{"database": "press", "table": "releases", "is_view": false, "human_description_en": "where chamber = \"House\", state = \"MS\" and year = 2025 sorted by date descending", "rows": [["https://benniethompson.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-bennie-thompson-announces-department-health-human-services-grant", "Congressman Bennie Thompson Announces Department of Health & Human Services Grant Award to the State of Mississippi", "2025-12-30", "2025", "2025-12", "Democrat", "House", "MS", "Bennie G. Thompson", "T000193", "benniethompson.house.gov", "benniethompson", "https://benniethompson.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "BOLTON, MS \u2013 Today, Congressman Bennie Thompson announced that the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services has awarded $205,907,220 in grant funds to the state of Mississippi for a Rural Health Transformation program. This award will strengthen rural healthcare by expanding access, improving care coordination and modernizing infrastructure, growing the workforce and using telehealth to improve health outcomes.\n\nThis award is provided by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services.", 1, "2026-04-10T05:46:57Z", "2026-04-10T05:48:19Z"], ["https://benniethompson.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-bennie-thompson-announces-doj-grant-support-mississippi-internet", "Congressman Bennie Thompson Announces DOJ Grant to Support Mississippi Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force", "2025-12-30", "2025", "2025-12", "Democrat", "House", "MS", "Bennie G. Thompson", "T000193", "benniethompson.house.gov", "benniethompson", "https://benniethompson.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "BOLTON, MS \u2013 Today, Congressman Bennie Thompson announced a $416,214 grant from the U.S. Department of Justice to the Mississippi Attorney General\u2019s Office to continue leading the Mississippi Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) Task Force.\n\nThe funding, awarded through the Department of Justice\u2019s Office of Justice Programs and Office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention, will support efforts to prevent, investigate, and prosecute online child exploitation crimes across Mississippi. The Attorney General\u2019s Office has led the ICAC Task Force since 2007 in partnership with federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies.", 1, "2026-04-04T05:28:40Z", "2026-04-04T05:30:10Z"], ["https://benniethompson.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-bennie-thompson-announces-federal-transportation-and-safety-grants", "Congressman Bennie Thompson Announces Federal Transportation and Safety Grants for Mississippi\u2019s Second District", "2025-12-30", "2025", "2025-12", "Democrat", "House", "MS", "Bennie G. Thompson", "T000193", "benniethompson.house.gov", "benniethompson", "https://benniethompson.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "BOLTON, MS \u2013 Today, Congressman Bennie Thompson announced multiple federal transportation and safety grants awarded to communities across Mississippi\u2019s Second Congressional District to improve roadway safety, strengthen planning efforts, and support aviation infrastructure.\n\nHinds County \u2014 Safe Streets: Robinson Road Project\n\nHinds County will receive $20,000,000 through the U.S. Department of Transportation\u2019s Safe Streets and Roads for All (SS4A) Program to reconstruct a 2.75-mile segment of Robinson Road between Interstate 220 and West Capitol Street in Jackson. The project will add ADA-compliant sidewalks, bicycle lanes, improved lighting, access management, and pedestrian safety features to reduce fatal and serious injury crashes along this high-risk corridor.\n\nBolivar County \u2014 Bolivar County Safe Streets Project\n\nBolivar County will receive $200,000 in SS4A funding to conduct data collection, crash and speed analysis, and demonstration activities to update its countywide Comprehensive Safety Action Plan. The project will help guide future safety improvements across the county.\n\nTunica County \u2014 Tunica County Safety Action Plan\n\nTunica County will receive $248,000 to develop a Comprehensive Safety Action Plan, including a five-year crash analysis, public engagement, identification of high-injury roadways, and a web-based dashboard to track safety performance.", 1, "2026-04-04T05:28:40Z", "2026-04-04T05:30:10Z"], ["https://ezell.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=1984", "Ezell Applauds Return of Coast Guard Station Pascagoula to Full Operations", "2025-12-23", "2025", "2025-12", "Republican", "House", "MS", "Mike Ezell", "E000235", "ezell.house.gov", "ezell", "https://ezell.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27", "scraper", "Congressman Mike Ezell (MS-04), Chairman of the Coast Guard and Maritime Transportation Subcommittee, today welcomed the U.S. Coast Guard\u2019s decision to return Coast Guard Station Pascagoula to full response operations, marking a major step forward for maritime security and economic activity along the Mississippi Gulf Coast.\n\nThe Coast Guard announced that, in conjunction with Assignment Year 2026, Station Pascagoula will transition from scheduled mission operations back to full response operations after capabilities were temporarily reduced in 2023 due to workforce shortages.\n\n\u201cThis is outstanding news for South Mississippi,\" Chairman Ezell said. \u201cCoast Guard Station Pascagoula plays a critical role in protecting our maritime border, supporting search and rescue missions, and safeguarding the Port of Pascagoula. I\u2019m grateful to see the Coast Guard fully restoring these operations and ensuring our Coast Guard men and women have the staffing they need to do their jobs. As Chairman of the Coast Guard and Maritime Transportation Subcommittee, I\u2019ve been clear that readiness matters. Restoring full operations at Station Pascagoula improves safety for our mariners, strengthens national security, and protects one of Mississippi\u2019s most important economic engines.\u201d\n\n\"After temporarily reducing capabilities at Station Pascagoula in 2023 due to severe workforce shortages, I am pleased to announce the Coast Guard will fully restore the unit\u2019s operational capabilities and readiness in 2026,\" Adm. Kevin E. Lunday, Acting Commandant said. \u201cOur strong recruiting performance has made this possible. Station Pascagoula is vital to securing our southern maritime border and supporting the Port of Pascagoula's $18 billion economic impact. This action directly supports our nation's security and economic prosperity.\"\n\nStrategically located on the Gulf Coast, Coast Guard Station Pascagoula conducts missions that deter and interdict illegal migration and illicit trafficking, while also protecting vital port infrastructure from physical and cyber threats. The station\u2019s return to full response operations strengthens the Coast Guard\u2019s ability to respond quickly to emergencies, natural disasters, and maritime security threats in accordance with its long-standing motto, Semper Paratus \u2014 \u201cAlways Ready.\u201d\n\nThe U.S. Coast Guard is responsible for defending more than 95,000 miles of U.S. shoreline, 25,000 miles of navigable rivers, and 4.5 million square miles of exclusive economic zone. With more than 76,000 members operating cutters, aircraft, boats, and cyber capabilities, the Coast Guard plays a vital role in protecting America\u2019s maritime domain and economic security.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://ezell.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=1975", "Chairman Ezell Marks Keel Laying of First Austal-Built Offshore Patrol Cutter in Mobile", "2025-12-12", "2025", "2025-12", "Republican", "House", "MS", "Mike Ezell", "E000235", "ezell.house.gov", "ezell", "https://ezell.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27", "scraper", "This week, Congressman Mike Ezell (R-MS), Chairman of the House Coast Guard & Maritime Transportation Subcommittee, joined U.S. Coast Guard and Austal USA leadership for the keel laying of the U.S. Coast Guard Cutter Pickering (OPC 919) \u2014 the first Heritage-class Offshore Patrol Cutter to be constructed at Austal USA\u2019s Mobile shipyard.\n\nThe ceremony marks the official authentication of the vessel\u2019s keel and a major milestone in the multibillion-dollar construction program awarded to Austal USA in 2022. The contract, valued at up to $3.3 billion, authorizes the design and construction of up to 11 Offshore Patrol Cutters, strengthening the Coast Guard\u2019s future fleet and supporting hundreds of Gulf Coast shipbuilding jobs.\n\nRep. Ezell joined Admiral Kevin Lunday, Acting Commandant of the U.S. Coast Guard; Dr. Meghan Seymour, the ship\u2019s sponsor; Austal USA President Michelle Kruger; and industry partners for the event.\n\n\u201cThis program is vital to our national security and to the Coast Guard\u2019s ability to meet its mission for decades to come,\u201d Ezell said. \u201cThe men and women of the Coast Guard deserve modern, capable ships, and that\u2019s exactly what we\u2019re building here on the Gulf Coast. Today\u2019s keel laying of the USCGC Pickering represents American workmanship, American jobs, and a stronger future for our maritime security. These vessels will serve on the front lines, often far from public view, but their impact on our national security cannot be overstated. I\u2019m proud to support a program that strengthens our Coast Guard while investing directly in the Gulf Coast workforce.\u201d\n\n\u201cAustal USA is deeply committed to the United States Coast Guard and the Offshore Patrol Cutter program as a core priority of our shipbuilding efforts,\u201d commented Austal USA President Michelle Kruger. \u201cWe are extremely grateful for the steadfast leadership of Chairman Ezell and Admiral Lunday in supporting the OPC program.\u201d\n\nThe keel laying signifies the official recognition of the ship\u2019s start of construction. The USCGC Pickering is the fifth OPC in the class and the first to be produced at Austal USA\u2019s steel manufacturing facility in Mobile.\n\nEzell, who represents Mississippi\u2019s Fourth Congressional District, has made Coast Guard readiness and shipbuilding modernization top priorities in Congress. As Chairman of the Coast Guard & Maritime Transportation Subcommittee, he continues to advocate for stable and predictable funding to support construction of new cutters across the service.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://benniethompson.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-bennie-thompson-announces-federal-transportation-grants-airport", "Congressman Bennie Thompson Announces Federal Transportation Grants for Airport Improvements in Cleveland and Raymond, Mississippi", "2025-12-11", "2025", "2025-12", "Democrat", "House", "MS", "Bennie G. Thompson", "T000193", "benniethompson.house.gov", "benniethompson", "https://benniethompson.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "BOLTON, MS \u2013 Today, Congressman Bennie Thompson announced that the U.S. Department of Transportation has awarded two FY26 Airport Infrastructure Grants (AIG) totaling $176,635 to support aviation infrastructure upgrades in Mississippi\u2019s Second Congressional District. The grants, issued through the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), will enhance airport operations and help both facilities move toward long-term financial self-sufficiency.\n\nApplicant\n\nAmount\n\nPurpose\n\nCleveland Municipal Airport (RNV) \u2013 Cleveland, Mississippi\n\n$36,938\n\nProvides final-phase funding for the construction of a new 12,000-square-foot, sponsor-owned hangar designed for aircraft storage and maintenance. The hangar will assist the airport in generating additional revenue and improving its long-term sustainability. The grant covers approximately 525 square feet of construction and represents the final reimbursement for a project completed in June 2024.\n\nJohn Bell Williams Airport (JVW) \u2013 Raymond, Mississippi\n\n$139,697\n\nSupports the final construction phase of three new 3,900-square-foot, sponsor-owned box hangars used for aircraft storage. These facilities will increase the airport\u2019s capacity to generate revenue, contributing to its self-sustaining operations. The award funds 653 square feet of construction under the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act\u2019s expanded eligibility provisions.", 1, "2026-04-04T05:28:40Z", "2026-04-04T05:30:10Z"], ["https://ezell.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=1974", "House Approves Coast Guard Authorization Act of 2025 as Part of Defense Bill", "2025-12-10", "2025", "2025-12", "Republican", "House", "MS", "Mike Ezell", "E000235", "ezell.house.gov", "ezell", "https://ezell.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27", "scraper", "The U.S. House of Representatives today approved S. 1071, the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2026 (NDAA), which includes Transportation and Infrastructure Committee legislation to strengthen, support, and authorize funding through fiscal year 2027 for the United States Coast Guard and its critical missions to safeguard the nation\u2019s borders, facilitate maritime commerce, ensure maritime safety, protect the maritime domain, increase transparency within the Service, and confront Chinese expansion in the Pacific.\n\nThe provisions included in the NDAA are based on the Coast Guard Authorization Act of 2025 (H.R. 4275), which was introduced by Transportation and Infrastructure Committee Chairman Sam Graves (R-MO), Transportation and Infrastructure Committee Ranking Member Rick Larsen (D-WA), Coast Guard and Maritime Transportation Subcommittee Chairman Mike Ezell (R-MS), andCoast Guard and Maritime Transportation Subcommittee Ranking Member Salud Carbajal (D-CA) and previously approved by the House of Representatives on July 23, 2025.\n\nThe legislative text included in Division G (the Coast Guard Authorization Act of 2025) of the NDAA reflects changes made to the House passed, H.R. 4275 Coast Guard Authorization Act of 2025 during bicameral negotiations.\n\n\u201cI\u2019m grateful that the Coast Guard Authorization Act was included in this year\u2019s NDAA. This legislation provides the men and women of the Coast Guard \u2013 one of our nation\u2019s six armed services \u2013 with the resources they need to carry out their many missions vital to national security, the safety of Americans and mariners, and our economy,\u201dsaid T&I Committee Chairman Graves. \u201cThe legislation also builds on the historic investments in modernizing the Coast Guard\u2019s air and sea assets provided through the budget reconciliation process, and it supports the Administration\u2019s vision to strengthen America\u2019s maritime and shipbuilding capabilities.\u201d\n\n\u201cToday's passage of the Coast Guard Authorization Act of 2025 through the NDAA ensures the Coast Guard has the resources it needs to remain mission ready\u2014preventing and responding to oil spills in the Puget Sound and beyond, preventing sexual assault and harassment and more\u2014and improve its shoreside infrastructure while investing in the women and men who keep our seas safe,\u201d said T&I Committee Ranking Member Larsen. \u201cI hope we can continue this bipartisan momentum into next year.\u201d\n\n\u201cAs Chairman of the Coast Guard and Maritime Transportation Subcommittee, I\u2019m proud to see this year\u2019s NDAA include the Coast Guard Authorization Act,\u201d said Subcommittee Chairman Ezell. \u201cThis legislation gives our Coasties the tools, assets, and support they need to protect our shores, strengthen maritime safety, and keep our economy moving. From the Gulf Coast to the Pacific, the Coast Guard is on the front lines every day, and this bill ensures they have what they need to meet rising threats and continue their vital missions.\u201d\n\n\u201cThe Coast Guard is on the front lines every day protecting lives at sea, keeping our shores safe, and contributing to our national defense,\u201d said Subcommittee Ranking Member Carbajal. \u201cThis bipartisan legislation will deliver critical resources for the Coast Guard to carry out its missions, modernize infrastructure and safety systems, and enhance quality of life for our Coasties. Just as importantly, it reinforces our shared responsibility to ensure the Coast Guard follows through on reforms to eliminate sexual assault and harassment from its ranks.\u201d\n\nThe Coast Guard Authorization Act of 2025 authorizes appropriations for the Service through fiscal year 2027. These authorizations will support Coast Guard operations and the continued recapitalization of its historically underfunded cutter fleet, aviation assets, shoreside facilities, and IT capabilities. The bill modernizes the Coast Guard\u2019s acquisition process, increases transparency and accountability in the Service\u2019s recapitalization efforts, and opens a pathway to the adoption of next-generation autonomous technologies. The bill also requires the Coast Guard to develop a spend plan for the $24.6 billion investment provided under H.R. 1.\n\nIn addition, the bill creates greater parity with the other armed services, including stronger protections for members of the Coast Guard from sexual assault and harassment, based on legislation the T&I Committee approved last Congress following the Service\u2019s Operation Fouled Anchor.\n\nFurthermore, the legislation strengthens U.S.-Build requirements and improves accountability to better ensure a healthy, robust U.S. shipbuilding industry, while also making changes to maritime safety laws, amending requirements for merchant mariner credentials to facilitate an increase in the pool of qualified U.S. merchant mariners, increasing vessel safety, and improving regulatory processes. The legislation also provides resources for increased oil spill response and prevention capacity in Alaska.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://benniethompson.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-bennie-thompson-announces-nearly-10-million-disaster-recovery", "Congressman Bennie Thompson Announces Nearly $10 Million in Disaster Recovery Investments for Delta Regional Communities", "2025-11-21", "2025", "2025-11", "Democrat", "House", "MS", "Bennie G. Thompson", "T000193", "benniethompson.house.gov", "benniethompson", "https://benniethompson.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "BOLTON, MS \u2014 Today, Congressman Bennie G. Thompson (D-MS) announced that the Delta Regional Authority (DRA) has approved nearly $10 million in Supplemental Disaster Recovery Funding (SDRF) to support communities impacted by major disaster declarations over the past two years. This federal investment will assist recovery and strengthen long-term resilience in communities across Alabama, Mississippi, Missouri, and Tennessee.\n\nSharkey County, Mississippi, has been allocated $2 million to improve critical road infrastructure along three major corridors severely damaged by the EF-4 tornado in March 2023. These roadways experienced significant structural failure, drainage system collapse, and extensive erosion\u2014conditions that continue to pose safety risks for residents and emergency responders.", 1, "2026-04-04T05:28:40Z", "2026-04-04T05:30:10Z"], ["https://ezell.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=1968", "Ezell, Mullin Introduce Bipartisan Legislation to Improve Dredging Coordination in Ports Across Country", "2025-11-21", "2025", "2025-11", "Republican", "House", "MS", "Mike Ezell", "E000235", "ezell.house.gov", "ezell", "https://ezell.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27", "scraper", "Consumers across America rely on the nation\u2019s maritime shipping industry. To maintain this essential logistics system and keep consumer prices low, Reps. Mike Ezell (MS-04) and Kevin Mullin (CA-15) introduced the bipartisan Dredging Coordination Improvement Act.\n\nAs cargo and passenger ships increase in size, it\u2019s become even more important for the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to dredge shipping channels \u2013 the underwater excavation process that enables large cargo and passenger ships to safely traverse waterways that are too shallow. More than 400 ports and 25,000 miles of navigation channels need to be dredged on a regular basis to ensure shipping vessels can reach their destinations and deliver goods to consumers.\n\nThe Army Corps ultimately decides which channels to prioritize for dredging, and while non-federal stakeholders, such as ports rely heavily on these projects, they are not always adequately consulted and can be left in the dark when there are foreseeable delays. Uncertainty around dredging timelines and project delays disrupt supply chains, costing ports, shipping companies \u2013 and ultimately consumers \u2013 hundreds of thousands or even millions of dollars.\n\nThe Dredging Coordination Improvement Act would streamline coordination among stakeholders, particularly between the Army Corps and local partners, prioritize dredging to facilitate commerce and navigation, and increase transparency between the federal government and ports.\n\n\u201cI\u2019m proud to co-lead the Dredging Coordination Improvement Act because communities along the Gulf Coast deserve a system that works with them\u2014not around them. By strengthening communication, prioritizing commercial navigation, and giving our local partners the information they need to plan ahead, this bill will help keep our waterways open, our economy moving, and our coastal communities strong,\u201d Ezell said.\n\n\u201cAmerica\u2019s maritime infrastructure and commercial shipping industry is essential to the economy here in the San Francisco Bay Area and across our entire country. Ports and consumers rely on the federal government to dredge waterways to ensure ships and the goods they carry arrive efficiently. Dredging delays can cause cost increases and longer wait times for building materials, household appliances, food, and so many other goods that we all rely on,\u201d Mullin said. \u201cThis bipartisan legislation will help ensure that ports and supply chains can operate smoothly. By improving coordination and communication, we are cutting unnecessary delays that cost businesses and consumers alike.\u201d\n\nKey provisions of the bill include:\n\nRequiring the Army Corps to consult with stakeholders on the scope and timeline of maintenance dredging projects;\n\nPrioritizing maintenance dredging in commercially and navigationally critical waters over areas used primarily for recreational purposes;\n\nEnsuring timely communication with non-federal sponsors regarding any changes to project timelines; and\n\nIncrease transparency of federal funding availability to help non-federal sponsors plan in advance.", 1, "2026-04-07T15:46:19Z", "2026-04-07T20:18:39Z"], ["https://guest.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-michael-guest-passage-hr-4071-combatting-international-drug", "Congressman Michael Guest on the Passage of H.R. 4071, the Combatting International Drug Trafficking and Human Smuggling Partnership Act of 2025", "2025-11-20", "2025", "2025-11", "Republican", "House", "MS", "Michael Guest", "G000591", "guest.house.gov", "guest", "https://guest.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. - Yesterday, the U.S. House of Representatives passed H.R. 4071, the Combatting International Drug Trafficking and Human Smuggling Partnership Act of 2025.\n\nU.S. Customs and Border Protection\u2019s Air and Marine Operations agents play a critical role in the homeland security mission. Every day, AMO agents conduct border operations to detect and disrupt the illegal flow of people, narcotics, and other dangerous or illicit contraband before it reaches our shores.\n\nThis legislation authorizes AMO, and other designated CBP personnel, to continue and expand these successful bilateral agreements by providing training, building partner-nation capacity, and conducting joint operations that will increase interdictions and enhance regional security to save lives, strengthen our defenses, and make our nation safer.\n\nJoined by Representative Nellie Pou (NJ-09), Congressman Guest gained bipartisan supporters on this legislation which passed the U.S. House of Representatives.\n\nCommittee on Homeland Security Chairman Andrew Garbarino expressed his support for the bill, stating, \u201cAs Air and Marine Operations carries out its border security mission, Congressman Guest\u2019s legislation would help ensure these brave men and women have the necessary international partnerships to combat drug and human smuggling before this criminal activity ever makes its way to our borders. I was proud to help advance this legislation through the House Homeland Security Committee and through the House of Representatives, and I urge my Senate colleagues to do the same to help CBP in its important mission.\u201d\n\nCongressman Guest stated, \u201cI am honored to have introduced H.R. 4071 and to see it be approved in the House. I urge my colleagues in the Senate to pass this bill and send it to the President\u2019s desk. We will continue to work to secure our border and Make America Great Again.\u201d\n\nCo-Sponsor Congresswoman Pou stated, \u201cDrug trafficking and human smuggling remain grave problems facing our nation. Our bipartisan bill will provide vital clarity to Customs and Border Protection and our foreign partners to crack down on these scourges. I thank Congressman Guest for leading this effort that will help keep Americans safe and protected.\u201d\n\nWith the passage of H.R. 4071, the Combatting International Drug Trafficking and Human Smuggling Partnership Act of 2025, Congressman Guest is thankful to see bipartisan bills pass through the House Chamber that will strengthen our border security.\n\nRead a copy of the bill here.\n\nCongressman Michael Guest represents Mississippi's Third Congressional District. Currently serving his fourth term, Congressman Guest is the Chairman of the Border Security and Enforcement Subcommittee of the Committee on Homeland Security and is also a member of the House Appropriations Committee.\n\n###", 1, "2026-06-27T21:44:12Z", "2026-06-27T22:31:22Z"], ["https://benniethompson.house.gov/media/press-releases/thompson-announces-city-jackson-awarded-28-million-through-fta-bus-bus", "Thompson Announces\u00a0City of Jackson Awarded $2.8 Million Through FTA Bus & Bus Facilities Program", "2025-11-18", "2025", "2025-11", "Democrat", "House", "MS", "Bennie G. Thompson", "T000193", "benniethompson.house.gov", "benniethompson", "https://benniethompson.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "BOLTON, MS \u2014 Today, Congressman Bennie G. Thompson (D-MS) announced that the City of Jackson has been awarded $2,800,000 through the U. S. Department of Transportation Federal Transit Administration\u2019s FY25 Buses & Bus Facilities Program. The grant will fund significant bus stop improvements to enhance safety, accessibility, and service reliability for transit riders across Jackson.\n\n\u201cI am proud to announce this important federal investment in Jackson\u2019s public transportation system,\u201d said Congressman Thompson. \u201cReliable, safe, and accessible transit is essential for connecting residents to jobs, education, and healthcare. These upgrades will make a meaningful difference in the daily lives of thousands of Jackson commuters.\u201d", 1, "2026-04-04T05:28:40Z", "2026-04-04T05:30:10Z"], ["https://benniethompson.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-thompson-visits-claiborne-county-students-hour-ai-event", "Congressman Thompson Visits Claiborne County Students for \u201cHour of AI\u201d Event", "2025-11-14", "2025", "2025-11", "Democrat", "House", "MS", "Bennie G. Thompson", "T000193", "benniethompson.house.gov", "benniethompson", "https://benniethompson.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2013 On Monday, December 8, 2025, at 9:00 a.m., Congressman Bennie G. Thompson will visit students from the Claiborne County Career and Technical Education (CTE) Center at the Port Gibson High School Gymnasium as they participate in the Hour of AI, a national initiative that helps young people understand and explore artificial intelligence.\n\nThe Hour of AI, created by Code.org in partnership with CSforALL and supported by organizations such as Microsoft, gives students hands-on experience with artificial intelligence (AI) in fun and creative ways. The program aims to prepare students for a future shaped by technology and innovation while inspiring interest in computer science and STEM careers.\n\nDuring the event, students from Claiborne County CTE will use AI tools to design, create, and collaborate, showing how technology can inspire learning and open doors to new career opportunities.\n\n\u201cArtificial intelligence is already shaping how our children learn, work, and live. Yet far too many of our young people use these tools without fully understanding how they work or how to use them responsibly,\u201d said Congressman Thompson. \u201cThat\u2019s why I\u2019m proud to support the \u2018Hour of AI,\u2019 in partnership with Microsoft. Every child deserves a fair chance to explore, to learn, and to become one of the innovators who will shape the future of technology.\u201d\n\n\u201cI see every day how access to technology and hands-on learning can change a young person\u2019s trajectory,\u201d said JJ Townsend, Community Engagement Manager for Microsoft TechSpark. \u201cBy bringing the \u2018Hour of AI\u2019 to Claiborne County, we\u2019re helping students explore AI responsibly and imagine real career pathways right here at home. We\u2019re grateful to Congressman Thompson and our local educators for partnering to open these doors for Mississippi students.\u201d\n\nThis event is part of a broader effort to bring AI education into classrooms across the country during Computer Science Education Week (December 8\u201312, 2025). The Hour of AI helps students, parents, and teachers better understand how artificial intelligence works and how it can be used to solve real-world problems.", 1, "2026-04-04T05:28:40Z", "2026-04-04T05:30:10Z"], ["https://ezell.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=1963", "Ezell: Democrat-Led Shutdown Finally Ends After Hurting Mississippi Families and Businesses", "2025-11-12", "2025", "2025-11", "Republican", "House", "MS", "Mike Ezell", "E000235", "ezell.house.gov", "ezell", "https://ezell.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27", "scraper", "Congressman Mike Ezell (MS-04) released the following statement after voting to end the Democrat-led government shutdown:\n\n\u201cAfter more than 40 days of unnecessary pain and uncertainty, Senate Democrats have finally agreed to reopen the government \u2014 something Republicans, President Trump, and millions of hardworking Americans have been demanding for weeks. I was happy to vote to reopen the government after the Democrats\u2019 deranged shutdown that hurt Mississippi families, businesses, and federal workers lasted nearly 43 days.\n\nThis shutdown came at a steep cost for Mississippi. Our state\u2019s economy lost an estimated $82 million each week, nearly 26,000 federal workers went without pay, and more than 357,000 Mississippians \u2014 including 139,000 children \u2014 faced disruptions to SNAP benefits.\n\nRepublicans passed a clean funding bill back in September to keep the government open and give time for responsible, bipartisan budget negotiations. Yet, Democrats chose politics over people \u2014 and nothing has changed because of their obstruction except the damage they caused.\n\nNow that this Democrat-led shutdown is finally over, it\u2019s time to return to regular order, finish our appropriations bills, and restore stability for American families. That\u2019s what House Republicans have been fighting for from the start.\u201d", 1, "2026-04-07T15:46:19Z", "2026-04-07T20:18:39Z"], ["https://benniethompson.house.gov/media/press-releases/thompson-denounces-trumps-abuse-power-pardoning-election-conspirators", "Thompson Denounces Trump\u2019s Abuse of Power in Pardoning Election Conspirators", "2025-11-10", "2025", "2025-11", "Democrat", "House", "MS", "Bennie G. Thompson", "T000193", "benniethompson.house.gov", "benniethompson", "https://benniethompson.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "(WASHINGTON) \u2013 Today, Rep. Bennie G. Thompson (D-MS), Ranking Member of the Committee on Homeland Security, released the following statement condemning President Trump\u2019s decision to pardon Rudy Giuliani, Mark Meadows, John Eastman, Sidney Powell, and others who conspired to subvert the 2020 election.\n\n\u201cOnce again, Donald Trump is using the power of the presidency to protect the very people who conspired to undermine our democracy. After pardoning the rioters who stormed the Capitol, he is now extending the same protections to the architects who sent them there. These individuals violated the sanctity of our elections, and pardoning them is a slap in the face to every American who believes their vote should count.\u201d\n\n\u201cNo presidential pardon can erase the violence of January 6th. These conspirators still face serious accountability at the state level, and the American people will not forget who tried to overturn their votes. Congress must continue its oversight to ensure no president\u2014past, present, or future\u2014can shield their allies from justice.\u201d\n\n###", 1, "2026-04-04T05:28:40Z", "2026-04-04T05:30:10Z"], ["https://ezell.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=1955", "Ezell Introduces Bill to Restore Flood Insurance Coverage for Homeowners Impacted by Shutdown", "2025-10-29", "2025", "2025-10", "Republican", "House", "MS", "Mike Ezell", "E000235", "ezell.house.gov", "ezell", "https://ezell.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27", "scraper", "Congressman Mike Ezell (MS-04) today introduced the NFIP Retroactive Renewal and Reauthorization Act, legislation to immediately restore the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) and ensure that those who plan to renew are not punished due to the Democrat-led government shutdown.\n\nBecause of the ongoing shutdown, NFIP has lapsed \u2014 meaning no new flood insurance policies can be issued or renewed. Now that the short grace period has expired, thousands of homeowners could face partial-risk assessments and higher rates unless Congress passes a retroactive extension.\n\nThis lapse threatens tens of thousands of Mississippi families, delays home closings, and leaves homeowners uninsured in the middle of hurricane season. It also punishes families already struggling with rising premiums, potentially wiping out years of progress toward affordable coverage.\n\nUnder FEMA\u2019s Risk Rating 2.0, many policyholders aren\u2019t yet paying full-risk rates. Without a retroactive renewal, those partial-risk protections could be lost \u2014 forcing families to start over at drastically higher prices.\n\n\u201cThis shutdown is hurting real people \u2014 and coastal families are feeling it first,\u201d Ezell said. \u201cBecause Washington Democrats refuse to do their job, Mississippi homeowners can\u2019t renew their flood insurance policies, and families trying to buy or refinance a home are being left in limbo. My bill will fix that by restoring coverage retroactively and protecting families from the fallout of this political dysfunction. Mississippians shouldn\u2019t lose their insurance or face higher costs because of a political stalemate in Washington. It\u2019s time to reopen the government, restore flood coverage, and deliver the certainty our coastal communities deserve.\u201d\n\n\"As evidenced by the ongoing lapse of NFIP, a long-term reauthorization is necessary for sustainabilty of the program and affordability for its policyholders. This lapse now threatens the premium increase glidepath guaranteed to legacy NFIP policyholders who have played by the rules. Our analysis of FEMA data shows that NFIP premiums under Risk Rating 2.0 are rising by over 100% on average and by at least 50% in 41 states. Reauthorizing NFIP retroactively ensures that these glidepaths are retained, thus encouraging cost-burdened Americans to maintain coverage and mitigate our nation's risk,\" Michael Hecht, President & CEO of Greater New Orleans, Inc., on behalf of the Coalition for Sustainable Flood Insurance (CSFI) said.\n\n\u201cAs CEO of the Home Builders Association of Greater New Orleans, I cannot overstate the urgency of extending the National Flood Insurance Program. Right now, thousands of families in Southeast Louisiana are on the brink of losing affordable flood coverage due to the government shutdown and the harsh realities of Risk Rating 2.0. If Congress does not act immediately, homeowners and small businesses will be forced into unaffordable premiums, putting their homes, livelihoods, and our entire region at risk. This bill is not just necessary\u2014it is critical to prevent a wave of financial devastation and to preserve the resilience of our communities. We urge swift passage to protect Louisiana families before it\u2019s too late,\" Dan Mills, CEO of Home Builders Association of Greater New Orleans, said.\n\n\"The National Flood Insurance Program is a critical lifeline for American households to avoid economic ruin from flooding disasters. The private flood insurance industry may hold promise, but it is nowhere near ready to come close to providing the level of security the NFIP provides. It is imperative that the program be re-authorized and retroactively available to those whose policies lapsed during the shutdown so they don't end up re-rated and priced out of this important protection,\" Amy Bach, Executive Director, United Policyholders.\n\n\"The federal government shutdown has stopped purchases and renewals of all flood insurance policies through the NFIP. This has a far-reaching impact on many facets of the American economy, not just compromising the safety net of flood insurance, but also impacting real estate closings & risk management strategies. Now more than ever, American families are reliant on the protection offered by a strong, resilient National Flood Insurance Program. The American Policyholder Association strongly encourages the passage of the NFIP Renewal and re-authorization Act,\" Doug Quinn\n\nExecutive Director, American Policyholder Association said.\n\nBackground:\n\nAcross the country, FEMA is barred from processing renewals or issuing new NFIP policies until the government reopens. In Mississippi alone, there are more than 55,000 active NFIP policies covering over $13 billion in property value \u2014 coverage that families and small businesses depend on to recover from storms and flooding.\n\nEzell\u2019s legislation would reauthorize the NFIP through December 31, 2026, and include a retroactive renewal period to ensure families whose coverage expired during the shutdown can renew without penalty once the government reopens.\n\nThe legislation also renews the program through 2026 to provide long-term stability and ensure continued congressional oversight of FEMA\u2019s Risk Rating 2.0 system \u2014 a controversial pricing model that has driven up premiums and reduced affordability for thousands of Gulf Coast homeowners.\n\nEzell serves as Co-Chair of the Bipartisan Congressional Flood Resilience Caucus and continues to advocate for common-sense, bipartisan reforms to strengthen and sustain the NFIP for Mississippi and other flood-prone communities.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T15:10:06Z"], ["https://benniethompson.house.gov/media/press-releases/thompson-demands-tech-giants-mega-corporations-crypto-companies-answer", "Thompson Demands Tech Giants, Mega Corporations, Crypto Companies Answer for Contribution and Involvement in Trump\u2019s Demolition of White House East Wing", "2025-10-24", "2025", "2025-10", "Democrat", "House", "MS", "Bennie G. Thompson", "T000193", "benniethompson.house.gov", "benniethompson", "https://benniethompson.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2013 Today, Rep. Bennie G. Thompson (D-MS), Ranking Member of the Committee on Homeland Security, sent a letter to each of the major corporations the White House released that donated $350 million to tragically demolish the historic East Wing of the White House and construct an obscene and gaudy gold ballroom for President Trump in its place. In the letters, Congressman Thompson demands answers from the corporations on their involvement in \u2013 and contribution to \u2013 this travesty being forced on the American people.\n\n\u201cToday, there is a gaping hole in the side of the White House, and no one in the White House has been honest with Americans about the construction plans or the costs,\u201d wrote Congressman Thompson.\n\nSince the National Historic Preservation Act of 1966 was clearly not followed in the planning for the ballroom or the demolition of the East Wing, Congressman Thompson demands the corporations provide, by November 7th, extensive details on: how they came to contribute to this project, if they were solicited for the contribution, how much they contributed, if they were offered any benefit or recognition of any kind in exchange, and if they were advised on any potential conflicts of interest or ethical issues.\n\nThe companies must also provide a list of all existing contracts they have with the Federal government \u2013 or are competing for \u2013 along with a list of all regulatory actions or adjudications in which they have an interest currently pending before any Federal entity.\n\nFinally \u2013 since demolition and construction plans have been kept secret from most Americans \u2013 the corporations must answer whether they were able to review any construction, or demolition plans at any point.\n\n\u201cThe White House is a treasured symbol of our democracy, and the President has begun to demolish part of it with funds your company contributed. You owe Americans an explanation,\u201d Congressman Thompson added.\n\nThe demand letters were sent to: Altria Group, Amazon, Apple, Booz Allen Hamilton, Caterpillar, Coinbase, Comcast, Hard Rock International, Google, HP, Lockheed Martin, Meta, Micron, Microsoft, NextEra Energy, Palantir Technologies, Ripple (pending), Reynolds American (pending), T-Mobile, Tether America, Union Pacific Railroad.\n\n\u201cEven Congress was not consulted, and there appears to be no oversight over the demolition and construction process. The ballroom construction plans have been roundly criticized by the National Trust for Historic Preservation, the Society of Architectural Historians, and the American Institute of Architects, and the demolition has been condemned by large swaths of the public.\u201d", 1, "2026-04-04T05:28:40Z", "2026-04-04T05:30:10Z"], ["https://ezell.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=1951", "Ezell, Mississippi Delegation Urge FEMA to Fully Fund Biloxi Infrastructure Repairs", "2025-10-20", "2025", "2025-10", "Republican", "House", "MS", "Mike Ezell", "E000235", "ezell.house.gov", "ezell", "https://ezell.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27", "scraper", "Today, Congressman Mike Ezell (MS-04) joined members of Mississippi\u2019s Congressional Delegation in sending a letter to the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) urging the agency to approve the City of Biloxi\u2019s Second Appeal for full funding of remaining water, sewer, and storm drainage infrastructure repairs stemming from Hurricane Katrina.\n\nThe appeal seeks an additional $111 million in project funding, based on cost estimates developed by the Mississippi Emergency Management Agency (MEMA) in accordance with FEMA\u2019s Cost Estimating Factor formula for large, complex, multi-year projects. MEMA formally transmitted its support for Biloxi\u2019s appeal on September 30, 2025.\n\n\u201cBiloxi has made remarkable progress rebuilding its critical infrastructure after one of the most devastating hurricanes in our nation\u2019s history,\u201d Ezell said. \u201cBut nearly 20 years later, FEMA still hasn\u2019t fully met its obligation to the people of Biloxi. It\u2019s past time to fix that. This appeal is about fairness, accountability, and ensuring our Gulf Coast communities get the support they were promised. Inflation and rising construction costs have only made this situation more urgent. FEMA needs to correct its mistake and fully fund these remaining repairs so Biloxi can finish the job once and for all.\u201d\n\nIn previous correspondence, FEMA acknowledged that key cost factors, including contingencies, inflation, contractor overhead, and permitting, were inadvertently omitted from its original estimate for Biloxi\u2019s infrastructure repair project. Without those adjustments, the City of Biloxi has faced significant funding shortfalls in completing the necessary work.\n\nThe Mississippi delegation\u2019s letter urges FEMA to \u201cchange course\u201d and approve the City\u2019s Second Appeal, ensuring sufficient resources to complete the final phase of the project.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T15:10:06Z"], ["https://ezell.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=1945", "Ezell Leads Bipartisan Legislation to Turn Offshore Oil Rigs into Artificial Reefs", "2025-10-15", "2025", "2025-10", "Republican", "House", "MS", "Mike Ezell", "E000235", "ezell.house.gov", "ezell", "https://ezell.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27", "scraper", "Representatives Mike Ezell (R-MS-04), Troy Carter, Sr. (D-LA-01), and Marc Veasey (D-TX-33) introduced the Marine Fisheries Habitat Protection Act. This bipartisan bill promotes environmental conservation and responsible decommissioning of offshore oil and gas platforms in the Gulf of America. The legislation establishes a clear, efficient pathway for converting retired oil rigs into artificial reefs\u2014preserving marine habitats, supporting the fishing industry, and reducing decommissioning costs.\n\n\u201cAt its core, the Marine Fisheries Habitat Protection program is a simple yet powerful idea,\u201d Ezell said. \u201cInstead of tearing down structures that have become vibrant marine ecosystems, we can repurpose them to benefit the environment, fishermen, and taxpayers alike. As someone who has fished in the Gulf my entire life, I can tell you that the best fishing is always near these rigs. When we remove them entirely, we\u2019re not just losing a structure\u2014we\u2019re destroying entire ecosystems. This bill is a no-brainer for coastal communities, sportsmen, and marine life alike.\u201d\n\n\u201cConverting decommissioned offshore oil and gas platforms into artificial reefs helps marine species thrive and provides recreational and commercial fishers greater access to the incredible resources the Gulf of America has to offer,\" House Natural Resources Chairman Westerman said. \"I\u2019d like to thank Rep. Ezell for his work to support Gulf of America communities and marine ecosystems.\u201d\n\n\"The Marine Fisheries Habitat Protection Act is a smart, science-backed solution that turns yesterday\u2019s energy infrastructure into tomorrow\u2019s marine sanctuaries,\" Carter said. \"By transforming retired offshore platforms into artificial reefs, we\u2019re preserving critical habitat for Gulf marine life, promoting biodiversity, and supporting our recreational and commercial fishermen. This bipartisan legislation shows that energy policy and environmental stewardship don\u2019t have to be at odds. When done responsibly, Rigs-to-Reefs is a win for conservation, a win for coastal communities, and a win for the future of the Gulf.\"\n\n\u201cToday, I\u2019m proud to co-lead the Marine Fisheries Habitat Protection Act with my colleagues Congressmen Ezell and Carter,\u201d Veasey said. \u201cOur legislation will help create a pathway for more rig conversions and bolster the overall program that is repurposing out-of-service offshore oil and natural gas production platforms into thriving areas for aquatic wildlife.\u201d\n\n\u201cOffshore oil and gas platforms are the catalyst for teeming reef fish communities and offer recreational anglers consistent, reliable fishing destinations,\u201d Chris Horton, Senior Director of Fisheries Policy for the Congressional Sportsmen\u2019s Foundation (CSF), said. \u201cFar more than fish attractors, the value they provide for enhancing marine productivity and biodiversity is well documented, but they are quickly disappearing. We very much appreciate Representatives Ezell, Veasey, and Carter for their leadership to ensure we have the best opportunity to preserve these fishing meccas for future generations.\u201d\n\n\"Turning decommissioned oil and gas platforms into artificial reefs supports diverse marine ecosystems and biodiversity, offering increased opportunities for recreational fishing and tourism,\" Jason Schratwieser, President of the International Game Fish Association (IGFA), said. \u201cThese structures create crucial habitats for marine life and the IGFA views the Marine Fisheries Habitat Protection Act as a win-win-win for our domestic energy industry, sustainable fisheries, and the marine ecosystems that we rely on.\"\n\n\u201cThere is arguably no fish habitat type as popular and productive as offshore oil and gas platforms in the Gulf of America,\u201d Mike Leonard, Vice President of Government Affairs at the American Sportfishing Association, said. \u201cThe Marine Fisheries Habitat Protection Act is a well-crafted solution to ensure these structures safely remain in place to continue providing ecosystem benefits that support the nation\u2019s recreational fishing industry.\u201d\n\nOffshore platforms in the Gulf have long served as thriving habitats for marine life. The Marine Fisheries Habitat Protection Act allows oil and gas operators to work with state and federal agencies to leave appropriate structures in place, turning them into permanent artificial reefs. This process helps mitigate the environmental impact of full platform removal while conserving vital fishing grounds.\n\nThe bill also includes safeguards to ensure reefing is conducted responsibly and in partnership with environmental and regulatory agencies.\n\nKey Benefits of the Marine Fisheries Habitat Protection Act:\n\nProtects Marine Ecosystems: Converts offshore platforms into long-term artificial reefs, enhancing biodiversity.\n\nSupports Coastal Economies: Preserves key fishing areas relied on by commercial and recreational fishermen.\n\nReduces Costs: Offers oil and gas companies a cost-effective and environmentally sound alternative to full platform removal.\n\nStrengthens Public-Private Partnerships: Encourages collaboration between industry and environmental agencies.\n\nThis legislation underscores a growing recognition that energy infrastructure, when responsibly repurposed, can play a pivotal role in marine conservation and sustainable coastal economies.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T15:10:06Z"], ["https://ezell.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=1944", "Ezell Introduces Bipartisan MARA Act to Strengthen Sustainable Offshore Aquaculture in the U.S.", "2025-10-14", "2025", "2025-10", "Republican", "House", "MS", "Mike Ezell", "E000235", "ezell.house.gov", "ezell", "https://ezell.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27", "scraper", "Today, Representatives Mike Ezell (R-MS-04), Ed Case (D-HI-01), Kat Cammack (R-FL-03), and Jimmy Panetta (D-CA-19) introduced the Marine Aquaculture Research and Advancement (MARA) Act of 2025, a bipartisan bill that empowers the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) to expand offshore aquaculture in a sustainable, science-based, and environmentally responsible way.\n\nAs the global demand for seafood continues to rise, the MARA Act establishes a clear federal framework to help the United States become a leader in offshore aquaculture while protecting marine ecosystems and involving coastal communities in the process.\n\n\u201cThe MARA Act ensures that as we grow our offshore aquaculture sector, we do it the right way with science, transparency, and public engagement at the center,\u201d Ezell said. \u201cThis bill puts the U.S. on a path to food security, environmental stewardship, and coastal economic development. Offshore aquaculture, when done responsibly, holds enormous potential to feed more people, create jobs, and protect wild fisheries. The MARA Act gives us the tools to lead the world in sustainable seafood production.\u201d\n\n\u201cAmerica should be leading the world in responsible, sustainable seafood production, not outsourcing it,\" Cammack said. \"The MARA Act will strengthen our food security, support our coastal communities, and ensure that growth in aquaculture off our shores happens the right way\u2014with transparency, science, and accountability.\u201d\n\n\u201cThe Marine Aquaculture Research for America Act is a forward-looking, bipartisan step toward strengthening America\u2019s seafood supply and coastal economies while ensuring ocean health remains a top priority,\" Maddie Voorhees, Coalition for Sustainable Aquaculture, said. \"We thank Representative Ezell for his leadership on this important legislation, which invests in the science and innovation needed to ensure U.S. aquaculture grows responsibly\u2014supporting communities, creating jobs, and protecting our marine resources for the future.\u201d\n\n\u201cWe thank Reps. Ezell and Ed Case for their leadership in introducing the MARA Act in the U.S. House, legislation that is necessary to support the expansion of American aquaculture,\u201d Drue Banta Winters, campaign manager of Stronger America Through Seafood (SATS) said. \u201cThis bill is an important step forward as the U.S. seeks to increase the supply of sustainable seafood coming into U.S. ports. Open ocean aquaculture would work in complement with our nation\u2019s wild fisheries to help increase America\u2019s seafood supply, create jobs across the seafood supply chain, and spur investment in coastal communities.\u201d\n\nKey Provisions of the MARA Act of 2025:\n\nExpands Scientific Research: Directs NOAA to conduct and support research on sustainable offshore aquaculture practices and environmental impacts.\n\nStreamlines Permitting: Improves interagency coordination to develop an efficient, transparent permitting process grounded in science and stakeholder input.\n\nInvests in Workforce and Infrastructure: Supports training programs and infrastructure development to prepare America\u2019s workforce for opportunities in this growing industry.\n\nBuilds Guardrails for Responsible Growth: Emphasizes environmental stewardship, public engagement, and accountability throughout the development of offshore aquaculture projects.\n\nThe MARA Act is supported by a broad coalition of environmental organizations, aquaculture researchers, and industry stakeholders committed to building a sustainable future for America\u2019s oceans and coastal communities.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T15:10:06Z"], ["https://guest.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-guest-talks-government-shutdown-aca-subsidies-and-charlie-kirk", "Congressman Guest Talks Government Shutdown, ACA Subsidies, and Charlie Kirk", "2025-10-09", "2025", "2025-10", "Republican", "House", "MS", "Michael Guest", "G000591", "guest.house.gov", "guest", "https://guest.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2013 Recently, Congressman Guest joined the Tim Young Show to discuss the Democrats\u2019 government shutdown. Here are some key things that Congressman Guest noted in his interview:\n\nCongressman Guest and his staff are still working:\n\n\u201cMy staff has all been deemed essential and we\u2019re working and serving the people of our district. I will tell you, before I came on today, I got to meet a guy by the name of Billy Byrd. Billy is a 100 year old World War II Veteran. He came in my office and gave me a copy of a book he had written. He was actually on the first wave of Marines that invaded Iwo Jima. He was on the island for 32 days fighting the Japanese, so got a chance got meet with a war hero. Somebody who fought for our country, somebody who served, served in combat \u2013 part of that greatest generation. While I am not in D.C. working, I am still here in the district, and I am getting to spend, at least today, some time with two great Americans.\u201d\n\nThe shutdown is over ACA Subsidies and the political playground of Democrats:\n\n\u201cThis is clearly a political shutdown. This is not over policy. The Democrats have tried to make it over policy particularly the expanding the Obamacare enhanced subsidies that will expire at the end of the year. These are policies that the Democrats put in place. These are things in which the Democrats set when these expiration dates would occur. These were supposed to be temporary in light of COVID. Now, we see that they want to make these permanent. The cost of that would be over $500 billion and so the Democrats are asking for $500 billion in new funding to keep the government open for a mere 7 weeks. You\u2019re right, some of the healthcare they\u2019re talking about would go to illegal aliens. And so, this is not a shutdown where they have a key issue that they really disagree with. They are just throwing a bunch of things at the wall hoping that they can make something stick. And some of it, I think much of it, is driven by Chuck Schumer and his fear of a very popular Democratic member in his district. She may not be popular in my district, but she is popular in New York- Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, who was threatening to primary Chuck Schumer for his U.S. Senate seat.\u201d\n\nThe shutdown is over ACA Subsidies:\n\n\u201cIf the issue of the enhanced Obamacare subsidies is worth shutting the government down, which is what Chuck Schumer has told us, then our Republican leadership has said we\u2019re willing to have a conversation with you about that. But what we want to do is we want to know a couple of things. We want to put some income limits on that because right now what most people don\u2019t know is that 35% of those enhanced Obamacare subsidies go to families making more than $100,000. So, Democrats want you to believe that this is a program for those people who are in poverty or at the poverty limit. That\u2019s not the case. 35% of those subsidies go to people or families making $100,000 or more. So, we need income limits. We need to put safeguards in place to prevent waste, fraud, and abuse. And again, if this is something that is so important that the Democrats are willing to shut down the government, tell me how you are going to pay for it. That\u2019s what we need. If we are going to put government programs in place, how are we going to pay for those programs? Don\u2019t say we are going to add half a trillion dollars to our national debt. We\u2019ve done that for far too long. If this is a program and a hill worth dying on from the Democrats, tell me what programs you\u2019re willing to cut to have for that.\u201d\n\nSome Democrats have refused to condemn violence:\n\n\u201cThe recent resolution in light of Charlie Kirk\u2019s passing. The number of Democrats that refused to support that. It was a resolution that did two things. One, it talked about some of the major accomplishments that Charlie had given to our country, but the second is that it condemned political violence. We have Democrats, more than half of the Democrats, either voted against it or didn\u2019t vote for the resolution at all. Which is in stark contrast to every Republican who voted to condemn violence in light of the state representatives and state senators in Minnesota who were killed. So, it kind of goes to show that Democrats are great about talking about bringing down the temperature but when it actually comes to voting for that, they\u2019re not willing to put their money where their mouth is.\u201d\n\nCongressman Guest continues to work hard and keep his office open during this time.\n\nTune into the entire interview here.\n\nCongressman Michael Guest represents Mississippi's Third Congressional District. Currently serving his fourth term, Congressman Guest is the Chairman of the Border Security and Enforcement Subcommittee of the Committee on Homeland Security and is also a member of the House Appropriations Committee.", 1, "2026-06-27T21:44:12Z", "2026-06-27T22:31:14Z"], ["https://guest.house.gov/media/press-releases/office-congressman-michael-guest-open", "The Office of Congressman Michael Guest is OPEN", "2025-10-09", "2025", "2025-10", "Republican", "House", "MS", "Michael Guest", "G000591", "guest.house.gov", "guest", "https://guest.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. - As of October 1, federal funding has lapsed and the government has entered a shutdown. On September 19, Congressman Guest voted for, and the House passed, a clean funding extension through November 21, but the Senate has failed to act. As a result, many agencies are operating at reduced capacity, while core programs required by law continue.\n\nWhat This Means for Fellow Mississippians\n\nSocial Security, Medicare and Veterans\u2019 Benefits\n\nSocial Security payments will still be issued. Retirees, survivors and those with disability benefits will continue to receive payments.\n\nMedicare and Medicaid services will continue, though some support functions may experience delays. Our office can help connect you with the appropriate agency staff if you run into difficulty.\n\nVeterans\u2019 health care and disability compensation remain funded and will continue without interruption. Some VA services have been impacted.\n\nMail Delivery\n\nThe U.S. Postal Service will continue mail delivery, postage and post office services as usual.\n\nFederal Agencies and Services\n\nAir travel: TSA and air traffic controllers continue working, though wait times may be longer.\n\nNational Parks and museums: National Parks will remain open, access to some museums may be closed or limited, and some services will be impacted.\n\nSmall Business Administration loans, USDA services, and certain federal grants: Processing may pause or slow down. Our office can provide updates and help you explore temporary state or local resources.\n\nCommunity and Economic Impacts\n\nFederal employees: Furloughed workers may face delayed paychecks. Employees may qualify for temporary support in the meantime at mdes.ms.gov.\n\nPassports, visas, and federal permits: Processing may slow or stop. Our office can advise on urgent travel needs and help track pending applications.\n\nFederal contractors: Payments may be delayed. Contractors should check with their employers about contingency planning.\n\nFlood Insurance & Home Closings\n\nNational Flood Insurance Program (NFIP): During a government shutdown, NFIP-administered by FEMA, cannot sell new or renewal insurance policies. However, existing NFIP policies will remain in effect until their expiration dates, and claims will continue to be paid until the funds are depleted.\n\nCasework help: If you encounter problems during the shutdown, our office can help connect you with the appropriate federal contacts.\n\nStaying Informed\n\nAs always, our office remains open to serve constituents. If you need assistance with Social Security, Medicare, Veterans\u2019 services or any other federal agency, please contact us at (769) 241-6120.\n\nWhile we cannot expedite agency processing during a funding lapse, our office is here to help navigate available options, and keep you informed of updates as the situation develops.\n\nFor more information or to sign up for my e-newsletter, please visit my website at guest.house.gov.\n\nCongressman Michael Guest represents Mississippi's Third Congressional District. Currently serving his fourth term, Congressman Guest is the Chairman of the Border Security and Enforcement Subcommittee of the Committee on Homeland Security and is also a member of the House Appropriations Committee.", 1, "2026-06-27T21:44:12Z", "2026-06-27T22:31:14Z"], ["https://benniethompson.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-thompson-statement-republican-government-shutdown", "Congressman Thompson Statement on Republican Government Shutdown", "2025-10-01", "2025", "2025-10", "Democrat", "House", "MS", "Bennie G. Thompson", "T000193", "benniethompson.house.gov", "benniethompson", "https://benniethompson.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2013 Today, United States Representative Bennie G. Thompson (D-MS) released the following statement:\n\n\u201cRepublicans control the House, the Senate, and the White House. Yet instead of working together to keep the government open and protect American families, Donald Trump and House Republicans chose to shut it down,\u201d said Rep. Thompson.\n\n\u201cAs the only member of Mississippi\u2019s Congressional House Delegation who voted for the Affordable Care Act, I have always stood with working families who need access to affordable health care. The Republican spending bill does the opposite. It rips away health care from families who finally gained coverage and makes premiums unaffordable for thousands more.\n\n\u201cHealth care should not be a political football. In the richest country in the world, no family should be forced to choose between paying the bills and going to the doctor. Republicans say they care in private, but when it is time to act, they fall in line with Donald Trump. Shame on them.\u201d\n\nIf Congress does not extend health care tax credits immediately, hundreds of thousands of Americans will lose coverage, and millions more will see their costs skyrocket. In Mississippi\u2019s Second Congressional District alone, 81,000 people will see their health care costs rise. For a family of four making $64,000 a year, premiums would increase by $2,571.\n\nRep. Thompson and Democrats are fighting to reopen the government, protect health care, lower out-of-pocket costs, and ensure working families are not left behind.", 1, "2026-04-04T05:28:40Z", "2026-04-04T05:30:10Z"], ["https://ezell.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=1935", "Ezell Statement on Democrat-led Government Shutdown", "2025-10-01", "2025", "2025-10", "Republican", "House", "MS", "Mike Ezell", "E000235", "ezell.house.gov", "ezell", "https://ezell.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27", "scraper", "Today, Congressman Mike Ezell (MS-04) released the following statement after the federal government officially shut down:\n\n\u201cThe House did its job and passed a clean, bipartisan Continuing Resolution to prevent a government shutdown, something I was proud to support. Unfortunately, many in the Senate chose not to advance our package, despite its lack of partisan policies or poison-pill provisions. The result is a shutdown that never should have happened, and it\u2019s the American people who will feel the consequences. I urge my Senate colleagues to come back to the table and work with us to end this lapse quickly and restore stability for the people we serve.\u201d\n\nThe House-passed Continuing Resolution, which Congressman Ezell supported, would have temporarily extended government funding through November 21, allowing additional time for the regular appropriations process to continue without disruption to federal services.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T15:10:06Z"], ["https://benniethompson.house.gov/media/press-releases/jackson-state-university-awarded-us-department-education-grant-rehabilitation", "JACKSON STATE UNIVERSITY AWARDED U.S. DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION GRANT FOR REHABILITATION LONG-TERM TRAINING PROGRAM", "2025-09-29", "2025", "2025-09", "Democrat", "House", "MS", "Bennie G. Thompson", "T000193", "benniethompson.house.gov", "benniethompson", "https://benniethompson.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "BOLTON, MS \u2013 Congressman Bennie G. Thompson (D-MS) is pleased to announce that Jackson State University has been selected to receive funding from the U.S. Department of Education under the Rehabilitation Long-Term Training \u2013 Rehabilitation of the Blind Program (84.129P).\n\nThe university will receive $175,000.00 for the first budget period (October 1, 2025 \u2013 September 30, 2026), with an anticipated total of five years of support. This funding will provide long-term training for rehabilitation counselors who specialize in delivering vocational rehabilitation services to individuals who are blind.\n\n\u201cThis investment in Jackson State University highlights the importance of preparing skilled professionals to assist individuals who are blind in reaching their full potential and achieving independence,\u201d said Congressman Thompson. \u201cI am proud to see JSU continue its leadership in advancing opportunities for students while serving the broader community.\u201d", 1, "2026-04-04T05:28:40Z", "2026-04-04T05:30:10Z"], ["https://ezell.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=1933", "Ezell, Carter, Fletcher Introduce Bipartisan Legislation to Reauthorize National Flood Insurance Program Through November 2025", "2025-09-26", "2025", "2025-09", "Republican", "House", "MS", "Mike Ezell", "E000235", "ezell.house.gov", "ezell", "https://ezell.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27", "scraper", "Today, Representatives Mike Ezell (R-MS-04), Troy Carter (D-LA-02), and Lizzie Fletcher (D-TX-07) introduced critical bipartisan legislation to reauthorize the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) through November 21, 2025, ahead of its scheduled expiration at the end of this month.\n\nWith Congress facing a potential government shutdown, especially amid Senate Democrats inaction, the lawmakers are urgently calling for swift passage of their legislation to prevent the devastating consequences of a lapse in NFIP coverage.\n\n\u201cThe NFIP isn\u2019t just a policy\u2014it\u2019s a critical safeguard for millions of families, homeowners, and businesses across the country,\u201d Ezell said. \u201cIn Mississippi and other flood-prone areas, this program is often the only thing standing between families and financial devastation. Letting it lapse because of political brinkmanship in Washington would be reckless, irresponsible, and dangerous. A shutdown shouldn\u2019t be allowed to jeopardize disaster recovery, delay home sales, or leave flood victims waiting for the help they desperately need. We must act now to protect our communities and ensure the NFIP remains strong and uninterrupted.\u201d\n\n\"We cannot allow the dysfunction of government to punish everyday Americans by letting the National Flood Insurance Program lapse, leaving families and businesses without critical protection. This program is not only vital to Louisiana but to communities across the nation that face the growing risk of flooding. I have consistently stressed, since filing a long-term reauthorization earlier this year, that NFIP authorizations should not be tied to contentious government funding battles that put homeowners in jeopardy. Instead, we must provide this program with long-term certainty so that Congress can focus on modernizing the NFIP and ensuring it remains affordable and accessible for everyone,\" Carter said.\n\n\u201cOnce again this year, we have seen the devastating impacts of flooding in Texas,\u201d Fletcher said. \u201cIt is critical that Congress works to protect communities across the country from the devastating impacts of flooding, and reauthorizing the NFIP is an important part of that effort. If the NFIP lapses, Texans with flood insurance would be unable to renew their policies, leaving them vulnerable during hurricane season. I am glad to work with my colleagues to prevent a costly lapse in our constituents\u2019 access to flood insurance.\u201d\n\nIf the NFIP is allowed to expire:\n\nThe program\u2019s borrowing authority will be capped at just $1 billion, risking delays in claim payments until sufficient premiums are collected.\n\nOver 4.7 million flood insurance policies across 22,718 communities in all 50 states will be jeopardized.\n\nNew flood insurance policies cannot be issued or renewed, preventing homebuyers and businesses from closing, renewing, or increasing loans.\n\nThe 2010 lapse in NFIP led to over 1,400 home sale closings canceled or delayed per day\u2014a blow to the housing market and local economies.\n\nWithout action, a government shutdown would leave the NFIP in limbo, putting homeowners, small businesses, and entire communities at risk\u2014particularly during the height of hurricane season.\n\nEzell, Carter, and Fletcher emphasized that while this reauthorization ensures short-term stability, it must pave the way for a long-term, comprehensive NFIP reform to modernize the program and strengthen it for future generations.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T15:07:37Z"], ["https://benniethompson.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-thompson-announces-institute-museum-and-library-services-awards", "Congressman Thompson Announces Institute of Museum and Library Services Awards to Jackson State University and Shape Up Mississippi", "2025-09-24", "2025", "2025-09", "Democrat", "House", "MS", "Bennie G. Thompson", "T000193", "benniethompson.house.gov", "benniethompson", "https://benniethompson.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "BOLTON, MS \u2013 Congressman Bennie G. Thompson (D-MS) is pleased to announce that the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS) has awarded two Museum Grants for African American History and Culture (AAHC) to institutions in Mississippi.\n\nJackson State University has been awarded $317,039, for the project \u201cBuilding the Capacity of the Margaret Walker Center: Improved and Expanded Access to Collections.\u201d The Margaret Walker Center (MWC) at Jackson State University will move its archives to secure, environmentally controlled, temporary storage during building renovations and HVAC replacement made necessary due to severe storm damage in 2023. During this project, the MWC will build upon the HBCU History and Culture Access Consortium (HCAC), a digital humanities initiative with the Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture in two ways: digitizing nearly 1,000 oral histories most threatened by the environmental challenges in Ayer Hall and transferring 35,000 items from a fee-based digital platform to an open-source program used in the HCAC. These efforts will guarantee long-term preservation and access to MWC's collections.\n\nShape Up Mississippi has been awarded $98,000, for the project \u201cCollaborative Capacity Building: Cultural Connections and Bridging Heritage.\u201d The Catfish Row Museum (CRM) will partner with the Mound Bayou Museum (MBM) to develop and expand public programs and exhibitions. Project activities include the creation of a short film, and two permanent timeline exhibits that highlight the contributions of Vicksburg and Mound Bayou during significant historical phases, such as the cotton plantation era, slavery, the Civil War, Reconstruction, and the Civil Rights Movement. These exhibits will showcase community resilience and the shared history of both museums, emphasizing the narrative of cooperation that led to the founding of Mound Bayou by formerly enslaved people. Professional development workshops aimed at enhancing museum operations and management will be facilitated by experienced museum professionals in collaboration with local Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs), specifically Jackson State University and Tougaloo College. This initiative aims to empower both museums, ensuring they effectively serve their communities while promoting a deeper understanding of their shared cultural heritage.\n\n\u201cThese investments not only preserve and expand access to African American history and culture, but also strengthen the capacity of our local institutions to tell the stories that matter to our communities,\u201d said Congressman Thompson. \u201cJackson State University and Shape Up Mississippi are doing vital work to safeguard history, empower communities, and ensure that future generations have access to these cultural treasures.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:10:29Z"], ["https://benniethompson.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-thompson-announces-fiscal-year-2025-nonprofit-security-grant", "Congressman Thompson Announces Fiscal Year 2025 Nonprofit Security Grant Program (NSGP)", "2025-09-22", "2025", "2025-09", "Democrat", "House", "MS", "Bennie G. Thompson", "T000193", "benniethompson.house.gov", "benniethompson", "https://benniethompson.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2013 Today, Congressman Bennie G. Thompson announced Mississippi\u2019s open application period for the U.S. Department of Homeland Security's Nonprofit Security Grant Program (NSGP) for Fiscal Year (FY) 2025. The NSGP provides funding for physical security enhancements and other security-related activities for eligible nonprofit organizations anywhere in the country that are at risk of a terrorist attack.\n\nCongressman Thompson has been a steadfast advocate for the NSGP. Under his leadership as chairman of the Committee on Homeland Security in the U.S. House of Representatives, Congress enacted the Securing American Nonprofit Organizations Against Terrorism Act (P.L. No: 116-108), which was sponsored by Congressman Thompson. This legislation formally authorized the NSGP, increased NSGP funding, and made funds available to nonprofit organizations located in rural and urban areas. In 2022, Congress enacted the Nonprofit Security Grant Program Improvement Act of 2022 (P.L. No: 117-263), which was also sponsored by Congressman Thompson. This legislation increased NSGP\u2019s funding, strengthened its impact and effectiveness, and ensured greater resources to protect nonprofit organizations across the nation.\n\n\u201cThe Nonprofit Security Grant Program empowers nonprofit organizations, including houses of worship, to continue serving their communities without fear or disruption. Given the concerning rise of violent threats targeting these institutions, it is imperative that Federal resources are made available to protect and preserve nonprofits and safeguard our communities.\u201d\n\nAll grant proposals must be submitted to the Mississippi Office of Homeland Security (MOHS) by 5pm, October 17th, 2025. MOHS will host grant-writing sessions for interested applicants. For additional information on applying for NSGP funding, please visit: https://www.homelandsecurity.ms.gov/grants/homeland-security-non-profit-grant-programs-np", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:10:29Z"], ["https://ezell.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=1921", "Ezell Secures\u00a0FEMA Funding for Repairs to Gulfport\u2019s Ken Combs Pier, Urges Continued Action on Outstanding Recovery Projects", "2025-09-19", "2025", "2025-09", "Republican", "House", "MS", "Mike Ezell", "E000235", "ezell.house.gov", "ezell", "https://ezell.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27", "scraper", "Congressman Mike Ezell (MS-04) announced today that the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has awarded $1,177,927.53 in federal funding to the City of Gulfport for permanent repairs to the Ken Combs Pier, which was severely damaged during Hurricane Zeta in 2020.\n\n\"This is a major win for Gulfport and for our coastal community,\" Ezell said. \"Ken Combs Pier is more than just a structure \u2014 it\u2019s a community landmark and an economic driver. I\u2019m proud to support efforts that bring federal resources home to help us rebuild stronger and smarter in the aftermath of the storm. While we\u2019re grateful for this long-awaited funding and want to thank the new Region 4 FEMA Administrator for his efforts in securing this project funding, there are still far too many projects stuck in limbo. Families, small businesses, and local governments are depending on this money to rebuild. My office is continuing to push FEMA to move faster and get our communities the support they deserve to restore and strengthen the places we all call home.\"\n\n\u201cWe are incredibly grateful to Congressman Ezell for his persistent advocacy in securing this critical funding for the Ken Combs Pier,\" said Mayor Hugh D. Keating. \"This pier is vital to our community, serving both our commercial fishing industry and providing recreational opportunities for families. The damage from Hurricane Zeta has impacted our waterfront for far too long, and this FEMA funding will allow us to not only repair but enhance this important community asset. Thanks to our federal delegation's persistence, we look forward to proceeding with these repairs and restoring this landmark for current and future generations of Gulfport residents.\"\n\nWhile this announcement marks a significant step forward, many other communities across South Mississippi are still waiting on FEMA to make decisions on pending disaster recovery projects. Ezell's office is continuing to push FEMA to finalize and award funds for multiple communities across Mississippi's Fourth Congressional District.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T15:07:37Z"], ["https://benniethompson.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-thompson-announces-731782-us-department-transportation-grant", "Congressman Thompson Announces $731,782 U.S. Department of Transportation Grant to Panola County", "2025-09-18", "2025", "2025-09", "Democrat", "House", "MS", "Bennie G. Thompson", "T000193", "benniethompson.house.gov", "benniethompson", "https://benniethompson.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "BOLTON, MS \u2013 Today, United States Representative Bennie G. Thompson (D-MS) announced that the U.S. Department of Transportation has awarded a grant of $731,782 to Panola County through the Federal Aviation Administration\u2019s (FAA) Airport Improvement Program (AIP).\n\nThe funding will support improvements at the Panola County Airport (PMU) in Batesville, MS. Specifically, the project will reconstruct existing Taxiway \u201cA\u201d lighting that has reached the end of its useful life.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:10:29Z"], ["https://ezell.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=1920", "Ezell Applauds Passage of Legislation to Protect the Mississippi Sound Through Transportation and Infrastructure Committee", "2025-09-18", "2025", "2025-09", "Republican", "House", "MS", "Mike Ezell", "E000235", "ezell.house.gov", "ezell", "https://ezell.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27", "scraper", "This week, the Transportation and Infrastructure Committee passed bipartisan legislation that includes Mississippi in a critical environmental program aimed at protecting the Mississippi Sound \u2014 one of the state\u2019s most valuable natural resources.\n\nThe legislation directs the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to officially review Mississippi for inclusion in the National Estuary Program, ensuring the Mississippi Sound Estuary Program (MSEP) receives the attention and potential federal funding it deserves.\n\n\u201cThis is a major win for Mississippi,\u201d Ezell said. \u201cThe Mississippi Sound is vital to our seafood industry, tourism, and the livelihoods of countless coastal families. This legislation ensures Mississippi gets a fair shake by requiring the EPA to evaluate our estuary for national designation and support. By advancing this bill out of committee, we\u2019re taking a critical step toward strengthening the health and economy of Mississippi\u2019s coast for future generations.\u201d\n\n\u201cWe would like to thank Congressman Ezell and the rest of the committee for highlighting the need to recognize Mississippi Sound as an estuary of national significance. The community and congressional support received so far has been tremendous and emphasizes the importance of protecting this waterbody and its watershed.\u201d said Eric Sparks, Director of the Mississippi Sound Estuary Program.\n\nThe Mississippi Sound supports rich commercial fisheries, vital wetlands, barrier islands, and recreational waters that drive economic growth across the region. The MSEP focuses on protecting these natural assets while fostering sustainable development and resilience to environmental challenges.\n\nThe legislation now moves to the full House for consideration.\n\nBackground:\n\nMississippi is currently the only Gulf Coast state\u2014and one of just three coastal states nationwide\u2014without a nationally designated estuary. No new estuaries have been added to the National Estuary Program (NEP) in over 30 years, leaving Mississippi at a disadvantage when it comes to federal support for coastal protection.\n\nEstuaries in the NEP receive hundreds of thousands of dollars annually for clean water, shoreline protection, and watershed restoration programs. These funds also support education and industry engagement to protect the environment while supporting economic growth.\n\nLocal companies and organizations already partner with the Mississippi Sound Estuary Program (MSEP)\u2014but without national designation, Mississippi misses out on additional funding, including grants and Bipartisan Infrastructure Law (BIL) resources.\n\nThe Mississippi Sound Estuary spans three major watersheds that directly impact coastal ecosystems, including the state\u2019s critical oyster beds. National recognition would unlock vital resources to improve water quality, resilience, and economic sustainability along Mississippi\u2019s coast.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T15:07:37Z"], ["https://benniethompson.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-bennie-g-thompson-calls-federal-investigation-death-delta-state", "Congressman Bennie G. Thompson Calls for Federal Investigation into Death of Delta State University Student", "2025-09-16", "2025", "2025-09", "Democrat", "House", "MS", "Bennie G. Thompson", "T000193", "benniethompson.house.gov", "benniethompson", "https://benniethompson.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2013 Today, Congressman Bennie G. Thompson (MS-02) called on the United States Department of Justice (DOJ) and the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) to launch a federal investigation into the suspicious death of Demartravion \u201cTrey\u201d Reed, a 21-year-old Black male from Grenada, Mississippi. Reed was found hanging from a tree on the campus of Delta State University, a tragedy that has left his family and community searching for answers.\n\n\u201cIt is always a tragedy when a young life is cut short,\u201d said Congressman Thompson. \u201cWe must leave no stone unturned in the search for answers. While the details of this case are still emerging, we cannot ignore Mississippi\u2019s painful history of lynching and racial violence against African Americans. My deepest condolences and prayers are with Trey\u2019s family during this difficult time.\u201d\n\nCongressman Thompson stressed the importance of federal involvement to ensure a full and impartial investigation. \u201cFederal resources are critical in cases like this,\u201d he said. \u201cThe FBI has the tools and experience necessary to conduct a thorough, unbiased inquiry, and time is of the essence. I have also spoken directly with Trey\u2019s family, and they, along with the community, deserve nothing less than a complete and transparent investigation.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:10:29Z"], ["https://ezell.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=1915", "Ezell Applauds House Passage of the FY'26 National Defense Authorization Act", "2025-09-12", "2025", "2025-09", "Republican", "House", "MS", "Mike Ezell", "E000235", "ezell.house.gov", "ezell", "https://ezell.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27", "scraper", "Congressman Mike Ezell (MS-04) released the following statement after voting in favor of the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) earlier this week, which passed the House by a vote of 231-196:\n\n\u201cThis year\u2019s National Defense Authorization Act restores what our military should be focused on: strength, accountability, and readiness. It puts an end to divisive political agendas and refocuses our defense efforts on winning wars, not wokeness,\u201d Ezell said. \u201cOur troops deserve a defense policy that backs them up with the tools, pay, and support they\u2019ve earned\u2014and this bill delivers. This is a win for our military, American manufacturing, and national security. The Senate must act swiftly to send this critical legislation to President Trump's desk.\u201d\n\nThe FY'26 NDAA included two amendments, Amendment No. 116 and No. 117, submitted by Ezell, which passed by voice vote.\n\nAmendment No. 116 \u2013 Adds language to match the Senate version of the NDAA included language supporting sea launch of missile defense targets.\n\nAmendment No. 117 \u2013 Authorizes $3M in FY2026 for SOCOM Program Element 1160405BB to procure ultra-light (<6 lb) Group-1 small unmanned aerial systems (sUAS). Mirrors verbatim the Senate NDAA report (S. 2296 \u2013 S. Rept. 119-39). Special Operations Forces need agile, resilient tools to sustain dominance in contested environments.\n\nKey highlights of the House-passed NDAA include:\n\nRefocuses Military Priorities: Codifies President Trump\u2019s efforts to eliminate left-wing ideology, DEI mandates, and \u201cwoke\u201d initiatives within the Department of Defense\u2014returning the focus to lethality, merit, and accountability.\n\nStrengthens Border Security: Fully funds and expands the Department of Defense's support for the Department of Homeland Security\u2019s border security operations.\n\nImproves Military Readiness and Innovation: Implements major reforms to the DoD acquisition process\u2014accelerating delivery of advanced technology to the warfighter and cutting red tape, consistent with President Trump\u2019s executive orders.\n\nSupports Servicemembers and Military Families: Delivers a 3.8% pay raise for servicemembers and enhances benefits for military families, reinforcing America\u2019s commitment to the men and women in uniform.\n\nBoosts National Defense Capabilities: Fully funds top defense priorities such as the Golden Dome, F-47 fighter aircraft, submarines, warships, and autonomous weapons systems.\n\nRebuilds the Defense Industrial Base: Authorizes funding and new authorities to revitalize U.S. defense manufacturing, create American jobs, and onshore critical supply chains.\n\nDemands Fair Burden-Sharing: Includes new measures to ensure our allies contribute more to their own defense\u2014reducing the burden on American taxpayers.\n\nDelivers Real Savings: Achieves over $20 billion in savings, including $15 billion from Trump-era defense reform initiatives.\n\nPrepares for Future Threats: Enhances readiness for potential conflict in the Indo-Pacific and extends counterterrorism authorities to keep Americans safe.\n\nPromotes Energy Independence: Codifies President Trump\u2019s executive order advancing energy security and development of next-generation nuclear power for defense applications.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T15:07:37Z"], ["https://ezell.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=1916", "Ezell Reinstitutes the Congressional Bipartisan Flood Resilience Caucus; Sends Letter Urging Reauthorization of the National Flood Insurance Program", "2025-09-12", "2025", "2025-09", "Republican", "House", "MS", "Mike Ezell", "E000235", "ezell.house.gov", "ezell", "https://ezell.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27", "scraper", "Today, Congressman Mike Ezell (MS-04) announced that he will be reinstituting the Bipartisan Flood Resilience Caucus for the 119th Congress. Joining him as co-chairs are Reps. Lizzie Fletcher (D-TX), Randy Weber (R-TX), and Troy Carter (D-LA).\n\nThe caucus will use proactive strategies and policy tools to protect residents, including the more than 40 million Americans who live in communities at high risk of severe flood damage. Extreme flooding ruins homes and property, uproots lives, and leaves a devastating impact. Pre-disaster strategies to educate and alert the public, as well as investments in both traditional and flood control infrastructure, are critical to avert the post-disaster devastation so many communities face.\n\n\"I'm proud to co-lead the Bipartisan Flood Resilience Caucus to help make sure our coastal communities have the tools they need to prepare for and recover from flooding,\u201d Ezell said. \u201cIn South Mississippi, we know how important strong infrastructure and smart planning are. Flooding is the most common\u2014and costly\u2014natural disaster in the U.S., and it can affect anyone, even those outside high-risk areas. That\u2019s why flood insurance and strong federal support are so important. I look forward to working with our co-chairs and across the aisle to protect lives, property, and our economy from future flood risks.\u201d\n\n\"My district knows firsthand the danger and destruction that flooding brings,\u201d Carter said. \u201cAs the climate changes, more and more communities will also be threatened by extreme flooding. We must take federal action to ensure that our nation is not only prepared to respond to flooding disasters, but to adapt our systems and infrastructure to be more resilient and better able to weather any storm. I\u2019m proud to be a part of this caucus and to be a leader in this effort.\"\n\n\u201cAs a lifelong resident of the Gulf Coast, I have seen numerous storms and other natural disasters wreak havoc on our communities,\u201d Weber said. \u201cOver 120 million people live in coastal communities across the country, and ensuring our government can help uplift those impacted by natural disasters is a key goal of mine. As a co-leader of the Bipartisan Flood Resilience Caucus, I look forward to working with my colleagues to strengthen the resilience of our coastal communities.\u201d\n\n\u201cOnce again this year, we have seen the devastating impacts of flooding in Texas,\u201d Fletcher said. \u201cIt is critical that Congress works to protect communities across the country from the devastating impacts of flooding, and so I am glad to reestablish the Congressional Flood Resilience Caucus. I look forward to working with Representatives Weber, Carter, and Ezell and all of the caucus\u2019 members to address the needs of our communities and develop policies to prepare for and respond to the threats that flooding poses across the country.\u201d\n\nIn coordination with the launch of this Caucus, Congressmen Mike Ezell (R-MS), Troy Carter (D-LA), and Cleo Fields (D-LA) sent a letter urging immediate action on long-term reauthorization of the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) as it will lapse in late September. The Members emphasized that NFIP is a lifeline for homeowners, small businesses, and entire communities who are vulnerable to flooding.\n\n\u201cMost homeowners\u2019 insurance policies do not cover flood damage, with flood insurance being the only remedy to cover the cost of rebuilding, underscoring the tremendous importance of NFIP. This program creates faster paths to recovery and provides peace of mind for homeowners across the nation, for a situation that could otherwise be life-ruining and involve financial devastation,\u201d the Members wrote. \u201cA lapse in the program\u2019s authorization means new policies could not be issued, existing policies could not be renewed, and real estate transactions in flood-prone areas may stall, leaving homeowners and businesses vulnerable. This could ultimately result in housing market instability, jeopardizing the financial security of our constituents.\u201d\n\nRead the full letter here.\n\nBackground\n\nThis is not simply a coastal issue, as nearly all communities face some level of flood risk. Since 1996, flood events have occurred in all 50 states and 99% of U.S. counties, as it is the most common and costliest natural disaster.\n\nThe Flood Resilience Caucus plans to discuss a wide variety of topics, including;\n\nReauthorization and modernization of the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP);\n\nEnsuring federal disaster funding is delivered to communities efficiently and effectively;\n\nCoastal habitat restoration and protection;\n\nEliminating duplicative administrative burdens for disaster aid; and,\n\nSupporting the foundational mission of FEMA and a robust federal disaster response.\n\nMembers of the Bipartisan Flood Resilience Caucus recognize the importance of acting now to adapt communities and build resilience in the face of rising sea levels and extreme weather events. Research shows that proactive investments in adaptive measures, such as elevating homes and retrofitting infrastructure, can save taxpayers an average of six dollars for every one dollar of federal spending.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T15:07:37Z"], ["https://ezell.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=1913", "Ezell Honors the Memory of 9/11 on Anniversary of the Tragic Attacks", "2025-09-11", "2025", "2025-09", "Republican", "House", "MS", "Mike Ezell", "E000235", "ezell.house.gov", "ezell", "https://ezell.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27", "scraper", "Today, on the solemn anniversary of the attacks on September 11, 2001, Representative Mike Ezell (MS-04) joins the nation in remembering the nearly 3,000 innocent lives lost and honoring the bravery of first responders, military personnel, and countless Americans who answered the call to serve.\n\n\u201cOn this day, we pause to reflect on the tragedy that forever changed our country. We honor the memory of those who perished, the heroes who risked everything to save others, and the resilience of a nation united in the face of unspeakable horror,\u201d Ezell said. \u201cTheir courage and sacrifice inspire us to uphold the values of freedom, justice, and unity that define America. May we never forget the lessons of that day, and may we always strive to build a safer, stronger America for future generations.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T15:07:37Z"], ["https://benniethompson.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-thompson-announces-659341-award-mississippi-manufacturers", "Congressman Thompson Announces $659,341 Award to Mississippi Manufacturers Association", "2025-09-03", "2025", "2025-09", "Democrat", "House", "MS", "Bennie G. Thompson", "T000193", "benniethompson.house.gov", "benniethompson", "https://benniethompson.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "BOLTON, MS \u2013 Today, Congressman Bennie G. Thompson (MS-02) announced that the U.S. Department of Commerce\u2019s National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST), through its Manufacturing Extension Partnership (MEP) Program, has awarded $659,341 to the Mississippi Manufacturers Association (MMA) in Jackson, Mississippi.\n\nThis award supports the continued operation of the MEP Center for Mississippi, which provides vital manufacturing extension services to primarily small and medium-sized manufacturers across the state.\n\nThrough its collaborations at the federal, state, and local level, and institutes of higher education, the Center will work with manufacturers in the areas of supplier scouting, product design, automation, workforce development and planning, and training. The Center will conduct business competitive review assessments, analysis of operations, apprenticeship design. MMA continues their focus on workplace and workforce modernization strategies.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T15:07:37Z"], ["https://ezell.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=1902", "Ezell Introduces Resolution Honoring the  20th Anniversary of Hurricanes Katrina and Rita", "2025-08-29", "2025", "2025-08", "Republican", "House", "MS", "Mike Ezell", "E000235", "ezell.house.gov", "ezell", "https://ezell.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27", "scraper", "On the 20th anniversary of Hurricane Katrina\u2019s landfall, Congressman Mike Ezell (MS-4) introduced a resolution in the U.S. House of Representatives today to honor the lives lost and the communities forever changed by Hurricanes Katrina and Rita, and to recognize the ongoing efforts to rebuild and strengthen the Gulf Coast region.\n\nThe resolution observes the anniversaries of these two devastating storms and acknowledges the resilience of the people in Mississippi and across the Gulf Coast who came together to recover, rebuild, and move forward in the face of extraordinary loss.\n\n\u201cTwenty years ago today, our Coast faced unimaginable devastation,\u201d Ezell said. \u201cWe lost lives, homes, businesses, and a way of life. But we also saw the incredible strength of our people\u2014neighbors helping neighbors, communities refusing to give up, and a region committed to rising again. This resolution honors those we lost, those who served, and the work that continues to this day. This anniversary is not just about remembering what we lost. It\u2019s about recognizing how far we\u2019ve come and recommitting to ensuring our communities are prepared, supported, and never forgotten.\u201d\n\nHurricane Katrina struck the Gulf Coast on August 29, 2005, followed less than a month later by Hurricane Rita on September 24, compounding destruction across the region. Together, the storms caused over 1,800 deaths and tens of billions in damages, displacing hundreds of thousands of Americans.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T14:57:50Z"], ["https://benniethompson.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-thompson-announces-45-million-department-transportation-grant", "Congressman Thompson Announces $4.5 Million Department of Transportation Grant for Greenwood-Leflore Airport", "2025-08-21", "2025", "2025-08", "Democrat", "House", "MS", "Bennie G. Thompson", "T000193", "benniethompson.house.gov", "benniethompson", "https://benniethompson.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "BOLTON, MS \u2013 Today, Congressman Bennie G. Thompson (MS-02) announced a $4,593,322 grant award from the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to support critical infrastructure improvements at Greenwood-Leflore Airport (GWO) in Carroll County, Mississippi.\n\nThe funding, awarded through the FY25 Airport Improvement Program (AIP), will be used to support a portion of the final phase of the airport\u2019s runway rehabilitation project. This project will rehabilitate 6,501 feet of Runway 18/36, to maintain the structural integrity of the pavement and minimizing foreign object debris.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T14:57:50Z"], ["https://benniethompson.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-thompson-announces-federal-funding-recreational-park-projects-duck", "Congressman Thompson Announces Federal Funding for Recreational Park Projects in Duck Hill and Carrollton", "2025-08-01", "2025", "2025-08", "Democrat", "House", "MS", "Bennie G. Thompson", "T000193", "benniethompson.house.gov", "benniethompson", "https://benniethompson.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "BOLTON, MS \u2013 Today, Congressman Bennie G. Thompson (D-MS) announced two grant awards from the U.S. Department of the Interior\u2019s National Park Service (NPS) through the Land and Water Conservation Fund for recreational development projects in Mississippi's Second Congressional District. The funding, administered through the Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries, and Parks, will support major park improvements in the Town of Duck Hill and Carroll County.\n\nThe Town of Duck Hill has been awarded $97,500 through NPS, with a total project cost of $195,000, for the Binford Park Playground Renovation. The project will demolish the existing playground and surface, replacing them with modern playground equipment and new safety surfaces. Work is expected to be completed by July 28, 2028.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T14:57:50Z"], ["https://ezell.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=1878", "Ezell, Kiggans, Malliotakis Introduce Port Crane Tax Credit of 2025 to Boost National Security and Domestic Manufacturing", "2025-07-30", "2025", "2025-07", "Republican", "House", "MS", "Mike Ezell", "E000235", "ezell.house.gov", "ezell", "https://ezell.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27", "scraper", "U.S. Representatives Mike Ezell (MS-04), Jen Kiggans (VA-02), and Nicole Malliotakis (NY-11) introduced the Port Crane Tax Credit of 2025, legislation to amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to establish tax credits that incentivize the domestic production of port cranes, a critical step toward strengthening U.S. supply chain security and revitalizing American manufacturing.\n\nThe bill comes in response to growing bipartisan concerns over foreign-made port infrastructure\u2014particularly cranes manufactured in adversarial nations\u2014being installed at key U.S. shipping terminals. The proposed tax credit would reduce the financial burden for companies investing in American-made cranes and components, encouraging domestic production and reducing U.S. reliance on foreign suppliers for critical port equipment.\n\n\u201cOur ports are essential to our economy\u2014and our national security,\u201d Ezell said. \u201cThey serve as the gateways for trade, driving billions of dollars in commerce and supporting millions of jobs across the country. But more than that, they are critical infrastructure, and their vulnerability can pose real risks to our national safety. From cybersecurity threats to supply chain disruptions, foreign control over critical components\u2014like ship-to-shore cranes\u2014creates unacceptable exposure to espionage, sabotage, and logistical choke points. The Port Crane Tax Credit of 2025 is about putting American workers and American safety first. It will incentivize the production and deployment of domestically manufactured cranes, reduce our dependence on adversarial nations, and stimulate investment in American manufacturing and innovation. This isn\u2019t just an economic policy\u2014it\u2019s a national security imperative. I\u2019m proud to introduce this legislation to strengthen our ports, empower our workforce, and reinforce the foundation of American resilience.\u201d\n\n\u201cPort security is vital, not just to our economy, but to our national defense. And yet many of these ports don\u2019t get the security they so desperately need. The threat of cyber intrusions and espionage from the Chinese Communist Party is real. We must do everything in our power to protect our critical infrastructure, and that includes securing the cranes that operate at our ports,\" Kiggans said. \"I\u2019m deeply concerned that so many of our ports are forced to use cranes manufactured by Shanghai Zhenhua Heavy Industries (ZPMC), a Chinese state-owned company. It makes no sense to let our top adversary build and maintain the very equipment that powers our supply chains. I\u2019m proud to support the Port Crane Tax Credit Act introduced by my colleague Rep. Ezell, which will empower our port operators to use American-made cranes. Port security is national security. The work our ports do is imperative\u2014we cannot afford to leave that in the hands of the Chinese Communist Party.\u201d\n\n\u201cOur bipartisan legislation delivers strong incentives to produce port cranes and expand domestic manufacturing right here in the United States, advancing our America First agenda to rebuild domestic industry and protect our national security,\u201d Malliotakis said. \u201cFor maritime communities like ours, that means more good-paying jobs, a stronger local economy, and greater independence from foreign supply chains.\u201d\n\n\u201cWithout safe, reliable and affordable cranes, America\u2019s ports would not be able to move the goods that sustain our economy and support the daily lives of American consumers,\u201d Cary S. Davis, AAPA President and CEO said. \u201cInstead of levying unfair taxes on port development, the Port Cranes Tax Credit Act is a tangible first step on the supply side towards incentivizing the reshoring of key CHE in the coming years since there are currently no domestic STS crane manufacturers. We thank lead sponsors Representatives Ezell and Malliotakis, alongside original cosponsors, Representatives Weber and Kiggans, for recognizing the need for supply side incentives - not punishments on the demand side through taxes - and encourage others concerned about the future of the port industry and our nation\u2019s supply chains to support this bill and quickly get it to President Trump\u2019s desk.\u201d\n\n\"Congressman Mike Ezell\u2019s leadership on the Port Crane Tax Credit Act of 2025 is exactly the kind of forward-thinking support Gulf Coast ports like ours need to stay competitive and meet the demands of a modern, American-made supply chain,\" Bo Ethridge, Port Director, Port Pascagoula. \"Port Pascagoula plays a critical role in the regional economy, and as manufacturing continues to return to U.S. shores, our port is experiencing increased demand and new growth opportunities. Yet we remain the only major Gulf Coast port without cargo cranes, which is an infrastructure gap that limits our ability to diversify commodities. This legislation is a vital step toward closing that gap. With federal support, including incentives like this tax credit, we can move forward with the acquisition of two mobile harbor cranes that will significantly enhance our operational capabilities and position us to serve a broader range of industries and cargo types. We\u2019re proud to work alongside Congressman Ezell to strengthen America\u2019s ports and power the future of domestic manufacturing.\"\n\n\u201cCongressman Ezell\u2019s Port Crane Tax Credit Act will help ensure America supports critical infrastructure by growing domestic crane manufacturing capacity,\" Jon Nass, CEO and Executive Director, Port of Gulfport. \"It creates a path to bring new skilled jobs to Mississippi and reinforces our ability to compete globally while supporting our maritime and port industries. We appreciate Congressman Ezell\u2019s leadership on this important legislation.\u201d\n\n\"Strengthening and securing our nation's supply chain resiliency depends on U.S.-built and manufactured port cranes. This bill addresses urgent national security concerns, and our nation\u2019s ports greatly benefit from this proposed legislation to create tax incentives to support domestic production of port infrastructure equipment,\" explained Paul Anderson, Port Tampa Bay President and CEO.\n\n\u201cModern cargo handling equipment is a major capital expense for Port operations. As the largest inland public port and logistic hub in Upstate New York, the Port of Albany couldn\u2019t function without key equipment \u2013 from our mobile harbor cranes to our front loaders and forklifts. We have to keep the supply chain moving. If we have to wait six months, a year, even two years for a piece of equipment to be delivered, that should be unacceptable, but it\u2019s become the norm due to market conditions,\u201d Richard J. Hendrick Sr., Port of Albany CEO and AAPA Board of Directors Vice Chair said. \u201cThe Port\u2019s been operating for almost one hundred years, and the numbers don\u2019t lie \u2013 our overall economic impact on New York State is annually more than $813 million with approximately 4,500 related jobs. Vessel calls have increased 41% during the past year due to Heavy Lift work and breakbulk cargo. I\u2019m proud of those numbers, and the people who make those numbers possible, year after year, but they need to have the right equipment. We need to support onshoring manufacturing and good manufacturing jobs, and to make sure that our U.S. ports are equipped to continue to get the job done. I applaud Representatives Malliotakis and Ezell, and original cosponsors Representatives Weber and Kiggans, for taking decisive action to move the 2025 Port Cranes Tax Credit Act forward.\u201d\n\nThe legislation aligns with broader efforts in Congress to protect critical infrastructure and bolster domestic supply chains in the face of growing economic and geopolitical threats.\n\nThe Port Crane Tax Credit of 2025 is expected to draw bipartisan support and will be referred to the House Committee on Ways and Means for further consideration.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T14:40:33Z"], ["https://benniethompson.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-thompson-announces-over-14-million-clean-water-funding-mississippi", "Congressman Thompson Announces Over $14 Million in Clean Water Funding for Mississippi", "2025-07-29", "2025", "2025-07", "Democrat", "House", "MS", "Bennie G. Thompson", "T000193", "benniethompson.house.gov", "benniethompson", "https://benniethompson.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "BOLTON, MS \u2013 Today, Congressman Bennie G. Thompson (MS-02) announced that the Mississippi Department of Environmental Quality (MDEQ) has been awarded $14,294,000 from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) under the Clean Water Act Title VI program. This award is provided through the Clean Water State Revolving Fund (CWSRF) and is intended to support critical water infrastructure projects across the state.\n\nThe federal funds will be used to provide low-interest financing to communities for the planning, design, and construction of eligible water quality improvement and protection projects. The total project amount, including the state match, is expected to reach $17,152,800.\n\nAdministered by MDEQ, the Clean Water State Revolving Fund provides essential financial support to local communities, enabling them to address aging infrastructure and implement projects that protect and enhance water quality. All assistance will be delivered in the form of loans to subrecipients across the state.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T14:40:33Z"], ["https://benniethompson.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-thompson-announces-nearly-800000-national-science-foundation", "Congressman Thompson Announces Nearly $800,000 in National Science Foundation Awards to Jackson State University and Alcorn State University", "2025-07-25", "2025", "2025-07", "Democrat", "House", "MS", "Bennie G. Thompson", "T000193", "benniethompson.house.gov", "benniethompson", "https://benniethompson.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "BOLTON, MS \u2013 Congressman Bennie G. Thompson (D-MS) is pleased to announce two significant National Science Foundation (NSF) awards supporting advanced research and STEM education initiatives at two of Mississippi\u2019s distinguished Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs).\n\nJackson State University has been awarded $390,000.00 for a project entitled \"Excellence in Research: Processes and Interactions in Plasmonic Systems\" under the direction of Dr. Tigran Shahbazyan. This project, beginning August 1, 2025, will support theoretical and computational research and education focused on strong light-matter interactions in hybrid nanoscale systems. The work aims to contribute to the advancement of knowledge in plasmonic systems, which have applications in optics, communications, and sensing technologies.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T14:40:33Z"], ["https://ezell.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=1877", "Ezell's Bipartisan Bill to Reauthorize the Integrated Ocean Observing System Passes Out of Natural Resources Committee", "2025-07-23", "2025", "2025-07", "Republican", "House", "MS", "Mike Ezell", "E000235", "ezell.house.gov", "ezell", "https://ezell.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27", "scraper", "Today, the House Natural Resources Committee passed legislation introduced by Representative Mike Ezell (R-MS-04) to reauthorize the Integrated Ocean Observing System (IOOS) for five more fiscal years. The bill maintains the program\u2019s funding level at $56 million annually, ensuring continued support for critical ocean and coastal monitoring efforts that benefit fisheries, maritime industries, and coastal communities nationwide.\n\nCosponsors of the legislation include Reps. Bonamici, Weber, Dingell, Radewaggen, Davis, Harder, Casten, Case, Rutherford, Smith, Webster, Haridopolos, Rokuda, Amo, Pallone, Pingree, Stevens, Castor, McBride, Begich, Elfreth, DelBene, Magaziner.\n\nIOOS is a nationally coordinated network of regional observation systems that provides real-time data on ocean conditions, helping to safeguard economic activities, public safety, and environmental health. The reauthorization also includes updates to improve the program\u2019s effectiveness and modernization efforts to meet evolving scientific and operational needs.\n\n\u201cIOOS is essential to keeping coastal economies strong and resilient, especially in Mississippi,\u201d Ezell said. \u201cThis reauthorization ensures we maintain vital ocean monitoring resources while modernizing the program to maximize its impact. Enhanced ocean data collection also improves hurricane forecasting and severe weather preparedness, which can save lives and reduce costly storm damage. I\u2019m proud to lead this legislation as it will support jobs, commerce, and our nation\u2019s leadership in ocean science. I look forward to seeing it come to the House floor for a vote in the near future.\u201d\n\n\u201cCongressman Ezell\u2019s bill will reauthorize the Integrated Coastal and Ocean Observation System Act of 2009,\" House Natural Resources Chairman Westerman said. \"This will ensure that near real-time data is available to manage our nation\u2019s coasts and marine waters. I applaud Rep. Ezell for his work on this legislation and look forward to working with him to help usher this bill through the legislative process.\u201d\n\n\u201cAs the Representative for Texas\u2019 Gulf Coast, I know firsthand how critical reliable ocean monitoring is to protecting our coastal communities, supporting maritime jobs, and strengthening our national economy,\" Weber said. \"The IOOS Reauthorization bill helps us do just that, by improving weather forecasting and ensuring the safety of the hardworking men and women along our shores.\u201d\n\n\u201cThe Integrated Ocean Observing System provides vital weather data that supports fishermen and other hard working Americans who make their living from the ocean,\u201d Magaziner said. \u201cI am proud to help lead this bipartisan effort to reauthorize IOOS and ensure that this critical program continues to serve coastal communities across the country.\u201d\n\nBackground on the IOOS Reauthorization Act of 2025:\n\nClarifying the nature of operational oceanographic data provided by IOOS.\n\nUpdating statutory references to align with current law, including replacing the National Ocean Research Leadership Council with the Ocean Policy Committee.\n\nEnhancing the role of the Interagency Ocean Observation Committee to maximize IOOS\u2019s integration and capabilities.\n\nThe bill\u2019s passage out of committee marks a significant step toward continued federal support for ocean observation infrastructure that underpins economic, environmental, and public safety benefits across the nation.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T14:40:33Z"], ["https://ezell.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=1894", "Ezell Applauds House Passage of the Coast Guard Reauthorization Act of 2025", "2025-07-23", "2025", "2025-07", "Republican", "House", "MS", "Mike Ezell", "E000235", "ezell.house.gov", "ezell", "https://ezell.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27", "scraper", "Today, Coast Guard and Maritime Transportation Subcommittee Chairman Mike Ezell (MS-04) released the following statement after the House of Representatives passed the Coast Guard Reauthorization Act of 2025, bipartisan legislation that ensures continued support for the U.S. Coast Guard and strengthens its ability to protect America\u2019s waterways, coastlines, and maritime interests.\n\n\u201cThe Coast Guard plays a vital role in safeguarding our nation\u2019s security, supporting economic activity, and responding to natural disasters and emergencies\u2014especially along the Gulf Coast,\u201d Ezell said. \u201cThis legislation gives the men and women of the Coast Guard the tools, training, and resources they need to carry out their missions safely and effectively. It not only strengthens our national security but also supports maritime jobs, ensures safe navigation, and protects our natural resources. I was proud to support this bill; it\u2019s a win for Mississippi, a win for the Gulf Coast, and a win for the country.\u201d\n\n\u201cI want to commend the work of Coast Guard and Maritime Transportation Chairman Ezell for his work and leadership on this legislation to provide the men and women of the Coast Guard with the resources they need to carry out their many missions, including protecting our nation\u2019s maritime borders, preventing illegal drugs and migrants from entering the country, and ensuring maritime safety,\u201d T&I Committee Chairman Graves said. \u201cThis legislation builds on the historic investments in modernizing the Coast Guard\u2019s air and sea assets provided by the One Big Beautiful Bill Act, and it supports the administration\u2019s vision to strengthen America\u2019s maritime and shipbuilding capabilities.\u201d\n\nThe Coast Guard Reauthorization Act of 2025 provides funding and operational authorities for the U.S. Coast Guard for the next two years. It includes critical investments in personnel, cutter modernization, infrastructure upgrades, and improved recruitment and retention efforts.\n\nThe bill now heads to the Senate for further consideration.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T14:40:33Z"], ["https://ezell.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=1873", "Ezell Leads Bipartisan Coalition Requesting Funding for the Lower Mississippi River Comprehensive Management Study", "2025-07-18", "2025", "2025-07", "Republican", "House", "MS", "Mike Ezell", "E000235", "ezell.house.gov", "ezell", "https://ezell.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27", "scraper", "Representatives Mike Ezell (R-MS) and Troy A. Carter, Sr. (D-LA) led a letter with four other Members of Congress to the Appropriations Subcommittee on Energy and Water Development asking them to provide at least $7.5 million for the Lower Mississippi River Comprehensive Management Study (LMRCMS) in the next fiscal year. The study aims to provide recommendations for a range of issues related to navigation, flood risk management, water quality, recreation, and ecosystem restoration needs within the Mississippi River and Tributaries system.\n\n\u201cFor nearly a century, the management of the Mississippi River has remained mostly unchanged despite evolving commerce and environmental issues. This study is a pivotal opportunity to align navigation efficiency and safety, flood control systems, and restoration efforts to foster a healthier, safer river system that benefits all stakeholders and river communities,\u201d the Members wrote.\n\nThe USACE sought to complete the $25 million study in five years to provide updated recommendations to Congress and the government by December 2027. Recent extreme high and low water events are creating stressors on the system. This study will propose solutions for the future dynamic operation of structures within the system for successful flood risk management, navigational security, and ecosystem protection. Delays in completing this study can lead to obsolete analysis and cost overruns. Resources are now urgently needed to restart and advance this work.\n\nThe study addresses specific Gulf Coast issues of concern, including saltwater intrusion, which threatens the drinking water supplies of the New Orleans metro region in 2023, and shipping concerns along America\u2019s most important maritime transportation lanes. Other regional issues of concern include addressing agricultural run-off that has led to a 5,500 square mile \u201cdead zone\u201d in the Gulf of America.\n\n\"Funding for the remainder of this study is critical to improving water quality and the long-term health of fisheries and wildlife in the lower Mississippi River Basin,\" said Chris Macaluso, director of fisheries and the Mississippi River Program at the Theodore Roosevelt Conservation Partnership. \u201cThe Corps has been working closely with anglers and hunters throughout this process and our concerns about water and habitat management are being taken seriously. We cannot afford to lose the progress that's already been made.\u201d\n\n\u201cThis study can provide us with the opportunity to revitalize and reimagine how we manage the Lower Mississippi River to better serve both people and nature. After 85 years of largely unchanged management, the study will provide recommendations that can modernize flood control, navigation, recreation and restoration,\u201d said Elizabeth Crow, director of government relations for the Mississippi River Basin at the Nature Conservancy. \u201cThese solutions will strengthen local economies while also making the lower river safer, healthier and more resilient. Congress needs to fulfill its obligation under the 2020 Water Resources Development Act and restart funding for the Army Corps of Engineers to complete the study. It\u2019s time for the lower river\u2019s management to evolve and meet the needs of today.\u201d\n\n\u201cThis study will provide critically important information to bring the management of the Mississippi River into the 21st Century and find win-win solutions that can protect life and property from flooding and preserve American seafood production in the estuaries of Louisiana, Mississippi, and Alabama affected by distribution of the \u201cfresh\u201d River water. It makes no sense to waste the money already spent by ending this study before it is complete. Many thanks to these Congressmen for their leadership,\u201d said Gerald Blessey, Counsel for the Mississippi Sound Coalition.\n\nBackground:\n\nThe letter was signed by 6 Members of Congress, including Reps. Mike Ezell (R-MS), Troy A. Carter, Sr. (D-LA), Cleo Fields (D-LA), Bennie G. Thompson (D-MS), Steve Cohen (D-TN), and Andr\u00e9 Carson (D-IN).", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T14:40:33Z"], ["https://benniethompson.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-thompson-announces-u-s-department-health-and-human-services-awards", "Congressman Thompson Announces U. S. Department of Health and Human Services Awards over $1.5 Million to MS Second District", "2025-07-17", "2025", "2025-07", "Democrat", "House", "MS", "Bennie G. Thompson", "T000193", "benniethompson.house.gov", "benniethompson", "https://benniethompson.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Congressman Thompson Announces U. S. Department of Health and Human Services Awards over $1.5 Million to MS Second District", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T14:40:33Z"], ["https://guest.house.gov/media/press-releases/chairman-guest-opens-hearing-how-ngos-fueled-border-crisis-tax-dollars-were", "Chairman Guest Opens Hearing on How NGOs Fueled the Border Crisis: \u201cTax Dollars Were Used to Form the Final Link in Cartels\u2019 Human Smuggling\u201d", "2025-07-16", "2025", "2025-07", "Republican", "House", "MS", "Michael Guest", "G000591", "guest.house.gov", "guest", "https://guest.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013\u2013 Today, Rep. Michael Guest (R-MS), chairman of the House Homeland Security Subcommittee on Border Security and Enforcement, delivered the following opening statement in a full committee hearing to examine how non-governmental organizations (NGOs) helped facilitate and benefited from the historic Biden-Harris border crisis, as well as how far-left NGOs are still working to help inadmissible aliens undermine federal immigration law under the Trump administration.\n\nWatch Subcommittee Chairman Guest's full opening statement in a hearing entitled, \u201cAn Inside Job: How NGOs Facilitated the Biden Border Crisis.\u201d\n\nAs prepared for delivery:\n\nFor four years, the Biden-Harris administration created the worst border crisis in American history. From day one, Biden, Harris, and Department of Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas implemented a policy of mass catch-and-release, dismantled effective border-security policies, and gutted interior enforcement. As a result, roughly 13 million inadmissible aliens were either encountered at our borders or entered as gotaways. The consequences have been devastating.\n\nThousands of Americans were lost to fentanyl poisonings. Gang members wreaked havoc in local communities. Young women like Laken Riley, Jocelyn Nungaray, and Rachel Morin were raped, abused, and murdered by illegal aliens.\n\nThis committee led the way in impeaching Secretary Mayorkas for his willful and systemic refusal to enforce longstanding immigration laws\u2014laws passed and amended over the years by bipartisan majorities in Congress. The American people also emphatically rejected the open-borders policies at the ballot box last November.\n\nWhat is not known by many, and what will be highlighted today at this hearing, is that the Biden-Harris administration could not execute an open borders policy on its own. They needed help, and that help came from non-governmental organizations (NGOs) funded by the federal government.\n\nThese groups that received billions in taxpayer funding would prove instrumental in helping the Biden-Harris administration process and release a historic number of illegal aliens into our communities.\n\nUnder a DHS program called the Emergency Food and Shelter Humanitarian Program (EFSP-H), which later became the Shelter and Services Program, the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) provided grants to numerous NGOs, many of whom were operating at the Southwest border. These groups spent billions of taxpayer dollars given to them by the Biden and Harris administration to provide all manner of benefits to illegal aliens \u201crecently released from DHS custody,\u201d according to the department.\n\nOur taxpayer dollars were spent on purchasing tens of thousands of nights in hotel rooms for illegal aliens, instead of using existing ICE detention facilities to house those detained individuals. The Biden-Harris Administration sent taxpayer dollars to NGOs to put them in hotels at the cost of hundreds of dollars per night, often without any ICE supervision.\n\nEven worse, our tax dollars were used to form the final link in the cartels\u2019 human smuggling operation, paying to help illegal aliens travel to their preferred destination\u2014Chicago, New York, Miami, Los Angeles, and other destinations of choice.\n\nJason Owens, then-chief of the Border Patrol\u2019s Del Rio Sector, told us in an official interview, \u201cICE would then turn [illegal aliens] over to NGOs for them to travel to wherever they were going to go while they await their hearing.\u201d\n\nRecent studies have shown that illegal aliens who passed through the doors of these NGOs at the border ended up in effectively every congressional district in this country. Many of the NGOs served as a launching pad for mass illegal immigration.\n\nThe abuse was so widespread that even the Biden-Harris administration and the NGOs couldn\u2019t deny what was happening. In June 2022, one DHS official said the department \u201cwill continue to closely coordinate with and support\u2026NGOs to facilitate the movement of any individual encountered at the Southwest border\u2026\u201d John Martin with the Opportunity Center for the Homeless, an NGO in El Paso, said that his organization works with illegal aliens to \u201cfacilitate travel to the destination of their choice.\u201d\n\nThese actions appear to constitute a violation of Section 274 of the Immigration and Nationality Act, which prohibits any individual from encouraging or inducing someone to enter the country unlawfully, or helping transport them in the interior.\n\nCorruption and waste were rampant in the spending by NGOs. Under Biden and Harris, DHS\u2019s top watchdog audited millions of dollars that had gone to local grant recipients over a six-month period in 2021. They found that a lack of proper documentation kept them from determining how more than half of that money had been spent. In some cases, they discovered that funds had been used to pay for benefits for individuals who were legally ineligible to receive them.\n\nThe Biden border crisis proved to be a profitable business model for NGOs. According to the Free Press, three large NGOs involved in handling unaccompanied alien children\u2014Global Refuge who received 85 percent of its revenue from government grants, Endeavors who received 97 percent of its funding from government grants and Southwest Key Programs who received an astonishing 99 percent of its revenue from government funding \u2014 these three groups saw \u201ctheir combined revenue grow to an astonishing $2 billion by 2022.\u201d\n\nThey had a vested interest in prolonging the crisis. One NGO, Southwest Key Programs, used the increase in government funding to raise salaries of officers across the board, including an over $675,000 salary increase for their CEO, according to media reporting.\n\nMany NGOs tried to mislead the public in how these funds were being allocated, as documented by a recent Florida grand jury investigation, \u201cactively obstructed\u201d efforts to determine how they were spending federal dollars. The grand jury also noted that some NGOs received the vast majority of their funding from federal grants\u2014pretty interesting for groups calling themselves \u201cnon-governmental organizations.\u201d\n\nThe American people are tired of being told that we should fund the actions of those breaking our laws. They are tired of groups encouraging people to cross the border illegally, and organizations that facilitate the release of illegal aliens into the interior.\n\nWhen would-be border crossers know that a host of benefits awaits them immediately after crossing the border, they are more likely to make the deadly journey. That\u2019s exactly what happened on Biden and Harris\u2019s watch as millions of vulnerable people put themselves in the hands of the cartels and smuggling groups.\n\nAn untold number perished along the route. Tens of thousands more suffered physical and sexual assault on the way, and many are still trapped paying off their cartel debts through forced labor or working in the sex trade.\n\nWe can and should look for ways to care for the vulnerable and less fortunate. But using taxpayer dollars to undermine our laws and the well-being of Americans and migrants alike is not the way to do it. We cannot let taxpayer dollars be used to facilitate lawbreaking. Shining a light on this disgrace is the first step in accountability. This can never happen again.\n\n###", 1, "2026-06-27T21:44:12Z", "2026-06-27T22:31:04Z"], ["https://ezell.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=1861", "Ezell Applauds House Transportation & Infrastructure Committee's Approval of the Coast Guard Authorization Act of 2025", "2025-07-15", "2025", "2025-07", "Republican", "House", "MS", "Mike Ezell", "E000235", "ezell.house.gov", "ezell", "https://ezell.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27", "scraper", "Today, Congressman Mike Ezell (MS-04) released the following statement after the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee approved the Coast Guard Authorization Act of 2025. This bipartisan legislation strengthens and supports the United States Coast Guard by authorizing funding through 2029 for its critical missions, including securing our borders, facilitating maritime commerce, ensuring maritime safety, and more.\n\nThe bill was first introduced by Coast Guard and Maritime Transportation Subcommittee Chairman Mike Ezell (R-MS), Transportation and Infrastructure Committee Chairman Sam Graves (R-MO), Transportation and Infrastructure Committee Ranking Member Rick Larsen (D-WA), and Coast Guard and Maritime Transportation Subcommittee Ranking Member Salud Carbajal (D-CA).\n\n\u201cThe Coast Guard Authorization Act of 2025 is a major step forward in strengthening our national security, modernizing maritime infrastructure, and supporting the dedicated men and women of the Coast Guard,\u201d Subcommittee Chairman Mike Ezell said. \u201cThis bipartisan bill provides the tools, training, and technology our service members need to stay mission-ready \u2014 whether it\u2019s securing our borders, responding to disasters, or ensuring safe maritime commerce. It also builds on the Force Design 2028 strategy to prepare the Coast Guard for the evolving challenges of tomorrow. I\u2019m especially proud that language to establish a Secretary of the Coast Guard, a bill I introduced, is included in this package, helping to ensure strong, accountable leadership at the highest levels of the Service. I look forward to seeing this vital legislation come up for a vote on the House floor in the near future.\u201d\n\n\u201cThis bill provides the men and women of the Coast Guard with the resources they need to carry out their missions, which are critical to ensuring maritime safety, enforcing U.S. laws at sea, and protecting our nation\u2019s borders,\u201d T&I Committee Chairman Graves said. \u201cThe legislation builds upon the One Big Beautiful Bill Act, which provided historic investments for new air and sea assets and upgraded shoreside infrastructure, and it establishes a Coast Guard Service Secretary to provide the Coast Guard parity with other military services and a voice to advocate for its needs. Members of the Coast Guard often go above and beyond the call of duty, a fact clearly demonstrated again during the response to the recent flooding in Texas when Petty Officer Scott Ruskan and the Rescue 6553 air crew team helped save over 165 lives. This committee has a responsibility to make sure that these and all the heroic men and women who serve in the Coast Guard have the resources they need to carry out their missions, and this bill does that.\u201d\n\n\u201cToday's advancement of the Coast Guard Authorization Act of 2025 was a welcome return to this Committee's bipartisan work,\" T&I Committee Ranking Member Larsen said. \"This bill ensures the Coast Guard has the resources it needs to remain mission ready\u2014preventing and responding to oil spills in the Puget Sound, preventing sexual assault and harassment and more\u2014and improve shoreside infrastructure while investing in the women and men who keep our seas safe. I look forward to this bill swiftly reaching the House floor.\u201d\n\n\u201cEvery single day, the Coast Guard goes to work to protect seafarers and beachgoers, and reinforce our national defense,\u201d Subcommittee Ranking Member Carbajal said. \u201cThis bipartisan bill delivers critical resources for the Coast Guard to carry out its missions, modernize infrastructure and safety systems, and enhance quality of life for our Coasties. Just as importantly, it renews our shared commitment to holding the service accountable for meaningful reforms to root out sexual assault and harassment from its ranks.\u201d\n\nThe Coast Guard Authorization Act of 2025 authorizes appropriations for the Service through fiscal year 2029. These authorizations will support Coast Guard operations and the continued recapitalization of its historically underfunded cutter fleet, aviation assets, shoreside facilities, and IT capabilities. The bill modernizes the Coast Guard\u2019s acquisition process, increases transparency and accountability in the Service\u2019s recapitalization efforts, and opens a pathway to the adoption of next-generation autonomous technologies.\n\nThe bill also creates greater parity with the other armed services, including the establishment of a Secretary of the Coast Guard and stronger protections for members of the Coast Guard from sexual assault and harassment, based on legislation the T&I Committee introduced last Congress following the Service\u2019s Operation Fouled Anchor.\n\nFurthermore, the legislation strengthens U.S.-Build requirements and improves accountability to better ensure a healthy, robust U.S. shipbuilding industry, while also making changes to maritime safety laws, amending requirements for merchant mariner credentials to facilitate an increase in the pool of qualified U.S. merchant mariners, increasing vessel safety, and improving regulatory processes.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T14:40:33Z"], ["https://ezell.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=1862", "Ezell\u2019s Cormorant Relief Act Clears\u00a0House Natural Resources Committee", "2025-07-15", "2025", "2025-07", "Republican", "House", "MS", "Mike Ezell", "E000235", "ezell.house.gov", "ezell", "https://ezell.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27", "scraper", "Congressman Mike Ezell (MS-04) announced today that his bill to protect Mississippi\u2019s aquaculture and fishing industries from overpopulation of double-crested cormorants has successfully passed out of the House Natural Resources Committee with bipartisan support.\n\nThe Cormorant Relief Act of 2025 streamlines the management of cormorant populations and restores much-needed flexibility to state and tribal wildlife agencies. These large, fish-eating birds have posed an increasing threat to fish farms and native species across the Gulf Coast, especially in Mississippi\u2019s Fourth District.\n\nThe Senate companion legislation is led by Senator Tom Cotton (R-AR).\n\n\"This is a big win for our catfish farmers, sportsmen, and conservationists,\" Ezell said. \"The overpopulation of cormorants has had a serious impact on our aquaculture industry, and this bill gives local experts the tools they need to protect our fisheries and manage bird populations responsibly. It\u2019s about common sense \u2014 putting decision-making back in the hands of the people who are closest to the issue and understand it best.\"\n\n\"Congressman Ezell\u2019s Cormorant Relief Act puts American farmers back in the driver\u2019s seat and gives them the tools they need to manage their aquaculture facilities,\" House Natural Resources Chairman Westerman said. \"It is commonsense policy that will ensure responsible management of cormorant populations. I\u2019d like to thank him for his work on this legislation and look forward to working with him as the bill continues to advance.\"\n\n\u201cReinstating the federal double-crested cormorant depredation order is critical for Mississippi\u2019s catfish farmers, who lose millions annually to these predatory birds. This measure will empower producers to protect their livelihoods, ensuring a thriving aquaculture industry that supports our state\u2019s economy.\u201d Mike McCormick, President, Mississippi Farm Bureau Federation, said.\n\n\u201cThe population and range of cormorants have steadily grown in recent decades, leading to increased challenges for state and tribal fish hatcheries, the private aquaculture industry, and fisheries managers,\u201d Chris Horton, Senior Director of Fisheries Policy for the Congressional Sportsmen\u2019s Foundation said. \u201cWe applaud Representative Ezell, along with Reps Thompson, Guest and Kelly, for their leadership in addressing the growing cormorant depredation problem without any deleterious effects on cormorant populations.\u201d\n\nFor years, Mississippi producers have voiced concerns about the federal red tape involved in controlling cormorants, whose feeding habits can decimate fish stocks. The Cormorant Relief Act would empower state wildlife agencies to take action without waiting for burdensome federal approvals, while ensuring oversight remains in place to protect migratory bird populations.\n\nThe bill now heads to the House floor for consideration.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T14:40:33Z"], ["https://benniethompson.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-thompson-announces-department-transportation-award-copiah-county", "Congressman Thompson Announces Department of Transportation Award to Copiah County Airport", "2025-07-11", "2025", "2025-07", "Democrat", "House", "MS", "Bennie G. Thompson", "T000193", "benniethompson.house.gov", "benniethompson", "https://benniethompson.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "BOLTON, MS \u2013 Today, Congressman Bennie G. Thompson (MS-02) announced the U.S. Department of Transportation has awarded $570,950 to Copiah County Airport through the Federal Aviation Administration. The funds will be used to reseal 4,007 feet of existing runway 18/36 pavement and reconstruct 57,000 square yards of the existing main apron pavement that has reached the end of its useful life.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T14:40:33Z"], ["https://benniethompson.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-thompson-announces-over-16-million-delta-workforce-grant-funds", "Congressman Thompson Announces over $1.6 Million in Delta Workforce Grant Funds Awarded to Mississippi Second Congressional District", "2025-07-11", "2025", "2025-07", "Democrat", "House", "MS", "Bennie G. Thompson", "T000193", "benniethompson.house.gov", "benniethompson", "https://benniethompson.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "BOLTON, MS \u2013 Today, Congressman Bennie G. Thompson (MS-02) announced the Delta Regional Authority has awarded $1,656,000 in grants to recipients within the Second Congressional District through the Delta Workforce Grant Program (DWP). These investments will support projects and initiatives that address the employment and training needs of the local and regional workforce.\n\nMississippi Second District Recipients:\n\nCity of Natchez was awarded $300,000 to support ready-to-work programming in computer coding and technology and construction trades in five Southwest Mississippi counties and one adjacent Louisiana parish.\n\nWrite Your Own Story was awarded $300,000 for a medical scribe training program that will address the critical need for skilled medical documentation professionals in five rural communities of Coahoma County, MS.\n\nThe University of Memphis, in partnership with Coahoma Community College in Clarksdale, Mississippi, was awarded $300,000 to build institutional capacity for workforce development in Coahoma County, MS, and surrounding areas by investing in state-of-the-art training equipment for a newly renovated workforce development center that will deliver targeted, industry-aligned programs for regional employers.\n\nHolmes County Consolidated School District was awarded approximately $156,000 for a comprehensive CDL training program that will address critical work shortages and regional workforce needs in Holmes County, MS.\n\nBase Camp Coding Academy was awarded $300,000 to provide software development training to new entrants and incumbent workers from North Mississippi for placement in high-paying jobs.\n\nDelta Compass \u2013 Washington County Economic Alliance was awarded $300,000 in support of a workforce funding collaborative that was established to meet the skilled labor needs of over 280 employee partners that have clustered in Washington, Sunflower and Coahoma counties around energy usage and advanced manufacturing.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T14:40:33Z"], ["https://benniethompson.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-bennie-thompson-announces-tougaloo-college-awarded-over-22-million", "Congressman Bennie Thompson Announces Tougaloo College Awarded Over $2.2 Million From National Science Foundation", "2025-07-09", "2025", "2025-07", "Democrat", "House", "MS", "Bennie G. Thompson", "T000193", "benniethompson.house.gov", "benniethompson", "https://benniethompson.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "BOLTON, MS \u2013 Congressman Bennie G. Thompson (MS-02) is pleased to announce that the National Science Foundation (NSF) has awarded Tougaloo College a grant totaling $2,245,846.00 for the project titled \u201cImplementation Project: Strengthening the STEM Pathway through a Holistic Multi-layer Approach.\u201d The award, under the direction of Dr. Manliang Feng, will begin on August 1, 2025.\n\nThis funding will support a comprehensive institutional effort aimed at increasing the number of students earning undergraduate degrees in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM), while also building research capacity in STEM education.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T14:40:33Z"], ["https://ezell.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=1856", "T&I Leaders Introduce Coast Guard Authorization Act of 2025", "2025-07-07", "2025", "2025-07", "Republican", "House", "MS", "Mike Ezell", "E000235", "ezell.house.gov", "ezell", "https://ezell.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27", "scraper", "Last week, Coast Guard and Maritime Transportation Subcommittee Chairman Mike Ezell (R-MS), Transportation and Infrastructure Committee Chairman Sam Graves (R-MO), Transportation and Infrastructure Committee Ranking Member Rick Larsen (D-WA), and Coast Guard and Maritime Transportation Subcommittee Ranking Member Salud Carbajal (D-CA) introduced bipartisan legislation to strengthen, support, and authorize funding through 2029 for the United States Coast Guard and its critical missions to safeguard the nation\u2019s borders, facilitate maritime commerce, ensure maritime safety, and more.\n\n\u201cThe Coast Guard Authorization Act of 2025 marks a critical step forward in bolstering our national security, modernizing maritime infrastructure, and supporting the dedicated men and women of the United States Coast Guard. I commend Chairman Graves for his vision in shaping this important legislation. Our bipartisan bill equips our service members with the tools, training, and advanced technologies needed to counter emerging threats, secure our borders, and promote safe, efficient maritime commerce. As Chairman of the Subcommittee, I\u2019m proud of the collaborative effort that brought this bill to life and of our shared commitment to ensuring the Coast Guard remains mission-ready. This legislation builds on the Administration\u2019s Force Design 2028 strategy, laying the foundation for a stronger, more agile maritime force,\u201dsaid Subcommittee Chairman Ezell.\n\n\u201cThe Coast Guard is one of our nation\u2019s six armed services, and Congress must provide these brave men and women the support they need to carry out their many missions. That\u2019s exactly what this bill does,\u201d said T&I Committee Chairman Graves. \u201cFrom protecting our maritime borders, to stemming the tide of illegal migrants and drugs into the country, to ensuring the safety of mariners and much more, this bill supports the important security, safety, and economically critical work of the Coast Guard.\u201d\n\n\u201cThe women and men who keep our seas and coastlines safe from my home state of Washington to the Coast Guard Academy in Connecticut deserve our full support, and that\u2019s what this bipartisan bill delivers,\u201d said T&I Committee Ranking Member Larsen. \u201cFrom preventing oil spills on the U.S.-Canada border near the Puget Sound to ensuring the Coast Guard is prepared for tsunamis to cracking down on the scourge of sexual assault and harassment in the service, this bill will improve the quality of life for Coasties, increase maritime safety and strengthen our national security. I look forward to its swift passage.\u201d\n\n\u201cEvery single day, the Coast Guard goes to work to protect seafarers and beachgoers, and reinforce our national defense,\u201d said Subcommittee Ranking Member Carbajal. \u201cThis bipartisan bill delivers critical resources for the Coast Guard to carry out its missions, modernize infrastructure and safety systems, and enhance quality of life for our Coasties. Just as importantly, it renews our shared commitment to holding the service accountable for meaningful reforms to root out sexual assault and harassment from its ranks.\u201d\n\nThe Coast Guard Authorization Act of 2025 authorizes appropriations for the Service through fiscal year 2029. These authorizations will support Coast Guard operations and the continued recapitalization of its historically underfunded cutter fleet, aviation assets, shoreside facilities, and IT capabilities. The bill modernizes the Coast Guard\u2019s acquisition process, increases transparency and accountability in the Service\u2019s recapitalization efforts, and opens a pathway to the adoption of next-generation autonomous technologies.\n\nThe bill, with a provision led by Ezell, also creates greater parity with the other armed services, including the establishment of a Secretary of the Coast Guard and stronger protections for members of the Coast Guard from sexual assault and harassment, based on legislation the T&I Committee introduced last Congress following the Service\u2019s Operation Fouled Anchor.\n\nFurthermore, the legislation strengthens U.S.-Build requirements and improves accountability to better ensure a healthy, robust U.S. shipbuilding industry, while also making changes to maritime safety laws, amending requirements for merchant mariner credentials to facilitate an increase in the pool of qualified U.S. merchant mariners, increasing vessel safety, and improving regulatory processes.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T14:40:33Z"], ["https://benniethompson.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-bennie-g-thompson-statement-passage-republicans-big-beautiful-bill", "Congressman Bennie G. Thompson Statement on the Passage of the Republicans\u2019 \u2018Big Beautiful Bill\u2019", "2025-07-03", "2025", "2025-07", "Democrat", "House", "MS", "Bennie G. Thompson", "T000193", "benniethompson.house.gov", "benniethompson", "https://benniethompson.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2013 Today, Rep. Bennie G. Thompson (D-MS) voted against House Republicans\u2019 \u2018One Big Ugly Bill\u2019 (H.R. 1). The legislation includes drastic cuts to Medicaid, the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), College Education, Grants and Loans, Veterans Benefits and other programs essential for Mississippians to enjoy a basic quality of life.\n\nCongressman Thompson releases the following statement:\n\n\u201cFrom the beginning of my public service, I\u2019ve made one thing clear: My vote will never hurt people who struggle to make ends meet through no fault of their own. Additionally, as the richest country in the world, we should not penalize people who have not had the same benefits as others by passing legislation targeted at them. Donald Trump makes no bones about his dislike for people who don\u2019t travel in his circle.\n\n\u201cThe Republican bill cuts Medicaid, slashes SNAP, and forces working families to pay more so the wealthy can get another tax break. This bill takes food out of children\u2019s mouths, strips health care from our seniors, and puts college further out of reach for young people just trying to get ahead.\n\n\u201cFor my district, this means closed hospitals, nursing homes, families struggling to afford groceries, and educational opportunities deferred. Republicans priorities are very simple: tax cuts for wealthy and nothing for the people who make this country work.\n\n\u201cThe people of Mississippi, and this country deserve better. I will keep fighting to stop the cruelty pushed by Trump and House Republicans, and I will continue working for a government that delivers for working folks.\u201d\n\nWHAT THIS BILL MEANS FOR MISSISSIPPI:\n\nFood Assistance on the Chopping Block\n\nIn Mississippi\u2019s Second Congressional District, 139,000 people are at risk of losing some or all of their SNAP benefits. This bill includes the largest proposed cuts to food assistance in our nation\u2019s history, putting countless families at risk of going hungry.\n\nHealth Care Coverage Slashed\n\nThe bill cuts more than $1 trillion from Medicaid, Medicare, and the Affordable Care Act. Over 153,000 Mississippians would lose health care coverage, including seniors, people with disabilities, and working families.\n\nRural Hospitals in Danger\n\nAcross the country, 300 rural hospitals could be forced to close. In Mississippi, 8 hospitals are at risk of shutting down, including 4 in the Second Congressional District. These closures would leave many families without access to basic medical care.\n\nHigher Education Out of Reach\n\nThe bill eliminates Grad PLUS loans and reduces Pell Grant support. More than 50,000 students in Mississippi could lose their Pell Grants, including over 20,000 students in the Second District. That means higher costs and fewer opportunities for those trying to earn a college degree.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T14:40:33Z"], ["https://benniethompson.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-thompson-announces-over-739000-federal-aviation-grants-airports", "Congressman Thompson Announces Over $739,000 in Federal Aviation Grants for Airports in Kosciusko and Winona", "2025-07-03", "2025", "2025-07", "Democrat", "House", "MS", "Bennie G. Thompson", "T000193", "benniethompson.house.gov", "benniethompson", "https://benniethompson.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "BOLTON, MS \u2013 Today, Congressman Bennie G. Thompson (D-MS) announced two federal grants awarded through the U.S. Department of Transportation\u2019s Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to support critical airport infrastructure improvements in Mississippi\u2019s Second Congressional District.\n\nThe City of Kosciusko has been awarded $600,000 under the FY25 Airport Improvement Program (AIP) to enhance operations at the Kosciusko-Attala County Airport (OSX). The funding will support multiple infrastructure projects, including:\n\nReconstructing 200 feet of existing hangar access taxilane pavement that has reached the end of its useful life;\n\nConstructing a new 2,500 square foot sponsor-owned hangar for aircraft storage, helping the airport generate revenue and remain self-sustaining;\n\nExtending the existing hangar access taxilane an additional 35 feet to provide access to a non-exclusive hangar development area, bringing the airport into compliance with current FAA standards.\n\nAdditionally, the City of Winona and Montgomery County will receive $139,320 for improvements at the Winona-Montgomery County Airport (5A6). This grant will fund:\n\nConstruction of a new 3,600 square foot sponsor-owned hangar to support aircraft storage and generate revenue;\n\nReconstruction of the precision approach path indicator systems for Runway 03/21 at both ends, ensuring continued safety and reliability as the systems have reached the end of their operational life.\n\nThe grants are part of the FAA\u2019s Airport Improvement Program, which provides funding for the planning and development of public-use airports across the United States.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T14:40:33Z"], ["https://ezell.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=1854", "Next Stop,\u00a0POTUS' Desk: Ezell Votes In\u00a0Support of the One Big Beautiful Bill", "2025-07-03", "2025", "2025-07", "Republican", "House", "MS", "Mike Ezell", "E000235", "ezell.house.gov", "ezell", "https://ezell.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27", "scraper", "Today, U.S. Representative Mike Ezell (MS-04) proudly voted in favor of the One Big Beautiful Bill Act, a sweeping legislative package that delivers on President Donald Trump\u2019s America First agenda by cutting taxes, securing the border, unleashing American energy, and protecting taxpayer dollars.\n\n\u201cThis legislation is a major win for Mississippi families, workers, and businesses,\u201d Ezell said. \u201cIt restores common sense to Washington by making the Trump tax cuts permanent, securing our borders, stopping taxpayer abuse, and ensuring American energy powers our economy, not foreign adversaries. This bill reflects the priorities of the people I represent\u2014faith, freedom, and a fair shot at the American Dream. I\u2019m proud to stand with President Trump and House Republicans in delivering real results for the American people.\u201d\n\nKey provisions included in the legislation:\n\nMakes the 2017 Trump Tax Cuts Permanent \u2013 prevents a 22% tax hike on the average American by locking in tax relief for working families, small businesses, and job creators.\n\nDelivers Pro-Growth, Pro-Worker Reforms \u2013 eliminates taxes on tips, overtime pay, and car loan interest, while providing new tax relief for seniors.\n\nIncludes $24.6 billion in investments to strengthen the U.S. Coast Guard\u2019s mission.\n\nHistoric Border Security Investment \u2013 provides over $175 billion to complete the wall, build 900 miles of new river barriers, hire thousands of Border Patrol agents and customs officers, and expand detention and removal operations.\n\nProtects Benefits for Those Who Need Them \u2013 restores work requirements for able-bodied adults on SNAP, prevents states from gaming the system, and ensures that Medicaid serves those truly in need, not non-citizens.\n\nEnds Government Benefits for Non-Citizens \u2013 refocuses limited federal resources on vulnerable American families, not those here unlawfully.\n\nUnleashes American Energy Dominance \u2013 Mandates regular lease sales in the Gulf of Mexico, Alaska, and on federal lands to ensure American energy independence and create thousands of good-paying jobs, including my legislation, the BRIDGE Act, which I championed this Congress.\n\nStrengthens National Defense \u2013 invests nearly $150 billion to modernize our military, deter adversaries, and support service members at home and abroad.\n\nReformers Higher Education by streamlining student loan repayment options, supports student success, and cuts government waste.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T14:40:33Z"], ["https://benniethompson.house.gov/media/press-releases/former-january-6-committee-chairman-thompson-statement-trump-justice", "Former January 6 Committee Chairman Thompson Statement on the Trump Justice Department Hiring January 6 Defendant and Rioter Who Encouraged the Murder of Law Enforcement", "2025-07-02", "2025", "2025-07", "Democrat", "House", "MS", "Bennie G. Thompson", "T000193", "benniethompson.house.gov", "benniethompson", "https://benniethompson.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2013 Today, Rep. Bennie G. Thompson (D-MS), former Chairman of the Select Committee to Investigate the January 6th Attack on the United States Capitol, released the following statement on news the Trump Justice Department has hired a January 6 defendant and rioter who encouraged the murder of law enforcement:\n\n\u201cNews that a disgraced FBI agent and right-wing extremist charged with encouraging the murder of police officers on January 6 is now working at the Department of Justice is not only an insult to every honorable law enforcement officer across the country \u2013 it is an insult to our democracy and all those that have fought to preserve it. It also makes it clear that political violence won\u2019t just be excused under this administration, it will be celebrated and awarded. Mr. Wise should have faced justice and served time in jail for his crimes. He should be nowhere near DOJ - let alone on the so called \u201cweaponization\u201d task force - plotting revenge on behalf of President Trump.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T14:40:33Z"], ["https://ezell.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=1839", "Ezell Applauds President Trump\u2019s Decisive Action Against Iranian Nuclear Threat", "2025-06-21", "2025", "2025-06", "Republican", "House", "MS", "Mike Ezell", "E000235", "ezell.house.gov", "ezell", "https://ezell.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27", "scraper", "Congressman Mike Ezell (MS-4) issued the following statement in response to President Donald Trump\u2019s recent military strike targeting Iran\u2019s nuclear weapons infrastructure:\n\n\"I applaud President Trump for taking bold and decisive action to eliminate Iran\u2019s nuclear weapons capabilities. The Islamic Republic has long posed a grave threat to global stability, and this strike sends an unmistakable message: the United States will not tolerate rogue regimes developing weapons of mass destruction.\n\nFor decades, Iran's leaders have openly chanted 'Death to America' while funding terrorism and threatening our allies. Those words are not just rhetoric\u2014they represent a dangerous agenda that must be taken seriously.\n\nThis operation not only protects our national security interests, but also strengthens the safety of our allies in the Middle East\u2014especially Israel\u2014and helps secure a more stable future for the region. I am proud to stand with President Trump and our military for taking swift and necessary steps to defend peace through strength.\"", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T01:08:28Z"], ["https://ezell.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=1835", "Ezell, Miller-Meeks Introduce the Unleash America\u2019s Offshore Critical Minerals and Resources Act", "2025-06-18", "2025", "2025-06", "Republican", "House", "MS", "Mike Ezell", "E000235", "ezell.house.gov", "ezell", "https://ezell.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27", "scraper", "Representatives Mike Ezell (MS-04) and Mariannette Miller-Meeks (IA-01) introduced H.R. 4018, the Unleash America\u2019s Offshore Critical Minerals and Resources Act, legislation that codifies President Trump\u2019s Executive Order 14285 to support and expand domestic seabed mineral development.\n\nThe bill strengthens America\u2019s economic and national security by accelerating the responsible development of critical mineral resources found on the ocean floor. These minerals are essential for producing advanced technologies, renewable energy infrastructure, and defense systems \u2014 yet the U.S. remains dangerously reliant on foreign supply chains.\n\n\u201cPresident Trump was right to prioritize seabed minerals, and I\u2019m proud to carry that effort forward in Congress,\u201d Ezell said. \u201cMy Unleash America\u2019s Offshore Critical Minerals Act will help secure our mineral supply chains, create American jobs, and keep our nation competitive in the global economy. Mississippi\u2019s Gulf Coast understands the importance of energy, infrastructure, and national defense, and this bill supports all three. It\u2019s about putting America first, reducing our dependence on adversaries like China, and making sure our innovation and security are never held hostage by foreign supply chains. We have vast resources right off our shores \u2014 it\u2019s time we take full advantage of them, and do it responsibly.\u201d\n\n\u201cThe United States cannot afford to remain dependent on adversarial nations for the critical minerals that power our economy, energy systems, and national defense,\u201d Miller-Meeks said. \u201cBy codifying President Trump\u2019s executive order, the Unleash America\u2019s Offshore Critical Minerals Act takes an important step toward strengthening our supply chains and securing access to essential resources found right off our coasts. This legislation will help protect American jobs, enhance our economic security, and ensure the United States remains competitive on the global stage \u2014 all while maintaining strong environmental safeguards. I\u2019m proud to join Rep. Ezell in introducing this commonsense, strategic bill.\u201d\n\n\u201cTapping into America\u2019s rich critical mineral resources is vital to support our national security and eliminate our dependence on foreign adversaries for vital resources,\" House Natural Resources Chairman Bruce Westerman said. \"Representatives Ezell and Miller-Meeks' Unleash America\u2019s Offshore Critical Minerals Act will codify President Trumps executive order on this issue and ensure the United States can lead the world in offshore mineral development.\u201d\n\n\u201cWe applaud Congressman Ezell\u2019s leadership in championing the Unleash America\u2019s Offshore Critical Minerals Act,\u201d Oliver Gunasekara, CEO of Impossible Metals said. \u201cThe global race for critical minerals is on, and the United States can\u2019t afford to sit on the sidelines. This bill recognizes the urgent need to unlock our own seabed resources and lead the world with responsible, American innovation.\u201d\n\nBy codifying the President\u2019s Executive Order, the bill provides regulatory certainty for developers while ensuring environmental protections and U.S. strategic interests remain a priority. It also directs key federal agencies to streamline permitting, identify high-potential seabed areas, and collaborate with private industry to safely unlock these resources.\n\nThe legislation is expected to receive strong support from industry leaders, energy advocates, and national security experts.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T01:08:28Z"], ["https://ezell.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=1834", "Ezell, Carter Introduce\u00a0Bipartisan Legislation to Strengthen America\u2019s Ports and Manufacturing Jobs", "2025-06-17", "2025", "2025-06", "Republican", "House", "MS", "Mike Ezell", "E000235", "ezell.house.gov", "ezell", "https://ezell.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27", "scraper", "Congressmen Mike Ezell (R-MS04) and Troy A. Carter, Sr. (D-LA02) introduced H.R. 3842, the Strengthening American Maritime Dominance (SAMDA) Act, a bipartisan bill aimed at bolstering investment in American cargo ports and revitalizing domestic manufacturing jobs.\n\nThe Strengthening American Maritime Dominance (SAMDA) Act will enhance federal support for owners or those who lease American-flagged vessels to invest in critical infrastructure improvements at U.S. ports\u2014essential gateways for the nation's commerce\u2014and ensure that investments directly benefit American workers and manufacturers. The expansion of the Capital Construction Fund will allow for the investment into cargo handling equipment, whether it\u2019s land-based equipment, marine terminals, port landside infrastructure, or more related to the lifting and or movement of cargo.\n\n\u201cStrong ports mean a strong economy,\u201d Ezell said. \u201cThis bill is about smart investment\u2014making sure our ports have the modern infrastructure they need to move goods efficiently, support American manufacturing, and protect thousands of jobs. Mississippi\u2019s Gulf Coast depends on reliable, well-equipped port facilities not only for trade but for the livelihood of our communities. I\u2019m proud to work across the aisle with Congressman Carter to deliver real results for our workers, our economy, and our national security, while helping build the backbone of American industry and keeping our supply chains secure.\u201d\n\n\u201cThis legislation allows our ports, the economic engine of Louisiana, to upgrade their facilities with American-made infrastructure, strengthening our economy and national security. This will give our maritime businesses and workers the necessary resources to expand their operations and prosper. I want to thank my colleague Mike Ezell for leading this bipartisan effort with me,\u201dCarter said.\n\nThe legislation is designed to:\n\nIncrease targeted investment in infrastructure at cargo ports across the U.S.,\n\nPrioritize funding for projects that support American manufacturing and job creation,\n\nEnhance the competitiveness of U.S. ports in global trade,\n\nImprove supply chain efficiency and resilience,\n\nEnsure stability and growth of the U.S. marine merchant fleet.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T01:08:28Z"], ["https://benniethompson.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-bennie-g-thompson-announces-over-12-million-national-science", "Congressman Bennie G. Thompson Announces Over $1.2 Million in National Science Foundation Research Awards to Jackson State University", "2025-06-13", "2025", "2025-06", "Democrat", "House", "MS", "Bennie G. Thompson", "T000193", "benniethompson.house.gov", "benniethompson", "https://benniethompson.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "June 13, 2025\n\nBOLTON, MS \u2013 Today, United States Representative Bennie G. Thompson (D-MS) announced that the National Science Foundation (NSF) has awarded more than $1.2 million in research funding to Jackson State University (JSU) to support two groundbreaking projects that advance scientific innovation while strengthening STEM education and workforce development in Mississippi.\n\nThe NSF awards are as follows:\n\n$500,090.00 for the project entitled \u201cExcellence in Research: Self-Healing Infrastructure with Natural-Based Enhancements (SHINE): Innovative Solutions Development for Resilient Earthen Infrastructure,\u201d under the direction of Dr. Kejun Wen.\n\nAward Start Date: September 1, 2025\n\nThis project will focus on improving the durability and resilience of earthen infrastructure through sustainable, nature-based engineering solutions. The SHINE project will integrate cutting-edge research with STEM education by training undergraduate and graduate students, and fostering partnerships with the Mississippi Department of Transportation, community colleges, and K-12 educators.\n\n$699,948.00 for the project entitled \u201cExcellence in Research: Phytoremediation Using Vetiver Grass to Address Heavy Metals and PFAS in Contaminated Soil and Wastewater,\u201d under the direction of Dr. Sadik Khan.\n\nAward Start Date: June 1, 2025\n\nThis research will evaluate and optimize the use of Vetiver grass in phytoremediation applications to remove per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) and heavy metals from contaminated soils, leachate, and wastewater.\n\nBoth projects are supported through the NSF\u2019s Excellence in Research (EiR) program, which aims to expand the capacity for scientific discovery and innovation at Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) and other Minority Serving Institutions.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T01:08:28Z"], ["https://benniethompson.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-bennie-g-thompson-announces-over-31-million-federal-aviation", "Congressman Bennie G. Thompson Announces Over $3.1 Million in Federal Aviation Awards for Airports Across Mississippi\u2019s Second District", "2025-06-13", "2025", "2025-06", "Democrat", "House", "MS", "Bennie G. Thompson", "T000193", "benniethompson.house.gov", "benniethompson", "https://benniethompson.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "June 13, 2025\n\nBOLTON, MS \u2013 Today, United States Representative Bennie G. Thompson (D-MS) announced that the U.S. Department of Transportation, through the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), has awarded more than $3.1 million in Airport Infrastructure Program (AIP) grants to airports across Mississippi\u2019s Second Congressional District. These federal investments will support critical airport improvement projects aimed at enhancing safety, supporting aviation operations, and extending the useful life of essential airport infrastructure.\n\nThe following awards were announced:\n\nCarthage-Leake County Airport \u2013 Carthage, MS\n\nAmount: $404,519\n\nConstruction of a new 9,500 sq. ft. sponsor-owned hangar for aircraft storage, helping the airport become more self-sustaining.\n\nRuleville-Drew Airport \u2013 Drew, MS\n\nAmount: $506,988\n\nConstruction of a new 2,013-foot paved Taxiway A to meet current FAA standards.\n\nGrenada Municipal Airport \u2013 Grenada, MS\n\nAmount: $595,646\n\nReconstruction of Runway 13/31 and Taxiway A lighting and signage, replacing infrastructure that has reached the end of its useful life.\n\nFletcher Field \u2013 Clarksdale, MS\n\nAmount: $150,000\n\nInstallation of a new Automated Weather Observing System (AWOS) Type III-P/T to provide accurate, site-specific weather information.\n\nC.A. Moore Airport \u2013 Lexington, MS\n\nAmount: $106,099\n\nReconstruction of the existing soil foundation to address erosion control issues at the end of their useful life.\n\nIndianola Municipal Airport \u2013 Indianola, MS\n\nAmount: $97,800\n\nReconstruction of 120 feet of perimeter fencing and gates, along with improvements to the Taxiway A safety area.\n\nGreenville Mid-Delta Airport \u2013 Greenville, MS\n\nAmount: $186,000\n\nRehabilitation of 2,000 feet of Taxiway B pavement. This grant funds the first phase of the project, which consists of design.\n\nHawkins Field \u2013 Jackson, MS\n\nAmount: $158,334\n\nRehabilitation of 133,333 square yards of west apron pavement. This award funds a portion of the total project.\n\nJohn Bell Williams Airport \u2013 Raymond, MS\n\nAmount: $450,000\n\nResealing of 6,495 feet of Taxiway A and 5,499 feet of Runway 12/30 pavement at this nonprimary airport to extend pavement life.\n\nAll projects are funded through the FAA\u2019s Airport Infrastructure Grant Program and represent the remaining eligible portions of previously approved improvement plans.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T01:08:28Z"], ["https://benniethompson.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-thompson-announces-national-science-foundation-award-jackson-state", "Congressman Thompson Announces National Science Foundation Award to Jackson State University", "2025-06-12", "2025", "2025-06", "Democrat", "House", "MS", "Bennie G. Thompson", "T000193", "benniethompson.house.gov", "benniethompson", "https://benniethompson.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "BOLTON, MS \u2013 Today, Congressman Bennie G. Thompson (D-MS) announced that Jackson State University has been awarded a $199,755 grant from the National Science Foundation (NSF) to support cutting-edge research in traffic signal control systems. The project, entitled \u201cERI: Advancement of Max Pressure Traffic Signal Control in Partially Connected and Automated Transportation Systems,\u201d is under the direction of Dr. Hao Liu and will begin on August 1, 2025.\n\nThis award, made through NSF\u2019s Engineering Research Initiation (ERI) program, supports research that aims to enhance traffic network efficiency during the transition from human-driven vehicles (HDVs) to connected and autonomous vehicles (CAVs). Research will focus on redefining Max Pressure (MP)-based traffic control systems to address the unique challenges and opportunities presented by this evolving transportation environment.\n\nThe project will support the formation of a sustainable research group at JSU and provide valuable training for students pursuing careers in transportation engineering. Findings from this study are expected to contribute to national progress in transportation science and operational efficiency.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T01:08:28Z"], ["https://ezell.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=829", "Ezell, Carbajal Bipartisan Bill to Bolster American Shipping Fleet Passes House", "2025-06-10", "2025", "2025-06", "Republican", "House", "MS", "Mike Ezell", "E000235", "ezell.house.gov", "ezell", "https://ezell.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27", "scraper", "Coast Guard and Maritime Transportation Subcommittee Chairman Mike Ezell (R-MS-04) and Ranking Member Salud Carbajal (D-CA-24) announced their bipartisan American Cargo for American Ships Act passed the House of Representatives. The legislation will strengthen U.S. cargo preference laws to stop the ongoing decline of U.S. flagged ships engaged in international trade. The legislation now heads to the U.S. Senate for consideration.\n\n\u201cThis is a major victory for American workers, our national security, and our economy,\u201d Ezell said. \u201cThe American Cargo for American Ships Act strengthens our maritime capabilities and ensures we\u2019re not dependent on foreign vessels to move U.S. goods, especially during times of crisis. A strong U.S.-flagged fleet means a more secure and self-reliant America. I\u2019m proud to see this bill, which keeps American cargo on American ships, restores fairness to our system, and gives our mariners a fighting chance against heavily subsidized foreign competitors, pass the House. I urge my colleagues in the Senate to act swiftly and send it to the President\u2019s desk.\u201d\n\n\"American cargo transported on American ships strengthens our economy, creates jobs, and protects our supply chains from external threats,\" Carbajal said. \"My bipartisan bill will strengthen the U.S. shipping fleet by ensuring that taxpayer-funded cargo is moved on U.S.-flagged ships. I\u2019ll continue working across the aisle to get this bill across the finish line and signed into law.\u201d\n\nThe American Cargo for American Ships Act would increase cargo preference for all U.S. Department of Transportation cargoes to 100 percent. The Cargo Preference Act of 1954 requires that 50 percent of Civilian Agencies cargo and Agricultural Cargo be carried on U.S.-flagged vessels \u2013 it is the maritime industry\u2019s \u201cBuy America\u201d law. MARAD is the lead federal agency that manages Cargo Preference activities and compliance.\n\nIn 2022, the Maritime Administration (MARAD) testified before the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee and highlighted the decline of U.S. flagged ships. Per MARAD, there were 106 ships in the foreign trade flying the U.S. flag in 2012. Four years later, there were just 77 vessels. Today, from that low point, we have grown back to 87 foreign trading ships under the U.S. flag.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T01:08:28Z"], ["https://trentkelly.house.gov/newsroom/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=7810", "Congressman Kelly Announces Service Academy Appointment\n\nJune 6, 2025 | Posted in Press Releases\n\nTags:\nNational Defense / Veterans\n\n\nWASHINGTON -\u00a0\u00a0U.S. Representative Trent Kelly announces the appointment of Henry Gaschk of Olive Branch, Mississippi, to the U.S. Air Force Academy. Each year, members of Congress may nominate candidates to the U.S. service academies. These institutions prepare young men and women to become leaders in the U.S. Armed Forces while receiving a top-tier education. Gaschk, a senior\u2026 Read more \u00bb", "2025-06-06", "2025", "2025-06", "Republican", "House", "MS", "Trent Kelly", "K000388", "trentkelly.house.gov", "trentkelly", "https://trentkelly.house.gov/newsroom/documentquery.aspx", "scraper", "WASHINGTON - U.S. Representative Trent Kelly announces the appointment of Henry Gaschk of Olive Branch, Mississippi, to the U.S. Air Force Academy. Each year, members of Congress may nominate candidates to the U.S. service academies. These institutions prepare young men and women to become leaders in the U.S. Armed Forces while receiving a top-tier education. Gaschk, a senior at Lewisburg High School, has demonstrated excellence in academics, athletics, and leadership. He has served as varsity soccer captain and received honors including the Randy West Mississippi State All-Star, MHSAA North Mississippi All-Star, and Offensive Player of the Year award. In addition to his athletic achievements, Gaschk is committed to community service, volunteering with organizations such as Mississippi Project Package and The Arc of Northwest Mississippi. His academic achievements include being named a National Merit Semi-Finalist and receiving top subject averages in multiple disciplines. Gaschk's leadership experiences include serving as an officer in the National Honor Society, a member of the Olive Branch Mayor's Youth Council, and lead gatekeeper for the Southaven Parks Department. He is also involved in the English Honor Society, Chess Club, and Fellowship of Christian Athletes.\n\n\"I'm excited to attend the United States Air Force Academy because it offers the opportunity to challenge myself academically and physically while preparing me for a career in the military,\" Gaschk said. \"I plan to study Systems Engineering and hope to become a pilot or pursue a master's degree, eventually working in Air Force contracting.\"", 1, "2026-04-07T14:16:54Z", "2026-04-07T14:20:53Z"], ["https://ezell.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=819", "Subcommittee Chairman Ezell Hosts U.S. Coast Guard Acting Commandant Admiral Kevin Lunday for Tour of Mississippi\u2019s Fourth District", "2025-06-03", "2025", "2025-06", "Republican", "House", "MS", "Mike Ezell", "E000235", "ezell.house.gov", "ezell", "https://ezell.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27", "scraper", "Congressman Mike Ezell (MS-04) welcomed U.S. Coast Guard Acting Commandant Admiral Kevin Lunday to Mississippi\u2019s Fourth Congressional District last week for a series of briefings and site visits focused on domestic shipbuilding, Coast Guard operations, and maritime security.\n\nAdmiral Lunday and Ezell, who also serves as Chairman of the House Coast Guard and Maritime Transportation Subcommittee, toured Bollinger Mississippi Shipbuilding in Pascagoula, MS, Austal USA in Mobile, AL, the U.S. Coast Guard Station Pascagoula, and the Port Security Unit 308 in Kiln, MS to meet with service members and local leaders.\n\n\u201cI was honored to host Admiral Lunday in South Mississippi and highlight the critical role our region plays in supporting the U.S. Coast Guard\u2019s mission,\u201d Ezell said. \u201cFrom the skilled workforce at our shipyards to the dedicated service members at USCG Station Pascagoula and PSU 308, Mississippi\u2019s Fourth District and the Gulf Coast have a proud tradition of contributing to our nation\u2019s maritime strength and homeland security. Under Admiral Lunday\u2019s leadership, I\u2019m confident that our partnership will continue to grow, and I look forward to working closely with him to strengthen maritime safety, national defense, and economic opportunity along the Gulf Coast.\u201d\n\n\"The impressive work I saw firsthand by American shipbuilders at Bollinger Mississippi and Austal shipyards demonstrates the vital effort to modernize the Coast Guard fleet and rebuild America\u2019s maritime dominance,\" Acting Commandant Admiral Kevin E. Lunday said. \"We're grateful for Chairman Ezell's leadership and Congress\u2019s support to deliver the strong, capable, and ready Coast Guard the Nation needs.\u201d\n\nThe Commandant of the U.S. Coast Guard is the service\u2019s highest-ranking officer, a four-star admiral appointed by the President and confirmed by the Senate. Admiral Kevin Lunday currently serves as the Acting Commandant, having assumed the role on January 21, 2025, while awaiting Senate confirmation.\n\nOn May 21, 2025, Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem announced Force Design 2028 (FD2028). This initiative provides a blueprint to transform the Coast Guard into a stronger, more ready and capable fighting force. Noem\u2019s FD2028 executive report outlines a vision for the Coast Guard\u2019s future, including 5 major points:\n\nEstablish a Service Secretary so that the Coast Guard has the same representation as other military services, in line with Ezell\u2019s bill, H.R. 2546, the Secretary of the Coast Guard Act of 2025.\n\nReorganize the Service to streamline processes, better integrate capabilities and eliminate redundancies.\n\nInvest in the men and women who serve in the Coast Guard.\n\nInvest in technology to improve efficiency and capability.\n\nImprove and streamline the acquisition process.\n\nFD2028 represents an opportunity at a critical moment in history to transform the Coast Guard. Within 30 days, the commandant will deliver an execution plan, followed by the commencement of a force posture and operational concepts campaign within 150 days, and the first of semiannual updates within 180 days.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T01:08:28Z"], ["https://trentkelly.house.gov/newsroom/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=7798", "Kelly Announces Service Academy Appointment\n\nJune 3, 2025 | Posted in Press Releases\n\nTags:\nNational Defense / Veterans\n\n\n\r\nWashington, D.C. - U.S. Representative Trent Kelly is pleased to announce the appointment of Samuel Bain of Oxford, Mississippi, to the U.S. Naval Academy.\r\n\r\nEach year, members of Congress may nominate candidates to the U.S. service academies. These institutions prepare young men and women to become leaders in the U.S. Armed Forces while receiving a top-tier education.\r\n\r\nBain is a\u2026 Read more \u00bb", "2025-06-03", "2025", "2025-06", "Republican", "House", "MS", "Trent Kelly", "K000388", "trentkelly.house.gov", "trentkelly", "https://trentkelly.house.gov/newsroom/documentquery.aspx", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. - U.S. Representative Trent Kelly is pleased to announce the appointment of Samuel Bain of Oxford, Mississippi, to the U.S. Naval Academy.\n\nEach year, members of Congress may nominate candidates to the U.S. service academies. These institutions prepare young men and women to become leaders in the U.S. Armed Forces while receiving a top-tier education.\n\nBain is a stand-out student athlete at Oxford High School, where he plays offensive line for the varsity football team and competes in the 285-pound weight class on the school's club wrestling team. His athletic achievements include the Tomorrow's Team Award for offensive line and the Newcomer of the Year Award in wrestling.\n\nIn addition to his accomplishments in athletics, Bain excels academically. He is a member of the National Honor Society and Beta Club and has demonstrated strong leadership in a variety of roles. He served as executive director of the Federalist Party at Mississippi Boys State, chaplain of the Children of the American Revolution, and leader of the Football Player's Bible Study. He also participated in the Trent Lott Leadership Institute's Emerging Leaders Conference.\n\nBain is actively involved in his church and community, serving on the First Baptist Church Oxford's Mission Committee and Outreach Program. He has participated in mission trips to Olsztyn, Poland, and Custer, South Dakota.\n\n\"I've been wanting to attend the Naval Academy since I was in fifth grade, and I've wanted to be in the military for as long as I can remember,\" Bain said. \"The Naval Academy was my dream college because I'll be able to serve once I graduate and get a fantastic education as well. I plan on majoring in Chemistry but want to pursue a career as a Marine Corp Infantry Officer.\"\n\nCongressman Trent Kelly represents Mississippi's First Congressional District. He serves as Chairman of the Subcommittee on Seapower and Projection Forces for the House Armed Services Committee. Congressman Kelly also serves on the House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence and the House Agriculture Committee.\n\n###", 1, "2026-04-07T14:16:54Z", "2026-04-07T14:20:53Z"], ["https://benniethompson.house.gov/media/press-releases/press-release-congressman-bennie-g-thompson-announces-academy-appointments", "Press Release: Congressman Bennie G. Thompson Announces Academy Appointments for Second Congressional District", "2025-05-28", "2025", "2025-05", "Democrat", "House", "MS", "Bennie G. Thompson", "T000193", "benniethompson.house.gov", "benniethompson", "https://benniethompson.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "BOLTON, MS \u2013 Today, United States Representative Bennie G. Thompson (D-MS) announces the Military Academy appointments for the Second Congressional District.\n\nDylan Michael Wiley has received an appointment to the United States Naval Academy, Class of 2029, after being nominated by U.S. Congressman Bennie G. Thompson.\n\nDylan successfully completed his studies at the Naval Preparatory School (NAPS) in Newport, Rhode Island, where he demonstrated academic excellence and dedication. Throughout his time at NAPS, he excelled in his coursework and made significant contributions to the school community. His positive outlook and unwavering commitment to his future at the Naval Academy reflect his strong aspirations to succeed and lead. Among his many accomplishments, Dylan represented his peers as a NAPS representative. Additionally, he held the role of Supplementary Student Assistant for Physics and served as the NAPS 2nd Company Guide-On.\n\nDylan is the son of Nelson and Debra Wiley, Jr. of Raymond, Mississippi, and he looks forward to continuing his educational journey at the United States Naval Academy.\n\nNicholas McGlorthan, has received an appointment to the United States Air Force Academy, Class of 2029, after being nominated by U.S. Congressman Bennie G. Thompson.\n\nNicholas has successfully completed the Air Force Preparatory School in Colorado Springs, CO. At the USFA Prep School, Nicholas further developed his leadership and academic skills. He served as a Character Officer, guiding fellow Cadets in upholding the honor code. He took part in land navigation exercises in the Colorado mountains, marched in parades, and completed college-level courses in trigonometry, chemistry, and writing. He also participated in an aviation course, which included hands-on flight experience. Hiking the Colorado mountains has become one of his favorite pastimes. Nicholas plans to major in Mechanical Engineering at the Air Force Academy and is exploring a future career in drone piloting.\n\nHe is the son of Sharron McGlorthan of Jackson, Mississippi, and he looks forward to continuing his educational journey at the United States Air Force Academy.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T00:49:36Z"], ["https://ezell.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=811", "Ezell, Carter Introduce the Capacity Building for Business Districts Pilot Program to Support Small Communities", "2025-05-27", "2025", "2025-05", "Republican", "House", "MS", "Mike Ezell", "E000235", "ezell.house.gov", "ezell", "https://ezell.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27", "scraper", "Congressman Mike Ezell (R-MS4) and Congressman Troy Carter (D-LA2) introduced the Capacity Building for Business Districts Pilot Program Act to increase technical assistance to organizations assisting small communities who are trying to increase business through The United States Economic Development Administration (EDA) Research and National Technical Assistance (RNTA) grant program.\n\n\u201cThe Capacity Building for Business Districts Pilot Program is a smart investment in the people and organizations that power local economies,\u201d Ezell said. \u201cBy strengthening the operational and technical abilities of business district organizations, we\u2019re laying the foundation for job creation, local wealth building, and an improved quality of life in underserved areas of South Mississippi. Through targeted technical assistance and better access to the U.S. Economic Development Administration\u2019s RNTA grant program, we\u2019re making sure small communities have the tools they need to build stronger, more competitive business districts and achieve lasting economic growth.\u201d\n\n\u201cSmall businesses are the backbone of our economy. This bipartisan legislation will help grow capacity in our business districts and create more equitable economic opportunities in Louisiana. It would increase vital resources for many organizations in my district that conduct critical, on-the-ground work to uplift small, local businesses. I\u2019m proud to co-lead this effort again this Congress with Rep. Ezell,\u201d Carter said.\n\n\"We applaud the introduction of the Capacity Building for Business Districts Pilot Program and are grateful for Rep. Carter's co-sponsorship of this important legislation and his continued support to Main Street districts and organizations across New Orleans and Louisiana,\" Dasjon S. Jordan, Executive Director, Broad Community Connections said.\n\n\"By strengthening existing place-making efforts and serving as a catalyst for economic growth and development by creating a sense of place and pride for the community, the Downtown Hattiesburg Association is improving the quality of life in Hattiesburg. Added resources for capacity and technical assistance to expand our work will increase our impact. We are grateful for Rep. Ezell's support to make that vision a reality,\" Marlo Dorsey, Board Member, Mississippi Main Street Association and Hattiesburg Downtown Association said.\n\n\"Sankofa Community Development Corporation is excited about the Capacity Building for Business Districts Pilot Program to offer opportunities to strengthen economic development initiatives. We initiated the Lower Ninth Ward Main Street project in alliance with a network of organizations, community stakeholders, and local businesses. We look forward to seeing its positive impact on the growth of small businesses and revitalization of our historic commercial corridor,\" Rashida Ferdinand, Founder and Chief Executive Officer, Sankofa Community Development Corporation said.\n\n\u201cAs an organization dedicated to promoting, enhancing, and supporting our community\u2019s downtown district, Main Street Pascagoula is incredibly thankful for Representative Mike Ezell\u2019s support of the Capacity Building for Business Districts Pilot Program. We are confident that this Program will prove tremendously impactful for our community and other districts engaged in revitalization efforts, and we look forward to what the future holds,\u201d Susannah Northrop, Director, Main Street Pascagoula said.\n\n\"Picayune Main Street\u2019s mission is to preserve the historic character and integrity of our community\u2019s downtown commercial and residential district, as well as to enhance the culture and quality of life through active community involvement. While we have seen successes, the additional support enabled through the Capacity Building for Business Districts Pilot Program would equip our organization to take this mission to new heights, facilitating small business growth, job creation, and enhanced quality of place for our community,\" Reba Beebe, Director, Picayune Main Street, Inc. said.\n\n\"The Mississippi Main Street Association is thankful for Representative Ezell's leadership of this legislation. As Mississippi\u2019s leading organization for preservation-based community and economic development, we are excited about the potential of this funding to strengthen our network of organizations committed to supporting our downtowns and small businesses,\" Jim Miller, Executive Director, Mississippi Main Street Association said.\n\n'We applaud Representatives Ezell and Carter for introducing the Capacity Building for Business Districts Pilot Program. This program will provide critical resources to locally based, non-profit organizations that support small business ownership and economic revitalization in urban neighborhoods and rural communities across the country,\" Matthew Josephs, Senior Vice President for Policy, Local Initiatives Support Corporation (LISC) said.\n\n\"We believe Main Streets are the backbone of the small business economy. Main Street America is pleased to support the Capacity Building for Business Districts Pilot Program. We thank Representatives Ezell and Carter for recognizing the critical role that business district organizations, such as Main Street programs, play in creating thriving local economies,\" Erin Barnes, President and CEO, Main Street America said.\n\n\"The Capacity Building for Business Districts Pilot Program represents a powerful opportunity to support local leaders in rural America who are working hard to build vibrant local economies. By enabling the U.S. Economic Development Administration to collaborate with trusted national nonprofits to direct federal resources, we would be taking an important step to drive sustainable economic growth, and revitalize places, like rural communities, that are often overlooked and underfunded,\" Matt Dunne, Founder and Executive Director, Center on Rural Innovation said.\n\n\"This legislation represents overdue investment in the community development organizations that help so many business districts adapt and thrive. By giving them access to the flexible capital and technical support they need, it strengthens these organizations' ability to serve local entrepreneurs, revitalize neighborhood corridors, and meet the business needs of the communities they know best,\" Frank Woodruff, Executive Director of Community Opportunity Alliance (formerly NACEDA) said.\n\nBackground:\n\nCurrently, grants under RNTA are not used for capacity-building assistance and pass-through funds to local entities. Additionally, there is no EDA resource dedicated to business district organizations or business districts that are already assisting these entities.\n\nThe Capacity Building for Business Districts Pilot Program Act is expected to benefit small businesses and underserved communities by providing them with the expertise necessary to apply for RNTA grants. These grants will enable communities to fund projects that boost local economies, foster innovation, and strengthen their overall business infrastructure.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T00:49:36Z"], ["https://benniethompson.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-bennie-g-thompson-statement-republicans-jamming-their-gop-tax-scam", "Congressman Bennie G. Thompson Statement on Republicans Jamming Their GOP Tax Scam Through the House", "2025-05-22", "2025", "2025-05", "Democrat", "House", "MS", "Bennie G. Thompson", "T000193", "benniethompson.house.gov", "benniethompson", "https://benniethompson.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2013 Today, Rep. Bennie G. Thompson (D-MS) voted against House Republicans' Reconciliation Bill (H.R. 1). The legislation includes drastic cuts to Medicaid, the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, and other basic benefits, to pay for tax cuts for the rich and wealthy.\n\nCongressman Thompson releases the following statement:\n\n\u201cSince my first day in Congress, I have been clear that I will never vote for any cuts to Medicaid, Medicare, Social Security, or any programs that benefit my constituents. Today, I proudly voted against House Republicans' \u201cBig Ugly Bill.\u201d\n\n\u201cThis horrific bill is one of the most shameful pieces of legislation I have ever seen in over 32 years of serving in Congress. Mississippians will suffer. The bill would take health care away from nearly 14 million people due to its harmful cuts to health care and nutrition assistance, which will cause tens of thousands of Mississippians to lose their benefits if this bill passes through the Senate and becomes law.\n\n\u201cIt is disgraceful what Republicans have done today. Instead of helping people, they are making it harder for everyday people to make ends meet. They have continuously shown that they do not care about the poor and underserved. I can only hope that today, the American people realized the hidden cruelty and deception woven into the bill by Republicans.\u201d\n\nSNAP CUTS\n\nAccording to the USDA, 54,481 households in the Second Congressional District of Mississippi participate in SNAP. African Americans have the highest rate (13,838 households or 25.4%) of SNAP participation in the District.\n\nHEALTH CARE CUTS", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T00:49:36Z"], ["https://ezell.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=806", "Ezell Applauds Passage of \u201cOne Big Beautiful Bill\u201d Advancing President Trump\u2019s America First Agenda", "2025-05-22", "2025", "2025-05", "Republican", "House", "MS", "Mike Ezell", "E000235", "ezell.house.gov", "ezell", "https://ezell.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27", "scraper", "Today, U.S. Representative Mike Ezell (MS-04) issued the following statement after the House passed the One Big Beautiful Bill, a sweeping legislative package that delivers key wins for the American people and reinforces President Donald J. Trump\u2019s America First agenda.\n\n\u201cToday marks a pivotal moment for our country. With the passage of the One Big Beautiful Bill, we are delivering on the promises made to the American people and advancing President Trump\u2019s bold America First agenda,\u201d Ezell said. \u201cThis bill makes the 2017 Trump tax cuts permanent, preventing the average taxpayer from seeing a 22% tax hike, strengthens our borders, revitalizes American industry, and restores the values that made our nation great. I was proud to support this legislation, and I will continue fighting every day to put our citizens first and ensure our government works for the people \u2014 not the other way around.\u201d\n\nThe One Big Beautiful Bill includes provisions aimed at securing the southern border, promoting domestic energy independence, cutting bureaucratic red tape, and protecting American jobs.\n\nRep. Ezell has been a consistent supporter of pro-growth, pro-security policies and remains committed to standing with President Trump to deliver meaningful results for Mississippi\u2019s Fourth District and the nation.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T00:49:36Z"], ["https://ezell.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=805", "Ezell, Carbajal\u00a0Introduce Bill to Modernize Coast Guard\u2019s Merchant Mariner Credentialing Exam", "2025-05-16", "2025", "2025-05", "Republican", "House", "MS", "Mike Ezell", "E000235", "ezell.house.gov", "ezell", "https://ezell.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27", "scraper", "This week, U.S. Representatives Mike Ezell (R-MS-4) and Salud Carbajal (D-CA-24) introduced H.R. 3331, the Mariner Exam Modernization Act, which directs the U.S. Coast Guard to develop and implement a plan to modernize the Merchant Mariner Credentialing exam, aiming to eliminate redundancies and improve efficiency within 270 days of receiving recommendations from a dedicated working group.\n\n\u201cOur mariners deserve a credentialing system that reflects the realities of today\u2019s maritime industry\u2014not outdated exams and unnecessary hurdles. I\u2019m proud to co-lead the Mariner Modernization Act to bring transparency, accountability, and real-world input to the process. This is about building up America\u2019s maritime workforce and supporting the professionals who keep America\u2019s maritime commerce moving safely and efficiently,\u201d Ezell said.\n\n\u201cThe men and women pursuing careers in the maritime industry shouldn\u2019t be held back by an antiquated credentialing system,\u201d Carbajal said. \u201cThe Mariner Exam Modernization Act is a commonsense step to ensure our licensing process reflects the skills mariners actually need on the job\u2014eliminating redundancy, updating outdated requirements, and making the path to certification more efficient. This legislation is about strengthening our maritime workforce and ensuring the Coast Guard\u2019s processes keep pace with the needs of the 21st century.\u201d\n\n\"USA Maritime supports the effort to modernize the licensing exam for merchant marine officers through the Mariner Exam Modernization Act. The maritime industry continues to evolve and change, but the Coast Guard's licensing exam hasn't. The MarinerExam Modernization Act will remove redundancies, ensure testing isn't duplicative with other licensing requirements, and align testing with the realities of serving in the 21st century merchant marine. We look forward to working with Congress to pass this bill and remove one more impediment to creating new Merchant Marine officers,\u201d Brian Schoeneman, Chairman, USA Maritime said.\n\n\"Transportation Institute supports the Mariner Exam Modernization Act and applauds Congressman Carbajal for his leadership in solving the mariner workforce crisis. His dedication to the American mariner is remarkable, and we are grateful to have his support as we address this challenge together,\u201d Sara Fuentes, Vice President, Government Affairs, Transportation Institute said.\n\n\"The Navy League of the United States has long championed the importance of the American mariner to our national and economic security. We are proud to support Congressman Carbajal\u2019s Mariner Exam Modernization Act as part of the effort to grow our maritime workforce,\u201dMike Stevens, Navy League CEO and 13th Master Chief Petty Officer of the Navy said.\n\n\u201cThe Consortium of State Maritime Academies strongly supports the \"Mariner Exam Modernization Act\". This legislation will reduce the redundancy between The STCW Code and the National Exam. It will also eliminate the requirement for the Academies to dedicate time in the academic program on subjects that are outdated, and not currently used by professional mariners. Additionally, it will substantially increase the value of the exam review teams (working groups). Collectively, these efforts will allow us to assist with the goal of alleviating the current mariner shortage,\u201d G. P. Achenbach, Ed. Rear Admiral, U.S. Maritime Service, President, Consortium of State Maritime Academies said.\n\nThe current Coast Guard licensing exam process for Merchant Mariner Credentials is outdated, redundant, and unnecessarily burdensome for aspiring mariners. Candidates must repeatedly demonstrate the same competencies, first through years of hands-on assessments and then again on a seven-part written exam\u2014discouraging new entrants and diverting time from more relevant modern training like cybersecurity.\n\nAdditionally, the exam includes obsolete content and lacks a modern review system, leaving graduates underprepared for the realities of today\u2019s maritime industry.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T00:49:36Z"], ["https://ezell.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=783", "House Passes Ezell-Nehls Resolution Honoring Local Law Enforcement During National Police Week", "2025-05-14", "2025", "2025-05", "Republican", "House", "MS", "Mike Ezell", "E000235", "ezell.house.gov", "ezell", "https://ezell.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27", "scraper", "Last night, during National Police Week, the House of Representatives passed a bipartisan resolution introduced by Sheriffs Mike Ezell (MS-04) and Troy Nehls (TX-22) recognizing the essential role that local law enforcement officers play in protecting communities, enforcing the law, and maintaining public safety across the United States by a vote of 411-1.\n\n\u201cAs a former sheriff, I know firsthand the courage, professionalism, and selflessness that our law enforcement officers bring to the job every single day,\u201d Ezell said. \u201cThese men and women are the backbone of public safety in our communities. They run toward danger, not away from it\u2014and they do it to protect people they may never meet. During Police Week, especially, I\u2019m proud the House has come together to honor their service and show our unwavering support.\u201d\n\n\u201cAs a former law enforcement officer and Texas Sheriff, I know firsthand the sacrifices our men and women in blue make every single day to keep our communities safe,\u201d Nehls said. \u201cAll too often, their hard work and dedication to protecting and serving our communities go unnoticed. I\u2019m proud the House passed this resolution to honor our nation\u2019s law enforcement officers and to show our unwavering support for their selfless service to our communities.\u201d\n\nThe resolution expresses strong support for local law enforcement agencies and officers, emphasizing:\n\nThe resolution also encourages Americans to take time during National Police Week to reflect on the service and sacrifice of law enforcement personnel\u2014including those who have made the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T00:49:36Z"], ["https://ezell.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=781", "Ezell, Carter, Letlow Introduce Bipartisan Safer Shrimp Imports Act", "2025-05-13", "2025", "2025-05", "Republican", "House", "MS", "Mike Ezell", "E000235", "ezell.house.gov", "ezell", "https://ezell.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27", "scraper", "Representatives Mike Ezell (MS-04), Julia Letlow (LA-05), and Troy Carter (LA-02) today introduced the Safer Shrimp Imports Act, a bipartisan bill aimed at tightening federal inspection standards for imported shrimp and protecting American consumers and domestic seafood producers.\n\nImported shrimp accounts for roughly 90% of the shrimp consumed in the United States, much of which comes from countries with weak food safety standards and inadequate oversight of harmful contaminants such as antibiotics, pesticides, and bacteria. The Safer Shrimp Imports Act would require the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to significantly increase testing of imported shrimp and publicly report inspection results, giving consumers more confidence in the safety of what\u2019s on their plates.\n\n\u201cGrowing up on Mississippi\u2019s Gulf Coast, I know how important the shrimp industry is\u2014not just to our economy, but to our way of life,\u201d Ezell said. \u201cOur local gulf coast shrimpers are playing by the rules while foreign producers are flooding the market with unsafe, low-quality products. This bill is about leveling the playing field and protecting our American producers, and keeping America healthy.\u201d\n\n\u201cAs we work to restore an economy built on American sweat and labor, it\u2019s vital that Congress stands up for our Gulf Coast shrimpers,\" Letlow said. \"Our Safer Shrimp Imports Act would hold foreign governments accountable for dumping inferior, subsidized shrimp into American markets, contaminating our food supply and undercutting our Louisiana shrimpers.\u201d\n\n\u201cThis bill is a crucial step toward protecting Louisiana families and supporting Louisiana\u2019s fishing industry. By holding foreign shrimp imports to the same safety standards as our domestic producers, this legislation will safeguard public health, promote fair trade, and guarantee consumers can trust what\u2019s on their plates. I want to thank my colleagues Rep. Ezell and Rep. Letlow for standing with me and fighting for American shrimpers and the safety of our food supply,\u201d Carter said.\n\n\u201cThe Safer Shrimp Imports Act is common sense legislation to ensure the safety of our nation\u2019s most consumed imported seafood commodity, shrimp. For far too long, importing countries have dumped products into the American marketplace that are manufactured and processed without the same strict regulations that American producers must face,\" Ryan Bradley, Executive Director of Mississippi Commercial Fisheries United said.\n\n\u201cWe are very grateful to Congressman Ezell for introducing this important legislation to ensure the safety of foreign shrimp imported into this country,\u201d Armond Gollott III, the President of C.F. Gollott & Son Seafood, Inc. said. \u201cAs a fourth-generation shrimp processor, we are committed to producing the safest, best tasting gulf shrimp for our customers. It is only fair that foreign producers be required to meet the same health and safety standards as the domestic industry.\u201d\n\n\u201cThe American Shrimp Processors Association strongly supports the Safer Shrimp Imports Act,\u201d Trey Pearson, the president of the American Shrimp Processors Association (ASPA) said. \u201cImports account for over 90 percent of the shrimp that Americans eat, and for far too long domestic shrimp producers have been forced to compete with imports that do not have to comply with our health and safety rules. If foreign countries cannot show that they meet our food safety standards, their shrimp should not be in this country, period.\u201d\n\n\u201cWe need the Safer Shrimp Imports Act to guarantee that foreign shrimp imports meet the same rules as domestic, gulf-caught shrimp,\u201d Dean Blanchard, the owner of Dean Blanchard Seafood said. \u201cThe U.S. government inspects less than one percent of the 1.5 billion pounds of shrimp imported into our country each year, while our U.S. shrimp fishermen, docks, and processors must comply with strict health and safety rules. This bill will help ensure that imports meet the same standards as our Gulf shrimp industry.\u201d\n\n\u201cUnder the USDA\u2019s equivalency requirements, if you want to import catfish or pangasius into this country, there are just 42 companies in three countries approved to ship that fish to the United States. Under the FDA\u2019s current system, if you want to import shrimp, you can do so from anyone, anywhere, at any time. That\u2019s why the FDA refused shrimp from \u2018Rudong Zhengxiong Trade Co., Ltd.\u2019 shipped to our East Coast in March and then, a month later, refused shrimp from \u2018Zhengxiong (Rudong) Trade Co., Ltd.\u2019 shipped to our West Coast,\u201d John Williams, executive director of the Southern Shrimp Alliance said. \u201cThe Safer Shrimp Imports Act sets a common-sense minimum standard for exporting shrimp to this country by requiring that our trading partners administer a food safety system that is equivalent to our own.\u201d\n\n\u201cFWC is pleased to support the Safer Shrimp Imports Act. For years, Florida shrimpers have been hurt by foreign companies that have been dumping their products into US markets while skirting safety standards. This bill brings more accountability to foreign companies and is an important step to helping US shrimpers and US customers,\u201d Jessica McCawley, director, Division of Marine Fisheries Management at Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission said.\n\n\u201cWe are encouraged to see action being taken by our Federal legislators to protect the integrity of the seafood supply chain and to support the US shrimping industry,\" Founder and COO Erin Williams of SEAD Consulting said.\n\nThe legislation works to execute on President Trump's and HHS Secretary Kennedy's vision to keep America health and eradicate its public health crisis. This bill is supported by a coalition of Gulf Coast seafood industry groups and food safety advocates. This is the House companion to S. 667 introduced by Senator Hyde-Smith in the Senate.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T00:49:36Z"], ["https://ezell.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=782", "Ezell, Nehls, Rutherford Introduce Bipartisan Resolution Supporting America\u2019s Law Enforcement Professionals", "2025-05-13", "2025", "2025-05", "Republican", "House", "MS", "Mike Ezell", "E000235", "ezell.house.gov", "ezell", "https://ezell.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27", "scraper", "Congressmen Mike Ezell (MS-04), Troy Nehls (TX-22), and John Rutherford (FL-05) have introduced a bipartisan concurrent resolution in the House expressing strong support for America\u2019s law enforcement professionals.\n\nOriginal co-sponsors of the resolution are representatives Barry Moore (AL-01), Ken Calvert (CA-41), Nicole Malliotakis (NY-11), Bill Huizenga (MI-04), Mike Rogers (AL-03), Dusty Johnson (SD-At Large), Amata Radewagen (AS-At Large), Mike Collins (GA-10), and Josh Riley (NY-19).\n\nThe resolution recognizes the dedication, sacrifice, and service of over 800,000 law enforcement officers across the country who risk their lives every day to protect and serve their communities. It also highlights the rising dangers faced by officers, including increased assaults, traumatic stress, and staffing shortages, and calls on all levels of government to ensure officers receive the tools, resources, and respect they need.\n\n\u201cAs a former sheriff with four decades in law enforcement, I know firsthand what it means to put on the badge and serve your community,\u201d Ezell said. \u201cThis resolution is about showing our law enforcement professionals that Congress stands with them, not just in words, but through meaningful support. We honor their service, we mourn those we\u2019ve lost, and we commit to making sure every officer has what they need to do their job safely and effectively.\u201d\n\n\u201cAs a former law enforcement officer and Texas Sheriff, I know all too well the sacrifices our men and women in blue make to protect and serve our communities,\u201d Nehls said. \u201cI\u2019m proud to join my colleague, Congressman Ezell, in introducing a resolution that demonstrates our unwavering support for our nation\u2019s law enforcement officers. Our brave police officers deserve our support. In Congress, I will always back the blue.\u201d\n\n\u201cAs a law enforcement officer for 40 years, including 12 years as Jacksonville Sheriff, I dedicated my life to protecting and serving my Northeast Florida community alongside our finest men and women,\u201d Rutherford said. \u201cI understand the dangers our officers face every day they put their uniforms on and kiss their families goodbye. That's why I am proud to stand with Representative Ezell and Senator Cassidy to recognize the service and sacrifice of America\u2019s law enforcement officers. We must pass strong bills in Congress that back our law enforcement officers and provide them with the tools they need to safely do their jobs. Anything less than that is not good enough for those putting their lives on the line each and every day.\u201d\n\n\u201cI would like to express my sincere appreciation to Congressman Mike Ezell for his support of law enforcement across the country,\u201d said Mathew Silverman, National President of the Federal Law Enforcement Officers Association. \u201cAs a nation facing many challenges, we need more legislators to step forward and support law enforcement at all levels of government so we can best serve the American people, together.\u201d\n\n\"Congressman Ezell's resolution is a powerful affirmation of the service, sacrifice, and daily challenges faced by law enforcement. It sends a clear message that our Officers and their families are not forgotten, and that their well-being and safety remain a national priority,\" Sheriff Kieran Donahue, Canyon County, ID President, National Sheriffs' Association said.\n\nThe resolution calls for:\n\nGreater investment in officer safety and wellness,\n\nIncreased penalties for violence against police,\n\nExpanded mental health resources for officers, and\n\nRenewed support for training, equipment, and staffing needs, particularly in underserved and rural areas.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T00:49:36Z"], ["https://benniethompson.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-thompson-announces-over-127-million-hhs-head-start-grant-awards", "Congressman Thompson Announces Over $12.7 Million in HHS Head Start Grant Awards for Mississippi", "2025-05-08", "2025", "2025-05", "Democrat", "House", "MS", "Bennie G. Thompson", "T000193", "benniethompson.house.gov", "benniethompson", "https://benniethompson.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "BOLTON, MS \u2013 Today, Congressman Bennie G. Thompson (MS-02) announced that the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) has awarded two significant grants totaling more than $12.7 million to support Head Start programs in Mississippi\u2019s Second Congressional District.\n\nThe grants are awarded as follows:\n\nHinds County Human Resource Agency \u2013 $9,595,720\n\nFunding supports comprehensive early childhood education, health, nutrition, and parent involvement services under the Head Start program.\n\nCoahoma Opportunities, Inc. \u2013 $3,122,149\n\nThis grant will enable continued operation and enhancement of Head Start services in Coahoma County and surrounding communities.\n\n\u201cThese grants represent a vital investment in the future of our children and families,\u201d said Congressman Thompson. \u201cEarly childhood education lays the foundation for lifelong success, and I am proud to support programs that ensure every child\u2014regardless of their zip code\u2014has access to quality care and education.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T00:49:36Z"], ["https://benniethompson.house.gov/media/press-releases/thompson-announces-federal-grants-improve-local-airports-across-mississippis", "Thompson Announces Federal Grants to Improve Local Airports Across Mississippi\u2019s Second Congressional District", "2025-05-08", "2025", "2025-05", "Democrat", "House", "MS", "Bennie G. Thompson", "T000193", "benniethompson.house.gov", "benniethompson", "https://benniethompson.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "BOLTON, MS \u2013 Congressman Bennie G. Thompson (D-MS) today announced that the U.S. Department of Transportation has awarded more than $2.4 million in federal funds to support airport improvement projects in communities across Mississippi\u2019s Second Congressional District. The grants, awarded through the Federal Aviation Administration\u2019s (FAA) FY25 Airport Infrastructure Grant (AIG) program, will fund critical upgrades to improve safety, efficiency, and operations at six local airports.\n\n\u201cThese grants are meaningful investments in our district\u2019s infrastructure,\u201d said Congressman Thompson. \u201cThey help ensure our local airports can continue serving travelers, businesses, and emergency responders effectively while supporting jobs and economic growth right here at home.\u201d\n\nThe following airports will receive FAA funding:", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T00:49:36Z"], ["https://ezell.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=775", "Ezell Applauds House Natural Resources Committee for Advancing Pro-Energy, Pro-America Budget Measures", "2025-05-07", "2025", "2025-05", "Republican", "House", "MS", "Mike Ezell", "E000235", "ezell.house.gov", "ezell", "https://ezell.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27", "scraper", "Congressman Mike Ezell (MS-04) released the following statement after the House Committee on Natural Resources advanced provisions in the budget reconciliation process aimed at unleashing American energy dominance\u2014answering President Donald Trump\u2019s call to restore commonsense, science-based energy policies.\n\n\u201cSouth Mississippi understands the value of energy and forestry jobs\u2014and the importance of managing our natural resources responsibly,\u201d Ezell said. \u201cFrom the Gulf\u2019s offshore rigs to our longleaf pine forests, American energy and timber mean American jobs, lower costs, and stronger national security. That\u2019s why I\u2019m proud to support the Natural Resources Committee\u2019s efforts to restore American resource dominance. These policies are rooted in science, backed by sound economics, and focused on unlocking the full potential of what our land and waters provide\u2014safely and responsibly. This is the kind of leadership hardworking Americans have been waiting for.\u201d\n\nThrough this reconciliation package, the Committee is advancing policies that will:\n\nExpand access to domestic energy production, including oil, gas, and minerals;\n\nReduce burdensome regulations that hold back job creators and energy producers;\n\nPromote proper forest management and generate revenue through long-term leasing of federal lands for sustainable timber harvesting;\n\nGenerate more than $18.5 billion in federal savings and new revenue;\n\nStrengthen America\u2019s position as a global energy leader.\n\nEzell remains committed to supporting policies that unlock economic growth, promote energy innovation, and reduce dependence on foreign adversaries.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T00:49:36Z"], ["https://benniethompson.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-bennie-g-thompson-issues-statement-threats-against-tougaloo", "Congressman Bennie G. Thompson Issues Statement on Threats Against Tougaloo College Following Congresswoman Jasmine Crockett\u2019s Commencement Address", "2025-05-06", "2025", "2025-05", "Democrat", "House", "MS", "Bennie G. Thompson", "T000193", "benniethompson.house.gov", "benniethompson", "https://benniethompson.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2013 Today, Rep. Bennie G. Thompson (D-MS) released the following statement on threats against Tougaloo College following Congresswoman Jasmine Crockett\u2019s commencement address:\n\n\u201cIt is unfortunate that a day of celebration at Tougaloo College was met with attempts by extremists to overshadow the moment and intimidate those in attendance. Their threats, aimed at undermining Congresswoman Jasmine Crockett\u2019s powerful commencement address, failed. The Tougaloo community remains proud, strong, and unmoved.\n\n\u201cTougaloo College is known around the world and has long been an agent for change during some of our nation\u2019s most difficult times. Congresswoman Crockett is one of the most sought-after voices in the U.S. House of Representatives, and we were honored to have her speak.\n\n\u201cI stand in solidarity with the Tougaloo community and commend Congresswoman Crockett for her inspiring message to the graduates. Under no circumstances will we be intimidated by fear.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T00:49:36Z"], ["https://ezell.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=774", "Sheriffs Ezell, Nehls\u00a0Reintroduce\u00a0Resolution Honoring Local Law Enforcement Ahead of Police Week", "2025-05-06", "2025", "2025-05", "Republican", "House", "MS", "Mike Ezell", "E000235", "ezell.house.gov", "ezell", "https://ezell.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27", "scraper", "Today, Sheriffs Mike Ezell (MS-04) and Troy Nehls (TX-22) announced the reintroduction of a House resolution formally recognizing the essential role that local law enforcement officers play in protecting communities, enforcing the law, and maintaining public safety across the United States. The resolution comes in advance of National Police Week, which begins May 12, 2025.\n\n\u201cAs a former sheriff, I know firsthand the courage, professionalism, and selflessness that our law enforcement officers bring to the job every single day,\u201d Ezell said. \u201cThese men and women are the backbone of public safety in our communities. They run toward danger, not away from it\u2014and they do it to protect people they may never meet. As we approach Police Week, I am proud to stand alongside officers who put on the badge each morning, not knowing what the day may bring. They deserve our respect, our gratitude, and our unwavering support.\u201d\n\n\u201cEvery day, law enforcement officers put their lives on the line to protect and defend the communities they serve,\u201d Nehls said. \u201cAs a former Texas Sheriff, I am proud to support my colleague, Congressman Ezell\u2019s resolution, showing our unwavering support for the men and women in blue. Our nation\u2019s law enforcement officers deserve our utmost respect and gratitude. I will always back the blue.\u201d\n\nThe resolution expresses strong support for local law enforcement agencies and officers, emphasizing:\n\nThe bravery shown by officers in the face of danger;\n\nThe professionalism required to enforce the law with fairness and integrity;\n\nAnd the personal sacrifice officers and their families make to keep others safe.\n\nEzell\u2019s resolution also encourages Americans to take time during Police Week to reflect on the service and sacrifice of law enforcement personnel, including those who have made the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T00:49:36Z"], ["https://ezell.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=772", "Ezell, Carbajal Introduce Bipartisan FEMA Reform Bill", "2025-05-05", "2025", "2025-05", "Republican", "House", "MS", "Mike Ezell", "E000235", "ezell.house.gov", "ezell", "https://ezell.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27", "scraper", "Today, Congressmen Mike Ezell (R-MS-04) and Salud Carbajal (D-CA-24) introduced H.R. 3177, the Keep It In The State (KITS) Act to ensure that projects under the Robert T. Stafford Disaster Relief and Emergency Assistance Act are handled by professionals who are licensed in the states where disaster recovery projects take place. The bill seeks to improve the accuracy, safety, and efficiency of federally funded disaster recovery efforts by requiring that cost estimates, material acquisition, and other project-related activities be carried out by state-licensed professionals.\n\n\u201cWhen disaster strikes, our communities rely on FEMA to help rebuild stronger and safer,\u201d Ezell said. \u201cBut that only happens when the work is done right. By ensuring FEMA projects are overseen by professionals licensed in our home state, we\u2019re making sure local standards, materials, and practices are respected throughout the process. The KITS Act will help prevent government bureaucrats from states away from overruling local experts. We want to rebuild smarter, not just faster\u2014and that starts with using qualified professionals who understand our terrain, our codes, and our people.\u201d\n\n\"Post-disaster rebuilding should be led by local experts who deeply understand the affected region,\" Carbajal said. \"This legislation will go a long way toward empowering communities to accelerate their region\u2019s recovery efforts.\"\n\nAs a coastal city that understands firsthand the urgency of disaster recovery, we strongly support Congressman Ezell\u2019s Keep it in the State (K.I.T.S.) Act. Ensuring FEMA projects are managed by licensed professionals within the state not only respects local knowledge but also enhances the quality and speed of our recovery efforts. Local experts are more familiar with our building codes, environmental conditions, and infrastructure systems, which leads to better-informed decisions and more resilient outcomes. This legislation is a practical step forward in empowering communities like Gautier to rebuild stronger and smarter after disaster strikes,\" Mayor Casey Vaughan, City of Gautier said.\n\n\"As Mayor of Biloxi, we have been impacted by several major hurricanes. Our City works with FEMA everyday. We are grateful for Representative Ezell's leadership and efforts to streamline the regulatory process and ensure that future rebuilding efforts are under the control of our state and local officials. Requiring state-licensed professionals makes good common sense, and we fully support this legislation,\" Mayor Andrew \"Fo Fo\" Gilich, City of Biloxi said.\n\n\"Here in Pascagoula, we know how important it is to rebuild our community the right way after a disaster. Making sure that rebuilding is done by licensed professionals from our own state means safer homes, stronger infrastructure and a faster return to normal for our families and businesses. I\u2019m grateful for Congressman Ezell's leadership for pushing forward this effort that will strengthen recovery operations by putting the work in the hands of those who know our state best. It\u2019s a common-sense step that will make a real difference for communities like ours along the coast,\" Mayor Jay Willis, City of Pascagoula said.\n\n\u201cThis certainly makes sense for the protection of a City and or County, to secure the services of a professional in determining the extent of storm damage, development of the scope of work necessary to restore to pre-storm conditions or, should an improvement be considered for mitigation and for the development of project plans and specification which would ensure appropriate materials and work methods adhere to specific engineering standards,\" D'Iberville City Manager, Bobby Weaver said.\n\n\u201cThe City of Moss Point certainly supports Congressman Ezell\u2019s effort to ensure quality and efficiency in disaster rebuilding. Recognizing the importance of local perspective and expertise can go a long way in speeding up recovery processes,\u201d Moss Point Mayor Billy Knight, Sr. said. \u201cWe appreciate the congressman\u2019s focus on disaster-related issues, as South Mississippi sits in a disaster-prone zone.\u201d\n\nThe legislation responds to long-standing concerns from local leaders and industry professionals who have raised issues with out-of-state or unlicensed individuals making critical decisions in the wake of disasters. These decisions often lead to delays, unnecessary costs, or construction that fails to meet state and local requirements.\n\nUnder the KITS Act, FEMA will be required to:\n\nUse professionals who are licensed in the relevant state for cost estimating, procurement, and other major project tasks.\n\nPrioritize the use of local expertise to improve accountability and ensure compliance with state and local codes.\n\nWork more closely with state agencies and stakeholders during disaster response and recovery.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T00:49:36Z"], ["https://ezell.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=763", "Subcommittee Chairman Ezell Secures Major Wins for the U.S. Coast Guard in Transportation & Infrastructure\u00a0Committee Markup", "2025-04-30", "2025", "2025-04", "Republican", "House", "MS", "Mike Ezell", "E000235", "ezell.house.gov", "ezell", "https://ezell.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27", "scraper", "Today, Congressman Mike Ezell (MS-04), Chairman of the Coast Guard and Maritime Transportation Subcommittee, announced significant victories for the U.S. Coast Guard following the Transportation and Infrastructure Committee\u2019s markup of its Budget Reconciliation legislation. The bill includes $21.2 billion in investments to strengthen the U.S. Coast Guard\u2019s mission.\n\n\u201cToday\u2019s markup represents a historic and transformative investment in America\u2019s maritime industrial base and readiness. Working alongside my colleagues and President Trump, we\u2019ve significantly increased funding for Coast Guard shipbuilding. This essential funding is critical to reversing what Coast Guard leadership has described as a \u2018readiness death spiral\u2019 directly addressing urgent national security requirements, particularly those arising from increased geopolitical competition and operational demands in the strategically significant Arctic region,\u201d Chairman Ezell said. \u201cOur goal is to deliver timely, efficient, and strategic enhancements to the Coast Guard fleet while safeguarding American interests and promoting strong domestic economic growth. I have full confidence in the American shipbuilding industry's capacity and capability to meet this urgent national requirement using domestic resources and expertise. While international collaboration can offer strategic advantages, it also raises significant national security and economic concerns. Our dedicated Coast Guard personnel deserve robust and reliable resources to effectively protect our maritime interests and national sovereignty. By strengthening the Coast Guard\u2019s capabilities, we\u2019re investing in national security\u2014something South Mississippi has long contributed to.\u201d\n\n\u201cAs the largest segment of American maritime, the tugboat, towboat, and barge industry is proud to be a longtime partner to the United States Coast Guard in ensuring the safety, security, and reliability of the U.S. maritime transportation system. We commend the House Transportation & Infrastructure Committee for its leadership in proposing generational investment in the Coast Guard to provide it with the resources needed to execute its broad and vital mission set,\u201d Jennifer Carpenter, President & CEO, The American Waterways Operators said.\n\n\u201cThe American Maritime Partnership strongly supports this generational investment in the U.S. Coast Guard, which plays a central role in defending our homeland, strengthening U.S. national security and enforcing the Jones Act. This funding equips our service members with essential modern assets while strengthening America's maritime capacity, critical to our economy and supply chain. We thank T&I Chairman Sam Graves and Coast Guard and Maritime Transportation Chairman Mike Ezell for their leadership in securing our waters,\u201d the American Maritime Partnership said.\n\n\u201cThis investment represents a critical commitment to the Coast Guard\u2019s national security mission \u2014 from stopping the flow of illegal drugs, to securing our ports and projecting presence in the Arctic,\u201d Matthew Paxton, President of the Shipbuilders Council of America said. \u201cThese vital duties demand modern, state-of-the-art assets, built and maintained by America\u2019s shipyard industrial base. We applaud Chairman Ezell, Ranking Member Carbajal, and the Subcommittee for recognizing that protecting our maritime borders begins with investing in our nation\u2019s Coast Guard.\u201d\n\nKey provisions include:\n\n$1 billion for the construction of Fast Response Cutters (FRCs)\u2014vital for operations in drug interdiction, search and rescue, and port security.\n\n$4.3 billion for continued development and procurement of Polar Security Cutters, which will expand the Coast Guard\u2019s operations in the Arctic and help safeguard American sovereignty in increasingly contested waters.\n\n$4.978 billion for Arctic Security Cutters and domestic icebreakers.\n\n$3.154 billion for shoreside infrastructure, of which $400 million is for hangars, maintenance, and crew facilities for fixed wing aircraft and rotary wing aircraft, $2.33 billion is for homeports for Offshore Patrol Cutters, Fast Response Cutters, Arctic Security Cutters, Polar Security Cutters, domestic ice breakers, including the USCGC STORIS, and National Security Cutters, and $425 million for design, engineering, construction management of, and program management for enlisted boot camp recapitalization, including barracks' replacement and a multi-use training center.\n\n$1.3 billion for aviation, cutter, and shoreside facility depot maintenance, of which $500 million is for a floating dry dock; and $180 million for maritime domain awareness, of which $75 million is for autonomous surface assets.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T00:33:40Z"], ["https://trentkelly.house.gov/newsroom/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=7730", "Sen. Kelly, Sen. Young, Rep. Garamendi, Rep. Kelly Introduce SHIPS for America Act to Boost American Shipbuilding, Strengthen US Economy and National Securit\n\nApril 30, 2025 | Posted in Press Releases\n\nTags:\nNational Defense / Veterans\n\n\nWASHINGTON, D.C. -\u00a0Today, Senator Mark Kelly (D-AZ), Senator Todd Young (R-IN), Representative John Garamendi (D-CA-8), and Representative Trent Kelly (R-MS-1) re-introduced the Ship-building and Harbor Infrastructure for Prosperity and Security (SHIPS) for America Act, comprehensive legislation to revitalize the United States shipbuilding and commercial maritime industries. Other\u2026 Read more \u00bb", "2025-04-30", "2025", "2025-04", "Republican", "House", "MS", "Trent Kelly", "K000388", "trentkelly.house.gov", "trentkelly", "https://trentkelly.house.gov/newsroom/documentquery.aspx", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. - Today, Senator Mark Kelly (D-AZ), Senator Todd Young (R-IN), Representative John Garamendi (D-CA-8), and Representative Trent Kelly (R-MS-1) re-introduced the Ship-building and Harbor Infrastructure for Prosperity and Security (SHIPS) for America Act, comprehensive legislation to revitalize the United States shipbuilding and commercial maritime industries. Other cosponsors in the Senate include Senator Lisa Murkowski (R-AK) and Senator John Fetterman (D-PA).\n\nThere are currently 80 U.S.-flagged vessels in international commerce while China has 5,500. The SHIPS for America Act aims to close this gap and boost the U.S. Merchant Marine by establishing national oversight and consistent funding for U.S. maritime policy, making U.S.-flagged vessels commercially competitive in international commerce by cutting red tape, rebuilding the U.S. shipyard industrial base, and expanding and strengthening mariner and shipyard worker recruitment, training, and retention.\n\n\"After decades of dangerously neglecting our shipbuilding industry, we're finally doing something about it. The SHIPS for America Act is the most ambitious effort in a generation to revitalize the U.S. shipbuilding and commercial maritime industries and counter China's dominance over the oceans,\" said Senator Kelly, a U.S. Navy veteran and the first U.S. Merchant Marine Academy graduate to serve in Congress. \"Building and staffing more U.S.-flagged ships will create good-paying American jobs, make our supply chains more resilient, lower costs, and strengthen our ability to resupply our military at times of war. We'll keep working with our colleagues in Congress, this administration, and our partners in the industry to make our country safer and competitive by passing the SHIPS for America Act.\"\n\n\"America has been a maritime nation since our founding, and seapower was a significant contributor to our rise to being the most powerful nation on earth. Unfortunately, the bottom line now is America needs more ships. Shipbuilding is a national security priority and a stopgap against foreign threats and coercion. Our bill will revitalize the U.S. maritime industry, grow our shipbuilding capacity, rebuild America's shipyard industrial base, and support nationwide workforce development in this industry. This legislation is critical to our warfighting capabilities and keeping peace with China,\" said Senator Young, a U.S. Naval Academy graduate.\n\n\"Strengthening America's shipbuilding capacity and revitalizing our commercial maritime industry is critical to national security and economic resilience. Under President Trump's leadership, we're prioritizing these vital sectors. I'm proud to work alongside Senator Mark Kelly, Senator Todd Young, and Congressman John Garamendi to help safeguard our maritime future,\" said Congressman Kelly.\n\n\"With China's growing influence in the global maritime sector, the United States can no longer afford to overlook our maritime industries. The SHIPS for America Act will give our shipyards and merchant mariners the tools they need to rebuild America's maritime industry and create good-paying American jobs,\" said Congressman Garamendi. \"I'm proud to lead this effort alongside Senator Kelly, Senator Young, and Representative Kelly to strengthen America's national security, economic strength, and global leadership on the high seas.\"\n\n\"Because of our vast geography, the maritime industry is uniquely vital to Alaska, with many of our coastal communities relying on a strong U.S.-flagged fleet for everything from everyday logistics, to commercial fishing and homeland defense. I am proud to cosponsor the SHIPS Act, which advances common-sense solutions that will invest in the workforce and revitalize our nation's shipbuilding, increasing Alaska's resilience and security,\" said Senator Murkowski.\n\nWhen it comes to maintaining our competitive edge against China, failure is not an option. The SHIPS for America Act will help the United States compete with China's production of ships while creating new manufacturing jobs in shipyards across the nation,\" said Senator Fetterman. \"Not only will this strengthen our national security, but it'll also grow our local economies and support working families right here in Pennsylvania. I'm proud to support this commonsense, bipartisan legislation that will help us build more ships in America and stand up to China.\"\n\nThe SHIPS for America Act would:\n\n\u2022 Coordinate U.S. maritime policy by establishing the position of Maritime Security Advisor within the White House, who would lead an interagency Maritime Security Board tasked with making whole-of-government strategic decisions for how to implement a National Maritime Strategy. The bill also establishes a Maritime Security Trust Fund that would reinvest duties and fees paid by the maritime industry into maritime security programs and infrastructure supporting maritime commerce.\n\n\u2022 Establish a national goal of expanding the U.S.-flag international fleet by 250 ships in 10 years by creating the Strategic Commercial Fleet Program, which would facilitate the development of a fleet of commercially operated, U.S.-flagged, American crewed, and domestically built merchant vessels that can operate competitively in international commerce.\n\n\u2022 Enhance the competitiveness of U.S.-flagged vessels in international commerce by establishing a Rulemaking Committee on Commercial Maritime Regulations and Standards to cut through the U.S. Coast Guard's bureaucracy and red tape that limits the international competitiveness of U.S.-flagged vessels, modify duties to make cargo on U.S.-flagged vessels more competitive, requiring that government-funded cargo move aboard U.S.-flagged vessels, and requiring a portion of commercial goods imported from China to move aboard U.S.-flagged vessels starting in 2030.\n\n\u2022 Expand the U.S. shipyard industrial base, for both military and commercial oceangoing vessels, by establishing a 25 percent investment tax credit for shipyard investments, transforming the Title XI Federal Ship Financing Program into a revolving fund, and establishing a Shipbuilding Financial Incentives program to support innovative approaches to domestic ship building and ship repair.\n\n\u2022 Make historic investments in maritime workforce by supporting a Maritime Workforce Promotion and Recruitment Campaign, allowing mariners to retain their credentials through a newly established Merchant Marine Career Retention Program, investing in long-overdue infrastructure needs for the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy, and supporting State Maritime Academies and Centers for Excellence for Domestic Maritime Workforce Training and Education. The bill also makes long-overdue changes to streamline and modernize the U.S. Coast Guard's Merchant Mariner Credentialing system.\n\nThe legislation will be introduced in two pieces in the Senate, the SHIPS for America Act and the Building SHIPS in America Act.\n\nBackground:\n\nSince first introducing the SHIPS for America Act in December, the urgency to boost American shipbuilding has emerged as a priority of bipartisan consensus this year, particularly after the U.S. Trade Representative revealed its findings regarding China's shipbuilding dominance and President Trump signed a shipbuilding executive order.\n\nSen. Kelly earned his B.S. degree in marine engineering and nautical science from the United States Merchant Marine Academy (USMMA) and later an M.S. degree in aeronautical engineering from the United States Naval Postgraduate School. He spent 25 years in the United States Navy as a pilot and is the first ever USMMA alumnus to serve in Congress. In 2023, he was elected chair of the USMMA Board of Visitors for the 118th Congress.\n\nThe following organizations have endorsed the SHIPS for America Act:\n\nKeystone Shipping Company, American Shipbuilding Suppliers Association, Navy League, General Dynamics-NASSCO, American Waterway Operators, American Maritime Partnership, San Jacinto College, Oceantic Network, California State University Maritime Academy, Maine Maritime Academy, Senesco Marine, Massachusetts Maritime Academy, Great Lakes Maritime Academy, USMMA Alumni Association and Foundation, American Maritime Officers, International Organization of Masters, Mates & Pilots, Maritime Institute for Research and Industrial Development (MIRAID), International Propeller Club, Crowley, American Maritime Officers Service, The Pasha Group, Saltchuk, Tropical, Saltchuk Marine, Overseas Shipholding Group, Core Power, Govini, US Ocean, Small Shipyard Grant Coalition, The American Club, Transportation Institute, Blue Water Autonomy, American Bureau of Shipping, With Honor Action, Texas A&M Maritime Academy, National Defense Transportation Association (NDTA), American Iron and Steel Institute, Shipbuilders Council of America, Maritime Association of the Port of NY/NJ, United Steelworkers, International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers, Matson, American Legion, Inc., Marine Engineers' Beneficial Association (M.E.D.A.), Ocean Shipholdings, Inc, Offshore Marine Service Association (OMSA), Hanwha Philly Shipyard, Ports America, Seafarers International Union (SIU), U.S. Marine Management, AUVSI, Maritime Accelerator for Resilience, Cleveland-Cliffs Inc., Chamber of Shipping of America, National Association of Waterfront Employers (NAWE), Association for Materials Protection and Performance (AMPP), California Forever, International Federation of Professional and Technical Engineers (IFPTE), Alliance for American Manufacturing, Nucor, Steel Manufacturers Association, Blue Sky Maritime, New American Industrial Alliance, and Ship Operations and Marine Technical Support (SOMTS).\n\nSee what maritime leaders and stakeholders are saying about the SHIPS for America Act:\n\n\"The USA Maritime coalition supports the SHIPS for America Act and has been honored to work with Senators Kelly and Young and Congressmen Garamendi and Kelly as the bill has taken shape over the last two years. This bill represents the most comprehensive maritime policy initiative in more than half a century. Now, more than ever, the United States needs a strong, vibrant and growing Merchant Marine, capable of carrying a substantial portion of our foreign commerce and supporting our military in time of war. This initiative will ensure our country has the U.S.-Flag ships and American mariners needed to preserve, protect and defend America and our economic security. We look forward to continuing to work with Congress on this legislation,\" said Brian W. Schoeneman, Chair, USA Maritime.\n\n\"The Shipbuilders Council of America commends Senator Kelly, Congressman Kelly, Senator Young, and Congressman Garamendi for their leadership in advancing the SHIPS for America Act. This legislation represents a significant step forward in strengthening the nation's shipyard industrial base and establishing a comprehensive national maritime strategy. We are encouraged by its focus on bolstering American shipbuilding and ensuring a robust maritime sector capable of supporting our nation's economic and national security. SCA is committed to continuing its engagement with these Congressional members and staff to refine and enhance the legislation, especially to better support our domestic ship repair industry, and we look forward to collaborating with policymakers to ensure the success of initiatives that secure the future of America's shipyard industrial base and maritime workforce,\" Matthew Paxton, President, Shipbuilders Council of America.\n\n\"The Navy League applauds the introduction of the SHIPS for America Act, a landmark legislative achievement that will comprehensively meet the needs of the U.S. merchant marine and bolster our shipbuilding industrial base. In today's global threat environment, arguably the most perilous since the end of the Cold War, the United States must not only maintain the finest Navy, Marine Corps, and Coast Guard on the seas, but also ensure a robust U.S.-flag merchant marine and a resilient shipbuilding industrial base. These elements are crucial for safeguarding our national and economic security in the event of large-scale military conflict. The SHIPS for America Act addresses these vital considerations and reaffirms that America is, and always will be, a maritime nation,\" said Mike Stevens, CEO, Navy League.\n\n\"In any conflict with China, the outcome will hinge on our ability to project power across the Pacific via military sealift. The vast majority of the USN Strategic Sealift Officers are service-obligated graduates of the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy. We are deeply grateful to the sponsors of the SHIPS for America Act for recognizing that the USMMA campus at Kings Point, NY, built in the 1940s, urgently requires modernization to meet the demands of today's national security threats,\" said Captain James F. Tobin '77, President/CEO, USMMA Alumni Association and Foundation.\n\n\"The Masters, Mates & Pilots strongly supports the SHIPS for America Act. This comprehensive and pragmatic maritime policy initiative will create and support jobs for American mariners, ensuring that our country has the maritime manpower needed to protect and enhance our nation's economic and military security,\" said Captain Don Josberger, International President, International Organization of Masters, Mates & Pilots.\n\n\"The International Propeller Club is a steadfast advocate for the SHIPS for America Act. Our nation's maritime industry is at a critical crossroads. This comprehensive maritime policy initiative will protect and enhance foreign policy, national security, and economic prosperity through increased U.S.-flag shipping capability and a revitalization of the domestic shipbuilding industry,\" said Maria Conatser, International President, International Propeller Club.\n\n\"The Consortium of State Maritime Academies strongly supports the SHIPS for America Act, and is grateful for the bipartisan and bicameral leadership of Sen. Kelly, Sen. Young, Rep. Kelly, and Rep. Garamendi. The Consortium is united in our goal of working with our elected officials to support passage of this Act. Once enacted, the SHIPS Act will result in the United States Merchant Marine once again playing a leading role on the global stage, and the growth of the American maritime industry, a strategically important industry that provides thousands of well paid positions for the nation,\" said the Consortium of State Maritime Academies.\n\n\"With Honor Action applauds Senator Mark Kelly, a Navy veteran, and Senator Todd Young, a Marine Corps veteran, for proposing real solutions to revitalize our nation's shipbuilding base and create more job opportunities for Americans. As advocates for bipartisan, principled veteran leadership in Congress, we are pleased to see veterans who have chosen to continue to serve in Congress working together to address the critical issues facing our nation,\" said Ryan Barcott, Co-Founder and CEO, With Honor.\n\n\"NDTA supports the strategic rebuilding of the United State's fleet of ships who fly our flag. We must have a fleet of ocean-going vessels to protect the economic security of our nation. The SHIPS for America Act is truly a significant step in the right direction. Everyone in America needs to get educated about the importance of this bill. Rebuilding our U.S. fleet, our shipbuilding capacity, and workforce is a national imperative,\" said William A. Brown, Vice Admiral, USN (Retired), President and CEO, NDTA The Association for Global Logistics and Transportation.\n\n\"U.S. economic and national security is inexorably tied to our nation's shipbuilding capacity. Yet, for too long, China has dominated this critical sector, costing the U.S. tens of thousands of jobs across the shipbuilding supply chain and leaving us less secure as we rely on foreign-made vessels to meet our needs. Our union commends Sens. Kelly and Young and Reps. Garamendi and Kelly as they introduce the SHIPS for America Act. USW members stand ready to contribute their skills in manufacturing the plate steel, coatings, cable, glass, rubber, engines and countless other products we'll need to revitalize American shipbuilding,\" said Dave McCall, President, USW International.\n\n\"In the United States, we have a small number of shipyards focused on building Navy and Coast Guard ships, and a far smaller amount focused on building ocean-going vessels for commercial use. At the shipbuilding supplier level, we have many components that are provided by a manufacturer who may be one of the few, if not the sole, remaining means of production. As noted in the SHIPS Act, we must work with our industrial partners in NATO and Allied nations, but also invest in our American workforce and capabilities. The elements of Buy America legislation incorporated in this Bill are important to reaching this goal,\" said Roger Camp, President and CEO, American Shipbuilding Suppliers Association.\n\n\"The reintroduction of the SHIPS for America Act marks as a vital step forward in strengthening our maritime supply chain and revitalizing the U.S. commercial shipbuilding industry. This legislation will help ensure that American goods move on American-built ships, operated by American mariners, supporting our economic security and national resilience. We appreciate the inclusion of legislation that would authorize terminal operators to establish tax free accounts for the purchase of cargo handling equipment knowing this will help our industry provide state-of-the-art services. Ports and terminal operators across the country are ready to meet the future with modern infrastructure and a highly skilled workforce - but we need a commercial fleet that can match that capability. The SHIPS for America Act helps close that gap and brings long-overdue investment to a sector critical to our competitiveness. NAWE applauds Senators Kelly and Young for their bipartisan leadership and looks forward to working alongside Congress to advance this important legislation,\" said Carl Bentzel, President, National Association of Waterfront Employers (NAWE).\n\n\"Hanwha Philly Shipyard recognizes and commends U.S. Senators Mark Kelly and Todd Young, and Congressmen Trent Kelly and John Garamendi for their maritime policy leadership in reintroducing the bipartisan SHIPS for America Act. This bill offers tangible incentives to the domestic maritime industry with the goal of expanding the U.S. flag ocean-going fleet. It supports a major recapitalization of the shipbuilding infrastructure in the U.S., provides substantial incentives for the purchase of U.S.-built commercial vessels, and supports the national security and naval shipbuilding goals of the U.S. We see tremendous value in this legislation and believe it would have a long-term positive impact on Hanwha Philly Shipyard, other shipbuilders in the U.S. and Hanwha's investments in America's shipping industry and maritime industrial base,\" said David Kim, CEO, Hanwha Philly Shipyard.\n\n\"For too long, the United States has allowed its maritime strength to decline. In an era of rising great-power competition, revitalizing our maritime capabilities and sending strong signals to the private sector is more essential than ever. The American Legion, on behalf of our 1.6 million dues-paying members, is proud to support this legislation,\" said James A. LaCoursiere, Jr., National Commander, The American Legion.\n\n###", 1, "2026-04-07T14:16:54Z", "2026-04-07T14:20:51Z"], ["https://ezell.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=761", "Ezell, Crenshaw, Higgins, Weber Introduce the Bringing Reliable Investment into Domestic Gulf Energy Production (BRIDGE) Act", "2025-04-29", "2025", "2025-04", "Republican", "House", "MS", "Mike Ezell", "E000235", "ezell.house.gov", "ezell", "https://ezell.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27", "scraper", "Today, Congressmen Mike Ezell (MS-04), Dan Crenshaw (TX-02), Clay Higgins (LA-03), and Randy Weber (TX-14) introduced the Bringing Reliable Investment into Domestic Gulf Energy Production (BRIDGE) Act of 2025 to require the Secretary of the Interior to conduct certain offshore oil and gas lease sales in the Gulf of America. This legislation aims to strengthen American energy security, create good-paying jobs, and support economic growth along the Gulf Coast.\n\n\u201cThe Biden regime's war on energy is officially over. Reliable, affordable energy starts with ensuring regulatory predictability in lease sales,\u201d Ezell said. \u201cThe BRIDGE Act ensures and maintains vital lease sales, giving American energy producers the certainty they need. Energy independence is a national security issue, an economic issue, and a family budget issue\u2014and it starts right here at home.\u201d\n\n\u201cDue to radical environmental extremists in the Biden administration, gas prices soared and American energy independence suffered,\" House Natural Resources Chairman Westerman said. \"However, with Congressman Ezell\u2019s BRIDGE Act, Americans can look toward a bright future of American energy dominance and a reliable supply of affordable domestic oil and natural gas. I applaud his leadership on this issue and look forward to seeing this bill move through the legislative process.\u201d\n\n\u201cOffshore leasing should never be used as a political weapon or allow America to fall behind our competitors in the resource-rich Gulf of America,\u201d Weber said. \u201cThe BRIDGE Act gets us back on track \u2014 making sure no future Biden-style administration can slow-walk offshore energy development again. America should be producing oil, creating jobs, and securing our future.\u201d\n\n\u201cThe offshore oil and gas industry provides economic prosperity for Louisiana and our nation,\u201d Higgins said. \u201cThis legislation provides certainty in the leasing process and encourages increased energy production in the Gulf of America. I\u2019m proud to join my colleagues, Congressman Ezell and Congressman Weber, on this important legislation to strengthen America\u2019s energy security.\u201d\n\n\"The BRIDGE Act will bring certainty back to our offshore leasing program, and much-needed relief after four years of restrictive policies that jeopardized our future energy supply, security, and affordability. The Gulf of America is the least carbon-intensive offshore production basin in the world, and refusing to utilize this vast resource is not only bad policy, it\u2019s environmentally irresponsible. Without guaranteed offshore lease sales, which account for almost 14% of our crude oil supply, we put affordable and reliable energy at risk. Over the last four years, the Biden Administration did everything it could to obstruct sustainable offshore energy development; subsequently, we saw the highest gasoline prices in 20 years and the highest natural gas costs since 2005, during the previous term. Repeated delays hindered a new leasing program, necessitating measures like the BRIDGE Act to ensure uninterrupted and efficient offshore energy lease sales that cannot be thwarted depending on the ideologies of the administration in office. Consumer Energy Alliance looks forward to supporting more measured, sensible energy legislation in the new Congress to provide lasting predictability and transparency. The passage of the BRIDGE Act is an important first step in reviving our offshore industry for the benefit of all Americans,\u201d Katie Hammons, Vice President, Consumer Energy Alliance said.\n\n\"After these last few years of the federal government holding up U.S. energy development, it's good to see an Administration and a Congress proactively working on future U.S. energy production. Importantly, by seeking more energy exploration and investment in the Gulf of America, the BRIDGE Act lays the policy framework to allow production of the energy we'll need in years to come,\" Patrick Sullivan, President of the Southeast Oil and Gas Association said.\n\n\u201cThe Gulf of America\u2019s vast offshore oil and natural gas resources are a critical source of affordable energy, government revenue and stability around the world. We applaud Rep. Ezell for working to bolster U.S. energy dominance and introducing legislation to provide the certainty needed for continued exploration and development in the Gulf,\" API VP of Upstream Policy Holly Hopkins said.\n\n\u201cOffshore oil and natural gas production in federal waters provides huge economic benefits to the United States in terms of jobs, royalties to the U.S. Treasury and economic benefits to states and coastal communities. Unfortunately, the Biden Administration took numerous actions to hamper or stop vital American offshore oil and natural gas production. The BRIDGE Act brings common sense back to the offshore leasing and planning process. Independent American offshore oil and natural gas producers rely on having predicable lease sales and a regulatory regime that is durable and reasonable. IPAA congratulates Congressmen Ezell, Weber, Crenshaw, and Higgins for introducing this important legislation that will have a major impact on American oil and natural gas production in the Gulf of America,\u201d Independent Petroleum Association of America (IPAA), President & CEO Jeff Eshelman said.\n\n\"NOIA thanks Congressman Ezell for his leadership in advancing solutions that strengthen America\u2019s energy future. The Gulf of America remains a premier energy region yet delays by the previous administration in finalizing a new offshore leasing program created an unnecessary, multi-year gap in lease opportunities\u2014at a time when global competition and energy uncertainty are intensifying. Legislation like the BRIDGE Production Act would restore much-needed certainty and allow the Gulf to continue its critical role in powering the nation. We urge Congress to act swiftly on bipartisan, bicameral measures that bring clarity, stability, and renewed strength to U.S. offshore energy development,\" Erik Milito, President National Ocean Industries Association said.\n\n\"The BRIDGE Act is essential to restoring certainty in offshore leasing and reaffirming America\u2019s commitment to energy security. Louisiana plays a vital role in supplying safe, responsible offshore energy, and this legislation ensures we can continue creating jobs, supporting coastal restoration, and strengthening our economy. We commend Congressmen Ezell, Higgins and Weber for championing this legislation and urge its swift passage to secure our offshore energy future.\" Tommy Faucheux, President, Louisiana Mid-Continent Oil and Gas Association (LMOGA) said.\n\n\u201cThis Act recognizes the importance of increasing energy production across America, including in Alaska\u2019s first oil basin, the Cook Inlet. Consistent lease sales provide stability for investment, which is essential in developing crucial oil and natural gas reserves, especially in Cook Inlet, which provides the energy supply for 2/3 of Alaskans. This Act is a win for all Americans,\" Kara Moriarty, President and CEO, Alaska Oil & Gas Association said.\n\nThe BRIDGE Act would require the Secretary of the Interior to conduct offshore lease sales in the Gulf of America and other critical areas that have been delayed or canceled under the Biden administration. Offshore energy production is essential to maintaining stable energy prices, supporting hundreds of thousands of jobs, and generating billions of dollars in revenue for conservation and coastal restoration efforts.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T00:33:40Z"], ["https://benniethompson.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-thompson-carter-titus-kennedy-announce-disaster-equity-and-building", "Rep. Thompson, Carter, Titus, Kennedy Announce Disaster Equity and Building Resilience Caucus for the 119th Congress", "2025-04-28", "2025", "2025-04", "Democrat", "House", "MS", "Bennie G. Thompson", "T000193", "benniethompson.house.gov", "benniethompson", "https://benniethompson.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2013 Today, Reps. Bennie G. Thompson (D-MS), Troy A. Carter, Sr. (D-LA), Dina Titus (D-NV), and Tim Kennedy (D-NY) announced the leadership and membership of the Congressional Disaster Equity and Building Resilience Caucus for the 119th Congress. The Caucus, which was created two years ago, promotes the benefits of resilience and the need for equity in the country\u2019s disaster preparedness and response infrastructure. Research has shown that racial minorities, rural areas, low-income communities, Tribes, individuals with disabilities, seniors, and children are all more likely to experience the most devastating impacts of disasters.\n\nReps. Thompson, Carter, Titus, and Kennedy will serve together as co-Chairs of the Caucus. They, along with Caucus members, aim to use the Caucus to advance conversations about how Congress can make disaster outcomes more equitable and strengthen communities. Since it was formed in 2023, the Caucus has held events with senior officials from the Biden White House and the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and convened panels with key stakeholders to address urgent challenges and drive actionable solutions.\n\n\u201cAs natural disasters become more severe and frequent, we\u2019ve seen evidence showing that low-income communities and communities of color get left behind after disasters strike. That is inexcusable and unsustainable \u2013 and it\u2019s something we must all address,\u201d said Rep. Bennie G. Thompson. \u201cWhether you can fully recover after a disaster should not depend on your background or where you live. Having frank discussions with my colleagues and disaster recovery experts on how we can do better is even more critical today as we see the Trump administration not only calling for the elimination of FEMA, but seemingly working around the clock to erase any progress that has been made in recent years to reduce systemic barriers to recovery. The Federal government must do better.\u201d\n\n\u201cStorms don\u2019t discriminate, and disaster relief shouldn\u2019t either. Yet there have been long-standing inequities in disaster relief, especially for low-income, rural, and other minority communities. Louisiana knows this all too well, particularly as we prepare to commemorate the 20th anniversary of Hurricane Katrina. I\u2019m proud to co-chair the Congressional Disaster Equity and Building Resilience Caucus, which will advocate for disaster preparedness and recovery that better serves everyone. I look forward to working with the Caucus on how we better prepare for and recover from natural disasters,\u201d said Rep. Troy A. Carter, Sr.\n\n\u201cAs the frequency and severity of natural disasters increase, it is more important than ever to ensure that every community has access to the tools it needs to prepare and recover from extreme weather events. Disasters wreak havoc on red states and blue states across the country. As a senior member of the House subcommittee overseeing emergency management and as the Co-Chair for the Disaster Equity and Building Resilience Caucus, I\u2019ve worked with FEMA and my Congressional colleagues to push for equitable disaster relief and resilience across the board. Together we can work to close the recovery gap and help every affected community and family rebuild,\u201d said Rep. Dina Titus.\n\n\u201cWestern New Yorkers know all too well the disproportionate impacts of extreme weather on our most vulnerable communities,\u201d said Rep. Tim Kennedy. \u201cWe saw this firsthand during Winter Storm Elliott, a historic blizzard in December 2022 that took the lives of 47 individuals in my community. As these incidents become more frequent and more severe, we must ensure equity is at the forefront of the fight to improve disaster response, harden infrastructure, and build more resilient communities. I look forward to engaging in productive conversations as Co-Chair of the Disaster Equity and Building Resilience Caucus about the importance of parity in federal disaster assistance for extreme cold weather. I want to thank Ranking Member Thompson for his continuous and steadfast leadership in Congress to make disaster recovery and response more equitable.\u201d\n\nIn recent years, the Committee on Homeland Security held hearings on the issue of equity in disaster preparedness. The U.S. Government Accountability Office (GAO) also produced a report on disaster equity and barriers to recovery. Both led to legislation authored by Rep. Bennie G. Thompson to address systemic inequities in the Federal government\u2019s response to disasters and how it distributes assistance. The Biden administration prioritized addressing equity in emergency management; however, those initiatives seem to have been canceled, with all evidence of them removed from White House and FEMA websites.\n\nAdditional Caucus members include Reps. Eleanor Holmes Norton (D-DC), Nydia Vel\u00e1zquez (D-NY), Emanuel Cleaver (D-MO), Al Green (D- TX), Yvette Clarke (D-NY), Terri Sewell (D-AL), Eric Swalwell (D-CA), Bonnie Watson Coleman (D-NJ), Lou Correa (D-CA), Ritchie Torres (D-NY), Robert Garcia (D-CA), Dan Goldman (D-NY), Glenn Ivey (D-MD), Seth Magaziner (D-RI), Rob Menendez (D-NJ), Kevin Mullin (D-CA), Delia Ramirez (D-IL), Shri Thanedar (D-MI), Tom Suozzi (D-NY), Pablo Hern\u00e1ndez (D-PR), Julie Johnson (D-TX), LaMonica Mclver (D-NJ), Nellie Pou (D-NJ).", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T00:33:40Z"], ["https://trentkelly.house.gov/newsroom/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=7727", "Kelly Announces Service Academy Appointment\n\nApril 28, 2025 | Posted in Press Releases\n\nTags:\nNational Defense / Veterans\n\n\nWASHINGTON, D.C. - U.S. Representative Trent Kelly (R-MS) is pleased to announce the appointment of Conner Couch to the U.S. Naval Academy. A senior at Hernando High School, Conner has earned numerous academic honors and awards in the classroom, sports, and extracurricular activities.\r\n\r\nConner is dedicated to community service as a volunteer for HHES Mentoring and Hernando Parks and\u2026 Read more \u00bb", "2025-04-28", "2025", "2025-04", "Republican", "House", "MS", "Trent Kelly", "K000388", "trentkelly.house.gov", "trentkelly", "https://trentkelly.house.gov/newsroom/documentquery.aspx", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. - U.S. Representative Trent Kelly (R-MS) is pleased to announce the appointment of Conner Couch to the U.S. Naval Academy. A senior at Hernando High School, Conner has earned numerous academic honors and awards in the classroom, sports, and extracurricular activities.\n\nConner is dedicated to community service as a volunteer for HHES Mentoring and Hernando Parks and Recreation. He has been involved in various leadership roles, including serving on the Hernando Mayor's Youth Leadership Council, the Fellowship of Christian Athletes, as a student at Air Venture Flight Center, and as a Student Ambassador Leader.\n\n\"I am excited to attend the United States Naval Academy because I can pursue a desired STEM major and actively work toward a career in the Navy,\" Conner said. \"I hope to become a Naval Aviator, but if that doesn't work out, I aspire to pursue a career in submarine warfare. I am very thankful for my family, community, and God for making this aspiration possible.\"\n\nFor more information about Service Academy nominations through our office, please contact Robert Smith at (662) 687-1540 or send him an email at Robert.Smith@mail.house.gov", 1, "2026-04-07T14:16:54Z", "2026-04-07T14:20:51Z"], ["https://benniethompson.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-thompson-condemns-trump-directed-removal-americorps-nccc-members", "Congressman Thompson Condemns Trump-Directed Removal of AmeriCorps NCCC Members from Vicksburg Campus", "2025-04-24", "2025", "2025-04", "Democrat", "House", "MS", "Bennie G. Thompson", "T000193", "benniethompson.house.gov", "benniethompson", "https://benniethompson.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "BOLTON, MS \u2013 Congressman Bennie G. Thompson (MS-02) strongly condemned the decision by President Donald Trump and Elon Musk\u2019s Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) to abruptly remove AmeriCorps National Civilian Community Corps (NCCC) members from their service at the Vicksburg campus\u2014an action that has stunned local leaders and undermined a longstanding commitment to public service.\n\n\u201cThis is a shameful decision driven by politics, not policy,\u201d said Thompson. \u201cPresident Trump and his allies at DOGE have chosen to dismantle a program that has provided real, tangible support to communities in need\u2014especially in Mississippi. The Vicksburg campus has been a cornerstone of national service for years, and this move is an attack on the values of sacrifice, service, and community.\u201d\n\nIn a letter to Congressman Thompson, Vicksburg Mayor George Flaggs, Jr. decried the action as disruptive and disrespectful\u2014particularly to those AmeriCorps members who were nearing the completion of their service. Thompson echoed those concerns, calling the move a deliberate slap in the face to the young people who answered the call to serve.\n\n\u201cLet me be clear: this isn\u2019t about government reform\u2014it\u2019s about gutting public service to score political points,\u201d said Thompson. \u201cThis administration has once again shown its disdain for the very people who dedicate themselves to helping others.\u201d\n\nCongressman Thompson also criticized members of the Mississippi congressional delegation who have remained silent, calling their inaction \u201ccomplicit\u201d and warning of the long-term consequences of political cowardice.\n\n\u201cI am proud to stand with Mayor Flaggs and the people of Vicksburg in fighting for this program,\u201d Thompson added. \u201cIf Republican leadership has the courage to correct this mistake and reinstate NCCC, I will support it wholeheartedly. But make no mistake\u2014this damage was done by Donald Trump, Elon Musk, and those too afraid to challenge them.\u201d\n\nLetter From Mayor Flaggs", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T00:33:40Z"], ["https://benniethompson.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-bennie-g-thompson-announces-greenwood-leflore-hospital-selected", "Congressman Bennie G. Thompson Announces Greenwood Leflore Hospital Selected for Rural Community Hospital Demonstration Program", "2025-04-23", "2025", "2025-04", "Democrat", "House", "MS", "Bennie G. Thompson", "T000193", "benniethompson.house.gov", "benniethompson", "https://benniethompson.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2013 Congressman Bennie G. Thompson (MS 02) announced today that Greenwood Leflore Hospital has been selected to participate in the Rural Community Hospital Demonstration Program, a federal initiative aimed at supporting health care access and sustainability in rural communities.\n\nThe program, administered by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS), is designed to test the feasibility of cost-based reimbursement for small rural hospitals that are too large to be designated as Critical Access Hospitals. Through this program, CMS will assess both the financial impact on hospitals and the effect on health care delivery in the populations they serve.\n\n\u201cThis is a meaningful victory for Greenwood Leflore Hospital and the rural communities that depend on it,\u201d said Congressman Thompson. \u201cFor far too long, rural hospitals have operated at a disadvantage, being underfunded, understaffed, and overburdened. This program is a step toward leveling the playing field, giving hospitals the resources they need to provide quality care and remain open.\u201d\n\nParticipation in the Rural Community Hospital Demonstration Program will provide Greenwood Leflore Hospital with more stable and equitable reimbursement under Medicare, helping to ensure it can continue serving patients in Leflore County and across the Mississippi Delta.\n\n\u201cEvery Mississippian, no matter where they live, deserves access to reliable, high quality health care,\u201d Thompson added. \u201cI will keep fighting to make sure our rural hospitals get the support they need to meet that promise.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T00:33:40Z"], ["https://trentkelly.house.gov/newsroom/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=7707", "Kelly Announces Winner of 2025 Congressional Art Competition\n\nApril 16, 2025 | Posted in Press Releases\n\n\n\nWASHINGTON, D.C.\u00a0- U.S. Congressman Trent Kelly is proud to announce Halle Riddle as the winner of the 2025 Congressional Art Competition for Mississippi's First Congressional District.\r\n\r\nRiddle, a senior at Booneville High School, earned this honor for her drawing title Tunnel Vision, created using black charcoal and white chalk. She chose this piece to challenge herself\u2026 Read more \u00bb", "2025-04-16", "2025", "2025-04", "Republican", "House", "MS", "Trent Kelly", "K000388", "trentkelly.house.gov", "trentkelly", "https://trentkelly.house.gov/newsroom/documentquery.aspx", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. - U.S. Congressman Trent Kelly is proud to announce Halle Riddle as the winner of the 2025 Congressional Art Competition for Mississippi's First Congressional District.\n\nRiddle, a senior at Booneville High School, earned this honor for her drawing title Tunnel Vision, created using black charcoal and white chalk. She chose this piece to challenge herself artistically and was encouraged by her teacher, Amelia Gardner, to push her creative boundaries.\n\n\"My biggest art goal has always been to win the Congressional Competition,\" Riddle said.\n\nThe Congressional Art Competition is an annual event that highlights and encourages the creative talents of high school students across the country. One winner is selected from each Congressional district. Riddle's artwork will be displayed in the U.S. Capitol for one year, and she will receive two airline tickets to attend the national awards ceremony in Washington, D.C., this summer.\n\nShe is the daughter of Jim and Kami Caver and Jonathan and Amanda Riddle, and has two siblings, Jase and Mollie Anna Riddle.\n\nFor more information about the Congressional Art Competition, contact melinda.whited@mail.house.gov.", 1, "2026-04-07T14:16:54Z", "2026-04-07T14:20:51Z"], ["https://ezell.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=747", "Ezell, Carter, Letlow, Fields Introduce Bipartisan Flood Insurance Bill to Provide Stability to Mississippi Property Owners and the Real Estate Market", "2025-04-14", "2025", "2025-04", "Republican", "House", "MS", "Mike Ezell", "E000235", "ezell.house.gov", "ezell", "https://ezell.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27", "scraper", "Representatives Mike Ezell (MS-04), Troy A. Carter, Sr. (LA-02), Julia Letlow (LA-05), and Cleo Fields (LA-06) have introduced the bipartisan National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) Authorization Extension Act which will extend the federal authorization for the NFIP. The bill would extend the program through December 31, 2026, significantly longer than the typical short-term extensions passed by Congress.\n\n\"For far too long, families, businesses, and entire communities along our coast have lived with the uncertainty caused by short-term extensions of the National Flood Insurance Program,\" Ezell said. The NFIP Authorization Extension Act delivers the stability South Mississippians need as they continue to face the devastating effects of flooding and natural disasters. By extending the program through the end of 2026, we\u2019re sending a clear message: we are committed to protecting our coastal communities, giving them the tools to recover and rebuild, and working in a bipartisan way to strengthen and modernize the program for the future.\u201d\n\n\u201cI am proud to introduce this bill to provide the long-overdue stability our communities deserve,\u201d Carter said. \u201cFor too long, homeowners, small businesses, and local economies have lived under the cloud of short-term NFIP extensions, often attached to contentious government funding bills. This clean, multi-year reauthorization brings much-needed certainty to policyholders and ensures uninterrupted access to flood insurance across the country. As flooding becomes more frequent and severe, we must protect families and businesses by keeping this program operating while we work to deliver lasting, comprehensive reforms to strengthen and modernize the program.\"\n\n\u201cGiven the frequent storms and flooding our state endures, I\u2019m a strong advocate for renewing the National Flood Insurance Program and making sure it serves those who depend on it. For many Louisianans, flood insurance is not just a policy\u2014it\u2019s a lifeline. I\u2019m committed to working with my colleagues to strengthen this vital program and ensure our communities get the support they need when disaster strikes,\u201d Letlow said.\n\n\u201cPassing the NFIP Authorization Extension Act is essential to protecting hardworking people across Louisiana,\" Fields said. Given our state\u2019s history with extreme weather events, we must ensure that flood insurance remains accessible to all. My colleagues in both the House and Senate will continue to fight for those most affected by flooding throughout the state and across the country.\u201d\n\nThe Senate companion NFIP Authorization Extension Act was introduced by Senators Bill Cassidy, M.D. (R-LA) and John Kennedy (R-LA) in March 2025. Congressmembers Marc Veasey (D-TX), Jared Moskowitz (D-FL), and LaMonica McIver (D-NJ) are original cosponsors of the House legislation.\n\n\u201cRather than experiencing a 33rd short-term extension, NFIP policyholders deserve certainty, and NFIP as a program requires stability. A two-year reauthorization will provide a runway for Congress and stakeholders to hold conversations and hearings around catastrophic insurance and towards highly-demanded comprehensive NFIP reform, like a means-tested benefit for affordability, a third-party review of the Risk Rating 2.0 methodology, and proper incentivization of flood risk mitigation,\u201d GNO, Inc. President Michael Hecht said.\n\n\u201cExtending the National Flood Insurance Program would ensure continuous operations and greater stability for policyholders until a long-term reauthorization is enacted into law \u2013 a valuable source of certainty for counties and our residents,\u201d National Association of Counties Executive Director Matthew Chase said. \u201cCounties thank Representatives Carter, Fields, Letlow, and Ezell for their leadership, and we look forward to working with our bipartisan congressional partners to secure passage of this legislation.\u201d\n\nBackground:\n\nThe NFIP is a federal program managed by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) that provides flood insurance to homeowners and businesses, aiming to reduce the financial impact of flooding. The program is vital for coastal communities with extensive low-lying areas and frequent exposure to hurricanes and heavy rainfall. The NFIP helps protect residents from devastating financial losses due to flood damage, encourages responsible development in flood-prone areas, and supports rebuilding efforts after disasters\u2014making it a critical safety net for Mississippi communities.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T00:33:40Z"], ["https://trentkelly.house.gov/newsroom/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=7694", "Senators Kelly and Young, Representatives Kelly and Garamendi Statement on Trump's Shipbuilding Executive Order\n\nApril 10, 2025 | Posted in Press Releases\n\nTags:\nNational Defense / Veterans\n\n\nWASHINGTON - Arizona Senator Mark Kelly (D-AZ) and SHIPS for America Act co-leads Senator Todd Young (R-IN), Representative Trent Kelly (R-MS-1), and Representative John Garamendi (D-CA-8) have released the following statement after President Donald Trump signed an executive order to support shipbuilding in the United States.\r\n\r\n\"This executive order recognizes the urgent need for a\u2026 Read more \u00bb", "2025-04-10", "2025", "2025-04", "Republican", "House", "MS", "Trent Kelly", "K000388", "trentkelly.house.gov", "trentkelly", "https://trentkelly.house.gov/newsroom/documentquery.aspx", "scraper", "WASHINGTON - Arizona Senator Mark Kelly (D-AZ) and SHIPS for America Act co-leads Senator Todd Young (R-IN), Representative Trent Kelly (R-MS-1), and Representative John Garamendi (D-CA-8) have released the following statement after President Donald Trump signed an executive order to support shipbuilding in the United States.\n\n\"This executive order recognizes the urgent need for a comprehensive approach to reinvigorate the U.S. shipbuilding and maritime industries, sharing the same goals as our SHIPS for America Act. America's maritime industry and shipbuilding capacity have dangerously lagged behind over the years, allowing China to get ahead and pose a serious threat over the oceans. Today's action by the Trump administration shows they see the same threat and the urgent need to reverse course to strengthen our national security and grow our economy. We're also encouraged that many of the provisions in the executive order mirror parts of our SHIPS for America Act.\n\n\"We will introduce the SHIPS for America Act with renewed support in the coming weeks to provide the Congressional authorizations needed to truly revitalize the American shipbuilding and maritime industries, and work with the administration to get it passed. That's how we'll put Americans to work building more oceangoing ships and flying the American flag on merchant vessels to reclaim America's global maritime leadership.\"\n\nBackground:\n\nSenators Kelly and Young and Representatives Kelly and Garamendi introduced the SHIPS for America Act to revitalize U.S. shipbuilding capacity to lower costs, create good-paying jobs, and strengthen national security.\n\nSen. Kelly earned his B.S. degree in marine engineering and nautical science in the United States Merchant Marine Academy (USMMA) and later an M.S. degree in aeronautical engineering from the United States Naval Postgraduate School. Sen. Kelly spent 25 years in the United States Navy as a pilot and is the first to serve in Congress. In 2023, Sen. Kelly was elected chair of the USMMA Board of Visitors for the 118th Congress.\n\nRep. Kelly serves as Chairman of the Subcommittee on Seapower and Projection Forces for the House Armed Services Committee.", 1, "2026-04-07T14:16:54Z", "2026-04-07T14:20:51Z"], ["https://benniethompson.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-bennie-g-thompson-host-town-halls-budget-cuts-and-critical", "Congressman Bennie G. Thompson to Host Town Halls on Budget Cuts and Critical Benefits Updates", "2025-04-08", "2025", "2025-04", "Democrat", "House", "MS", "Bennie G. Thompson", "T000193", "benniethompson.house.gov", "benniethompson", "https://benniethompson.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "BOLTON, MS \u2013 Congressman Bennie G. Thompson (D-MS) will host a town hall to address Trump\u2019s cuts to the Department of Education, Department of Health & Human Services, Social Security Administration, and other key government programs in Mississippi\u2019s Second Congressional District. The discussion will cover how these proposed cuts could impact students, seniors, and low-income families who depend on federal programs.\n\nWHO: Congressman Bennie G. Thompson\n\nWHAT: Town Hall Events - Federal Budget Cuts and Other Key Programs\n\nWHEN & WHERE:\n\nTuesday, April 15, 2025, 6:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m. (CT)\n\nNew Beginnings M.B. Church\n\n35 Triumph Ln\n\nNatchez, MS 39120\n\nThursday, April 24, 2025, 6:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m. (CT)\n\nNew Hope First Baptist Church\n\n705 Nelson Street\n\nGreenville, MS 38701", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T00:33:40Z"], ["https://ezell.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=741", "Vice Chair Ezell\u2019s Cormorant Relief Bill Highlighted in House Natural Resources Subcommittee Hearing", "2025-04-08", "2025", "2025-04", "Republican", "House", "MS", "Mike Ezell", "E000235", "ezell.house.gov", "ezell", "https://ezell.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27", "scraper", "Ezell questions Chris McGlawn, President, Catfish Farmers of Mississippi\n\nThe hearing focused on legislation addressing key threats to American fisheries, aquaculture, and wildlife management. Ezell\u2019s bill drew strong interest from both parties' members as it addresses the overpopulation of double-crested cormorants \u2014 predatory birds that have significantly harmed fish populations and caused damage to Mississippi\u2019s catfish farmers and aquaculture operations.\n\nThe bill would reinstate previously authorized U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service regulations, streamlining the permitting process for lethal and non-lethal management of cormorants in areas where they are damaging fish stocks or aquaculture operations.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T00:33:40Z"], ["https://ezell.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=739", "Subcommittee Chairman Ezell Introduces Legislation to Establish Secretary of the Coast Guard", "2025-04-03", "2025", "2025-04", "Republican", "House", "MS", "Mike Ezell", "E000235", "ezell.house.gov", "ezell", "https://ezell.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27", "scraper", "This week, Congressman Mike Ezell (MS-04) introduced the Secretary of the Coast Guard Act of 2025, to provide the Coast Guard with a dedicated civilian leader, ensuring the service receives the resources and support necessary to continue its vital national security missions.\n\nUnder this legislation, the Secretary of the Coast Guard will report directly to the Secretary of the Department in which the Coast Guard is operating, and the Commandant of the Coast Guard will report to the newly established Secretary of the Coast Guard. This structure mirrors the leadership framework of the Army, Navy, and Air Force, which already have dedicated Service Secretaries.\n\n\u201cThe United States Coast Guard plays a critical role in protecting our nation\u2019s security, from safeguarding our shores to conducting search-and-rescue operations and enforcing maritime law, our coasties are the pride of our nation,\u201d Ezell said. \u201cCreating a Secretary of the Coast Guard ensures they have the leadership, resources, and support they need to continue their vital missions. It\u2019s time we give the Coast Guard the same level of recognition and advocacy that other military branches receive.\u201d\n\n\u201cThe United States Coast Guard is the only armed service without the position of a confirmed Secretary to provide civilian leadership to the Service,\" House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee Chairman Graves said. \"I commend Subcommittee Chairman Ezell for introducing this bill as part of the Committee\u2019s ongoing initiative to raise the Coast Guard\u2019s profile and provide the resources it needs to carry out its many missions, including maritime law enforcement, illegal drug and migrant interdiction, and search and rescue. I look forward to including this legislation as part of the larger Coast Guard authorization measure the Committee will move this year.\u201d\n\n\u201cThe United States Coast Guard plays a vital role in our national defense, homeland security, and maritime safety - particularly in Alaska, where their presence is essential to our coastal communities,\u201d Begich said. \u201cI\u2019m proud to co-sponsor this legislation to create a dedicated Secretary of the Coast Guard. This long-overdue step gives the Coast Guard an important seat at the table, strengthens accountability, and ensures the men and women of the Coast Guard have the leadership and support they need to carry out their critical missions.\u201d\n\n\u201cEstablishing a Secretary of the Coast Guard is an important step toward ensuring the men and women of the Coast Guard receive the leadership and resources they deserve,\" Buchanan said. \"This bill brings parity to the Coast Guard with our other military branches and underscores the critical role the Coast Guard plays in safeguarding our national security. With this new position, we will provide the Coast Guard with the support necessary to carry out its crucial missions to secure our borders and protect our waters.\u201d\n\nEzell, who serves as the Chairman of the House Transportation and Infrastructure Coast Guard and Maritime Transportation Subcommittee, has been a strong advocate for the Coast Guard and maritime security. He remains committed to advancing policies that enhance the safety and effectiveness of those who serve in uniform.\n\nCurrent co-sponsors of the legislation: Daniel Webster (R-FL-11), Nicholas Begich (R-AK), and Vern Buchannan (R-FL-16).", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T00:33:40Z"], ["https://benniethompson.house.gov/media/press-releases/media-advisory-congressman-thompson-announces-second-congressional-district", "Media Advisory: Congressman Thompson Announces Second Congressional District Art Competition", "2025-04-02", "2025", "2025-04", "Democrat", "House", "MS", "Bennie G. Thompson", "T000193", "benniethompson.house.gov", "benniethompson", "https://benniethompson.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "BOLTON, MISSISSIPPI \u2013 Today, United States Representative Bennie G. Thompson (D-MS) announced the Second Congressional District\u2019s \u201cArtistic Discovery\u201d Art Competition. The competition is open to high school students in the Second District.\n\nWHO: Congressman Bennie G. Thompson\n\nWHAT: Second Congressional District\u2019s \u201cArtistic Discovery\u201d Art Competition\n\nWHEN: 11:00 a.m., CST, Friday, April 11, 2025\n\nWHERE: 419 Robertshaw St., Greenville, MS 38701\n\nFor more information, please contact Ashley Beale, at 662-335-9003.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T00:33:40Z"], ["https://trentkelly.house.gov/newsroom/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=7681", "Lawmakers Issue Letter Endorsing State Request for Federal Disaster Declaration\n\nApril 2, 2025 | Posted in Press Releases\n\n\n\nWashington, D.C. - The Mississippi congressional delegation today shared their strong support for Governor Tate Reeves' request for a federal disaster declaration after deadly weather struck the state on March 14-15.\r\n\r\nU.S. Senators Roger Wicker, R-Miss., and Cindy Hyde-Smith, R-Miss., and U.S. Representatives Bennie Thompson, D-Miss., Trent Kelly, R-Miss., Michael Guest, R-Miss., and\u2026 Read more \u00bb", "2025-04-02", "2025", "2025-04", "Republican", "House", "MS", "Trent Kelly", "K000388", "trentkelly.house.gov", "trentkelly", "https://trentkelly.house.gov/newsroom/documentquery.aspx", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. - The Mississippi congressional delegation today shared their strong support for Governor Tate Reeves' request for a federal disaster declaration after deadly weather struck the state on March 14-15.\n\nU.S. Senators Roger Wicker, R-Miss., and Cindy Hyde-Smith, R-Miss., and U.S. Representatives Bennie Thompson, D-Miss., Trent Kelly, R-Miss., Michael Guest, R-Miss., and Mike Ezell, R-Miss., sent President Trump a letter endorsing the governor's request for an expedited major disaster declaration for the State of Mississippi, and for individual federal assistance for 14 counties. If approved, the presidential disaster declaration would unlock additional federal resources to supplement state recovery efforts.\n\n\"In the wake of recent extreme weather that brought severe thunderstorms and violent tornadoes to the State of Mississippi, we request your full consideration of Mississippi Governor Tate Reeves' request for a federal disaster declaration,\" the lawmakers wrote.\n\nThe letter follows a preliminary disaster assessment, which highlights the extent of loss of life, injuries, and damage.\n\n\"Available resources from state and local governments and volunteer organizations are inadequate to meet the state's recovery needs. Significant federal assistance and cooperation are needed for Mississippi to rebuild,\" the lawmakers wrote.\n\nTo read the full letter, please click on the link.", 1, "2026-04-07T14:16:54Z", "2026-04-07T14:20:51Z"], ["https://benniethompson.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-thompson-announces-245-million-grant-mississippi-department", "Congressman Thompson Announces $2.45 Million Grant to Mississippi Department of Environmental Quality to Support Statewide Environmental Programs", "2025-04-01", "2025", "2025-04", "Democrat", "House", "MS", "Bennie G. Thompson", "T000193", "benniethompson.house.gov", "benniethompson", "https://benniethompson.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "BOLTON, MS \u2013 Congressman Bennie G. Thompson (D-MS) is pleased to announce that the Mississippi Department of Environmental Quality (MDEQ) has been awarded $2,458,383 through a Performance Partnership Grant (PPG) from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). This funding, part of a larger $16,187,623 approved amount, will support the State of Mississippi\u2019s continuing environmental programs (CEP) aimed at protecting public health, restoring ecosystems, and improving environmental quality.\n\nThe grant, authorized under the 1996 Appropriations Act (PL 104-134) and the 1998 Appropriations Act (PL 105-65), will provide MDEQ with greater flexibility to address its highest environmental priorities, enhance performance, and strengthen its partnership with the EPA. The funds will be used for a variety of activities, including:\n\nMonitoring, inspections, permitting, and enforcement to ensure compliance with federal environmental regulations.\n\nAmbient air and water quality monitoring to detect and mitigate pollution.\n\nCleanup and revitalization of contaminated areas to promote safe and productive land use.\n\nTechnical assistance to government and the private sector to reduce pollution and protect natural resources.\n\nThe expected outcomes of the project include improved water quality, reduced contamination risks, enhanced air quality standards, and restored land for productive use. These efforts will ultimately support a healthier environment and stronger communities for all Mississippians.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T00:33:40Z"], ["https://ezell.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=732", "ICYMI: Ezell, Carbajal Stand Strong for the Jones Act in New Opinion Piece", "2025-04-01", "2025", "2025-04", "Republican", "House", "MS", "Mike Ezell", "E000235", "ezell.house.gov", "ezell", "https://ezell.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27", "scraper", "Last week, Congressmen Mike Ezell (R-MS-04) and Salud Carbajal (D-CA-24) penned an opinion piece for The Washington Times emphasizing the bipartisan support for the Jones Act and its critical role in protecting America\u2019s shipbuilding industry, national security, and maritime workforce.\n\nIn the piece, Ezell and Carbajal make it clear:\n\n\"The Jones Act is quite literally the bedrock and foundation of our nation\u2019s commercial shipbuilding industrial base, and we proudly support it.\"\n\nThe Jones Act ensures that American-built, -owned, and -crewed vessels transport goods between U.S. ports, safeguarding both our economy and our security. As a strong advocate for the maritime industry, Reps. Ezell and Carbajal remain committed to defending this longstanding law against efforts to weaken it.\n\nRead the full op-ed here or below:\n\nRepublicans and Democrats Agree\u2026 We Must Defend the Jones Act\n\nAs leaders of the Subcommittee on Coast Guard and Maritime Transportation of the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee, we are committed to fostering a strong and reliable American maritime base that supports our national defense and strengthens our economy. The Jones Act\u2014a century-old law that remains as crucial today as when it was enacted in 1920\u2014requires that goods transported between two points in the U.S. be carried on American-built, American-owned, and American-crewed ships. The Jones Act is quite literally the bedrock and foundation of our nation\u2019s commercial shipbuilding industrial base, and we proudly support it.\n\nWhile we acknowledge the Jones Act has its detractors, the reality is that the law supports sustainable jobs, strengthens our national security, and safeguards our economy from foreign influence.\n\nFirst, the Jones Act safeguards American jobs. The maritime industry supports nearly 650,000 jobs nationwide, providing stable, well-paying work for shipbuilders, mariners, dockworkers, and others. Without the Jones Act, these jobs would be outsourced to foreign shipyards and foreign mariners, harming American workers and weakening our economy.\n\nAdditionally, the Jones Act is critical to national security. A strong domestic maritime industry ensures we have the ships and workforce necessary to support our military and respond to national emergencies. The Jones Act helps maintain domestic shipyards and ship repair facilities keeping our country from being reliant on foreign yards to build, repair, and maintain our military and merchant marine vessels. These vessels provide a strategic capability to the United States military during conflict allowing the expeditious transport of troops and supplies anywhere in the world.\n\nOur nation\u2019s strategic sealift capabilities depend on a robust commercial fleet to maintain readiness in times of war or crisis. If we further weaken our maritime industry, we risk compromising our sovereignty and security. Keeping our shipping lanes under United States control isn\u2019t just an economic issue\u2014it\u2019s a matter of national security.\n\nThe Jones Act also plays a key role in disaster response and recovery. When hurricanes or other natural disasters strike, Jones Act-compliant vessels deliver emergency supplies quickly and efficiently. Without a strong domestic fleet, we would be forced to rely on foreign carriers, who may not prioritize American communities in crisis. Keeping our fleet in American hands guarantees reliable and immediate access to critical resources when disasters occur.\n\nFinally, the Jones Act ensures we have a stable supply chain. In 2024, the U.S. imported and exported $7.3 trillion in goods. The Jones Act plays a vital role in keeping our domestic maritime supply chain that American farmer\u2019s and businesses rely on under American control.\n\nThis law is not just about protecting one industry\u2014it ensures America remains a maritime power, capable of defending itself and maintaining economic stability. On the Coast Guard and Maritime Transportation Subcommittee, we are focused on policies that protect American workers, strengthen national security, and bolster our economy.\n\nSupporting the Jones Act is one of the best ways to achieve those goals, and we stand with the hardworking men and women of our maritime industry to defend it. The long-term benefits of this policy go beyond creating jobs\u2014it is a pillar of American strength and resilience.\n\nRepublicans and Democrats Agree: We must defend the Jones Act. America\u2019s future depends on it.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T00:33:40Z"], ["https://ezell.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=727", "Ezell Introduces Bi-partisan Cormorant Relief Act of 2025 to Protect Fisheries", "2025-03-26", "2025", "2025-03", "Republican", "House", "MS", "Mike Ezell", "E000235", "ezell.house.gov", "ezell", "https://ezell.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27", "scraper", "Today, Representatives Mike Ezell (MS-04), Michael Guest (MS-03), Bennie Thompson (MS-02), and Trent Kelly (MS-01) introduced the Cormorant Relief Act of 2025, legislation aimed at providing immediate relief to states struggling with the devastating effects of cormorant overpopulation on local fisheries.\n\n\"Cormorant overpopulation is hurting fish populations and threatening industries that depend on healthy fisheries,\" Ezell said. \"This bipartisan bill gives Mississippians the ability to manage these predatory birds and keep our aquaculture industry protected. Protecting our fisheries is key to supporting local economies and farmers, and I\u2019m proud to work with those leading this effort.\"\n\n\"The Cormorant Relief Act is commonsense legislation that empowers America\u2019s aquaculture producers, including producers in my district, to take necessary and appropriate steps to protect their livelihoods,\" House Natural Resources Chairman Westerman said. \"I'd like to thank Congressman Ezell for his leadership on this issue and look forward to working with him to move this bill through the legislative process.\"\n\n\u201cI am pleased to continue working on the Cormorant Relief Act to provide critical tools for Mississippi catfish farmers and aquaculture producers as they combat bird depredation,\" Guest said. \"I am grateful for the partnership with my colleagues in the Mississippi Congressional Delegation and across Congress as we support our agriculture community.\u201d\n\n\u201cUnchecked cormorant populations continue to devastate our fisheries, threatening the livelihoods of Mississippi\u2019s farmers and those who depend on a thriving aquaculture industry,\" Thompson said. \"This bipartisan effort ensures that Mississippi has the necessary tools to manage these birds effectively while maintaining protections for this migratory species. Supporting our fisheries means supporting our local economies, and I am proud to stand with my colleagues in this effort.\u201d\n\n\"Double-crested cormorant management on catfish farms is a costly endeavor. DCC cause millions of dollars in losses on catfish farms every year through predation and the spread of disease. We appreciate Rep. Ezell and Rep. Thompson for their sponsorship of this bipartisan bill that will help farmers better manage bird depredation while still ensuring the protection of this migratory bird.\" - Chad Causey, Catfish Farmers of America Spokesperson\n\n\u201cThe National Aquaculture Association strongly supports Rep. Mike Ezell\u2019s constructive and timely bill,\u201d commented Sebastian Belle, President. \u201cThe legislation is a return to commonsense approach of assisting farms throughout the central and southern United States in effectively managing a rapidly growing population of farmed fish eating birds. Bird populations expanded during the 18 year period when the first Aquaculture Depredation Order was in place. There will be no change in that growth under this bill. Fortunately, the legislation does relieve the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service of the task of issuing individual farm regulatory permits. The agency has been unable to do so in a timely manner which has created uncertainty in the farming community. Farms will continue to report their bird management efforts to both the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and the USDA Wildlife Services.\u201d\n\nCormorants unchecked population growth has led to significant damage to fish populations, impacting commercial and recreational fishing industries and farmers. The Cormorant Relief Act of 2025 aims to grant greater flexibility in managing cormorant populations to safeguard fisheries and local economies. Congressman Ezell remains committed to advocating for policies that support conservation efforts and sustain the nation\u2019s fishing industries.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T00:15:27Z"], ["https://ezell.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=726", "Ezell, Graves Applaud Bollinger Mississippi Shipyards\u2019 $951 Million Contract Modification for U.S. Coast Guard\u2019s Polar Security Cutter Program", "2025-03-25", "2025", "2025-03", "Republican", "House", "MS", "Mike Ezell", "E000235", "ezell.house.gov", "ezell", "https://ezell.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27", "scraper", "Today, the U.S. Coast Guard announced their decision to award a $951 million contract modification to Bollinger Mississippi Shipyards for the continued development of the Polar Security Cutter (PSC) program. This critical investment strengthens America\u2019s national security presence in the Arctic and reinforces Mississippi\u2019s role as a leader in domestic shipbuilding excellence.\n\n\"Bollinger Mississippi Shipyards' contract to advance the Polar Security Cutter program is a major win for America\u2019s maritime strength and Arctic presence,\" said Ezell, the Chairman of the House of Representatives Subcommittee on Coast Guard and Maritime Transportation. \"This historic investment ensures our Coast Guard has the tools needed to protect America\u2019s sovereignty, our national security, and keep vital trade routes open. I\u2019m thankful for President Trump\u2019s leadership in beginning the much needed conversation to support efforts that bolster our domestic shipbuilding industry and enhance our nation's defense capabilities, in ways that we haven\u2019t seen in nearly 50 years.\"\n\n\u201cAs maritime activity increases in the Arctic, Russia and China are patrolling the region with new and capable icebreakers. American leadership in the Arctic requires a new fleet of Coast Guard cutters that can reliably represent and protect our national interests in the region. While the Coast Guard\u2019s efforts to procure new ice breakers suffered years of delays and cost overruns under the previous contractor, I applaud Bollinger Mississippi and the Trump Administration for righting the ship and moving this program forward,\u201d said Rep. Sam Graves (R-MO), the Chairman of the Transportation and Infrastructure Committee in the U.S. House of Representatives.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T00:15:27Z"], ["https://ezell.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=725", "Ezell Introduces Bipartisan 2025 IOOS Reauthorization Bill to Strengthen Ocean Monitoring", "2025-03-24", "2025", "2025-03", "Republican", "House", "MS", "Mike Ezell", "E000235", "ezell.house.gov", "ezell", "https://ezell.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27", "scraper", "Today, Representatives Mike Ezell (R-MS-04), Bonamici (D-OR-01), Weber (R-TX-14), Dingell (D-MI-06), Radewagen (R-AS), and David (D-IL-07), introduced legislation to reauthorize the Integrated Ocean Observing System (IOOS) for the next five fiscal years, maintaining its authorized funding level at $56 million annually. The bill ensures continued support for critical ocean monitoring efforts that benefit coastal communities, fisheries, and maritime industries.\n\n\"IOOS is essential to keeping coastal economies strong and resilient, especially in Mississippi,\" Ezell said. \"This reauthorization ensures we maintain vital ocean monitoring resources while modernizing the program to maximize its impact. I\u2019m proud to introduce this legislation to support jobs, commerce, and our nation\u2019s leadership in ocean science.\"\n\n\"Ensuring we have accurate and up to date ocean monitoring data is vitally important for coastal communities and the great lakes,\" Chairman Westerman said. \"Reauthorizing the IOOS will help us continue to support healthy fisheries, boost maritime commerce, support the United States\u2019 coastal communities and make informed decisions for various maritime operations. I'd like to thank Congressman Ezell for his work on this important legislation.\"\n\n\u201cIn Michigan, the Great Lakes are central to our way of life and protecting them is personal to many of us,\u201d Dingell said. \u201cThis bill reauthorizes the United States Integrated Ocean Observing System (IOOS), which oversees the Great Lakes Observing System (GLOS) that is headquartered in Ann Arbor. GLOS provides vital data for public health, safety, ecosystem monitoring, weather, and maritime operations. Reauthorizing this critical system will culminate into improved safety, boosts in the economy, and promote a cleaner environment, benefiting everyone.\u201d\n\n\u201cIn American Samoa, we depend on the science of ocean observations for important data, such as wave measurements, leading to better services and decision-making in development or storm readiness. Quality IOOS data is important to all U.S. coastlines,\u201dRadewagen said.\n\n\u201cAccess to accurate data and monitoring is essential for Oregonians on the North Coast, for coastal communities everywhere, and for the entire Great Lakes region,\" Bonamici said. \"The high quality tools and forecasts from NOAA\u2019s Integrated Ocean Observing System (IOOS) help people make informed decisions that protect people\u2019s lives and livelihoods as well as the environment. This data supports secure shipping supply chains, sustainable fisheries, and research to understand how changes in the ocean and Great Lakes affect our daily lives. I\u2019m grateful to join my colleagues in this bipartisan effort to update and improve the IOOS System.\u201d\n\n\"Sustained ocean observations provide the information we need for a strong maritime economy, public safety, and national security. The Integrated Ocean Observing System authorization creates a public-private partnership that provides freely accessible information to meet the tailored needs of local and regional ocean and Great Lakes users while simultaneously generating data that fortifies our national models and forecasts and supports the missions of all the ocean-related agencies\u201d \u2013 Kristen Yarincik, IOOS Association Executive Director\n\n\"While coastal residents may not always realize it, data collected and disseminated by GCOOS and the nation's 10 other IOOS regional associations impact their lives in large and small ways almost every day. The data we and our partners collect and disseminate are crucial for things such as predicting hurricane and tropical storm intensification, supporting a safe offshore energy industry, supporting safe ship navigation within ports, and even keeping people safe from toxic algal blooms. Through the ICOOS Act, associations like GCOOS can develop these regional public-private partnerships that minimize cost while maximizing data collection and dissemination for the public benefit.\u201d \u2013 Jorge Brenner, Executive Director of the Gulf of America Coastal Ocean Observing System (GCOOS)\n\n\u201cNANOOS hears from Oregon and Washington residents who depend on our reliable delivery of data, information products, and forecasts to help them make decisions affecting their safety and livelihoods. We must sustain IOOS as a national, regionally-distributed, partnership because it is trusted, cost-effective, and needed. Fishermen stress it helps them plan safe journeys, shellfish growers cite its value to their ability to maintain seafood competitiveness, managers rely on our forecasts to protect human health from harmful algal blooms while not hampering coastal economies, and planners and residents alike rave about the utility of tsunami preparedness information on their phones. \u201d \u2013 Jan Newton, Executive Director of the Northwest Association of Networked Ocean Observing System (NANOOS)\n\nThe IOOS Reauthorization Act of 2025 includes minor but important updates to improve the program\u2019s effectiveness, including:\n\nClarifying the type of data IOOS provides as operational oceanographic information;\n\nUpdating statutory references to reflect current law by replacing the National Ocean Research Leadership Council with the Ocean Policy Committee;\n\nEnhancing the role of the Interagency Ocean Observation Committee to ensure IOOS is used to its full capacity as an integrated system.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T00:15:27Z"]], "truncated": false, "filtered_table_rows_count": 136, "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": "MS", "p2": "2025"}}, "facet_results": {"party": {"name": "party", "type": "column", "hideable": false, "toggle_url": "/press/releases.json?chamber=House&state=MS&year=2025", "results": [{"value": "Republican", "label": "Republican", "count": 79, "toggle_url": "http://dpwillis-congress-press-search.hf.space/press/releases.json?chamber=House&state=MS&year=2025&party=Republican", "selected": false}, {"value": "Democrat", "label": "Democrat", "count": 57, "toggle_url": "http://dpwillis-congress-press-search.hf.space/press/releases.json?chamber=House&state=MS&year=2025&party=Democrat", "selected": false}], "truncated": false}, "chamber": {"name": "chamber", "type": "column", "hideable": false, "toggle_url": "/press/releases.json?chamber=House&state=MS&year=2025", "results": [{"value": "House", "label": "House", "count": 136, "toggle_url": "http://dpwillis-congress-press-search.hf.space/press/releases.json?state=MS&year=2025", "selected": true}], "truncated": false}, "state": {"name": "state", "type": "column", "hideable": false, "toggle_url": "/press/releases.json?chamber=House&state=MS&year=2025", "results": [{"value": "MS", "label": "MS", "count": 136, "toggle_url": "http://dpwillis-congress-press-search.hf.space/press/releases.json?chamber=House&year=2025", "selected": true}], "truncated": false}, "year": {"name": "year", "type": "column", "hideable": false, "toggle_url": "/press/releases.json?chamber=House&state=MS&year=2025", "results": [{"value": "2025", "label": "2025", "count": 136, "toggle_url": "http://dpwillis-congress-press-search.hf.space/press/releases.json?chamber=House&state=MS", "selected": true}], "truncated": false}}, "suggested_facets": [], "next": "2025-03-24,https~3A~2F~2Fezell~2Ehouse~2Egov~2Fnews~2Fdocumentsingle~2Easpx~3FDocumentID~3D725", "next_url": "http://dpwillis-congress-press-search.hf.space/press/releases.json?chamber=House&state=MS&year=2025&_next=2025-03-24%2Chttps~3A~2F~2Fezell~2Ehouse~2Egov~2Fnews~2Fdocumentsingle~2Easpx~3FDocumentID~3D725&_sort_desc=date", "private": false, "allow_execute_sql": true, "query_ms": 125.65709394402802, "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"}