{"database": "press", "table": "releases", "is_view": false, "human_description_en": "where chamber = \"Senate\", party = \"Republican\" and state = \"PA\" sorted by date descending", "rows": [["https://www.mccormick.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senator-mccormick-celebrates-transformational-3-billion-investment-in-carnegie-mellon-university/", "Senator McCormick Celebrates Transformational $3 Billion Investment in Carnegie Mellon University", "2026-09-30", "2026", "2026-09", "Republican", "Senate", "PA", "David McCormick", "M001243", "www.mccormick.senate.gov", "davemccormick", "https://www.mccormick.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/", "scraper", "WASHINGTON \u2014 Today, U.S. Senator Dave McCormick (R-PA) celebrated a historic gift to Carnegie Mellon University (CMU) from Citadel founder and CEO Ken Griffin, including a transformational $1 billion investment in CMU\u2019s Pittsburgh campus and $2 billion to launch Carnegie Mellon University Miami.\n\n\u201cThis extraordinary investment from my great friend Ken Griffin is a tremendous vote of confidence in CMU, in Pittsburgh, and in the innovation that will continue to define America\u2019s future,\u201d said Senator McCormick. \u201cPittsburgh has always been a city that reinvents itself. Andrew Carnegie helped build the Steel City into an industrial powerhouse, and today, the university that bears his name is helping lead America into the next era of innovation. I\u2019m so proud of President Farnam Jahanian and his team for helping make Carnegie Mellon one of the finest research institutions in the world, a global leader in artificial intelligence, robotics, engineering, computer science, and so much more.\u201d\n\nSenator McCormick previously served on Carnegie Mellon\u2019s Board of Trustees and has long viewed the university as central to Pittsburgh\u2019s transformation from the Steel City into a global hub for technology and innovation. CMU\u2019s world-class leadership in artificial intelligence, robotics, computer science, and engineering has helped put Pittsburgh at the forefront of the technologies shaping America\u2019s future. That leadership made CMU the natural home for Senator McCormick\u2019s inaugural Pennsylvania Energy and Innovation Summit, showcasing the Commonwealth\u2019s unique strengths in AI, energy, and advanced technology and catalyzing $92 billion in investment in Pennsylvania\u2019s future.\n\nThis historic investment announced today builds on that momentum. The $1 billion commitment to support CMU\u2019s Pittsburgh campus will strengthen CMU\u2019s research and academic leadership, attract the best minds, and fuel innovation and discovery in western Pennsylvania. The $2 billion investment in the launch of CMU Miami will expand the reach of an institution built in Pittsburgh and bring CMU\u2019s culture of innovation and excellence to a new generation of leaders.\n\nAt a moment of intense global competition, America must continue to invest in the people and institutions that allow us to invent, build, and lead. More than a century after Andrew Carnegie invested in Pittsburgh, that same spirit of ambition, discovery, and innovation remains alive and well in Western Pennsylvania.", 1, "2026-10-01T11:23:28Z", "2026-10-01T11:25:15Z"], ["https://www.mccormick.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senators-mccormick-gallego-cornyn-fetterman-introduce-bill-to-keep-chinese-transceivers-out-of-u-s-national-security-systems/", "SENATORS MCCORMICK, GALLEGO, CORNYN, FETTERMAN INTRODUCE BILL TO KEEP CHINESE TRANSCEIVERS OUT OF U.S. NATIONAL SECURITY SYSTEMS", "2026-09-25", "2026", "2026-09", "Republican", "Senate", "PA", "David McCormick", "M001243", "www.mccormick.senate.gov", "davemccormick", "https://www.mccormick.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/", "scraper", "WASHINGTON \u2014 U.S. Senators Dave McCormick (R-PA), Ruben Gallego (D-AZ), John Cornyn (R-TX), and John Fetterman (D-PA) today introduced the Securing National Security Systems from Chinese Optical Transceivers Act, bipartisan legislation to prevent Chinese-made optical transceivers from being used in the federal government\u2019s most sensitive national security systems.\n\nChinese manufacturers have become major suppliers of optical transceivers, creating U.S. alliance on these critical components which move data through high-speed fiber-optic networks, including the networks powering artificial intelligence. Because advanced transceivers can contain reprogrammable firmware, their use in national security networks can create potential supply-chain and security risks. In June, the Department of War added major Chinese manufacturer InnoLight to its Section 1260H list of Chinese military companies, but current law does not impose a government-wide prohibition on adversary-linked optical transceivers in the systems carrying some of America\u2019s most sensitive information.\n\nThe bill extends an existing federal procurement restriction for semiconductors to covered optical transceivers used in critical systems. It gives suppliers five years to develop compliant sources and provides waivers where necessary to protect supply and national security.\n\n\u201cWe shouldn\u2019t rely on China for technologies that are essential to our national security,\u201d said Senator McCormick. \u201cThis bipartisan bill will help secure our networks and give American manufacturers\u2014including the incredible companies and workers we have right here in Pennsylvania\u2014 the opportunity to step up, build more of this technology at home, and compete.\u201d\n\n\u201cOptical transceivers are a critical part of America\u2019s modern communications infrastructure, and we need to make sure that infrastructure is secure,\u201d said Senator Gallego. \u201cOur reliance on China to produce these transceivers creates a serious national security vulnerability. This legislation protects our most sensitive systems and invests in Arizona manufacturers, who are already helping build a secure supply chain here at home.\u201d\n\n\u201cCritical government communication and information systems must be safe, reliable, and free of any foreign interference, but the use of Chinese technology undermines that mission,\u201d said Senator Cornyn. \u201cI am proud to cosponsor Senator McCormick\u2019s Securing National Security Systemsfrom Chinese Optical Transceivers Act, which will extend the commonsense procurement restrictions I worked to include in the Fiscal Year 2023 NDAA and support American jobs.\u201d\n\n\u201cFiber-optic networks are the digital highways that make our economy run at the speed of light,\u201d said Senator Fetterman. \u201cJust like we use American-made steel to build federal highways and bridges, we should also be using American-made equipment in our fiber-optic networks wherever possible. I am proud to join my colleagues to ensure our critical information networks do not rely on Chinese-made optical transceivers.\u201d\n\nThe Securing National Security Systems from Chinese Optical Transceivers Act would close that gap by extending safeguards Congress has already established for Chinese semiconductors to optical transceivers used in national security systems. The legislation would:\n\nProhibit federal procurement of covered optical transceivers for national security systems, building on the existing federal framework restricting certain Chinese semiconductors.\n\nCover InnoLight, Eoptolink, and their subsidiaries and affiliates, as well as additional adversary-linked companies designated by the Secretary of War or Secretary of Commerce, including covered transceivers that incorporate their firmware, software, or components.\n\nProvide a five-year transition period before the prohibition takes effect, allowing trusted American and allied manufacturers time to expand production while minimizing disruptions to federal supply chains.\n\nDirect the Department of Commerce to assess U.S. and allied production capacity and develop a strategy to strengthen trusted optical transceiver supply chains.\n\nPermit limited, renewable waivers when no trusted alternative is available, with each waiver reported to Congress.\n\nThe Securing National Security Systems from Chinese Optical Transceivers Act is supported by the following stakeholders:\n\nScott Paul, President, Alliance for American Manufacturing:\n\n\u201cFor too long, China has pursued dominance in strategically important industries while benefiting from access to markets that reinforce that position. Federal taxpayer dollars should not be used to deepen America\u2019s dependence on Chinese manufacturers for critical technologies. Senator McCormick\u2019s legislation sends an important signal that the United States is serious about securing strategic supply chains, rebuilding domestic manufacturing capacity, and strengthening the industrial base needed to compete and lead in the technologies of the future.\u201d\n\nAlexandria Paolozzi Moore, Senior Director of Government Relations, FDD Action:\n\n\u201cAmerica\u2019s national security systems are increasingly dependent on high-speed optical networking. Yet our reliance on adversary-controlled components in systems that underpin national defense creates serious security vulnerabilities. FDD Action endorses the Securing National Security Systems from Chinese Optical Transceivers Act of 2026 because it closes a gap in existing semiconductor security law. That gap allows CCP-linked suppliers to operate at a critical point where our data flows. We support this legislation and urge its expeditious consideration.\u201d\n\nDaniel Kishi, Senior Policy Advisor, American Compass:\n\n\u201cChina\u2019s dominance of the optical transceiver market has exposed a major vulnerability at the heart of America\u2019s technological infrastructure. The Securing National Security Systems from Chinese Optical Transceivers Act would keep Chinese optical transceivers out of the federal government\u2019s critical systems and safeguard sensitive government networks from the risks they pose.\u201d\n\nCoalition for a Prosperous America:\n\n\u201cThe Defense Department has already named InnoLight \u2014 the world\u2019s largest optical transceiver maker \u2014 a Chinese military company, yet its hardware still sits inside America\u2019s data centers and national security systems. That\u2019s indefensible. Chinese firms control roughly 70 percent of the global optical module market because the CCP targeted this technology for domination, and Beijing won\u2019t let a single American-made transceiver into its own data centers. Senator McCormick\u2019s bill sends a clear demand signal to the American manufacturers already investing in domestic capacity and ensures only trusted hardware runs our national security systems. CPA is proud to support it and urges Congress to pass it without delay.\u201d\n\nNew American Industrial Alliance:\n\n\u201cAs China continues its efforts to infiltrate cutting-edge American technologies, it\u2019s more important than ever for Congress to take action to protect America\u2019s technological superiority. By extending the federal ban on Chinese-linked chips to optical transceivers in national security systems, the Securing National Security Systems from Chinese Optical Transceivers Act would close a potential backdoor into our most sensitive networks while giving industry time to build a trusted supply. NAIA thanks Senator McCormick for his tireless work to ensure American security and technological superiority.\u201d\n\n###", 1, "2026-09-26T09:43:57Z", "2026-09-26T09:44:55Z"], ["https://www.mccormick.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senator-mccormick-announceswinners-of-america250-pennsylvania-youth-essay-contest/", "SENATOR MCCORMICK ANNOUNCES WINNERS OF AMERICA250 PENNSYLVANIA YOUTH ESSAY CONTEST", "2026-09-21", "2026", "2026-09", "Republican", "Senate", "PA", "David McCormick", "M001243", "www.mccormick.senate.gov", "davemccormick", "https://www.mccormick.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/", "scraper", "WASHINGTON \u2014 Last week, U.S. Senator Dave McCormick (R-PA) announced the winners of his America250 Pennsylvania Youth Essay Contest, which invited high school students across the Commonwealth to reflect on Pennsylvania\u2019s central role in the American story as the nation marks its 250th anniversary.\n\nThe winners are Brady Sirochman, a 10th grade student at Laurel Highlands High School in Uniontown, and Ronit Luthra, an 11th grade student at Downingtown High School East in Downingtown. The contest drew dozens of submissions from students across Pennsylvania.\n\n\u201cPennsylvania was there at America\u2019s founding and has been there at every turning point since. Brady and Ronit captured that in their essays \u2014 and in the process showed me that the Commonwealth is still producing the kind of people who will lead this country through its next 250 years. They inspire me. Their work belongs in the Congressional Record,\u201d said Senator McCormick.\n\nBoth winning essays were be entered into the Congressional Record, and both students met with Senator McCormick in Washington, D.C. where they were presented with American flags that flew over the Capitol on July 4th. Top runners-up received a signed letter of recognition from the Senator.\n\nEntries were blindly reviewed by a panel made up of Senator McCormick, a Pennsylvania High School History teacher, and members of Senator McCormick\u2019s staff. Senator McCormick chose the winning essays. Submissions were divided into two divisions: Division I: grades 9-10; Division II: grades 11-12.\n\nDivision I Winner \u2014 Brady Sirochman, Laurel Highlands High School, 10th Grade, Uniontown\n\nSirochman wrote on General George C. Marshall, the Uniontown native who organized the Allied victory in World War II and later authored the Marshall Plan. He opens at the intersection where Marshall\u2019s statue sits across from a bronze soldier, and closes on what that pairing represents:\n\n\u201cThrough his military career spanning service from the Philippines to Europe, and later his organization of the armed forces in World War II, we see his life as a personification of America\u2019s willingness to defend liberty aggressively. However, through his career post-war in the fields of diplomacy and government aid, we see his life as a personification of America\u2019s willingness to defend liberty peacefully. George C. Marshall is a unification of these two necessities, as at America\u2019s best, we understand the need for a soldier, as well as the need for a diplomat.\u201d\n\nRead Brady Sirochman\u2019s full essay here.\n\nDivision II Winner \u2014 Ronit Luthra, Downingtown High School East, 11th Grade, Downingtown\n\nLuthra wrote on George Westinghouse, the Pittsburgh inventor and industrialist whose bet on alternating current electrified the modern world \u2014 and who, Luthra argues, deserves a larger place in national memory than he holds:\n\n\u201cHere was a nation that let a self-taught veteran with no advantages rise on the strength of his ideas alone, then rewarded him for backing an immigrant genius whom nearly everyone else had written off. The country asked no permission of any ministry or court before a private citizen remade the daily life of the entire world.\u201d\n\nRead Ronit Luthra\u2019s full essay here.\n\nLearn more about Senator McCormick\u2019s America 250 initiative by clicking here.\n\n###", 1, "2026-09-22T09:42:49Z", "2026-09-22T09:44:35Z"], ["https://www.mccormick.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senator-mccormick-releases-statement-on-the-clarity-act/", "SENATOR MCCORMICK RELEASES STATEMENT ON THE CLARITY ACT", "2026-09-15", "2026", "2026-09", "Republican", "Senate", "PA", "David McCormick", "M001243", "www.mccormick.senate.gov", "davemccormick", "https://www.mccormick.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Today, the Senate failed to advance the CLARITY Act after a procedural vote fell short of the 60 votes needed (49-50). Following the vote, Senator Dave McCormick (R-PA) released the following statement:\n\n\u201cToday, Senate Democrats blocked the vote to advance the CLARITY Act. I\u2019m deeply disappointed at this outcome. For more than a year, Republicans and Democrats worked together in good faith to develop a clear, responsible regulatory framework for digital assets. The legislation before the Senate today incorporated substantive changes requested by Democrats, real concessions designed to address concerns from both sides of the aisle and build a durable bipartisan framework. The status quo leaves consumers and investors worse off and cedes U.S. financial leadership overseas. At a time when our global competitors are racing ahead, American entrepreneurs, investors, consumers, and financial institutions in Pennsylvania and across the U.S. deserve clear rules of the road that protect consumers while allowing innovation to flourish here at home. This issue isn\u2019t going away, and neither is my commitment to getting it done. Community banks and entrepreneurs in Pennsylvania are worse off without CLARITY. I\u2019ll continue working with colleagues on both sides of the aisle to deliver the certainty America needs to remain the global leader in financial innovation.\u201d\n\n###", 1, "2026-09-16T09:43:13Z", "2026-09-16T09:44:22Z"], ["https://www.mccormick.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senators-mccormick-and-fetterman-press-hhs-on-canceled-health-research-grants/", "SENATORS MCCORMICK AND FETTERMAN PRESS HHS ON CANCELED HEALTH RESEARCH GRANTS", "2026-09-14", "2026", "2026-09", "Republican", "Senate", "PA", "David McCormick", "M001243", "www.mccormick.senate.gov", "davemccormick", "https://www.mccormick.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/", "scraper", "Pennsylvania senators seek answers on AHRQ grant cancellations affecting researchers at CHOP and the University of Pittsburgh\n\nWASHINGTON \u2014 Recently, U.S. Senators Dave McCormick (R-PA) and John Fetterman (D-PA) sent a letter to U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. to share their concerns regarding the recent cancellation of Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality (AHRQ) grants and the impact this will have on Pennsylvania research institutions.\n\nOn July 15, more than 150 AHRQ grantees, including researchers at the Children\u2019s Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP) and the University of Pittsburgh, were notified that funding for ongoing, multi-year research projects would be canceled. Many of the affected projects had already undergone peer review and received federal funding in prior years.\n\n\u201cWhile we greatly appreciate the Department of Health and Human Services\u2019 commitment to ensuring federally funded research invests in scientific innovation and delivers meaningful value for taxpayers, we believe these objectives should be balanced with consideration of projects that have already undergone peer review and received federal funding,\u201d said Senators McCormick and Fetterman.\n\nThe senators cautioned that abruptly ending multi-year projects after substantial federal investment could waste taxpayer resources, disrupt ongoing research, eliminate jobs, and delay innovations aimed at improving patient care. They also raised concerns that uncertainty surrounding continued federal research support could make it harder for institutions to plan long-term projects and retain experienced researchers.\n\nMcCormick and Fetterman requested that HHS provide their offices with a briefing by September 25, 2026, detailing:\n\nThe criteria used to determine which AHRQ grants were canceled, and which will continue;\n\nHow a prior federal investment, project progress, and potential disruption to researchers and personnel factor into funding decisions;\n\nWhether affected institutions have opportunities to seek reconsideration or otherwise mitigate the impact of terminated funding;\n\nWhether HHS plans to reallocate funds that otherwise would have supported the canceled grants; and\n\nThe Department\u2019s long-term plan for AHRQ and its role in supporting safe, effective, and affordable health care research for the American people.\n\nThe letter follows previous efforts by Senators McCormick and Fetterman to protect Pennsylvania\u2019s research enterprise. In May, the senators urged the National Institutes of Health to move quickly to obligate congressionally appropriated FY2026 grant funding, citing the importance of federal research investments to Pennsylvania jobs, scientific breakthroughs, and U.S. leadership in biomedical research.\n\nRead the full text of the letter here.\n\nFull text of the letter:\n\nDear Secretary Kennedy:\n\nWe are writing to express our concern regarding the recent cancelation of Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality (AHRQ) grants and the impact on Pennsylvania\u2019s research institutions and their efforts to improve health care outcomes for the patients they serve.\n\nOn July 15, 2026, more than 150 AHRQ grantees, including researchers at the Children\u2019s Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP) and the University of Pittsburgh, were notified of the cancelation of funding for ongoing, multi-year research projects. These cancelations are affecting awards that have undergone peer review and have received prior-year funding. Abruptly ending these multi-year projects, after substantial federal investment, risks wasting taxpayer resources while disrupting research, eliminating jobs, and delaying innovations to improve patient care.\n\nWhile we appreciate the Department of Health and Human Services\u2019 (HHS) commitment to ensuring federally funded research promotes scientific rigor and delivers meaningful value for taxpayers, we believe these objectives should be balanced with consideration of projects that have already undergone review and received federal funding. Careful stewardship of federal research spending is important to maintaining public trust in our nation\u2019s research enterprise.\n\nAs the Department implements these reforms, it is imperative that changes are carried out in a manner that preserves the value of existing federal investments. To that end, the recent decision to end continuation funding for ongoing AHRQ grants may create uncertainty around federal research support, making it harder for institutions to plan long-term projects, retain experienced researchers, and pursue future scientific breakthroughs. Over time, this instability risks weakening our nation\u2019s leadership in scientific research.\n\nTo better understand the Department\u2019s perspective, planning, and prioritization, we respectfully request that HHS provide a briefing on the Department\u2019s approach to these funding decisions no later than September 25, 2026, with topics to include:\n\nThe criteria utilized by the Department to determine which AHRQ grants were canceled and which will continue;\n\nHow the Department considers prior federal investment, project progress, and potential disruptions to research and personnel when making these decisions;\n\nWhether affected institutions have opportunities to seek reconsideration or otherwise mitigate the impact of terminated funding;\n\nDepartment plans to reallocate funds that otherwise would have supported the affected grants; and\n\nThe Department\u2019s long-term plan for AHRQ and the role it plays in supporting research that promotes safe, effective, and affordable health care for the American people.\n\nThank you for your prompt attention to this matter, and we look forward to hearing from the Department and working together to ensure our nation\u2019s research enterprise remains strong and effective.\n\nSincerely,\n\nDavid H. McCormick\n\nUnited States Senator", 1, "2026-09-15T09:50:21Z", "2026-09-15T09:52:05Z"], ["https://www.mccormick.senate.gov/news/press-releases/mccormick-hickenlooper-announce-formation-of-senate-bipartisan-science-and-innovation-caucus/", "McCormick, Hickenlooper Announce Formation of Senate Bipartisan Science and Innovation Caucus", "2026-09-10", "2026", "2026-09", "Republican", "Senate", "PA", "David McCormick", "M001243", "www.mccormick.senate.gov", "davemccormick", "https://www.mccormick.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/", "scraper", "WASHINGTON \u2014 Today, U.S. Senators Dave McCormick (R-PA) and John Hickenlooper (D-CO) announced the formation of the U.S. Senate Bipartisan Science and Innovation Caucus to highlight and elevate American scientific research and the application of those discoveries to promote innovation. Caucus members will work together with industry leaders and the research community to develop policies that promote U.S. leadership in science.\n\n\u201cAmerica\u2019s economic strength and national security have always been powered by our ability to innovate, and that begins with world-class scientific research,\u201d said Senator McCormick. \u201cAs we compete to maintain America\u2019s position as the world\u2019s leading superpower, this bipartisan caucus will help unleash the ingenuity of our scientists, entrepreneurs, and innovators to drive economic growth, create opportunity, and strengthen our nation.\u201d\n\n\u201cScience propels our economy, saves lives, and solves the problems that once seemed unsolvable,\u201d said Senator Hickenlooper. \u201cThis caucus exists for one reason: to make sure Congress is fighting as hard for American innovation as our scientists and researchers are. The stakes are too high for anything less.\u201d\n\nThe United States has been a global economic leader for the past 50 years because of our dedication to science, technology, and innovation. Federally-funded research led to the invention of optical fibers, microchips, personal computers, mobile phones, robotics, cutting-edge medicine, and more.\n\nJobs in science, technology, engineering, math, and medicine make up 34% of the U.S. workforce.\n\nEconomic activity from these fields generates 39% of U.S. GDP \u2013 over $10 trillion dollars.\n\nThe United States spends only 3% of its GDP on research and development (R&D) and innovation.\n\nFederally funded R&D dollars are doubled in returns: every $1 invested generates nearly $2 in economic output. This is substantially higher than the returns on other forms of federal investment.\n\nChina is overtaking the United States in R&D funding, graduating more PhDs in STEM programs, filing more international patents than the U.S., and narrowing the gap on venture capital investment.\n\nThe Bipartisan Science and Innovation Caucus plans to host briefings, engage in roundtables and other conversations about existing and new policies, and provide a venue for discourse about new legislation to boost American scientific research and our STEM workforce.\n\nA kickoff event celebrating the caucus will be held on Monday, September 14th at the United States Capitol.\n\n###", 1, "2026-09-11T09:25:29Z", "2026-09-11T09:27:08Z"], ["https://www.mccormick.senate.gov/news/press-releases/mccormick-hickenlooper-announce-formation-of-senate-bipartisan-science-and-innovation-caucus-2/", "McCormick, Hickenlooper Announce Formation of Senate Bipartisan Science and Innovation Caucus", "2026-09-10", "2026", "2026-09", "Republican", "Senate", "PA", "David McCormick", "M001243", "www.mccormick.senate.gov", "davemccormick", "https://www.mccormick.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/", "scraper", "WASHINGTON \u2014 Today, U.S. Senators Dave McCormick (R-PA) and John Hickenlooper (D-CO) announced the formation of the U.S. Senate Bipartisan Science and Innovation Caucus to highlight and elevate American scientific research and the application of those discoveries to promote innovation. Caucus members will work together with industry leaders and the research community to develop policies that promote U.S. leadership in science.\n\n\u201cAmerica\u2019s economic strength and national security have always been powered by our ability to innovate, and that begins with world-class scientific research,\u201d said Senator McCormick. \u201cAs we compete to maintain America\u2019s position as the world\u2019s leading superpower, this bipartisan caucus will help unleash the ingenuity of our scientists, entrepreneurs, and innovators to drive economic growth, create opportunity, and strengthen our nation.\u201d\n\n\u201cScience propels our economy, saves lives, and solves the problems that once seemed unsolvable,\u201d said Senator Hickenlooper. \u201cThis caucus exists for one reason: to make sure Congress is fighting as hard for American innovation as our scientists and researchers are. The stakes are too high for anything less.\u201d\n\nThe United States has been a global economic leader for the past 50 years because of our dedication to science, technology, and innovation. Federally-funded research led to the invention of optical fibers, microchips, personal computers, mobile phones, robotics, cutting-edge medicine, and more.\n\nJobs in science, technology, engineering, math, and medicine make up 34% of the U.S. workforce.\n\nEconomic activity from these fields generates 39% of U.S. GDP \u2013 over $10 trillion dollars.\n\nThe United States spends only 3% of its GDP on research and development (R&D) and innovation.\n\nFederally funded R&D dollars are doubled in returns: every $1 invested generates nearly $2 in economic output. This is substantially higher than the returns on other forms of federal investment.\n\nChina is overtaking the United States in R&D funding, graduating more PhDs in STEM programs, filing more international patents than the U.S., and narrowing the gap on venture capital investment.\n\nThe Bipartisan Science and Innovation Caucus plans to host briefings, engage in roundtables and other conversations about existing and new policies, and provide a venue for discourse about new legislation to boost American scientific research and our STEM workforce.\n\nA kickoff event celebrating the caucus will be held on Monday, September 14th at the United States Capitol.\n\n###", 1, "2026-09-26T09:43:57Z", "2026-09-26T09:44:55Z"], ["https://www.mccormick.senate.gov/news/press-releases/mccormick-fetterman-celebrate-96-million-rail-vehicle-replacement-program-investment-in-prt-septa/", "MCCORMICK, FETTERMAN CELEBRATE $96 MILLION RAIL VEHICLE REPLACEMENT PROGRAM INVESTMENT IN PRT, SEPTA", "2026-09-03", "2026", "2026-09", "Republican", "Senate", "PA", "David McCormick", "M001243", "www.mccormick.senate.gov", "davemccormick", "https://www.mccormick.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/", "scraper", "FREDERICKSBURG, PA \u2014 Today, U.S. Senators Dave McCormick (R-PA) and John Fetterman (D-PA) announced a combined $96 million in grant awards for Pittsburgh Regional Transit (PRT) and the Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority (SEPTA) through the Federal Transit Administration (FTA)\u2019s Rail Vehicle Replacement Program. These awards will support the replacement of PRT\u2019s aging Light Rail (\u201cT\u201d) fleet and SEPTA\u2019s 50-year-old Silverliner IV Regional Rail cars.\n\n\u201cThis $96 million investment is a major win for Pennsylvania transit riders. It will help PRT and SEPTA replace aging vehicles with modern fleets that increase capacity, improve reliability, and deliver better service for the thousands of Pennsylvanians who rely on public transportation every day,\u201d said Senator McCormick. \u201cI was proud to advocate for this funding and appreciate the Federal Transit Administration\u2019s support for these critical transportation systems.\u201d\n\n\u201cHundreds of thousands of Pennsylvanians across our commonwealth rely on public transit to get where they need to go every day. Investments like these matter,\u201d said Senator Fetterman. \u201cThese grants will make service on the T in Pittsburgh and across the Regional Rail system in Philly safer and more reliable for riders. I\u2019m proud to have fought for this critical funding.\u201d\n\nPRT\u2019s $82,774,074 award will support the replacement of its aging light rail fleet. Much of PRT\u2019s existing fleet has exceeded its intended service life, which has caused growing maintenance challenges, significant reliability concerns, and increased operating costs on the T. Senator McCormick penned a letter of support of PRT\u2019s grant application to FTA Acting Executive Director Jamie Pfister in July. Senator Fetterman also wrote a letter of support for the project.\n\nSEPTA\u2019s $13,263,248 award will support the replacement of its Silverliner IV fleet with new Silverliner VI rail cars. Dating back to the mid-1970s, the Silverliner IVs are among the oldest operating passenger rail cars in the country, and they represent two-thirds of SEPTA\u2019s Regional Rail fleet. A new Silverliner VI fleet will provide safer and more accessible service for passengers, while reducing the maintenance costs necessary to keep the Silverliner IVs in service.\n\n\u201cI\u2019m thrilled we\u2019ve brought this substantial investment in rail cars home to Allegheny County and thank you to our federal partners who helped secure these important funds for PRT,\u201d said County Executive Sara Innamorato. \u201cStrategic investments in our fleet help ensure reliability and improve accessibility for our riders. Modernizing the PRT system for today\u2019s riders and future generations is a legacy we can all be proud of.\u201d\n\n\u201cI want to thank everyone who played a role in making this funding possible,\u201d said PRT CEO Katharine Kelleman. \u201cThis investment will help us move forward with a new fleet of rail cars that will provide riders with a safer, more accessible, more comfortable, and more reliable experience for decades to come.\u201d\n\n\u201cThis grant will help SEPTA jump-start the purchase of new Regional Rail cars to replace our current fleet, which dates back more than 50 years. We are grateful for the efforts of our Congressional Delegation to fund this program and support our application,\u201d said SEPTA General Manager Scott A. Sauer. \u201cSEPTA has established a robust maintenance program to keep the current fleet operating safely and reliably, and we look forward to delivering these new vehicles for our customers.\u201d\n\n###", 1, "2026-09-04T09:19:37Z", "2026-09-04T09:20:58Z"], ["https://www.mccormick.senate.gov/news/press-releases/chobanis-1-2-billion-investment-in-lehigh-valley-plant-is-a-vote-of-confidence-in-pennsylvania-workers-farms-and-manufacturing/", "CHOBANI\u2019S $1.2 BILLION INVESTMENT IN LEHIGH VALLEY PLANT IS A VOTE OF CONFIDENCE IN PENNSYLVANIA WORKERS, FARMS, AND MANUFACTURING", "2026-09-01", "2026", "2026-09", "Republican", "Senate", "PA", "David McCormick", "M001243", "www.mccormick.senate.gov", "davemccormick", "https://www.mccormick.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/", "scraper", "$1.2 billion investment will create 900 full-time jobs and represent the largest increase in demand for Pennsylvania dairy in state history\n\nLEHIGH VALLEY, PA \u2014 Senator Dave McCormick (R-PA) today welcomed Chobani\u2019s $1.2 billion investment in a 1.5 million-square-foot manufacturing facility in Upper Macungie Township. The plant will bring 900 full-time jobs to the Lehigh Valley over the next five years and open new markets for more than 4,000 Pennsylvania dairy farmers.\n\nThis investment announced today is expected to create the largest increase in demand for Pennsylvania dairy in the Commonwealth\u2019s history. Once fully operational, the facility is projected to process more than three billion pounds of Pennsylvania milk annually, which represents about 30 percent of all milk currently produced in the state.\n\nSenator McCormick has known Chobani Founder and CEO Hamdi Ulukaya for years, and has long admired his vision, his commitment to doing well by doing good, and his willingness to invest for the long term. That relationship, paired with months of work by the Governor\u2019s team alongside Chobani\u2019s leadership, helped move this project from early interest to a finished deal in Pennsylvania.\n\n\u201cWhen an innovative company like Chobani chooses to invest in Pennsylvania, it\u2019s a vote of confidence in our workers, our farms, and our manufacturing strength,\u201d said Senator McCormick. \u201cI\u2019ve known Hamdi Ulukaya and Chobani President and COO Kevin Burns for decades, and both are exceptional business leaders. I was proud to work alongside Chobani\u2019s leadership and the Governor\u2019s team to help bring this investment home. It will mean good jobs, new opportunities for our dairy farmers, and more economic growth in the Lehigh Valley.\u201d\n\nThis Upper Macungie Township facility will add to the Lehigh Valley\u2019s manufacturing base with production, maintenance, and logistics jobs, plus construction work as the plant comes online. Those paychecks, in turn, will support the restaurants, suppliers, and small businesses around them.\n\n\u201cPennsylvania has the workers, the farms, and the know-how to support an investment of this scale,\u201d Senator McCormick continued. \u201cThis investment will create real opportunity for thousands of dairy farm families, processors, haulers, and communities across the Commonwealth and I\u2019m proud of the work our team did to help bring this investment to Pennsylvania.\u201d\n\n###", 1, "2026-09-02T09:19:58Z", "2026-09-02T09:20:51Z"], ["https://www.mccormick.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senators-mccormick-and-coonsintroduce-bipartisan-bill-to-strengthen-nih-mentorship-and-support-next-generation-of-biomedical-researchers/", "SENATORS MCCORMICK AND COONS INTRODUCE BIPARTISAN BILL TO STRENGTHEN NIH MENTORSHIP AND SUPPORT NEXT GENERATION OF BIOMEDICAL RESEARCHERS", "2026-08-07", "2026", "2026-08", "Republican", "Senate", "PA", "David McCormick", "M001243", "www.mccormick.senate.gov", "davemccormick", "https://www.mccormick.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/", "scraper", "WASHINGTON \u2013 U.S. Senators Dave McCormick (R-PA) and Chris Coons (D-DE) today introduced the NIH Mentorship Modernization Act, bipartisan legislation to strengthen America\u2019s scientific workforce pipeline by formalizing consistent, evidence-based mentorship standards across National Institutes of Health (NIH) career development and research training programs.\n\nThe biomedical research enterprise depends on a steady pipeline of talent, but too many early-stage investigators leave the field for the private sector before they ever reach an R01 grant, the traditional marker of an independent research career. This attrition point, the gap between early career development awards and R01-level funding, is one of the most vulnerable stages in a researcher\u2019s career and a critical juncture where the nation risks losing its most promising scientific talent. Strong mentorship has been shown to help early-career researchers navigate this gap, stay in the research pipeline, and go on to lead their own research programs.\n\nThe legislation formalizes mentorship as a standard part of NIH-funded career development and training programs, giving young, accomplished researchers the structured support they need to remain in research rather than exit the industry. It builds on existing mentorship practices, preserves flexibility for research institutions, and minimizes unnecessary administrative burden by relying on NIH\u2019s existing reporting requirements.\n\n\u201cAmerica\u2019s leadership in biomedical research depends on developing the next generation of scientific talent,\u201d said Senator McCormick. \u201cStrong mentorship helps young researchers succeed, drives innovation, and ensures taxpayer investments in medical research deliver lasting results. As the fourth-largest recipient of NIH funding in the nation, Pennsylvania has a strong stake in maintaining a world-class biomedical research workforce. This bipartisan legislation strengthens that pipeline while giving institutions the flexibility they need to build on what already works.\u201d\n\n\u201cThe next generation of scientists will contain the next generation of disease outbreaks and cure the next generation of illnesses, but first those scientists must be properly prepared for their careers,\u201d said Senator Coons. \u201cMentorship is a powerful way of ensuring we have capable and qualified researchers to keep our nation healthy.\u201d\n\nStudies consistently show that researchers with engaged mentors are more likely to remain in research careers, secure independent grant funding, publish impactful research, advance professionally, and report greater career satisfaction.\n\nThe National Institutes of Health supports thousands of early-career researchers through career development and research training awards. While many of these programs include mentored research experiences, mentorship expectations vary considerably across institutions.\n\nPennsylvania, which ranks fourth in the nation in NIH funding, is uniquely positioned to benefit from a stronger biomedical research workforce. In Fiscal Year 2024, NIH grants supported 21,740 Pennsylvania jobs and generated $5.31 billion in economic activity statewide. NIH-driven commercialization has also contributed to the creation of 3,710 Pennsylvania businesses and 97,374 jobs in the biopharmaceutical industry.\n\nAcross the country, NIH awarded $36.94 billion in research funding in Fiscal Year 2024, supporting 407,782 jobs and generating $94.58 billion in economic activity nationwide. Every $1 invested in NIH-funded research generates approximately $2.56 in economic activity, underscoring the importance of maintaining a strong pipeline of talented biomedical researchers.\n\nThe NIH Mentorship Modernization Act would:\n\nEstablish minimum, evidence-based mentorship standards for designated NIH career development, institutional training, fellowship, research education, and other research training awards.\n\nBuild on existing institutional mentorship programs by minimizing duplicative requirements and allowing comparable programs to satisfy NIH standards.\n\nRequire institutions to certify compliance with NIH mentorship standards while encouraging the dissemination of evidence-based mentorship practices across the biomedical research enterprise.\n\nAuthorize NIH to provide supplemental funding or other institutional support to help institutions implement the mentorship standards.\n\nRequire NIH to periodically review and update mentorship standards to reflect evolving evidence-based practices and applies the new framework prospectively, with a two-year implementation period and voluntary early adoption for existing award.\n\n\u201cLast year, the NIH invested more than $2.6 billion across more than 3,700 research projects in Pennsylvania. These investments support early-stage discovery, clinical research, workforce development, and the commercialization of lifesaving treatment,\u201d said Christopher P. Molineaux, President & CEO of Life Sciences Pennsylvania. \u201cThis legislation acknowledges the critical importance of training and mentorship in building the next generation of life sciences leaders and will help ensure Pennsylvania scientists, researchers and business leaders have the support and guidance necessary to advance groundbreaking research and innovation for patients.\u201d\n\n\u201cMentorship is foundational to developing the next generation of biomedical researchers. By supporting mentor training and establishing clear standards, this legislation recognizes the critical role mentorship plays in helping trainees and early-career investigators and builds on the important work already underway across academic medicine to elevate mentorship as a core component of research training. Investing in mentorship is an investment in the future of biomedical discovery and patient care,\u201d said Emma A. Meagher, MD, Senior Vice Dean, Clinical & Translational Research, Perelman School of Medicine and Vice President, University of Pennsylvania Health System.\n\nReview the full text of the bill for more information.\n\n###", 1, "2026-08-08T05:41:38Z", "2026-08-08T05:43:24Z"], ["https://www.mccormick.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senators-mccormick-hickenlooper-hoeven-curtis-and-cortez-masto-introduce-legislation-to-strengthen-cybersecurity-for-rural-and-municipal-utilities/", "SENATORS MCCORMICK, HICKENLOOPER, HOEVEN, CURTIS, AND CORTEZ MASTO INTRODUCE LEGISLATION TO STRENGTHEN CYBERSECURITY FOR RURAL AND MUNICIPAL UTILITIES", "2026-08-07", "2026", "2026-08", "Republican", "Senate", "PA", "David McCormick", "M001243", "www.mccormick.senate.gov", "davemccormick", "https://www.mccormick.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/", "scraper", "WASHINGTON \u2013 Today, U.S. Senators Dave McCormick (R-PA), John Hickenlooper (D-CO), John Hoeven (R-ND), John Curtis (R-UT), and Catherine Cortez Masto (D-NV) introduced the Rural and Municipal Utility Cybersecurity Act, bipartisan legislation to reauthorize a critical federal grant program that helps rural electric cooperatives and municipal utilities strengthen their cybersecurity defenses against increasingly sophisticated cyber threats.\n\nThe legislation reauthorizes the Rural and Municipal Utility Advanced Cybersecurity (RMUC) Grant and Technical Assistance Program at the Department of Energy, which provides rural electric cooperatives and publicly owned utilities with the resources, technical assistance, and support they need to prevent, detect, respond to, and recover from cyberattacks. The bill serves as the Senate companion to bipartisan legislation which unanimously passed the House of Representatives earlier this year.\n\n\u201cAmerica\u2019s electric grid is a critical piece of our national security, and every utility\u2014regardless of size or location\u2014must have the resources to defend against increasingly sophisticated cyber threats,\u201d said Senator McCormick. \u201cRural electric cooperatives and municipal utilities serve millions of Americans, including communities across Pennsylvania, but often operate with fewer cybersecurity resources than larger utilities. This bipartisan legislation will help ensure they have the support they need to protect our energy infrastructure and keep the lights on.\u201d\n\n\u201cAmerica needs clean, reliable, affordable, and secure energy,\u201d said Senator Hickenlooper. \u201cAs cybersecurity threats continue to rise, our bill enables rural cooperatives and utilities to defend against sophisticated attacks, protect consumers, and keep energy affordable.\u201d\n\n\u201cMalicious actors and foreign adversaries are targeting America\u2019s infrastructure, and that is why we introduced legislation to support electric cooperatives and utility providers as they work to harden critical energy infrastructure against cyberattacks. Doing so will help ensure the resilience of the electrical grid, supporting both our economic and national security while ensuring important services remain available in an era of increasing cyber threats,\u201d said Senator Hoeven.\n\n\u201cOur rural and municipal utilities are increasingly on the front lines of protecting the electric grid from cyber threats,\u201d said Senator Curtis. \u201cThis bipartisan bill makes a smart investment in safeguarding critical infrastructure, supporting local utilities, and keeping the lights on for communities across America.\u201d\n\n\u201cI was proud to help establish this grant program in the bipartisan infrastructure law to help rural utilities protect themselves from cybersecurity threats,\u201d said Senator Cortez Masto. \u201cThis program has proven incredibly successful and there is bipartisan support to reauthorize it. As new cyber threats continue to emerge, I\u2019ll keep working to ensure our rural communities have what they need to adapt.\u201d\n\nCyberattacks targeting America\u2019s energy infrastructure have become more frequent and more sophisticated in recent years. Rural electric cooperatives and municipal utilities often face unique resource constraints that make federal cybersecurity assistance especially valuable. The RMUC Grant Program helps eligible utilities improve cybersecurity preparedness through grants, technical assistance, and workforce development, helping strengthen the resilience of the nation\u2019s electric grid.\n\nThe Rural and Municipal Utility Cybersecurity Act would:\n\nReauthorize the Rural and Municipal Utility Advanced Cybersecurity (RMUC) Grant and Technical Assistance Program through 2031.\n\nContinue providing grants and technical assistance to rural electric cooperatives and municipally-owned utilities to strengthen cybersecurity capabilities.\n\nHelp eligible utilities prevent, detect, respond to, and recover from cyber threats.\n\nSupport cybersecurity planning, workforce development, vulnerability assessments, and other activities that improve the resilience of the electric grid.\n\nStrengthen partnerships between the federal government and locally owned utilities to protect America\u2019s critical energy infrastructure.\n\nAuthorize $250 million over five years to support these efforts.\n\nRead the full bill text here.\n\nThe legislation is supported by utility organizations representing electric cooperatives and public power providers across Pennsylvania and the country.\n\n\u201cPennsylvania\u2019s electric cooperatives thank Senator Dave McCormick for introducing the Rural and Municipal Utility Cybersecurity Act. Cyber threats don\u2019t distinguish between a large investor-owned utility and an electric cooperative serving rural communities, but the resources to defend against them are far from equal. By reauthorizing this program, Senator McCormick is making sure the cooperatives that keep the lights on across rural Pennsylvania have the tools and the federal partnership they need to protect the grid our members and our country depend on.\u201d \u2013 Steve Brame, President & CEO, Pennsylvania Rural Electric Association and Allegheny Electric Cooperative\n\n\u201cPennsylvania\u2019s municipal electric utilities are on the front lines of protecting our communities\u2019 power supply \u2014 and cybersecurity threats don\u2019t distinguish between large investor-owned utilities and the small, locally-owned systems that serve our boroughs. The Rural and Municipal Utility Cybersecurity Act reauthorizes a critical program that gives public power utilities access to the technical assistance and funding they need to detect, respond to, and recover from cyber threats. PMEA supports Senator McCormick\u2019s proposal and urges Congress to advance this bipartisan legislation. Alongside our national partner, the American Public Power Association, we believe that securing our grid starts at the local level \u2014 and that no utility should face these evolving threats alone or without resources.\u201d \u2013 Jeffrey Stonehill, President, Pennsylvania Municipal Electric Association\n\n\u201cThe American Public Power Association applauds Senator McCormick for moving to reauthorize the Rural and Municipal Utility Advanced Cybersecurity (RMUC) Grant Program. This is a proven, practical investment that helps not-for-profit public power utilities strengthen their cyber defenses in the face of increasingly sophisticated threats. With RMUC support, APPA has launched the Cyber Accelerator Program to help utilities assess their readiness and take concrete steps to improve their security posture. We urge Congress to act quickly to extend this program and ensure every community has access to the tools needed to protect our nation\u2019s energy infrastructure.\u201d \u2013 Scott Corwin, President & CEO, American Public Power Association\n\n\u201cCyber threats to America\u2019s electric grid are growing more sophisticated by the day, and rural utilities depend on their partnerships with the government to help keep the grid secure. The Rural and Municipal Utility Cybersecurity Program is closing the resource gap and equipping electric cooperatives with the tools they need to protect the electrical infrastructure on which millions of Americans depend. We\u2019re grateful for the leadership of Senators McCormick, Curtis, Hickenlooper, Hoeven, and Cortez Masto in introducing this reauthorization.\u201d \u2013 Jim Matheson, CEO, National Rural Electric Cooperative Association", 1, "2026-08-08T05:41:38Z", "2026-08-08T05:43:24Z"], ["https://www.mccormick.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senators-mccormick-kaine-ricketts-and-hassan-introduce-bipartisan-campus-lifeline-act-to-strengthen-student-mental-health-and-suicide-prevention/", "SENATORS MCCORMICK, KAINE, RICKETTS AND HASSAN INTRODUCE BIPARTISAN CAMPUS LIFELINE ACT TO STRENGTHEN STUDENT MENTAL HEALTH AND SUICIDE PREVENTION", "2026-08-06", "2026", "2026-08", "Republican", "Senate", "PA", "David McCormick", "M001243", "www.mccormick.senate.gov", "davemccormick", "https://www.mccormick.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/", "scraper", "Legislation Expands Student-Led Mental Health Programs and Increases Awareness of the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline\n\nWASHINGTON \u2013 U.S. Senators Dave McCormick (R-PA), Tim Kaine (D-VA), Pete Ricketts (R-NE), and Maggie Hassan (D-NH) today introduced the bipartisan Campus Lifeline Act, legislation to strengthen student mental health and suicide prevention efforts by expanding student-led outreach on college campuses and increasing awareness of the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.\n\nSuicide remains one of the leading causes of death among young Americans, with nearly one in five high school students reporting suicidal thoughts. Congress has supported youth suicide prevention through the Garrett Lee Smith Memorial Act (GLSMA), which provides grants to colleges and universities to improve mental health and substance use disorder services, suicide prevention programming, and student outreach. Research shows peer-to-peer engagement can play an important role in identifying students in crisis and connecting them with appropriate support.\n\nThe launch of the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline has also expanded access to immediate behavioral health support, but awareness of the resource among college students remains inconsistent. The Campus Lifeline Act builds on existing federal efforts by strengthening peer-led outreach and helping colleges connect students with lifesaving mental health resources before a crisis escalates.\n\n\u201cNo family should have to experience the heartbreak of losing a child, classmate, relative, or friend to suicide,\u201d said Senator McCormick. \u201cStudents are often the first to recognize when someone is struggling. The Campus Lifeline Act strengthens peer-led mental health efforts, expands awareness of the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, and gives colleges additional tools to connect students with support before a crisis becomes a tragedy.\u201d\n\n\u201cWe can and must do more about the alarming spike in anxiety, depression, and suicidal ideation that we\u2019ve seen among young people across the country over the last 15 years,\u201d said Senator Kaine. \u201cThat includes encouraging schools to take commonsense steps to ensure that students know that help is out there, including through the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline that is free and available 24/7. This bipartisan legislation would help do that, and I encourage all of my colleagues to join us in pushing to get it signed into law as quickly as possible.\u201d\n\n\u201cThe 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline provides critical support for those struggling with their mental health. As Governor, I was proud to lead the effort to make this resource available to every Nebraskan. The Campus Lifeline Act would increase awareness of this resource and others available to students nationwide. Every student deserves to know that they are not alone, and help is there if they need it,\u201d said Senator Ricketts.\n\n\u201cYoung people in crisis need to know where to turn for help. This bipartisan bill would encourage colleges to put information about 988, the suicide and crisis hotline, on student IDs to increase awareness about this lifesaving resource. In addition, it would encourage colleges to develop plans for peer outreach about the 988 hotline, making it easier for people to get the support that they need,\u201d said Senator Hassan.\n\nSpecifically, the Campus Lifeline Act would:\n\n\u2022 Expand eligible Garrett Lee Smith Memorial Act campus mental health grants to support student organizations promoting peer mental health awareness, suicide prevention, substance use disorder education, and campus awareness campaigns.\n\n\u2022 Expand peer education programs to help students recognize and appropriately respond to warning signs of mental health and substance use disorders.\n\n\u2022 Require grant applicants to seek student input and ensure outreach and behavioral health resources are accessible to students enrolled in online, hybrid, and distance-learning programs.\n\n\u2022 Expand technical assistance to both grant recipients and unsuccessful applicants implementing evidence-based campus mental health programs.\n\n\u2022 Encourage states and colleges to promote the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline through student ID cards and campus awareness campaigns.\n\nThis bill has bipartisan support in both the Senate and the House. Representatives Erin Houchin (R-IN), Lori Trahan (D-MA), David Valado (R-CA), and Mark Pocan (D-WI) are sponsoring companion legislation, H.R. 8657, in the House of Representatives.\n\nThe Campus Lifeline Act has received support from over 35 organizations including: Active Minds, American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy, American Association for Psychoanalysis in Clinical Social Work, American Foundation for Suicide Prevention, American Group Psychotherapy Association, American Psychiatric Association, American Psychological Association Services, American School Counselor Association, Association for Ambulatory Behavioral Healthcare (AABH), Children and Adults with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder, Depression and Bipolar Support Alliance, Eating Disorders Coalition for Research, Policy & Action, EDGE Partners, Inseparable, Institute for Educational Leadership, International OCD Foundation, International Society of Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurses, Maternal Mental Health Leadership Alliance, Mental Health America, National Association of Pediatric Nurse Practitioners, National Association of School Psychologists, National Association of Secondary School Principals, National Association of Social Workers, National Association of State Mental Health Program Directors, National Board for Certified Counselors, National Council on Problem Gambling, National Eating Disorders Association, National Federation of Families, National League for Nursing, National Register of Health Service Psychologists, Psychotherapy Action Network (PsiAN), REDC Consortium, Sandy Hook Promise, The Kennedy Forum, The National Alliance to Advance Adolescent Health, The Trevor Project, Vibrant Emotional Health, Youth Villages.\n\n\u201cAt Active Minds, we believe that every student deserves access to mental health support before they reach a crisis. We are grateful to the U.S. Senators for coming together across party lines to champion this effort, which recognizes that supporting young people\u2019s mental health is not a partisan issue, it should be a national priority. By strengthening campus mental health resources and expanding access to evidence-based supports, this legislation will help ensure more youth and young adults can get the care they need, when they need it,\u201d said Anika Rahman, Director of Policy, Active Minds.\n\n\u201cAt SAVE, through our The Green Bandana Project program, we work with high school and college students across the country and see firsthand how important connection and accessible support are,\u201d said Erich Mische, CEO of SAVE, Suicide Awareness Voices of Education. \u201cThe Campus Lifeline Act will help remove barriers by including the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline on newly issued student ID cards and investing in youth-informed mental health strategies on college campuses. SAVE strongly endorses this legislation and looks forward to working with Senator McCormick and members of both parties to make it law.\u201d\n\nThe full bill text may be read here.\n\n###", 1, "2026-08-07T06:11:19Z", "2026-08-07T06:12:42Z"], ["https://www.mccormick.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senators-mccormick-fetterman-introduce-bipartisan-bill-to-strengthen-addiction-treatment-workforce/", "SENATORS MCCORMICK, FETTERMAN INTRODUCE BIPARTISAN BILL TO STRENGTHEN ADDICTION TREATMENT WORKFORCE", "2026-08-05", "2026", "2026-08", "Republican", "Senate", "PA", "David McCormick", "M001243", "www.mccormick.senate.gov", "davemccormick", "https://www.mccormick.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/", "scraper", "WASHINGTON \u2013 U.S. Senators Dave McCormick (R-PA) and John Fetterman (D-PA) today introduced the Workforce Recovery and Resilience Act, bipartisan legislation to help communities hit hardest by the opioid and fentanyl crisis by recruiting, training, and strengthening the workforce needed to support addiction prevention, treatment, and recovery.\n\nThe legislation modernizes the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act, giving state and local workforce boards new tools to respond to the workforce impacts of substance use disorders, with opioids at the center of the crisis in Pennsylvania.\n\n\u201cIn Pennsylvania, we\u2019ve seen firsthand the devastating toll fentanyl and opioids have taken on our families and communities,\u201d said Senator McCormick. \u201cIf we\u2019re going to help more people recover, we need enough skilled workers to provide that care. This bipartisan bill gives communities more tools to train that workforce so more people can get the help they need.\u201d\n\n\u201cCountless families have been torn apart as a result of the rampant opioid crisis, which especially impacts our workforce right here in PA. The need for treatment, recovery, and other support services is real,\u201d said Senator Fetterman. \u201cI\u2019m proud to join my friend Senator McCormick in introducing the Workforce Recovery and Resilience Act to open up federal workforce development investments to help workers and families fight back against this epidemic.\u201d\n\nPennsylvania has made significant progress against the opioid and fentanyl crisis. Fentanyl killed approximately 4,000 Pennsylvanians each year from 2020 through 2023, and preliminary data indicate that figure fell to approximately 1,500 in 2025, the lowest level in a decade. Sustaining that progress will require a strong workforce capable of delivering prevention, treatment, recovery, and other behavioral health services. The Workforce Recovery and Resilience Act gives communities the workforce tools needed to meet that demand.\n\nCompanion legislation was introduced in the House of Representatives by Congressmen Ryan Mackenzie (R-PA) and Raja Krishnamoorthi (D-IL).\n\nThe Workforce Recovery and Resilience Act would:\n\nDirect the Department of Labor to evaluate and annually share promising, evidence-based workforce strategies for communities responding to substance use disorder.\n\nExpand the use of National Dislocated Worker Grants to support employment and training activities related to addiction prevention, treatment, mental health care, and pain management in communities where demand exceeds available state and local resources.\n\nBroaden eligibility for these grants to include dislocated workers, long-term unemployed individuals, individuals who are unemployed or significantly underemployed as a result of widespread substance use in their area, and individuals employed or seeking employment in health care professions involved in substance use disorder prevention and treatment.\n\nRead the full bill text here.\n\n###", 1, "2026-08-06T07:37:31Z", "2026-08-06T07:38:34Z"], ["https://www.mccormick.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senators-mccormick-duckworth-introduce-bill-to-expand-low-cost-financing-for-transportation-infrastructure/", "SENATORS\u00a0MCCORMICK, DUCKWORTH INTRODUCE BILL TO EXPAND LOW-COST FINANCING FOR TRANSPORTATION INFRASTRUCTURE", "2026-07-31", "2026", "2026-07", "Republican", "Senate", "PA", "David McCormick", "M001243", "www.mccormick.senate.gov", "davemccormick", "https://www.mccormick.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/", "scraper", "WASHINGTON \u2013 U.S. Senators Dave McCormick (R-PA) and Tammy Duckworth (D-IL) today introduced the Transit for Urban Renewal and Business Opportunities Act (TURBO Act), legislation that would expand and modernize a key federal financing tool used by state and local governments to deliver critical transportation infrastructure through public-private partnerships.\n\nPrivate Activity Bonds (PABs) are tax-exempt bonds that state and local governments issue on behalf of private entities to finance projects that serve a public purpose. Administered by the Build America Bureau within the U.S. Department of Transportation, PABs are a critical tool for attracting private-sector investment in highways, transit, and freight infrastructure. But the national volume cap for qualified highway and surface freight transfer facilities has been exhausted, with the current $30 billion cap fully allocated.\n\nBeyond the cap, outdated rules also prevent communities from using these bonds for many of today\u2019s transportation needs. Current law generally allows the bonds to finance the construction of rail and bus infrastructure, but not the purchase of rolling stock. It also limits eligibility for passenger rail projects to those capable of reaching 150 miles per hour, leaving many modern rail projects that operate on shared freight corridors ineligible for this low-cost financing.\n\nThe TURBO Act would:\n\nRaise the national volume cap for qualified highway and surface freight transfer facilities from $30 billion to $45 billion, ensuring that critical transportation projects can continue to access low-cost financing through public-private partnerships.\n\nExpand the eligibility of mass commuting facility bonds to explicitly cover the acquisition of rolling stock \u2014 such as buses, railcars, and ferries \u2014 lowering the cost of modernizing transit fleets and letting local communities determine their own infrastructure needs.\n\nLower the speed threshold for high-speed intercity rail facilities from 150 miles per hour to 110 miles per hour, opening PAB financing to a far wider range of passenger rail investments, including projects that operate on shared rights-of-way with freight railroads.\n\n\u201cAmerica\u2019s transportation needs are growing, and we should be making it easier, not harder, for states and communities to finance the projects that keep goods and people moving,\u201d said Senator McCormick. \u201cThe TURBO Act modernizes a proven, low-cost financing tool critical so highway, transit, and rail projects in Pennsylvania can move forward. By expanding capacity and cutting outdated red tape, we can unlock more private investment in Pennsylvania and across the country.\u201d\n\n\u201cFar too often, roads that need repaving and transportation facilities that need revamping are left unfixed because states and towns don\u2019t have the funding they need,\u201d said Senator Duckworth. \u201cOur bipartisan bill would help state and local governments supercharge their infrastructure financing\u2014enabling them to deliver faster on projects, replace old buses, improve inter-city passenger rail and more. It\u2019s critical we build on the incredible progress of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, and this commonsense legislation would help us do just that.\u201d\n\nCongress created this financing category in the 2005 Surface Transportation Authorization (SAFETEA-LU), which set the national cap at $15 billion, and doubled it to $30 billion on a bipartisan basis in the 2021 Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA). With nearly all of that expanded capacity now committed, communities risk losing access to affordable financing for major projects at a time when infrastructure demands continue to grow.\n\nThe TURBO Act is supported by the following stakeholders:\n\n\u201cPennsylvania\u2019s public transportation systems need reliable, flexible financing tools to modernize fleets, improve infrastructure, and continue providing safe, dependable service,\u201d said Kim Whetsell, Executive Director of the Pennsylvania Public Transportation Association (PPTA). \u201cThe Pennsylvania Public Transportation Association applauds Senators McCormick and Duckworth for introducing the TURBO Act, which would expand financing opportunities and help transit agencies make strategic, long-term investments. This legislation is an important step toward strengthening public transportation across the Commonwealth, and we encourage Congress to advance it. We thank Senators McCormick and Duckworth for their leadership and commitment to the future of public transit.\u201d\n\n\u201cSEPTA operates the oldest rail vehicle fleet in the nation, and replacing four major rail fleets at once is an unprecedented financial challenge that our current capital funding cannot fully support,\u201d said SEPTA General Manager, Scott A. Sauer. \u201cWhile there is no substitute for dedicated federal investment in the nation\u2019s critical transit infrastructure, the financing modernization provisions in the TURBO Act could give SEPTA access to additional financing options to deliver much needed investments for our customers and the Greater Philadelphia region.\u201d\n\n\u201cModern, reliable public transportation depends on having the tools to invest in the future,\u201dsaid Katherine Kelleman, CEO of Pittsburgh Regional Transit. \u201cPittsburgh Regional Transit applauds Senators McCormick and Duckworth for introducing the TURBO Act,which will expand financing options for transit agencies as they replace aging fleets, upgrade infrastructure and improve service. This legislation will give agencies greater flexibility to make smart, long-term investments that benefit riders and the communities they serve. PRT encourages Congress to advance this critical legislation, and we thank Senators McCormick and Duckworth for their leadership on this issue.\u201d\n\n\u201cThe TURBO Act is a smart, forward-thinking solution to expand access to low-cost financing for critical infrastructure and transportation projects,\u201d said Jeff Nobers, Executive Director, Pittsburgh Works Together. \u201cBy raising the cap on these bonds and making more passenger rail projects eligible, this bill empowers local communities and encourages public-private partnerships to modernize infrastructure across the country creating thousands of jobs and making it easier for people to access good paying careers.\u201d\n\n\u201cReliable infrastructure is essential to the competitiveness of American manufacturers\u201d said Jezree Friend, Vice President, Manufacturer & Business Association. \u201cThe Manufacturer & Business Association applauds Senator McCormick for introducing theTURBO Act, which expands access to financing tools that will strengthen supply chains, encourage private-sector investment, and modernize our transportation infrastructure. This legislation will help keep Pennsylvania businesses competitive and our economy moving forward.\u201d\n\n\u201cWe at the Erie Regional Chamber & Growth Partnership are well aware of the difficulties of financing infrastructure investment in the Erie region, the Commonwealth, and across the nation. The TURBO Act, by raising the limits for Private Activity Bonds, helps solve the problem of infrastructure investment costs and financing. We at the Erie Regional Chamber commend Senators McCormick and Duckworth for this bipartisan solution.\u201d \u2013 Erie Regional Chamber and Growth Partnership\n\nRead the full bill text here.", 1, "2026-08-04T07:35:49Z", "2026-08-04T07:37:27Z"], ["https://www.mccormick.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senator-mccormick-unveils-vision-for-american-ai-leadership-in-major-address-at-manhattan-institute/", "Senator McCormick Unveils Vision for American AI Leadership in Major Address at Manhattan Institute", "2026-07-29", "2026", "2026-07", "Republican", "Senate", "PA", "David McCormick", "M001243", "www.mccormick.senate.gov", "davemccormick", "https://www.mccormick.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/", "scraper", "\u201cAmerica is in an existential race with Communist China for the technologies that will power the future. Even amid uncertainty, we must act with clarity, facts, and a sober recognition that we cannot afford to lose.\u201d\n\nWASHINGTON \u2013 U.S. Senator Dave McCormick (R-PA) today delivered a major policy address at the Manhattan Institute outlining his vision for ensuring the United States leads the artificial intelligence revolution while protecting American workers, strengthening national security, safeguarding children, and building the energy and infrastructure needed to outcompete Communist China.\n\nSenator McCormick emphasized that AI represents one of the most transformative developments in human history and called for a balanced approach that embraces innovation while addressing its most significant changes. He outlined five priorities for policymakers: supporting American workers, expanding economic opportunity, protecting children, strengthening national security, and accelerating the infrastructure needed to power AI leadership.\n\nWatch Senator McCormick\u2019s full speech and Q&A here.\n\nSenator McCormick\u2019s remarks below (as prepared):\n\n\u201cThank you, Reihan, and thank you to the Manhattan Institute for hosting me. From George Kelling and James Q. Wilson on broken-windows policing to Ed Glaeser\u2019s insights in City Journal, this institution has helped answer the most pressing questions facing our country. It continues to do so under your great leadership.\n\n\u201cIt is therefore fitting that we meet under the Manhattan Institute\u2019s banner to discuss one of the most consequential questions of our time: how should America navigate the artificial intelligence revolution?\n\n\u201cThe stakes could not be higher, and the answers are not simple. So please bear with me as I lay out a framework for meeting this moment.\n\nTHE MOMENT\n\n\u201cArtificial intelligence may be the most transformative development in human history \u2014 bigger than the printing press, larger than the Industrial Revolution, more consequential than the race to the moon.\n\n\u201cIt is rewiring how we work, how we learn, how we fight, and how we live together.\n\n\u201cI am often asked whether I\u2019m optimistic or pessimistic about this change. I am neither.\n\n\u201cIn fact, I am skeptical of both the doomers who predict mass unemployment\u2014and sometimes seem to root against America\u2014and the utopians who promise effortless abundance and resist any guardrails.\n\n\u201cThe AI revolution is happening. Our task is to harness it for a safer, stronger, and more prosperous America. Whether we succeed depends on what we do now.\n\n\u201cTo be clear, this moment demands humility. I spend more time on AI than many of my Senate colleagues, yet I still do not understand it as well as I should. No one in elected office is fully prepared. Humility must loom large in our minds.\n\n\u201cBut humility does not mean inaction. America is in an existential race with Communist China for the technologies that will power the future.\n\n\u201cEven amid uncertainty, we must act with clarity, facts, and a sober recognition that we cannot afford to lose.\n\nTHE PROMISES AND RISKS OF AI\n\n\u201cAI is already delivering remarkable benefits: advancing treatments for diseases like pancreatic cancer, making dangerous work safer, and offering a supercomputer to every small business owner and entrepreneur across America.\n\n\u201cIt is also transforming warfare. Today\u2019s battlefields look nothing like what I saw in the Gulf War, when I served in the 82nd Airborne.\n\n\u201cBut the risks of the AI revolution are equally profound.\n\n\u201cI grew up in Bloomsburg, Pennsylvania, where the Magee carpet mill employed 2,000 people. It was the biggest employer in town, and many of my friends expected to work there, just as their parents did.\n\n\u201cThen globalization came. The mills slashed jobs. Storefronts emptied. And our town suffered.\n\n\u201cThe people I grew up with know what it means to have their future rewritten by big forces beyond their control. Their fear of the AI revolution is rooted in memory.\n\n\u201cWe cannot ignore them. We cannot shrug when workers lose their livelihoods. We cannot dismiss parents\u2019 fears that chatbots will exploit their children. We cannot allow the wealthy to capture all the gains, corporations to steamroll communities, or Communist China to grow stronger on stolen American technology.\n\n\u201cThese are real issues. They demand our urgent attention, and I would like to spend a few minutes on each.\n\nFIVE CONSIDERATIONS\n\n\u201cThe first consideration is the American worker.\n\n\u201cDespite predictions of mass unemployment, early evidence suggests companies investing most heavily in AI are expanding their payrolls. Meanwhile there is so much demand for skilled trades and workers to build energy and AI infrastructure that trade schools can\u2019t keep up.\n\n\u201cStill, AI will eliminate jobs even as it creates others, just as the internet did. Without taking proactive measures, too many workers will be left behind.\n\n\u201cExpanding short-term Pell Grants via the Working Families Tax Cuts was a strong start, but Congress must go further. Employers must also equip workers to thrive alongside AI. We cannot repeat the mistakes of globalization.\n\n\u201cThe second consideration is whether the unprecedented wealth creation of the AI revolution reaches the many or remains with the few.\n\n\u201cCapitalism is history\u2019s greatest engine of prosperity. And few have benefited more or will defend it more strongly than I.\n\n\u201cBut capitalism has a problem: the top 1% owns nearly a third of America\u2019s wealth, up from less than a quarter in 1989, while the bottom half owns just 2.5%. We should expect AI to widen that divide by delivering extraordinary returns to those who own the models, compute, and equity.\n\n\u201cIn response, Bernie Sanders proposes seizing half the industry\u2019s equity. Such a move would cripple the engine of American prosperity. The better answer is to give more Americans an ownership stake in the AI revolution.\n\n\u201cInvest America accounts and school-choice tax credits offer promising models of voluntary investments in fellow Americans, but the scale of this challenge demands more. I challenge serious thinkers\u2014including those at this institution\u2014to help preserve capitalism by increasing access to its benefits.\n\n\u201cThe third question is how we protect our children in the AI age.\n\n\u201cTechnology that exploits a child\u2019s vulnerability or identity has no place in the American marketplace.\n\n\u201cCongress and the Administration should establish national safeguards. We should bar social media for children under sixteen, and we should abolish AI models that groom, sexualize, deceive, or prey on minors. I am proud to support legislation that does just that.\n\n\u201cThe fourth consideration is national security. If Communist China wins the AI race, it will gain military, economic, and technological supremacy. We must out-innovate China while denying it our most advanced tools. Congress should pass my Remote Access Security Act to block Chinese access to advanced chips through the cloud, and the Administration should continue cracking down on IP theft and industrial-scale distillation.\n\n\u201cAt home, innovation\u2014including open-source and open-weight development\u2014must remain the default. President Trump deserves enormous credit for accelerating innovation through the AI action plan. Any regulatory review should be swift and light, except for models posing credible biological, cyber, or nuclear risks, which demand extraordinary scrutiny.\n\n\u201cThe Administration should continue its good work with industry to establish clear standards, potentially through a FINRA-style framework encompassing frontier labs, open-source developers, startups, investors, workers, and users.\n\n\u201cThe fifth and final consideration is whether we will build the infrastructure American AI leadership requires. I want to spend more time here, because it is so contentious and so important, and because Pennsylvania is on the front lines.\n\nDATA CENTERS\n\n\u201cTo win the AI race, we must build more compute. That means more energy to power data centers, more chips to fill them, and more workers to support the boom already underway.\n\n\u201cBuilding at that scale requires permitting reform. Today, $1.5 trillion in infrastructure investment is stuck in permitting limbo. My Unlock American Energy and Jobs Act would unleash that capital and create new construction and jobs.\n\n\u201cHowever, we must also reckon with the growing opposition to data centers on both sides of the aisle.\n\n\u201cTwo weeks ago, Governor Kathy Hochul signed the nation\u2019s first statewide moratorium on hyperscale data centers. Senator Sanders and Congresswoman Ocasio-Cortez have proposed a national one. More than 300 local bans have passed, and 74 percent of Pennsylvania voters say they would oppose building an AI data center in their community.\n\n\u201cI understand the concerns. No American should face higher power or water bills or have a hulking facility dropped into his backyard.\n\n\u201cBut the choice is not between a moratorium and a runaway buildout that steamrolls communities. That false choice threatens America\u2019s future.\n\n\u201cOur adversaries understand the stakes. Chinese and Russian outlets warn Americans that data centers will raise bills and drain water even as Beijing cuts power costs for its own AI facilities.\n\n\u201cWhen an adversary urges you to stop building what he is racing to build, pay attention.\n\n\u201cBut in business, when things go wrong, you can\u2019t only point fingers. You must look hard at what you\u2019ve done. And, ladies and gentlemen, the industry has failed that test.\n\n\u201cHyperscalers and developers have bought land through shell companies, arrived at hearings with lawyers instead of answers, and hidden basic details about power, water, and land use. Communities are saying no because industry has not earned their trust.\n\n\u201cThere is a better path.\u201cTo begin with, local officials should learn the risks and opportunities for themselves. A group of Pennsylvania township supervisors recently visited data centers in Loudoun County, Virginia. Most arrived skeptical; nearly all returned more open to them.\n\n\u201cArmed with the facts, communities and companies should strike a covenant built on four pillars.\n\n\u201cFirst, protect ratepayers. Developers should pay for their own power and transmission needs and stop seeking tax abatements and special treatment. The President\u2019s Ratepayer Protection Pledge is a strong start.\n\n\u201cSecond, protect land and water through efficient cooling, responsible siting, and strict compliance with permits. My bipartisan Liquid Cooling for AI Act would promote more energy- and water-efficient standards.\n\n\u201cThird, benefit the community. Hire locally. Buy American. Support local schools and businesses. Invest beyond tax payments.\n\n\u201cFourth, be transparent. Put power, water, land, timelines, and tax treatment on the table early, in plain language, while communities can still shape the agreement. If you want me with you on the landing, include me on the takeoff.\n\n\u201cI have seen this work across Pennsylvania. At Homer City and Shippingport, new gas-fired power plants will power data centers and put a gigawatt each of new power on the grid. Elsewhere, developers such as Blackstone and QTS are engaging neighbors early and investing in infrastructure, workers, and long-term tax-base growth.\n\n\u201cDevelopers who honor this covenant will find willing partners across Pennsylvania and the nation. But local leaders who reflexively reject data centers risk forfeiting incredible opportunities for investment and job creation in their communities.\n\nFREEDOM\u2019S FORGE\n\n\u201cThese are the five big considerations before us today: our jobs, our wealth, our children, our national security, and our infrastructure.\n\n\u201cWe don\u2019t need a comprehensive rulebook for AI in order to address these questions.\n\n\u201cIn fact, it would be a fool\u2019s errand to write one. Too much is changing. Too much remains unknown. Too much is at stake.\n\n\u201cWhat we need, however, is a level of coordination between government and industry that has been sadly missing for some time.\n\n\u201cAmerica has faced existential tests before. In the lead-up to World War II, the federal government set the objective, opened the order books, convened industry, and let builders build. The result was the greatest industrial mobilization in history, with Pennsylvania leading the Arsenal of Democracy.\n\n\u201cGovernment, industry, and workers formed Freedom\u2019s Forge.\n\n\u201cWe need a similar alliance today\u2014uniting federal, state, and local government, business, capital, and labor behind a safer, more prosperous America and holding the builders and beneficiaries of that future accountable.\n\n\u201cWe saw a glimpse of it last year at the Pennsylvania Energy and Innovation Summit, which Dina and I hosted in Pittsburgh. President Trump, Governor Shapiro, and leaders from energy, AI, finance, labor, and our universities announced $92 billion in new investment and tens of thousands of jobs.\n\n\u201cOur task is to build on examples like this. Embrace the future without leaving workers behind, protect our children without freezing innovation, broaden prosperity without abandoning capitalism, and beat China without sacrificing the liberties that distinguish us.\n\n\u201cThis moment demands leadership and alignment across all levels of society. If we meet the AI revolution with humility, clarity, and faith in the American worker, it can usher in the next great American century.\n\n\u201cThe future is up to us. We are the masters of our fate.\n\n\u201cThank you.\u201d\n\n###", 1, "2026-07-30T07:32:48Z", "2026-07-30T07:34:08Z"], ["https://www.mccormick.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senator-mccormick-announces-nearly-10-billion-in-new-investment-supporting-4000-pennsylvania-jobs-at-2026-pennsylvania-defense-and-innovation-summit-2/", "Senator McCormick Announces $10 Billion in New Investment supporting Nearly 5,000 Pennsylvania Jobs at 2026 Pennsylvania Defense and Innovation Summit", "2026-07-15", "2026", "2026-07", "Republican", "Senate", "PA", "David McCormick", "M001243", "www.mccormick.senate.gov", "davemccormick", "https://www.mccormick.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/", "scraper", "Editor\u2019s Note (July 16, 2026): This release has been updated to reflect Lockheed Martin\u2019s announcement.\n\nCARLISLE, PA \u2014 U.S. Senator Dave McCormick (R-PA) brought together the nation\u2019s top defense, technology, and finance leaders at the U.S. Army War College in Carlisle, Pennsylvania, for the first-ever Pennsylvania Defense and Innovation Summit. The two-day Summit advanced President Trump\u2019s vision of Peace through Strength and catalyzed more than $10 billion in new investment supporting nearly 5,000 Pennsylvania jobs. Over 30 individual announcements were made advancing American shipbuilding, munitions, space industry, innovation, and emerging technologies such as AI and robotics.\n\nOver two days, more than 1,300 attendees \u2014 including 600-plus C-level executives, representatives from 500-plus organizations and more than 130 exhibitor booths \u2014 took part in over 1,500 meetings connecting investors, suppliers, workforce leaders, university researchers, warfighters, and Department of War officials.\n\n\u201cPennsylvania has powered American defense since the Army, Navy, and Marine Corps were founded in Philadelphia in 1775. That legacy carried us through the Arsenal of Democracy in World War II, and it\u2019s carrying us today through advanced manufacturing, robotics, AI, and space,\u201d said Senator McCormick. \u201cThis week, that legacy translated into results with nearly $10 billion in new investment and supporting over 5,000 jobs for Pennsylvania workers. President Trump has laid out a bold vision for American strength, and Pennsylvania is proving it can deliver, bringing the innovation, the workforce, and the will to build it.\u201d\n\nThe list of announcements falls into three categories: 1) Defense Industrial Base, 2) Emerging Technology, and 3) R&D and Workforce.\n\nStrengthening the Defense Industrial Base\n\nRhoads Industries & General Dynamics Electric Boat (Philadelphia) \u2014 A 10-year, $2.5 billion strategic agreement for advanced manufacturing and shipbuilding to support U.S. Navy submarine construction from the Philadelphia Navy Yard, supporting approximately 1,350 jobs through 2035.\n\nHanwha Group / Hanwha Philadelphia Shipyard (Philadelphia) \u2014 New ship orders for the National Security Multi-Mission Vessel through the Department of Transportation\u2019s Maritime Administration (MARAD), valued at $1.5 billion in program costs and supporting over 2,000 jobs.\n\nJPMorganChase (Philadelphia) \u2014 Nearly $25 million ($18 million in loans and investments, plus almost $6 million in grants) to strengthen Philadelphia\u2019s shipbuilding and maritime manufacturing sector, helping expand a submarine manufacturing facility projected to create 450 permanent jobs, training hundreds of workers, and supporting up to 100 maritime suppliers.\n\nDay & Zimmermann (Philadelphia) \u2014 $2.3 billion contract to provide operations, maintenance, and modernization for the Hawthorne Army Depot in Nevada, delivered from its Philadelphia operations.\n\nEOS (Pittsburgh) \u2014 A strategic partnership with the Department of War to enhance the resilience of national defense infrastructure. Eos was awarded a Golden Dome for America contract to integrate mission-ready long-duration energy storage supporting requirements of the nation\u2019s defense shield.\n\nJWF Industries (Windber, Cambria County) \u2014 More than $500 million in anticipated new defense manufacturing contracts and long-term agreements, alongside a 200,000-square-foot facility expansion supporting approximately 200 new jobs by December 2027.\n\nMack Defense (Allentown) \u2014 An additional Army order for 115 Heavy Dump Trucks for the Army National Guard, bringing 2026 orders to 208 trucks worth more than $84 million under a five-year contract worth up to $221.8 million.\n\nAir, formerly Govini (Pittsburgh) \u2014 A 10-year, $450 million expansion of its Pittsburgh office, expected to add 40 jobs.\n\nAttalon (new headquarters in Philadelphia) \u2014 An 80,000-square-foot facility opening in 2027 that more than quadruples U.S. precision coatings production for guided munitions, representing $30 million-plus in investment and 100 jobs.\n\nKratos Defense (York) \u2014 A new 167,000-square-foot advanced manufacturing facility, Kratos\u2019 third in Pennsylvania, backed by more than $7 million in new production equipment and supporting 440-plus employees statewide.\n\nKarman Space & Defense (Horsham, Montgomery County) \u2014 A $2.7 million expansion to test and qualify advanced material technologies for the Navy surface fleet, creating about 20 new jobs and retaining 40.\n\nAdvanced Cooling Technologies (Lancaster) \u2014 A new 50,000-square-foot cold plate facility and expanded heat pipe production for satellites, defense systems, and AI data centers, with plans to hire up to 100 employees.\n\nSphere Brake Defense (Erie) \u2014 A $4.5 million U.S. Marine Corps contract for certification and production of sphere brake kits for the Amphibious Combat Vehicle fleet, supporting three additional Erie hires.\n\nAcutronic Group (Pittsburgh) \u2014 A $14\u201330 million investment in a new Pittsburgh facility \u2014 the world\u2019s largest dedicated to rate tables, hardware-in-the-loop simulators, and stabilized platforms \u2014 expected to double its Pennsylvania workforce (about 100 jobs) over five years.\n\nU.S. Metal Powders / AMPAL (Palmerton, Carbon County) \u2014 A fourth production line expanding aluminum powder capacity to 52 million pounds annually, adding spherical aluminum powder for solid rocket motor propellant and missile defense programs ($10 million, 15 new jobs).\n\nFirepoint Energy (Tunnelton, Indiana County) \u2014 A pilot facility converting waste coal into synthetic jet fuel, power, and critical minerals, with testing showing 12 of the 13 minerals sought by the Department of War present in the feedstock ($170 million\u2013$2 billion, 50 jobs).\n\nQintel (Pittsburgh) \u2014 An $84 million multi-year contract with U.S. Cyber Command, adding to existing work with the FBI, HSI, USSS, IRS, and Intelligence Community partners, from a 100-person, fully bootstrapped Pittsburgh headquarters.\n\nLockheed Martin (Lackawanna County) \u2014 A $60 million+ investment to expand its Archbald facility, creating approximately 700 new jobs. The investment will double the size of the facility, expand production of critical munitions capabilities, and strengthen America\u2019s defense industrial base.\n\nFielding Emerging Technology \u2014 AI, Autonomy & Space\n\nBlade Diagnostics (Pittsburgh) \u2014 The U.S. Air Force is expanding Blade\u2019s SmartBlend engine sustainment platform across the entire F-35 fleet, with projected savings of $1\u20132 billion.\n\nCarnegie Robotics (Pittsburgh) \u2014 Selected for Phase III of the Army\u2019s GEARS/ATV-S autonomous ground logistics program, positioning the company for a future production opportunity worth up to $400 million across more than 750 Army tactical logistics vehicles.\n\nReflection (Pittsburgh) \u2014 Entered agreements to serve as an open-model AI provider to the Department of Energy and the Pentagon.\n\nVoyager Technologies & Astrobotic (Pittsburgh) \u2014 Completed an acquisition of Astrobotic (rebranded Voyager Lunar Systems, retaining approximately 150 Pittsburgh jobs) valued at up to $300 million, alongside a roughly $297 million NASA task order for lunar surface delivery.\n\nDeepwave Digital (Berks County) \u2014 Deploying RF AI systems, now in low-rate initial production flight tests with the U.S. Air Force and Air National Guard, to protect American aircraft and crews ($30\u201370 million).\n\nAalyria Technologies (Pittsburgh) \u2014 Signed on to use a new DIU-funded Sensitive Compartmented Information Facility (SCIF) in Pittsburgh, growing its local team with CMU and Pitt talent.\n\nParallax Advanced Research & RIDC (Pittsburgh) \u2014 Building the new $10 million DIU-funded SCIF in Pittsburgh, enabling classified defense collaboration among government, industry, and academia, anchored by Aalyria, Qintel, Deepwave Digital, and Voicd.\n\nVoicd (Pittsburgh) \u2014 A CMU-developed, AI-powered voice intelligence platform that detects deepfake and synthetic speech and authenticates speakers, already adopted by the U.S. Secret Service and U.S. Senate, with patents filed across the U.S., Europe, and China.\n\nRe:Build Manufacturing (New Kensington, Westmoreland County) \u2014 Launched a line of U.S.-assembled, NDAA-compliant lithium-ion drone battery packs as part of an $81 million investment to scale Pennsylvania drone manufacturing, expected to create up to 300 jobs.\n\nBuilding the R&D and Workforce Pipeline\n\nPenn State \u2014 A new 10-year Army support agreement (RIGSA), a five-year nuclear research and workforce partnership with Westinghouse (including annual fellowships, 40 paid summer internships, and exploration of a HORIZON research test reactor), and a new START+ gas turbine testing laboratory opening in August to support commercial and military engines, including the F-135, in partnership with the FAA, DOE, and RTX-Pratt & Whitney.\n\nPenn State National Security Institute \u2014 Gen. (Ret.) Gary Brito will serve as inaugural chair of the NSI Strategic Advisory Council.\n\nUniversity of Pittsburgh \u2014 Launched the MACAM consortium, spanning 13 Department of War medical research labs, CMU, and industry, to advance autonomous battlefield medicine, building on more than $500 million in Department funding since 2019 and $9 million in current MACAM awards.\n\nTrivedi Institute, University of Pittsburgh \u2014 New Institute for Space and Global Biomedicine, building Pennsylvania\u2019s space and defense biomedicine ecosystem, with six jobs planned in year one.\n\nCarnegie Mellon University, Carnegie Foundry, ViDARR, and Envision Technology \u2014 Launched the Autonomous Systems Manufacturing Platform, leveraging more than $50 million in CMU investment to help U.S. companies rapidly scale secure, domestic production of autonomous systems.\n\nKeystone Space Collaborative \u2014 Announced as Pennsylvania\u2019s dedicated statewide space industry organization, alongside a new Tri-State Space Compact with Ohio and West Virginia.\n\nVoyager Technologies & Geisinger Health (Montour County) \u2014 A Memorandum of Understanding making Geisinger Health the first biopharma and life sciences tenant of Voyager\u2019s VISTA platform, enabling microgravity-based drug development and research ($1 million).\n\nVoyager Technologies & Penn State \u2014 MOU establishing a Penn State presence in the VISTA science park, connecting university researchers to microgravity research aboard the ISS and future commercial stations.\n\nLackawanna College (Scranton) \u2014 A $20 million skilled-trades and technology expansion, including a new Center for Technology and Innovation focused on robotics, energy, and cybersecurity, plus three new skilled trades centers.\n\nQE Manufacturing & Bucknell University \u2014 A $70,000 grant funding a 15-month collaboration studying AI-powered automation in precision manufacturing for aerospace and defense.\n\nPennsylvania College of Technology & BAE Systems (Lycoming County) \u2014 BAE renewed its support for Penn College\u2019s welding programs with a $10,000 grant, supporting 360-plus students and feeding a direct pipeline into defense manufacturing, including BAE\u2019s York site.\n\nU.S. Army AI2C & FUZE \u2014 Hosted the Robotics, AI and Autonomy Forum at CMU\u2019s Robotics Innovation Center, drawing 350-plus attendees and 50-plus companies and academic partners from 28 states.\n\nSouthwest Pennsylvania Defense Ecosystem \u2014 A new government-industry-academia coalition spanning ten Southwest Pennsylvania counties to accelerate mission-focused innovation and speed technology transition to warfighters.\n\nThe Pennsylvania Defense and Innovation Summit took place July 14\u201315, 2026, at the U.S. Army War College in Carlisle, Pennsylvania. Hosted by Senator Dave McCormick, the Summit convened 1,300 attendees, including 600-plus C-level executives and 500-plus organizations, and featured a curated Pennsylvania Trade Show and Industry Day showcasing Pennsylvania\u2019s leading defense companies, emerging startups, and critical suppliers, connecting them directly with government procurement officials, prime contractors, and private capital.\n\nThe Summit builds on last year\u2019s inaugural Pennsylvania Energy and Innovation Summit in Pittsburgh, which brought together business, technology, labor, and government leaders to strengthen Pennsylvania\u2019s role in powering America\u2019s future. That summit catalyzed more than $92 billion in announced investment, the largest single-day private investment commitment in the Commonwealth\u2019s history and remains on track to create tens of thousands of good-paying jobs. A year later, nearly every investment announced at the Summit is moving forward or expanding, underscoring Pennsylvania\u2019s growing leadership in energy, AI, manufacturing, and national security.\n\n###", 1, "2026-07-16T07:21:44Z", "2026-07-17T07:17:05Z"], ["https://www.mccormick.senate.gov/news/press-releases/pennsylvania-wins-best-in-show-at-the-great-american-state-fair/", "PENNSYLVANIA WINS \u201cBEST IN SHOW\u201d AT THE GREAT AMERICAN STATE FAIR", "2026-07-10", "2026", "2026-07", "Republican", "Senate", "PA", "David McCormick", "M001243", "www.mccormick.senate.gov", "davemccormick", "https://www.mccormick.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/", "scraper", "Pennsylvania pavilion was named top state exhibit during America\u2019s 250th Anniversary celebration on the National Mall \u2013 a win Senators McCormick and Fetterman say belongs to all of Pennsylvania.\n\nWASHINGTON \u2014 Pennsylvania was recognized as one of the top state pavilions at America\u2019s 250th birthday celebration, receiving one of the event\u2019s \u201cBest in Show\u201d honors during the closing ceremony at the Great American State Fair on the National Mall.\n\nThe recognition comes just weeks after Senators Dave McCormick (R-PA) and John Fetterman (D-PA) partnered with U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke Rollins and a coalition of 55 Pennsylvania organizations, businesses, and industry partners to ensure the Commonwealth had a pavilion at the Great American State Fair. The bipartisan effort was made possible entirely through private partnerships without the use of a single taxpayer dollar.\n\nJoining Senators McCormick and Fetterman in this effort were the Pennsylvania Chamber of Business and Industry, PennAg Industries Association, and the Pennsylvania Manufacturers\u2019 Association (PMA), alongside more than 50 additional Pennsylvania organizations, businesses, and industry partners whose support helped bring the Commonwealth\u2019s exhibit to life.\n\n\u201cPennsylvania\u2019s story is America\u2019s story, and this recognition is a tribute to everyone who helped bring that story to life,\u201d said Senator McCormick. \u201cFrom Independence Hall and Valley Forge to our farms, factories, and innovators, the Commonwealth has shaped our nation for 250 years. I\u2019m grateful to Senator Fetterman, Secretary Rollins, and our outstanding Pennsylvania partners for ensuring Pennsylvania had a presence worthy of our history.\u201d\n\n\u201cI\u2019m incredibly proud of all the Pennsylvanians that showed up to make sure our Commonwealth had the spotlight it deserved right there on the National Mall during America\u2019s 250th birthday. It earned this recognition,\u201d said Senator Fetterman. \u201cWhat makes Pennsylvania truly awesome are the men, women, and children who call it home. Our farmers, steelworkers, small business owners, and so many more. Those who visited the pavilion got to see a glimpse of some of the very best of us and our history, and I\u2019m grateful to Senator McCormick, Secretary Rollins, and all who made this a massive success.\u201d\n\nThe Pennsylvania pavilion highlights the Commonwealth\u2019s central role in America\u2019s story \u2014 from the signing of the Declaration of Independence and the sacrifices at Valley Forge to Gettysburg, the Arsenal of Democracy, and the Commonwealth\u2019s continued leadership in agriculture, manufacturing, energy, innovation, and small business. Visitors also explored exhibits featuring many of Pennsylvania\u2019s iconic companies and products, spotlighting the industries and communities driving the Commonwealth\u2019s economy today.\n\nDuring the closing ceremony, Freedom 250 recognized several outstanding state pavilions from across the country. Pennsylvania received one of the event\u2019s \u201cBest in Show\u201d honors, recognizing the Commonwealth\u2019s exhibit as one of the premier state pavilions at the Great American State Fair.\n\nRepresentatives from Senator McCormick\u2019s office accepted the Best in Show award during a recognition ceremony on the Freedom Stage Friday afternoon at the Great American State Fair.\n\n###", 1, "2026-07-11T07:10:48Z", "2026-07-11T07:14:29Z"], ["https://www.mccormick.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senator-mccormick-completes-11-day-tour-visits-every-pennsylvania-county-since-taking-office/", "SENATOR MCCORMICK COMPLETES 11-DAY TOUR, VISITS EVERY PENNSYLVANIA COUNTY SINCE TAKING OFFICE", "2026-07-10", "2026", "2026-07", "Republican", "Senate", "PA", "David McCormick", "M001243", "www.mccormick.senate.gov", "davemccormick", "https://www.mccormick.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/", "scraper", "11 days. 32 stops. 26 counties. Over 2,000 miles. One mission: hearing directly from Pennsylvanians.\n\nWASHINGTON \u2014 U.S. Senator Dave McCormick (R-PA) recently completed an 11-day, 32-stop tour across the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, marking the milestone of visiting all 67 counties in the Commonwealth since taking office. In total, his 67-county visit included 297 official stops across the Commonwealth.\n\nTraveling from Philadelphia County to Greene County, Senator McCormick met with rural healthcare providers, manufacturers, veterans, small business owners, educators, county commissioners, labor leaders, tourism officials, and community members to hear firsthand about the issues impacting Pennsylvanians across every corner of the Commonwealth.\n\nThe completion of this tour reflects Senator McCormick\u2019s commitment to maintaining a strong, visible presence throughout Pennsylvania and ensuring that every region in the Commonwealth has a voice in the United States Senate.\n\n\u201cPennsylvania\u2019s greatest strength has always been its people, and there\u2019s no substitute for showing up and listening,\u201d said Senator McCormick. \u201dOver the last 11 days, I traveled from one end of the Commonwealth to the other, meeting with Pennsylvanians who are building businesses, caring for patients, manufacturing world-class products, educating our children, protecting our communities, and powering our economy.\u201d\n\n\u201cCompleting this tour marks an important milestone. During our campaign, we visited all 67 counties across Pennsylvania, and now I\u2019ve done it again since taking office. That commitment doesn\u2019t end here. I\u2019ll continue traveling the Commonwealth because the best way to represent Pennsylvania in Washington is to hear directly from the people who call it home,\u201d said Senator McCormick.\n\nThroughout the 11-day tour, Senator McCormick highlighted Pennsylvania\u2019s diverse economy and communities while focusing on issues critical to the Commonwealth\u2019s future. The tour reinforced Senator McCormick\u2019s commitment to ensuring that every community\u2014urban, suburban, and rural\u2014is represented in the Senate and that Pennsylvania remains a national leader in manufacturing, agriculture, healthcare, energy, innovation, and economic opportunity.\n\nTo view a photo gallery from the tour,click here.\n\n11-Day Tour Recap\n\nDay 1 \u2013 Friday, June 26\n\nStop 1: Lancaster County \u2013 Healthcare Workforce Roundtable at WellSpan Ephrata Community Hospital\n\nDay 2 \u2013 Saturday, June 27\n\nStop 2: Schuylkill County \u2013 America 250 Parade in Pottsville\n\nStop 3: Carbon County \u2013 Jim Thorpe Small Business Walking Tour\n\nStop 4: Carbon County \u2013 Boat Yard Visit (Ty Poole\u2019s Bar in Lehighton)\n\nDay 3 \u2013 Sunday, June 28\n\nStop 5: Philadelphia County \u2013 Worship Service at Enon Tabernacle Baptist Church\n\nDay 4 \u2013 Monday, June 29\n\nStop 6: Philadelphia County \u2013 Invest America Trump Accounts Event at The Alan Horwitz \u201cSixth Man\u201d Center\n\nStop 7: Pike County \u2013 Visit to The Resort at Woodloch\n\nStop 8: Wayne County \u2013 Community Reception\n\nDay 5 \u2013 Tuesday, June 30\n\nStop 9: Sullivan County \u2013 Breakfast with Commissioners\n\nStop 10: Union County \u2013 WellSpan Evangelical Community Hospital\n\nStop 11: Snyder County \u2013 Lunch with County Commissioners\n\nStop 12: Montour County \u2013 Tour of Geisinger Medical Center\n\nStop 13: Northumberland County \u2013 Knoebels 100th Anniversary Celebration\n\nDay 6 \u2013 Wednesday, July 1\n\nStop 14: Centre County \u2013 Tour of Mount Nittany Medical Center\n\nStop 15: Clinton County \u2013 Racing for Heroes at Bucktail Medical Center\n\nStop 16: Cameron County \u2013 Tour of Emporium Hardwoods\n\nStop 17: Potter County \u2013 Eliot Ness Museum Roundtable\n\nStop 18: Elk County \u2013 Tour of Straub Brewery\n\nDay 7 \u2013 Thursday, July 2\n\nStop 19: McKean County \u2013 Tour of W.R. Case & Sons Cutlery Company\n\nStop 20: Warren County \u2013 Kinzua Dam & Riverfront Walk\n\nStop 21: Warren County \u2013 Plaza Restaurant & Allegheny River Riverfront Tour\n\nStop 22: Forest County \u2013 West Hickory Boat Launch\n\nStop 23: Clarion County \u2013 86th Annual Wolf\u2019s Corners Fair\n\nStop 24: Armstrong County \u2013 Meeting with County Commissioners\n\nDay 8 \u2013 Friday, July 3\n\nStop 25: Philadelphia County \u2013 Tour of Independence Hall\n\nDay 9 \u2013 Saturday, July 4\n\nStop 26: Philadelphia County \u2013 FIFA World Cup Match\n\nStop 27: Philadelphia County \u2013 One Philly: Unity Concert for America\n\nDay 10 \u2013 Sunday, July 5\n\nStop 28: Bedford County \u2013 Meeting with State Representative Jesse Topper\n\nDay 11 \u2013 Monday, July 6\n\nStop 29: Butler County \u2013 Gateway 228 Corridor Project Meeting\n\nStop 30: Westmoreland County \u2013 Meeting with Commissioners\n\nStop 31: Fayette County \u2013 Tour of Heartland Fabrication\n\nStop 32: Greene County \u2013 Meeting with County Commissioners & United Mine Workers of America (UMWA) District 2 Vice President\n\n11-Day Tour by the Numbers:\n\n11 Days\n\n32 Stops\n\n26 Counties Visited\n\nOver 2,000 Miles Traveled\n\nTotalSince Taking Office in January 2025:\n\n67 of 67 Pennsylvania Counties Visited\n\n297 Official Stops\n\n23 Telephone Townhalls\n\n49 Keystone Coffees\n\nTo receive weekly updates from Senator McCormick, click here.\n\n###", 1, "2026-07-11T07:10:48Z", "2026-07-11T07:14:29Z"], ["https://www.mccormick.senate.gov/news/press-releases/one-year-later-pennsylvanias-energy-and-innovation-summit-investments-are-on-track-and-growing/", "ONE YEAR LATER, PENNSYLVANIA\u2019S ENERGY AND INNOVATION SUMMIT INVESTMENTS ARE ON TRACK AND GROWING", "2026-07-10", "2026", "2026-07", "Republican", "Senate", "PA", "David McCormick", "M001243", "www.mccormick.senate.gov", "davemccormick", "https://www.mccormick.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/", "scraper", "WASHINGTON \u2013 One year ago, Senator Dave McCormick convened the inaugural Pennsylvania Energy and Innovation Summit in Pittsburgh, where leading companies in energy and artificial intelligence announced more than $90 billion in investments, including approximately $50 billion in energy and power projects and $40 billion in data centers, in addition to millions for workforce and AI training. A year later, those commitments are being delivered.\n\n\u201cNearly one year ago, we welcomed President Trump to Pittsburgh and brought together leaders in energy, technology, labor, and business with one goal: to reinforce Pennsylvania\u2019s role as the leader in energy and AI. Today, I\u2019m proud that nearly every investment announced at the Summit is on track or growing,\u201d said Senator McCormick. \u201cI\u2019m even more committed to holding everyone\u2014including myself\u2014accountable for delivering an update on these promises. These aren\u2019t just headlines; they\u2019re game-changing investments that will create tens of thousands of good-paying Pennsylvania jobs, strengthen our communities, and ensure Pennsylvania families benefit from this once-in-a-generation opportunity. Pennsylvania has the energy resources, the skilled workforce, and the innovation ecosystem to power America\u2019s future, and we\u2019re proving that our Commonwealth will lead the AI and energy revolution for decades to come.\u201d\n\nNineteen of the 20 investments announced or previewed at the Summit are on track, with construction and hiring underway, and in many cases growing beyond what was first announced. View the fact sheet for additional details and updates regarding the investments announced at the 2025 Pennsylvania and Innovation Summit.\n\nWatch how momentum has been built as a result of the 2025 Pennsylvania Energy and Innovation Summit. View the video.\n\nFrom business leaders and university presidents to elected officials, many have recognized the Summit\u2019s role in positioning Pennsylvania as the nation\u2019s leader in energy and artificial intelligence. Their reactions underscore the Summit\u2019s impact in creating tens of thousands of good-paying jobs, strengthening Pennsylvania\u2019s workforce, supporting local communities and businesses, advancing innovation, and cementing the Commonwealth\u2019s role in powering America\u2019s future.\n\nBlackstone and QTS are executing on their $25 billion commitment, having finalized a roughly 1,700-acre land purchase in Luzerne Country. At last year\u2019s summit, Westinghouse committed to constructing 10 new large nuclear power reactors. It has since signed an agreement with the U.S. government for up to $80 billion to build them and recently received $17.5 billion in loans to support the buildout. The Homer City Redevelopment is the largest natural gas power plant under construction nationwide, and the project will, using Pennsylvania gas, put up to 800 MW of power onto the grid. GE Vernova\u2019s Charleroi plant is growing, and TC Energy has committed additional capital in Pennsylvania since the Summit.\n\nThe momentum has continued. The AI data center hub outside Carlisle, Pennsylvania Digital 1 (PAX-1), which was previewed at the Summit but not announced, is under construction and already expandable to nearly 1.8 gigawatts. Likewise, the Trump Administration and NextEra have announced the South Mon project, which will generate over 4 GW of natural gas-fired energy. The Commonwealth is leading America\u2019s energy and AI future.\n\nWHAT THEY\u2019RE SAYING:\n\n\u201cWe\u2019re back in Pittsburgh to announce the largest package of investments in the history of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania\u2026This is a triumphant day for the people of the Commonwealth and the people of America.\u201d \u2013 Remarks by President Donald J. Trump at the 2025 Pennsylvania Energy and Innovation Summit\n\n\u201cOne year ago, we were honored to attend Senator McCormick\u2019s energy and innovation summit\u2026We also have tremendous momentum \u2013 projects that create jobs and have positive impacts on communities, positioning Pennsylvania at the forefront of the AI revolution for decades to come.\u201d \u2013 Jon Gray, Blackstone President\n\n\u201cWe\u2019re really excited about the progress that\u2019s been made in such a short period of time. A state-of-the-art natural gas power generation facility. 100 to 200 million dollars a year of royalties paid to the communities. It\u2019s going to be about manufacturing intelligence. Industry lives here in Pittsburgh. And thank you to Senator McCormick\u2019s leadership.\u201d \u2013 Toby Rice, EQT CEO\n\n\u201cAll the projects discussed here aren\u2019t just about energy and innovation. They\u2019re about job creation. There is no workforce more prepared to build the future.\u201d \u2013 Remarks by Brandon Bishop, North America\u2019s Building Trades Unions Treasurer, at the 2025 Energy and Innovation Summit.\n\n\u201cI want to take the opportunity to salute my good friend. He\u2019s put together this incredible AI and energy event, and he and I are going to continue to work together to fight for Pennsylvania and for our nation.\u201d \u2013 Senator John Fetterman\n\n\u201cThe energy and innovation summit was the standout event of last year. The groundwork we laid at the summit helped forge an incredible partnership for our Pittsburgh-based nuclear company, Westinghouse. This led us to signing a game-changing $80 billion deal with the US government. That\u2019s real investment benefiting the people of Pennsylvania.\u201d \u2013 Bruce Flatt, Brookfield CEO\n\n###", 1, "2026-07-21T07:32:02Z", "2026-07-21T07:33:33Z"], ["https://www.mccormick.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senator-mccormick-urges-department-oftransportation-to-support-butlercountys-gateway-228-grant-application/", "SENATOR MCCORMICK URGES DEPARTMENT OFTRANSPORTATION TO SUPPORT BUTLERCOUNTY\u2019S GATEWAY 228 GRANT APPLICATION", "2026-07-09", "2026", "2026-07", "Republican", "Senate", "PA", "David McCormick", "M001243", "www.mccormick.senate.gov", "davemccormick", "https://www.mccormick.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/", "scraper", "Senator McCormick backs critical transportation investment to improve safety, reduce congestion, and strengthen regional economic growth in Western Pennsylvania.\n\nWASHINGTON \u2013 U.S. Senator Dave McCormick (R-PA) sent a letter to U.S. Secretary of Transportation Sean Duffy urging the Department of Transportation to give full and favorable consideration to Butler County\u2019s application for funding through the Nationally Significant Multimodal Freight and Highways (INFRA) Grant Program.\n\nIn the letter, Senator McCormick expressed his support for Butler County\u2019s request for $50.9 million to complete the Mars Railroad Bridge West Project, a central component of the larger Gateway 228 corridor improvement project. The investment would ease longstanding traffic congestion, improve freight movement, enhance commuter travel, and strengthen transportation infrastructure throughout the region.\n\n\u201cReliable infrastructure is essential to keeping Pennsylvania\u2019s economy moving,\u201d said Senator McCormick. \u201cThe Gateway 228 project will improve safety, reduce congestion, strengthen freight movement, and create new opportunities for growth in Butler County and across Western Pennsylvania. I\u2019m proud to support this application and encourage the Department of Transportation to give it full consideration.\u201d\n\nGateway 228 serves as a vital commuter route and regional freight corridor but has struggled to keep pace with increased traffic and population growth. According to Butler County\u2019s application, the project will complete a key segment of the corridor, creating a fully connected transportation route between Interstate 79 and State Route 8. The improvements are expected to reduce crashes by an estimated 61 percent, improve freight mobility, strengthen regional connectivity, and enhance quality of life for residents.\n\nRead the full text of the letter here.\n\nDear Secretary Duffy:\n\nI am writing to you to express my strong support for Butler County\u2019s application for funding through the Department of Transportation\u2019s Nationally Significant Multimodal Freight and Highways (INFRA) Grant.\n\nLocated in Southwestern Pennsylvania, Butler County seeks funding in the amount of $50,911,500 for the Mars Railroad Bridge West Project (the Project). The Project will undertake the final 3.25-mile segment of the larger Gateway 228 corridor improvement project. Currently, this current stretch of roadway experiences traffic bottlenecks, safety concerns, and transportation inefficiencies. Gateway 228 serves as a vital commuter route and regional freight corridor that has seen increased traffic congestion and strained transportation infrastructure due to development and population growth in the region.\n\nThe Project will undertake the completion of the Gateway 228 corridor and create a fully connected transportation corridor between Interstate 79 and State Route 8. By addressing existing concerns with this corridor, crashes will be reduced by an estimated 61%. The Project will improve freight movement and commuter travel throughout the region which will strengthen regional connectivity, enhance quality of life, and support economic growth and future development in the region.\n\nI strongly urge the Department of Transportation to give this application full and favorable consideration. Thank you for your attention to this matter. Should you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact me.\n\nSincerely,\n\nDavid H. McCormick\n\nUnited States Senator", 1, "2026-07-11T07:10:48Z", "2026-07-11T07:14:29Z"], ["https://www.mccormick.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senators-mccormick-and-fetterman-announce-pennsylvania-partnership-to-showcase-the-commonwealth-at-the-great-american-state-fair/", "SENATORS MCCORMICK AND FETTERMAN ANNOUNCE PENNSYLVANIA PARTNERSHIP TO SHOWCASE THE COMMONWEALTH AT THE GREAT AMERICAN STATE FAIR", "2026-06-27", "2026", "2026-06", "Republican", "Senate", "PA", "David McCormick", "M001243", "www.mccormick.senate.gov", "davemccormick", "https://www.mccormick.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/", "scraper", "Pennsylvania leaders unite to ensure the Commonwealth is represented during America\u2019s 250th Anniversary celebration on the National Mall\u2014completely privately funded and with no taxpayer dollars.\n\nWASHINGTON \u2014 U.S. Senators Dave McCormick (R-PA) and John Fetterman (D-PA) today announced a coalition of Pennsylvania organizations that will ensure the Commonwealth has a strong presence at the Great American State Fair on the National Mall. This announcement comes after working in coordination with U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke Rollins.\n\nWhen it became clear that Pennsylvania still has an opportunity to join most other states participating in Great American State Fair, Senator McCormick worked with Senator Fetterman, Secretary Rollins, and leading Pennsylvania organizations to make sure the Keystone State would have a showcase worthy of its singular place in our nation\u2019s history. The effort is being made possible entirely through private partnerships and will not use any taxpayer dollars.\n\nJoining Senators McCormick and Fetterman in this effort are the Pennsylvania Chamber of Business and Industry, PennAg Industries Association, the Pennsylvania Farm Bureau, the National Federation of Independent Business (NFIB), the Pennsylvania Manufacturers\u2019 Association, and The Manufacturer & Business Association (MBA).\n\n\u201cPennsylvania is where America\u2019s story began, and there was no way we were going to let the Commonwealth go unrepresented during our Nation\u2019s 250th birthday celebration,\u201d said Senator McCormick. \u201cAs the birthplace of American independence, home to the hallowed grounds of Gettysburg, and the engine for the arsenal of democracy, Pennsylvania has a special responsibility to preserve, celebrate, and share that enduring legacy.\u201d\n\n\u201cCelebrating America\u2019s 250th birthday and Pennsylvania\u2019s special role in our country is important and bipartisan. We discovered our Commonwealth wasn\u2019t participating in the Great American State Fair on the National Mall and we should be,\u201d said Senator Fetterman. \u201cWe are now making sure Pennsylvania\u2019s booth will highlight the Commonwealth\u2019s agriculture dominance, our businesses, and what makes PA a truly awesome and historic place.\u201d\n\n\u201cPennsylvania\u2019s story is simply too important to be missing from our nation\u2019s capital during America\u2019s 250th birthday celebration. That\u2019s why the PA Chamber is proud to partner with Senator McCormick and Senator Fetterman to lead the Pennsylvania Pavilion at the Great American State Fair. The Keystone State belongs front and center\u2014and we\u2019re excited to help showcase the people, businesses, and innovation that continue to shape America\u2019s future,\u201d said Luke Bernstein, President and CEO of the PA Chamber.\n\n\u201cPennAg Industries Association is honored to partner with Senator Dave McCormick and Senator John Fetterman in representing Pennsylvania at the Great American State Fair during our nation\u2019s 250th Anniversary celebration. Agriculture has always been at the heart of the Commonwealth\u2019s story, and we are proud to showcase Pennsylvania\u2019s farmers, agribusinesses, and agricultural history as we celebrate this milestone anniversary for America,\u201d said Chris Herr, Executive Vice President, Penn Ag.\n\n\u201cPennsylvania Farm Bureau is pleased to see that Pennsylvania agriculture will be on display as part of the Great American State Fair taking place on the National Mall,\u201d said Chris Hoffman, President of Pennsylvania Farm Bureau. \u201cThis is an excellent opportunity for Pennsylvania\u2019s top industry to be on display at the national level, along with the other states that work together to provide the food, fuel and fiber that sustains our nation. We\u2019d like to thank Senator Dave McCormick and Senator John Fetterman for making it possible for the strength and diversity of Pennsylvania agriculture to be on display as part of this unique event to celebrate America\u2019s 250th birthday.\u201d\n\n\u201cPennsylvania\u2019s small businesses have been driving innovation, creating jobs, and strengthening our communities since the founding of our nation,\u201d said Greg Moreland, Pennsylvania State Director for NFIB. \u201cAmerica\u2019s 250th Anniversary is the perfect opportunity to showcase the entrepreneurs and family-owned businesses that continue to power the Commonwealth\u2019s economy. NFIB is proud to partner with Senator McCormick, Senator Fetterman, and organizations across Pennsylvania to ensure our state\u2019s rich history and vibrant small business community are represented at the Great American State Fair.\u201d\n\n\u201cPennsylvania is at the very heart of our national story,\u201d said David N. Taylor, President & CEO Pennsylvania Manufacturers\u2019 Association. \u201cTo celebrate America 250 at the Great American State Fair without the Keystone State is unthinkable. Profound thanks to Senator Dave McCormick and Senator John Fetterman for making things right! God bless America on this Glorious Fourth! Let Freedom Ring!\u201d\n\n\u201cNo state is more woven into the fabric of America\u2019s founding than Pennsylvania. As the birthplace of our democracy and a continuing leader in manufacturing, agriculture, innovation, and community, Pennsylvania tells the story of where America has been \u2013 and where it is going. America\u2019s 250th celebration would not be complete without Pennsylvania,\u201d said Lori Joint, President & CEO, The Manufacturer & Business Association (MBA).\n\nSenator McCormick and Senator Fetterman thank Secretary Rollins and our outstanding Pennsylvania partners for stepping up to ensure Americans visiting the Great American State Fair can experience everything our Commonwealth has to offer. Celebrating America\u2019s 250th Anniversary is an opportunity to honor our shared history, renew our commitment to the ideals that have sustained our Republic for two and a half centuries, and showcase the people, businesses, farmers, veterans and industries that continue to make Pennsylvania exceptional.\n\n###", 1, "2026-06-27T20:01:11Z", "2026-06-28T06:33:41Z"], ["https://www.mccormick.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senators-mccormick-and-rosen-introduce-the-unmanned-systems-command-and-control-act-to-strengthen-command-and-control-for-americas-unmanned-systems/", "SENATORS MCCORMICK AND ROSEN INTRODUCE THE UNMANNED SYSTEMS COMMAND AND CONTROL ACT TO STRENGTHEN COMMAND AND CONTROL FOR AMERICA\u2019S UNMANNED SYSTEMS", "2026-06-26", "2026", "2026-06", "Republican", "Senate", "PA", "David McCormick", "M001243", "www.mccormick.senate.gov", "davemccormick", "https://www.mccormick.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/", "scraper", "Bill directs the Pentagon to study proven allied systems and accelerate U.S. modernization at no new cost to taxpayers\n\nWASHINGTON \u2014 Senators Dave McCormick (R-PA) and Jacky Rosen (D-NV) today introduced the Unmanned Systems Command and Control Act, legislation directing the Secretary of War to study and report on whether the U.S. Department of War could use open-architecture systems to command and control its unmanned systems. Allied and partner countries are already using these systems to great effect in ongoing conflicts, and lessons can be learned from their application to different unmanned system tiers and domains.\n\n\u201cModern warfare has shown that unmanned aircraft systems now operate in huge numbers, forcing commanders to track countless moving pieces across vast areas in real time, and to manage that information quickly, safely, and flexibly to win. America\u2019s allies have built systems to do exactly this, while America\u2019s own efforts trail behind,\u201d said Senator McCormick. \u201cThe Unmanned Systems Command and Control Act directs the Secretary of War to study these proven frameworks, learn from them, and use those lessons to lower risk, speed up America\u2019s own progress, and gain critical advantage during military operations.\u201d\n\n\u201cThe use of drones and other unmanned systems in modern warfare has grown exponentially,\u201d said Senator Rosen. \u201cThis bipartisan bill will enable the U.S. to learn from our allies to remain at the forefront of military and technological innovation, ensuring that we can provide our troops with the resources to direct, coordinate, and utilize unmanned aircraft systems in the modern battlespace.\u201d\n\nThis legislation requires the Department of War to evaluate open-architecture, unmanned system command and control frameworks with proven operational effectiveness, examining their architectural design, compatibility and interoperability with existing DoW systems, cybersecurity, and adaptability in the field, along with a roadmap for putting them into use. Specifically, the bill:\n\nRequires DoW to study battle-tested drone command and control systems, beginning with Ukraine\u2019s Delta and Israel\u2019s multi-drone operating system.\n\nCreates a panel of 10 to 15 specialists in drone operations, open-architecture software systems, cybersecurity, and allied command and control operations, with no more than two-thirds being current government employees.\n\nRequires a preliminary report to congressional defense committees, a final report within one year, and annual updates for five years.\n\nRequires supply chain risk management, compliance with the Cybersecurity Framework 2.0, vulnerability disclosure, and penetration testing; excludes covered foreign entities; and mandates a process updating cybersecurity standards.\n\nDirects that any recommended frameworks account for the domestic small, unmanned aircraft systems industrial base remediation efforts.\n\nRequires DoW to share an unclassified summary of the findings and recommendations with the Federal Aviation Administration.\n\nDraws funding from existing DoW research and development amounts and avoids new taxpayer spending.\n\nSenator McCormick has also introduced the Unmanned Autonomous Systems Strategy Act, legislation requiring the U.S. Department of War to develop a comprehensive, all-domain strategy for the rapid deployment, integration, and scaling of unmanned and autonomous systems (UAS) across the Indo-Pacific and the Western Hemisphere.\n\nRead the full bill text here.\n\n###", 1, "2026-06-27T06:16:17Z", "2026-06-27T06:17:30Z"], ["https://www.mccormick.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senators-mccormick-schiff-introduce-bipartisan-legislation-to-strengthen-organic-certification-oversight/", "SENATORS MCCORMICK, SCHIFF INTRODUCE BIPARTISAN LEGISLATION TO STRENGTHEN ORGANIC CERTIFICATION OVERSIGHT", "2026-06-26", "2026", "2026-06", "Republican", "Senate", "PA", "David McCormick", "M001243", "www.mccormick.senate.gov", "davemccormick", "https://www.mccormick.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/", "scraper", "The Risk-Based Oversight for Integrity Act Would Reduce Burdens on Farmers While Protecting Consumer Confidence in Organic Products\n\nWASHINGTON \u2013 U.S. Senators Dave McCormick (R-PA) and Adam Schiff (D-CA) today introduced the bipartisan Risk-Based Oversight for Integrity Act, legislation that would modernize the U.S. Department of Agriculture\u2019s oversight of organic certification by focusing resources on higher-risk operations while reducing unnecessary burdens on farmers and businesses with strong compliance records.\n\nThe organic sector plays a critical role in American agriculture; however, current federal oversight requirements apply the same inspection standards to every operation regardless of risk level. Under the existing system, small family farms that have maintained compliance for years face the same annual inspection requirements as larger, more complex operations, creating increased costs and administrative burdens that do little to improve organic integrity.\n\n\u201cPennsylvania\u2019s organic farmers work hard to meet rigorous standards and provide consumers with high-quality products they can trust,\u201d said Senator McCormick. \u201cThis bipartisan legislation takes a smarter approach to oversight by focusing resources where they are needed most, reducing unnecessary burdens on our farmers, and strengthening confidence in the organic label. By modernizing the certification process, we can support American agriculture while maintaining the integrity consumers expect.\u201d\n\n\u201cCalifornia is the leading organic agriculture state in our nation, and it\u2019s crucial that we reduce unnecessary burdens for farmers,\u201d said Senator Schiff. \u201cThis bipartisan bill will modify the oversight process to allow small organic farms to stay in business while maintaining the integrity of the organic label for consumers.\u201d\n\nSince 2020, the number of certified organic crop operations in the United States has declined by more than 10 percent, while certified organic livestock operations have fallen by more than 6 percent. Meanwhile, current oversight practices fail to focus inspections and enforcement on the operations that present the greatest risk to organic integrity.\n\nThe Risk-Based Oversight for Integrity Act would:\n\nDefine \u201crisk to organic integrity\u201d based on the likelihood that products labeled as organic do not comply with federal organic standards.\n\nModernize inspection requirements by allowing risk-based inspection schedules for domestic operations, requiring on-site inspections no less than once every three years while permitting annual virtual inspections for lower-risk operations. Foreign operations would continue to be subject to annual on-site inspections.\n\nDirect USDA to conduct a comprehensive 12-month study evaluating risk-based oversight protocols and potential reforms.\n\nRequire USDA to engage with certified organic farmers, businesses, certifying agents, the National Organic Standards Board, organic consumers, and other stakeholders throughout the review process.\n\nAuthorize USDA to implement risk-based oversight regulations informed by the study\u2019s findings and consultation with Congress.\n\nThe legislation is supported by the Organic Trade Association, Organic Farmers Association, National Organic Coalition, and Accredited Certifiers Association.\n\nRepresentative Tony Wied (R-WI) introduced companion legislation in the House of Representatives.\n\nThe Risk-Based Oversight for Integrity Act is supported by the following stakeholders:\n\n\u201cOur organic oversight system shouldn\u2019t burden low-risk farmers while losing ground to foreign producers,\u201d said Tom Chapman, co-CEO of the Organic Trade Association. \u201cIt\u2019s no surprise we\u2019ve seen domestic organic operations decline since 2020, with foreign producers stepping in to fill the gap. We thank Senator McCormick and Senator Schiff for introducing the Risk-Based Oversight for Integrity Act which concentrates oversight where the risk is greatest while making certification accessible to low-risk farmers. The Organic Trade Association is proud to support this legislation and looks forward to advancing it alongside champions on both sides of the aisle.\u201d\n\n\u201cOrganic integrity and strong oversight are essential to maintaining trust in the organic seal,\u201d said Chris Solt, Executive Director, Pennsylvania Certified Organic (PCO). \u201cThe Rightsizing Organic Integrity (ROI) Act recognizes that not all operations present the same level of risk and creates a pathway for USDA to focus oversight resources where they are needed most. By reducing unnecessary burdens on low-risk operations while maintaining rigorous standards, this legislation strengthens organic integrity and helps ensure organic certification remains accessible for farmers and businesses across the United States.\u201d\n\nRead the full bill text here.\n\n###", 1, "2026-06-27T06:16:17Z", "2026-06-27T06:17:30Z"], ["https://www.mccormick.senate.gov/news/press-releases/president-donald-j-trump-to-headline-2026-pennsylvania-defense-and-innovation-summit-at-u-s-army-war-college/", "PRESIDENT DONALD J. TRUMP TO HEADLINE 2026 PENNSYLVANIA DEFENSE AND INNOVATION SUMMIT AT U.S. ARMY WAR COLLEGE", "2026-06-24", "2026", "2026-06", "Republican", "Senate", "PA", "David McCormick", "M001243", "www.mccormick.senate.gov", "davemccormick", "https://www.mccormick.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/", "scraper", "Two-Day Summit Will Convene the Nation\u2019s Top Defense, Technology, Finance and Government Leaders Driving the Next Era of Defense Innovation and Investment\n\nWASHINGTON \u2014 U.S. Senator Dave McCormick (R-PA) today announced that President Donald J. Trump will headline the 2026 Pennsylvania Defense and Innovation Summit at the U.S. Army War College in Carlisle, Pennsylvania, on July 14 \u2013 15, 2026.\n\nThis landmark two-day summit will be the first ever to convene the nation\u2019s most influential leaders in defense, technology, finance and government under one roof to advance President Trump\u2019s commitment to Peace through Strength and seize on this generational opportunity for Pennsylvania to contribute and strengthen our national defense, made possible by President Trump\u2019s historic $1.5 trillion defense budget. On July 15, President Trump will deliver remarks and unveil investments and partnerships in defense innovation that will create great-paying jobs for Americans across Pennsylvania and the country.\n\n\u201cLast July, the President came to Pennsylvania and together we announced more than $90 billion in investments to strengthen America\u2019s energy dominance and AI leadership. This July, I look forward to welcoming President Trump back to build on this momentum with a focus on strengthening and advancing our national defense,\u201d said Senator Dave McCormick. \u201cThe Commonwealth stands ready to lead and deliver the innovation, manufacturing, and skilled workforce necessary to advance the President\u2019s vision and strengthen our military edge.\u201d\n\nDuring the Summit, attendees will hear from our nation\u2019s most prominent national security and military leaders including top Cabinet officials. Business and finance leaders also joining the conversation include JPMorgan\u2019s Jamie Dimon, Blackstone President Jon Gray, Lockheed Martin CEO Jim Taiclet, General Dynamics CEO Phebe Novakovic, Boeing CEO Kelly Ortberg, SpaceX director Antonio Gracias, and Palantir CTO Shyam Sankar.\n\nDay One will spotlight Pennsylvania\u2019s defense industrial base, convening defense and industrial leaders, technologists, investors, procurement officials, and senior government officials for high-impact panels and working sessions designed to expand Pennsylvania\u2019s defense production and innovation. Day Two, headlined by President Trump, will deliver investment announcements and partnerships showcasing Pennsylvania\u2019s continued leadership in strengthening and supporting America\u2019s national defense.\n\nThe Summit marks the one-year anniversary of Senator McCormick\u2019s 2025 Energy and Innovation Summit, which President Trump headlined in Pittsburgh. At that historic event, the President announced more than $92 billion in private-sector investment commitments to the Commonwealth to lock in American Energy Dominance. This commitment represented the largest single-day investment announcement in Pennsylvania\u2019s history.\n\n###", 1, "2026-06-25T06:30:03Z", "2026-06-25T06:31:21Z"], ["https://www.mccormick.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senate-foreign-relations-committee-advances-mccormick-legislation-to-expand-internet-freedom-for-iranians/", "Senate Foreign Relations Committee Advances McCormick Legislation to Expand Internet Freedom for Iranians", "2026-06-17", "2026", "2026-06", "Republican", "Senate", "PA", "David McCormick", "M001243", "www.mccormick.senate.gov", "davemccormick", "https://www.mccormick.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/", "scraper", "Three Additional McCormick-Backed Bills Also Advance to Strengthen U.S. Energy Security, Deepen Strategic Partnerships, and Preserve Community Passport Service\n\nWASHINGTON \u2013 The Senate Foreign Relations Committee today advanced the Iran Human Rights, Internet Freedom, and Accountability Act of 2026, clearing the way for a full Senate vote. The bipartisan bill, introduced by Senator Dave McCormick (R-PA) with Senator Jacky Rosen (D-NV) and sixteen other senators, would expand internet access for Iranian civilians during regime blackouts, support independent broadcasting and human rights programming, and strengthen cybersecurity tools for Iranian journalists, activists, and civil society.\n\nThe committee also advanced three additional bills co-sponsored by Senator McCormick, which are now headed to the Senate floor. These include:\n\nThe Eastern Mediterranean Gateway Act, introduced by Senators McCormick and Cory Booker (D-NJ), would make the Eastern Mediterranean region a strategic priority in U.S. foreign policy, support the India\u2013Middle East\u2013Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC), and deepen cooperation on energy, trade, and critical infrastructure with key partners including Greece, Cyprus, Israel, and Egypt.\n\nThe Pacific Promotion of Workable Energy Resources (POWER) Act, co-led by Senators McCormick, Curtis, Schatz, and Coons, would leverage America\u2019s position as the global leader in geothermal electricity to promote geothermal exploration and production across the Indo-Pacific, strengthening energy security among U.S. allies, reinforcing supply chains, and creating economic opportunities at home.\n\nAn amendment to the Passport Act of June 4, 1920, introduced by Senators McCormick and John Fetterman (D-PA), would allow public libraries organized as non-profits or charitable organizations to collect and keep a fee for processing passport applications. The bill responds to a November 2025 State Department policy reversal that found many nonprofit libraries ineligible to offer these services under federal law. This will positively impact more than 26 non-profit public libraries in Pennsylvania who processed more than 41,000 passport applications last year.\n\nFollowing the Senate Foreign Relations Committee mark up this morning, Senator McCormick stated, \u201cI\u2019m proud to see these four bipartisan bills advance out of committee, and I urge my colleagues to pass them swiftly on the Senate floor. Whether it\u2019s standing with the Iranian people against a repressive regime, extending America\u2019s energy leadership across the Indo-Pacific, securing critical partnerships in the Eastern Mediterranean, or protecting passport access in communities back home, this is commonsense, bipartisan legislation that strengthens our security and serves the American people.\u201d\n\n###", 1, "2026-06-18T06:41:00Z", "2026-06-18T06:43:25Z"], ["https://www.mccormick.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senator-mccormick-urges-cms-to-reconsider-decision-impacting-mount-nittany-medical-center/", "SENATOR MCCORMICK URGES CMS TO RECONSIDER DECISION IMPACTING MOUNT NITTANY MEDICAL CENTER", "2026-06-16", "2026", "2026-06", "Republican", "Senate", "PA", "David McCormick", "M001243", "www.mccormick.senate.gov", "davemccormick", "https://www.mccormick.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/", "scraper", "WASHINGTON \u2013 U.S. Senator Dave McCormick (R-PA) recently sent a letter to Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) Administrator Dr. Mehmet Oz urging the agency to reconsider its recent decision to terminate Mount Nittany Medical Center\u2019s Sole Community Hospital (SCH) designation, a move that could jeopardize healthcare access for patients across Central Pennsylvania.\n\n\u201cMount Nittany Medical Center has long served as the primary provider of inpatient care for the region and remains an essential healthcare resource for Medicare beneficiaries and the broader community,\u201d Senator McCormick wrote. \u201cThe loss of SCH designation could jeopardize critical federal support for healthcare delivery in Central Pennsylvania and undermine access to care for seniors, rural patients, and families who rely on Mount Nittany for essential inpatient services.\u201d\n\nMount Nittany Medical Center serves as the region\u2019s primary inpatient healthcare provider and plays a critical role in delivering care to residents throughout Centre County and surrounding communities. CMS\u2019s decision could cost Mount Nittany Medical Center millions of dollars annually in federal reimbursement funding, creating significant financial challenges for a hospital that serves as the primary source of inpatient care for Central Pennsylvania. Senator McCormick\u2019s letter questions whether the Penn Highlands State College facility satisfies the statutory and regulatory requirements necessary to qualify as a comparable \u201clike hospital\u201d under CMS rules. Given the importance of maintaining reliable healthcare access in Central Pennsylvania, Senator McCormick urged CMS to conduct a thorough review of the decision and provide additional information regarding the agency\u2019s analysis.\n\nRead the full text of the letter here.", 1, "2026-06-17T06:49:24Z", "2026-06-17T06:50:53Z"], ["https://www.mccormick.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senators-mccormick-hickenlooper-young-and-heinrich-introduce-bipartisan-bill-to-establish-national-commission-on-robotics/", "SENATORS MCCORMICK, HICKENLOOPER, YOUNG, AND HEINRICH INTRODUCE BIPARTISAN BILL TO ESTABLISH NATIONAL COMMISSION ON ROBOTICS", "2026-06-04", "2026", "2026-06", "Republican", "Senate", "PA", "David McCormick", "M001243", "www.mccormick.senate.gov", "davemccormick", "https://www.mccormick.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/", "scraper", "WASHINGTON \u2013 U.S. Senators Dave McCormick (R-PA), John Hickenlooper (D-CO), Todd Young (R-IN), and Martin Heinrich (D-NM) today introduced the bipartisan National Commission on Robotics Act. The bill would create an independent commission to evaluate America\u2019s competitiveness in robotics and recommend policies to strengthen U.S. leadership in that field. The legislation comes as America\u2019s dependence on foreign-manufactured robotics technology raises urgent questions about supply chain security, economic competitiveness, national defense, and workforce development.\n\n\u201cPennsylvania, and Pittsburgh especially, is an incredible hub of robotics talent and demonstrates that American leadership in robotics creates high-paying jobs, strengthens domestic supply chains, and drives long-term growth,\u201d said Senator McCormick. \u201cThe Commission on American Leadership in Robotics will bring together leading experts to help ensure the United States maintains its technological edge over our adversaries and builds the workforce needed to succeed in a technology-driven future.\u201d\n\n\u201cAdvancements in robotics are rapidly changing how we live and work. If America is going to lead the future, we need a better understanding of the opportunities and challenges ahead\u2014from supply chains and national security to workforce development,\u201d saidSenatorHickenlooper. \u201cColorado is a growing robotics and innovation hub, and this legislation will help ensure we harness these technologies in ways that build opportunity, strengthen our economy, and minimize the unintended consequences.\u201d\n\nSpecifically, the commission is directed to examine and make recommendations on:\n\nThe competitiveness of the United States in robotics and the strength of the domestic marketplace.\n\nWhether the U.S. has the appropriate means and methods to assert and maintain a technological advantage across industrial, retail, and commercial sectors.\n\nForeign actions and policies to advance robotics.\n\nWhether certain strategic partnerships in robotics with industry, the public, and academic institutions could enhance economic competitiveness and manufacturing.\n\nWorkforce incentives and programs to attract and recruit leading talent in robotics and associated STEM fields.\n\nSupply chain risks and policies to increase domestic manufacturing of robotics.\n\nThe commission will deliver an interim report to Congress and the President within one year of establishment and a final report with concrete recommendations within two years of establishment.\n\nTheNational Commission on Robotics Acthas received support from the following stakeholders: Gecko Robotics, Carnegie Mellon University, Pittsburgh Technology Council, Advanced Robotics for Manufacturing (ARM) Institute, Agility Robotics, Association for Uncrewed Vehicle Systems International (AUVSI), Association for Advancing Automation (A3), FANUC America, Technology Councils of North America (TECNA), the Colorado Technology Association, Advanced Construction Robotics, Carnegie Robotics, Near Earth Autonomy, HEBI Robotics, Robots for America, the New American Industrial Alliance, and the Mass Technology Leadership Council.\n\n\u201cRobotics is poised to be one of the defining technologies of the 21st century, with profound implications for economic growth, national security and societal well-being. At a time of increasing global competition, the United States must take an ambitious and deliberate approach to maintaining its leadership in this critical field,\u201d said Farnam Jahanian, PresidentofCarnegie Mellon University. \u201cCarnegie Mellon University applauds the bipartisan leadership of Senators McCormick and Hickenlooper in advancing a National Robotics Commission. By bringing together leaders from industry, academia, government and the workforce, this effort can help develop a shared national strategy that accelerates innovation, strengthens American competitiveness and ensures the benefits of robotics are broadly shared across society.\u201d\n\n\u201cGlobal competition around robotics and AI is accelerating quickly, and the U.S. must move decisively to remain the global leader. A national robotics strategy is essential to strengthening American industry, infrastructure, energy, and national security, while accelerating innovation and high-skilled jobs. Gecko, from our Pittsburgh headquarters to facilities around the world, is at the forefront of companies transforming critical industries using robotics and stands firmly behind Senator McCormick and Senator Hickenlooper\u2019s initiative,\u201d said Jake Loosararian, Co-founder and CEO of Gecko Robotics.\n\n\u201cAmerica\u2019s robotics leadership will be built on strong research institutions, a skilled workforce, resilient supply chains, and bold entrepreneurs going after big problems. This commission is exactly the kind of federal commitment our industry needs. We strongly support this legislation and urge that workforce development, technology transfer, supply chain resilience, and academic-industry partnerships be central in its considerations.\u201d said Audrey Russo, President and CEO, Pittsburgh Technology Council.\n\n\u201cPittsburgh has been at the forefront of robotics innovation for decades, which is why Agility has made a meaningful investment in its footprint there,\u201d said Peggy Johnson, Chief Executive Officer of Agility Robotics. \u201cSen. McCormick and Sen. Hickenlooper\u2019s introduction of the National Commission on Robotics Act reflects a clear understanding of the strategic importance of U.S. leadership not only in developing, but in deploying robotics, including humanoids, at scale. We hope the Senate will move swiftly on a bipartisan basis to advance this critical legislation.\u201d\n\n\u201cAUVSI commends Senators McCormick and Hickenlooper for their leadership in introducing the National Commission on Robotics Act. Robotics will be central to the future of U.S. manufacturing, productivity, and national security. With the People\u2019s Republic of China moving strategically and aggressively to shape and win this market, the United States needs a clear national strategy to align policy, strengthen trusted industrial capacity, and compete to win. This bill is an important step toward that goal and AUVSI strongly endorses the National Commission on Robotics Act,\u201d saidMichael Robbins, President & CEO ofAssociation for Uncrewed Vehicle Systems International (AUVSI).\n\n\u201cThe Association for Advancing Automation (A3) applauds the leadership of US Senators David McCormick (R-PA) and John Hickenlooper (D-CO) and welcomes their introduction of legislation in the United States Senate to establish a national robotics strategy,\u201d said Jeff Burnstein, President of A3. \u201cThe accelerated adoption of robotics, along with enabling technologies like artificial intelligence, machine vision, and motion control, will strengthen every US industry in the future. Robotics and automation are essential to bringing more manufacturing back to the US while creating better, safer and higher paying jobs for American workers.\u201d\n\n\u201cStaying on the cutting edge of robotics development and deployment is critical to U.S. economic competitiveness and national security. So much of the innovation in this space is being driven by entrepreneurs and small/medium-sized businesses across the country\u2014thousands of which are served by TECNA\u2019s member councils. We applaud Senator McCormick\u2019s effort to create a Robotics Commission \u200band ensure we continue to foster and leverage American ingenuity,\u201d said Jennifer G. Young, CEO, TECNA\n\n\u201cFANUC America applauds Senators David McCormick (R-PA) and John Hickenlooper (D-CO) for their leadership in advancing robotics,\u201d said Mike Cicco, CEO of FANUC America. \u201cThe National Commission on Robotics Act is an important step to strengthen U.S. leadership in robotics and industrial automation. As a global leader in industrial robotics, FANUC America strongly supports federal efforts to develop a skilled workforce and accelerate the adoption of robotics across U.S. manufacturing. FANUC America is proud of its continued investments and expansion in the United States and looks forward to working with Congress to create high-quality jobs including robotics designers, technicians, and operators, while advancing initiatives that strengthen U.S. manufacturing competitiveness.\u201d\n\n\u201cRobotics has the potential to power America\u2019s manufacturing renaissance, which is why it\u2019s critical to enact smart policy that leads the way on adoption. The National Commission on Robotics Act would do just that, by creating a bipartisan commission to assess the state of American robotics and establishing a strategy to ensure continued American robotics dominance. We thank Sen. McCormick, Sen. Hickenlooper, Congressman Obernolte, and Congresswoman McClellan for acting urgently to address this critical need.\u201d \u2013New American Industrial Alliance (NAIA)\n\n\u201cDespite inventing the modern robotics industry, the United States currently operates less than 10% of the world\u2019s industrial robots, which significantly threatens America\u2019s position as the global economic leader. There\u2019s no time to waste, which is why the creation of an independent, bipartisan commission on American leadership in robotics must be an urgent priority for US policymakers. We thank Senator McCormick, Senator Hickenlooper, Congressman Obernolte, and Congresswoman McClellan for their leadership on this effort.\u201d- Robots for America\n\nThis bill has bipartisan support in both the Senate and the House. Representatives Jay Obernolte (R-CA) and Jennifer McClellan (D-VA) are sponsoring companion legislation, H.R. 7334, in the House of Representatives.\n\nThe full bill text may be read here.\n\n###", 1, "2026-06-05T06:35:23Z", "2026-06-05T06:36:42Z"], ["https://www.mccormick.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senator-mccormick-to-host-2026-pennsylvania-defense-and-innovation-summit-at-u-s-army-war-college/", "SENATOR MCCORMICK TO HOST 2026 PENNSYLVANIA DEFENSE AND INNOVATION SUMMIT AT U.S. ARMY WAR COLLEGE", "2026-05-28", "2026", "2026-05", "Republican", "Senate", "PA", "David McCormick", "M001243", "www.mccormick.senate.gov", "davemccormick", "https://www.mccormick.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/", "scraper", "Two-Day Summit to Convene Nation\u2019s Top Defense, Industrial, Energy, and Technology Leaders on the One-Year Anniversary of Historic Pennsylvania Energy and Innovation Summit\n\nWASHINGTON \u2014 U.S. Senator Dave McCormick (R-PA) today announced that he will host the 2026 Pennsylvania Defense and Innovation Summit at the United States Army War College in Carlisle, Pennsylvania, on July 14\u201315, 2026.\n\nThe two-day Summit will convene the nation\u2019s and the Commonwealth\u2019s leading defense CEOs and investors, alongside senior U.S. military and administration officials, to showcase Pennsylvania\u2019s defense industrial base and announce partnerships and investments that drive innovation, create great-paying jobs across the Commonwealth and the country, and cement Pennsylvania as a cornerstone of American defense production.\n\nThe Summit marks the one-year anniversary of the Pennsylvania Energy and Innovation Summit, which Senator McCormick convened in Pittsburgh with President Donald J. Trump to advance American energy dominance. That first-of-its-kind event delivered more than $92 billion in private-sector commitments to the Commonwealth \u2014 the largest single-day investment announcement in Pennsylvania\u2019s history.", 1, "2026-05-29T06:31:28Z", "2026-05-29T06:32:48Z"], ["https://www.mccormick.senate.gov/news/press-releases/pennsylvania-senators-mccormick-and-fetterman-introduce-bill-to-accelerateu-s-military-drone-and-autonomous-systems-strategy/", "PENNSYLVANIA SENATORS MCCORMICK AND FETTERMAN INTRODUCE BILL TO ACCELERATEU.S. MILITARY DRONE AND AUTONOMOUS SYSTEMS STRATEGY", "2026-05-21", "2026", "2026-05", "Republican", "Senate", "PA", "David McCormick", "M001243", "www.mccormick.senate.gov", "davemccormick", "https://www.mccormick.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/", "scraper", "WASHINGTON \u2013 U.S. Senators Dave McCormick (R-PA) and John Fetterman today introduced the Unmanned Autonomous Systems Strategy Act, legislation requiring the U.S. Department of War to develop a comprehensive, all-domain strategy for the rapid deployment, integration, and scaling of unmanned and autonomous systems (UAS) across the Indo-Pacific and the Western Hemisphere.\n\nThe bill will help the Department of War accelerate the fielding of large numbers of capable, low-cost, AI-enabled drones. These systems have already transformed warfare in the air, on the surface, and undersea. Getting this strategy right is essential to maintaining the military superiority and deterrence the U.S. has long relied on.\n\n\u201cUnmanned and autonomous systems represent the most disruptive shift in military technology since precision-guided munitions and stealth,\u201d said Senator McCormick. \u201cWe\u2019ve seen their impact in Ukraine and across the Middle East. The nation that can field affordable, scalable autonomous systems fastest will have a decisive military advantage. America cannot afford to fall behind.\u201d\n\n\u201cUnmanned and autonomous systems are part of our lives right now with no strategy for deploying them where they matter most,\u201d said Senator Fetterman. \u201cPennsylvania\u2019s defense industry builds some of the best of these systems and we should be putting them to work to keep Americans safe\u2014and this bill does that.\u201d\n\nSpecifically, core requirements of the comprehensive strategy under the Unmanned Autonomous Systems Strategy Act would include:\n\nCapability Gap Assessment \u2014 Evaluates where U.S. unmanned capabilities fall short across surveillance, strike, anti-submarine warfare, logistics, electronic warfare, and counter-drone operations.\n\nForce Design Review \u2014 Identifies the air, surface, and undersea autonomous systems needed to support operations in the Indo-Pacific and Western Hemisphere.\n\nForward Deployment Strategy \u2014 Examines basing and deployment options across INDOPACOM, NORTHCOM, and SOUTHCOM areas of responsibility.\n\nTechnology and Integration Plan \u2014 Assesses emerging technologies, including AI and hybrid-electric propulsion, and outlines integration with existing military platforms and command systems.\n\nAllied Cooperation \u2014 Establishes a framework for joint development and interoperability with key allies and partners including Australia, Japan, South Korea, Taiwan, Israel, and Ukraine.\n\nIndustrial Base and Procurement Strategy \u2014 Identifies supply chain vulnerabilities, scalable manufacturing opportunities, and commercially available systems compliant with the American Security Drone Act.\n\nIn the Indo-Pacific, China has already built the world\u2019s largest navy and is rapidly expanding its drone capabilities while investing heavily in anti-access and area denial systems designed to keep U.S. forces out of the region. The United States must rapidly field affordable, expendable autonomous systems capable of persistent surveillance, undersea operations, and long-range strike missions.\n\nCloser to home, drug cartels and transnational criminal organizations increasingly exploit maritime and air corridors across the Caribbean, Eastern Pacific, and U.S. coastal waters. Unmanned aerial systems can provide persistent surveillance at a fraction of the cost of manned aircraft and ships, easing pressure on U.S. military and Coast Guard resources.\n\nThe full bill text may be found here.\n\n###", 1, "2026-05-23T06:08:46Z", "2026-05-23T06:10:20Z"], ["https://www.mccormick.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senator-mccormick-announces-u-s-service-academy-nomination-application-portal-is-open-for-the-class-of-2031/", "SENATOR MCCORMICK ANNOUNCES U.S. SERVICE ACADEMY NOMINATION APPLICATION PORTAL IS OPEN FOR THE CLASS OF 2031", "2026-05-21", "2026", "2026-05", "Republican", "Senate", "PA", "David McCormick", "M001243", "www.mccormick.senate.gov", "davemccormick", "https://www.mccormick.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/", "scraper", "WASHINGTON \u2013 U.S. Senator Dave McCormick (R-PA) announced today that the application portal for Pennsylvanians interested in his nomination to one of the four U.S. service academies is now open. In addition to applying directly to their service academy of choice, applicants also need to secure a congressional nomination to be eligible for appointment to a U.S. service academy.\n\n\u201cService academies produce some of the finest leaders this nation has ever seen, and the nomination process is a critical part of ensuring that tradition continues,\u201d said Senator McCormick. \u201cAs a West Point graduate and combat veteran, I understand firsthand the transformative impact an academy education can have \u2014 not just on a career, but on a life. I look forward to identifying the next class of outstanding young men and women from Pennsylvania who are ready to answer the call to serve.\u201d\n\nMembers of Congress are responsible for nominating candidates for appointment to four of the U.S. service academies \u2013 the U.S. Military Academy, the U.S. Naval Academy, the U.S. Air Force Academy, and the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy. Candidates applying to the U.S. Coast Guard Academy do not need a congressional nomination for appointment.\n\nMore information about the application process is available here.\n\n###", 1, "2026-05-23T06:08:46Z", "2026-05-23T06:10:20Z"], ["https://www.mccormick.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senators-mccormick-and-fetterman-urge-nih-to-release-fy2026-appropriated-funds/", "SENATORS MCCORMICK AND FETTERMAN URGE NIH TO RELEASE FY2026 APPROPRIATED FUNDS", "2026-05-21", "2026", "2026-05", "Republican", "Senate", "PA", "David McCormick", "M001243", "www.mccormick.senate.gov", "davemccormick", "https://www.mccormick.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/", "scraper", "WASHINGTON \u2014 Today, U.S. Senators Dave McCormick (R-PA) and John Fetterman (D-PA) sent a letter to the Director of the National Institutes of Health (NIH) urging NIH to take immediate action to ensure the timely obligation of all congressionally appropriated FY 2026 grant funding.\n\n\u201cFailure to disburse appropriated funds not only forfeits critical investments but also delays scientific breakthroughs and undermines America\u2019s leadership in biomedical research at a time of growing competition from China and other adversaries. In Pennsylvania, world-class research institutions depend on a functioning NIH grant pipeline to sustain their workforce, advance lifesaving discoveries, and drive long-term economic growth,\u201d wrote Senators McCormick and Fetterman.\n\nPennsylvania ranks as the fourth largest recipient of NIH funding in the nation. In 2025,\n\nNIH investment generated $5.31 billion in annual economic activity and supported more than 21,700 research jobs.NIH-driven commercialization efforts have also helped create 3,710 businesses and 97,000 jobs in the biopharmaceutical industry.\n\nNIH has awarded fewer than 1,900 new and competitive research grants between October 2025 and late March 2026, less than half the normal pace. The consequences of this slowdown are already being felt by nearly every major disease area, including cancer, heart disease, diabetes, Alzheimer\u2019s, and prenatal care. Congress funded NIH at approximately $47 billion for FY2026.\n\nRead the full text of the letter below and here.\n\nDear Director Bhattacharya,\n\nWe write to express our concern about the pace of grant awards at the National Institutes of Health (NIH) and to urge you to take immediate action to ensure the timely obligation of all congressionally appropriated FY2026 funds. .\n\nAn analysis of NIH RePORTER data, NIH has awarded only approximately 1,900 new and competitive grants between October 2025 and late March 2026, which accounts for less than half the number typically awarded by that point in the fiscal year. The National Cancer Institute alone has earmarked roughly $72 million for new and competitive grants through late March, compared to nearly $250 million at the same point in FY21-24. The slowdown covers most major disease area, including cancer, heart disease, diabetes, Alzheimer\u2019s disease, and prenatal care. Congress appropriated more than $47 billion to NIH for FY2026, and that investment must be put to work.\n\nThe consequences of this slowdown are already being felt in Pennsylvania. In 2025, NIH-funded research generated $5.3B in economic activity in the Commonwealth and supported more than 21,700 jobs. NIH-driven commercialization efforts have also helped create 3,710 businesses and 97,000 jobs in the biopharmaceutical industry. Failure to disburse appropriated funds not only forfeits critical investments but also delays scientific breakthroughs and undermines America\u2019s leadership in biomedical research at a time of growing competition from China and other adversaries. In Pennsylvania, world-class research institutions depend on a functioning NIH grant pipeline to sustain their workforce, advance lifesaving discoveries, and drive long-term economic growth.\n\nWe respectfully request that NIH move expeditiously to obligate all FY2026 appropriated funds in accordance with congressional intent, provide our offices additional context regarding the challenges NIH is facing contributing to the current pace of awards, and set forth actionable steps the agency is taking to address delays.\n\nWe hope to continue working together to ensure NIH fulfills its mission of making America healthy and keeping American science first in the world. We appreciate your attention to this matter and hope to receive your response no later than June 21, 2026.", 1, "2026-05-23T06:08:46Z", "2026-05-23T06:10:20Z"], ["https://www.mccormick.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senator-mccormick-launches-america250-essay-contest-for-pennsylvania-high-school-students/", "SENATOR MCCORMICK LAUNCHES AMERICA250 ESSAY CONTEST FOR PENNSYLVANIA HIGH SCHOOL STUDENTS", "2026-05-20", "2026", "2026-05", "Republican", "Senate", "PA", "David McCormick", "M001243", "www.mccormick.senate.gov", "davemccormick", "https://www.mccormick.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/", "scraper", "Winning essays to be entered into the Congressional Record; winners invited to meet with the Senator in Washington, D.C.\n\nWASHINGTON \u2013 U.S. Senator Dave McCormick (R-PA) today announced the launch of a Pennsylvania Youth Essay Contest in celebration of America\u2019s 250th anniversary, inviting high school students across the Commonwealth to reflect on Pennsylvania\u2019s central role in the American story.\n\nWinning essays will be entered into the Congressional Record and their authors will be invited to meet with Senator McCormick in Washington D.C. Top runners-up will receive a signed letter of recognition from the Senator.\n\n\u201cThis year, America turns 250 years old \u2014 and no state has shaped that story more than Pennsylvania,\u201d said Senator McCormick. \u201cOnly one state can claim the room where the Declaration of Independence was signed, where the most important battle of the Civil War was won, and where the Arsenal of Democracy was forged. As we celebrate this milestone, I want to hear from the next generation of Pennsylvanians \u2014 about the people who built this country, and about what they themselves intend to build next. I can\u2019t wait to read what they write.\u201d\n\nHow to Participate\n\nWho is eligible: Pennsylvania high school students, divided into two divisions based on the grade they are rising into for the 2026\u201327 school year:\n\nDivision I \u2014 Grades 9 and 10\n\nDivision II \u2014 Grades 11 and 12\n\nLength: 600 to 800 words.\n\nPrompts (participants may choose either one):\n\nPrompt 1 \u2014 Choose a Pennsylvanian, from any era and any walk of life, whose story you believe every American should know. Who were they, what did they do, and what does their life reveal about what America is capable of at its best?\n\nPrompt 2 \u2014 The Founders didn\u2019t just celebrate 1776; they built something. As America turns 250, what is the one challenge you believe the next generation must solve to make America stronger at 300? What would you do about it?\n\nHow tosubmit: Email your essay to pa250@mccormick.senate.gov by 11:59 p.m. ET on July 4, 2026. Use the subject line: 250th Essay \u2014 [Name, Grade, School, City].\n\nSelection: Winners will be notified in late July. The authors of winning essays should be comfortable with having their essay, name, grade, and school identified publicly. Runners up and other submissions will not be made public.\n\n###", 1, "2026-05-21T06:28:16Z", "2026-05-21T06:29:43Z"], ["https://www.mccormick.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senators-mccormick-and-schatz-introduce-bipartisan-legislation-to-support-redevelopment-of-former-military-installations/", "SENATORS MCCORMICK\u00a0AND SCHATZ INTRODUCE BIPARTISAN LEGISLATION TO SUPPORT REDEVELOPMENT OF FORMER MILITARY INSTALLATIONS", "2026-05-20", "2026", "2026-05", "Republican", "Senate", "PA", "David McCormick", "M001243", "www.mccormick.senate.gov", "davemccormick", "https://www.mccormick.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/", "scraper", "WASHINGTON \u2013 U.S. Senators Dave McCormick (R-PA) and Brian Schatz (D-HI) today introduced the bipartisan Increasing Opportunity for Reindustrialization Act, legislation to help communities redevelop former military installations by expanding eligibility for Qualified Opportunity Zone (QOZ) designation to include Base Realignment and Closure (BRAC) sites.\n\nSince 1988, the Department of War has conducted five rounds of BRAC, resulting in the closure or realignment of hundreds of military installations across the country. While many communities have worked to transition these properties to civilian use, former military installations often continue to face economic challenges, including job losses, declining tax revenues, and costly infrastructure needs.\n\nTheIncreasing Opportunity for Reindustrialization Act would create a new pathway for census tracts containing former military installations closed under BRAC authorities to be designated as Qualified Opportunity Zones. The legislation would allow states to nominate these areas for QOZ designation without counting them against the current cap on eligible Opportunity Zone tracts.\n\n\u201cFormer military installations have the potential to become engines of economic growth, manufacturing, and job creation,\u201d said Senator McCormick. \u201cThis bipartisan legislation will give Pennsylvania communities the tools they need to attract private investment, support reindustrialization, and revitalize properties that have long served our national security interests.\u201d\n\n\u201cFormer military installations face unique challenges in redevelopment, and our bill will help states attract investment and spur growth in these areas once again,\u201d said Senator Schatz.\n\nBRAC sites often include substantial infrastructure, transportation access, and developable land that make them well-positioned to support advanced manufacturing, logistics, energy production, and other economic activity. Expanding Opportunity Zone eligibility to these areas would encourage long-term private investment and accelerate redevelopment efforts in communities impacted by base closures.\n\nThe Increasing Opportunity for Reindustrialization Act is supported by the following stakeholders:\n\n\u201cThe Increasing Opportunity for Reindustrialization Act of 2026 represents a strategic investment in communities impacted by BRAC closures, creating new opportunities for economic growth, redevelopment, and long-term resilience in areas surrounding former and realigned military installations. We are encouraged by the opportunities this action could create for local communities and regional economic growth,\u201d said Dr. Anette Nance, Executive Director, Pennsylvania Military Community Enhancement Commission.\n\n\u201cWe are grateful for the bipartisan leadership and foresight of Senator McCormick and Senator Schatz for introducing legislation that would extend Opportunity Zone eligibility to former military bases impacted by the Base Realignment and Closure (BRAC) program. As master developer of the Philadelphia Navy Yard, PIDC knows firsthand that when a base closes, thousands of jobs disappear overnight \u2014 and that rebuilding takes decades of sustained public investment before private capital can follow. We have made significant progress in redeveloping the site, but the most challenging sections of the Navy Yard still require the kind of long-term commitment that conventional financing struggles to support. Opportunity Zones can help fill a unique gap: by drawing equity capital from investors who would not otherwise engage with complex projects like former military bases, and connecting that capital to job creation, housing, and community reinvestment that transforms these sites for the long term. With the passage of this legislation, hundreds of former military communities that absorbed the economic devastation of base closures would benefit from similar investment and opportunity to rebuild and thrive,\u201d said Jodie Harris, President, Philadelphia Industrial Development Corporation (PIDC).\n\nThe Increasing Opportunity for Reindustrialization Act retains the requirement that states nominate BRAC locations for designation while ensuring these tracts do not count against the total number of Qualified Opportunity Zones currently allowed under law.\n\nThe full text of the bill may be found here.\n\n###", 1, "2026-05-22T06:27:39Z", "2026-05-22T06:29:18Z"], ["https://www.mccormick.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senator-mccormick-and-gallego-introduce-bill-to-advance-job-opportunities-in-tech-for-veterans/", "SENATOR MCCORMICK AND GALLEGO INTRODUCE BILL TO ADVANCE JOB OPPORTUNITIES IN TECH FOR VETERANS", "2026-05-15", "2026", "2026-05", "Republican", "Senate", "PA", "David McCormick", "M001243", "www.mccormick.senate.gov", "davemccormick", "https://www.mccormick.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/", "scraper", "WASHINGTON \u2013 U.S. Senators Dave McCormick (R-PA) and Ruben Gallego (D-AZ) recently introduced the Improving Emerging Tech Opportunities for Veterans Act of 2026, bipartisan legislation aimed at helping veterans transition to civilian life by expanding career opportunities in emerging technologies through the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs\u2019 (VA) Veteran Employment Through Technology Education Courses (VET TEC) program.\n\n\u201cWhile the transition back to civilian life isn\u2019t always easy, I know firsthand as a veteran that our service men and women return as leaders, highly skilled and ready to contribute. It is our job to make sure the doors are open when they get home,\u201d said Senator McCormick. \u201cWith over 200,000 service members leaving the military each year, the Improving Emerging Tech Opportunities for Veterans Act does exactly that by helping to connect veterans in Pennsylvania and across the country to job opportunities in high-growth tech industries where they can find stable employment, financial security and a renewed sense of purpose.\u201d\n\n\u201cEmerging technologies like semiconductor manufacturing are creating thousands of good-paying jobs and shaping the future of Arizona\u2019s economy. This bill would make sure veterans can use the education benefits they earned to train for careers in these rapidly growing industries and help America stay the global leader in technological innovation,\u201d said Senator Gallego.\n\nA successful transition from military to civilian life is more than finding a job. It helps provide long-term stability for veterans and their families while strengthening our workforce. The VET TEC program connects veterans with leading training providers to help them develop or advance in skills needed for high-tech industries. This bill would broaden the current program, adding training and employment pathways in emerging industries, like artificial intelligence and semiconductor manufacturing, so veterans are equipped with the skills needed to compete for high-demand jobs in our modern economy.\n\nSpecifically, the Improving Emerging Tech Opportunities for Veterans Act of 2026 will:\n\nDirect the VA to identify and designate technologies of critical national importance as \u201cemerging technologies\u201d eligible under the VET TEC program, with artificial intelligence and semiconductor manufacturing as named examples.\n\nRequire the VA to promote emerging technology fields, courses, and career pathways on its website and incorporate them into transition assistance services, so veterans and transitioning service members are aware of these opportunities.\n\nRequire the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to work with private-sector partners, educational institutions, veteran-serving nonprofits to identify industries and occupations expected to experience significant job growth driven by emerging technologies with a focus on fields that align with veterans\u2019 existing education, training, and skills.\n\nThe following organizations and stakeholders have expressed support for the Improving Emerging Tech Opportunities for Veterans Act of 2026:\n\n\u201cThe VFW supports the Improving Emerging Tech Opportunities for Veterans Act, which will help veterans access education and training programs for high-demand careers in emerging technology fields such as artificial intelligence and semiconductor manufacturing. By requiring the Department of Veterans Affairs to collaborate with industry partners, expand visibility through the Transition Assistance Program, and implement an expedited course approval process, this legislation will better position veterans to succeed in the workforce of tomorrow,\u201d said Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) National Legislative Service Associate Director Joe Grassi.\n\n\u201cIAVA survey data has consistently shown that veterans are chronically underemployed compared to their level of expertise, abilities, and skillset,\u201d said Dr. Kyleanne Hunter, Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America (IAVA) CEO. \u201cWe welcome the Senate introduction of the Improving Emerging Tech Options for Veterans Act of 2026, which will help bridge the gap between our veterans\u2019 true capabilities and the high-skilled careers where we know they can excel.\u201d\n\nSenator McCormick has introduced or cosponsored several additional bills in support of our veterans including:\n\nThe Veterans Traumatic Brain Injury Adaptive Care Opportunities Nationwide Act, which would create a new grant program to fund innovative treatments for chronic mild TBI\u2014an injury that affects thousands of our veterans and is linked to mental health struggles and suicide risk.\n\nTheVA Zero Suicide Demonstration Project of 2025, which would establish a pilot program to significantly reduce veteran suicides by providing extensive training for VA staff about suicide screening, risk assessment, treatment, and care transition procedures.\n\nThe Housing Unhoused Disabled Veterans Act, which wouldpermanently exclude disability payments from income calculations used to determine housing assistance eligibility ensuring veterans can access HUD-VA housing support without being penalized for benefits they already earned through their service.\n\nThe Innovative Therapies Centers of Excellence Act of 2025, which would increase federally funded research on innovative therapies to treat veterans experiencing conditions like post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), substance use disorder, and depression.\n\nThe full text of the Improving Emerging Tech Opportunities for Veterans Act of 2026 may be found here.\n\n###", 1, "2026-05-16T06:05:00Z", "2026-05-16T06:06:37Z"], ["https://www.mccormick.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senator-mccormick-urges-fema-to-release-more-than-600-million-in-delayed-reimbursements-for-pennsylvania-hospitals/", "SENATOR MCCORMICK URGES FEMA TO RELEASE MORE THAN $600 MILLION IN DELAYED REIMBURSEMENTS FOR PENNSYLVANIA HOSPITALS", "2026-05-13", "2026", "2026-05", "Republican", "Senate", "PA", "David McCormick", "M001243", "www.mccormick.senate.gov", "davemccormick", "https://www.mccormick.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/", "scraper", "WASHINGTON \u2013 Senator Dave McCormick (R-PA) sent a letter to Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Secretary Markwayne Mullin urging the agency to release nearly $600 million in approved COVID-19 reimbursement funding owed to Pennsylvania hospitals and health systems.\n\nIn the letter, Senator McCormick raised concerns about the ongoing delays in disbursing Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Public Assistance funds tied to pandemic response efforts and highlighted the continued financial strain facing healthcare providers across the Commonwealth.\n\n\u201cPennsylvania hospitals stepped up during the pandemic when communities needed them most,\u201d said Senator McCormick. \u201cThey expanded capacity, protected frontline healthcare workers, and ensured patients continued receiving care under unprecedented circumstances. FEMA approved funding to reimburse those efforts, yet nearly $600 million remains unpaid. These providers upheld their commitment to Pennsylvanians, and the federal government should uphold its commitment to them.\u201d\n\nSenator McCormick is committed to ensuring that Pennsylvania hospitals receive the reimbursements they are owed so they can continue delivering critical care and protecting communities across the Commonwealth.\n\nRead the full letter here.\n\n###", 1, "2026-05-14T06:11:37Z", "2026-05-14T06:12:56Z"], ["https://www.mccormick.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senator-mccormick-introduces-legislation-to-address-federal-permitting-chokepoints/", "SENATOR MCCORMICK INTRODUCES LEGISLATION TO ADDRESS FEDERAL PERMITTING CHOKEPOINTS", "2026-04-30", "2026", "2026-04", "Republican", "Senate", "PA", "David McCormick", "M001243", "www.mccormick.senate.gov", "davemccormick", "https://www.mccormick.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/", "scraper", "Bill targets four key chokepoints slowing infrastructure projects, driving up costs, and blocking American energy from reaching global markets\n\nWASHINGTON \u2013 U.S. Senator Dave McCormick (R-PA) today introduced the Unlock American Energy and Jobs Act, legislation designed to streamline the federal permitting process and bring greater certainty to the approval of energy infrastructure projects. More than $1 trillion in critical infrastructure projects are currently tied up in federal permitting, representing an estimated $2.4 trillion in unrealized economic activity and thousands of jobs. At a time of rising electricity demand and growing global competition, the bill establishes clear timelines, modernizes approval processes, removes unnecessary barriers, and reduces litigation-driven delays that have made it increasingly difficult to build in the United States.\n\n\u201cPennsylvania has the workers, resources, and infrastructure to power this region and the country for decades,\u201d said Senator McCormick. \u201d What we\u2019re missing is a federal permitting system with clear rules and predictable timelines. For Pennsylvania\u2019s energy workforce and building trades, this bill is long overdue. It\u2019s time we reform our current system and get America building again.\u201d\n\nToday, more than 650 projects are currently listed on the federal Permitting Dashboard.\n\nConstruction costs run 24 to 30 percent higher when projects are held up. But the impact goes beyond delayed projects. According to an industry report, nearly 51 percent of manufacturers say permitting uncertainty discourages them from investing in new or expanded U.S. capacity, while nearly 66 percent say they would invest more if the process were faster and more predictable. The permitting system is not just slowing projects down, it is preventing a significant share of investment from being proposed in the first place.\n\nThe Unlock American Energy and Jobs Act targets four specific chokepoints:\n\nWater Permitting Reform: States have exploited the Clean Water Act\u2019s water quality certification process to block energy projects through indefinite delay and unexplained denials, often for reasons that have nothing to do with water quality. This section sets a firm one-year deadline for state review, requires written explanations for any denial, and limits states to reviewing actual water quality concerns.\n\nLNG Export Deregulation: An outdated federal approval requirement forces American LNG exporters to seek case-by-case federal permission before selling gas abroad. This section cuts through the red tape that federal regulators have used to slow or block LNG terminal approvals, prevents regulators from imposing burdensome conditions unrelated to project safety, and ensures that environmental reviews cannot be used to second-guess whether American LNG exports serve the national interest, clearing the way for American gas to reach allies in Europe and Asia more quickly and reliably.\n\nNuclear Licensing Modernization: A 40-year license cap is a relic of an era when nuclear technology was unproven. Most U.S. reactors already operate well past that mark today. This section brings nuclear licensing into the 21st century by extending initial operating licenses from 40 to 60 years, while also protecting pre-approved sites from arbitrary expiration and cutting red tape for new nuclear projects without touching a single safety standard.\n\nNEPA Litigation Reform: NEPA lawsuits have become the primary vehicle for stopping projects that have already cleared the regulatory process. This section limits what courts can do when projects are challenged, sets strict deadlines for resolving lawsuits, requires challengers to have been part of the original review, and prevents courts from vacating approved projects, keeping approvals in effect even while legal challenges are pending.\n\n\u201cThe solution to our affordability crisis and the global race for AI is the expansion of infrastructure, which can be unlocked through permitting reforms that support the efficient buildout of pipelines to deliver reliable American energy where it is needed. Senator McCormick\u2019s bill is an important step toward unleashing Pennsylvania\u2019s energy resources to lower costs for Americans and support growing energy demand. We appreciate the Senator\u2019s leadership and look forward to working with him and other Members of Congress to build on his proposal and enact strong permitting reforms,\u201d said Williams President and CEO Chad Zamarin.\n\n\u201cFor years, we have advocated for commonsense reforms that bring greater certainty, transparency and timeliness to the permitting process while maintaining strong environmental standards. Senator McCormick\u2019s legislation is an important step forward. By advancing practical, high-level solutions \u2013 from improving NEPA timelines and judicial review to modernizing Clean Water Act implementation and streamlining LNG export approvals \u2013 it demonstrates how comprehensive permitting reform can unlock critical infrastructure development, strengthen energy reliability and help keep energy affordable for American families and businesses. We appreciate the Senator\u2019s leadership and look forward to working with him and others in Congress to turn these reforms into meaningful progress for Pennsylvania and the nation,\u201d said Toby Z. Rice, President & CEO, EQT.\n\n\u201cWith thoughtful permitting reform, we can deliver reliable, affordable energy from resource-rich regions like Pennsylvania to the markets that need it most, supporting families, strengthening our local economies, and doing what Americans do best, innovate and create,\u201d said Dennis Degner, CEO & President, Range Resources.\n\n\u201cThe Pennsylvania state building trades are very appreciative of Senator McCormick taking the lead on permitting at the federal level. For far too long, this cumbersome process has held up or prevented critical infrastructure and energy projects that Pennsylvania needs to grow our economy. We look forward to his legislation passing both chambers and we look forward to working with the senator to build out Pennsylvania,\u201dsaid Rob Bair, President, Pennsylvania State Building and Construction Trades.\n\n\u201cPennsylvania Steamfitters are ready to build, but too many projects are stuck in permitting delays,\u201dsaid Jim Snell, Steamfitters Local 420. \u201cSenator McCormick\u2019s bill helps keep Pennsylvania competitive and unlocks potential to build critical energy infrastructure.\u201d\n\n\u201cOn behalf of the Southeast Pennsylvania Building Trades, I want to thank Senator Dave McCormick for leading on this issue,\u201d said Ryan N. Boyer, President of Laborers\u2019 District Council of Philadelphia. \u201cOur members are ready to build, but too many critical projects are tied up in permitting delays. This commonsense legislation will help create good-paying union jobs, strengthen our economy, and keep Pennsylvania on the rise.\u201d\n\n\u201cPermitting reform is essential to America\u2019s manufacturing competitiveness\u2014and today\u2019s broken system is costing manufacturers more than $8 billion each year. We are grateful for Sen. McCormick\u2019s leadership in introducing the Unlock American Energy and Jobs Act. Modernizing the Clean Water Act, reforming judicial review under NEPA for all projects, ensuring durable support for U.S. LNG exports and bringing new nuclear power online are all critical steps toward a policy framework that will drive investment, power growth and keep manufacturing strong in America for decades to come,\u201d said Jay Timmons, President and CEO, National Association of Manufacturers.\n\n\u201cWe appreciate Senator McCormick\u2019s leadership in advancing a serious conversation on permitting reform at a critical moment for American energy. This legislation reflects a growing recognition that modernizing NEPA, the Clean Water Act, and judicial review are essential to building the infrastructure needed to deliver affordable, reliable energy. We\u2019ll continue working with him and Congress to advance durable, commonsense reforms that strengthen U.S. competitiveness and energy security,\u201d said API SVP of Federal Government Affairs Kristin Whitman.\n\n\u201cPennsylvania sits atop one of the largest energy reserves in the world with enough natural gas resources under our feet to power the Commonwealth and the nation. But the economic potential of this resource can only be realized if government moves at the speed of business. We are extremely grateful for Senator McCormick\u2019s continued leadership to unleash Pennsylvania\u2019s energy resources and the economic and national security benefits that come with it. The permit reforms put forth by Senator McCormick will provide meaningful changes allowing us to efficiently utilize our vast and reliable energy reserves and help secure our shared goal of energy dominance,\u201d said Jim Welty, President of the Marcellus Shale Coalition.\n\n\u201cINGAA appreciates Senator McCormick\u2019s leadership in advancing the conversation on improving the efficiency and predictability of federal permitting. The proposal reflects constructive concepts \u2013 particularly on Clean Water Act clarity, general permitting, and timely decision-making \u2013 that align with long-standing priorities for natural gas pipeline infrastructure. We view this proposal as a helpful contribution to the broader permitting reform dialogue and look forward to continuing to work with policymakers and stakeholders to advance practical, durable solutions,\u201dsaid Amy Andryszak, President and CEO, Interstate Natural Gas Association of America (INGAA).\n\n\u201cPermitting reform is essential to building the energy infrastructure needed to power America\u2019s economic growth and compete in the AI race. We applaud Senator Dave McCormick for his leadership on this issue of critical importance to Pennsylvania and the nation. As the nation\u2019s largest producer of around-the-clock, emissions-free energy, we also appreciate the bill\u2019s recognition of the important role that nuclear power plays in delivering reliable, affordable, and clean electricity,\u201dsaid David C. Brown, Senior Vice President, Federal Government Affairs & Public Policy, Constellation.\n\n\u201cThe Center for LNG (CLNG) supports the Unlock American Energy and Jobs Act of 2026. The bill includes important provisions to improve the permitting process for U.S. LNG facilities and bring additional supply to market faster. The U.S. LNG industry supports thousands of good-paying jobs right here in the United States; generates millions in tax revenue for federal, state, and local governments; grows our domestic supply; reduces global greenhouse gas emissions; and supplies our allies and trading partners with a reliable, clean, and safe source of energy. This bill would provide greater certainty for project developers, natural gas producers, local communities, and our allies and trading partners around the world. CLNG urges support for the Unlock American Energy and Jobs Act of 2026,\u201d said Charlie Riedl, Executive Director at the Center for LNG.\n\nRead the full bill text here.\n\n###", 1, "2026-05-01T06:06:26Z", "2026-05-01T06:08:22Z"], ["https://www.mccormick.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senators-mccormick-gillibrand-introduce-legislation-to-strengthen-prediction-markets-and-protect-everyday-investors/", "SENATORS MCCORMICK, GILLIBRAND INTRODUCE LEGISLATION TO STRENGTHEN PREDICTION MARKETS AND PROTECT EVERYDAY INVESTORS", "2026-04-30", "2026", "2026-04", "Republican", "Senate", "PA", "David McCormick", "M001243", "www.mccormick.senate.gov", "davemccormick", "https://www.mccormick.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/", "scraper", "Bill establishes clear rules of the road for event contracts while keeping the United States at the forefront of financial innovation\n\nWASHINGTON \u2013 Senator Dave McCormick (R-PA) and Senator Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY) today introduced the Prediction Market Act of 2026, legislation to establish a comprehensive regulatory framework for prediction markets, ensuring these powerful financial tools operate with transparency, integrity, and strong protections for everyday Americans.\n\nPrediction markets have emerged as some of the most accurate forecasting tools available, turning collective knowledge into real-time signals about future political, economic, and other outcomes. Beyond forecasting, these markets provide real economic value, allowing agriculture producers to manage weather conditions, investors to hedge portfolio risk, and small businesses to protect themselves against sudden cost increases. With proper guidelines in place, the United States can lead the responsible development of this growing industry rather than allow regulatory uncertainty to push it offshore.\n\n\u201cPrediction markets are already changing how Americans understand and manage risk,\u201d said Senator McCormick. \u201cThis legislation gives these markets the clear rules they need to grow responsibly, protects everyday investors who are participating in them, and ensures the United States remains the global leader in financial innovation.\u201d\n\n\u201cElected officials should be working for the people they represent \u2014 not lining their own pockets with insider information. Americans deserve financial markets that are fair, transparent, and not tilted in favor of those with privileged access,\u201d said Senator Gillibrand. \u201cThis commonsense, bipartisan bill puts strong guardrails in place to protect consumers, prevent insider trading, and hold prediction market platforms to standards of integrity.\u201d\n\nWhat does the bill do?\n\nThe legislation takes several concrete steps to modernize the regulatory framework for event contracts and prediction markets. These steps include:\n\nDefines an event contract, public interest, and relevant terms to limit uncertainty in prediction markets.\n\nRequires individual review of event contracts that involve the enumerated activities, including violence, using newly established criteria to scope the public interest determination.\n\nEstablishes enhanced certification standards on listing event contracts and disclosures prioritizing retail customer readability.\n\nRequires exchanges that offer event contracts to implement safeguards related to advertisement, Know-Your-Customer standards, and fund segregation.\n\nProhibits lawmakers and high-ranking government officials from owning event contacts, eliminating any potential conflict of interest.\n\nCreates a new Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) Office of the Retail Advocate to support the interests of retail investors.\n\nEstablishes an Advisory Council on Consumer Protection to analyze and recommend additional safeguards for customers.\n\nCreates an Innovation Advisory Committee to advise the commission on policy issues at the intersection of technology and finance.\n\nRequires the CFTC to study and report to Congress on new developments in these fast-moving markets.\n\nBackground\n\nPrediction markets operating under CFTC oversight are already subject to rules protecting against fraud and manipulation. However, the rapid growth of retail participation in these markets has outpaced the existing legal framework, creating potential gaps in consumer protection and regulatory clarity. This legislation addresses those gaps while preserving the innovation and discovery potential that make prediction markets valuable to the public.", 1, "2026-05-01T06:06:26Z", "2026-05-01T06:08:22Z"], ["https://www.mccormick.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senators-mccormick-smith-tillis-and-gallego-introduce-bipartisan-legislation-to-extend-the-terrorism-risk-insurance-program-for-seven-years-2/", "SENATORS MCCORMICK, SMITH, TILLIS, AND GALLEGO INTRODUCE BIPARTISAN LEGISLATION TO EXTEND THE TERRORISM RISK INSURANCE PROGRAM FOR SEVEN YEARS", "2026-04-27", "2026", "2026-04", "Republican", "Senate", "PA", "David McCormick", "M001243", "www.mccormick.senate.gov", "davemccormick", "https://www.mccormick.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/", "scraper", "WASHINGTON \u2013 U.S. Senators Dave McCormick (R-PA), Tina Smith (D-MN), Thom Tillis (R-NC), and Ruben Gallego (D-AZ) today introduced the bipartisan Terrorism Risk Insurance Program Reauthorization Act of 2026, which is essential to economic security by safeguarding the availability of terrorism risk coverage.\n\nThis legislation is also cosponsored by Chairman Scott (R-SC), Senators Banks (R-IN), Britt (R-AL), Crapo (R-ID), Hagerty (R-TN), Kennedy (R-LA), Lummis (R-WY), Moreno (R-OH), Ricketts (R-NE), Rounds (R-SD), Kim (D-NJ), Van Hollen (D-MD), Cortez Masto (D-NV), Cramer (R-ND), Alsobrooks (D-MD), Schumer (D-NY), Warner (D-VA), Warnock (D-GA), and Blunt-Rochester (D-DE).\n\nFollowing the attacks on September 11, 2001, most states began allowing terrorism risk to be excluded from commercial insurance policies, leaving businesses and industries without access to coverage. Since insurance is a precondition for commercial lending and real estate transactions, this gap in coverage threatened broad economic damage across real estate, construction, energy, transportation, and related industries. Congress responded by passing the Terrorism Risk Insurance Act of 2002 (TRIA), creating a federal reinsurance backstop to stabilize the private market and ensure that commercial policyholders could continue to obtain terrorism risk coverage.\n\nThe private insurance market has relied on the TRIA backstop ever since. When TRIA briefly lapsed in December 2014, terrorism exclusions that insurers had pre-filed with state regulators took effect automatically, making terrorism coverage effectively unavailable across commercial policies nationwide. As a result, terrorism risk coverage was removed from policyholders immediately and without notice. Given that the current threat landscape remains elevated, allowing a similar lapse in terrorism coverage would expose policy holders to unnecessary financial risk and uncertainty.\n\n\u201cState sponsors of terror pose a persistent threat to the United States, and we must be prepared,\u201d said Senator McCormick. \u201cReauthorizing TRIA ensures businesses and workers in Pennsylvania will be supported in the event of a terror attack.\u201d\n\n\u201cThe Terrorism Risk Insurance Program is critical to keeping insurance available and affordable to businesses in Minnesota and across the country so they can grow and create jobs,\u201d said Senator Smith. \u201cWithout this bill, a potential terrorism event would mean a financial catastrophe for many businesses and would be extremely costly to taxpayers. I\u2019ve worked to make sure this bipartisan measure stays in place since I came to the Senate, and I\u2019m glad to be introducing my TRIA bill again to ensure this vital program doesn\u2019t lapse.\u201d\n\n\u201cAmericans deserve the peace of mind that comes from knowing their businesses, jobs, and communities are protected in times of crisis. Reauthorizing TRIA will provide certainty for employers, support economic growth, and help keep coverage available and affordable. I\u2019m proud to join Senator McCormick on this common-sense, bipartisan legislation,\u201d said Chairman Scott.\n\n\u201cWe have to make sure we\u2019re prepared for the worst,\u201dsaid Senator Gallego. \u201cI\u2019m proud to co-lead the bipartisan reauthorization of the Terrorism Risk Insurance Act. This long-term reauthorization will ensure Arizona businesses can invest in their assets and create jobs with confidence and that they have the resources they need to recover in the event of a major terrorist attack.\u201d\n\n\u201cReauthorizing the Terrorism Risk Insurance Program is essential to ensuring businesses have the certainty they need to operate and invest with confidence,\u201dsaid Senator Tillis.\u201cThis longstanding public-private partnership has helped safeguard our economy for more than two decades, and extending it will prevent disruption while ensuring we remain prepared for evolving threats.\u201d\u201cIn this dangerous moment when America faces growing threats from around the world, our communities need to know that their property is insured in the event of a major terror attack. Renewing TRIA with bipartisan support is an essential precautionary step we must take to ensure Americans have access to insurance and avoid economic peril by allowing them to recover and rebuild in the wake of an unimaginable tragedy,\u201d said Senator Van Hollen.\n\n\u201cFor more than two decades, Congress has recognized the need for the Terrorism Risk Insurance Program. While making sure American businesses have access to this protection is an unfortunate necessity in today\u2019s world, it\u2019s critical that Congress extend the program,\u201dsaid Senator Britt.\n\n\u201cFrom the Super Bowl to the World Series of Poker to F1 races, the Silver State regularly hosts large gatherings,\u201d said Senator Cortez Masto. \u201cWhile these events are critically important to Nevada\u2019s tourism industry, they also create unique risks. Extending the Terrorism Risk Insurance program would help Nevada\u2019s economy recover should a debilitating terrorist attack occur and ensures the continued availability of terrorism insurance for our businesses.\u201d\n\n\u201cLack of insurance coverage had a destabilizing effect on the U.S. economy in the wake of the September 11, 2001, terrorist attacks. TRIA has made coverage for terrorism risk insurance more available and affordable in Idaho and across the nation. This reauthorization ensures continued private-sector responsibility and safeguards our economy against potential future threats,\u201d said Senator Crapo.\n\n\u201cIt is critical for the national and financial security of our nation that Congress pass the Terrorism Risk Insurance Act of 2026 \u2013 let\u2019s act before this policy lapses to provide certainty for businesses,\u201d said Senator Alsobrooks.\n\n\u201cIn the wake of the September 11th attacks, Congress created the Terrorism Risk Insurance Program to support Americans during crises. As America continues to deal with heightened terrorism threats, this program remains as relevant as ever. I\u2019m proud to join my colleagues in introducing a bill to get ahead of the Terrorism Risk Insurance Act\u2019s expiration date, pass an extension and prevent any lapse in coverage,\u201d said Sen. John Kennedy.\n\n\u201cCongress cannot let local communities foot the bill for possible terrorist attacks,\u201d said Senator Moreno. \u201cIt is critical that we protect American jobs and ensure that businesses across the country have the tools they need to respond to and recover from these catastrophic events.\u201d\n\n\u201cAfter the horrendous September 11th attacks, we learned that failing to insure against losses from terrorism doesn\u2019t just threaten individual businesses, it also undermines our entire economy. I am proud to have helped pass the original Terrorism Risk Insurance Act, which has been critical to safeguarding our real estate, construction, energy, transportation, and other vital industries against losses due to terrorist attacks,\u201d said Leader Schumer. \u201cReauthorizing this program for seven years is common sense to provide certainty, stability, and protection for jobs, businesses, and our economy in the face of evolving threats.\u201d\n\n\u201cThe Terrorism Risk Insurance Act will provide certainty for insurers, businesses, and large community events that bring Nebraskans together,\u201d said Senator Ricketts. \u201cWe must reauthorize this program and ensure we are protected and prepared for any potential future threat. I encourage my colleagues to quickly send TRIA Reauthorization to the President\u2019s desk.\u201d\n\n\u201cThe threat of terror attacks doesn\u2019t just impact lives, it impacts livelihoods. New Jerseyans saw that in the aftermath of 9/11, and we know that in the same way it\u2019s important to invest in efforts to protect our country, it\u2019s important that we reauthorize the Terrorism Risk Insurance Program,\u201d said Senator Kim.\n\n\u201cThe September 11th attacks highlighted a severe gap in coverage for businesses caught in the aftereffects of terrorist activity,\u201d said Senator Cramer. \u201cThe Terrorism Risk Insurance Program is essential to maintain stability when malign disruptions occur. This reauthorization extends the program for another seven years, preventing any lapse in coverage.\u201d\n\n\u201cWe know what happens when terrorism risk goes uninsured \u2013 the market freezes, projects stall, and the ripple effects hit workers and communities across the country,\u201dsaid Senator Warner. \u201cTRIA makes sure that businesses can continue building, investing, and creating jobs. It\u2019s an important public-private partnership that gives lenders and developers the certainty they need to keep capital flowing and investments moving. Congress should get this done and provide the stability that the market depends on to move forward.\u201d \u201cIf tragedy strikes, our communities cannot afford economic disruption on top of it. TRIA must be extended to ensure businesses can access affordable terrorism insurance and keep our economy resilient in the face of evolving threats,\u201dsaid Senator Blunt-Rochester.\n\n\u201cThe Terrorism Risk Insurance Program has been a critical backstop for American businesses and communities since the devastating economic fallout of September 11th, and Congress cannot allow that protection to lapse,\u201d said Senator Lummis. \u201cWyoming deserves the certainty this program provides, and I am proud to join my colleagues in reauthorizing TRIA to keep our businesses, our economy, and our communities protected against any threat.\u201d\n\nThe Terrorism Risk Insurance Program Reauthorization Act of 2026 would extend TRIA by seven years. Acting before the program expiration date of December 31, 2027, provides long-term market certainty and would prevent policyholders from facing a gap in coverage.\n\nThe Terrorism Risk Insurance Act is also backed by the following stakeholders:\n\nAerospace Industries Association\n\nAmerican Association of Port Authorities\n\nAmerican Bankers Association\n\nAmerican Council on Education\n\nAmerican Council of Engineering Companies\n\nAmerican Gaming Association\n\nAmerican Hotel and Lodging Association\n\nAmerican Land Title Association\n\nAmerican Property Casualty Insurance Association\n\nAmerican Public Gas Association\n\nAmerican Public Power Association\n\nAmerican Resort Development Association\n\nAmerican Society of Association Executives\n\nAssociated General Contractors of America\n\nAssociation of American Railroads\n\nAssociation of Art Museum Directors\n\nBank Policy Institute, Building Owners and Managers Association International\n\nCommercial Real Estate Finance Council (CRE Finance Council), Community Associations Institute\n\nCouncil of Insurance Agents and Brokers, Edison Electric Institute, Food Marketing Institute\n\nIndependent Insurance Agents & Brokers of America\n\nInnovating Commerce Serving Communities, Institute of Real Estate Management\n\nInternational Franchise Association, International Safety Equipment Association\n\nLong Island Import Export Association\n\nMortgage Bankers Association, NAIOP\n\nNareit\n\nNational Apartment Association\n\nNational Association for Stock Car Auto Racing (NASCAR)\n\nNational Association of Chain Drug Stores\n\nNational Association of College and University Business Officers (NACUBO)\n\nNational Association of Home Builders\n\nNational Association of Mutual Insurance Companies\n\nNational Association of REALTORS\n\nNational Association of Waterfront Employers\n\nNational Council of Chain Restaurants\n\nNational Electrical Contractors Association\n\nNational Football League\n\nNational Hockey League\n\nNational Multifamily Housing Council\n\nNational Restaurant Association\n\nNational Retail Federation\n\nNational Roofing Contractors Association\n\nNational Rural Electric Cooperative Association\n\nNew England Council\n\nOffice of the Commissioner of Baseball\n\nPartnership for NYC\n\nPublic Utilities Risk Management Association\n\nThe Real Estate Board of New York\n\nThe Real Estate Roundtable\n\nReinsurance Association of America\n\nTaxicab, Limousine & Paratransit Association\n\nUniversity Risk Management and Insurance Association\n\nU.S. Chamber of Commerce\n\nU.S. Travel Association", 1, "2026-05-01T06:06:26Z", "2026-05-01T06:08:22Z"], ["https://www.mccormick.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senators-mccormick-smith-tillis-and-gallego-introduce-bipartisan-legislation-to-extend-the-terrorism-risk-insurance-program-for-seven-years/", "Senators McCormick, Smith, Tillis, and Gallego Introduce Bipartisan Legislation to Extend the Terrorism Risk Insurance Program for Seven Years", "2026-04-27", "2026", "2026-04", "Republican", "Senate", "PA", "David McCormick", "M001243", "www.mccormick.senate.gov", "davemccormick", "https://www.mccormick.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/", "scraper", "WASHINGTON \u2013 U.S. Senators Dave McCormick (R-PA), Tina Smith (D-MN), Thom Tillis (R-NC), and Ruben Gallego (D-AZ) today introduced the bipartisan Terrorism Risk Insurance Program Reauthorization Act of 2026, which is essential to economic security by safeguarding the availability of terrorism risk coverage.\n\nThis legislation is also cosponsored by Chairman Scott (R-SC), Senators Banks (R-IN), Britt (R-AL), Crapo (R-ID), Hagerty (R-TN), Kennedy (R-LA), Lummis (R-WY), Moreno (R-OH), Ricketts (R-NE), Rounds (R-SD), Kim (D-NJ), Van Hollen (D-MD), Cortez Masto (D-NV), Cramer (R-ND), Alsobrooks (D-MD), Schumer (D-NY), Warner (D-VA), Warnock (D-GA), and Blunt-Rochester (D-DE).\n\nFollowing the attacks on September 11, 2001, most states began allowing terrorism risk to be excluded from commercial insurance policies, leaving businesses and industries without access to coverage. Since insurance is a precondition for commercial lending and real estate transactions, this gap in coverage threatened broad economic damage across real estate, construction, energy, transportation, and related industries. Congress responded by passing the Terrorism Risk Insurance Act of 2002 (TRIA), creating a federal reinsurance backstop to stabilize the private market and ensure that commercial policyholders could continue to obtain terrorism risk coverage.\n\nThe private insurance market has relied on the TRIA backstop ever since. When TRIA briefly lapsed in December 2014, terrorism exclusions that insurers had pre-filed with state regulators took effect automatically, making terrorism coverage effectively unavailable across commercial policies nationwide. As a result, terrorism risk coverage was removed from policyholders immediately and without notice. Given that the current threat landscape remains elevated, allowing a similar lapse in terrorism coverage would expose policy holders to unnecessary financial risk and uncertainty.\n\n\u201cState sponsors of terror pose a persistent threat to the United States, and we must be prepared,\u201d said Senator McCormick. \u201cReauthorizing TRIA ensures businesses and workers in Pennsylvania will be supported in the event of a terror attack.\u201d\n\n\u201cThe Terrorism Risk Insurance Program is critical to keeping insurance available and affordable to businesses in Minnesota and across the country so they can grow and create jobs,\u201d said Senator Smith. \u201cWithout this bill, a potential terrorism event would mean a financial catastrophe for many businesses and would be extremely costly to taxpayers. I\u2019ve worked to make sure this bipartisan measure stays in place since I came to the Senate, and I\u2019m glad to be introducing my TRIA bill again to ensure this vital program doesn\u2019t lapse.\u201d\n\n\u201cAmericans deserve the peace of mind that comes from knowing their businesses, jobs, and communities are protected in times of crisis. Reauthorizing TRIA will provide certainty for employers, support economic growth, and help keep coverage available and affordable. I\u2019m proud to join Senator McCormick on this common-sense, bipartisan legislation,\u201d said Chairman Scott.\n\n\u201cWe have to make sure we\u2019re prepared for the worst,\u201d said Senator Gallego. \u201cI\u2019m proud to co-lead the bipartisan reauthorization of the Terrorism Risk Insurance Act. This long-term reauthorization will ensure Arizona businesses can invest in their assets and create jobs with confidence and that they have the resources they need to recover in the event of a major terrorist attack.\u201d\n\n\u201cReauthorizing the Terrorism Risk Insurance Program is essential to ensuring businesses have the certainty they need to operate and invest with confidence,\u201d said Senator Tillis.\u201cThis longstanding public-private partnership has helped safeguard our economy for more than two decades, and extending it will prevent disruption while ensuring we remain prepared for evolving threats.\u201d\u201cIn this dangerous moment when America faces growing threats from around the world, our communities need to know that their property is insured in the event of a major terror attack. Renewing TRIA with bipartisan support is an essential precautionary step we must take to ensure Americans have access to insurance and avoid economic peril by allowing them to recover and rebuild in the wake of an unimaginable tragedy,\u201d said Senator Van Hollen.\n\n\u201cFor more than two decades, Congress has recognized the need for the Terrorism Risk Insurance Program. While making sure American businesses have access to this protection is an unfortunate necessity in today\u2019s world, it\u2019s critical that Congress extend the program,\u201dsaid Senator Britt.\n\n\u201cFrom the Super Bowl to the World Series of Poker to F1 races, the Silver State regularly hosts large gatherings,\u201d said Senator Cortez Masto. \u201cWhile these events are critically important to Nevada\u2019s tourism industry, they also create unique risks. Extending the Terrorism Risk Insurance program would help Nevada\u2019s economy recover should a debilitating terrorist attack occur and ensures the continued availability of terrorism insurance for our businesses.\u201d\n\n\u201cLack of insurance coverage had a destabilizing effect on the U.S. economy in the wake of the September 11, 2001, terrorist attacks. TRIA has made coverage for terrorism risk insurance more available and affordable in Idaho and across the nation. This reauthorization ensures continued private-sector responsibility and safeguards our economy against potential future threats,\u201d said Senator Crapo.\n\n\u201cIt is critical for the national and financial security of our nation that Congress pass the Terrorism Risk Insurance Act of 2026 \u2013 let\u2019s act before this policy lapses to provide certainty for businesses,\u201d said Senator Alsobrooks.\n\n\u201cIn the wake of the September 11th attacks, Congress created the Terrorism Risk Insurance Program to support Americans during crises. As America continues to deal with heightened terrorism threats, this program remains as relevant as ever. I\u2019m proud to join my colleagues in introducing a bill to get ahead of the Terrorism Risk Insurance Act\u2019s expiration date, pass an extension and prevent any lapse in coverage,\u201d said Sen. John Kennedy.\n\n\u201cCongress cannot let local communities foot the bill for possible terrorist attacks,\u201d said Senator Moreno. \u201cIt is critical that we protect American jobs and ensure that businesses across the country have the tools they need to respond to and recover from these catastrophic events.\u201d\n\n\u201cAfter the horrendous September 11th attacks, we learned that failing to insure against losses from terrorism doesn\u2019t just threaten individual businesses, it also undermines our entire economy. I am proud to have helped pass the original Terrorism Risk Insurance Act, which has been critical to safeguarding our real estate, construction, energy, transportation, and other vital industries against losses due to terrorist attacks,\u201d said Leader Schumer. \u201cReauthorizing this program for seven years is common sense to provide certainty, stability, and protection for jobs, businesses, and our economy in the face of evolving threats.\u201d\n\n\u201cThe Terrorism Risk Insurance Act will provide certainty for insurers, businesses, and large community events that bring Nebraskans together,\u201d said Senator Ricketts. \u201cWe must reauthorize this program and ensure we are protected and prepared for any potential future threat. I encourage my colleagues to quickly send TRIA Reauthorization to the President\u2019s desk.\u201d\n\n\u201cThe threat of terror attacks doesn\u2019t just impact lives, it impacts livelihoods. New Jerseyans saw that in the aftermath of 9/11, and we know that in the same way it\u2019s important to invest in efforts to protect our country, it\u2019s important that we reauthorize the Terrorism Risk Insurance Program,\u201d said Senator Kim.\n\n\u201cThe September 11th attacks highlighted a severe gap in coverage for businesses caught in the aftereffects of terrorist activity,\u201d said Senator Cramer. \u201cThe Terrorism Risk Insurance Program is essential to maintain stability when malign disruptions occur. This reauthorization extends the program for another seven years, preventing any lapse in coverage.\u201d\n\n\u201cWe know what happens when terrorism risk goes uninsured \u2013 the market freezes, projects stall, and the ripple effects hit workers and communities across the country,\u201d said Senator Warner. \u201cTRIA makes sure that businesses can continue building, investing, and creating jobs. It\u2019s an important public-private partnership that gives lenders and developers the certainty they need to keep capital flowing and investments moving. Congress should get this done and provide the stability that the market depends on to move forward.\u201d \u201cIf tragedy strikes, our communities cannot afford economic disruption on top of it. TRIA must be extended to ensure businesses can access affordable terrorism insurance and keep our economy resilient in the face of evolving threats,\u201d said Senator Blunt-Rochester.\n\n\u201cThe Terrorism Risk Insurance Program has been a critical backstop for American businesses and communities since the devastating economic fallout of September 11th, and Congress cannot allow that protection to lapse,\u201d said Senator Lummis. \u201cWyoming deserves the certainty this program provides, and I am proud to join my colleagues in reauthorizing TRIA to keep our businesses, our economy, and our communities protected against any threat.\u201d\n\nThe Terrorism Risk Insurance Program Reauthorization Act of 20 26 would extend TRIA by seven years. Acting before the program expiration date of December 31, 2027, provides long-term market certainty and would prevent policyholders from facing a gap in coverage.\n\nThe Terrorism Risk Insurance Program Reauthorization Act of 2026 would extend TRIA by seven years. Acting before the program expiration date of December 31, 2027, provides long-term market certainty and would prevent policyholders from facing a gap in coverage.\n\nThe Terrorism Risk Insurance Act is also backed by the following stakeholders: Aerospace Industries Association, American Association of Port Authorities, American Bankers Association, American Council on Education, American Council of Engineering Companies, American Gaming Association, American Hotel and Lodging Association, American Land Title Association, American Property Casualty Insurance Association, American Public Gas Association, American Public Power Association, American Resort Development Association, American Society of Association Executives, Associated General Contractors of America, Association of American Railroads, Association of Art Museum Directors, Bank Policy Institute, Building Owners and Managers Association International, Commercial Real Estate Finance Council (CRE Finance Council), Community Associations Institute, Council of Insurance Agents and Brokers, Edison Electric Institute, Food Marketing Institute, Independent Insurance Agents & Brokers of America, Innovating Commerce Serving Communities, Institute of Real Estate Management, International Franchise Association, International Safety Equipment Association, Long Island Import Export Association, Mortgage Bankers Association, NAIOP, Nareit, National Apartment Association, National Association for Stock Car Auto Racing (NASCAR), National Association of Chain Drug Stores, National Association of College and University Business Officers (NACUBO), National Association of Home Builders, National Association of Mutual Insurance Companies, National Association of REALTORS, National Association of Waterfront Employers, National Council of Chain Restaurants, National Electrical Contractors Association, National Football League, National Hockey League, National Multifamily Housing Council, National Restaurant Association, National Retail Federation, National Roofing Contractors Association, National Rural Electric Cooperative Association, New England Council, Office of the Commissioner of Baseball, Partnership for NYC, Public Utilities Risk Management Association, The Real Estate Board of New York, The Real Estate Roundtable, Reinsurance Association of America, Taxicab, Limousine & Paratransit Association, University Risk Management and Insurance Association, U.S. Chamber of Commerce, U.S. Travel Association.\n\nRead the full bill text here.\n\n###", 1, "2026-04-29T06:03:53Z", "2026-04-29T06:05:09Z"], ["https://www.mccormick.senate.gov/news/press-releases/energy-department-preserves-nearly-5-billion-for-hydrogen-hubs-including-two-hubs-critical-to-pennsylvania/", "Energy Department Preserves Nearly $5 Billion for Hydrogen Hubs, Including Two Hubs Critical to Pennsylvania", "2026-04-21", "2026", "2026-04", "Republican", "Senate", "PA", "David McCormick", "M001243", "www.mccormick.senate.gov", "davemccormick", "https://www.mccormick.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/", "scraper", "WASHINGTON \u2013 The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) has announced it will preserve nearly $5 billion in funding for five hydrogen hubs across the country, including two with significant Pennsylvania partnerships \u2014 the Mid-Atlantic Clean Hydrogen Hub (MACH2) and the Appalachian Regional Clean Hydrogen Hub (ARCH2). This decision confirms awards for five hubs following a broader DOE review of more than 2,200 energy projects.\n\n\u201cI am proud to have fought for this funding and to see it preserved,\u201d said Senator Dave McCormick. \u201cThese two hydrogen hubs are expected to create 41,000 jobs, putting skilled building trades workers such as pipefitters, electricians, carpenters, and welders to work constructing the infrastructure for these new projects. This is a win for Pennsylvania workers, our economy, and our energy future. Pennsylvania has always been an energy leader, and these hubs ensure we remain at the forefront of what comes next.\u201d\n\nIn response to Senator McCormick\u2019s question about funding for the hydrogen hubs during the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee hearing today, U.S. Secretary of Energy Chris Wright said \u201cWe are absolutely funding these in phases and will be working with those various contracting groups to see their progress and is it continuing on a pathway to get to a good result.\u201d\n\nA hydrogen hub is a regional network connecting the producers, distributors, and users of hydrogen energy. Clean hydrogen can be produced from a range of domestic sources, including nuclear power, renewables, and fossil fuels with carbon capture making it one of the most versatile tools available for reducing emissions in heavy industry and long-haul transportation.\n\nMACH2, serving Pennsylvania, Delaware, and New Jersey, is expected to create over 20,000 jobs. ARCH2, serving Pennsylvania, Ohio, and West Virginia, is expected to create more than 21,000 jobs. These hubs build on Pennsylvania\u2019s long history as an American energy leader, reinforcing an all-of-the-above energy strategy while driving innovation and deployment in a region where both population and power demand continue to grow.\n\n\u201cMACH2 is deeply grateful to Senator McCormick for his unwavering commitment to the Pennsylvania hydrogen hubs and the hydrogen industry. His leadership has been critical in preserving this funding and sets the path for PA to continue its long history as a pioneer in American energy and industrial dominance,\u201d says Manny Citron, COO of MACH2.\n\n\u201cARCH2 is pleased to receive notification from the U.S. Department of Energy this week to continue moving forward with our hydrogen hub. This milestone, made possible through the support of our Pennsylvania, West Virginia, and Ohio Congressional delegations, especially Senators McCormick and Capito, affirms our shared commitment to advancing regional development and economic growth in Appalachia,\u201d said Shawn Bennett, spokesperson for ARCH2.\n\n\u201cI appreciate the hard work of Senator Dave McCormick on making sure that we saved the hydrogen hub jobs for working people. These jobs are not only good for the country, but they create a lot of construction jobs for various building trades unions and anything that creates jobs \u2013 we are in favor of. We appreciate the hard work of Senator Dave McCormick on always thinking about working people and looking out for the jobs of the workers we represent,\u201d said Ken Broadbent, Business Manager for Steamfitters Local 449 in Pittsburgh, PA.\n\n\u201cWe are incredibly grateful for Senator McCormick\u2019s steadfast leadership and his proactive engagement with the Department of Energy to preserve these vital hydrogen hubs. His personal advocacy comes at a critical moment, ensuring that Southwestern Pennsylvania remains at the forefront of the national energy dominance agenda,\u201d said Stefani Pashman, CEO, Allegheny Conference on Community Development. \u201cThe Allegheny Conference has worked diligently to build the regional case and mobilize our industrial partners, and this victory validates our collective efforts to activate strategic assets that will stimulate our economy. Production of hydrogen has enormous upstream and downstream opportunities. Together, we are securing a future that leverages our natural gas infrastructure to create tens of thousands of jobs and positions our Commonwealth as a leader in the global energy transition.\u201d\n\n\u201cThe Pennsylvania State Building and Construction Trades would like to thank Senator McCormick for his perseverance on the construction of the two hydrogen hubs in Pennsylvania. These projects are critical in helping achieve energy independence while creating over 40,000 jobs, many of which will be members of the building trades. The Senator has committed to building energy projects and this announcement reaffirms his commitment to build in Pennsylvania and to reach energy independence,\u201d said Rob Bair, President, PA State Building and Construction Trades.\n\n\u201cSenator McCormick\u2019s commitment to preserving these two hydrogen hubs is a direct investment in Pennsylvania workers. These projects are expected to generate more than 40,000 jobs, with thousands of them in the building trades, while reinforcing Pennsylvania as a national leader in energy production. Our members appreciate Senator McCormick\u2019s leadership and support because when America\u2019s infrastructure needs things built, our skilled workers show up to get the job done,\u201d said Jim Snell, Business Manager, Steamfitters Local 420.\n\n###", 1, "2026-04-23T05:48:52Z", "2026-04-23T05:50:10Z"], ["https://www.mccormick.senate.gov/news/press-releases/watch-senator-mccormick-introduces-kevin-warsh-for-federal-reserve-chair-before-senate-banking-committee/", "Watch: Senator McCormick Introduces Kevin Warsh for Federal Reserve Chair Before Senate Banking Committee", "2026-04-21", "2026", "2026-04", "Republican", "Senate", "PA", "David McCormick", "M001243", "www.mccormick.senate.gov", "davemccormick", "https://www.mccormick.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/", "scraper", "\u201cColleagues, Kevin Warsh has lived the American Dream. I know in my heart he will always fight to keep that dream alive for all Americans. He is the right man for this pivotal moment. I urge you to support his speedy confirmation.\u201d\n\nWASHINGTON \u2013 U.S. Senator Dave McCormick (R-PA) today introduced his friend, Kevin Warsh, at his nomination hearing before the Senate Banking Committee to chair the Federal Reserve.\n\nClick here to watch the video.\n\nSenator McCormick\u2019s remarks below (as prepared):\n\n\u201cThank you, Chairman Scott, Ranking Member Warren, distinguished colleagues.\n\n\u201cIt is my great honor to introduce my friend, Kevin Warsh, and to welcome him and his wife Jane here today.\n\n\u201cWinston Churchill observed that for great leaders there comes \u2018a special moment when they are figuratively tapped on the shoulder and offered the chance to do a very special thing.\u2019\n\n\u201c\u2018What a tragedy,\u2019 he warned, \u2018if that moment finds them unprepared for that which could have been their finest hour.\u2019\n\n\u201cColleagues, I am here today to assure you that Kevin Warsh could not be more prepared for this, his finest hour. There is no one more fitting, more qualified to face this consequential moment as the 17th Chair of the Federal Reserve.\n\n\u201cI will not belabor Kevin\u2019s academic and professional record. They speak for themselves. Instead, I would like to tell you about a man who my wife Dina and I both worked closely with decades ago and who we have called a friend for almost 30 years.\n\n\u201cPresident George W. Bush famously appointed Kevin to the Federal Reserve Board in 2006, when Kevin was just 35.\n\n\u201cHe was the youngest appointed board member in history. But President Bush saw in Kevin what I believe you will see as you question him today:\n\n\u201cWisdom that belied his age, now deepened by experience.\n\n\u201cMoral clarity even in the most turbulent of times.\n\n\u201cA sharp and independent intellect, now further strengthened by decades immersed in unforgiving global financial markets.\n\n\u201cAnd a deep, honest understanding of how the decisions made in the marble halls of Washington affect the lives of hard-working Americans.\n\n\u201cI have seen these virtues on display across our decades of friendship.\n\n\u201cI first met Kevin in the late 1990s when he and my younger brother were junior associates on Wall Street.\n\n\u201cA decade later we served together in the crucible of the global financial crisis, I as Undersecretary of the Treasury for International Affairs at the time. Kevin on the Fed Board.\n\n\u201cFor nearly 2 years, we worked hand-in-hand to contain the damage and navigate the country out of the crisis.\n\n\u201cI know then-Chairman Ben Bernanke relied heavily on Kevin during that turbulent time. I did too, and I have continued to seek his counsel regularly in the years since.\n\n\u201cKevin came to Washington all those years ago as an outsider. An idealistic young man determined to serve his country, who succeeded beyond all expectations.\n\n\u201cHe returns today as the ideal candidate for this most critical juncture.\n\n\u201cIf confirmed, Kevin will inherit a Federal Reserve in need of repair and confronting serious uncertainty: an overextended balance sheet; a poor record on inflation; and a weak understanding of the profound opportunities offered in today\u2019s economy.\n\n\u201cHe is uniquely suited to confront these challenges.\n\n\u201cHe brings a reformer\u2019s heart. He will shake up a stagnant institution at a time when change is sorely needed.\n\n\u201cHe possesses a deep understanding of markets and is trusted by leaders across the financial industry.\n\n\u201cBut he equally understands the real economy.\n\n\u201cBorn and raised in upstate New York, he knows from personal experience how the actions of the Fed can change the lives of working families.\n\n\u201cIt is no small thing to know firsthand how an increase in gas prices or mortgage rates or an uptick in unemployment affect everyday Americans. The Federal Reserve must not be ruled by pointy-headed economists pouring over outdated models and reams of market data. It needs a leader who understands that the Fed\u2019s mandate of stable prices and maximum employment serves a higher purpose: the preservation of the American Dream.\n\n\u201cColleagues, Kevin Warsh has lived the American Dream. I know in my heart he will always fight to keep that dream alive for all Americans.\n\n\u201cHe is the right man for this pivotal moment. I urge you to support his speedy confirmation.\u201d\n\n###", 1, "2026-04-23T05:48:52Z", "2026-04-23T05:50:10Z"], ["https://www.mccormick.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senators-mccormick-cortez-masto-push-to-protect-first-responders-and-roadside-workers/", "SENATORS MCCORMICK, CORTEZ MASTO PUSH TO PROTECT FIRST RESPONDERS AND ROADSIDE WORKERS", "2026-04-02", "2026", "2026-04", "Republican", "Senate", "PA", "David McCormick", "M001243", "www.mccormick.senate.gov", "davemccormick", "https://www.mccormick.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, DC \u2013 U.S. Senators Dave McCormick (R-Pa.) and Catherine Cortez Masto (D-Nev.) recently introduced the bipartisan Safe Roads for Those Who Serve Act to protect first responders and roadside workers as they do their jobs on roads and highways. This legislation would enhance strategies to help reduce the risk of injury or death faced by law enforcement officers, emergency medical services, fire and rescue services, tow truck drivers, construction workers, and other roadside workers.\n\nNationwide, since 2020, more than 500 roadside workers have been killed doing their jobs on the side of the road. Many were tow truck operators, construction workers, and law enforcement officers. Pennsylvania Department of Transportation data reveals more than1,250 work zone crashes occurred in 2024, resulting in 22 deaths that included both workers and drivers. Additionally, 45 percent of Pennsylvania work zone crashes in 2024 contained fatalities or injuries.\n\n\u201cEvery day in Pennsylvania and across the country, law enforcement officers, EMS crews, and roadside workers put themselves in harm\u2019s way\u2014often just feet from speeding traffic\u2014to keep the rest of us safe,\u201d said Senator McCormick. \u201cThis bipartisan effort will improve data collection, strengthen public awareness, and prioritize safety in infrastructure projects from the start\u2014helping protect those who protect us.\u201d\n\n\u201cOver the past fifty years, America has worked to make roads safer for drivers and pedestrians, but we still have work to do to protect those whose jobs regularly put them on the side of the road,\u201d said Senator Cortez Masto. \u201cFirst responders and roadside workers risk death or injury every single day while responding to an emergency or maintaining our roads. I\u2019m proud to lead this bipartisan effort to help keep them safe.\u201d\n\nIn order to protect first responders and roadside workers, the Safe Roads for Those Who Serve Act would:\n\n\u00b7 Require states to improve data collection and analysis of highway worker injuries and fatalities and create a highway worker safety plan if the total number of injuries and fatalities increases over a 2-year period;\n\n\u00b7 Create a new Public Awareness Campaign to fully reflect the dangers all roadside workers face along our roadways and how the public can help protect them;\n\n\u00b7 Continue research and outreach efforts to enhance the safety of highway workers; and\n\n\u00b7 Require major infrastructure grant applicants to include protections expected to aid roadside workers and driving public safety during and after construction in their grant application.\n\nThe Safe Roads for Those Who Serve Act is supported by the Towing and Recovery Association of America (TRAA), the Association of General Contractors, the National Safety Council, the American Automobile Association (AAA), the National Association of State EMS Officials, the National Waste and Recycling Association, American Traffic Safety Services, the Major County Sheriffs of America, the American Society of Civil Engineers, and the Modern Analytics for Roadway Safety (MARS) Coalition.\n\n\u201cTowing and recovery professionals put their lives on the line every day to help motorists, protect first responders, and keep commerce flowing,\u201d said Towing and Recovery Association of America (TRAA) Executive Director Bruce Bender. \u201cDespite the fact that, on average, statistics show we lose a tower every seven days, the risk to the lives of these dedicated professionals is often overlooked. Slow Down, Move Over laws need to be promoted and publicized because they are proven to save lives. We are deeply grateful that Senators McCormick and Cortez-Masto have introduced the Safe Roads for Those Who Serve Act and have expressly included towing truck operators in promotion of the initiatives that protect them. TRAA proudly supports this legislation.\u201d\n\nRead the full bill text here.\n\n###", 1, "2026-04-05T05:34:57Z", "2026-04-05T05:36:03Z"], ["https://www.mccormick.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senator-mccormick-fbi-director-patel-convene-roundtable-on-combatting-fentanyl-crisis/", "SENATOR MCCORMICK, FBI DIRECTOR PATEL CONVENE ROUNDTABLE ON COMBATTING FENTANYL CRISIS", "2026-04-01", "2026", "2026-04", "Republican", "Senate", "PA", "David McCormick", "M001243", "www.mccormick.senate.gov", "davemccormick", "https://www.mccormick.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/", "scraper", "Roundtable Brings Together Federal and State Law Enforcement, Prosecutors, and Families Who Have Lost Loved Ones to Fentanyl to Discuss Progress Combatting Fentanyl\n\nALLENTOWN, PA \u2014 U.S. Senator Dave McCormick (R-PA) hosted FBI Director Kash Patel in Allentown today for a roundtable discussion on the fentanyl crisis. The roundtable brought together federal and state law enforcement leaders, prosecutors, and families directly impacted by the epidemic to discuss enforcement efforts, disruption to trafficking networks, and the path forward on treatment and recovery.\n\n\u201cWhen I ran for Senate, I promised Pennsylvania families I would secure the border, take on the cartels, and stop the flow of fentanyl precursors from China. While there is more to do, we are making a lot of progress,\u201d said Senator McCormick. \u201cThat is what a whole-of-government approach looks like, and I am grateful to Director Patel, the FBI, and state and local partners for their partnership in this fight.\u201d\n\n\u201cSenator McCormick and our partners in Pennsylvania have been tremendous supporters for law enforcement, helping this FBI and interagency partners across the country deliver record results on tackling the fentanyl crisis within the last year alone,\u201d said FBI Director Kash Patel. \u201cBut we\u2019re doubling down on and just getting started. I want to thank Senator McCormick for hosting this event and look forward to joining him, our law enforcement partners, and these brave families putting words into action so we can cut off the flow of deadly fentanyl and put away the criminal actors who traffic through our communities.\u201d\n\nSenator McCormick pledged to secure the border, dismantle the cartels, and stop the flow of fentanyl precursors from China. Today\u2019s roundtable is a direct reflection of that commitment in action, and the results are beginning to show. From 2020 to 2023, fentanyl killed approximately 4,000 Pennsylvanians per year. Preliminary data indicates that figure fell to approximately 1,500 in 2025, the lowest level in a decade. From 2023 to 2024, Pennsylvania saw an over 30 percent decline in overdose deaths, representing one of the sharpest drops in the nation.\n\nThis progress is the direct result of law enforcement at every level working together toward a common mission. Senator McCormick and Director Patel were joined at the roundtable by law enforcement leaders and prosecutors whose work is driving those results.\n\nSpecifically, the FBI enforcement efforts include:\n\nNearly 5,000 pounds of fentanyl seized, up 31% year over year, and enough to kill 178 million Americans\n\n66,600 kilograms of cocaine seized from January through September 2025\n\n6,675 kilograms of methamphetamine seized over the same period\n\nFBI Philadelphia has also significantly expanded its local enforcement efforts in 2205 with:\n\n441 violent crime arrests \u2014 up 15% from 2024\n\n82 kilograms of cocaine seized \u2014 up 158% from 2024\n\n27+ kilograms of fentanyl seized\n\nIn December 2025, the DOJ, FBI, DHS, and federal, state, and local partners established a Homeland Security Task Force in Philadelphia to specifically target cartels and transnational criminal organizations fueling fentanyl overdoses and community violence.\n\nThe Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA) and Pennsylvania Attorney General have further reinforced those efforts. In 2025, the DEA seized more than 47 million fentanyl-laced counterfeit pills and nearly 10,000 pounds of fentanyl powder\u2014 the equivalent of more than 369 million lethal doses.\n\nWhile strides have been made, Senator McCormick will not stop until fentanyl is eradicated.\n\nAs the fight against fentanyl shows measurable results, new and more dangerous substances are entering Pennsylvania\u2019s drug supply. Three emerging threats are of particular concern in Pennsylvania:\n\nMedetomidine: Zero reports of medetomidine overdose deaths detected in Pennsylvania in 2023, but that number rose to 75 in 2024. It is now present in 87% of Philadelphia drug samples as of early 2025.\n\nXylazine: A veterinary tranquilizer, increasingly found mixed with fentanyl, causes severe tissue damage and resists naloxone, making overdose response significantly more difficult.\n\nNitazenes: These synthetic opioids, up to 40 times more potent than fentanyl, are frequently concealed in counterfeit pills, missed by routine toxicology screens, and likely undercounted statewide due to gaps in standard testing protocols.\n\nLast October, Senator McCormick introduced the Nitazene Control Act to permanently schedule the entire class of nitazenes under Schedule I of the Controlled Substances Act, closing the loopholes traffickers exploit before the death toll demands a response. In March, he introduced the Joint Task Force to Counter Illicit Synthetic Narcotics Act of 2025, which would improve federal coordination to combat the fentanyl crisis, go after trafficking organizations, address China\u2019s central role in producing fentanyl precursors and laundering drug money, and save American lives.\n\nSenator McCormick was a proud cosponsor of the HALT Fentanyl Act, signed into law by President Trump on July 16, 2025, which permanently classifies fentanyl-related substances as Schedule I drugs under the Controlled Substances Act and gives law enforcement more tools to combat the threats posed by these deadly drugs.\n\nSenator McCormick is also a cosponsor of the Nitazene Sanctions Act and the Detection Equipment and Technology Evaluation to Counter the Threat of Nitazenes Act of 2025 (DETECT Nitazenes Act) to address the growing threat of nitazenes in American communities.\n\n###", 1, "2026-04-05T05:34:57Z", "2026-04-05T05:36:03Z"], ["https://www.mccormick.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senators-mccormick-fetterman-release-joint-statement-on-antisemitism-investigation/", "SENATORS MCCORMICK, FETTERMAN RELEASE JOINT STATEMENT ON ANTISEMITISM INVESTIGATION", "2026-04-01", "2026", "2026-04", "Republican", "Senate", "PA", "David McCormick", "M001243", "www.mccormick.senate.gov", "davemccormick", "https://www.mccormick.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/", "scraper", "ALLENTOWN, PA \u2013 Today, following Judge Gerald J. Pappert\u2019s ruling that approves the administration\u2019s effort to obtain information on Penn Jewish faculty as part of an Equal Employment Opportunity Commission subpoena, U.S. Senators Dave McCormick (R-PA) and John Fetterman (D-PA) released the following joint statement:\n\n\u201cNo student or faculty member should face illegal discrimination based on race, gender, religion, or national origin. We have long spoken out against the despicable treatment Jewish students and faculty have faced since October 7, including on University of Pennsylvania\u2019s campus. We fully support the EEOC investigations into Title VII discrimination.\u201d\n\n\u201cBoth our offices will continue to monitor how this case plays out in the courts. Both our priorities are ensuring privacy protections are upheld and perpetrators of illegal discrimination are brought to justice.\u201d\n\n###", 1, "2026-04-05T05:34:57Z", "2026-04-05T05:36:03Z"], ["https://www.mccormick.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senator-mccormick-hosts-nih-director-for-visit-to-university-of-pennsylvania/", "Senator McCormick Hosts NIH Director for Visit to University of Pennsylvania", "2026-03-31", "2026", "2026-03", "Republican", "Senate", "PA", "David McCormick", "M001243", "www.mccormick.senate.gov", "davemccormick", "https://www.mccormick.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/", "scraper", "Tour Showcases Pennsylvania\u2019s Role at the Forefront of Life Sciences Innovation\n\nPHILADELPHIA, PA \u2013 U.S. Senator Dave McCormick (R-PA) today hosted National Institutes of Health (NIH) Director Dr. Jay Bhattacharya for a full-day visit to Penn Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania, where they met with researchers, clinicians, and innovators advancing some of the nation\u2019s most groundbreaking biomedical research. The visit underscored how federal research investment supports lifesaving medical breakthroughs, strengthens America\u2019s global leadership in science, and drives economic growth across Pennsylvania.\n\n\u201cPennsylvania is helping lead the future of life sciences, and it was an honor to welcome Director Bhattacharya to Philadelphia to see that work up close,\u201d said Senator McCormick. \u201cAt Penn, researchers are translating cutting-edge science into real treatments that are saving lives and giving families hope. With world-class institutions, talented researchers, and emerging tools and technologies like artificial intelligence accelerating discovery, Pennsylvania is well positioned to continue leading the next generation of medical innovation.\u201d\n\n\u201cAs I said yesterday, Pennsylvania shows what\u2019s possible when regional collaboration is focused on saving lives, and it\u2019s a model for how NIH investment turns scientific discovery into real care for patients. I\u2019ve been especially inspired by Baby KJ, whose rare genetic disorder was treated using personalized gene editing developed right here at Penn and CHOP. It\u2019s a powerful reminder that when NIH backs bold science, breakthroughs once thought impossible can become reality. We also saw where CAR-T therapy was first used to treat blood cancers. Not long ago, that work struggled to secure funding, and today, it\u2019s one of the most important advances in cancer treatment. That\u2019s why we\u2019re expanding opportunities for innovative, high-impact research through NIH\u2019s Unified Funding Strategy; so promising but unproven ideas have a real chance to succeed, and NIH investment can continue to save lives and pave the way for what comes next,\u201d said NIH Director Dr. Jay Bhattacharya.\n\n\u201cLike Penn\u2019s tightly integrated campus, what sets Philadelphia\u2019s eds and meds apart is our critical mass of expertise and pioneering research \u2013 all nearby, in sync, and of service to all Pennsylvanians,\u201d said Penn President J. Larry Jameson. \u201cWe were honored to welcome Senator McCormick and Dr. Bhattacharya and showcase how our historic partnerships continue advancing our Commonwealth and country, while also discussing innovative ways to drive progress for the future.\u201d\n\nPart of a two-day visit with NIH Director Bhattacharya, Senator McCormick convened researchers, clinicians, university leaders, and innovators to highlight how NIH-supported research is driving medical progress and strengthening Pennsylvania\u2019s life sciences ecosystem.\n\nAt the Perelman Center for Advanced Medicine, Senator McCormick and Director Bhattacharya observed how Penn Medicine integrates patient care with clinical research to accelerate \u201cbench-to-bedside\u201d breakthroughs. Close connections among Penn Medicine\u2019s hospitals and research centers \u2014 as well as with Penn\u2019s other schools like Penn Nursing, Engineering, Penn Dental, Veterinary Medicine, and Arts and Sciences \u2014 create a powerful research ecosystem where NIH-funded investigators develop new therapies and models of care.\n\nSenator McCormick and Director Bhattacharya also toured a CAR-T cell therapy laboratory, where they met with Dr. Carl June and discussed the groundbreaking workin this personalized cell therapy \u2013 in which patients\u2019 own immune cells are engineered to fight their cancers \u2013 pioneered at Penn. The discussion highlighted how early federal research investment helped establish the scientific foundation for cell and gene therapies, which are now transforming patient care and offering new hope to those with previously untreatable diseases. Throughout the tour, Senator McCormick and Director Bhattacharya also heard from patients and families about the real-world impact of these medical breakthroughs.\n\nThe day concluded with a roundtable discussion with regional partners focused on the future of biomedical innovation, including how federal research partnerships can continue to accelerate discovery, support biotechnology commercialization, and expand access to life-saving treatments.\n\nThe University of Pennsylvania is consistently among the top recipients of NIH funding nationwide, receiving $723 million in NIH support in FY2025, ranking fifth nationally. Penn\u2019s NIH-funded research spans critical areas including cancer, neuroscience, cardiovascular disease, aging, population health, and health services research, along with leading work in genomics, gene and cell therapy, and bioengineering.\n\nPennsylvania ranks as the fourth largest recipient of NIH funding in the nation, receiving $2.27 billion in federal research funding in FY2025. Statewide, NIH investment supports more than 21,000 research jobs and generates $5.31 billion in annual economic activity.\n\nNIH-driven innovation has also helped launch thousands of businesses and nearly 100,000 biopharmaceutical jobs across the Commonwealth. For every dollar invested in NIH research, $2.56 flows back into the economy, delivering a strong return for American taxpayers.\n\n###", 1, "2026-04-07T05:38:05Z", "2026-04-07T05:39:14Z"], ["https://www.mccormick.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senator-mccormick-welcomes-nih-director-to-pittsburgh-for-full-day-tour-of-life-sciences-and-research-institutions/", "Senator McCormick Welcomes NIH Director to Pittsburgh for Full Day Tour of Life Sciences and Research Institutions", "2026-03-30", "2026", "2026-03", "Republican", "Senate", "PA", "David McCormick", "M001243", "www.mccormick.senate.gov", "davemccormick", "https://www.mccormick.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/", "scraper", "Visit Highlights Pennsylvania\u2019s Role as a Leader in Life Sciences\n\nPITTSBURGH, PA \u2013 U.S. Senator Dave McCormick (R-PA) today hosted National Institutes of Health (NIH) Director Dr. Jay Bhattacharya for a full-day visit to Pittsburgh, where they toured some of the nation\u2019s leading life sciences and research institutions. The visit highlighted how federal research investment translates into jobs, medical breakthroughs, and economic growth and why Pennsylvania continues to be a productive partner in biomedical innovation.\n\n\u201cPennsylvania is one of the great life sciences hubs in the world, and I was proud to welcome Director Bhattacharya to Pittsburgh to see it firsthand,\u201d said Senator McCormick. \u201cWhat\u2019s happening here is extraordinary \u2014 treatment centers where discoveries are being made, researchers dedicated to finding answers, and families whose lives have been changed. That is accountability you can see. With advances in artificial intelligence and new technologies accelerating research, Pennsylvania is well positioned to lead the next generation of medical innovation.\u201d\n\n\u201cI am truly honored to spend the day in Pittsburgh, a city that exemplifies what reinvention can look like at its best. Once defined by its steel industry, Pittsburgh has transformed itself into a thriving center for biotechnology and innovation which is a remarkable evolution. What stands out most is the extraordinary collaboration among the University of Pittsburgh, UPMC, and Carnegie Mellon University. Together, they represent a powerful trifecta of research and innovation, seamlessly bridging cutting-edge technology with biomedical discovery in ways that set a standard for institutions across the country. Pennsylvania\u2019s emergence as a leader in this space underscores the profound impact of sustained NIH investment in research institutions beyond the coasts. The breakthroughs happening here are not only advancing science, but improving human health in meaningful and far-reaching ways, said NIH Director Dr. Jay Bhattacharya.\n\nThroughout the visit, Senator McCormick convened researchers, clinicians, philanthropists, investors, business leaders, and university executives from across the Pittsburgh region to highlight the impact of NIH-supported research and the strength of Pennsylvania\u2019s life sciences ecosystem.\n\nAt the UPMC Vision Institute, Senator McCormick and Dr. Bhattacharya observed research moving rapidly from the laboratory into clinical practice, with advances in the diagnosis and treatment of eye disease offering new hope to patients at risk of losing their sight. At the UPMC Rehabilitation Institute, they witnessed the direct impact of federally supported care on patients recovering from strokes, spinal cord injuries, traumatic brain injuries, and limb loss.\n\nThey also visited the UPMC Hillman Cancer Center \u2014one of only 57 Comprehensive Cancer Centers across the country and the only NCI-designated Comprehensive Cancer Center in western Pennsylvania \u2014 they met researchers advancing new cancer treatments and prevention, bringing that work to patients in rural communities across the region. The day culminated with Senator McCormick and Director Bhattacharya leading a Life Sciences Industry Symposium, where they met with business leaders, university executives, hospital administrators, philanthropists, and investors from across the Pittsburgh region and discussed how NIH funding is driving commercialization and growth in the biotechnology sector.\n\nPennsylvania ranks as the fourth largest recipient of NIH funding in the nation, receiving $2.27 billion in federal research funding in FY 2025. The University of Pittsburgh and UPMC alone received $670 million, ranking ninth nationally. Statewide, NIH investment supports more than 21,000 research jobs and generates $5.31 billion in annual economic activity.\n\nNIH-driven commercialization has also helped launch thousands of businesses and nearly 100,000 biopharmaceutical jobs across the Commonwealth. For every dollar of NIH funding, $2.56 flows back into the economy \u2014 a strong and consistent return for American taxpayers.\n\n###", 1, "2026-04-04T05:28:40Z", "2026-04-04T05:30:10Z"], ["https://www.mccormick.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senators-mccormick-and-fetterman-announce-600-million-in-federal-funding-to-replace-delaware-river-bridge-and-improve-pa-turnpike/", "SENATORS MCCORMICK AND FETTERMAN ANNOUNCE $600 MILLION IN FEDERAL FUNDING TO REPLACE DELAWARE RIVER BRIDGE AND IMPROVE PA TURNPIKE", "2026-03-28", "2026", "2026-03", "Republican", "Senate", "PA", "David McCormick", "M001243", "www.mccormick.senate.gov", "davemccormick", "https://www.mccormick.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/", "scraper", "WASHINGTON \u2013 U.S. Senators Dave McCormick (R-PA) and John Fetterman (D-PA) today announced that the U.S. Department of Transportation is awarding $600 million to the Pennsylvania Turnpike Commission (PTC) through the FY 2025 Bridge Investment Program. The funding will advance the PA Turnpike/I-95 Interchange Program by replacing the existing 1956 Delaware River Bridge, a critical crossing connecting Bucks County, Pennsylvania to Burlington County, New Jersey.\n\n\u201cThis $600 million investment is one of the most consequential infrastructure commitments in Pennsylvania\u2019s history, and we are proud to have fought to secure this funding by writing directly to Transportation Secretary Duffy to make the case for why the Delaware River Bridge deserves federal investment,\u201d said Senators Dave McCormick and John Fetterman. \u201cThe Delaware River Bridge is not just a Pennsylvania asset; it is a backbone of our national freight and passenger transportation network. This funding will make it safer and more resilient for the commuters, families, and businesses that depend on it every single day.\u201d\n\nThe Delaware River Bridge currently carries more than 67,000 vehicles daily, with truck traffic accounting for approximately 16 percent of total volume. Given this heavy demand, the bridge\u2019s existing four-lane configuration is no longer sufficient to meet the capacity needs of the I-95 corridor, one of the busiest and most economically vital highway corridors in the United States. The project will widen the bridge to align with surrounding approach roadways and accommodate projected long-term traffic growth, while also addressing critical infrastructure risk, enhancing travel reliability, improving safety, and bolstering flood resilience.\n\n###", 1, "2026-04-04T05:28:40Z", "2026-04-04T05:30:10Z"], ["https://www.mccormick.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senators-mccormick-kim-introduce-bill-to-strengthen-u-s-global-nuclear-exports/", "Senators McCormick, Kim Introduce Bill to Strengthen U.S. Global Nuclear Exports", "2026-03-27", "2026", "2026-03", "Republican", "Senate", "PA", "David McCormick", "M001243", "www.mccormick.senate.gov", "davemccormick", "https://www.mccormick.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/", "scraper", "WASHINGTON \u2013 U.S. Senators Dave McCormick (R-PA) and Andy Kim (D-NJ), Ranking Member of the Subcommittee on National Security and International Trade and Finance on the Senate Committee on Banking, Housing and Urban Affairs, yesterdayintroduced legislation to strengthen America\u2019s competitiveness in the global nuclear energy market as part of the reauthorization of the Export-Import Bank of the United States (EXIM). As global demand for reliable, clean energy grows, this bipartisan bill will strengthen the United States\u2019 ability to compete for and win nuclear energy projects around the world. As part of the reauthorization process, the American Competitiveness for Exports in Nuclear Energy, or ACE Nuclear Energy Act of 2026, would enhance the Export-Import Bank of the United States\u2019 (EXIM) ability to support U.S. nuclear energy exports.\n\n\u201cThe global demand for reliable nuclear energy is growing, and American nuclear technology is ready to meet the challenge. China and Russia are aggressively expanding their nuclear footprint in global markets, and the United States must respond by strengthening our ability to compete for commercial nuclear projects abroad,\u201d said Senator McCormick. \u201cThe ACE Nuclear Energy Act of 2026 will drive America\u2019s energy competitiveness and help make the United States the partner of choice. When American companies win these projects, they support a strong domestic supply chain\u2014from Pennsylvania to communities across the country\u2014creating jobs, strengthening our industrial base, and reinforcing America\u2019s leadership in technology.\u201d\n\n\u201cElectricity demand is surging worldwide, and China continues bankrolling its own nuclear exports while we leave ourselves without the tools to compete. The ACE Nuclear Energy Act changes that, giving American exporters the financing and talent they need to win. This is how we lead the global energy race, create good American jobs, and grow our economy,\u201d said Senator Kim.\n\nThe initiative builds on momentum from the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2026, which included the International Nuclear Energy Act, directing federal agencies to develop and implement a coordinated strategy.\n\nAs part of EXIM\u2019s reauthorization, the American Competitiveness for Exports in Nuclear Energy (ACE Nuclear Energy) provisions would address key barriers facing U.S. nuclear companies:\n\nUnlocking Financing for Large-Scale Projects: Nuclear energy projects often require multi-billion-dollar investments. This legislation would create a targeted exemption from EXIM\u2019s statutory default rate cap, ensuring a single project does not shut down the agency\u2019s ability to approve new deals. This reform aligns EXIM with international counterparts, enabling support for projects in higher-risk, high-growth markets where private lenders often cannot operate.\n\nStrengthening Workforce Competitiveness: The bill would expand EXIM\u2019s ability to offer market-competitive pay for specialized staff,\u2019 helping the agency attract and retain the expertise needed to compete globally\u2014similar to peer institutions like the U.S. International Development Finance Corporation.\n\nThe legislation positions the United States as a premier partner for countries seeking dependable, secure, and clean energy solutions while advancing American economic and strategic interests.\n\nRead the full bill text here.\n\n###", 1, "2026-04-04T05:28:40Z", "2026-04-04T05:30:10Z"], ["https://www.mccormick.senate.gov/news/press-releases/watch-senator-mccormick-delivers-late-night-floor-speech-last-night-to-fund-all-of-the-department-of-homeland-security/", "Watch: Senator McCormick Delivers Late-Night Floor Speech\u00a0Last Night\u00a0to Fund ALL of the Department of Homeland Security", "2026-03-27", "2026", "2026-03", "Republican", "Senate", "PA", "David McCormick", "M001243", "www.mccormick.senate.gov", "davemccormick", "https://www.mccormick.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/", "scraper", "\u201cI rise today to implore my Democratic colleagues one more time: end this ridiculous shutdown at the Department of Homeland Security. Every day the stakes get higher, and every day the real-world consequences get more severe.\u201d\n\nWASHINGTON \u2013 U.S. Senator Dave McCormick (R-PA) spoke on the Senate floor last night to call out Senate Democrats for refusing to fully fund the Department of Homeland Security \u2014 arguing that the decision undermines a critical agency responsible for protecting the country at a time of heightened domestic threats and ongoing operations in Iran.\n\nClick here to watch the video.\n\nSenator McCormick\u2019s remarks below (as prepared):\n\n\u201cMr. President, I rise today to implore my Democratic colleagues one more time: end this ridiculous shutdown at the Department of Homeland Security. Every day the stakes get higher, and every day the real-world consequences get more severe. Shutting down DHS to make a point on immigration is reckless, and it is devoid of basic, fundamental common sense. It weakens the agencies that protect the homeland. It punishes the men and women across TSA, CISA, FEMA, the Coast Guard, and the rest of DHS who stand watch every day over this country. And it burdens the Americans who depend on those public servants.\n\n\u201cSo what has this shutdown accomplished? What has it brought us?\n\n\u201cFirst, it endangers America. It endangers Americans.\n\n\u201cSince combat operations have begun in Iran, the homeland has seen five major attacks: an ISIS-inspired bombing outside Gracie Mansion in New York City; a terrorist shooting in a classroom at Old Dominion; a vehicle attack at Temple Israel in Michigan; a terrorist shooting at a bar in Austin, Texas; and a pro-Iran cyberattack on Stryker, one of America\u2019s great medical products companies, whose systems support patient care and hospitals across the country.\n\n\u201cThese threats come on top of the violence already made possible by the Biden Administration\u2019s disastrous, catastrophic border policies. Just last Thursday, we saw it on the television: an illegal immigrant shot and killed an 18-year-old Loyola Chicago student, Sheridan Gorman. The killer had crossed the border in 2023, was caught and released, and then \u2014 after a shoplifting arrest \u2014 was released once again. And now, sadly, tragically, a young woman is dead at his hands.\n\n\u201cThat is why we must keep DHS fully operational, including ICE. We do not know what threats exist among the ten million illegal immigrants who entered our country during the Biden Administration. But we do know that those risks are growing \u2014 and they are made much worse because of the carelessness of Democrats in shutting down and refusing to fund DHS.\n\n\u201cAnd yet, in our moment of real national need, Democrats are choosing performance theater over the safety of the American people. It is irresponsible. It is callous. It is disgraceful. And it must stop. We are 40 days into this \u2014 it must stop.\n\n\u201cSecond, it hurts the people who protect us.\n\n\u201cShutting down DHS hurts the very people who step forward to protect us. The average TSA agent earns about $50,000 a year. Many live paycheck to paycheck \u2014 and those are the paychecks my Democratic colleagues chose to withhold to stage this stunt.\n\n\u201cNow, fortunately, President Trump earlier today intervened and directed the new Secretary of Homeland Security to find a way to pay these folks. But tragically, much of the damage has already been done. Too many Pennsylvanians are already paying the price. TSA officers in the Philadelphia and Pittsburgh airports have had to rely on food banks to get by. The men and women standing between the traveling public and danger should not have to depend on charity because Congress cannot do its job.\n\n\u201cThe consequences of this shutdown are mounting. Last Sunday, one in four TSA agents in the Philadelphia and Pittsburgh airports called out \u2014 25% didn\u2019t come to work, because Democrats have forced them to work without pay. They cannot protect their families and report to work without being paid. Not many Americans can. And since the shutdown began, at least 450 TSA agents have quit \u2014 450 trained professionals, gone. Replacing them will cost money, it will take time, and until then the risk facing the American people has gone up.\n\n\u201cThird, it imposes real costs and real vulnerabilities on the American people.\n\n\u201cWe have all seen the images: airport security lines snaking out of the terminal into the parking garages. Families heading out on spring break, workers traveling across the country, people hitting the road for work \u2014 all victims of a politically manufactured crisis.\n\n\u201cAnd I wish I could say it was just the airports. But the consequences go far beyond. The World Cup security preparations in cities around the world, including Philadelphia, have already fallen behind. Security grants for houses of worship are tied up. Local communities are without critical DHS threat information sharing. Our cybersecurity readiness is diminished. And in Pennsylvania, firefighters and first responders have lost access to critical DHS training.\n\n\u201cThe bottom line is this: this shutdown is petty political theater that is putting American lives at risk. It is unacceptable, and it has to stop.\n\n\u201cI reject the false choice between funding and reforms. We can address the legitimate concerns the American people have had about immigration enforcement while fully funding DHS. We can secure the homeland and insist on professionalism and competence. That is why I support the common-sense reforms that Republicans in Congress and the Administration have put forward: body cameras for ICE, funding for de-escalation training, increased transparency requirements, and regular inspections of detention facilities. These are common-sense proposals offered in good faith \u2014 and yet Democrats have turned away. Because they do not want a resolution. They want to use this as a political issue heading into the midterms. And the American people are suffering.\n\n\u201cI am confident that my former colleague Markwayne Mullin, whom we confirmed on Monday, will bring the leadership this moment demands. And whatever our differences in this chamber over policy, shutting down the government is never the right answer. As President Obama\u2019s DHS Secretary Jeh Johnson said last week, we need to get out of the business of coupling policy disagreements with funding the government.\n\n\u201cShutting down the Department of Homeland Security for the third time this Congress, amid major combat operations in the Middle East, is not merely wrong \u2014 it is reckless.\n\n\u201cI am proud that my friend and Pennsylvania Senator John Fetterman agrees that shutting down the government is wrong. He and I can always be depended on to walk together for a better Pennsylvania. I urge others in the Democratic Party to do the same: fund DHS, protect America, pay the men and women who are defending us, and relieve the American people of these ridiculous, politically-imposed, unnecessary burdens.\n\n\u201cI yield the floor.\n\n###", 1, "2026-04-04T05:28:40Z", "2026-04-04T05:30:10Z"], ["https://www.mccormick.senate.gov/news/press-releases/mccormick-fetterman-lead-bipartisan-effort-to-designate-endless-mountains-national-heritage-area/", "MCCORMICK, FETTERMAN LEAD BIPARTISAN EFFORT TO DESIGNATE ENDLESS MOUNTAINS NATIONAL HERITAGE AREA", "2026-03-26", "2026", "2026-03", "Republican", "Senate", "PA", "David McCormick", "M001243", "www.mccormick.senate.gov", "davemccormick", "https://www.mccormick.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/", "scraper", "WASHINGTON \u2013 U.S. Senators Dave McCormick (R-PA) and John Fetterman (D-PA) today introduced the Endless Mountains National Heritage Area Act to designate Pennsylvania\u2019s Endless Mountains region as a National Heritage Area (NHA), a long-sought recognition that would preserve the region\u2019s rich history and natural beauty while boosting economic growth through tourism. The legislation is the Senate companion to a House bill led by Congressman Dan Meuser (R-PA-09).\n\n\u201cPennsylvania\u2019s Endless Mountains are a cornerstone of our Commonwealth\u2019s history and natural beauty, with a legacy that stretches back to the earliest days of our nation,\u201d said Senator McCormick. \u201cEspecially as we approach our nation\u2019s 250th birthday, this designation is a major win for Northeast Pennsylvania\u2014protecting our historic landscapes while growing a tourism economy that supports thousands of hardworking families. I\u2019m proud to work alongside my Pennsylvania colleagues to bring national recognition to this truly world-class destination.\u201d\n\n\u201cOur public lands are some of the very best parts of what our great country has to offer,\u201dsaid Senator Fetterman. \u201cWe have a responsibility to safeguard the Endless Mountains National Heritage Area. I\u2019m proud to help ensure it will be protected and enjoyed for generations to come while supporting economic development throughout the region.\u201d\n\n\u201cThe Endless Mountains region is one of Northeast Pennsylvania\u2019s most scenic landscapes, full of history, natural beauty, and local culture. Whether you\u2019re enjoying its fall foliage or its vast forests during summer, it provides some of the most stunning scenery in our Commonwealth. Establishing the Endless Mountains National Heritage Area will help protect that legacy while increasing tourism, encouraging local economic activity, and strengthening relationships among communities, small businesses, and conservation groups across the four counties. I am happy to lead this effort in the House, alongside Senators McCormick and Fetterman in the Senate, to ensure the history and culture of Bradford, Sullivan, Susquehanna, and Wyoming counties are recognized and supported for generations of Pennsylvanians to come,\u201d said Congressman Meuser.\n\nBACKGROUND\n\nThis bipartisan bill would designate Bradford, Sullivan, Susquehanna, and Wyoming counties as a National Heritage Area and name Endless Mountains Heritage Region, Inc. (EMHR) as the local coordinating entity.\n\nAs a National Heritage Area, the region would remain a lived-in landscape, with projects led by local communities through public-private partnerships\u2014not federal mandates.\n\nThe legislation does not alter existing land-use regulations and does not grant the National Park Service any zoning authority or eminent domain power.\n\nOutdoor and heritage tourism in the region already supports nearly 2,000 jobs and generates more than $166 million in annual economic activity. NHA designation would increase national visibility, attract more visitors, unlock additional federal resources, and could generate up to $350 million in annual economic activity.\n\nThe designation would help protect and elevate the legacy of the Munsee-Lenape, Susquehannock, and Iroquois peoples, along with the region\u2019s agricultural and industrial history.\n\nThe effort has garnered strong local and statewide support, including formal resolutions from all four counties and backing from a bipartisan group of Pennsylvania state legislators.\n\n\u201cWe\u2019re grateful for the support we\u2019ve received from our state and federal legislators\u2014particularly Senator Dave McCormick, Senator John Fetterman, and Congressman Dan Meuser\u2014as we work to achieve a National Heritage Area designation for the Endless Mountains,\u201d said Cain Chamberlin, Executive Director of the Endless Mountains Heritage Region. \u201cThis effort reflects years of collaboration, research, and community input, and highlights the region\u2019s unique history, natural beauty, and cultural significance.\u201d\n\nRead the full bill text here.\n\n###", 1, "2026-04-05T05:34:57Z", "2026-04-05T05:36:03Z"], ["https://www.mccormick.senate.gov/news/press-releases/watch-senator-mccormick-delivers-floor-speech-in-support-of-road-to-housing-act/", "Watch: Senator McCormick Delivers Floor Speech in Support of ROAD to Housing Act", "2026-03-05", "2026", "2026-03", "Republican", "Senate", "PA", "David McCormick", "M001243", "www.mccormick.senate.gov", "davemccormick", "https://www.mccormick.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/", "scraper", "\u201cThe ROAD to Housing Act represents the most consequential federal action on housing in a generation. Passing through the Banking Committee with a unanimous, 24-to-0 vote, it\u2019s also proof that the Senate can address important issues in a bipartisan way.\u201d\n\nWASHINGTON \u2013 U.S. Senator Dave McCormick (R-PA) today delivered the following remarks on the Senate floor in support of the ROAD to Housing Act.\n\nClick here to watch the video.\n\nSenator McCormick\u2019s remarks below (as prepared):\n\n\u201cMr. President, I rise today in support of the ROAD to Housing Act.\n\n\u201cI grew up in Northeast Pennsylvania, in a town called Bloomsburg, believing in a simple deal: work hard, play by the rules and you can build a life in your own home.\n\n\u201cBut that promise \u2013 the American Dream \u2013 has become increasingly out of reach for families across our great Commonwealth. There are too few homes to buy and too many aging homes that families can\u2019t afford to maintain.\n\n\u201cThe numbers tell a clear and disturbing story: Pennsylvania is short 100,000 homes today \u2013 that\u2019s the same number as seats in Penn State\u2019s Beaver Stadium. Median home prices have hit an all-time high of $325,000. Rent has surged. And more than half our housing stock is over 50 years old, which means greater repair costs for homeowners already struggling with tight budgets.\n\n\u201cThe absence of good, new, affordable housing has locked out young families. When I was a teenager, the median age of a first-time homebuyer was 29. Today it is 40.\n\n\u201cThat is an entire decade of homeownership and wealth-building that has been lost by a generation.\n\n\u201cAmerican families did not create this problem. Washington did. Major federal housing programs have been funded for decades without serious reform. Some\n\nhaven\u2019t been updated since the 1960\u2019s.\n\n\u201cThe Biden administration had four years to address this crisis. Instead, more bureaucracy, more mandates, and reckless spending drove this problem off a cliff. From the rowhouses of Philadelphia to the small towns of the Monongahela Valley, home prices across our Commonwealth have risen more than 75 percent since 2020. Nationally, the average monthly mortgage payment is over $1000 higher than when President Biden took office.\n\n\u201cLast year, I visited Bedford Dwellings in Pittsburgh\u2019s historic Hill District with HUD Secretary Turner. We spoke with great Pennsylvanians who feel the American Dream is increasingly out of reach. I hear this feedback everywhere I go across the Commonwealth.\n\n\u201cThis is a big problem. It\u2019s an unacceptable problem. And it\u2019s time for a new direction.\n\n\u201cPresident Trump\u2019s leadership is lowering housing costs for American families. He cut red tape in permitting and construction and directed key agencies to keep Wall Street out of the starter home market. And he delivered the most significant federal investment in affordable housing in decades via the Working Families Tax Cut Act.\n\n\u201cToday, the Senate has an opportunity to build on this progress \u2014 in a serious, bipartisan way \u2014 by passing the ROAD to Housing Act.\n\n\u201cThe bill advances three goals.\n\n\u201cFirst: build more. The Act cuts the red tape, lowers costs, and speeds up zoning and permitting.\n\n\u201cSecond: fix what we have. Grants and forgivable loans are provided to low-income homeowners for repairs, helping preserve home values and helping stabilize neighborhoods.\n\n\u201cThird: empower communities, not bureaucrats. Local leaders are empowered to make decisions that fit their towns. The federal government should be a partner not a gatekeeper.\n\n\u201cGuided by these principles, the ROAD to Housing Act represents the most consequential federal action on housing in a generation. Passing through the Banking Committee with a unanimous, 24-to-0 vote, it\u2019s also proof that the Senate can address important issues in a bipartisan way.\n\n\u201cI\u2018m particularly proud of the amendments my friend and colleague, Senator Fetterman, and I championed together that protect Pennsylvania workers, veterans, and homeowners.\n\n\u201cFor example, I was the lead or co-lead on six provisions that will help ensure Pennsylvanians \u2013 including our 800,000 veterans \u2013 can afford good homes without risk of falling through the cracks.\n\n\u201cThe bill and my provisions also empower Pennsylvania\u2019s community lenders. There is a scene in \u201cIt\u2019s a Wonderful Life\u201d where George Bailey, played by Jimmy Stewart \u2013 who, by the way, was a native of my dad\u2019s hometown of Indiana, Pennsylvania \u2013 fights to save the Bailey Building and Loan.\n\n\u201cThis was the community lender in the fictional town of Bedford Falls that knew every borrower by name and made the mortgages that helped ordinary people own homes.\n\n\u201cThat model once helped build \u201ca wonderful life\u201d for generations of Americans. But we have regulated it so heavily that community lenders who want to serve their neighbors can\u2019t make the math work.\n\n\u201cHomeownership for most young families shouldn\u2019t exist only in the movies. It should exist in Bloomsburg and Bradford and Braddock and every Pennsylvania community where a local lender knows the borrower and wants to say yes. This bill takes important steps in that direction.\n\n\u201cAnd one more thing: the ROAD to Housing Act builds on President Trump\u2019s efforts and takes on Wall Street landlords competing directly with first-time buyers for single-family homes. The housing market should work for Main Street \u2013 not Wall Street.\n\n\u201cFor ALL these many reasons, I am proud to stand in support the ROAD to Housing Act. I urge my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to vote yes \u2014 and make the American Dream of homeownership possible again for the next generation of Pennsylvanians.\n\n\u201cI yield the floor.\u201d\n\n###", 1, "2026-04-04T05:28:40Z", "2026-04-04T05:30:10Z"], ["https://www.mccormick.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senators-mccormick-and-welch-introduce-bill-to-modernize-americas-electric-grid-and-cut-red-tape/", "SENATORS MCCORMICK AND WELCH INTRODUCE BILL TO MODERNIZE AMERICA\u2019S ELECTRIC GRID AND CUT RED TAPE", "2026-03-02", "2026", "2026-03", "Republican", "Senate", "PA", "David McCormick", "M001243", "www.mccormick.senate.gov", "davemccormick", "https://www.mccormick.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/", "scraper", "WASHINGTON \u2013 U.S. Senators Dave McCormick (R-PA), Chair of the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Subcommittee on Energy, and Peter Welch (D-VT), Chair of the Senate Agriculture Subcommittee on Rural Development Energy, and Credit, today introduced the Reconductoring Existing Wires for Infrastructure Reliability and Expansion (REWIRE) Act of 2026, new bipartisan legislation to modernize the nation\u2019s electric grid and meet America\u2019s growing energy demand. This bill cuts permitting delays, incentivizes advanced transmission upgrades, strengthens state grid planning, and accelerates the deployment of innovative grid technologies to lower costs and improve grid reliability for American families and businesses.\n\n\u201cElectricity demand in Pennsylvania and across America is rising rapidly and that requires innovative solutions to strengthen our electric grid and cut through the bureaucracy that is holding us back,\u201d said Senator McCormick. \u201cThe bipartisan REWIRE Act is exactly the kind of commonsense fix we need. It leverages existing infrastructure we already have, brings down costs, and stops years of unnecessary permitting delays from standing in the way of real progress.\u201d\n\n\u201cWe\u2019re up against the clock when it comes to meeting America\u2019s growing energy needs. Increasing the capacity of the grid by accelerating the permitting process and incentivizing practices like reconductoring will not only allow us to connect new and affordable clean energy to the grid\u2013it\u2019ll also save consumers money,\u201d said Senator Welch. \u201cI\u2019m proud to partner with Senator McCormick on this bipartisan effort to upgrade America\u2019s grid and meet the energy demand of the future.\u201d\n\nAfter two decades of stagnation, American electricity demand is projected to rise by as much as 5.7% by 2030 \u2014 the fastest increase since the 1960s. Meeting this demand will require nearly 5,000 miles of new high-capacity transmission lines each year, according to the Department of Energy. Yet in 2024, only 322 miles of new high-voltage transmission were completed.\n\nThe REWIRE Act provides a commonsense path forward: rather than building new infrastructure from scratch, it upgrades existing transmission lines with advanced conductors that can double capacity (a process known as \u201creconductoring\u201d). By reducing congestion and bypassing lengthy permitting requirements, reconductoring could reduce grid costs by $85 billion by 2035 and $180 billion by 2050.\n\nSpecifically, the REWIRE Act of 2026 will:\n\nStreamline environmental reviews by creating a categorical exclusion under the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) for projects that increase grid capacity within existing rights-of-way, including reconductoring with advanced conductors, deploying grid-enhancing technologies (GETs), and deploying energy storage.\n\nIncentivize modern transmission upgrades by directing the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) to improve the return on equity for reconductoring projects, encouraging wider adoption of advanced transmission conductors.\n\nExpand funding flexibility by allowing State Energy Offices to use Department of Energy (DOE) State Energy Program funds to conduct feasibility studies for reconductoring and GETs projects.\n\nBuild a regional knowledge network by establishing regional collaboratives between DOE, National Laboratories, and universities to evaluate grid performance and identify high-impact opportunities for advanced conductor and GET deployment.\n\nShare best practices nationally by authorizing DOE to assist transmission developers and create a national clearinghouse of advanced transmission technology applications, case studies, and best practices.\n\nRead the full bill text here.\n\n\u201cWe welcome the bipartisan leadership of Senators McCormick and Welch to address the urgent need for reliable and affordable power for Pennsylvanians and communities across the country through this critical legislation,\u201d said Joe Mastrangelo, Chief Executive Officer of Eos Energy. \u201cAs energy demand continues to rise, Eos stands ready to deliver American\u2011made energy storage solutions that improve efficiency, accelerate speed\u2011to\u2011power, and enhance affordability for ratepayers\u2014goals the REWIRE Act is designed to advance.\u201d\n\n\u201cWe are grateful to Senator McCormick for his bipartisan leadership on the REWIRE Act. As electricity demand continues to rise, it is critical that we strengthen and modernize the nation\u2019s linear infrastructure. Targeted, commonsense permitting reforms that allow upgrades within existing rights-of-way can help unlock additional grid capacity more efficiently and cost-effectively. This proposal addresses one component of a broader permitting challenge, and while there is more work to do, we support all pragmatic efforts that streamline unnecessarily burdensome processes and accelerate the delivery of reliable energy to the markets where it is needed most.\u201d \u2013 Toby Z. Rice, President and CEO, EQT\n\n\u201cThank you to Senator McCormick for introducing the REWIRE Act. This is an important step forward on comprehensive permitting reform, a long-standing priority of our members,\u201dsaid Stefani Pashman, CEO of the Allegheny Conference. \u201cThis region has been a top energy producer for our nation for generations. REWIRE would ensure the power we produce can get to where it\u2019s needed most without unnecessary delays. As we position for future growth, these reforms will allow us to capitalize on an \u2018all of the above\u2019 energy approach when it comes to leveraging the region\u2019s assets, expertise, and emerging opportunities for the 10-county SWPA region.\u201d\n\n\u201cAmerica needs a smarter, stronger grid to promote American energy security, AI leadership, and manufacturing competitiveness. The REWIRE Act, introduced by Senators Dave McCormick (R-PA) and Peter Welch (D-VT), positions the U.S. to optimize our existing grid through American innovation \u2013 delivering more power with greater efficiency and affordability to American homes and businesses. We commend these bipartisan efforts to streamline the permitting for and industry adoption of innovative grid technologies that let American energy move,\u201d said ClearPath Action CEO Jeremy Harrell.\n\n\u201cPPL is building the utilities of the future by deploying advanced technologies across our grid. In 2022, PPL Electric Utilities became the first U.S. electric utility to fully integrate dynamic line ratings\u2014a grid\u2011enhancing technology\u2014into real\u2011time operations with PJM. While not a substitute for needed new transmission, GETs can unlock additional capacity from existing infrastructure, improve efficiency, and reduce congestion costs for customers. We applaud Senator McCormick\u2019s leadership in introducing the REWIRE Act and welcome continued collaboration with our federal partners to help scale proven solutions nationwide for the benefit of our customers.\u201d\u2013 Vincent Sorgi, president and chief executive officer of PPL Corporation\n\n\u201cACC Action, on behalf of our thousands of grassroots members, is happy to endorse Senator McCormick\u2019s REWIRE Act. This bill will allow us to get more electricity out of existing infrastructure without wasting years on redundant environmental approvals. The federal government should not be spending time and money on thousands of pages of reports for land that has already been developed. By doubling down on existing transmission infrastructure, we can save pristine lands, protect farmland, and prevent duplicative construction across the country.\u201d \u2013 American Conservation Coalition Action (ACC Action)\n\n\u201cThe electric industry is facing unprecedented challenges. In order to keep up with increasing demand while still maintaining affordable and reliable service, utilities need to have access to every tool in the toolbox. This legislation would help utilities increase capacity along existing transmission corridors and do so quickly while reducing costs. I applaud Sen. McCormick and Sen. Welch for working in a bipartisan manner to address these critical infrastructure issues and I urge the Senate to take up this legislation.\u201d\u2013 Steve Brame, President & CEO, Pennsylvania Rural Electric Association and Allegheny Electric Cooperative\n\n\u201cAdvanced transmission technologies, including high-performance conductors and grid-enhancing technologies, are a common-sense way to increase the overall capacity and efficiency of our existing grid infrastructure, boost reliability, and lower energy prices. We applaud Sens. Dave McCormick (R-PA) and Peter Welch (D-VT) for the introduction of the REWIRE Act, which would aid in the deployment of these next-generation grid technologies,\u201d said Michele Stockwell, president of Bipartisan Policy Center Action (BPC Action).\n\n\u201cRising electricity demand related to reindustrialization, electrification, and U.S. leadership in AI is one of the most pressing issues facing policymakers today,\u201d said Securing America\u2019s Future Energy CEO Avery Ash. \u201cThe REWIRE Act charts a decisive path to expand the capacity of our electric grid, fortifying America\u2019s national security and economic strength. It recognizes that scaling advanced transmission technologies and deploying energy storage are essential tools to unlock that capacity, delivering results now as we build the grid of the future.\u201d\n\n\u201cAt a time when families and businesses are facing rising electricity costs, the REWIRE Act offers a market-driven solution to expand grid capacity at lower cost. By enabling advanced conductors and grid-enhancing technologies within existing rights-of-way, this legislation can reduce congestion, improve efficiency, and help keep rates stable. Smart infrastructure upgrades are a win for reliability and a win for ratepayers.\u201d \u2013 John Szoka, CEO of the Conservative Energy Network\n\n\u201cGrid reliability and affordability depend on faster, common-sense upgrades. FAI Action applauds Senators Welch and McCormick for introducing the REWIRE Act and supports this effort to accelerate grid development in existing corridors.\u201d \u2013 Foundation for American Innovation\n\n\u201cModernizing the electric grid is essential to keeping America competitive. The REWIRE Act takes bipartisan steps to cut red tape and accelerate capacity additions on existing infrastructure, including reconductoring, grid-enhancing technologies, and storage,\u201dsaid NEMA Senior Vice President of Public Affairs Spencer Pederson. \u201cThis bill helps move more energy faster along existing corridors without sacrificing responsible oversight, and it\u2019s a commonsense, near-term way to add capacity and strengthen reliability.\u201d\n\n###", 1, "2026-04-04T05:28:40Z", "2026-04-04T05:30:10Z"], ["https://www.mccormick.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senator-mccormick-to-bring-pennsylvania-united-steelworkers-vice-president-jason-zugai-as-guest-to-2026-state-of-the-union/", "SENATOR MCCORMICK TO BRING\u00a0PENNSYLVANIA\u00a0UNITED STEELWORKERS VICE PRESIDENT JASON ZUGAI AS GUEST TO\u00a02026\u00a0STATE OF THE UNION", "2026-02-24", "2026", "2026-02", "Republican", "Senate", "PA", "David McCormick", "M001243", "www.mccormick.senate.gov", "davemccormick", "https://www.mccormick.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, February 24, 2026 \u2013 U.S. Senator Dave McCormick (R-Pennsylvania) today announced that he will bring Jason Zugai, former President and current Vice President of the United Steelworkers (Local 2227), as his guest to the 2026 State of the Union. This honor comes just months after the historic U.S. Steel-Nippon partnership was finalized in June 2025, a deal that strengthens Pennsylvania\u2019s steel industry and safeguards thousands of American jobs.\n\n\u201cJason Zugai is a third-generation steelworker who embodies the heart of the Mon Valley and the proud tradition of American steel,\u201d said Senator McCormick. \u201cThe U.S. Steel-Nippon Agreement is a landmark achievement, ensuring that this iconic American company remains under U.S. leadership while protecting and creating thousands of Pennsylvania jobs. I\u2019m honored to bring Jason as my guest to the State of the Union to highlight the incredible work of steel workers and showcase how President Trump\u2019s administration has championed strengthening American manufacturing.\u201d\n\nSenator McCormick first met Jason Zugai during his campaign for U.S. Senate in 2024, where they discussed the critical importance of the U.S. Steel-Nippon deal for Pennsylvania workers. McCormick promised that once elected, his first meeting as U.S. Senator would be with Jason. Senator McCormick kept that promise, engaging closely with Jason and steel leaders to advocate for the $14 billion investment that now secures the future of U.S. Steel.\n\nThe U.S. Steel-Nippon agreement is a win for our economy, national security, and the hardworking people of Pennsylvania. Senator McCormick is proud to stand alongside President Trump in fulfilling their shared commitment to rebuild American manufacturing and deliver for U.S. workers.\n\nSenator McCormick has consistently emphasized that one of his top priorities is preserving and expanding jobs in the Mon Valley while ensuring that U.S. Steel remains under American control. Bringing Jason Zugai to the State of the Union offers an opportunity to spotlight these efforts and celebrate the people driving Pennsylvania\u2019s steel revival.\n\n###", 1, "2026-04-04T05:28:40Z", "2026-04-04T05:30:10Z"], ["https://www.mccormick.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senators-mccormick-and-rosen-introduce-legislation-to-expand-internet-access-for-iranian-civilians-and-combat-irans-human-rights-abuses/", "SENATORS MCCORMICK\u00a0AND ROSEN INTRODUCE LEGISLATION TO EXPAND INTERNET ACCESS FOR IRANIAN CIVILIANS AND COMBAT IRAN\u2019S HUMAN RIGHTS ABUSES", "2026-02-24", "2026", "2026-02", "Republican", "Senate", "PA", "David McCormick", "M001243", "www.mccormick.senate.gov", "davemccormick", "https://www.mccormick.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, February 24, 2026 \u2013 Senators Dave McCormick (R-PA) and Jacky Rosen (D-NV) today introduced the Iran Human Rights, Internet Freedom, and Accountability Act of 2026,bipartisan legislationdesigned to increase pressure against the Islamic Republic of Iran after the regime locked down the internet and killed tens of thousands of its own citizens during mass protests throughout the country.\n\nThe legislation takes a coordinated approach to confronting the regime\u2019s repression, targeting four key areas: expand internet access for Iranian civilians amid regime blackouts and repression, identify and enforce sanctions on human rights abusers and their enablers, support U.S. broadcasting and human rights programming, and strengthen cybersecurity tools for Iranian journalists, human rights activists, and civil society.\n\n\u201cThe Iran Human Rights, Internet Freedom, and Accountability Act of 2026 builds on America\u2019s efforts to stand with the Iranian people against a regime that is economically, militarily, and morally bankrupt,\u201d said Senator McCormick. \u201cThis bipartisan legislation will expand internet access amid regime blackouts and repression, enforce sanctions on human rights violators including their enablers, and promote human rights documentation and accountability.\u201d\n\n\u201cThe people of Iran have been forced to live under a repressive regime that has used censorship and internet blackouts to weaken efforts by its people to fight back,\u201d said Senator Rosen. \u201cI\u2019m proud to introduce this bipartisan bill to support the brave Iranian people through expanding internet access, transparent broadcasting, and human rights programs. Iran\u2019s future must be shaped by its people, who deserve to have their rights protected and free access to information.\u201d\n\nSpecifically, theIran Human Rights, Internet Freedom, and Accountability Act of 2026 will:\n\nDesignate the Secretary of State as lead official for advancing internet access and digital freedom in Iran, coordinating all related U.S. government initiatives and updating reporting requirements under the Comprehensive Iran Internet Freedom Strategy.\n\nEvaluate civilian use of tools such as VPNs and direct-to-cell satellite technology; ensure sanctions do not block Iranian civilians\u2019 access to open internet technologies; and develop strategies to counter regime-imposed internet blackouts.\n\nUpdate existing congressional reports on expanding internet access in Iran, covering satellite-based communications, drone-related risks, and analysis of telecommunications providers operating in Iran.\n\nIncreases funding for the Iran Internet Freedom Grant Program to at least $20 million annually from fiscal years 2027 to 2030.\n\nEstablish a State Department-led interagency working group to develop rapidly deployable technologies capable of bypassing internet shutdowns and network disruptions imposed by the Islamic Republic of Iran.\n\nCreate a process for senior congressional leaders to identify and potentially sanction foreign individuals suspected of supporting Iran\u2019s human rights abuses, censorship, or repression, including suppliers of surveillance or internet shutdown technology.\n\nDirect the Secretary of State to develop a strategy expanding U.S. broadcasting and human rights programming for Iran, including support for independent media, civil society, and uncensored news access.\n\nRequire the Government Accountability Office to report to Congress on grant oversight, program effectiveness, and recommendations to improve spending transparency and accountability under the Near East Regional Democracy account for fiscal years 2024 and 2025.\n\nEstablish programs to strengthen cybersecurity training and digital safety tools for Iranian journalists, activists, and civil society, including multilingual materials warning civilians about regime-controlled apps and phishing threats, with quarterly congressional reporting and independent evaluation.\n\nRead the full bill text here.\n\n###", 1, "2026-04-04T05:28:40Z", "2026-04-04T05:30:10Z"], ["https://www.mccormick.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senator-mccormick-celebrates-new-job-growth-at-dura-bond/", "Senator McCormick Celebrates New Job Growth at Dura-Bond", "2026-02-14", "2026", "2026-02", "Republican", "Senate", "PA", "David McCormick", "M001243", "www.mccormick.senate.gov", "davemccormick", "https://www.mccormick.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/", "scraper", "Multi-Year Contract Delivers 250 New Union Jobs and Economic Boost to Region\n\nSTEELTON, PA\u2013 On Friday, February 13, U.S. Senator Dave McCormick (R-PA) visited Dura-Bond Pipe\u2019s Steelton facility to join company leadership, federal and state elected officials, and workers in announcing a new multi-year contract between Dura-Bond with TC Energy that will generate $300 million in new revenue and create more than 250 new jobs in Pennsylvania.\n\nFounded in 1960, Dura-Bond is an American-owned and operated steel pipe manufacturer proudly serving the Marcellus Shale region. The company has a long history of supplying domestically produced, large-diameter line pipe for natural gas and critical infrastructure projects across the country. To meet increased demand under the new contract, Dura-Bond will add an additional shift at its Steelton facility, expanding its workforce and strengthening the region\u2019s manufacturing base.\n\n\u201cFrom day one, my team and I have been proud to stand with Dura-Bond as they\u2019ve grown stronger and created opportunity for Pennsylvania workers,\u201d said Senator Dave McCormick. \u201cThis $300 million contract with TC Energy will create 250 new union jobs and strengthen the Marcellus Shale region\u2019s role in powering American manufacturing. What we are seeing here in Steelton is the intersection of President Trump\u2019s strategy of energy dominance, his commitment to American steel, and the return of advanced manufacturing right here in Pennsylvania.\u201d\n\n\u201cWe are deeply grateful for the support of Senator McCormick and the many others who have helped us along the way. As he highlighted this afternoon, this truly was a team effort, made successful through the commitment of elected officials and staff from both sides of the aisle at the federal, state, and local levels,\u201d said Dura-Bond President Jason Norris. \u201cMy family and I are personally touched by the interest shown and the support extended on behalf of our employees. We sincerely appreciate everyone who worked together to make this possible.\u201d\n\nJohn Draeger, Vice President, U.S. Projects, at TC Energy said, \u201cOur more than 40-year partnership with Dura-Bond represents the strength of American manufacturing and the critical role Pennsylvania plays in powering the country. TC Energy\u2019s latest $300 million pipe-supply agreement is not just an investment in infrastructure \u2013 it\u2019s an investment in American workers, including more than 250 new United Steelworkers jobs that will help meet the nation\u2019s growing energy needs. Reliable, affordable energy is essential to America\u2019s competitiveness, and we\u2019re grateful for Senator McCormick\u2019s leadership and commitment to the communities that form the heart of America\u2019s energy future.\u201d\n\nPennsylvania is home to the only American-owned manufacturer of large-diameter line pipe used for oil and natural gas transmission. This announcement underscores Pennsylvania\u2019s unique leadership in advanced manufacturing and energy infrastructure, and reflects the success of President Trump\u2019s strategy of energy dominance and renewed commitment to strengthening domestic steel production. The expansion at Dura-Bond\u2019s Steelton facility marks a significant step forward for South Central Pennsylvania\u2019s economy and reinforces the Commonwealth\u2019s role as a national leader in manufacturing and energy innovation.\n\n###", 1, "2026-04-04T05:28:40Z", "2026-04-04T05:30:10Z"], ["https://www.mccormick.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senator-mccormick-secures-more-than-270-million-in-federal-funds-for-pennsylvania/", "Senator McCormick Secures More Than $270 Million in Federal Funds for Pennsylvania", "2026-02-05", "2026", "2026-02", "Republican", "Senate", "PA", "David McCormick", "M001243", "www.mccormick.senate.gov", "davemccormick", "https://www.mccormick.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/", "scraper", "Funding to Support Public Safety, Infrastructure, Education, Healthcare, and Community Restoration\n\nWASHINGTON, D.C., February 5, 2026 \u2013 Senator Dave McCormick (R-PA) today announced he has secured more than $270 million in federal funding for projects across Pennsylvania, supporting critical needs and advancing key priorities throughout the Commonwealth. These federal funds will support projects across public safety, infrastructure, education, healthcare, economic development, and environmental restoration, giving Pennsylvanians the resources to improve critical services, advance opportunities, and enhance quality of life across the Commonwealth.\n\n\u201cThis funding delivers real results for Pennsylvanians,\u201d said Senator McCormick. \u201cIt helps communities advance important projects and ensures taxpayer dollars are put to work where they are needed most. This money would have been spent by those in Washington, D.C. regardless. My goal is to steer these tax dollars home to worthy projects rather than leave these decisions to unelected bureaucrats.\u201d\n\nA full list of projects funded include:\n\nAllegheny County Economic Development \u2013 Mon Valley Strategic Blight Removal (Allegheny County): To remove blighted, hazardous structures to encourage future development and positive economic impact ($1,200,000)\n\nAllegheny County Police and Fire Training Academy (Allegheny County): To purchase public safety equipment and upgrade training facilities ($1,000,000)\n\nArmy Corps of Engineers \u2013 Montgomery Lock (Upper Ohio, Allegheny and Beaver Counties): To improve lock condition and capacity at three Ohio River lock and dam sites ($183,829,000)\n\nArmy Corps of Engineers \u2013 South Central PA Section 313 (Allegheny County): To upgrade storm and wastewater infrastructure ($12,000,000)\n\nArmy Corps of Engineers \u2013 Whitehall Section 219 (Lehigh County): To replace stormwater pipes ($1,000,000)\n\nBedford County Rural Assistance (Bedford County): To expand rural business training and support ($350,000)\n\nBen Franklin Technology Partners of Northeastern Pennsylvania TechVentures Lab Initiative (Northampton County): To renovate facilities for life science and technology businesses ($4,800,000)\n\nBethlehem Police Department (Northampton and Lehigh Counties): To purchase public safety technology and equipment ($700,000)\n\nBloomsburg YMCA (Columbia County): To create a Resource Hub for the Bloomsburg YMCA ($875,000)\n\nBorough of Emporium (Cameron County): To repair and upgrade Town Hall building ($508,000)\n\nBorough of Forest Hills (Allegheny County): To improve storm and wastewater system ($500,000)\n\nBorough of Palmerton (Carbon County): To construct new police station ($550,000)\n\nBorough of Sewickley Road Safety Improvement Plan (Allegheny County): To monitor and eliminate the current threats to roadway infrastructure ($250,000)\n\nBucktail Medical Center (Clinton County): To increase service lines and update severely outdated equipment at a critical access hospital ($949,000)\n\nCarlisle Borough for Wastewater Treatment Plant Improvements (Cumberland County): Installs wastewater treatment plant improvements ($1,943,000)\n\nCatalyst Connection \u2013 Pennsylvania AI Data Centers & Energy Future (Allegheny County): To identify, assess, and develop a manufacturing supply chain in Southwestern Pennsylvania for AI data centers and associated energy needs ($600,000)\n\nCentre County First Responders (Centre County): To purchase radio equipment for police, fire, and emergency medical services ($1,000,000)\n\nChesapeake Bay Environmental Restoration and Protection \u2013 Wildwood Lake Restoration (Dauphin County): To prevent flooding in Dauphin County ($500,000)\n\nChesapeake Bay Environmental Restoration and Protection (York County): To reduce flooding and improve water quality at Tyler Run Creek ($500,000)\n\nCity of Meadville (Crawford County): To replace outdated force main on French Creek ($750,000)\n\nCranberry Township (Butler County): To replace waterline along Route 19 main commercial corridor ($1,000,000)\n\nCrary Hose Company Volunteer Fire Department (Potter County): To construct new fire station and emergency evacuation center in Westfield Borough ($1,286,250)\n\nDry Tavern Sewer Authority (Greene County): To install wastewater treatment plant improvements ($591,000)\n\nDuBois Regional Airport Pavement Rehabilitation and Reconstruction (Jefferson County): To rehabilitate the taxiways, apron, access road, and parking lot ($4,190,000)\n\nFriendship Hose Co. No.1 (Schuylkill County): To construct new fire station in Orwigsburg Borough ($2,225,000)\n\nGannon University \u2013 Biomedical Laboratories (Erie County): To build two laboratories for cancer treatment, education, and research on Gannon\u2019s campus ($500,000)\n\nGuilford Township Authority for Marion Wastewater System (Franklin County): Completes wastewater system upgrades ($2,000,000)\n\nHermitage Municipal Authority (Mercer County): To upgrade three wastewater pump stations in Wheatland neighborhood ($913,600)\n\nInnovation Works New Accelerator Model Project (Allegheny County): To support entrepreneurs with business and technical expertise ($750,000)\n\nJohnston-Cambria County Airport Hangar Site (Cambria County):To support site development for a new hangar facility ($1,984,000)\n\nJuniata College \u2013 Advanced Chemistry Instrumentation for Pennsylvania Students (Huntingdon County): To purchase chemistry lab equipment to prepare students to participate in a STEM workforce ($400,000)\n\nCity of Johnstown Police Department Crisis Intervention (Cambria County): To establish Crisis Intervention Team program for mental health and substance use disorder response ($250,000)\n\nKing\u2019s College (Luzerne County): To purchase equipment for cybersecurity lab development ($300,000)\n\nLancaster Airport Authority (Lancaster County): To expand the existing terminal at Lancaster Airport ($5,000,000)\n\nLehigh-Carbon Community College (Lehigh County): To upgrade the mechatronics lab and create a new robotics lab at Lehigh Carbon Community College ($463,000)\n\nLehigh County: To purchase radio and public safety communications equipment for law enforcement ($500,000)\n\nMachinery Control Development Center (Cumberland County): To support the mission of Naval Supply Systems Command at Naval Support Activity Mechanicsburg ($15,000,000)\n\nMeadville Fire Department Mobile Health Unit (Crawford County): To develop a Mobile Integrated Health Unit and EMS training within the Meadville Fire Department ($1,180,000)\n\nMercyhurst University (Erie County): To modernize training facilities and simulation-based learning for future nurses and physician assistants ($880,000)\n\nMonroeville Municipal Authority (Allegheny County): To replace sections of water distribution system ($1,092,000)\n\nMoshannon Valley EMS and Training Facility (Centre County): To provide a facility for agricultural and community activities ($2,074,716)\n\nMunicipal Water Authority of Aliquippa (Beaver County): To construct separate storm and wastewater systems to replace combined system ($900,000)\n\nOld Lycoming Township Volunteer Fire Company (OLTVFC) Regional Emergency Services Hub Enhancements (Lycoming County): To expand and renovate Old Lycoming Township Volunteer Fire Company\u2019s Regional Emergency Services Hub building ($1,345,000)\n\nPennDOT \u2013 Carbon County Bridge Replacement (Carbon County): To replace a bridge in Carbon County ($1,119,000)\n\nPennDOT \u2013 Country Club Road Bridge Replacement (Butler County): To replace a bridge and complete intersection realignment work ($1,901,000)\n\nPennDOT \u2013 Johnstown Dellwood Street Bridge Project (Cambria County): To repair the Dellwood Street Bridge($806,000)\n\nPennDOT \u2013 SR18 Wilmington Road Betterment (Lawrence County): To restore and resurface a critical roadway in Lawrence County ($2,000,000)\n\nPennDOT \u2013 Verona Road Bridge Replacement (Allegheny County): To replace Verona Road Bridge to improve corridor safety and reliability ($850,000)\n\nPennDOT Versailles Avenue Viaduct Replacement (Allegheny County): To replace the Versailles Avenue Bridge ($850,000)\n\nThe Pennsylvania State University \u2013 Pennsylvania Addiction Action Network (Statewide): To establish a network for all 67 counties\u2019 leadership to coordinate the utilization of the 20-year $1.7B opioid settlement to Pennsylvania ($750,000)\n\nReading Area Community College (Berks County): To expand the current space for manufacturing training ($2,000,000)\n\nScranton Police Department (Lackawanna County): To purchase technology and public safety equipment ($500,000)\n\nShippensburg Police Department (Cumberland County): Purchases public safety equipment to support police operations ($298,127)\n\nThe Exodus Road \u2013 Combatting Youth Exploitation (Philadelphia County): To support training activities for law enforcement and at-risk youth to combat online exploitation ($350,000)\n\nThe Learning Lamp (Cambria County): To improve early childhood education programs ($100,000)\n\nUniversity City Science Center (Philadelphia County):To assist small businesses and entrepreneurs seeking SBIR (Small Business Innovation Research) and STTR (Small Business Technology Transfer) assistance ($400,000)\n\nUniversity of Pittsburgh Police Department (Allegheny County): To purchase communications equipment for campus police operations ($300,000)\n\nUniversity of Pittsburgh Western Pennsylvania Shared Quantum Information Core (Allegheny County): To purchase equipment and materials for quantum science research and development at University of Pittsburgh ($400,000)\n\nWarren County Emergency Radio Tower (Warren County): To upgrade emergency communication systems and radio tower serving Warren and surrounding counties ($550,000)\n\nWayne and Pike County Career and Technical Center (Pike County): To help construct a new Career and Technical Center ($3,000,000)\n\nWyoming County Healthcare Center Pharmacy (Wyoming County):To support facility improvements and the build-out of a pharmacy within Wyoming County Healthcare Center in the rural community of Tunkhannock ($2,346,849 and $543,000)\n\nYork County Law Enforcement Multi-Office Public Safety Equipment (York County): Purchases public safety equipment to support law enforcement operations ($400,000)\n\nProjects were submitted by local governments, nonprofit organizations, and other eligible public entities, selected in accordance with the U.S. Senate Committee on Appropriations\u2019 fiscal year 2026 guidelines, and are designed to provide targeted federal support where it is needed most.\n\n\u201cA robust local manufacturing supply chain for AI Data Centers has the potential for significant job growth and economic impacts, leading to community benefits well beyond the construction and operation of data centers. Catalyst Connection looks forward to working with Senator McCormick and his team to engage local suppliers for the benefit of businesses, workers, families and communities,\u201d said Petra Bracko Mitchell, President and CEO of Catalyst Connection.\n\n\u201cThank you to Senator McCormick for his bipartisan partnership and for delivering critical investments for our Police and Fire Academy that strengthen public safety across the county,\u201d said Sara Innamorato, Allegheny County Executive. \u201cThis and the additional funding for strategic blight removal in the Mon Valley will help keep our communities safe, bolster economic development, and move our region forward.\u201d\n\n\u201cAs we continue to advocate for the advancement and improvement of our local community, this funding is both necessary and greatly appreciated. I see the award of these funds as a step in the right direction for Cameron County,\u201d said James D. Moate, County of Cameron Commissioner.\n\n\u201cThat is wonderful news. This funding represents an important investment in Emporium Borough\u2019s Town Hall and the community it serves. We appreciate the support for projects that strengthen local infrastructure and help ensure our public facilities remain safe, accessible, and functional for residents,\u201d said Jessica Herzing, Commissioner Chair for the County of Cameron.\n\n\u201cWe are grateful to Senator McCormick for his support and for recognizing the critical role Mercyhurst plays in addressing the healthcare workforce shortage. This investment strengthens nursing and physician assistant education while delivering real value for patients and communities,\u201d said Kathleen A. Getz, PhD, President of Mercyhurst University.\n\n\u201cThis funding will improve the efficiency of the wastewater collection system in the merged Wheatland Neighborhood of Hermitage, by eliminating a pump station that has reached its useful life. We are grateful for the strong support of Senators Dave McCormick and John Fetterman, and Congressman Mike Kelly, in making this appropriation possible,\u201d said Duane Piccirilli, President, Hermitage Board of Commissioners.\n\n\u201cThis initiative closes significant coverage gaps in our emergency communications system. Improved communications are essential to ensuring the safety of our first responders while also enhancing the level of response that can be provided to residents and visitors. As outdoor recreation grows as a sector of our economy, we\u2019re particularly pleased that this project will expand emergency radio coverage on portions of the Allegheny National Forest. We\u2019re grateful to Sen. McCormick for sharing in the vision of what we\u2019re looking to accomplish with this project and his advocacy in securing this funding on our behalf,\u201dsaid Public Safety Director Ken McCorrison.\n\n\u201cWe are deeply appreciative of this support of our First Ascent Biomedical lab. These funds obtained through Sen. McCormick\u2019s efforts will immediately support new jobs in Erie, Pa., at First Ascent as well as aid the development of two academic programs designed to fill gaps in the region\u2019s healthcare workforce for years to come,\u201d said Dr. Walter Iwanenko, President of Gannon University.\n\n\u201cSen. McCormick has been one of Pennsylvania\u2019s strongest advocates for building a thriving innovation economy. His leadership in securing significant investment in AI and power infrastructure underscores that commitment,\u201d said Ven Raju, President and CEO of Innovation Works. \u201cThis earmark is yet another testament to his support for organizations like Innovation Works that help build and scale technology companies\u2014creating jobs, transforming communities and reshaping regions.\u201d\n\n\u201cThis federal investment represents a transformational step forward for emergency medical services in Meadville and for rural communities across Pennsylvania. With Senator McCormick\u2019s support, we will be able to expand paramedic education within our department, place new response vehicles and advanced life-saving equipment into service and build a Mobile Integrated Health program that connects residents to care faster and more effectively than ever before. As rural EMS systems continue to face staffing and sustainability challenges, initiatives like community paramedicine and telehealth allow us to meet people where they are \u2014 improving outcomes, reducing strain on hospitals, and strengthening the overall healthcare system. This funding will help ensure that our firefighters and paramedics have the tools, training, and technology necessary to deliver high-quality care to our community every day. We are grateful to Senator McCormick and our federal partners for recognizing the importance of innovative, fire-based EMS solutions and investing in the future of rural emergency response,\u201d said Evan D. Kardosh, Fire Chief of the Meadville Fire Department.\n\n\u201cMoshannon Valley Emergency Medical Services is grateful to have the strong support of Senator McCormick to help us secure Congressionally Directed Funds. The receipt of these funds will help us realize the completion of a new facility that will house our public safety education and training center as well as our EMS headquarters. As a rural emergency medical services organization, Moshannon Valley Emergency Medical Services will use this facility to propel the future of emergency medical care to the entire Moshannon Valley covering Clearfield and Centre Counties and give individuals within Central Pennsylvania a more accessible location for public safety education and training which will improve our workforce and subsequently emergency care to a part of rural Pennsylvania. We are blessed and thankful for Senator McCormick to be a partner to ensure the safety and education for our community,\u201d said Fredrick J. Ferguson, B.S. NRP, Moshannon Valley EMS Chief/Executive Director Paramedic and EMT Educator.\n\n\u201cThe DuBois Regional Airport serves Jefferson, Clearfield, Elk, Clarion, and surrounding counties, and this project represents an important investment in a critical community asset that ensures safe airline operations, a positive customer experience, and continued access to the nation\u2019s air transportation system for rural Pennsylvania,\u201dsaid Bob Shaffer, Airport Manager, Clearfield-Jefferson Counties Regional Airport Authority.\n\n###", 1, "2026-04-04T05:28:40Z", "2026-04-04T05:30:10Z"], ["https://www.mccormick.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senators-mccormick-and-kim-introduce-bipartisan-legislation-to-support-small-and-early-stage-entrepreneurs/", "Senators McCormick and Kim Introduce Bipartisan Legislation to Support Small and Early-Stage Entrepreneurs", "2026-01-19", "2026", "2026-01", "Republican", "Senate", "PA", "David McCormick", "M001243", "www.mccormick.senate.gov", "davemccormick", "https://www.mccormick.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C., January 15, 2026 \u2013 To reduce the financial barriers for early-stage entrepreneurs using crowdfunding while still maintaining investor confidence and market integrity, Senators Dave McCormick (R-PA) and Andy Kim (D-NJ) today introduced the Amendment for Crowdfunding Capital Enhancement and Small-business Support (ACCESS) Act.\n\nCurrently, startups, early-stage companies, or small businesses raising $100,000 are required to have financial statements reviewed by a public accountant before crowdfunding. The average cost per filing is approximately $10,000 so for businesses raising $100,000, accounting fees can immediately consume at least 10% of the total capital raised. This bipartisan bill proposes to raise the crowdfunding limit from $100,000 to $250,000 before companies need to submit financial statements to be reviewed by an independent accountant. This approach modernizes outdated thresholds and focuses compliance where it matters most \u2013 ensuring that larger, more sophisticated offerings remain subject to stronger oversight, while smaller and early-stage issuers are not burdened with one-size-fits-all requirements.\n\n\u201cCrowdfunding can be particularly valuable for Pennsylvania entrepreneurs who may not qualify for traditional financing or want to validate market demand before fully launching. By removing unnecessary barriers while maintaining investor protections, we\u2019re unlocking greater capital for new businesses to take root in Pennsylvania and across the country \u2014 proving that smart regulation can mean more opportunity, not less,\u201d said Senator Dave McCormick.\n\n\u201cToo often start-ups and small businesses face red tape and obstacles to capital that is a critical tool to their success, and in turn, their ability to give back to our communities. By modernizing outdated \u2018one-size-fits-all\u2019 requirements, we open doors for businesses and investors of all sizes and backgrounds to grow, while still looking after the overall stability and strength of our financial markets,\u201d said Senator Andy Kim.\n\nBACKGROUND:\n\nIn 2012, Congress passed the Jumpstart Our Business Startups (JOBS) Act to help small businesses raise money from everyday investors. Before this law, companies had to complete a long, expensive registration process with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) before selling shares to the public.\n\nThe new Regulation Crowdfunding rules let startups raise smaller amounts from regular people through investment websites. Since 2016, these rules have helped over 6,500 businesses raise nearly $2.4 billion across 8,400 investment rounds for early-stage companies.\n\nThe Amendment for Crowdfunding Capital Enhancement and Small-business Support (ACCESS) Act will:\n\nEnable small businesses to raise up to $250,000 (instead of the current $100,000) through crowd funding before they\u2019re required to hire an outside accountant to review their financial statements; and\n\nAllow the SEC to raise the threshold to $400,000, if the Advisory Offices recommends the change.\n\nPennsylvania ranks 5th in the total number of crowdfunding issuers, with more than 330 companies utilizing this funding opportunity since 2016.\n\nRead the full bill text here.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T15:05:35Z"], ["https://keller.house.gov/media/press-releases/pennsylvania-members-congress-release-statement-regarding-certification", "Pennsylvania Members of Congress Release Statement Regarding Certification of Electors", "2020-12-31", "2020", "2020-12", "Republican", "Senate", "PA", "Fred Keller", "K000395", "keller.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Washington, D.C.  Today, Congressman Fred Keller (R-PA) and seven Pennsylvania members of Congress released the following statement regarding the certification of electors on January 6, 2020:\n\nThe United States Constitution is unambiguous in declaring that state legislatures are the entity with authority to set election procedure\n\nArticle 1, Section 4, Clause 1: The Times, Places and Manner of holding Elections for Senators and Representatives, shall be prescribed in each State by the Legislature thereof'\n\nArticle 2, Section 1, Clause 2: Each state shall appoint, in such Manner as the Legislature thereof may direct, a Number of Electors'\n\nUnfortunately, the many unlawful actions undertaken by the Pennsylvania Governor's office, the Secretary of State, and what has been described as a rogue Pennsylvania Supreme Court exceeded and circumvented the state legislature's clear constitutional authority.\n\nThe unlawful actions include, but are not limited to:\n\n Accepting ballots past 8:00 pm on Election Day.\n\tNot properly requiring signatures to match those on mail-in ballots or requiring dates.\n\t\tMeanwhile, the matching of signatures was required at a polling site.\n\t\t\n\tAuthorizing the curing of mail-in ballots with less than a 24-hours' notice.\n\t\tOnly some counties were informed and adhered to this order leaving voters treated unequally from county to county.\n\t\t\n\tAuthorizing the use of unsecure drop boxes, which is not permitted in statute.\n\tProhibiting certified poll watchers overseeing the canvassing of ballots in Philadelphia.\n \nThese unlawful actions were taken without the authority or consent of the Pennsylvania state legislature. These are facts, and they are indisputable.\n\nAdditionally, the Pennsylvania Attorney General did nothing with regard to these unlawful activities. Not one inquiry, no questioning, and certainly no investigations. Not to mention that hundreds, if not thousands, of affidavits outlining election complaints and potential fraud were documented, submitted, and ignored. The Pennsylvania election could be summed up as a free-for-all with no oversight and different standards applied throughout the Commonwealth. It is also very apparent that the unlawful actions described were concentrated in heavily populated, Democrat-led counties.\n\nBy definition, such unlawful, unregulated, and inconsistent activities resulted in a highly questionable and inaccurate vote total. The scope of these inaccuracies cannot be known until the legal ballots are identified and counted, and the illegal ballots are disqualified. This has not been done.\n\nTherefore, the state's official certification of electors was based upon a flawed system and an inaccurate vote count. Thus, very possibly resulting in an erroneous certification.\n\nUntil these unlawful practices are acknowledged and corrected, we, as members of the U.S. House of Representatives, cannot agree to support electors chosen based upon an inaccurate total vote count. The voters of Pennsylvania deserve integrity in the election process and equal protection under the law.\n\nThis very unfortunate, volatile, and distressing situation is due to the lack of respect and regard for the law and the U.S. Constitution as well as the Pennsylvania State Constitution. Additionally, the failure of Pennsylvania's justice system to seek the truth, rather than stay silent, allowed these irregular, unlawful actions to create a high level of mistrust in the process as well as a potentially flawed outcome.\n\nThe one thing that all voters, regardless of party affiliation, can all agree upon is that we must have election integrity. That is the only way to ensure trust in our elections and it is accomplished by adhering to our Constitution and the law.\n\n\n# # #", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://kelly.house.gov/press-release/pennsylvania-us-house-members-release-statement-certification-electors", "Pennsylvania U.S. House Members Release Statement on Certification of Electors", "2020-12-31", "2020", "2020-12", "Republican", "Senate", "PA", "Mike Kelly", "K000376", "kelly.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Washington, D.C.  Representative Mike Kelly (PA-16) today released this joint statement with Representatives Dan Meuser (PA-9), Glenn GT' Thompson (PA-15), Scott Perry (PA-10), Lloyd Smucker (PA-11), Guy Reschenthaler (PA-14), John Joyce (PA-13), and Fred Keller (PA-12) regarding their intent to vote against certification of Pennsylvania's electors on January 6:\nThe United States Constitution is unambiguous in declaring that state legislatures are the entity with authority to set election procedure -\nArticle 1, Section 4, Clause 1: The Times, Places and Manner of holding Elections for Senators and Representatives, shall be prescribed in each State by the Legislature thereof\nArticle 2, Section 1, Clause 2: Each state shall appoint, in such Manner as the Legislature thereof may direct, a Number of Electors\nUnfortunately, the many unlawful actions undertaken by the Pennsylvania Governor's office, the Secretary of State, and what has been described as a rogue Pennsylvania Supreme Court exceeded and circumvented the state legislature's clear constitutional authority.\nThe unlawful actions include, but are not limited to:\n Accepting ballots past 8:00 pm on Election Day;\nNot properly requiring signatures to match those on mail-in ballots or requiring dates.Meanwhile, the matching of signatures was required at a polling site;\nAuthorizing the curing of mail-in ballots with less than a 24-hour's notice.Only some counties were informed and adhered to this order leaving voters treated unequally from county to county;\nAuthorizing the use of unsecured drop boxes, which is not permitted in statute\nProhibiting certified poll watchers overseeing the canvassing of ballots in Philadelphia;\n These unlawful actions were taken without the authority or consent of the Pennsylvania state legislature. These are facts, and they are indisputable.\nAdditionally, the Pennsylvania Attorney General did nothing with regard to these unlawful activities. Not one inquiry, no questioning, and certainly no investigations. Not to mention that hundreds, if not thousands, of affidavits outlining election complaints and potential fraud were documented, submitted, and ignored. The Pennsylvania election could be summed up as a free-for-all with no oversight and different standards applied throughout the Commonwealth. It is also very apparent that the unlawful actions described were concentrated in heavily populated, Democrat-led counties.\nBy definition, such unlawful, unregulated, and inconsistent activities resulted in a highly questionable and inaccurate vote total. The scope of these inaccuracies cannot be known until the legal ballots are identified and counted, and the illegal ballots are disqualified. This has not been done.\nTherefore, the state's official certification of electors was based upon a flawed system and an inaccurate vote count. Thus, very possibly resulting in an erroneous certification.\nUntil these unlawful practices are acknowledged and corrected, we cannot agree to support electors chosen based upon an inaccurate total vote count. The voters of Pennsylvania deserve integrity in the election process and equal protection under the law.\nThis very unfortunate, volatile, and distressing situation is due to the lack of respect and regard for the law and the U.S. Constitution as well as the Pennsylvania State Constitution. Additionally, the failure of Pennsylvania's justice system to seek the truth, rather than stay silent, allowed these irregular, unlawful actions to create a high level of mistrust in the process as well as a potentially flawed outcome.\nIf there is an American ideal that all citizens, regardless of party affiliation, can agree upon it is that we must have election integrity. Election integrity is the only way to ensure trust in our elections and it is accomplished by adhering to our Constitution and the law.\"\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://kelly.house.gov/press-release/rep-kelly-votes-override-presidential-veto-ndaa", "Rep. Kelly Votes to Override Presidential Veto of NDAA", "2020-12-29", "2020", "2020-12", "Republican", "Senate", "PA", "Mike Kelly", "K000376", "kelly.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Washington, D.C. - The U.S. House of Representatives today voted to override President Trump's veto of the 2021 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA). The NDAA is enacted annually to set the policy and spending priorities of the United States military. Representative Mike Kelly (R-Pa.) voted to pass the NDAA over the president's objection and issued this statement:\n\"The NDAA outlines the budget and policies the Department of Defense uses to plan for the next year. While I support the president's goal of amending or abolishing Section 230, that debate must not delay military planning for 2021.\"\n#####", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://kelly.house.gov/press-release/kelly-statement-house-vote-increase-stimulus-payments-600-2000", "Kelly Statement on House Vote to Increase Stimulus Payments from $600 to $2000", "2020-12-28", "2020", "2020-12", "Republican", "Senate", "PA", "Mike Kelly", "K000376", "kelly.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Washington, D.C. - U.S. Representative Mike Kelly (R-Pa.) issued this statement following his vote against increasing COVID-19 pandemic relief stimulus checks from $600 to $2000:\n\"I support providing direct relief to Pennsylvanians whose current economic struggles were caused by Governor Wolf's lockdown of the Keystone State for most of 2020, but this stimulus check expansion misses the mark because it is not targeted to people who need it most and ignores President Trump's call to reduce wasteful government spending. Our path forward must include direct relief, spending cuts, and opening the Commonwealth's economy so families can go back to work.\"\n#####", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://kelly.house.gov/press-release/twenty-eight-members-congress-file-amicus-brief-supporting-representative-kellys", "Twenty Eight Members of Congress File Amicus Brief Supporting Representative Kelly's Lawsuit Challenging Pennsylvania's Unconstitutional Mail-in Ballot System", "2020-12-24", "2020", "2020-12", "Republican", "Senate", "PA", "Mike Kelly", "K000376", "kelly.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Washington, D.C. - Last night, more than two dozen members of the United States House of Representatives filed an amicus brief supporting the plaintiffs inMike Kelly, U.S. Congressman, et al. v. Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, et al., a case challenging the constitutionality of Pennsylvania's no-excuse mail-in ballot voting system.\n\"I am honored that so many of my colleagues from Pennsylvania and across the country have joined our fight to protect the Pennsylvania Constitution, which states clearly how voters are to cast their votes in the Commonwealth,\"said Kelly.\"If Governor Wolf and the legislature wanted to create another method of voting, they should have amended the PennsylvaniaConstitution, which requires, among other factors, placing the question on the ballot for Pennsylvanians to consent.We're asking the Supreme Court of the United States to hear our case and require the Commonwealth to properly amend the Constitution if they want to create a mail-in voting system for future elections.\nRead the Amicus Brief Here\nMembers of Congress who signed the amicus brief include Representatives Alex Mooney (R- W.Va.), Andy Biggs (R-Ariz.), Andy Harris (R-Md.), Bill Posey (R-Fla.), Chip Roy (R-Texas), Dan Bishop (R-N.C.), Dan Meuser (R-Pa.), Debbie Lesko (R-Ariz.), Fred Keller (R-Pa.), GT Thompson (R-Pa.), Guy Reschenthaler (R-Pa.), Jeff Duncan (R-S.C.), Jim Jordan (R-Ohio), Jody Hice (R-Ga.),Dr. John Joyce (R-Pa.), Lloyd Smucker (R-Pa.), Louie Gohmert (R-Texas), Matt Gaetz (R-Fla.), Michael Cloud (R-Texas), Mike Johnson (R- La.), Mo Brooks (R-Ala.), Ralph Norman (R-S.C.), Randy Weber (R-Texas), Scott DesJarlais (R-Tenn.), Scott Perry (R-Pa.), Ted Budd (R-N.C.), Ted Yoho (R-Fla.) and Warren Davison (R-Ohio).\nBackground\nIn this case, Representative Kelly and the other plaintiffsallege that the Pennsylvania Legislature and Governor Wolf violated the Pennsylvania Constitution when they enacted no-excuse mail-in voting, which conflicts with the Constitution's clear delineation of what makes a person eligible to vote by mail.\nCommonwealth Court Judge Patricia McCullough issued an emergency preliminary injunctionin the case, saying:\nPetitioners appear to have established a likelihood to succeed on the merits because Petitioners have asserted the Constitution does not provide a mechanism for the legislature to allow for expansion of absentee voting without a constitutional amendment.\nFollowing this pronouncement, the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania appealed directly to the Supreme Court of Pennsylvania, which dismissed the case on a technicality without addressing the merits of the petitioners' claims. Currently, the Petitioners have filed awrit of Certiorarito argue the merits before the Supreme Court of the United States (SCOTUS).SCOTUS has yet to announce whether it will take up the case.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://keller.house.gov/media/press-releases/president-trump-signs-keller-s-bill-honoring-hunts-healing-founder-law", "President Trump signs Kellers bill honoring Hunts for Healing founder into law", "2020-12-22", "2020", "2020-12", "Republican", "Senate", "PA", "Fred Keller", "K000395", "keller.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Washington, D.C. Today, President Trump signed into law H.R. 4279, Congressman Keller's bill to designate the Post Office in Laceyville, Pennsylvania, as the Melinda Gene Piccotti Office in honor of the late Mindy Piccotti, an Air Force veteran who founded Hunts for Healing.\n\nStarted in 2009, Hunts for Healing aims to help wounded soldiers returning from military missions in Iraq and Afghanistan and other combat veterans transition back into civilian life by allowing them to experience the joys of hunting, including social interaction and camaraderie. The Hunts for Healing team is completely volunteer based, made up of veterans and community members committed to supporting America's men and women in uniform.\n\nOn the bill becoming law, Congressman Keller made the following statement:\n\nToday is an exciting day for our veteran community, the residents of Laceyville, Mindy's family, and every person whose life has been touched by Mindy's outstanding work. Mindy was a community leader who cared deeply about making sure our wounded veterans had the support they need to recover from and overcome their injuries. Mindy built an organization that continues to grow, making an important impact in our community. I thank President Trump for signing this bill into law and for allowing us to finally give Mindy the recognition she deserves for her lifetime of service.\n\n# # #", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://kelly.house.gov/press-release/kelly-statement-passage-targeted-pandemic-related-economic-relief-americans", "Kelly Statement on Passage of Targeted Pandemic-Related Economic Relief for Americans", "2020-12-22", "2020", "2020-12", "Republican", "Senate", "PA", "Mike Kelly", "K000376", "kelly.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Washington, D.C. - The U.S. House of Representatives today passed theBipartisan-Bicameral Omnibus & COVID Relief Deal, legislation to provide pandemic-related financial relief to workers and small businesses and to fund the federal government through September 30, 2021, the end of Fiscal Year 2021. U.S. Representative Mike Kelly (R-Pa.) voted in favor of the legislation and released this statement:\n\"For most of 2020, government lockdowns because of the pandemic have caused economic pain across the nation and our Commonwealth. This bill, while far from perfect, brings targeted economic relief to workers and small businesses. I support the direct payments to individuals and families, the provisions that will allow for the deductibility of Paycheck Protection Program loans, and unemployment insurance supplements, all of which will help western Pennsylvanians weather this economic storm. Additionally, as the COVID-19 vaccine makes its way to communities across America, this bill helps ensure it gets to those most vulnerable. While these measures provide temporary relief, the real solution to our economic and emotional well-being is to open the economy and get people back to work.\"\n#####", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://keller.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-fred-keller-votes-no-massive-year-end-spending-bill", "Congressman Fred Keller votes no on massive year-end spending bill", "2020-12-21", "2020", "2020-12", "Republican", "Senate", "PA", "Fred Keller", "K000395", "keller.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Washington, D.C.  Today, Congressman Fred Keller (R-PA) released the following statement after voting against the $2.3 trillion year-end spending package, which combined government funding with COVID-relief legislation and passed the House by a vote of 359-53:\n\nCongressman Fred Keller made the following statement in response to the vote:\n\nSince the start of the pandemic, I have advocated for targeted relief for American families, workers, and small businesses that is focused on getting Americans back to work. The best stimulus is a job, and Congress should advance policies that will allow our economy to recover and create family-sustaining jobs for Pennsylvanians. While this legislative package includes measures I have worked hard to advance, such as extending and improving the Paycheck Protection Program, it also spends well beyond our nation's means, lacks critical protections for small businesses, healthcare providers, and educators, and continues policies that will make it harder to achieve sustained economic recovery.\n\nBased on conversations with small businesses and workers across Pennsylvania's 12th District, I have advocated for an extension of the PPP and allowing businesses to deduct PPP expenses. The PPP has been a tremendous success keeping Americans employed and our small businesses operational by providing forgivable loans. These provisions will allow struggling small businesses and their workers to continue to access critical resources. Unfortunately, Speaker Pelosi and the House Democrat majority blocked efforts to pass a clean extension of the PPP more than 40 times since the program expired in August.\n\nFor months, Speaker Pelosi passed messaging bills, using the pandemic as a political bargaining chip. COVID relief must stand on its own and be narrowly targeted to the hardest hit industries and those who need it the most. The only way we will see sustained economic recovery is by supporting relief that gets Americans back to work. Unfortunately, this bill saddles our children and grandchildren with more debt and misses the mark in ensuring targeted relief for the American people.\n\nThis package includes an Omnibus appropriations bill, coronavirus relief, an extension of expiring tax credits, and legislation to address surprise medical billing. Each of these items is important, and Congress should deal with them individuallythrough regular orderso that members of Congress and the American people can review them. Unfortunately, this 5,593-page bill was released hours before the House voted on it. We are never going to change Washington, D.C. and fix our nation's problems legislating like this.\n\nBackground\n\nCongressman Keller has taken significant action to get targeted, pro-growth relief to American families, workers, and businesses. Those actions include:\n\n Supporting H.R. 7010, the PPP Flexibility Act, which provided additional flexibility to PPP loans, including extending the time period businesses have to spend their funds and lowering the threshold required to be spent on payroll.\n \n Sending a letter to Senate leadership and the Senate Small Business Committee, requesting the creation of a streamlined forgiveness application for loans under $350,000 to prevent businesses from being weighed down by burdensome guidelines when applying for loans or loan forgiveness.\n \n Cosponsoring H.R. 7777, the Paycheck Protection Small Business Forgiveness Act, a bipartisan bill that modifies loan forgiveness under the paycheck protection program for loans of $150,000 or less.\n \n Cosponsoring H.R. 7175, the Paycheck Protection for Producers Act, which would allow farmers to calculate their PPP loan amount based on 2019 gross income rather than net income.\n \n Signing Congresswoman Jamie Herrera Beutler's discharge petition, which would force a vote on H.R. 8265, the Paycheck Protection Program Extension Act, to free up and extend the additional $138 billion of unspent PPP funds.\n \n Sending a letter to Speaker Pelosi and Minority Leader McCarthy requesting that Congress restore deductibility of forgiven Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) expenses.\n \n Sending a letter to House leadership requesting clarification that recipients of forgivable PPP loans can claim normal deductions in any end-of-year legislation.\n \n# # #", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://thompson.house.gov/media-center/in-the-news/incoming-house-ag-committee-ranking-member-outlines-top-priorities", "Incoming House Ag Committee Ranking Member Outlines Top Priorities", "2020-12-21", "2020", "2020-12", "Republican", "Senate", "PA", "Glenn Thompson", "T000467", "thompson.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Congressman Glenn GT Thompson, GOP Leader Elect of the House Ag Committee, says his number one priority is building resiliency within the ag food supply chain.\nWe've all witnessed the disruptions as a result of the coronavirus, he says. I'm excited that we're talking on the week where the first vaccines are already being delivered around the country and being received but we have a few months here yet that we still will have to deal with some of the impacts of the coronavirus and I think building resiliency within the ag industry has to be a priority for us.\nHe tells Brownfield building new markets for agricultural products is another priority.\nWhether that's domestic markets through innovative approaches for use of our farm commodities or expanding our foreign markets, he says. We've seen some good signs from USMCA and certainly the China trade deal. \nOther priorities include improving broadband connectivity and supporting farmers and ag practices that address conservation needs and climate issues.\nThe Pennsylvania Republican says it is a privilege and honor to have been selected by his colleagues to serve as Ranking Member of the 117thCongress. The new Congress will convene on January 3.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://keller.house.gov/media/in-the-news/intermediate-unit-be-given-head-start-grant", "Intermediate unit to be given Head Start grant", "2020-12-18", "2020", "2020-12", "Republican", "Senate", "PA", "Fred Keller", "K000395", "keller.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "McVEYTOWN  Rep. Fred Keller, whose 12th District encompasses all of Mifflin, Juniata, Snyder and Perry counties, has announced that the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services awarded a grant to Tuscarora Intermediate Unit 11 in Mifflin County.\nA Head Start grant in the amount of $839,202 will be administered by HHS to TIU 11 to support comprehensive childhood development and better meet the needs of area children and families in need.\nOn the awarding of the grants, Keller made the following statement:\nTuscarora Intermediate Unit 11 is an outstanding service agency dedicated to bettering children's lives and providing them with the education and tools necessary for future success. I am confident that this grant will go a long way to support their important mission. I commend HHS for continuing to connect our community with federal resources that to improve the lives of those living in our region.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://keller.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-keller-participates-hearing-america-s-opioid-epidemic", "Congressman Keller participates in hearing on Americas opioid epidemic", "2020-12-18", "2020", "2020-12", "Republican", "Senate", "PA", "Fred Keller", "K000395", "keller.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Washington, D.C.  Congressman Fred Keller (R-PA) participated in a hearing of the House Oversight and Reform Committee focusing on the role of Purdue Pharma and the Sackler family in the opioid epidemic. During his remarks, Congressman Keller highlighted the importance of holding companies like Purdue Pharma accountable for engaging in deceptive tactics that ultimately worsened America's opioid epidemic.\nCongressman Keller noted that Purdue Pharma and the Sackler Family significantly downplayed the addictiveness and other effects of OxyContin to the American people when the drug was first marketed.\nStarting in 1996, Purdue Pharma and the Sackler Family marketed OxyContina drug at the forefront of our nation's opioid epidemicas having much lower addiction risk to patients, which sharply contrasts with the reality that this drug has cost lives and torn families apart, Keller said.\nCongressman Keller asked Dr. Craig Landau, President and CEO of Purdue Pharma, what his company is doing to educate patients and providers about the dangers of overprescribing opioids.\nWe are supporting a tremendous amount of education through third party resources to bring to the surface important information relating to the prescription of opioidstheir safe storage and disposaland the consequences of addiction with an emphasis on school children to prevent them from initial exposure which can have devastating consequences, Dr. Landau said.\nIn a follow-up question about ensuring accountability in the future, Congressman Keller asked Dr. Landau how he would recommend Congress work with the pharmaceutical industry to prevent opioid addiction.\nWhat I would recommend is to make training for prescribing opioids mandatory, Dr. Landau said.  \n\tI would also suggest that efforts be made to require that all the medicines within this classcontrolled release and immediate release opioidshave barriers introduced to make them less attractive as drugs of abuse. Addiction is a tougher issue. It's a complex medical condition with various contributing factors. I think education of physicians and access to healthcare are vital.\nA copy of Congressman Keller's remarks can be found below.\nThank you, Madam Chair,\nI appreciate you holding this important hearing. For decades, drug overdose deaths have remained at an unacceptable level across the United States. Just last year, we lost 4,458 Pennsylvanians due to drug overdose. That's 12 deaths per day on average, which is 12 too many.\nI hope this committee and the House of Representatives can get to work on solutions that save lives and enhance the 21st Century Cures Act and the Comprehensive Addiction and Recovery Act.\nThanks to these efforts and President Trump's leadership on the issue, more resources are available to fight the opioid epidemic. Naloxone is more widely available to prevent overdoses, which has led to encouraging downward trends, however more work is needed to reduce deaths related to the opioids. This includes holding companies like Perdue accountable for their deceptive tactics.\nStarting in 1996, Perdue Pharma and the Sackler Family marketed OxyContina drug at the forefront of our nation's opioid epidemicas having much lower addiction risk to patients, which sharply contrasts with the reality that this drug has cost lives and torn families apart.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://thompson.house.gov/media-center/in-the-news/congressman-thompson-optimistic-covid-relief-will-be-passed-soon", "Congressman Thompson Optimistic COVID Relief Will Be Passed Soon", "2020-12-18", "2020", "2020-12", "Republican", "Senate", "PA", "Glenn Thompson", "T000467", "thompson.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Congressman Glenn GT Thompson, incoming GOP leader of the House Ag Committee, says it's critical that lawmakers pass a coronavirus relief bill soon.\nOur farmers and ranchers are still needing assistance and so are our agriculture businesses, he says. That's why it's so important that, if not within days, within the week that we pass a COVID-19 relief act that offers support to farmers and ranchers and neighbors in need that are struggling from a nutritional perspective.\nHe tells Brownfield he is optimisticI'm planning on sticking around through the weekend and I'm hoping we'll get this done. Leadership on both sides of the aisle are looking at tying the next covid relief package in with the federal funding.\nThe Pennsylvania Republican was elected by his colleagues to serve as Ranking member of the House A Committee in the 117thCongress.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://keller.house.gov/media/in-the-news/republican-members-oversight-and-reform-commission-demand-emergency-hearing-about", "Republican members of Oversight and Reform Commission demand emergency hearing about online censorship", "2020-12-17", "2020", "2020-12", "Republican", "Senate", "PA", "Fred Keller", "K000395", "keller.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Washington, D.C.  Congressman Fred Keller (R-Pa.) has joined his colleagues from the House Committee on Oversight and Reform in demanding that Chairwoman Carolyn Maloney (D-N.Y.) hold an emergency hearing about online censorship in light of the news that Hunter Biden's business dealings are under federal investigation.\nHouse Oversight Republicans claim that a New York Post article regarding Hunter Biden's foreign business dealings was censored by Facebook and Twitter. The committee further expressed concerns of political bias among large tech companies and the silencing of conservative voices and values. Chairwoman Maloney refused to hold a hearing about the issue.\nLast week, Hunter Biden confirmed that his taxes are indeed under federal investigation. In response, the Oversight Republicans sent a second letter to Chairwoman Maloney demanding an emergency hearing about censorship.\nOn the second letter, Congressman Fred Keller made the following statement:\nDespite Big Tech's censorship of Americans' free speech in the Hunter Biden cover-up, we now know he is under federal investigation. This level of unchecked censorship is unacceptable and has no place in the United States. I urge Chairwoman Maloney to hold an emergency hearing to hold Big Tech accountable for its clear violations of Americans' free speech.\nThe full text of the letter follows:\nDear Madam Chairwoman:\nOn October 15, 2020, we requested you hold an emergency hearing on Big Tech's repeated efforts to interfere in the 2020 election. At that timejust days before the November 3, 2020 presidential electionFacebook and Twitter censored a news article about Joe Biden's son, Hunter Biden, regarding his Ukrainian business dealings while his father was Vice President.These Big Tech companies both limited and/or denied distribution of the New York Post's report, and Twitter locked the New York Post's account.\nLast week, both Hunter Biden and the Biden-Harris Transition Team acknowledged Hunter Biden is under federal investigation for his tax affairs. Reporting indicates this investigation is related to his overseas business dealings. In light of Hunter Biden's admission that he is under investigation, especially after Big Tech's unjustifiable censorship of the New York Post's report, we are renewing our hearing request. Big Tech's silencing of viewpoints and censorship of news undermines our electoral process, our institutions, and our U.S. Constitution.\nAs we explained in our October 15 letter, shortly after the New York Post posted its story on Facebook the company reduc[ed] its distribution in an apparent attempt to limit access to the story. Just as concerning, Facebook reportedly refused to answer basic questions about its decision. Twitter also censored the article and warned users that it is potentially spammy or unsafe, and locked the New York Post's Twitter account.\nAs Hunter Biden admitted last week, he is under federal investigation regarding his taxes, potentially related in part to the very matters the New York Post reported, yet for which it was censored. Indeed, additional reporting from NBC News refers to a 2017 email to Hunter Biden regarding his income from Burisma and need to amend Biden's 2014 tax returns to reflect the unreported income. An NBC spokesperson did not dispute the authenticity of the email, which came from a laptop dropped off at a computer hardware store in Delawarethe same laptop and same computer hardware store discussed in the New York Post's October 14 article censored by Big Tech for being potentially spammy or unsafe. Big Tech's effort to selectively limit speech based on political affiliation is a disturbing patten [sic] of censorship in our nationa nation that holds out the First Amendment's right to freedom of speech and freedom of the press as two of our most paramount freedoms.\nAs Big Tech platforms continue to limit speech based on political ideology, we must immediately hold a hearing to learn who are responsible for making these decisions and what policies enable Big Tech to selectively limit and/or censor speech on social media. We reiterate our request the Committee hold an emergency hearing on this important matter as soon as possible.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://keller.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-fred-keller-announces-2020-congressional-app-challenge-winner", "Congressman Fred Keller announces 2020 Congressional App Challenge winner", "2020-12-17", "2020", "2020-12", "Republican", "Senate", "PA", "Fred Keller", "K000395", "keller.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Washington, D.C. Congressman Fred Keller (PA-12) today announced that Loyalsock Township High School junior Hibah Khan has been selected as the winner of the 2020 Congressional App Challenge for Pennsylvania's 12th District.\nThe Congressional App Challenge is designed to engage student creativity and encourage participation in Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) education fields. This nationwide event allows high school students from across the country to compete against their peers by creating and exhibiting their software application, or \"app,\" for mobile, tablet, or computer devices on a platform of their choice. The Congressional App Challenge is sponsored by the Internet Education Foundation (IEF), which assists offices in hosting the challenges in their individual districts.\nKhan created a web application for a new community group, the Williamsport Youth Organization (WYO). She built a responsive website using HTML, CSS and JavaScript to inform the community of WYO's mission, activities and partnerships. Khan's winning creation will be displayed in the U.S. Capitol Building and featured on the U.S. House of Representatives website.\nThe Congressional App Challenge is open to all middle school and high school students in participating districts. Information on the 2021 contest will be announced next spring.\nOn the award, Congressman Keller made the following statement:\nCongratulations to Ms. Khan on this wonderful achievement and for using her passion for coding to make a difference in our community. It is my hope that Ms. Khan's success inspires other students to get involved in STEM fields and use their creativity and innovation to solve the problems of tomorrow. I am confident that Ms. Khan will continue to be an active leader in our community, and I have no doubt she will do great things in the future. Thank you to the Internet Education Foundation for sponsoring the Congressional App Challenge and elevating the importance of STEM in our nation.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://keller.house.gov/media/in-the-news/top-gop-lawmakers-call-swalwell-be-removed-intelligence-committee", "Top GOP lawmakers call for Swalwell to be removed from Intelligence Committee", "2020-12-16", "2020", "2020-12", "Republican", "Senate", "PA", "Fred Keller", "K000395", "keller.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Top Republicans in the House are calling for Rep. Eric Swalwell (D-Calif.) to be removed from the Intelligence Committee following reports that he was allegedly targeted by a woman believed to be a Chinese spy.\nIn a letter sent Tuesday to Speaker Nancy Pelosi (D-Calif.), the lawmakers, including House Minority Whip Steve Scalise (R-La.) and House Republican Conference Chair Liz Cheney (Wyo.), said Swalwell's contacts posed a national security risk.\nBecause of Rep. Swalwell's position on the House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence, his close interactions with Chinese intelligence services, however unintentional they may be, are an unacceptable national security risk, they wrote.\nIt said the panel handles some of the most sensitive information our government possesses,\" and that as a result Swalwell should be removed from his position.\nAxios first reported that Swalwell had been targeted by an alleged Chinese Ministry of State Security operative named Christine Fang, who also goes by Fang Fang. The woman, according to the report, helped Swalwell's fundraising during his 2014 reelection campaign and she also helped place an unpaid intern inside his office.\nThe Republicans drew a parallel to Democratic calls for former Attorney General Jeff Sessions to resign after he met with a Russian ambassador without alerting Congress.\nThe lawmakers said that Swalwell should be held to the same standard as Sessions, arguing that his interactions with the Chinese agent were more dangerous.\nRep. Swalwell withheld information for five years from the House Intelligence Committee about an ongoing Chinese espionage operation targeted at him and his own colleagues, they wrote.\nObviously, Rep. Swalwell's interactions with a Chinese spy were more dangerous and unusual than AG Sessions' meetings with a Russian diplomat. But to make matters worse, Rep. Swalwell kept this information to himself while repeatedly using his position on [the Intelligence Committee] to peddle damaging and baseless conspiracies about President Donald Trump's unproven ties to Russia for years and still refuses to comment fully on the extent and nature of his relationship with the Chinese Communist Party spy exposed in Axios' bombshell report.\nSwalwell told Politico last week he severed contact with Fang after he was alerted by federal investigators of alleged suspicious activity and is not accused of any wrongdoing, adding Democratic leadership knew about the interactions.\nHe also questioned the timing of the report, arguing that there was political motivation behind the leak given his rebukes of the Trump administration.\nFang left the country in 2015 during the FBI investigation into her activities.\nPelosi has previously stated she has no concerns about Swalwell remaining on the panel.\n\"I don't have any concern about Mr. Swalwell, she told reporters last week.\nRepublican Study Committee Chairman Jim Banks (Ind.) and GOP Reps. Paul Gosar (Ariz.), Jody Hice (Ga.), Ralph Norman (S.C.), Bob Gibbs (Ohio), Greg Murphy (N.C.), Ron Wright (Texas), Ted Budd (N.C.), Jeff Duncan (S.C.), Warren Davidson (Ohio), Fred Keller (Pa.) and Kevin Hern (Okla.) also signed on to the letter.\nOther GOP lawmakers, including House Minority Leader Kevin McCarthy (Calif.) and retiring Rep. Pete King (N.Y.), who previously sat on the Intelligence Committee, have also called for Swalwell's removal from the panel.\n\"I will accept Swalwell's claim that he ended all involvement with Fang after he was informed by the FBI that she was a spy,\" King wrote in an op-ed in The Hill on Tuesday. \"Nevertheless, the fact remains that he was compromised and made susceptible to blackmail by the Chinese, who could threaten him with the disclosure of his involvement with their alleged agent. No matter what anyone thinks of Swalwell, his appointment was not a risk worth taking.\"", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://keller.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-fred-keller-announces-head-start-grant-tuscarora-intermediate-unit", "Congressman Fred Keller announces Head Start grant to Tuscarora Intermediate Unit 11", "2020-12-16", "2020", "2020-12", "Republican", "Senate", "PA", "Fred Keller", "K000395", "keller.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Washington, D.C. Congressman Fred Keller (R-PA) today announced that the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) awarded a grant to Tuscarora Intermediate Unit 11 in Mifflin County.\n\nA Head Start grant in the amount of $839,202 will be administered by HHS to Tuscarora Intermediate Unit 11 to support comprehensive childhood development and better meet the needs of area children and families in need.\n\nOn the awarding of the grants, Congressman Fred Keller made the following statement:\n\nTuscarora Intermediate Unit 11 is an outstanding service agency dedicated to bettering children's lives and providing them with the education and tools necessary for future success. I am confident that this grant will go a long way to support their important mission. I commend HHS for continuing to connect our community with federal resources that to improve the lives of those living in our region.\n\n# # #", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://keller.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-keller-oversight-republicans-renew-call-emergency-hearing-big-tech", "Congressman Keller, Oversight Republicans renew call for emergency hearing on Big Tech censorship", "2020-12-16", "2020", "2020-12", "Republican", "Senate", "PA", "Fred Keller", "K000395", "keller.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Washington, D.C.  Congressman Fred Keller (R-PA) today joined his colleagues from the House Committee on Oversight and Reform in demanding Chairwoman Carolyn Maloney (D-NY) hold an emergency hearing on Big Tech censorship, in light of the news that Hunter Biden is under federal investigation.\nIn October, House Oversight Republicans called for an emergency hearing after a New York Post articlehighlighting Hunter Biden's foreign business dealingswas censored by Facebook and Twitter, raising significant concerns of political bias and the silencing of conservative voices and values by Big Tech companies. Chairwoman Maloney refused to hold a hearing.\nLast week, Hunter Biden confirmed that he is under federal investigation regarding his taxes, prompting Oversight Republicans to send a second letter to Chairwoman Maloney demanding an emergency hearing to hold Big Tech accountable for suppressing free speech and censoring conservative voices.\nOn the second letter, Congressman Fred Keller made the following statement:\nDespite Big Tech's censorship of Americans' free speech in the Hunter Biden cover-up, we now know he is under federal investigation. This level of unchecked censorship is unacceptable and has no place in the United States. I urge Chairwoman Maloney to hold an emergency hearing to hold Big Tech accountable for its clear violations of Americans' free speech.\nFull text of that letter can be found below.\nDear Madam Chairwoman:  \n\t  \n\tOn October 15, 2020, we requested you hold an emergency hearing on Big Tech's repeated efforts to interfere in the 2020 election.[1] At that timejust days before the November 3, 2020 presidential electionFacebook and Twitter censored a news article about Joe Biden's son, Hunter Biden, regarding his Ukrainian business dealings while his father was Vice President.[2] These Big Tech companies both limited and/or denied distribution of the New York Post's report, and Twitter locked the New York Post's account.[3]  \n\t  \n\tLast week, both Hunter Biden and the Biden-Harris Transition Team acknowledged Hunter Biden is under federal investigation for his tax affairs.[4] Reporting indicates this investigation is related to his overseas business dealings.[5] In light of Hunter Biden's admission that he is under investigation, especially after Big Tech's unjustifiable censorship of the New York Post's report, we are renewing our hearing request. Big Tech's silencing of viewpoints and censorship of news undermines our electoral process, our institutions, and our U.S. Constitution.  \n\t  \n\tAs we explained in our October 15 letter, shortly after the New York Post posted its story on Facebook the company reduc[ed] its distribution in an apparent attempt to limit access to the story.[6] Just as concerning, Facebook reportedly refused to answer basic questions about its decision.[7] Twitter also censored the article and warned users that it is potentially spammy or unsafe, and locked the New York Post's Twitter account.[8]  \n\t  \n\tAs Hunter Biden admitted last week, he is under federal investigation regarding his taxes, potentially related in part to the very matters the New York Post reported, yet for which it was censored. Indeed, additional reporting from NBC News refers to a 2017 email to Hunter Biden regarding his income from Burisma and need to amend Biden's 2014 tax returns to reflect the unreported income.[9] An NBC spokesperson did not dispute the authenticity of the email, which came from a laptop dropped off at a computer hardware store in Delawarethe same laptop and same computer hardware store discussed in the New York Post's October 14 article censored by Big Tech for being potentially spammy or unsafe. Big Tech's effort to selectively limit speech based on political affiliation is a disturbing patten of censorship in our nationa nation that holds out the First Amendment's right to freedom of speech and freedom of the press as two of our most paramount freedoms.  \n\t  \n\tAs Big Tech platforms continue to limit speech based on political ideology, we must immediately hold a hearing to learn who are responsible for making these decisions and what policies enable Big Tech to selectively limit and/or censor speech on social media. We reiterate our request the Committee hold an emergency hearing on this important matter as soon as possible.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://keller.house.gov/media/in-the-news/injured-usp-allenwood-corrections-officer-released-hospital", "Injured USP Allenwood corrections officer released from hospital", "2020-12-15", "2020", "2020-12", "Republican", "Senate", "PA", "Fred Keller", "K000395", "keller.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Danville, Pa.  A corrections officer at the United States Penitentiary at Allenwood who was injured last week during an assault by an inmate has been released from the hospital.\nA spokesperson at Geisinger Medical Center in Danville confirmed Dale Franquet Jr., 51, was discharged on Sunday.\nFranquet Jr. was transported to the hospital on Monday, December 7, after an inmate assaulted him and another staff member. The inmate reportedly stabbed Franquet Jr. in the eye with a shank. Franquet Jr. underwent surgery on Wednesday to remove his right eye.\nThe federal Bureau of Prisons did not release the identity of the second staff member, but The Daily Item reports that corrections officer was Sara Harvey. She reportedly was injured but has since returned to work.\nCongressman Fred Keller (PA-12), who serves on the federal Bureau of Prisons Reform caucus, said in a media release that Franquet Jr.'s father said he is expected to be fitted with a prosthetic eye within three months.\nShane Fausey, the national president of the Council of Prison Locals and an employee at Allenwood prison complex, said the assaults are a stark reminder of the unpredictable and violent nature of the vital work the Bureau of Prisons correctional professionals do every day, according to Keller's release.\nDetails regarding the attack are not being released pending an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigations. Franquet Jr.'s brother, Jeffrey Franquet, of New Jersey, and his sister, Corie Kline, started a Go Fund Me campaign. The pair stated on the campaign page that the inmate who assaulted their brother was serving a sentence for terrorism.\nThe Go Fund Me, which had raised more than $29,000 by Monday afternoon, is to help support Franquet Jr.'s family including his two daughters during a time of financial distress. Unfortunately, our brother will have to learn a whole new way of life and a whole new normal. Doing the simplest of task will be a struggle until Dale adjusts to this new way of life, Franquet and Kline wrote in the campaign update.\nFranquet Jr., who was employed by the federal prison system for 22 years, also is the head wrestling coach at Midd-West High School. He had recently built a pole barn on his property for wrestling clinics and had been scheduled to hold a grand opening last Saturday, according to Keller. Those plans are temporarily on hold.\nFranquet Jr.'s father, Dale Franquet Sr., of Orwigsburg, expects that he will recover quickly. He's a tough individual and will be stronger for it, Franquet Sr. said, recalling how at age 16 Franquet Jr. wrestled in high school with a broken hand, according to Keller's release.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://keller.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-fred-keller-calls-immediate-small-business-relief", "Congressman Fred Keller calls for immediate small business relief", "2020-12-11", "2020", "2020-12", "Republican", "Senate", "PA", "Fred Keller", "K000395", "keller.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Washington, D.C.  Today on the steps of the Capitol, Congressman Fred Keller (R-PA) joined Republican Leader Kevin McCarthy, Whip Steve Scalise, Conference Chair Liz Cheney, and other House Republicans for a press conference on the need to immediately extend the Paycheck Protection Program and deliver much needed relief to America's small business, workers, and hardest hit industries.\nThe Paycheck Protection Program expired 124 days ago, yet Speaker Pelosi has yet to take legislative action to reopen this highly effective program, which has served as a lifeline for thousands of small businesses nationwide. In Pennsylvania, more than 73,000 small businesses received PPP loans totaling over $20.7 billion in forgivable loans that helped them keep workers employed.\nIn a video immediately after the press conference, Congressman Keller called on Speaker Pelosi to put partisan politics aside and join House Republicans' effort to reopen the Paycheck Protection Program and deliver the remaining $138 billion in relief to those who need it the most.\n\nHere a few excerpts from Congressman Keller's video:\nH.R. 8265 would provide relief to small businesses and the people who work for them.\nSpeaker Pelosi has admitted that, for political purposes, she's held up relief negotiations, and she's done so more than 40 times.\nIt's time to end the [political] games; it's time to get to work. Let's get this bill done, and let's get relief to the people who need it most.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://keller.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-fred-keller-responds-gov-wolf-s-latest-shutdown-orders", "Congressman Fred Keller responds to Gov. Wolfs latest shutdown orders", "2020-12-11", "2020", "2020-12", "Republican", "Senate", "PA", "Fred Keller", "K000395", "keller.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Washington, D.C.  In response to Governor Tom Wolf's latest shutdown order announcement, Congressman Fred Keller (PA-12) made the following statement:\nSince the start of the pandemic, small businesses and workers across Pennsylvania have suffered due to Governor Wolf's chronic mismanagement and heavy-handed shutdown mandates. Now, two weeks before Christmas, the governor is once again taking unilateral action that will further devastate our economy and threaten the livelihoods of countless Pennsylvanians simply trying to earn a living.\nTo put it plainly, shutdowns do not work. As with his previous order, the governor's latest shutdown will advantage big box stores, destroy countless small businesses and restaurants, and cause more harm than it solves.\nToday's announcement shows a stunning lack of confidence in the people of Pennsylvania who have been living and learning through this pandemic for nearly a year. Pennsylvanians are smart, hardworking people capable of following common-sense guidance from healthcare professionals. The last thing Pennsylvania needs are more mandates and a one-size-fits-all shutdown order.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://keller.house.gov/media/in-the-news/congressman-fred-keller-responds-rise-covid-19-cases-union-county-federal-prisons", "Congressman Fred Keller responds to rise in COVID-19 cases in Union County federal prisons", "2020-12-10", "2020", "2020-12", "Republican", "Senate", "PA", "Fred Keller", "K000395", "keller.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Union County, Pa.  As cases of coronavirus continue to rise at federal prisons across the country, Congressman Fred Keller (PA-12) released a statement calling the Bureau of Prisons (BOP) inadequate in containing outbreaks.\nThe statement was released in conjunction with Andy Kim, (NJ-03), who also has prisons in his district that have experienced outbreaks.\nKeller's district includes Union County, where federal prisons in Allenwood and Lewisburg previously experienced COVID-19 outbreaks.\nThe coronavirus pandemic has created significant challenges for the federal prison system tasked with keeping inmates and correctional officers safe. However, it is clear that the Bureau of Prisons' (BOP) COVID-19 response plan has been inadequate in containing outbreaks at a number of facilities across the country. Despite Members of Congress raising the alarm about the spread of the virus under its watch, BOP leadership has failed to effectively respond to growing outbreaks in the federal prison system.\nDespite the uptick in cases in certain facilities, the BOP continues to transfer inmates between facilities, in many cases transferring COVID-19 positive inmates into new facilities, exposing staff and other personnel to the virus. It is irresponsible to continue to risk exposure through inmate transfers from various parts of the country. We firmly believe that during the coronavirus pandemic, all inmate transfers between BOP facilities should be halted in order to protect the health and well-being of inmates, as well as the thousands of BOP correctional officers across the country.\nAllenwood United States Penitentiary previously had an outbreak, with 120 inmate and five staff cases reported on the BOP website on Nov. 24. As of Dec. 7, the website shows there are now three inmates who tested positive and 11 staff. A total of 132 inmates and two staff have recovered.\nAllenwood Medium shows shows 45 current inmates cases and nine staff cases. Allenwood Low shows 20 inmates with active COVID-19 cases and six staff.\nRelated Reading: State and federal prisons in Pennsylvania experiencing more COVID-19 outbreaks\nThe United States Penitentiary in Lewisburg also experienced an outbreak in August, with almost 50 inmates at one point reported as being positive for COVID-19. Public relations representatives at BOP had told NorthcentralPa.com at the time that they were not taking transfers at the Union County facilities. Currently, there are no active COVID-19 cases among inmates.\nRelated Reading: USP Lewisburg now reports 46 inmates positive for COVID-19\nThe BOP must also clearly outline, and make public, the steps that it will take to improve its response to outbreaks in its facilities. We have heard deep concerns from our constituents for the health and safety of their friends or family in federal prisons, or that serve as staff in the facilities. Every day that the BOP refuses to take action, is a day that more Americans are put at risk. We stand ready to work alongside the BOP to find common ground and solutions that will save lives.\nCongressman Keller and Congressman Kim are members of the Bureau of Prisons Reform Caucus, of which Congressman Keller is the founder and chairman.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://keller.house.gov/media/in-the-news/keller-and-wild-introduce-nurses-care-act", "Keller and Wild Introduce Nurses CARE Act", "2020-12-10", "2020", "2020-12", "Republican", "Senate", "PA", "Fred Keller", "K000395", "keller.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "A pair of Pennsylvania elected officials on opposite sides of the aisle are teaming up for a bipartisan effort to bolster the workforce pipeline for essential healthcare workers.\nOn Monday, Reps. Fred Keller (R-Snyder) and Susan Wild (D-Lehigh) introduced the Nurses CARE Act, (H.R. 8874). The bipartisan legislation aims to prevent workforce shortages in long-term care facilities and allow America's essential healthcare workforce to do its important work uninterrupted.\nAccording to a press release, the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) issued Section 1135 waivers to provide states with greater flexibility to direct personnel and resources to patients in need, in response to COVID-19. Although the release touts this regulatory flexibility as being an essential tool in preventing health care shortages by employing Temporary Nurse Aides (TNAs) to offer care during the pandemic, it is set to expire when the national emergency declaration is lifted.\nThe Nurses CARE ACT works to build on the success of CMS's Section 1135 waivers and provide states with the necessary flexibility to ensure that competent TNAs who provided critical services during the pandemic can retain their certification after the national emergency declaration has expired.\nThe release also adds that this legislation would allow states and facilities to offer on-the-job experience as a partial substitute for certification courses, testing, and other evaluations, thus providing a pathway to full-time employment for TNAs who answered the call during the COVID-19 pandemic and have already received extensive on-the-job training.\nThe COVID-19 pandemic has changed so much about how we deliver health care at nursing homes, skilled nursing facilities, and long-term care centers, Keller said. We need to do everything we can to protect our most vulnerable populations, like our seniors and those with pre-existing conditions. I am proud of this bipartisan legislation that gives American families across our nation the peace of mind that their loved ones in long-term care are receiving the care they need to remain safe and healthy.\nThroughout this entire pandemic, so many have selflessly joined the front lines in our nursing homes and long-term care facilities to get our most vulnerable through this health care crisisand they deserve their work and on-the-job training to be fully recognized, Wild said. I'm proud to join this bipartisan, commonsense effort to help prevent critical health care shortages or gaps in Pennsylvania and ensure those who answered the call in this emergency have a pathway for full-time employment once this pandemic ends.\nThe bill also has received praise from the head of the Pennsylvania Healthcare Association.\nSince the temporary nurse aide position was formally approved in the Commonwealth, more than 4,000 Pennsylvanians have completed the training program, and many have been hired to assist long-term care providers in their response to COVID-19, said Zach Shamberg, President and CEO of the Pennsylvania Healthcare Association. This legislation not only recognizes the heroic and compassionate work these caregivers have performed since the pandemic began, but also puts them on a path to full-time employment as certified nurse aides.\nWe are grateful to both Congressman Keller and Congresswoman Wild for their bipartisan leadership and united approach in standing up for our long-term care providers and healthcare heroes on the front lines of the COVID-19 pandemic in Pennsylvania and throughout the country, Shamberg continued.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://keller.house.gov/media/in-the-news/oppose-section-230-big-tech-censorship", "Injured corrections officer undergoes surgery to remove damaged eye", "2020-12-10", "2020", "2020-12", "Republican", "Senate", "PA", "Fred Keller", "K000395", "keller.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "U.S. Penitentiary at Allenwood corrections officer and Midd-West head wrestling coach Dale Franquet Jr. underwent surgery to remove an eye Wednesday, two days after he was assaulted by an inmate.\nA second staff member was also injured in the inmate assault at the high-security prison Monday morning but neither the identity nor health condition of the officer were released by the Bureau of Prisons.\nDale Franquet Sr., of Orwigsburg, said the surgery to remove his son's injured eye went well at Geisinger Medical Center in Danville, according to the younger Franquet's wife, Angela.\n\"There was no damage to the eye socket. In three months he could be fitted with a prosthetic,\" said Franquet Sr.\nShane Fausey, the national president of the Council of Prison Locals and an employee at the Allenwood prison complex, said the assaults \"are a stark reminder of the unpredictable and violent nature of the vital work the Bureau of Prisons correctional professionals do every day.\"\nWhile the details of the attacks are not being released pending an FBI investigation, Fausey added that the \"quick and decisive actions of both officers, even at the risk of their own personal safety, are nothing short of heroic and resulted in quickly bringing an end to a potentially deadly situation.\"\nU.S. Rep. Fred Keller expressed his hope for the injured officers' speedy recovery and echoed Fausey in saying on Twitter that the incident \"is a reminder of the challenging job that our corrections officers are tasked with.\"\nFranquet Sr. expects his son will rebound quickly.\n\"He's a tough individual and will be stronger for it,\" he said, recalling how at the age of 16 Dale Jr. wrestled in high school with a broken hand.\nFor several years Franquet Jr. has served as varsity head coach at Midd-West High School.\nAssistant wrestling coach A.J. Steininger described him as being dedicated to helping athletes reach their full potential.\n\"It's going to be tough\" starting the wrestling season without Franquet Jr., Steininger said. \"He's an integral part of our wrestling program.\"\nFranquet Jr. recently built a pole barn on his property for wrestling clinics and was scheduled to hold a grand opening on Saturday.\n\"Dale's biggest concern is the pole barn,\" Franquet Sr. said of the family's decision to postpone the opening until his son can participate.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://kelly.house.gov/press-release/representative-kellys-statement-governor-wolfs-latest-pennsylvania-lockdown", "Representative Kelly's Statement on Governor Wolf's Latest Pennsylvania Lockdown", "2020-12-10", "2020", "2020-12", "Republican", "Senate", "PA", "Mike Kelly", "K000376", "kelly.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Representative Kelly's Statement on Governor Wolf's Latest Pennsylvania Lockdown                                           \n              Dec 10, 2020      \t\t        \t    \n      \t            \n                    \n                                            \n          \n        \n        \n            \n    \n    \n  \n    \n  \n    \n    \n    Washington, D.C. - U.S. Representative Mike Kelly (R-Pa.) released this statement following Governor Tom Wolf's latest lockdown of the Keystone State:\n\"Pennsylvanians have endured the coronavirus pandemic for nearly a year and are fully capable of determining what activities they are comfortableengaging in. Governor Wolf's latest order demonstrates that he does not trust us to make our own decisions. In mandating more business closures, he has guaranteed that more hard-working Pennsylvanians will lose their jobs as additional small businesses will close permanently. This is unacceptable and the governor should lift this lockdown immediately.\"\n#####", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://keller.house.gov/media/in-the-news/lawmakers-negotiate-possibility-stimulus-checks-next-covid-19-relief-bill", "Lawmakers negotiate possibility of stimulus checks in next COVID-19 relief bill", "2020-12-09", "2020", "2020-12", "Republican", "Senate", "PA", "Fred Keller", "K000395", "keller.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON (NEXSTAR)  Congress appears to be closer to bringing a COVID-19 relief bill to a vote in the House and Senate, but direct stimulus checks are, so far, absent from the compromise plan.\nThere's continued conversation around direct stimulus checks, which I think is important, Virginia Democratic Congresswoman Abigail Spanberger said.\nSpanberger fears including direct payments in the bill could prevent the plan from crossing the finish line.\nFinish line means a bill passed through the House and the Senate and signed on the president's desk so that we can ensure that extended unemployment, rent support, and food assistance among other things are delivered to the American people, Spanberger said.\nPennsylvania Republican Congressman Fred Keller says another round of $1,000 checks is not the answer.\nThis stimulus payment will run out. Once that's gone, what are they going to do next? Keller said.\nKeller says instead, Congress needs to focus on jobs.\nThe best stimulus is a job. And what we need to do going forward is support our small businesses and our working families, Keller said.\nMany Republican lawmakers say the us can't afford another round of direct payments.\nFor every penny that we spend is borrowed, Kentucky Republican Congressman Brett Guthrie said. That's hundreds of billions of dollars borrowed from our children and grandchildren.\nIf stimulus checks are not included in the compromise, some lawmakers say they will work on a standalone bill, although that would be unlikely to pass until after the first of the year.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://keller.house.gov/media/in-the-news/reps-keller-and-wild-introduce-nurses-care-act-help-prevent-care-facility-worker", "Reps. Keller and Wild introduce Nurses CARE Act to help prevent care facility worker shortages", "2020-12-09", "2020", "2020-12", "Republican", "Senate", "PA", "Fred Keller", "K000395", "keller.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Washington, D.C.  On Dec. 7, Congressman Fred Keller (R-Pa.) and Congresswoman Susan Wild (D-Pa.) introduced House Resolution 8874, also called the Nurses CARE Act. The bipartisan proposal would help prevent workforce shortages in long-term care facilities.\nIn response to the COVID-19 health crisis, the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) issued Section 1135 waivers to give states more flexibility to direct personnel and resources to patients in need. The waivers have allowed Temporary Nurse Aides (TNAs) to offer care during the pandemic, but it is set to expire when the national emergency declaration is lifted.\nThe Nurses CARE Act builds on the waivers, providing states with the necessary flexibility to let TNAs who provided critical services retain their certification after the national emergency declaration expires. In addition, states and facilities could offer on-the-job experience as a partial substitute for certification courses, exams, and other evaluations, allowing the aides who stepped up during the crisis a quicker path to full-time employment.\nThe COVID-19 pandemic has changed so much about how we deliver health care at nursing homes, skilled nursing facilities, and long-term care centers, Keller said. We need to do everything we can to protect our most vulnerable populations, like our seniors and those with pre-existing conditions. I am proud of this bipartisan legislation that gives American families across our nation the peace of mind that their loved ones in long-term care are receiving the care they need to remain safe and healthy.\nThroughout this entire pandemic, so many have selflessly joined the front lines in our nursing homes and long-term care facilities to get our most vulnerable through this health care crisisand they deserve their work and on-the-job training to be fully recognized, Wild said. I'm proud to join this bipartisan, commonsense effort to help prevent critical health care shortages or gaps in Pennsylvania and ensure those who answered the call in this emergency have a pathway for full-time employment once this pandemic ends.\nSince the temporary nurse aide position was formally approved in the Commonwealth, more than 4,000 Pennsylvanians have completed the training program, and many have been hired to assist long-term care providers in their response to COVID-19, said Zach Shamberg, President and CEO of the Pennsylvania Healthcare Association.\nThis legislation not only recognizes the heroic and compassionate work these caregivers have performed since the pandemic began, but also puts them on a path to full-time employment as certified nurse aides. We are grateful to both Congressman Keller and Congresswoman Wild for their bipartisan leadership and united approach in standing up for our long-term care providers and healthcare heroes on the front lines of the COVID-19 pandemic in Pennsylvania and throughout the country.\nThe full text of the bill will be available here.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://thompson.house.gov/media-center/in-the-news/new-house-ag-leaders-push-active-bipartisan-panel", "New House Ag leaders push for active, bipartisan panel", "2020-12-09", "2020", "2020-12", "Republican", "Senate", "PA", "Glenn Thompson", "T000467", "thompson.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "The Georgia Democrat and Pennsylvania Republican poised to take the reins of the House Agriculture Committee next year have shared priorities, including climate policy, but different timelines and approaches.\nReps.David Scott, D-Ga.,andGlenn GT Thompson, R-Pa.,were both selected by their respective caucuses as their party's House Ag leaders for the next two years. Scott  by virtue of a slim Democratic majority  will chair the committee, and Thompson will serve as the panel's top Republican. Both men indicate they wantcommittee members to continue to work in a bipartisan way across regional differences.\nAs I told Speaker Pelosi  I have served on the committee when we had Republican chairmen and we had Democratic chairmen, and I've achieved things on that committee underneath both, Scott said in an interview withAgri-Pulse. Agriculture has been and will be a bipartisan committee because we have a history of that; I have a history of that.\nOur numbers will be as close as ever, Thompson said in a separate conversation withAgri-Pulse. Which I think is going to help us continue to work in the bipartisan way we do in agriculture.\nThe official committee rosters and party splits will be determined at a later date, but the committee's Democratic majority could be as slim as two or three votes. For Scott, the close divide shouldn't slow down anambitious agenda that includes action on climate change, disaster readiness, and  of course  preparation for the next farm bill.\nReflecting a top priority of President-elect Joe Biden, Scott said that climate change has got to be our top priority in this committee. He wants to bring in scientists and other expert witnesses to discuss the subject and help producers navigate the subject, but also to lower the temperature on what can often be a very heated debate.\nCarbon sequestration, no-till farming, all of these things we've got to be able to have as part of the discussion, Scottsaid. We're going to have to bring that climate change issue away from all of this politicization  it is our farmers that are suffering.\nThompson also brought up climate change as a top priority of his, but one that he'll approach from the perspective of getting agricultural practices the recognition he feels they're due. He said he wants to avoid overregulation that can be\"punishing\" to farms.He believes that grazing, responsible forest management, and other carbon-sequestering technologies that can come from agriculture need to be considered as part of the solution to the issue.\nThe reality is those things work, he said. They're not political solutions, they're practical solutions.\nScott also listed broadband deployment among his top priorities for the committee, as well as a desire to work with the Appropriations Committee to enact legislation that creates a response protocol and funding that can be used for future disasters. Thatidea,floated earlier this year by current House Ag Chair Collin Peterson, D-Minn., would allow USDA to fund disaster response for producers without an act of Congress and could potentially be funded through the department's Commodity Credit Corp. Peterson, who lost his reelection effort in November, had said such a protocol would have been among his top priorities in Congress.\nThe two new leaders both had kind remarks about the other  Scott called Thompson very thoughtful and very thorough, Thompson said Scott is a gentleman and a statesman  and both boast lengthy House Ag resumes. Scott also quipped about his Pennsylvania roots  he went to elementary school in Scranton  a surefire way, he said, to build a connection with Thompson.\nBoth chaired or served as ranking member to a handful of panel subcommittees, and both are veterans of several farm bills, experience that will serve them well as they begin to deliberate how to approach a lingering 2023 deadline when the current legislation will expire.\nFor Scott, he said he'd like to get my sea legs under me. He hearkened back to his days in the Georgia state Senate when he gained the reputation as a members' chairman for his style of soliciting member feedback before taking concrete action on a bill.\nI want to make sure that I can articulate the ambitions and interest of the members of the committee, he said.\nBut Thompson says time is of the essence.\nWe need to make up for some lost time, he said, pointing to action that could have happened had the chamber been doing its regular work in Washington for much of 2020 rather than dealing with the COVID-19 pandemic. We need good oversight. It's time to start hearing from USDA directly; hearing from farmers and ranchers, and folks within rural communities on what's working and what's not working with the 2018 farm bill.\nOne thing Scott already knows about the next farm bill is he wants to expand an $80 million scholarship program for historically Black colleges and universities he championed in the 2018 legislation. Those scholarships, given to agricultural students at 1890s land grant colleges, should be expanded to Hispanic and Native American institutions, he said.\nThe two new leaders are part of a group of House and Senate Agriculture Committee heads with three of four new faces (Sen. Debbie Stabenow, D-Mich., will the only holdover from the last farm bill; Sen. John Boozman, R-Ark., is set to be the Senate panel's top Republican). But both Scott and Thompson expect a solid working relationship with their Senate counterparts. They've both worked with Stabenow on previous farm bills, and Boozman is a former House colleague.\nThompson said he hopes rural and urban America will see results.\nWhen we get the policy right on agriculture and for rural America, what that means is that every American family  including those in very large cities  won't wake up in the cold, dark, and hungry,\" Thompson said.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://keller.house.gov/media/in-the-news/inmate-transfers-fort-dix-resume-despite-lawmakers-objections-amid-covid", "Inmate transfers to Fort Dix resume despite lawmakers' objections amid COVID", "2020-12-08", "2020", "2020-12", "Republican", "Senate", "PA", "Fred Keller", "K000395", "keller.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "More local lawmakers are joining the call for the federal Bureau of Prisons to halt inmate transfers amid the COVID-19 pandemic.\nU.S. Reps. Andy Kim of New Jersey and Rep Fred Keller of Pennsylvania issued a joint statement on Friday calling for the end to all inmate transfers between BOP facilities during the current health crisis.\nBoth Kim and Keller represent districts home to BOP facilities  FCI Fort Dix in Kim's third legislative district, and FCI Allenwood in Keller's 12 legislative district.\nDespite Members of Congress raising the alarm about the spread of the virus under its watch, BOP leadership has failed to effectively respond to growing outbreaks in the federal prison system, the statement read.\nKim was part of an earlier delegation made up of New Jersey lawmakers who sent a letter to BOP Director Michael Carvajal outlining grave concerns over the COVID-19 outbreak at FCI Fort Dix, and asking BOP to extend a moratorium on inmate transfers to the low-security prison on Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst.\nThe BOP issued at the beginning of November a moratorium on inmate transfers to the prison through Nov. 23 as the number of positive cases at the prison neared 250.\nBOP officials said Friday the moratorium was not extended.\nThe 3,000 people at FCI Fort Dix live in units of up to 300 people, according to a complaint. FCI Fort Dix is a low-security federal correctional institution with an adjacent minimum-security satellite camp.  \n\tThe congressmen were not happy with the decision.\nIt is irresponsible to continue to risk exposure through inmate transfers from various parts of the country. We firmly believe that during the coronavirus pandemic, all inmate transfers between BOP facilities should be halted in order to protect the health and well-being of inmates, as well as the thousands of BOP correctional officers across the country, Kim and Keller's statement read.\nAs of Monday, there are 103 active cases among inmates and 35 active cases among staff members, according to BOP data.\nBOP reported 266 inmates and six staff members have recovered. No deaths have been reported.\nKim and Keller also echoed the New Jersey Congressional delegation's letter, calling for the BOP to publicly outline the steps it will take to improve its response to outbreaks in its facilities.\nWe have heard deep concerns from our constituents for the health and safety of their friends or family in federal prisons, or that serve as staff in the facilities. Every day that the BOP refuses to take action, is a day that more Americans are put at risk, the joint statement read.\nLawmakers, advocates, inmates and their family members have pointed to the transfer of inmates from FCI Elkton in Ohio to FCI Fort Dix as the cause of the outbreak. BOP officials have denied the accusation.\nAll inmates entering or departing any BOP facility, to include voluntary surrenders, BOP-to-BOP transfers, or transfers from outside the BOP system, are screened and tested by medical staff for COVID-19 upon arrival, and placed in quarantine or medical isolation, a BOP spokesperson said Friday.\nFCI Elkton was the site of one of the worst outbreaks in the country earlier this year; nearly 1,000 inmates have tested positive there since the outbreak began. \nNearly 300 inmates from FCI Elkton were transferred to FCI Fort Dix to allow for more social distancing at the Ohio prison in a series of groups on Sept. 28, Oct. 6, Oct. 21, and Oct. 28.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://keller.house.gov/media/in-the-news/central-susquehanna-intermediate-unit-receives-federal-grant-offer-resources", "Central Susquehanna Intermediate Unit receives federal grant, offer resources to families during COVID-19", "2020-12-07", "2020", "2020-12", "Republican", "Senate", "PA", "Fred Keller", "K000395", "keller.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Milton, Pa.  The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services has awarded a $1,755,707 Head Start grant to Central Susquehanna Intermediate Unit (CSIU) to support early childhood education and development initiatives as part of CSIU's Head Start and Early Head Start Programs in Northumberland county.\n\"We prepare our most vulnerable young children to succeed in school, and in life beyond school. Our services are at no cost, and are for children ages birth to 5 from low-income families, as well as pregnant women,\" said Jamie Bartlett Head Start/Early Head Start Programs Manager in Northumberland County.\nThe services offered focus on core areas of Early Learning and Development, Health, and Family Well-Being and CSIU provides transportation to the centers to ensure enrolled children and family members can regularly participate.\nIn Northumberland County, CSIU's programs have the following:\n- Head Start has 168 federally funded and 72 HSSAP funded preschool children. We have 14 center-based classrooms.\n- Early Head Start has 83 infants, toddlers and pregnant women. It is a home-based program providing weekly, 1.5 hours home visits.\n- 90 percent of enrolled families live below the federal poverty level (2020 guidelines: $26,200 for a family of four).\n- A minimum of 10 percent children enrolled are identified as special needs.\nCongressman Fred Keller expressed his enthusiasm for CSIU after the grant was announced.\nNow more than ever, we must ensure our children are not left behind. Central Susquehanna Intermediate Unit plays a critical role in providing quality education to help our children thrive and I am confident that this grant will support its mission and expand its reach in our communities, said Keller.\nThe Head Start/Early Head Start Programs have done their best to continue providing their services virtually during COVID-19, but it hasn't been easy to connect with all the families, according to Bartlett.\nProgram staff have offered both synchronous and asynchronous classes through Google classroom and the Early Head Start leaders do their best to connect with families once a week to support parents and children. Staff members have even taken the time to drop-off educational materials to families so that learning can safely at home.\n\"Sometimes our children aren't able to join us virtually, our staff misses the in person contact with the children and families during virtual instruction,\" explained Bartlett.\n\"Our goal is to support our children and families at all times, especially during this pandemic. We work with families to make sure their family has their basic needs covered, and if needed connect them with resources in the community. During a time of uncertainty we want to be a consistent resource for them. Our staff are working hard to do this.\"", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://keller.house.gov/media/in-the-news/congressmen-kim-and-keller-release-statement-covid-19-risks-bureau-prisons", "Congressmen Kim and Keller Release Statement on COVID-19 Risks at Bureau of Prisons Facilities", "2020-12-07", "2020", "2020-12", "Republican", "Senate", "PA", "Fred Keller", "K000395", "keller.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON, DC  Today, Congressman Andy Kim (NJ-03) and Congressman Fred Keller (PA-12) released the following statement on the continued increase of COVID-19 spread in Bureau of Prison (BOP) facilities across the country. Both Congressmen Kim and Keller represent districts that are home to BOP facilities.\nThe coronavirus pandemic has created significant challenges for the federal prison system tasked with keeping inmates and correctional officers safe. However, it is clear that the Bureau of Prisons' (BOP) COVID-19 response plan has been inadequate in containing outbreaks at a number of facilities across the country. Despite Members of Congress raising the alarm about the spread of the virus under its watch, BOP leadership has failed to effectively respond to growing outbreaks in the federal prison system.\nDespite the uptick in cases in certain facilities, the BOP continues to transfer inmates between facilities, in many cases transferring COVID-19 positive inmates into new facilities, exposing staff and other personnel to the virus. It is irresponsible to continue to risk exposure through inmate transfers from various parts of the country. We firmly believe that during the coronavirus pandemic, all inmate transfers between BOP facilities should be halted in order to protect the health and well-being of inmates, as well as the thousands of BOP correctional officers across the country.\nThe BOP must also clearly outline, and make public, the steps that it will take to improve its response to outbreaks in its facilities. We have heard deep concerns from our constituents for the health and safety of their friends or family in federal prisons, or that serve as staff in the facilities. Every day that the BOP refuses to take action, is a day that more Americans are put at risk. We stand ready to work alongside the BOP to find common ground and solutions that will save lives.\nCongressman Kim and Congressman Keller are members of the Bureau of Prisons Reform Caucus, of which Congressman Keller is the founder and chairman.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://keller.house.gov/media/in-the-news/fred-keller-votes-no-marijuana-big-cats", "Fred Keller votes No on marijuana, big cats", "2020-12-07", "2020", "2020-12", "Republican", "Senate", "PA", "Fred Keller", "K000395", "keller.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Congressman Fred Keller made the following statement Friday afternoon:\nInstead of addressing the plight of millions of Americans across the country who are struggling during this pandemic, this week Speaker Pelosi decided to once again put politics over people and hold votes on legalizing marijuana and exotic animals instead of COVID relief measures. I urge my colleagues across the aisle to do their jobs and join House Republicans in delivering targeted relief to our families, businesses, and industries who need it the most.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://keller.house.gov/media/in-the-news/latest-covid-relief-framework-includes-billions-dollars-high-speed-broadband", "Latest COVID relief framework includes billions of dollars for high-speed broadband", "2020-12-07", "2020", "2020-12", "Republican", "Senate", "PA", "Fred Keller", "K000395", "keller.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON (NEXSTAR)  The new COVID relief compromise is gaining traction on Capitol Hill and 10 billion dollars will pay for a public/private partnership to improve Americans' internet service\nI say this as somebody who spent longer in the wireless industry than I have in politics. We can provide some of that much need relief, Virginia Democratic Senator Mark Warner said.\nWarner says while there was money for broadband in the Cares Act, that's a potential short term solution.\nHe says the new money will help build lasting high-speed internet service for more Americans.\nAnd one of the things we found is that broadband is now an economic necessity, Warner said.\nPennsylvania Republican Congressman Fred Keller agrees, the pandemic showcased the need for reliable internet access.\nIt takes care of education, it takes care of the delivery of healthcare, and it takes care of commerce, Keller said.\nThis is not just in rural communities. There are many suburban communities that have very slow internet or no internet, Warner said.\nBoth Warner and Keller agree this money will help provide high-speed broadband to millions of more Americans.\nWe need these things. And I'm all for making sure that we have the resources to adequately build out an infrastructure system in broadband, Keller said.\nIf Congress approves this plan, four billion dollars of the broadband fund would go to supporting connectivity to low-income households.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://keller.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-fred-keller-introduces-bipartisan-bill-bolster-workforce-pipeline", "Congressman Fred Keller introduces bipartisan bill to bolster workforce pipeline for essential healthcare workers", "2020-12-07", "2020", "2020-12", "Republican", "Senate", "PA", "Fred Keller", "K000395", "keller.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Washington, D.C.  Today, Congressman Fred Keller (R-PA) joined Congresswoman Susan Wild (D-PA) in introducing H.R. 8874, the Nurses CARE Act, bipartisan legislation that would help prevent dangerous workforce shortages in long-term care facilities and allow America's essential healthcare workforce to do its important work uninterrupted.\n\nIn response to COVID-19, the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) issued Section 1135 waivers to provide states with greater flexibility to direct personnel and resources to patients in need. While this regulatory flexibility has been an essential tool in preventing critical health care shortages by employing Temporary Nurse Aides (TNAs) to offer care during the pandemic, it is set to expire when the national emergency declaration is lifted.\n\nThe Nurses CARE Act works to build on the success of CMS's Section 1135 waivers and provide states with the necessary flexibility to ensure that competent TNAs who provided critical services during the pandemic can retain their certification after the national emergency declaration has expired. Additionally, this legislation would also allow states and facilities to offer on-the-job experience as a partial substitute for certification courses, testing, and other evaluationsthus providing a pathway to full-time employment for TNAs who answered the call during the COVID-19 pandemic and have already received extensive on-the-job training.\n\nThe COVID-19 pandemic has changed so much about how we deliver health care at nursing homes, skilled nursing facilities, and long-term care centers, Keller said. We need to do everything we can to protect our most vulnerable populations, like our seniors and those with pre-existing conditions. I am proud of this bipartisan legislation that gives American families across our nation the peace of mind that their loved ones in long-term care are receiving the care they need to remain safe and healthy.\n\nThroughout this entire pandemic, so many have selflessly joined the front lines in our nursing homes and long-term care facilities to get our most vulnerable through this health care crisisand they deserve their work and on-the-job training to be fully recognized, Wild said. I'm proud to join this bipartisan, commonsense effort to help prevent critical health care shortages or gaps in Pennsylvania and ensure those who answered the call in this emergency have a pathway for full-time employment once this pandemic ends.\n\nSince the temporary nurse aide position was formally approved in the Commonwealth, more than 4,000 Pennsylvanians have completed the training program, and many have been hired to assist long-term care providers in their response to COVID-19, said Zach Shamberg, President and CEO of the Pennsylvania Healthcare Association. This legislation not only recognizes the heroic and compassionate work these caregivers have performed since the pandemic began, but also puts them on a path to full-time employment as certified nurse aides. We are grateful to both Congressman Keller and Congresswoman Wild for their bipartisan leadership and united approach in standing up for our long-term care providers and healthcare heroes on the front lines of the COVID-19 pandemic in Pennsylvania and throughout the country.\n\nFull text of the bill is available here.\n\n# # #", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://keller.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-fred-keller-honors-frontline-healthcare-workers-house-floo", "Congressman Fred Keller honors frontline healthcare workers on House Floor", "2020-12-04", "2020", "2020-12", "Republican", "Senate", "PA", "Fred Keller", "K000395", "keller.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Washington, D.C.  Congressman Fred Keller (R-PA) recently spoke on the House Floor to celebrate the valiant efforts of frontline healthcare workers in Pennsylvania's 12th Congressional District and across America, as they continue their dedicated service amidst the ongoing coronavirus pandemic.\nDuring his remarks, Congressman Keller invoked the storied reverence of frontline workers, drawing a parallel between pandemic-era health care workers and the Americans who helped fuel wartime manufacturing efforts during World War II.\nFollowing his floor remarks, Congressman Keller made the following statement:\nThe outstanding men and women who go to work every day in our hospitals and health networks are worthy of our utmost admiration and respect. Though their job is not easy, these individuals have persisted through truly demanding times and they continue to provide critical services to our region. And though they don't do it for recognition, they deserve recognition nonetheless. I am dedicated to continuing to support them and their noble work.\nCongressman Keller's full remarks are below.\nMadam/Mr. Speaker,\n\nThroughout American history, generations of American frontline workers have answered the call of duty to support our nation, states, and local communities.\n\nFrom those in the factories who fueled the Allied advance in World War Two, to the men and women who cleared the rubble after the attacks of September 11th, there is a storied reverence that comes with being a frontline worker.\n\nToday, across Pennsylvania's 12th congressional district and America, our nurses, doctors, and health care providers are answering that call to duty.\n\nIn the face of a once-in-a-lifetime pandemic and global uncertainty, our health care professionals have not wavered in their mission, exemplifying compassion, determination, and resilience.\n\nMost importantly, our health care workers have given our nation reassurance that there is light at the end of this tunnel, and we can beat this pandemic.\n\nTo our frontline healthcare workers at:\n\n Evangelical community hospital;\n UPMC;\n Geisinger;\n Endless Mountains;\n Bucktail Medical;\n Robert Packer;\n Guthrie Towanda Memorial;\n Troy Community;\n Divine Providence;\n Mount Nittany;\n Barnes-Kasson;\n And Tyler Memorial\n\nI know your job is not easy, but your impact is felt throughout our community and across our nation.\n\nPlease know that we are forever grateful for your service.\n\nThank you, I yield back.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://keller.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-fred-keller-votes-no-speaker-pelosi-s-out-touch-priorities", "Congressman Fred Keller votes NO on Speaker Pelosis out-of-touch priorities", "2020-12-04", "2020", "2020-12", "Republican", "Senate", "PA", "Fred Keller", "K000395", "keller.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Washington, D.C.  This week, Congressman Fred Keller (R-PA) voted against the MORE Act and the Big Cat Public Safety Act, legislation brought forth by Speaker Pelosiin the midst of a global pandemicthat aims to legalize marijuana and revise protections for exotic animals, respectively. The MORE Act passed the House by a vote of 228-164 while the Big Cat Public Safety Act passed by a vote of 272-114.\n\nBy contrast, House Democrats took no legislative action this week to join House Republicans in supporting H.R. 8265, legislation that would deliver the $138 billion in remaining Paycheck Protection Program funds to American families, small businesses, and workers.\n\nIn a video, Congressman Keller highlighted Speaker Pelosi's unwillingness to bring real relief to the American people and details how she instead chose to push trivial and nonurgent legislation through the House.\n\n(Click to watch video)\n\nCongressman Fred Keller made the following statement in response House Democrats' legislative priorities:\n\nInstead of addressing the plight of millions of Americans across the country who are struggling during this pandemic, this week Speaker Pelosi decided to once again put politics over people and hold votes on legalizing marijuana and exotic animals instead of COVID relief measures. I urge my colleagues across the aisle to do their jobs and join House Republicans in delivering targeted relief to our families, businesses, and industries who need it the most.\n\n# # #", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://keller.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressmen-keller-and-kim-release-statement-covid-19-risks-bureau-prisons", "Congressmen Keller and Kim release statement on COVID-19 risks at Bureau of Prisons facilities", "2020-12-04", "2020", "2020-12", "Republican", "Senate", "PA", "Fred Keller", "K000395", "keller.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Washington, D.C.  Today, Congressman Fred Keller (PA-12) and Congressman Andy Kim (NJ-03) released the following statement on the continued increase of COVID-19 spread in Bureau of Prison (BOP) facilities across the country. Both Congressmen Keller and Kim represent districts that are home to BOP facilities.\nThe coronavirus pandemic has created significant challenges for the federal prison system tasked with keeping inmates and correctional officers safe. However, it is clear that the Bureau of Prisons' (BOP) COVID-19 response plan has been inadequate in containing outbreaks at a number of facilities across the country. Despite Members of Congress raising the alarm about the spread of the virus under its watch, BOP leadership has failed to effectively respond to growing outbreaks in the federal prison system.\nDespite the uptick in cases in certain facilities, the BOP continues to transfer inmates between facilities, in many cases transferring COVID-19 positive inmates into new facilities, exposing staff and other personnel to the virus. It is irresponsible to continue to risk exposure through inmate transfers from various parts of the country. We firmly believe that during the coronavirus pandemic, all inmate transfers between BOP facilities should be halted in order to protect the health and well-being of inmates, as well as the thousands of BOP correctional officers across the country.\nThe BOP must also clearly outline, and make public, the steps that it will take to improve its response to outbreaks in its facilities. We have heard deep concerns from our constituents for the health and safety of their friends or family in federal prisons, or that serve as staff in the facilities. Every day that the BOP refuses to take action, is a day that more Americans are put at risk. We stand ready to work alongside the BOP to find common ground and solutions that will save lives.\nCongressman Keller and Congressman Kim are members of the Bureau of Prisons Reform Caucus, of which Congressman Keller is the founder and chairman.\n# # #", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://thompson.house.gov/media-center/in-the-news/pa-congressman-gets-top-spot-house-ag-committee", "Pa. Congressman gets top spot in House Ag Committee", "2020-12-04", "2020", "2020-12", "Republican", "Senate", "PA", "Glenn Thompson", "T000467", "thompson.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Pennsylvania Congressman Glenn GT Thompson was elected as the top Republican in the House Agriculture Committee.\nThompson was elected ranking member Dec. 2. The full House GOP Conference ratified the decision Dec. 3. He is succeeding the retiring Rep. Mike Conway (R-Texas).\nThe challenges ahead of us are considerable, but we will continue to put farm families first and ensure our country has the most safe and affordable food supply chain on the planet, said Thompson, who was elected in 2008.\nNational Milk Producers Federation and National Cattlemen's Beef Association put out statements in support of Thompson's new role in Congress and praised his track record of bipartisan legislative victories.\nGT has been a vocal and effective advocate for the needs of dairy farmers in Pennsylvania and throughout the country, said Jim Mulhern, National Milk Producers Federation president, in a statement.\nThompson served as chairman of the conservation and nutrition subcommittees during the writing of the last two farm bills. Most recently he's been the ranking member of the general farm commodities and risk management subcommittee.\nHis district is the state's geographically largest congressional district, in north western and north central Pennsylvania. It covers portions of Armstrong, Butler, Cambria, Cameron, Centre, Clarion, Clearfield, Elk, Forest, Indiana, Jefferson, McKean, Venango and Warren counties.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://thompson.house.gov/media-center/in-the-news/thompson-lead-agriculture-committee", "Thompson to lead agriculture committee", "2020-12-04", "2020", "2020-12", "Republican", "Senate", "PA", "Glenn Thompson", "T000467", "thompson.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "U.S. Rep. Glenn Thompson, R-Howard Township, has been elected by the House Republican Steering Committee to serve as GOP leader of the House Agriculture Committee in the 117th Congress.\n\n\n\tAs a lifelong resident of a small town in rural central Pennsylvania and the descendant of a long line of dairy farmers, I am incredibly humbled to have been elected by my Republican colleagues, Thompson said Wednesday.\n\n\n\tThompson, also known as GT, represents Indiana, Armstrong, Clearfield, Jefferson and all or part of Cambria and nine other counties in the 15th Congressional District.\n\n\n\tThe challenges ahead of us are considerable, but we will continue to put farm families first and ensure our country has the most safe and affordable food supply chain on the planet, Thompson said.\n\n\n\tOverall, he has served in Congress since 2009, from the old Fifth Congressional District, and in November was easily chosen for a second term in Indiana County and other areas moved by state Supreme Court order into a reapportioned 15th District.\n\n\n\tThompson said he was very appreciative of the vote of confidence he received, as he became the most senior Republican on the House Agriculture Committee and second most senior Republican on the House Education and Labor Committee.\n\n\n\tOn election night he pledged to continue to work closely with the Indiana County Farm Bureau, saying, my goal is really to become a part of the communities I serve.\n\n\n\tAmong key issues listed on his website is rural development, or, as he writes: Creating jobs and expanding technology, such as broadband and cellphone coverage, is a major challenge that must be met in order to improve and sustain rural Pennsylvania.\n\n\n\tAs he expanded upon that in answering questions from the Gazette during the recent election campaign, COVID-19 has shown those of us living in more rural settings the importance of high-speed internet connectivity, for businesses and homes.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://thompson.house.gov/media-center/in-the-news/thompson-lead-republican-caucus-us-house-agriculture-committee", "Thompson to lead Republican caucus of U.S. House Agriculture Committee", "2020-12-04", "2020", "2020-12", "Republican", "Senate", "PA", "Glenn Thompson", "T000467", "thompson.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Earlier this week, Rep. Glenn GT Thompsonwas elected by the Republican Steering Committee to serve asRepublican leader of the House Agriculture Committee, replacing Rep. Mike Conaway of Texas, whom he worked under as vice ranking member in the current Congress.\nThompson is a familiar face to farmers and ag leaders in Pennsylvania. His district covers a big swath of north-central Pennsylvania, just east of Erie and west of Williamsport, going south to Altoona, and he is a familiar face at many agricultural events in the state, including the Pennsylvania Farm Show and Ag Progress Days.\nHe's been an advocate for forestry-related programs, especially when it comes to the farm bill, and he has been an outspoken supporter of getting whole milk back in schools.Earlier this week, Rep. Glenn GT Thompsonwas elected by the Republican Steering Committee to serve asRepublican leader of the House Agriculture Committee, replacing Rep. Mike Conaway of Texas, whom he worked under as vice ranking member in the current Congress.\nThompson will be leading the committee's Republican coalition, which he says will likely have four openings for new members when the 117th Congress gets sworn in next month. He says that he's worked with incoming committee Chairman DavidScott on two previous farm bills and calls him someone he can work with. Thompson says that he intends to work across the aisle when it comes to pushing agricultural legislation.\nWith very few exceptions, every bill I introduce is bipartisan,\" he says. \"I reach across the aisle. That's my style with committee work as well.\"\nThompson says that he recently spoke to Rep.-elect August Pfluger of Texas, who told him that the No. 1 requested committee assignment by incoming freshman representatives is agriculture.\nHe also says the committee will be focused on passing mandatory livestock price reporting legislation, working to expand domestic and foreign markets, passing bills to make agriculture more resilient in the face of the COVID-19 pandemic, and expanding rural broadband.Incoming representatives will have a lot to learn with work on the upcoming 2022 Farm Bill likely kicking into high gear in 2021. Thompson says that virtual listening sessions on the next farm bill have already been held in home districts and that live in-person listening sessions could be held in spring if the COVID-19 vaccine helps to reduce cases.\nIt is time for full and complete connectivity in rural America,\" Thompson says. \"We need to take a laser-focused approach to connectivity. COVID has made this apparent.\"", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://keller.house.gov/media/in-the-news/western-pa-congressmen-join-rebuke-us-attorney-general-william-barr", "Western Pa. congressmen join rebuke of U.S. Attorney General William Barr", "2020-12-03", "2020", "2020-12", "Republican", "Senate", "PA", "Fred Keller", "K000395", "keller.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "A bloc of 39 congressmen  including five Pennsylvania Republicans who were reelected Nov. 3  lashed out at Attorney General William Barr in a letter expressing dismay at the shocking lack of action stemming from the Justice Department's investigation of allegations of fraud in the election.\nThe letter was posted the same day Barr announced that Justice Department investigators had uncovered no evidence of fraud that would change the outcome of the election.\nTo date, we have not seen fraud on a scale that could have affected a different outcome in the election, Barr told The Associated Press.\nU.S. Reps. John Joyce, R-Blair County, and Guy Reschenthaler, R-Peters Township were among those who urged Barr to take a closer look at what they claim are election irregularities. Both are staunch supporters of President Trump who appeared on stage with the president at campaign rallies in Western Pennsylvania.\nNeither Joyce nor Reschenthaler responded to requests to detail what they believe threw the Pennsylvania election into question.\nTuesday's announcement from Barr, who previously warned of the potential for fraud in widespread mail-in balloting, left many of the president's supporters stunned.\nThe congressmen joined Trump and his attorney, Rudy Giuliani, in discounting Barr's findings.\nThe president continues to claim he won and has repeated unfounded claims of widespread fraud and sweeping conspiracies to steal the election.\nLike Joyce and Reschenthaler, Pennsylvania Republican Reps. Fred Keller, R-Snyder, Scott Perry, R-York, and Dan Meuser, R-Luzerne, signed off on the letter. All five of them were re-elected as Trump suffered an 81,000 vote defeat to Democrat Joe Biden in Pennsylvania.\nThere are a number of anomalies, statistical improbabilities and accusations of fraud that bring the election results in several states into question, the congressmen wrote. Affidavits of irregularities in the voting and tabulation processes have been sworn in a number of jurisdictions. Threats of retribution by leftist groups with a history of violence have been made against election officials and attorneys for President Trump. And a number of last-minute changes in balloting and counting requirements raise questions about the overall integrity of federal elections.\nAlthough Pennsylvania Republicans have reported receiving numerous allegations of election irregularities, federal courts here have dismissed the Trump campaign's legal challenges to the election as lacking in evidence.\nFree, fair elections are the lifeblood of our democracy. Charges of unfairness are serious. But calling an election unfair does not make it so, Judge Stephanos Bibas, a Trump appointee to the 3rd U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals, wrote in the Nov. 27 ruling that rejected the campaign's most recent appeal in Pennsylvania. Charges require specific allegations and then proof. We have neither here.\nMany of the allegations in Pennsylvania referred to issues with dates and signatures on mail-in ballots and complaints from poll watchers that they were not given adequate access to the count.\nAt a hearing in Gettysburg last week, Giuliani conflated primary election reports with general election returns to falsely claim Pennsylvania officials had counted 700,000 more mail-in ballots than they distributed. Sidney Powell, a lawyer for the Trump campaign who has since been dismissed, alleged voting systems were flipping votes.\nBarr said Tuesday his office had looked into claims such as those Powell voiced.\nThere's been one assertion that would be systemic fraud and that would be the claim that machines were programmed essentially to skew the election results. And the (Department of Homeland Security) and DOJ have looked into that, and so far, we haven't seen anything to substantiate that, he said.\nNonetheless, the president's supporters continue to maintain their attacks on the election.\nRep. Mike Kelly, R-Butler, did not sign Tuesday's letter, but is continuing his own attack on the outcome of the election in Pennsylvania.\nKelly, the lead plaintiff in a suit seeking to have Pennsylvania's expansive 2019 mail-in ballot law ruled unconstitutional, is seeking a hearing before the U.S. Supreme Court.\nThe Pennsylvania Supreme Court shot down the complaint Saturday and dismissed a lower court ruling halting the certification of the vote here. In its ruling, the state high court said the challenge was filed long after the expiration date for such challenges, and the plaintiffs had failed to prove a single ballot fraudulent.\nIn a new appeal filed Wednesday, Kelly asked the state Supreme Court to reinstate the lower court's stay on election certification, pending the U.S. Supreme Court's decision whether to hear his appeal.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://thompson.house.gov/media-center/in-the-news/climate-trade-top-gop-pick-thompson-s-farm-panel-priorities", "Climate, Trade Top GOP Pick Thompsons Farm Panel Priorities", "2020-12-03", "2020", "2020-12", "Republican", "Senate", "PA", "Glenn Thompson", "T000467", "thompson.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Glenn GT Thompsonwill serve as the top Republican on the House Agriculture Committee next year, the party conference announced.\nThompson will succeed ranking memberMike Conaway(Texas) following his retirement. The Republican steering committee recommended the Pennsylvania lawmaker over Reps.Austin Scott(Ga.) andRick Crawford(Ark.), who were also vying for the position.\nHis selection will help solidify Republican priorities for the panel next year, as the chairmanship remains in flux after current leaderCollin Peterson(D-Minn.)'s election loss.\nThompson's roots in dairy farming help him understand what needs to be done to take America's agriculture industry to the next level, and he knows the needs of the hard working Americans who will get us there, the GOP conference's Thursday announcement said.\n Thompson's Priorities \nThompson, who is heading into his seventh congressional term, has previously served as the committee's vice chairman and ranking member of three subcommittees.\nThe Republican conference announcement pointed to his commitment to speaking up as one of his best leadership skills, making him the most frequent speaker on the House floor for the past seven years.\nIn his new role, Thompson pledged to restore a robust rural economy, help develop precision agriculture, identify climate solutions through voluntary conservation, and expand agricultural market opportunities with strong trade deals.\nFarmers and ranchers also need a stronger safety net to mitigate weather-related disasters, such as Southern agriculture producers' losses during hurricanes and Iowa farmers' crops flattened by an August derecho, he said.\nThere's no other committee that probably touches the lives more frequently in a day's time of the American family than the Agriculture Committee, Thompson said in an interview before the November election.\nThompson highlighted his ability to work with his Democratic colleagues, having served as a co-sponsor on several of Peterson's bills, such as assistance for meat processors (H.R. 7490) and whole milk for students (H.R. 832).\nDemocratsDavid Scott(Ga.) andJim Costa(Calif.) are vying to succeed Peterson.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://thompson.house.gov/media-center/in-the-news/house-gop-selects-several-new-ranking-members-next-congress", "House GOP selects several new ranking members for next Congress", "2020-12-03", "2020", "2020-12", "Republican", "Senate", "PA", "Glenn Thompson", "T000467", "thompson.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "House Minority Leader Kevin McCarthy (R-Calif.) announced Thursday that the GOP caucus has selected several new ranking members for the incoming Congress, including Rep. Cathy McMorris Rodgers (Wash.) for the Energy and Commerce Committee.\n\n\n\tOther leading committee Republicans who will be new to their posts include Reps. Glenn Thompson (Pa.) for Agriculture; Mike Rogers (Ala.) for Armed Services; Jason T. Smith (Mo.) for Budget; Bruce Westerman (Ark.) for Natural Resources; Blaine Luetkemeyer (Mo.) for Small Business; and Mike Bost (Ill.) for Veterans Affairs.\n\n\n\tThe top Republicans on other committees will remain the same as in the current Congress.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://thompson.house.gov/media-center/in-the-news/pennsylvanias-glenn-thompson-lead-us-house-ag-republicans", "Pennsylvania's Glenn Thompson to Lead U.S. House Ag Republicans", "2020-12-03", "2020", "2020-12", "Republican", "Senate", "PA", "Glenn Thompson", "T000467", "thompson.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Rep. Glenn Thompson, R-Pa., was elected Wednesday to be the Republican leader of the House Agriculture Committee for the 2021-2022 term.\nThe challenges ahead of us are considerable, but we will continue to put farm families first and ensure our country has the most safe and affordable food supply chain on the planet, saidThompson, who represents a heavily forested but sparsely populated swath of Pennsylvania stretching from Centre County to Venango County and the New York border.\nSince entering Congress in 2009, Thompson has spoken effusively about farmers. In recent years he has led efforts to return whole milk to the School Lunch Program.\nThompson's ascension to Ag Committee leadership is somewhat unusual. The posts often go to lawmakers from Western states. Thompson, known as G.T., was chosen by the Republican Steering Committee.\nThe committee's current ranking member, Texas Rep.Mike Conaway, is retiring.\nThe Democrats, who will maintain control of the House next session, have not announced the next Ag Committee chairman.\nThe incumbent, Rep.Collin Petersonof Minnesota, was defeated in November's election, and one of the most senior members of the committee, Rep.Marcia Fudgeof Ohio, is being discussed for U.S. ag secretary.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"]], "truncated": false, "filtered_table_rows_count": 248, "expanded_columns": [], "expandable_columns": [], "columns": ["url", "title", "date", "year", "month", "party", "chamber", "state", "member_name", "bioguide_id", "domain", "scraper", "source", "date_source", "text", "has_text", "collected_at", "updated_at"], "primary_keys": ["url"], "units": {}, "query": {"sql": "select url, title, date, year, month, party, chamber, state, member_name, bioguide_id, domain, scraper, source, date_source, text, has_text, collected_at, updated_at from releases where \"chamber\" = :p0 and \"party\" = :p1 and \"state\" = :p2 order by date desc limit 101", "params": {"p0": "Senate", "p1": "Republican", "p2": "PA"}}, "facet_results": {"party": {"name": "party", "type": "column", "hideable": false, "toggle_url": "/press/releases.json?chamber=Senate&party=Republican&state=PA", "results": [{"value": "Republican", "label": "Republican", "count": 248, "toggle_url": "http://dpwillis-congress-press-search.hf.space/press/releases.json?chamber=Senate&state=PA", "selected": true}], "truncated": false}, "chamber": {"name": "chamber", "type": "column", "hideable": false, "toggle_url": "/press/releases.json?chamber=Senate&party=Republican&state=PA", "results": [{"value": "Senate", "label": "Senate", "count": 248, "toggle_url": "http://dpwillis-congress-press-search.hf.space/press/releases.json?party=Republican&state=PA", "selected": true}], "truncated": false}, "state": {"name": "state", "type": "column", "hideable": false, "toggle_url": "/press/releases.json?chamber=Senate&party=Republican&state=PA", "results": [{"value": "PA", "label": "PA", "count": 248, "toggle_url": "http://dpwillis-congress-press-search.hf.space/press/releases.json?chamber=Senate&party=Republican", "selected": true}], "truncated": false}, "year": {"name": "year", "type": "column", "hideable": false, "toggle_url": "/press/releases.json?chamber=Senate&party=Republican&state=PA", "results": [{"value": "2020", "label": "2020", "count": 191, "toggle_url": "http://dpwillis-congress-press-search.hf.space/press/releases.json?chamber=Senate&party=Republican&state=PA&year=2020", "selected": false}, {"value": "2026", "label": "2026", "count": 57, "toggle_url": "http://dpwillis-congress-press-search.hf.space/press/releases.json?chamber=Senate&party=Republican&state=PA&year=2026", "selected": false}], "truncated": false}}, "suggested_facets": [], "next": "2020-12-03,https~3A~2F~2Fthompson~2Ehouse~2Egov~2Fmedia-center~2Fin-the-news~2Fpennsylvanias-glenn-thompson-lead-us-house-ag-republicans", "next_url": "http://dpwillis-congress-press-search.hf.space/press/releases.json?chamber=Senate&party=Republican&state=PA&_next=2020-12-03%2Chttps~3A~2F~2Fthompson~2Ehouse~2Egov~2Fmedia-center~2Fin-the-news~2Fpennsylvanias-glenn-thompson-lead-us-house-ag-republicans&_sort_desc=date", "private": false, "allow_execute_sql": true, "query_ms": 301.5359262935817, "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"}