States Naval Academy and United Stated Military Academy\n\nSt. Pius X Catholic High School student Charlize D. Warren of Atlanta received a nomination to United States Merchant Marine Academy and United States Military Academy\n\nJohns Creek High School student Jeffery Wu of Johns Creek received a nomination to the United Stated Military Academy\n\nChattahoochee High School student Lena Zhang of Alpharetta received a nomination to the United States Merchant Marine Academy\n\n*This list does not contain all Seventh District students who received a congressional nomination to a U.S. service academy.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T22:13:55Z"], ["https://www.collins.senate.gov/newsroom/senator-collins-joins-bipartisan-delegation-representing-the-us-senate-at-80th-anniversary-of-the-battle-of-the-bulge-in-belgium-and-luxembourg", "Senator Collins Joins Bipartisan Delegation Representing the U.S. Senate at 80th Anniversary of the Battle of the Bulge in Belgium & Luxembourg", "2024-12-13", "2024", "2024-12", "Republican", "House", "GA", "Mike Collins", "C001129", "www.collins.senate.gov", "collins", "https://www.collins.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases", "scraper", "Click HERE, HERE, HERE, and HERE for individual photos.\n\nClick HERE for video of Senator Collins and Senator Barrasso laying a wreath during the ceremony in Belgium.\n\nWashington, D.C. \u2013 U.S. Senators Susan Collins, Jerry Moran (R-KS), John Barrasso (R-WY), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY), and Maggie Hassan (D-NH) are representing the U.S. Senate at ceremonies commemorating the 80th Anniversary of the Battle of the Bulge in Bastogne, Belgium, and Hamm, Luxembourg. Today, Senators Collins and Barrasso, representing the U.S. Senate, laid a wreath to honor the veterans of the Battle of the Bulge during the ceremony in Bastogne, Belgium.\n\n\u201cEighty years ago, under the harsh conditions of winter, American troops fought back against Nazi Germany in one of the costliest American battles of World War II \u2013 the Battle of the Bulge,\u201d the Senate Delegation said in a joint statement. \u201cWe are honored to represent the United States Senate at the 80th Anniversary of the Battle of the Bulge alongside WWII veterans and world leaders. Over the next few days, we look forward to recognizing the brave men and women of the U.S. Armed Forces who answered the call to serve and to pay our respects to those who made the ultimate sacrifice.\u201d\n\nSenator Collins\u2019 father, Donald Collins, was a World War II combat veteran who earned two Purple Hearts and the Bronze Star. He had just turned 19 when he was wounded twice in the Battle of the Bulge. After his military service, Don completed his education at the University of Maine, married Patricia McGuigan, and returned to his hometown of Caribou, where he ran the S.W. Collins building materials company for many years.\n\nDon served as Mayor of Caribou, as a State Representative, and as a State Senator, and with his wife Pat, raised Senator Collins and her five siblings. Don passed away at the age of 92 in 2018.\n\n\u201cMy father was a true patriot, who loved his country,\u201d said Senator Collins. \u201cAttending this memorial commemorating the historic battle where he was wounded eighty years ago is deeply moving and a reminder of the courage and sacrifices made by our Greatest Generation to preserve freedom and democracy. It is a great honor to have this opportunity to pay tribute to him and the hundreds of thousands of American troops who fought valiantly in the Battle of the Bulge to help secure peace for future generations.\u201d\n\nThe Senate delegation are attending ceremonies at the Battle of the Bulge Monument in Bastogne on Friday, December 13, and at the Luxembourg American Cemetery in Hamm on Saturday, December 14.\n\nThe ceremonies are hosted by the American Battle Monuments Commission. More information regarding the official events can be found here.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T22:13:55Z"], ["https://www.collins.senate.gov/newsroom/senators-collins-king-celebrate-passage-of-wreaths-across-america-day-resolution", "Senators Collins, King Celebrate Passage of Wreaths Across America Day Resolution", "2024-12-13", "2024", "2024-12", "Republican", "House", "GA", "Mike Collins", "C001129", "www.collins.senate.gov", "collins", "https://www.collins.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2013 This week, the Senate unanimously passed a resolution introduced by U.S. Senators Collins and Angus King designating Saturday, December 14, 2024 as \u201cWreaths Across America Day.\u201d The annual event honors our nation\u2019s fallen heroes with commemorative Maine-made balsam wreaths laid by millions of volunteers across the globe, including by a convoy that travels from Maine to Arlington National Cemetery in Virginia.\n\n\u201cThis annual Maine-led tradition unites volunteers to honor our heroes by laying wreaths at locations across the country,\u201d said Senators Collins and King. \u201cWe are proud to recognize this important day and the dedication of those who help ensure the legacies of our servicemembers live on for generations to come.\u201d\n\nWreaths Across America coordinates wreath-laying ceremonies at more than 4,200 locations across the United States and abroad. In 2023, approximately 3 million wreaths were laid by more than 3 million volunteers. Each wreath is crafted in Maine.\n\nThe general public can register to participate in Wreaths Across America at Arlington National Cemetery at 12:00 p.m. on December 14th here.\n\nThe full text of the resolution can be read here.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T22:13:55Z"], ["https://buddycarter.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=15284", "Carter Joins Congressional DOGE Caucus", "2024-12-12", "2024", "2024-12", "Republican", "House", "GA", "Earl L. \"Buddy\" Carter", "C001103", "buddycarter.house.gov", "buddycarter", "https://buddycarter.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. - Rep. Earl L. \u201cBuddy\u201d Carter joined the Delivering Outstanding Government Efficiency Caucus (DOGE), a new caucus highlighting the work of and coordinating with the Department of Government Efficiency to implement legislation reducing waste, fraud, and abuse.\n\n\u201cThe American people voted for change and that is exactly what President-elect Trump is delivering with the Department of Government Efficiency,\u201d said Rep. Carter. \u201cI am proud to join the Congressional DOGE Caucus and tackle the rampant waste, fraud, and abuse that defines our government\u2019s bureaucracy. I ran my own business for more than thirty years and learned that you need two things to be successful: excellent customer service and fiscal responsibility. Our current government has neither. It\u2019s time to change that.\u201d\n\nPresident-elect Donald Trump appointed Elon Musk and Vivek Ramaswamy to lead the newly created Department of Government Efficiency, with the goal of dismantling out-of-control government bureaucracy, slashing excess regulations, cutting wasteful expenditures, and restructuring federal agencies that have wreaked havoc on the American public.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T22:13:55Z"], ["https://mcbath.house.gov/press-releases?ID=0CDD72D8-F32C-490C-AF0D-5795AA02CA9E", "Senate Passes Bipartisan McBath Bill to Stop Hazing on College Campuses", "2024-12-12", "2024", "2024-12", "Democrat", "House", "GA", "Lucy McBath", "M001208", "mcbath.house.gov", "mcbath", "https://mcbath.house.gov/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2014 Representative Lucy McBath (D-GA) is joined by Representative Jeff Duncan (R-SC), Education and the Workforce Committee Chairwoman Virginia Foxx (R-NC), Ranking Member Robert C. \u201cBobby\u201d Scott (D-VA), Senator Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), Senator Bill Cassidy (R-LA), and Representative Glen \u201cGT\u201d Thompson (R-PA), in celebrating the Senate passage of H.R. 5646, the bipartisan Stop Campus Hazing Act, which combats hazing and dangerous practices towards students on college campuses.\n\n\u201cI know what it's like to lose a loved one to violence\u2014no parent should ever have to bury their child. This bill empowers students and their families to make informed decisions about the schools they attend and the organizations they join. That information could be life-saving,\u201d said Representative McBath. \u201cOur bipartisan legislation helps make sure that schools have the tools they need to foster safe learning environments. I am proud to see the Senate send this critical legislation to the President\u2019s desk, and I thank my colleagues for their continued commitment to safeguarding the well-being of our students.\u201d\n\n\u201cWith the Stop Campus Hazing Act passing in the Senate, we\u2019re one step closer to saving lives like Tucker Hipps and other students tragically killed in a suspected incidents of campus hazing. I applaud my colleagues as we honor Tucker\u2019s memory. This bipartisan, bicameral legislation mandates greater transparency in fraternity hazing reporting,\u201d said Representative Jeff Duncan.\n\n\u201cStudent safety and well-being should be the top priority at every campus in America. Unfortunately, hazing has eroded that standard at schools across the country, but thanks to the tireless efforts of students, families, and advocates, the Stop Campus Hazing Act will be law, and we can start to undo the damage. I\u2019m grateful to Ranking Member Scott and Representatives Duncan and McBath for their leadership on this issue and encourage the President to sign it quickly!\u201d said Chairwoman Foxx.\n\n\u201cSince the year 2000, there have been more than 100 hazing-related deaths on college campuses. Fortunately, the Stop Campus Hazing Act, aims to prevent students from dangerous hazing on college campuses,\" said Ranking Member Robert C. \u201cBobby\u201d Scott. \u201cBy improving reporting and mandating prevention programs, this bill is a bipartisan measure to protect the health and safety of students while ensuring that students and their parents can make informed decisions when joining campus organizations.\u201d\n\n\u201cWhen parents send their kids away to college, they expect they will get a good education and make new friends. They don\u2019t expect them to be harassed and hazed. Unfortunately, hazing is a dangerous\u2014and at times deadly\u2014reality, and we must work to end it,\u201d said Senator Klobuchar. \u201cOur bipartisan legislation to improve hazing prevention efforts on college campuses has now passed the Senate, and heads to the president's desk for signature, and I\u2019ll keep working to stop this abuse and keep students safe.\u201d\n\n\u201cEvery student should feel safe on their college campus,\u201d said Dr. Cassidy. \u201cBy increasing transparency, the Stop Campus Hazing Act ensures that hazing is never ignored. Proud to see this legislation pass Congress and look forward to it becoming law.\u201d\n\n\"Too many parents and families have suffered the serious injury or loss of a loved one through hazing. Today, Congress has reaffirmed it has no place in our society,\" said Representative Glenn \u201cGT\u201d Thompson.\n\nBackground\n\nThe bipartisan Stop Campus Hazing Act:\n\nDefines Hazing and Promotes Transparency: This bill creates a uniform definition of hazing and requires colleges and universities to report hazing incidents annually.\n\nStrengthens Prevention Efforts: Schools are mandated to implement hazing prevention programs aimed at educating students, faculty, and staff.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T22:13:55Z"], ["https://www.collins.senate.gov/newsroom/senator-collins-applauds-passage-of-hearts-act", "Senator Collins Applauds Passage of HEARTS Act", "2024-12-12", "2024", "2024-12", "Republican", "House", "GA", "Mike Collins", "C001129", "www.collins.senate.gov", "collins", "https://www.collins.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2013 The Senate unanimously passed the Cardiomyopathy, Health Education, Awareness, Research, and Training in Schools (HEARTS) Act, bipartisan legislation that will create a grant program at the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services to support CPR and automated external defibrillator (AED) training and the purchase of more AED devices in schools. The bill now heads to the President\u2019s desk to be signed into law.\n\nThe HEARTS Act includes key provisions of the Access to AEDs Act, bipartisan legislation cosponsored by U.S. Senator Collins to purchase and provide training for AEDs in public elementary and secondary schools. Senator Collins has been a leader on AED access since she introduced the Rural Access to Emergency Devices (Rural AED) Act, which unanimously passed the Senate in 2000. She also led the Automatic Defibrillation in Adam's Memory (ADAM) Act with Senator Russ Feingold (D-WI), which became law in 2003.\n\nSenator Collins was the first Republican to sponsor the Access to AEDs Act, which is supported by National Football League (NFL) player and advocate Damar Hamlin, whose life was saved by an AED after going into sudden cardiac arrest during a game in 2023. She helped champion its passage through the Senate after hearing directly from constituents about the heartbreaking consequences when there is a lack of access to AEDs. In 2000, Randi Clatchey of Winslow lost her 17-year-old son Josh to a sudden cardiac arrest event that occurred during a high school pep rally. No AED device was available at the school. According to the American Heart Association, in schools with AEDs, children who experience cardiac arrest are seven times as likely to survive as children in schools without AEDs.\n\n\u201cAED devices have been proven to save lives, as they did for Damar Hamlin following the hit that almost took his life while his teammates and millions of Americans watched,\u201d said Senator Collins. \u201cThe passage of this bipartisan legislation is the result of months of advocacy, and will expand the presence and use of lifesaving AED technology as well as support the training needed to effectively treat cardiac events in schools.\u201d\n\n\u201cEvery second counts when someone experiences a cardiac arrest, and schools can\u2019t wait one more minute to have the resources they need to save lives,\u201d said Nancy Brown, Chief Executive Officer of the American Heart Association. \u201cWe are grateful to the bill\u2019s many champions in Congress, including Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, Sens. Cory Booker and Susan Collins and Reps. Frank Pallone, Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick and Bill Posey, who have worked for almost two years to make schools across the country safer for students, staff and visitors.\u201d\n\nFollowing a tackle in a January 2023 NFL game, Buffalo Bills safety Damar Hamlin suffered a rare condition known as commotio cordis, a disruption of heart rhythm that occurs as a result of a blow to the area over the heart at a particular instance during the cycle of a heartbeat. The Bills medical team performed CPR on Hamlin and used an AED\u2014efforts that ultimately saved his life. Since his recovery, Hamlin has advocated on Capitol Hill for increased training and use of AED\u2019s nationwide for athletes at every level of sport.\n\nThis bill is supported by the American Heart Association, the Maine Heart Association, Who We Play For, and the National Football League.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T22:13:55Z"], ["https://allen.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=6551", "Allen: \"We Must Restore America's Strength on the World Stage\"", "2024-12-11", "2024", "2024-12", "Republican", "House", "GA", "Rick W. Allen", "A000372", "allen.house.gov", "allen", "https://allen.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27", "scraper", "Today, the House of Representatives passed S. Amdt. to H.R. 5009, the Servicemember Quality of Life Improvement and National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2025 (NDAA). The NDAA authorizes annual funding levels for the U.S. Armed Forces and sets expenditures for the Department of Defense (DOD).\n\nAfter supporting the bill on the House floor, Congressman Rick W. Allen (GA-12) issued the following statement:\n\n\"The importance of the NDAA cannot be overstated as it represents our commitment to the men and women in uniform and the safety of all Americans. Our adversaries have been repeatedly emboldened under the Biden-Harris Administration, and we must restore America's strength on the world stage. Period. Today's legislation does so, while also improving the quality of life for our brave servicemembers, deterring Communist China, combatting the border crisis, and eliminating wasteful, inefficient programs.\n\n\"I am also proud that this year's NDAA meets the needs of Georgia's 12th District. From a well-deserved pay raise for servicemembers and reduced health care wait times, to funding the critical missions being carried out at Fort Eisenhower and SRS, passage of today's legislation fulfills our duty to stand behind those who defend our freedoms at home and abroad.\"\n\nSpecifically, the Fiscal Year 2025 NDAA:\n\nFunds the projects and critical missions being carried out at Fort Eisenhower\n\nSupports and requires plutonium pit production at the Savannah River Site and Los Alamos National Laboratory\n\nIncludes funding for housing maintenance, oversight, and upgrades\n\nGives junior enlisted servicemembers a 14.5 percent raise and supports a 4.5 percent raise for all other servicemembers\n\nReduces health care wait times and improves access to childcare\n\nBetter supports employment for military spouses\n\nSupports the deployment of National Guard to the southern border to combat the influx of illegal immigrants and drugs\n\nDeters China and prevents CCP espionage in our research institutions, supply chains, and armed forces\n\nPermanently bans TRICARE coverage of dangerous transgender medical care for minors\n\nSupports Israel and counters antisemitism by banning the sale and exchange of goods at DOD commissaries that have or are currently boycotting Israel\n\nGuts DEI and cuts Critical Race Theory", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T22:13:55Z"], ["https://austinscott.house.gov/press-releases?ID=E043675B-9A3B-49AE-9127-4862B7C4B545", "Rep. Austin Scott on House Passage of FY25 NDAA", "2024-12-11", "2024", "2024-12", "Republican", "House", "GA", "Austin Scott", "S001189", "austinscott.house.gov", "austinscott", "https://austinscott.house.gov/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. -- U.S. Representative Austin Scott (GA-08), a senior member of the House Armed Services Committee (HASC), released the below statement upon the Servicemember Quality of Life Improvement and 2025 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for Fiscal Year 2025 passing the U.S. House of Representatives by a vote of 281-140. The NDAA sets Department of Defense (DOD) policies and authorizes funding levels for defense programs.\n\n\"The FY25 NDAA provides several key wins for Georgia and focuses on improving the quality of life of all our service members and their families, who sacrifice so much to defend us,\" Rep. Scott said. \"We live in the greatest nation on Earth, and it is imperative that we support those who protect our freedoms.\"\n\nThe FY25 NDAA supports military families in Georgia by providing a 14.5% pay raise for junior enlisted and a 4.5% pay raise for Georgia's 89,900 servicemembers. This legislation also authorizes $379.3 million for seven military construction projects in Georgia, expands programs to help 29,300 military spouses attain and retain employment, and expands access to childcare for the 47,900 children of military families in Georgia.\n\nThroughout the lengthy process of crafting the FY25 NDAA, Scott had 15 different priorities included in the final bill as either bill language or statements in the Joint Explanatory Statement that accompanied the bill.\n\nRep. Scott has a Joint Explanatory Statement included in the NDAA that notes that the three public Air Force logistics complexes, including the Warner Robins Air Logistics Complex, play a critical role in support of our national defense by ensuring the readiness and sustainability of the Air Force.\n\n\"Austin Scott has been a champion for the Air Force sustainment enterprise and we are grateful for his tireless efforts to bring the recognition and resourcing to this critical mission set. From maintaining aging weapon systems, to cutting edge software development to full spectrum supply chain, the Air Force Sustainment Center and the Air Logistic Complexes are crucial to our nation\u2019s defense. The Middle Georgia community looks forward to working with Representative Scott as we continue to support these missions and further define the future of the Air Logistics Complexes,\" said John Kubinec, Brig Gen, USAF, retired President/CEO 21st Century Partnership.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T22:13:55Z"], ["https://bishop.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressman-bishop-votes-to-pass-bipartisan-bills-to-strengthen-us-armed-forces-maintain-and-improve-america-s-vital-water-ways", "CONGRESSMAN BISHOP VOTES TO PASS BIPARTISAN BILLS TO STRENGTHEN U.S. ARMED FORCES, MAINTAIN AND IMPROVE AMERICA'S VITAL WATER WAYS", "2024-12-11", "2024", "2024-12", "Democrat", "House", "GA", "Sanford D. Bishop, Jr.", "B000490", "bishop.house.gov", "bishop", "https://bishop.house.gov/media-center/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON \u2013 Today, Congressman Sanford D. Bishop, Jr., (GA-02) \u2013 Co-Chair of the bipartisan Congressional Military Family Caucus and a senior member of the U.S. House Appropriations Subcommittee on Military Construction \u2013 supported the passage of the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for Fiscal Year 2025.\n\nThis bill establishes the budget and programs that make up the U.S. Defense Department and covers everything from developing and procuring the weapons and armor that America\u2019s armed forces use to paying the salaries of its troops. The bill includes a 14.5% pay raise for junior enlisted members.\n\n\u201cWhen it comes to our national defense, it is important that we do our best to maintain the world\u2019s most advanced armed forces. That means both supporting our servicemembers and their families as well as maintaining our vital military installations in Georgia and beyond and making sure our troops have cutting edge weapons and technology to get the job done,\u201d said Congressman Bishop. \u201cI am particularly pleased that this bill includes a much needed 14.5% pay raise for junior enlisted members of our armed forces. I have been raising the flag concerning food insecurity among active duty servicemembers and finding solutions to ensure no military family goes hungry. This military pay increase will help close the gap in the cost-of-living.\u201d\n\n\u201cI will continue to fight to ensure we take care of those who are securing America\u2019s national defense across the world and here at home,\u201d added Congressman Bishop.\n\nThe NDAA for Fiscal Year 2025 is supported by a wide range of military service organizations, including Blue Star Families, Military Family Advisory Network, Military Officers Association of America, and the National Military Family Association.\n\nYesterday, Congressman Bishop also supported the passage of the Water Resources Development Act (WRDA) of 2024. This bill authorizes funding and programs that improve the nation\u2019s ports and harbors, inland waterway navigation, flood and storm protection, and other aspects of the nation\u2019s water resources infrastructure.\n\n\u201cWRDA is not only crucial to maintaining America\u2019s vital waterways, but it will also create jobs. The projects supported help keep our communities safe, boost local economies by making our waterways more accessible to Georgians and visitors from across the country, and ensure our ports \u2013 like the Port of Savannah \u2013 remain thriving gateways of commerce and trade for Georgia\u2019s businesses, including our agriculture industry,\u201d said Congressman Bishop.\n\nWRDA supports a wide range of Army Corps of Engineers projects which include maintaining the vital Port of Savannah, investing in flood mitigation efforts in Albany, Georgia, and maintaining the Apalachicola-Chattahoochee-Flint River Basin. The bill also reauthorizes the Federal Emergency Management Agency\u2019s National Dam Safety Program through 2028.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T22:13:55Z"], ["https://mcbath.house.gov/press-releases?ID=95802277-641D-47AC-B20E-5B236AEE4C80", "McBath Announces Winners of 2024 Congressional App Challenge", "2024-12-11", "2024", "2024-12", "Democrat", "House", "GA", "Lucy McBath", "M001208", "mcbath.house.gov", "mcbath", "https://mcbath.house.gov/press-releases", "scraper", "Duluth, GA \u2014 Today, Rep. Lucy McBath announced the winners of the 2024 Congressional App Challenge for Georgia\u2019s Seventh Congressional District. The Congressional App Challenge invites middle and high school students to design and execute original apps, inspiring young students to explore an education and career in STEM.\n\n\u201cThe Congressional App Challenge underscores the importance of a robust STEM education in our school system, because the problems of tomorrow will be solved by today\u2019s young people,\u201d said McBath. \u201cEach competitor in this year\u2019s App Challenge submitted an idea that was designed to improve the lives of those who may utilize their apps and create solutions to a variety of significant challenges we face in our daily lives. I am grateful for each contribution to this challenge, and I want to offer a heartfelt congratulations to our top three winners!\u201d\n\nWinning third place in the competition was an app called \u201cEyeGuard.\u201d This app was created by Johns Creek High School student Jaiveer Bagga.\n\nIn second place was an app called \u201cSmoke Aware.\u201d This app was created by Johns Creek High School student Alexander Xu.\n\nThe winning app was called \u201cBioDock AI.\u201d This app was created by Johns Creek High School student Ishaan Kejriwal.\n\nThe 2024 competition was comprised of students from Johns Creek High School and Northview High School. \u201cBioDock AI\u201d will be eligible for display in the U.S. Capitol.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T22:13:55Z"], ["https://www.collins.senate.gov/newsroom/senators-collins-bipartisan-bill-to-expand-alzheimers-care-and-prevention-efforts-signed-into-law", "Senators Collins\u2019 Bipartisan Bill to Expand Alzheimer\u2019s Care and Prevention Efforts Signed into Law", "2024-12-11", "2024", "2024-12", "Republican", "House", "GA", "Mike Collins", "C001129", "www.collins.senate.gov", "collins", "https://www.collins.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2013 Today, the President signed into law the Building Our Largest Dementia (BOLD) Infrastructure for Alzheimer\u2019s Reauthorization Act of 2024, bipartisan legislation introduced by U.S. Senators Susan Collins, Catherine Cortez Masto (D-NV), Tim Kaine (D-VA), and Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV). The bill will reauthorize funding for public health initiatives across the country to combat Alzheimer\u2019s disease and preserve brain health. These initiatives began when the original BOLD Act, authored by this same bipartisan group of four senators, was signed into law in 2018.\n\nDuring the 118th Congress, more than 1,800 health care bills have been introduced in either the U.S. Senate or House of Representatives. Of these bills, Senator Collins has led or co-led four of the ten that have reached the President\u2019s desk to be signed into law.\n\nThis bipartisan legislation will build on the work of two bills authored by Senator Collins that were recently signed into law, the National Alzheimer\u2019s Project Act and the Alzheimer\u2019s Accountability and Investment Act. The BOLD Infrastructure for Alzheimer\u2019s Reauthorization Act will help to translate research findings made possible by those bills into practical interventions, helping communities implement strategies that promote brain health and improve care for those affected by Alzheimer\u2019s disease.\n\n\u201cAlzheimer\u2019s disease is one of the greatest and most under-recognized public health threats of our time. Nearly seven million Americans\u2014including 29,600 Mainers\u2014are living with the disease, and that number is soaring as our overall population grows older and lives longer,\u201d said Senator Collins, a founder and Senate co-chair of the Congressional Task Force on Alzheimer\u2019s Disease. \u201cThe passage of this bipartisan legislation is a tremendous victory for families and communities nationwide. By reauthorizing the BOLD Infrastructure for Alzheimer\u2019s Act, we are reaffirming our commitments to providing the tools needed to fight this devastating disease, and to not let Alzheimer\u2019s be one of the defining diseases of our children\u2019s generation as it has ours.\u201d\n\nThe BOLD Infrastructure for Alzheimer\u2019s Reauthorization Act will authorize $33 million per year over the next five years to support:\n\nAlzheimer\u2019s Disease and Related Dementias Public Health Centers of Excellence dedicated to promoting effective Alzheimer\u2019s disease and caregiving interventions, as well as educating the public on Alzheimer\u2019s disease, cognitive decline, and brain health. The three current Centers have established themselves as national resources and are supporting nationwide implementation of the actions outlined in the CDC\u2019s Healthy Brain Initiative's Road Map. Each center is focused on a key issue related to dementia - from risk reduction to early detection to caregiving.\n\nPublic Health Cooperative Agreements with the CDC that are awarded to State Health Departments to help them meet local needs in promoting brain health, reducing risk of cognitive decline, improving care for those with Alzheimer\u2019s, and other key public health activities. More than 40 Public Health Departments, including Maine, across the United States are now promoting a strong public health approach to Alzheimer\u2019s disease and related dementias with the support of BOLD awards.\n\nData Grants to improve the analysis and timely reporting of data on Alzheimer\u2019s, cognitive decline, caregiving, and health disparities at the state and national levels.\n\nApproximately 6.9 million Americans are living with Alzheimer\u2019s, and the United States spends more than $360 billion per year, including $231 billion in costs to Medicare and Medicaid. Barring any major breakthroughs to prevent, slow down, or cure Alzheimer\u2019s, the number of Americans with Alzheimer\u2019s is expected to double by 2060, costing the nation more than $1.1 trillion per year.\n\nWith Senator Collins\u2019 support, funding for the BOLD Infrastructure for Alzheimer\u2019s Act has grown from $10 million in fiscal year 2020 to $34 million in fiscal year 2024. In September 2020, the Maine Department of Health and Human Services received one of the first BOLD Program Awards. This investment has allowed for great progress in implementing the Maine State Plan for Alzheimer\u2019s Disease and Related Dementias. In September 2023, Maine received a second BOLD award from the CDC for Alzheimer\u2019s prevention programs, which provides implementation funding to build on its initial investments and allow the state to carry out the Maine Alzheimer\u2019s Prevention Program and the CDC\u2019s Healthy Brain Initiative Road Map.\n\nThe BOLD Infrastructure for Alzheimer\u2019s Reauthorization Act is endorsed by the Alzheimer\u2019s Association, the Alzheimer\u2019s Impact Movement, and UsAgainstAlzheimer\u2019s.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T22:13:55Z"], ["https://allen.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=6550", "Lock and Dam Language One Step Closer to President's Desk", "2024-12-10", "2024", "2024-12", "Republican", "House", "GA", "Rick W. Allen", "A000372", "allen.house.gov", "allen", "https://allen.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27", "scraper", "Today, the House of Representatives passed S. 4367, the Thomas R. Carper Water Resources Development Act (WRDA) of 2024. S. 4367 is the final version of the 2024 WRDA, which includes language calling for a full repair of the New Savannah Bluff Lock and Dam and requires the pool level to be maintained at 114.5 feet (Section 1315). After voting in support of the legislation, Congressman Rick W. Allen (GA-12) issued the following statement:\n\n\"The residents of Georgia's 12th District and the CSRA deserve today's victory. For years and years, I, along with our entire community, have fought vigorously for solutions to keep the pool level at 114.5 feet and maintain the Lock and Dam. I was proud to draft this language with our local stakeholders and push it through the legislative process. We are one step closer to the finish line and I have no doubt that our district shares my excitement. Today's bipartisan show of support is an encouraging sign that this will soon be the law of the land.\"\n\nTo watch Congressman Allen's remarks on the House floor, CLICK HERE.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T22:13:55Z"], ["https://hankjohnson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/center-pan-asian-community-services-inc-receiving-240k-grant-support", "Center for Pan Asian Community Services, Inc Receiving $240K Grant to Support Citizenship Preparation Services", "2024-12-10", "2024", "2024-12", "Democrat", "House", "GA", "Henry C. \"Hank\" Johnson, Jr.", "J000288", "hankjohnson.house.gov", "hankjohnson", "https://hankjohnson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Congressman Hank Johnson (GA-04) is proud to announce that the Center for Pan Asian Community Services, Inc. (CPACS), located in Georgia\u2019s 4th Congressional District, has been awarded $240,046 through the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) Fiscal Year 2024 Citizenship and Integration Grant Program.\n\nThis funding will support CPACS in providing essential citizenship preparation services to lawful permanent residents, empowering them on their path to becoming U.S. citizens while fostering integration into American society.\n\n\u201cThis grant underscores the importance of the work being done by CPACS to support the diverse and growing immigrant communities in Georgia\u201d said Congressman Johnson. \u201cBy removing barriers and providing vital resources, this program is helping individuals realize their American Dream, and I\u2019m proud to support such transformative efforts.\u201d\n\nUSCIS awarded a total of 12.6 million to 43 organizations across 25 states through the grant program, which focuses on reaching underserved and vulnerable communities. The program includes funding under two initiatives: the Citizenship Integration and Naturalization Services Program (CINAS) and the new Citizenship and Integration Training Academy (CITA).\n\nThe Center for Pan Asian Community Services, Inc. will use these funds to expand their citizen preparation services, ensuring that lawful permanent residents in Georgia have access to the resources they need to navigate the naturalization process successfully.\n\n\u201cWe are honored and thrilled to receive the CINAS grant. In DeKalb, Gwinnett, and Fulton counties alone, there are over 113,000 legal permanent residents eligible to naturalize, and this critical funding will enable CPACS to significantly expand our naturalization services with citizenship preparation classes and workshops, legal assistance, and language resources\u201d said Alexis Nkusi, interim CEO of CPACS. \u201cBy removing barriers to citizenship, we are not only empowering individual community members but also strengthening the social fabric of our region through increased civic engagement and opportunity. We look forward to serving our community and making a meaningful difference in the lives of immigrant families!\u201d\n\nCongressman Johnson remains committed to supporting initiatives that promote equity, opportunity, and access for all residents in Georgia\u2019s 4th Congressional District.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T22:13:55Z"], ["https://austinscott.house.gov/press-releases?ID=49327922-3EBC-4A02-A31F-BE11A6A2A4F9", "Rep. Austin Scott Pens Op-Ed in Agri-Pulse Advocating for Helene Agricultural Disaster Relief", "2024-12-09", "2024", "2024-12", "Republican", "House", "GA", "Austin Scott", "S001189", "austinscott.house.gov", "austinscott", "https://austinscott.house.gov/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C.-- U.S. Representative Austin Scott (GA-08) today penned an op-ed in Agri-Pulse emphasizing the importance of disaster relief for our farmers after Hurricane Helene.\n\n\"Hurricane Helene caused a devastating blow to Georgia's number-one industry, with over $6.4 billion in agricultural economic loss alone,\" Scott wrote. \"If we fail to provide agriculture-specific appropriations to help our farmers before the end of the year, we will see widespread, lasting economic loss across all of rural Southeast America, especially in Georgia.\"\n\nThe full op-ed can be found here or read below:\n\nOpinion: Southeastern farmers need disaster relief now\n\nThe economy in rural America starts and stops with the American farmer.\n\nAmid the deafening noise inside political echo chambers and ceaseless squabbling of Congress is one truth that we cannot ignore- we are a nation united in reliance on our farmers.\n\nWithout the American farmer, there is no adequate tax base for our school systems, local municipalities, or any services that rural Americans need to live and prosper in this country.\n\nEverybody eats, and we all need the food and fiber that our farmers produce to live. No one wants to be dependent on foreign sources of food, just like no one wants to be dependent on foreign sources of energy. Right now, our farmers need our help.\n\nHurricane Helene caused a devastating blow to Georgia's number-one industry, with over $6.4 billion in agricultural economic loss alone.\n\nIf we fail to provide agriculture-specific appropriations to help our farmers before the end of the year, we will see widespread, lasting economic loss across all of rural Southeast America, especially in Georgia.\n\nAs I traveled across Georgia's Eighth Congressional District in the immediate aftermath of Helene, I saw the devastation to our farms firsthand. From hundreds of demolished poultry houses and cotton fields in Coffee County to decimated pecan orchards in Berrien and Lowndes Counties and vegetable rows and fruit bushes in ruins across Clinch County, it is clear that our farmers need immediate assistance.\n\nCongress cannot stop a hurricane, but we can fix the unnatural disasters that our farmers face to aid their recovery.\n\nHouse Agriculture Chairman Glenn \"GT\" Thompson, Rep. Kat Cammack, Rep. Darren Soto, and Rep. Doug LaMalfa visited Georgia's Eighth District with me recently to survey the damage after Helene across South Georgia and North Florida. Our farmers need help, and I appreciate the Chairman and others taking the time to meet with them firsthand so we can better work together for relief.\n\nUnfortunately, trouble for our nation's farmers began far before Hurricane Helene. Since the last Farm Bill was passed in 2018, our farmers and nation have experienced excessively challenging events that have changed the political landscape in which we need to navigate to properly support the best stewards of our land.\n\nWith rising input costs, including the increased cost of labor, diesel, fertilizer, chemicals, and seed, farming is more expensive than it has ever been in our country.\n\nGeorgia's farmers were also horribly impacted by Hurricane Michael in 2018, which caused more than $2.5 billion in losses to the state's agriculture industry. It took approximately 24 months for our farmers to get relief after Hurricane Michael, and I can assure you that the majority of producers and rural communities that Helene hit cannot survive another 24 months without something being done.\n\nAmerica's farmers are also suffering from the unnaturally disastrous policies of the Biden-Harris Administration, which have contributed to record inflation and the rising cost of energy and food production.\n\nThere has to be a strong safety net to keep good farmers farming through bad years like this one. If you are an American who eats, you should deeply care about the passage of a comprehensive Farm Bill that prioritizes production agriculture.\n\nEarlier this year, the House Agriculture Committee passed the Farm, Food, and National Security Act of 2024 (Farm Bill). This legislation includes critical updates to reference prices and several of my priorities to ensure a strong farm safety net by expanding crop insurance options to specialty crops, all of which would greatly assist producers in times of natural disaster.\n\nHowever, this bill is stalled in Congress, and the Senate Democrats just released a half-baked last-minute \"Farm Bill\" just to look like they did something, further fueling the fear of the forgotten farmer as they struggle to feed us.\n\nWhen the American farmer stops farming, rural communities collapse because their core and main economic driver is gone. We need to give farmers the support they need to keep farming with the confidence to know they are not forgotten.\n\nIt is my hope that Congress passes both the Farm, Food, and National Security Act and an agriculture-specific disaster relief appropriations package before the end of the year so that our farmers can continue feeding our nation and supporting our rural communities.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T22:13:55Z"], ["https://hankjohnson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressman-hank-johnson-announces-winners-2024-congressional-app", "Congressman Hank Johnson Announces Winners of 2024 Congressional App Challenge", "2024-12-09", "2024", "2024-12", "Democrat", "House", "GA", "Henry C. \"Hank\" Johnson, Jr.", "J000288", "hankjohnson.house.gov", "hankjohnson", "https://hankjohnson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Congressman Hank Johnson (GA-04) announced today the winners of the 2024 Congressional App Challenge (CAC) for Georgia\u2019s Fourth Congressional District. This annual district-specific competition invites students to create and submit their original apps, showcasing their talent in coding, STEM, and computer science. More than 40 students competed from four high schools from throughout Georgia\u2019s Fourth. The first-place winners will travel to Washington, D.C. in April 2025 to accept their award with other winners from Congressional districts throughout the nation.\n\nThe winners are as follows:\n\nFirst Place: Emma Lane, Nicholas Jovanovich, Mary Lawton Jones, Ella King\n\nApp: Voting Buddy\n\nSchool: Chamblee High School\n\nWatch the App Demo\n\nSecond Place: Inioluwa Adeseye\n\nApp: Health Haven\n\nSchool: Arabia Mountain High School\n\nWatch the App Demo\n\nThird Place: Joel Lindo, Victor Olufowote\n\nApp: CuisineQuest\n\nSchool: Rockdale Magnet School for Science and Technology\n\nWatch the App Demo\n\n\u201cEvery year, I am continually impressed by the ingenuity and creativity demonstrated by the students in our district through the Congressional App Challenge,\u201d said Congressman Johnson. \u201cI\u2019m proud of all the students who participated, and I am excited to celebrate these students\u2019 hard work and look forward to seeing their future achievements.\u201d\n\nThe Congressional App Challenge was created to encourage students to explore STEM, coding, and computer science through hands-on learning. The challenge is designed to inspire, include, and innovate by actively engaging students from underrepresented communities in technology and providing them the platform to connect directly with policymakers. Each year, winners from across the nation have the opportunity to have their app displayed in the U.S. Capitol Building for one year.\n\nThe Congressional App Challenge was first launched in 2014 and has since reached over 40,000 students across all 50 states, with students submitting apps in a wide range of categories \u2013 from civic engagement to health and education. Congressman Johnson is proud to be part of this national effort to foster the next generation of tech leaders.\n\nStudents interested in participating in next year\u2019s competition can pre-register for the 2025 Congressional App Challenge in the coming weeks. For more information, visit Congressional App Challenge.\n\nAbout Congressman Hank Johnson: Hank Johnson represents Georgia\u2019s 4th Congressional District, where he is a staunch advocate for civil rights, public safety, and economic justice. Learn more at https://hankjohnson.house.gov/", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T22:13:55Z"], ["https://allen.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=6543", "Allen Statement on President Trump's Appointment of David Perdue as Ambassador to the People's Republic of China", "2024-12-06", "2024", "2024-12", "Republican", "House", "GA", "Rick W. Allen", "A000372", "allen.house.gov", "allen", "https://allen.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27", "scraper", "Today, Congressman Rick W. Allen (GA-12) issued the statement below following President-Elect Trump's appointment of former Georgia Senator, David Perdue, to serve as the next United States Ambassador to the People's Republic of China:\n\n\"This is yet another strong nomination from President Trump. David Perdue's international business expertise will suit him well in carrying out President Trump's peace-through-strength policies as our next Ambassador to the People's Republic of China. Having known David for many years, I look forward to seeing all he will accomplish in this new role on behalf of our great nation. Robin and I wish him all the best.\"", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T22:13:55Z"], ["https://allen.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=6548", "Rep. Allen Joins the Congressional DOGE Caucus", "2024-12-06", "2024", "2024-12", "Republican", "House", "GA", "Rick W. Allen", "A000372", "allen.house.gov", "allen", "https://allen.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27", "scraper", "This week, Congressman Rick W. Allen (GA-12) joined the Delivering Outstanding Government Efficiency (DOGE) Caucus. This caucus will focus on highlighting the work of and coordinating with the Department of Government Efficiency, led by Elon Musk and Vivek Ramaswamy, to implement legislation to reduce waste, fraud, and abuse within the federal government. Upon the announcement, Congressman Allen issued the following statement:\n\n\"Since being elected to Congress, I have been committed to reining in the size and scope of the federal government. The last four years under the Biden-Harris Administration have proven that top-down regulations, wasteful spending, and unelected bureaucrats wielding unchecked power do more harm than good to the American people. I look forward to partnering with my colleagues on the DOGE Caucus to carry out our mission of bringing meaningful change to Washington.\"\n\nNOTE: Yesterday, Congressman Allen attended a meeting, hosted by Speaker Mike Johnson, with Elon Musk, Vivek Ramaswamy, and the House Republican Conference to discuss innovative ideas for reducing the size and scope of the federal government and making government more efficient.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T22:13:55Z"], ["https://www.collins.senate.gov/newsroom/secretary-bill-cohen-and-bangor-chamber-of-commerce-president-and-ceo-deb-neuman-honor-senator-collins-at-global-leadership-coalition-tribute-dinner", "Secretary Bill Cohen and Bangor Chamber of Commerce President and CEO Deb Neuman Honor Senator Collins at Global Leadership Coalition Tribute Dinner", "2024-12-06", "2024", "2024-12", "Republican", "House", "GA", "Mike Collins", "C001129", "www.collins.senate.gov", "collins", "https://www.collins.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases", "scraper", "Click HERE for a full-resolution image\n\nWashington, D.C. - Last night, U.S. Senator Susan Collins, Vice Chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee, was recognized as a Congressional Champion at the 2024 U.S. Global Leadership Coalition (USGLC) Tribute Dinner. Former U.S. Defense Secretary Bill Cohen and President and CEO of the Bangor Region Chamber of Commerce Deb Neuman delivered video tributes congratulating Senator Collins as part of the event. The dinner honors government officials who have demonstrated an unwavering commitment to strengthening the position of the United States on the global stage.\n\n\u201cThank you to the USGLC for the honor and recognition in tonight\u2019s tribute celebration,\u201d said Senator Collins. \u201cI commend the members of this Coalition for your efforts to strengthen U.S. leadership in the world and keep Americans safe.\u201d\n\n\u201cSusan and I have known each other for 50 years, and during that long journey together, I\u2019ve had a chance to see just how great a public servant she is. She brings intelligence, integrity, and a willingness to work across party lines in order to do something on behalf of the people that she serves in Maine, and certainly the nation,\u201d said Secretary Cohen in his video tribute. \u201cSo, congratulations, Senator Collins. You started out as a congressional intern in my office, and after five terms in the Senate, you\u2019re about to become the Chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee. Well done, congratulations. I\u2019m always proud of you.\u201d\n\nPrevious USGLC Tribute Dinner honorees include former Secretaries of State Condoleezza Rice, Colin Powell, and Madeleine Albright, President George W. Bush and Mrs. Laura Bush, and then-Vice President Joe Biden. Senator John Boozman (R-AR) and Representative Gregory Meeks (D-NY-05) were also honored as Congressional Champions at the USGLC dinner.\n\nThe U.S. Global Leadership Coalition is a nonprofit formed by a coalition of more than 500 businesses and non-profits, national security and foreign policy experts, faith-based organizations, and community leaders to advocate for strong U.S. investment in diplomacy and development efforts across the globe.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T22:13:55Z"], ["https://allen.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=6535", "Allen Lauds President-Elect Trump's Nomination of Kelly Loeffler to Lead the U.S. Small Business Administration", "2024-12-05", "2024", "2024-12", "Republican", "House", "GA", "Rick W. Allen", "A000372", "allen.house.gov", "allen", "https://allen.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27", "scraper", "Today, Congressman Rick W. Allen (GA-12) issued the statement below following President-Elect Trump's nomination of former Georgia Senator Kelly Loeffler to lead the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA):\n\n\"America's small business owners deserve a leader in Washington who fully understands the challenges facing Main Street. With decades of experience in business, Kelly Loeffler undoubtedly fits the bill and has a proven track record of fighting for the backbone of our economy. As a businessman myself, I am confident Kelly will serve as a prudent and highly effective leader of the SBA in President Trump's Administration. Robin and I wish her all the best in this critical role.\"", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T22:13:55Z"], ["https://allen.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=6541", "Allen Co-Leads GA Delegation in Bipartisan, Bicameral Effort to Secure Governor Kemp's Request for Federal Disaster Assistance Following Helene", "2024-12-05", "2024", "2024-12", "Republican", "House", "GA", "Rick W. Allen", "A000372", "allen.house.gov", "allen", "https://allen.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27", "scraper", "Today, Congressman Rick W. Allen (R-GA-12) co-led a letter of support with U.S. Senators Reverend Raphael Warnock (D-GA) and Jon Ossoff (D-GA), as well as U.S. Representatives Buddy Carter (R-GA-01), Sanford Bishop (D-GA-02), Drew Ferguson (R-GA-03), Hank Johnson (D-GA-04), Nikema Williams (D-GA-05), Rich McCormick (R-GA-06), Lucy McBath (D-GA-07), Austin Scott (R-GA-08), Mike Collins (R-GA-10), Barry Loudermilk (R-GA-11), David Scott (D-GA-13), and Marjorie Taylor Greene (R-GA-14) which urges key Congressional leaders to approve Governor Brian Kemp's request for roughly $12 billion in federal supplemental disaster appropriations for Georgia in the aftermath of Hurricane Helene.\n\nIn the letter, the lawmakers write: \"On behalf of our farmers, families, and communities beginning the long road to recovery, we urge you to quickly produce a disaster supplemental funding package that includes this vitally important funding for Georgia\u2019s households, businesses, essential infrastructure, agricultural economy, and more.\"\n\nAt its peak, Helene left more than 1 million Georgians without power, demanded 300 boil water advisories across the state, damaged over 200,000 homes, and left thousands of families displaced. Georgia\u2019s agriculture and forestry industries were left reeling in Helene\u2019s wake, with approximately one-third of the state\u2019s pecan and cotton crops destroyed, over 100 poultry houses damaged or destroyed, and 1.5 million acres of timber damaged or destroyed. Most tragically, 225 individuals\u2013including 34 Georgians\u2013lost their lives in Helene\u2019s devastation.\n\nThe lawmakers continue: \"To date, the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has provided over $243 million in individual and household assistance to Georgians in need and continues to operate numerous disaster recovery and assistance centers across the state. We applaud the public servants and community leaders who have helped Georgia along its first steps towards recovery, but we know that more needs to be done, especially for our farmers and rural communities.\"\n\nTo read the full letter, CLICK HERE.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T22:13:55Z"], ["https://bishop.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressman-bishop-announces-house-passage-of-hr-9600-legislation-to-name-the-plains-ga-post-office-after-jimmy-rosalynn-carter", "CONGRESSMAN BISHOP ANNOUNCES HOUSE PASSAGE OF H.R. 9600 \u2013 LEGISLATION TO NAME THE PLAINS, GA POST OFFICE AFTER JIMMY & ROSALYNN CARTER", "2024-12-05", "2024", "2024-12", "Democrat", "House", "GA", "Sanford D. Bishop, Jr.", "B000490", "bishop.house.gov", "bishop", "https://bishop.house.gov/media-center/press-releases", "scraper", "PLAINS, Ga. \u2013 Today, the U.S. House of Representatives passed H.R. 9600, bipartisan legislation to designate the facility of the United States Postal Service located at 119 Main Street in Plains, Georgia, as the \"Jimmy and Rosalynn Carter Post Office\". Congressman Sanford D. Bishop, Jr. (GA-02), Dean of the Georgia Congressional Delegation, was the leading sponsor of H.R. 9600. The legislation now heads to the U.S. Senate for consideration.\n\n\u201cPresident Jimmy Carter and the late First Lady Rosalynn Carter dedicated their lives in service to their community, their country, and the world. From the Plains Peanut Festival to the Governor\u2019s Mansion, to the White House \u2013 and to communities around the globe \u2013 they remained grounded and humble, and Plains always remained home in their hearts,\u201d said Congressman Bishop. \u201cDesignating the Plains postal facility as the \u2018Jimmy and Rosalynn Carter Post Office\u2019 would be a small, but meaningful gesture to honor and thank two dedicated servant leaders who spent their lives working to improve the lives of others.\u201d\n\n\u201cPlains holds a special place in the heart of President Carter as the place he and First Lady Rosalynn Carter called home for most of their lives, so it is especially fitting to name the Post Office in their honor,\u201d said Paige Alexander, CEO of The Carter Center, the nonprofit organization that carries on their global work to wage peace, fight disease, and build hope. \u201cWe appreciate the Senators and House members from Georgia who introduced this legislation as a tribute to the Carters\u2019 legacy in their hometown.\u201d\n\nH.R. 9600 was cosponsored by all 14 members of Georgia\u2019s U.S. House delegation, and it passed the House of Representatives by a vote of 381-15 The Senate companion bill to the legislation, S. 5345, was led by Senator Jon Ossoff and cosponsored by Senator Rev. Raphael Warnock.\n\nH.R. 9600 now heads to the U.S. Senate where the chamber has a year-end deadline to pass the legislation and send it to the President to be signed into law.\n\nFull text of H.R. 9600 can be found here.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T22:13:55Z"], ["https://clyde.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=2825", "Rep. Clyde Leads Bill to Prohibit Medicaid-Funded Anti-Gun Programs", "2024-12-05", "2024", "2024-12", "Republican", "House", "GA", "Andrew S. Clyde", "C001116", "clyde.house.gov", "clyde", "https://clyde.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2014Today, Congressman Andrew Clyde (GA-09) introduced the Medicaid Funds Integrity Act to prohibit Medicaid funds from being used to finance so-called \u201cgun violence prevention\u201d programs.\n\nIn September, the Biden-Harris Administration announced new executive orders directing federal agencies to advance its anti-gun agenda. Among other measures, the Administration stated the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services will allow states to use Medicaid to pay for counseling on \u201cfirearm safety.\u201d Several liberal states, including California, Connecticut, and New York, have passed legislation allowing Medicaid to reimburse such services.\n\nRep. Clyde\u2019s Medicaid Funds Integrity Act would bar federal Medicaid dollars from funding these so-called \u201cgun violence prevention\u201d programs.\n\n\u201cAmericans\u2019 hard-earned tax dollars have no place furthering the Left\u2019s unconstitutional gun control agenda,\u201d said Clyde. \u201cRather than supporting law enforcement and empowering lawful gun owners, liberal states are determined to divert federal Medicaid dollars to fund false \u2018violence prevention\u2019 programs. As responsible stewards of taxpayer dollars and relentless defenders of the Constitution, Congress must step in to stop this flagrant misuse of federal funds aimed at infringing law-abiding Americans\u2019 Second Amendment liberties.\u201d\n\n\u201cGun Owners of America is proud to support Rep. Clyde's efforts with this legislation. Programs like this are bound to be weaponized by anti-gun administrations, which is exactly what we saw over the last four years. Gun control has nothing to do with healthcare,\u201d said Aidan Johnston, the Director of Federal Affairs for Gun Owners of America.\n\n\u201cAllowing federal funds to support gun violence prevention programs under Medicaid is a gross misuse of taxpayer dollars, aimed at advancing radical gun control agendas. Medicaid's purpose is to provide vital healthcare, not to fund programs that infringe on Second Amendment rights. Federal resources should be focused on their intended mission, not diverted to backdoor attempts at restricting lawful gun ownership,\u201d said Hunter King, Director of Government Relations for National Association for Gun Rights.\n\nOriginal cosponsors include: Representatives Jodey Arrington (TX-19), Andy Biggs (AZ-05), Josh Brecheen (OK-02), Eric Burlison (MO-07), Michael Cloud (TX-27), Eli Crane (AZ-02), Dan Crenshaw (TX-02), Ron Estes (KS-04), Bob Good (VA-05), Paul Gosar (AZ-09), Morgan Griffith (VA-09), Glenn Grothman (WI-06), Andy Harris (MD-01), Diana Harshbarger (TN-01), Clay Higgins (LA-03), David Kustoff (TN-08), Mary Miller (IL-15), Alex Mooney (WV-02), Barry Moore (AL-02), Ralph Norman (SC-05), Andy Ogles (TN-05), Burgess Owens (UT-04), Chip Roy (TX-21), Adrian Smith (NE-03), Claudia Tenney (NY-24), and Randy Weber (TX-14).\n\nSupporting organizations include Gun Owners of America (GOA) and the National Association for Gun Rights (NAGR).\n\nText of the Medicaid Funds Integrity Act is available HERE.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T22:13:55Z"], ["https://buddycarter.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=15273", "Carter opens John Gibson, Dan James, William Sapp, and Frankie Smiley VA Clinic", "2024-12-03", "2024", "2024-12", "Republican", "House", "GA", "Earl L. \"Buddy\" Carter", "C001103", "buddycarter.house.gov", "buddycarter", "https://buddycarter.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27", "scraper", "HINESVILLE \u2013 Rep. Earl L. \u201cBuddy\u201d Carter (R-GA) celebrated the official renaming of the Hinesville Veterans Affairs Clinic to the John Gibson, Dan James, William Sapp, and Frankie Smiley VA Clinic in honor of four First Congressional District heroes who gave the ultimate sacrifice in the Vietnam War.\n\nThis ceremony comes after Carter\u2019s bill, H.R. 593, was signed into law in May with support from every member of the Georgia Congressional Delegation.\n\n\u201cI am incredibly proud of this accomplishment and credit the amazing residents of Liberty County with giving these brave young heroes the permanent recognition they deserve in the home they gave their lives to protect,\u201d said Rep. Carter. \u201cThis VA Clinic is only a small example of the immense gratitude that our district has for the service members who defend our liberties every single day.\u201d\n\nBACKGROUND\n\nJohn Gibson was born on September 12, 1946, in Riceboro, Georgia. He joined the United States Marine Corps, rising to the rank of Private First Class. Mr. Gibson arrived in Vietnam on October 12, 1967, with the 1st Marine Division, and was killed by small arms fire during the Tet Offensive on February 7, 1968. He was only twenty-one years old.\n\nDan James was born on March 20, 1948, in Riceboro, Georgia. He was drafted into the United States Army and shipped off to Vietnam in September of 1968. While with his unit in the 25th Infantry Division, he was killed by small arms fire on December 29, 1968. He was only twenty years old.\n\nWilliam Sapp was born on March 12, 1943, in Hinesville, Georgia. He was drafted into the United States Army and shipped off to Vietnam in November of 1967. While in country with his unit the 4th Infantry Division, he was killed by multiple fragmentation wounds on June 7, 1968. He was only twenty-five years old.\n\nFrankie Lee Smiley was born on May 18, 1944, in Liberty County, GA. He joined the United States Marine Corps and rose to the rank of Lance Corporal. He arrived in Vietnam in January 1968 with the 1st Marine Division and was killed by small arms fire on August 25th, 1968. He was only twenty-four years old.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T22:13:55Z"], ["https://www.collins.senate.gov/newsroom/senator-collins-bipartisan-bill-to-expand-autism-research-training-and-services-passes-senate", "Senator Collins\u2019 Bipartisan Bill to Expand Autism Research, Training, and Services Passes Senate", "2024-12-03", "2024", "2024-12", "Republican", "House", "GA", "Mike Collins", "C001129", "www.collins.senate.gov", "collins", "https://www.collins.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2013 U.S. Senators Susan Collins and Ben Ray Luj\u00e1n (D-N.M.), members of the Senate Committee on Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions, applauded Senate passage of their bipartisan Autism CARES Act of 2024. The bill would renew and expand federal support for research, services, and training related to autism spectrum disorder and other developmental disabilities. Autism CARES is the main source of federal funding for autism research, services, training, and monitoring.\n\n\u201cThis bill will continue the successful programming across HHS that helps us better understand the causes and the symptoms of the Autism Spectrum Disorder and improve the lives of families affected by it,\u201d said Senator Collins. \u201cReauthorizing this important law is critical to expanding research at the NIH, supporting the CDC's effort to increase public awareness and early detection of autism spectrum disorder, and strengthening and expanding the Health Research and Services Administration's workforce training to identify and support children and youth with autism as well as their families.\u201d\n\n\u201cDue to the research and increased training and awareness spurred by the Autism CARES Act, children are being diagnosed earlier and are receiving appropriate services from trained providers,\u201d said Senator Luj\u00e1n. \u201cNot only does the Autism CARES Act of 2024 renew federal support for autism spectrum disorder and other developmental disabilities, but it also expands critical research and training programs that benefit people with autism and their families. I\u2019m proud to see this bill pass the Senate, and now I am calling on the House for swift passage to continue to drive research and support individuals with autism and other developmental disabilities for years to come.\u201d\n\nSpecifically, the Autism CARES Act:\n\nIncludes over $2 billion in authorized federal spending on autism research and training programs for the next five years;\n\nIncludes new language that directs the NIH Director to ensure a more inclusive approach to autism research;\n\nRequires the Government Accountability Office to issue a study and report on how to increase the number of developmental behavioral pediatricians;\n\nIncludes the study of the aging process as a focus area of autism research activities to help propel future research on autism and aging; and\n\nCreates a new Autism Intervention Research Network for Communication Needs that will benefit autistic individuals who may be unable or limited in using speech or language to communicate.\n\n\"We greatly appreciate the leadership of Senators Ben Ray Luj\u00e1n and Susan Collins in advancing the Autism CARES Act of 2024 through the Senate,\u201d said Keith Wargo, President & CEO of Autism Speaks. \u201cFamilies have benefited from the tremendous impact of this law over the past two decades. This next iteration expands efforts to address gaps in autism healthcare and services and represents a forward-looking approach to driving progress in research, supports and services for autistic individuals across the spectrum and lifespan for years to come.\"\n\n\"AUCD commends Congress on its unwavering commitment to improving the lives of people with autism and their families. We are grateful to Senator Luj\u00e1n, Senator Collins, Representative Smith, and Representative Cuellar for their unwavering leadership to get the CARES Act reauthorized this Congress. The CARES Act that includes the Leadership Education in Neurodevelopmental Disabilities will have a tremendous impact on making sure people with autism and other neurodevelopmental disabilities and their families in every state and territory receive the care needed from trained professionals to support and improve their health and wellbeing,\u201d said AUCD Public Policy Director Cindy Smith. \u201cWe look forward to continuing to work with leaders in Congress and the community to continue to make a positive impact in the lives of people with autism and their families.\u201d\n\n\u201cThe reauthorization of Autism CARES brings us one step closer to ensuring stronger, more meaningful inclusion for the entirety of the spectrum in research, supports, and services. This is in great part because of the inspired leadership and deep commitment of Senator Lujan and Senator Collins to autistic people in their own districts and across the nation. Hope is on the horizon, and we are grateful,\u201d said Cofounder and President of Profound Autism Alliance Judith Ursitti.\n\nAccording to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), approximately 1 in 36 children have been diagnosed with autism \u2013 an increase of approximately 300 percent since 2006.\n\nThe legislation is supported by Autism Speaks, the Profound Autism Alliance, the Association of University Centers on Disabilities, and the Autism Society.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T22:13:55Z"], ["https://www.collins.senate.gov/newsroom/senator-collins-selected-for-2024-bbc-100-women-list", "Senator Collins Selected for 2024 BBC 100 Women List", "2024-12-03", "2024", "2024-12", "Republican", "House", "GA", "Mike Collins", "C001129", "www.collins.senate.gov", "collins", "https://www.collins.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2013 Today, the British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC) announced that U.S. Senator Susan Collins has been selected for their 12th annual 100 Women list. In announcing her selection, the BBC highlighted two legislative efforts that Senator Collins has led in the U.S. Senate: her authoring and leading the passage of the National Alzheimer\u2019s Project Act (NAPA), and her joint introduction of the Advancing Menopause and Mid-Life Women\u2019s Health Act.\n\n\u201cIt is an honor to be selected for this list and to stand alongside so many incredible women who have dedicated their lives to service and combatting the challenges facing women around the world,\u201d said Senator Collins. \u201cThank you to the BBC for selecting me for this distinction and the people of Maine for entrusting me with the privilege of serving them in the United States Senate.\u201d\n\nThe BBC\u2019s full 2024 100 Women list can be viewed here.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T22:13:55Z"], ["https://allen.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=6534", "ICYMI: Commerce Department Finds China Unfairly Subsidized Low-Speed Transportation Vehicle Industry", "2024-12-02", "2024", "2024-12", "Republican", "House", "GA", "Rick W. Allen", "A000372", "allen.house.gov", "allen", "https://allen.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27", "scraper", "Last week, the Department of Commerce announced its preliminary finding that the government of China unfairly subsidizes its low-speed personal transportation vehicle (LSPTV) industry, including vehicles such as golf carts, Personal Transportation Vehicles (PTVs), and Low-Speed Vehicles (LSVs).\n\nThe announcement came just days after Congressman Rick W. Allen (GA-12) led a bipartisan, bicameral letter to Secretary of Commerce, Gina M. Raimondo, urging the Commerce Department to stand by U.S. manufacturers and workers in the LSPTV industry by ensuring our trade remedy laws accurately address unfair trade practices.\n\n\"Last week's announcement from the Commerce Department is a win for American manufacturers and workers and sends a clear message that we will not tolerate discriminatory trade practices that harm U.S. producers. I am pleased that Secretary Raimondo heeded our letter and took decisive action to hold China accountable. The LSPTV industry is an important economic driver in the 12th District and we must take every necessary step to ensure a level playing field,\" said Congressman Rick Allen.\n\n\"We\u2019re glad to see the U.S. Department of Commerce take a stand for American manufacturers and workers. The decision today is a first step in the right direction to restore a fair marketplace for the American LSPTV industry and to help us and our hardworking employees recover from the unfair trade practices of the state-backed Chinese producers,\" said Mark Wagner, Club Car President & CEO.\n\n\"We are pleased that the U.S. Department of Commerce has recognized and taken decisive action against the unfair trade practices of the state-supported Chinese LSPTV industry. Today\u2019s determination will help to create a free and fair market for all PTV manufacturers and protect the U.S. industry and its employees from the unfair advantages that state-subsidized Chinese companies enjoy,\" said Rob Scholl, Textron Specialized Vehicles President & CEO.\n\nNOTE: Last week's determination by the U.S. Department of Commerce establishes the preliminary duty rates in the subsidies portion of this investigation. Following the publication of Commerce\u2019s preliminary determination in the Federal Register, Commerce will instruct U.S. Customs and Border Protection (Customs) to begin suspending liquidation and collecting preliminary duties (in the form of cash deposits) on entries of LSPTVs from China.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T22:13:55Z"], ["https://www.collins.senate.gov/newsroom/senators-collins-manchin-introduce-bipartisan-bicameral-bill-to-expand-treat-in-place-emergency-medical-services", "Senators Collins, Manchin Introduce Bipartisan, Bicameral Bill to Expand Treat-in-Place Emergency Medical Services", "2024-12-02", "2024", "2024-12", "Republican", "House", "GA", "Mike Collins", "C001129", "www.collins.senate.gov", "collins", "https://www.collins.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2013 U.S. Senator Susan Collins, a senior member of the Senate Committee on Health, Education, Labor and Pensions, and Senator Joe Manchin (I-WV) introduced the Improving Access to Emergency Medical Services (EMS) Act. This bipartisan legislation would create a pilot program to allow Medicare to reimburse for treat-in-place EMS services for certain medical issues, which would expand access to these critical health services, especially in rural communities, while reducing unnecessary emergency room visits and expenses.\n\n\u201cHaving access to high-quality emergency medical services is essential for individuals in rural communities across Maine and the nation,\u201d said Senator Collins. \u201cThis bipartisan bill would expand the treat-in-place model for EMS services, reducing unnecessary emergency room visits, lowering costs, and easing the strain on our state\u2019s hospital and EMS workforces.\u201d\n\n\u201cI\u2019m proud to introduce the bipartisan Improving Access to Emergency Medical Services (EMS) Act with Senator Collins to advance the treat-in-place model in West Virginia, Maine and throughout the country,\u201d said Senator Manchin. \u201cThis model is essential for ensuring Americans, especially in rural communities, can receive the care they need without unnecessary and expensive emergency room visits. I encourage my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to support this important effort that cuts costs and bolsters access to quality, affordable health services for our constituents.\u201d\n\n\u201cThe Maine Ambulance Association believes that this legislation will directly address the funding gap for non-transport calls, helping to ensure that EMS systems remain viable and able to meet the growing demands of our communities,\u201d said Robert \u201cButch\u201d Russell, Executive Director of the Maine Ambulance Association. \u201cWe applaud the leadership of Senators Collins and Manchin in addressing this critical issue and strongly urge the swift passage of this legislation. The Maine Ambulance Association stands ready to support its implementation and is committed to working with policymakers to strengthen emergency medical services nationwide.\u201d\n\n\u201cImplementation of the Improving Access to Emergency Medical Service Act will be a significant step forward in improving the resiliency and stability of EMS response and treatment across the State,\u201d said Thomas Higgins, President of the Maine Fire Chiefs Association. \u201cOn-scene care is a viable option for our patients in many instances and should not result in additional burden. This legislation will provide direct financial support to our communities and the services we provide. We acknowledge and greatly appreciate Senator Collins\u2019 original sponsorship of this critical legislation.\u201d\n\nThe bill would allow seniors on Medicare to receive at-home emergency medical services to treat minor medical incidents. In addition to the services provided by EMS, part of the protocol would be to advise the patient to follow-up with their primary care provider to ensure continuity of care.\n\nU.S. Representatives Mike Carey (R-OH-15), Lloyd Doggett (D-TX-35), Carol Miller (R-WV-01), and Debbie Dingell (D-MI-06) introduced companion legislation in the House, where it has the support of the National Rural Health Association, International Association of Fire Chiefs, International Association of Firefighters, American Ambulance Association, Congressional Fire Service Institute, National Association of Towns and Townships and the National Association of Emergency Medical Technicians.\n\nThe complete text of the bill can be read here.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T22:13:55Z"], ["https://austinscott.house.gov/press-releases?ID=468AB26E-C5C6-4226-A725-B9C6B2157179", "ICYMI: Rep. Austin Scott Tours Georgia Helene Damage With House Ag Chairman Thompson", "2024-11-21", "2024", "2024-11", "Republican", "House", "GA", "Austin Scott", "S001189", "austinscott.house.gov", "austinscott", "https://austinscott.house.gov/press-releases", "scraper", "TIFTON, Ga.-- U.S. Representative Austin Scott (GA-08) was recently joined by House Agriculture Committee Chairman GT Thompson, Rep. Kat Cammack (FL-03), Rep. Darren Soto (FL-09), and Rep. Doug LaMalfa (CA-01) to survey the damage after Helene across South Georgia and North Florida.\n\n\"Georgia\u2019s farmers need help, and I appreciate the Chairman and others taking the time to meet with them firsthand so we can better work together for relief,\" Rep. Scott said. \"I am working with my colleagues to get ag-specific disaster relief appropriations drafted and passed by the end of the year to help our farmers after Helene.\"\n\n\"Traveling to the Southeast I was able to gain firsthand insight into the devastating impact of the recent hurricanes. Hurricanes Milton and Helene caused significant damage and hit our agricultural sector especially hard, highlighting the urgent need for agricultural disaster relief. I want to thank Rep. Austin Scott for the invitation, and I am committed to identifying resources to help our hardworking producers and rural communities recover and thrive,\" said Chairman Thompson.\n\nIn Georgia, the Members toured hurricane damage at a pecan orchard in Pearson. They then traveled to Broxton to meet with impacted poultry and pecan producers, met with representatives from the University of Georgia, and toured several downed poultry houses. According to the University of Georgia, the overall economic impact of Hurricane Helene on Georgia\u2019s entire agriculture industry is estimated at $6.46 billion.\n\nSee photos from the tour here.\n\n###", 1, "2026-06-27T20:01:11Z", "2026-06-27T22:32:33Z"], ["https://austinscott.house.gov/press-releases?ID=DF9CC360-EED4-471E-A3C7-012B3A23C874", "Austin Scott, Bishop, Ossoff, and Warnock Applaud Progress on Ocmulgee Mounds Initiative in U.S. House & Senate", "2024-11-19", "2024", "2024-11", "Republican", "House", "GA", "Austin Scott", "S001189", "austinscott.house.gov", "austinscott", "https://austinscott.house.gov/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C.-- Today, the U.S. House Natural Resources Subcommittee on Federal Lands held a legislative hearing where they reviewed the bipartisan H.R. 8182, the Ocmulgee Mounds Park and Preserve Establishment Act, which is co-led by U.S. Representatives Austin Scott (GA-08) and Sanford D. Bishop Jr. (GA-02).\n\nThis bipartisan legislation would establish Ocmulgee Mounds and surrounding areas in Middle Georgia as the state's first National Park and Preserve.\n\n\"This hearing was further progress in making history by establishing Georgia's first National Park and Preserve,\" Rep. Scott said. \"I appreciate the Federal Lands Subcommittee listening to Middle Georgians about this greatly supported effort to preserve the Ocmulgee Mounds and surrounding areas for generations to come.\"\n\n\u201cThis is another step forward towards realizing a longstanding dream that has broad, bipartisan support \u2013 not only in Middle Georgia, but throughout the state,\u201d said Rep. Bishop. \u201cNot only will this historically create Georgia\u2019s first National Park and Preserve, but it will also raise the profile of Ocmulgee Mounds, bolster the local economy, and welcome more Georgians and Americans to enjoy its rich cultural and natural beauty.\u201d\n\nTestimony was delivered by Seth C. Clark, the Macon-Bibb County Mayor Pro Tempore and Executive Director of the Ocmulgee National Park and Preserve Initiative.\n\n\"Congress\u2019s actions today reiterate what we\u2019ve always known: that the cultural and ecological gems of middle Georgia are some of the most nationally significant sites in the United States of America and are worthy of the designation we\u2019ve sought for 90 years. We\u2019re grateful for continued bipartisanship the Georgia delegation has shown throughout the legislative process and stand ready to work with the multitude of stakeholders to shepherd in Georgia\u2019s first National Park and Preserve,\" said Seth Clark and Tracie Revis of the Ocmulgee National Park and Preserve Initiative.\n\nThe bipartisan support for the House bill indicates that it will have a favorable path forward in Congress.\n\nAlso today, the U.S. Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources voted to approve the Senate companion of the Ocmulgee Mounds Park and Preserve Establishment Act.\n\n\u201cThis is historic and unprecedented progress toward establishing Georgia\u2019s first National Park, but more work remains ahead,\u201d?Senator?Ossoff said. \u201cI'm grateful to Congressman Scott, Congressman Bishop, and Senator Warnock for their partnership, as well the extraordinary efforts of the Muscogee (Creek) Nation, Macon-Bibb County Mayor Pro Tem Seth Clark, and local leaders for their years of hard work, advocacy, and leadership.\u201d\n\n\u201cOcmulgee Mounds is a living testament to our intertwined histories and a source of economic and cultural vitality; I\u2019m proud to see this bipartisan, bicameral legislation to establish Ocmulgee Mounds as Georgia\u2019s first National Park and Preserve taking one more step toward becoming law,\u201d said Senator Reverend Warnock. \u201cI want to thank Congressmen Scott and Bishop for their yearslong efforts on this in the U.S. House, as well as Senator Ossoff for his leadership. Working together, we are proving what is possible when we put politics aside and center the people of Georgia.\u201d\n\nThe House and Senate bills continue to have broad support from the Middle Georgia community and welcomed today\u2019s bicameral progress to support the Ocmulgee Mounds initiative.\n\n\u201cThe impact of this bipartisan and bicameral bill to create Georgia\u2019s first national park and preserve will allow our ancestral Muscogee descendants to help tell the story of our homelands. We know the importance of these cultural lands and are excited to partner with Middle Georgians to help reconcile our lands and our stories. I am always humbled to be back in the lands of our people and know that we are still here today carrying on our Muscogee ways,\" said Muscogee (Creek) Principal Chief David Hill.\n\n\u201cWe\u2019re thrilled to see Congress making progress on protecting the encroachment zone of Robins Air Force Base by moving the bipartisan and bicameral Ocmulgee Mounds National Park and Preserve Act forward. It is the right step forward for middle Georgia and I look forward to Congress sending this legislation to the President\u2019s desk before the end of the year,\" said Ret. Brigadier General John C. Kubinec, CEO of the 21st Century Partnership and former Commander, Warner Robins Air Logistics Complex at Robins Air Force Base.\n\nThe full text of the H.R. 8182 can be found here.\n\nWatch Rep. Scott and Bishop\u2019s testimonies here.\n\n###", 1, "2026-06-27T20:01:11Z", "2026-06-27T22:32:33Z"], ["https://allen.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=6516", "Rep. Allen Announces 2025 Spring Internship Program", "2024-11-06", "2024", "2024-11", "Republican", "House", "GA", "Rick W. Allen", "A000372", "allen.house.gov", "allen", "https://allen.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27", "scraper", "Today, Congressman Rick W. Allen (GA-12) announced his office is seeking applicants for the 2025 Spring Internship Program, to be offered in his Washington, D.C. office.\n\nThis program is open to college students and young professionals interested in learning about the legislative process and assisting with the responsibilities of a congressional office. Interns will perform a range of tasks including constituent outreach, legislative writing, and more, with the possibility of earning school credit. Spring internships will be offered from January to May 2025, with specific dates to be provided during the interview process. All applications must be submitted via Congressman Allen's website by Wednesday, November 20, 2024.\n\nUpon the announcement, Congressman Allen issued the following statement:\n\n\"Working in a congressional office provides a unique opportunity to gain firsthand experience into how our government operates and network with individuals from all walks of life. In our office, we employ a bottom-up approach to empower others to achieve their full potential. Many of our past interns have used the skills gained during their internships to transition into a variety of successful career paths. My staff and I look forward to welcoming these talented young professionals in the coming months.\"\n\nThose interested in a spring internship can apply on Congressman Allen's website. Please contact Heath Wheat at Heath.Wheat@mail.house.gov with any questions.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T22:07:06Z"], ["https://buddycarter.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=15229", "Carter congratulates President-elect Donald Trump, opens inauguration ticket application for GA-01", "2024-11-06", "2024", "2024-11", "Republican", "House", "GA", "Earl L. \"Buddy\" Carter", "C001103", "buddycarter.house.gov", "buddycarter", "https://buddycarter.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Rep. Earl L. \u201cBuddy\u201d Carter (R-GA) today delivered the following statement congratulating President-elect Donald J. Trump on his decisive victory:\n\n\u201cGeorgians showed up and helped deliver a historic victory for President-elect Donald Trump. This election was about opportunity. The left talked about creating an opportunity economy, but Trump delivered it when he lowered taxes and cost of living, and that\u2019s why America is sending him back to the White House. Now, we have the opportunity to right-size the economy, secure our border, restore our respect on the world stage, combat the fentanyl crisis, re-establish law and order in our cities, and make America great once again. Congratulations, President Trump \u2013 I look forward to working with you in the 119th Congress to advance an America First agenda.\u201d\n\nGeorgia\u2019s First Congressional District residents interested in attending the inauguration should apply here by December 13, 2024.\n\nPlease note that, due to demand, not all requests for tickets can be filled.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T22:07:06Z"], ["https://bishop.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressman-bishop-receives-friend-of-farm-bureau-award-BrinsonGA", "CONGRESSMAN BISHOP RECEIVES \u201cFRIEND OF FARM BUREAU\u201d AWARD", "2024-10-31", "2024", "2024-10", "Democrat", "House", "GA", "Sanford D. Bishop, Jr.", "B000490", "bishop.house.gov", "bishop", "https://bishop.house.gov/media-center/press-releases", "scraper", "BRINSON, Ga. \u2013 Yesterday, Congressman Sanford D. Bishop, Jr. (GA-02) received the Friend of the Farm Bureau Award from the Georgia Farm Bureau at a ceremony hosted at Glenn Heard Farms in Brinson.\n\n\u201cI want to thank the Georgia Farm Bureau for this award and honor. It has been my pleasure to work with the Farm Bureau and I will always be a strong voice in Washington for our farmers and producers,\u201d said Congressman Bishop. \u201cThe agriculture industry is crucial to our country, contributing over one trillion dollars to the U.S. economy, and that is over $80 billion in Georgia alone. Whether through the Farm Bill or the annual appropriations process, I will always work towards ensuring that Congress provides the programs and resources needed to make sure Americans continue to have the safest, most affordable, and most abundant food and fiber.\u201d\n\n\u201cToday we gathered farmers in Georgia\u2019s 2nd congressional district with Congressman Sanford Bishop to present him with his 2024 Friend of Farm Bureau Award,\u201d said Ben Parker, National Affairs Coordinator for the Georgia Farm Bureau. \u201cThrough this gesture we are happy to show our support for all the many beneficial acts Bishop has carried through his years of being a true friend and champion for Georgia agriculture.\u201d\n\n\u201cCongressman Bishop has a been a tremendous friend and supporter of agriculture during his time in Congress. His door is always open to discuss the pressing issues that face agriculture all across our country,\u201d said Tommy Dollar, President of Dollar Farms in Bainbridge, Georgia. \u201cWe need disaster assistance for our farmers that were devastated by Hurricane Helene and we need economic relief for those farmers who have been devastated by input costs. We also need a Farm Bill so that the AG community will have certainty in the days ahead. Congressman Bishop will fight to make sure that these issues are addressed, and he is indeed a friend of Agriculture.\u201d\n\n\u201cCongressman Bishop has been a friend to the Farm Bureau, but more importantly a friend to American Agriculture,\u201d said Andy Bell of Bell Farms in Climax, Georgia. \u201cThis award represents his commitment to ensuring that the United States will continue to have the safest food and fiber anywhere in the world while providing all of the necessary resources that our farmers need for the food security of the world.\u201d\n\nCongressman Bishop is one of the most senior members of the U.S. House Appropriations Committee and, as such, is the top Democrat on the subcommittee that funds the U.S. Department of Agriculture, Rural Development, the Food & Drug Administration, and related agencies. He is also a member of the U.S. House Agriculture Committee which oversees and crafts the country\u2019s agriculture and nutrition policies and programs.\n\nAn agriculture issues leader, he regularly works across the aisle to craft legislation and support funding for programs that are vital to the well-being of America\u2019s farmers.\n\nEarlier this month, he led a farm tour of Minor Brothers Farms in Sumter County. He was joined by Congressman Austin Scott (GA-08) and Congresswoman Shontel Brown (OH-11), who are the Republican and Democratic leaders of the U.S. House Agriculture Subcommittee on General Farm Commodities, Risk Management, and Credit.\n\nIn May 2024, Congressman Bishop voted in support of the Farm Bill passed by the U.S. House Agriculture Committee. In September, he sent a letter to House and Senate leaders and to the House Agriculture Committee leadership urging them to set aside differences and commit to pass a Farm Bill before the end of this Congress.\n\nHouse Republican leaders have not scheduled the Farm Bill for a vote. Some Republicans and Democrats have raised budgetary concerns about the bill and the U.S. Senate is working on its own version of the Farm Bill. Congressman Bishop remains committed to working towards a bipartisan bill this year that will get the full support of the U.S. Congress and that can be signed into law by President Biden.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T21:57:20Z"], ["https://bishop.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/us-department-of-education-awards-over-4-million-to-bibb-muscogee-county-school-districts-to-support-school-based-mental-health-services", "U.S. DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION AWARDS OVER $4 MILLION TO BIBB & MUSCOGEE COUNTY SCHOOL DISTRICTS TO SUPPORT SCHOOL-BASED MENTAL HEALTH SERVICES", "2024-10-31", "2024", "2024-10", "Democrat", "House", "GA", "Sanford D. Bishop, Jr.", "B000490", "bishop.house.gov", "bishop", "https://bishop.house.gov/media-center/press-releases", "scraper", "MACON, Ga. \u2013 Congressman Sanford D. Bishop, Jr., (GA-02) a senior member of the House Appropriations Committee, is delighted to announce a federal award from the U.S. Department of Education totaling $4,567,325 to the Bibb County ($2,569,674) and Muscogee County ($1,997,651) School Districts. The School-Based Mental Health Grant Program provides public schools with the resources needed to hire and retain mental health professionals and create a safe environment for all students.\n\n\u201cWhen children in need of help are supported at school, behavior problems are less likely to occur and grades and test scores are more likely to improve,\u201d said Congressman Bishop. \u201cGeorgia schools are places where every student should feel safe and cared for. That is why the School-Based Mental Health Grant Program exists \u2013 to make our schools safer by ensuring each student receives the care and attention they need and deserve.\u201d\n\n\"Receiving funding for our Built4Bibb School-Based Mental Health Services Program marks a transformative step for the Bibb County School District,\u201d said Tajalyn Woodruff on behalf of Bibb County Schools. \u201cThis grant will enable us to improve the way we focus on the wellness of our students by increasing student access to mental health professionals while also developing a fully coordinated system of social emotional and behavioral supports for students within our schools.\u201d\n\n\u201cMental health is truly a societal problem that extends to children as well. As educators, we must be concerned with the whole child, which includes their mental, social, and emotional well-being that can adversely impact their academic progress,\u201d said Dr. David Lewis, Muscogee School Superintendent. \u201cOn behalf of the Muscogee County School District and the many students and families who will benefit, I am very grateful for the significant funding provided through this federal grant that will augment our district\u2019s efforts through eleven additional social workers and a school psychologist focused on effective mental and behavioral interventions, support and services.\u201d\n\nThe School-Based Mental Health Grant Program was made possible by the Fiscal Year 2024 federal government funding bill, which Congressman Bishop supported.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T21:57:20Z"], ["https://www.collins.senate.gov/newsroom/senator-collins-announces-375-million-in-liheap-funding-for-maine", "Senator Collins Announces $37.5 Million in LIHEAP Funding for Maine", "2024-10-31", "2024", "2024-10", "Republican", "House", "GA", "Mike Collins", "C001129", "www.collins.senate.gov", "collins", "https://www.collins.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2013 Today, U.S. Senator Susan Collins, Vice Chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee, announced that the State of Maine has been awarded $37,567,435 through the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services\u2019 (HHS) Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP). Maine tribes have been awarded $1,434,237 as well. LIHEAP is a crucial lifeline that helps low-income households and older Mainers on fixed incomes afford their energy bills, including those who use natural gas, propane, electricity, and home heating oil.\n\n\u201cWith home energy costs remaining high, this federal funding will help to ensure that Mainers have access to affordable heating as we approach the cold winter months,\u201d said Senator Collins. \u201cLIHEAP funding provides critical relief to low-income families and older Mainers, helping them stay warm without the constant worry of choosing between heating their homes and covering other basic necessities.\u201d\n\nEarlier this month, Senator Collins, along with Senators Jack Reed (D-RI) and Lisa Murkowski (R-AK), led a bipartisan call for HHS to release LIHEAP funds as swiftly and at the highest level possible. Senators Collins, Reed, and Murkowski helped provide a total of $4.1 billion for LIHEAP in Fiscal Year 2024, with $4 billion through appropriations and $100 million in Bipartisan Infrastructure Law funds.\n\nLIHEAP is administered by states and accessed through local Community Action Agencies. Eligibility for LIHEAP is based on income, family size, and the availability of resources. Senior citizens and those receiving Social Security Disability or SSI benefits are encouraged to apply as early as possible, but applications will be open to everyone through spring of 2025 \u2014 or until the funding is exhausted.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T21:57:20Z"], ["https://www.collins.senate.gov/newsroom/senator-collins-speaks-at-katahdin-higher-education-center-expansion-grand-opening", "Senator Collins Speaks at Katahdin Higher Education Center Expansion Grand Opening", "2024-10-31", "2024", "2024-10", "Republican", "House", "GA", "Mike Collins", "C001129", "www.collins.senate.gov", "collins", "https://www.collins.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases", "scraper", "Click HERE, HERE, HERE, and HERE for individual photos\n\nEast Millinocket, ME \u2013 Today, U.S. Senator Susan Collins delivered remarks at the opening of the newly-expanded early childhood education center at Eastern Maine Community College\u2019s Katahdin Region Higher Education Center in East Millinocket. The renovated facility will offer increased access to child care and additional job training resources for residents in the region. Senator Collins secured $4 million in Congressionally Directed Spending to expand the Higher Education Center in the Fiscal Year 2022 Transportation, Housing and Urban Development appropriations bill.\n\n\u201cThis Center will provide vital training and educational opportunities, supporting both local residents and the regional workforce,\u201d said Senator Collins. \u201cBy bringing child care, higher education, and job training together under one roof, this project is helping to create a strong foundation for growth and economic opportunity in the greater Katahdin region.\u201d\n\nThe Center offers courses for certificate, associate, bachelor and master programs, and they also provide customized training and apprenticeship training for business and industry. Onsite child care is available through the Katahdin Region Child Development Center, a partnership of Penquis and the Katahdin Higher Education Center.\n\nIn addition to this project, Senator Collins has secured funding to support economic redevelopment in the greater Millinocket region, including more than $7.8 million in Congressionally Directed Spending to repair and renovate the former paper mill site in East Millinocket, and more than $53 million in federal transportation grant funding to rehabilitate currently dormant rail tracks in Penobscot, Aroostook, Washington, and Piscataquis counties which will establish a freight rail connection to the One North Bio-Industrial Park in Millinocket.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T21:57:20Z"], ["https://clyde.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=2768", "Rep. Clyde Requests Confirmation of Terminated Efforts to Rename Lake Lanier, Buford Dam", "2024-10-30", "2024", "2024-10", "Republican", "House", "GA", "Andrew S. Clyde", "C001116", "clyde.house.gov", "clyde", "https://clyde.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27", "scraper", "GAINESVILLE, GA \u2014 Today, Congressman Andrew Clyde (GA-09) sent a letter to U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) Col. Jeremy Chapman requesting confirmation that the USACE has completely abandoned any plans to rename Lake Lanier and Buford Dam.\n\nIn the letter, Rep. Clyde highlights the importance of keeping these names:\n\n\u201cI have been one of the strongest advocates for preserving the historic names of Lake Lanier and Buford Dam. The names of these landmarks have established a unique identity for our community. Renaming them would cause needless confusion and tremendous costs for local businesses and area residents. Worse yet, it would be erasing part of our region\u2019s heritage and tradition.\u201d\n\nThe Congressman notes his appreciation of the USACE for its decision to \u201cindefinitely pause\u201d its unwarranted efforts to rename Lake Lanier and Buford Dam but adds that the Ninth District deserves clarity on the issue:\n\n\u201cWhile the pause in the renaming process was an encouraging development, I believe it is necessary to make it plain that the renaming efforts have been fully and entirely terminated \u2014 not just suspended indefinitely. The people of Northeast Georgia deserve assurances that the Lake Lanier and Buford Dam nomenclature will be with us long into the future.\u201d\n\nRead the full letter HERE.\n\nMore on Rep. Clyde\u2019s work to protect Lake Lanier, Buford Dam:\n\nRep. Clyde Applauds Pause of Lake Lanier and Buford Dam Renaming Efforts", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T21:57:20Z"], ["https://www.collins.senate.gov/newsroom/senator-collins-speaks-at-grand-opening-of-new-age-friendly-patient-rooms-at-st-joseph-hospital-in-bangor", "Senator Collins Speaks at Grand Opening of New Age-Friendly Patient Rooms at St. Joseph Hospital in Bangor", "2024-10-30", "2024", "2024-10", "Republican", "House", "GA", "Mike Collins", "C001129", "www.collins.senate.gov", "collins", "https://www.collins.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases", "scraper", "Click HERE, HERE, and HERE for individual photos\n\nBangor, ME \u2013 Today, U.S. Senator Susan Collins delivered remarks at the grand opening of new age-friendly patient rooms at St. Joseph Hospital in Bangor. The new unit contains nine patient rooms that were renovated to better fit the care needs of older patients. Senator Collins secured $1.5 million in Congressionally Directed Spending for this renovation project in the Fiscal Year 2022 Labor, Health and Human Services, Education, and Related Agencies appropriations bill.\n\n\u201cEnsuring that older Mainers receive the quality care they deserve requires facilities that are designed with their needs in mind,\u201d said Senator Collins. \u201cThese new age-friendly rooms at St. Joseph Hospital will create a more comfortable, accessible, and supportive environment for older patients and their families.\u201d\n\nRenovations to the rooms include improved lighting, high contrast flooring, more accessible bathrooms, additional mobility railings, customizable memory door signs, mobility comfort furniture, and other features that aim to improve the care environment for older patients. The new facility also includes rooms that will be more suitable for end-of-life care, for both patients and their loved ones.\n\nIn addition to this project, Senator Collins has secured Congressionally Directed Spending to improve patient care in multiple departments of St. Joseph Hospital since 2021. This includes $708,000 to upgrade mammogram imaging equipment and $1,550,000 to purchase and install a new MRI machine.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T21:57:20Z"], ["https://www.collins.senate.gov/newsroom/senator-collins-participates-in-factory-of-the-future-groundbreaking-at-umaine", "Senator Collins Participates in Factory of the Future Groundbreaking at UMaine", "2024-10-29", "2024", "2024-10", "Republican", "House", "GA", "Mike Collins", "C001129", "www.collins.senate.gov", "collins", "https://www.collins.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases", "scraper", "Click HERE and HERE for individual photos.\n\nOrono, ME \u2013 Today, U.S. Senator Susan Collins participated in a groundbreaking for the Green Engineering & Materials Factory of the Future at the University of Maine (UMaine). The Factory of the Future will be a 50,000 square foot facility that will usher in a new era of large-scale advanced manufacturing at the nexus of engineering and computing. The Factory will serve as a new national model to integrate research, leaning, and manufacturing.\n\n\u201cUMaine\u2019s Factory of the Future will establish Maine as a national leader in additive and advanced manufacturing,\u201d said Senator Collins. \u201cThis state-of-the-art facility will spur innovation, strengthen our national defense, and give students invaluable experience in pioneering high-tech industries.\u201d\n\nSenator Collins has secured more than $90 million to support the Factory of the Future project. In addition, the Fiscal Year 2025 defense spending bill, which still awaits consideration by the Senate and House of Representatives, includes $15 million to further support the Factory project.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T21:57:20Z"], ["https://www.collins.senate.gov/newsroom/senator-collins-announces-nearly-133-million-for-bridge-replacements-in-penobscot-kennebec-counties", "Senator Collins Announces Nearly $133 Million for Bridge Replacements in Penobscot, Kennebec Counties", "2024-10-28", "2024", "2024-10", "Republican", "House", "GA", "Mike Collins", "C001129", "www.collins.senate.gov", "collins", "https://www.collins.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2013 Today, U.S. Senator Susan Collins, Vice Chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee, announced that the Maine Department of Transportation (MaineDOT) has been awarded $132,676,036 for two projects in Penobscot and Kennebec County. This funding will assist in the rehabilitation or replacement of six bridges on Interstate-395 between Bangor and Brewer, and the replacement of six aging overpasses on Interstate-95 near Augusta. This funding was awarded through the U.S. Department of Transportation\u2019s (USDOT) Bridge Investment Program (BIP). With these two awards, the State of Maine is receiving more than 20% of the nearly $635 million being awarded nationwide through the BIP this funding round. Senator Collins sent a letter to Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg in support of MaineDOT\u2019s grant requests.\n\nIn 2021, Senator Collins, then the Ranking Member of the Transportation Appropriations Subcommittee, was part of the core group of 10 Senators who negotiated the text of the bipartisan infrastructure law. This law established the BIP, which is the single largest dedicated investment in bridge infrastructure since the construction of the Interstate highway system.\n\n\u201cThis funding will make our roadways safer and more resilient by addressing bridges that are crucial to Maine\u2019s infrastructure,\u201d said Senator Collins. \u201cUpgrading these routes will ensure that vital travel corridors remain accessible for residents, businesses, and commercial transport alike.\u201d\n\n\u201cThis funding will help fund a dozen significant bridge projects in Kennebec County and the Greater Bangor area,\u201d said Bruce Van Note, Commissioner of the Maine Department of Transportation. \u201cOur team will replace six deteriorating bridges in Sidney and Waterville that do not provide enough vertical clearance for interstate traffic. We will also make major improvements on six bridges along the I-395 corridor in Bangor and Brewer, including the rehabilitation of the Veterans Remembrance Bridge spanning the Penobscot River. These investments in our transportation system support safety, reliability, and economic opportunity. We thank Senator Collins and Maine\u2019s entire Congressional delegation for their ongoing commitment to supporting critical infrastructure projects in our state.\u201d\n\nThe funding is allocated as follows:\n\nI-395 Bridge Bundle Project - $63,016,563 to rehabilitate or replace six deteriorating bridges along I-395 to enhance safety and improve driving conditions for those traveling between Bangor and Brewer, benefiting both local and regional mobility.\n\nI-95 Accessibility Improvements Minimizing Heavy-Truck Impacts Project - $69,659,473 to replace six outdated bridges over I-95, bringing structures up to modern standards, allowing for safer heavy-truck passage, and reducing long-term maintenance needs on this critical route in Kennebec County.\n\nAccording to the USDOT, the BIP provides funding for bridge replacement, rehabilitation, preservation, and protection projects that reduce the number of bridges in poor condition, or in fair condition at risk of declining into poor condition.\n\nSince 2009, when Senator Collins became a member of the Appropriations Committee, she has secured more than $1 billion in competitive transportation grants for the State of Maine.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T21:57:20Z"], ["https://www.collins.senate.gov/newsroom/maine-delegation-statement-on-the-one-year-anniversary-of-lewiston-shooting", "Maine Delegation Statement on the First Anniversary of Lewiston Shooting", "2024-10-25", "2024", "2024-10", "Republican", "House", "GA", "Mike Collins", "C001129", "www.collins.senate.gov", "collins", "https://www.collins.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2014 U.S. Senators Susan Collins and Angus King, and Representatives Chellie Pingree and Jared Golden today released the following statement on the first anniversary of the Lewiston shooting that took place on October 25th, taking the lives of 18 innocent people:\n\n\u201cOne year ago, the unthinkable happened in Lewiston when a gunman opened fire at a bowling alley and restaurant \u2014 shaking the community and Maine to its core,\u201d said the Delegation. \u201cFor days, families sheltered in their homes as law enforcement worked to track down the shooter. We are thankful for the diligence and bravery that put an end to this nightmare and allowed our state to begin working through the agony and devastation. But the seats at the kitchen table remain empty, with 18 Mainers absent from the lives of their friends and families. Others injured on that horrific day are still recovering from their wounds. As we continue to process the pain, we renew our commitment to helping one another, to remembering the victims and the lives forever changed that day, and to healing.\u201d\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T21:57:20Z"], ["https://www.collins.senate.gov/newsroom/senator-collins-announces-more-than-53-million-for-freight-rail-upgrades-in-rural-maine", "Senator Collins Announces More Than $53 Million for Freight Rail Upgrades in Rural Maine", "2024-10-25", "2024", "2024-10", "Republican", "House", "GA", "Mike Collins", "C001129", "www.collins.senate.gov", "collins", "https://www.collins.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2013 U.S. Senator Susan Collins, Vice Chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee, announced that the Maine Department of Transportation has been awarded $53,313,091 for freight rail upgrades to enhance safety, speed, and reliability along two Eastern Maine Railway mainlines in Penobscot, Aroostook, Washington, and Piscataquis counties. This funding will also be used to rehabilitate currently dormant tracks to provide a connection to the One North Bio-Industrial Park in Millinocket. This funding was awarded through the U.S. Department of Transportation\u2019s Federal Railroad Administration\u2019s (FRA) Fiscal Year 2024 Consolidated Rail Infrastructure and Safety Improvements (CRISI) Program. Eastern Maine Railway and One North will contribute the 20 percent non-federal match required for this project, for a total project cost of more than $66.6 million.\n\n\u201cThis investment will make critical safety and reliability upgrades to enhance freight rail service in rural Maine,\u201d said Senator Collins. \u201cRepairing and expanding our state\u2019s rail network will strengthen economic opportunities and support jobs throughout the state by connecting our rural communities to national and global markets.\u201d\n\nThe grant will support substantial improvements across 140 miles of rail, including the installation of over 86,000 new crossties and more than 108,000 tons of ballast, replacement of jointed rail with continuously welded rail, installation of Equipment Defect Detectors, and upgrading seven highway grade crossings. By rehabilitating yard tracks and other improvements in the Industrial Park, this project will support the Maine forest products industry and new and sustainable industries in the Katahdin Region.\n\nAccording to the FRA, the CRISI Program aims to invest in a wide range of projects within the United States to improve railroad safety, efficiency, and reliability, and to mitigate congestion at both intercity passenger and freight rail chokepoints to support the more efficient movement of both people and goods.\n\nSince joining the Appropriations Committee in 2009, Senator Collins has helped secure over $1 billion in competitive transportation grants for the State of Maine.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T21:57:20Z"], ["https://buddycarter.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=15203", "Carter lands rail improvement grant for Brunswick Port", "2024-10-24", "2024", "2024-10", "Republican", "House", "GA", "Earl L. \"Buddy\" Carter", "C001103", "buddycarter.house.gov", "buddycarter", "https://buddycarter.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27", "scraper", "SAVANNAH \u2013 Following Rep. Earl L. \u201cBuddy\u201d Carter\u2019s (R-GA) letter of support, the Federal Railroad Administration today awarded $26.5 million to the Georgia Ports Authority for construction of a new rail yard at the Port of Brunswick\u2019s Colonel Island Auto Terminal.\n\nAs the fastest growing Ro/Ro port in the nation, this funding will allow the Port of Brunswick to handle the increased volume of U.S. automotive exports and imports moving through it, while fostering sustainable growth, safety, and environmental stewardship.\n\n\u201cThe entire nation will benefit from this investment in one of the most efficiently run and heavily utilized ports in the country,\u201d said Rep. Carter. \u201cGeorgia\u2019s ports are the economic engine of the southeast. By increasing their capacity to handle the growth of our state\u2019s automotive industry, we will strengthen our economy, create jobs, and export American-made vehicles worldwide.\u201d\n\nThis grant is funded through the Consolidated Rail Infrastructure and Safety Improvements Program.\n\nRead Rep. Carter\u2019s letter of support here.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T21:57:20Z"], ["https://www.collins.senate.gov/newsroom/senators-collins-shaheen-call-on-navy-to-protect-employee-pay-and-benefits-at-portsmouth-naval-shipyard", "Senators Collins, Shaheen Call on Navy to Protect Employee Pay and Benefits at Portsmouth Naval Shipyard", "2024-10-24", "2024", "2024-10", "Republican", "House", "GA", "Mike Collins", "C001129", "www.collins.senate.gov", "collins", "https://www.collins.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2013 U.S. Senators Susan Collins and Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH) sent a bipartisan letter to the U.S. Department of the Navy urging the branch to reconsider the Office of Civilian Human Resources\u2019 (OCHR) decision to review and modify civilian workforce position classifications across four public shipyards, including Portsmouth Naval Shipyard. In their letter to Secretary Carlos Del Toro and Chief of Naval Operations Admiral Lisa Franchetti, the Senators noted that the review could result in civilian employees losing pay and benefits as well as negatively impact efforts to eliminate submarine maintenance backlogs.\n\n\u201cShould OCHR\u2019s review result in position description demotions and salary decreases for a significant population of technical professionals, it would cripple efforts to staff and support the needs of the Navy,\u201d the Senators wrote. \u201cWe, therefore, ask for your support in protecting our shipyard employees by reconsidering OCHR\u2019s directive and by engaging with OPM to find a position that both maintains the integrity of the Federal and Department of Navy Classification Programs while protecting the wages and benefits of our valued workforce.\u201d\n\n\u201cToday\u2019s security environment requires the United States to have a combat-credible undersea fleet to maintain a competitive edge over our adversaries. The overwhelming production capacity of the People\u2019s Republic of China (PRC), Russia\u2019s steady production progress toward fifth generation submarines, and growing cooperation between these authoritarian regimes will create additional demands on the U.S. submarine force. Meanwhile, the U.S. submarine industrial base continues to face maintenance shortfalls at our four public shipyards that affect the Navy\u2019s ability to get boats back into the fleet on time. Reducing these maintenance backlogs is contingent on a robust, well-trained shipyard workforce,\u201d the Senators concluded.\n\nThe complete text of their letter can be read here.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T21:57:20Z"], ["https://bishop.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/reps-bishop-scott-and-brown-highlight-farm-bill-in-sumter-county", "REPS. BISHOP, SCOTT, AND BROWN HIGHLIGHT FARM BILL IN SUMTER COUNTY", "2024-10-23", "2024", "2024-10", "Democrat", "House", "GA", "Sanford D. Bishop, Jr.", "B000490", "bishop.house.gov", "bishop", "https://bishop.house.gov/media-center/press-releases", "scraper", "LESLIE, Ga. \u2013 On Monday, Congressman Sanford D. Bishop, Jr. (GA-02) \u2013 the top Democrat on the U.S. House Appropriations Agriculture Subcommittee as well as a member of the U.S. House Agriculture Committee \u2013 visited Minor Brothers Farms in Sumter County to discuss the Farm Bill. He was joined by Congressman Austin Scott (GA-08) and Congresswoman Shontel Brown (OH-11) who are the Republican and Democratic leaders of the U.S. House Agriculture Subcommittee on General Farm Commodities, Risk Management, and Credit.\n\n\u201cCongressman Austin Scott, Congresswoman Shontel Brown, and I are working hard in Congress on a new Farm Bill,\u201d said Congressman Bishop. \u201cMeeting in the field with peanut and cotton farmers allowed us to hear from them and see, first-hand, the challenges they face producing the food and fiber that feeds America and clothes the world. We were able to have a frank, bipartisan conversation about the immediate need for economic assistance and swift passage of the Farm Bill as well as disaster relief our producers require following the recent hurricane.\u201d\n\n\u201cAnd of course, we were eager to join with them in discussing how Congress can provide urgent help,\u201d added Congressman Bishop.\n\nCongressman Bishop noted it is important for Members of Congress from other areas of the country to visit America\u2019s farmers and producers in places like Middle and Southwest Georgia so that they are armed with sufficient information to support agriculture in the Farm Bill and get the nation\u2019s farmers and producers the resources that they need.\n\n\u201cI appreciated the opportunity to visit Minor Brothers Farms in Sumter County with Congressman Bishop and Congressman Scott. My sincere thanks are extended to Congressman Bishop for welcoming me to his district to hear directly from peanut and cotton farmers. As a member of the House Committee on Agriculture, I will continue working with my colleagues to pass a Farm Bill that supports farmers and producers as well as people in need,\u201d said Congresswoman Shontel Brown.\n\nDick Minor, a Sumter County farmer, commented, \u201cWe were pleased to host Representatives Sanford Bishop, Austin Scott, and Shontel Brown this week at our farm. In addition to these Members of Congress, we had numerous agricultural organizations to participate in discussions involving the 2024 Farm Bill, agricultural economic assistance, H2A issues, and disaster relief for those that were impacted by Hurricane Helene. These Members hold senior positions for agricultural policy in the U.S. House of Representatives, and we appreciate their interest in bipartisan solutions to very important issues to the agricultural industry.\u201d\n\nThe Farm Bill is the definitive law that governs food and agriculture policy by authorizing federal programs important to farmers, producers, nutrition programs, the agriculture industry, and rural development.\n\nIn May 2024, Congressman Bishop voted in support of the Farm Bill passed by the U.S. House Agriculture Committee. In September, he sent a letter to House and Senate leaders and to the House Agriculture Committee leadership urging them to set aside differences and commit to pass a Farm Bill before the end of this Congress.\n\nAmong its many provisions, the bill increases reference prices for commodities and crop insurance payments to help stabilize income for farmers and protect them from market volatility. It also authorizes voluntary and locally led incentive-based conservation programs and global promotion of U.S. agriculture.\n\nHouse Republican leaders have not scheduled the Farm Bill for a vote. Some Republicans and Democrats have raised budgetary concerns about the bill and the U.S. Senate is working on its own version of the Farm Bill. Congressman Bishop remains committed to working towards a bipartisan bill this year that will get the full support of the U.S. Congress and that can be signed into law by President Biden.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T21:57:20Z"], ["https://www.collins.senate.gov/newsroom/senator-collins-speaks-at-global-secure-shipping-facility-grand-opening-in-old-town", "Senator Collins Speaks at Global Secure Shipping Facility Grand Opening in Old Town", "2024-10-23", "2024", "2024-10", "Republican", "House", "GA", "Mike Collins", "C001129", "www.collins.senate.gov", "collins", "https://www.collins.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases", "scraper", "Click HERE, HERE, and HERE for individual photos\n\nOld Town, ME \u2013 Today, U.S. Senator Susan Collins delivered remarks at the grand opening of Global Secure Shipping\u2019s (GSS) second manufacturing facility in Old Town. With the opening of today\u2019s facility, GSS now has 32,500 square feet of total manufacturing space to produce its state-of-the-art secure cargo containers using patented technology first developed at the University of Maine (UMaine).\n\nToday\u2019s event also celebrated the company\u2019s selection for a $4.1 million Department of Homeland Security (DHS) contract to produce and test the next generation of secure cargo containers.\n\nJoining Senator Collins at the grand opening were U.S. Assistant Secretary of Defense for Industrial Base Policy Dr. Laura Taylor-Kale, UMaine President Joan Ferrini-Mundy, GSS CEO Robert Lindyberg, Ph.D., and Executive Director of GSS and UMaine engineering professor Dr. Habib Dagher.\n\n\u201cThis is a great day for our State, for our nation, and for the security of cargo shipping around the world,\u201d said Senator Collins during her remarks. \u201cThe project we celebrate today is about seaport security. But it also is about transitioning from research and development to manufacturing to create new industries, with new opportunities and good jobs. GSS is in the vanguard of that transition.\u201d\n\n\u201cMost of all, this is about the innovative spirit of Maine and our maritime heritage, with our University, GSS, and a skilled local workforce joining together to achieve something truly remarkable. Congratulations on this great accomplishment.\u201d Senator Collins concluded.\n\nGSS was founded in 2018 to commercialize the hybrid composite secure shipping container technology developed at UMaine. As a senior member of the Appropriations Committee and now Vice Chair, Senator Collins helped secure funding for UMaine to research this technology, as well as funding for DHS that led to GSS\u2019s $4.1 million contract.\n\nSenator Collins attended the groundbreaking for this facility in September 2023.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T21:57:20Z"], ["https://buddycarter.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=15197", "Carter statement on tragedy at Sapelo Island ferry dock", "2024-10-20", "2024", "2024-10", "Republican", "House", "GA", "Earl L. \"Buddy\" Carter", "C001103", "buddycarter.house.gov", "buddycarter", "https://buddycarter.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27", "scraper", "DARIEN \u2013 Rep. Earl L. \u201cBuddy\u201d Carter (R-GA) today released the following statement in response to the ferry dock collapse on Sapelo Island, which caused at least seven fatalities and sent eight individuals to the hospital:\n\n\u201cMy heart breaks for Sapelo Island, the Gullah-Geechee community, the victims, and the families grieving a loved one following yesterday\u2019s tragedy. Instead of the beautiful celebration honoring the Gullah-Geechee community\u2019s rich culture and heritage here in southeast Georgia, we are recovering from an unimaginable loss, one that will be felt forever.\n\n\u201cThe Gullah-Geechee community deserves our unwavering support during this challenging time. Thank you to the first responders and all who have worked tirelessly to assist those in need. Their bravery and dedication remind us that, in times of crisis, Georgians come together.\n\n\u201cAs we investigate how this tragedy occurred, we must ensure that it is done in a thorough and timely manner. Safety is our top concern, and we must take all necessary steps to prevent a tragedy like this from occurring again.\n\n\u201cWe will work diligently to honor the memory of those we have lost and to support those who are healing. Please do not hesitate to reach out to my office if we can be of assistance.\n\n\u201cWe are in this together. God bless, and peace be with you.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T21:57:20Z"], ["https://www.collins.senate.gov/newsroom/senator-collins-congratulates-distinguished-alumni-faculty-of-umaine-school-of-forest-resources", "Senator Collins Congratulates Distinguished Alumni, Faculty of UMaine School of Forest Resources", "2024-10-19", "2024", "2024-10", "Republican", "House", "GA", "Mike Collins", "C001129", "www.collins.senate.gov", "collins", "https://www.collins.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases", "scraper", "Click HERE, HERE, and HERE for individual photos\n\nOrono, ME \u2013 U.S. Senator Susan Collins delivered remarks at an event for alumni and friends of the University of Maine\u2019s School of Forest Resources (SFR). At the event, awards were presented to distinguished alumni and faculty of the SFR.\n\n\u201cUMaine\u2019s School of Forest Resources has long been a leader in forest innovation, and I\u2019m proud to support their efforts, which are critical to Maine\u2019s economy and environment,\u201d said Senator Collins. \u201cThis event was a wonderful opportunity to recognize the contributions of Dr. Fernandez, Dr. Gardner, and all the SFR alumni and faculty who have helped to advance forest research and education, strengthening both our state and this vital industry.\u201d\n\nThe SFR presented Dr. Ivan Fernandez (UMaine Ph.D. '81) with their 2024 Distinguished Alumni Award. Dr. Douglas Gardner (UMaine B.S. '80) was also recognized for his retirement from the SFR faculty. Senator Collins received an honorary SFR Distinguished Alumni Award for her continued support for forest resource research and innovation at the University.\n\nIn the past three funding cycles, Senator Collins has secured more than $40 million in Congressionally Directed Spending for forest resource-related projects at the University of Maine. This includes funding for the Advanced Structures and Composites Center, the Forest Biomaterials Innovation Center, the Sawmill Training and Education Center, and the Soil Testing Service Lab.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T21:57:20Z"], ["https://www.collins.senate.gov/newsroom/senator-collins-speaks-at-11th-annual-march-against-domestic-violence", "Senator Collins Speaks at 11th Annual March Against Domestic Violence", "2024-10-19", "2024", "2024-10", "Republican", "House", "GA", "Mike Collins", "C001129", "www.collins.senate.gov", "collins", "https://www.collins.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases", "scraper", "Orono, ME \u2013 U.S. Senator Susan Collins spoke at the 11th annual March Against Domestic Violence, which began at the steps of the Fogler Library at the University of Maine and continued on to the University Field House. The theme for this year\u2019s March, which comes during National Domestic Violence Awareness Month, was \u201cending domestic violence in our communities.\u201d\n\n\u201cThe annual March Against Domestic Violence serves as an important reminder of the work we need to do to protect vulnerable individuals, as domestic violence continues to affect too many families in our state,\u201d said Senator Collins. \u201cI will continue to support and author legislation to strengthen protections for survivors, and I thank everyone involved in organizing this event for their dedication to this critical issue.\u201d\n\nThe march is hosted by the Maine Business School (MBS) and organized by MBS Professor Nory Jones. In addition to Senator Collins, speakers at the event included UMaine Dean Robert Dana, Adjutant General of the Maine National Guard Diane Dunn, Executive Director at Partners for Peace Amanda Cost, Deputy UMaine Title IX Coordinator Heather Hogan, and Director of Development and Engagement at Partners for Peace Casey Faulkingham, who read the names of the 15 people who died in Maine as a result of domestic violence this year.\n\nSenator Collins was a co-sponsor of the Violence Against Women Act (VAWA) Reauthorization Act of 2022, which expanded protections and services for domestic violence survivors and their children. She was also a co-author of the Bipartisan Safer Communities Act, which helps ensure that abusers do not have access to firearms.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T21:57:20Z"], ["https://www.collins.senate.gov/newsroom/senator-collins-delivers-remarks-at-inauguration-of-husson-university-president", "Senator Collins Delivers Remarks at Inauguration of Husson University President", "2024-10-18", "2024", "2024-10", "Republican", "House", "GA", "Mike Collins", "C001129", "www.collins.senate.gov", "collins", "https://www.collins.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases", "scraper", "Click HERE, HERE, and HERE for individual photos\n\nBangor, ME \u2013 Today, U.S. Senator Susan Collins delivered remarks at the inauguration of Husson University\u2019s 7th president, Lynne Coy-Ogan, at the University\u2019s Gracie Theater. Former Husson University Presidents Bob Clark and Bill Beardsley were also in attendance to congratulate President Coy-Ogan.\n\n\u201cFrom serving as principal at Bangor\u2019s Vine Street School to a nearly 20-year career here at Husson as dean, provost, and vice president, Lynne has dedicated her life to education,\u201d Senator Collins said during her remarks. \u201cAs a Maine native, she is devoted to our State and its people. As the first woman to hold this position, she is a role model and an inspiration. I commend the Board of Trustees for this excellent, enthusiastic, and unanimous choice.\u201d\n\nDr. Coy-Ogan was born in Bangor, Maine and earned a bachelor's degree from Boston University, a master's in school counseling from Johns Hopkins, and an Ed.D. in educational leadership from Liberty University, where she focused her research on first-generation college students. She later served as a principal in the Bangor School Department and Regional School Unit 68. She joined Husson University in 2005 as dean of the School of Education, eventually becoming provost and vice president before being named the University's 7th president.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T21:57:20Z"], ["https://www.collins.senate.gov/newsroom/senator-collins-participates-in-bangorhousing-opportunity-center-grand-opening", "Senator Collins Participates in BangorHousing Opportunity Center Grand Opening", "2024-10-18", "2024", "2024-10", "Republican", "House", "GA", "Mike Collins", "C001129", "www.collins.senate.gov", "collins", "https://www.collins.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases", "scraper", "Click HERE, HERE, and HERE for individual photos\n\nBangor, ME \u2013 Today, U.S. Senator Susan Collins, Vice Chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee, spoke at the grand opening of the new BangorHousing Opportunity Center. Senator Collins secured $2,000,000 in Congressionally Directed Spending for BangorHousing to create the center for residents to participate in services and training to increase their education and skills to transition off of federal assistance.\n\n\u201cThe programs and guidance offered by BangorHousing have helped hundreds of Maine households get on solid financial footing, providing them with the skills they need for long-term stability,\u201d said Senator Collins. \u201cI was proud to secure the funding for this new center, which will serve as a dedicated space for BangorHousing to continue and expand their important work of helping families build assets and create a better future for their loved ones.\u201d\n\nAs of 2022, 261 households have participated in BangorHousing\u2019s Family Self Sufficiency program, building savings escrow accounts from the difference in rent increases as their incomes change. To graduate from the program and receive these funds, the participants must work full time and stop receiving Temporary Assistance to Needy Families (TANF) for 12 consecutive months. Data from 2023 shows that of the 261 households enrolled in Bangor Housing\u2019s enhanced FSS program at that time, the average family income rose more than 300% during their five years in the program.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T21:57:20Z"], ["https://buddycarter.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=15190", "Carter secures USDA disaster designation to help Georgia farms recover from Tropical Storm Debby", "2024-10-17", "2024", "2024-10", "Republican", "House", "GA", "Earl L. \"Buddy\" Carter", "C001103", "buddycarter.house.gov", "buddycarter", "https://buddycarter.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27", "scraper", "SAVANNAH \u2013 The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) this week announced a disaster declaration for Georgia counties impacted by Tropical Storm Debby, including all 15 counties in Georgia\u2019s First Congressional District, following a letter from Rep. Earl L. \u201cBuddy\u201d Carter (R-GA) requesting such assistance for farmers\u2019 and growers\u2019 recovery.\n\nTropical Storm Debby\u2019s devastating rain and wind caused extensive property damage and crop losses for Georgia growers. The Secretarial disaster designation makes farm operators in primary and contiguous counties eligible for Farm Service Agency (FSA) emergency loan assistance.\n\n\u201cAmerica relies on our growers; but right now, growers are relying on us. Agriculture is the #1 industry in the state of Georgia, and the losses we\u2019ve experience this hurricane season are going to impact not just our local economy, but the national food supply chain. This funding opportunity is a lifeline for the farmers and growers whose crops were wiped out during Tropical Storm Debby, and I will continue to ensure our district has the resources it needs to fully recover,\u201d said Rep. Carter.\n\nAccording to the USDA\u2019s announcement, farmers in eligible counties have 8 months from the date of a Secretarial disaster declaration to apply for emergency loans. FSA considers each emergency loan application on its own merits, taking into account the extent of production losses on the farm and the security and repayment ability of the operator.\n\nTo apply, contact your local FSA office.\n\nRead Rep. Carter\u2019s letter to USDA here.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T21:57:20Z"], ["https://bishop.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressman-bishop-announces-14-million-in-federal-head-start-funds-serving-the-chattahoochee-valley-and-middle-georgia", "CONGRESSMAN BISHOP ANNOUNCES $14 MILLION IN FEDERAL HEAD START FUNDS SERVING THE CHATTAHOOCHEE VALLEY AND MIDDLE GEORGIA", "2024-10-16", "2024", "2024-10", "Democrat", "House", "GA", "Sanford D. Bishop, Jr.", "B000490", "bishop.house.gov", "bishop", "https://bishop.house.gov/media-center/press-releases", "scraper", "FORT VALLEY, Ga. \u2013 Congressman Sanford D. Bishop Jr. (GA-02) is happy to announce that the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services is awarding $6,134,765 to the Macon-Bibb County Economic Opportunity Council, $7,186,306 to the Fort Valley State University, and $705,440 to the Enrichment Services Program, Inc. in Columbus, GA to support their Head Start programs. The Head Start program supports disadvantaged families by providing early learning and development, health, and well-being to newborns and children up to five years of age.\n\n\u201cThe years leading up to primary school are crucial in setting children up to be successful throughout their education and eventually finding good-paying jobs. The Head Start program enriches youngsters by providing a quality preschool experience, while also providing working parents with affordable, reliable childcare,\u201d said Congressman Bishop. \u201cIt is so important that these funds are made available to dependable organizations in every community to support for family activities and childhood development.\u201d\n\n\u201cThe funds provided will be utilized to purchase a facility that will serve over 160 children in the Chattahoochee Valley. And with this purchase it will allow us to provide a safe location for children to gain school readiness skills and set them up to be successful in school and life,\u201d said Enrichment Services Program, Inc. CEO Belva Dorsey-Mott. \u201cWe thank Congressman Bishop for his ongoing support to ensure that funds are available to help children prepare for school and support families which are the foundation for strong communities.\u201d\n\n\u201cThis is exciting news, and we are very honored to have been named recipient of this federal grant award,\u201d said Ms. Sarita R. Hill, Chief Executive Officer of the Macon-Bibb County Economic Opportunity Council. \u201cThis substantial funding is designated for the construction of our new Head Start building in Macon, tentatively scheduled for completion in December 2025. The 32,000 sq. ft. building will provide 24 classrooms that will accommodate up to 384 children. This will have a meaningful impact on the many lives of those we support by increasing the invaluable services provided by Head Start and Early Head Start programs.\u201d\n\n\u201cFort Valley State University's Head Start program will create a safe and innovative learning environment that empowers families, supports mental health, and promotes school readiness.\u201d Said Ms. Nikkia Mosley, Executive Program Director at Fort Valley State University. \u201cTogether, we will make a lasting impact on our community and foster the growth and well-being of every child.\"\n\nHead Start and Early Head Start programs across Middle and Southwest Georgia provide comprehensive, high-quality family and community services to eligible children. Head Start programs help prepare young children, infants to school aged, to succeed in school and throughout the rest of their lives through individualized learning experiences in a creative environment.\n\nCongressman Bishop is a strong supporter of the Head Start Program. As a senior member of the House Appropriations Committee, he has worked to establish substantial funding that meets the changing needs of the program each year.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T21:57:20Z"], ["https://bishop.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressman-bishop-announces-new-eligibility-for-hurricane-helene-fema-disaster-relief", "CONGRESSMAN BISHOP ANNOUNCES NEW ELIGIBILITY FOR HURRICANE HELENE FEMA DISASTER RELIEF", "2024-10-16", "2024", "2024-10", "Democrat", "House", "GA", "Sanford D. Bishop, Jr.", "B000490", "bishop.house.gov", "bishop", "https://bishop.house.gov/media-center/press-releases", "scraper", "THOMASVILLE, Ga. \u2013 Congressman Sanford D. Bishop, Jr. (GA-02) announced that several counties in Georgia\u2019s Second Congressional District were added to the Federal Emergency Management Agency\u2019s (FEMA) Major Disaster Declaration for Hurricane Helene. The counties include:\n\nThomas County \u2013 Individuals and households are now eligible to apply for financial and direct services (FEMA Individual Assistance)\n\nDooly County, Grady County, Mitchell County, and Thomas County \u2013 local governments are now eligible for FEMA Public Assistance for repairs or replacement of disaster-damaged facilities (roads, bridges, water control facilities, public buildings and equipment, public utilities, parks, recreational, other facilities)\n\nMore information about these developments as well as federal, state, and local resources in response to Hurricane Helene are available on Congressman Bishop\u2019s website at https://bishop.house.gov/resources-services/hurricane-preparedness.\n\nBefore and since Hurricane Helene hit Georgia and the southeast United States, Congressman Bishop has been in contact with the White House, U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) and FEMA. He and his staff have also been in regular contact with the Georgia Governor\u2019s office, Georgia Emergency Management and Homeland Security Agency (GEMA), and nongovernmental partners as they prepared for and responded to fallout from the hurricane.\n\n\u201cI have worked with federal, state, and local officials to make sure our efforts are coordinated to expedite assistance to our families, farmers, business owners, cities, and counties,\u201d said Congressman Bishop. \u201cWorking with Congressman Austin Scott, Senators Ossoff and Warnock, the entire Georgia Delegation, and our Georgia state government partners we helped guide President Biden, Vice President Harris, and other federal emergency agencies through our Georgia communities that were hit hard by this storm.\u201d\n\n\u201cSeeing the impact, first-hand, is crucial in understanding the challenges we face and appreciating the resilient spirit of Georgians as we rebuild,\u201d added Congressman Bishop. \u201cI will continue working to assure that Congress provides the needed resources to Georgia communities impacted by this hurricane.\u201d\n\nIn response to Hurricane Helene, Congressman Bishop, along with his congressional colleagues urged President Biden to issue an expedited major disaster declaration for Georgia counties significantly impacted by the storm. That request was honored within 24 hours. He also sent a letter to U.S. House and U.S. Senate leadership asking for appropriations to be made available as soon as possible to fully fund unmet agricultural disaster relief needs.\n\nOver 8,500 federal personnel have been on the ground, working side-by-side with state and local officials, to help survivors get what they need to begin their recovery. As of today, FEMA has approved over $860 million, which includes $507 million in assistance for individuals and communities affected and over $351.5 million for debris removal and activities to save lives, protect public health and safety and prevent damage to public and private property.\n\nGeorgia residents that need emergency or immediate assistance should contact GEMA via https://gema.georgia.gov/hurricane-helene or apply for financial assistance at disasterassistance.gov. These websites provide updated information on resources and shelters.\n\nGeorgia residents that need farm or ranch assistance can reach out to the USDA either by calling 877-508-8364 or visiting https://www.farmers.gov. For personalized assistance for your individual operation, use the Disaster Assistance Discovery Tool (https://www.farmers.gov/protection-recovery/disaster-tool) to determine eligibility.\n\nLocal governments requiring rural development assistance, such as housing, sewer, and water, can reach out to USDA at https://www.rd.usda.gov/resources/rural-development-disaster-assistance.\n\nPoultry and livestock producers affected by Hurricane Helene can get assistance with emergency animal mortality disposal through USDA\u2019s Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) Environmental Quality Incentives Program. You can learn more at https://www.nrcs.usda.gov/programs-initiatives/eqip-environmental-quality-incentives or by contacting your local USDA Service Center (find yours here by visiting https://www.nrcs.usda.gov/contact/find-a-service-center).", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T21:57:20Z"], ["https://buddycarter.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=15174", "PHOTO RELEASE: Carter delivers 1000 units of naloxone to local organizations", "2024-10-11", "2024", "2024-10", "Republican", "House", "GA", "Earl L. \"Buddy\" Carter", "C001103", "buddycarter.house.gov", "buddycarter", "https://buddycarter.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27", "scraper", "BRUNSWICK \u2013 Rep. Earl L. \u201cBuddy\u201d Carter (R-GA) this week distributed a donation facilitated by Walgreens of 1,000 units of naloxone, an overdose reversal drug, to organizations in Georgia\u2019s First Congressional District.\n\nMore than 300 units each were delivered to the Ware State Prison, Anchored Wellness in Jesup, and Gateway Community Service Board in Brunswick.\n\nCarter delivers naloxone to Gateway Community Service Board in Brunswick\n\nCarter delivers naloxone to Anchored Wellness in Jesup\n\nCarter delivers naloxone to Ware State Prison in Waycross\n\nRead more about the donation here.\n\n###\n\nRelated News\n\nCarter statement on House passage of bill to lower health care costs\n\nDecember 17, 2025 | Posted in Press Releases\n\nCarter introduces resolution recognizing October as American Pharmacists Month\n\nOctober 15, 2025 | Posted in Press Releases\n\nFollowing tireless advocacy, Carter celebrates FDA approval for Barth syndrome treatment\n\nSeptember 19, 2025 | Posted in Press Releases\n\nCarter, Griffith release statement on GAO\u2019s Vision Benefit Managers Report\n\nSeptember 10, 2025 | Posted in Press Releases\n\nCarter successfully pushes for expedited review of life-saving Barth Syndrome treatment\n\nAugust 22, 2025 | Posted in Press Releases", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T21:57:20Z"], ["https://www.collins.senate.gov/newsroom/maine-delegation-announces-more-than-2-million-to-train-the-next-generation-of-fishermen-and-women", "Maine Delegation Announces More Than $2 Million to Train the Next Generation of Fishermen and Women", "2024-10-11", "2024", "2024-10", "Republican", "House", "GA", "Mike Collins", "C001129", "www.collins.senate.gov", "collins", "https://www.collins.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2013 Today, U.S. Senators Susan Collins and Angus King and U.S. Representatives Chellie Pingree and Jared Golden announced that two commercial fishing associations have been awarded a combined $2,067,434 in grant funding to support training and workforce development for the next generation of Maine fishermen and women. The grants were awarded through the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration\u2019s (NOAA) Young Fishermen's Development Program.\n\n\u201cMaine is known around the world for our proud fishing heritage thanks to the generations of hardworking men and women who have sustained it,\u201d said Collins, King, Pingree, and Golden. \u201cThese investments in youth workforce development will help ensure that young Mainers entering the commercial fishing sector have the skills and support they need to succeed, preserving the strength of this vital industry now and into the future.\u201d\n\n\u201cMCFA\u2019s mission of advocating for sustainable fisheries and vibrant fishing communities is focused on doing this work with the goal of building a brighter future for the next generation of fishermen and fishing businesses in Maine. The Young Fishermen\u2019s Development Act, which was identified as a priority by the Fishing Communities Coalition, provides much needed resources to invest in our next generation and we are pleased to be able to deploy funds to created educational tools to advance fishermen wellness,\u201d said Ben Martens, Executive Director of the Maine Coast Fishermen\u2019s Association. \u201cThank you Senator Collins, Senator King, Representative Pingree, and Representative Golden who co-sponsored this important legislation and who have continued to lead in ensuring it is annually funded.\u201d\n\n\u201cThanks to YFDA support, MCCF's Eastern Maine Skippers Program will be able to continue to meet our next generation where they are, and provide them with very authentic maritime and marine science learning to support future maritime careers, including fishing and science - skills that directly translate into the workforce here in Maine, and elsewhere,\u201d said Alexa M. Dayton, Ph.D., Executive Director of Maine Center for Coastal Fisheries. \u201cThe future of lobstering and maritime careers in Maine is bright, and this program is helping to keep kids in school to complete their education, and providing mentorship to help them put it all together for the long run. The great news is, we have demand for the program from teachers, students, families and that's a signal that we're still going strong with a vibrant fisheries economy in Maine.\u201d\n\nThe funding is allocated as follows:\n\nMaine Coast Fishermen\u2019s Association - $1,771,092 to establish an online knowledge hub targeted toward young fishermen and women that will include educational training content focused on career development and caring for your physical and mental wellbeing as part of the commercial fishing industry.\n\nEastern Maine Skippers Program - $296,342 to provide targeted career development opportunities for young fishers. The program will serve eight rural Maine coastal schools and train 80 high school students and 16 post-graduates annually through workshops, vessel-based activities and mentorship.\n\nNOAA\u2019s Young Fishermen\u2019s Development Program was established by the Young Fishermen's Development Act, legislation that the entire Maine Delegation helped lead to final passage in 2020.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T21:57:20Z"], ["https://www.collins.senate.gov/newsroom/senator-collins-welcomes-lowell-native-as-fall-intern-in-washington-office", "Senator Collins Welcomes Lowell Native as Fall Intern in Washington Office", "2024-10-11", "2024", "2024-10", "Republican", "House", "GA", "Mike Collins", "C001129", "www.collins.senate.gov", "collins", "https://www.collins.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases", "scraper", "Click HERE for a high-resolution photo.\n\nWashington, D.C. \u2013 U.S. Senator Susan Collins announced that Emma Roberts, a Lowell native, has been awarded a fall internship in her Washington, D.C., office. Emma is a graduate of John Bapst Memorial High School in Bangor.\n\n\"I always enjoy giving Maine students the opportunity to become actively involved in the legislative process and to serve the people of Maine,\" said Senator Collins. \"Emma has an impressive academic record, and I am so pleased to welcome her to my Washington, D.C., office.\"\n\nEmma is a rising junior at Smith College, where she is majoring in Government. On campus, she is a member the Student Government Association. Upon graduation, Emma hopes to attend law school in Washington D.C.\n\nMaine students who are interested in applying for future sessions of the internship program can do so through Senator Collins\u2019 website at: https://www.collins.senate.gov/services/students.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T21:57:20Z"], ["https://www.collins.senate.gov/newsroom/senator-collins-welcomes-scarborough-native-as-fellow-in-washington-office", "Senator Collins Welcomes Scarborough Native as Fellow in Washington Office", "2024-10-11", "2024", "2024-10", "Republican", "House", "GA", "Mike Collins", "C001129", "www.collins.senate.gov", "collins", "https://www.collins.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases", "scraper", "Click HERE for a high-resolution photo.\n\nWashington, D.C. \u2013 U.S. Senator Susan Collins announced that Sawyer McFadden, a Scarborough native, has been awarded a fellowship in her Washington, D.C., office. Sawyer is a graduate of Scarborough High School.\n\n\"I am delighted to welcome Sawyer to my Washington, D.C., office,\" said Senator Collins. \"Sawyer has an excellent work ethic, and I am pleased that she will have the opportunity to see the legislative process firsthand as well as serve her fellow Mainers.\"\n\nSawyer graduated from Emmanuel College, where she majored in Political Science with minors in Statistics and Political Communication. On campus, she was a member of Pi Sigma Alpha\u2014the National Political Science Honor Society. Sawyer hopes to continue working in the public policy field.\n\nMaine students who are interested in applying for future sessions of the internship program can do so through Senator Collins\u2019 website at: https://www.collins.senate.gov/services/students.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T21:57:20Z"], ["https://hankjohnson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressman-johnson-leads-delegation-letter-demanding-epa-regulate", "Congressman Johnson Leads Delegation Letter Demanding EPA Regulate BioLab Chemicals", "2024-10-09", "2024", "2024-10", "Democrat", "House", "GA", "Henry C. \"Hank\" Johnson, Jr.", "J000288", "hankjohnson.house.gov", "hankjohnson", "https://hankjohnson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases", "scraper", "U.S. Senators Ossoff, Warnock, and Reps. Scott, McBath, Williams Join Johnson in Urging EPA To Enhance Federal Oversight of Facilities That Manufacture and/or Store Hazardous Chemical TCCA.\n\nCONYERS, GA \u2013 Congressman Hank Johnson (GA-04), along with U.S. Sens. Jon Ossoff and Raphael Warnock and U.S. House Reps. David Scott (GA-13), Lucy McBath (GA-07) and Nikema Williams (GA-05), sent a letter to Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Administrator Michael Regan today urging him to enhance federal oversight of facilities that manufacture and/or store the hazardous chemical Trichloroisocyanuric Acid (TCCA), which is at the heart of the incident at the BioLab plant in Conyers \u2013 an environmental and health crisis that has been ongoing since Sept. 29.\n\n\u201cWe are concerned that facilities like BioLab Conyers, which manufacture and/or store TCCA are improperly managing these substances,\u201d the lawmakers wrote. \u201cWhen not handled correctly, these chemicals can contaminate local air, water, and soil, posing severe public health risks which include respiratory issues, skin irritations, and long-term conditions like lung and heart disease.\u201d\n\nSpecifically, the lawmakers urge the EPA to \u201cinclude it on the list of regulated substances under the Risk Management Program (RMP),\u201d which would prompt federal and state agencies to develop more effective safety protocols and management strategies, ensuring stricter adherence to safety standards for facilities handling this chemical.\n\n\u201cThe gravity of this situation underscores the need for changes to the federal and state regulatory systems.\u201d\n\nLawmakers are also requesting the agency respond to nine key questions surrounding the reactive chemical in question.\n\nRead the letter HERE or below.\n\nThe Honorable Michael Regan\n\nAdministrator\n\nU.S. Environmental Protection Agency\n\n1200 Pennsylvania Avenue NW\n\nWashington, DC 20460\n\nDear Administrator Regan,\n\nWe are writing to urge the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to take immediate action to enhance federal oversight of facilities that manufacture and/or store the hazardous chemical Trichloroisocyanuric Acid (TCCA).\n\nOn September 29, 2024, just after Hurricane Helene slammed the area, a catastrophic chemical fire took place at the BioLab facility in Conyers, Georgia, that stores TCCA. The fire released a large, billowing plume of hazardous, toxic gasses into the air, which caused the closure of parts of Interstate 20 for nearly 17 hours, with local businesses and government offices forced to close while 17,000 residents living near the plant were forced to evacuate.\n\nAs of today, toxic substances continue to rise into the air from the smoldering ruins of the plant, with corporate and government officials being unable to offer a specific timetable as to when the danger will end. People not just in the immediate vicinity of the plant but also millions across southeastern metropolitan Atlanta are under constant exposure to hazardous air quality. This incident has raised serious concerns about the community's vulnerability to toxic chemical exposure. The danger is heightened by approaching rain which will douse the collapsed building under which millions of pounds of TCCA remain exposed to moisture.\n\nBioLab, a division of KIK Consumer Products, manufactures and stores millions of pounds of chemical mixtures primarily composed of TCCA at the Conyers, Georgia facility. When TCCA comes into contact with small amounts of water, a hazardous chemical reaction is triggered that generates heat and causes decomposition of the chemical and can in turn produces toxic chlorine gas and can also produce explosive nitrogen trichloride. The Conyers BioLab facility has experienced three separate chemical incidents in the past seven years, four in the past 20. Each event resulted in dangerous chemical reactions and fires, releasing toxic gases like chlorine into the air.\n\nThere have been conflicting reports on what caused the most recent fire at the Conyers facility. One report cited water used to douse a fire on the roof of the plant seeping in, while another report blames the fire on a malfunctioning sprinkler system. Rainwater from Hurricane Helene seeping into the BioLab facility during and after Hurricane Helene has not been ruled out as a cause as well.\n\nWe are concerned that facilities like BioLab Conyers, which manufacture and/or store TCCA are improperly managing these substances. When not handled correctly, these chemicals can contaminate local air, water, and soil, posing severe public health risks which include respiratory issues, skin irritations, and long-term conditions like lung and heart disease.\n\nA similar incident occurred on August 27, 2020, at the Lake Charles BioLab facility in Westlake, Louisiana, in the aftermath of Hurricane Laura. The facility sustained severe damage after TCCA manufactured and stored therein was moistened by small amounts of water and decomposed, producing toxic chlorine gas and nitrogen trichloride. These gases ignited, causing a fire and noxious clouds of toxic gases. The U.S. Chemical Safety and Hazardous Investigation Board (CSB) investigated the incident and issued safety recommendations to minimize the consequences of future accidental chemical releases like the Lake Charles incident.\n\nThe 2023 (CSB) report on BioLab Lake Charles found a regulatory gap regarding the oversight of chemicals like TCCA, particularly in their classification and management under existing federal regulations. Given TCCA's involvement in multiple safety incidents due to its highly reactive properties, we urge the EPA to include it on the list of regulated substances under the Risk Management Program (RMP).\n\nThis action will prompt federal and state agencies to develop more effective safety protocols and management strategies, ensuring stricter adherence to safety standards for facilities handling this chemical. We hope the Conyers debacle will prompt the inclusion of TCCA to the Process Safety Management (PSM) Standard under the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA).\n\nWe call on the EPA to collaborate with states to implement training programs specifically designed for emergency responders and facility staff. These programs should address the unique challenges posed by reactive chemicals that adversely react to water used to extinguish fires, focusing on appropriate firefighting techniques, chemical behavior, and risk assessment. The EPA, in partnership with state fire marshals and chemical safety experts, can establish comprehensive guidelines for fire suppression techniques tailored to reactive chemicals, including recommendations for effective alternative extinguishing agents, such as dry chemical extinguishers or foam.\n\nConsidering these concerns, we respectfully request clarification by November 20, 2024, on the following matters regarding regulatory oversight and preventative measures at chemical facilities like BioLab:\n\n1. Has the EPA, in conjunction with the State of Georgia, initiated any investigations or inspections regarding BioLab Conyers\u2019\n\n2. What immediate actions are the EPA and State agencies taking in response to this latest fire, given the history of public safety concerns at the Conyers facility?\n\n3. The 2023 Chemical Safety and Hazard Investigation Board (CSB) found that TCCA and TCCA-based formulations are not covered by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) Process Safety Management (PSM) Standard. Has there been any progress in addressing this regulatory gap?\n\n4. Following the BioLab Conyers incident is the EPA considering adding TCCA to the list of regulated substances under the Risk Management Program (RMP)?\n\n5. How is the EPA collaborating with state agencies to ensure that chemical facilities like BioLab Conyers are prepared for extreme weather events that could worsen fire hazards or hazardous material spills?\n\n6. In response to BioLab Conyers\u2019 repeated safety failures, what specific measures will the EPA implement with state agencies to improve fire preparedness protocols, particularly for training facility staff and local emergency responders on handling fires involving non-water extinguishable substances?\n\n7. Does the EPA anticipate monitoring potential groundwater, soil, and water contamination from the chemical fire at the Conyers BioLab facility?\n\n8. We understand that the EPA is working to monitor air quality following the chemical fire. What steps has the EPA taken to inform affected communities of their findings and recommendations to safeguard the health and safety of these communities and their environment?\n\na. How have the locations and spatial extent of the EPA\u2019s air quality monitoring area changed as the location and direction of the smoke plume has shifted?\n\n9. What specific additional authority and resources does the EPA need to effectively prevent future incidents at chemical facilities like BioLab Conyers?\n\nThe gravity of this situation underscores the need for changes to the federal and state regulatory systems. We look forward to your prompt response and urge robust, decisive measures to address the serious environmental and safety concerns posed by incidents like this.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T21:57:20Z"], ["https://hankjohnson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressman-johnson-re-introduces-bill-protect-innocent-americans", "Congressman Johnson Re-Introduces Bill To Protect Innocent Americans From Execution", "2024-10-09", "2024", "2024-10", "Democrat", "House", "GA", "Henry C. \"Hank\" Johnson, Jr.", "J000288", "hankjohnson.house.gov", "hankjohnson", "https://hankjohnson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases", "scraper", "Congressman files legislation that allows death row inmates the ability to introduce new evidence\n\nWASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Rep. Hank Johnson (D-GA) announced that he has re-introduced the Effective Death Penalty Appeals Act, which would ensure that death row inmates have the opportunity to present newly discovered evidence of innocence.\n\nUnder current law, an inmate on death row can be stranded with no procedural options to appeal a conviction, even if there is compelling new evidence that he or she is innocent. Many states do not allow the accused to present newly uncovered evidence of innocence. The Effective Death Penalty Appeals Act would fix that injustice.\n\n\u201cWe\u2019ve got innocent people on death row right now with no opportunity to show compelling new evidence of innocence. The status quo is inhumane and unconstitutional,\u201d said Rep. Johnson, ranking member of the Courts subcommittee. As a young lawyer just out of law school, Rep. Johnson successful defend a man on death row and won his freedom.\n\n\u201cI believe we should completely abolish the death penalty, but while 25 states \u2013 half of which are in the South \u2013 still have some form of capital punishment on their books and some states like Alabama, Texas and Georgia continue to hold state executions \u2013 America needs the Effective Death Penalty Appeals Act to help wrongly convicted people on death row present newly discovered evidence that they are innocent.\u201d said Johnson.\n\nThe Effective Death Penalty Appeals Act would:\n\n(1) empower the federal courts to grant habeas corpus relief for a prisoner on death row who presents newly discovered evidence that demonstrates probable innocence; and\n\n(2) allow prisoners on death row to file successive federal habeas petitions if, and only if, they present newly discovered evidence that a federal three-judge panel determines may be reasonably expected to demonstrate innocence.\n\n(3) in reaction to the Supreme Court case of Shinn v. Ramirez, this bill includes one additional provision. Some states do not allow ineffective assistance of counsel claims on direct appeal. Then in their habeas case, the court says they cannot rule on the issue because there is no evidence. This bill provides that death row inmates from those states who raise an ineffective assistance of counsel claim can have an evidentiary hearing on the issue.\n\nIf a federal court were to grant such a habeas corpus petition, the case would likely return to its original jurisdiction for retrial.\n\nThe release of more than 200 death row inmates in the United States since 1973 shows that our justice system is far from perfect. And since 1989, there have been more than 367 post-conviction DNA exonerations in the United States \u2013 21 of which were prisoners on death row. The death penalty is the most final of sentences, and we have no way of knowing how many innocent people have been executed because of flaws in the system.\n\n\u201cWhen it comes to a human life, the courts must always be able to take a closer look at evidence that supports claims of innocence. We should never put an innocent person to death,\u201d said Rep. Johnson.\n\nOriginal Cosponsors: Chellie Pingree (ME), Eleanor Holmes Norton (DC), Schakowsky (IL).\n\nRead the full text HERE.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T21:57:20Z"], ["https://clyde.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=2735", "Rep. Clyde Introduces Legislation to Prevent Illegal Aliens from Purchasing Firearms", "2024-10-08", "2024", "2024-10", "Republican", "House", "GA", "Andrew S. Clyde", "C001116", "clyde.house.gov", "clyde", "https://clyde.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2014 Today, Congressman Andrew Clyde (GA-09) introduced the No Guns for Illegal Aliens Act to prohibit illegal aliens from using government-issued IDs to purchase firearms.\n\nCurrently, 19 states and Washington, D.C. offer driver\u2019s licenses to illegal aliens. Additionally, Immigration and Customs Enforcement\u2019s (ICE) controversial Secure Docket Card pilot program is projected to distribute around 10,000 ID cards to illegal aliens released into the United States.\n\nUnder the Biden-Harris Administration, more than 600,000 illegal aliens with criminal histories have been released into the country. Alarmingly, this includes 13,099 illegals convicted of homicide, 62,231 convicted of assault, and 13,423 convicted of weapon offenses.\n\n\u201cBorder Czar Kamala Harris has allowed criminal illegal aliens to enter our country and roam our streets,\u201d said Clyde. \u201cMeanwhile, radical liberals like Minnesota Governor Tim Walz are offering driver\u2019s licenses to illegals \u2014 creating a recipe for disaster. As we await President Trump\u2019s historic mass deportation effort, we must ensure illegal aliens with government-issued IDs cannot obtain firearms and wreak havoc on our communities.\u201d\n\n\u201cStates like Georgia know the painful realities of illegal alien crime all too well. It\u2019s imperative that we do more to protect Americans from dangerous illegal aliens, which is why I\u2019m working to both prevent these criminals from purchasing guns and defend American citizens\u2019 Second Amendment freedoms,\u201d Clyde added.\n\nText of the No Guns for Illegal Aliens Act is available HERE.\n\nRead more HERE.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T21:57:20Z"], ["https://allen.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=6474", "Rep. Allen Joins Colleagues in Calling on USDA to Provide Support for Farmers Following Hurricane Helene", "2024-10-07", "2024", "2024-10", "Republican", "House", "GA", "Rick W. Allen", "A000372", "allen.house.gov", "allen", "https://allen.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27", "scraper", "Congressman Rick W. Allen (GA-12) recently joined 14 of his southeastern colleagues in sending a letter to U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Secretary Tom Vilsack about needed USDA actions to support farmers and rural communities devastated by Hurricane Helene. The letter requests Farm Service Agency (FSA) strike teams, the use of more accurate rainfall data, and disaster aid provided through block grants.\n\nIn the letter, the Members write: \"We write to request that the U.S. Department of Agriculture take swift action to support our farmers and rural communities affected by Hurricane Helene. Specifically, we request that the USDA deploy Farm Service Agency (FSA) strike teams to the hardest-hit areas, providing much-needed personnel to assist with recovery efforts. Additionally, we urge the Risk Management Agency (RMA) to collaborate with local stakeholders and utilize regional rainfall data to ensure more accurate assessments for damage and crop insurance claims. Finally, we request that USDA disaster aid be provided to affected states through block grants. This will allow states the flexibility to administer relief tailored to the specific needs of their producers and communities. These actions will be critical to ensuring a swift and effective recovery for our agricultural communities.\"\n\nNOTE: Congressman Allen has also called on Congressional Leadership to act swiftly in passing legislation to provide immediate disaster relief funding for farmers and growers who have experienced devastating crop losses due to Hurricane Helene.\n\nTo read the full letter to Secretary Vilsack, CLICK HERE.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T21:57:20Z"], ["https://bishop.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressman-bishop-commemorates-the-1-year-anniversary-of-the-oct-7-hamas-attack-on-israel", "CONGRESSMAN BISHOP COMMEMORATES THE 1-YEAR ANNIVERSARY OF THE OCT. 7 HAMAS ATTACK ON ISRAEL", "2024-10-07", "2024", "2024-10", "Democrat", "House", "GA", "Sanford D. Bishop, Jr.", "B000490", "bishop.house.gov", "bishop", "https://bishop.house.gov/media-center/press-releases", "scraper", "SANDY SPRINGS, Ga. \u2013 Congressman Sanford D. Bishop, Jr. (GA-02) delivered the following remarks at an event at the Sandy Springs Performing Arts Center commemorating the one-year anniversary of the October 7, 2023, attack by Hamas on Israel:\n\n\u201cGood evening!\n\n\u201cTo my friends of the Jewish faith, L\u2019shana tovah!\n\n\u201cIt is my prayer that all across the world \u2013 the descendants of Abraham, Issac, and Jacob \u2013 may find peace and prosperity in the new year ahead.\n\n\u201cAnd as we approach the holiest day in Judaism, I also wish everyone a meaningful Yom Kippur and a good fast.\n\n\u201cOne year ago today, the world watched in horror as the terrorist group Hamas launched a surprise and widespread attack on Israel. Nearly 1,200 Israeli\u2019s were killed in the attack, including civilians and security forces. It was the deadliest day for Jews since the Holocaust.\n\n\u201cThousands more were injured, and over 100 Israelis were taken hostage, some of whom remain in captivity to this day.\n\n\u201cAmerica has been and remains Israel\u2019s staunchest ally. Our country is steadfast in its support for Israel\u2019s right to exist and we continue to stand shoulder to shoulder with Israel in the protection of its people. But please know, that whether in war or peace, all nations must demonstrate in all their conduct the highest value and respect for innocent human life.\n\n\u201cIn launching its attack on October 7th, Hamas not only took the lives of innocent men, women, and children, it also undermined the very aspirations that we all shared for peaceful coexistence in what we, in the Judeo-Christian culture, call the Holy Land.\n\n\u201cIn memory of those who were murdered in the heinous attack by Hamas on October 7th, we must never allow those who pose an existential threat to Israel to succeed.\n\n\u201cWe pray every day for the safe return of all hostages and hope for a day when there will be peace in the region so that all can live with mutual respect and harmony.\n\n\u201cI will always be committed to supporting Israel\u2019s right to safely exist, and I will continue my work in Congress to ensure that the United States stands firm in this commitment.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T21:57:20Z"], ["https://collins.house.gov/media/press-releases/hurricane-helene-recovery-resources", "Hurricane Helene Recovery Resources", "2024-10-07", "2024", "2024-10", "Republican", "House", "GA", "Mike Collins", "C001129", "collins.house.gov", "mikecollins", "https://collins.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Hurricane Helene has devastated parts of our state, and I wish you and your family well as you recover from any damage sustained in your neighborhoods. If you have been impacted, please know that you are not alone. If you require assistance or information, please view the below resources.\n\nLocal Resources\n\nFind and contact your county's emergency services.\n\nCheck for power outages: Georgia Power Outages Map.\n\nState Resources\n\nGeorgia Emergency Management and Homeland Security Agency (GEMA): 404-635-7200\n\nReport damage to GEMA.\n\nHurricane Helene Cleanup Hotline: 844-965-1386\n\nCheck current highway conditions.\n\nFederal Resources\n\nTo report crop loss or seek assistance regarding your farm, please contact your local USDA Service Center or call 877-508-8364. The following are USDA disaster assistance resources and links:\n\nUSDA Disaster Assistance Programs at a Glance Factsheet \u2013 English | Spanish\n\nFarmers.gov Hurricane Resources\n\nDisaster Assistance Discovery Tool\n\nFarm Loan Assistance Tool\n\nFarmRaise\n\nApply for FEMA Assistance online or check your status by phone at 1-800-621-3362.\n\nHow to Apply for Individual Assistance\n\nHomeowners and renters in Georgia\u2019s 10th Congressional District communities of Elbert, Butts, and Newton counties who had uninsured damage or losses caused by Hurricane Helene may be eligible for FEMA disaster assistance. Individual Assistance may include grants for temporary housing and home repairs, low-cost loans to cover uninsured property losses, immediate housing and food needs, and other programs to help individuals and business owners recover from the effects of Hurricane Helene.\n\nThere are several ways to apply: Go online to DisasterAssistance.gov, use the FEMA App or call 800-621-3362.\n\nUnderstanding Your FEMA Eligibility Letter\n\nIf you applied for FEMA assistance after Hurricane Helene, you will receive an eligibility letter from FEMA in the mail or by email.\n\nThe letter will explain your application status and how to respond. It is important to read the letter carefully because it will include the amount of any assistance FEMA may provide and information on the appropriate use of disaster assistance funds.\n\nYou may need to submit additional information or supporting documentation for FEMA to continue to process an application for financial assistance. Examples of missing documentation may include:\n\nProof of insurance coverage\n\nSettlement of insurance claims or denial letter from insurance provider\n\nProof of identity\n\nProof of occupancy\n\nProof of ownership\n\nProof that the damaged property was the applicant\u2019s primary residence at the time of the disaster\n\nIf you have questions about your letter, or disagree with the initial decision, visit a Disaster Recovery Center, if available, or call the disaster assistance helpline at 800-621-3362 to find out what information FEMA needs.\n\nHow to Appeal\n\nThe letter from FEMA will provide information on the types of documents or information that FEMA needs. It will also include an optional appeal form that you can use. Your appeal must be submitted within 60 days of the date of your decision letter.\n\nYou can appeal any FEMA decision or award amount by sending documents that show you qualify and need more help, like estimates for repairs, receipts, bills, etc. Each decision letter you receive from FEMA explains types of documents that may help you appeal your FEMA\u2019s decision or award amount for that type of assistance.\n\nSupporting documents may include:\n\nReceipts,\n\nBills,\n\nRepair estimates,\n\nProperty titles or deeds, or\n\nAny other information that may support the reasons for the appeal.\n\nWhat should I include on documents I send to FEMA?\n\nAll documents you send to FEMA as part of your appeal should include your:\n\nFull name,\n\nCurrent phone number and address,\n\nDisaster Number (DR-4821-GA for Tropical Storm Debby) (DR-4830-GA for Hurricane Helene) and FEMA Application Number written on all pages, and\n\nAddress of the disaster-damaged home.\n\nReceipts, bills and estimates must include the business name and contact information to help FEMA confirm the information.\n\nCan someone appeal for me?\n\nYes. If you send a written explanation for the appeal that is written by someone other than you, it must include their signature. FEMA will need your written permission to share information about your application. You can do this by completing an Authorization for the Release of Information Under the Privacy Act form and sending it to FEMA.\n\nHow can I send documents?\n\nYou can send appeals or supporting documents to FEMA by:", 1, "2026-04-04T05:28:40Z", "2026-04-04T05:30:10Z"], ["https://hankjohnson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressman-hank-johnson-announces-12-million-funding-expand-diaper", "Congressman Hank Johnson Announces $1.2 Million in Funding to Expand Diaper Distribution Networks in Georgia", "2024-10-07", "2024", "2024-10", "Democrat", "House", "GA", "Henry C. \"Hank\" Johnson, Jr.", "J000288", "hankjohnson.house.gov", "hankjohnson", "https://hankjohnson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Congressman Hank Johnson (GA-04) announced that the Georgia Community Action Association, Inc. (GCAA) has been awarded $1.2 million as part of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services\u2019 (HHS) Diaper Distribution Demonstration and Research Pilot (DDDRP). This federal funding will enable GCAA to expand its efforts to provide essential diaper supplies to families with low incomes, addressing a critical need for infants and young children across Georgia. This award comes during National Diaper Need Awareness Week and will help caregivers who struggle to maintain enough diapers to keep their children safe, dry, and healthy.\n\n\u201cEvery child deserves access to basic necessities, and no family should have to choose between diapers and other essential needs,\u201d said Congressman Hank Johnson.\n\nThe DDDRP, administered by the Office of Community Services (OCS) at HHS, is awarding $8.4 million to support seven new grant recipients to alleviate diaper need while connecting families to broader services that address the causes and conditions of poverty. In Georgia, GCAA will coordinate with local diaper banks and community action agencies (CAAs) to ensure a consistent supply of diapers and other diapering essentials for families in need. Additionally, the program will provide access to job training, housing services, and childcare assistance, helping families achieve long-term self-sufficiency.\n\nDiaper Need in Georgia:\n\n26% of children have parents who lack secure employment.\n\n20.2% of children live below the poverty line.\n\nFamilies face an average annual cost of $9,253 for center-based infant care.\n\nThe need for diapers is a growing concern for many families, with 45% of participants in the DDDRP reporting they often had to reduce spending on other essentials like food or utilities to afford diapers. The program\u2019s goal is to provide more than just a solution for diaper need\u2014it aims to support families' overall well-being.\n\nWith this $1.2 million grant, GCAA plans to serve a wide sample of families across the state, in all 159 Georgia counties, utilizing partnerships with Head Start centers, faith-based organizations, and legislators to build a robust support network.\n\nFor more information about these grants, visit the Diaper Distribution Pilot homepage.\n\nFor more information about OCS\u2019s other antipoverty programs, visit the OCS website or contact media@hhs.gov.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T21:57:20Z"], ["https://hankjohnson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressman-hank-johnson-announces-energy-efficiency-grant-funding", "Congressman Hank Johnson Announces Energy Efficiency Grant Funding for Covington, Other Georgia Communities", "2024-10-07", "2024", "2024-10", "Democrat", "House", "GA", "Henry C. \"Hank\" Johnson, Jr.", "J000288", "hankjohnson.house.gov", "hankjohnson", "https://hankjohnson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases", "scraper", "COVINGTON, GA \u2013 Congressman Hank Johnson (GA-04) announced today that Covington, located in Georgia\u2019s 4th Congressional District, has been awarded $150,000 in grant funding through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law\u2019s (BIL) Energy Efficiency and Conservation Block Grant (EECBG) Program. Covington is one of 17 Georgia communities to benefit from this $2.6 million investment aimed at reducing energy consumption, lowering emissions, and improving energy efficiency.\n\n\u201cCovington is leading the way in transitioning to clean energy with the addition of eight new electric vehicle charging stations,\u201d said Congressman Johnson. \u201cThis funding will help make clean transportation more accessible and support our community\u2019s efforts to reduce its carbon footprint while creating more economic opportunities in Georgia\u2019s Fourth District.\u201d\n\nThe Georgia Environmental Finance Authority (GEFA), which administers the program, selected Covington\u2019s project as part of a broader initiative to enhance energy efficiency across the state. Covington will use the funds to install charging stations in high-traffic areas is designed to support the growth of electric vehicles and make clean transportation more accessible to residents and visitors alike.\n\n\u201cThis is just the beginning,\u201d Congressman Johnson continued. \u201cInvestments like these are crucial for reducing our dependence on fossil fuels, improving air quality, and positioning our district and the state of Georgia as leaders in clean energy.\u201d\n\nOther projects across the state receiving funding include energy audits, building upgrades, and workforce development initiatives, with approximately 60% of the funding directed toward disadvantaged communities.\n\nFor more information about the EECBG Program and the energy efficiency projects being implemented, visit gefa.georgia.gov/EECBG.\n\nAbout the Georgia Environmental Finance Authority (GEFA):\n\nGEFA provides financing for energy, land, and water projects across Georgia. Since its establishment in 1986, GEFA has committed nearly $6 billion to local governments, businesses, and nonprofit organizations to improve environmental infrastructure throughout the state.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T21:57:20Z"], ["https://hankjohnson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressman-johnson-celebrates-intown-community-schools-designation", "Congressman Johnson Celebrates Intown Community School\u2019s Designation as a 2024 National Blue Ribbon School", "2024-10-07", "2024", "2024-10", "Democrat", "House", "GA", "Henry C. \"Hank\" Johnson, Jr.", "J000288", "hankjohnson.house.gov", "hankjohnson", "https://hankjohnson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases", "scraper", "DECATUR, GA \u2013 Congressman Hank Johnson (GA-04) announced today that Intown Community School, located in Georgia\u2019s 4th Congressional District on Lavista Road, has been named a 2024 National Blue Ribbon School by the U.S. Department of Education.\n\nThis prestigious honor, awarded to just 356 schools nationwide this year, recognizes institutions for their overall academic excellence or significant progress in closing achievement gaps among student groups.\n\n\u201cIntown Community School's designation as a National Blue Ribbon School is a testament to the dedication and hard work of its students, teachers, staff, and families,\u201d said Congressman Johnson. \u201cThis recognition reflects the school\u2019s commitment to creating an environment where all students can excel, and I could not be prouder of their accomplishments. Intown is setting a strong example for schools across the district and the nation.\u201d\n\nThe National Blue Ribbon Schools Program, now in its 41st year, has honored more than 10,000 awards to approximately 9,700 schools. Schools selected for this recognition serve as models of effective teaching and learning practices that can be emulated by educators across the country. The National Blue Ribbon School flag, presented during the recognition ceremony, is a symbol of the school's exemplary performance and commitment to educational excellence.\n\nIntown Community School will formally receive its award during the National Blue Ribbon Schools awards ceremony, which will take place in Washington, D.C., on November 7-8, 2024, at the Omni Shoreham Hotel. At the event, each school will be presented with an award plaque and a flag in recognition of their outstanding achievement.\n\nFor more information on the National Blue Ribbon Schools Program, please contact Program Director Aba Kumi at Aba.Kumi@ed.gov or (202) 401-1767.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T21:57:20Z"], ["https://www.collins.senate.gov/newsroom/senator-collins-statement-on-the-one-year-anniversary-of-the-october-7th-attacks-on-israel", "Senator Collins\u2019 Statement on the One-Year Anniversary of the October 7th Attacks on Israel", "2024-10-07", "2024", "2024-10", "Republican", "House", "GA", "Mike Collins", "C001129", "www.collins.senate.gov", "collins", "https://www.collins.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2013 U.S. Senator Susan Collins issued the following statement today to honor the anniversary of the October 7th, 2023 terrorist attacks on Israel:\n\n\u201cOne year ago, today, the Iranian-backed terrorist group Hamas murdered 1,200 individuals, including Israeli-Americans, abducted 240 hostages ranging from 10 months to 85 years old, and viciously raped and mutilated Israeli women. These despicable acts of violence, which resulted in the largest loss of Jewish life in a single day since the Holocaust, sadly continue with the brutal murder of six hostages just a few weeks ago.\n\n\u201cThe alarming rise of antisemitism in America that followed these horrific attacks has no place in our society.\n\n\u201cToday, let us come together as we remember and honor the lives lost and pray for the safe return of those still held hostage by the Hamas terrorists.\n\n\u201cWe must continue to support the only democracy in the Middle East, Israel, in its quest to eliminate Hamas and secure its borders from all terrorist threats. It's not only in the interest of the surrounding region, but also in the interest of America and the world.\u201d\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T21:57:20Z"], ["https://clyde.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=2734", "Rep. Clyde Introduces Bill to Counter FCC Overreach on AI Ad Disclosures", "2024-10-04", "2024", "2024-10", "Republican", "House", "GA", "Andrew S. Clyde", "C001116", "clyde.house.gov", "clyde", "https://clyde.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2014 Today, Congressman Andrew Clyde (GA-09) introduced the Ending FCC Meddling in Our Elections Act. The legislation would prohibit the use of federal funds to enforce the Federal Communications Commission\u2019s (FCC) notice of proposed rulemaking related to the use of artificial intelligence (AI) in campaign advertising. Senator Mike Lee (R-UT) introduced the Senate companion in June.\n\nIn May, the FCC, led by a Democrat-appointed majority, voted 3-2 to propose new regulations impacting the use of AI in campaign advertising. The proposed rules would mandate that television and radio providers issue an on-air disclosure every time an AI-created ad is aired. This decision was supported exclusively by Democrat-appointed Commissioners despite the FCC not possessing the authority to single-handedly impose new regulations on the expression of political speech.\n\n\u201cThe FCC\u2019s last-ditch effort to regulate campaign advertising before the most important election in our nation\u2019s history is undoubtedly rooted in partisan politics,\u201d said Clyde. \u201cThis clearly marks an abuse of regulatory authority, which is why we must prohibit Americans\u2019 hard-earned tax dollars from funding the FCC\u2019s misguided attempt to regulate political speech.\u201d\n\nOriginal cosponsors include Representatives Jim Baird (IN-04), Harriet Hageman (WY-At-Large), Doug LaMalfa (CA-01), and Claudia Tenney (NY-24).", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T21:57:20Z"], ["https://hankjohnson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressman-johnson-calls-biolab-plant-conyers-close", "Congressman Johnson Calls For BioLab Plant in Conyers To Close", "2024-10-04", "2024", "2024-10", "Democrat", "House", "GA", "Henry C. \"Hank\" Johnson, Jr.", "J000288", "hankjohnson.house.gov", "hankjohnson", "https://hankjohnson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases", "scraper", "CONYERS, GA \u2013 Congressman Hank Johnson (GA-04) issued the following statement after closely monitoring the BioLab fire in conjunction with local, state and federal officials, meeting with affected residents and considering the plant\u2019s safety record:\n\n\u201cAs the number of people living in and around Conyers and the surrounding area continues to grow, this plant \u2013 which stores toxic chemicals \u2013 has become a threat to public health and should no longer be allowed to operate at its current location,\u201d said Congressman Hank Johnson (GA-04).\n\n\u201cI'm not only calling for stronger federal regulations around the storage of hazard chemicals with reactive properties, but I'll be on the side of those working to ensure the permanent closure of this plant. We can create safe, good-paying jobs without sacrificing the health, safety and wellbeing of the people who live in our communities.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T21:57:20Z"]], "truncated": false, "filtered_table_rows_count": 817, "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 \"state\" = :p1 and \"year\" = :p2 order by date desc limit 101", "params": {"p0": "House", "p1": "GA", "p2": "2024"}}, "facet_results": {"party": {"name": "party", "type": "column", "hideable": false, "toggle_url": "/press/releases.json?chamber=House&state=GA&year=2024", "results": [{"value": "Republican", "label": "Republican", "count": 635, "toggle_url": "http://dpwillis-congress-press-search.hf.space/press/releases.json?chamber=House&state=GA&year=2024&party=Republican", "selected": false}, {"value": "Democrat", "label": "Democrat", "count": 182, "toggle_url": "http://dpwillis-congress-press-search.hf.space/press/releases.json?chamber=House&state=GA&year=2024&party=Democrat", "selected": false}], "truncated": false}, "chamber": {"name": "chamber", "type": "column", "hideable": false, "toggle_url": "/press/releases.json?chamber=House&state=GA&year=2024", "results": [{"value": "House", "label": "House", "count": 817, "toggle_url": "http://dpwillis-congress-press-search.hf.space/press/releases.json?state=GA&year=2024", "selected": true}], "truncated": false}, "state": {"name": "state", "type": "column", "hideable": false, "toggle_url": "/press/releases.json?chamber=House&state=GA&year=2024", "results": [{"value": "GA", "label": "GA", "count": 817, "toggle_url": "http://dpwillis-congress-press-search.hf.space/press/releases.json?chamber=House&year=2024", "selected": true}], "truncated": false}, "year": {"name": "year", "type": "column", "hideable": false, "toggle_url": "/press/releases.json?chamber=House&state=GA&year=2024", "results": [{"value": "2024", "label": "2024", "count": 817, "toggle_url": "http://dpwillis-congress-press-search.hf.space/press/releases.json?chamber=House&state=GA", "selected": true}], "truncated": false}}, "suggested_facets": [], "next": "2024-10-04,https~3A~2F~2Fhankjohnson~2Ehouse~2Egov~2Fmedia-center~2Fpress-releases~2Fcongressman-johnson-calls-biolab-plant-conyers-close", "next_url": "http://dpwillis-congress-press-search.hf.space/press/releases.json?chamber=House&state=GA&year=2024&_next=2024-10-04%2Chttps~3A~2F~2Fhankjohnson~2Ehouse~2Egov~2Fmedia-center~2Fpress-releases~2Fcongressman-johnson-calls-biolab-plant-conyers-close&_sort_desc=date", "private": false, "allow_execute_sql": true, "query_ms": 206.799051258713, "source": "dwillis/congress-press", "source_url": "https://github.com/dwillis/congress-press", "license": "MIT", "license_url": "https://github.com/dwillis/congress-press/blob/main/LICENSE"}