{"database": "press", "table": "releases", "is_view": false, "human_description_en": "where chamber = \"House\", state = \"NE\" and year = 2026 sorted by date descending", "rows": [["https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=2911", "Bacon, Slotkin, Britt, DeLauro Introduce Bipartisan, Bicameral Legislation to Modernize Ovarian Cancer Prevention and Care", "2026-09-29", "2026", "2026-09", "Republican", "House", "NE", "Don Bacon", "B001298", "bacon.house.gov", "bacon", "https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 U.S. Representatives Don Bacon (R-NE) and Rosa DeLauro (D-CT) along with Senators Elissa Slotkin (D-MI) and Katie Britt (R-AL) introduced the Ovarian Cancer Improving and Modernizing Prevention, Access, Care, and Testing (IMPACT) Act, bipartisan, bicameral legislation to expand access to genetic testing, hereditary cancer risk assessment, and specialty care for patients and families affected by ovarian cancer.\n\nOvarian cancer is the fifth-leading cause of cancer deaths among women in the United States, and roughly 80 percent of cases are detected only after the disease has reached an advanced stage. If caught early, the five-year survival rate exceeds 90 percent. However, there remains no reliable screening test for the disease. This means that genetic counseling, hereditary risk assessment, and provider awareness are critical tools for prevention and early detection.\n\n\u201cOvarian cancer affects thousands of women and families every year, including some of my closest friends, and too many cases are not caught until the disease has reached an advanced stage,\u201d said Rep. Bacon. \u201cKnowing the warning signs and having access to genetic counseling, testing and quality care can make a real difference. I\u2019m pleased to join my colleagues on the bipartisan, bicameral Ovarian Cancer IMPACT Act to improve awareness, expand access to specialized care, including in rural communities, and help more women get the care they need sooner.\u201d\n\n\u201cI am a survivor of ovarian cancer by the grace of God and biomedical research,\u201d said Rep. DeLauro. \u201cI am proud to stand with my colleagues in introducing bipartisan, bicameral legislation that would strengthen ovarian cancer research, medical services, and outreach to women to ensure screening and good health. This Ovarian Cancer Month, I am committed to fighting for improved health outcomes for all women, so more and more women survive this deadly disease.\u201d\n\n\u201cNo family should have to fight both a cancer diagnosis and their insurance company at the same time,\u201d said Sen. Slotkin. \u201cWomen, especially in rural communities like Michigan, should be able to get the genetic testing and specialty care they need to catch this disease early or prevent it altogether. Our bill tackles this issue from every angle \u2014 awareness, outreach and access to care and testing \u2014 and I thank my colleagues from across the aisle as we all work to save lives.\u201d\n\n\u201cToo many women receive an ovarian cancer diagnosis only after the disease has advanced, when treatment options are limited and outcomes are far worse,\u201d said Sen. Britt. \u201cKnowledge is one of the most powerful tools we have, and every woman with a family history of ovarian cancer deserves to know her risk and have access to the screening and counseling that can help her make informed decisions about her health. I\u2019m proud to join Senator Slotkin in this bipartisan effort to reauthorize Johanna\u2019s Law, expand outreach to rural and underserved communities, and ensure genetic screening is covered for the women who need it most. Alabama has already shown national leadership in preventing gynecologic cancers, and this legislation builds on that progress so that where a woman lives or what her insurance plan covers doesn\u2019t determine whether she can catch this disease early.\u201d\n\nThe Ovarian Cancer IMPACT Act would:\n\nExpand Insurance Coverage for Genetic and Genomic Testing: Require group and individual health plans, including grandfathered plans, to cover genetic counseling and testing (germline multi-gene panel testing, targeted testing, and tumor genomic profiling) for patients with a history of ovarian cancer, guideline-eligible endometrial cancer, or a family history of hereditary cancer syndromes.\n\nCover Risk-Reducing Interventions: Ensure coverage for evidence-based risk-reducing surgeries and other risk management interventions for individuals identified as being at elevated hereditary risk, regardless of a personal cancer history.\n\nReauthorize and Strengthen Johanna\u2019s Law: Reauthorize the CDC\u2019s national gynecologic cancer education campaign and authorize $20 million annually from FY2027\u2013FY2031 to expand education and outreach on hereditary cancer risk, genetic counseling and testing, and evidence-based ovarian cancer prevention, including opportunistic salpingectomy, or fallopian tube removal.\n\nExpand Rural and Telehealth Access: Expands existing HRSA programs to include ovarian cancer and helps rural providers access ovarian cancer training and specialty expertise.\n\nFund Demonstration Projects: Prioritize grants for outreach and education strategies in rural, underserved, and high-risk communities.\n\nEnsure Accountability: Require HHS to deliver an implementation roadmap to Congress within 180 days of enactment and comprehensive impact reports every three years through FY2032.\n\nThe bill is introduced alongside a companion resolution to recognize September as National Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month.\n\n\u201cWe have an evidence-based strategy to reduce ovarian cancer risk and save lives with salpingectomy but need solutions to remove barriers to this care. Every patient considering pelvic surgery deserves a conversation with their physician about whether risk-reducing salpingectomy is appropriate for them and aligns with their health, values, and goals. We urge health systems and insurers to actively remove barriers to implementation of this care. ACOG is proud to endorse the Ovarian Cancer IMPACT Act, which would expand awareness of and access to evidence-based prevention strategies, helping spare more patients and families from the devastating burden of ovarian cancer,\u201d said Sandra E. Brooks, MD, MBA, FACOG, chief executive officer of the American College of Obstetricians & Gynecologists.\n\n\u201cThe introduction of the Ovarian Cancer IMPACT Act is an important step forward for people affected by gynecologic cancers,\u201d said Audra Moran, President and CEO of Ovarian Cancer Research Alliance. \u201cWe are incredibly grateful to Senators Slotkin and Britt and Representatives DeLauro and Bacon for their bipartisan leadership and commitment to advancing policies that will improve prevention, expand access to care in rural and underserved communities, and give patients and families more opportunities to understand and manage their cancer risk.\u201d\n\n\u201cFORCE applauds the introduction of this important legislation, which has the potential to save lives while reducing long-term healthcare costs,\u201d said Lisa Schlager, BRCA1 mutation carrier and Vice President, Public Policy at FORCE: Facing Our Risk of Cancer Empowered. \u201cUp to 20% of ovarian cancers and 15% of endometrial cancers are linked to inherited gene mutations. National medical guidelines recommend that everyone diagnosed with these cancers be offered genetic counseling and testing. While hereditary cancers represent only a subset of all cancer diagnoses, identifying individuals who have\u2014or are predisposed to\u2014these cancers is critical. They are the poster children for prevention, early detection, and targeted treatments.\u201d\n\nSee full text of the bill here.\n\n###", 1, "2026-09-30T10:57:52Z", "2026-09-30T10:59:04Z"], ["https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases/smith-leads-bicameral-effort-expand-educational-opportunities", "Smith Leads Bicameral Effort to Expand Educational Opportunities", "2026-09-17", "2026", "2026-09", "Republican", "House", "NE", "Adrian Smith", "S001172", "adriansmith.house.gov", "adriansmith", "https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Congressman Adrian Smith (R-NE-03), a senior member of the House Ways and Means Committee, led a bicameral group of his colleagues in introducing the Educational Opportunities Expansion Package, two bills to strengthen his Federal Scholarship Tax Credit, a key provision of the Working Families Tax Cuts. The package aims to expand educational opportunities for students nationwide by removing the current state opt-in requirement and ensuring that scholarship donors are not restricted in their giving based on their marital status.\n\n\"My Federal Scholarship Tax Credit marked a critical victory for educational freedom nationwide. However, I know our work is not done. This is why I introduced my Educational Opportunities Expansion Package to ensure students nationwide can reap the full benefits of these scholarships, while also protecting benefactors from penalties based on their marital status. I am grateful for the strong bicameral support of my colleagues, and I look forward to working together to build on our success,\u201d said Smith.\n\nIn addition to Smith, the legislation is co-led by U.S. Representatives Tim Walberg (R-MI-05) and Burgess Owens (R-UT-04). U.S. Senator Bill Cassidy (R-LA) introduced companion legislation in the Senate.\n\n\"Last year, Republicans' Working Families Tax Cuts became law, delivering the largest expansion of school choice in history. I support giving every family the opportunity to benefit, providing parents with greater flexibility to choose the educational environment that best supports their child\u2019s needs. All children deserve access to an education that helps them achieve the American Dream, no matter their background or address,\u201dsaid Chairman Walberg.\n\n\u201cParents know what is right for their kids much better than any bureaucrat. I\u2019m grateful for this legislation that strengthens school choice policies which puts parents in the driver\u2019s seat of their child\u2019s education and ensures the student can receive the education they deserve,\u201dsaid Owens.\n\n\u201cAs parents, we know our children better than anyone. When we put parents in charge of their child\u2019s education, we give children the best opportunity to thrive,\u201dsaid Dr. Cassidy. \u201cAnother win for School Choice!\u201d\n\nThe Educational Opportunities Expansion Package is supported by the American Federation for Children, Invest in Education Coalition, Federal Scholarship Tax Credit Coalition Steering Committee, Ed Choice, and Agudath Israel of America.\n\n\"The Federal Scholarship Tax Credit has created an unprecedented opportunity to open the doors of education to nearly 52 million children nationwide. We are grateful to Rep. Adrian Smith for his tireless work in passing the Federal Scholarship Tax Credit last year and are pleased to support the Educational Opportunities Expansion Package which makes targeted, common-sense improvements that will allow more children and families to be served in all 50 states. We look forward to continuing to work with Rep. Smith on ways to bring resources to families through this historic new opportunity,\u201d said American Federation for Children Director of Federal Affairs Ashling Preston.\n\n\u201cThank you, Congressman Adrian Smith, for your leadership in introducing the Educational Opportunities Expansion Package to expand access to the Federal Scholarship Tax Credit program. These two bills will help make this program accessible to all students in public and non-public schools across the country while opening the door for more private dollars to be invested in the program. This historic program has the potential to provide life-changing scholarships to families who need them most, helping ensure more children have access to the educational opportunities and resources they need to succeed. We are grateful for Congressman Smith\u2019s leadership in working to expand the reach and impact of this important program,\u201dsaid Invest in Education Coalition Chairman Tony de Nicola.\n\n\"The 50 State Federal Scholarship Tax Credit Coalition is grateful to Rep. Adrian Smith (R-NE) for his leadership on the Federal Scholarship Tax Credit. As the House sponsor of this legislation, Congressman Smith helped shepherd this policy into the Working Families Tax Cut Act. Today, we support Congressman Smith\u2019s Educational Opportunities Expansion Package to ensure married couples filing jointly can both give to scholarship granting organizations and to remove the onerous 'opt-in' provision. These changes will greatly improve the tax credit, allowing significantly more K-12 students to benefit,\u201dsaid Federal Scholarship Tax Credit Coalition Steering Committee Members Jim Blew and John Schilling.\n\n\u201cEd Choice, the legacy foundation of Milton and Rose Friedman, is thrilled that Rep. Adrian Smith (R-NE) has put forward a proposal to greatly improve the federal scholarship tax credit program. By proposing to remove the burdensome \u2018opt-in\u2019 provision and allow couples filing jointly to both support scholarship granting organizations, more kids will be served, and the program will become stronger than ever. As one of the nation\u2019s most respected voices for universal choice, we believe that all children should be free to use all educational options with all the resources available to them. This bill gets us closer to that goal,\u201dsaid Ed Choice President & CEO Robert Enlow.\n\n\u201cAgudath Israel of America thanks Rep. Adrian Smith (R - NE) for sponsoring a pair of bills that make the Federal Scholarship Tax Credit included in the One Big Beautiful Bill even better. Requiring states to opt in to the federal scholarship credit was added at the last minute and never envisioned by Congress. While we are hopeful that every state will ultimately opt in so that their students can benefit from the billions of dollars in new scholarship opportunities, Rep. Smith's proposal removes unnecessary state entanglement in a federal benefit. The second bill clarifies that married couples who share a passion for helping students and each donate $1700 to a scholarship organization will not be penalized simply because they file a shared tax return. Agudath Israel of America urges Congress to advance both important pieces of legislation,\u201dsaid Agudath Israel of America National Director of Government Affairs Rabbi A.D. Motzen.\n\nBACKGROUND:\n\nThe Educational Opportunities Expansion Package includes two bills aimed at expanding access to the Federal Scholarship Tax Credit and restoring Congressional intent following changes made during the Senate parliamentarian\u2019s review of the 2025 reconciliation.\n\nH.R. 10412: Would repeal the state opt-in requirement for the Federal Scholarship Tax Credit, ensuring that every student has access to its scholarship opportunities regardless of their zip code. Click here to read the full text of H.R. 10412.\n\nHR 10413: Would ensure that married taxpayers are not at a disadvantage by allowing them to claim the tax credit up to an amount that is double the cap for individual filers. Click here to read the full text of H.R. 10413.", 1, "2026-09-18T09:27:43Z", "2026-09-18T09:29:09Z"], ["https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=2910", "Bacon, Walkinshaw, Landsman, Fitzpatrick Introduce Bipartisan Bill to Rescue Ukrainian Children Abducted by Russia", "2026-09-17", "2026", "2026-09", "Republican", "House", "NE", "Don Bacon", "B001298", "bacon.house.gov", "bacon", "https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx", "scraper", "The Justice for Ukrainian Children Act would fund efforts to locate and return abducted children, mandate sanctions on those responsible, and counter Kremlin propaganda\n\nWashington, D.C. \u2013 This week, U.S. Representatives Don Bacon (NE-02), James R. Walkinshaw (VA-11), Greg Landsman (OH-01), and Brian Fitzpatrick(PA-01) introduced the bipartisan Justice for Ukrainian Children Act, legislation to strengthen efforts to locate and return Ukrainian children abducted by Russia, hold those responsible accountable, and reunite families.\n\nAccording to the Ukrainian government, Russia has abducted at least 20,000 Ukrainian children since the start of its full-scale invasion. Just over 2,100 have come home. Those still held have been separated from their families, subjected to political indoctrination and militarization, and stripped of their Ukrainian identity.\n\n\u201cRussia has taken thousands of Ukrainian children from their families and tried to strip them of their identity and homeland,\u201d said Congressman Bacon. \u201cWe cannot sit by while parents, grandparents and siblings wait for their children to come home. The Justice for Ukrainian Children Act will strengthen efforts to find these children, return them to their families and hold those responsible accountable. I\u2019m pleased to join Reps. Walkinshaw, Landsman and Fitzpatrick on this bipartisan legislation.\u201d\n\n\"Russia is running a deliberate campaign to erase these children's identity and steal Ukraine's future,\" said Congressman Walkinshaw. \"As a father, I cannot imagine the anguish of having your child taken and indoctrinated by a foreign government. The United States cannot look away. This bipartisan bill will help find these children, bring them home, and hold the perpetrators accountable.\"\n\n\u201cRussia\u2019s abduction of Ukrainian children is among the most unconscionable crimes of this war,\u201d said Congressman Fitzpatrick. \u201cThousands of children have been taken from their parents, separated from their communities, and forced to endure horrors no child should ever have to face. Our responsibility is clear: find them, bring them home, and hold accountable those responsible. This legislation ensures that responsibility remains central to our strategy\u2014and that the fate of Ukraine\u2019s children is inseparable from the pursuit of accountability and a just and durable peace.\u201d\n\n\"Tens of thousands of children from Ukraine are being brainwashed and hidden in Russia's adoption system. We have to do everything to bring these children home and reunite them with their families, where they belong,\u201d said Congressman Landsman.\n\nThe Justice for Ukrainian Children Act would:\n\nAuthorize $15 million a year of existing national security funding, through 2032, toward finding these children, getting them home, and helping them recover.\n\nMaintain a secure database to preserve evidence of Russia's crimes, and share it with Europol, Ukraine's Ministry of Justice, and the groups working to bring children home.\n\nRequire the President to freeze assets and revoke visas for anyone who takes part in abducting, deporting, indoctrinating, or militarizing Ukrainian children.\n\nAuthorize $10 million for Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty and Voice of America broadcasts into Ukraine and the region, and toward technology that defeats Russian jamming.\n\nMake it United States policy to veto any Russian-led U.N. Security Council resolution that would shield Russia from accountability.\n\nRequire the State Department to report to Congress every year for five years on what it is doing to bring these children home, including in any talks to end the war.\n\nRussia's abduction of Ukrainian children has been widely documented and condemned by the international community. In March of this year, a United Nations commission of inquiry concluded that Russian authorities committed crimes against humanity in deporting and forcibly transferring Ukrainian children and in making them disappear. The International Criminal Court issued arrest warrants in 2023 for Russian President Vladimir Putin and Russian Commissioner for Children's Rights Maria Lvova-Belova over their alleged responsibility for those crimes.\n\nU.S. Representatives Brendan F. Boyle (PA-02), Andr\u00e9 Carson (IN-07), Yvette D. Clarke (NY-09), Jim Costa (CA-21), Madeleine Dean (PA-04), Sylvia R. Garcia (TX-29), Dan Goldman (NY-10), Val T. Hoyle (O-04), Tom Kean, Jr. (NJ-07), Bill Keating (MA-09), George Latimer (NY-16), Stephen Lynch (MA-08), Sarah McBride (DE), Jennifer McClellan (VA-04), Jim McGovern (MA-02), Eleanor Holmes Norton (DC), Ilhan Omar (MN-05), Speaker Emerita Nancy Pelosi (CA-11), Mike Quigley (IL-05), Delia Ramirez (IL-03), Emily Randall (WA-06), Jamie Raskin (MD-08), Deborah Ross (NC-02), Norma J. Torres (CA-35), Debbie Wasserman Schultz (FL-25), and Joe Wilson (SC-02) are original cosponsors of this legislation.\n\nThis bill is endorsed by Human Rights Watch, Razom for Ukraine, FDD Action, and the American Coalition for Ukraine.\n\nThe full text of the legislation is available here.\n\n###", 1, "2026-09-18T09:27:43Z", "2026-09-18T09:29:09Z"], ["https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-flood-celebrates-house-passage-ratepayer-protection-act", "Congressman Flood Celebrates House Passage of the Ratepayer Protection Act", "2026-09-17", "2026", "2026-09", "Republican", "House", "NE", "Mike Flood", "F000474", "flood.house.gov", "flood", "https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Congressman Mike Flood released the following statement celebrating the House passage of the bipartisan Ratepayer Protection Act. Congressman Flood is a co-sponsor the bill, which helps prevent data center energy costs from being pass along to consumers.\n\n\u201cCongress has a responsibility to ensure consumers have commonsense protections from artificial intelligence without putting the brakes on American innovation. I\u2019m happy to cosponsor the bipartisan Ratepayer Protection Act, and I am glad to see it pass the House,\u201d said Congressman Flood. \u201cThis legislation will protect our energy grid and address the growing costs data centers can place on hardworking families and small businesses. No Nebraska ratepayer should subsidize a Big Tech company's expansion.\u201d", 1, "2026-09-18T09:27:43Z", "2026-09-18T09:29:09Z"], ["https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-flood-nebraska-delegation-mark-another-successful-year-nebraska", "Congressman Flood, Nebraska Delegation Mark Another Successful Year of the Nebraska\u00a0Breakfast in D.C.", "2026-09-16", "2026", "2026-09", "Republican", "House", "NE", "Mike Flood", "F000474", "flood.house.gov", "flood", "https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Today, Congressman Mike Flood marked the conclusion of the 2026 Nebraska Breakfast, celebrating the 83-year tradition that brings Nebraskans and the federal delegation together in Washington, D.C.\n\n\u201cIn its 83rd year, the Nebraska Breakfast brought a little slice of Nebraska Nice to our nation\u2019s capital,\u201d said Congressman Flood. \u201cHeld on Wednesdays when both the House and Senate were in session, this tradition gives all Nebraskans visiting Washington, D.C. a chance to stop by, spend time with their federal delegation, and hear firsthand about our priorities and what\u2019s happening on Capitol Hill. I want to thank everyone who stopped by one of our breakfasts this year and helped keep this great Nebraska tradition alive and well.\u201d\n\nPhotos of the last Nebraska Breakfast of 2026 can be found by clicking here.\n\nThe Nebraska Breakfast is open to all Nebraskans visiting Washington and provides a unique opportunity to hear directly from the entire Nebraska delegation. The tradition was started by Senator Hugh Butler in 1943 and has continued for more than eight decades.\n\nThis year, Congressman Flood\u2019s office hosted the Nebraska Breakfast, continuing a longstanding tradition in which offices in Nebraska\u2019s federal delegation alternate hosting responsibilities every year. Congressman Flood included Nebraska trivia questions at each Breakfast, celebrating communities, innovators, and accomplishments across the state.", 1, "2026-09-17T09:52:05Z", "2026-09-17T09:53:00Z"], ["https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases/smith-announces-upcoming-mobile-office-hour-chase-county", "Smith Announces Upcoming Mobile Office Hour for Chase County", "2026-09-10", "2026", "2026-09", "Republican", "House", "NE", "Adrian Smith", "S001172", "adriansmith.house.gov", "adriansmith", "https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Congressman Adrian Smith (NE-03) announced today that his staff will hold a mobile office hour for constituents in Chase County on Tuesday, September 22, 2026. This office hour is an opportunity for constituents to meet directly with a member of Smith's staff about federal issues, receive assistance with a federal agency, or take advantage of the services available through his office.\n\nSmith, who has offices in Grand Island, Scottsbluff, and Nebraska City, will provide a staff member at the following times and locations:\n\nTuesday, September 22, 2026\n\nChase County Courthouse\n\n921 Broadway\n\nImperial, NE 69033\n\n12:00 pm - 1:00 pm MT\n\nFor more information, please contact Smith\u2019s Grand Island office at (308) 384-3900, his Scottsbluff office at (308) 633-6333, or his Nebraska City office at (402) 874-6050.", 1, "2026-09-12T09:02:30Z", "2026-09-12T09:03:27Z"], ["https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases/smith-announces-upcoming-mobile-office-hour-dundy-county", "Smith Announces Upcoming Mobile Office Hour for Dundy County", "2026-09-10", "2026", "2026-09", "Republican", "House", "NE", "Adrian Smith", "S001172", "adriansmith.house.gov", "adriansmith", "https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Congressman Adrian Smith (NE-03) announced today that his staff will hold a mobile office hour for constituents in Dundy County on Monday, September 21, 2026. This office hour is an opportunity for constituents to meet directly with a member of Smith's staff about federal issues, receive assistance with a federal agency, or take advantage of the services available through his office.\n\nSmith, who has offices in Grand Island, Scottsbluff, and Nebraska City, will provide a staff member at the following times and locations:\n\nMonday, September 21, 2026\n\nDundy County Courthouse\n\n112 W. 7th Avenue\n\nBenkleman, NE 69021\n\n12:00 pm - 1:00 pm MT\n\nFor more information, please contact Smith\u2019s Grand Island office at (308) 384-3900, his Scottsbluff office at (308) 633-6333, or his Nebraska City office at (402) 874-6050.", 1, "2026-09-12T09:02:30Z", "2026-09-12T09:03:27Z"], ["https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=2909", "Bacon, Carbajal Visit Philippines to Strengthen U.S.-Philippines Alliance, Honor Shared History", "2026-09-04", "2026", "2026-09", "Republican", "House", "NE", "Don Bacon", "B001298", "bacon.house.gov", "bacon", "https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2013 Representatives Don Bacon (NE-02) and Salud Carbajal (CA-24), members of the House Armed Services Committee, recently participated in a bipartisan Congressional Delegation visit to the Philippines focused on strengthening U.S.-Philippines defense cooperation, improving deterrence and interoperability in the South China Sea and expanding cyber capabilities.\n\nDuring the visit, Reps. Bacon and Carbajal met with Philippine National Security Adviser Eduardo S.L. Oban Jr., Department of National Defense Undersecretary for Information Systems and Cybersecurity Fabian Pedregosa and U.S. Embassy Deputy Chief of Mission Bridgette Walker. They also met with rotational U.S. servicemembers supporting forward presence and deterrence in the region, visited key readiness facilities at Subic Bay and saw U.S. Navy presence in and near the South China Sea.\n\nDiscussions with Philippine leaders focused on the People\u2019s Republic of China\u2019s aggressive military actions in the South China Sea, including around the Spratly Islands, as well as Philippine defense modernization, cybersecurity and strengthening the longstanding alliance between the two countries.\n\n\u201cThe Philippines is a vital ally, and our visit reinforced how important this partnership is to our national security,\u201d said Rep. Bacon. \u201cThe PRC\u2019s aggressive military actions in the South China Sea are forcing the Philippines to increase its military capabilities, and our soldiers, Marines and sailors are doing exceptional work providing deterrence, reassuring our allies and improving interoperability. I was also grateful to finally see the Balangiga Bells in Balangiga. Their return was intended to help complete reconciliation and strengthen trust between our countries, and eight years later, it is working.\u201d\n\n\u201cAs the People\u2019s Republic of China escalates its aggressive posture in the South China Sea, strengthening key U.S. alliances across the Indo-Pacific is essential to regional security,\u201d said Rep. Carbajal. \u201cI welcomed the opportunity to meet with Filipino leaders to advance our shared priorities and deepen the long-standing defense cooperation between our two nations.\u201d\n\nAt the U.S. Embassy in Manila, Walker hosted Reps. Bacon and Carbajal for discussions on strengthening deterrence and joint capabilities. The lawmakers also saw the same flagpole that stood at the embassy during World War II, which still bears bullet holes from the war.\n\nThe visit also brought Reps. Bacon and Carbajal to the town of Balangiga, where Rep. Bacon saw the three Balangiga Bells eight years after leading legislation that allowed their return to the Philippines. The bells were taken by U.S. forces as war trophies in 1901 and remained in the United States for more than a century.\n\nAfter then-Bellevue Mayor Rita Sanders and members of the Filipino community in Nebraska raised the issue with Rep. Bacon, he helped advance legislation through the 2018 National Defense Authorization Act allowing the Secretary of Defense to approve their return. The bells were returned to Balangiga in December 2018. During last week\u2019s visit, Reps. Bacon and Carbajal met with the mayor, priest and members of the local community.\n\nRep. Bacon reflected on the significance of their return while in Balangiga, saying it was \u201ca way of trying to provide that reconciliation and strengthen friendship.\u201d\n\nReps. Bacon and Carbajal also paid their respects at the Manila American Cemetery, the largest American military cemetery overseas and the final resting place of more than 17,000 American and allied war dead from World War II.\n\nWhile at the cemetery, Rep. Bacon located the graves of two Nebraskans, Col Irvin R. Schimmelpfennig, who grew up in Humphrey and was killed during the Battle of Manila in 1945, and Pfc Clemens E. Gabrielson, a Nebraska servicemember who died in 1942. Rep. Bacon also visited the Walls of the Missing, where Lt Col Harold William Bauer is memorialized. Bauer grew up in Alma, Nebraska, became a Marine fighter pilot and was posthumously awarded the Medal of Honor after being lost near Guadalcanal in 1942. His remains were never recovered.\n\nPhotos from the congressional visit are available here. Photo Credit: Office of Congressman Don Bacon.\n\nhttps://www.dropbox.com/scl/fo/axh3fb71jjz27fagnzh2j/AKfQiN2yL1M_yoU0m6o0WWE?rlkey=5s8m9y00s9ylk0q0nt4fqng8b&st=ww3b9srn&dl=0\n\nAdditional background on Rep. Bacon\u2019s work to return the Balangiga Bells is available in his 2018 release:\n\nhttps://bacon.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=295\n\nRep. Bacon\u2019s 2019 Congressional Record remarks on the history and significance of their return are available here:\n\nhttps://www.congress.gov/116/crec/2019/04/03/modified/CREC-2019-04-03-pt1-PgE394-3.htm\n\n###", 1, "2026-09-12T09:02:30Z", "2026-09-12T09:03:27Z"], ["https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases/smith-moran-lead-letter-urging-admin-expand-markets-americas-ranchers", "Smith, Moran Lead Letter Urging Admin to Expand Markets for America\u2019s Ranchers", "2026-09-02", "2026", "2026-09", "Republican", "House", "NE", "Adrian Smith", "S001172", "adriansmith.house.gov", "adriansmith", "https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Today, U.S. Representative Adrian Smith (NE-03), Chair of the House Ways and Means Subcommittee on Trade, and U.S. Senator Jerry Moran (R-KS), a member of the Senate Agriculture Committee, led 51 of their colleagues in urging President Trump to prioritize policies that expand trade market access and provide certainty for American cattle producers. This comes after the president\u2019s recent proclamation to increase the \u201cother countries\u201d quota for lean beef trimmings by 300,000 metric tons for 90 days beginning on September 1, 2026, and indicating that such imports will be sold at 25 percent below market price.\n\n\u201cAmerican ranchers work diligently to do more with less, weather volatile markets, and provide a safe food supply,\u201d the lawmakers wrote. \u201cCattle markets are cyclical, and ranchers use the upswings to prepare for the inevitable downturn. Any intervention in the natural system, especially at a time when producers are making marketing decisions, threatens to pick winners and losers and undermine the long-term viability of family-owned cattle operations throughout the supply chain.\n\n\u201cAs you consider policy changes which could impact American livestock producers, we urge you to prioritize proposals which deliver long-term market stability and confidence while consulting closely with impacted stakeholders,\u201dconcluded the lawmakers. \u201cWe are eager to work together to deliver certainty for American cattle producers while continuing to deliver safe, affordable, and high-quality American beef.\u201d\n\nIn addition to Smith and Moran, the letter was signed by U.S. Senators Kevin Cramer (R-ND), Chuck Grassley (R-IA), Pete Ricketts (R-NE), Bill Cassidy (R-LA), Deb Fischer (R-NE), Jim Justice (R-WV), Steve Daines (R-MT), and John Hoven (R-ND), and U.S. Representatives Dusty Johnson (R-SD-AL), Randy Feenstra (R-IA-04), Ann Wagner (R-MO-02), Max Miller (R-OH-07), Ashley Hinson (R-IA-02), Derek Schmidt (R-KS-02), Dan Newhouse (R-WA-04), Greg Steube (R-FL-17), Mike Carey (R-OH-15), Michelle Fischbach (R-MN-07), Blake Moore (R-UT-01), Tracey Mann (R-KS-01), Mike Flood (R-NE-01), Mike Bost (R-IL-12), Jeff Hurd (R-CO-03), Zach Nunn (R-IA-03), Warren Davidson (R-OH-08), Gabe Evans (R-CO-08), Mark Alford (R-MO-04), Mariannette Miller-Meeks (R-IA-02), French Hill (R-AR-02), Morgan Griffith (R-VA-09), Brad Finstad (R-MN-01), Greg Murphy (R-NC-03), Frank Lucas (R-OK-03), Andy Barr (R-KY-06), John Rose (R-TN-06), Troy Downing (R-MT-02), Cliff Bentz (R-OR-02), Julie Fedorchak (R-ND-AL), Tim Moore (R-NC-14), Bruce Westerman (R-AR-04), Ron Estes (R-KS-04), Rob Wittman (R-VA-01), Scott Franklin (R-FL-18), Austin Scott (R-GA-08), Mary Miller (R-IL-15), Celeste Maloy (R-UT-02), August Pfluger (R-TX-11), John McGuire III (R-VA-05), Darin LaHood (R-IL-18), Tim Cole (R-OK-04), and Mark Harris (R-NC-08).\n\nRead the full letter here or below:\n\nPresident Trump,\n\nAs you know, the cattle industry is facing 75-year low inventory yet continues to efficiently raise cattle and produce beef that is unmatched in quality anywhere in the world. This does not happen by accident. American ranchers work diligently to do more with less, weather volatile markets, and provide a safe food supply. Cattle markets are cyclical, and ranchers use the upswings to prepare for the inevitable downturn. Any intervention in the natural system, especially at a time when producers are making marketing decisions, threatens to pick winners\n\nand losers and undermine the long-term viability of family-owned cattle operations throughout the supply chain.\n\nLong term certainty can be delivered by fostering existing domestic demand and continuing efforts to expand overseas markets for American beef products, building on the successful trade deals you have already secured. As proven through the deals you struck with the United Kingdom and Australia, there is significant opportunity for advancing market access for American beef around the world. These trade deals, coupled with the significant\n\nbenefits of the Working Families Tax Cuts, will drive long-term confidence in the market and create a natural incentive for ranchers to rebuild and expand their herds. Additionally, your support for a modernized Farm Bill would strengthen access to capital and expand flexibility within grazing and conservation programs, providing producers with the tools they need to strengthen and expand the cattle herd.\n\nAs you consider policy changes which could impact American livestock producers, we urge you to prioritize proposals which deliver long-term market stability and confidence while consulting closely with impacted stakeholders. We are eager to work together to deliver certainty for American cattle producers while continuing to deliver safe, affordable, and high-quality American beef.", 1, "2026-09-03T09:29:33Z", "2026-09-03T09:31:32Z"], ["https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=2908", "Bacon, Jacobs Introduce Bipartisan Bill to Protect Press Access at the Pentagon", "2026-08-31", "2026", "2026-08", "Republican", "House", "NE", "Don Bacon", "B001298", "bacon.house.gov", "bacon", "https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2014 Representatives Don Bacon (NE-02) and Sara Jacobs (CA-51) today introduced bipartisan legislation to restore and protect press access at the Pentagon, reversing months of Secretary Hegseth\u2019s efforts to restrict independent reporting.\n\n\u201cA free press makes our country better, and the new Pentagon media restrictions are not wise. I was stationed at the Pentagon twice and saw firsthand that credentialed reporters had access to hallways, cafeterias and designated press areas, not offices or classified areas with sensitive national security information. I\u2019m joining Rep. Jacobs on this bipartisan legislation to restore reasonable press access, protect an independent credentialing process and ensure future changes receive appropriate congressional oversight,\u201d said Rep. Bacon.\n\n\u201cMuzzling the Pentagon\u2019s independent press corps blinds Congress and the American people to what\u2019s happening in our name and with our money. Asking our military leaders tough questions and holding them accountable \u2013 especially during times of conflict \u2013 is a basic, but critical part of our democracy. Without transparency, the American people can\u2019t trust they\u2019re getting the truth, not propaganda, or that the military is following the rule of law. Our bipartisan bill will help restore press access at the Pentagon, so we can maintain transparency, accountability, and oversight,\u201d said Rep. Sara Jacobs.\n\nThe legislation would:\n\nRestore press access to areas of the Pentagon that were accessible prior to the 2025 restrictions, including the \u201cCorrespondents\u2019 Corridor\u201d\n\nRenew unescorted press access to areas of the Pentagon that were accessible without an escort prior to the 2025 restrictions\n\nRequire the Secretary to ensure the integrity of the process to issue to reporters a Pentagon credential, ensuring the security review process is conducted by career officials in the Pentagon Force Protection Agency without unnecessary delays or political influence\n\nProhibit any changes to press access at the Pentagon, including the designation of press workspaces, access areas, and press credentials, without prior congressional consultation", 1, "2026-09-01T09:48:49Z", "2026-09-01T09:49:51Z"], ["https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases/smith-urges-admin-support-americas-ranchers", "Smith Urges Admin to Support America's Ranchers", "2026-08-26", "2026", "2026-08", "Republican", "House", "NE", "Adrian Smith", "S001172", "adriansmith.house.gov", "adriansmith", "https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Today, Congressman Adrian Smith (R-NE), a senior member of the House Ways and Means Committee and Chair of the Subcommittee on Trade, released the following statement in response to the Trump Administration\u2019s move to increase foreign beef imports:\n\n\u201cAs Nebraska\u2019s ranchers continue to recover from the historic wildfires this spring\u2014amid an ongoing drought\u2014they need market certainty. With cattle inventory at 75-year lows, we must focus on policies which empower ranchers to rebuild our domestic herd.\n\nWhile I acknowledge the administration\u2019s efforts to address consumers\u2019 concerns, providing certainty for America\u2019s hardworking ranchers is essential. Moving forward, I will continue to encourage the administration to pursue policies that give America\u2019s ranchers the assurance they need to make long-term decisions for their operations.\u201d", 1, "2026-08-27T16:10:01Z", "2026-08-27T16:10:50Z"], ["https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases/smith-announces-upcoming-mobile-office-hour-johnson-county", "Smith Announces Upcoming Mobile Office Hour for Johnson County", "2026-08-24", "2026", "2026-08", "Republican", "House", "NE", "Adrian Smith", "S001172", "adriansmith.house.gov", "adriansmith", "https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Congressman Adrian Smith (NE-03) announced today that his staff will hold a mobile office hour for constituents in Johnson County on Tuesday, September 8, 2026. This office hour is an opportunity for constituents to meet directly with a member of Smith's staff about federal issues, receive assistance with a federal agency, or take advantage of the services available through his office.\n\nSmith, who has offices in Grand Island, Scottsbluff, and Nebraska City, will provide a staff member at the following times and locations:\n\nTuesday, September 8, 2026\n\nJohnson County Courthouse, Top Floor\n\n351 Broadway Street\n\nTecumseh, NE 68450\n\n11:00 am - 12:00pm CT\n\nFor more information, please contact Smith\u2019s Grand Island office at (308) 384-3900, his Scottsbluff office at (308) 633-6333, or his Nebraska City office at (402) 874-6050.", 1, "2026-08-25T05:31:37Z", "2026-08-25T05:33:09Z"], ["https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases/smith-announces-upcoming-mobile-office-hour-nemaha-county", "Smith Announces Upcoming Mobile Office Hour for Nemaha County", "2026-08-24", "2026", "2026-08", "Republican", "House", "NE", "Adrian Smith", "S001172", "adriansmith.house.gov", "adriansmith", "https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Congressman Adrian Smith (NE-03) announced today that his staff will hold a mobile office hour for constituents in Nemaha County on Wednesday, September 2, 2026. This office hour is an opportunity for constituents to meet directly with a member of Smith's staff about federal issues, receive assistance with a federal agency, or take advantage of the services available through his office.\n\nSmith, who has offices in Grand Island, Scottsbluff, and Nebraska City, will provide a staff member at the following times and locations:\n\nWednesday, September 2, 2026\n\nNemaha County Courthouse\n\n1824 N Street\n\nAuburn, NE 68305\n\n12:00 pm - 1:00 pm CT\n\nFor more information, please contact Smith\u2019s Grand Island office at (308) 384-3900, his Scottsbluff office at (308) 633-6333, or his Nebraska City office at (402) 874-6050.", 1, "2026-08-25T05:31:37Z", "2026-08-25T05:33:09Z"], ["https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases/smith-announces-upcoming-mobile-office-hour-washington-county", "Smith Announces Upcoming Mobile Office Hour for Washington County", "2026-08-24", "2026", "2026-08", "Republican", "House", "NE", "Adrian Smith", "S001172", "adriansmith.house.gov", "adriansmith", "https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Congressman Adrian Smith (NE-03) announced today that his staff will hold a mobile office hour for constituents in Washington County on Tuesday, September 1, 2026. This office hour is an opportunity for constituents to meet directly with a member of Smith's staff about federal issues, receive assistance with a federal agency, or take advantage of the services available through his office.\n\nSmith, who has offices in Grand Island, Scottsbluff, and Nebraska City, will provide a staff member at the following times and locations:\n\nTuesday, September 1, 2026\n\nWashington County Courthouse\n\n1555 Colfax Street\n\nBlair, NE 68008\n\n12:00 pm - 1:00 pm CT\n\nFor more information, please contact Smith\u2019s Grand Island office at (308) 384-3900, his Scottsbluff office at (308) 633-6333, or his Nebraska City office at (402) 874-6050.", 1, "2026-08-25T05:31:37Z", "2026-08-25T05:33:09Z"], ["https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases/smith-announces-upcoming-mobile-office-hours-richardson-and-pawnee-counties", "Smith Announces Upcoming Mobile Office Hours for Richardson and Pawnee Counties", "2026-08-24", "2026", "2026-08", "Republican", "House", "NE", "Adrian Smith", "S001172", "adriansmith.house.gov", "adriansmith", "https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Congressman Adrian Smith (NE-03) announced today that his staff will hold mobile office hours for constituents in Pawnee and Richardson Counties on Thursday, September 3, 2026. These office hours are an opportunity for constituents to meet directly with a member of Smith's staff about federal issues, receive assistance with a federal agency, or take advantage of the services available through his office.\n\nSmith, who has offices in Grand Island, Scottsbluff, and Nebraska City, will provide a staff member at the following times and locations:\n\nThursday, September 3, 2026\n\nRichardson County Courthouse\n\n1700 Stone Street\n\nFalls City, NE 68355\n\n11:00 am - 12:00 pm CT\n\nPawnee County Courthouse, First Floor\n\n625 6th Street\n\nPawnee City, NE 68420\n\n1:00 pm - 2:00 pm CT\n\nFor more information, please contact Smith\u2019s Grand Island office at (308) 384-3900, his Scottsbluff office at (308) 633-6333, or his Nebraska City office at (402) 874-6050.", 1, "2026-08-25T05:31:37Z", "2026-08-25T05:33:09Z"], ["https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-flood-accepting-applications-2027-spring-internship-program", "Congressman Flood Accepting Applications for 2027 Spring Internship Program in Washington, D.C.", "2026-08-24", "2026", "2026-08", "Republican", "House", "NE", "Mike Flood", "F000474", "flood.house.gov", "flood", "https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "LINCOLN, NEBRASKA \u2013 Today, U.S. Congressman Mike Flood announced that his office is accepting applications for the spring internship program in his Washington, D.C. office.\n\n\u201cInterns play an important role in our office,\u201d said Congressman Flood. \u201cThis experience is about more than learning how Congress works. Our program is an opportunity to contribute to the work of our office, engage directly with Nebraskans, and gain firsthand experience in public service. I encourage you and anyone you know to apply to my Washington, D.C. Office\u2019s spring 2027 internship program to see Congress at work.\u201d\n\nCongressional interns in the Office of Congressman Flood will have the opportunity to work alongside each team within the office. The internship curriculum is designed to provide interns with a well-rounded understanding of how a congressional office operates, including constituent services, communications, legislative efforts, office operations, and committee work.\n\nAdditionally, interns will have the opportunity to attend policy briefings, unique tours, congressional hearings, guest speaker events, networking opportunities, and other activities on Capitol Hill.\n\nThe deadline to apply for the spring internship is October 2, 2026. The internship will run from January 25 \u2013 May 14.", 1, "2026-08-31T11:22:56Z", "2026-08-31T11:24:00Z"], ["https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases/smith-announces-upcoming-mobile-office-hour-valley-county", "Smith Announces Upcoming Mobile Office Hour for Valley County", "2026-08-12", "2026", "2026-08", "Republican", "House", "NE", "Adrian Smith", "S001172", "adriansmith.house.gov", "adriansmith", "https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Congressman Adrian Smith (NE-03) announced today that his staff will hold a mobile office hour for constituents in Valley County on Tuesday, August 25, 2026. This office hour is an opportunity for constituents to meet directly with a member of Smith's staff about federal issues, receive assistance with a federal agency, or take advantage of the services available through his office.\n\nSmith, who has offices in Grand Island, Scottsbluff, and Nebraska City, will provide a staff member at the following time and location:\n\nTuesday, August 25, 2026\n\nValley County Courthouse\n\n125 S. 15th Street\n\nOrd, NE 68862\n\n11:30 am - 12:30 pm CT", 1, "2026-08-13T06:17:16Z", "2026-08-13T06:18:13Z"], ["https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases/smith-announces-upcoming-mobile-office-hours-boyd-and-cherry-counties", "Smith Announces Upcoming Mobile Office Hours for Boyd and Cherry Counties", "2026-08-12", "2026", "2026-08", "Republican", "House", "NE", "Adrian Smith", "S001172", "adriansmith.house.gov", "adriansmith", "https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Congressman Adrian Smith (NE-03) announced today that his staff will hold a mobile office hour for constituents in Boyd and Cherry Counties on Tuesday, August 25, 2026. These office hours are an opportunity for constituents to meet directly with a member of Smith's staff about federal issues, receive assistance with a federal agency, or take advantage of the services available through his office.\n\nSmith, who has offices in Grand Island, Scottsbluff, and Nebraska City, will provide a staff member at the following times and locations:\n\nTuesday, August 25, 2026\n\nBoyd County Courthouse\n\n401 Thayer Street\n\nButte, NE 68722\n\n9:00 am - 10:00 am CT\n\nCherry County Courthouse\n\n365 N. Main Street\n\nValentine, NE 69201\n\n12:40 pm - 1:40 pm CT\n\nFor more information, please contact Smith\u2019s Grand Island office at (308) 384-3900, his Scottsbluff office at (308) 633-6333, or his Nebraska City office at (402) 874-6050.", 1, "2026-08-13T06:17:16Z", "2026-08-13T06:18:13Z"], ["https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases/smith-announces-upcoming-mobile-office-hours-franklin-and-nuckolls-counties", "Smith Announces Upcoming Mobile Office Hours for Franklin and Nuckolls Counties", "2026-08-12", "2026", "2026-08", "Republican", "House", "NE", "Adrian Smith", "S001172", "adriansmith.house.gov", "adriansmith", "https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Congressman Adrian Smith (NE-03) announced today that his staff will hold a mobile office hour for constituents in Franklin and Nuckolls Counties on Tuesday, August 25, 2026. These office hours are an opportunity for constituents to meet directly with a member of Smith's staff about federal issues, receive assistance with a federal agency, or take advantage of the services available through his office.\n\nSmith, who has offices in Grand Island, Scottsbluff, and Nebraska City, will provide a staff member at the following times and locations:\n\nTuesday, August 25, 2026\n\nVillage of Hildreth Office\n\n248 Commercial Avenue\n\nHildreth, NE 68947\n\n11:00 am - 12:00 pm CT\n\nNuckolls County Courthouse\n\n150 Main Street\n\nNelson, NE 68961\n\n1:00 pm - 2:00 pm CT\n\nFor more information, please contact Smith\u2019s Grand Island office at (308) 384-3900, his Scottsbluff office at (308) 633-6333, or his Nebraska City office at (402) 874-6050.", 1, "2026-08-13T06:17:16Z", "2026-08-13T06:18:13Z"], ["https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases/smith-announces-upcoming-mobile-office-hours-gage-thayer-and-york-counties", "Smith Announces Upcoming Mobile Office Hours for Gage, Thayer, and York Counties", "2026-08-12", "2026", "2026-08", "Republican", "House", "NE", "Adrian Smith", "S001172", "adriansmith.house.gov", "adriansmith", "https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Congressman Adrian Smith (NE-03) announced today that his staff will hold a mobile office hour for constituents in Gage, Thayer, and York Counties on Monday, August 24, 2026. These office hours are an opportunity for constituents to meet directly with a member of Smith's staff about federal issues, receive assistance with a federal agency, or take advantage of the services available through his office.\n\nSmith, who has offices in Grand Island, Scottsbluff, and Nebraska City, will provide a staff member at the following times and locations:\n\nMonday, August 24, 2026\n\nGage Development Coalition\n\n215 N. 5th Street\n\nBeatrice, NE 68310\n\n10:00 am - 11:00 am CT\n\nThayer County Courthouse\n\nCommissioner's Room\n\n225 N. 4th Street\n\nHebron, NE 68370\n\n12:15 pm - 1:15 pm CT\n\nKilgore Memorial Library\n\n520 Nebraska Avenue\n\nYork, NE 68467\n\n2:30 pm - 3:30 pm CT\n\nFor more information, please contact Smith\u2019s Grand Island office at (308) 384-3900, his Scottsbluff office at (308) 633-6333, or his Nebraska City office at (402) 874-6050.", 1, "2026-08-13T06:17:16Z", "2026-08-13T06:18:13Z"], ["https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases/smith-announces-upcoming-mobile-office-hours-webster-kearney-and-buffalo", "Smith Announces Upcoming Mobile Office Hours for Webster, Kearney, and Buffalo Counties", "2026-08-12", "2026", "2026-08", "Republican", "House", "NE", "Adrian Smith", "S001172", "adriansmith.house.gov", "adriansmith", "https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Congressman Adrian Smith (NE-03) announced today that his staff will hold a mobile office hour for constituents in Webster, Kearney, and Buffalo Counties on Wednesday, August 26, 2026. These office hours are an opportunity for constituents to meet directly with a member of Smith's staff about federal issues, receive assistance with a federal agency, or take advantage of the services available through his office.\n\nSmith, who has offices in Grand Island, Scottsbluff, and Nebraska City, will provide a staff member at the following times and locations:\n\nWednesday, August 26, 2026\n\nWebster County Courthouse\n\n2621 N. Cedar Street\n\nRed Cloud, NE 68970\n\n11:00 am - 12:00 pm CT\n\nKearney County Courthouse\n\n424 N. Colorado Avenue\n\nMinden, NE 68959\n\n1:15 pm - 2:15 pm CT\n\nRavenna Economic Development Corporation\n\n318 Grand Avenue\n\nRavenna, NE 68869\n\n3:15 pm - 4:15 pm CT\n\nFor more information, please contact Smith\u2019s Grand Island office at (308) 384-3900, his Scottsbluff office at (308) 633-6333, or his Nebraska City office at (402) 874-6050.", 1, "2026-08-13T06:17:16Z", "2026-08-13T06:18:13Z"], ["https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-flood-leads-bicameral-bill-cracking-down-excessive-trucking", "Congressman Flood Leads Bicameral Bill\u00a0Cracking Down on Excessive Trucking Lawsuits", "2026-08-11", "2026", "2026-08", "Republican", "House", "NE", "Mike Flood", "F000474", "flood.house.gov", "flood", "https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "LINCOLN, NEBRASKA \u2013 Today, U.S. Congressman Mike Flood (NE), along with Congressmen Jake Ellzey (TX), Jay Obernolte (CA), and David Rouzer (NC) introduced the Uniform Vehicle Safety Standards Act. U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (NE) introduced companion legislation in the Senate. The legislation aims to address the recent spike in lawsuits paying out damages for standards set by states rather than federal standards.\n\n\u201cIn recent years, we\u2019ve seen a sharp rise in lawsuits awarding damages based on state standards instead of the federal safety standards trucking companies are already required to meet,\u201d said Congressman Flood (NE). \u201cAmericans deserve one clear set of rules instead of a patchwork of state regulations that drive up costs and create uncertainty for businesses that already follow the law. I\u2019m grateful to Congressmen Ellzey, Obernolte, and Rouzer as well as to Senator Fischer for joining me in this effort addressing this growing problem and helping ensure our safety laws are fair, consistent, and work for the American people.\u201d\n\n\u201cFederal motor vehicle safety standards provide manufacturers with clear and consistent requirements that apply nationwide,\u201d said Congressman Obernolte (CA). \u201cWhen manufacturers comply with those standards, they should not face costly lawsuits simply for failing to exceed them. Lawsuit abuse raises costs across the supply chain, threatens American jobs and ultimately leaves consumers paying the price. The Uniform Vehicle Safety Standards Act will restore certainty for manufacturers while ensuring vehicle safety requirements remain grounded in consistent federal standards.\u201d\n\n\u201cFrivolous lawsuits put unnecessary pressure on American businesses, driving up shipping costs and higher prices for consumers. When businesses adhere to federal safety standards, they shouldn\u2019t face excessive liability based on inconsistent court decisions. I\u2019m proud to support legislation that provides greater certainty for law-abiding businesses to help keep costs down for American families,\u201d said Congressman Rouzer (NC).\n\nA one-pager of the Uniform Vehicle Safety Standards Act can be found by clicking here.\n\nFull text of the Uniform Vehicle Safety Standards Act can be found by clicking here.\n\nThis legislation comes amid an increase in civil lawsuits where juries awarded damages for accidents based on state standards even when the vehicles in question were in full compliance with federal standards. The result of these cases have seen increased insurance costs, trucking faced with steep payments even when meeting federal standards, and the trucking industry facing regulatory uncertainty.\n\nThe Uniform Vehicle Safety Standards Act ensures that the federal standards set by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration are the nationwide standard, providing greater certainty to trucking while also upholding federalism.\n\nSupport for the Uniform Vehicle Safety Standards Act:\n\nThis legislation is endorsed by major industry and trucking groups, including Alliance for Automotive Innovation, American Bus Association, American Property Casualty Insurance Association, American Trucking Associations, International Foodservice Distributors Association, National Association of Mutual Insurance Companies, National Association of Trailer Manufacturers, National Motor Freight Traffic Association, National Tank Truck Carriers, Nebraska Trucking Association, Timpte, Truck Renting and Leasing Association, Truck Trailer Manufacturers Association, Truckload Carriers Association, and Werner.\n\n\u201cWhen NHTSA establishes a federal safety standard, manufacturers and motor carriers should be able to rely on that determination. Allowing lawsuits to effectively impose equipment mandates that diverge from federal requirements creates uncertainty, drives up costs, and threatens the uniformity that keeps our nation's supply chain moving safely and efficiently,\u201d said American Trucking Associations SVP of Legislative Affairs Alex Rosen. \u201cThe trucking industry applauds Reps. Flood, Obernolte, Rouzer, and Ellzey for introducing this commonsense legislation to affirm NHTSA\u2019s role as the nation's expert regulator for motor vehicle safety standards. If NHTSA, after evaluating the available evidence through its rulemaking process, determines that a particular standard strikes the appropriate balance to maximize motor vehicle safety, that expert determination should carry greater weight than the hindsight judgments advanced by profit-seeking trial attorneys in individual courtrooms.\u201d\n\n\"By establishing a uniform standard, this legislation shields carriers from frivolous lawsuits while ensuring motor vehicle manufacturing upholds established, federally mandated safety requirements for all drivers,\" said Nathan Meisgeier, President and Chief Legal Officer, Werner Enterprises, Inc.\n\n\u201cNebraska\u2019s trucking industry plays a vital role in supporting agriculture, manufacturing, retail, construction, and virtually every sector of our state\u2019s economy. Legal predictability and fairness are essential to maintaining a strong transportation network and ensuring that carriers can continue investing in the people, equipment, and technologies that improve roadway safety,\u201d said Nebraska Trucking Association President & CEO Kent Grisham. \u201cCongressman Flood knows that when manufacturers and operators have demonstrably adhered to all applicable laws, regulations, and recognized safety practices, they should not face unreasonable liability based on hindsight or inconsistent standards imposed after the fact. His willingness to lead the way in passing legislation that will establish safeguards against such nonsense in our courts makes him a true hero to trucking.\u201d\n\n\"NTTC strongly supports the Uniform Vehicle Safety Standards Act, and commends Senator Fischer and Representative Flood for their leadership to provide much needed relief to the commercial trucking industry - the backbone of the American economy. The American motoring public rightfully expects truck manufacturers to be built to high federal safety standards, but it is unreasonable to hold any industry accountable to 50 standards created through 50 state courts. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration produces world-leading safety regulations, and state suits should not be allowed to supplant federal standards,\u201d said Ryan Streblow, NTTC President and CEO.\n\n\u201cTRALA strongly supports the Uniform Vehicle Safety Standards Act, which will protect truck rental and leasing companies from unreasonable lawsuits involving vehicles that fully comply with federal safety standards. This legislation will preserve a consistent national framework, reduce costly litigation, and prevent optional safety equipment from being treated as mandatory through state-by-state court decisions,\u201d said TRALA President & CEO Jake Jacoby.\n\n\u201cThe Truckload Carriers Association and its membership proudly support the Uniform Vehicle Safety Standards Act, as it reinforces the principle that there should be one national standard for vehicle safety. Motor carriers that comply with federally established safety requirements should not be subjected to inconsistent lawsuits seeking to impose standards beyond those adopted by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Recent litigation in the trucking industry has demonstrated the importance of protecting companies that comply with federal safety regulations, providing greater certainty for businesses operating across state lines. By reducing unnecessary litigation costs and preventing conflicting court decisions, this legislation strengthens interstate commerce while preserving the integrity of the federal vehicle safety framework. The truckload industry believes safety is best advanced through clear, uniform federal standards that apply consistently nationwide, rather than through a patchwork of differing legal expectations imposed through litigation,\u201d said TCA President Jim Mullen.\n\n\u201cMotorcoaches are interstate by nature, and our industry depends on clear, consistent federal vehicle safety standards,\" said Fred Ferguson, President and CEO of the American Bus Association. \"Operators and manufacturers should be held to the rigorous safety requirements established by NHTSA, but they should not face a patchwork of after-the-fact lawsuits that effectively impose different vehicle equipment standards from one state to the next. The Uniform Vehicle Safety Standards Act provides needed certainty while preserving NHTSA\u2019s central role in establishing and updating vehicle safety standards. The American Bus Association thanks Congressman Flood and Senator Fischer for their leadership and is proud to support this commonsense legislation.\u201d\n\n\u201cLegal system abuse, including excessive litigation and nuclear verdicts, is making things more expensive across the economy for every American. NAMIC applauds Congressman Flood and Senator Fischer for leading on this important issue to provide much needed legal certainty for truckers, insurers, and the consumers who rely on them,\u201d said NAMIC\u2019s Jimi Grande, SVP \u2013 Federal & Political Affairs\n\n\u201cWe are pleased to support this bill which will close this loophole and ensure that standards are set at the federal level, providing much-needed certainty and enhancing safety,\u201d said Chris Burroughs, President & CEO of the Transportation Intermediaries Association. \u201cCertainty is essential to keeping America\u2019s roads safe, and under the current legal framework, motor vehicle manufacturers remain exposed to civil liability at the state level even if they have met the applicable federal safety standards.\u201d\n\n\u201cIFDA thanks Senator Fischer and Representative Flood for introducing the Uniform Vehicle Safety Standards Act. Foodservice distributors operate some of the largest commercial fleets in the country and invest heavily to ensure federal motor vehicle safety requirements are met,\u201d said Mala Parker, Senior Vice President of Government & Public Affairs at the International Foodservice Distributors Association. \u201cThis bill gives our industry much needed legal certainty by creating uniformity among safety requirements while keeping our nation\u2019s roads safe.\u201d", 1, "2026-08-12T06:18:38Z", "2026-08-12T06:20:33Z"], ["https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases/smith-announces-upcoming-mobile-office-hours-phelps-sherman-and-howard", "Smith Announces Upcoming Mobile Office Hours for Phelps, Sherman, and Howard Counties", "2026-08-10", "2026", "2026-08", "Republican", "House", "NE", "Adrian Smith", "S001172", "adriansmith.house.gov", "adriansmith", "https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Congressman Adrian Smith (NE-03) announced today that his staff will hold a mobile office hour for constituents in Phelps, Sherman, and Howard Counties on Monday, August 17, 2026. These office hours are an opportunity for constituents to meet directly with a member of Smith's staff about federal issues, receive assistance with a federal agency, or take advantage of the services available through his office.\n\nSmith, who has offices in Grand Island, Scottsbluff, and Nebraska City, will provide a staff member at the following times and locations:\n\nMonday, August 17, 2026\n\nPhelps County Development Corporation\n\n502 East Avenue\n\nHoldrege, NE 68949\n\n10:30 am - 11:30 am CT\n\nSherman County Economic Development\n\n652 N Street\n\nLoup City, NE 68853\n\n1:00 pm - 2:00 pm CT\n\nHoward County Courthouse\n\n612 Indian Street\n\nSt. Paul, NE 68873\n\n4:00 pm - 5:00 pm CT", 1, "2026-08-11T05:54:29Z", "2026-08-11T05:56:25Z"], ["https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=2907", "Bacon, McCaul, Hoyer, Colleagues Introduce the Lindsey O. Graham Sanctioning Russia and Iran Act of 2026", "2026-08-10", "2026", "2026-08", "Republican", "House", "NE", "Don Bacon", "B001298", "bacon.house.gov", "bacon", "https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx", "scraper", "Bacon, McCaul, Hoyer, Colleagues Introduce Lindsey O. Graham Sanctioning Russia and Iran Act of 2026\n\nWashington, D.C. \u2013 Today, U.S. Representatives Don Bacon (NE-02), House Foreign Affairs Committee Chairman Emeritus Michael McCaul (TX-10) and Congressman Steny Hoyer (MD-05) introduced the bipartisan Lindsey O. Graham Sanctioning Russia and Iran Act of 2026 alongside 15 of their colleagues. This legislation \u2014 which honors the late Senator Lindsey Graham, who worked on the bill for more than a year and secured the White House\u2019s support \u2014 will hold major purchasers of Russian oil and gas accountable for supporting Russia\u2019s war against Ukraine and extend sanctions that restrict funding for Iran\u2019s energy and weapons sectors.\n\n\u201cPutin\u2019s illegal war is failing, but he will not choose peace until the cost becomes too high for Russia and those helping fund his brutality,\u201d said Rep. Bacon, Co-Chair of the House Baltic Caucus. \u201cSenator Lindsey Graham was one of Congress\u2019s clearest voices for Ukraine, understood that Putin only responds to strength, and worked until his final days to advance the toughest sanctions package yet against Russia\u2019s war machine. The Lindsey O. Graham Sanctioning Russia Act would impose crippling pressure on Russia and those enabling Putin\u2019s aggression, honor Sen. Graham\u2019s commitment to Ukraine\u2019s fight for freedom, and make clear that America stands with Ukraine.\u201d\n\n\u201cSenator Graham was a national security giant, a statesman of unmatched conviction, and a personal friend and mentor. We shared a fundamental worldview: America is strongest at home when it projects strength abroad. That\u2019s why he fought so hard for this bill, which I promised him months ago I would introduce in the House,\u201d said Rep. McCaul. \u201cAs President Zelensky told me last month when I visited Ukraine, he is ready for a ceasefire \u2014 ready to negotiate, as he has been for years. Putin, on the other hand, consistently defies President Trump and the international community by refusing to come to the table. I can think of no better way to honor Senator Graham\u2019s life and legacy than by passing these tough sanctions, which will help force Putin into negotiations and bring us closer to securing Lindsey\u2019s vision of enduring peace in two critical regions of the world.\u201d\n\n\u201cDemocracy is presently under threat from despotism, and Congress must act to defend democracy and help Ukraine defeat Vladimir Putin\u2019s effort to extinguish its liberty and sovereignty. Our legislation goes after multiple sources of Russian war funding, including its oil and gas sectors, shadow fleet, and financial institutions. I\u2019m encouraged that the Senate passed the companion legislation last week with overwhelming support, and I thank former Chairman McCaul for partnering with me to facilitate action by the House. This action has been delayed too long and will, hopefully, accelerate Ukraine\u2019s success and the ending of this war, one that was initiated illegally by Putin and that has resulted in tens of thousands of deaths of Russians and Ukrainians. I hope that we can secure bipartisan consensus in the House and enact a sanctions package that will stem the flow of money to Russia\u2019s war machine and contribute to a Ukrainian victory,\" said Rep. Hoyer.\n\nEarlier this month, an overwhelming bipartisan majority in the Senate voted to pass companion legislation, by a vote of 86-11, led by Sens. Darline Graham (R-S.C.), Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.), Katie Britt (R-Ala.), Ranking Member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee Jeanne Shaheen (D-N.H.), Chair of the Senate Armed Services Committee Roger Wicker (R-Miss.), and Chair of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee Jim Risch (R-Idaho). The text of the House bill is identical to the text that passed the Senate.\n\n\u201cThis legislation was deeply important to my brother, Lindsey, and I\u2019m grateful that it has achieved such a wide coalition of support. Lindsey was committed to achieving a peaceful resolution to this war, and I\u2019m confident that these sanctions will pave the way,\u201d said Sen. Darline Graham. \u201cI\u2019m grateful to Rep. McCaul for leading this effort in the House. The Senate came together in a strong, bipartisan fashion to pass the Lindsey O. Graham Sanctioning Russia and Iran Act of 2026, and I hope the House of Representatives will do the same. Russia has waged war against Ukraine for far too long, and this bill assists President Trump in his noble efforts to bring it to a close.\u201d\n\n\u201cRepresentatives McCaul, Hoyer, Wilson, Kaptur, and Fitzpatrick are longtime champions of Ukraine\u2019s cause and I am glad to have them leading our legislation in the House of Representatives. After a massive bipartisan vote in the Senate, we are eager to turn to the House as we fight to get this legislation across the finish line. There is immense urgency in getting this done \u2013 July set a record for Russia\u2019s use of ballistic missiles, killing and wounding dozens of Ukrainians, including many children. Cutting off the source of funding \u2013 profits from oil and gas \u2013 for these deadly weapons and Russia\u2019s war machine is essential to ending the bloodshed,\u201d said Sen. Blumenthal.\n\nJoining Bacon, McCaul and Hoyer in introducing the legislation are Co-Chair of the Congressional Ukraine Caucus Rep. Joe Wilson (SC-02); Co-Founder and Co-Chair of the Congressional Ukraine Caucus Rep. Marcy Kaptur (OH-09); Rep. Jake Auchincloss (MA-04); House Armed Services Committee Chairman Mike Rogers (AL-03); Reps. Jill Tokuda (HI-02), Mike Turner (OH-10), Gabe Vasquez (NM-02), Ann Wagner (MO-02), Josh Gottheimer (NJ-05), Andy Barr (KY-06) and Ed Case (HI-01); Co-Chair of the Congressional Ukraine Caucus Rep. Brian Fitzpatrick (PA-01); and Reps. Eugene Vindman (VA-07), Nathaniel Moran (TX-01) and Chrissy Houlahan (PA-06).\n\n\"Senator Lindsey Graham and I shared the belief that opposing dictators in defense of freedom and liberty is always the right thing to do. War criminal Putin is losing his invasion of sovereign Ukraine and the threat to humanity posed by the Iranian regime is dire. It is time for Congress to give President Trump the strongest tools available to choke off Russia's war machine for the good of mankind and cripple the ability of Tehran to continue sowing chaos in the region and beyond. My friend and colleague worked tirelessly in championing these critical initiatives, and I am grateful to help advance them across the finish line in the House,\u201d said Rep. Wilson.\n\n\u201cDictator Vladimir Putin\u2019s illegal invasion of Ukraine is failing\u2014Ukraine is battering Russian war infrastructure and the Kremlin is losing tens of thousands of troops each month. Now is the time to intensify pressure on Putin through crippling sanctions while surging support for our Ukrainian allies,\u201d said Rep. Kaptur. \u201cPutin will not make peace until he is forced to. I have been a supporter of every bipartisan sanctions bill on the table to pressure Russia to end its illegal full-scale invasion, and I am confident that the Lindsey O. Graham Sanctioning Russia and Iran Act of 2026 will accomplish that mission. Designed to protect our allies who aid Ukraine while squeezing Putin and the countries that enable his invasion, the sweeping sanctions and targeted tariffs in this bill are the best chance we have to get bipartisan legislation signed into law to hold Russia accountable and achieve peace.\u201d\n\n\u201cSince 2022, I have called on both Biden and Trump to empower Ukraine to win this war through both strikes and sanctions on Russian oil infrastructure. The strikes are finally happening, and with this bill the sanctions are coming,\u201d said Rep. Auchincloss.\n\n\"I am proud to join in introducing this legislation to sanction Vladimir Putin and his thugs as well as the Iran and its terrorist regime,\u201d said Rep. Rogers. \u201cEvery dollar denied to Vladimir Putin weakens his war machine. By choking off the oil and gas revenue fueling Russia's aggression, this legislation gives President Trump powerful leverage to force Putin into serious negotiations that deliver a truly lasting peace. Including additional sanctions on Iran is equally critical given the terrorist regime\u2019s continued threats to freedom of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz and its role in enabling Russia\u2019s war against Ukraine. This legislation strengthens America\u2019s hand against adversaries who threaten American security, our allies, and global stability.\u201d\n\n\"It is long past time for Congress to impose tougher consequences on Russia and those financing its illegal war against Ukraine. I'm proud to support this updated legislation, which targets major purchasers of Russian oil and gas that continue to fund the Kremlin's aggression. This war has resulted in an estimated 2 million casualties, including more than half a million deaths. The United States must continue standing with the Ukrainian people and keep the pressure on Russia to agree to a just and lasting peace that preserves a free, sovereign, and independent Ukraine,\u201d said Rep. Tokuda.\n\n\u201cFor more than four years, the Ukrainian people have fought courageously to defend their sovereignty, and their resolve is paying off. Lindsey Graham understood that standing with nations fighting for freedom strengthens America\u2019s own security, and until his final days, he was pressing for stronger sanctions against Russia,\u201d said Rep. Turner. \u201cThis legislation honors that legacy, sends a clear message to Vladimir Putin that he cannot outlast Ukraine or the free world, and gives President Trump another powerful tool to pressure Russia, bring Putin to the negotiating table, and help restore peace to the region.\u201d\n\n\u201cTo end Russia\u2019s unprovoked and deadly invasion of Ukraine, we must enact maximum financial pain on Vladimir Putin and his cronies. I will not stand idly by while countless people are killed due to Putin\u2019s doomed quest to reconstitute the Soviet Union. I am beyond proud to join my colleagues in introducing this sweeping sanctions legislation that will enact severe financial penalties against Putin, his allies, and those who choose to do business with him. The largest war in Europe since World War II must come to an end, and I am confident these measures will accelerate that process. I am also pleased this bill extends the Iran Sanctions Act to ensure all available measures are available to cripple the terrorist Iranian regime. These necessary sanctions are a fitting legacy to honor the late Senator Lindsey Graham, a friend and colleague who continually fought for freedom, democracy, and against tyrannical regimes like Russia and Iran,\u201d said Rep. Wagner.\n\n\"Vladimir Putin and the regime in Tehran are two of the gravest threats to America and our allies. For far too long, they've bankrolled their aggression by selling oil and gas to whoever will buy it,\u201d said Rep. Gottheimer. \"This bipartisan legislation cuts off those funding streams: holding accountable anyone who fills Putin's war chest as he wages his brutal, illegal war against Ukraine, and choking off the money that fuels Iran's weapons programs and its terror proxies. I was proud to see the Senate pass this bill with an overwhelming, bipartisan majority, and now it's on the House to finish the job. I can think of no better tribute to Senator Lindsey Graham \u2014 a national security champion \u2014 than enacting the tough sanctions he fought so hard for. Standing up to tyrants isn't a Democratic or Republican issue; it's an American one.\"\n\n\u201cBy targeting the energy revenues and financial networks that fuel Putin\u2019s war machine and enable the Iranian regime\u2019s terrorist activities, this bipartisan legislation strengthens America\u2019s ability to impose real economic consequences on our adversaries,\u201d said Rep. Barr. \u201cSenator Graham understood that harnessing America\u2019s full strength from our financial system to our military is essential to deterring aggression, defending our allies, and advancing peace. I\u2019m proud to join my colleagues to help carry forward that legacy.\u201d\n\n\u201cSenator Graham believed, as I do, that American strength remains the surest guardian of peace,\u201d said Rep. Fitzpatrick. \u201cThat conviction guided our work together on this legislation. Putin\u2019s war machine runs on oil, money, and the willingness of others to look the other way\u2014and the Lindsey O. Graham Sanctioning Russia and Iran Act of 2026 attacks all three. It isolates Russia\u2019s banks, shuts down the networks financing its aggression, and forces every government and company enabling this war to make a choice. By increasing the cost of Putin\u2019s war and reducing his ability to sustain it, this legislation strengthens the path to a just and lasting peace\u2014one determined by Ukraine, not imposed by Moscow. The most fitting tribute Congress can offer Lindsey is to finish the work he began, carry forward the cause of freedom he championed, and make clear that America\u2019s resolve will endure until that peace is secured.\u201d\n\n\u201cSupporting a strong, free Ukraine is imperative for the national security of our communities here at home. Sanctioning Russia and Putin sends a direct message to the world: the United States will not sit by while brutal regimes bankroll aggression against democratic nations,\u201d said Rep. Vindman. \u201cI am proud to be a co-sponsor of this essential legislation. We must continue to escalate the economic pressure on the Kremlin and strengthen our resolve for the Ukrainian people as they fight for their freedom, sovereignty, and security.\u201d\n\n\"Russia is perpetrating a war of aggression, and we must keep the pressure on Vladimir Putin. This action is long overdue, but we are finally moving forward with the resolve this moment demands. These sanctions will erode Russia's war machine by cutting off the revenue that funds it. We must hold those who are fueling this war accountable. These sanctions focus on Russia but will also target dangerous Chinese entities which support the Russian defense industrial base. Peace is the goal, and these mechanisms give the President the tools to achieve that goal,\u201d said Rep. Moran.\n\n\u201cFor more than four years, Ukrainians have courageously defended their freedom against Putin\u2019s brutal invasion. The Lindsey O. Graham Sanctioning Russia and Iran Act would increase pressure on the Kremlin, hold those supporting its war accountable, and strengthen Ukraine\u2019s position in pursuit of a just peace,\" said Rep. Houlahan. \u201cThe bill also extends longstanding sanctions against Iran. Sanctions cannot replace a clear strategy or the President\u2019s obligation to seek congressional authorization for war, but they remain an important diplomatic tool. I am proud to cosponsor this legislation.\u201d\n\nClick here to read full text of the legislation.\n\n###", 1, "2026-08-19T05:29:02Z", "2026-08-19T05:30:24Z"], ["https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases/smith-announces-upcoming-mobile-office-hours-furnas-and-gosper-counties", "Smith Announces Upcoming Mobile Office Hours for Furnas and Gosper Counties", "2026-08-04", "2026", "2026-08", "Republican", "House", "NE", "Adrian Smith", "S001172", "adriansmith.house.gov", "adriansmith", "https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Congressman Adrian Smith (NE-03) announced today that his staff will hold a mobile office hour for constituents in Furnas and Gosper Counties on Tuesday, August 11, 2026. These office hours are an opportunity for constituents to meet directly with a member of Smith's staff about federal issues, receive assistance with a federal agency, or take advantage of the services available through his office.\n\nSmith, who has offices in Grand Island, Scottsbluff, and Nebraska City, will provide a staff member at the following times and locations:\n\nTuesday, August 11, 2026\n\nFurnas County Courthouse\n\n912 R Street\n\nBeaver City, NE 68926\n\n11:00 am - 12:00 pm CT\n\nGosper County Courthouse\n\n507 Smith Avenue\n\nElwood, NE 68937\n\n1:00 pm - 2:00 pm CT", 1, "2026-08-05T07:37:37Z", "2026-08-05T07:38:44Z"], ["https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-flood-announces-flyover-fintech-panel-payments-technology-small", "Congressman Flood Announces Flyover Fintech Panel on Payments Technology for Small Businesses and Startups", "2026-07-31", "2026", "2026-07", "Republican", "House", "NE", "Mike Flood", "F000474", "flood.house.gov", "flood", "https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "LINCOLN, NEBRASKA \u2013 U.S. Congressman Mike Flood announced today that Flyover Fintech will feature a panel on payments technology for small businesses and startups, bringing together industry leaders from Shopify, Mastercard, Visa, and Stripe to discuss how new payment tools are helping small businesses compete, cut costs, and access capital. The panel will take place at Flyover Fintech in Lincoln, Nebraska on August 4, 2026.\n\n\u201cSmall businesses and startups are the engine of American innovation, and payments technology is one of the key tools helping them succeed,\u201d said Congressman Mike Flood. \u201cAs new innovations make it easier for entrepreneurs to accept payments, manage cash flow, and access capital, they're leveling the playing field for the businesses driving growth in Nebraska and across the country. I'm looking forward to hosting voices from across the payments industry to talk about how these innovations are helping entrepreneurs compete and succeed.\u201d\n\nJonathan Bydlak is Senior Lead, Government and Public Affairs at Shopify, the world's leading commerce platform powering 14% of all online commerce in the U.S. and millions of businesses around the world. Jonathan works to advocate for rules that make it easier for American entrepreneurs to start, grow and scale businesses across every state. He previously was the Director of the Governance program at the R Street Institute, where he also served as a senior fellow and oversaw a portfolio of scholars working on issues ranging from budgetary to electoral policy. Earlier, Jonathan was the president and founder of the Institute for Spending Reform, a non-profit organization that conducted research on fiscal policy.\n\nJimmy Chow is Director of Community Relations at Mastercard. In this capacity, he advances financial empowerment and equity by promoting financial literacy, providing resources, and improving access to electronic payment technologies through the Master Your Card community empowerment initiative. Through Master Your Card, Jimmy collaborates with local governments and community organizations to deliver tailored financial education programs. The initiative also supports small business owners in enhancing operational efficiency, leveraging technology, protecting against cybersecurity risks, and strengthening their digital footprint. Since joining Mastercard in 2016 as Manager of Global Talent Development, Jimmy has been responsible for designing and deploying learning opportunities for all employees and people managers.\n\nMike Nunes is Vice President and Head of Policy Advisory, Global Government Affairs at Visa. He leads a global team that analyzes emerging policy and regulatory developments and advises Visa on issues shaping the future of commerce and payments. His work focuses on a broad range of topics, including artificial intelligence, digital assets and stablecoins, cybersecurity, data governance, financial regulation, and emerging payment technologies. Working across policy, legal, product, and business teams, Mike helps translate complex regulatory developments into strategies that support innovation, economic growth, and secure digital commerce. Mike has played a leading role in Visa's engagement on emerging technologies, helping policymakers, industry stakeholders, and business leaders better understand the opportunities and challenges associated with AI, digital assets, and next-generation payment systems. Prior to joining Visa, Mike held leadership roles spanning corporate affairs, international business development, and trade policy at Hewlett Packard Enterprise, Boeing Commercial Airplanes, the Telecommunications Industry Association, and the U.S. International Trade Commission.\n\nChristopher Ortner is a senior business leader with over two decades of experience driving revenue growth, building high-performance teams, and scaling partnerships across the global payments ecosystem \u2014 from startups to Fortune 500s. At Stripe, Chris leads Go-To-Market for the Enterprise Portfolio, partnering with high-growth and established businesses across the Western U.S. Prior to Stripe, he spent 16 years at PayPal, where he led a $350M portfolio and scaled a customer success organization through a pivotal period of company growth. He began his career in business development at TSL International. Chris holds an MBA from Bellevue University, dual bachelor's degrees in Communication Studies and Psychology from the University of Nebraska, and a Six Sigma Green Belt from Villanova University. He has taught as an Adjunct Professor at Bellevue University's College of Business since 2009. A lifelong Nebraskan, Chris is based in Omaha.\n\nPhotos of the panelists can be found here.\n\nFlyover Fintech conferences feature a wide variety of speakers, ranging from members of the House Financial Services Committee to leading voices in the fintech industry. Congressman Flood has previously announced that U.S. Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) Chairman Michael Selig will address this year's conference. More speakers and panelists for Flyover Fintech 2026 will be announced in the coming days.\n\nRegistration for the conference is open at www.flyoverfintech.com. Additional details about the location and information about hotels and travel are also available there.", 1, "2026-08-01T07:27:26Z", "2026-08-01T07:28:22Z"], ["https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-flood-announces-flyover-fintech-panel-consumer-payment-tech", "Congressman Flood Announces Flyover Fintech\u00a0Panel\u00a0on Consumer Payment Tech", "2026-07-30", "2026", "2026-07", "Republican", "House", "NE", "Mike Flood", "F000474", "flood.house.gov", "flood", "https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "LINCOLN, NEBRASKA \u2013 U.S. Congressman Mike Flood announced today that Flyover Fintech will feature a panel on consumer payment technology, bringing together industry leaders from Cash App, Zelle, and Amazon to discuss the future of digital payments and what it means for consumers. The panel will take place at Flyover Fintech in Lincoln, Nebraska on August 4, 2026.\n\n\u201cNew consumer payment technologies are changing how Americans save, spend, and move their money, and that shift is raising real questions for consumers and regulators alike,\" said Congressman Mike Flood. \"I'm looking forward to hosting voices from across the payments industry to discuss where this technology is headed and what safeguards should come with it. Flyover Fintech is right around the corner, and I encourage everyone to register today!\"\n\nMichael Duane is Head of Banking Product at Cash App, where he leads product development for Cash App's banking offerings, including Cash App Card, the fourth largest debit card program in the United States. Michael is responsible for driving innovation and growth for products used by more than 25 million customers, with a focus on making everyday financial services simpler and more accessible. He has spent seven years at Cash App building its card and banking products from the ground up. Michael earned his BA in Economics from Dartmouth College.\n\nRyan Riveland leads partnership and market development efforts for the Zelle Network\u00ae and Certos\u00ae at Early Warning. Ryan collaborates with financial institutions, market leaders and tech partners to influence and deliver new solutions to the payments and risk space. Shortly after joining Early Warning in 2015, Ryan became a central contributor in the launch of the Zelle Network and he continues to drive new use-case expansion across products at Early Warning. He is a member of USFPC, an active supporter of industry associations and has over 25 years of experience in the financial industry across various disciplines including payments, fraud, analytics, digital wallets and card issuing.\n\nBrendan Woodbury leads Amazon's Payments Policy work in the U.S. Before Amazon, he worked on Capitol Hill for over a decade, including serving as committee staff on the Dodd-Frank Act and as Chief of Staff to Former Rep. Denny Heck.\n\nPhotos of the panelists can be found here.\n\nFlyover Fintech conferences feature a wide variety of speakers, ranging from members of the House Financial Services Committee to leading voices in the fintech industry. Congressman Flood has previously announced that U.S. Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) Chairman Michael Selig will address this year\u2019s conference. More speakers and panelists for Flyover Fintech 2026 will be announced in the coming days.\n\nRegistration for the conference is open at www.flyoverfintech.com. Additional details about the location and information about hotels and travel are also available there.", 1, "2026-08-01T07:27:26Z", "2026-08-01T07:28:22Z"], ["https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-flood-introduces-bill-prevent-covid-era-religious-restrictions", "Congressman Flood Introduces Bill to Prevent COVID-Era Religious Restrictions at Hospitals", "2026-07-24", "2026", "2026-07", "Republican", "House", "NE", "Mike Flood", "F000474", "flood.house.gov", "flood", "https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "LINCOLN, NEBRASKA \u2013 This week, U.S. Congressman Mike Flood introduced the Protecting Access to Spiritual Treatment and Organized Religion (PASTOR) Act. The legislation ensures that patients are able to receive the spiritual care they request during times of crisis, serious illness, or at the end of life while hospitalized.\n\n\u201cDuring the COVID-19 Pandemic, we saw members of the clergy turned away from hospitals even when patients requested their presence,\u201d said Congressman Flood. \u201cThis bill ensures that never happens again. If signed into law, it would codify CMS policy requiring hospitals to allow members of the clergy to provide spiritual care, so long as they comply with necessary protective measures.\u201d\n\nInspired by a clergyman who raised concerns directly to Congressman Flood about access to hospitals during the COVID-19 pandemic, this bill codifies the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services' (CMS) guidance requiring healthcare facilities to accommodate clergy visitation. Those protections were broadly waived during the COVID-19 pandemic. The PASTOR Act ensures these protections remain in place and cannot be reversed by future administrations, public health emergencies, or regulatory changes.\n\nA one-pager of the PASTOR Act can be found by clicking here.\n\nFull text of the PASTOR Act can be found by clicking here.", 1, "2026-07-25T07:13:44Z", "2026-07-25T07:15:09Z"], ["https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases/smith-leads-effort-address-brazils-discriminatory-digital-regulations", "Smith Leads Effort to Address Brazil\u2019s Discriminatory Digital Regulations", "2026-07-23", "2026", "2026-07", "Republican", "House", "NE", "Adrian Smith", "S001172", "adriansmith.house.gov", "adriansmith", "https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Today, Congressman Adrian Smith (R-NE-03), chair of the Ways and Means Subcommittee on Trade, led a letter with Judiciary Chairman Jim Jordan (R-OH-04) and 18 of their Republican colleagues urging the Trump Administration to address Brazil\u2019s discriminatory actions against American companies.\n\nIn their letter to U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer, lawmakers raised concerns about Brazil\u2019s legislative framework, which would create special designations for digital companies based on thresholds that unfairly target American firms.\n\nThe lawmakers emphasized that the proposal could allow regulators to force changes to business models, require companies to forgo revenue, mandate access to proprietary technology, and compel platforms to open their services to third parties\u2014potentially undermining innovation and American competitiveness abroad.\n\nThe lawmakers write: \u201cIn light of these priorities, we are concerned with Brazil\u2019s proposed Fair Competition Act for Digital Markets (Bill No. 4675/2025), which would intentionally replicate the provisions of the European Union\u2019s Digital Markets Act (DMA) by targeting successful U.S. digital companies with an onerous new regulatory regime. If passed, this law would empower foreign bureaucrats to dictate changes to the business model of our leading companies, and potentially force them to relinquish valuable intellectual property, resulting in billions in costs and undermining America\u2019s global technological leadership by limiting the ability of U.S. innovators to invest and compete.\u201d\n\nIn addition to Smith and Jordan, the letter was signed by U.S. Representatives Aaron Bean (R-FL-04), Claudia Tenney (R-NY-24), Randy Feenstra (R-IA-04), Vern Buchanan (R-FL-16), Beth Van Duyne (R-TX-24), Michelle Fischbach (R-MN-07), Scott Fitzgerald (R-WI-05), David Schweikert (R-AZ-01), Nathaniel Moran (R-TX-01), Darin LaHood (R-IL-18), Gregory Steube (R-FL-17), Kevin Hern (R-OK-01), Ron Estes (R-KS-04), Rudy Yakym (R-IL-02), Gregory Murphy (R-NC-03), Lloyd Smucker (R-PA-11), Carol Miller (R-WV-01), and Troy Nehls (R-TX-22).\n\nRead the full letter here or below:\n\nDear Ambassador Greer:\n\nThank you for your continued commitment to advancing American technological leadership and defending innovative U.S. firms from discriminatory foreign acts, policies, and practices. This administration\u2019s policies, including the 2025 Memorandum on Defending American Companies and Innovators From Overseas Extortion and Unfair Fines and Penalties, make clear that the United States will stand behind its innovators and ensure they can compete on a level playing field abroad.\n\nIn light of these priorities, we are concerned with Brazil\u2019s proposed Fair Competition Act for Digital Markets (Bill No. 4675/2025), which would intentionally replicate the provisions of the European Union\u2019s Digital Markets Act (DMA) by targeting successful U.S. digital companies with an onerous new regulatory regime. If passed, this law would empower foreign bureaucrats to dictate changes to the business model of our leading companies, and potentially force them to relinquish valuable intellectual property, resulting in billions in costs and undermining America\u2019s global technological leadership by limiting the ability of U.S. innovators to invest and compete.\n\nUSTR\u2019s recently finalized Section 301 investigation into Brazil\u2019s unfair trading practices highlighted several current policies in Brazil that undermine the competitiveness of U.S. companies engaged in digital trade, including fines and suspension orders on digital platforms and unfair market advantages granted to state-owned providers of digital payment services. It is particularly concerning that, at precisely the moment when actions related to this investigation are being finalized, Brazil is looking to expand its discriminatory policies rather than\n\nconsulting with the United States to resolve concerns. Should this measure advance, it would compound existing barriers to U.S. digital businesses operating in Brazil, and continue a disturbing trend in the proliferation of DMA-like measures that are blatantly discriminatory and in direct conflict with U.S. interests.\n\nWhile this bill is the latest component of Brazil\u2019s broader strategy of digital trade discrimination, we recognize that these issues are a growing threat around the world. We appreciate your efforts to address these global issues through negotiations of Agreements on Reciprocal Trade, the Joint Review of USMCA, and Section 301 investigations. As you continue this work, we urge you to ensure the Fair Competition Act for Digital Markets is addressed in any trade discussions with Brazil. We stand ready to support your Administration in its continued efforts to ensure fair treatment and open markets for American service providers, innovators, and digital creators.", 1, "2026-07-24T07:30:11Z", "2026-07-24T07:31:13Z"], ["https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-flood-announces-flyover-fintech-panel-prediction-markets", "Congressman Flood Announces Flyover Fintech Panel on Prediction Markets", "2026-07-23", "2026", "2026-07", "Republican", "House", "NE", "Mike Flood", "F000474", "flood.house.gov", "flood", "https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "LINCOLN, NEBRASKA \u2013 Today, U.S. Congressman Mike Flood announced Flyover Fintech will feature a panel on Prediction Markets. The panel, featuring voices from both the prediction market industry and \u200bproponents for states to have greater authority over prediction markets, will take place at the Congressman's Flyover Fintech Conference in Lincoln on August 4th, 2026.\n\n\"Prediction markets are creating new ways for Americans to engage with information and ideas, but as prediction markets have grown in size, they have also become the subject of spirited public debate,\" said Congressman Mike Flood. \"I'm looking forward to hosting voices from both the prediction markets industry and those advocating for states to have greater authority over prediction markets. I look forward to a thoughtful conversation on where this policy debate stands. Flyover Fintech is approaching soon, and I encourage everyone to register today.\n\nNeal Kumar is Chief Legal Officer at Polymarket, where he leads legal strategy for one of the most prominent platforms operating at the intersection of prediction markets and digital assets. He brings deep experience in derivatives and commodities law, with a practice spanning regulatory compliance, enforcement defense, and transactional advisory for financial institutions, trading firms, and investment funds. Neal\u2019s perspective is shaped by both private- and public-sector experience. Earlier in his career, he served as Counsel in the Office of the General Counsel at the U.S. Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC), where he worked on matters central to the oversight of U.S. derivatives markets. This experience provides him with a practical understanding of regulatory priorities, enforcement dynamics, and the evolving policy landscape affecting innovative financial products.\n\nIn private practice, Neal co-headed the Commodities and Derivatives practice at a major international law firm. He advised firms in high-stakes investigations and enforcement actions, offering strategic guidance to navigate regulatory scrutiny. At Polymarket, Neal applies this background to emerging questions around prediction markets, making him a key voice in the development of a nascent industry. He leads the company\u2019s legal, regulatory, and strategic initiatives across a wide range of matters, including exchange and clearinghouse regulation, commercial partnerships, corporate governance, litigation strategy, and public policy. His work sits at the intersection of financial markets, emerging technology, and blockchain infrastructure.\n\nMary Beth Thomas is the executive director of the Tennessee Sports Wagering Council, which is the state agency responsible for licensing sportsbooks and ensuring compliance with Tennessee's sports betting laws. Mary Beth previously served as general counsel to the Tennessee Secretary of State for eight years and spent eight years in private practice as a litigator for Waller Lansden Dortch and Davis in Nashville (now Holland & Knight).\n\nMary Beth is a graduate of the University of Tennessee (B.S., Finance) and the University of Tennessee College of Law (J.D.). She is currently the Vice President of the North American Gaming Regulators Association and has previously served on the boards of the Nashville Sports Council and the Sports Betting Regulators Association.\n\nPhotos of the panelists can be found here.\n\nFlyover Fintech conferences feature a wide variety of speakers, ranging from members of the House Financial Services Committee to leading voices in the fintech industry. Congressman Flood has previously announced that U.S. Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) Chairman Michael Selig will address this year\u2019s conference. Additional speakers and panelists for Flyover Fintech 2026 will be announced in the coming days.\n\nRegistration for the conference is now open at www.flyoverfintech.com. Additional details about the location and information about hotels and travel are also available there. The deadline to register is July 25, 2026.", 1, "2026-07-24T07:30:11Z", "2026-07-24T07:31:13Z"], ["https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressmen-flood-r-ne-and-sorensen-d-il-launch-caucus-focused-weather", "Congressmen Flood (R-NE) and Sorensen (D-IL) Launch Caucus Focused on Weather Industry", "2026-07-22", "2026", "2026-07", "Republican", "House", "NE", "Mike Flood", "F000474", "flood.house.gov", "flood", "https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Today, U.S. Congressman Mike Flood (R-NE) and Congressman Eric Sorensen (D-IL), launched the Weather Enterprise Caucus for the 119th Congress. This bipartisan caucus aims to educate Members of Congress about all things weather forecasting and research \u2014 focusing on the economic, societal, and national security value of the United States Weather Enterprise.\n\n\u201cOur nation\u2019s ability to sustain and improve the accuracy of weather forecasts has a direct impact on communities and businesses across the country,\u201d said Congressman Flood. \u201cFrom hailstorms and wildfires in Nebraska to hurricanes and flooding in Florida, every community benefits from a stronger, more resilient Weather Enterprise. I am glad to help launch the first Weather Enterprise Caucus in congressional history and look forward to the opportunities this will create to strengthen the Weather Enterprise through greater investment and innovation. I thank Congressman Sorensen for joining me as co-chair of this important effort.\u201d\n\n\u201cWhen severe weather strikes, every second matters,\u201d said Congressman Eric Sorensen. \u201cAccurate forecasts and timely warnings save lives, protect our communities, and help our nation prepare for the challenges ahead. The Weather Enterprise Caucus was created to make sure Congress continues to recognize the importance of weather science, innovation, and the work being done every day to keep Americans safe.\"\n\nPhotos of the caucus launch can be found by clicking here.\n\nGuest speakers at the caucus launch included:\n\nCongressman Mike Flood (R-NE)\n\nCongressman Eric Sorensen (D-IL)\n\nTaylor Jordan, NOAA Assistant Secretary of Commerce for Environmental Observation and Prediction\n\nKen Graham, Director, NOAA\u2019s National Weather Service\n\nDoug Hilderbrand, Executive Director, American Weather Enterprise Association\n\nAmanda Staudt, Executive Director, American Meteorological Society\n\nThe Weather Enterprise Caucus is a bipartisan group of Members of Congress dedicated to advancing the 'Weather Enterprise\u2019 \u2014 the industries surrounding weather forecasting, research, weatherization efforts, and related sectors. The caucus's founding co-chairs both have backgrounds in the broadcast industry.\n\nBy educating their congressional colleagues and advocating for policies that strengthen the broader Weather Enterprise, the caucus seeks to encourage investment, innovation, and continued support for this crucial sector.", 1, "2026-07-23T07:31:02Z", "2026-07-23T07:32:26Z"], ["https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-flood-announces-flyover-fintech-panel-tackling-payments-fraud", "Congressman Flood Announces Flyover Fintech Panel on Tackling Payments Fraud", "2026-07-21", "2026", "2026-07", "Republican", "House", "NE", "Mike Flood", "F000474", "flood.house.gov", "flood", "https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "LINCOLN, NEBRASKA \u2013 Today, U.S. Congressman Mike Flood announced Flyover Fintech will feature a panel on \u201cTackling Payments Fraud.\u201d The panel, featuring industry leaders from Citi, Fiserv, FICO, and Plaid, will take place at the Congressman\u2019s Flyover Fintech Conference in Lincoln on August 4th, 2026.\n\n\"Technology is ushering in exciting new payment options, but with that innovation comes new risk for small businesses and consumers,\" said Congressman Mike Flood. \"I'm looking forward to welcoming leaders from the payments and fintech sectors for an important conversation on how we protect consumers from payments fraud. With Flyover Fintech just two weeks away, I encourage everyone to register today.\"\n\nBrian Dammeir leads Plaid's Payments and Financial Management businesses, where he runs product and strategy across Plaid's account funding, bill pay, pay-by-bank, risk, and financial data capabilities. His teams build the infrastructure that underpins how millions of consumers move money and manage their finances across the largest fintechs, banks, and platforms in the US and Europe. Brian previously focused on trust, safety, and risk at Google and Airbnb before spending nearly a decade at Adyen in a series of roles, including Head of Product, President of North America, and Global Head of Unified Commerce. At Adyen, he helped drive the company's expansion across payments, platforms, and embedded financial products, with operating experience spanning Europe, APAC, MENA and the Americas.\n\nAdam Davies heads FICO's Fraud and Identity Product teams, bringing 30 years of extensive expertise in fraud, security, and financial crime prevention to his role. Throughout his tenure at FICO, he has established himself as an enterprise fraud thought leader with global experience gained through consulting engagements and solution implementations across more than 90 countries. Adam possesses a proven track record of guiding clients toward best practices in minimizing fraud exposure, centralizing fraud intelligence systems, and implementing customer-level fraud management strategies. Leveraging his comprehensive background, he drives innovation in FICO's product development, continuously enhancing capabilities for the company's global customer base while pioneering transformative applications of Generative AI for managing the fraud trends of tomorrow.\n\nCharlotte Ritonya is Vice President, Head of Risk and Fraud, North America at Fiserv. She leads the Credit Risk and Fraud product organizations and oversees Fiserv\u2019s Fraud Managed Services business, supporting approximately 3,000 card issuers. She collaborates with Fiserv Issuers to enable secure portfolio growth by strengthening fraud prevention and credit risk decisioning, while safeguarding consumer trust across the end-to-end card experience. With 30+ years at Fiserv, Charlotte has held key product development, consulting, and leadership roles.\n\nChris Zavala is responsible for Global Fraud Prevention for Services, Banking and Wealth at Citi. He is also responsible for Digital Fraud Prevention across all products and businesses. In this role, he is responsible for fraud policies, practices, and prevention capabilities which incorporate client experience, revenue generation and loss mitigation to ensure balanced risk management. Chris has spent the last 16 years within the Fraud Organization managing U.S. Fraud Operations, Global Fraud Policy, Digital Fraud Prevention, and Global Fraud Prevention and Policy. Beginning his career with Citi in December 1990, Chris has managed diverse functions including Customer Service, Collections, Credit Risk, Student Loans, Merchant Fraud, Acquisitions (Consumer, Commercial, and Merchant), Commercial Lending, Dispute Investigations and Fraud Prevention.\n\nPhotos of the panelists can be found here.\n\nFlyover Fintech conferences feature a wide variety of speakers, ranging from members of the House Financial Services Committee to leading voices in the fintech industry. Congressman Flood has previously announced that U.S. Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) Chairman Michael Selig will address this year\u2019s conference. Additional speakers and panelists for Flyover Fintech 2026 will be announced in the coming days.\n\nRegistration for the conference is now open at www.flyoverfintech.com. Additional details about the location and information about hotels and travel are also available there. The deadline to register is July 25, 2026.", 1, "2026-07-22T07:34:13Z", "2026-07-22T07:35:16Z"], ["https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases/telcoin-ceo-paul-neuner-address-flyover-fintech-lincoln-nebraska-aug-4th", "Telcoin CEO Paul Neuner\u00a0to Address\u00a0Flyover\u00a0Fintech\u00a0in Lincoln, Nebraska on Aug. 4th", "2026-07-17", "2026", "2026-07", "Republican", "House", "NE", "Mike Flood", "F000474", "flood.house.gov", "flood", "https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "LINCOLN, NEBRASKA \u2013 Today, U.S. Rep. Mike Flood announced that Telcoin CEO Paul Neuner will address his upcoming Flyover Fintech Conference in Lincoln, Nebraska on August 4, 2026.\n\n\"I am thrilled to announce that Telcoin Digital Asset Bank Founder and CEO Paul Neuner will address Flyover Fintech this August,\" said Congressman Flood. \"Paul is a pioneer in digital asset innovation, and Telcoin Digital Asset Bank's effort to become the first Digital Asset Depository Institution chartered under Nebraska's Financial Innovation Act shows why our state is leading the way on responsible fintech policy. I\u2019m excited for Paul to share his insight on building trusted financial infrastructure for the future of digital assets. Flyover Fintech has become a must-attend event for anyone following the future of finance and fintech, and I encourage anyone interested to register soon to reserve their spot.\"\n\nPaul Neuner is the founder and CEO of Telcoin and Telcoin Digital Asset Bank which became the first Digital Asset Depository Institution chartered by the Nebraska Department of Banking and Finance under the Nebraska Financial Innovation Act. Before Telcoin Digital Asset Bank, he was an entrepreneur in cybersecurity and telecom fraud management, including as founder and CEO of Mobius Wireless Solutions, which built revenue assurance and fraud management solutions for mobile network operators globally. Paul also previously founded the Internet application development department of Ernst & Young Technologies.\n\nFlyover Fintech conferences feature a wide variety of speakers, ranging from members of the House Financial Services Committee to leading voices in the fintech industry. Additional speakers and panelists for Flyover Fintech 2026 will be announced in in the coming weeks.\n\nRegistration for the conference is now open at www.flyoverfintech.com. Additional details about the location and information about hotels and travel are also available there.", 1, "2026-07-18T06:58:50Z", "2026-07-18T07:00:34Z"], ["https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=2906", "Bacon Announces $5.5 Million FAA Grant Supporting Eppley Airfield Expansion", "2026-07-16", "2026", "2026-07", "Republican", "House", "NE", "Don Bacon", "B001298", "bacon.house.gov", "bacon", "https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx", "scraper", "Funding Brings Federal Support Bacon Has Helped Secure for Eppley to More Than $120 Million\n\nWashington, D.C. \u2013 Rep. Don Bacon (NE-02) announced today that Eppley Airfield received a $5,520,462 Fiscal Year 2026 Airport Improvement Program grant from the Federal Aviation Administration to support infrastructure improvements tied to the airport\u2019s ongoing expansion. The funding will support reconstruction of the existing Locust Street Pump Station, including electrifying the pump motors and upgrading the control system to bring the airport into conformity with current standards.\n\nThroughout his ten years in Congress, Rep. Bacon has made improvements to Eppley Airfield one of his top priorities, helping secure more than $120 million through the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, Congressionally Directed Spending, Airport Improvement Program grants and other funding sources. These investments are supporting Eppley\u2019s ongoing modernization, improving airport infrastructure, expanding capacity and strengthening Omaha\u2019s connection to the rest of the country and the world.\n\n\u201cIt has been thrilling to see construction on the airport expansion take place and realize how much this will add to Omaha\u2019s entrance,\u201d said Rep. Bacon. \u201cThis latest grant builds on more than $120 million we have helped secure for Eppley Airfield and will support important infrastructure upgrades as the airport continues its transformation. This expansion will enable Eppley to meet the travel needs of the growing metropolitan Omaha area and welcome international flights. It will shape our region\u2019s future for many decades to come and be vital for Omaha\u2019s economy. I\u2019m pleased to work with the leaders at Eppley and Sen. Fischer in creating what will become the best airport in the Midwest.\u201d\n\n\u201cThis is fantastic news for Eppley Airport and the millions of travelers who rely on it. These continued federal investments are helping improve the capacity, safety, and efficiency of the airport. I am proud of the work Rep. Bacon and I have done to direct federal resources to Eppley over the years, and we will continue to do so in the future,\u201d said Sen. Fischer.\n\n\u201cThe Omaha Airport Authority was pleased to be notified by Congressman Bacon\u2019s office that Eppley Airfield will be receiving a Federal Aviation Administration grant from the Airport Improvement Program for upgrades to utility infrastructure at Eppley Airfield,\u201d said Dave Roth, Chief Executive Officer of the Omaha Airport Authority. \u201cThe funds will support resilience of critical systems including upgrades to the primary storm water pumping station for the airfield and terminal areas.\u201d\n\nThe Locust Street Pump Station project will replace and enhance existing diesel-fueled pump equipment with electric drive motors, rehabilitate stormwater pumps, upgrade controls and support related electrical improvements. The grant funds a portion of the project and is associated with a Congressionally Directed Spending grant that funds the remaining eligible portion.\n\n###", 1, "2026-07-17T07:15:58Z", "2026-07-17T07:17:05Z"], ["https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-flood-host-lincoln-town-hall-july-28th", "Congressman Flood to Host Lincoln Town Hall on July 28th", "2026-07-16", "2026", "2026-07", "Republican", "House", "NE", "Mike Flood", "F000474", "flood.house.gov", "flood", "https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "LINCOLN, NEBRASKA \u2013 Today, U.S. Congressman Mike Flood announced he will hold a town hall in Lincoln, Nebraska on Tuesday, July 28, 2026. The town hall will be hosted at Nebraska Wesleyan University.\n\nDuring the town hall, Congressman Flood will provide an update on the work he is doing for Lincoln and Nebraska\u2019s First Congressional District. There will be a question-and-answer period.\n\nCongressman Flood\u2019s Lincoln Town Hall\n\nTuesday, July 28th\n\n5:00PM \u2013 6:00PM CT\n\nVance D. Rogers Center for Fine Arts | Nebraska Wesleyan University\n\n5040 Huntington Ave, Lincoln, NE 68504\n\nNote: Doors open at 4:15pm\n\nNo signs, backpacks, or large bags are permitted in the venue. A clear bag policy will be in place.\n\nThis event is open to the public.\n\nFor questions about the town hall, please contact Congressman Flood\u2019s Lincoln Office at 402-438-1598.", 1, "2026-07-17T07:15:58Z", "2026-07-17T07:17:05Z"], ["https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases/housing-insurance-chairman-flood-new-housing-law-legislation-american-people", "Housing & Insurance Chairman Flood on New Housing Law: 'This Is Legislation That the American People Can Be Proud of.'", "2026-07-11", "2026", "2026-07", "Republican", "House", "NE", "Mike Flood", "F000474", "flood.house.gov", "flood", "https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "LINCOLN, NEBRASKA \u2013 Today, U.S. Congressman Mike Flood, Chairman of the Housing & Insurance Subcommittee, released a statement following the signing of the 21st Century ROAD to Housing Act into law. He also attended a press conference in Maumelle, Arkansas, hosted by House Financial Services Committee Chairman French Hill.\n\nThe housing package includes several provisions introduced and championed by Congressman Flood. The bill marks the first major housing legislation enacted by Congress in decades.\n\n\u201cI am thrilled that the '21st Century ROAD to Housing Act' is now officially law,\u201d said Congressman Flood. \u201cWhile the journey was long and, at times, delicate, we arrived at the right outcome with a meaningful bipartisan housing bill that slashes red tape, lowers housing costs, and helps put the American dream of homeownership within reach for more hardworking families. Simply put: This is legislation that the American people can be proud of.\u201d\n\nCongressman Flood also spoke at House Financial Services Committee Chairman French Hill\u2019s press conference in Maumelle celebrating the new law, \u201c[A home is more than an asset.] It\u2019s the place where you bring your newborn home to and give her a bath under the sink. It\u2019s the place where you tuck your seven-year-old little boy in, and you say, \u2018I\u2019m doing my part to make sure he\u2019s living in a safe, sound home.\u2019\u201d\n\nVideo of Congressman Flood\u2019s full remarks can be found by clicking here, while the full presser can found be found here. News outlets are welcome to use the footage for reporting purposes.\n\nThe text of the \u201c21st Century ROAD to Housing Act\u201d can be found here.\n\nIn addition to serving as Chairman of the Housing & Insurance Subcommittee, Congressman Flood is the Chairman of the Republican Main Street Caucus.\n\nLegislation Congressman Flood previously introduced that are included in the amended version of the housing bill are detailed below:\n\nThe HOME Reform Act\n\n\u201cAmerica is in the midst of a housing crisis as families struggle to live the American dream due to the shortage of millions of homes,\u201d said Congressman Flood. \u201cThe HOME program is a federal program that builds housing supply, but it has previously been weighed down by regulatory burdens that make it hard to build housing. The reforms in this legislation will result in more homebuilding across the country as we work to tackle our nation\u2019s housing shortage. From Columbus, Nebraska to Columbus, Ohio and beyond, local communities will have an unprecedented opportunity to build affordable homes and directly address the housing crisis gripping our nation.\u201d\n\nThe \"HOME Reform Act\" modernizes the HOME Investment Partnership Program by exempting projects from NEPA and provides relief from Build America, Buy America requirements as well as establishing a \u201csmall project\u201d exemption under Section 3 of the HUD Act of 1968. The bill raises income eligibility to 100% of area median income, extends the time communities have to commit funds, updates definitions of affordable single and multifamily housing, as well as allows funds to be used for infrastructure tied directly to new housing, such as sidewalks, sewers, and utility connections.\n\nRead the initial press release on the \"HOME Reform Act\" here. The bill was co-introduced by Housing & Insurance Subcommittee Ranking Member Emanuel Cleaver (D-MO).\n\nUnlocking Housing Supply Through Streamlined and Modernized Reviews Act\n\n\u201cThe Unlocking Supply Through Streamlined and Modernized Reviews Act is an important step towards increasing housingsupply in America,\u201d said Congressman Flood. \u201cEnvironmental reviews can slow housing projects by months- or even years. Currently, those reviews are not properly tailored to the size and scale of housing projects. This legislation is a meaningful step towards fixing that problem.\u201d\n\nThe \"Unlocking Housing Supply Through Streamlined and Modernized Reviews Act\" streamlines the environmental review process for a range of Department of Housing and Urban Development building activities.\n\nRead the initial press release on the \"Unlocking Housing Supply Through Streamlined and Modernized Reviews Act\" here. The bill was co-introduced by Congressman Sam Liccardo (D-CA).\n\nThe Housing Supply Frameworks Act\n\n\u201cThe rising cost of housing is putting the American Dream out of reach for working families across our country,\u201d said Congressman Flood. \u201cWe need an all-of-the-above approach to addressing America\u2019s housing crisis. To this end, the Housing Supply Frameworks Act helps establish suggested best practices for state and local governments across the country who want to break down barriers holding back development and innovation in housing and construction.\u201d\n\nThe \"Housing Supply Frameworks Act\u201d requires HUD to publish best practices and guidelines to assist communities in maintaining modern local and state zoning frameworks that support the production of adequate housing options at every income level.\n\nRead the initial press release on the \"Housing Supply Frameworks Act\" here. The bill was co-introduced by Congresswoman Brittany Pettersen (D-CO).\n\nThe UNLOCK Act\n\n\u201cThe CDBG program has long been an important tool for Nebraska cities to fund important local projects,\u201d said Congressman Flood. \u201cThis targeted legislation would give communities across the state the flexibility to use CDBG dollars to directly address housing supply needs.\u201d\n\nThe \u201cUNLOCK Act\u201d allows grantees to use CDBG funding for housing developments.\n\nRead more on the \u201cUNLOCK Act\" here. The bill was co-introduced by Congressman Sam Liccardo (D-CA).\n\nThe Rural Regulatory Relief Act\n\nThe \"Rural Housing Regulatory Relief Act\" streamlines environmental review requirements for housing developments built on previously developed infill sites. The legislation reduces duplicative NEPA review processes for projects on land that has already been developed, helping to eliminate unnecessary federal delays and costs. This legislation will help lower construction costs, accelerate housing development, and expand access to affordable housing in rural communities.\n\nMore information on the \u201cRural Regulatory Relief Act\u201d can be found here. The bill was co-introduced by Congressmen Troy Downing (R-MT), Eugene Vindman (D-VA), and Vicente Gonzalez (D-TX).\n\nThe BUILD Housing Act\n\nThe \u201cBUILD Housing Act\u201d updates the NEPA process for housing developments by expanding collaboration between HUD, states, and localities. Specifically, the legislation gives HUD the ability to delegate and coordinate certain environmental reviews for HUD grant programs to state and localities. This bill additionally allows HUD to designate certain housingassistance as \u201cspecial project funds.\u201d By streamlining reviews and reducing administrative burdens, this legislation would help accelerate housing development and improve the delivery of federal housing assistance.", 1, "2026-07-12T07:28:31Z", "2026-07-12T07:30:18Z"], ["https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases/smith-statement-death-doug-leafgreen", "Smith Statement on Death of Doug Leafgreen", "2026-07-07", "2026", "2026-07", "Republican", "House", "NE", "Adrian Smith", "S001172", "adriansmith.house.gov", "adriansmith", "https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Congressman Adrian Smith (NE-03) released the following statement after learning of the death of Doug Leafgreen, former Mayor of Gering and Nebraska Highway Commissioner.\n\n\u201cAn avid outdoorsman and servant leader, Doug will be deeply missed by all who knew him. I am grateful to have called him a friend. He will be remembered for his strong faith, his leadership in local government, and his dedicated service as a Nebraska Highway Commissioner. Please join Andrea and I, in extending our heartfelt condolences to his wife, Melody, their children, grandchildren, and the entire Leafgreen family.\u201d", 1, "2026-07-08T07:27:19Z", "2026-07-08T07:28:28Z"], ["https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases/smith-announces-upcoming-mobile-office-hour-banner-county", "Smith Announces Upcoming Mobile Office Hour for Banner County", "2026-07-06", "2026", "2026-07", "Republican", "House", "NE", "Adrian Smith", "S001172", "adriansmith.house.gov", "adriansmith", "https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Congressman Adrian Smith (NE-03) announced today that his staff will hold a mobile office hour for constituents in Banner County on Tuesday, July 21, 2026. This office hour is an opportunity for constituents to meet directly with a member of Smith's staff about federal issues, receive assistance with a federal agency, or take advantage of the services available through his office.\n\nSmith, who has offices in Grand Island, Scottsbluff, and Nebraska City, will provide a staff member at the following time and location:\n\nTuesday, July 21, 2026\n\nBanner County Courthouse\n\n2204 State Street\n\nHarrisburg, NE 69345\n\n10:00 am - 11:00 am MT", 1, "2026-07-07T08:20:12Z", "2026-07-07T08:22:09Z"], ["https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases/smith-announces-upcoming-mobile-office-hour-hitchcock-county", "Smith Announces Upcoming Mobile Office Hour for Hitchcock County", "2026-07-06", "2026", "2026-07", "Republican", "House", "NE", "Adrian Smith", "S001172", "adriansmith.house.gov", "adriansmith", "https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Congressman Adrian Smith (NE-03) announced today that his staff will hold a mobile office hour for constituents in Hitchcock County on Monday, July 20, 2026. This office hour is an opportunity for constituents to meet directly with a member of Smith's staff about federal issues, receive assistance with a federal agency, or take advantage of the services available through his office.\n\nSmith, who has offices in Grand Island, Scottsbluff, and Nebraska City, will provide a staff member at the following time and location:\n\nMonday, July 20, 2026\n\nHitchcock County Courthouse\n\n229 East D Street\n\nTrenton, NE 69044\n\n12:00 pm - 1:00 pm CT", 1, "2026-07-07T08:20:12Z", "2026-07-07T08:22:09Z"], ["https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases/smith-usmca-renewal-pause-path-stronger-enforcement", "Smith: USMCA Renewal Pause Is a Path to Stronger Enforcement", "2026-07-01", "2026", "2026-07", "Republican", "House", "NE", "Adrian Smith", "S001172", "adriansmith.house.gov", "adriansmith", "https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Today, Congressman Adrian Smith (NE-03), a senior member of the House Ways and Means Committee and chair of the Subcommittee on Trade, released the following statement regarding the United States-Mexico-Canada (USMCA) Joint Review.\n\n\u201cSince its creation, USMCA has been the gold standard for modern trade agreements, delivering meaningful benefits to the United States and our North American partners. But any agreement is only as strong as its enforcement. Unfortunately, over the past six years, our trading partners have repeatedly failed to fully uphold their commitments. With that in mind, President Trump\u2019s decision not to renew is not a termination\u2014it is an opportunity to strengthen enforcement, so the agreement functions as intended. I look forward to continuing my work with Ambassador Greer to secure the strongest possible deal, level the playing field, and reinforce supply chains for America\u2019s agriculture producers and manufacturers.\"\n\nBACKGROUND:\n\nSmith has been a leading advocate for strong enforcement of the USMCA agreement\u2014particularly on issues affecting American agriculture, manufacturing, and digital services.\n\nRepresenting the nation\u2019s largest agriculture-producing district, Smith has emphasized the importance of a strong, enforceable USMCA for America\u2019s farmers, ranchers, and manufacturers. He continues to support strengthening the agreement ahead of its scheduled expiration on July 1, 2036.\n\nIn December 2020, after Mexico issued a presidential decree banning imports of U.S. biotech corn for human consumption in violation of its USMCA commitments, Smith pressed the Biden Administration to act. Sending multiple letters to U.S. Trade Representative Ambassador Katherine Tai and U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Tom Vilsack urging the launch of a formal dispute. In December 2024, following sustained pressure from Smith, a USMCA dispute panel ruled in the United States\u2019 favor, ending Mexico\u2019s ban on U.S.-grown biotech corn.\n\nIn March 2022, Smith joined his colleagues in sending a letter to the Biden Administration raising concerns about Mexico\u2019s discrimination towards American energy companies and urging the administration to pursue a formal USMCA dispute settlement.\n\nIn December 2023, Smith joined his colleagues in sending a letter to the Biden Administration expressing their disappointment in the administration\u2019s failure to hold Canada accountable for their discrimination against American dairy products. In December 2025, he joined a group of his colleagues urging the Trump Administration to finally address these concerns ahead of the Joint Review.\n\nIn September 2024, following several concerning Mexican Constitutional reforms, Smith led a group of his colleagues in sending a letter urging the Biden Administration to work with Mexican officials to ensure that these proposed reforms did not violate the USMCA agreement.\n\nSmith has also raised concerns about Canada\u2019s emerging digital trade barriers. In May 2024, he joined a bipartisan group urging the Biden Administration to address trade implications of Canada\u2019s Online Streaming Act. In July 2025, he and his colleagues called on Canadian officials to rescind discriminatory digital policies ahead of the 2026 Joint Review and urged the Trump Administration to prioritize resolving these barriers in future negotiations.\n\nIn May 2026, Smith led a letter with 19 Republican colleagues to U.S. Trade Representative Ambassador Jamieson Greer and U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent raising concerns regarding recent actions by Mexico\u2019s Servicio de Administraci\u00f3n Tributaria (SAT) that unfairly target American companies operating in Mexico.\n\nAhead of the July 2026 Joint Review, Smith led a bipartisan congressional delegation to Mexico City to meet with Mexican officials during the first round of bilateral negotiations.\n\nMost recently, in June 2026, Smith led a bipartisan letter with his Agriculture Trade Caucus co-chairs and 13 colleagues urging the Trump Administration to address Mexico\u2019s non-tariff barriers affecting U.S. grain exports.", 1, "2026-07-02T06:20:02Z", "2026-07-02T06:21:32Z"], ["https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=2905", "Bacon, Kaptur, Fitzpatrick, Quigley, McCaul, Costa Introduce Bipartisan Strategic Unmanned Systems Partnership Act to Increase Security Cooperation and Strengthen Defense Capabilities Between the United States and Ukraine", "2026-06-30", "2026", "2026-06", "Republican", "House", "NE", "Don Bacon", "B001298", "bacon.house.gov", "bacon", "https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx", "scraper", "Washington, DC \u2013 Chairman of the House Armed Services Subcommittee on Cyber, Information Technologies, and Innovation Congressman Don Bacon (NE-02) and Co-Founder and Co-Chair of the Congressional Ukraine Caucus Congresswoman Marcy Kaptur (OH-09) today introduced the bipartisan Strategic Unmanned Systems Partnership Act to increase security cooperation and strengthen defense capabilities between the United States and Ukraine. Co-Leads of the legislation include Co-Chair of the Congressional Ukraine Caucus Congressman Brian Fitzpatrick (PA-01), Co-Chair of the Congressional Ukraine Caucus Congressman Mike Quigley (IL-05), Chairman Emeritus of the House Foreign Affairs Committee Congressman Michael McCaul (TX-10), and Ranking Member of the Transatlantic Legislators\u2019 Dialogue Congressman Jim Costa (CA-21).\n\nThis bipartisan legislation will create a working group between the Department of Defense, the Armed Forces of Ukraine, and other relevant stakeholders to enable the US to co-develop, co-produce, and rapidly acquire cost-effective Ukrainian-designed unmanned systems such as drones and surface vehicles, as well as the capabilities to counter unmanned systems.\n\nBicameral companion legislation was introduced in the Senate by Senator Jacky Rosen (D-NV) and Senator Mike Rounds (R-SD).\n\n\u201cUkraine\u2019s fight against Russia has shown the world that unmanned systems are changing the future of warfare,\u201d said Congressman Don Bacon (NE-02), Chairman of the House Armed Services Subcommittee on Cyber, Information Technologies, and Innovation. \u201cThe Strategic Unmanned Systems Partnership Act strengthens US-Ukraine defense cooperation by creating a working group to co-develop, co-produce, and rapidly field cost-effective unmanned systems and counter-drone technologies. This partnership will help ensure the United States and our allies remain at the forefront of battlefield innovation while enhancing military readiness to meet evolving threats. I\u2019m pleased to work with Rep. Kaptur and our bipartisan colleagues on this effort to strengthen defense cooperation and keep our forces ahead of emerging threats.\u201d\n\n\"The innovative use of unmanned systems in Ukraine has permanently changed the face of warfare. By working with our Ukrainian allies we stand the best chance of protecting American servicemembers and the American homeland,\" said Congresswoman Marcy Kaptur (OH-09), Co-Founder and Co-Chair of the Congressional Ukraine Caucus. \"We must never forget that when Iranian drones honed against Ukrainians targeted Americans in the Middle East, it was Ukraine that came to our defense and aid. By forging an ironclad pact with our Ukrainian allies, we can repay that debt, and create a manufacturing partnership that will benefit communities across America.\"\n\n\u201cUkraine\u2019s defense has shown the world a defining reality of modern warfare: the nations that innovate, adapt, and produce at speed will hold the advantage. The Strategic Unmanned Systems Partnership Act advances that lesson in a practical and strategic way by enabling the United States to work shoulder-to-shoulder with our Ukrainian partners to identify battlefield-tested unmanned and counter-unmanned capabilities, accelerate co-development and co-production, and strengthen our defense industrial base here at home,\u201d said Congressman Brian Fitzpatrick (PA-01), Co-Chair of the Congressional Ukraine Caucus. \u201cThis is how we support Ukraine, improve American readiness, and ensure that peace through strength is matched by the capabilities required to sustain it.\u201d\n\n\u201cThe United States is a key force in keeping Vladimir Putin from taking Ukraine and invading the rest of Eastern Europe. Ukraine has been able to fend off Russian attacks during this war because of our technology and our weapons,\u201d said Congressman Mike Quigley (IL-05), Co-Chair of the Congressional Ukraine Caucus. \u201cThe development and production of unmanned systems like drones and surface vehicles supported by this bill will help Ukraine protect themselves and safeguard democracy worldwide.\u201d\n\n\"Four years into the war that many predicted would end in four days, the Ukrainians continue to rapidly innovate and push the frontiers of modern warfare \u2014 operating as a laboratory for drones and other unmanned systems,\u201d said Congressman Michael McCaul (TX-10), Chairman Emeritus of the House Foreign Affairs Committee. \u201cI\u2019m proud to support this legislation to bolster defense cooperation between our nations and ensure the United States is prepared to build, deploy, and counter the drone technology that will define the future of warfare.\"\n\n\"Ukrainians are some of the most innovative people in the world. They are testing modern warfare technologies on the battlefield in real time,\" said Congressman Jim Costa (CA-21) Ranking Member of the Transatlantic Legislators\u2019 Dialogue. \"We have the opportunity to apply lessons learned by the Ukrainians to benefit the US military to make our warfighters more effective. This bill would enhance US-Ukraine defense cooperation, benefiting both nations.\"\n\nToday's introduction of the bipartisan Strategic Unmanned Systems Partnership Act follows yesterday's announcement of $1.1 Billion in Pentagon investment in American manufacturing of Ukrainian Drone Technology including $18.4 Million of investment in Northwest Ohio. You can read more about yesterday's announcement by clicking here. A full copy of the bill text can be found by clicking here.\n\n###", 1, "2026-07-01T06:34:07Z", "2026-07-01T06:35:35Z"], ["https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=2904", "Bacon Announces Opening of 2026 Congressional App Challenge", "2026-06-29", "2026", "2026-06", "Republican", "House", "NE", "Don Bacon", "B001298", "bacon.house.gov", "bacon", "https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2013 Rep. Don Bacon (NE-02) today announced that his office is accepting submissions for the 2026 Congressional App Challenge, a nationwide competition that encourages middle and high school students to explore coding, computer science, and careers in STEM fields.\n\nStudents who live in or attend school in Nebraska\u2019s 2nd Congressional District are eligible to participate individually or in teams of up to four. The challenge is open to students of all skill levels, regardless of coding experience. Students may create an app using any programming language and for any platform, including desktop, web, mobile, Raspberry Pi, video games, or code used to power robots.\n\nThe Congressional App Challenge was established to encourage students to learn to code and pursue careers in STEM. The competition helps students build computer science skills, encourages innovation, and recognizes young people for their work in technology.\n\nLast year\u2019s first-place winner from Nebraska\u2019s 2nd Congressional District was Gavin Vernon, a junior at Brownell Talbot, who partnered with Michael Zhang of Colorado\u2019s 6th Congressional District to develop Youth Policy Pulse, a civic-engagement web application that helps young people understand and participate in the policymaking process.\n\n\u201cThere is a growing need to fill high-paying jobs in STEM fields, and the Congressional App Challenge is a fun and engaging way to show students they can play a real role in shaping the future through innovation and technology,\u201d said Rep. Bacon. \u201cI strongly encourage students from across Nebraska\u2019s 2nd Congressional District to participate, learn new skills, and put their creativity to work.\u201d\n\nThe submission portal for the 2026 Congressional App Challenge is now open. Students must register and submit their applications by 12:00 p.m. ET on October 26, 2026.\n\nWinners will be selected by a panel of judges from the local community and honored by Rep. Bacon. Winning apps may also be featured in the U.S. Capitol, on House.gov, and on the Congressional App Challenge website.\n\nFor questions, please contact Shannon Howard at Shannon.Howard@mail.house.gov or (402) 938-0300. For more information about the Congressional App Challenge, including rules and registration, please visit www.CongressionalAppChallenge.us.\n\n###", 1, "2026-06-30T06:29:10Z", "2026-06-30T06:30:42Z"], ["https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases/house-passes-congressman-floods-terrorism-risk-insurance-reauthorization-bill", "House Passes Congressman Flood\u2019s Terrorism Risk Insurance Reauthorization\u00a0Bill", "2026-06-29", "2026", "2026-06", "Republican", "House", "NE", "Mike Flood", "F000474", "flood.house.gov", "flood", "https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Today, U.S. Congressman Mike Flood (R-NE) released the following statement after the House of Representatives passed the bipartisan TRIA Program Reauthorization Act. Congressman Flood is the original sponsor of the bill, which extends the authorization of the Terrorism Risk Insurance Program through 2034.\n\n\u201cReauthorizing TRIA is one of the must-pass measures of this Congress,\u201d said Congressman Flood. \u201cCreated in the aftermath of the September 11, 2001, terrorist attacks, this program has provided a vital guarantee of stability in the insurance market. While the program has fortunately never had to pay a claim, extending it provides businesses nationwide with certainty and stability. I am pleased to see this bipartisan effort pass the House of Representatives and look forward to the Senate taking up this measure quickly.\u201d\n\nTRIA Program Reauthorization Act makes several adjustments to the program, notably updating the damages threshold for a claim to keep in line with inflation, clarifying deadlines for the Department of Treasury to certify an event an \u201cact of terrorism\u201d for TRIA purposes, and more.\n\nVideo of Congressman Flood\u2019s remarks during floor debate is available here. News outlets are welcome to use the footage for reporting purposes.\n\nCongressman Andrew Garbarino (R-NY) is a co-lead of the TRIA Program Reauthorization Act.", 1, "2026-06-30T06:29:10Z", "2026-06-30T06:30:42Z"], ["https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-flood-host-bellevue-town-hall-july-7th", "Rep. Flood to Host Bellevue Town Hall on July 7th", "2026-06-26", "2026", "2026-06", "Republican", "House", "NE", "Mike Flood", "F000474", "flood.house.gov", "flood", "https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "BELLEVUE, NEBRASKA \u2013 Today, U.S. Congressman Mike Flood announced he will hold a town hall in Bellevue, Nebraska on Tuesday, July 7, 2026. The town hall will be hosted at Bellevue West High School.\n\nDuring the town hall, Congressman Flood will provide an update on the work he is doing for Bellevue and Nebraska\u2019s First Congressional District. There will be a question-and-answer period.\n\nCongressman Flood\u2019s Bellevue Town Hall\n\nTuesday, July 7th\n\n5:00PM \u2013 6:00PM CT\n\nBellevue West High School:\n\n1501 Thurston Ave, Bellevue, NE 68123\n\nNote: Doors open at 4:15pm.\n\nNo signs, backpacks, or large bags are permitted in the venue. A clear bag policy will be in place.\n\nThis event is open to the public.\n\nFor questions about the town hall, please contact Congressman Flood\u2019s Lincoln Office at 402-438-1598.", 1, "2026-06-27T21:44:12Z", "2026-06-27T22:11:26Z"], ["https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-flood-host-bellevue-town-hall-july-7th", "Congressman Flood to Host Bellevue Town Hall on July 7th", "2026-06-26", "2026", "2026-06", "Republican", "House", "NE", "Mike Flood", "F000474", "flood.house.gov", "flood", "https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "BELLEVUE, NEBRASKA \u2013 Today, U.S. Congressman Mike Flood announced he will hold a town hall in Bellevue, Nebraska on Tuesday, July 7, 2026. The town hall will be hosted at Bellevue West High School.\n\nDuring the town hall, Congressman Flood will provide an update on the work he is doing for Bellevue and Nebraska\u2019s First Congressional District. There will be a question-and-answer period.\n\nCongressman Flood\u2019s Bellevue Town Hall\n\nTuesday, July 7th\n\n5:00PM \u2013 6:00PM CT\n\nBellevue West High School:\n\n1501 Thurston Ave, Bellevue, NE 68123\n\nNote: Doors open at 4:15pm.\n\nNo signs, backpacks, or large bags are permitted in the venue. A clear bag policy will be in place.\n\nThis event is open to the public.\n\nFor questions about the town hall, please contact Congressman Flood\u2019s Lincoln Office at 402-438-1598.", 1, "2026-06-30T06:29:10Z", "2026-06-30T06:30:42Z"], ["https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=2903", "Bacon, Panetta Introduce Bipartisan Bill to Waive Overtime Pay Cap and Protect Federal Firefighters", "2026-06-25", "2026", "2026-06", "Republican", "House", "NE", "Don Bacon", "B001298", "bacon.house.gov", "bacon", "https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2013 Representative Don Bacon (NE-02) joined Representative Jimmy Panetta (CA-19) today to introduce the Support Our Firefighters Act. This bipartisan legislation would waive the overtime cap for federal wildland firefighters and ensure they receive mandatory rest and recuperation time. The bill is also co-led by Reps. Jack Bergman (MI-01), Rob Bresnahan (PA-08), Josh Harder (CA-09), and Joe Neguse (CO-02).\n\nFederal wildland firefighters are subject to an annual compensation cap, which includes base pay, overtime, and premium pay. During peak fire season, many federal wildland firefighters work extensive hours while assigned to an incident. This arbitrary cap often forces firefighters to fight fires and protect communities without getting paid, and exacerbates retention issues. To help address this issue, the Support Our Firefighters Act would permanently waive the pay cap for federal wildland firefighters so that they are fairly compensated for their lifesaving work.\n\nThe bill would also ensure federal wildland firefighters receive three days of paid rest and recuperation leave after a 14-day period and four days of rest and recuperation following a 21-day period.\n\n\u201cOur wildland firefighters put their lives on the line to protect our communities from devastating fires,\u201d said Rep. Bacon. \u201cAs a member of the Congressional Fire Services Caucus, I\u2019m pleased to co-lead the bipartisan Support Our Firefighters Act to ensure these heroes receive the rest, support and resources they need after difficult deployments.\u201d\n\n\u201cWith wildfires raging across the country, Congress must ensure we can properly recruit and retain our federal wildland firefighters,\u201d said Rep. Panetta. \u201cThe unreasonable current overtime pay cap and unsustainable lack of rest and recuperation time undermines these selfless professionals\u2019 ability to best protect families, homes, and businesses and risks pushing them to jobs with better pay and conditions. That\u2019s why our bipartisan bill would permanently lift this arbitrary compensation cap while also providing mandatory rest for federal firefighters. It\u2019s this type of bipartisan, commonsense solution that can address the wildfire crisis and strengthen our federal firefighting workforce.\u201d\n\n\u201cOur first responders, including our wildland firefighters, are willing to put everything on the line to keep our communities safe,\u201d said Rep. Bresnahan. \u201cWildfires are unpredictable, and we cannot afford to limit their annual pay or force these brave men and women to choose between serving their communities and providing for their families. The Support Our Firefighters Act helps retain experienced firefighters, strengthens wildfire response, and ensures firefighters receive the pay they have earned and the rest time they need.\u201d\n\n\u201cWhen wildland firefighters answer the call of duty, they put their lives on pause \u2014 leaving behind their lives and families for months at a time, working an average of 16-hour daily shifts, sleeping in the dirt, with incredibly limited time off to reset and reconnect with loved ones. Their service is an incredible sacrifice, and we must do everything we can to support the brave individuals that make up this workforce. That\u2019s why I\u2019m proud to join Congressman Panetta in introducing the Support Our Firefighters Act, a bill that expands upon our efforts to increase firefighter pay by permanently waiving the overtime pay cap and ensuring folks are provided an adequate rest and recuperation leave. It\u2019s up to us to make sure these courageous heroes are well compensated for their selfless dedication,\u201d said Rep. Neguse.\n\n\u201cWildland firefighters shouldn\u2019t be punished for taking a breather after spending weeks on the frontlines of severe megafires,\u201d said Rep. Harder. \u201cOur firefighters are already being pushed to the brink by this year-round crisis, and they need relief. This bill keeps our promise to those who stand between our communities and fire disaster by guaranteeing the rest, pay, and support they've earned.\u201d\n\n\u201cFrom the forests of Northern Michigan and the Upper Peninsula to those out West, our federal wildland firefighters put their lives on the line every fire season \u2013 and we\u2019re losing good people to attrition because the workforce system hasn\u2019t kept pace with the support our firefighters need and deserve,\u201d said Rep. Bergman. \u201cThe Support Our Firefighters Act guarantees real recovery time, fixes the overtime pay cap waiver, and protects the pay continuity these crews depend on, and I\u2019m proud to help co-lead this bipartisan effort with my colleagues.\u201d\n\n\u201cFederal wildland firefighters perform grueling, complex work while defending American communities from the wildfire crisis. It is critical that these men and women have time to recover after deployments and that they are fairly compensated for their incredible duties. NFFE is proud to endorse this legislation to guarantee rest periods for the dedicated public servants on the front lines, in addition to lifting overtime pay limitations for hours worked on fire assignments. Addressing both issues will help ensure the workforce is adequately equipped to carry out its important mission. Thank you to Representative Panetta and the original cosponsors for their leadership in supporting federal wildland firefighters,\u201d said NFFE National President Randy Erwin.\n\nDespite risking their lives and traveling cross-country for months at a time to protect American communities and forests from wildfires, many of the more than 18,000 federal wildland firefighters live paycheck to paycheck, sometimes working overtime without fair pay. Wildland firefighters are required to work long hours in challenging and changing conditions, such as high temperatures and steep terrain. Federal agencies have continuously experienced difficulty with retention due to the nature of their work and compensation.\n\nFull text of the bill is available here.\n\n###", 1, "2026-06-26T06:29:35Z", "2026-06-26T06:31:46Z"], ["https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases/smith-washington-times-handshake-hard-work-and-healthcare-access", "Smith in Washington Times: A Handshake, Hard Work, and Healthcare Access", "2026-06-25", "2026", "2026-06", "Republican", "House", "NE", "Adrian Smith", "S001172", "adriansmith.house.gov", "adriansmith", "https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Today, Congressman Adrian Smith (NE-03) penned an op-ed in the Washington Times urging his colleagues in Congress to help cut through the bureaucratic barriers that are preventing seniors in rural and underserved areas from getting the prompt, expert care they deserve by passing his Main Street Pharmacy Access Act.\n\nClick here to read the full op-ed or read an excerpt below:\n\nPharmacists are the most accessible healthcare professionals in America. Nearly nine in ten Americans live within five miles of a pharmacy. In rural communities, pharmacists often serve as the first point of care. They fill gaps in our healthcare system every day, offering trusted advice, quick testing and timely treatment.\n\nBut here is the problem: A person might get tested and treated for several common respiratory illnesses by their community pharmacist their entire life. But the day that person turns 65 and enrolls in Medicare, they can no longer go to the pharmacist for those services \u2014 Medicare doesn\u2019t cover those services when provided by a pharmacist. Private insurance covers it. Medicaid covers it. Medicare does not. Sadly, many seniors find out about this lack of coverage when they are sick at the pharmacist\u2019s counter, forced to go somewhere else to receive care.\n\nThis is not just illogical. It also leaves seniors in rural America with fewer options and longer drives for basic care. Fortunately, I introduced the Main Street Pharmacy Access Act to solve this discrepancy.\n\nMy bill takes a practical, targeted approach to fixing a real problem. It allows Medicare to reimburse pharmacists for testing and treating common respiratory illnesses \u2014 just as private insurance and Medicaid already do. Importantly, it does not change scope of practice. States remain fully in control of what pharmacists are allowed to do. My bill just says this: If a state allows pharmacists to provide these services, Medicare should cover them.\n\nThis is about access. This is about fairness. This is about making life easier for seniors who have spent their lives contributing to our communities.", 1, "2026-06-27T21:44:12Z", "2026-06-27T22:11:26Z"], ["https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=2902", "Bacon, Kelly Lead Bill to Award Artemis II Crew the Congressional Gold Medal", "2026-06-24", "2026", "2026-06", "Republican", "House", "NE", "Don Bacon", "B001298", "bacon.house.gov", "bacon", "https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx", "scraper", "Read in USA TODAY: New effort in Congress would grant Artemis II astronauts rare honor\n\nWashington, D.C. \u2013 Representative Don Bacon (R-NE-02) and retired NASA astronaut and Senator Mark Kelly (D-AZ) today introduced the Artemis II Congressional Gold Medal Act to honor the four crewmembers of the historic Artemis II mission around the Moon. Cosponsors of the bill include Representatives George Whitesides (D-CA-27), Gabe Evans (R-CO-08), and Glenn Ivey (D-MD-04) and Senators Pete Ricketts (R-NE), Jerry Moran (R-KS), Chris Van Hollen (D-MD), Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), Deb Fischer (R-NE), and Tim Sheehy (R-MT).\n\nOn April 1, 2026, NASA astronauts Reid Wiseman, Victor Glover, Christina Koch, and Canadian Space Agency astronaut Jeremy Hansen embarked on a historic 9-day mission as the first crewed Artemis flight, taking a key step toward a return to the Moon and future missions to Mars. The four astronauts flew farther from Earth than any humans in history.\n\n\u201cFrom Apollo to Artemis, America\u2019s pioneering spirit has long defined our leadership in space exploration,\u201d said Rep. Bacon. \u201cCommander Reid Wiseman, Pilot Victor Glover, and Mission Specialists Christina Koch and Jeremy Hansen carried that legacy farther than any humans have ever traveled from Earth, setting a new record of approximately 252,756 miles and marking the first crewed mission beyond low Earth orbit and around the Moon in 53 years. The Artemis II Congressional Gold Medal Act is a bipartisan, bicameral effort to honor this historic mission with the highest civilian honor Congress can bestow. I am grateful to our friends at Space for Humanity for bringing this idea to us, and to Sen. Kelly and our co-leads for working together to recognize these extraordinary astronauts.\u201d\n\n\u201cReid, Victor, Christina, and Jeremy carried human space exploration farther than it has ever gone before,\u201d said Sen. Kelly. \u201cI\u2019ve flown on four missions to space and I know how hard that crew and the teams on the ground worked. They made something incredibly complex and difficult look easy. They reminded Americans what we\u2019re capable of when we work together. They inspired the next generation of scientists, explorers, and engineers. For pushing the boundaries of human achievement, the Artemis II crew deserves this honor.\u201d\n\n\u201cFew missions have captured our imagination the way Artemis II has. Its crew became the first humans in more than 50 years to experience the lunar Overview Effect \u2014 a perspective from which our world floats distantly in the darkness of space,\u201d said Antonio Peronace, Executive Director of Space for Humanity. \u201cWe are at an important inflection point for our species. Space has the ability to bring people together, shape perspectives, and inspire us all. Artemis II's record-shattering mission could not have happened at a better time. The images, experiences, and perspectives these remarkable explorers shared remind us that while we may come from different nations, backgrounds, and beliefs, we all live on the same fragile planet. We are all crewmembers on Spaceship Earth. Artemis proves our greatest achievements are the ones we accomplish together. That\u2019s why this mission was not only a success for NASA and the United States, but a gift to all humanity. For these reasons and more, the Congressional Gold Medal is a fitting recognition for the inspirational crew of Artemis II.\u201d\n\n\u201cArtemis II marked a bold new chapter in American space exploration, with a groundbreaking crew that set records for the farthest humans have ever traveled from our planet. Their incredible accomplishments represent the very best of us and brought the country together in a collective moment of awe. I'm proud to pay tribute to their journey with the Artemis II Congressional Gold Medal Act which bestows the crew with Congress\u2019 highest civilian honor,\u201d said Rep. Whitesides.\n\n\"The Artemis II mission represents the very best of America: courage, innovation, and a willingness to push beyond the horizon in pursuit of something greater than ourselves. As an Army veteran, I have tremendous respect for the dedication, discipline, and sacrifice required to undertake a mission of this magnitude. Commander Reid Wiseman, Pilot Victor Glover, and Mission Specialists Christina Koch and Jeremy Hansen carried forward a proud legacy of exploration while inspiring the next generation of scientists, engineers, service members, and explorers. Awarding the Congressional Gold Medal is a fitting tribute to their historic achievement and reaffirms America's leadership in space exploration,\u201d said Rep. Evans.\n\n\u201cArtemis represents the next great chapter in American leadership in space exploration, and communities like ours that support the nation\u2019s spaceflight missions are proud to help send astronauts farther than humanity has ever traveled before. The Congressional Gold Medal Act is a fitting tribute to the courage, skill, and dedication of the Artemis II crew, whose service will inspire a new generation of scientists, engineers, and explorers across our nation. I am proud to honor these outstanding astronauts as an original co-sponsor of this bill,\u201d said Rep. Ivey.\n\n\u201cThe Artemis II mission was a historic achievement for American space dominance,\u201d said Sen. Ricketts. \u201cThis is a fitting honor for the crew and all those who aided in the mission\u2019s success. This includes the General Dynamics team in Lincoln who manufactured several components for the spacecraft, including the oxygen tanks.\u201d\n\n\u201cEarlier this year, Artemis II made history and showed the world that our greatest days of discovery are still ahead,\u201d said Sen. Moran. \u201cAs we celebrate the mission\u2019s success, we honor the Artemis II crew \u2013 Reid Wiseman, Victor Glover, Christina Koch and Jeremy Hansen \u2013 alongside the NASA workforce whose contributions helped set new records in space exploration. America\u2019s leadership in space would not be possible without the innovation, courage and dedication of the men and women who made this mission possible.\u201d\n\n\u201cThe Artemis II mission took humanity further away from Earth than we have ever been before. This historic effort was built on contributions from NASA centers across the country \u2013 including the dedicated workforce at Goddard Space Flight Center \u2013 to send four brave astronauts around the moon. Artemis II will be remembered for the teamwork, dedication, and spirit that Pilot Victor Glover, Mission Specialist Christina Koch, Mission Specialist Jeremy Hansen, and Commander Reid Wiseman from our great state of Maryland shared with the world. This resolution marks their contributions and the contributions of all of those who made the Artemis II mission a success and an inspiration to us all,\u201d said Sen. Van Hollen.\n\n\u201cThe brave Artemis II crew broke new frontiers for space exploration and proved to the next generation of young scientists that anything is possible,\u201d said Sen. Duckworth. \u201cAstronauts Reid Wiseman, Victor Glover, Christina Koch and Jeremy Hansen and everyone behind the scenes at NASA that made this incredible mission possible deserve the highest praise, and I\u2019m glad to join my colleagues in honoring their achievement.\u201d\n\n\u201cThis crew did what no human has ever done, and their mission puts us one step closer to a sustained presence on the moon. I applaud their bravery and am proud to recognize the path they paved for the future of space exploration,\u201d said Sen. Fischer.\n\n\u201cThe Artemis II mission demonstrated what Americans can achieve when we combine courage, innovation, and an unwavering commitment to exploration. As the first crew to travel farther from Earth than any humans in history, these astronauts inspired our nation and strengthened America\u2019s leadership in space. I\u2019m proud to support awarding the Congressional Gold Medal to recognize their extraordinary achievement and the generations of explorers they will inspire,\u201d said Sen. Sheehy.\n\nBackground\n\nThe Congressional Gold Medal is one of the highest civilian honors awarded by Congress. Since the American Revolution, Congress has used the medal to recognize individuals and groups whose achievements have had a lasting impact on American history and national life.\n\nThe last astronauts to be awarded the Congressional Gold Medal were the Apollo 11 Crew in 2009. No other NASA mission crew has received the honor, reserving it for missions of extraordinary historic significance.\n\nClick here to read the full text of the bill.\n\n###", 1, "2026-06-25T06:30:03Z", "2026-06-25T06:31:21Z"], ["https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases/smith-house-floor-bill-expedite-wildfire-disaster-assistance-heads-presidents", "Smith on House Floor: Bill to Expedite Wildfire Disaster Assistance Heads to President\u2019s Desk", "2026-06-23", "2026", "2026-06", "Republican", "House", "NE", "Adrian Smith", "S001172", "adriansmith.house.gov", "adriansmith", "https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Today, Congressman Adrian Smith (NE-03) took to the House Floor to celebrate the House passage of the Emergency Conservation Program Improvement Act (S.629)and it being sent to President Trump\u2019s desk.\n\nAs Nebraska\u2019s agriculture producers work to rebuild following this year\u2019s devastating wildfires, this legislation would help expedite access to critical federal disaster assistance when it is needed most. With Smith\u2019s support, the bill is led by Senator Deb Fischer (R-NE) and Congresswoman Julia Letlow (LA-05).\n\nImage\n\nClick the image above to watch a video of Smith\u2019s remarks\n\nClick here to download audio\n\nClick here to download video", 1, "2026-06-27T21:44:12Z", "2026-06-27T22:11:26Z"], ["https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases/housing-insurance-chairman-flood-final-passage-housing-bill-game-changer", "Housing\u00a0& Insurance Chairman Flood on Final Passage of Housing Bill: 'This Is a Game Changer.'", "2026-06-23", "2026", "2026-06", "Republican", "House", "NE", "Mike Flood", "F000474", "flood.house.gov", "flood", "https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Today, U.S. Congressman Mike Flood, who serves as Chairman of the Housing & Insurance Subcommittee, released a statement following final passage of the \u201c21st Century ROAD to Housing Act.\u201d The bill features several measures introduced and backed by Congressman Flood. This legislation is the first major housing legislation passed by Congress in decades.\n\n\u201cThe 21st Century ROAD to Housing Act is a game changer,\u201d said Congressman Flood. \u201cFor too long, working families have been priced out of the American Dream by skyrocketing housing costs and burdensome red tape. This bill will build more homes, cut unnecessary regulations, and make homeownership a reality for many hardworking Americans. I\u2019m grateful to Chairman French Hill, House leadership, Ranking Members Maxine Waters and Emanuel Cleaver, and President Trump for helping deliver this major win for families, communities, and the future of American homeownership.\u201d\n\nIn addition to serving as Chairman of the Housing & Insurance Subcommittee, Congressman Flood is the Chairman of the Republican Main Street Caucus.\n\nThe text of the \u201c21st Century ROAD to Housing Act\u201d can be found here.\n\nLegislation Congressman Flood previously introduced that are included in the amended version of the housing bill are detailed below:\n\nThe HOME Reform Act\n\n\u201cAmerica is in the midst of a housing crisis as families struggle to live the American dream due to the shortage of millions of homes,\u201d said Congressman Flood. \u201cThe HOME program is a federal program that builds housing supply, but it has previously been weighed down by regulatory burdens that make it hard to build housing. The reforms in this legislation will result in more homebuilding across the country as we work to tackle our nation\u2019s housing shortage. From Columbus, Nebraska to Columbus, Ohio and beyond, local communities will have an unprecedented opportunity to build affordable homes and directly address the housing crisis gripping our nation.\u201d\n\nThe \"HOME Reform Act\" modernizes the HOME Investment Partnership Program by exempting projects from NEPA and provides relief from Build America, Buy America requirements as well as establishing a \u201csmall project\u201d exemption under Section 3 of the HUD Act of 1968. The bill raises income eligibility to 100% of area median income, extends the time communities have to commit funds, updates definitions of affordable single and multifamily housing, as well as allows funds to be used for infrastructure tied directly to new housing, such as sidewalks, sewers, and utility connections.\n\nRead the initial press release on the \"HOME Reform Act\" here. The bill was co-introduced by Housing & Insurance Subcommittee Ranking Member Emanuel Cleaver (D-MO).\n\nUnlocking Housing Supply Through Streamlined and Modernized Reviews Act\n\n\u201cThe Unlocking Supply Through Streamlined and Modernized Reviews Act is an important step towards increasing housingsupply in America,\u201d said Congressman Flood. \u201cEnvironmental reviews can slow housing projects by months- or even years. Currently, those reviews are not properly tailored to the size and scale of housing projects. This legislation is a meaningful step towards fixing that problem.\u201d\n\nThe \"Unlocking Housing Supply Through Streamlined and Modernized Reviews Act\" streamlines the environmental review process for a range of Department of Housing and Urban Development building activities.\n\nRead the initial press release on the \"Unlocking Housing Supply Through Streamlined and Modernized Reviews Act\" here. The bill was co-introduced by Congressman Sam Liccardo (D-CA).\n\nThe Housing Supply Frameworks Act\n\n\u201cThe rising cost of housing is putting the American Dream out of reach for working families across our country,\u201d said Congressman Flood. \u201cWe need an all-of-the-above approach to addressing America\u2019s housing crisis. To this end, the Housing Supply Frameworks Act helps establish suggested best practices for state and local governments across the country who want to break down barriers holding back development and innovation in housing and construction.\u201d\n\nThe \"Housing Supply Frameworks Act\u201d requires HUD to publish best practices and guidelines to assist communities in maintaining modern local and state zoning frameworks that support the production of adequate housing options at every income level.\n\nRead the initial press release on the \"Housing Supply Frameworks Act\" here. The bill was co-introduced by Congresswoman Brittany Pettersen (D-CO).\n\nThe UNLOCK Act\n\n\u201cThe CDBG program has long been an important tool for Nebraska cities to fund important local projects,\u201d said Congressman Flood. \u201cThis targeted legislation would give communities across the state the flexibility to use CDBG dollars to directly address housing supply needs.\u201d\n\nThe \u201cUNLOCK Act\u201d allows grantees to use CDBG funding for housing developments.\n\nRead the more on the \u201cUNLOCK Act\" here. The bill was co-introduced by Congressman Sam Liccardo (D-CA).\n\nThe Rural Regulatory Relief Act\n\nThe \"Rural Housing Regulatory Relief Act\" streamlines environmental review requirements for housing developments built on previously developed infill sites. The legislation reduces duplicative NEPA review processes for projects on land that has already been developed, helping to eliminate unnecessary federal delays and costs. This legislation will help lower construction costs, accelerate housing development, and expand access to affordable housing in rural communities.\n\nMore information on the \u201cRural Regulatory Relief Act\u201d can be found here. The bill was co-introduced by Congressmen Troy Downing (R-MT), Eugene Vindman (D-VA), and Vicente Gonzalez (D-TX).\n\nThe BUILD Housing Act\n\nThe \u201cBUILD Housing Act\u201d updates the NEPA process for housing developments by expanding collaboration between HUD, states, and localities. Specifically, the legislation gives HUD the ability to delegate and coordinate certain environmental reviews for HUD grant programs to state and localities. This bill additionally allows HUD to designate certain housingassistance as \u201cspecial project funds.\u201d By streamlining reviews and reducing administrative burdens, this legislation would help accelerate housing development and improve the delivery of federal housing assistance.", 1, "2026-06-27T21:44:12Z", "2026-06-27T22:11:26Z"], ["https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-flood-announces-start-2026-congressional-app-challenge-middle-and", "Congressman Flood Announces the Start of the 2026 Congressional App Challenge for Middle and High School Coders", "2026-06-18", "2026", "2026-06", "Republican", "House", "NE", "Mike Flood", "F000474", "flood.house.gov", "flood", "https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "LINCOLN, NEBRASKA \u2013 Today, U.S. Congressman Mike Flood announced the start of the 2026 Congressional App Challenge for Nebraska First Congressional District. The Congressional App Challenge is a nationwide competition that encourages middle and high school students to learn coding, develop technical skills, and explore careers in computer science.\n\n\u201cNebraska\u2019s 'Silicon Prairie' spirit is driven by innovation, entrepreneurship, and a talented next generation,\u201d said Congressman Flood. \u201cI encourage students throughout Nebraska\u2019s First District to take part in this year\u2019s Congressional App Challenge and put their coding skills to work. I look forward to seeing the creative solutions and groundbreaking ideas they bring to this year\u2019s challenge.\u201d\n\nRegistration is currently open for the 2026 Congressional App Challenge. The deadline for submissions is October 26th, 2026.", 1, "2026-07-23T07:31:02Z", "2026-07-23T07:32:26Z"], ["https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-flood-receives-2026-democracy-award-best-constituent", "Congressman Flood Receives 2026 Democracy Award for Best of Constituent Correspondence & Engagement", "2026-06-17", "2026", "2026-06", "Republican", "House", "NE", "Mike Flood", "F000474", "flood.house.gov", "flood", "https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "LINCOLN, NEBRASKA \u2013 The office of U.S. Congressman Mike Flood has been named a '2026 Democracy Award' recipient by the Congressional Management Foundation (CMF) for Best of Constituent Correspondence & Engagement.\n\nThe award recognizes a representative\u2019s sustained excellence in constituent communication and engagement across their district. Specifically, the 'Best of Constituent Correspondence & Engagement' category recognizes offices that excel in constituent communication through letters, email, social media, outreach, and ongoing dialogue with the communities they serve.\n\n\u201cRepresentative government only works if people can reach their elected officials,\u201d said Congressman Flood. \"That\u2019s been a priority of my office since day one. Winning the award for 'Best of Constituent Correspondence and Engagement' reflects the work my office has done to make sure people in Nebraska's First District can always reach their government \u2014 whether through town halls, newsletters, or just picking up the phone and getting them a real answer. I'm incredibly proud of my team and am grateful for how hard they work to ensure people across our First District have a voice in Washington.\u201d\n\n\u201cIn an era when many Americans feel disconnected from their government, Rep. Flood\u2019s office made constituent communication a clear priority. Effective constituent engagement doesn\u2019t happen by accident, it requires intentional leadership, strong systems, and a commitment to treating communication as a core responsibility of representation. By building a culture of responsiveness and ensuring constituents felt heard and informed, the office created a model that strengthens the connection between citizens and Congress.\u201d said Jen Daulby, CEO of the Congressional Management Foundation.\n\nThe Congressional Management Foundation is the premier bipartisan foundation dedicated to strengthening the first branch of government. The Democracy Awards are CMF\u2019s signature program recognizing the best in congressional non-legislative achievements.", 1, "2026-06-27T21:44:12Z", "2026-06-27T22:11:26Z"], ["https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases/housing-insurance-chairman-flood-celebrates-bicameral-agreement-reached", "Housing & Insurance Chairman Flood Celebrates Bicameral Agreement Reached on Landmark Housing Legislation", "2026-06-16", "2026", "2026-06", "Republican", "House", "NE", "Mike Flood", "F000474", "flood.house.gov", "flood", "https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "LINCOLN, NEBRASKA \u2013 Today, U.S. Congressman Mike Flood, who serves as Chairman of the Housing & Insurance Subcommittee, released a statement following the announcement of an agreement between the House and Senate finalizing the \u201c21st Century ROAD to Housing Act.\u201d The agreement includes various provisions introduced and backed by Congressman Flood. It is set to be the first major housing legislation passed by Congress in decades.\n\n\u201cI am happy that the House and Senate were able to reach a compromise and clear the way for final passage of the \u201821st Century ROAD to Housing Act,\u2019\u201d said Congressman Flood.\u201cThe work done by both chambers reflects how the Founders intended Congress to operate: the House and Senate came together, made compromises, and found common ground to move this much-needed legislation forward. Working families across the country need relief from the high cost of housing, and I am confident that once this agreement passes both chambers and is signed into law by President Trump, more families will be able to achieve the American dream of homeownership.\"\n\nIn addition to serving as Chairman of the Housing & Insurance Subcommittee, Congressman Flood is the Chairman of the Republican Main Street Caucus.\n\nThe text of the House-Senate agreement on the \"21st Century ROAD to Housing Act\u201d can be found here.\n\nLegislation Congressman Flood previously introduced that are included in the amended version of the housing bill are detailed below:\n\nThe HOME Reform Act\n\n\u201cAmerica is in the midst of a housing crisis as families struggle to live the American dream due to the shortage of millions of homes,\u201d said Congressman Flood. \u201cThe HOME program is a federal program that builds housing supply, but it has previously been weighed down by regulatory burdens that make it hard to build housing. The reforms in this legislation will result in more homebuilding across the country as we work to tackle our nation\u2019s housing shortage. From Columbus, Nebraska to Columbus, Ohio and beyond, local communities will have an unprecedented opportunity to build affordable homes and directly address the housing crisis gripping our nation.\u201d\n\nThe \"HOME Reform Act\" modernizes the HOME Investment Partnership Program by exempting projects from NEPA and provides relief from Build America, Buy America requirements as well as establishing a \u201csmall project\u201d exemption under Section 3 of the HUD Act of 1968. The bill raises income eligibility to 100% of area median income, extends the time communities have to commit funds, updates definitions of affordable single and multifamily housing, as well as allows funds to be used for infrastructure tied directly to new housing, such as sidewalks, sewers, and utility connections.\n\nRead the initial press release on the \"HOME Reform Act\" here. The bill was co-introduced by Housing & Insurance Subcommittee Ranking Member Emanuel Cleaver (D-MO).\n\nUnlocking Housing Supply Through Streamlined and Modernized Reviews Act\n\n\u201cThe Unlocking Supply Through Streamlined and Modernized Reviews Act is an important step towards increasing housing supply in America,\u201d said Congressman Flood. \u201cEnvironmental reviews can slow housing projects by months- or even years. Currently, those reviews are not properly tailored to the size and scale of housing projects. This legislation is a meaningful step towards fixing that problem.\u201d\n\nThe \"Unlocking Housing Supply Through Streamlined and Modernized Reviews Act\" streamlines the environmental review process for a range of Department of Housing and Urban Development building activities.\n\nRead the initial press release on the \"Unlocking Housing Supply Through Streamlined and Modernized Reviews Act\" here. The bill was co-introduced by Congressman Sam Liccardo (D-CA).\n\nThe Housing Supply Frameworks Act\n\n\u201cThe rising cost of housing is putting the American Dream out of reach for working families across our country,\u201d said Congressman Flood. \u201cWe need an all-of-the-above approach to addressing America\u2019s housing crisis. To this end, the Housing Supply Frameworks Act helps establish suggested best practices for state and local governments across the country who want to break down barriers holding back development and innovation in housing and construction.\u201d\n\nThe \"Housing Supply Frameworks Act\u201d requires HUD to publish best practices and guidelines to assist communities in maintaining modern local and state zoning frameworks that support the production of adequate housing options at every income level.\n\nRead the initial press release on the \"Housing Supply Frameworks Act\" here. The bill was co-introduced by Congresswoman Brittany Pettersen (D-CO).\n\nThe UNLOCK Act\n\n\u201cThe CDBG program has long been an important tool for Nebraska cities to fund important local projects,\u201d said Congressman Flood. \u201cThis targeted legislation would give communities across the state the flexibility to use CDBG dollars to directly address housing supply needs.\u201d\n\nThe \u201cUNLOCK Act\u201d allows grantees to use CDBG funding for housing developments.\n\nRead the more on the \u201cUNLOCK Act\" here. The bill was co-introduced by Congressman Sam Liccardo (D-CA).\n\nThe Rural Regulatory Relief Act\n\nThe \"Rural Housing Regulatory Relief Act\" streamlines environmental review requirements for housing developments built on previously developed infill sites. The legislation reduces duplicative NEPA review processes for projects on land that has already been developed, helping to eliminate unnecessary federal delays and costs. This legislation will help lower construction costs, accelerate housing development, and expand access to affordable housing in rural communities.\n\nMore information on the \u201cRural Regulatory Relief Act\u201d can be found here. The bill was co-introduced by Congressmen Troy Downing (R-MT), Eugene Vindman (D-VA), and Vicente Gonzalez (D-TX).\n\nThe BUILD Housing Act\n\nThe \u201cBUILD Housing Act\u201d updates the NEPA process for housing developments by expanding collaboration between HUD, states, and localities. Specifically, the legislation gives HUD the ability to delegate and coordinate certain environmental reviews for HUD grant programs to state and localities. This bill additionally allows HUD to designate certain housing assistance as \u201cspecial project funds.\u201d By streamlining reviews and reducing administrative burdens, this legislation would help accelerate housing development and improve the delivery of federal housing assistance.", 1, "2026-06-27T21:44:12Z", "2026-06-27T22:11:26Z"], ["https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases/reps-flood-r-ne-and-goodlander-d-nh-introduce-build-housing-affordably-act", "Reps. Flood (R-NE) and Goodlander (D-NH) Introduce the Build Housing Affordably Act", "2026-06-15", "2026", "2026-06", "Republican", "House", "NE", "Mike Flood", "F000474", "flood.house.gov", "flood", "https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "LINCOLN, NE \u2013 Today, U.S. Congressman Mike Flood (R-NE), Chairman of the Housing and Insurance Subcommittee, and U.S. Congresswoman Maggie Goodlander (D-NH) introduced H.R. 9311, the bipartisan \u201cBuild Housing Affordably Act.\u201d The bill provides immediate relief to affordable housing developers from Build America, Buy America (BABA) requirements that are freezing important housing projects across the country.\n\n\u201cAcross the country, and especially in Nebraska, the shortage of affordable housing options is making life more expensive for families,\u201d said Congressman Flood (R-NE). \u201cOur bipartisan Build Housing Affordably Act cuts the government red tape and bureaucracy standing in the way of building homes American families can afford. Congress is making real progress on addressing the rising cost of home ownership, and this bill keeps us moving toward a future where an affordable home is once again within reach for every family.\u201d\n\n\u201cNew Hampshire is in a full-blown housing crisis, and hardworking people are paying the price every month in higher rents and home prices they cannot afford,\u201d said Congresswoman Goodlander (D-NH). \u201cRight now, a single federal rule is senselessly jacking up costs and adding massive delays to the urgent mission before us: building the tens of thousands of homes the people of New Hampshire urgently need. Our bipartisan Build Housing Affordably Act cuts needless red tape that is standing in our way and paves the way for affordable homes, built much sooner, at a lower cost to the Granite Staters who need them.\u201d\n\nClick here for the full text of the bill.\n\nClick here for one-pager on the bill.\n\nClick here for a detailed section-by-section of the bill.\n\nBackground: After passage of the \"Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act\" in 2021, Build America, Buy America requirements\u2014which require iron, steel, manufactured products and construction materials for federally assisted infrastructure projects to be domestically produced\u2014have been applied to the construction, rehabilitation and repair of affordable housing projects.\n\nWhile well-intentioned, BABA has proven to be a top regulatory barrier to building more affordable housing supply using federal programs like the HOME Investment Partnership Program. Congressman Flood has highlighted the effects of BABA on affordable housing projects at past congressional hearings this Congress, including:\n\nFull Committee Hearing with HUD Secretary Turner in January, 2026.\n\nSummary: The Build Housing Affordably Act streamlines BABA implementation to strike a better balance between promoting domestic production and continuing the development of affordable housing projects across the country. The bill would:\n\nRequire the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) to conduct a study of the effects on BABA on affordable housing development and the BABA waiver process. Following the completion of this study, HUD must present its findings in a report to Congress.\n\nHalt implementation of BABA for covered affordable housing projects until 60 days after the report is delivered to Congress.\n\nInstitute a 90-day timeline for reviewing BABA waivers for affordable housing projects. If waivers are not processed within 90 days, the waiver shall be deemed to have been granted.\n\nThe following groups support the Build Housing Affordably Act: Affordable Housing Tax Credit Coalition, American Institute of Architects (AIA), Bipartisan Policy Center Action, Corporation for Supportive Housing (CSH), Council for Affordable and Rural Housing (CARH), Council of Large Public Housing Authorities (CLPHA), Council of State Community Development Associations (COSCDA), Enterprise Community Partners, Habitat for Humanity International, Housing Advisory Group, Housing Partnership Network (HPN), Local Initiatives Support Corporation (LISC), Mortgage Bankers Association (MBA), National Affordable Housing Management Association, National Apartment Association (NAA), National Association of Home Builders (NAHB), National Association of Housing and Redevelopment Officials (NAHRO), National Association of Latino Community Asset Builders (NALCAB), National Association of Local Housing Finance Agencies (NALHFA), National Association of REALTORS (NAR), National Association of State and Local Equity Funds (NASLEF), National Community Development Association (NCDA), National Council of State Housing Agencies (NCSHA), National Housing & Rehabilitation Association (NH&RA), National Housing Trust, National Low Income Housing Coalition, National Multifamily Housing Council (NMHC), National NeighborWorks Association, Novogradac, Public Housing Authority Directors Association (PHADA), Stewards of Affordable Housing for the Future (SAHF), and Up for Growth Action.\n\nCongressman Flood serves as Chairman of the Housing & Insurance Subcommittee, Chair of the Republican Main Street Caucus, and is a Member of the Financial Services Committee.", 1, "2026-06-27T21:44:12Z", "2026-06-27T22:11:26Z"], ["https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases/smith-house-floor-celebrating-80-years-scottsbluffs-midwest-theater", "Smith on House Floor: Celebrating 80 Years of Scottsbluff\u2019s Midwest Theater", "2026-06-12", "2026", "2026-06", "Republican", "House", "NE", "Adrian Smith", "S001172", "adriansmith.house.gov", "adriansmith", "https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "This week, Congressman Adrian Smith (NE-03) took to the House Floor to congratulate Scottsbluff\u2019s Midwest Theater on 80 years of business. During his remarks, Smith highlighted the theater\u2019s significance to Scottsbluff and surrounding communities while recognizing the countless number of volunteers who have made the theater a place to gather for the past eight decades.\n\nImage\n\nClick the image above to watch a video of Smith\u2019s remarks\n\nClick here to download audio\n\nClick here to download video", 1, "2026-06-27T21:44:12Z", "2026-06-27T22:11:26Z"], ["https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases/smith-announces-upcoming-mobile-office-hour-frontier-county", "Smith Announces Upcoming Mobile Office Hour for Frontier County", "2026-06-11", "2026", "2026-06", "Republican", "House", "NE", "Adrian Smith", "S001172", "adriansmith.house.gov", "adriansmith", "https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Congressman Adrian Smith (NE-03) announced today that his staff will hold a mobile office hour for constituents in Frontier County on Wednesday, June 24, 2026. This office hour is an opportunity for constituents to meet directly with a member of Smith's staff about federal issues, receive assistance with a federal agency, or take advantage of the services available through his office.\n\nSmith, who has offices in Grand Island, Scottsbluff, and Nebraska City, will provide a staff member at the following time and location:\n\nWednesday, June 24, 2026\n\nFrontier County Courthouse\n\n1 Wellington Street\n\nStockville, NE 69042\n\n12:00 pm - 1:00 pm CT", 1, "2026-06-27T21:44:12Z", "2026-06-27T22:11:26Z"], ["https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases/smith-leads-bipartisan-effort-address-mexicos-non-tariff-trade-barriers", "Smith Leads Bipartisan Effort to Address Mexico\u2019s Non-Tariff Trade Barriers", "2026-06-11", "2026", "2026-06", "Republican", "House", "NE", "Adrian Smith", "S001172", "adriansmith.house.gov", "adriansmith", "https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Today, Congressman Adrian Smith (R-NE-03), chair of the Ways and Means Subcommittee on Trade, led a bipartisan letter with his Agriculture Trade Caucus co-chairs U.S. Representatives Jim Costa (D-CA-21), Dusty Johnson (R-SD-AL), Jimmy Panetta (D-CA-19), and 13 of their colleagues urging the Trump Administration to address Mexico\u2019s burdensome non-tariff barriers affecting U.S. grain exports during the ongoing review of the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA).\n\nIn a letter to U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer and U.S. Department of Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins, lawmakers raised concerns about Mexico\u2019s National Service for Agrifood Health, Safety, and Quality subjecting U.S. grain shipments to duplicative inspections despite those shipments already meeting established phytosanitary requirements.\n\nThe lawmakers emphasized that U.S. grain exports to Mexico are routinely inspected by the Federal Grain Inspection Service (FGIS) or its designated agencies, which verify shipment quality and compliance with Mexico\u2019s import standards. Nevertheless, Mexican authorities continue to stop and reinspect grain shipments at the border under a zero-tolerance soil standard that differs significantly from U.S. practices.\n\nThe lawmakers write: \u201cIn 2025, Mexico alone purchased more than $12 billion in U.S. grain and oilseed products. Currently, U.S. grain moving to Mexico is officially inspected by the Federal Grain Inspection Service (FGIS) or one of its designated agencies. These inspections confirm the grade and quality of shipments and compliance with Mexico\u2019s phytosanitary requirements. Despite this, Mexico\u2019s National Service for Agrifood Health, Safety, and Quality stops shuttle trains at the border and reinspects them under a zero-tolerance standard for soil, which differs significantly from U.S. practice. This has real consequences. Reinspection delays trains, increases transportation costs, and often triggers fumigation orders that can cost shippers up to $70,000 per train. Rail carriers may send cars back empty rather than risk delays, and grain companies must purchase additional train capacity to keep supply chains running. These are onerous and duplicative procedures - not science-based protections.\u201d\n\nIn addition to Smith and his Agriculture Trade Caucus Co-Chairs, the letter was signed by U.S. Representatives Jim Baird (R-IN-04), Mariannette Miller-Meeks (R-IA-01), Michelle Fischbach (R-MN-07), Derrick Van Orden (R-WI-03), Darin LaHood (R-IL-16), Derek Schmidt (R-KS-02), Tracey Mann (R-KS-01), Mark Messmer (R-IN-08), John Rose (R-TN-06), Mike Flood (R-NE-01), Julie Fedorchak (R-ND-AL), Mike Bost (R-IL-12), and Dan Newhouse (R-WA-04).\n\nRead the full letter here or below:\n\nDear Ambassador Greer and Secretary Rollins:\n\nSince its adoption, the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) has generated numerous benefits for the U.S. food and agriculture sector. We recognize the value of the Agreement\u2019s six-year Joint Review to ensure proper oversight, implementation, and enforcement, and urge you to work closely with Congress and stakeholders throughout the process. We see meaningful opportunities to strengthen market access within USMCA, particularly in addressing non-tariff trade barriers related to sanitary and phytosanitary standards and agricultural biotechnology.\n\nEnsuring this trade remains seamless, predictable, and science-based is essential to America\u2019s farmers, grain handlers, feed manufacturers, exporters, and transportation partners. Mexico and Canada are two of the most important export markets for U.S. corn, soybeans, wheat, and other commodities. In 2025, Mexico alone purchased more than $12 billion in U.S. grain and oilseed products. Currently, U.S. grain moving to Mexico is officially inspected by the Federal Grain Inspection Service (FGIS) or one of its designated agencies. These inspections confirm the grade and quality of shipments and compliance with Mexico\u2019s phytosanitary requirements.\n\nDespite this, Mexico\u2019s National Service for Agrifood Health, Safety, and Quality stops shuttle trains at the border and reinspects them under a zero-tolerance standard for soil, which differs significantly from U.S. practice. This has real consequences. Reinspection delays trains, increases transportation costs, and often triggers fumigation orders that can cost shippers up to $70,000 per train. Rail carriers may send cars back empty rather than risk delays, and grain companies must purchase additional train capacity to keep supply chains running. These are onerous and duplicative procedures - not science-based protections. We believe USMCA provides an opportunity to harmonize these inspection procedures to eliminate technical barriers that slow trade and raise costs for both countries.\n\nAdditionally, USMCA includes forward-leaning provisions that recognize the importance of innovation and require the parties to manage low-level presence, or LLP, of biotech traits in a predictable and science-based way. While these provisions were a significant step forward, LLP policies have not yet been implemented, and this gap continues to create risk for cross-border grain trade. We strongly encourage USTR, through the Joint Review process, to work with its Canadian and Mexican counterparts to activate the agricultural biotechnology working group established in USMCA, develop and implement clear LLP procedures, and ensure transparent, science-based regulatory processes for both existing and emerging technologies.\n\nUSMCA has been an unquestionable success for the U.S. grain and oilseed industry. It has strengthened supply chains, enhanced competitiveness, expanded export opportunities, and contributed meaningfully to economic growth across the continent. We stand ready to support efforts to strengthen USMCA and provide certainty through fully enforcing the existing terms, curbing unfair practices, and addressing outstanding trade barriers that disadvantage American agriculture.", 1, "2026-06-27T21:44:12Z", "2026-06-27T22:11:26Z"], ["https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=2900", "Bacon Lauds Progress on FY27 Defense Policy Bill", "2026-06-09", "2026", "2026-06", "Republican", "House", "NE", "Don Bacon", "B001298", "bacon.house.gov", "bacon", "https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx", "scraper", "Bacon Lauds Progress on FY27 Defense Policy Bill\n\nWashington, D.C. \u2013 Rep. Don Bacon (NE-02), Chairman of the House Armed Services Committee\u2019s (HASC) Cyber, Information Technologies, and Innovation Subcommittee (CITI), voted in favor of advancing H.R. 8800, the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2027 (FY27 NDAA). The bill was reported out of committee on June 5 by a vote of 44-12.\n\nThe annual legislation, which contains 33 amendments and provisions authored by Rep. Bacon, authorizes defense spending and sets the policy and priorities for the Armed Forces.\n\n\u201cOnce again, the House Armed Services Committee has shown why it remains one of the most bipartisan and productive committees in Congress,\u201d saidChairman Bacon after completing his tenth and final full-committee markup of the NDAA. \u201cAt a time when restoring American deterrence requires serious investment, this year\u2019s bill makes clear that Congress is committed to providing for the common defense. In my final NDAA markup, our office delivered our strongest result yet, securing 33 provisions and amendments in this year\u2019s bill. We are running through the finish line and continuing to deliver serious wins for military readiness, nuclear command and control, cyber defense, defense innovation, and support for our servicemembers and military families. I am grateful to my hardworking team and colleagues on the committee for months of work that made this possible. I look forward to advancing this important legislation through the House.\u201d\n\nHighlights from the committee\u2019s FY 2027 bill include:\n\nRaises all servicemembers\u2019 pay by 5 to 7% and improves housing, education, and access to childcare for military families\n\nRestores defense spending to 4.5% of GDP, the level needed to deter conflict and ensure America leads by example as our allies increase their own defense spending\n\nExpands U.S. production capacity, unleashes private sector investment, opens the door to new and innovative entrants, reduces needless regulations, and creates thousands of skilled jobs for Americans\n\nRebuilds depleted stockpiles by providing the authorities and resources required to expedite the production and acquisition of munitions and key warfighting capabilities\n\nInvests in the capabilities needed to maintain a strong U.S. posture. It strengthens nuclear deterrence, expands missile defense, and provides resources and authorities to counter adversaries like China, Russia, Iran, and North Korea\n\nEnsures our warfighters have the capabilities they need to prevail in future conflicts by accelerating innovation and prioritizing cutting-edge technologies like hypersonics and autonomous systems\n\nStreamlines DoD operations and cuts billions in wasteful programs by standing up a new task force and providing necessary resources to achieve a full and clean audit within 24 months\n\nIn addition, the committee\u2019s bill contains 33 Bacon-backed legislative proposals, amendments, and funding priorities, including:\n\nRequiring the Air Force to provide the timing and requirements for selection of Looking Glass-Next, including the feasibility and affordability of a business jet solution, platform dependencies, and a recommended acquisition strategy and multi-year funding profile\n\nAuthorizing $2.2 billion in funding for the Survivable Airborne Operations Center\n\nAuthorizing $660 million in funding for three EA-37B Compass Call aircraft\n\nDirecting the Department to examine the feasibility and advisability of establishing a pilot program to deploy an advanced nuclear microreactor or small modular reactor to provide primary and redundant power to mission-critical facilities of U.S. Strategic Command\n\nProviding $175 million for the Baltic Security Initiative\n\nDirecting the Army to report on the feasibility of establishing dedicated Army Prepositioned Stocks in each Baltic state and Romania\n\nDirecting U.S. European Command to assess integrated air and missile defense in the Baltic region, including efforts to enhance Baltic IAMD in coordination with NATO allies and partners\n\nDirecting U.S. European Command to assess the feasibility and requirements for expanding training ranges and live-fire opportunities in Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania\n\nRequiring the Department to carry out a program providing for long-range aerial transport of individuals infected with high-consequence infectious diseases\n\nRequiring a policy to guide the development and acquisition of quantum computing systems for the Department of Defense\n\nDirecting the Department to provide a plan to transition hypersonic weapon technologies from science and technology, prototyping, and middle-tier acquisition efforts into major acquisition capabilities\n\nProviding $15 million in funding for the Pathfinder\n\nAdditional Bacon-backed priorities include provisions to advance physics-based alternative positioning, navigation, and timing capabilities; keep adversary AI companies excluded from Department of Defense systems and devices; develop emerging cryptographic capabilities faster to protect defense networks; provide Department research, development, test, and evaluation teams a dashboard to monitor construction projects; examine temporary facilities needed to support the next-generation airborne nuclear command and control aircraft; establish a Pentagon liaison for Medal of Honor recipients; assess medical response plans related to chemical, biological, and radiological weapons; continue traumatic brain injury research; provide recommendations on restoring Gen. John D. Lavelle\u2019s rank; recognize Maj. Robert A. Lodge\u2019s valor with a Medal of Honor; provide for an independent review of the Air Force missile community cancer study; assess bone marrow radiation shielding for nuclear survivability; expand digital engineering, including digital twins and digital threads, for construction and sustainment; establish the United States-Israel Defense Technology Cooperation Initiative; establish the Military Service Academy Panel on Athletics; report on the Space Force Continuous Fitness Assessment study; enhance American commercial remote sensing support to U.S. border operations; assess active and passive protection systems on aerial refueling tankers; include the National Guard Relief Foundation as a military welfare society; and report on interoperable multi-cloud solutions across the defense enterprise.\n\nWatch Rep. Bacon's markup remarks here and see full remarks as delivered below:\n\nThank you Mr. Chairman, I\u2019d like to thank the members of the subcommittee for their collaboration in putting together a strong Cyber, IT, and Innovation subcommittee print for the FY27 NDAA. I\u2019d also like to thank my friend and Ranking Member Congressman Ro Khanna for his partnership in this effort.\n\nThis mark affects several crucial areas of our national defense and takes ambitious strides to maintain our dominance in cyber, IT, and science and technology. The print supports the DOD\u2019s incredible innovation enterprise, leverages the boundless potential of artificial intelligence, and strengthens and secures our IT networks. Most importantly, it focuses on rapidly delivering these improvements to the warfighter.\n\nTaking meaningful steps to bridge the valley of death, this print amends Defense Innovation Unit authorities to require more formal collaboration between the DIU and the military services, speeding up the timeline by which cutting edge technology gets into the hands of the warfighter.\n\nIn addition, the print expands the geographical footprint of our nation\u2019s test and evaluation enterprise and promotes better coordination between the Department and the T&E community.\n\nMoreover, this portion of the NDAA sets the course for quantum computing by requiring the lessons learned from DARPA\u2019s Quantum Benchmarking Initiative to inform development and acquisition of future DOD quantum computing systems.\n\nThe CITI print also streamlines adoption of new AI tools by directing the Chief Data and Artificial Intelligence Officer to establish a framework to enable rapid adoption and governance of AI systems across the DOD. It also directs the Department to update its policies governing autonomous weapon systems, creating risk-informed requirements for approval, oversight, testing, human involvement, and eventual operational use of such systems.\n\nAdditionally, in a time where cyber warfare is more prevalent than ever, this print takes steps to unencumber our cyber defense forces from bureaucracy by requiring a review of DOD\u2019s cybersecurity, IT, network defense, and defensive cyber operations in order to reduce redundancy and create direct accountability in this crucial area of national security.\n\nAnd, once again, the FY27 NDAA continues the great work of the Quality of Life Panel to deliver quality of life improvements to our servicemembers and their families.\n\nThank you to everyone who contributed to the compilation of this subcommittee print. And with that Mr. Chairman I yield back.\n\n###", 1, "2026-06-10T06:36:00Z", "2026-06-10T06:37:32Z"], ["https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases/smith-statement-house-passage-secure-america-act", "Smith Statement on House Passage of Secure America Act", "2026-06-09", "2026", "2026-06", "Republican", "House", "NE", "Adrian Smith", "S001172", "adriansmith.house.gov", "adriansmith", "https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Today, Congressman Adrian Smith (NE-03) released the following statement after the House passage of the Secure America Act:\n\n\u201cI supported the Secure America Act to ensure that our brave federal law enforcement officers have the resources they need to keep Americans safe. This legislation provides long-overdue funding and prevents Democrats from derailing continued efforts to keep our border secure. I look forward to seeing President Trump sign it into law as we continue to work together to defend our nation from the threats we face.\u201d", 1, "2026-06-27T21:44:12Z", "2026-06-27T22:11:26Z"], ["https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-flood-votes-fully-fund-border-patrol-and-immigration-enforcement", "Congressman Flood Votes to Fully Fund Border Patrol and Immigration Enforcement", "2026-06-09", "2026", "2026-06", "Republican", "House", "NE", "Mike Flood", "F000474", "flood.house.gov", "flood", "https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Today, U.S. Congressman Mike Flood released a statement after the U.S. House of Representatives passed the \u201cSecure America Act,\u201d which ends the Democrats\u2019 blockade of funding for Customs and Border Protection and Immigration and Customs Enforcement.\n\n\u201cAfter months of Democrats trying to defund law enforcement and return to the Biden administration\u2019s open-border policies, I voted to fund Border Patrol and immigration enforcement,\u201d said Congressman Flood. \u201cNebraskans are safer when our southern border is secure and criminals who are here illegally are removed from our streets. This legislation fully funds the Border Patrol and immigration enforcement through the remainder of President Trump\u2019s term, eliminating any uncertainty about the paychecks of the men and women who help keep our communities safe.\u201d", 1, "2026-06-27T21:44:12Z", "2026-06-27T22:11:26Z"], ["https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=2899", "Bacon, Valadao, Bonamici, Lead Effort to Provide Greater Access to Substance Use Disorder Treatment and Services", "2026-06-05", "2026", "2026-06", "Republican", "House", "NE", "Don Bacon", "B001298", "bacon.house.gov", "bacon", "https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx", "scraper", "WASHINGTON \u2013 Rep. Don Bacon (NE-02) joined Reps. David Valadao (CA-22), and Suzanne Bonamici (OR-01) to reintroduce the Connections to Health Infrastructure and Emergency Recovery Services (CHIERS) Act. This bipartisan bill would create a grant program to provide transportation for people in need of overdose prevention services, substance use disorder treatment, detoxification, and other related supportive services.\n\n\u201cEveryone deserves a second chance,\u201d said Rep. Bacon. \u201cThe CHIERS Act will improve access to developing services that provide individuals with transportation to and from substance use disorder treatments or support services. This program will help thousands of citizens get the help they need, and I\u2019m grateful to work with Rep. Bonamici on this important effort.\u201d\n\n\u201cIn the Central Valley, we\u2019ve seen firsthand the devastating impact of the opioid epidemic,\u201d said Rep. Valadao. \u201cToo often, people seeking treatment in our communities face long travel times, high transportation costs, and difficulty receiving timely care. We should be doing everything we can to make it easier for people suffering from substance use disorder to get the help they need and break the cycle of addiction. I\u2019m proud to help introduce the bipartisan CHIERS Act to remove barriers to treatment and expand access to timely, life-saving care.\u201d\n\n\u201cPeople shouldn\u2019t be held back from getting the care they need because they do not have a way to get there,\u201d said Rep. Bonamici. \u201cFor years people in Portland benefitted from the CHIERS van, which helped transport people in need to sobering centers. I\u2019m working with my bipartisan colleagues to expand on this model and make rides to treatment available to more people across the country who are intoxicated or at risk.\u201d\n\nThe CHIERS Act would:\n\nCreate a grant program with funding that could be used to train staff, purchase vehicles, and contract with ridesharing services to cover transportation.\n\nDirect the Secretary of Health and Human Services (HHS) and the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) to award grants to eligible entities, including community health centers; Continuum of Care Program participants; opioid recovery centers; state, Tribal, and local governments; and nonprofit organizations.\n\nBackground:\n\nIndividuals seeking Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT) often must travel long distances to reach care, relying on friends or family members for transportation or forgoing treatment altogether due to cost and accessibility challenges. With only eight substance treatment centers serving the three-county region, many residents struggle to receive timely, life-saving services. Expanding grant support for affordable transportation options can help connect residents to critical treatment services\u2014reducing barriers to recovery and improving public health outcomes.\n\nRead the full bill here.\n\n###", 1, "2026-06-06T06:16:30Z", "2026-06-06T06:17:47Z"], ["https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=2898", "Bacon, Meeks, Hoyer, Fitzpatrick, Kaptur, Keating, and Kiley Issue Statements on Passage of Bipartisan Ukraine Support Act", "2026-06-04", "2026", "2026-06", "Republican", "House", "NE", "Don Bacon", "B001298", "bacon.house.gov", "bacon", "https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2013 Representatives Don Bacon (NE-02), Gregory W. Meeks, Ranking Member of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, Steny H. Hoyer (MD-05), Brian Fitzpatrick (PA-01) and Marcy Kaptur (OH-09), Co-Chairs of the Congressional Ukraine Caucus, Bill Keating (MA-09), Ranking Member of the Europe Subcommittee, and Kevin Kiley (CA-03) today issued the following statements on the passage of Ranking Member Meeks' bipartisan Ukraine Support Act, the first comprehensive legislation to support Ukraine and impose sanctions on Russia to pass the House in the 119th Congress.\n\nYou can watch Rep. Bacon\u2019s remarks on the House floor here.\n\n\u201cTonight, the House faced a Churchill vs. Chamberlain moment. Stand on the side of freedom and democracy, or show weakness to an invading thug who wants to restore Russian domination over a free people. Tonight, we chose Churchill,\u201d said Rep. Bacon. \u201cIn 2024, I visited Ukraine and witnessed firsthand the devastation and cruelty that Russia has inflicted on the Ukrainian people. That trip and the courage of the Ukrainians have bolstered my belief that America must continue to support Ukraine\u2019s fight against Russia\u2019s brutal invasion, and the bipartisan vote this evening proves that support still exists here in Congress. I strongly urge the Senate to take up and pass this legislation without delay to provide Ukraine the military aid it needs to win and impose tough sanctions that further isolate and punish Putin.\u201d\n\n\u201cInaction on Ukraine ends now. Today\u2019s bipartisan vote to pass the Ukraine Support Act demonstrates that the House stands with the Ukrainian people and that we will hold the criminal Russian regime accountable for its illegal war. I thank my Democratic colleagues and my Republican colleagues who\u2019ve co-sponsored this bill, without whom this vote would not have been possible. And I especially thank the Ukrainian American community and all those Americans standing with Ukraine, for their tireless efforts to see this bill move forward. Now the Senate must follow suit, and work with our bipartisan group in the House to deliver the most comprehensive package possible to the President\u2019s desk for his immediate signature,\u201d said Ranking Member Meeks.\n\n\u201cToday\u2019s vote was a victory for Ukraine, for the United States, for freedom, and for international law. It was made possible because Democrats and Republicans came together behind an effort that is bigger than partisan politics \u2013 it\u2019s about whether our nation will hold firm to its ideals and stand up for democracy, and I thank my Republican colleagues who joined us. The people of Ukraine are demonstrating that they have what it takes to win this war and outlast what Vladimir Putin can throw at them. But they cannot do it alone. Europe has stepped up, and America has been a critical partner \u2013 but we have not approved a major Ukraine-assistance package since 2024. It\u2019s time for the Senate to follow the House and act quickly on this $8 billion in security assistance and broad, sweeping sanctions so Ukrainians can continue to push ahead toward victory,\u201d said Rep. Hoyer.\n\n\u201cPutin is counting on America to grow tired, divided, and distracted. Today, with a historic bipartisan vote, the House sent the opposite message,\u201d said Fitzpatrick, Co-Chair of the Congressional Ukraine Caucus. \u201cUkraine is fighting for its sovereignty and survival, but the stakes do not stop at Ukraine\u2019s borders. Standing with Ukraine is a matter of American security, allied strength, and moral clarity\u2014and it tells the world that aggression will not be met with hesitation or retreat. From the start of Russia\u2019s illegal war of terror, I have worked to ensure America\u2019s policy is rooted in peace through strength: equipping Ukraine to win, holding Putin accountable, and ensuring brutality never becomes leverage. This legislation gives force to that principle, and I am grateful to my colleagues in the House who stood with us on the side of freedom. Now, the Senate must do the same.\u201d\n\n\u201cThe Ukraine Support Act which the House passed today with Democratic, Republican, and Independent support was a choice between Liberty and Tyranny. Our Free World must stand tall against tyrants, not mollycoddle them. Liberty is not negotiable, It is fundamental,\" said Congresswoman Marcy Kaptur (OH-09), Co-Founder and Co-Chair of the Congressional Ukraine Caucus. \"The war-torn people of Ukraine are not asking for charity, they\u2019re asking for US partnership with that of our closest allies in the European Union. Today we said loud and clear: we stand with Ukraine, we need sanctions on Russia, and we will always stand by our allies. I urge the Senate to take up this legislation with haste and help us reassure our allies around the world of American\u2019s unwavering commitment to Liberty loving people everywhere. If we do not, the next strategic reality we will face is defending our interests against an emboldened armed, expansionist Russia at a much, much higher cost.\u201d\n\n\u201cThe importance of Ukraine\u2019s success against Russia\u2019s war of aggression cannot be overstated. We should be assisting them because it is the right thing to do, but at the very least, we are obligated to do it in accordance with the Budapest Memorandum. Passage of the Ukraine Support Act would demonstrate the House\u2019s continued support for Ukraine and condemnation of Russia. Critically, this bill includes billions in additional military assistance and comprehensive Russia sanctions,\u201d said Ranking Member Keating. \u201cI am proud to have co-led the introduction of this legislation and greatly appreciate the strong bipartisan support this bill received from Democratic and Republican members of the House. I urge the Senate to take it up so the United States can continue to support our ally Ukraine in their defense against Russian aggression.\u201d\n\n\u201cI provided the decisive signature to force a vote on the Ukraine Support Act because the time for Congress to act is now. Today, in a bipartisan way, we made it clear that the United States will continue to stand with the Ukrainian people and provide the material support necessary for their self-defense. We made it equally clear that Russia will pay a severe price for its unprovoked aggression and ongoing violence. This is the leverage needed for constructive negations to end this conflict. This is what is required for peace,\u201d said Rep. Kiley.\n\n###", 1, "2026-06-05T06:35:23Z", "2026-06-05T06:36:42Z"], ["https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-flood-recognizes-papillion-area-officers-house-floor-after-recent", "Congressman Flood Recognizes Papillion-Area Officers on the House Floor After Recent Shooting", "2026-06-03", "2026", "2026-06", "Republican", "House", "NE", "Mike Flood", "F000474", "flood.house.gov", "flood", "https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Today, U.S. Congressman Mike Flood took to the House floor to recognize the heroic actions of law enforcement officers during Friday\u2019s officer-involved shooting in Papillion.\n\nOn May 29, officers from Papillion, La Vista, and the Sarpy County Sheriff's Office responded to a report of shots fired in Papillion's Tara Plaza area. After a pursuit ending at the nearby Home Depot parking lot, the suspect opened fire and officers returned fire. Officers neutralized the threat and prevented any injuries to the public or law enforcement.\n\nVideo of Congressman Flood\u2019s remarks can be found here while text of Congressman Flood\u2019s remarks is provided below. News outlets are welcome to use the footage for their reporting purposes.\n\nMadam Speaker, I rise to recognize the heroes of Nebraska law enforcement.\n\nLast Friday, as I was participating in the annual 'La Vista Days' celebration, the Papillion Police Department responded to an active shooter at a shopping center just down the road.\n\nOfficers located the suspect and began a pursuit that ended in a busy parking lot nearby, where officers opened fire. The threat was neutralized, and any injuries to the public or law enforcement did not happen.\n\nWhen the community faced an armed gunman, the men and women of the Papillion Police Department, La Vista Police Department, and the Sarpy County Sheriff's Office ran towards danger.\n\nBecause of their bravery, everybody went home safe.\n\nTheir courage is a testament to the sacrifices law enforcement officers make every day when they put on the uniform.\n\nI am proud to back the blue, and I thank those serving in law enforcement for keeping us safe.\n\nThank you, and I yield back.", 1, "2026-06-27T21:44:12Z", "2026-06-27T22:11:26Z"], ["https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=2897", "Bacon, Pappas, Blumenthal Introduce New Comprehensive Legislation to Crack Down on Claim Sharks Scamming Veterans", "2026-06-02", "2026", "2026-06", "Republican", "House", "NE", "Don Bacon", "B001298", "bacon.house.gov", "bacon", "https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2013 Today U.S. Representatives Don Bacon (NE-02) and Chris Pappas (NH-01) Ranking Member of the Subcommittee on Economic Opportunity of the House Veterans' Affairs Committee, and Senate Veterans\u2019 Affairs Committee Ranking Member Richard Blumenthal (CT) announced their new comprehensive legislation to hold claims sharks and other predatory actors accountable for exploiting veterans and survivors\u2019 earned Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) benefits.\n\nThe lawmakers\u2019 Stopping Abuse, Fraud, and Exploitation by Governing Unaccredited Representatives Defrauding (SAFEGUARD) Veterans Act would make explicit that only VA-accredited individuals can assist veterans with VA benefit claims and reinstate criminal penalties for unaccredited agents who charge veterans extortionate fees for assistance with VA disability claims\u2014a service provided for free by VA and accredited nonprofits. While current law prohibits this activity, predatory actors have used loopholes to avoid prosecution and federal agencies are limited in their ability to enforce the law without criminal penalties.\n\n\u201cIn recent years, numerous complaints have been raised about benefit\u2011assistance companies that target veterans with aggressive marketing practices, charge unauthorized or excessive fees, and provide misleading information about VA benefits. No veteran should be taken advantage of while trying to access the benefits they earned serving our country,\u201d said Congressman Bacon. \u201cThese concerns underscore the urgent need for stronger protections and real accountability for bad actors. Predatory claim sharks undermine trust in the VA process and can leave veterans paying unauthorized fees for help they should be able to receive from accredited representatives. I\u2019m grateful to work with Rep. Pappas on the SAFEGUARD Veterans Act to strengthen consumer protections, restore real consequences for bad actors, and make sure veterans know where to turn for trusted help.\u201d\n\n\u201cVeterans seeking to access their benefits should not face another battle to do so. Unaccredited, for-profit companies are scamming veterans of their earned benefits under the guise of helping them and they must be stopped,\u201d said Congressman Pappas. \u201cThis legislation is about transparency for veterans so they know the resources and help available to them when they apply for benefits, and accountability for for-profit claim sharks that are breaking the law and exploiting legal loopholes to defraud them. I\u2019m glad to be working with Senator Blumenthal, veterans, veterans\u2019 service organizations, and colleagues on both sides of the aisle on this issue. I won\u2019t stop fighting to reinstate criminal penalties on these illegal business practices and safeguard the benefits veterans have earned.\u201d\n\n\u201cVeterans need protection against claims sharks and other predatory scammers who are stealing millions in hard-earned benefits,\u201d said Senator Blumenthal. \u201cOur legislation will close loopholes and impose strict criminal penalties\u2014 deterring as well as punishing bad actors. There should be zero tolerance for exploitive tactics robbing veterans of funds they well deserve and need to live. I hope this measure will have bipartisan backing.\u201d\n\nThe SAFEGUARD Veterans Act would:\n\nReestablish criminal penalties for unaccredited claims representatives scamming veterans;\n\nProhibit VA accreditation of any person found guilty of unauthorized solicitation, charging, or receiving compensation for assisting with VA benefit claims;\n\nClose loopholes exploited by unaccredited actors to skirt federal prohibitions on unaccredited agents assisting veterans with VA benefit claims;\n\nProhibit the use of robocall technology to obtain VA claims information\u2014targeting claim sharks who spam VA call centers to gain unauthorized access to veterans\u2019 claims information;\n\nRequire VA to establish a system to track accredited agents and where veterans can report scammers; and\n\nIncrease warnings to veterans about claim sharks and other predatory practices of unaccredited agents.\n\n\"Our veterans sacrificed so much to defend us and our freedoms \u2013 the least we can do is protect the benefits they earned and deserve,\" said Congresswoman Bynum. \u201cI am proud to introduce the bipartisan SAFEGUARD Veterans Act to crack down on claim sharks preying on veterans and taking their benefits. Let's pass this bill and ensure our heroes in need of assistance can access it without the risk of being scammed.\u201d\n\n\u201cWe must reinstate strong criminal penalties for bad actors who illegally charge veterans for VA claims, while requiring accredited or supervised representation, strengthening enforcement, and expanding outreach so veterans can access free, trusted assistance. Veterans who served our country should never be charged unauthorized fees or misled by companies seeking to profit off the benefits they earned,\u201d said Congressman Lawler.\n\nThe lawmakers\u2019 legislation builds on bipartisan efforts to hold unaccredited entities accountable and a NPR investigation that revealed private companies continue to make millions by extorting veterans, despite knowing their actions are likely illegal. It also comes on the heels of a U.S. District Court for the Middle District of North Carolina summary judgement ruling that unaccredited companies are considered agents and are subject to the federal ban on charging veterans for assistance with preparation, presentation, and prosecution of claims for VA benefits. Some states have passed legislation authorizing the practice of charging for assistance with VA claims. The SAFEGUARD Veterans Act includes state laws preemption regarding recognition, fee agreements, or authority to charge for assistance with the preparation, presentation, or prosecution of VA benefit claims.\n\nIn the House, Bacon was joined by Reps. Chris Pappas (NH-01), Janelle Bynum (OR-05), Mike Lawler (NY-17), Eleanor Holmes Norton (DC-AL), Nikki Budzinski (IL-13), Bill Keating (MA-08), Dina Titus (NV-03), Vindman (VA-08), and Jimmy Panetta (CA-19). In the Senate, the SAFEGUARD Veterans Act is co-sponsored by U.S. Senators Angus King (I-ME), Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), Tammy Baldwin (D-WI), Ben Ray Lujan (D-NM), Michael Bennet (D-CO), Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI), Bernard Sanders (I-VT), Ruben Gallego (D-AZ), Jacky Rosen (D-NM), Mark Kelly (D-AZ), Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), and Peter Welch (D-VT).\n\nThe legislation is also supported by National Association of County Veterans Service Officers (NACVSO), Military Officers Association of America (MOAA), the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW), Disabled American Veterans (DAV), and The American Legion.\n\n\u201cNACVSO supports the SAFEGUARD Veterans Act of 2026 and its efforts to restore integrity within the VA claims process,\u201d said NACVSO President Andrew Tangen. \u201cVA-accredited representatives operate under federal oversight, training requirements, and ethical standards designed to protect veterans, while unaccredited claims agents have increasingly exploited enforcement gaps while profiting from veteran injuries and illnesses. This legislation takes bad profit incentives away from unscrupulous claims agents by restoring criminal penalties for unauthorized assistance, improving transparency, modernizing accreditation oversight, and increasing awareness of predatory practices. No veteran should ever have to pay for initial claim services and those who have illegally profited must be held accountable.\u201d\n\n\u201cFor too long, unaccredited claims consultants have exploited veterans and survivors by charging excessive, unlawful fees for assistance they are not authorized to provide. The SAFEGUARD Veterans Act restores accountability, strengthens protections for veterans navigating the VA claims process, and reinforces the critical role of accredited veterans service organizations, attorneys, and claims agents who are held to rigorous standards,\" said MOAA President and CEO Lt. Gen. Brian T. Kelly, USAF (Ret). \"MOAA applauds lawmakers for introducing this important legislation to preserve the integrity of the VA benefits system and ensure veterans are not targeted by predatory actors seeking to profit off of service-earned benefits.\u201d\n\n\u201cDAV strongly supports the SAFEGUARD Veterans Act to help combat a serious and ongoing threat: unethical individuals who prey on veterans navigating the complex VA claims process and charge fees for help that should be free and accredited. By reinstating criminal penalties for unaccredited claims assistance, streamlining the accreditation process, and making public those who have been barred from VA accreditation, this bill puts teeth back into protections that veterans need, deserve, and have earned. Passage of this legislation would demonstrate our nation\u2019s unwavering commitment to honor and protect all who have served because every veteran deserves strong, honest advocacy when seeking earned benefits\u2014not opportunists seeking to profit,\u201d said DAV National Service Director Scott Hope.\n\nBackground\n\nUnaccredited claims representatives, or claim sharks, are not subject to VA standards. They strategically advertise their services to avoid regulatory oversight and as a result, may engage in predatory and unethical practices that target veterans and rob them of their VA benefits. Federal laws and regulations prohibit anyone from assisting a veteran in the preparation, presentation, or prosecution of a VA benefit claim, or charging a fee for this assistance, without accreditation from VA. However, VA and other federal agencies are limited in their ability to enforce existing law because explicit criminal penalties were stripped from statute nearly two decades ago. This has contributed to the proliferation of unaccredited claims representatives in recent years.\n\n###", 1, "2026-06-03T06:40:39Z", "2026-06-03T06:42:22Z"], ["https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases/smith-announces-upcoming-mobile-office-hour-red-willow-and-hayes-counties", "Smith Announces Upcoming Mobile Office Hour for Red Willow and Hayes Counties", "2026-06-01", "2026", "2026-06", "Republican", "House", "NE", "Adrian Smith", "S001172", "adriansmith.house.gov", "adriansmith", "https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Congressman Adrian Smith (NE-03) announced today that his staff will hold a mobile office hour for constituents in Red Willow County on Monday, June 8, 2026, and Hayes County on Tuesday, June 9, 2026. These office hours are an opportunity for constituents to meet directly with a member of Smith's staff about federal issues, receive assistance with a federal agency, or take advantage of the services available through his office.\n\nSmith, who has offices in Grand Island, Scottsbluff, and Nebraska City, will provide a staff member at the following time and location:\n\nMonday, June 8, 2026\n\nRed Willow County Courthouse, 3rd Floor\n\n502 Norris Avenue\n\nMcCook, NE 68920\n\n10:00 am - 11:00 am CT\n\nTuesday, June 9, 2026\n\nHayes County Courthouse\n\n502 Troth Street\n\nHayes Center, NE 69032\n\n11:00 am - 12:00 pm CT", 1, "2026-06-27T21:44:12Z", "2026-06-27T22:11:26Z"], ["https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases/smith-leads-letter-urging-ustr-and-treasury-hold-mexico-accountable-ahead", "Smith Leads Letter Urging USTR and Treasury to Hold Mexico Accountable Ahead of USMCA Joint Review", "2026-05-22", "2026", "2026-05", "Republican", "House", "NE", "Adrian Smith", "S001172", "adriansmith.house.gov", "adriansmith", "https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Congressman Adrian Smith (NE-03), Chair of the Ways and Means Subcommittee on Trade, led a letter with 19 of his Republican colleagues to U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer and U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, urging them to hold Mexico accountable ahead of the six-year joint review of the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA).\n\nIn the letter, the lawmakers expressed concern over recent actions by Mexico\u2019s Servicio de Administraci\u00f3n Tributaria (SAT), warning that new interpretations and enforcement practices could unfairly target American companies operating in Mexico. They urged Ambassador Greer and Secretary Bessent to work with Mexican officials to ensure tax and customs policies are implemented fairly, transparently, and consistent with Mexico\u2019s commitments under USMCA.\n\nThe lawmakers write: \u201cAmong these issues is the onerous and irregular enforcement practices currently being implemented by Mexico\u2019s Servicio de Administraci\u00f3n Tributaria (SAT), which are placing retroactive and unprecedented burdens on U.S. companies. Mexico should not be allowed to right its budget imbalances on the back of American companies, particularly given its commitments under USMCA. In particular, we are concerned that Mexico is reinterpreting tax provisions, conducting retroactive and capricious audits, and employing aggressive \u2018pay-to-play\u2019 appeal requirements.\u201d\n\nIn addition to Smith, the letter was signed by U.S. Representatives Aaron Bean (FL-04), Ron Estes (KS-04), Mike Carey (OH-15), Michelle Fischbach (MN-07), Kevin Hern (OK-01), Darin LaHood (IL-18), Tracey Mann (KS- 01), Carol Miller (WV-01), Max Miller (OH-01), Mariannette Miller-Meeks (IA-01), Blake Moore (UT-01), Nathaniel Moran (TX-01), Greg Steube (FL-17), Beth Van Duyne (TX-24), Rudy Yakym (IN-02), Derek Schmidt (KS-02), Randy Feenstra (IA-04), Jodey Arrington (TX-17), and Brad Finstad (MN-01).\n\nRead the full letter here or below:\n\nDear Ambassador Greer and Secretary Bessent,\n\nThank you for your continued engagement with our trading partners to advance trade agreements and level the playing field for American industry. As you conduct the first ever six-year \u201cjoint review\u201d of the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), full enforcement of the deal and resolution of outstanding irritants must be high priorities.\n\nAmong these issues is the onerous and irregular enforcement practices currently being implemented by Mexico\u2019s Servicio de Administraci\u00f3n Tributaria (SAT), which are placing retroactive and unprecedented burdens on U.S. companies. Mexico should not be allowed to right its budget imbalances on the back of American companies, particularly given its commitments under USMCA. In particular, we are concerned that Mexico is reinterpreting tax provisions, conducting retroactive and capricious audits, and employing aggressive \u201cpay-to-play\u201d appeal requirements.\n\nMexico has applied new interpretations and documentation requirements for value-added taxes (VAT) levied on U.S. products, including agricultural ingredients such as animal protein meals and feed additives. We understand this change is in contrast to previous SAT rulings affirming these products should be VAT-exempt, resulting in an additional 16 percent VAT in some cases. Retroactive application of this tax acutely impacts companies as they are unable to adjust past pricing decisions. These changes make U.S. exporters less competitive, as the VAT is not applied to domestic sources of these ingredients. We are concerned that this disparity fails to uphold the central USMCA principle of national treatment.\n\nFurther, we understand that U.S. companies are facing sudden demands for repayment of credits and denials of deductions, accompanied by fines for previously unannounced violations. Across all such practices, recent amendments to Mexico\u2019s federal tax code have eliminated the exemption for guaranteeing tax interest when filing an appeal with the tax authority. This requires U.S. companies to post a deposit equal to the full disputed assessment, in addition to surcharges and fines, if they choose to dispute the findings.\n\nTo maintain strong supply chains and cooperation throughout North America, businesses need certainty, level treatment, and transparent regulations. We urge you to work with Mexico to ensure new SAT interpretations and provisions are not implemented in a discriminatory or overly burdensome manner and stand ready to assist in strengthening USMCA.", 1, "2026-06-27T21:44:12Z", "2026-06-27T22:21:02Z"], ["https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases/passed-ways-and-means-committee-smiths-bill-expand-seniors-healthcare-options", "Passed by Ways and Means Committee: Smith\u2019s Bill to Expand Seniors\u2019 Healthcare Options", "2026-05-21", "2026", "2026-05", "Republican", "House", "NE", "Adrian Smith", "S001172", "adriansmith.house.gov", "adriansmith", "https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Today, Congressman Adrian Smith\u2019s (NE-03) legislation to expand healthcare access for America\u2019s seniors passed out of the Ways and Means Committee. The Main Street Pharmacy Access Act now awaits consideration on the House floor.\n\nIf signed into law, the Main Street Pharmacy Access Act would empower local pharmacists to play a more active role in community health by allowing Medicare Part B reimbursement for testing and treating common respiratory illnesses. In accordance with existing state laws, this change would make it easier for seniors and other Medicare beneficiaries to receive timely care right at their neighborhood pharmacy.\n\n\u201cNine out of ten Americans live within five miles of a pharmacy, making pharmacists among the most accessible healthcare professionals in our communities, especially in rural areas. Yet outdated bureaucratic barriers keep seniors from getting the prompt, expert care pharmacists are trained to provide close-to-home. My Main Street Pharmacy Access Act is a practical, bipartisan fix to ensure that patients can access the care they need\u2014when and where they need it. I am grateful a bipartisan group of my colleagues voted yes on this legislation, and I look forward to its passage on the House Floor,\u201dsaid Smith.\n\nImage\n\nClick the image above to listen to Smith\u2019s remarks at today\u2019s hearing\n\nClick here to download audio\n\nClick here to download video", 1, "2026-06-27T21:44:12Z", "2026-06-27T22:21:02Z"], ["https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases/what-they-are-saying-smiths-main-street-pharmacy-access-act-clears-ways-and", "WHAT THEY ARE SAYING: Smith's Main Street Pharmacy Access Act Clears Ways and Means Committee", "2026-05-21", "2026", "2026-05", "Republican", "House", "NE", "Adrian Smith", "S001172", "adriansmith.house.gov", "adriansmith", "https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Today, Congressman Adrian Smith\u2019s (NE-03) Main Street Pharmacy Access Act, which would empower local pharmacists to play a more active role in community health by allowing Medicare Part B reimbursement for testing and treating common respiratory illnesses, is one step closer to the finish line following its passage by the Ways and Means Committee.\n\nOver 190 organizations support Smith\u2019s Main Street Pharmacy Access Act, including senior and rural advocacy groups, physician and provider groups, patient advocacy organizations, pharmacists, health systems, and many others.\n\nHere is what they are saying:\n\n\u201cThis bill is a commonsense, creative solution to address the barriers to health care access that rural and underserved communities suffer every day. I want to thank Representative Adrian Smith for championing this bill for the benefit of Nebraskans and communities across this country so that seniors will gain access to more primary care conveniently from their local pharmacist,\u201dsaid Ways and Means Committee Chairman Jason Smith (MO-08).\n\n\u201cCongressman Adrian Smith continues to demonstrate strong leadership for patients in Nebraska and across the country. By advancing his legislation, Rep. Smith is helping ensure Medicare beneficiaries, particularly seniors in rural communities, can access timely testing, treatment, and preventive services from pharmacists they know and trust,\u201dsaid APhA Executive Vice President and CEO Michael D. Hogue, PharmD, FAPhA, FNAP, FFIP.\n\n\u201cNebraska patients rely on their local pharmacies as a frontline source of care. Congressman Smith understands the realities facing rural communities, and his leadership on this legislation will help ensure Nebraska\u2019s seniors can receive high-quality, accessible care close to home,\u201d said NPA CEO Haley Pertzborn, PharmD, RPh.\n\n\u201cToday, we applaud the House Ways and Means Committee\u2019s passage of the Main Street Pharmacy Access Act, which takes a major step forward in safeguarding access to pharmacist care for seniors. ASHP calls for swift passage by the House and Senate of this important legislation,\u201dsaid ASHP Executive Vice President and CEO Samuel V. Calabrese, MBA, RPh, CPEL, FASHP.\n\n\"It is simply common sense: seniors in Medicare should be able to access pharmacist-provided care that their own states already allow. With a pharmacy within five miles of 90 percent of Americans \u2014 and 91 percent of seniors saying pharmacy care is easy to access \u2014 the Main Street Pharmacy Access Act closes an outdated gap in federal law, improving access to timely, cost-effective care for seniors, particularly in rural and underserved communities. NACDS commends Chairman Jason Smith and Rep. Adrian Smith, and Ranking Member Richard Neal and Rep. Brad Schneider, for championing this legislation and looks forward to working with Congress to advance this pragmatic, bipartisan bill,\u201dsaid National Association of Chain Drug Stores President and CEO Steven C. Anderson.\n\n\"Public health in America is about to get stronger thanks to the Main Street Pharmacy Access Act. By expanding access to treat-and-treat services through pharmacists - the most accessible healthcare providers - we are creating avenues to keep older adults and those living with disabilities healthy and thriving. I applaud Congressman Adrian Smith for his ongoing dedication to increasing access to care for older Americans and those living with disabilities through this legislation and his ongoing work leading the House Ways & Means Committee,\u201dsaid American Society of Consultant Pharmacists CEO Chad Worz, PharmD, BCGP, FASCP.\n\n\"The Future of Pharmacy Care Coalition thanks the Ways and Means Committee for advancing this legislation, and thanks Rep. Adrian Smith, Rep. Brad Schneider, and Senate Majority Leader John Thune for their leadership. We urge Congress to advance this commonsense, bipartisan legislation that can improve access to quality and cost-effective care for seniors,\u201dsaid Future of Pharmacy Care Coalition Executive Director Bob Siggins.\n\n\u201cWe commend the House Ways and Means Committee for advancing thoughtful improvements to the Medicare program that recognize the critical role pharmacists play on the front lines of care. This legislation would provide Medicare beneficiary coverage for certain pharmacist services,\u201d said CVS Health Chief Pharmacy Officer Lucille Accetta.\n\n\u201cKroger commends the leadership of Chairman Jason Smith, as well as Rep. Adrian Smith and Rep. Schneider for advancing H.R. 3164, the Main Street Pharmacy Access Act through the House Ways and Means Committee. This vital legislation will expand access to testing and treatment for seniors living in rural areas \u2014 managing common respiratory conditions before they become life-threatening. Kroger celebrates this progress and urges quick passage of this bill,\u201d said Kroger Health President Colleen Lindholz.\n\n\u201cOur team at McKesson supports the Main Street Pharmacy Access Act (H.R. 3164) and commends the House Ways & Means Committee for advancing it. Independent pharmacies are reliable points of care, and this bipartisan legislation helps Medicare beneficiaries receive timely testing and treatment from pharmacists. We appreciate the leadership of Chairman Jason Smith and Representative Adrian Smith in advancing this effort and look forward to its continued progress toward enactment,\u201dsaid Health Mart Pharmacy President Crystal Lennartz.\n\n\u201cAs a trusted technology partner to more than half of pharmacies in the country, XiFin supports access to pharmacy care where and when it makes sense. The Main Street Pharmacy Access Act ensures seniors access to clinical services, while supporting the viability of pharmacies in healthcare deserts so they can continue serving their communities. Thank you to the Members of the House Ways and Means Committee for moving this bill forward,\u201dsaid XiFin Inc. Chief Pharmacy Officer David Pope.\n\nStakeholder letters of support: American Pharmacists Association (APhA), American Society of Health-System Pharmacists (ASHP), National Association of Chain Drug Stores (NACDS), American Society of Consultant Pharmacists (ASCP), Future of Pharmacy Care Coalition (FPCC), CVS Health, Kroger Health,Walmart, and Academy of Managed Care Pharmacy (AMCP).", 1, "2026-06-27T21:44:12Z", "2026-06-27T22:21:02Z"], ["https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-flood-co-leads-bill-extending-key-rural-community-hospital-program", "Congressman Flood Co-Leads Bill Extending Key Rural Community Hospital Program", "2026-05-21", "2026", "2026-05", "Republican", "House", "NE", "Mike Flood", "F000474", "flood.house.gov", "flood", "https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Today, U.S. Representatives Mike Flood (R-NE), Randy Feenstra (R-IA), Jared Golden (D-ME), and Janelle Bynum (D-OR) introduced the \u201cRural Community Hospital Demonstration Reauthorization Act\u201d as co-leads, with Representatives Adrian Smith (R-NE) and Tracey Mann (R-KS) joining as original cosponsors. The bill extends the Rural Community Hospital Demonstration (RCHD) program for an additional five years and allows facilities that previously cycled out of the program, as well as those set to cycle out in 2026, to rejoin.\n\n\u201cRural community hospitals are critical lifelines for families across the country,\u201d said Congressman Flood (R-NE). \u201cThe RCHD program is a much-needed tool with an outstanding track record of helping rural community hospitals deliver high-quality care to patients. This program is vital to many Nebraskans, and I am pleased to join Congressman Feenstra in extending this impactful program for another five years as a co-lead.\u201d\n\n\u201cBy reauthorizing the Rural Community Hospital Demonstration, we are ensuring rural hospitals have the support they need to keep their doors open and continue providing the essential services that keep Iowa\u2019s economy strong, families healthy, and communities thriving,\u201d said Congressman Feenstra (R-IA). \u201cWith a proven track record, this program provides rural hospitals with the financial stability needed to sustain health care services in our communities and ensure patients continue to have access to quality care close to home. I am honored to help lead this legislation in the House and strengthen support for Iowa\u2019s rural hospitals.\u201d\n\n\"The goal of keeping our rural hospitals and the critical services they provide open and accessible demands collaboration from lawmakers, providers, and local communities. It also requires the utilization of innovative models to sustain rural health care services. That is why the NHA is grateful to Congressman Flood for supporting the RCHD program. The loss of this program would threaten hospital stability, leading to service line cuts or closures. Participation in the RCHD keeps certain rural hospitals from falling through the cracks, helping them remain open to serve rural beneficiaries,\u201d said President and CEO of the Nebraska Hospital Association Jeremy Nordquist.\n\n\u201cThe Rural Community Hospital Demonstration has been essential to the sustainability of Columbus Community Hospital and the care we provide across our region. Over the past 20 years, the inpatient cost-based reimbursement model has enabled us to maintain critical services, recruit providers, and invest in modern facilities and technology. It has also allowed us to expand access to advanced care\u2014including the development of local cancer services\u2014so patients can receive treatment close to home. Without the demonstration, many of these services would not be financially viable in a rural setting,\u201d said President and CEO of Columbus Community Hospital Michael T. Hansen.\n\nEstablished in 2003, the RCHD program has included participation of over 50 hospitals across 17 states. The RCHD program allows Medicare to test innovative payment models supporting rural hospitals, boosting rural hospitals that are too large to be critical access hospitals but too small to benefit from Medicare\u2019s hospital inpatient prospective payment system.\n\nRCHD hospitals have been found to significantly improve their Medicare margins, make higher capital investments resulting in stronger financial conditions, and improve staff retention. The RCHD program has been reauthorized three times since 2003.", 1, "2026-06-27T21:44:12Z", "2026-06-27T22:21:02Z"], ["https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases/housing-insurance-chairman-flood-applauds-house-passage-updated-21st-century", "Housing & Insurance Chairman Flood Applauds House Passage of Updated 21st Century ROAD to Housing Act as Landmark Housing Reform", "2026-05-20", "2026", "2026-05", "Republican", "House", "NE", "Mike Flood", "F000474", "flood.house.gov", "flood", "https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Today, U.S. Congressman Mike Flood, who serves as Chairman of the Housing & Insurance Subcommittee, released a statement following House passage of the amended text to the \u201c21st Century ROAD to Housing Act.\u201d The amendment includes several provisions introduced and backed by Congressman Flood and represents a bipartisan, bicameral effort to lower housing costs.\n\n\u201cThe '21st Century ROAD to Housing Act,' as amended by the House, is landmark legislation that will benefit renters, homeowners and families hoping to buy a home across the country,\u201d said Congressman Flood. \"The leadership of Chairman Hill and Ranking Member Waters has been instrumental in making this a reality, along with the leadership of President Trump. I hope the Senate takes up the bill without delay so we can make this bill law as soon as possible.\u201d\n\nCongressman Flood delivered remarks on the House floor outlining his support for the updated \u201c21st Century ROAD to Housing Act.\u201d Video of his remarks can be found by clicking here. News outlets are welcome to use the footage for reporting purposes.\n\nIn addition to serving as Chairman of the Housing & Insurance Subcommittee, Congressman Flood is the Chairman of the Republican Main Street Caucus.\n\nThe amended text of the \"21st Century ROAD to Housing Act\u201d can be found here.\n\nLegislation Congressman Flood previously introduced that are included in the amended version of the housing bill are detailed below:\n\nThe HOME Reform Act\n\n\u201cAmerica is in the midst of a housing crisis as families struggle to live the American dream due to the shortage of millions of homes,\u201d said Congressman Flood. \u201cThe HOME program is a federal program that builds housing supply, but it has previously been weighed down by regulatory burdens that make it hard to build housing. The reforms in this legislation will result in more homebuilding across the country as we work to tackle our nation\u2019s housing shortage. From Columbus, Nebraska to Columbus, Ohio and beyond, local communities will have an unprecedented opportunity to build affordable homes and directly address the housing crisis gripping our nation.\u201d\n\nThe \"HOME Reform Act\" modernizes the HOME Investment Partnership Program by exempting projects from NEPA and provides relief from Build America, Buy America requirements as well as establishing a \u201csmall project\u201d exemption under Section 3 of the HUD Act of 1968. The bill raises income eligibility to 100% of area median income, extends the time communities have to commit funds, updates definitions of affordable single and multifamily housing, as well as allows funds to be used for infrastructure tied directly to new housing, such as sidewalks, sewers, and utility connections.\n\nRead the initial press release on the \"HOME Reform Act\" here. The bill was co-introduced by Housing & Insurance Subcommittee Ranking Member Emanuel Cleaver (D-MO).\n\nThe Streamlining Manufactured Housing Standards Act\n\n\u201cAmerica has been grappling with a housing crisis and cutting red tape is one of the key tools to helping home builders create more housing,\u201d said Congressman Flood. \u201cManufactured homes have historically been built to a HUD code, and in order to make manufactured homes a cost-effective option for consumers we must ensure that HUD has primary authority over all manufactured housing standards.\u201d\n\nThe \"Streamlining Manufactured Housing Standards Act\" clarifies that the Department of Housing and Urban Development is the primary regulator as it relates to all manufactured housing building standards.\n\nRead the initial press release on the \"Streamlining Manufactured Housing Starts Act\" here. The bill was co-introduced by Housing & Insurance Subcommittee Ranking Member Emanuel Cleaver (D-MO).\n\nUnlocking Housing Supply Through Streamlined and Modernized Reviews Act\n\n\u201cThe Unlocking Supply Through Streamlined and Modernized Reviews Act is an important step towards increasing housing supply in America,\u201d said Congressman Flood. \u201cEnvironmental reviews can slow housing projects by months- or even years. Currently, those reviews are not properly tailored to the size and scale of housing projects. This legislation is a meaningful step towards fixing that problem.\u201d\n\nThe \"Unlocking Housing Supply Through Streamlined and Modernized Reviews Act\" streamlines the environmental review process for a range of Department of Housing and Urban Development building activities.\n\nRead the initial press release on the \"Unlocking Housing Supply Through Streamlined and Modernized Reviews Act\" here. The bill was co-introduced by Congressman Sam Liccardo (D-CA).\n\nThe Housing Supply Frameworks Act\n\n\u201cThe rising cost of housing is putting the American Dream out of reach for working families across our country,\u201d said Congressman Flood. \u201cWe need an all-of-the-above approach to addressing America\u2019s housing crisis. To this end, the Housing Supply Frameworks Act helps establish suggested best practices for state and local governments across the country who want to break down barriers holding back development and innovation in housing and construction.\"\n\nThe \"House Supply Frameworks Act\u201d requires HUD to publish best practices and guidelines to assist communities in maintaining modern local and state zoning frameworks that support the production of adequate housing options at every income level.\n\nRead the initial press release on the Housing Supply Frameworks Act here. The bill was co-introduced by Congresswoman Brittany Pettersen (D-CO).\n\nLeast Cost Exception Act", 1, "2026-06-27T21:44:12Z", "2026-06-27T22:21:02Z"], ["https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases/smith-applauds-2026-congressional-art-competition-winners", "Smith Applauds 2026 Congressional Art Competition Winners", "2026-05-19", "2026", "2026-05", "Republican", "House", "NE", "Adrian Smith", "S001172", "adriansmith.house.gov", "adriansmith", "https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Congressman Adrian Smith (NE-03) announced the top five finishers of the 2026 Congressional Art Competition for Nebraska's Third District. The first-place finisher\u2019s artwork will be displayed in the U.S. Capitol alongside other Congressional Art Competition winners from across the country. The four remaining finishers will have their art displayed in Smith's Washington, D.C., Grand Island, Scottsbluff, and Nebraska City offices.\n\n\u201cEvery year, I am amazed by the level of talent displayed across Nebraska\u2019s Third District during the Congressional Art Competition. It is an honor to showcase the top five finishers' artwork in the halls of Congress and in my offices across our state. Congratulations to this year\u2019s winners of the 2026 Congressional Art Competition, and thank you to all the students who participated,\u201d said Smith.\n\nFirst Place: Ava Paitz, Litchfield Public School. \"Waiving Patriotism\" will be displayed in the U.S. Capitol Building.\n\nSecond Place: Ariah Michelle Perez, Kearney High School. \"Chill in the Night\" will be displayed in Smith's Washington, D.C., office.\n\nThird Place: Conrad Lichtenberger, Litchfield Public Schools. \"Echoes of the Herd\" will be displayed in Smith's Grand Island office.\n\nFourth Place: Aubrey Matzen, Hastings St. Cecilia High School. \"Jaguar - Henry Doorly Zoo\" will be displayed in Smith's Scottsbluff office.\n\nFifth Place: Jenna Holm, Litchfield Public School. \"The Golden Harvest\" will be displayed in Smith's Nebraska City office.\n\nClick here to view the winning artworks.", 1, "2026-06-26T06:29:35Z", "2026-06-26T06:31:46Z"], ["https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-flood-host-norfolk-town-hall-may-26th", "Rep. Flood\u00a0to\u00a0Host Norfolk\u00a0Town\u00a0Hall\u00a0on\u00a0May 26th", "2026-05-19", "2026", "2026-05", "Republican", "House", "NE", "Mike Flood", "F000474", "flood.house.gov", "flood", "https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "NORFOLK, NEBRASKA \u2013 Today, U.S. Congressman Mike Flood announced he will hold a town hall in Norfolk, Nebraska on Tuesday, May 26, 2026. The town hall will be hosted at the Johnny Carson Theater at Norfolk Senior High School.\n\nDuring the town hall, Congressman Flood will provide an update on the work he is doing for Norfolk and Nebraska\u2019s First Congressional District. There will be a question-and-answer period.\n\nCongressman Flood\u2019s Norfolk Town Hall\n\nTuesday, May 26th\n\n5:00PM \u2013 6:30PM CT\n\nJohnny Carson Theater\n\n801 Riverside Blvd, Norfolk, NE 68701\n\nNote: Doors open at 4:30pm. Attendees should enter through the main doors of the Johnny Carson Theater on the east side of the building. A map can be found HERE.\n\nNo signs or backpacks are permitted in the venue. A clear bag policy will be in place.\n\nThis event is open to the public.\n\nFor questions about the town hall, please contact Congressman Flood\u2019s Lincoln Office at 402-438-1598.", 1, "2026-06-27T21:44:12Z", "2026-06-27T22:21:02Z"], ["https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases/smith-announces-upcoming-mobile-office-hour-harlan-county", "Smith Announces Upcoming Mobile Office Hour for Harlan County", "2026-05-18", "2026", "2026-05", "Republican", "House", "NE", "Adrian Smith", "S001172", "adriansmith.house.gov", "adriansmith", "https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Congressman Adrian Smith (NE-03) announced today that his staff will hold a mobile office hour for constituents in Harlan County on Tuesday, May 19, 2026. This office hour is an opportunity for constituents to meet directly with a member of Smith's staff about federal issues, receive assistance with a federal agency, or take advantage of the services available through his office.\n\nSmith, who has offices in Grand Island, Scottsbluff, and Nebraska City, will provide a staff member at the following time and location:\n\nTuesday, May 19, 2026\n\nHarlan County Courthouse\n\n706 2nd Street\n\nAlma, NE 68920\n\n11:00 am - 12:00 pm CT", 1, "2026-06-24T06:25:30Z", "2026-06-24T06:26:49Z"], ["https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases/cftc-chairman-selig-address-flyover-fintech-lincoln-nebraska-aug-4th", "CFTC Chairman Selig to Address\u00a0Flyover\u00a0Fintech\u00a0in Lincoln, Nebraska on Aug. 4th", "2026-05-18", "2026", "2026-05", "Republican", "House", "NE", "Mike Flood", "F000474", "flood.house.gov", "flood", "https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "LINCOLN, NEBRASKA \u2013 Today, U.S. Rep. Mike Flood announced that U.S. Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) Chairman Michael Selig will address his upcoming Flyover Fintech Conference in Lincoln, Nebraska on August 4, 2026. Chairman Selig was sworn into office on December 22, 2025 and most recently served as chief counsel of the Securities and Exchange Commission\u2019s (SEC) Crypto Task Force as well as senior advisor to SEC Chairman Paul S. Atkins.\n\n\u201cI am thrilled to announce that CFTC Chairman Michael Selig will address Flyover Fintech this August,\u201d said Congressman Flood. \u201cChairman Selig has been a staunch advocate for digital asset innovation, playing an instrumental role in developing regulatory frameworks at the SEC and the CFTC, as well as contributing to President Trump\u2019s Working Group on Digital Asset Markets and other key initiatives. At this conference, Chairman Selig is expected to share the latest developments in digital asset markets, prediction markets and the derivatives and commodity futures markets. Flyover Fintech is one of the premier events for hearing from key public officials in the worlds of finance and fintech, and I encourage anyone interested to register soon to reserve their spot.\u201d\n\nChairman Selig most recently served as chief counsel of the Securities and Exchange Commission\u2019s Crypto Task Force and senior advisor to SEC Chairman Paul S. Atkins. In this role, Chairman Selig helped to develop a clear regulatory framework for digital asset securities markets, harmonize the SEC and CFTC regulatory regimes, modernize the agency\u2019s rules to reflect new and emerging technologies, and put an end to regulation by enforcement. He also participated in the President\u2019s Working Group on Digital Asset Markets and contributed to its report on \u201cStrengthening American Leadership in Digital Financial Technology.\u201d\n\nPrior to government service, Chairman Selig was a partner at an international law firm, focusing on derivatives and securities regulatory matters. During his years in private practice, he represented a broad range of clients subject to regulation by the CFTC, including commercial end users, futures commission merchants, commodity trading advisors, swap dealers, designated contract markets, derivatives clearing organizations, and digital asset firms.\n\nFlyover Fintech conferences feature a wide variety of speakers, ranging from members of the House Financial Services Committee to leading voices in the fintech industry. Additional speakers and panelists for Flyover Fintech 2026 will be announced in the coming months.\n\nRegistration for the conference is now open at www.flyoverfintech.com. Additional details about the location and information about hotels and travel are also available there.\n\nQuestions about the conference can be directed to Will Coup at will.coup@mail.house.gov.", 1, "2026-06-27T06:16:17Z", "2026-06-27T06:17:30Z"], ["https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases/smith-house-floor-e15-winning-solution", "Smith on the House Floor: E15 is the Winning Solution", "2026-05-14", "2026", "2026-05", "Republican", "House", "NE", "Adrian Smith", "S001172", "adriansmith.house.gov", "adriansmith", "https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "To my colleagues in Congress, I urge you to stand with America\u2019s consumers, America\u2019s farmers, and America\u2019s energy future by making nationwide, year-round E15 a reality. Together, we can finally deliver the certainty, affordability, and energy independence the American people deserve.\n\nToday, Congressman Adrian Smith (NE-03), co-chair of the Biofuels Caucus, took to the House Floor to urge his colleagues to cement America\u2019s energy independence by passing his Nationwide Consumer and Fuel Retailer Choice Act.\n\nDuring his remarks, Smith highlighted how a vote for nationwide, year-round E15 is a vote for America\u2019s consumers, America\u2019s farmers, and America\u2019s energy future. By making nationwide, year-round E15 a reality, Congress would provide immediate relief for consumers at the pump, deliver much-needed market certainty for farmers, and achieve President Trump\u2019s goal of American energy independence.\n\nImage\n\nClick the image above to watch a video of Smith\u2019s remarks\n\nClick here to download audio\n\nClick here to download video", 1, "2026-06-13T06:32:19Z", "2026-06-13T06:34:27Z"], ["https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases/housing-insurance-chairman-flood-calls-passage-bipartisan-amendment-21st", "Housing & Insurance Chairman Flood Calls for Passage of Bipartisan Amendment to the 21st Century ROAD to Housing Act", "2026-05-14", "2026", "2026-05", "Republican", "House", "NE", "Mike Flood", "F000474", "flood.house.gov", "flood", "https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Today, U.S. Congressman Mike Flood, who serves as Chairman of the Housing & Insurance Subcommittee, released a statement following the announcement of amended text to the \u201c21st Century ROAD to Housing Act.\u201d The amendment, posted by House Leadership last night, includes several of Congressman Flood\u2019s bills and housing priorities.\n\n\u201cThe strong, bipartisan work reflected in this amended housing bill delivers on President Trump\u2019s goal of making housing affordable again,\u201d said Congressman Flood. \u201cThe commonsense, pro-growth measures included in the amended version of the '21st Century ROAD to Housing Act' not only prevent large institutional investors from undermining working families\u2019 ability to own a home but also cut barriers so we can unleash our nation\u2019s homebuilders. It\u2019s time to pass this amended housing bill, which reflects meaningful bicameral input, so it can be signed by President Trump and deliver relief for families.\u201d\n\nIn addition to serving as Chairman of the Housing & Insurance Subcommittee, Congressman Flood is the Chairman of the Republican Main Street Caucus.\n\nThe amended text of the \"21st Century ROAD to Housing Act\u201d can be found here. Legislation Congressman Flood previously introduced that are included in the amended version of the housing bill are detailed below:\n\nThe HOME Reform Act\n\n\u201cAmerica is in the midst of a housing crisis as families struggle to live the American dream due to the shortage of millions of homes,\u201d said Congressman Flood. \u201cThe HOME program is a federal program that builds housing supply, but it has previously been weighed down by regulatory burdens that make it hard to build housing. The reforms in this legislation will result in more homebuilding across the country as we work to tackle our nation\u2019s housing shortage. From Columbus, Nebraska to Columbus, Ohio and beyond, local communities will have an unprecedented opportunity to build affordable homes and directly address the housing crisis gripping our nation.\u201d\n\nThe \"HOME Reform Act\" modernizes the HOME Investment Partnership Program by exempting projects from NEPA and Build America, Buy America requirements as well as establishing a \u201csmall project\u201d exemption under Section 3 of the HUD Act of 1968. The bill raises income eligibility to 100% of area median income, extends the time communities have to commit funds, updates definitions of affordable single and multifamily housing, as well as allows funds to be used for infrastructure tied directly to new housing, such as sidewalks, sewers, and utility connections.\n\nRead the initial press release on the \"HOME Reform Act\" here. The bill was co-introduced by Housing & Insurance Subcommittee Ranking Member Emanuel Cleaver (D-MO).\n\nThe Streamlining Manufactured Housing Standards Act\n\n\u201cAmerica has been grappling with a housing crisis and cutting red tape is one of the key tools to helping home builders create more housing,\u201d said Congressman Flood. \u201cManufactured homes have historically been built to a HUD code, and in order to make manufactured homes a cost-effective option for consumers we must ensure that HUD has primary authority over all manufactured housing standards.\u201d\n\nThe \"Streamlining Manufactured Housing Standards Act\" clarifies that the Department of Housing and Urban Development is the primary regulator as it relates to all manufactured housing building standards.\n\nRead the initial press release on the \"Streamlining Manufactured Housing Starts Act\" here. The bill was co-introduced by Housing & Insurance Subcommittee Ranking Member Emanuel Cleaver (D-MO).\n\nUnlocking Housing Supply Through Streamlined and Modernized Reviews Act\n\n\u201cThe Unlocking Supply Through Streamlined and Modernized Reviews Act is an important step towards increasing housing supply in America,\u201d said Congressman Flood. \u201cEnvironmental reviews can slow housing projects by months- or even years. Currently, those reviews are not properly tailored to the size and scale of housing projects. This legislation is a meaningful step towards fixing that problem.\u201d\n\nThe \"Unlocking Housing Supply Through Streamlined and Modernized Reviews Act\" streamlines the environmental review process for a range of Department of Housing and Urban Development building activities.\n\nRead the initial press release on the \"Unlocking Housing Supply Through Streamlined and Modernized Reviews Act\" here. The bill was co-introduced by Congressman Sam Liccardo (D-CA).\n\nLeast Cost Exception Act", 1, "2026-06-24T06:25:30Z", "2026-06-24T06:26:49Z"], ["https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases/smith-celebrates-house-passage-his-nationwide-year-round-e15-legislation", "Smith Celebrates House Passage of His Nationwide, Year-Round E15 Legislation", "2026-05-13", "2026", "2026-05", "Republican", "House", "NE", "Adrian Smith", "S001172", "adriansmith.house.gov", "adriansmith", "https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Today, Congressman Adrian Smith (NE-03), co-chair of the Biofuels Caucus, released the following statement after his Nationwide Consumer and Fuel Retailer Choice Act passed the U.S. House of Representatives with bipartisan support:\n\n\u201cToday\u2019s House passage of my Nationwide Consumer and Fuel Retailer Choice Act marks a historic win for America\u2019s consumers, farmers, and energy independence. For over a decade, I have championed nationwide, year-round E15 to end years of patchwork regulations and expand much-needed market access for Nebraska\u2019s biofuels producers. While I am grateful for the bipartisan support of my colleagues today, I know there is still more work to do. I urge the Senate to take up this bill and send it to President Trump\u2019s desk so he can sign it into law and make nationwide, year-round E15 a reality once and for all.\u201d\n\nBackground:\n\nSmith has championed year-round E15 since 2015, when he first introduced a bill to allow year-round E15 during the 114th Congress. Over the past decade, Smith has been leading the charge to bring agriculture, biofuel, and petroleum stakeholders together in order to deliver regulatory relief and certainty.\n\nIn 2025, he introduced the Nationwide Consumer and Fuel Retailer Choice Act of 2025 to break down the remaining barriers and unlock the full potential of nationwide year-round E15, further advancing America\u2019s energy independence. In the U.S. Senate, Senator Deb Fischer (R-NE) introduced companion legislation.\n\nAfter falling short in January, Smith led the charge to secure the House passage of nationwide, year-round E15, and will continue to work with his colleagues in the Senate to send his legislation to President Trump\u2019s desk, where he will sign it into law.\n\nIn addition to Smith, the Nationwide Consumer and Fuel Retailer Choice Act was championed by U.S. Representatives Angie Craig (D-MN), Dusty Johnson (R-SD), Nikki Budzinski (D-IL), Mariannette Miller-Meeks (R-IA), Sharice Davids (D-KS), Mike Flood (R-NE), Mike Bost (R-IL), Max Miller (R-OH), Mary Miller (R-IL), Brad Finstad (R-MN), Ron Estes (R-KS), Darin LaHood (R- IL), Derrick Van Orden (R- WI), Zach Nunn (R-IA), Eric Sorensen (D-IL), Robin Kelly (D-IL), Mark Alford (R-MO), Dave Taylor (R-OH), Randy Feenstra (R-IA), Tracey Mann (R-KS), Ashley Hinson (R-IA), Michelle Fischbach (R-MN), Don Bacon (R-NE), Derek Schmidt (R-KS), Michael Guest (R-MS), Emanuel Cleaver (D-MO), Kristen McDonald Rivet (D-MI), and Don Davis (D-NC).", 1, "2026-06-12T06:37:16Z", "2026-06-12T06:39:00Z"], ["https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=2896", "During National Police Week, Bacon and Gottheimer Introduce Bipartisan \u201cStop the Doxx Act\u201d to Protect Law Enforcement Officers and their Families", "2026-05-13", "2026", "2026-05", "Republican", "House", "NE", "Don Bacon", "B001298", "bacon.house.gov", "bacon", "https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 To mark National Police Week, U.S. Representative Don Bacon (NE-02) alongside Representatives Josh Gottheimer (NJ-05) and Congresswoman Elise Stefanik (NY-21) introduced a bipartisan federal bill to protect law enforcement officers and their families from doxxing \u2014 the publishing of personal information online to threaten, intimidate, or facilitate violence \u2014 and the Police Athletic/Activities League (PAL) Reauthorization Act.\n\n\u201cThose who protect our communities and uphold the rule of law deserve protection from threats, intimidation, and violence,\u201d said Rep. Bacon. \u201cThe Stop the Doxx Act makes clear that weaponizing personal information against law enforcement, prosecutors, judges, or their families is unacceptable and must carry real consequences. With threats and intimidation against these public servants continuing to rise, this legislation is needed now. I look forward to working with Rep. Gottheimer to get this bipartisan legislation signed into law.\u201d\n\n\u201cYou can\u2019t protect our communities if you can\u2019t protect the people who sacrifice so much for us,\u201d said Rep. Gottheimer. \u201cDoxxing isn\u2019t harmless online behavior. It is targeted intimidation against the people who keep our families safe, and the law has simply not kept up with the threat. We must always get the backs of those who risk their lives every day to protect us, and that means making sure they and their families are safe both on the job and at home.\u201d", 1, "2026-05-14T06:11:37Z", "2026-05-14T06:12:56Z"], ["https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-flood-house-passage-year-round-e-15-supports-farmers-families-and", "Congressman Flood: \u2018House-Passage of Year-Round E-15 Supports Farmers, Families, and Rural America'", "2026-05-13", "2026", "2026-05", "Republican", "House", "NE", "Mike Flood", "F000474", "flood.house.gov", "flood", "https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Today, U.S. Congressman Mike Flood issued a statement following house-passage of H.R. 1346, also known as the \u201cNationwide Consumer and Fuel Retailer Choice Act.\u201d Congressman Flood is a cosponsor of the legislation, which lifts restrictions on the sale of 10 to 15 percent ethanol nationwide.\n\n\u201cFor years, corn growers, working families, and President Trump have pushed for E15 to compete fairly as a nationwide fuel option,\u201d said Congressman Flood. \u201cToday, the House finally took action and passed this commonsense answer to lower costs at the pump and expand domestic markets for our producers. Nationwide sale of E-15 supports farmers, families, and rural America and is set to be a boon for Nebraska. I look forward to Senate passage and President Trump\u2019s signature so families can finally have more choice and support our farmers at the pump.\u201d\n\nCongressman Flood delivered remarks ahead of votes, which can be found by clicking here. News outlets are welcomed to use the recordings for their reporting purposes.", 1, "2026-06-18T06:41:00Z", "2026-06-18T06:43:25Z"], ["https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases/ne-delegation-urges-major-disaster-declaration-wildfires-letter-trump", "NE Delegation Urges Major Disaster Declaration for Wildfires in Letter to Trump", "2026-05-12", "2026", "2026-05", "Republican", "House", "NE", "Adrian Smith", "S001172", "adriansmith.house.gov", "adriansmith", "https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Today, U.S. Senators Deb Fischer (R-NE) and Pete Ricketts (R-NE), and U.S. Representatives Mike Flood (NE-01), Don Bacon (NE-02), and Adrian Smith (NE-03) sent a letter to President Donald Trump supporting Nebraska Governor Jim Pillen\u2019s request for a major disaster declaration following wildfires across the state.\n\nRead the letter below:\n\nDear Mr. President:\n\nWe write in support of Governor Jim Pillen\u2019s request for a major disaster declaration, which followed wildfires that have broken out and forced evacuations, for the Nebraska counties of Arthur, Garden, Grant, Lincoln and Morrill Counties over periods during March and April of 2026.\n\nThe Morrill, Cottonwood, Ashby, and Minor Fires collectively burned over 800,000 acres across Nebraska, with the Morrill Fire alone burning over 640,000 acres, a Nebraska record. Extreme drought combined with high winds and low humidity led to unpredictable behavior and mass destruction.\n\nWe know our Nebraskan communities will prove their resilience as they continue to recover from this hardship, as they have exhibited many times in previous years. We encourage the federal government to join with the state in their ongoing efforts to contain these wildfires and provide assistance where it is needed.\n\nWe stand ready and willing to assist in any way possible to ensure prompt evaluation of this request. Please do not hesitate to contact our offices with any questions.\n\nClick here to view a copy of the transmitted letter.", 1, "2026-06-10T06:36:00Z", "2026-06-10T06:37:32Z"], ["https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases/smith-sets-record-straight-nationwide-year-round-e15", "Smith Sets the Record Straight on Nationwide, Year-Round E15", "2026-05-12", "2026", "2026-05", "Republican", "House", "NE", "Adrian Smith", "S001172", "adriansmith.house.gov", "adriansmith", "https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Today, Congressman Adrian Smith (NE-03), co-chair of the biofuels caucus, joined a bipartisan group of his colleagues at a press conference urging Congress to lower prices at the pump for consumers and increase much-needed market access for ag producers by passing his Nationwide Consumer and Fuel Retailer Choice Act.\n\nDuring his remarks, Smith set the record straight by debunking E15 opponents' false claims while encouraging his colleagues to support commonsense policy as opposed to political gamesmanship. Smith was joined by National Corn Growers Association President Jed Bower, along with U.S. Representatives Nikki Budzinski (IL-13), Michelle Fischbach (MN-07), and Shontel Brown (OH-11).\n\nImage\n\nClick the image above to watch a video of Smith\u2019s remarks\n\nClick here to download audio\n\nClick here to download video", 1, "2026-06-12T06:37:16Z", "2026-06-12T06:39:00Z"], ["https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=2895", "Bacon, Raskin and Dexter Introduce Bipartisan Legislation to Protect Pension Payments for NOAA Corps, U.S. Public Health Service Commissioned Corps", "2026-05-12", "2026", "2026-05", "Republican", "House", "NE", "Don Bacon", "B001298", "bacon.house.gov", "bacon", "https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx", "scraper", "\u201cNOAA Corps and U.S. Public Health Service Commissioned Corps officers serve our nation in moments of crisis, from hurricane response and environmental disasters to disease outbreaks at home and overseas,\u201d said Rep. Bacon. \u201cThese uniformed officers have answered the call in national emergencies and times of war, and they deserve a retirement structure that recognizes that service. I\u2019m pleased to co-lead the bipartisan Pensions for Uniformed Services Retirees Act with Rep. Raskin to ensure all members of the uniformed services are treated fairly.\u201d\n\n\u201cNOAA Corps officers and USPHS Commissioned Corps officers have made immeasurable sacrifices for the health and safety of our people over decades of public service,\u201d said Rep. Raskin. \u201cOur bipartisan legislation will mean these patriots will get the pensions they earned so they don\u2019t go hungry or struggle to pay their rent or mortgage during a government shutdown.\u201d\n\n\u201cThe Commissioned Officers Association is pleased to endorse this important legislation, which would provide a stable and reliable financial foundation for retirement pay for members of the U.S. Public Health Service Commissioned Corps and the NOAA Commissioned Officer Corps,\u201d said CAPT. Jacqueline Rychnovsky, USN (Ret.), Executive Director of the Commissioned Officers Association of the United States Public Health Service. \u201cTransitioning from annual discretionary appropriations to the Department of Defense Military Retirement Fund \u2014 which currently supports retirement pay for the other six uniformed services \u2014 would help ensure that USPHS and NOAA Corps retirees are never again at risk of missing a paycheck during a government shutdown.\u201d\n\n\u201cAll who serve our nation in uniform have earned their benefits, to include consistent and reliable retirement payments,\" said Lt. Gen. Brian Kelly, USAF (Ret.), President and CEO of the Military Officers Association of America. \"MOAA strongly supports this legislation, which takes an important step toward ensuring parity across all uniformed services by aligning retirement funding for the USPHS and NOAA commissioned officer retirees with the existing Military Retirement Fund.\u201d\n\nEstablished upon the outbreak of World War I, NOAA Corps Officers command ships and aircraft and support emergency response efforts, including hurricane response and oil spill mitigation. They lead a fleet of vessels and aircraft used for everything from deep ocean research to flying into hurricanes, and they can be brought into the armed services whenever the President requires their expertise.\n\nThe U.S. Public Health Service Commissioned Corps was established in 1889 to root out smallpox and yellow fever and is now the largest public health program in the world. Driven by a passion for public service, the Commissioned Corps officers respond to public health crises and national emergencies such as natural disasters, disease outbreaks, and terrorist attacks, both at home and overseas.\n\nThe Pensions for Retired Uniformed Servicemembers Act is endorsed by the Military Officers Association of America and the Commissioned Officers Association.\n\nRead the full legislation here.", 1, "2026-05-13T06:12:22Z", "2026-05-13T06:13:52Z"], ["https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-flood-celebrates-2026-congressional-art-competition-winners", "Congressman Flood Celebrates 2026 Congressional Art Competition Winners", "2026-05-11", "2026", "2026-05", "Republican", "House", "NE", "Mike Flood", "F000474", "flood.house.gov", "flood", "https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "LINCOLN, NEBRASKA \u2013 Today, U.S. Congressman Mike Flood announced the winner and three honorees of the 2026 Congressional Art Competition for Nebraska\u2019s First Congressional District. The winner\u2019s artwork will be displayed in the U.S. Capitol alongside other Congressional Art Competition winners from across the country. The three honorees\u2019 pieces will be displayed in Congressman Flood\u2019s Washington, D.C. office as well as in his District Office in Lincoln, NE.\n\nWinner: Janiyah Willis, Bellevue West. \u201cCrash Landing\u201d will be displayed in the U.S. Capitol Building.\n\nHonorable Mention: Ethan Webb, Lincoln North Star. \u201cApple Island\u201d will be displayed in the Washington, D.C. office.\n\nHonorable Mention: Kara Meyer, Bancroft Rosalie High School. \u201cDay Dream\u201d will be displayed in the District Office.\n\nHonorable Mention: Lannie McDowell, Elmwood-Murdock High School. \u201cKey to My Heart\" will be displayed in the District Office.\n\n\u201cYear after year, I am impressed by the artwork created by students across the First District,\u201d said Congressman Flood. \u201cCongratulations to this year\u2019s honorable mentions, as well as to Art Competition winner Janiyah Willis for her captivating first-place painting. I am beyond glad to display the work of our talented artists in the U.S. Capitol and in our congressional offices.\u201d\n\n\u201cAll submissions were reviewed and evaluated by an independent panel of art professionals. I want to extend my sincerest gratitude to each of them for generously donating their time, expertise, and dedication to this competition.\"", 1, "2026-06-17T06:49:24Z", "2026-06-17T06:50:53Z"], ["https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=2894", "Bacon Office, State Department to Host Passport Fair in Omaha", "2026-05-06", "2026", "2026-05", "Republican", "House", "NE", "Don Bacon", "B001298", "bacon.house.gov", "bacon", "https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx", "scraper", "Omaha, Neb. \u2013 The office of U.S. Representative Don Bacon (NE-02), in partnership with the U.S. Department of State, will host a passport fair on Tuesday, May 19, 2026, from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. CT at Mutual First Credit Union to help constituents complete and submit passport applications.\n\nThe fair will be staffed by district office personnel and a team of U.S. Department of State consular specialists. Because the House of Representatives will be in session, Rep. Bacon will be in Washington, D.C. and not be in attendance.\n\nThe passport fair is open to the public and aims to make the application process more accessible for those seeking new or renewed passports. A team of nine consular officials will be on-site and expects to assist approximately 180 constituents through scheduled appointments.\n\nPassport fees still apply. Payment must be made by credit card, and applicants are encouraged to bring a passport photo along with their application materials. The fair is intended to streamline the application process and provide in-person assistance.\n\nAppointments are required and must be scheduled at the following link: https://www.jotform.com/build/261205947101045\n\nEvent Details\n\nDate: Tuesday, May 19, 2026\n\nTime: 9:00 a.m. \u2013 3:00 p.m. CT (Last appointment slot at 2:30 p.m.)\n\nLocation: Mutual First Credit Union\n\n14510 F St., Suite 101\n\nOmaha, NE 68137\n\nDirections\n\nThe event will be held in the basement of the building. Upon arrival, take the elevators down to the basement level, make a left, and proceed to the end of the hall.\n\n###", 1, "2026-05-07T13:38:59Z", "2026-05-07T13:40:28Z"], ["https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases/smith-house-floor-honoring-life-bob-busch", "Smith on House Floor: Honoring the Life of Bob Busch", "2026-05-01", "2026", "2026-05", "Republican", "House", "NE", "Adrian Smith", "S001172", "adriansmith.house.gov", "adriansmith", "https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "This week, Congressman Adrian Smith (NE-03) took to the House Floor to pay tribute to Robert \u201cBob\u201d Busch, charter board member of Western Sugar Cooperative.\n\nImage\n\nClick the image above to watch a video of Smith\u2019s remarks\n\nClick here to download audio\n\nClick here to download video", 1, "2026-06-02T06:40:38Z", "2026-06-02T06:42:17Z"], ["https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-flood-co-leads-bipartisan-bicameral-effort-establish-transparent", "Congressman Flood Co-Leads Bipartisan, Bicameral Effort to Establish Transparent Labeling of Fake Meat", "2026-05-01", "2026", "2026-05", "Republican", "House", "NE", "Mike Flood", "F000474", "flood.house.gov", "flood", "https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Yesterday, U.S. Congressman Mike Flood (NE-01) joined Congressmen Mark Alford (MO-04) and Buddy Carter (GA-01) along with Senators Pete Ricketts (R-NE) and John Fetterman (D-PA) in introducing the \"Fair and Accurate Ingredient Representation on Labels Act,\" also known as the \"FAIR Labels Act.\" The bill formalizes the labeling of plant-based and cell-cultivated (lab-grown) protein products so consumers can have accurate information when making purchasing decisions.\n\n\u201cNebraska is the Beef State and raising livestock has long been part of Nebraska\u2019s identity,\u201d said Congressman Flood (NE-01). \u201cFamilies deserve to know exactly what they are putting on their tables, not to be confused by deceptive labeling and marketing tricks. Meanwhile, our farmers and ranchers continue to be undercut by the fake meat industry\u2019s labeling. Thank you to Congressman Alford for his leadership in introducing this commonsense bill, which will finally bring about honest labeling of fake meat products and better inform consumers when making choices at the grocery store.\u201d\n\n\"American families deserve to know exactly what they\u2019re eating,\u201d said Congressman Alford (MO-04). \u201cReal meat from hardworking ranchers should be clearly labeled, not hidden behind misleading plant-based or lab-grown alternatives. Our farmers and ranchers work from dawn to dusk raising nutritious meat. They deserve a fair playing field. That\u2019s why I\u2019m proud to introduce the FAIR Labels Act of 2026. Missouri led the nation on honest labeling. Now we\u2019re taking that fight to Washington.\u201d\n\n\"The FAIR Labels Act ensures that Americans know what they are purchasing and feeding to themselves and their families. This is about transparency and consistency,\" said Congressman Buddy Carter (GA-01). \"Plant-based and lab-grown meat needs to be clearly labeled so consumers can make informed decisions at the grocery store.\u201d\n\n\u201cDeceptive labeling of plant-based protein products hurts American farmers and ranchers. It also degrades consumer trust,\u201d said Senator Ricketts (R-NE). \u201cBy enhancing oversight and enforcing stricter labeling regulations, we can protect Nebraska beef. The FAIR Labels Act is common-sense: Americans should know exactly what they\u2019re putting in their grocery cart.\u201d\n\n\"The hardworking farmers in Pennsylvania and across our country that feed all of us with real ingredients have to unfairly compete with misleading labels of alternative meats,\" said Senator Fetterman (D-PA). \"Folks can be in the pro-bio slop caucus, but I\u2019m in the pro-ribeye one. I'm proud to support the FAIR Labels Act to protect our farmers and all consumers who buy their great products.\"\n\nThe \"Fair Labels Act\" establishes definitions for \u201cCell-Cultivated\u201d and \u201cPlant-Based Alternative\u201d protein products, with oversight and inspection standards being conducted by the U.S. Department of Agriculture and the Food and Drug Administration. The labels themselves will have a clear disclaimer if the product does not contain meat or poultry, along with terms like \u201ccell-cultivated,\u201d \u201cplant-based,\u201d or other similar descriptors being used.", 1, "2026-06-16T06:53:21Z", "2026-06-16T06:55:02Z"], ["https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-flood-celebrates-farm-bills-house-passage-farm-bill-not-only", "Congressman Flood Celebrates Farm Bill\u2019s House Passage: 'The Farm Bill Not Only Modernizes Key Ag Programs, it Also Invests in the Future of Our Ag Economy\u2019", "2026-04-30", "2026", "2026-04", "Republican", "House", "NE", "Mike Flood", "F000474", "flood.house.gov", "flood", "https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Today, U.S. Congressman Mike Flood (NE-01) issued a statement following House passage of H.R. 7567, the \u201cFarm, Food, and National Security Act,\u201d also known as the \u201cFarm Bill.\u201d\n\n\u201cIt has been nearly eight years since the last time a new Farm Bill framework was passed. This new Farm Bill framework not only modernizes key ag programs to better serve our farmers and ranchers today, but it also invests in the future of our agricultural economy. Importantly, the 2026 Farm Bill supports ag research while protecting and expanding key programs such as crop insurance, market access and USDA Rural Development.\n\nThe legislation includes investments in rural broadband; expanded rural healthcare and rural childcare access; support for new, young, beginning, and veteran farmers transitioning to farming; incentives for innovation and technology, including investments in precision agriculture; and more. I look forward to this much-needed framework moving to the Senate and ultimately reaching President Trump\u2019s desk,\u201d said Congressman Flood.\n\nTen of Congressman Flood\u2019s\u2013supported bills, including ones he signed on as a cosponsor or co-lead, were included in the 2026 Farm Bill:\n\nH.R. 575 (Baird, R-IN) \u2013 Increased TSP Access Act of 2023 \u2013 original cosponsor\n\nH.R. 1207 (Mann, R-KS) \u2013 To Transfer the Authorities of the Food for Peace Act from the U.S. Agency for International Development to the Department of Agriculture \u2013 cosponsor\n\nH.R. 5459 (Flood, R-NE) \u2013 Precision Agriculture Workforce Training and Development Act \u2013 sponsor\n\nH.R. 5468 (T. Kelly, R-MS) \u2013 Community College Agriculture Advancement Act of 2025 \u2013 cosponsor\n\nH.R. 5854 (Neguse, D-CO) \u2013 Sustainable Agriculture Research Act \u2013 co-lead\n\nH.R. 4764 (Miller-Meeks, R-IA) \u2013 Biochar Research Network Act of 2025 \u2013 sponsor\n\nH.R. 1719 (Miller, R-OH) \u2013 Farm to Fly Act of 2025 \u2013 co-lead\n\nH.R. 4832 (Alford, R-MO) \u2013 Biomanufacturing and Jobs Act of 2025 \u2013 cosponsor\n\nH.R 4673 (Hinson, R-IA) \u2013 Save Our Bacon Act \u2013 original cosponsor\n\nH.R. 1995 (Hinson, R-IA) \u2013 Securing American Agriculture Act \u2013 cosponsor", 1, "2026-06-13T06:32:19Z", "2026-06-13T06:34:27Z"], ["https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=2893", "Bacon, Nunn, Moore Introduce Bipartisan Package to Keep Foster Siblings Together", "2026-04-29", "2026", "2026-04", "Republican", "House", "NE", "Don Bacon", "B001298", "bacon.house.gov", "bacon", "https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2013 U.S. Representatives Don Bacon (NE-02), Zach Nunn (IA-03), and Gwen Moore (WI-04), Co-Chairs of the Congressional Caucus on Foster Youth, today introduced the Protecting Sibling Relationships in Foster Care Act and a resolution recognizing April as National Foster Sibling Connections Month, a bipartisan package to help keep foster siblings together.\n\nThe Protecting Sibling Relationships in Foster Care Act would authorize $10 million in federal appropriations over a five-year period and direct the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) to establish a competitive pilot grant program supporting specialized foster care models designed for large sibling groups, siblings with wide age ranges, or those with complex needs. Eligible state, tribal, local, faith-based, and nonprofit entities could receive one of up to five grants to develop or expand models that increase the likelihood that siblings are placed together and remain together while in care. Grantees would collect and report placement data and outcomes to inform federal and state child welfare practice.\n\nThe bipartisan resolution recognizes April as National Foster Sibling Connections Month and highlights the importance of sibling bonds for youth in foster care. By calling on federal, state, tribal, and local agencies to prioritize joint placements and improve data collection, the resolution seeks to reduce trauma and ensure emotional stability for youth both during and after their time in care.\n\n\u201cKeeping siblings together in the foster care system significantly increases their chance of having positive life outcomes,\u201d said Rep. Bacon, Congressional Caucus on Foster Youth Co-Chair. \u201cAs a foster-to-adoptive parent of a sibling group, this bipartisan foster care package helps address the unique challenges faced by families caring for sibling groups with large numbers, wide age ranges, and complex needs. We have a responsibility to support children in foster care with stable, loving homes that keep families connected.\u201d\n\n\u201cWhen brothers and sisters enter foster care, staying together can be the difference between stability and a traumatic disruption in a young life. Kelly and I experienced this personally, adopting two daughters, two siblings, who had each other as they made a very difficult transition,\u201d said Rep. Nunn, Congressional Caucus on Foster Youth Co-Chair. \u201cI've worked with families navigating this system \u2014 and the biggest barrier to keeping siblings together isn't willingness, it's capacity. This bill funds the foster care models that can actually keep siblings together, and our resolution makes clear that Congress sees this as a priority.\u201d\n\n\u201cThe sibling bond is so important, and the foster care system must work to maintain it. But when siblings become separated in the foster care system, it can create more distress and pain for children and families,\u201d said Rep. Moore, Congressional Caucus on Foster Youth Co-Chair. \u201cOur bipartisan legislation would help develop better tools to successfully keep siblings together, especially in complex situations. I am proud to join my fellow Congressional Caucus on Foster Youth (CCFY) co-chairs in introducing this bipartisan legislation.\u201d\n\nBackground\n\nThe federal foster care system strives to place siblings together whenever possible, yet many children in care are separated from one or more of their brothers or sisters due to logistical challenges, varying ages, behavioral health needs, or limited placement capacity. Strong sibling relationships are widely recognized as a critical source of emotional support and stability for children navigating the trauma of family separation, but current federal law\u2019s \u201creasonable efforts\u201d requirement does not ensure specialized infrastructure or funding to support placement of large sibling groups, siblings with wide age ranges, or those with complex needs.\n\nAccording to the Government Accountability Office (GAO), states face significant barriers to placing siblings together, particularly when sibling groups are large, span wide age ranges, or require specialized care. Some reports estimate that as many as 75% of foster children are placed apart from one or more of their siblings.\n\nThis foster care package aims to help address those gaps by supporting foster care models better equipped to serve sibling groups.\n\nThe full text of the Protecting Sibling Relationships in Foster Care Act is available here, and the resolution recognizing April as National Foster Sibling Connections Month is available here.\n\n###", 1, "2026-04-30T06:05:15Z", "2026-04-30T06:07:09Z"], ["https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases/smith-matsui-introduce-bipartisan-bill-expand-access-life-saving-ivig", "Smith, Matsui Introduce Bipartisan Bill to Expand Access to Life-Saving IVIG Treatment", "2026-04-27", "2026", "2026-04", "Republican", "House", "NE", "Adrian Smith", "S001172", "adriansmith.house.gov", "adriansmith", "https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Today, U.S. Representatives Adrian Smith (R-NE-03) and Doris Matsui (D-CA-07) introduced the PI Post Acute Access Act to expand access to life-saving care for individuals with primary immunodeficiencies (PI). Their bipartisan legislation would create a dedicated payment within Medicare for Skilled Nursing Facilities (SNF) to provide intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG) treatments onsite. This would prevent dangerous treatment delays, reduce avoidable hospitalizations, and ensure vulnerable patients get the care they need when and where they need it.\n\n\"Outdated billing measures should not prevent vulnerable patients from receiving lifesaving care when and where they need it. I am proud to join Congresswoman Matsui in introducing our bipartisan PI Post Acute Access Act to cut red tape and ensure that PI patients have access to the critical care they need,\u201d said Smith.\n\n\u201cPatients living with primary immunodeficiencies should not have to fight through red tape to get the care they need to stay healthy and safe. For many families, timely access to IVIG treatment can mean the difference between stability and a serious medical crisis. I have long worked to protect access to these life-saving therapies, and the PI Post Acute Access Act builds on that commitment by helping ensure Medicare beneficiaries can continue receiving essential treatment in nursing facilities. No one should be left behind simply because of where they are receiving care,\u201d said Matsui.\n\n\"For Medicare beneficiaries living with primary immunodeficiency, access to life-saving IVIG therapy should never depend on where they receive care. This bill ensures that patients who need skilled nursing services are not forced to choose between essential care and the medication they need to survive. By creating a targeted payment solution, Congress can protect a vulnerable group and uphold the promise of equitable access for all patients, including those living with a rare condition,\u201dsaid Jorey Berry, President & CEO of the Immune Deficiency Foundation.\n\nClick here to read the full text of the bill.", 1, "2026-05-23T06:08:46Z", "2026-05-23T06:10:20Z"], ["https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressmen-flood-and-neguse-re-introduce-bill-supporting-precision-ag", "Congressmen Flood and Neguse Re-Introduce Bill Supporting Precision Ag Research", "2026-04-27", "2026", "2026-04", "Republican", "House", "NE", "Mike Flood", "F000474", "flood.house.gov", "flood", "https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Today, U.S. Congressman Mike Flood (R-NE) and Congressman Joe Neguse (D-CO) re-introduced the \u201cPrecision Agriculture Workforce Training and Development Act.\u201d This bipartisan legislation encourages the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) to invest in hands-on, precision agriculture programs for students.\n\n\u201cNebraska continues to be at the forefront of precision ag research,\u201d said Congressman Flood. \u201cAs universities and colleges expand these programs, the USDA should be there to support this growing field. Thank you to Rep. Neguse for joining this effort to modernize our ag economy and better train the next generation of farmers and ranchers nationwide.\u201d\n\nThe Precision Ag Workforce Development Act will add \u201cPrecision Agriculture Workforce Development\u201d to the USDA\u2019s high priority research areas. Additionally, the bill provides special consideration for institutions that offer cooperative education programs under the Agriculture and Food Research Initiative (AFRI).", 1, "2026-06-04T06:38:12Z", "2026-06-04T06:39:44Z"], ["https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-flood-co-leads-bipartisan-resolution-designating-april-18th", "Congressman Flood Co-Leads Bipartisan Resolution Designating April 18th 'National Lineman Appreciation Day'", "2026-04-24", "2026", "2026-04", "Republican", "House", "NE", "Mike Flood", "F000474", "flood.house.gov", "flood", "https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 This week, U.S. Congressman Mike Flood (R-NE) joined Congressman David Rouzer (R-NC), Congresswoman Deborah Ross (D-NC), and Congresswoman Marie Gluesenkamp Perez (D-WA) in introducing a bipartisan resolution designating April 18, 2026, as \u201cNational Lineman Appreciation Day,\u201d honoring the more than 115,000 linemen working across the country.\n\nThe resolution commends the remarkable contributions of linemen to communities across the nation. Cosponsored by 57 Members of Congress, this resolution underscores the essential role linemen play in maintaining a safe and reliable power supply \u2013 especially in the wake of natural disasters.\n\n\u201cAcross the country, linemen play a crucial role in driving economic growth and ensuring that the lights stay on,\u201d said Congressman Flood. \u201cI am glad to support this resolution recognizing their hard work, as linemen often operate high above the ground, through severe weather, and in other extreme conditions to maintain infrastructure critical for our communities. Thank you to Reps. Rouzer, Ross, and Gluesenkamp Perez for leading this effort and recognizing their tireless work.\u201d\n\n\u201cOur nation\u2019s linemen step up without hesitation, often operating in dangerous conditions to restore power and help communities recover from natural disasters,\u201d said Congressman Rouzer. \u201cThese dedicated men and women work tirelessly to keep the power on and their service deserves our gratitude and deepest respect. What would we do without them?!\u201d\n\n\u201cRain or shine, dedicated lineworkers make sure North Carolinians have power all year round,\u201d said Congresswoman Ross. \u201cDuring natural disasters and record storms, lineworkers have been among the first people on the ground, getting electricity back up and running. Their commitment is what keeps the lights on across our communities and helps us stay connected. I\u2019m proud to join this bipartisan resolution to express our appreciation for the tough and often thankless work that linemen do every day.\u201d\n\n\u201cWhen things go right, no one thinks to thank linemen \u2013 and when things get rough, most think it\u2019s magic \u2013 it\u2019s our skilled, tough linemen we owe our gratitude. Their work is core to keeping our public power system reliable and affordable in Southwest Washington,\u201d said Congresswoman Gluesenkamp Perez. \u201cLinemen work around the clock in tough weather with backbreaking aerobics and masterful skill \u2013 and I\u2019m so proud of their work and to fight on their team.\u201d\n\n\u201cThe lineman profession is a large organization, but it operates like a small family,\u201d said Karen Bosch, Managing Director for National Association of Journeymen Linemen and Bill Bosch, Northwest Lineman College (Founders of National Lineman's Appreciation Day). \u201cLinemen put others before themselves every day, and they are some of the most dedicated and remarkable people I know.\u201d", 1, "2026-05-22T06:27:39Z", "2026-05-22T06:29:18Z"], ["https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=2889", "Bacon Joins Bipartisan, Bicameral Legislation to Combat Russia\u2019s Attack on Religious Freedom", "2026-04-23", "2026", "2026-04", "Republican", "House", "NE", "Don Bacon", "B001298", "bacon.house.gov", "bacon", "https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2013 U.S. Representative Don Bacon (R-NE) joined Helsinki Commission Chairman Representative Joe Wilson (R-SC), Helsinki Commission Ranking Member Representative Steve Cohen (D-TN), and Representatives Brian Fitzpatrick (R-PA), Marcy Kaptur (D-OH), and Mike Quigley (D-IL) to introduce Countering Russia\u2019s War On Faith Act.\n\nCompanion legislation was introduced in the Senate by Senators John Kennedy (R-LA) and Sheldon Whitehouse, Ranking Member of the U.S. Helsinki Commission (D-RI).\n\nThis bipartisan legislation requires the Secretaries of State and Defense to jointly report on Russian efforts to persecute, suppress, and violate the religious freedoms of faith communities in Ukraine and Russian-occupied territories. It also directs the President to impose sanctions on foreign individuals found to have engaged in these actions.\n\n\u201cPutin\u2019s brutal invasion of Ukraine is not only an attack on a country that seeks democracy, free markets, and alignment with the West, but also includes a deliberate campaign to suppress and persecute religious communities,\u201d said Rep. Bacon. \u201cThe Countering Russia\u2019s War on Faith Act will ensure we fully document these abuses and hold those responsible accountable through sanctions. I\u2019m pleased to join Rep. Wilson and my colleagues in this bipartisan effort to stand up for religious liberty and the Ukrainian people.\u201d\n\n\u201cRussia targets and kills persons of faith as a matter of policy wherever it invades. War criminal Putin seeks to prevent free worship of all believers and crushes any faith not subservient to its state-run church and corrupt former KGB agent Patriarch Kirill or otherwise submit itself to repressive state control,\u201d said Rep. Wilson, Co-Chair of the Congressional Ukraine Caucus. \u201cBelievers in the temporarily occupied territories of Ukraine are targeted with particular ferocity. It is critical that we counter Russia\u2019s War on Faith.\u201d\n\n\u201cPutin is a war criminal conducting genocide in Ukraine. He is also attempting to erase expressions of Ukrainian identity, including religious freedoms. This legislation makes plain that these human rights violations will be a focus of our foreign policy and that the United States will always defend religious liberty,\u201d said Rep. Cohen.\n\n\u201cRussia\u2019s war in Ukraine is not only an assault on sovereignty\u2014it is a calculated, systemic assault on religious freedom. For Americans, the freedom to worship is among our most fundamental liberties, and we do not stand by when it is crushed by force. This legislation ensures these crimes are documented, perpetrators are identified, and real consequences follow. Peace through strength requires accountability, and the persecution of people of faith cannot be met with silence,\u201d said Rep. Fitzpatrick.\n\n\u201cRussia's widespread religious persecution in Ukraine dates back centuries, and is a horrific reminder that this new war of occupation was never just about land, but about forcible Russification and the erasure of Ukraine's pluralistic and free way of life,\" said Rep. Kaptur, Co-Founder and Co-Chair of the Congressional Ukraine Caucus. \u201cThis important legislation calls out the abuses committed by the Russian state and its agents against Ukrainian Christians, Jews, Muslims, and other faiths. Russia perversely portrays Ukraine as a persecutor of Christians, when it is Moscow that has destroyed over 600 churches, synagogues, mosques, and places of worship in Ukraine throughout this war. These new attacks are a shameful reminder of Russian pogroms and attacks on religious communities dating back centuries. The United States must hold these war criminals accountable and defend religious freedom and the right of all Ukrainians to worship as they choose.\u201d\n\n\u201cVladimir Putin's brutal war on Ukraine is not just about violating its sovereignty, but erasing the democratic values Ukraine has embraced. He seeks to erase freedom of religion in Ukraine by disproportionately targeting places of worship and practitioners of any religion other than his own,\" said Rep. Quigley. \"I am proud to cosponsor Rep. Wilson's Countering Russia\u2019s War on Faith Act to make it clear that those who burn churches, persecute religious communities, and try to erase religious diversity will be held accountable. The United States must lead with moral clarity by defending religious freedom and confronting Putin\u2019s abuses.\u201d\n\n\u201cReligious liberty is not a suggestion in America \u2013 it\u2019s one of our founding promises protected by the Constitution and lived out every day by generations of freedom-loving Americans. Anyone with a brain larger than a single cell organism knows that Vladimir Putin does not respect nor share that view. The Countering Russia\u2019s War on Faith Act shines a bright light on Putin\u2019s religious persecution and responds with real consequences,\u201d said Sen. Kennedy.\n\n\u201cPutin\u2019s murderous regime has repeatedly bombed places of worship, murdered clergy members, and persecuted Ukrainian communities not aligned with the Putin-allied Russian Orthodox Church. It\u2019s time for the U.S. to take a stand for religious freedom and explore sanctions against individuals engaging in these brutal human rights abuses in Ukraine,\u201d said Sen. Whitehouse.\n\nBackground\n\nSince Russia\u2019s full-scale invasion in 2022, over 600 churches, synagogues, mosques, and other religious sites have been damaged or destroyed, and more than 50 Ukrainian clergy have been killed. Protestant, Catholic, Crimean Tatar, and Orthodox Christian communities not aligned with the Russian Orthodox Church have faced raids, forced re-registration, and criminal prosecution. The Russian Orthodox Church, led by Patriarch Kirill of Moscow, has publicly described the invasion as a \u201choly war,\u201d providing ideological justification for systematic religious suppression in occupied territories.\n\nThe full text of HR-8433 (S-4379) is available here.\n\n###", 1, "2026-04-24T05:51:25Z", "2026-04-24T05:53:00Z"], ["https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases/smith-washington-times-unleashing-americas-energy-independence", "Smith in Washington Times: Unleashing America\u2019s Energy Independence", "2026-04-22", "2026", "2026-04", "Republican", "House", "NE", "Adrian Smith", "S001172", "adriansmith.house.gov", "adriansmith", "https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Today, Congressman Adrian Smith (NE-03) penned an op-ed in the Washington Times urging his colleagues in Congress to join him in unleashing America\u2019s energy independence by passing his Nationwide Consumer and Fuel Retailer Choice Act, making nationwide, year-round E15 a reality.\n\nClick here to read the op-ed in full or read an excerpt below:\n\nWe already know E15 works. It is compatible with 97% of vehicles on the road today and can be delivered through existing infrastructure. Summertime waivers have demonstrated its success, but we cannot continue to substitute temporary fixes for permanent solutions.\n\nThe question is no longer whether E15 makes sense; it does. The question is whether my colleagues in Congress will join me and do the right thing. Nationwide, year-round E15 is not just an energy policy; it is a practical step toward a stronger, more secure, and affordable future.\n\nWith unprecedented support from the administration and leadership across Washington, the opportunity is here. It\u2019s time for bad actors to get out of the way so Congress can cement America\u2019s energy independence by making nationwide, year-round E15 a reality once and for all.", 1, "2026-05-22T06:27:39Z", "2026-05-22T06:29:18Z"], ["https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=2888", "Bacon, Tran Celebrate Bipartisan Small Business Legislation Signed into Law", "2026-04-21", "2026", "2026-04", "Republican", "House", "NE", "Don Bacon", "B001298", "bacon.house.gov", "bacon", "https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx", "scraper", "Washington \u2013 U.S. Representatives Don Bacon (NE-02) and Derek Tran (CA-45) are celebrating their bipartisan legislation to continue intellectual property protections for small businesses being signed into law. The Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Foreign Interference Safeguard Act will extend small businesses' due diligence programs that identify and mitigate the risk of intellectual property theft by foreign entities like the Chinese Communist Party (CCP). It was signed into law on April 13 as part of the Small Business Innovation and Economic Security Act.\n\nThe SBIR Foreign Interference Safeguard Act will reauthorize the Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) and Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) Due Diligence programs for five years. This extension gives agencies more time to strengthen their programs, assess risks, and collect additional data for Congress to determine the best security strategies for small businesses.\n\n\u201cProtecting American innovation from foreign adversaries such as the Chinese Communist Party remains one of our most critical national security challenges,\u201d said Rep. Bacon. \u201cAfter the CCP hacked into my own email accounts, I know firsthand how aggressive these operations can be. That\u2019s why I\u2019m pleased to see our SBIR Foreign Interference Safeguard Act signed into law. This legislation strengthens due diligence programs and helps prevent adversaries from exploiting SBIR-funded technologies. I\u2019m grateful to work with Rep. Tran on this bipartisan effort.\u201d\n\n\u201cSmall businesses are at the forefront of American innovation. Congress must ensure that these groundbreaking technologies are protected and best positioned to benefit American consumers,\u201d said Rep. Tran. \u201cI\u2019m so proud to have passed this common-sense, bipartisan legislation to extend the SBIR Due Diligence Program and give our agencies the resources they need to safeguard American technologies from malign actors like the Chinese Communist Party. This legislation will strengthen our national security, ensuring that Orange County\u2019s small businesses can continue driving innovation for generations to come.\u201d\n\nThe SBIR program provides funding to small businesses developing innovative technologies, fast-tracking these life-changing technologies so that they can reach consumers more quickly. Because of the sensitivity of many of these innovations, foreign malign actors like the CCP exploit cybersecurity gaps and other vulnerabilities to steal technology and slow the progress of American innovation. The Due Diligence Program helps small businesses guard against such exploitation.\n\nThe Due Diligence Program was established in the SBIR/STTR Extension Act of 2022 to require agencies to assess security risks for all small businesses applying for SBIR or STTR grants \u2013 specifically risks regarding cybersecurity, intellectual property, and foreign ownership. Agencies set up these systems throughout 2023, and they have only been in full effect for one solicitation cycle thus far. By extending the program, small businesses can continue to receive critical support for innovative technologies while mitigating the risk of intellectual property theft.\n\n###", 1, "2026-04-22T05:46:42Z", "2026-04-22T05:48:06Z"], ["https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases/smith-introduces-bill-secure-strong-financial-start-future-generations", "Smith Introduces Bill to Secure a Strong Financial Start for Future Generations", "2026-04-15", "2026", "2026-04", "Republican", "House", "NE", "Adrian Smith", "S001172", "adriansmith.house.gov", "adriansmith", "https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Today, Congressman Adrian Smith (NE-03) led his colleagues in introducing the Trump Accounts for All Generations Act to permanently extend the Trump Accounts contribution pilot program, created by the Working Families Tax Cuts, which is set to expire at the end of 2028. Smith\u2019s legislation would ensure that every future American newborn can receive the $1,000 investment when opening a Trump Account while also indexing the $1,000 investment to inflation beginning in 2029.\n\nThe legislation is also co-led by U.S. Representatives Blake Moore (UT-01) and Brian Jack (GA-03).\n\n\"The Trump Account contribution pilot program opened the door for parents to provide their children with a strong financial foundation from day one. But this historic investment is at risk of disappearing after President Trump leaves office. I introduced the Trump Accounts for All Generations Act to ensure that every future generation of Americans can have a strong financial start in life,\u201dsaid Smith.\n\n\u201cOne of the most significant policies we enacted in the Working Families Tax Cuts was the creation of investment accounts for every American child. Trump Accounts will set our children up for financial stability and the $1,000 federal contribution for newborns will jumpstart their savings. I was proud to lead the original legislation that launched the program and I\u2019m excited to introduce the Trump Accounts for All Generations Act to make this federal investment permanent for generations to come,\u201d said Moore.\n\n\u201cOn Independence Day 2025, President Trump enacted one of the most significant laws in American history: the Working Families Tax Cuts, delivering the largest tax cut in American history and establishing the foundation for Trump Accounts. I am proud to support the Trump Accounts for All Generations Act, which would make these tax-advantaged savings accounts permanent and ensure the next generation of Americans has the tools to build wealth, pursue opportunity, and create a better future for themselves and their families. I commend President Trump for his leadership, and I look forward to advocating for this legislation throughout the Congressional process,\u201d said Jack.\n\nBACKGROUND:\n\nUnder the Working Families Tax Cuts, Republicans created an opportunity for parents, guardians, and other authorized individuals to establish a new tax-advantaged savings account for their children, called Trump Accounts, with the ability to contribute up to $5,000 annually.\n\nIn addition to creating the Trump Accounts, Republicans authorized a pilot program contribution of $1,000 for any child who is a U.S. citizen with a valid Social Security number born between January 1, 2025, and December 31, 2028.\n\nThe Trump Accounts for All Generations Act would make the $1,000 Trump Account contribution permanent and index the investment to inflation starting in 2029.\n\nClick here to read the full text of the bill.", 1, "2026-05-22T06:27:39Z", "2026-05-22T06:29:18Z"], ["https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=2887", "Bacon and Kaptur Introduce Bipartisan BLOCK PUTIN Act to Hold Hungarian Government Enablers of Russia Accountable", "2026-04-10", "2026", "2026-04", "Republican", "House", "NE", "Don Bacon", "B001298", "bacon.house.gov", "bacon", "https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx", "scraper", "This legislation comes amid troubling news that top officials in the Hungarian government, including Hungarian Foreign Minister P\u00e9ter Szijj\u00e1rt\u00f3, have coordinated with the Russian government to obstruct European support for Ukraine, protect Russian oligarchs from sanctions, and create a significant vulnerability for Hungary by deepening its dependence on Russian energy. Concerningly, it has also been reported that Hungarian officials signed a secret pact with the Kremlin to deepen Hungary\u2019s reliance on Russia and drift farther from its transatlantic allies.\n\n\"As someone with Hungarian roots, I have deep respect for Hungary\u2019s history as a freedom-loving nation that stood up to Soviet oppression in 1956. But today, under Prime Minister Orb\u00e1n, Hungary has become the most unreliable country in NATO and undermined Ukraine and our allies from within,\u201d said Congressman Don Bacon (NE-02), member of the Congressional Hungarian Caucus. \u201cThe BLOCK PUTIN Act makes clear there will be consequences for blocking support to Ukraine, deepening reliance on Russian energy, and reinforces our commitment to our allies. I\u2019m pleased to co-lead this bipartisan effort with Rep. Kaptur and grateful to Sens. Tillis and Shaheen for their leadership in the Senate.\"\n\n\u201cAs Co-Chair of the Congressional Hungarian Caucus and a strong advocate for Ohio\u2019s national guard partnership with the nation of Hungary, I share the commitment of the Hungarian and American people who bled for the cause of Democracy and Liberty,\u201d said Congresswoman Marcy Kaptur (OH-09), Co-Chair of the Congressional Hungarian Caucus. \u201cWhen Moscow sent tanks to crush the people of Hungary in their Revolution of 1956, the world again saw the cruelty of the Kremlin\u2019s dictatorship. When we listen to these phone calls between top Russian and Hungarian officials, we hear a shocking betrayal of Hungary\u2019s independence and democracy in support of Dictator Vladimir Putin\u2019s ambition to dominate Europe. My colleagues including myself and Congressman Bacon in our Hungarian Caucus affirm the right of the Hungarian people for their hard-fought freedom. Hungarians should know they will always have friends here in America ready to help them combat Putin\u2019s schemes to control their country and extinguish their Liberty.\u201d", 1, "2026-04-11T05:33:44Z", "2026-04-11T05:34:52Z"], ["https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=2885", "Planetary Science Caucus Co-Chairs Bacon & Chu Issue Statement on White House\u2019s Proposed Budget Cuts to NASA Science", "2026-04-09", "2026", "2026-04", "Republican", "House", "NE", "Don Bacon", "B001298", "bacon.house.gov", "bacon", "https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx", "scraper", "WASHINGTON \u2013 Last week, President Trump\u2019s Office of Management and Budget (OMB) released the Administration\u2019s Fiscal Year 2027 (FY27) budget request, which proposes to cut NASA\u2019s overall budget by 23% and cut NASA\u2019s Science Mission Directorate (SMD) by 47%. This request would also terminate more than 40 space missions, including the Mars Sample Return mission led by Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL), a first-of-its-kind mission to return samples from Mars to Earth and unlock groundbreaking insights into the planet\u2019s history and the potential for past life.\n\nReps. Don Bacon (NE-02) and Judy Chu (CA-28), who co-Chair the bipartisan Congressional Planetary Science Caucus, released the following joint statement in response:\n\n\u201cWe are deeply alarmed that the Administration is once again proposing significant budget cuts to NASA and its science programs. NASA Science supports thousands of jobs and is essential to U.S. national security and leadership in space exploration, scientific discovery, and technological innovation. These drastic cuts would create enormous chaos and uncertainty for critical missions, the scientific workforce, and long-term research planning. At the same time, current funding for NASA Science has not kept pace with inflation, underscoring the need for more investment, not less. That is why, just weeks ago, we led over 100 bipartisan House Members in a letter to appropriators urging increased funding for NASA Science, and we will continue working on a bipartisan basis to ensure NASA receives the full, sustained funding it needs to lead the world in discovery and exploration.\u201d\n\n###", 1, "2026-04-10T05:46:57Z", "2026-04-10T05:48:19Z"], ["https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=2886", "Bacon, Panetta Introduce the Bipartisan Stop Global Tariffs Act", "2026-04-09", "2026", "2026-04", "Republican", "House", "NE", "Don Bacon", "B001298", "bacon.house.gov", "bacon", "https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx", "scraper", "\u201cArticle One, Section Eight, Clause One of the Constitution gives Congress authority over tariffs and trade, and it\u2019s time Congress stands on its own two feet and does its job,\u201d said Rep. Bacon. \u201cI\u2019m pleased to co-lead the Stopping Global Tariffs Act as a step toward restoring Congress\u2019s role, providing relief to American businesses and consumers, and preventing the misuse of outdated authorities to impose sweeping tariffs. Across-the-board tariffs like these raise costs for families and create unnecessary economic uncertainty.\u201d\n\n\u201cAmerican consumers and businesses have shouldered the consequences of President Trump\u2019s illegal and incoherent tariff policy,\u201d said Rep. Panetta. \u201cMy legislation would lift the most recent across-the-board tariffs under Section 122 and make whole those who have been harmed. Although Congress abdicated its Constitutional obligations for trade policy over the past few decades, it\u2019s past time for us to reclaim our authority from the executive branch not just with lawsuits, but with legislation.\u201d\n\n\u201cPresident Trump\u2019s new 10% global tariffs are a clear attempt to sidestep Congress and reimpose his failed tariffs after the Supreme Court struck them down,\u201d said Rep. S\u00e1nchez. \u201cI am proud to co-lead the Stopping Global Tariffs Act to strike down these new tariffs and give needed relief to the American families who have suffered from higher prices as a result of Trump\u2019s tariff regime.\u201d\n\nPresident Trump\u2019s most recent tariffs were improperly imposed under Section 122 of the Trade Act of 1974. Section 122 allows for the President to impose a 15 percent tariff for balance of payments, which was created when the U.S. dollar was on the gold standard. Following the Supreme court\u2019s ruling in February negating his use of the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA) to levy tariffs, the Trump Administration has imposed a 10 percent tariff on all imports to address \u201cbalance of payments.\u201d Since the U.S. no longer operates on the Gold Standard, there is no legal justification for using this authority.\n\nThe Stop Global Tariffs Act is cosponsored by: Representatives Don Beyer (VA-08), Brendan Boyle (PA-02), Suzan DelBene (WA-01), Steven Horsford (NV-04), Brad Schneider (IL-10), Terri Sewell (AL-07), and Tom Suozzi (NY-03).\n\nFull text of the bill is available here.\n\n###", 1, "2026-04-10T05:46:57Z", "2026-04-10T05:48:19Z"], ["https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-flood-accepting-applications-fall-internship-program-washington-1", "Congressman Flood Accepting Applications for Fall Internship Program in Washington, D.C.", "2026-04-03", "2026", "2026-04", "Republican", "House", "NE", "Mike Flood", "F000474", "flood.house.gov", "flood", "https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "LINCOLN, NEBRASKA \u2013 Today, U.S. Congressman Mike Flood announced that his office is accepting applications for the fall internship program in his Washington, D.C. office.\n\n\u201cMy team is now accepting applications for the fall internship program in our nation\u2019s capital,\u201d said Congressman Flood. \u201cInterns will work alongside our legislative team, constituent services efforts, communications team, and more. This truly is a unique opportunity to get a firsthand look at Congress in action.\u201d\n\nCongressional interns at the Office of Congressman Flood will collaborate with each team of the office\u2019s staff. The internship curriculum is designed to leave interns with an understanding of how a congressional office administers constituent services, produces communications, its operations, legislative efforts, as well as how it conducts committee work.\n\nAdditionally, interns will have the opportunity to attend policy briefings, unique tours, congressional hearings, guest speaker events, networking opportunities, and more on Capitol Hill.\n\nThe deadline to apply for the fall internship is May 8, 2026.\n\nThe internship will run from August 31\u2013December 18.", 1, "2026-05-21T06:28:16Z", "2026-05-21T06:29:43Z"], ["https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases/smith-announces-upcoming-caseworker-your-community-events-chase-and-dundy", "Smith Announces Upcoming Caseworker in Your Community Events for Chase and Dundy Counties", "2026-03-30", "2026", "2026-03", "Republican", "House", "NE", "Adrian Smith", "S001172", "adriansmith.house.gov", "adriansmith", "https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Congressman Adrian Smith (NE-03) announced today that his staff will host a caseworker-in-your-community event for constituents in Chase and Dundy Counties on Tuesday, April 14, 2026. This event is an opportunity for constituents to meet directly with one of Smith\u2019s congressional caseworkers, who may be able to assist those with disaster recovery concerns as well as with federal agencies such as the USDA, FEMA, VA, Social Security, Medicare, USCIS, or the IRS.\n\nSmith, who has offices in Grand Island, Scottsbluff, and Nebraska City, will provide a staff member at the following time and location:\n\nTuesday, April 14, 2026\n\nLied Imperial Library\n\n718 Broadway Street\n\nImperial, NE 69033\n\n11:00 am - 12:00 pm MT\n\nDundy County Library\n\n106 E 6th Avenue\n\nBenkelman, NE 69021\n\n1:00 pm - 2:00 pm MT", 1, "2026-05-19T06:31:01Z", "2026-05-19T06:32:40Z"]], "truncated": false, "filtered_table_rows_count": 181, "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": "NE", "p2": "2026"}}, "facet_results": {"party": {"name": "party", "type": "column", "hideable": false, "toggle_url": "/press/releases.json?chamber=House&state=NE&year=2026", "results": [{"value": "Republican", "label": "Republican", "count": 181, "toggle_url": "http://dpwillis-congress-press-search.hf.space/press/releases.json?chamber=House&state=NE&year=2026&party=Republican", "selected": false}], "truncated": false}, "chamber": {"name": "chamber", "type": "column", "hideable": false, "toggle_url": "/press/releases.json?chamber=House&state=NE&year=2026", "results": [{"value": "House", "label": "House", "count": 181, "toggle_url": "http://dpwillis-congress-press-search.hf.space/press/releases.json?state=NE&year=2026", "selected": true}], "truncated": false}, "state": {"name": "state", "type": "column", "hideable": false, "toggle_url": "/press/releases.json?chamber=House&state=NE&year=2026", "results": [{"value": "NE", "label": "NE", "count": 181, "toggle_url": "http://dpwillis-congress-press-search.hf.space/press/releases.json?chamber=House&year=2026", "selected": true}], "truncated": false}, "year": {"name": "year", "type": "column", "hideable": false, "toggle_url": "/press/releases.json?chamber=House&state=NE&year=2026", "results": [{"value": "2026", "label": "2026", "count": 181, "toggle_url": "http://dpwillis-congress-press-search.hf.space/press/releases.json?chamber=House&state=NE", "selected": true}], "truncated": false}}, "suggested_facets": [], "next": "2026-03-30,https~3A~2F~2Fadriansmith~2Ehouse~2Egov~2Fmedia~2Fpress-releases~2Fsmith-announces-upcoming-caseworker-your-community-events-chase-and-dundy", "next_url": "http://dpwillis-congress-press-search.hf.space/press/releases.json?chamber=House&state=NE&year=2026&_next=2026-03-30%2Chttps~3A~2F~2Fadriansmith~2Ehouse~2Egov~2Fmedia~2Fpress-releases~2Fsmith-announces-upcoming-caseworker-your-community-events-chase-and-dundy&_sort_desc=date", "private": false, "allow_execute_sql": true, "query_ms": 105.05012515932322, "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"}