{"database": "press", "table": "releases", "is_view": false, "human_description_en": "where party = \"Democrat\", state = \"AL\" and year = 2023 sorted by date descending", "rows": [["https://sewell.house.gov/2023/12/rep-sewell-votes-for-fiscal-year-2024-national-defense-authorization-act", "Rep. Sewell Votes for Fiscal Year 2024 National Defense Authorization Act", "2023-12-14", "2023", "2023-12", "Democrat", "House", "AL", "Terri A. Sewell", "S001185", "sewell.house.gov", "sewell", "https://sewell.house.gov/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington D.C. \u2013 Today, U.S. Rep. Terri Sewell (AL-07), a member of the House Armed Services Committee, voted in favor of the Fiscal Year 2024 (FY24) National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA). Rep. Sewell previously opposed the House bill after extreme MAGA Republicans hijacked it with amendments attacking diversity and inclusion and undermining access to reproductive health care for service members. Sewell and her Democratic colleagues successfully worked to strip these harmful provisions from the bill.\n\nThe FY24 NDAA includes a 5.2% pay raise for service members, record research funding for Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs), and major investments in Alabama\u2019s military installations. It passed the House of Representatives today by a vote of 310 to 118. Having already passed the Senate, it will now make its way to President Biden\u2019s desk to be signed into law.\n\n\u201cAs a member of the House Armed Services Committee and the representative for critical military installations in Alabama, I take very seriously my responsibility to provide our service members with the tools and support they need to keep our nation safe,\u201d said Rep. Sewell. \u201cThough I was profoundly disappointed when extreme Republicans hijacked the previous version of this bill, I am grateful that Democrats successfully stripped out their amendments attacking diversity and reproductive health care. With these provisions removed, I was proud to continue the solemn tradition of supporting the NDAA and our national defense.\u201d\n\n\u201cI am absolutely thrilled that we secured a number of key wins in this year\u2019s NDAA including a 5.2 percent pay raise for Alabama\u2019s 37,000 service members and a record $150 million in research funding for our nation\u2019s HBCUs and MSIs,\u201d continued Sewell. \u201cThe talented students, faculty, and researchers at these cherished institutions are an asset to our national security, and we must continue to invest in their success.\u201d\n\nPassed annually by Congress, the NDAA authorizes funding levels for the Department of Defense (DoD) and allows the Armed Forces to pay, train, and equip U.S. service members, support America\u2019s allies around the world, and carry out essential national security operations.\n\nRep. Sewell and Congressional Democrats successfully removed Republicans\u2019 harmful amendments eliminating the Chief Diversity Officer, limiting the discussion of race, and restricting access to reproductive health care for service women.\n\nRep. Sewell secured key wins in the FY24 NDAA:\n\nProvides Record Research Funding for HBCUs and Minority Serving Institutions (MSIs) - The NDAA includes an amendment that Rep. Sewell co-sponsored to boost research funding for HBCUs and MSIs to historic levels. In total, this year\u2019s NDAA includes $150 million to support cutting-edge research programs at HBCUs and MSIs, $50 million more than the President\u2019s request and $18 million more than the FY23 NDAA.\n\nProvides a Pay Raise to Service Members - The NDAA includes a 5.2% pay raise for the over 37,000 service members in Alabama, expands eligibility for the Basic Needs Allowance, and makes significant investments in military family housing and child development centers.\n\nBlocks the Move of SPACECOM Headquarters to Colorado - The NDAA blocks money to acquire, build, plan or design a new Space Command Headquarters until after June 2024, when the DoD Inspector General and Government Accountability Office have finished reviews into the decision to keep Space Command in Colorado.\n\nAuthorizes $122 Million for Military Construction Projects in the 7th District - The NDAA authorizes $65 million for Military Family Housing at Maxwell and $57 million for a new Army Reserve Center in Birmingham.\n\nModernizes Alabama\u2019s Air National Guard Facilities - The NDAA includes Rep. Sewell\u2019s amendment directing the Secretary of the Air Force to brief the Armed Services Committee on facility modernization plans for Air National Guard installations in Alabama including the 117th Air Refueling Wing in Birmingham.\n\nRecognizes Air Force Professional Development Education at Maxwell Air Force Base - Thanks to a request submitted by Rep. Sewell, the NDAA acknowledges the important role Air University at Maxwell Air Force Base plays in training our brightest Air Force leaders, paving the way for innovative research, and advancing USAF combat operations.\n\nExpands DoD Partnership with HBCUs - The NDAA includes Rep. Sewell\u2019s amendment to strengthen and expand partnerships between DoD and our nation\u2019s HBCUs. The amendment directs the Air Force to brief the House Armed Services Committee on how it plans to partner with HBCUs to leverage their expertise in the areas of cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, augmented reality, and Additive Manufacturing.\n\nInvests in New and Existing Aircraft - The NDAA authorizes $65 million for additional MH-139 helicopters for Maxwell Air Force Base and prohibits the retirement of KC-135 refueling tankers, preserving the 117th Air National Guard\u2019s footprint.\n\nExpands Reserve Officers\u2019 Training Corps (ROTC) Programs at HBCUs - The NDAA includes a provision directing the Secretary of the Air Force to submit a report to the House Committee on Armed Services that includes an assessment of the feasibility of expanding Air Force ROTC programs at HBCUs, the cost of such an expansion to HBCUs, and the number of HBCUs that qualify for an Air Force ROTC program.\n\nTackles Hunger Among Military Families - The NDAA includes an amendment cosponsored by Rep. Sewell to explore the process of improving the certification process for military families accessing free- and reduced-price school meals.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T01:14:16Z"], ["https://sewell.house.gov/2023/12/reps-sewell-and-bilirakis-introduce-bipartisan-legislation-to-help-rare-kidney-disease-patients", "Reps. Sewell and Bilirakis Introduce Bipartisan Legislation to Help Rare Kidney Disease Patients", "2023-12-14", "2023", "2023-12", "Democrat", "House", "AL", "Terri A. Sewell", "S001185", "sewell.house.gov", "sewell", "https://sewell.house.gov/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2014 Today, U.S. Reps. Gus Bilirakis (FL-12) and Terri Sewell (AL-07) introduced the New Era for Preventing End-Stage Kidney Disease Act. This important legislation will help transform the delivery of care to rare kidney disease patients by increasing community and healthcare provider awareness and education.\n\nEach year, Medicare spends more than $84 billion providing critical care to patients with chronic kidney disease, including $36 billion on patients with end-stage kidney disease (ESKD). Unfortunately, there has been little innovation in treatment options for kidney disease patients since the 1960s when dialysis and immunosuppressants became commonplace. Earlier this year, the FDA approved the first-of-its-kind non-immunosuppressive drug therapy for the rare kidney disease IgA Nephropathy. Yet oftentimes, patients struggle to find a nephrologist well-versed in their rare conditions who can provide an accurate diagnosis and expert treatment. These treatment and diagnostic barriers, coupled with the lack of rare kidney disease awareness and education, often cause a delay in diagnosis that can result in a rapid decline in kidney function and, ultimately, kidney failure. For many rare kidney disease patients, their only options are dialysis, transplant, or death.\n\n\u201cFar too many people living with rare kidney disease have trouble finding specialized care providers,\u201d said Rep. Sewell. \u201cIncreasing awareness and education is crucial to caring for rare kidney disease patients, which is why I\u2019m so proud to introduce the New Era For Preventing End Stage Kidney Disease Act. This legislation will make critical improvements to the way patients with rare kidney disease, especially those in underserved communities, access and receive care.\u201d\n\n\"Our life-saving legislation will help remove diagnostic and treatment barriers for many patients suffering with a rare disease,\" said Rep. Bilirakis. \"Through the establishment of Rare Kidney Disease Research Centers of Excellence and increased provider education efforts, we will empower providers to better identify the signs and symptoms of rare kidney disease, which will lead to improved treatment options and better patient outcomes.\"", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T01:14:16Z"], ["https://sewell.house.gov/2023/12/reps-williams-and-carter-make-good-on-chick-fil-a-wager-with-reps-sewell-and-aderholt-after-bama-sec-championship-win", "Reps. Williams and Carter Make Good on Chick-fil-A Wager with Reps. Sewell and Aderholt After Bama SEC Championship Win", "2023-12-06", "2023", "2023-12", "Democrat", "House", "AL", "Terri A. Sewell", "S001185", "sewell.house.gov", "sewell", "https://sewell.house.gov/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington D.C. \u2013 Today, U.S. Reps. Nikema Williams (D-GA) and Buddy Carter (R-GA) made good on their friendly wager with Reps. Terri Sewell (D-AL) and Robert Aderholt (R-AL), treating the Alabama Congressmembers to lunch. On Saturday, the Alabama Crimson Tide won a hard-fought 27-24 victory over the Geogia Bulldogs, ending Georgia\u2019s winning streak and subsequently securing a coveted spot in the College Football Playoff.\n\n\u201cCongratulations to the Tide on their 30th SEC title!\u201d said Rep. Sewell. \u201cI want to thank our Georgia colleagues for being good sports and donning some Alabama apparel on the House steps. Congressman Aderholt and I can confirm; Victory really does taste better with a side of chicken!\u201d\n\n\u201cAfter Saturday\u2019s big win, let\u2019s see if we can find any Michigan colleagues brave enough to bet against the Tide,\u201d continued Sewell.\n\nStay tuned for another possible wager when the Crimson Tide takes on the Michigan Wolverines in the College Football Playoff at the Rose Bowl on New Years Day.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T01:14:16Z"], ["https://sewell.house.gov/2023/12/rep-sewell-honors-rosa-parks-on-the-house-floor-urges-support-for-her-rosa-parks-day-act", "Rep. Sewell Honors Rosa Parks on the House Floor, Urges Support for her Rosa Parks Day Act", "2023-12-01", "2023", "2023-12", "Democrat", "House", "AL", "Terri A. Sewell", "S001185", "sewell.house.gov", "sewell", "https://sewell.house.gov/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington D.C. \u2013 Today, on the 68th anniversary of Rosa Parks\u2019 arrest, U.S. Rep. Terri Sewell (AL-07) spoke on the House Floor to honor the Civil Rights icon and urge her colleagues to support her bill, H.R. 308, the Rosa Parks Day Act, to designate December 1st as a federal holiday. The Rosa Parks Day Act now enjoys the support of 114 cosponsors in the House of Representatives.\n\nA recording is available for download and broadcast purposes here. Watch on YouTube here.\n\nRep. Sewell: Madam Speaker, I rise today to call on all of my colleagues to cosponsor H.R. 308, the Rosa Parks Day Act.\n\nToday, December 1st, Americans across the nation are celebrating the legacy of Rosa Parks.\n\nIt was on December 1, 1955, when Rosa Parks was arrested in Montgomery, Alabama, for refusing to give up her seat on a city bus. This simple but bold act of resistance to segregationist Jim Crow laws inspired the historic Montgomery Bus Boycott.\n\nFor 481 days, spurred by Rosa Parks\u2019 courage, thousands of African Americans peacefully protested the Montgomery city bus system until the United States Court ruled in Browder v. Gayle that the segregation ordinances were unconstitutional.\n\nRosa Parks was awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 1996, the Congressional Gold Medal in 1999, and was the first woman to ever lie in state in the U.S. Capitol Rotunda. In addition, many states, including Ohio, California, Missouri, and Oregon, already observe Rosa Parks Day at the state level.\n\nHer legacy continues to inspire new generations of Americans to advance justice and equality. Now is the time to pass this legislation and to declare December 1st as a federal holiday and as Rosa Parks Day.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T01:14:16Z"], ["https://sewell.house.gov/2023/11/reps-terri-sewell-robert-aderholt-nikema-williams-and-buddy-carter-announce-friendly-bipartisan-wager-on-uga-bama-sec-championship", "Reps. Terri Sewell, Robert Aderholt, Nikema Williams, and Buddy Carter Announce Friendly, Bipartisan Wager on UGA-Bama SEC Championship", "2023-11-30", "2023", "2023-11", "Democrat", "House", "AL", "Terri A. Sewell", "S001185", "sewell.house.gov", "sewell", "https://sewell.house.gov/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington D.C. \u2013 Today, ahead of Saturday\u2019s SEC championship game between the University of Alabama and the University of Georgia, U.S. Reps. Terri Sewell (D-AL), Robert Aderholt (R-AL), Nikema Williams (D-GA), and Buddy Carter (R-GA) announced a friendly wager on which team will prevail on the gridiron.\n\nWhen the Alabama Crimson Tide are victorious, Bama fans Reps. Terri Sewell and Robert Aderholt will enjoy Georgia\u2019s own Chick-fil-A courtesy of Reps. Nikema Williams and Buddy Carter.\n\nIf the UGA Bulldogs manage to pull off a surprise victory over the Alabama Crimson Tide, proud fans Reps. Nikema Williams and Buddy Carter will enjoy a lunch of coveted Dreamland Bar-B-Que courtesy of Reps. Terri Sewell and Robert Aderholt.\n\n\u201cOur Georgia friends like to talk smack, but good luck stopping Jalen Milroe!\u201d said Rep. Sewell. \u201cI\u2019m looking forward to the Tide ending Georgia\u2019s winning streak on Saturday. Lucky for Congressman Aderholt and I, victory always tastes better with a side of chicken. The Tide is going to Roll in Atlanta!\u201d\n\n\u201cAlabama and Georgia facing off in the SEC Championship, the National Championship or both, is becoming almost an annual tradition,\u201d said Rep. Aderholt. \u201cSomething else that is a great tradition is Dreamland Barbeque. So, it\u2019s a shame our Georgia colleagues won\u2019t get to experience it. But I\u2019m looking forward to that Chick-fil-A. Roll Tide!\u201d\n\n\u201cThe Georgia Bulldogs have feasted on every opponent for the last two seasons,\" said Rep. Williams. \"I\u2019m ready to feast on some barbecue when the Dawgs win their fifth straight game in Atlanta\u2013their second home. Make no mistake I win either way because I\u2019m a lifelong \u2018Bama fan but this season the Dawgs have the edge.\u201d\n\n\u201cGeorgia playing Alabama at the end of the football season has become a holiday tradition, as has Georgia winning the SEC Championship,\u201d said Rep. Carter. \u201cEveryone knows that the far superior Georgia Bulldogs already have this in the bag and I\u2019m excited to celebrate their victory with a side of BBQ. GO DAWGS!\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T01:01:09Z"], ["https://sewell.house.gov/2023/11/ahead-of-the-68th-anniversary-of-rosa-parks-arrest-rep-sewell-leads-the-push-for-rosa-parks-federal-holiday", "Ahead of the 68th Anniversary of Rosa Parks\u2019 Arrest, Rep. Sewell Leads the Push for Rosa Parks Federal Holiday", "2023-11-29", "2023", "2023-11", "Democrat", "House", "AL", "Terri A. Sewell", "S001185", "sewell.house.gov", "sewell", "https://sewell.house.gov/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington D.C. \u2013 Today, ahead of the 68th anniversary of Rosa Parks\u2019 arrest, U.S. Rep. Terri Sewell (AL-07) was joined by Congressional Black Caucus (CBC) Chairman Steven Horsford (NV-04), Rep. Joyce Beatty (OH-03) and members of the CBC for a press conference on Capitol Hill urging passage of her bill, H.R. 308, the Rosa Parks Day Act. The bill would make December 1st a federal holiday commemorating the arrest of Rosa Parks. The Rosa Parks Day Act was the first bill that Rep. Sewell introduced in the 118th Congress.\n\nWatch the press conference here.\n\nOn December 1, 1955, Rosa Parks was arrested in Montgomery, Alabama, for refusing to give up her seat to a white passenger on a public bus, sparking the Montgomery Bus Boycott and galvanizing the Civil Rights Movement.\n\nThere is currently no federal holiday honoring a woman or a Black woman.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T01:01:09Z"], ["https://sewell.house.gov/2023/11/rep-sewell-announces-2-1-million-hud-grant-to-expand-affordable-housing-choices-for-families-in-birmingham", "Rep. Sewell Announces $2.1 Million HUD Grant to Expand Affordable Housing Choices for Families in Birmingham", "2023-11-28", "2023", "2023-11", "Democrat", "House", "AL", "Terri A. Sewell", "S001185", "sewell.house.gov", "sewell", "https://sewell.house.gov/press-releases", "scraper", "Birmingham, AL - Today, U.S. Rep. Terri Sewell (AL-07) announced $2,119,900 from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) to expand affordable housing vouchers in Birmingham. The funds, which were awarded to the Housing Authority of the Birmingham District (HABD), are designed to expand housing choices for Housing Choice Voucher (HCV) families with children by increasing access to opportunity neighborhoods with high-performing schools, access to jobs, low crime rates, parks, and other amenities.\n\n\u201cI am thrilled to share that Birmingham has been awarded over $2.1 million from the Department of Housing and Urban Development to expand affordable housing choices,\u201d said Rep. Sewell. \u201cThat means more stability and greater economic mobility for Birmingham's children. I applaud the Biden-Harris Administration for continuing to invest in our children and families!\u201d\n\nThis program is based on HUD's Community Choice Demonstration program that builds upon recent research that shows growing up in neighborhoods with lower poverty levels improves children's academic achievement and long-term chances of success and reduces intergenerational poverty. Children who move to low-poverty neighborhoods have also been shown to experience lower rates of hospitalizations, lower hospital spending, and some changes in mental health over the long-term follow-up. Adults given the chance to move to low-poverty neighborhoods experience reductions in obesity and diabetes.\n\nWhile the HCV program currently offers families with vouchers the opportunity to live in a neighborhood of their choice (including low-poverty, opportunity neighborhoods), families with HCVs may continue to encounter barriers to using their vouchers in communities with expanded opportunities. Common barriers include the inability to save enough money for a security deposit, inadequate time to find a unit, landlord unwillingness to rent to voucher holders, or limited awareness of neighborhood amenities, such as the location of high-performing schools.\n\nThe Housing Choice Voucher Mobility Services Program will support Public Housing Agencies (PHA) in addressing barriers to accessing housing choices by offering mobility-related services to increase the number of voucher families with children living in opportunity areas. In addition to offering mobility-related services, PHAs will work together in their regions to adopt administrative policies that further enable housing mobility, increase landlord participation, and reduce barriers for families to move across PHA jurisdictions through portability.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T01:01:09Z"], ["https://sewell.house.gov/2023/11/rep-sewell-statement-on-8th-circuit-court-ruling-gutting-the-voting-rights-act-of-1965", "Rep. Sewell Statement on 8th Circuit Court Ruling Gutting the Voting Rights Act of 1965", "2023-11-20", "2023", "2023-11", "Democrat", "House", "AL", "Terri A. Sewell", "S001185", "sewell.house.gov", "sewell", "https://sewell.house.gov/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington D.C. \u2013 U.S. Rep. Terri Sewell (AL-07) released the following statement regarding today\u2019s ruling by the 8th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals\u2019 gutting Section 2 of the Voting Rights Act:\n\n\u201cThis ruling by the 8th Circuit Court of Appeals is deeply disturbing and wrong as a matter of law. If allowed to stand, it would be the death knell of the Voting Rights Act, stripping individuals and civil rights groups of their ability to fight back against voter discrimination in court. The Supreme Court must reverse this disastrous ruling without delay.\n\n\u201cI\u2019m calling on Congress to immediately pass the John R. Lewis Voting Rights Advancement Act. We cannot allow extremists to strip away the remaining protections of the VRA.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T01:01:09Z"], ["https://sewell.house.gov/2023/11/reps-sewell-miller-introduce-the-bipartisan-assistance-for-rural-community-hospitals-arch-act-on-national-rural-health-day", "Reps. Sewell, Miller Introduce the Bipartisan Assistance for Rural Community Hospitals (ARCH) Act on National Rural Health Day", "2023-11-16", "2023", "2023-11", "Democrat", "House", "AL", "Terri A. Sewell", "S001185", "sewell.house.gov", "sewell", "https://sewell.house.gov/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington D.C. \u2013 Today, on National Rural Health Day, U.S. Reps. Terri Sewell (AL-07) and Carol Miller (WV-01) introduced H.R. 6430, the Assistance for Rural Community Hospitals(ARCH) Act. This bill would provide greater financial stability for rural hospitals by extending the Medicare-dependent hospital program and Medicare low-volume hospital payments for five years each. The bill would also require a GAO report to ensure Medicare rural hospital designations are bolstering rural health care.\n\n\u201cWe in Alabama have seen our rural hospitals come under immense strain, threatening to make it harder for our communities to access the services they need,\u201d said Rep. Sewell, lead Democratic sponsor. \u201cThis legislation is about providing stability to our rural hospitals so that they can keep their doors open and continue serving patients. There is no time more befitting than National Rural Health Day to shine a spotlight on the needs of our rural hospitals. I thank Congresswoman Miller for her partnership and urge my colleagues to join us in supporting this legislation.\u201d\n\n\u201cHospitals in rural communities should have access to the same resources as any other hospital to keep their doors open and administer efficient and quality care,\u201d said Rep. Miller, lead Republican sponsor. \u201cIn the midst of rising health care prices and medical workforce shortages, the ARCH act will provide Medicare-dependent and Medicare low-volume hospitalswith much needed financial stability. I was pleased to introduce this bill on National Rural Health Day and bring awareness to the concerns rural patients and hospitals are experiencing. I am grateful to Congresswoman Sewell for joining with me on this issue as we champion rural hospitals and provide them with the support they need to serve our communities.\u201d\n\nBill text can be found here.\n\nBackground:", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T01:01:09Z"], ["https://sewell.house.gov/2023/11/rep-sewell-accepting-applications-for-military-service-academy-nominations-until-november-18th", "Rep. Sewell Accepting Applications for Military Service Academy Nominations Until November 18th", "2023-11-14", "2023", "2023-11", "Democrat", "House", "AL", "Terri A. Sewell", "S001185", "sewell.house.gov", "sewell", "https://sewell.house.gov/press-releases", "scraper", "Birmingham, AL \u2013 Today, U.S. Rep. Terri Sewell (AL-07) reminded graduating seniors in Alabama\u2019s 7th Congressional District that they have four days left to apply for a nomination to a United States military service academy.\n\n\u201cThere is no greater act of patriotism than choosing to serve as part of our nation\u2019s armed services, and I encourage all graduating seniors to consider pursuing an education at one of our United States military service academies,\u201d continued Sewell. \u201cAttending a military service academy will not only jumpstart your career in the military, but it will also offer an invaluable opportunity to develop your leadership and interpersonal skills.\u201d\n\n\u201cMaking these appointments is one of my most satisfying duties as a Member of Congress,\u201d continued Sewell. \u201cBe sure to submit your application by November 18th!\u201d\n\nTo be considered for an appointment to a military service academy, an applicant must meet the eligibility requirements established by law and be legally domiciled within the boundaries of Alabama's 7th Congressional District. Students must complete a nomination application, which can be found on Rep. Sewell's website here.\n\nSubmissions must be received by Rep. Sewell\u2019s Birmingham office by U.S. mail and postmarked no later than Saturday, November 18, 2023. Applications should be mailed to:\n\nOffice of Congresswoman Terri A. Sewell\n\nAttn: Academy Nominations\n\nTwo 20th Street North, Suite 1130\n\nBirmingham, AL 35203\n\nFor more information on military service academy nominations for 2023, visit Rep. Sewell's official website here.\n\nBackground on Service Academies\n\nThere are five service academies:\n\nThe United States Air Force Academy (USAFA)\n\nThe United States Naval Academy (USNA)\n\nThe United States Coast Guard Academy (USCGA)\n\nThe United States Merchant Marine Academy (USMMA)\n\nThe United States Military Academy (USMA) at West Point\n\nNominations are required for all but the U.S. Coast Guard Academy, to which appointments are made on the basis of their independent application process.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T01:01:09Z"], ["https://sewell.house.gov/2023/11/rep-sewell-votes-to-avert-government-shutdown/0aedf063-5f09-49dc-a6bc-4b57259734ee", "Rep. Sewell Votes to Avert Government Shutdown", "2023-11-14", "2023", "2023-11", "Democrat", "House", "AL", "Terri A. Sewell", "S001185", "sewell.house.gov", "sewell", "https://sewell.house.gov/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington D.C. \u2013 Today, U.S. Rep. Terri Sewell (AL-07) voted in favor of a Continuing Resolution (CR) to keep the federal government open and protect Alabama families from the disastrous consequences of a shutdown. The CR funds the federal government at current levels through January 19th for certain agencies and February 2nd for others. It passed the House of Representatives by an overwhelmingly bipartisan vote of 336 to 95 and will now make its way to the U.S. Senate.\n\n\u201cWe in Congress have a responsibility to the American people to keep the government open and protect the programs that families rely on,\u201d said Rep. Sewell. \u201cWhile I have some concerns about the staggered funding deadlines, this measure prevents a shutdown and protects against the extreme cuts pushed by my colleagues across the aisle. Families in Alabama can breathe a sigh of relief knowing that their Thanksgiving plans will not be affected by a government shutdown.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T01:01:09Z"], ["https://sewell.house.gov/2023/11/rep-sewell-announces-521-100-for-greene-county-hospital-and-nursing-home-celebrates-veterans-day-in-greene-and-pickens-counties", "Rep. Sewell Announces $521,100 for Greene County Hospital and Nursing Home, Celebrates Veterans Day in Greene and Pickens Counties", "2023-11-11", "2023", "2023-11", "Democrat", "House", "AL", "Terri A. Sewell", "S001185", "sewell.house.gov", "sewell", "https://sewell.house.gov/press-releases", "scraper", "Greene County, AL \u2014 Today, U.S. Rep. Terri Sewell (AL-07) announced $521,100 that she secured to make critical infrastructure improvements to the Greene County Hospital and Nursing Home. This funding is part of the $42.8 million that she secured in the Fiscal Year 2023 federal government funding package for local projects in Alabama\u2019s 7th Congressional District. Rep. Sewell also made stops in Reform and Eutaw to celebrate Veterans Day with local elected officials and community members. Every year, Sewell visits each of the 14 counties in Alabama\u2019s 7th Congressional District.\n\nWatch Rep. Sewell\u2019s Veterans Day video message here. More photos and videos are available here.\n\n\u201cThe hard-working health care professionals at the Greene County Hospital and Nursing Home provide essential care to so many here in West Alabama\u201d said Rep. Sewell. \u201cI am thrilled to have secured $521,100 for this facility to ensure that they can continue that critical work. This funding will help upgrade the hospital\u2019s generators so that patients are protected in the case of a power outage. This is all about making our community safer, stronger, and more prosperous.\u201d\n\nFriday morning, Rep. Sewell joined Reform Mayor Melody Davis, Gordo Mayor Craig Patterson, and community members at Reform Airport to bring greetings at the Gordo Rotary Club\u2019s 25th Veterans Day Commemoration Ceremony in Pickens County. Rep. Sewell\u2019s staff were onsite to assist individuals with federal constituent service matters.\n\nFollowing the Pickens County Veterans Day Celebration, Sewell was joined by Greene County Hospital and Nursing Home CEO Dr. Marcia Pugh, Hospital Board Members, and Eutaw Mayor Latasha Johnson to announce $521,100 that she secured in the Fiscal Year 2023 federal government funding package to improve the hospital\u2019s infrastructure. The funding will be used to install new generators to protect patients in the event of a power outage.\n\nSewell then attended the Greene County Veterans Day Street Festival where celebrated Veterans Day with local elected officials and community members and provided an update on her work in Congress.\n\nInformation about Military Service Academy Nominations\n\nRep. Sewell took Veterans Day as an opportunity to remind students in Alabama\u2019s 7th Congressional District that applications to be nominated to a U.S. military service academy are due by November 18th. Each year, Rep. Sewell has the privilege of nominating a limited number of people to the U.S. Air Force (USAFA), Naval (USNA), Army at West Point (USMA), and Merchant Marine (USMMA) academies. The honor of attending a service academy comes with an obligation and commitment to serve in the military for a minimum of five years upon graduation.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T01:01:09Z"], ["https://sewell.house.gov/2023/11/reps-sewell-and-aderholt-keeping-birmingham-southern-college-open-is-what-s-best-for-alabama", "Reps. Sewell and Aderholt: Keeping Birmingham-Southern College open is what\u2019s best for Alabama", "2023-11-06", "2023", "2023-11", "Democrat", "House", "AL", "Terri A. Sewell", "S001185", "sewell.house.gov", "sewell", "https://sewell.house.gov/press-releases", "scraper", "AL.com: Keeping Birmingham-Southern College open is what\u2019s best for Alabama\n\nBy U.S. Rep. Robert Aderholt and U.S. Rep. Terri Sewell\n\nPosted: Monday, November 6, 2023\n\nAlthough we represent different districts and different political parties in the U.S. House of Representatives, there are times that we agree when it comes to what\u2019s best for Alabama.\n\nThis is one of those times.\n\nFor one of us (Rep. Sewell) Birmingham-Southern College is in the district I am so honored to represent. I\u2019ve employed numerous staffers and interns over the years who are BSC alum, including my current Legislative Aide and Chief of Staff.\n\nFor the other (Rep. Aderholt) BSC is my alma mater, as well as the place where I met my wife, Caroline, who is also a BSC graduate. And it\u2019s where my parents went to college, too. I also have employed several staffers over the years who are BSC graduates.\n\nSo, when it comes to what is best for Alabama, we agree that keeping this 167-year-old college open and helping it achieve financial stability makes the list.\n\nWe were glad when the Alabama Legislature passed SB278, which established the Distressed Institutions of Higher Learning Revolving Loan Program. Because Alabama had a once-in-a-generation, $2.8B surplus in the Education Trust Fund, setting aside $30 million for the loan program was accomplished without reduction to state-supported institutions. This was and is a great use of a small fraction of that surplus, giving BSC the operating capital it needs while it raises private funds to restore its endowment to a level that will sustain the College going forward.\n\nWe were also glad when Gov. Kay Ivey signed the bill into law in June, because we agree that losing BSC would be bad for Alabama in many ways.\n\nFinancially, BSC delivers $97.2 million to the state each year in economic impact and $13.8 million in taxes to state and local coffers. That adds up to $1 billion in revenue over the next decade. But once gone, it will not return. Again, receiving a loan from the state seemed the common sense thing to do, considering the economic impact on the state.\n\nBeyond its financial value, BSC serves as an engaged partner and neighbor to the historic communities that surround it. Those communities \u2013 Graymont, College Hills, Bush Hills, Smithfield, and the area once known as Dynamite Hill \u2013 are about to receive a significant boost in federal funding that will provide new, affordable housing and will create an urban trail leading to the Civil Rights District downtown. We were proud to secure that funding for the city of Birmingham, and now cannot fathom it abutting 192 acres of empty classrooms and unoccupied residence halls.\n\nAnd of course there is the intangible value of what BSC brings to our state\u2019s educational landscape. Students and their families want choices for college \u2013 some are drawn to Alabama\u2019s large public institutions with big football programs and Greek systems. Others prefer a more urban setting with a focus on science or technology. Some want small colleges in small towns. Some seek out HBCUs or schools grounded in their faith tradition. Some want to get away from home; others want or need to stay close. Some know what they want to study, and others need time and space to explore their options.\n\nAlabama students deserve to have all of these choices within our state. As of today, and even with BSC\u2019s future in question, applications for fall 2024 have surpassed 1,600 \u2013 a number not achieved until after November in the last three years. Without BSC, young people who want what BSC offers \u2013 a small, residential, nationally ranked college in a big Alabama city \u2013 will have to go elsewhere. And once they leave, they may not return.\n\nAlabama residents make up 60 percent of BSC\u2019s student body. Half of BSC\u2019s 17,000 graduates remain in Alabama, where their impact is seen and felt in every walk of life in every one of our 67 counties.\n\nWe strongly urge Treasurer Boozer to rethink his decision to deny the bridge loan that was designed for this very situation: To help out a college or university in Alabama that brings significant value to its community, has been in business for more than 50 years, has assets sufficient to back the state\u2019s loan, and has a solid plan for paying it back.\n\nWe don\u2019t always agree on the issues in Washington, but on this we do: Keeping Birmingham-Southern College open is what\u2019s best for Alabama\u2019s economy, our communities, and our students.\n\nForward Ever!", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T01:01:09Z"], ["https://sewell.house.gov/2023/11/rep-sewell-co-signs-letter-to-speaker-johnson-calling-on-house-republican-leadership-to-take-action-on-gun-violence", "Rep. Sewell Co-Signs Letter to Speaker Johnson Calling on House Republican Leadership to Take Action on Gun Violence", "2023-11-02", "2023", "2023-11", "Democrat", "House", "AL", "Terri A. Sewell", "S001185", "sewell.house.gov", "sewell", "https://sewell.house.gov/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington D.C. \u2014 Today, U.S. Rep. Terri Sewell (AL-07) joined House Gun Violence Prevention Task Force Chair Rep. Mike Thompson (CA-04) and 115 Members of Congress in a letter to Speaker Mike Johnson calling on House Republican leadership to take action to address America\u2019s gun violence epidemic.\n\n\u201cGod\u2019s children are being killed every day in our country in part because of the inaction of Republican leadership on gun violence prevention legislation. Families of every faith in America have empty chairs around the dinner table because Republicans have failed to answer our constituents\u2019 prayers for action,\u201d the Members wrote. \u201cIn response to the gun violence crisis, you have called for more thoughts and prayers without a commitment to taking any action to address the bloodshed.\u201d\n\n\u201cThe book of John says that \u2018the good shepherd lays down his life\u2019 for his flock. As Democrats, we are not asking for personal sacrifice, but simply that Republican leadership work with us to enact common sense laws that will save lives. We stand ready to work with you on any policies that will help end gun violence.\u201d\n\nThe full letter can be found here and below.\n\nDear Speaker Johnson,\n\nAs House Democrats, we write about our deep concerns with your troubling comments following the devastating mass shooting in Lewiston, Maine where 18 people were killed and another 13 were injured.\n\nMr. Speaker, our children, God\u2019s children, are being killed every day in our country in part because of the inaction of Republican leadership on gun violence prevention legislation. Families of every faith in America have empty chairs around the dinner table because Republicans have failed to answer our constituents\u2019 prayers for action.\n\nIn response to the gun violence crisis, you have called for more thoughts and prayers without a commitment to taking any action to address the bloodshed. As Speaker, you were quoted as saying, \u201cThis is a dark time in America. We have a lot of problems, and we are hopeful and prayerful. Prayer is appropriate at a time like this, that this senseless violence can stop.\u201d Additionally, during a recent interview about gun violence prevention legislation you said, \u201cAmerica\u2019s problem is not guns. America\u2019s problem is a heart problem.\u201d\n\nThis fatalistic view of gun violence is factually wrong and paints a dark view of America and its people. First, gun violence in America is not inevitable, it is simply tolerated by Republican leadership. Second, gun violence prevention legislation is evidence-based and saves lives. In fact, the state of Louisiana has an \u201cF\u201d rank on the Giffords gun violence scorecard because it fails to enact universal background checks and a red flag law, has weak gun domestic violence laws, and allows assault weapons and large capacity magazines to be sold. Not surprisingly, gun deaths in Louisiana are 99 percent above the national average, second only to Mississippi.\n\nConversely, the states that emphasize responsible gun ownership with strong gun safety laws have the lowest rate of gun violence. Troublingly, more and more of the gun violence in those states is perpetrated by guns that flow in from states with weak gun laws. We need a stronger national floor that protects all Americans from gun violence.\n\nEpidemic levels of gun violence are an American problem because we uniquely allow people who are a danger to themselves or others easy access to firearms. The gun homicide rate in America is 26 times that of other high-income countries. It is outrageous to insinuate that Americans have 26 times the mental health challenges or our fellow Americans\u2019 hearts are 26 times more troubled than our international peers.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T01:01:09Z"], ["https://sewell.house.gov/2023/11/rep-sewell-statement-on-partisan-republican-israeli-supplemental", "Rep. Sewell Statement on Partisan Republican Israeli Supplemental", "2023-11-02", "2023", "2023-11", "Democrat", "House", "AL", "Terri A. Sewell", "S001185", "sewell.house.gov", "sewell", "https://sewell.house.gov/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington D.C. \u2014 Today, U.S. Rep. Terri Sewell (AL-07) released the following statement regarding House Republicans\u2019 partisan Israeli supplemental funding package:\n\n\u201cWhile I fully support assistance to Israel, the partisan bill that House Republicans pushed through provides no assistance to Ukraine, blocks humanitarian aid to civilians in Gaza, and includes billions in tax giveaways to the rich. I am disappointed that my Republican colleagues have taken an otherwise bipartisan priority\u2014supporting our national security and our allies\u2014and turned it into a bitter partisan battle. This bill is dead on arrival in the Senate and undercuts the bipartisan efforts by the White House and the Senate to pass a comprehensive aid package that includes funding for both Israel and Ukraine and provides humanitarian aid to civilians in Gaza. I look forward to supporting this legislation which is in line with President Biden\u2019s original funding request that would holistically support our national security efforts.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T01:01:09Z"], ["https://sewell.house.gov/2023/10/rep-sewell-statement-on-election-of-rep-mike-johnson-as-speaker-of-the-house", "Rep. Sewell Statement on Election of Rep. Mike Johnson as Speaker of the House", "2023-10-25", "2023", "2023-10", "Democrat", "House", "AL", "Terri A. Sewell", "S001185", "sewell.house.gov", "sewell", "https://sewell.house.gov/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington D.C. \u2013 Today, U.S. Rep. Terri Sewell (AL-07) released the following statement regarding the election of Rep. Mike Johnson (LA-04) as Speaker of the House of Representatives.\n\n\u201cWhile I am grateful that House Republicans have finally ended their stalemate and selected a new House Speaker, I am gravely disappointed that my colleagues across the aisle have rejected our calls for bipartisanship and empowered yet another MAGA extremist.\n\n\u201cI have very serious concerns about Mike Johnson\u2019s record, namely his efforts to overturn the 2020 election, his hostility toward our hard-fought rights and freedoms, and his work to slash Social Security and Medicare.\n\n\u201cI will work with Speaker Johnson where we can agree but make no mistake; when it comes to protecting our democracy, our freedoms, and the programs that Americans rely on, I will not back down.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T00:49:26Z"], ["https://sewell.house.gov/2023/10/rep-sewell-votes-in-favor-of-bipartisan-resolution-standing-with-israel", "Rep. Sewell Votes in Favor of Bipartisan Resolution Standing with Israel", "2023-10-25", "2023", "2023-10", "Democrat", "House", "AL", "Terri A. Sewell", "S001185", "sewell.house.gov", "sewell", "https://sewell.house.gov/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington D.C. \u2013 Today, U.S. Rep. Terri Sewell (AL-07) voted in favor of H.Res. 771, a bipartisan resolution standing with Israel as it defends itself against the brutal terrorist attack launched by Hamas and other terrorists and condemning Hamas\u2019 war against Israel. The resolution passed in the House of Representatives by an overwhelming bipartisan vote of 412 to 10.\n\n\u201cI condemn Hamas\u2019 brutal attack on Israel in the strongest possible terms,\u201d said Rep. Sewell. \u201cWith this bipartisan resolution, my colleagues and I are sending a strong message that the United States stands steadfast with Israel and its right to defend itself.\u201d\n\n\u201cBoth Israelis and Palestinians deserve equal measures of freedom, security, opportunity, and dignity,\u201d continued Sewell. \u201cI have long supported a two-state solution that would help build a bridge toward a more sustainable future in the region. The U.S. must exercise its leadership to foster a peaceful coexistence between Israel and its neighbors.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T00:49:26Z"], ["https://sewell.house.gov/2023/10/rep-sewell-announces-1-6-million-in-public-infrastructure-and-workforce-investments-from-the-delta-regional-authority-for-black-belt-communities", "Rep. Sewell Announces $1.6 Million in Public Infrastructure and Workforce Investments from the Delta Regional Authority for Black Belt Communities", "2023-10-24", "2023", "2023-10", "Democrat", "House", "AL", "Terri A. Sewell", "S001185", "sewell.house.gov", "sewell", "https://sewell.house.gov/press-releases", "scraper", "Selma, AL \u2013 Today, U.S. Rep. Terri Sewell (AL-07) announced $1.6 million from the Delta Regional Authority (DRA) for six projects in Alabama\u2019s Black Belt. These new investment projects will improve basic public infrastructure, transportation infrastructure, and support business development and job training. Funding was awarded through the State\u2019s Economic Development Assistance Program (SEDAP) and was made available, in part, by President Biden\u2019s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law.\n\n\u201cAs a proud daughter of the Black Belt, I have made it a top priority to ensure that those living and working in the region get their fair share of federal resources and funding,\u201d said Rep. Sewell. \u201cThese awards from the Delta Regional Authority will continue to reverse decades of disinvestment by bringing jobs and infrastructure upgrades directly to communities that need them most. As the only Member of Congress from Alabama to vote for President Biden\u2019s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, I\u2019m very excited to see this funding coming to our communities and I applaud the Biden-Harris Administration for their continued focus on equity.\u201d\n\nThe following projects in Alabama\u2019s Black Belt received SEDAP funding:\n\nThe Cultural and Communal Living Cynosure project in Selma, Alabama, has been awarded $200,000 to increase the success and well-being of residents in distressed communities.\n\nThe Jackson Pellets Industrial Access Road project in Jackson, Alabama, has been awarded more than $357,000 to construct a 3,100-foot industrial access road to the Jackson Pellets facility.\n\nThe Selma Tourism Incubator project in Selma, Alabama, has been awarded $509,000 to develop an Innovative Tourism Hub in Selma\u2019s historic downtown.\n\nThe Town of Hurtsboro Storm Water Collection System Improvement project in Hurtsboro, Alabama, has been awarded more than $387,000 to repair a storm water collection system to reduce localized flooding.\n\nThe Town of Butler Highway 17 South project in Butler, Alabama, has been awarded more than $189,000 to correct water main issues and install a fire hydrant on Alabama Highway 17 South.\n\nThe Eufaula-Bluff City Water and Sewer project in Eufaula, Alabama has been awarded more than $43,000 for sewer, water, and stormwater improvements.\n\nThe DRA was established in 2000 as a formal framework for joint federal-state collaboration to promote and encourage the economic development of the lower Mississippi River and Alabama Black Belt regions. To fulfill this purpose, DRA invests in projects supporting transportation infrastructure, basic public infrastructure, workforce training, and business development. DRA\u2019s region encompasses 252 counties and parishes in parts of Alabama, Arkansas, Illinois, Kentucky, Louisiana, Mississippi, Missouri, and Tennessee.\n\n\u201cThe States\u2019 Economic Development Assistance Program is one of DRA\u2019s most diverse tools that allows us to expand and invest in the resiliency of the region\u2019s public infrastructure and workforce,\u201d said DRA Federal Co-Chairman, Dr. Corey Wiggins. \u201cAs a result of this investment, nearly 6,000 families will have improved access to infrastructure, helping to improve their quality of life and increase economic opportunities in their communities.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T00:49:26Z"], ["https://sewell.house.gov/2023/10/rep-sewell-announces-designation-of-birmingham-as-a-federal-tech-hub-by-the-biden-harris-administration", "Rep. Sewell Announces Designation of Birmingham as a Federal Tech Hub by the Biden-Harris Administration", "2023-10-23", "2023", "2023-10", "Democrat", "House", "AL", "Terri A. Sewell", "S001185", "sewell.house.gov", "sewell", "https://sewell.house.gov/press-releases", "scraper", "Birmingham, AL \u2013 Today, U.S. Rep. Terri Sewell (AL-07) announced that Birmingham has been designated as one of 31 Regional Innovation and Technology Hubs (Tech Hubs) by the Biden-Harris Administration through the Department of Commerce Economic Development Administration. These Tech Hubs will catalyze investment in technologies critical to economic growth, national security, and job creation, and will help communities across the country become centers of innovation critical to American competitiveness. The Birmingham Biotechnology Hub will work to increase representation in clinical data and improve pharmaceutical development, and will now be eligible to compete for up to $75 million in additional funding. The Tech Hubs program was authorized by the CHIPS and Science Act which passed Congress with Rep. Sewell\u2019s support and was signed by President Biden in August 2022.\n\n\u201cBirmingham is leading the nation and the world in the biotechnology sector and we are absolutely thrilled that the Biden-Harris Administration has designated it as a Tech Hub,\u201d celebrated Rep. Sewell. \u201cNot only will this designation further strengthen Birmingham\u2019s position as a center for innovation, but it will also bring numerous jobs, resources, and opportunities to the people of our city. This is a great example of how President Biden\u2019s CHIPS and Science Act is supercharging America\u2019s competitiveness in science and technology, and we in Birmingham are excited to be a part of it!\u201d\n\nThe Birmingham Biotechnology Hub, a consortium led by Southern Research Institute, will apply artificial intelligence-driven biotechnology to increase representation in clinical genomic data and clinical trials. Leveraging the region\u2019s existing assets, including the University of Alabama at Birmingham\u2019s data bank, the Birmingham Biotechnology Hub will utilize artificial intelligence trained with inclusive patient data to shorten the drug development pipeline and deliver affordable drugs, vaccines, and diagnostics that treat a diverse global patient population.\n\nThis designation is part of the first phase of the novel Tech Hubs program, authorized by the CHIPS and Science Act, that will invest directly in high-potential U.S. regions and aim to transform them into globally competitive innovation centers. Designation is an endorsement of the region\u2019s strategy to supercharge their respective technological industry to create jobs and strengthen U.S. economic and national security. Designated Tech Hubs are now eligible to apply for the next phase of the Tech Hubs Program that will invest between $50-$75 million in each of 5-10 Designated Hubs.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T00:49:26Z"], ["https://sewell.house.gov/2023/10/rep-sewell-announces-38-million-from-the-department-of-justice-to-fight-crime-and-make-alabama-communities-safer", "Rep. Sewell Announces $38+ Million from the Department of Justice to Fight Crime and Make Alabama Communities Safer", "2023-10-11", "2023", "2023-10", "Democrat", "House", "AL", "Terri A. Sewell", "S001185", "sewell.house.gov", "sewell", "https://sewell.house.gov/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington D.C. \u2014 Today, U.S. Rep. Terri Sewell (AL-07) announced more than $38 million in federal funding from the United States Department of Justice (DOJ) to fight crime and make Alabama communities safer. This comprehensive investment is part of a nationwide push to prevent and reduce crime by providing federal resources to combat gun violence, sex trafficking, substance abuse, and violence against women and children.\n\n\u201cMaking our communities safer for our children and families has always been a top priority of mine,\u201d said Rep. Sewell. \u201cThis $38 million from the Department of Justice will go a long way in doing just that. Together, these grants will ensure that our community organizations, local law enforcement, and especially our rural police departments have the tools they need to break the cycle of violence, prevent crime, strengthen police accountability, and save lives. I was so proud to advocate for this funding at the federal level and will continue working with our state and local partners to keep Alabamians safe.\u201d\n\nRep. Sewell announced the following DOJ grants for Alabama:\n\nBessemer, Birmingham, and Jefferson County\n\n$1,998,001 - Office of Justice Programs Community Based Violence Intervention and Prevention Initiative - The City of Birmingham will use this funding to expand the Jefferson County Family Resource Center RESTORE pilot, which provides wraparound reentry services for court-involved youth.\n\n$1,600,000 - Comprehensive Opioid, Stimulant, and Substance Use Site-base Program - This funding will allow Jefferson County to expand evidence-based substance use treatment and peer recovery support services.\n\n$412,728 - Edward Byrne JAG Program - The City of Birmingham Police Department will use this funding to enhance public safety and security.\n\n$749,998 - Opioid Affected Youth Initiative - The UAB Department of Psychiatry - Substance Abuse Division will use this funding for the Family Wellness BEYOND project, which is designed to help families impacted by substance use.\n\n$900,000 - Second Chance Act Improving Reentry Education and Employment Outcomes - The Dannon Project is using this funding to expand its A Chance for Everyone (ACER) Program, which provides pre- and post-release services to 150 men and women who are incarcerated at the time of annulment and scheduled to return to documented high-poverty and high-crime areas of Birmingham and Jefferson County.\n\n$2,000,000 - National Sexual Assault Kit Initiative - The Jefferson County District Attorney\u2019s Office will use this funding to support a multidisciplinary response to sexual assault.\n\n$784,194 - Second Chance Act Youth Reentry Program - The Offender Alumni Association will use this funding to implement the OAA Credible Messenger Youth Reentry Initiative.\n\n$406,200 - Connect and Protect: Law Enforcement Behavioral Health Response - This funding will be used by the Bessemer Police Department in collaboration with mental health professionals to implement co-response teams (CRT), allowing for individuals in crisis to access proper mental health services and avoid negative interactions with the police.\n\n$62,963 - Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant (JAG) Program - The Bessemer Police Department will use this funding to recruit officers through traditional and innovative strategies.\n\nTuscaloosa and Tuscaloosa County\n\n$64,207 - Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant (JAG) Program - This funding will be used by the disparate jurisdictions of the City of Tuscaloosa and Tuscaloosa County for equipment that will support crime prevention and violence reduction.\n\n$259,810 - Justice and Mental Health Collaboration Program - The City of Tuscaloosa will use this funding to design and implement the Tuscaloosa Mental Health Court Initiative.\n\n$20,000 - Body-worn Camera Policy and Implementation Program to Support Law Enforcement Agencies - The Northport Police Department will expand its Body Worn Camera Program with this funding.\n\n$1,249,636 - Preventing School Violence: BJA\u2019s STOP School Violence Program - The University of Alabama (UA) is partnering with the University of Alabama/University of West Alabama Regional Inservice Education Center to implement the BAMASTOP Program in high schools in rural counties including Choctaw, Greene, Marengo, and Sumter counties. This program uses university-community partnerships to train and educate school personnel, families, and students to prevent and reduce student violence and improve school climate.\n\nSelma and Dallas County\n\n$26,834 - Edward Byrne JAG Program - The City of Selma will use this funding to tackle gang violence, gun violence, and drugs through the use of overtime for off-duty police officers.\n\n$300,000 - Rural and Small Department Violent Crime Reduction Program - The Dallas County Commission will use this funding to implement the District Attorney\u2019s Violent Crime Reduction Program.\n\n$764,508 - Family-Based Alternative Justice Program - The Dallas County Commission will implement the Dallas County Family Preservation Program with this funding.\n\nAlabama Department of Economic and Community Affairs (ADECA)\n\n$20,429,574 - Victim of Crimes Act (VOCA) Victim Assistance Formula Grant - This program helps provide direct assistance to crime victims, with priority going to victims of child abuse, domestic violence and sexual assault and population groups who have been previously underserved.\n\n$2,675,267 - Office on Violence Against Women STOP Formula Grant Program - This program, authorized by the Violence Against Women Act (VAWA), is used to develop and strengthen law enforcement, prosecution, and court strategies to combat violent crimes against women and to develop and strengthen victim services, including community-based, culturally specific services, in cases involving domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault, and stalking.\n\n$4,059,847 - Bureau of Justice Assistance (BJA) Edward Byrne Justice Assistance Grant (JAG) Program - The Edward Byrne Memorial JAG Program is the primary provider of federal criminal justice funding to state and local jurisdictions. ADECA is currently accepting applications for local law enforcement equipment purchases and the application is available here.\n\n$931,749 - Residential Substance Abuse Treatment for State Prisoners Program - This funding will be used to help Alabama inmates with substance abuse prevention and treatment.\n\n$152,995 - Project Safe Neighborhoods Formula Grant Program - This project is designed to enhance community safety by preventing violent gun and gang crime in Jefferson, Tuscaloosa, Greene, Pickens, Sumter, and other Alabama counties in the Northern District of Alabama. These grants are administered by ADECA at the discretion of the United States Attorney\u2019s offices.\n\n$83,604 - Project Safe Neighborhoods Formula Grant Program - This funding will be used to combat violent crime in Montgomery, Lowndes, and other Alabama counties in the Middle District. These grants are administered by ADECA at the discretion of the United States Attorney\u2019s offices.\n\n$77,001 - Project Safe Neighborhoods Formula Grant Program - This funding will be used by the Southern District of Alabama to combat violent crime in Hale, Perry, Dallas, Marengo, Choctaw, Clark, Wilcox, and other counties in the Southern District. These grants are administered by ADECA at the discretion of the United States Attorney\u2019s offices.\n\n$325,591 - Paul Coverdell Forensic Science Improvement Grants Program - This funding will be used by the Alabama Department of Forensic Sciences to improve their capabilities to combat the opioid epidemic.\n\nAlabama State Law Enforcement Agency (ALEA)\n\n$74,808 - State Justice Statistics Program for Statistical Analysis Centers - ALEA will use this funding to improve the National Incident-Based Reporting System (NIBRS).\n\n$502,933 - Office of Juvenile Justice Delinquency Prevention (OJJDP) Invited to Apply Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) Task Force - ALEA will use this funding to maintain, expand, and improve the Alabama ICAC Task Force\u2019s effectiveness in preventing, interdicting, investigating, and prosecuting internet crimes against children.\n\n$1,738,956 - National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NCIS) Act Record Improvement Program\n\n$2,000,000 - National Criminal History Improvement Program (NCHIP)\n\nState of Alabama - Miscellaneous Agencies and Organizations\n\n$108,001 - John R. Justice (JRJ) Formula Grant Program - Alabama will use this funding to recruit and retain prosecutors and public defenders.\n\n$491,000 - VOCA Victim Compensation Formula Grant - This grant award provides funds to the Crime Victims Compensation Commission from the Crime Victims Fund to enhance State Victim Compensation payments to eligible crime victims.\n\n$1,868,756 - Adult Treatment Court Site-Based - This funding will be used by the Alabama Administrative Office of Courts (AOC) to implement the MIDAS Treatment Court Data Project, which will help create individualized treatment plans for people arrested for minor drug and alcohol offenses.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T00:49:26Z"], ["https://sewell.house.gov/2023/10/rep-sewell-statement-on-the-adoption-of-a-fair-alabama-congressional-map", "Rep. Sewell Statement on the Adoption of a Fair Alabama Congressional Map", "2023-10-05", "2023", "2023-10", "Democrat", "House", "AL", "Terri A. Sewell", "S001185", "sewell.house.gov", "sewell", "https://sewell.house.gov/press-releases", "scraper", "Birmingham, AL \u2013 Today, U.S. Rep. Terri Sewell (AL-07) released the following statement on the adoption of a fair Alabama congressional map:\n\n\u201cAfter numerous hearings, three Supreme Court rulings, and unprecedented defiance by state officials, the voters of Alabama finally have a fair congressional map!\n\n\u201cWhile we celebrate this historic victory, the continued resistance that we face from state officials should not be lost on anyone. This long and arduous battle over Alabama\u2019s congressional map serves as a solemn reminder that efforts to deny fair representation to Black and minority voters are still alive and well.\n\n\u201cNow more than ever, we must restore the FULL protections of the Voting Rights Act. We need the John R. Lewis Voting Rights Advancement Act and we need it now.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T00:49:26Z"], ["https://sewell.house.gov/2023/10/rep-sewell-statement-on-decision-by-house-republicans-to-remove-speaker-kevin-mccarthy", "Rep. Sewell Statement on Decision by House Republicans to Remove Speaker Kevin McCarthy", "2023-10-03", "2023", "2023-10", "Democrat", "House", "AL", "Terri A. Sewell", "S001185", "sewell.house.gov", "sewell", "https://sewell.house.gov/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington D.C. \u2013 Today, U.S. Rep. Terri Sewell (AL-07) released the following statement regarding passage of House Republicans\u2019 Motion to Vacate the Chair, removing House Speaker Kevin McCarthy. This is the first time in U.S. history that a sitting speaker has been voted to be removed.\n\n\u201cThis is a sad and unprecedented day for America. Government works best when we have two functioning political parties that are willing to put people over politics. What is clear is that House Republicans are divided among themselves and have unleashed chaos, dysfunction, and extremism at every turn.\n\n\u201cMy Democratic colleagues and I remain willing to find common ground, but it is up to House Republicans to end this GOP civil war.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T00:49:26Z"], ["https://sewell.house.gov/2023/9/rep-sewell-votes-to-avert-government-shutdown", "Rep. Sewell Votes to Avert Government Shutdown", "2023-09-30", "2023", "2023-09", "Democrat", "House", "AL", "Terri A. Sewell", "S001185", "sewell.house.gov", "sewell", "https://sewell.house.gov/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington D.C. \u2013 Today, U.S. Rep. Terri Sewell (AL-07) voted in favor of a bipartisan Continuing Resolution (CR) to avert a government shutdown. The CR would extend federal government funding at current levels for 45 days. Notably, it includes $16 billion in disaster relief funding. The measure passed in the House of Representatives by a bipartisan vote of 335-91.\n\n\u201cWhile I remain frustrated that my Republican colleagues have brought us to the brink of a costly and devastating government shutdown, I am grateful that Speaker McCarthy has finally chosen to work with Democrats at the last minute to extend government funding,\u201d said Rep. Sewell. \u201cWhile this measure is not perfect, it avoids deep cuts that House Republicans attempted to push through earlier this week and provides critical disaster relief funding that communities in Alabama depend on.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T00:37:48Z"], ["https://sewell.house.gov/2023/9/rep-sewell-votes-against-extreme-republican-cuts", "Rep. Sewell Votes Against Extreme Republican Cuts", "2023-09-29", "2023", "2023-09", "Democrat", "House", "AL", "Terri A. Sewell", "S001185", "sewell.house.gov", "sewell", "https://sewell.house.gov/press-releases", "scraper", "House Republicans\u2019 Continuing Resolution included massive cuts to cancer research, public education, food assistance, and home energy assistance\n\nWashington D.C. \u2013 Today, U.S. Rep. Terri Sewell (AL-07) voted against House Republicans\u2019 extreme Continuing Resolution (CR) which would have made massive, 30 percent across-the-board cuts to programs that Alabamians rely on including cancer research, public education, food assistance, and more. Notably, the extreme CR included an unprecedented 74 percent cut to home energy assistance for low-income Americans. The measure failed after 21 Republicans joined Democrats in voting against it.\n\n\u201cWe are one day away from a government shutdown, and rather than working with Democrats, House Republicans are fighting amongst themselves and demanding extreme cuts to public education, Head Start programs, cancer research and so much more,\u201d said Rep. Sewell. \u201cThis is not a serious proposal. I implore my Republican colleagues to come to the table and work with us to keep the government open. The American people are counting on us!\u201d\n\nHouse Republicans\u2019 extreme CR would have:\n\nSlashed investments in the National Institutes of Health (NIH): Medical research into treatments and cures for diseases like cancer, Alzheimer\u2019s, and heart disease would be cut with the reduction of 7,000 research grants.\n\nFurthered their goal of eliminating public education by cutting funding for Title I, IDEA, and Head Start: Cuts to Title I and IDEA would be the equivalent of removing nearly 150,000 teachers and service providers from classrooms serving low-income students and students with disabilities. And approximately 275,000 children would lose access to Head Start, undermining early education for children in low-income communities and parents\u2019 ability to go to work.\n\nDecimated the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) as temperatures begin to drop: In an unprecedented move, House Republicans have cut LIHEAP funding by roughly 74 percent. More than 5 million low-income households would lose their home heating or cooling benefits or have their benefits cut by hundreds of dollars \u2014 threatening their ability to heat their homes in winter or cool their homes in summer.\n\nFailed to support communities recovering from natural disasters. In the midst of hurricane season and with several response and recovery efforts to major disasters underway, this bill harms FEMA\u2019s readiness by failing to address the urgent need for additional Disaster Relief Funds to address existing shortfalls and respond to future unknown disasters.\n\nUndercut our critical allies like Israel and Ukraine: Cuts to Foreign Military Financing (FMF) threaten critical support for allies like Israel and Jordan. This extreme funding bill not only fails to include requested additional resources for Ukraine and surrounding partners, but it also cuts Assistance to Europe, Eurasia, and Central Asia (AEECA) by 59 percent.\n\nDefunded law enforcement: This extreme Republican funding bill would effectively reduce the numbers of FBI and Drug Enforcement Administration agents and other Federal law enforcement officers, and it would also eliminate hundreds of state and local law enforcement officer positions across the country. This will make our communities less safe, as fewer law enforcement officers will be apprehending violent fugitives, fighting fentanyl and other opioid trafficking, countering cybersecurity threats, and fighting domestic and international terrorism.\n\nHalted Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) operations including air traffic controllers: FAA operations would come to a standstill, as hiring and training of new air traffic controllers and safety inspectors would freeze, causing delays in certifying pilots, drone operators, and aircrafts and adding to the chaos of getting in and out of airports nationwide.\n\nClosed Social Security Administration Field Offices: The Social Security Administration would be forced to close field offices and reduce access to in-person services, and people applying for disability benefits would wait additional months for processing of claims.\n\nNeglected our water infrastructure by cutting funds to the Army Corps of Engineers: House Republicans are cutting funds to the Army Corps of Engineers Construction activities by 31 percent. With $2.7 billion slashed from the Corps of Engineers\u2019 Construction activities, projects critical to waterway navigation of supply chains, reducing flood and storm damage, or providing ecosystem restoration would freeze.\n\nTaken food out of the mouths of children, families, and seniors: With the sharp increase in caseload, the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) has barely half of the resources it needs to keep feeding people. The program needs a 32 percent increase. Instead, House Republicans are cutting it by 30 percent. Other nutrition services, such as Meals on Wheels, would also be cut for more than 1 million seniors.\n\nRaised the costs of food by threatening food safety and supply: House Republicans are threatening public health by cutting Food Safety and Inspection Service by 30 percent. This cut makes our meat and poultry less safe to consume. Plants that produce these products provide jobs in rural communities. Without adequate federal inspection staffing, plants will be statutorily required to close or reduce operating hours, thus hurting workers\u2019 paychecks, reducing the meat and poultry supply, and raising the cost of food.\n\nImplemented unfair trade practices to boost China: Republicans\u2019 dangerous CR weakens the United States\u2019 efforts to fight the unfair trade practices of the People\u2019s Republic of China and other competitors, by reducing trade enforcement personnel at the Commerce Department, Office of the U.S. Trade Representative, and U.S. International Trade Commission.\u2019\n\nHindered wildfire suppression efforts: As communities continue to fear the next deadly wildfire, House Republicans are cutting Wildfire Suppression by 57 percent, a $2.4 billion cut.\n\nHurt America\u2019s small businesses: The Small Business Administration (SBA), Entrepreneurial Development Programs would be cut by 30 percent. This means approximately 400,000 fewer small businesses would be assisted. This would have a significant impact on underserved communities such as Veterans, Women, and Native American entrepreneurs.\n\nSlashed resources for the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline and Opioid Use Disorder treatment: The Republican CR cuts funding for the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline by 38 percent. More than 1 million people facing a suicidal or mental health crisis would be unable to access support services through the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline, and tens of thousands of individuals would be denied admission to opioid use disorder treatment, denying them a potentially life-saving path to recovery.\n\nUpended public safety, education, and other investments in Tribal communities: The Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA) serves 574 federally recognized Tribes in areas such as social services and Indian child welfare, reservation roads, energy development, Tribal public safety, justice, law enforcement, and other fundamental services that have been historically underfunded. In this bill, House Republicans are cutting the BIA by 30 percent, slashing resources for education programs, school repairs, and facility construction projects. Professional staff, principals, and school administrators would all be at risk of losing their jobs.\n\nCurtailed mineral and energy development impacting jobs and local economies: A reduction of 30 percent would impact onshore oil and gas operations and inspections for the roughly 34,400 Federal onshore oil and gas leases and the roughly 30,000 inspections done across 32 States. This would increase public safety and health risks and delay work needed to maintain oil and gas programs. It would also derail permitting for energy and other infrastructure and renewable energy projects bringing the associated jobs and economic growth to a standstill.\n\nCut loans and grants for farmers and rural communities: House Republicans are making it harder for farmers to access loans and grants making farm ownership more difficult. They are also cutting Rural Housing Service and Rural Utility Service programs that support single family home loans, rental assistance, water and waste programs, electric resources, and access to broadband.\n\nEliminated health care services for rural and underserved families: More than 2 million vulnerable individuals and families, including rural and underserved populations, would lose access to health care services through Community Health Centers.\n\nFind information about the impact of a Republican government shutdown on Alabama here.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T00:37:48Z"], ["https://sewell.house.gov/2023/9/rep-sewell-highlights-how-a-republican-government-shutdown-would-harm-families-in-alabama", "Rep. Sewell Highlights How a Republican Government Shutdown Would Harm Families in Alabama", "2023-09-27", "2023", "2023-09", "Democrat", "House", "AL", "Terri A. Sewell", "S001185", "sewell.house.gov", "sewell", "https://sewell.house.gov/press-releases", "scraper", "A Republican shutdown would hurt working families, interrupt vital services, damage our economy, endanger our national security, and force millions of troops and government employees to work without pay\n\nWashington D.C. \u2013 With just three days remaining until a potential extreme Republican government shutdown, U.S. Rep. Terri Sewell (AL-07) warned that House Republicans are risking serious consequences for Alabama families.\n\n\u201cAlabama families shouldn\u2019t be forced to pay the price for House Republicans\u2019 inability to govern,\u201d said Rep Sewell. \u201cA Republican government shutdown would force troops to work without pay, harm small businesses, risk air travel disruptions, and endanger access to food assistance for families. It is unconscionable that House Republicans would hurt working families, damage our economy, and endanger our national security.\u201d\n\n\u201cI will continue to do everything in my power to keep the government open and protect the programs that Alabamians rely on,\u201d continued Sewell. \u201cIt\u2019s time for House Republicans to do their jobs, put American families first, and stop charging towards a government shutdown.\u201d\n\nAccording to new data released by House Budget Committee Minority, a Republican government shutdown would:\n\nForce troops to serve without pay: 38,017 active duty and reserve personnel serving our nation's armed forces in Alabama would be forced to go without the pay they earn during a shutdown.\n\nHurt Alabama small businesses: The Small Business Administration would stop processing small business loans, halting a program that provides $284,694,700 in funding to small businesses in Alabama every year.\n\nDisrupt air travel: 4,797 people flying through Alabama airports every day would face potential delays and safety concerns due to staffing impacts on TSA agents and air traffic controllers.\n\nCut off food assistance for Alabama children and families: 111,999 people in Alabama would soon lose access to Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) benefits. 772,813 Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) beneficiaries in Alabama would lose access to benefits in a prolonged shutdown.\n\nHurt federal workers: 46,826 federal workers in Alabama would be furloughed or forced to work without pay, in addition to the many employees of businesses with government contracts who could be laid off, furloughed, or see their hours cut.\n\nJeopardize food and drug safety: Workers at the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) would be sidelined, risking interruptions and delays to the 224 food safety, pharmaceutical manufacturing, and other inspections conducted in Alabama last year.\n\nHurt rural Alabamians\u2019 ability to secure housing loans: The Department of Agriculture would be forced to stop processing housing loans, which provide $545,442,546 in funding to help 3,049 families in rural Alabama communities buy homes every year.\n\nHurt Alabama farmers: The Department of Agriculture would be forced to stop processing farm loans which provide $93,451,000 in funding for farmers in Alabama every year.\n\nClose National Parks: 1,294,952 people who visit national parks in Alabama every year would be turned away or unable to fully access parks, monuments, and museums.\n\nPut vulnerable families at risk: State governments would be forced to pay for federal services like the Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) program, potentially risking benefits for the 12,888 TANF beneficiaries in Alabama.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T00:37:48Z"], ["https://sewell.house.gov/2023/9/rep-sewell-announces-23-8-million-from-the-bipartisan-infrastructure-law-to-address-blocked-crossings-and-improve-rail-infrastructure-and-safety-in-alabama-s-7th-district", "Rep. Sewell Announces $23.8 Million from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law to Address Blocked Crossings and Improve Rail Infrastructure and Safety in Alabama\u2019s 7th District", "2023-09-25", "2023", "2023-09", "Democrat", "House", "AL", "Terri A. Sewell", "S001185", "sewell.house.gov", "sewell", "https://sewell.house.gov/press-releases", "scraper", "Birmingham, AL \u2013 Today, U.S. Rep. Terri Sewell (AL-07) announced $23.8 million from President Biden\u2019s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law to alleviate blocked railroad crossings and improve rail infrastructure and safety in Alabama\u2019s 7th Congressional District. Funding comes from the Consolidated Rail and Infrastructure Safety and Improvements (CRISI) grant program through the U.S Department of Transportation\u2019s (DOT) Federal Railroad Administration (FRA). The City of Birmingham has been awarded an $8 million to alleviate dangerous blocked railroad crossings and the Alabama Department of Transportation (ALDOT) has been awarded $15.8 million for track and bridge improvements in the Black Belt and Central Alabama. Rep. Sewell was the only member of Alabama\u2019s Congressional Delegation to vote in favor of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law.\n\n\u201cToday marks a major step forward in our fight against blocked railroad crossings in Alabama\u2019s 7th Congressional District,\u201d celebrated Rep. Sewell. \u201cThis funding from President Biden\u2019s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law represents a critical part of our long-term strategy to alleviate blocked railroad crossings and will go a long way in improving the quality of life for those living in and around Birmingham. Securing this funding was truly a team effort, and I want to thank the City of Birmingham and our local leaders for their hard work in developing such a strong proposal and Norfolk Southern for their significant financial commitment to this project. I was so proud to advocate for this funding at the federal level and will continue working with our state and local partners to address blocked railroad crossings.\u201d\n\n\u201cI want to thank the Alabama Department of Transportation for their work putting together this proposal,\u201d continued Sewell. \u201cWe know that the Black Belt is in dire need of infrastructure investments and this project will make a big difference!\u201d\n\n\u201cIt\u2019s hard not to get a little emotional thinking about what this will mean for the residents of this area. This is an opportunity to drastically improve the quality of life for so many of my neighbors,\u201d said Birmingham City Councilor Darrell O\u2019Quinn. \u201cI\u2019d like to take a moment and thank our partners at Norfolk Southern, who own the rail corridor in question. They have been a tremendous partner in moving this initiative forward and will be committing $1.5 million in funding to this initial planning and engineering grant. It\u2019s the largest financial commitment they\u2019ve made to a project of this type, ever. My office has remained in close contact with their representatives over the last several years and we could not have gotten to this point without their dedication to improve the lives of those living near their tracks.\u201d\n\nIn Birmingham, the $8 million CRISI grant will target two segments of Norfolk Southern\u2019s railway line and will help develop plans for various track, bridge, signal and road realignments to reduce blocked crossings and improve community safety and access to schools and residential areas, including the roads leading in and out of Harris Homes. This will include grade separations and the closure of multiple crossings and will also have a positive impact on the freight and passenger rail operations in the city.\n\nIn the Black Belt, the $15.8 million CRISI grant will go to ALDOT for final design and construction activities to complete various track-related and bridge improvements on two short-line rail lines within the state, the Eastern Alabama Railway (EARY) and Meridian & Bigbee Railroad (MNBR). The project will improve system and service performance by increasing maximum allowable speeds on both rail corridors, enhancing storage capacity, and improving safety.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T00:37:48Z"], ["https://sewell.house.gov/2023/9/on-national-voter-registration-day-rep-sewell-and-house-democrats-introduce-the-john-r-lewis-voting-rights-advancement-act", "On National Voter Registration Day, Rep. Sewell and House Democrats Introduce the John R. Lewis Voting Rights Advancement Act", "2023-09-19", "2023", "2023-09", "Democrat", "House", "AL", "Terri A. Sewell", "S001185", "sewell.house.gov", "sewell", "https://sewell.house.gov/press-releases", "scraper", "Legislation would protect the right to vote and safeguard our democracy against attacks by MAGA extremists\n\nWashington, D.C. \u2013 Today, on National Voter Registration Day, U.S. Rep. Terri Sewell (AL-07), Ranking Member of House Administration Committee Subcommittee on Elections, led every House Democrat in introducing H.R. 14, the John R. Lewis Voting Rights Advancement Act. The bill would protect the right to vote and safeguard our democracy by restoring and modernizing the full protections of the Voting Rights Act of 1965 (VRA). Ten years ago, the Supreme Court gutted the VRA and unleashed a wave of discriminatory state laws targeting voters and restricting voting access. By restoring the VRA\u2019s authority, the John R. Lewis Voting Rights Advancement Act would prevent such laws from taking effect in states and localities with a recent history of voter discrimination.\n\n\u201cGenerations of Americans\u2014many in my hometown of Selma, Alabama\u2014marched, fought, and even died for the equal right of all Americans to vote,\u201d said Rep. Terri Sewell, lead sponsor. \u201cBut today, their legacy and our very democracy are under attack as MAGA extremists target voters with new laws to restrict voting access. Ten years after the Supreme Court gutted the Voting Rights Act of 1965, the fight for voting rights has never been more urgent. The John R. Lewis Voting Rights Advancement would protect the right to vote and safeguard our democracy by restoring and modernizing the protections of the Voting Rights Act. It would prevent restrictive, discriminatory voting laws from taking effect and ensure every eligible American can have their vote cast and counted.\u201d\n\nFor decades, the Voting Rights Act of 1965 (VRA) prevented states and localities with a history of voter discrimination from restricting voting access by requiring such jurisdictions to preclear new election laws with the Department of Justice or a U.S. District Court. However, in its disastrous 2013 decision in Shelby County v. Holder, the Supreme Court gutted the law and struck down the formula used to determine which jurisdictions are subject to federal oversight. In July 2021, the Court further weakened the law in its decision in Brnovich v. DNC, making it more difficult to challenge discriminatory voting laws under Section 2.\n\nIn the decade since the Supreme Court gutted the VRA, state legislators have advanced hundreds of new restrictive, discriminatory voting laws targeting minorities, young adults, and the elderly. Among other restrictions, these laws have closed polling stations, curbed early voting and voting by mail, imposed strict identification requirements, limited multi-lingual voting materials, and made it harder to register to vote. In 2023, state legislators passed a near-record number of new restrictive voting laws, according to the Brennan Center for Justice.\n\nNamed for the late Congressman and civil rights icon, the John R. Lewis Voting Rights Advancement Act would protect the right to vote and safeguard our democracy by restoring and modernizing the full protections of the VRA. The bill would establish a new, modern-day framework to determine which states and localities have a recent history of discrimination and require such jurisdictions to preclear new election changes, preventing restrictive and discriminatory voting laws from taking effect. The bill also restores Section 2 of the VRA by eliminating the heightened standard required to challenge discriminatory voting laws created by the Supreme Court in Brnovich v. DNC.\n\n\u201cThe right to vote is sacred, it is central to the very integrity of our democracy,\u201d said House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries. \u201cUnfortunately, extreme MAGA Republicans have decided that the only way they can win elections is to engage in massive voter suppression. It\u2019s unconscionable, it\u2019s unacceptable and un-American. The John R. Lewis Voting Rights Advancement Act will help ensure that every American has access to the ballot box so we can crush this epidemic of voter suppression once and for all.\u201d\n\n\u201cNearly sixty years after John Lewis marched across the Edmund Pettus Bridge, the sacred right to vote is still under threat. Since the January 6th attack, MAGA extremists have introduced hundreds of voter suppression bills in state legislatures \u2014 all to strengthen their power at the expense of the American people,\u201d said House Democratic Whip Katherine Clark. \u201cToday, Democrats are reintroducing the John Lewis Voting Rights Advancement Act, under the steadfast leadership of Congresswoman Terri Sewell. This legislation will preserve and protect our nation\u2019s greatest treasure of free and fair elections for all. This is a call to action for Congressional Republicans: do you stand with Americans in the fight for democracy, or against us?\u201d\n\n\u201cThe right to vote is a sacred cornerstone of our democracy. My dear friend John Lewis recognized this and dedicated his life to expanding access to the ballot box. I\u2019m proud to continue the fight and honor his memory by joining Rep. Sewell in reintroducing the John R. Lewis Voting Rights Advancement Act,\u201d said Assistant House Democratic Leader James E. Clyburn. \u201cWe have a moral obligation to make this country\u2019s greatness accessible and affordable for all Americans; fundamental to that mission is including all Americans in our great democracy. Congressional Democrats will always remain committed to this cause and urge our Republican colleagues to reconsider their partisan opposition to protecting the franchise.\u201d\n\n\u201cThe right to vote is the bedrock of our American democracy, and it is under threat. The John R. Lewis Voting Rights Advancement Act, together with the Freedom to Vote Act, will restore those protections, strengthen our democracy, and ensure every eligible voter has their voice heard,\u201d said Committee on House Administration Ranking Member Joseph Morelle. \u201cI\u2019m a son of Rochester, New York, the home of two passionate and inspiring voting rights advocates, Frederick Douglass and Susan B. Anthony. Today, we honor their legacy, and the legacy of Congressman John Lewis, and continue the fight to help bring America closer to its foundational promise.\u201d\n\n\u201cVoting rights are under renewed and sustained assault across the country and we must pass this bill now to restore the promise of the Voting Rights Act,\u201d said House Judiciary Committee Ranking Member Jerrold Nadler. \u201cAfter a series of troubling Supreme Court rulings, which have enabled voter suppression efforts by states and localities, the need for a revitalized Voting Rights Act has never been greater. I hope Congress will honor the sacrifices of those who marched, struggled, and even died to secure the right to vote and will rediscover the bipartisan spirit that once animated our work to protect the rights of all Americans to vote.\u201d\n\n\u201cAs we speak, extreme MAGA Republicans at the local, state, and national levels are running the table with every tactic in their arsenal to keep Black voters from the ballot box. These efforts are coordinated and well-funded and they are targeting our communities with precision,\u201d said Congressional Black Caucus Chairman Steven Horsford. \u201cProtecting Americans\u2019 access to democracy should not be a partisan issue, and yet, time and again we have seen Republicans walk away from the formerly bipartisan commitment of ensuring access to the ballot box for all. The CBC is calling on Republicans to work with Democrats to pass the John R. Lewis Voting Rights Advancement Act and to put people over politics.\u201d\n\n\u201cAfter the devastating Shelby v. Holder Supreme Court decision gutting key components of the Voting Rights Act a decade ago, certain states have criminalized individuals and groups assisting with voter registration, and withdrawn or denied the use of multilingual ballots and translators at the polls,\u201d said Congressional Asian Pacific American Caucus Chairwoman Judy Chu. \u201cThese shameless voter disenfranchisement tactics especially hurt those in the AANHPI community\u2014over a third of whom are limited English proficient and need multilingual support to exercise their right to vote. These and other voter suppression efforts like aggressive gerrymandering, restrictive voter ID laws, polling location closures, and restrictions on early voting weaken our democracy by limiting who can make their voices heard. That is why Congress must do its job and pass the John R. Lewis Voting Rights Advancement Act to protect and strengthen the right of all Americans\u2014regardless of race, age, or language proficiency\u2014to vote and have a say in our democracy.\u201d\n\n\u201cAs states across the country ramp up their enactment of voter suppression laws, we must put in place a new framework for voting protections and voter empowerment that safeguards every American\u2019s ability to participate in our democracy,\u201d said Rep. John Sarbanes, Co- Chair of the Task Force on Strengthening Democracy. \u201cI am proud to honor the sacrifices my colleague and friend, Congressman John Lewis, and the other brave foot soldiers of the Civil Rights Movement made 58 years ago by joining in the introduction of this legislation to strengthen every voter\u2019s access to the ballot box, regardless of their zip code, and build a democracy that uplifts the voices of all Americans.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T00:37:48Z"], ["https://sewell.house.gov/2023/9/rep-sewell-speaks-on-the-house-floor-to-commemorate-the-60th-anniversary-of-the-16th-street-baptist-church-bombing", "Rep. Sewell Speaks on the House Floor to Commemorate the 60th Anniversary of the 16th Street Baptist Church Bombing", "2023-09-13", "2023", "2023-09", "Democrat", "House", "AL", "Terri A. Sewell", "S001185", "sewell.house.gov", "sewell", "https://sewell.house.gov/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. - Today, U.S. Rep. Terri Sewell (AL-07) spoke on the House Floor to commemorate the 60th anniversary of the bombing of the 16th Street Baptist Church in Birmingham and honor the lives of the Four Little Girls killed in the attack.\n\nA recording is available for broadcast purposes here. Rep. Sewell\u2019s remarks are transcribed below:\n\nRep. Sewell: Mister Speaker, I rise today to commemorate the 60th anniversary of the bombing of the 16th Street Baptist Church in Birmingham, Alabama in 1963, and to honor the lives and legacies of Four Little Girls killed in such a heinous attack.\n\n60 years ago, as parishioners of the 16th Street Baptist Church prepared for Sunday service, 19 sticks of dynamite placed by Ku Klux Klan members exploded. As the interior of the walls of the church caved in, over 100 churchgoers rushed for safety. Though most of the congregation escaped, under the debris lay the bodies of Addie Mae Collins, Denise McNair, Carole Robertson, and Cynthia Morris Wesley, as well Sarah Collins Rudolph who was injured but ultimately survived.\n\nTragically, the brutality did not stop after the bombing. When African American communities across the State of Alabama took to the streets to demand justice, they were met with unspeakable violence at the hands of law enforcement. Within a few hours, Johnny Robinson and Virgil Ware, ages 16 and 13, were killed in clashes between protesters and the police.\n\nDespite the horrific nature of this attack, it took over 34 years before the perpetrators faced justice.\n\nIn 2013, Mr. Speaker, I was honored that my very first bill I passed in this body awarded the Congressional Gold Medal, the highest civilian honor we can give, to the Four Little Girls posthumously to ensure that their lives were never forgotten.\n\nWhile we will never recover the lives lost or the injuries suffered, we know that their sacrifice was not in vain.\n\nIndeed, the loss of the Four Little Girls changed America forever, bringing into clarity our nation\u2019s storied history of racially motivated violence and galvanized the Civil Rights Movement.\n\nIt was their memory that inspired generations of freedom fighters to build a world where the color of your skin does not determine the value of your life.\n\nIt was their memory that burned in the minds of the Foot Soldiers as they fought to pass the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and the Voting Rights Act of 1965.\n\nAnd it was their sacrifice that brought our nation closer to realizing its highest ideals of equality and justice for all.\n\nWithout the influence of the Four Little Girls, I not only question where America would be, but where I would be. 60 years after their passing, I get to walk the halls of Congress as Alabama\u2019s first Black Congresswoman. I do so because of their sacrifice and because they cannot.\n\nTheir premature and senseless death serves as a constant reminder that every battle, every gain in the fight for civil rights has come at a high cost, paid for by the sacrifice of others.\n\nYet despite their gains and our gains as a nation, we know that our work is far from over. Today, as extremists seek to rewrite our history and roll back our progress, it has never been more crucial to ensure that the legacy of the Four Little Girls lives on in American history.\n\nAfter all, those who don\u2019t learn from their history are doomed to repeat it.\n\nIn the words of Coretta Scott King, \"struggle is a never-ending process. Freedom is never really won. It\u2019s earned and won in every generation.\"\n\nI ask my colleagues to join me in honoring the lives of the Four Little Girls and remembering them by name: Addie Mae Collins, Denise McNair, Carole Robertson, and Cynthia Morris Wesley.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T00:37:48Z"], ["https://sewell.house.gov/2023/9/rep-sewell-statement-on-federal-court-decision-striking-down-alabama-state-legislature-s-2023-congressional-map-and-appointing-a-special-master", "Rep. Sewell Statement on Federal Court Decision Striking Down Alabama State Legislature\u2019s 2023 Congressional Map and Appointing a Special Master", "2023-09-05", "2023", "2023-09", "Democrat", "House", "AL", "Terri A. Sewell", "S001185", "sewell.house.gov", "sewell", "https://sewell.house.gov/press-releases", "scraper", "Birmingham, AL \u2013 Today, U.S. Rep. Terri Sewell (AL-07) released the following statement regarding the decision by a federal court to strike down the Alabama State Legislature\u2019s 2023 redistricting plan and direct a special master to redraw Alabama\u2019s congressional map:\n\n\u201cToday\u2019s decision is yet another victory for Black voters in Alabama and for the promise of fair representation. By appointing a special master to fairly redraw Alabama\u2019s congressional map, the court has rejected the state legislature\u2019s latest attempt to dilute the voices and voting power of African Americans all across our state.\n\n\u201cWhile we were outraged by the Alabama State Legislature\u2019s open defiance of the Supreme Court\u2019s original order to create two majority-minority districts, I am nonetheless grateful that a federal court has now intervened to protect the voices of Alabama\u2019s Black voters.\n\n\u201cThe Voting Rights Act of 1965 is indeed alive and enforceable!\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T00:37:48Z"], ["https://sewell.house.gov/2023/8/rep-sewell-celebrates-one-year-anniversary-of-the-landmark-inflation-reduction-act", "Rep. Sewell Celebrates One-Year Anniversary of the Landmark Inflation Reduction Act", "2023-08-16", "2023", "2023-08", "Democrat", "House", "AL", "Terri A. Sewell", "S001185", "sewell.house.gov", "sewell", "https://sewell.house.gov/press-releases", "scraper", "Birmingham, AL \u2013 Today, U.S. Rep. Terri Sewell (AL-07) celebrated the one-year anniversary of the Inflation Reduction Act, landmark legislation which continues to deliver for Alabama families. Over the last twelve months, the investments in the Inflation Reduction Act have lowered costs for Alabamians while creating new jobs, combating climate change, advancing environmental justice, and reducing the deficit\u2014all without a penny in new taxes for Americans making under $400,000. Rep. Sewell was the only member of Alabama\u2019s congressional delegation to vote in favor of the bill.\n\n\u201cOne year ago, President Biden signed into law a historic piece of legislation that is bringing down costs for Alabama families, growing the middle class with new clean energy and manufacturing jobs, and making the largest investment to fight climate change in our nation\u2019s history,\u201d said Rep. Sewell. \u201cI was proud to be the only member of the Alabama delegation to vote in favor of the Inflation Reduction Act, and I\u2019m even prouder today as it continues to deliver for our families, our communities, and our planet. We\u2019re already seeing the investments from the Inflation Reduction Act lay the foundation for decades of economic growth and cost savings, and soon our provisions to cap prescription drug costs will provide even more breathing room for Alabama families.\u201d\n\nMany of the Inflation Reduction Act\u2019s responsible, pro-growth policies are already at work for Alabamians right now, with even more progress on the way:\n\nLowering costs for families:\n\nThanks to the Inflation Reduction Act, the 31,000 people who signed up for a marketplace plan in Alabama\u2019s 7th District are saving an average of $740 on their health care premiums this year.\n\nCaps insulin prices for seniors and other Medicare beneficiaries at $35/month, saving about 3,800 people in Alabama\u2019s 7th District who use insulin an average of $400 annually.\n\nAn estimated 367,000 Alabamians will save an average of $360 on prescription drugs every year when the $2,000 cap on annual out-of-pocket pharmacy costs for Americans with Medicare goes into effect in 2025.\n\nAllows Medicare to finally negotiate prescription drug prices starting in 2026, slashing prices and saving taxpayers nearly $100 billion over the next 8 years.\n\nUnleashes the power of cleaner, cheaper energy to save families hundreds of dollarson their energy bills every year and provides thousands of dollars in discounts to help families upgrade to more efficient appliances and vehicles.\n\nGrowing the middle class:\n\nDelivers a clean energy future, with over 170,000 new jobs and $278 billion in new investments already announced in 44 states, including 400 clean energy jobs and $205 million in investments right here in Alabama\u2019s 7th District.\n\nLays the foundation for the future of our economy with historic investments in clean energy and American manufacturing that are projected to create millions of jobs and reduce carbon pollution by 40 percent by 2030.\n\nGives more Americans a path to the middle class by expanding workforce training and registered apprenticeship programs to create good-paying jobs that don\u2019t require a college degree.\n\nPromoting tax fairness and reducing the deficit:", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T00:30:18Z"], ["https://sewell.house.gov/2023/8/rep-sewell-joins-congressional-black-caucus-institute-in-birmingham-for-democracy-for-the-people-tour", "Rep. Sewell Joins Congressional Black Caucus Institute in Birmingham for \u201cDemocracy For the People\u201d Tour", "2023-08-09", "2023", "2023-08", "Democrat", "House", "AL", "Terri A. Sewell", "S001185", "sewell.house.gov", "sewell", "https://sewell.house.gov/press-releases", "scraper", "Birmingham, AL \u2013 On Friday, August 4, 2023, U.S. Rep Terri Sewell (AL-07) welcomed Congressional Black Caucus Institute (CBCI) and Congressional Black Caucus (CBC) Chairman Steven Horsford (NV-04) to Birmingham, Alabama, for the continuation of the CBCI\u2019s \u201cDemocracy For The People\u201d nationwide tour. Rep. Sewell and Chairman Horsford joined a comprehensive organizer training before hosting a town hall and panel discussion on the most pressing matters of democracy and racial equity in America.\n\nPhotos and videos of the visit are available here. A recording of the press conference is available here.\n\nOn Friday morning, the CBCI hosted a mobilizer training session to educate participants on effective community mobilization, grassroots efforts, and impactful communication techniques to drive social change.\n\nFollowing the training, Rep. Sewell and Chairman Horsford hosted a panel discussion with Miles College President Bobbie Knight, Lawson State Community College President Cynthia Anthony, Interim Special Assistant to the President for Strategic Planning and Initiatives at Alabama A&M University Jackie Robinson, III, Community Activist Dee Reed, and Birmingham Urban League President and CEO William Barnes. The conversation was moderated by award-winning journalist Roland Martin and focused on pressing issues of democracy and racial equity, including attacks on Black history, the erosion of affirmative action, the state of voting rights, and the critical role of HBCUs in shaping our path forward.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T00:30:18Z"], ["https://sewell.house.gov/2023/8/rep-sewell-chairman-horsford-and-congressional-black-caucus-statement-on-amicus-brief-objecting-to-alabama-congressional-map", "Rep. Sewell, Chairman Horsford, and Congressional Black Caucus Statement on Amicus Brief Objecting to Alabama Congressional Map", "2023-08-08", "2023", "2023-08", "Democrat", "House", "AL", "Terri A. Sewell", "S001185", "sewell.house.gov", "sewell", "https://sewell.house.gov/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2013 Today, U.S. Rep. Terri Sewell (AL-07), Congressional Black Caucus (CBC) Chairman Steven Horsford (NV-04) and members of the Congressional Black Caucus issued the following statement regarding the amicus brief filed by the CBC in the Northern District of Alabama:\n\n\u201cIn defiance of the U.S. Supreme Court\u2019s ruling in Allen v. Milligan, the Republican-controlled Alabama State Legislature has yet to redraw its congressional district map to include a second majority Black district\u2014falling far beneath the goal set by the highest court in the land. Instead of creating a second district where Black voters would have an opportunity to elect a Black-preferred candidate in compliance with the U.S. Supreme Court ruling, the Alabama State Legislature chose to again put forth a map that robs Black voters of their fundamental rights at the ballot box.\n\n\u201cTherefore, the Congressional Black Caucus filed an amicus brief in the United States District Court in the Northern District of Alabama objecting to the newly enacted congressional district map because we will not stand by and allow improper, racially discriminatory maps to stand without challenge.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T00:30:18Z"], ["https://sewell.house.gov/2023/8/reps-sewell-smith-introduce-bipartisan-legislation-to-protect-access-to-home-health-care-services", "Reps. Sewell, Smith Introduce Bipartisan Legislation to Protect Access to Home Health Care Services", "2023-08-07", "2023", "2023-08", "Democrat", "House", "AL", "Terri A. Sewell", "S001185", "sewell.house.gov", "sewell", "https://sewell.house.gov/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2013 U.S. Reps. Terri Sewell (AL-07) and Adrian Smith (NE-03) introduced the Preserving Access to Home Health Act of 2023. This bipartisan legislation would help preserve access to home health services for seniors and Americans with disabilities by preventing proposed cuts to home health payment rates from taking effect.\n\n\u201cHome health services are a lifeline for so many Alabama seniors and people with disabilities, allowing patients to receive the treatment they need in the comfort of their own homes,\u201d said Rep. Sewell. \u201cI am very concerned about the impact that proposed cuts to Medicare\u2019s home health program would have on these patients and their families. It is imperative that we prevent such cuts from taking effect, which is why I\u2019m introducing the Preserving Access to Home Health Act in the House of Representatives. I want to thank Rep. Smith for his collaboration in this bipartisan effort, and I urge my colleagues to join us.\u201d\n\n\u201cHome health can lower the cost of care for patients and help hospitals to safely transition patients back to home living,\u201d said Rep. Adrian Smith. \u201cI have serious concerns these planned cuts to Medicare would result in worse outcomes for seniors and higher costs burdens in the long run. This bill would halt the counterproductive payment cuts and increase transparency in Medicare payment policy calculations. I thank my Senate colleagues and Rep. Sewell for their collaboration on this bill.\u201d\n\nHome health care allows approximately 3.5 million Medicare beneficiaries to be treated in the cost-effective setting they prefer most\u2014their homes. Home health services are a lifeline for seniors, people with disabilities, and those with limited mobility, and became even more essential during the COVID-19 public health emergency.\n\nIn June, Medicare announced plans to implement cuts totaling -9.36% to its home healthcare program starting in 2024, on top of the 3.9% cut that began in 2023. These new cuts could total up to $20 billion over the next 10 years and could make it harder for patients to leave the hospital and go home with care that helps them recover and rehabilitate.\n\nThe Preserving Access to Home Health Act would address the deep cuts made to home health that began this year and will continue until at least 2028. The legislation:\n\nRestricts CMS from making any cuts to home health.\n\nRequires MedPAC, which advises Congress on payment policy, to gain a full understanding of the economics of the home healthcare system, including how the Medicare program, the Medicaid program, and the Medicare Advantage program all contribute to a system.\n\n\u201cPatients leaving the hospital need a smooth transition home but are finding it increasingly difficult to find Medicare home health providers, signaling an immediate need for Congress to intervene and block Medicare from making such strident cuts to home health again this year,\u201d said Joanne Cunningham, CEO of the Partnership for Quality Home Healthcare. \u201cData suggest that Medicare\u2019s continued cuts to home health are restricting patient access to the safest and lowest-cost care setting following a hospital stay.\u201d\n\n\u201cThe Medicare home health community strongly supports this legislation and thanks Representatives Sewell and Smith for their leadership on a Medicare issue that truly threatens access to care for the more than 3 million beneficiaries who rely on this care,\u201d said William A. Dombi, President of the National Association for Home Care & Hospice. \u201cThe home health community calls on Congress to ensure the stability that patients and providers urgently need. Since Medicare has again proposed deep cuts to home health in 2024, Congress must act to protect the care their constituents prefer and want.\u201d\n\n\u201cWe commend Congresswoman Sewell for her commitment to home health and for leading this bipartisan legislation to help ensure Medicare\u2019s invaluable home health care services are available when patients need them most,\u201d said Barbara Jacobsmeyer, President and Chief Executive Officer of Enhabit Home Health & Hospice. \u201cCongresswoman Sewell has been a true champion for home health issues during her time in Congress, and she understands how home health helps patients and families transition from hospital to home with compassionate, patient-centered care. Whether patients are recovering from surgery or managing a chronic illness or recent injury, Medicare home health is an essential part of the care continuum. We are grateful for the support from the Congresswoman and look forward to working with others in Congress to help protect Medicare\u2019s home health benefit.\u201d\n\nSenators Debbie Stabenow (D-MI) and Susan Collins (R-ME) introduced companion legislation in the U.S. Senate on June 22.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T00:30:18Z"], ["https://sewell.house.gov/2023/7/rep-sewell-statement-on-decision-to-keep-u-s-space-command-headquarters-in-colorado", "Rep. Sewell Statement on Decision to Keep U.S. Space Command Headquarters in Colorado", "2023-07-31", "2023", "2023-07", "Democrat", "House", "AL", "Terri A. Sewell", "S001185", "sewell.house.gov", "sewell", "https://sewell.house.gov/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2013 Today, U.S. Rep. Terri Sewell (AL-07) released the following statement regarding the decision to keep U.S. Space Command Headquarters in Colorado.\n\n\u201cThis Administration\u2019s decision to keep Space Command in Colorado bows to the whims of politics over merit. Huntsville\u2019s merits won this selection process fair and square. In three separate reports, Huntsville reigned victorious, whereas Colorado did not come in second or even third. This reversal is as shameful as it is disappointing.\n\nI expected more from the Biden Administration. A decision of this magnitude should not be about red states versus blue states, but rather what is best for our national security.\n\nTo be clear, the Alabama Congressional Delegation stands united in opposition to this decision.\"\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T00:18:03Z"], ["https://sewell.house.gov/2023/7/rep-sewell-announces-employer-line-up-for-12th-annual-job-fair-in-montgomery", "Rep. Sewell Announces Employer Line-up for 12th Annual Job Fair in Montgomery", "2023-07-27", "2023", "2023-07", "Democrat", "House", "AL", "Terri A. Sewell", "S001185", "sewell.house.gov", "sewell", "https://sewell.house.gov/press-releases", "scraper", "Montgomery, AL \u2013 Today, U.S. Rep. Terri Sewell (AL-07) announced the line-up of employers for her 12th Annual Job Fair, which will take place at the Multiplex at Cramton Bowl in Montgomery, Alabama on Wednesday, August 2nd from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. CDT. This year\u2019s event will feature over 90 employers from 10 industries. Rep. Sewell\u2019s largest constituent event of the year, the annual Job Fair connects job-seekers to employers across Alabama and reflects her commitment to bringing opportunities directly to her constituents.\n\n\u201cOne of my top priorities in Congress is creating an environment for job growth, wage growth, and a better future for Alabama families,\u201d said Rep. Sewell. \u201cThat\u2019s why my annual job fair is one of the most important events we host all year.\u201d\n\n\u201cThis year, I\u2019m thrilled to be bringing our job fair back to Montgomery, Alabama.\u201d continued Sewell. \u201cThis event is about bringing opportunities directly to my constituents and empowering them with the tools they need to get ahead. I encourage anyone looking for a job or a new opportunity to join us for an exciting day!\u201d\n\nThis year\u2019s job fair will feature over 80 employers from 10 industries. Confirmed employers include:\n\nAutomotive\n\nHonda Alabama Auto Plant\n\nHyundai Motor Manufacturing Alabama\n\nLear Corporation\n\nMercedes-Benz U.S. International, Inc.\n\nMobis Alabama, LLC.\n\nSeoyon E-Hwa\n\nBanking\n\nH&R Block\n\nRegions Bank\n\nEducation\n\nAlabama Community College System\n\nAlabama State University\n\nAletheia House- Jobs for Veterans\n\nAutauga/Western Elmore Arc\n\nBlack Belt Community Foundation\n\nTrenholm State Community College\n\nWallace Community College Selma\n\nFood Mgt/Hospitality\n\nGulf Allstate Beverage Company\n\nMcDonald's | Murphy Family Restaurants\n\nWaffle House\n\nWind Creek\n\nWALMART STORES INC\n\nGovernmental Agency\n\nAIDT\n\nAL Dept. of Youth Services\n\nAlabama ABC Board\n\nAlabama Army National Guard\n\nAlabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources\n\nAlabama Department of Corrections\n\nAlabama Department of Environmental Management\n\nAlabama Department of Human Resources\n\nAlabama Department of Labor\n\nAlabama Department of Public Health\n\nAlabama Department of Revenue\n\nAlabama Forestry Commission\n\nCity of Selma Personnel Department\n\nCity of Tuscaloosa\n\nEdmundite Missions\n\nFCI Aliceville\n\nFCI Talladega\n\nFederal Prison Camp Montgomery\n\nJefferson County Commission\n\nMontgomery City-County Personnel\n\nMontgomery Job Corps Center\n\nNAVY RECRUITING MONTGOMERY\n\nPersonnel Board of Jefferson County\n\nSelma Army Recruiting Station\n\nState of Alabama Personnel Department\n\nThe University of Alabama\n\nU.S. Department of Labor (DOL)\n\nUnited States Air Force Reserve\n\nUS Small Business Administration - Alabama District Office\n\nUSDA Food and Nutrition Service\n\nHealthcare\n\nBlue Cross and Blue Shield of Alabama\n\nCentral Alabama Veterans Health Care System\n\nEncompass Health Rehabilitation Hospital of Montgomery\n\nFive Horizons Health Services\n\nThe Wellness Coalition\n\nUAB Medicine\n\nVaughan Regional Medical Center\n\nWhitfield Regional Hospital\n\nLaw Enforcement/Fire Rescue\n\nAlabama Law Enforcement Agency (ALEA)\n\nLegal Services Alabama\n\nMac Sims Butler Detention Facility\n\nMontgomery Police Department\n\nPresidential Security\n\nSelma Fire Department\n\nSelma Police Department\n\nProduction\n\nAlabama Catfish LLC\n\nAustal USA\n\nBig Lots Distribution Center\n\nBrasfield & Gorrie\n\nBush Hog\n\nDAS NA\n\nGD Copper USA\n\nHyundai Glovis USA\n\nHyundai Power Transformers\n\nIngalls Shipbuilding\n\nInternational Paper\n\nPremier Tech\n\nSPM, LLC\n\nUS Foods, Inc\n\nWayne-Sanderson Farms\n\nStaffing Agency\n\nATOZ Staffing\n\nGLOBAL TEAM STAFFING, LLC\n\nOnin Staffing\n\nExpress Employment Professionals\n\nTransportation/Utilities\n\nAlabama Power Company\n\nBradley Plumbing & Heating, Inc.\n\nBuffalo Rock\n\nCoca Cola United\n\nCSX\n\nHodges Warehouse + Logistics\n\nNorfolk Southern\n\nSDAC\n\nUPS\n\nEach year, Rep. Sewell alternates between hosting her job fair in urban and rural regions to ensure that the unique needs of each community are met.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T00:18:03Z"], ["https://sewell.house.gov/2023/7/rep-sewell-joins-hud-secretary-fudge-mayor-woodfin-and-community-leaders-to-announce-50-million-choice-neighborhoods-grant-to-revitalize-smithfield-college-hills-and-graymont", "Rep. Sewell Joins HUD Secretary Fudge, Mayor Woodfin, and Community Leaders to Announce $50 Million Choice Neighborhoods Grant", "2023-07-26", "2023", "2023-07", "Democrat", "House", "AL", "Terri A. Sewell", "S001185", "sewell.house.gov", "sewell", "https://sewell.house.gov/press-releases", "scraper", "Birmingham, AL \u2013 Today, U.S. Rep. Terri Sewell (AL-07) welcomed U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) Secretary Marcia L. Fudge to Birmingham, Alabama to announce a $50 million HUD Choice Neighborhoods Implementation (CNI) Grant to revitalize the Smithfield, College Hills, and Graymont neighborhoods. At a press conference Wednesday morning, Rep. Sewell joined Secretary Fudge, Birmingham Mayor Randall Woodfin, Housing Authority of the Birmingham District (HABD) President and CEO Dontrelle Young-Foster, and community members to celebrate the historic funding which will be used to construct nearly one thousand mixed-income affordable housing units.\n\n\u201cThis is a truly exciting and historic day for the City of Birmingham!\u201d said Rep. Sewell. \u201cWith this monumental $50 million grant from the Department of Housing and Urban Development, we will be able to revitalize the historic Smithfield, College Hills, and Graymont neighborhoods with new, affordable housing units. Not only will this project allow residents to Iive more comfortably and affordably, but it will attract millions in new investments. I want to thank Mayor Woodfin, the Housing Authority of the Birmingham District, and the Birmingham City Council for their collaboration on this important project. We are so grateful to Secretary Fudge for traveling to Birmingham and the entire Biden-Harris Administration for continuing to pour into our communities.\u201d\n\n\u201cThis investment represents HUD\u2019s commitment to creating new housing for Birmingham residents and communities across the country,\u201d said HUD Secretary Marcia L. Fudge. \u201cWhen we envision the future of public housing investment, we think of programs like Choice Neighborhoods. These awards promote the innovative collaboration needed to tackle the affordable housing crisis. A community-driven, whole-of-government approach to neighborhood revitalization is what leads to impactful changes in the neighborhoods that need it the most.\u201d\n\nThe funding awarded today is part of a $370 million nationwide investment by the Biden-Harris Administration\u2019s Department of Housing and Urban Development. HABD received the maximum possible award under the Choice Neighborhoods Implementation Grant Program which helps revitalize and transform distressed public and/or assisted housing and neighborhoods across the country, while also providing residents with services focused on income, health, and education.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T00:18:03Z"], ["https://sewell.house.gov/2023/7/rep-sewell-applauds-house-passage-of-the-securing-growth-and-robust-leadership-in-american-aviation-act-to-reauthorize-the-faa", "Rep. Sewell Applauds House Passage of the Securing Growth and Robust Leadership in American Aviation Act to Reauthorize the FAA", "2023-07-20", "2023", "2023-07", "Democrat", "House", "AL", "Terri A. Sewell", "S001185", "sewell.house.gov", "sewell", "https://sewell.house.gov/press-releases", "scraper", "The bill will promote public safety and maintain American leadership in aviation\n\nWashington D.C. \u2013 Today, U.S. Rep. Terri Sewell (AL-07) voted to pass the Securing Growth and Robust Leadership in American Aviation Act to reauthorize the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) for five years. The bill will maintain American leadership in aviation safety and aerospace innovation, strengthen and diversify the U.S. aviation workforce, make groundbreaking investments in sustainability and resiliency, and improve consumer protections and accessibility. It passed in the House of Representatives on Thursday by an overwhelmingly bipartisan vote of 351-69.\n\n\u201cMillions of Americans depend on the Federal Aviation Administration for safe and reliable air travel,\u201d said Rep. Sewell. \u201cWith this strong, bipartisan legislation, Congress is ensuring that the FAA can continue that essential mission while fostering innovation and providing additional protections for airline passengers. I am particularly excited that this bill authorizes funding to recruit workers from underrepresented communities so that we can build a more diverse and inclusive aviation workforce. I was proud to vote in favor of this bill and thrilled to see it pass the House today!\u201d\n\nThe Securing Growth and Robust Leadership in American Aviation Act will:\n\nMaintain America\u2019s Gold Standard in Safety:\n\nAmerica\u2019s aviation system is the safest in the world and the FAA reauthorization will continue to prioritize the safety of the flying public, the aviation workforce, and communities.\n\nKey provisions will expand ground surveillance at airports to help prevent runway incursions, update evacuation standards for commercial planes, and create a task force on preventing assaults against flight crews.\n\nFoster Innovation:\n\nTo preserve America\u2019s competitive edge in aviation and deliver for the American people, this bill will create the regulatory environment for innovative companies to develop and deploy emerging technologies.\n\nCommunities can look forward to drones helping first responders to fight wildfires and advanced air mobility (AAM) aircraft improving mobility while reducing carbon and noise pollution.\n\nStrengthen and Diversify the U.S. Aviation Workforce:\n\nTo ensure our aviation workforce can compete globally in the evolving aviation sector, this bill triples FAA\u2019s aviation workforce development funding to $45 million a year, expanding our talent pipeline of pilots, maintenance technicians, and aviation manufacturing workers among other critical professions.\n\nCrucially, it funds efforts to recruit and retain people from underrepresented communities in the aviation industry.\n\nExpand Consumer Protections and Accessibility:\n\nConsumers deserve reliable air travel, whether that means being reimbursed for costs incurred due to flight disruptions or having peace of mind while traveling with a wheelchair or mobility aid.\n\nThe FAA reauthorization protects consumers from mass cancellations and delays by requiring airlines to plan for reimbursements for hotels and meal costs. It also works to allow young families to sit together at no extra cost.\n\nIt also takes important steps to ensure safe and dignified air travel for passengers by directing airlines to create a roadmap to reduce damage to wheelchairs and improve airline personnel training to better assist these passengers.\n\nPromote Environmental Sustainability and Resilience:\n\nThe transportation sector is the largest single source of greenhouse gas emissions that contribute to the climate crisis in the U.S.\n\nThe bill accelerates the green energy transition and for the first time invests in federal airport funding for airport environmental and noise programs\u2014an important change that will better equip airports to continue to serve communities amid the impacts of climate change.\n\nFind a section-by-section summary here.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T00:18:03Z"], ["https://sewell.house.gov/2023/7/rep-sewell-joins-house-and-senate-colleagues-to-introduce-the-freedom-to-vote-act", "Rep. Sewell Joins House and Senate Colleagues to Introduce the Freedom to Vote Act", "2023-07-18", "2023", "2023-07", "Democrat", "House", "AL", "Terri A. Sewell", "S001185", "sewell.house.gov", "sewell", "https://sewell.house.gov/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington D.C. \u2013 Today, U.S. Rep. Terri Sewell (AL-07), Ranking Member of the Committee on House Administration Subcommittee on Elections, joined her House and Senate colleagues to introduce the Freedom to Vote Act. At a press conference in the U.S. Capitol, Rep. Sewell joined Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY), House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries (D-NY), House Democratic Whip Katherine Clark (D-MA), Senator Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), Rep. John Sarbanes (D-MD), Senator Tim Kaine (D-VA), House Committee on Administration Ranking Member Joe Morelle (D-NY), and Senator Raphael Warnock (D-GA) to announce the introduction of the bill which will defend our democracy against relentless attacks and expand voting access so that the voices and votes of regular Americans are heard in our elections.\n\n\u201cIt was in my hometown of Selma, Alabama where John Lewis and the Foot Soldiers shed blood on a bridge for the equal right of all Americans to vote,\u201d said Rep. Sewell. \u201cBut today, their legacy\u2014and democracy itself\u2014is under attack by extremists and election deniers who are working to subvert our elections and make it harder for Americans to vote.\u201d\n\n\u201cThe Freedom to Vote Act protects the right to vote, supports local election workers, bans dark money, and ends partisan gerrymandering,\u201d continued Sewell. \u201cTogether with the John R. Lewis Voting Rights Advancement Act, which I will introduce in the coming months, it will ensure that every American can vote in secure, accessible, and transparent elections.\u201d\n\nThe Freedom to Vote Act:\n\nProtects and Expands Voting Access: The Freedom to Vote Act makes Election Day a public holiday. It modernizes voter registration opportunities by implementing automatic voter registration; ensures voters in all states have access to online voter registration; and ensures all voters have access to same day voter registration opportunities. It sets minimum, nationwide standards for voting opportunities by setting a uniform floor of days and hours for early voting; setting minimum standards for access to ballot drop boxes; a nationwide standard of no-excuse absentee voting; and improves delivery of election mail. It also improves access for voters with disabilities and military and overseas voters.\n\nPrevents State Election Subversion: The Freedom to Vote Act supports election workers and establishes federal protections to insulate nonpartisan election officials who administer federal elections from undue partisan interference or control.\n\nCombats Dark Money and Ends Gerrymandering: The Freedom to Vote Act requires super PACs, 501(c)(4) groups, and other organizations spending money in elections to disclose donors and shuts down the use of transfers between organizations to cloak the identity of contributors. It also ends partisan gerrymandering and establishes specific criteria for congressional redistricting to ensure nonpartisan redistricting.\n\nThe bill comes as MAGA extremists continue to spread misinformation about our elections, with some refusing to even accept the results. They have also passed a wave of laws restricting the freedom to vote in states across the country, while a growing flood of corporate and dark money pollute our elections and drown out the voices of regular people.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T00:18:03Z"], ["https://sewell.house.gov/2023/7/rep-sewell-votes-against-fiscal-year-2024-national-defense-authorization-act-following-hijacking-by-extreme-maga-republicans", "Rep. Sewell Votes Against Fiscal Year 2024 National Defense Authorization Act Following Hijacking by Extreme MAGA Republicans", "2023-07-14", "2023", "2023-07", "Democrat", "House", "AL", "Terri A. Sewell", "S001185", "sewell.house.gov", "sewell", "https://sewell.house.gov/press-releases", "scraper", "Extreme Republican amendments would undermine military readiness by attacking health care for service members and making the military less inclusive\n\nWashington D.C. \u2013 Today, U.S. Rep. Terri Sewell (AL-07), a member of the House Armed Services Committee, released the following statement regarding her decision to vote against the Fiscal Year 2024 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) after the bill was hijacked by extreme MAGA Republicans:\n\n\u201cFor the past 62 years, Republicans and Democrats have come together to craft bipartisan defense authorization bills that would support our troops and strengthen our national security,\u201d said Rep. Sewell. \u201cBut this year, rather than continuing that essential tradition, Speaker McCarthy has caved to the most extreme members of his party and allowed the radical right-wing to poison the defense bill with culture war provisions that would undermine our military readiness and harm our service members.\u201d\n\n\u201cI did not take this vote lightly,\u201d continued Sewell. \u201cI have proudly voted in favor of the annual defense bill every year since coming to Congress. But I cannot and will not support a bill that would rip basic health care away from our service members and make bigotry and discrimination a centerpiece of our defense policy. Republicans need to stop playing politics with our national security.\u201d\n\nPassed annually by Congress since 1961, the NDAA authorizes funding levels for the Department of Defense (DoD) and allows the Armed Forces to pay, train, and equip U.S. service members, support America\u2019s allies around the world, and carry out essential national security operations.\n\nLast month, Rep. Sewell voted with her Republican and Democratic colleagues to pass the NDAA out of the House Armed Services Committee after reaching an overwhelmingly bipartisan compromise. Rep. Sewell successfully secured key provisions to support Alabama\u2019s military installations including leadership training at Maxwell Air Force Base. She also secured record funding for research at Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) and critical provisions to support the health and well-being of service members and their families.\n\nOn Thursday, rather than moving forward with the bipartisan version of the bill advanced by the Armed Services Committee, House Speaker Kevin McCarthy caved to the most extreme members of his party, allowing them to hijack the NDAA by forcing through hyper-partisan, culture war amendments.\n\nMAGA Republican amendments would undermine military readiness and harm service members by:\n\nAttacking Diversity Initiatives and Making the Military Less Inclusive: At a time when DoD faces serious recruiting challenges, particularly among Black and minority recruits, Republicans forced through six amendments attacking diversity and inclusion in our military, which would ban diversity and inclusion personnel and training.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T00:18:03Z"], ["https://sewell.house.gov/2023/7/rep-sewell-to-host-12th-annual-job-fair-in-montgomery-on-august-2nd", "Rep. Sewell to Host 12th Annual Job Fair in Montgomery on August 2nd", "2023-07-11", "2023", "2023-07", "Democrat", "House", "AL", "Terri A. Sewell", "S001185", "sewell.house.gov", "sewell", "https://sewell.house.gov/press-releases", "scraper", "Montgomery, AL \u2013 Today, U.S. Rep. Terri Sewell (AL-07) announced that she will host her 12th Annual Job Fair at the Multiplex at Cramton Bowl in Montgomery, Alabama on Wednesday, August 2nd from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. Rep. Sewell\u2019s largest constituent event of the year, the annual job fair connects job-seekers to employers and reflects her commitment to bringing opportunities directly to her constituents.\n\n\u201cOne of my top priorities in Congress is creating an environment for job growth, wage growth, and a better future for Alabama families,\u201d said Rep. Sewell. \u201cThat\u2019s why my annual job fair is one of the most important events we host all year.\u201d\n\n\u201cThis year, I\u2019m thrilled to be bringing our job fair back to Montgomery, Alabama.\u201d continued Sewell. \u201cThis event is about bringing opportunities directly to my constituents and empowering them with the tools they need to get ahead. I encourage anyone looking for a job or a new opportunity to join us for an exciting day!\u201d\n\nThe job fair is free and open to the public. Pre-registration is strongly encouraged but not required. On-site registration will be available the day of the event. Constituents can pre-register at this link or on Rep. Sewell\u2019s official website at sewell.house.gov.\n\nThis year\u2019s event will feature employers from at least 10 industries including: Automotive, Restaurant and Food Management, Transportation and Construction, Hospitality and Retail, Health Services, Utilities and Telecommunications, Manufacturing and Production, Staffing Agencies, Government Agencies, and Law Enforcement. The full list of employers will be announced at a later date.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T00:18:03Z"], ["https://sewell.house.gov/2023/6/rep-sewell-statement-on-supreme-court-decision-striking-down-president-biden-s-student-loan-debt-relief-plan", "Rep. Sewell Statement on Supreme Court Decision Striking Down President Biden\u2019s Student Loan Debt Relief Plan", "2023-06-30", "2023", "2023-06", "Democrat", "House", "AL", "Terri A. Sewell", "S001185", "sewell.house.gov", "sewell", "https://sewell.house.gov/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington D.C. \u2013 Today, U.S. Rep. Terri Sewell (AL-07) released the following statement regarding the Supreme Court\u2019s decision striking down President Biden\u2019s plan to provide targeted student loan debt relief to borrowers:\n\n\u201cToday, the Supreme Court has chosen to side with Republican state officials who would rather score political points against President Biden than help hard-working Americans being crushed by student loan debt. To say that I am disappointed would be an understatement.\n\n\u201cIn light of this terrible decision, I am calling on my colleagues in Congress to take action to combat the student debt crisis and make higher education more affordable for our students.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T00:08:25Z"], ["https://sewell.house.gov/2023/6/rep-sewell-statement-on-supreme-court-decision-ending-affirmative-action", "Rep. Sewell Statement on Supreme Court Decision Ending Affirmative Action", "2023-06-29", "2023", "2023-06", "Democrat", "House", "AL", "Terri A. Sewell", "S001185", "sewell.house.gov", "sewell", "https://sewell.house.gov/press-releases", "scraper", "\u201cFor centuries, African Americans were systematically denied the opportunity to pursue a higher education and gain financial independence, leaving a painful legacy of discrimination that persists to this day. It was during my parents\u2019 lifetime that institutions like the University of Alabama finally allowed Black students to enroll alongside their peers.\n\n\u201cFor the past four decades, the Supreme Court has recognized the important role of affirmative action in breaking down educational barriers for Black students. After all, our entire nation benefits when talented students of diverse backgrounds get a fair shot at success. But with today\u2019s extreme reversal, the Court has chosen to ignore our history and roll back our hard-fought progress.\n\n\u201cThis is another solemn reminder that progress is elusive, and every generation must fight to preserve the progress of the past and advance it.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T00:08:25Z"], ["https://sewell.house.gov/2023/6/rep-sewell-announces-historic-1-4-billion-from-the-bipartisan-infrastructure-law-to-expand-broadband-in-alabama", "Rep. Sewell Announces Historic $1.4 Billion from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law to Expand Broadband in Alabama", "2023-06-26", "2023", "2023-06", "Democrat", "House", "AL", "Terri A. Sewell", "S001185", "sewell.house.gov", "sewell", "https://sewell.house.gov/press-releases", "scraper", "Part of the single largest federal investment in high-speed internet in U.S. history\n\nBirmingham, AL \u2013 Today, U.S. Rep. Terri Sewell (AL-07) announced that $1.4 billion from President Biden\u2019s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law will soon make its way to Alabama to expand access to high-speed internet. The funding\u2014which has been allocated by the National Telecommunications and Information Administration\u2019s (NTIA) Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment (BEAD) program\u2014is part of an over $40 billion nationwide investment by the Biden-Harris Administration in America\u2019s broadband infrastructure, the single largest federal investment in high-speed internet in our nation\u2019s history. Rep. Sewell was the only member of the Alabama congressional delegation to vote in favor of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law.\n\n\u201cIn our 21st century economy, access to reliable high-speed internet is not a luxury. It is a necessity,\u201d said Rep. Sewell. \u201cThanks to President Biden\u2019s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, we\u2019re devoting more resources than ever before to expanding broadband, closing the digital divide, and ensuring that every Alabamian can connect to high-speed internet. These funds will be a game-changer for our state, and I look forward to working with ADECA to ensure that they are equitably distributed to HBCUs and underserved communities, including in Birmingham and the Black Belt.\u201d\n\nBroadband internet is necessary for Alabamians to do their jobs, participate equally in school learning, access health care, and stay connected. Yet as of 2021, 18% of Alabama households did not have an internet subscription, and 11.5% of Alabama residents lived in areas where, under the FCC\u2019s benchmark, there was no broadband infrastructure. The $1.4 billion in BEAD funding announced today will be used to deploy or upgrade broadband networks to ensure that everyone has access to reliable, affordable, high-speed Internet service. Once deployment goals are met, any remaining funding can be used to pursue eligible access-, adoption-, and equity-related uses.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T00:08:25Z"], ["https://sewell.house.gov/2023/6/rep-sewell-statement-on-supreme-court-decision-allowing-the-redrawing-of-the-louisiana-congressional-map-to-add-a-second-majority-black-district", "Rep. Sewell Statement on Supreme Court Decision Allowing the Redrawing of the Louisiana Congressional Map to Add a Second Majority-Black District", "2023-06-26", "2023", "2023-06", "Democrat", "House", "AL", "Terri A. Sewell", "S001185", "sewell.house.gov", "sewell", "https://sewell.house.gov/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington D.C. \u2013 Today, U.S. Rep. Terri Sewell (AL-07) released the following statement regarding the Supreme Court\u2019s decision to allow the redrawing of Louisiana\u2019s congressional map to add a second majority-Black district.\n\n\u201cThis is a major victory for Black voters in Louisiana who will finally get more fair and equitable representation in Congress. It has been a matter of weeks since the Supreme Court\u2019s Allen v. Milligan decision and its reverberations are already being felt across the nation. Whether in Alabama, Louisiana, or any other state, this decision affirms that state legislatures cannot dilute the power of Black voters who deserve fair representation in our democracy.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T00:08:25Z"], ["https://sewell.house.gov/2023/6/rep-sewell-announces-21-million-grant-to-support-the-birmingham-urban-trail-and-enhance-multimodal-transportation-network", "Rep. Sewell Announces $21+ Million Grant to Support the Birmingham Urban Trail and Enhance Multimodal Transportation Network", "2023-06-22", "2023", "2023-06", "Democrat", "House", "AL", "Terri A. Sewell", "S001185", "sewell.house.gov", "sewell", "https://sewell.house.gov/press-releases", "scraper", "Birmingham, AL \u2013 Today, U.S. Rep. Terri Sewell (AL-07) announced that the City of Birmingham has been awarded a $21,681,306 grant from the United States Department of Transportation (DOT) to support the development of the Birmingham Urban Trail and Multimodal Corridor. The funding is part of DOT\u2019s Rebuilding American Infrastructure with Sustainability and Equity (RAISE) Grant Program and will be used to enhance transportation networks and create a more walkable, bikeable, safe, connected, and livable community.\n\n\u201cThis is such great news for the Birmingham area!\u201d celebrated Rep. Sewell. \u201cI was so proud to help the City of Birmingham secure this $21 million grant to develop the Birmingham Urban Trail, and I know that it will go a long way in making our city more walkable, bikeable and livable. I applaud the Biden-Harris Administration for making this transformational investment and for their continued partnership as we work to bring more resources and better opportunities to our communities here in Birmingham.\u201d\n\nFunding from today\u2019s announcement will support the \u201cBirmingham Civil Rights Crossroads: Reconnecting Historic Neighborhoods Through Active Mobility\u201d project which will create an urban trail and multi-modal corridor to celebrate, honor, and revitalize the Smithfield neighborhood, the west side of Birmingham, and the Civil Rights District. It will be the spine of a growing multimodal transportation network, providing safe and equitable options via an urban trail and complete streets and creating a more walkable, bikeable, safe, connected, and livable community.\n\nSpecifically, this funding will be used to redevelop approximately 2.5-miles of road with a complete streets approach, including a two-way cycle track, improved ADA access, sidewalks and other universal design elements.\n\nBackground on the RAISE Grant Program\n\nThe RAISE Grant program provides a unique opportunity for the DOT to invest in road, rail, transit and port projects that promise to achieve national objectives. Previously known as the Better Utilizing Investments to Leverage Development (BUILD) and Transportation Investment Generating Economic Recovery (TIGER) Discretionary Grants, Congress has dedicated nearly $12.1 billion for fourteen rounds of National Infrastructure Investments to fund projects that have a significant local or regional impact.\n\nIn each competition, DOT receives hundreds of applications to build and repair critical pieces of our freight and passenger transportation networks. The RAISE program enables DOT to examine these projects on their merits to help ensure that taxpayers are getting the highest value for every dollar invested.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T00:08:25Z"], ["https://sewell.house.gov/2023/6/rep-sewell-secures-key-wins-for-alabama-as-fy2024-national-defense-authorization-act-passes-out-of-armed-services-committee", "Rep. Sewell Secures Key Wins for Alabama as FY2024 National Defense Authorization Act Passes out of Armed Services Committee", "2023-06-22", "2023", "2023-06", "Democrat", "House", "AL", "Terri A. Sewell", "S001185", "sewell.house.gov", "sewell", "https://sewell.house.gov/press-releases", "scraper", "Sewell Secured Record Funding for HBCUs and Critical Supports for Alabama\u2019s Military Installations in the Annual Defense Funding Package\n\nWashington D.C. \u2013 Today, U.S. Rep. Terri Sewell (AL-07), a proud member of the House Armed Services Committee, announced the inclusion of key priorities in H.R. 1282, the Fiscal Year 2024 (FY24) National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA). Passed annually by Congress since 1961, the NDAA authorizes funding levels for the Department of Defense (DoD) and allows the Armed Forces to pay, train, and equip U.S. service members, support America\u2019s allies around the world, and carry out essential national security operations. Thanks to requests and amendments offered by Rep. Sewell, the NDAA supports Maxwell Air Force Base and Alabama\u2019s Air National Guard installations, includes record funding to support Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs), and makes substantial investments in the health and well-being of our service members and their families. The FY24 NDAA was marked up by the House Armed Services Committee on Wednesday and passed out of the Committee by a bipartisan vote of 58 to 1. It will now make its way to the House Floor for a vote.\n\n\u201cAs a proud member of the House Armed Services Committee and the representative for critical military installations in Alabama, I take very seriously my responsibility to ensure that our service members get the tools and support they need to keep our nation safe,\u201d said Rep. Sewell. \u201cI\u2019m thrilled to report that this year\u2019s NDAA includes my provisions to continue modernizing Alabama\u2019s Air National Guard facilities and support leadership training at Maxwell Air Force Base.\u201d\n\n\u201cI was also proud to help secure numerous provisions to support our nation\u2019s HBCUs in this year\u2019s NDAA,\u201d continued Sewell. \u201cOur HBCUs perform critical research and help train a talented and diverse group of students whose skills are an asset to our national security. We must ensure that their potential does not go untapped. Thanks to a series of amendments and requests that we submitted, this NDAA strengthens the partnership between our military and our HBCUs, creates a workforce pipeline for minority students, and includes a record $125 million to invest in cutting-edge research at HBCUs.\u201d\n\nAs a member of the House Armed Services Committee, Rep. Sewell secured the inclusion of key priorities in the FY24 NDAA including:\n\nModernizing Alabama\u2019s Air National Guard Facilities - The NDAA includes Rep. Sewell\u2019s amendment directing the Secretary of the Air Force to brief the Armed Services Committee on facility modernization plans for Air National Guard installations in Alabama including the 117th Air Refueling Wing in Birmingham.\n\nRecognizing Air Force Professional Development Education at Maxwell Air Force Base - Thanks to a request submitted by Rep. Sewell, the NDAA acknowledges the important role Air University at Maxwell Air Force Base plays in training our brightest Air Force leaders, paving the way for innovative research, and advancing USAF combat operations.\n\nIncreasing Research Funding for HBCUs and Minority Serving Institutions (MSI) - The NDAA includes an amendment that Rep. Sewell co-sponsored to boost research funding for HBCUs and MSIs by $20 million. In total, this year\u2019s NDAA includes a record $125 million to support cutting-edge research programs at HBCUs and MSIs and create workforce pipelines from minority and underserved communities.\n\nExpanding DoD Partnership with HBCUs - The NDAA includes Rep. Sewell\u2019s amendment to strengthen and expand partnerships between DoD and our nation\u2019s HBCUs. The amendment directs the Air Force to brief the House Armed Services Committee on how it plans to partner with HBCUs to leverage their expertise in the areas of cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, augmented reality, and Additive Manufacturing.\n\nExpanding Reserve Officers\u2019 Training Corps (ROTC) Programs at HBCUs - The NDAA includes a provision directing the Secretary of the Air Force to submit a report to the House Committee on Armed Services that includes an assessment of the feasibility of expanding Air Force ROTC programs at HBCUs, the cost of such an expansion to HBCUs, and the number of HBCUs that qualify for an Air Force ROTC program.\n\nCombating Opioid Addiction Among Service Members - The NDAA includes Rep. Sewell\u2019s amendment requiring the Secretary of Defense to brief Congress on DoD\u2019s efforts to reduce opioid addiction among servicemembers and expand the use of non-opioid treatment alternatives.\n\nTackling Hunger Among Military Families - The NDAA includes an amendment cosponsored by Rep. Sewell to explore the process of improving the certification process for military families accessing free- and reduced-price school meals.\n\nCombatting Breast Cancer - The NDAA includes an amendment cosponsored by Rep. Sewell requiring the Secretary of Defense to brief the Armed Services Committee on DoD\u2019s efforts to screen for breast cancer among TRICARE beneficiaries.\n\nAs the rules-based international order continues to face threats from around the world, this year\u2019s NDAA authorizes crucial investments in America\u2019s global alliances and partnerships. The NDAA includes robust investments to address the challenges posed by the People\u2019s Republic of China (PRC) as well as acute threats from Russia and North Korea. It supports our nation\u2019s service members and military families with a 5.2% pay raise, ensuring we continue to invest in our military\u2019s greatest asset\u2014our people.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T00:08:25Z"], ["https://sewell.house.gov/2023/6/rep-sewell-announces-2023-congressional-app-challenge-for-alabama-s-7th-congressional-district", "Rep. Sewell Announces 2023 Congressional App Challenge for Alabama\u2019s 7th Congressional District", "2023-06-15", "2023", "2023-06", "Democrat", "House", "AL", "Terri A. Sewell", "S001185", "sewell.house.gov", "sewell", "https://sewell.house.gov/press-releases", "scraper", "Birmingham, AL \u2013 Today, U.S. Rep. Terri Sewell (AL-07) announced the start of the 2023 Congressional App Challenge (CAC) for Alabama\u2019s 7th Congressional District. The competition challenges students in middle school and high school to create their own original app, and is intended to boost engagement in computer science and STEM among America\u2019s youth. The winner for the 7th Congressional District, chosen by a panel of expert judges, will be featured on CongressionalAppChallenge.us. The winning app will also be eligible to be on display in the U.S. Capitol along with other winners from across the country. Submissions are due by November 1, 2023.\n\n\u201cOur 21st century economy is constantly evolving with the advancement of new technologies. In order to keep up with the jobs of tomorrow, it is critical that we give our students opportunities to enhance their skills in STEM and computer science,\u201d said Rep. Sewell. \u201cI love this challenge because it empowers our students to think big, be creative, and build something of their own. I cannot wait to see the apps that our students submit!\u201d\n\nRecognizing the power of STEM and computer science to foster economic growth and innovation, Congress created the CAC in 2015 to encourage students to pursue these critical skills and recognize them for their efforts. To maintain America\u2019s competitiveness, it is crucial that the United States invests in our youth now and helps them acquire these valuable skills.\n\nThe App Challenge accepts computer programs (or apps) written in any programming language, for any platform (desktop/PC, web, mobile, raspberry Pi, etc.).\n\nThe Challenge\u2019s submission portal is now open. Students can register and submit their applications until November 1, 2023. The competition is open to all students who meet the eligibility requirements, regardless of coding experience.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T18:15:57Z"], ["https://sewell.house.gov/2023/6/rep-sewell-joins-rep-bilirakis-in-introducing-legislation-to-ensure-timely-access-to-oral-prescription-drugs", "Rep. Sewell Joins Rep. Bilirakis in Introducing Legislation to Ensure Timely Access to Oral Prescription Drugs", "2023-06-13", "2023", "2023-06", "Democrat", "House", "AL", "Terri A. Sewell", "S001185", "sewell.house.gov", "sewell", "https://sewell.house.gov/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington D.C. \u2013 U.S. Rep. Terri Sewell (AL-07) joined Rep. Gus Bilirakis (FL-12) in introducing H.R. 4011, the Timely Access to Clinical Treatment (TACT) Act. This bipartisan legislation would require that patients be provided their oral drugs within an acceptable time frame.\n\n\u201cUndergoing treatment for a serious illness is difficult enough. No patient should also have to worry about delays in receiving potentially life-saving medication,\u201d said Rep. Sewell. \u201cThe TACT Act is a simple, commonsense solution that would remove unnecessary roadblocks and empower doctors to get their patients the critical care that they need in a timely manner. I am proud to introduce this bill and urge my colleagues to support it.\u201d\n\n\u201cThis bill is about removing the red tape within our healthcare system and ensuring that patients have timely access to their medications,\u201d said Rep. Gus Bilirakis. \u201cDoctors, not bureaucrats, best understand the needs of their patients and should be empowered with the tools needed to provide the best possible care\u2014especially when time is of the essence.\u201d\n\nPatients\u2019 access to the appropriate medically necessary treatment within a reasonable time frame is increasingly challenged by our complex health care delivery system. This is especially true for oral drugs. Pharmacy benefit managers (PBMs), health insurance plan sponsors, and specialty and mail order pharmacies are notorious for slowing down the process by which patients receive their oral drugs, even in cases where specialty practices can provide those drugs at the site of care via an in-house pharmacy or dispensing facility. In some cases, PBMs even disallow the drugs prescribed.\n\nThe TACT Act provides a simple solution by requiring that patients be provided their oral drugs within an acceptable time frame of 72 hours, allowing for situations\u2014such as acquiring financial support\u2014that are understandable and reasonable.\n\nSpecifically, the TACT Act will:\n\nRequire PBMs, plan sponsors, insurers, and contract pharmacies, including specialty and mail order pharmacies, to ensure that patients are able to receive their prescription medication within 72 hours of having the prescription submitted to the patient\u2019s pharmacy benefit plan provider in order to ensure that there is not undo delay in the initiation of the patient\u2019s treatment;\n\nAllow patients who are not able to receive their prescription from a pharmacy benefit plan provider within 72 hours to seek pharmacy services and receive their prescription medication from any other duly-licensed entity that can fill the patient\u2019s prescription and require that it be covered under the patient\u2019s plan with full use of the patient\u2019s applicable benefit(s);\n\nRequire pharmacy benefit plan providers receiving the prescription to confirm within 24 hours to the patient\u2019s prescriber receipt of the prescription and the ability to fill it within the 72-hour period; and\n\nRequire that any prior authorization required by the pharmacy benefit plan provider take place in such a time that the 72-hour time limit is not exceeded.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T18:15:57Z"], ["https://sewell.house.gov/2023/6/rep-sewell-statement-on-supreme-court-decision-upholding-the-protections-of-the-voting-rights-act-of-1965", "Rep. Sewell Statement on Supreme Court Decision Upholding the Protections of the Voting Rights Act of 1965", "2023-06-08", "2023", "2023-06", "Democrat", "House", "AL", "Terri A. Sewell", "S001185", "sewell.house.gov", "sewell", "https://sewell.house.gov/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington D.C. \u2013 Today, U.S. Rep. Terri Sewell (AL-07) released the following statement regarding the Supreme Court\u2019s decision to uphold the protections of the Voting Rights Act in the Allen v. Milligan case.\n\n\u201cThis is a historic victory, not only for Black voters in Alabama, but for Democracy itself. With this decision, the Supreme Court is saying loudly and clearly that the voices of minority voters matter and that fair representation must be upheld.\n\n\u201cI know that John Lewis and the Foot Soldiers of the Voting Rights Movement are smiling as they look down on us. Today, their sacrifice was rewarded.\n\n\u201cOur work is not over. We must continue the fight for fair representation by passing the John R. Lewis Voting Rights Advancement Act to restore the full protections of the Voting Rights Act of 1965.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T00:08:25Z"], ["https://sewell.house.gov/2023/6/reps-sewell-johnson-introduce-bipartisan-legislation-to-level-the-playing-field-for-american-workers", "Reps. Sewell, Johnson Introduce Bipartisan Legislation to Level the Playing Field for American Workers", "2023-06-07", "2023", "2023-06", "Democrat", "House", "AL", "Terri A. Sewell", "S001185", "sewell.house.gov", "sewell", "https://sewell.house.gov/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington D.C. \u2013 Today, U.S. Reps. Terri Sewell (AL-07) and Bill Johnson (OH-06), along with Reps. Frank Mrvan and (IN-01) and Beth Van Duyne (TX-24), introduced bipartisan legislation to level the playing field for American workers. H.R. 3882, the Leveling the Playing Field Act 2.0, would strengthen U.S. trade remedy laws to protect American workers and combat China\u2019s unfair, anti-free market trade practices that distort the global market. Companion legislation was introduced in the U.S. Senate by Sens. Sherrod Brown (D-OH) and Todd Young (R-IN).\n\n\u201cAs a member of the Ways and Means Trade Subcommittee, I am committed to ensuring that U.S. trade policy promotes fair competition and protects American workers against the Chinese Communist Party\u2019s efforts to manipulate the global market,\u201d said Rep. Sewell. \u201cAlong with Congressman Bill Johnson, I am proud to be introducing the Leveling the Playing Field Act 2.0 which would strengthen our trade remedy laws and push back against China\u2019s egregious and unfair trade practices. We know that if American workers are given the opportunity to compete on a fair and level playing field, they will win on the world stage!\u201d\n\n\u201cChina\u2019s communist regime continues taking deliberate steps that are hurting American workers and our economy by dumping steel, aluminum, and other products on the global markets with no repercussions. That must end,\u201d said Rep. Johnson. \u201cThis bipartisan legislation will hold China accountable for these actions by ensuring that U.S. industries and the Department of Commerce have needed tools to seek relief from China\u2019s illegal actions. A robust domestic steel and aluminum industry is critical to creating American jobs, strengthening our economy, and protecting our national security. We can\u2019t wait any longer to act. I look forward to working with my colleagues in the House and Senate to ensure this bipartisan bill becomes law.\u201d\n\n\u201cThank you to Rep. Sewell for your steadfast leadership to update U.S. trade remedy laws and combat unfair trade practices,\u201d said Rep. Mrvan. \u201cEvery effort must be taken to ensure that American workers can compete on a level playing field and thrive in our global economy. I look forward to continuing to work with all of my colleagues to advance this critical legislation to support the ability of all American workers to grow our economy and provide for our national security.\u201d\n\n\u201cThe Chinese Communist Party routinely ignores established trading rules and aggressively works to cheat the system in an attempt to shut American workers and manufacturers out of the global market,\u201d said Rep. Van Duyne. \u201cI appreciate Reps. Sewell and Johnson for their leadership on this important issue, and I look forward to continuing our bipartisan work to stand up to the CCP\u2019s unfair trade practices.\u201d\n\nThe Leveling the Playing Field Act 2.0 combats many of China\u2019s most egregious practices, such as:\n\nCountry Hopping to Escape U.S. Trade Remedies - After all the work of winning an anti-dumping and countervailing duty (AD/CVD) case, relief can be temporary as foreign producers move their factories to other countries to evade the AD/CVD orders. This legislation creates a new successive AD/CVD investigation to combat repeat offenders by making it easier for petitioners to bring new cases when production moves to another country. It also expedites timelines for successive investigations and factors for the International Trade Commission to consider about the relationship between recently completed trade cases and successive trade cases for the same imported product.\n\nBelt and Road Initiative Subsidies - Currently, the Department of Commerce can only consider subsidies provided by the government under investigation. However, with the expansion of China\u2019s Belt and Road Initiative, China is beginning to subsidize production in countries outside of China. This legislation would give Commerce the authority to apply CVD law to subsidies provided by a government to a company operating in a different country.\n\nCircumventing U.S. Law - This legislation imposes statutory requirements for anti-circumvention inquiries to clarify the process and timeline. It also specifies the deadlines for preliminary and final determinations, which currently lack statutory deadlines.\n\nThe Leveling the Playing Field Act 2.0 enjoys strong support from the American Iron and Steel Institute (AISI), the United Steelworkers (USW), and steel manufacturers in Alabama.\n\n\u201cBy strengthening the effectiveness of the U.S. trade laws, this bill will help give the American public confidence that their government has every tool available to fight for a level playing field for the American steel industry and our workers,\u201d said Kevin Dempsey, President and CEO of the American Iron and Steel Institute. \u201cWe appreciate the leadership of Representatives Johnson and Sewell in once again spearheading the fight to crack down on unfair trade and help preserve American jobs, competitiveness and cleaner American steel.\u201d\n\n\u201cIt has been eight years since Congress has updated our trade laws, and Representatives Terri Sewell and Bill Johnson have introduced the Leveling the Playing Field Act 2.0 to provide a much-needed refresh,\u201d said United Steelworkers President Tom Conway. \u201cThe legislation will make U.S. trade laws more responsive to China\u2019s foreign investments, which then dump product into the U.S. market. The bill also improves the process for follow-up on trade investigations, meaning U.S. workers and manufacturers can quickly move to stop unfair trade, wherever it comes from. USW endorses this bill and urges the House of Representatives to move quickly to pass it.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T00:08:25Z"], ["https://sewell.house.gov/2023/5/rep-sewell-votes-to-prevent-devastating-default", "Rep. Sewell Votes to Prevent Devastating Default", "2023-05-31", "2023", "2023-05", "Democrat", "House", "AL", "Terri A. Sewell", "S001185", "sewell.house.gov", "sewell", "https://sewell.house.gov/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington D.C. \u2013 Today, U.S. Rep. Terri Sewell (AL-07) voted to pass H.R. 3746, the Bipartisan Budget Agreement, to prevent a devastating default while rejecting Republicans\u2019 extreme demands to make deep cuts to programs that Alabama families rely on. The agreement, negotiated by President Biden, protects against cuts to Social Security, Medicare, Medicaid, veterans\u2019 health care, historic infrastructure and climate investments, and the 40 million borrowers in President Biden\u2019s student debt relief plan. It also prevents Republicans from manufacturing a similar crisis in the next two years by suspending the debt limit until January 1, 2025. The bill passed the House Wednesday night by a vote of 314-117 and now heads to the Senate.\n\nWatch Rep. Sewell\u2019s remarks here.\n\n\u201cHouse Republicans could have passed a clean bill to address the debt ceiling months ago, but instead chose to hold the American people hostage and bring our economy to the brink of crisis in order to advance their extreme agenda,\u201d said Rep. Sewell.\n\n\u201cTo be clear, this bill is far from perfect,\u201d continued Sewell. \u201cBut it prevents a default. It prevents future efforts to hold this nation hostage for the rest of the 118th Congress, and it prevents cruel Republican cuts. This budget agreement that President Biden negotiated protects funding for education, health care, veterans\u2019 benefits, Medicare, Medicaid, and Social Security. Most importantly, it prevents Republicans from forcing a devastating default that would kill countless jobs in my district and destroy our economy.\u201d\n\n\u201cI join in expressing my frustration with the crisis that my Republican colleagues have manufactured. The American people deserve better than a Republican Majority that chooses to govern crisis-by-crisis.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T23:55:44Z"], ["https://sewell.house.gov/2023/5/rep-sewell-announces-3-1-million-in-funding-from-the-national-park-service-to-preserve-historic-civil-rights-sites-in-alabama", "Rep. Sewell Announces $3.1 Million in Funding from the National Park Service to Preserve Historic Civil Rights Sites in Alabama", "2023-05-26", "2023", "2023-05", "Democrat", "House", "AL", "Terri A. Sewell", "S001185", "sewell.house.gov", "sewell", "https://sewell.house.gov/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington D.C. \u2013 Today, U.S. Rep. Terri Sewell (AL-07) announced over $3.1 million in funding from the National Park Service\u2019s (NPS) African American Civil Rights Grant Program that is being awarded to preserve historic sites in Alabama related to Civil Rights and the African American struggle for equality. Each year, Sewell leads the congressional effort to increase funding for the NPS African American Civil Rights Grant Program to preserve America\u2019s Civil Rights sites and HBCUs.\n\n\u201cAs the Representative of Alabama\u2019s Civil Rights district, I take seriously my responsibility to ensure that we preserve the living legacy of the Civil Rights Movement,\u201d said Rep. Sewell. \u201cEach year, I\u2019m proud to lead the effort in Congress to increase funding for the National Park Service\u2019s African American Civil Rights Grant Program to ensure that America\u2019s civil rights history lives on. This $3.1 million is a big win for the State of Alabama and will help ensure that faces and places of the Movement are never forgotten!\"\n\nNPS has awarded the following grants, which total $3,149,900, for historic sites in Alabama:\n\n$74,800 to the City of Anniston for Story Mapping and Formalization of Operations and Maintenance for the Anniston Civil Rights Trail\n\n$750,000 to the Historic Bethel Baptist Church Community Restoration Fund in Birmingham for historic preservation\n\n$750,000 to the St. Paul United Methodist Church in Birmingham for preservation and restoration\n\n$750,000 to the Dexter Avenue King Memorial Baptist Church in Montgomery for repair and rehabilitation\n\n$75,000 to the Alabama Historical Commission in Montgomery for the Freedom Rides Museum Vintage Greyhound Bus Virtual Reality Experience\n\n$750,000 to the Alabama Historical Commission in Montgomery for rehabilitation of the second floor of the Moore Building\n\nThe African American Civil Rights Grant Program helps document, interpret, and preserve sites and stories related to the African American struggle to gain equal rights as citizens. The grants are funded by the Historic Preservation Fund (HPF) and administered by the NPS. Grants fund a broad range of planning, development, and research projects for historic sites including: survey, inventory, documentation, interpretation, education, architectural services, historic structure reports, preservation plans, and \"bricks and mortar\" repair.\n\nEstablished in 1977 and authorized at $150 million per year through 2023, the HPF has provided more than $2 billion in historic preservation grants to states, Tribes, local governments, and nonprofit organizations. For fiscal year 2023, $24 million will be available for African American Civil Rights grants in the summer of 2023.\n\n\u201cThe National Park Service is proud to award this grant funding to our state and local government, and nonprofit partners to help them?recognize places and stories related to the African American experience,\u201d said NPS Director Chuck Sams.\u201c Since 2016, the African American Civil Rights program has provided over $100 million to document, protect, and celebrate the places, people and stories of one of the greatest struggles in American history.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T23:55:44Z"], ["https://sewell.house.gov/2023/5/rep-sewell-announces-2-4-million-to-support-remote-air-traffic-control-academy-at-craig-field-in-selma", "Rep. Sewell Announces $2.4 Million to Support Remote Air Traffic Control Academy at Craig Field in Selma", "2023-05-25", "2023", "2023-05", "Democrat", "House", "AL", "Terri A. Sewell", "S001185", "sewell.house.gov", "sewell", "https://sewell.house.gov/press-releases", "scraper", "Selma, AL \u2013 Today, U.S. Rep. Terri Sewell (AL-07) announced that the Department of Commerce\u2019s Economic Development Administration (EDA) is awarding $2.4 million to the Craig Field Airport & Industrial Authority in Selma, Alabama, for building renovations needed to support the remote air traffic control academy. The project will renovate two buildings at Craig Field to provide classroom and dormitory space for the academy. This EDA investment will be matched with $609,420 in local funds and is expected to create 119 jobs and generate $7 million in private investment, according to grantee estimates.\n\n\u201cThis is wonderful news!\u201d celebrated Rep. Sewell. \u201cThis $2.4 million grant from the Economic Development Administration is estimated to bring 119 new jobs and millions of dollars in additional investments to our region. I thank the Biden-Harris Administration for their continued partnership as we work to bring more resources and opportunities to our communities.\u201d\n\n\u201cThis is great news for Craig Field, Dallas County, and Selma Alabama,\u201d said James \u201cJim\u201d Corrigan, Executive Director of Craig Field. \u201cThis grant enables us to complete the renovation of the air traffic control academy and remote tower center and begin renovations on a 3 story, 76 room dormitory to house students who will train as air traffic controllers, mechanics, and pilots. We thank the Alabama Tombigbee Regional Planning Commission and the EDA for their efforts in helping us obtain this grant.\u201d\n\n\u201cPresident Biden is making sure communities like Selma, Alabama have the resources they need to grow their local economies,\u201d said Secretary of Commerce Gina Raimondo. \u201cThis EDA investment will revitalize the Craig Field Airport & Industrial Authority and help to establish a modern, remote air traffic control training facility that will boost the region\u2019s workforce and create new economic opportunity.\u201d\n\n\u201cThe Economic Development Administration is pleased to support the remote air traffic control academy at Craig Field,\u201d said Assistant Secretary of Commerce for Economic Development Alejandra Y. Castillo. \u201cThe renovated facilities will provide the classroom and living space the academy needs to train the next generation of air traffic control professionals.\u201d\n\nThis project was made possible by the regional planning efforts led by the Alabama-Tombigbee Regional Commission (ATRC). EDA funds ATRC to bring together the public and private sectors to create an economic development roadmap to strengthen the regional economy, support private capital investment and create jobs.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T23:55:44Z"], ["https://sewell.house.gov/2023/5/rep-sewell-speaks-on-the-house-floor-to-demand-that-republicans-return-and-prevent-devastating-default", "Rep. Sewell Speaks on the House Floor to Demand that Republicans Return and Prevent Devastating Default", "2023-05-25", "2023", "2023-05", "Democrat", "House", "AL", "Terri A. Sewell", "S001185", "sewell.house.gov", "sewell", "https://sewell.house.gov/press-releases", "scraper", "As Republicans leave town with our economy on the brink, Rep. Sewell demands that we pay America\u2019s bills\n\nWashington D.C. \u2013 Today, U.S. Rep. Terri Sewell (AL-07) joined her Democratic colleagues on the House Floor to demand that the Republican majority do their jobs and pay America\u2019s bills to avoid a devastating debt default.\n\n\u201cLet me be very clear. We as Members of Congress have a solemn obligation to pay our nation\u2019s bills and to protect the full faith and credit of the United States,\u201d said Rep. Sewell. \u201cWe have never defaulted on our debt. But this time, House Republicans are refusing to address the debt limit unless we make serious cuts to programs that Alabama families that I represent need most, like veterans benefits and food assistance for our seniors and children.\u201d\n\n\u201cMadam Speaker, this is a manufactured crisis,\u201d continued Sewell. \u201cRepublicans could pass a clean debt ceiling bill but chose not to\u2026 But today, Republicans have chosen to send us home instead of doing our job. Our job is to protect the American people and to make sure that the full faith and credit of the American government stands.\u201d\n\nView her remarks here.\n\nHouse Republicans created this crisis and then rushed out of town for the long weekend, days away from a catastrophic default on our debt that will cost families dearly. According to estimates from the House Budget Committee Minority, a Republican default would:\n\nKill about 6,000 jobs in Alabama\u2019s 7th District alone. Nationwide, a default could kill more than 7 million jobs.\n\nJeopardize Social Security payments for 101,000 families in Alabama\u2019s 7th District.\n\nPut health benefits at risk for 306,000 people in Alabama\u2019s 7th District who rely on Medicare, Medicaid, or Veterans Affairs health coverage.\n\nIncrease lifetime mortgage costs by $43,000 for the typical homeowner in Alabama.\n\nRaise the costs of a new car loan by $800 for the typical American\n\nThreaten the retirement savings of 91,400 people near retirement in Alabama\u2019s 7th District, eliminating $20,000 from the typical retirement portfolio.\n\nDemocrats are united to pay America\u2019s bills without political stunts. Rep. Sewell has signed on to legislation that allows a bipartisan solution that prevents default and saves our economy. If five House Republicans sign the same legislation, the crisis can be ended immediately.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T23:55:44Z"], ["https://sewell.house.gov/2023/5/rep-sewell-honors-selma-mayor-george-p-evans-on-the-house-floor", "Rep. Sewell Honors Selma Mayor George P. Evans on the House Floor", "2023-05-24", "2023", "2023-05", "Democrat", "House", "AL", "Terri A. Sewell", "S001185", "sewell.house.gov", "sewell", "https://sewell.house.gov/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington D.C. \u2013 Today, U.S. Rep. Terri Sewell (AL-07) honored Selma Mayor George P. Evans on the Floor of the House of Representatives. Mayor Evans passed away at the age of 78 on May 15, 2023.\n\nRep. Sewell\u2019s remarks can be viewedhere and are transcribed below.\n\nRep. Sewell: Mister Speaker, I rise today to honor and celebrate the extraordinary life and legacy of a trailblazing public servant and educator, Selma Mayor George Patrick Evans, who passed away at the age of 78 on May 15th.\n\nA native of Selma, Alabama, Mayor Evans overcame great adversity to break down barriers for generations of leaders like myself to follow.\n\nAn educator, coach, basketball referee, principal, superintendent, city council president, and mayor, Evans wore many hats, but the common thread was service. He loved our hometown of Selma, Alabama, and he served her well.\n\nHe dedicated over 40 years to the Dallas County Public School System, cultivating an impactful career molding, teaching, coaching, mentoring the youth of Selma and Dallas County.\n\nIn 1994, he made history again as the first African American Superintendent of Dallas County Public Schools.\n\nHe began his career in electoral politics in the Selma City Council. In this role, he brought the same passion, love of people, and community, making history as the first African American President of the Selma City Council.\n\nIn 2008, he earned more distinctions as the second African American Mayor of the City of Selma, Alabama, in its 192-year history. During his two terms as Selma\u2019s Mayor, Evans led Queen City through the recession of 2008, the implementation of the city\u2019s optic fiber network, and helped address the lingering impact of segregation within Selma\u2019s communities. I was proud to partner with Mayor Evans to bring vital federal resources home to Selma and Dallas County.\n\nFrom his demonstrated efforts to revitalize downtown Selma to his commitment to making our community safer and stronger, Mayor Evans fought hard to improve the lives of the people he served. His foresight propelled the City of Selma forward and cemented his legacy as a trusted leader in our community.\n\nOn a personal note, I have known Mayor Evans all my life. I even served as his family\u2019s babysitter during my youth.\n\nMayor Evans has always been a man of great character and honor, whose love of God, family, and community has been his guiding principle.\n\nThrough all of his accomplishments, he has led by example through his hard work, perseverance, grit, and kindness.\n\nHis public service has left an indelible imprint on the City of Selma, and we will miss him terribly.\n\nLet us not weep, but find comfort in knowing that his incredible legacy will live on in the many people he touched.\n\nOn behalf of Alabama\u2019s 7th Congressional District, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring and celebrating the extraordinary life and legacy of Selma\u2019s Mayor George Patrick Evans for his decades of service to the City of Selma, Dallas County, and the entire State of Alabama.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T23:55:44Z"], ["https://sewell.house.gov/2023/5/reps-sewell-ferguson-introduce-bipartisan-save-rural-hospitals-act", "Reps. Sewell, Ferguson Introduce Bipartisan Save Rural Hospitals Act", "2023-05-24", "2023", "2023-05", "Democrat", "House", "AL", "Terri A. Sewell", "S001185", "sewell.house.gov", "sewell", "https://sewell.house.gov/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2013 Today, U.S. Reps. Terri Sewell (AL-07) and Drew Ferguson (GA-03), introduced the Save Rural Hospitals Act of 2023. This legislation would help curb the alarming trend of hospital closures in rural communities by ensuring that rural hospitals are fairly reimbursed by Medicare.\n\n\u201cAll across Alabama, we\u2019ve seen the devastating impact of rural hospital closures which only accelerated during the COVID-19 pandemic,\u201d said Rep. Sewell. \u201cIt is unacceptable that so many Alabamians are being forced to drive hours to receive life-saving care. With this bipartisan legislation, we\u2019re taking action to help keep rural hospitals open by ensuring that they are fairly reimbursed for the critical services they provide. I\u2019m proud to join Congressman Ferguson in this effort and urge my colleagues to join us!\u201d\n\n\u201cRural hospitals play an essential role in serving their communities and providing vital care to patients,\u201d said Rep. Ferguson. \u201cGeorgia has one of the lowest reimbursement rates nationwide, and the Save Rural Hospitals Act would help put rural hospitals in the Peach State \u2013 and across the country \u2013 on a level playing field by raising their Medicare reimbursement levels. I am proud to work with Representative Sewell on this bipartisan legislation.\u201d\n\nIn the U.S., rural hospitals are closing at an alarming rate with more than 194 rural hospitals having closed since 2005. During the COVID-19 pandemic, rural hospital closures accelerated to record levels. In February, the Alabama Hospital Association warned that more than a dozen of the state's rural hospitals are at immediate risk of closing. Low patient volumes and significant financial strain are often the primary factors in these closures, compounded by the flawed Medicare Area Wage Index that results in rural hospitals receiving disproportionately low reimbursement rates.\n\nThe Save Rural Hospitals Act would establish an appropriate national minimum (0.85) for the Medicare Area Wage Index to ensure that rural hospitals receive adequate payment for the care they provide, while preserving the existing reimbursements for urban hospitals. This legislation would also help ensure fairness in reimbursements for hospitals across the country\u2014including the many hospitals that are facing closures in rural areas\u2014and fix severe and disproportionate disadvantages that unfairly penalize hundreds of communities and hospitals across the country.\n\n\u201cWe applaud Congresswoman Sewell's steadfast priority for initiatives that strengthen access to health care for the most vulnerable citizens in Alabama,\u201d said Danne Howard, Deputy Director of the Alabama Hospital Association. \u201cThe Save Rural Hospitals Act will help address the decades-old flaw in the Medicare reimbursement methodology that has negatively impacted Alabama hospitals more than in any state in our nation. Our hospitals have survived on reserves, cost-cutting measures, staff reductions, and eliminating services. Those options are counter to the mission of Alabama's hospitals in providing quality care to their communities. The compounded impact of the Medicare disparity has created pressures that are unsustainable. Our options have been exhausted. If nothing changes, more hospitals across our state will be forced to make difficult decisions about their future operations, the services and the jobs they support. Rural America has experienced more than 100 hospital closures since 2010, and many continue to face limited or no access to specialty care. The Save Rural Hospitals Act will ensure that Alabamians have equal access to care and are not disadvantaged for living in a majority rural state.\u201d\n\nCompanion legislation was introduced in the U.S. Senate by Sen. Mark Warner (D-VA).", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T23:55:44Z"], ["https://sewell.house.gov/2023/5/rep-sewell-announces-winner-of-the-2023-congressional-art-competition-for-alabama-s-7th-congressional-district", "Rep. Sewell Announces Winner of the 2023 Congressional Art Competition for Alabama\u2019s 7th Congressional District", "2023-05-19", "2023", "2023-05", "Democrat", "House", "AL", "Terri A. Sewell", "S001185", "sewell.house.gov", "sewell", "https://sewell.house.gov/press-releases", "scraper", "Tuscaloosa, AL \u2013 U.S. Rep. Terri Sewell (AL-07) announced the winner of the 2023 Congressional Art Competition for Alabama's 7th Congressional District. The announcement was made at a virtual reception held Wednesday night during which Sewell joined participants to celebrate the 58 entries submitted by talented students from across the 7th District. Perri Payne, an 11th grader at Paul W. Bryant High School in Cottondale, was awarded first place for her submission entitled \"A Glimpse Into the Future.\"\n\n\u201cEvery year, I am amazed by the incredible talent of our students here in Alabama\u2019s 7th Congressional District, and this year is no exception!\u201d said Rep. Sewell. \u201cCongratulations to our first place winner, Perri Payne, who did a wonderful job capturing our theme, \u2018Reimagine Alabama.\u2019 Her piece speaks to the power of young people to change the future of our state. I am so proud of Perri and all of the talented young artists who participated.\u201d\n\n\u201cI feel like this piece represents how I felt as a Black girl growing up in Alabama and how I imagined it,\u201d said First Place Winner Perri Payne. \u201cI protested it by drawing a young Black girl with Alabama in her palms to represent how Alabama is in the hands of the next generation and what we do now represents the future.\u201d\n\n\u201cI am incredibly proud of Perri,\u201d said Ms. Olivia Williams, Art Teacher at Paul W. Bryant High School. \u201cShe has grown so much as an artist in the two years I have been fortunate enough to have her in my class. Her ability to create work that is meaningful, personal, and skillfully executed is beyond her years. She has so much natural talent and it\u2019s been an honor to help her find a voice in her work. I hope she understands how big of an accomplishment this is, and that she feels encouraged and supported in everything she does in her future.\u201d\n\nPayne\u2019s artwork will be matted, framed, and displayed in the U.S. Capitol in Washington D.C. for one year. She and a guardian will receive roundtrip airfare to Washington D.C. to attend the National Congressional Art Competition Reception.\n\nThe other students that placed were:\n\n2nd Place - \u201cSouthern Roots\u201d by Onda McKnight, 8th grader at the Capitol School in Tuscaloosa\n\n3rd Place - \u201cSerenity\u201d by Isabella Dennison, 11th grader at Booker T. Washington Magnet High School in Montgomery\n\nHonorable Mention - \u201cThe City Through My Eyes\u201d by Laila Gray, 11th grader at Hillcrest High School in Tuscaloosa", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T23:55:44Z"], ["https://sewell.house.gov/2023/5/rep-sewell-statement-affirming-huntsville-as-the-best-location-for-u-s-space-command-headquarters", "Rep. Sewell Statement Affirming Huntsville as the Best Location for U.S. Space Command Headquarters", "2023-05-16", "2023", "2023-05", "Democrat", "House", "AL", "Terri A. Sewell", "S001185", "sewell.house.gov", "sewell", "https://sewell.house.gov/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington D.C. \u2013 Today, U.S. Rep. Terri Sewell (AL-07) released the following statement affirming that Huntsville is the best location for U.S. Space Command Headquarters:\n\n\u201cBoth a GAO and Inspector General report confirmed that the Air Force used a merit-based process in its decision to locate U.S. Space Command headquarters in Huntsville. This conclusion was made under two separate administrations. Huntsville is without question the best home for Space Command.\u201d\n\n\u201cThe White House should immediately reconfirm Huntsville as the headquarters of Space Command. Surely, the Biden Administration would not allow politics to improperly influence this decision.\n\n\u201cTo be clear, I am a strong supporter of women\u2019s reproductive freedom and I remain fiercely opposed to Senator Tuberville\u2019s dangerous and unprecedented hold on military promotions. Still, the decision to locate Space Command in Huntsville was based on merit, and the people of Alabama should not be punished for Senator Tuberville\u2019s recklessness.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T23:55:44Z"], ["https://sewell.house.gov/2023/5/following-mother-s-day-rep-sewell-introduces-legislation-to-protect-the-health-of-mothers-and-babies", "Following Mother\u2019s Day, Rep. Sewell Introduces Legislation to Protect the Health of Mothers and Babies", "2023-05-15", "2023", "2023-05", "Democrat", "House", "AL", "Terri A. Sewell", "S001185", "sewell.house.gov", "sewell", "https://sewell.house.gov/press-releases", "scraper", "The Maternal Vaccination Act would address America\u2019s maternal health crisis by boosting vaccination rates among vulnerable mothers and babies\n\nWashington D.C. \u2013 Today, following the celebration of Mother\u2019s Day, U.S. Rep. Terri Sewell (AL-07) introduced the Maternal Vaccination Act to protect the health of mothers and babies by increasing maternal and childhood vaccination rates. The legislation was included as a part of the larger \u201cMomnibus,\u201d a package of 13 bills that would address the United States\u2019 urgent maternal health crisis. Rep. Sewell is a proud member of the Black Maternal Health Caucus.\n\n\u201cAs we celebrate Mother\u2019s Day, we must also commit to solving our country\u2019s urgent maternal health crisis,\u201d said Rep. Sewell. \u201cIn this nation of so much wealth and prosperity, it is simply unconscionable that our mothers continue to die during pregnancy and childbirth at the highest rate in the developed world.\u201d\n\n\u201cUp to 80% of pregnancy-related deaths are preventable,\u201d continued Sewell. \u201cOur Maternal Vaccination Act will save lives by helping to ensure that our most vulnerable moms and babies are protected against deadly, preventable diseases.\u201d\n\nThe United States has the highest maternal mortality rate of any high-income country, and it is rapidly getting worse. Recent data from the CDC show that maternal deaths in recent years have increased by a dramatic 40%. But there is hope; more than 80% of pregnancy-related deaths are preventable, and federal action is needed to comprehensively address the drivers of this crisis and save moms\u2019 lives.\n\nThe Maternal Vaccination Act will provide funding for a public and provider awareness campaign to promote maternal and child vaccinations, including initiatives to:\n\nIncrease awareness about the safety, importance, and effectiveness of vaccines for pregnant and postpartum people and their children;\n\nProvide targeted, evidence-based, culturally and linguistically appropriate resources about vaccines to pregnant and postpartum people, particularly in communities with historically low vaccination rates; and\n\nProvide evidence-based information and resources on the safety and importance of maternal and child vaccinations to public health departments, maternal health care providers, and perinatal health workers.\n\nRead more about the Momnibus here.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T23:55:44Z"], ["https://sewell.house.gov/2023/5/rep-sewell-statement-on-the-passing-of-former-selma-mayor-george-evans", "Rep. Sewell Statement on the Passing of Former Selma Mayor George Evans", "2023-05-15", "2023", "2023-05", "Democrat", "House", "AL", "Terri A. Sewell", "S001185", "sewell.house.gov", "sewell", "https://sewell.house.gov/press-releases", "scraper", "Selma, AL \u2013 Today, U.S. Rep. Terri Sewell (AL-07) released the following statement on the passing of Former Selma Mayor George P. Evans:\n\n\u201cToday, the City of Selma lost a giant. I am sending my heartfelt condolences to the family on the passing of George P. Evans, the former two-term Mayor of Selma. From being Dallas County\u2019s first Black school board superintendent to his 16 years of public service as President of the Selma City Council and then as Mayor, Evans led by example through his hard work, perseverance, grit, and kindness.\n\n\u201cDuring his tenure as Mayor, he partnered with my office to create jobs and bring vital federal resources home to Selma and Dallas County. From his demonstrated efforts to revitalize downtown Selma to his dedicated commitment to making our community stronger and safer, Mayor Evans fought hard to improve the lives of the people he served.\n\n\u201cI will never forget the honor of standing alongside Mayor Evans and President Obama at the foot of the Selma bridge to commemorate the 50th Anniversary of the Selma to Montgomery March, as the Mayor welcomed the world to his beloved hometown.\n\n\u201cI have known Mayor Evans all my life and he has always been a strong voice and a tireless fighter for the people of Selma. He loved his family, his church, his city, and most of all, he loved people. His public service has left an indelible imprint on Selma and he will be missed. Let us find comfort knowing that his incredible legacy will live on in the many people he touched. May he rest in peace and power.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T23:55:44Z"], ["https://sewell.house.gov/2023/5/rep-sewell-announces-750-000-for-selma-university-to-preserve-pollard-hall", "Rep. Sewell Announces $750,000 for Selma University to Preserve Pollard Hall", "2023-05-05", "2023", "2023-05", "Democrat", "House", "AL", "Terri A. Sewell", "S001185", "sewell.house.gov", "sewell", "https://sewell.house.gov/press-releases", "scraper", "Selma, AL \u2013 Today, U.S. Rep. Terri Sewell (AL-07) announced that the National Park Service (NPS) will award $750,000 to Selma University to preserve the historic Pollard Hall. The funding is part of a $9.7 million investment by NPS to preserve historic structures on the campuses of America\u2019s Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs). Each year, Rep. Sewell leads the congressional effort to increase funding for the NPS Historic Preservation Fund (HPF) to preserve Civil Rights sites and HBCU campuses. Sewell proudly serves as Vice Chair of the Congressional HBCU Caucus.\n\n\u201cI\u2019m thrilled to announce that the National Park Service is investing $750,000 to preserve the historic Pollard Hall on the campus of Selma University!\u201d said Rep. Sewell. \u201cThis funding will enable Selma University to make critical repairs to Pollard Hall to ensure that the rich legacy of this cherished institution lives on for generations. Each year, I\u2019m proud to lead the effort in Congress to increase funding for the National Park Service Historic Preservation Civil Rights Grant Program to preserve Alabama\u2019s Civil Rights sites and HBCUs. As Vice Chair of the Congressional HBCU Caucus, I will continue fighting for funding like this to ensure the vitality of Alabama\u2019s HBCUs!\u201d\n\n\u201cThe historic structures on Selma University\u2019s campus are dear to us and tell the story of a people who banded their meager resources to build a better life for themselves and their posterity,\u201d said Selma University President Dr. Stanford E. Angion. \u201cThese structures must be preserved and shared with the public. I am tremendously grateful to Representative Terri Sewell and the National Park Service for helping us to move forward in our efforts to preserve the rich history of Pollard Hall.\u201d\n\n\u201cThese grants enable historic educational institutions to preserve the story of African American education and the campuses where new experiences and stories continue to evolve today,\u201d said NPS Director Chuck Sams. \u201cThrough the Historically Black Colleges and Universities grants program, the National Park Service supports our HBCUs in the preservation of their historic campus structures and history.\n\nBuilt in 1916, Pollard Hall of Selma University, founded as the Alabama Baptist Normal and Theological School in 1878, served as an administrative center for visitors, a meeting place for major figures in Black education, such as Booker T. Washington, and a home for several university presidents. Pollard Hall is a contributing resource to the proposed Selma University Historic District. This grant project will help repair the roof, HVAC system, and electrical and plumbing systems and install an elevator. The grant recipient will also contribute $496,414 in matching funds.\n\nThe funding announced today is part of a $9.7 million investment by NPS in HBCUs nationwide. Since the 1990s, the National Park Service has awarded over $60 million in grants to over 80 of the remaining active HBCUs. These grants work to preserve the historic structures on HBCU campuses, many of which are listed in the National Register of Historic Places.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T23:55:44Z"], ["https://sewell.house.gov/2023/5/rep-sewell-applauds-resolution-agreement-in-doj-environmental-justice-investigation-in-lowndes-county", "Rep. Sewell Applauds Resolution Agreement in DOJ Environmental Justice Investigation in Lowndes County", "2023-05-04", "2023", "2023-05", "Democrat", "House", "AL", "Terri A. Sewell", "S001185", "sewell.house.gov", "sewell", "https://sewell.house.gov/press-releases", "scraper", "Lowndes County, AL \u2013 Today, U.S. Rep. Terri Sewell (AL-07) released the following statement regarding the announcement of an interim resolution agreement in the U.S. Department of Justice\u2019s (DOJ) environmental justice investigation into the Alabama Department of Public Health and the Lowndes County Health Department (collectively ADPH) in Lowndes County, Alabama.\n\n\u201cAs a daughter of the Black Belt, I have seen firsthand the abhorrent wastewater conditions that my constituents face, resulting in part from decades of disinvestment, inaction, and neglect. The disproportionate impact that this crisis has on the Black residents of Lowndes County is completely unacceptable.\n\n\u201cI am grateful to the DOJ and the Department of Health and Human Services for identifying a set of concrete steps that must be taken to address the wastewater crisis. It is my hope that the State of Alabama will fully comply with this agreement and do its part to provide access to basic sanitation services for the residents of Lowndes County. My constituents deserve nothing less.\n\n\u201cThis agreement represents a step forward in our continued fight for equitable and safe wastewater systems in the Black Belt, but our work is far from over. I will continue working to pass legislation and secure more funding at the federal level to address this crisis. Access to adequate wastewater infrastructure is a basic human right.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T23:55:44Z"], ["https://sewell.house.gov/2023/5/rep-sewell-and-sen-booker-introduce-legislation-named-for-the-late-rep-john-lewis-to-advance-health-equity-and-access-to-care", "Rep. Sewell and Sen. Booker Introduce Legislation Named for the Late Rep. John Lewis to Advance Health Equity and Access to Care", "2023-05-02", "2023", "2023-05", "Democrat", "House", "AL", "Terri A. Sewell", "S001185", "sewell.house.gov", "sewell", "https://sewell.house.gov/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington D.C. \u2013 Today, U.S. Rep. Terri Sewell (AL-07) introduced the John Lewis Equality in Medicare and Medicaid Treatment (EMMT) Act in the House of Representatives. This legislation would advance health equity and access to care for minority communities by requiring the Center for Medicare and Medicaid Innovation (CMMI) to work with experts to consider health disparities when developing payment models. Companion legislation was introduced in the U.S. Senate by Sen. Cory Booker (D-NJ).\n\n\u201cOur late colleague, Congressman John Lewis, dedicated his life to the fight for fairness and equity, including the right to quality affordable health care for Americans of every background,\u201d said Rep. Sewell. \u201cAlong with Senator Booker, I\u2019m proud to be introducing legislation which would advance his legacy by expanding access to health care for minorities, underserved areas, and high-risk individuals. The John Lewis Equality in Medicare and Medicaid Treatment Act will go a long way in helping us ensure coordinated care and build a fairer and more just health care system for all.\u201d\n\n\"Access to healthcare is a fundamental human right, and it is time for our policies to reflect that,\u201d said Senator Booker. \u201cThe John Lewis Equality in Medicare and Medicaid Treatment Act is a necessary step toward ensuring that all Americans, regardless of their race or ethnicity, have access to the fair and quality care they deserve. Let us honor the legacy of Representative John Lewis by passing this important legislation and taking bold action towards improving health equity and health outcomes for everyone.\"\n\nEstablished by the Affordable Care Act, CMMI works to develop, test, and implement new value-based payment models. Under current law, however, CMMI is not required to consider social determinants of health\u2014such as a patient\u2019s environment, education, and economic status\u2014when implementing and testing new payment models. The current status quo incentivizes health providers to pick patients who will produce favorable clinical outcomes, which leaves women, people in rural communities, and Black and Brown people sidelined in the development of payment models.\n\nThe John Lewis EMMT Act would direct CMMI to consult with experts on health disparities, such as the Office of Minority Health of the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, the Federal Office of Rural Health Policy, and the Office on Women\u2019s Health, on developing new payment models that focus not only on lowering costs but also advancing health equity and improving access to care.\n\nSpecifically, the John Lewis Equality in Medicare and Medicaid Treatment Act directs CMMI to:\n\nConsider a model\u2019s impact on access to care for people of color, women, and people in rural areas, in addition to cost and quality.\n\nInclude experts in health disparities and social determinants of health during the evaluation and review process for new payment models.\n\nDirects CMMI to create a Social Determinants of Health Model that focuses on health conditions of those dually eligible for Medicaid and Medicare, behavioral health, and maternal mortality.\n\n\u201cMovement is Life is grateful for Representative Sewell\u2019s leadership in the fight to eliminate health disparities,\u201d said Mary\u2019 I. O\u2019Connor, MD, Chair of Movement is Life. \u201cWe are excited that Representative Sewell is reintroducing the John Lewis EMMT Act to provide much needed reforms to ensure all new payment models are designed to reduce health disparities.\"\n\n\u201cCongressman John Lewis worked tirelessly to ensure that Medicare supported every beneficiary, in every community,\u201d said Barbara Petee, President of the Root Cause Coalition. \u201cIn rural and urban areas alike, we continue to believe that we must come together, from all sectors, to ensure care for those who are not as healthy or wealthy. The Root Cause Coalition applauds Representative Sewell for her ongoing leadership in health care and will continue to champion this bill as a crucial step towards addressing social determinants and improving health outcomes across the country.\u201d\n\n\u201cThe National Association of Orthopaedic Nurses (NAON), a national member organization of nurses who share an interest in musculoskeletal healthcare, is proud to endorse the John Lewis Equality in Medicare and Medicaid Treatment Act\u201d said Charla Johnson, NAON Immediate Past President. \u201cThis important legislation addresses our shared goal of eliminating health disparities and improving access to quality care in minorities and underserved urban and rural communities.\u201d\n\n\u201cThe Academy of Medical-Surgical Nurses (AMSN) is committed to supporting patients and their right to access high-quality, affordable health care, as our 10,000+ medical-surgical nurse members know firsthand the inequities within the healthcare system and struggles that many patients have to access the care they need. This bill would address the important issue of social determinants of health (SDOH) by creating new policy and urging equity for all when it comes to healthcare,\u201d said AMSN President, Marisa L. Streelman, DNP, RN, CMSRN, NE-BC. \u201cWe are proud to support the John Lewis Equality in Medicare and Medicaid Treatment Act and hope to see it enacted by the 118th Congress.\u201d\n\nThe John Lewis Equality in Medicare and Medicaid Treatment Act is also supported by:\n\nProtect Our Care\n\nHealth Equity Coalition for Chronic Diseases\n\nZimmerBiomet\n\nThe Senate version is cosponsored by Senators Sherrod Brown (D-OH) and Alex Padilla (D-CA).", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T23:55:44Z"], ["https://sewell.house.gov/2023/5/rep-sewell-secures-500-000-to-support-long-term-recovery-planning-in-selma-and-dallas-county-following-the-january-12th-storms", "Rep. Sewell Secures $500,000 to Support Long-Term Recovery Planning in Selma and Dallas County Following the January 12th Storms", "2023-05-02", "2023", "2023-05", "Democrat", "House", "AL", "Terri A. Sewell", "S001185", "sewell.house.gov", "sewell", "https://sewell.house.gov/press-releases", "scraper", "Selma, AL \u2013 Today, U.S. Rep. Terri Sewell (AL-07) announced $500,000 that she helped secure for the Alabama Tombigbee Regional Commission to support long-term recovery efforts in Selma and Dallas County following the January 12th storms. The grant was awarded by the Department of Commerce\u2019s Economic Development Administration (EDA) and will be used to develop a long-term planning strategy that will incorporate federal, state, and local emergency management agencies, economic development agencies, and housing organizations.\n\n\u201cFollowing the devastating January 12th storms, I hosted the first of what will be a series of community conversations to give the residents of Selma and Dallas County an opportunity to share their hopes and dreams for our recovery,\u201d said Rep. Sewell. \u201cToday, I\u2019m thrilled to share that we have secured $500,000 from the Economic Development Administration to develop a long-term plan in close coordination with our federal, state, and local partners. This grant is a major victory and will go a long way in helping us reimagine our communities. Working together, I know that we will turn tragedy into opportunity and come back even better and stronger than before.\u201d\n\n\u201cThanks to the efforts of Congresswoman Terri Sewell, the Alabama Tombigbee Regional Commission has secured a $500,000 Long-Term Recovery Planning Grant from the U.S. Economic Development Administration for Selma/Dallas County,\u201d said John Clyde Riggs, Executive Director of the Alabama Tombigbee Regional Commission.\n\n\u201cThe Economic Development Administration plays an important role in supporting locally-driven disaster recovery and resiliency plans,\u201d said Assistant Secretary of Commerce for Economic Development Alejandra Y. Castillo. \u201cThis investment will help prepare Dallas County for future economic disruptions, such as those caused by recent natural disasters, including 2017\u2019s Hurricane Nate and a tornado earlier this year.\n\nToday\u2019s grant announcement is the latest in an ongoing federal, state, and local partnership to recover and rebuild in Alabama\u2019s 7th Congressional District following the January 12th storms. On January 26, Rep. Sewell led the Alabama Congressional Delegation in a letter urging President Biden to increase the federal cost share for the FEMA Public Assistance program for debris removal and emergency protective measures to 100%. This request was granted by President Biden on Thursday, February 9. On March 20, Rep. Sewell hosted the first of a series of community conversations entitled \u201cSelma and Dallas County Reimagined\u201d to give residents an opportunity to share their hopes and dreams for the future of the region.\n\nA video message from Rep. Sewell is available here.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T23:55:44Z"], ["https://sewell.house.gov/2023/4/rep-sewell-announces-1-2-million-for-the-community-action-association-of-alabama-to-help-alleviate-the-need-for-diapers-among-alabama-s-babies-and-toddlers", "Rep. Sewell Announces $1.2 Million for the Community Action Association of Alabama to Help Alleviate the Need for Diapers Among Alabama\u2019s Babies and Toddlers", "2023-04-28", "2023", "2023-04", "Democrat", "House", "AL", "Terri A. Sewell", "S001185", "sewell.house.gov", "sewell", "https://sewell.house.gov/press-releases", "scraper", "Birmingham, AL \u2013 Today, U.S. Rep. Terri Sewell (AL-07) announced $1.2 million for the Community Action Association of Alabama to help alleviate the need for diapers among Alabama\u2019s babies and toddlers. This grant is designed to expand existing diaper distribution programs as part of the Diaper Distribution Demonstration and Research Pilot at the Administration of Children and Families (ACF) at the Department of Health and Human Services. The program, also known as the Diaper Distribution Pilot, channels new funding to expand existing diaper distribution services through the robust network of anti-poverty services funded by ACF\u2019s Office of Community Services (OCS).\n\n\u201cAlabama\u2019s working families know all too well just how expensive purchasing diapers can be,\u201d said Rep. Sewell. \u201cIn fact, for workers earning minimum wage, diapers can cost up to 8% of their total income. With this $1.2 million grant, we are taking an important step toward ensuring that all of our families have the diapers they need to keep our babies clean, healthy, and happy. I know that this will make a big difference for many of Alabama\u2019s most vulnerable families.\u201d\n\nDiapers are essential for the health and wellbeing of babies and toddlers, but one in three families in the United States does not have enough of them. Diapers alone can cost 8% of a person\u2019s total income if they are earning federal minimum wage, and parents and caregivers who do not have enough diapers often cannot drop their children off at child care. This means that parents cannot go to work, and babies and toddlers are more susceptible to painful rashes and infections. A lack of diapers is not only a public health issue, it is a formidable obstacle to economic mobility for families with low incomes.\n\nThe Community Action Association of Alabama (CAAA) works to better focus local, state, private, and federal resources to assist low-income individuals and families statewide. CAAA is a partnership made up of 18 Community Action Agencies funded by the Community Services Block Grant (CSBG) working to produce measurable outcomes and results to eliminate poverty. Using the $1.2 million awarded for the Diaper Pilot, CAAA will distribute diapers and diapering supplies to low-income families while providing parenting education and increasing access to wrap-around services. CAAA will collaborate with multiple partners including agency Early Head Start programs, the National Diaper Bank Network, and local community organizations such as:\n\nVOICES for Alabama\u2019s Children\n\nLow-Income Housing Coalition of Alabama\n\nCollaborative Solutions\n\nAlabama Possible\n\nBundles of Hope Diaper Bank\n\nWhatley Health Services\n\nCommunity Service Programs of West Alabama, Inc. (CSP)\n\nFor more information about CAAA visit https://caaalabama.org.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T23:44:29Z"], ["https://sewell.house.gov/2023/4/rep-sewell-opening-remarks-at-house-administration-committee-hearing-on-confidence-in-elections", "Rep. Sewell Opening Remarks at House Administration Committee Hearing on Confidence in Elections", "2023-04-27", "2023", "2023-04", "Democrat", "House", "AL", "Terri A. Sewell", "S001185", "sewell.house.gov", "sewell", "https://sewell.house.gov/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2013 Today, U.S. Rep. Terri Sewell (AL-07), Ranking Member of the Committee on House Administration Subcommittee on Elections, delivered the following opening remarks at the House Administration hearing on Confidence in Elections.\n\nClick here to watch Rep. Sewell\u2019s opening remarks.\n\nOpening Statement: \u201cThank you, Mr. Chairman.\n\n\u201cAs the Chair acknowledged, Ranking Member Morelle is unable to be here today due to a death in his family.\n\n\u201cI know we all offer him our sincerest condolences.\n\n\u201cToday we are discussing state tools to promote voter confidence. To do so, we must acknowledge a truth.\n\n\u201cPerpetuating falsehoods about stolen or insecure elections undermines our confidence.\n\n\u201cAcknowledging and alleging a lack of voter confidence or lack of integrity in the electoral system is a false justification to rationalize enactment of suppressive voter laws and procedures such as eliminating ballot drop box, restricting mail in voting, enacting suppressive voter ID laws, and discriminatory voter list maintenance practices that result in otherwise eligible voters being removed from the rolls.\n\n\u201cInstead, confidence in election means every eligible voter feels confident that they can access and cast a ballot, that that ballot will be counted and that it was counted as cast.\n\n\u201cWhen voters see voting methods their communities have been using for decades suddenly being attacked without evidence, it does not promote voter confidence.\n\n\u201cIndeed, ensuring eligible voters have access to the franchise promotes voter confidence.\n\n\u201cOne of the most critical tools states have to promote voter confidence are well trained, well-resourced election officials, people who administer elections year after year are known in their communities and who voters can turn to for accurate information.\n\n\u201cHowever, these trusted public servants have become the targets of harassment and threats.\n\n\u201cA survey of local election officials published earlier this year by the Brennan Center for Justice found that nearly 3 in 4 feel that threats against election officials have increased in recent years, and 30% say that they have personally been abused, harassed or threatened because of their job.\n\n\u201cThe survey also found that given the rate at which officials are leaving the profession, we can expect more than 1 in 5 local election officials to be serving in their first presidential election in 2024.\n\n\u201cWe need to ensure that these officials have the training and resources needed to carry out the critical work of administering our elections.\n\n\u201cOur democracy does not function without them.\n\n\u201cAs we discussed at a committee hearing last month, election officials have worked hard and made significant strides to increase transparency in the electoral process and provide opportunities for the public to better understand and understand what can otherwise be a cumbersome and hard process.\n\n\u201cThe Supreme Court has found that voting is a fundamental political right because it is preservative of all rights and Congress has broad powers to legislate under the election clause.\n\n\u201cWe should be making it easier to vote.\n\n\u201cAs elected officials we should be making sure that access to the ballot box is easy. We also must be truthful.\n\n\u201cThere is no evidence of widespread voter fraud in the United States elections. It is already hard to cheat and committing fraud, committing acts of fraud, voter fraud is already against the law.\n\n\u201cContinuing to perpetuate false claims of rigged elections undermines voter confidence.\n\n\u201cPassing laws that restrict voters access to the ballot box undermines voter confidence.\n\n\u201cCasting election officials as a part of a conspiracy to steal an election undermines voter confidence.\n\n\u201cSince the founding of our country, large segments of the American people have been intentionally excluded from the right to vote, and their access to the ballot box has been purposefully curtailed.\n\n\u201cClaiming that higher voter turnout numbers mean restrictive voting laws do not have suppressive or discriminatory effect, while ignoring evidence of significant racial turnout gaps, that undermines voter confidence.\n\n\u201cWhile many minority communities overwhelmed by barriers to casting their vote, it does not make those barriers fair.\n\n\u201cIt certainly does not justify or validate their existence.\n\n\u201cThis committee's role in conducting oversight of federal elections is critical.\n\n\u201cWe must work to protect access to the ballot box, ensure states and localities have the funding and resources they need to conduct free and fair elections.\n\n\u201cProtect election workers from harassment and threats.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T23:44:29Z"], ["https://sewell.house.gov/2023/4/rep-sewell-calls-on-congress-to-reject-republican-debt-ceiling-demands-and-avoid-catastrophic-default", "Rep. Sewell Calls on Congress to Reject Republican Debt Ceiling Demands and Avoid Catastrophic Default", "2023-04-26", "2023", "2023-04", "Democrat", "House", "AL", "Terri A. Sewell", "S001185", "sewell.house.gov", "sewell", "https://sewell.house.gov/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2013 Today, U.S. Rep. Terri Sewell (AL-07) joined nearly 200 of her colleagues from across the House Democratic Caucus in a letter to House Speaker Kevin McCarthy calling on Republicans to uphold their obligation to protect the full faith and credit of the United States by lifting the debt ceiling \u201cwithout any extraneous policies attached.\u201d\n\n\u201cIt is a sad day when House Republicans shamefully hold our economy hostage and threaten to default on our debt unless Congress makes deep cuts to programs that Alabamians rely on,\u201d said Rep. Sewell. \u201cWe in Congress should never play politics with the full faith and credit of the United States of America. Republicans must join us to raise the debt ceiling\u2014just as they did three times under the previous administration\u2014and avoid economic collapse.\u201d\n\n\u201cI am a strong believer in balancing our budget,\u201d continued Sewell. \u201cDespite Republicans\u2019 2017 tax giveaway to the wealthy\u2014which added $2 trillion to our deficit\u2014I am proud of the historic deficit reduction that we have achieved under President Biden. If Republicans want to address our national debt, they should start by making the wealthy pay their fair share instead of targeting veteran benefits, food assistance, and other programs that hard working Alabama families rely on.\u201d\n\nIf agreed to, Speaker McCarthy\u2019s debt ceiling demands would have devastating consequences for Alabama families. According to a report by the House Budget Committee Minority, House Republicans' debt ceiling proposal would:\n\nThreaten access to food assistance for 17,000 people aged 50-55 in Alabama.\n\nEliminate preschool and child care for at least 5,600 children in Alabama.\n\nIncrease housing costs for at least 8,800 people in Alabama.\n\nMake college more expensive for at least 98,900 students in Alabama.\n\nEliminate at least 3 air traffic control towers in Alabama.\n\nCut at least 150 rail safety inspection days in Alabama.\n\nRepeal investments in cleaner, cheaper energy \u2014 threatening at least 1,280 clean energy and manufacturing jobs announced in Alabama since the passage of the Inflation Reduction Act.\n\nIf Republicans do not get their way, and instead choose to cause an unprecedented credit default, they would unleash global economic catastrophe and put vital government services at risk. According to the report, a default would:\n\nKill about 6,000 jobs in Alabama\u2019s 7th District alone. Nationwide, a default could kill more than 7 million jobs.\n\nJeopardize Social Security payments for 101,000 families in Alabama\u2019s 7th District.\n\nPut health benefits at risk for 306,000 people in Alabama\u2019s 7th District who rely on Medicare, Medicaid, or Veterans Affairs health coverage.\n\nIncrease lifetime mortgage costs for the typical homeowner in Alabama by $43,000.\n\nRaise the costs of a new car loan for the typical American by $800.\n\nThreaten the retirement savings of 91,400 people near retirement in Alabama\u2019s 7th District, eliminating $20,000 from the typical retirement portfolio.\n\nRep. Sewell and her Democratic colleagues made clear that while they welcome debate on spending and economic responsibility, negotiations over spending must be distinct from the threat of economic default, and any cuts to Social Security and Medicare are off the table.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T23:44:29Z"], ["https://sewell.house.gov/2023/4/rep-sewell-announces-2-million-in-federal-funding-for-the-lovelady-center-in-birmingham", "Rep. Sewell Announces $2 Million in Federal Funding for the Lovelady Center in Birmingham", "2023-04-24", "2023", "2023-04", "Democrat", "House", "AL", "Terri A. Sewell", "S001185", "sewell.house.gov", "sewell", "https://sewell.house.gov/press-releases", "scraper", "Sewell secured this funding in the Fiscal Year 2023 federal government funding package\n\nBirmingham, AL \u2013 Today, U.S. Rep. Terri Sewell (AL-07) announced $2 million in federal funding that she secured for the Lovelady Center to help break the cycle of incarceration and poverty for women in the Birmingham region. At a press conference, Rep. Sewell presented a check to Lovelady Founder Brenda Lovelady Spahn, which will be used to rehabilitate two dormitories on the Lovelady campus. The funding is part of the $42.8 million that Sewell secured in the Fiscal Year 2023 government funding package for local projects in Alabama\u2019s 7th Congressional District.\n\n\u201cBy providing food, a safe place to stay, and spiritual guidance, the Lovelady Center has played a critical role in breaking the cycle of poverty and getting our most vulnerable women reintegrated into society,\u201d said Rep. Sewell. \u201cI am thrilled to have secured $2 million to help rehabilitate the center\u2019s dormitories so that they can continue their critical work. My team and I worked diligently to ensure that money for this project was included in the annual government funding bill so that we can make our community safer, stronger, and more prosperous. I can\u2019t wait to see the impact that it will have here in Birmingham!\u201d\n\n\u201cWe are so honored to receive this funding to rehabilitate our 96-year-old facility,\u201d said Frank Long, Director of External Affairs at the Lovelady Center. \u201cIt means so much to us and the women we serve to have our Congresswoman support the Lovelady Center that has transformed the lives of thousands of women. Since its founding in 2005 we have helped over 14,000 women and 4,000 children and we know that this funding is a critical part of our dedication to long term recovery. Ultimately we are so honored she would think of us.\u201d\n\nThe mission of the Lovelady Center is to help women rebuild their lives and walk forward with faith-driven hope for the future. The Lovelady Center ensures that each woman is taught how to overcome barriers to success by providing not only much needed services, but also life skills and spiritual guidance.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T23:44:29Z"], ["https://sewell.house.gov/2023/4/reps-sewell-and-rogers-introduce-bipartisan-legislation-to-combat-alabama-s-rural-wastewater-crisis", "Reps. Sewell and Rogers Introduce Bipartisan Legislation to Combat Alabama\u2019s Rural Wastewater Crisis", "2023-04-20", "2023", "2023-04", "Democrat", "House", "AL", "Terri A. Sewell", "S001185", "sewell.house.gov", "sewell", "https://sewell.house.gov/press-releases", "scraper", "Bill would help households install or upgrade wastewater systems through USDA grant program\n\nWashington D.C. \u2013 Today, U.S. Reps. Terri Sewell (AL-07) and Mike Rogers (AL-03) introduced the Rural Decentralized Water Systems Reauthorization Act in the House of Representatives. This bipartisan bill would help combat Alabama\u2019s rural wastewater crisis by strengthening and expanding the existing United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Rural Decentralized Water Systems Program. The program provides grants to help low- and moderate-income households install or upgrade individually owned decentralized wastewater systems. Companion legislation was introduced in the U.S. Senate by Sens. Corey Booker (D-NJ) and Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV).\n\n\u201cAccess to adequate wastewater infrastructure is a basic human right, but for too many of my constituents, generations of disinvestment have created broken and failing wastewater systems that put the health of our communities at risk,\u201d said Rep. Sewell. \u201cThe Rural Decentralized Water Systems Reauthorization Act is an important step toward correcting this injustice. Many communities in the Black Belt have received USDA Rural Water and Waste Disposal Program grants to help households install and upgrade their wastewater systems. By reauthorizing and expanding this program, more rural and underserved communities will receive the wastewater infrastructure resources that they deserve.\u201d\n\n\u201cI am excited to join my colleague and friend from the great state of Alabama to reintroduce this important legislation,\u201d said Rep. Rogers. \u201cI was especially proud to work in a bipartisan and bicameral manner to address the universal issue of our country\u2019s failing rural wastewater infrastructure. Reauthorizing this grant program will ensure access to clean water for more rural communities in Alabama and across the country.\u201d\n\n\u201cWater is a basic human right and access to safe, clean water should never be determined based on one\u2019s socioeconomic status,\u201d said Senator Booker. \u201cWe must ensure that all Americans have access to reliable water well and wastewater systems to prevent health hazards in communities where water contamination is a real threat. That is why I am proud to join my colleagues in introducing this bill that would expand and strengthen the USDA Rural Decentralized Water Systems Program to provide support to more low- and moderate-income households to modernize their outdated wastewater systems.\u201d\n\n\u201cStrengthening our infrastructure throughout West Virginia has been and remains a top priority of mine,\u201d said Senator Capito. \u201cI\u2019m glad to join Senator Booker in reintroducing legislation that will help improve home water systems in West Virginia, and reauthorize the Rural Decentralized Water Systems Grant Program that has proven to work in my state. This legislation is also included in my list of Farm Bill priorities this year, and I look forward to working to advancing it.\u201d\n\nApproximately 20 percent of Americans dispose of wastewater through their own sewage disposal systems. Because these systems have high maintenance costs, certain failures often go unaddressed, potentially endangering the health of millions of Americans living in areas where water can be contaminated as a result of homes that lack a sewage system altogether or have a failing, improperly installed, or homemade septic system. The problem is particularly dire in parts of rural Alabama where\u2014in the absence of municipal wastewater systems\u2014many families have struggled to afford the installation and maintenance costs associated with individually owned wastewater systems.\n\nThe Rural Decentralized Water Systems Reauthorization Act:\n\nReauthorizes the Rural Decentralized Water Systems Grant Program through 2028\n\nReinstates eligibility for loans to individuals earning up to 100 percent of the area median income.\n\nTargets funding through subgrants to individuals earning 60 percent or less of the area median income.\n\nIncreases the maximum subgrant or loan amount from $15,000 to $20,000.\n\nAllows subgrant funding to include the cost of a performance warranty for individually owned household decentralized wastewater systems.\n\nThe Rural Decentralized Water Systems Reauthorization Act has been endorsed by the National Onsite Wastewater Recycling Association (NOWRA) and the Rural Community Assistance Partnership (RCAP).", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T23:44:29Z"], ["https://sewell.house.gov/2023/4/rep-sewell-celebrates-the-80th-birthday-of-the-honorable-judge-u-w-clemon-by-honoring-him-on-the-house-floor", "Rep. Sewell Celebrates the 80th Birthday of the Honorable Judge U.W. Clemon by Honoring Him on the House Floor", "2023-04-18", "2023", "2023-04", "Democrat", "House", "AL", "Terri A. Sewell", "S001185", "sewell.house.gov", "sewell", "https://sewell.house.gov/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington D.C. \u2013 Today, U.S. Rep. Terri Sewell (AL-07) celebrated the birthday of the Honorable Judge U.W. Clemon by honoring him on the House Floor. Alabama\u2019s first Black federal Judge, Clemon celebrated his 80th birthday on Sunday, April 9th.\n\nRep. Sewell\u2019s remarks are transcribed below. A recording can be viewed and downloaded here.\n\nRep. Sewell: Mister Speaker, I rise today to honor the extraordinary career of a legal giant and Civil Rights activist, Alabama\u2019s first Black federal judge, the Honorable U.W. Clemon, who celebrated his 80th birthday on April 9th.\n\nA native of Alabama, Judge Clemon was born in 1943. Despite much of his childhood in the segregated school system of Jefferson County, Clemon broke down barriers, graduating as a two-time valedictorian, first at Westfield High School in 1961 and then at Miles College in 1965.\n\nAs a college student, Judge Clemon was a leading voice for civil rights. He marched in countless student demonstrations under the direction of Dr. King and played a pivotal role in the Selective Buying Campaign to boycott segregated stores in downtown Birmingham.\n\nBefore graduating from Columbia Law School in 1968, Clemon clerked at the NAACP Legal Defense Fund, forming a life-long association serving as local counsel on numerous civil rights lawsuits throughout Alabama.\n\nJudge Clemon always understood the importance of the law in the fight for justice and equality.\n\nHe quickly gained a reputation as an effective and fearless lawyer, taking on Coach \u201cBear\u201d Bryant to desegregate the all-white University of Alabama football team, and he took on the U.S. Steel Corporation which led to the desegregation of the American steel industry.\n\nBy 1974, Judge Clemon took his advocacy to the Alabama State Legislature, making history as one of the first two African Americans elected to the Alabama Senate since Reconstruction.\n\nHis tenure as a pioneering lawmaker and skilled attorney caught the attention of President Jimmy Carter who appointed then-Senator Clemon to serve as Alabama's first Black federal judge in 1980. He went on to serve on the federal bench for 30 years until 2009.\n\nJudge Clemon was a highly respected jurist inside and outside the courtroom. He was known as fair but tough. He demanded that lawyers before him represent their clients competently and effectively. Judge Clemon served as Chief Justice for the United States District Court for the Northern District of Alabama from 1999 to 2006.\n\nDespite retiring from the bench in 2009, Judge Clemon has remained a vibrant member of the Birmingham legal community where he continues to practice law, serving the underrepresented, vulnerable, and underserved. He has received numerous awards, holds three honorary degrees, two street namings, and most recently, an elementary school was named in his honor.\n\nOn a personal note, Judge Clemon is a trusted advisor, counselor, and a loving father figure to me. My most formative legal experience was serving as a law clerk for Judge Clemon after graduating from law school in 1992.\n\nI learned so much serving as his law clerk. I learned more about the practice of law and saw firsthand what justice looks like by witnessing him in his courtroom. Sitting with him in his chamber was always an educational experience. The Judge tested my knowledge, stretched my legal acumen, challenged my views, and inspired me to be a better lawyer and person.\n\nI know that I now serve as Alabama\u2019s first Black Congresswoman because I was blessed by a transformative experience clerking for Alabama\u2019s first Black federal judge.\n\nI want to thank his loving family, his wife of 50 years, Ms. Barbra, and his two children, Michelle and Isaac, for sharing him with so many of us.\n\nI ask my colleagues to join me in celebrating the 80th birthday and the extraordinary career of an exceptional jurist, lawmaker, and public servant, and wonderful counselor, Judge U.W. Clemon, whose life\u2019s work stands as a testament to the power of one person to change the world.\n\nMay the seeds Judge Clemon has sowed continue to bear fruit for generations to come.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T23:44:29Z"], ["https://sewell.house.gov/2023/4/rep-sewell-sends-letter-to-federal-railroad-administrator-amit-bose-requesting-action-to-address-recent-train-blockages-and-safety-concerns", "Rep. Sewell Sends Letter to Federal Railroad Administrator Amit Bose Requesting Action to Address Recent Train Blockages and Safety Concerns", "2023-04-17", "2023", "2023-04", "Democrat", "House", "AL", "Terri A. Sewell", "S001185", "sewell.house.gov", "sewell", "https://sewell.house.gov/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2013 Today, U.S. Rep. Terri Sewell (AL-07) sent a letter to Federal Railroad Administrator Amit Bose regarding the recent increase in train blockages and resulting safety concerns in Alabama\u2019s 7th Congressional District. In the letter, Rep. Sewell requested a follow-up meeting with Administrator Bose and emphasized the need for railroad companies to be held accountable.\n\nThe letter reads in part, \u201cAs you know, blocked crossings create extended delays for commuters, hinder emergency vehicle access to neighborhoods, and create an unacceptable safety risk for residents trying to find alternative routes around the blocked crossings. This is unacceptable\u2026 We must all do more to reduce the frequency and length of blocked crossings until we can implement a long-term solution. Moreover, the rail companies must be held accountable as the federal government invests billions of dollars to modernize America\u2019s rail systems.\u201d\n\nRep. Sewell has been working closely with federal, state, and local partners to identify and implement long-term solutions to the train blockages impacting Alabama\u2019s 7th Congressional District. In November 2021, after hearing concerns from local officials and community members, Rep. Sewell sent a letter to Federal Railroad Administrator Amit Bose and an additional letter to Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg inviting them to see firsthand how blockages impact the community. In response to the letter, Administrator Bose met with Rep. Sewell in November 2021, and participated in a productive discussion with local officials in January 2022. In October 2022, Sewell welcomed Administrator Bose to Alabama to meet with local officials and explore solutions to the blocked railroad crossings. The City of Birmingham recently received an $800,000 federal Reconnecting Communities planning grant to increase safety and reconnect neighborhoods that have been divided by rail tracks for generations.\n\nSewell also helped secure key provisions in President Biden\u2019sBipartisan Infrastructure Law to address train blockages.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T23:44:29Z"], ["https://sewell.house.gov/2023/4/rep-sewell-announces-2023-congressional-art-competition-for-high-school-students-in-alabama-s-7th-congressional-district", "Rep. Sewell Announces 2023 Congressional Art Competition for High School Students in Alabama\u2019s 7th Congressional District", "2023-04-11", "2023", "2023-04", "Democrat", "House", "AL", "Terri A. Sewell", "S001185", "sewell.house.gov", "sewell", "https://sewell.house.gov/press-releases", "scraper", "Montgomery, AL \u2014 Today, U.S. Rep. Terri Sewell (AL-07) announced that her office is now accepting submissions for the 2023 Congressional Art Competition. The competition is open to high school students from both public and private schools throughout Alabama\u2019s 7th Congressional District, as well as home-schooled high school students. The winner will receive free round-trip airfare for two to Washington D.C. to attend an official reception honoring the winners from congressional districts across the nation. The winner\u2019s artwork will be showcased in the U.S. Capitol for one year. The deadline to submit artwork is Friday, April 28, 2023.\n\nThis year\u2019s theme, \u201cReimagine Alabama,\u201d provides students an opportunity to capture their hopes and dreams for the state they call home.\n\nTo enter the contest, students must fill out and submit a Student Information and Release Form with their artwork by Friday, April 28, 2023. Students are encouraged to submit their artwork to their local school superintendent\u2019s office or call (334) 262-1919 for pick up. Students may also deliver their art to any of Rep. Sewell\u2019s district offices located in Birmingham, Montgomery, Selma and Tuscaloosa. Artwork may be up to 26\u201d high X 26\u201d wide X 4\u201d deep. For more information, contact Rep. Sewell\u2019s Montgomery Office at (334) 262-1919 or visit Sewell\u2019s official website at sewell.house.gov/art-competition.\n\nAs a proud product of Alabama\u2019s rural Black Belt, Rep. Sewell has witnessed first-hand the talent that Alabama\u2019s 7th Congressional District holds. Each year she is immensely impressed with the outstanding submissions, and she is incredibly proud to have the winning artwork representing the 7th Congressional District in our nation\u2019s capital.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T23:44:29Z"], ["https://sewell.house.gov/2023/4/rep-sewell-joins-reps-tenney-davis-and-kelly-in-introducing-the-bipartisan-new-markets-tax-credit-extension-act", "Rep. Sewell Joins Reps. Tenney, Davis, and Kelly in Introducing the Bipartisan New Markets Tax Credit Extension Act", "2023-04-06", "2023", "2023-04", "Democrat", "House", "AL", "Terri A. Sewell", "S001185", "sewell.house.gov", "sewell", "https://sewell.house.gov/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2013 Today, U.S. Rep. Terri Sewell (AL-07) joined Reps. Claudia Tenney (NY-24), Danny Davis (IL-07), and Mike Kelly (PA-16) in introducing the New Markets Tax Credit (NMTC) Extension Act. This legislation would spur investment and economic growth in Alabama\u2019s rural and underserved communities by making the NMTC a permanent fixture of our tax code.\n\nSet to expire on December 31, 2025, the New Markets Tax Credit was established in the Community Renewal Tax Relief Act of 2000, and is an essential source of financing for businesses and community facilities in low-income and rural areas across the country. The NMTC provides private investors with a 39 percent credit against federal income taxes for investments made in some of the most distressed communities in the nation. This bill makes the NMTC a permanent part of the Internal Revenue Code, indexes allocation levels to inflation in future years, and exempts NMTC investments from the Alternative Minimum Tax (AMT).\n\n\u201cIn Alabama\u2019s 7th Congressional District, we have seen firsthand the power of the New Markets Tax Credit to spur investment and incentivize economic growth in some of our most vulnerable and underserved communities,\u201d said Rep. Sewell. \u201cThe New Markets Tax Credit remains a critical tool to promote job creation and provide opportunities to those who need them most. We must ensure that this tool is made a permanent part of our tax code, and that\u2019s exactly what this legislation would do.\u201d\n\n\u201cNow more than ever, it is essential that we work to create investments in our rural and low-income communities,\u201d said Rep. Tenney, lead Republican sponsor. \u201cRural America is often forgotten by the Washington elites, which means that rural communities sometimes lack the necessary resources to invest, grow, and expand. Congress must make the New Markets Tax Credit permanent to allow our rural communities to continue accessing this important resource which helps to create jobs and stimulate economic growth. As a small business owner from rural America, I will always be a tenacious advocate for investments in our rural communities and businesses in Congress.\u201d\n\n\u201cOver the years, the New Markets Tax Credit has well-proven its worth by revitalizing neighborhoods and cities that need the help the most,\u201d said Rep. Kelly. \u201cThe New Markets Tax Credit Extension (NMTC) Act would allow more communities across the country to receive the benefits that I have seen firsthand in my district, including 518 new jobs from three projects in Northwestern Pennsylvania. Since the program\u2019s inception, the NMTC has created over 24,000 permanent jobs and 27,000 construction across Pennsylvania. Along with revitalizing American\u2019s Main Streets, the NMTC program is a job creator and I\u2019m proud to support this legislation again in the 118th Congress!\u201d\n\n\u201cThe New Markets Tax Credit has been and remains absolutely vital for many of America\u2019s urban neighborhoods and rural communities and will provide billions of dollars for high-impact, community revitalization projects,\u201d said Bob Rapoza, spokesperson for the NMTC Coalition. \u201cOver the years, the credit has been instrumental in financing plant and equipment for small manufacturing businesses and patient, flexible capital to other small businesses, hospitals, healthcare centers, homeless shelters and other transformative projects that improve communities, create jobs and economic opportunity. We appreciate the leadership of Representatives Tenney and Sewell in promoting more investment in distressed communities.\u201d\n\n\u201cWe commend Representatives Tenney and Sewell for leading the way to make the New Markets Tax Credit a permanent part of the tax code. It is one of the most concrete steps the 118th Congress could take to spur investment in economically distressed communities\u2014from rural towns to urban neighborhoods, and everywhere in between,\u201d said Lori Chatman, Interim co-CEO, Enterprise Community Partners. \u201cThis proposal is a bipartisan opportunity to add stability and efficiency to a program that has already delivered $120 billion in community assets and created more than 1 million jobs nationwide, including NMTCs Enterprise recently provided to finance the GLOW Healthy Living Campus in Batavia, New York.\u201d\n\nAdditional cosponsors include Rep. Miller (R-WV), Rep. Ferguson (R-GA), Rep. Fitzpatrick (R-PA), Rep. Schweikert (R-AZ), Rep. Smucker (R-PA), Rep. Wenstrup (R-OH), Rep. LaHood (R-IL), Rep. Yakym III (R-IN), Rep. Steube (R-FL), Rep. Carey (R-OH), Rep. Buchanan (R-FL), Rep. Van Duyne (R-TX), Rep. Blumenauer (D-OR), Rep. S\u00e1nchez (D-CA), Rep. Higgins (D-NY), Rep. DelBene (D-WA), Rep. Chu (D-CA), Rep. Moore (D-WI), Rep. Kildee (D-MI), Rep. Beyer (D-VA), Rep. Evans (D-PA), Rep. Panetta (D-CA).", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T23:44:29Z"], ["https://sewell.house.gov/2023/3/reps-sewell-arrington-hudson-and-ruiz-introduce-the-nancy-gardner-sewell-medicare-multi-cancer-early-detection-screening-coverage-act", "Reps. Sewell, Arrington, Hudson, and Ruiz Introduce the Nancy Gardner Sewell Medicare Multi-Cancer Early Detection Screening Coverage Act", "2023-03-30", "2023", "2023-03", "Democrat", "House", "AL", "Terri A. Sewell", "S001185", "sewell.house.gov", "sewell", "https://sewell.house.gov/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2013 Today, U.S. Rep. Terri Sewell (AL-07) joined Reps. Jodey Arrington (TX-19), Richard Hudson (NC-09), and Raul Ruiz (CA-25) to introduce the Nancy Gardner Sewell Medicare Multi-Cancer Early Detection (MCED) Screening Coverage Act, named for Rep. Sewell\u2019s late mother who passed away in 2021 from pancreatic cancer. This bipartisan legislation would create a pathway for Medicare to cover emerging blood-based cancer screenings which hold the potential to catch cancer earlier than ever before. Last Congress, the bill garnered the support of a bipartisan majority of both the House and Senate\u2014with 258 House cosponsors and 54 Senate cosponsors\u2014and over 400 organizations across the nation.\n\n\u201cNo family in America has been spared the scourge of cancer,\u201d said Rep. Sewell, lead Democratic sponsor. \u201cFortunately, innovative multi-cancer early detection screenings are emerging which hold the potential to detect cancer earlier than ever before. I\u2019m proud to once again introduce the Medicare Multi-Cancer Early Detection Screening Coverage Act, named for my late mother Nancy Gardner Sewell, to ensure that our seniors can access these tools once they are FDA approved. Not only will this bill save lives, but it will also help reduce the glaring racial disparities in cancer diagnosis and death. I look forward to harnessing our momentum from the 117th Congress to get this bill across the finish line!\u201d\n\n\u201cMulti-cancer early detection is one of the many incredible examples of the United States leading in medical innovation,\u201d said Rep. Arrington, lead Republican sponsor. \u201cThis type of screening has the potential to improve quality of life for millions of American cancer patients and their families while saving taxpayer dollars by treating cancer before it spreads. I am proud of the bipartisan support this bill gained last Congress and remain firm in my belief that this legislation will drastically improve our ability to treat and prevent cancer.\u201d\n\n\u201cToo many families are devastated by a cancer diagnosis every day in the United States,\u201d said Rep. Hudson. \u201cBy increasing access to multi-cancer early detection screening tests through Medicare, we can detect cancers sooner and save lives in North Carolina and around the country. As a member of the Health Subcommittee, I once again look forward to advancing this bipartisan legislation.\u201d\n\n\"Detecting cancer early improves health outcomes and saves lives,\" said Dr. Ruiz. \"With innovative medical technologies, we can catch more cancers earlier than ever, but patients must be able to access these screenings. That's why it's very important for Medicare policy to keep pace with the development of multi-cancer screenings. I am glad to join my colleagues in introducing the Multi-Cancer Early Detection Screening Coverage Act to modernize Medicare coverage so older Americans can access these screenings and improve their health outcomes.\"\n\nBackground:\n\nThe Nancy Gardner Sewell Medicare Multi-Cancer Early Detection Screening Coverage Act would increase seniors\u2019 timely access to multi-cancer early detection technology by creating a pathway to Medicare coverage. This bill will allow for Medicare coverage of MCED screenings once they are approved by the Food and Drug Administration. New MCED screening tools will complement existing screening and dramatically improve our nation\u2019s cancer early detection capabilities. Currently, we are only able to commonly screen for five cancers and just 14% of cancers are found through screenings.\n\nThe impact of late-stage cancer diagnosis is magnified in communities of color and throughout rural America where overall cancer outcomes are worse. These tools introduce a significant shift in the cancer screening landscape. Ensuring seniors have timely access is essential since age is the primary risk factor for cancer and more than 70% of cancer diagnoses are in the Medicare population. This legislation will open the door to a new era of detecting and treating cancer while ensuring that our most vulnerable citizens are not left behind.\n\nSpecifically, the legislation would:\n\nCreate the authority for CMS to cover blood-based MCED tests and future test methods once approved by the FDA and shown to have clinical benefit.\n\nMaintain CMS\u2019 authority to use an evidence-based process to determine coverage parameters for these new tests.\n\nClarify that (1) these new tools will complement, not replace, existing screenings and coverage and (2) cost sharing will not be impacted.\n\n\u201cPeople of color are at the greatest risk for cancer deaths, at least partly because of disparities in early detection,\u201d said Thomas \u201cTed\u201d Greer Jr., CEO of Alabama Regional Medical Services based in Birmingham, Alabama. \u201cWe believe new screening technologies offer a chance to reduce those disparities, and we applaud Rep. Sewell\u2019s steadfast leadership to clear a path for these tests to be accessible to those at highest risk for cancer.\u201d\n\n\u201cThe Multi Cancer Early Detection Screening Coverage Act would potentially expand access to cancer screenings in Medicare. The bill would allow the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) to initiate an evidence-based coverage process for a multi-cancer screening test following FDA approval and once shown to have clinical benefit. ACS CAN supports the Multi-Cancer Early Detection Screening Coverage Act to provide Medicare coverage of screening tests that are FDA approved. Cancer screening and early detection are key priorities for ACS CAN.\u201d \u2013 American Cancer Society, Cancer Action Network\n\n\u201cEarly detection of cancer is vital to closing the gap in screening and eliminating the scourge of preventable death, hospitalizations and high costs on minority and disadvantaged populations. With only 14% of cancers found with current available screening, far too many lives are lost to late stage cancer diagnosis. National Minority Quality Forum is dedicated to shifting cancer stage diagnosis and applaud the tireless work of Representatives Arrington, Sewell, Hudson, and Ruiz to introduce legislation that will help ensure access to MCED tests within Medicare once they are approved by the FDA.\u201d \u2013 National Minority Quality Forum\n\n\u201cThe importance of detecting cancer early cannot be overstated. With the Medicare Multi-Cancer Early Detection Screening Coverage Act, Congress can unlock a new era in how cancer is detected and treated. We thank the sponsors and cosponsors for recognizing that older adults are at the most risk for cancer and we must create a pathway to access the latest cancer detection tools. We\u2019ve been proud to bring an astounding 400+ organizations together in calling for the passage of the bill. Let\u2019s make early detection a reality for Medicare beneficiaries.\u201d \u2013 Prevent Cancer Foundation\n\n\u201cMCED technology holds the potential to alter the current cancer screening paradigm by providing the oncology community with the tools they need to find many more cancers in earlier, more treatable stages. ACCC is committed to advancing best practices and policies that will facilitate the integration of MCED tests into our health care system and that includes supporting the Medicare Multi-Cancer Early Detection Screening Coverage Act. The war on cancer requires an all-hands-on deck approach and we need new tools, like MCED, to make a major impact. We\u2019re grateful to leaders in Congress who are working to ensure older Americans can access this important new cancer screening tool.\u201d \u2013 Association of Community Cancer Centers\n\n\u201cHaving served hundreds of thousands of patients since our founding, we at the Cancer Support Community (CSC) have witnessed both the experiences of those who benefited from early detection of their cancer and those who did not and were often diagnosed at later stages, due to barriers in knowledge, access, both coverage and logistical, or lack of existing tests for their cancer. On behalf of CSC, we are proud to add our voice to the chorus in urging passage of the Medicare Multi-Cancer Early Detection Screening Coverage Act which has widespread support from Congress and the cancer community and applaud Representatives Arrington, Sewell, Hudson, and Ruiz for helping to ensure that government keeps up with the speed of healthcare innovation.\u201d \u2013 Cancer Support Community\n\n\u201cThe lung cancer community knows how important cancer screening tests are for treating and even curing the disease. But we need early detection capabilities for many more cancers and we need it urgently to save lives. That\u2019s what multi-cancer early detection technology offers through a simple blood draw that screens for dozens of cancers. Representatives Arrington, Sewell, Hudson, and Ruiz are doing the important work of championing access to MCED tests within Medicare. The Medicare Multi-Cancer Early Detection Screening Coverage Act will help remove barriers that could prevent use of the tests by those most at-risk for all cancers \u2013 older Americans. We urge others to join them in this fight.\u201d \u2013 GO2 for Lung Cancer\n\n\u201cThe Medicare Multi-Cancer Early Detection Screening Coverage Act is an important step toward early detection for many cancers. We are making real progress in screening more Americans for colorectal cancer and innovations in screening tools is a key part of that. As technology advances, we must ensure that all patients have access to new, safe and effective technology. We commend Representatives Arrington, Sewell, Hudson, and Ruiz for taking an important step in that direction and working to have fewer Americans receive a cancer diagnosis.\u201d \u2013 FIGHT Colorectal Cancer", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T23:30:02Z"], ["https://sewell.house.gov/2023/3/reps-sewell-fitzpatrick-introduce-bipartisan-legislation-to-combat-physician-shortage-and-improve-access-to-health-care", "Reps. Sewell, Fitzpatrick Introduce Bipartisan Legislation to Combat Physician Shortage and Improve Access to Health Care", "2023-03-29", "2023", "2023-03", "Democrat", "House", "AL", "Terri A. Sewell", "S001185", "sewell.house.gov", "sewell", "https://sewell.house.gov/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2014 Today, U.S. Reps. Terri Sewell (AL-07) and Brian Fitzpatrick (PA-01) introduced the Resident Physician Shortage Reduction Act of 2023. This bipartisan legislation would combat the nation\u2019s physician shortage and improve access to health care by expanding the number of Medicare-supported medical residency positions by 14,000 over seven years.\n\n\u201cIn Alabama and all across the nation, we are facing an urgent physician shortage that will only get worse as our population continues to age,\u201d said Rep. Sewell, lead sponsor. \u201cBy adding 14,000 new graduate medical education residency positions over the next seven years, this critical legislation will give hospitals and health centers the tools they need to improve access to care, lower wait times for patients, and create a pipeline of qualified medical professionals to serve Americans\u2019 health needs.\u201d\n\n\u201cIn the face of a severe physician shortage, it is more important than ever to have highly-trained doctors in our hospitals,\u201d said Rep. Fitzpatrick, lead Republican sponsor. \u201cThe bipartisan Resident Physician Shortage Act will create more opportunities for aspiring doctors to join residency programs and help meet the growing demand for high-quality health care.\u201d\n\nAccording to data from the Association of American Medical Colleges (AAMC), the United States faces a projected physician shortage of up to 124,000 physicians by 2034, with demand for physicians outpacing supply. The nation\u2019s demographics\u2014particularly population growth and aging\u2014serve as the primary driver of increasing demand for physician services. As the population continues to age and requires more medical care, it is critical to ensure there are enough physicians to care for those who need physician services. In addition, as a large portion of the physician workforce nears traditional retirement age, there is a critical need to educate and train more physicians to ensure there are enough physicians to care for patients across all communities in the future.\n\n\u201cThe residency positions in the Resident Physician Shortage Reduction Act are a critical step in working to address the nation\u2019s dire physician shortage,\u201d said Association of American Medical Colleges President and CEO David J. Skorton, MD. \u201cWe thank Reps. Sewell and Fitzpatrick for their dedication to ensuring access to high-quality health care for all by expanding critical investments in physician training. By strategically targeting these new medical residency positions at a wide variety of teaching hospitals, we are also strengthening and diversifying the health care workforce and improving critical access to care for patients, families, and communities across the country.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T23:30:02Z"], ["https://sewell.house.gov/2023/3/rep-sewell-statement-on-the-13th-anniversary-of-the-affordable-care-act", "Rep. Sewell Statement on the 13th Anniversary of the Affordable Care Act", "2023-03-23", "2023", "2023-03", "Democrat", "House", "AL", "Terri A. Sewell", "S001185", "sewell.house.gov", "sewell", "https://sewell.house.gov/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2013 Today, U.S. Rep. Terri Sewell (AL-07) released the following statement on the 13th anniversary of President Obama signing the Affordable Care Act (ACA) into law:\n\n\u201cOn this day in 2010, President Barack Obama signed the Affordable Care Act into law. Thirteen years later, it is undeniable that the ACA has had a profound impact on Alabama and our nation.\n\n\u201cUnder the leadership of President Biden and Congressional Democrats, we have made extraordinary progress in strengthening the ACA and bringing down health care costs for Alabama families. Today, more Alabamians and more Americans are insured than ever before and those with pre-existing conditions can breathe a sigh of relief knowing that they are protected from being denied coverage. With the American Rescue Plan, we lowered premiums for 219,000 Alabamians through the ACA marketplace and locked in those savings in the Inflation Reduction Act. Starting this year, no senior will pay more than $35 per month for insulin, and soon, our provisions to cap prescription drug costs and negotiate drug prices will take effect, providing critical savings for our seniors.\n\n\u201cTo be clear, our work is far from over. In Congress, I am fighting every day to save Alabama\u2019s rural hospitals, close the Medicaid coverage gap, and continue to bring down costs. I will continue to vigorously oppose attempts by my Republican colleagues to cut Medicare, strip Americans of their health care coverage, and roll back our progress.\n\n\u201cIn this great nation of so much wealth and prosperity, no American should go without health care coverage. After all, access to quality, affordable health care is a right and not a privilege. I will continue working to improve the Affordable Care Act and bring down health care costs for the great people I represent.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T23:30:02Z"], ["https://sewell.house.gov/2023/3/rep-sewell-announces-6-4-million-from-the-bipartisan-infrastructure-law-to-improve-birmingham-shuttlesworth-international-airport", "Rep. Sewell Announces $6.4 Million from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law to Improve Birmingham-Shuttlesworth International Airport", "2023-03-21", "2023", "2023-03", "Democrat", "House", "AL", "Terri A. Sewell", "S001185", "sewell.house.gov", "sewell", "https://sewell.house.gov/press-releases", "scraper", "$2.5 billion in transportation funding from the Infrastructure Law has been announced for Alabama to date including $39.5 million for Alabama\u2019s airports\n\nBirmingham, AL \u2013 Today, U.S. Rep. Terri Sewell (AL-07) announced that the Birmingham-Shuttlesworth International Airport will receive $6,481,875 in federal funding to make improvements to the safety and reliability of the airport\u2019s aprons and taxiways. Funding for this grant comes from the Federal Aviation Administration\u2019s (FAA) Airport Infrastructure Grant (AIG) program and was made possible by President Biden\u2019s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law. Since the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law passed, approximately $2.5 billion has been announced for transportation in Alabama\u2014including $39.5 million for Alabama\u2019s airports in 2022 and 2023.\n\n\u201cI\u2019m thrilled that the Biden-Harris Administration is investing over $6.4 million to enhance the safety and reliability of the Birmingham-Shuttlesworth Airport through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law!\u201d celebrated Rep. Sewell. \u201cThis is another great example of how the Infrastructure Law is delivering for our communities here in Alabama and a testament to what we can achieve when we put people over politics.\u201d\n\n\u201cWe are very committed to pursuing projects that extend the life of paved surfaces and help ensure a safe operating environment for the airlines, the military, and our general aviation customers,\u201d said Darlene Wilson, Chair of the Birmingham Airport Authority. \u201cWe appreciate the support we get from Congresswoman Sewell and from the entire Alabama delegation in Washington.\u201d\n\nThis project rehabilitates 15,540 square yards of the existing overflow apron pavement and 5,200 feet of taxiways at the Birmingham-Shuttlesworth International Airport to maintain the structural integrity of the pavement and to minimize foreign object debris. The airport is also receiving $421,875 from the FAA for a new aircraft rescue and fire fighting vehicle.\n\nTo date, $3 billion in funding from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law has been announced and is headed to Alabama with over 115 specific projects identified for funding. Since the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law passed, approximately $2.5 billion has been announced for transportation in Alabama\u2014including $39.5 million for Alabama\u2019s airports in 2022 and 2023. Currently, more than 321,000 households across the state are receiving affordable high-speed internet due to the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law.\n\nMany more projects will be added in the coming months as funding opportunities become grant awards and as formula funds become specific projects.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T23:30:02Z"], ["https://sewell.house.gov/2023/3/rep-sewell-wenstrup-carter-and-tonko-introduce-the-bipartisan-protecting-access-to-ground-ambulance-medical-services-act/d033847e-9a1d-4f8f-af11-b14dada71f14", "Rep. Sewell, Wenstrup, Carter, and Tonko Introduce the Bipartisan Protecting Access to Ground Ambulance Medical Services Act", "2023-03-17", "2023", "2023-03", "Democrat", "House", "AL", "Terri A. Sewell", "S001185", "sewell.house.gov", "sewell", "https://sewell.house.gov/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2013 This Congress, U.S. Rep. Terri Sewell (AL-07) and Rep. Brad Wenstrup (R-OH), together with Reps. Earl Carter (R-GA) and Paul Tonko (D-NY) introduced the bipartisan Protecting Access to Ground Ambulance Medical Services Act of 2023. This bill would ensure that ambulance service providers continue delivering quality healthcare services and lifesaving medical assistance.\n\n\u201cAs we saw during the COVID-19 pandemic, our first responders provide irreplaceable care to those in need no matter where they are,\u201d said Rep. Sewell. \u201cHowever, due to the current Medicare reimbursement rate, these life-saving services come at a grave cost, especially to our rural communities, which are often too far from a traditional hospital. This bill addresses the critical need for ground ambulances in our most vulnerable communities, and I am proud to join my colleagues in introducing this bill with bipartisan support.\"\n\n\u201cWhen seconds are the difference between life and death, first responders arrive at the scene to provide life-saving care. This bill delivers key reforms so that Americans, particularly those in rural and underserved communities, can access ground ambulance transportation, and their providers can rely on consistent reimbursement from Medicare. This bill would help keep ambulance costs affordable,\u201d said Rep. Wenstrup.\n\n\u201cWhen you\u2019re in an emergency, timely access to an ambulance can mean the difference between life and death. With this bill, we will ensure that everyone, including those in remote or rural areas, has access to this life-saving care and that those who provide it receive proper Medicare reimbursement,\u201d said Rep. Carter.\n\n\u201cOur emergency responders work every day on the frontlines to provide lifesaving care to our communities, and their invaluable role is even greater in rural and underserved areas, where hospitals and access to medical care are many miles away. This legislation addresses gaps in access to ambulance services and ensures that Americans are delivered affordable care, no matter where they live. I thank my colleagues, Representatives Wenstrup, Sewell, and Carter for pushing this bill forward,\u201d said Rep. Tonko", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T23:30:02Z"], ["https://sewell.house.gov/2023/3/rep-sewell-announces-1-4-million-smart-grant-from-the-bipartisan-infrastructure-law-to-improve-transportation-efficiency-and-safety", "Rep. Sewell Announces $1.4 Million SMART Grant from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law to Improve Transportation Efficiency and Safety", "2023-03-15", "2023", "2023-03", "Democrat", "House", "AL", "Terri A. Sewell", "S001185", "sewell.house.gov", "sewell", "https://sewell.house.gov/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2014 Today, U.S. Rep. Terri Sewell (AL-07) announced that the Regional Planning Commission of Greater Birmingham will receive $1,492,204 from the Department of Transportation's Strengthening Mobility and Revolutionizing Transportation (SMART) Grants Program to develop a fully integrated mobility system addressing the longstanding disinvestment in public transportation across Central Alabama. This funding was made possible by the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law and is a part of the Biden-Harris Administration\u2019s ongoing efforts to promote innovative projects that improve transportation efficiency and safety.\n\n\u201cAs the only member of Alabama\u2019s Congressional Delegation to vote in favor of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, I am thrilled to see the outpouring of critical investments like these coming to our communities,\u201d continued Sewell. \u201cI am even more proud that the SMART Program provides an innovative avenue to revitalize our current transportation system. I applaud Secretary Buttigieg and the entire Biden-Harris Administration for their continued dedication to investing in a sustainable and more equitable future.\u201d\n\nBackground on Strengthening Mobility and Revolutionizing Transportation (SMART) Program\n\nThe program is based on a belief that planning, prototyping, and teambuilding are critical to advancing the state of the practice for data and technology projects in the public sector and is appropriated at $100M annually for fiscal years 2022\u22122026. To accomplish the objectives identified in BIL, the SMART Grants Program will fund projects that focus on using technology interventions to solve real-world challenges facing communities today. Through creativity and local experimentation, the SMART Program will support a range of approaches:\n\nnew transportation applications of existing and emerging technologies;\n\nexpanded and systematized use of proven technologies; and\n\ndeep integration of solutions with existing transportation systems.\n\nThe SMART program is divided into two stages. Stage 1 is the Planning and Prototyping Grants and determines eligible projects for Stage 2 Implementation Grants. During Stage 1, public sector project leaders should build internal buy-in and partnerships with public, private, academic, nonprofit, and community organizations and community networks to refine and prototype their concepts and report on results.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T23:30:02Z"], ["https://sewell.house.gov/2023/3/rep-sewell-two-days-left-for-alabamians-to-apply-for-federal-assistance-from-january-12th-storms", "Rep. Sewell: Two Days Left for Alabamians to Apply for Federal Assistance from January 12th Storms", "2023-03-14", "2023", "2023-03", "Democrat", "House", "AL", "Terri A. Sewell", "S001185", "sewell.house.gov", "sewell", "https://sewell.house.gov/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2013 Today, U.S. Rep. Terri Sewell (AL-07) reminded Alabamians that homeowners and renters who sustained damage to their primary property due to the January 12th severe storms, straight-line winds, and tornadoes have two days left to apply for federal assistance. The deadline is March 16, 2023, for survivors to apply for federal assistance in Autauga, Coosa, Dallas, Elmore, Greene, Hale, Mobile, Morgan, Sumter, and Tallapoosa counties.\n\n\u201cFollowing the January 12th storms, I have made it my mission to get our communities the resources needed to rebuild better and stronger than before,\u201d said Rep. Sewell. \u201cIn order to take advantage of the individual assistance available, my constituents in the eligible counties have until this Thursday, March 16th to submit an application. I remain committed to ensuring my constituents can benefit from the critical assistance available right now!\u201d\n\nHomeowners and renters in the designated counties can apply for assistance the following ways:\n\nCall the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362. The helpline is open, and help is available from 6:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. CT.\n\nGo online to DisasterAssistance.gov\n\nDownload the free FEMA mobile app for smartphones\n\nFor an accessible video on how to apply for assistance go to, youtube.com/watch?v= WZGpWI2RCNw\n\nWhen applying, homeowners and renters will need:\n\nA current phone number where you can be contacted\n\nYour address at the time of the disaster and the address where you are now staying\n\nYour Social Security Number\n\nA general list of damage and losses\n\nBanking information if you choose direct deposit\n\nIf insured, the policy number or the agent and/or the company name\n\nIf you are unable to locate important documents, FEMA will help you to identify other ways to verify your information.\n\nDisaster assistance is not a substitute for insurance and cannot compensate for all losses caused by a disaster. The assistance is intended to meet basic needs and supplement disaster recovery efforts.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T23:30:02Z"], ["https://sewell.house.gov/2023/3/rep-sewell-opening-statement-during-first-hearing-as-ranking-member-of-the-subcommittee-on-elections", "Rep. Sewell Opening Statement During First Hearing as Ranking Member of the Subcommittee on Elections", "2023-03-10", "2023", "2023-03", "Democrat", "House", "AL", "Terri A. Sewell", "S001185", "sewell.house.gov", "sewell", "https://sewell.house.gov/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2013 Today, U.S. Rep. Terri Sewell (AL-07), Ranking Member of the Committee on House Administration Subcommittee on Elections, delivered her opening statement during the Subcommittee's first hearing of the 118th Congress, entitled Successes in the 2022 Midterm Elections. As Ranking Member, Sewell serves as the highest-ranking Democrat on the Subcommittee, which has jurisdiction over the administration of federal elections.\n\nClick here to watch the full hearing. Click here to watch Rep. Sewell\u2019s opening statement.\n\nOpening Statement (As Prepared): Good morning. As the new Ranking Member of the Subcommittee on Elections, I would like to thank Chairwoman Lee for welcoming us all this morning, and I look forward to working with her and all my fellow colleagues on the Subcommittee.\n\nProviding oversight over federal election administration and ensuring every American has free and equitable access to the ballot is vital to our democracy.\n\nI represent Alabama\u2019s Seventh Congressional District, a district with a long, storied history in this country\u2019s struggle for free and fair access to the ballot. I am excited to join this Committee and continue this critical work.\n\nLast weekend we marked the 58th anniversary of Bloody Sunday in my hometown of Selma with President Biden, a bipartisan delegation of Members of Congress, civil rights leaders, and many of the surviving Foot Soldiers of the March from Selma to Montgomery. This annual pilgrimage serves as a reminder that the violent struggle for voting rights and equal access to the ballot is not one of the distant past. As we sit here today discussing the 2022 midterm elections, we must not lose sight of the fact that the struggle for equal voting rights that occurred on the Edmund Pettus Bridge 58 years ago, continues today.\n\nThere were successes in the 2022 midterms, to be sure. Millions of Americans cast their ballots, those ballots were counted, and election workers across the country performed admirably despite the threats and harassment they have faced over the last two years.\n\nThe election was secure, as it was in 2020.\n\nThose who continued perpetuating the Big Lie that the last presidential election was stolen, and who traffic in falsehoods about the security of our elections lost many of their races for critical statewide offices.\n\nFurthermore, according to the Brennan Center for Justice, in 2022 at least 12 states enacted laws that expand access to the vote.\n\nOn the opposite side of the spectrum, however, the Brennan Center found that another 12 states enacted restrictive or election interference legislation. We should applaud increases in voter turnout, not respond to them with new restrictions.\n\nAdditionally, while many minority communities overcame barriers to cast their ballot - it does not make those barriers fair, and it certainly does not justify or validate their existence.\n\nIn the years since the Supreme Court\u2019s egregious decision in Shelby County v. Holder, states with a history of voter discrimination are no longer required to preclear their voting laws to ensure they are not discriminatory, allowing a wave of anti-voter laws to be adopted across the country. Today, the Supreme Court continues to dismantle the Voting Rights Act.\n\nI am proud to be the lead sponsor of the John R. Lewis Voting Rights Advancement Act, a bill that would update and reinstate the full force of the Voting Rights Act, a law that protected voters from discrimination for more than 50 years. Additionally, House Democrats have repeatedly passed pro-democracy legislation that would protect voters\u2019 access to the ballot.\n\nGenerations of Americans fought for the sacred right to vote, overcoming barriers and violence to move us forward in the fight for democracy. The people of Alabama and this country have marched, bled, been jailed, and sometimes died, for the right to vote.\n\nThe work we do as Members of Congress and as members of this Committee should honor their legacy.\n\nI look forward to hearing from our witnesses today and the discussion to follow.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T23:30:02Z"], ["https://sewell.house.gov/2023/2/rep-sewell-announces-18-4-million-to-expand-broadband-at-alabama-hbcus-and-minority-serving-institutions", "Rep. Sewell Announces $18.4 Million to Expand Broadband at Alabama HBCUs and Minority Serving Institutions", "2023-02-28", "2023", "2023-02", "Democrat", "House", "AL", "Terri A. Sewell", "S001185", "sewell.house.gov", "sewell", "https://sewell.house.gov/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2013 Today, U.S. Rep. Terri Sewell (AL-07) announced $18.4 million in funding from the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) to expand access to reliable high-speed internet at HBCUs and Minority Serving Institutions (MSI) in Alabama. The funding, which comes from the Connecting Minority Communities pilot program, is part of the Biden-Harris Administration\u2019s \u201cInternet for All Initiative\u201d that will connect everyone in America with affordable, reliable high-speed Internet service. Among the institutions receiving funding are Trenholm State Community College, Stillman College, Alabama State University, Talladega College, Tuskegee University, University of West Alabama, and Drake State Community and Technical College.\n\n\u201cThe COVID-19 pandemic put a spotlight on the dire need to expand access to reliable high-speed internet in Alabama,\u201d said Rep. Sewell. \u201cThat\u2019s why in 2020, I led a letter to Congressional Leadership urging additional funding to expand broadband in the COVID-19 emergency funding package. I\u2019m proud that as a result of this advocacy, six Alabama HBCUs and minority serving institutions will be receiving over $18 million to increase access to high-speed internet for their students and faculty. This will make a big difference for each of these cherished campuses and I applaud the Biden-Harris Administration for this critical investment.\u201d\n\nIn May 2020, Rep. Sewell led her colleagues in a letter to House and Senate leadership successfully urging the inclusion of increased funding for broadband expansion in the 2021 Consolidated Appropriations Act in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. Thanks to her advocacy, the bill directed $268 million for expanding high-speed Internet access and connectivity to eligible HBCUs, Tribal Colleges or Universities (TCUs), and other MSIs which made this funding announcement possible.\n\nThe following institutions will receive funding:\n\nH. Councill Trenholm State Community College - $2,066,454.00\n\nH. Trenholm State Community College (Trenholm)'s \u201cConnecting Montgomery:? Bridging the Digital Divide - Closing the Opportunity Gap\u201d project aims to strengthen Trenholm\u2019s ability to serve its students and improve digital equity for thousands of others in its anchor community.\n\nStillman College - $2,774,257.37\n\nStillman College\u2019s \u201cFiber for the Future\u201d project aims to expand educational instruction and remote learning opportunities at the institution. The three project activities are: (1) install a fiber optic broadband network on campus, which will include building out a new fiber and switch upgrade for the college; (2) install a new wireless infrastructure for the campus and local community; and (3) purchase eligible equipment and devices for student use in remote learning situations for dual enrollment students at area high schools.\n\nAlabama State University - $2,999,695.37\n\nThe Alabama State University (ASU) \u201cBroadening Access through Community, Connectivity, and Education\u201d (BRACCE) project aims to expand broadband internet access designed to (a) expand online courses and programs, (b) improve the campus digital experience, and (c) develop collaborative community endeavors through broadband access. Project activities will meet the goals in two parts. First, ASU will establish a hybrid cloud infrastructure and maintain a cybersecurity program that provides comprehensive strategic planning, governance, and advisory consulting support. Second, ASU will provide extended wireless network coverage to campus locations that have limited, unreliable, or no wireless access; provide the surrounding anchor community with an innovative digital technology center to provide residents with access to both digital technologies and digital navigation services; and develop a campus-based mobile application that creates a central point of access for students, faculty, staff, and alumni to interact with the University\u2019s systems and activities.\n\nTalladega College - $2,969,121.59\n\nThe Talladega College \"Realizing Future Proof Technology to Create Connections between Talladega College\u2019s Students, Faculty and Surrounding Community in Rural Alabama\" project aims to create a broadband network that will provide internet services across the college's campus and extend that into the city of Talladega and portions of Talladega County. This objective will be completed through the following three principal grant activities: (1) conduct a comprehensive technology assessment; (2) design, deploy and install the broadband network; and (3) grow and expand Talladega\u2019s College base of IT, AV, database personnel. Once completed, the broadband network design and deployment is intended to provide a robust, economically viable solution that can deliver much-needed internet access to Talladega College and areas in the community where internet access is limited or unreliable. This project will also provide Talladega Collage with leading edge educational technology and delivery systems to help families in the community that have not been able to participate in virtual learning and provide future services to help foster commercial and industrial development.\n\nTuskegee University - $3,569,618.00\n\nTuskegee University\u2019s \u201cConnecTUvity: Anchoring the Future of Tuskegee with Broadband Technology\u201d project aims to upgrade the campus fiber backbone and upgrade audio-visual equipment and severely outdated equipment in learning spaces to ensure that it is technologically current to support the needs of the campus and students. The project activities will upgrade the Tuskegee University fiber optic network and classroom cabling; enhance the cybersecurity posture at the university by expanding policies, user awareness, and training curriculum offered to faculty, staff, and students; equip STEM and nursing disciplines with technological equipment; and increase the number of Hyflex learning spaces to support hybrid instruction.\n\nUniversity of West Alabama - $1,649,440.00\n\nUniversity of West Alabama (UWA)'s Connects Minority Communities Project aims to enhance broadband access, capacity, and adoption, and increase digital skills in Sumter and Greene Counties through a collaborative partnership of key stakeholders. With enhancements in these areas, the UWA CMC Project will spark new investment, create and cultivate jobs, support existing industry, and promote positive economic development in a rural region.\n\nThe UWA Connects Minority Communities Project will build the broadband IT capacity of UWA and upgrade and expand network capabilities of UWA satellite facilities at the Development Center and the West Alabama Center for Conservation and Agriculture. The project will provide broadband education, awareness, training, access, equipment, and support to students and patrons at UWA and tax-exempt 501(c)(3) organizations in the community. It will improve use of broadband services by eligible MBEs and community-based organizations to deliver digital skills, digital inclusion, workforce development programs, and technology services in anchor communities. Finally, the project will provide digital/connected devices such as laptops, hotspots, tablets, video conferencing rooms to UWA facilities and tax-exempt organizations or eligible institutions in anchor communities for digital skills trainings, facilitation of remote/virtual education, telehealth, etc.\n\nDrake State Community and Technical College - $2,413,182\n\nThe Drake State Community and Technical College's Connecting Minority Communities project aims to eliminate historical inequities related to broadband and computer access within the anchor communities in and around Madison County, Alabama. The proposed program will provide access to laptops with broadband access, home broadband access for anchor community members, streamline access to Drake State\u2019s student support resources and online courses, and democratize access to postsecondary education and careers in computer science information systems, cyber security, and cyber defense. With this grant funding, Drake will have the necessary resources to support students\u2019 potential and ambition to earn an Associate\u2019s degree, and for those who desire it, the opportunity to earn an online bachelor\u2019s degree in information technology management or micro-credentials in industry-recognized computer science information certificates.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T23:18:08Z"], ["https://sewell.house.gov/2023/2/rep-sewell-announces-800-000-grant-to-birmingham-from-the-department-of-transportation-s-reconnecting-communities-program", "Rep. Sewell Announces $800,000 Grant to Birmingham from the Department of Transportation\u2019s Reconnecting Communities Program", "2023-02-28", "2023", "2023-02", "Democrat", "House", "AL", "Terri A. Sewell", "S001185", "sewell.house.gov", "sewell", "https://sewell.house.gov/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2014 Today, U.S. Rep. Terri Sewell (AL-07) announced $800,000 for the City of Birmingham from the Department of Transportation\u2019s Reconnecting Communities Pilot Program, a first-of-its-kind initiative created by President Biden\u2019s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law to reconnect communities that are cut off from opportunity and burdened by past transportation infrastructure decisions. The funding will be used to advance data-driven transportation recommendations to mitigate the negative impacts of existing rail and highway infrastructure on the connectivity of many of Birmingham\u2019s historic neighborhoods, and historically Black communities especially. In June 2022, Rep. Sewell welcomed Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg to Birmingham to announce the launch of the Reconnecting Communities Program.\n\n\u201cLast year, I was so excited to welcome Secretary Buttigieg to Birmingham to announce the new Reconnecting Communities pilot program established by President Biden\u2019s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law,\u201d said Rep. Sewell. \u201cToday, I\u2019m even more excited that Birmingham will receive $800,000 under this program. This funding will help make much-needed improvements to the city to increase safety and accessibility and reconnect communities that have been divided by highways and railroads.\u201d\n\n\u201cAs the only member of Alabama\u2019s Congressional Delegation to vote in favor of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, I am overjoyed to see investments like these coming to our state,\u201d continued Sewell. \u201cI applaud Secretary Buttigieg and the entire Biden-Harris Administration for utilizing transportation as another tool to help us build a more equitable future.\u201d\n\n\u201cWe were proud to welcome U.S. Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg and Congresswoman Terri Sewell to Birmingham in June 2022 to announce this transformative federal program, which seeks to stitch neighborhoods back together that have been cut off from one another by highway and rail infrastructure,\u201d said Mayor Randall L. Woodfin. \u201cWe are grateful to the U.S. Department of Transportation for investing in Birmingham\u2019s efforts to enhance transit, pedestrian, and cycling infrastructure for our residents and increase access to goods, services, and jobs.\u201d\n\nBackground on The Reconnecting Communities Program\n\nThe Reconnecting Communities Program provides technical assistance and funding for communities\u2019 planning and construction projects that aim to connect neighborhoods back together by removing, retrofitting, or mitigating transportation barriers such as highways and railroad tracks.\n\nThis first round of grants will fund construction and planning for transformative community-led solutions, including capping interstates with parks, filling in sunken highways to reclaim the land for housing, converting inhospitable transportation facilities to tree-lined Complete Streets, and creating new crossings through public transportation, bridges, tunnels, and trails. These projects will help revitalize communities, provide access to jobs and opportunities, and reduce pollution.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T23:18:08Z"], ["https://sewell.house.gov/2023/2/rep-sewell-to-welcome-president-joe-biden-to-selma-to-commemorate-58th-anniversary-of-bloody-sunday", "Rep. Sewell to Welcome President Joe Biden to Selma to Commemorate 58th Anniversary of Bloody Sunday", "2023-02-28", "2023", "2023-02", "Democrat", "House", "AL", "Terri A. Sewell", "S001185", "sewell.house.gov", "sewell", "https://sewell.house.gov/press-releases", "scraper", "Selma, AL \u2013 On Sunday, March 5, 2023, U.S. Rep. Terri Sewell (AL-07) will welcome President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. to Selma, Alabama, to commemorate the 58th anniversary of Bloody Sunday. Rep. Sewell invited President Biden to visit Selma during his 2023 State of the Union Address. The visit comes after President Biden granted Rep. Sewell\u2019s request to increase the federal cost share for FEMA\u2019s public assistance program\u2014including funding for debris removal and emergency protective measures\u2014from 75% to 100% following the January 12th storms.\n\n\u201cI am thrilled that President Biden has accepted my invitation to visit Selma for the 58th anniversary of Bloody Sunday,\u201d celebrated Rep. Sewell. \u201cAs Selma continues to recover from the January 12th storms, President Biden\u2019s presence will send a clear message that our community is not alone and shows that the federal government will continue to be a partner in rebuilding Selma and Dallas County. I look forward to welcoming the President to my hometown as we reflect on the sacrifices of the Foot Soldiers in the name of equality and justice for all.\u201d\n\nAdditional details are forthcoming.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T23:18:08Z"], ["https://sewell.house.gov/2023/2/rep-sewell-announces-500-000-in-funding-to-support-student-initiatives-at-birmingham-southern-college", "Rep. Sewell Announces $500,000 in Funding to Support Student Initiatives at Birmingham-Southern College", "2023-02-22", "2023", "2023-02", "Democrat", "House", "AL", "Terri A. Sewell", "S001185", "sewell.house.gov", "sewell", "https://sewell.house.gov/press-releases", "scraper", "Sewell fought to secure this funding in the Fiscal Year 2023 government funding package\n\nBirmingham, AL \u2013 Today, U.S. Rep. Terri Sewell (AL-07) joined Birmingham-Southern College (BSC) President Daniel B. Coleman and members of the student body to announce $500,000 in federal funding for the Birmingham-Southern College experiential learning and civic engagement student initiative. This funding, which Rep. Sewell fought to secure in the Fiscal Year 2023 government funding package, will be used to strengthen the institution's ability to facilitate placement in high-impact internships and jobs through multiple offerings of the Krulak Institute for Leadership, Experiential Learning and Civic Engagement on campus.\n\n\u201cI was so proud to present a check for half a million dollars in federal funding to Birmingham-Southern College for experiential learning and student support,\u201d said Rep. Sewell. \u201cMy team and I fought hard to ensure that funding for this project was included in this year\u2019s government funding package so that students can benefit from high-impact internships and jobs during their time at BSC and beyond. Birmingham-Southern is a pillar of our community, and I urge our partners at the state and local level to do what they can to support this cherished institution and its students during this critical time.\u201d\n\nAt a press conference Wednesday afternoon, Sewell presented a check for $500,000 to BSC President Daniel Coleman and members of the student body. This funding is part of the $42.8 million that Rep. Sewell secured in the Fiscal Year 2023 government funding package for local projects in Alabama\u2019s 7th Congressional District. Such projects respond directly to some of the most pressing needs in Alabama\u2019s 7th Congressional District and will help reverse decades of disinvestment.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T23:18:08Z"], ["https://sewell.house.gov/2023/2/rep-sewell-tours-storm-damage-hosts-disaster-relief-roundtables-in-hale-and-greene-counties", "Rep. Sewell Tours Storm Damage, Hosts Disaster Relief Roundtables in Hale and Greene Counties", "2023-02-21", "2023", "2023-02", "Democrat", "House", "AL", "Terri A. Sewell", "S001185", "sewell.house.gov", "sewell", "https://sewell.house.gov/press-releases", "scraper", "Eutaw, AL \u2013 Today, U.S. Rep. Terri Sewell (AL-07) visited Hale and Greene Counties where she toured the damage resulting from the January 12th storms and hosted two disaster relief roundtables with FEMA, the Alabama Emergency Management Agency (EMA), and local Hale, Greene, and Sumter County officials.\n\n\u201cAs your representative, I have made it my mission to ensure that our communities get the resources they need to rebuild better and stronger than before,\u201d said Rep. Sewell. \u201cTo that end, strengthening our lines of communication and forging partnerships between every level of government are paramount. That\u2019s why I spent the day surveying the damage and hosting disaster relief roundtables here in Hale and Greene Counties.\u201d\n\n\u201cThanks to our tireless advocacy, additional federal assistance has been granted and is on its way to those who need it,\u201d continued Sewell. \u201cTo those affected, know that you are not alone. So long as there is a need, our federal, state, and local officials will continue to band together to offer relief.\u201d\n\nTuesday morning, Rep. Sewell brought together representatives from FEMA, Alabama EMA Director Jeff Smitherman, and local officials for a Hale County Disaster Relief Roundtable at Akron City Hall to discuss the latest in the recovery process. She then traveled to Greene County where she was joined by State Representative Curtis Travis and Eutaw Mayor Latasha Johnson for a driving tour of the storm damage. Following the tour, Rep. Sewell hosted a Disaster Relief Roundtable at Eutaw City Hall which brought together local officials from Greene and Sumter Counties including Sumter County Commission Chairman Marcus Campbell and Sumter County EMA Director Margaret Gulley. Sewell and officials then held a press conference with representatives from both Greene and Sumter County EMAs and local stakeholders.\n\nToday\u2019s updates by the Congresswoman represent the latest in an ongoing federal, state, and local partnership to recover and rebuild in Alabama\u2019s 7th Congressional District following the January 12th storms. On January 26, Rep. Sewell led the Alabama Congressional Delegation in a letter urging President Biden to increase the federal cost share for the FEMA Public Assistance program for debris removal and emergency protective measures to 100%. This request was granted by President Biden on Thursday, February 9.\n\nFEMA\u2019s Public Assistance Program provides supplemental grants to state, tribal, territorial, and local governments, and certain types of private non-profits so communities can quickly respond to and recover from major disasters or emergencies. After an event like a hurricane, tornado, earthquake or wildfire, communities need help to cover their costs for debris removal, life-saving emergency protective measures, and restoring public infrastructure. More information on the FEMA Public Assistance program can be found here.\n\nThe Federal Cost Share relates only to public assistance provided to governmental entities and nonprofits and does not include individual assistance. Uninsured individuals in the designated areas can apply for individual assistance by calling 800-621-FEMA (3362), downloading the FEMA App, or visiting www.DisasterAssistance.gov. The deadline to apply for individual assistance is March 16, 2023.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T23:18:08Z"], ["https://sewell.house.gov/2023/2/rep-sewell-announces-52-million-in-epa-funding-from-the-bipartisan-infrastructure-law-to-expand-access-to-clean-and-safe-drinking-water", "Rep. Sewell Announces $52+ Million in EPA Funding from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law to Expand Access to Clean and Safe Drinking Water", "2023-02-16", "2023", "2023-02", "Democrat", "House", "AL", "Terri A. Sewell", "S001185", "sewell.house.gov", "sewell", "https://sewell.house.gov/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2013 Today, U.S. Rep. Terri Sewell (AL-07) announced that the State of Alabama will receive $52,638,000 from the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to address emerging contaminants like Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS) in Drinking Water across Alabama. This funding was made possible by the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, is part of the EPA\u2019s Emerging Contaminants in Small or Disadvantaged Communities (EC-SDC) Grant Program and will promote access to safe and clean water in small, rural, and disadvantaged communities while supporting local economies.\n\n\u201cI am thrilled that the Environmental Protection Agency is providing over $52 million to Alabama communities to expand access to clean water in our rural and underserved communities,\u201d said Rep. Sewell. \u201cI am proud to be the only member of the Alabama Congressional Delegation to vote in favor of President Biden\u2019s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law because grant programs like this will make a world of difference in the lives of Alabamians. Every American deserves access to safe and clean water, and this investment is a transformative step forward.\u201d\n\nThe Bipartisan Infrastructure Law invests $5 billion over five years to help communities that are on the frontlines of PFAS contamination reduce PFAS in drinking water. EPA announced the funds for Alabama as part of an allotment of $2 billion to states and territories that can be used to prioritize infrastructure and source water treatment for pollutants, like PFAS and other emerging contaminants, and to conduct water quality testing.\n\n\u201cEPA\u2019s Emerging Contaminants Grant Program is a solid community investment for the Southeast region,\u201d said EPA Region 4 Administrator Daniel Blackman. \u201cThe expansion of safe and clean water access to small, rural, and disadvantaged communities is crucial to the protection of human health and the environment.\u201d\n\nEPA is also releasing the Emerging Contaminants in Small or Disadvantaged Communities Grant Implementation document. The implementation document provides states and communities with the information necessary to use this funding to address local water quality and public health challenges. These grants will enable communities to improve local water infrastructure and reduce emerging contaminants in drinking water by implementing solutions such as installing necessary treatment solutions.\n\nToday\u2019s actions represent a significant milestone within the Biden-Harris Administration\u2019s commitments to combat PFAS pollution and safeguard drinking water, and specifically EPA\u2019s October 2021 PFAS Strategic Roadmap. Under the Roadmap, EPA is working across the agency to protect the public from the health impacts of PFAS. EPA has taken a number of actions to deliver progress on PFAS including:\n\nProposing to designate two PFAS as CERCLA hazardous substances. If finalized, this will be a critical step toward increasing transparency around releases of PFAS and holding polluters accountable for cleaning up their contamination.\n\nReleasing drinking water health advisories. Acting in accordance with EPA\u2019s mission to protect public health and keep communities and public health authorities informed when new science becomes available, the Agency issued drinking water health advisories for four PFAS.\n\nLaying the foundation to enhance data on PFAS. This included an order under EPA\u2019s National PFAS Testing Strategyrequiring companies to conduct PFAS testing, and nationwide sampling through the Unregulated Contaminant Monitoring Rule for 29 PFAS in public drinking water systems.\n\nExpanding the scientific understanding of PFAS. The Agency issued more than 30 scientific publications by EPA researchers and released EPA\u2019s PFAS Thermal Treatment Database.\n\nTranslating the latest science into EPA\u2019s cross-agency PFAS efforts. This included updating EPA\u2019s contaminated site cleanup tables, developing new PFAS methods and conducting toxicity assessments, and issuing draft national recommended water quality criteria to protect aquatic life.\n\nContinuing engagement with the public. EPA\u2019s PFAS work was informed by public webinars, stakeholder meetings, Congressional testimony, and engagement with EPA\u2019s federal advisory committees.\n\nIn addition to this new grant, EPA is also working to propose a PFAS NPDWR in the coming weeks. The draft proposed rule is currently undergoing interagency review and EPA will issue the proposed rule for public comment when it clears the Office of Management and Budget (OMB). The agency anticipates finalizing the rule by the end of 2023. Together, with today\u2019s announcement, these actions highlight EPA\u2019s commitments outlined in the PFAS Strategic Roadmap to protect public health and the environment from the impacts of PFAS. They also illustrate the benefits of investing in water\u2014protecting public health and the environment, addressing key challenges facing communities, and creating jobs.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T23:18:08Z"], ["https://sewell.house.gov/2023/2/rep-sewell-hosts-dallas-county-disaster-relief-update-and-press-conference-with-local-officials", "Rep. Sewell Hosts Dallas County Disaster Relief Update and Press Conference with Local Officials", "2023-02-14", "2023", "2023-02", "Democrat", "House", "AL", "Terri A. Sewell", "S001185", "sewell.house.gov", "sewell", "https://sewell.house.gov/press-releases", "scraper", "Selma, AL \u2013 Today, U.S. Rep. Terri Sewell (AL-07) hosted the Selma City Council, Selma Mayor, Dallas County Commission, members of the Alabama State Legislature, and other local elected officials at the Selma City Courthouse to provide an update on disaster relief and recovery efforts. Following the update, Rep. Sewell hosted a press conference at 10:30 a.m.\n\n\u201cToday, I am grateful to return to Selma and update our local officials on the critical progress we\u2019ve made in our efforts to recover and rebuild following the storms on January 12th,\u201d said Rep. Sewell. \u201cAs we work to develop a long-term recovery plan, I remain dedicated to ensuring that no aspect of our community is left out of this process. It is going to take all of us\u2014local, state, federal, and community partners\u2014working together to reimagine our beloved cities and towns across Alabama\u2019s 7th Congressional District. The road to recovery is a marathon and not a sprint, but only through our collective efforts will we build back better and stronger than before.\u201d\n\nToday\u2019s update by the Congresswoman is the latest in an ongoing federal, state, and local partnership to recover and rebuild in Alabama\u2019s 7th Congressional District following the January 12th storms. On January 26, Rep. Sewell led the Alabama Congressional Delegation in a letter urging President Biden to increase the federal cost share for the FEMA Public Assistance program for debris removal and emergency protective measures to 100%. This request was granted by President Biden on Thursday, February 9.\n\nFEMA\u2019s Public Assistance Program provides supplemental grants to state, tribal, territorial, and local governments, and certain types of private non-profits so communities can quickly respond to and recover from major disasters or emergencies. After an event like a hurricane, tornado, earthquake or wildfire, communities need help to cover their costs for debris removal, life-saving emergency protective measures, and restoring public infrastructure. More information on the FEMA Public Assistance program can be found here.\n\nThe Federal Cost Share relates only to public assistance provided to governmental entities and nonprofits and does not include individual assistance. Uninsured individuals in the designated areas can apply for individual assistance by calling 800-621-FEMA (3362), downloading the FEMA App, or visiting www.DisasterAssistance.gov. The deadline to apply for individual assistance is March 16, 2023.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T23:18:08Z"], ["https://sewell.house.gov/2023/2/rep-sewell-announces-100-federal-cost-share-increase-for-fema-public-assistance-from-president-biden-following-january-12th-storms", "Rep. Sewell Announces 100% Federal Cost Share for FEMA Public Assistance from President Biden following January 12th Storms", "2023-02-09", "2023", "2023-02", "Democrat", "House", "AL", "Terri A. Sewell", "S001185", "sewell.house.gov", "sewell", "https://sewell.house.gov/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2013 Today, U.S. Rep. Terri Sewell (AL-07) announced that President Joseph R. Biden has authorized an increase of 100% Federal cost share for the FEMA Public Assistance (PA) program for debris removal and emergency protective measures by the counties and cities (governmental entities) included in the Disaster Declaration in response to the severe storms and tornadoes that impacted the State of Alabama on January 12, 2023. Today\u2019s FEMA Major Disaster Declaration Amendment can be found here.\n\n\u201cI am beyond thankful to President Biden for this GREAT NEWS! From the beginning, President Biden has worked swiftly to respond to our calls by expediting the major disaster declaration for the State of Alabama,\u201d said Rep. Sewell. \u201cNow, with this critical increase in FEMA Public Assistance, I am confident that we will build back stronger than before. I thank Governor Ivey and my colleagues in the Alabama Congressional Delegation for their support throughout this process. These critical resources will not only allow us to expedite the cleanup of all the properties destroyed by the storm, but our communities will also have the opportunity to build back stronger and to create a better future for the people of Alabama.\u201d\n\n\u201cI want to thank President Joseph R. Biden, Jr., Congresswoman Terri Sewell, Coach Tommy Tuberville, Senator Katie Britt and Governor Kay Ivey for working together with the City of Selma, Dallas County and the entire tornado destruction area to provide the 100% reimbursement declaration,\u201d said Selma Mayor James Perkins Jr. \u201cThis is truly a blessing for Selma. Thank you and I thank God for \u2018favor\u2019.\u201d\n\nFEMA\u2019s Public Assistance Program provides supplemental grants to state, tribal, territorial, and local governments, and certain types of private non-profits so communities can quickly respond to and recover from major disasters or emergencies. After an event like a hurricane, tornado, earthquake or wildfire, communities need help to cover their costs for debris removal, life-saving emergency protective measures, and restoring public infrastructure. More information on the FEMA Public Assistance program can be found here.\n\nThe Federal Cost Share relates only to public assistance provided to governmental entities and does not include individual assistance. Uninsured individuals in the designated areas who have been impacted by the January 12th storms still must apply for individual assistance at www.DisasterAssistance.gov, by calling 800-621-FEMA (3362), or by using the FEMA App. Anyone using a relay service, such as video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, can give FEMA the number forthat service.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T23:18:08Z"], ["https://sewell.house.gov/2023/2/rep-sewell-announces-750-000-grant-from-the-national-park-service-to-the-historic-tabernacle-baptist-church-in-selma", "Rep. Sewell Announces $750,000 Grant from the National Park Service to the Historic Tabernacle Baptist Church in Selma", "2023-02-09", "2023", "2023-02", "Democrat", "House", "AL", "Terri A. Sewell", "S001185", "sewell.house.gov", "sewell", "https://sewell.house.gov/press-releases", "scraper", "Selma, AL \u2013 Today, U.S. Rep. Terri Sewell (AL-07) announced $750,000 in funding through the National Park Service (NPS) for the Historic Tabernacle Baptist Church in Selma, Alabama as a part of a $4.48 million investment to preserve sites that have a history of direct involvement in the fight for equal rights. Funds were awarded through NPS\u2019s Historic Preservation Fund\u2019s History of Equal Rights Grant Program. Each year, Rep. Sewell plays a vital role in securing funding for NPS for historic preservation\n\n\u201cEach year, Congress makes decisions about which federal programs to fund, and as the Representative of America\u2019s Civil Rights District, investing in historic preservation projects to ensure they receive the critical funding they need and deserve remains one of my top priorities,\u201d said Rep. Sewell. \u201cI am thrilled that the historic Tabernacle Baptist Church in Selma is receiving this funding to provide necessary updates to the infrastructure. As the site of the first mass meeting of the 1960s Voting Rights Movement, this church remains a living testimony of those giants who fearlessly fought for freedom, equality, and justice for all. By preserving these sites, we are reminded of America\u2019s sordid and storied history and remain inspired by the possibilities of our future.\u201d\n\nBackground on the History of Equal Rights Grant Program:\n\nSince its establishment in 1977, the Historic Preservation Fund (HPF) has provided more than $2 billion in historic preservation grants to states, Tribes, local governments, and nonprofit organizations. Congress appropriates funding for the program through the HPF, which uses revenue from federal oil leases on the Outer Continental Shelf to provide assistance for a broad range of preservation projects without expending tax dollars.\n\nAuthorized at $150 million per year, the current legislation authorizing the HPF expires in 2023. Administered by the NPS, HPF funds may be appropriated by Congress to support a variety of historic preservation projects to help preserve the nation\u2019s cultural resources. Congress appropriated funding for the History of Equal Rights grant program in the fiscal year 2022.\n\n\u201cReceiving a History of Equal Rights Grant advances the preservation of the Historic Tabernacle Baptist Church Selma's historic site and story. Because of the grant, the Historic Tabernacle Baptist Church,\u201d said Historic Tabernacle Baptist Church Legacy Foundation Inc. Chairwoman, Dr. Verdell Lett Dawson. \u201cLegacy Foundation is ecstatic that we can preserve this influential site and history for current and future generations.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T23:18:08Z"], ["https://sewell.house.gov/2023/2/rep-sewell-announces-special-guests-for-the-2023-state-of-the-union-address", "Rep. Sewell Announces Special Guests for the 2023 State of the Union Address", "2023-02-06", "2023", "2023-02", "Democrat", "House", "AL", "Terri A. Sewell", "S001185", "sewell.house.gov", "sewell", "https://sewell.house.gov/press-releases", "scraper", "Sewell will be joined by the Curry Family of Selma whose home of 50 years was destroyed by the January 12th storms\n\nWashington, D.C. \u2014 Today, U.S. Rep. Terri Sewell (AL-07) announced that her special guests for President Biden\u2019s 2023 State of the Union address will be the Curry Family of Selma, Alabama. Mr. and Mrs. Thomas and Annie Curry lost their home of 50 years as a result of the devastating storms that struck Alabama on January 12th.\n\n\u201cI am honored to have the Curry Family of Selma join me as my special guests for President Biden\u2019s 2023 State of the Union Address,\u201d said Rep. Sewell.\u201cTragically, the devastating January 12th storms completely destroyed the Currys\u2019 home of over 50 years, displacing them from the place where they raised their five beautiful children.\"\n\n\u201cThe people of Alabama\u2019s 7th District are strong, and the Curry Family is no exception,\u201d continued Sewell. \u201cThe Currys\u2019 presence is emblematic of the resilience of Selmians and will put a spotlight on the dire needs of Selma and Dallas County and our request for additional federal assistance.\u201d\n\nMr. Thomas Curry was born in Selma, Alabama in 1936. He has served in the United States Air Force for over 30 years, holding multiple leadership positions including Chief Master Sergeant and Pacific Air Forces Executive Manager for Air Force Chapels. His wife, Mrs. Annie Curry, was born in Summerton, South Carolina in 1930. She spent over two decades as a classroom teacher and counselor including 10 years at Selma High School. Thomas and Annie Curry have been married for over 60 years. They have five children and seven grandchildren.\n\nTragically, the January 12th tornado completely destroyed the Currys\u2019 home of over 50 years, displacing them from the place where they raised their five children. The house has been completely lost, and the Currys are considering their options for rebuilding.\n\nOn January 26, Rep. Sewell led the Alabama Congressional Delegation in a letter to President Biden requesting that he increase federal assistance to the communities impacted by the January 12th storms by raising the federal cost share for FEMA public assistance\u2014including debris removal and emergency protective measures\u2014to 100%.\n\nPresident Biden\u2019s 2023 State of the Union address will take place tomorrow, Tuesday, February 7 at 8:00 p.m. CT.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T23:18:08Z"], ["https://sewell.house.gov/2023/1/rep-sewell-named-to-the-house-armed-services-committee", "Rep. Sewell Named to the House Armed Services Committee", "2023-01-31", "2023", "2023-01", "Democrat", "House", "AL", "Terri A. Sewell", "S001185", "sewell.house.gov", "sewell", "https://sewell.house.gov/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2014 Today, U.S. Rep. Terri Sewell (AL-07) announced that she has been appointed to serve on the House Armed Services Committee in the 118th Congress. This is in addition to her appointments to the House Ways and Means Committee and the House Administration Committee.\n\n\u201cThe State of Alabama has long played a central role in advancing U.S. defense capabilities, and as a member of the House Armed Services Committee, I am excited to do my part to support the brave men and women working to keep our nation safe and secure,\u201d said Rep. Sewell. \u201cWe in Alabama\u2019s 7th Congressional District are proud to be home to Maxwell Air Force Base, the 187th Fighter Wing, the 117th Air Refueling Wing, and countless men and women in uniform that profoundly serve our country. I look forward to leveraging my position on the Armed Services Committee to advocate for their needs in this new Congress.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T23:08:17Z"], ["https://sewell.house.gov/2023/1/rep-sewell-announces-191-million-in-federal-funds-from-the-american-rescue-plan-to-expand-broadband-access-in-alabama", "Rep. Sewell Announces $191+ Million in Federal Funds from the American Rescue Plan to Expand Broadband Access in Alabama", "2023-01-27", "2023", "2023-01", "Democrat", "House", "AL", "Terri A. Sewell", "S001185", "sewell.house.gov", "sewell", "https://sewell.house.gov/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2014 Today, U.S. Rep. Terri Sewell (AL-07) announced that the State of Alabama will receive $191.9 million in funding from President Biden and Congressional Democrats\u2019 American Rescue Plan (ARP) to expand broadband access in Alabama. The award, which comes from the ARP\u2019s Capital Projects Fund, will connect an estimated 55,000 households and businesses across the state to high-speed internet. Together with investments from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, this program is helping to close the digital divide, deploying high-speed internet to those without access and lowering costs for those who cannot afford it.\n\n\u201cThe COVID-19 pandemic made clear what we already knew\u2014access to affordable, high-speed internet is critical to the success of Alabama\u2019s families and businesses,\u201d said Rep. Sewell. \u201cAs the only member of the Alabama Delegation to vote for the historic American Rescue Plan, I\u2019m proud to see that Alabama is finally getting the resources it needs to expand broadband access to our rural and underserved urban communities. In conjunction with robust broadband investments from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, this funding will make a big difference for our state, and I applaud the Biden-Harris Administration for continuing to make broadband access a top priority!\u201d\n\n\u201cThe pandemic upended life as we knew it and exposed the stark inequity in access to affordable and reliable high-speed internet in communities across the country, including rural, Tribal, and other underrepresented communities,\u201d said Deputy Treasury Secretary Wally Adeyemo. \u201cThis funding is a key piece of the Biden-Harris Administration\u2019s historic investments to increase access to high-speed internet for millions of Americans and provide more opportunities to fully participate and compete in the 21st century economy.\u201d\n\nIn accordance with Treasury\u2019s guidance, Alabama\u2019s plan requires service providers to participate in the Federal Communications Commission\u2019s (FCC) new Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP). The Affordable Connectivity Program helps ensure that households can afford the high-speed internet they need for work, school, healthcare, and more by providing a discount of up to $30 per month (or up to $75 per eligible household on Tribal lands). Experts estimate that nearly 40% of U.S. households are eligible for the program.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T23:08:17Z"], ["https://sewell.house.gov/2023/1/rep-sewell-named-to-house-administration-committee-three-ways-and-means-subcommittees-in-the-118th-congress", "Rep. Sewell Named to House Administration Committee, Three Ways and Means Subcommittees in the 118th Congress", "2023-01-27", "2023", "2023-01", "Democrat", "House", "AL", "Terri A. Sewell", "S001185", "sewell.house.gov", "sewell", "https://sewell.house.gov/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2014 Today, House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries announced his committee appointments for the 118th Congress, appointing U.S. Rep. Terri Sewell (AL-07) as a member of the House Administration Committee. Rep. Sewell will continue serving on the powerful House Ways and Means Committee and was appointed to serve on three subcommittees in the new Congress: the Health Subcommittee, Trade Subcommittee, and Worker and Family Support Subcommittee.\n\n\u201cI am honored to be appointed to the House Administration Committee which oversees the operations of the House of Representatives,\u201d said Rep. Sewell. \u201cThis Committee also provides oversight of the administration of federal elections and plays a central role in ensuring every American has access to the ballot box. In keeping with the rich voting rights legacy of Alabama\u2019s 7th Congressional District, I am excited to use my position on this committee to advance our critical work of protecting the sacred right to vote for all Americans.\u201d\n\n\u201cI am thrilled to be continuing my service on the House Ways and Means Committee,\u201d continued Sewell. \u201cI remain committed to using my position on this powerful Committee to make our tax code fairer, expand access to affordable health care, protect Medicare, strengthen Social Security, and advance trade policies that uplift communities in Alabama and across the nation.\u201d\n\nThe House Administration Committee is charged with the oversight of federal elections and the day-to-day operations of the House of Representatives.\n\nRep. Sewell has served on the House Committee on Ways and Means since 2017, bringing her more than 15 years of experience as a securities and public finance attorney. The committee is the oldest of the United States Congress, and is the chief tax-writing committee in the House of Representatives. The Committee has jurisdiction over all taxation, tariffs, and other revenue-raising measures, as well as a number of other programs including Social Security, Medicare, unemployment insurance, enforcement of child support laws, Temporary Assistance for Needy Families, and foster care and adoption programs.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T23:08:17Z"], ["https://sewell.house.gov/2023/1/rep-sewell-leads-alabama-delegation-in-letter-urging-president-biden-to-increase-federal-cost-share-for-fema-public-assistance-to-100-following-january-12th-storms", "Rep. Sewell Leads Alabama Delegation in Letter Urging President Biden to Increase Federal Cost Share for FEMA Public Assistance to 100% Following January 12th Storms", "2023-01-26", "2023", "2023-01", "Democrat", "House", "AL", "Terri A. Sewell", "S001185", "sewell.house.gov", "sewell", "https://sewell.house.gov/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2014 Today, U.S. Rep. Terri Sewell (AL-07) led members of the Alabama Congressional Delegation in a letter urging President Biden to increase the federal cost share for the FEMA Public Assistance (PA) program for debris removal and emergency protective measures to 100% in response to the severe storms and tornadoes that impacted the State of Alabama on January 12, 2023. Pursuant to President Biden\u2019s approval of amajor disaster declaration for the State of Alabama, the federal government now covers at least 75% of eligible costs of FEMA public assistance grants for disaster recovery.\n\n\u201cWhile we are immensely grateful for President Biden\u2019s swift approval of a major disaster declaration, additional federal resources are needed to ensure that our communities can fully recover,\u201d said Rep. Sewell. \u201cSo many of our municipalities were still recovering from the financial devastation of Hurricanes Zeta and Sally and the COVID-19 pandemic when the January 12th storms tore through our state. I am proud to lead all nine members of the Alabama Delegation in requesting that President Biden increase the federal cost share for FEMA public assistance from 75 percent to 100 percent, and I thank my colleagues for their strong support.\u201d\n\n\u201cAs officials and volunteers work around the clock to get Alabamians back on their feet following recent devastating storms, there is still a long road to recovery ahead,\u201d said Senator Tommy Tuberville. \u201cI hope President Biden acts swiftly to provide those impacted by the storms with as much support as possible.\u201d\n\n\u201cIn the aftermath of the severe weather that devastated our communities on January 12, we have seen the very best of our great state \u2013 people have banded together to help their fellow Alabamians recover and rebuild,\u201d said Senator Katie Boyd Britt. \u201cWe are grateful for the incredible first responders, law enforcement officers, and volunteers who continue to devote their time, talent, and resources to these valiant efforts. While we appreciate the swift, collaborative support thus far offered by President Biden and FEMA, the situation on-the-ground makes it clear that additional federal resources are both warranted and needed as the recovery process moves forward. My office will continue to be in close contact with local, state, and federal officials to see how we can best support affected families, small businesses, and communities.\u201d\n\nFEMA\u2019s Public Assistance Program provides supplemental grants to state, tribal, territorial, and local governments, and certain types of private non-profits so communities can quickly respond to and recover from major disasters or emergencies. After an event like a hurricane, tornado, earthquake or wildfire, communities need help to cover their costs for debris removal, life-saving emergency protective measures, and restoring public infrastructure. The federal share of assistance is at least 75 percent of the eligible cost. More information on the FEMA Public Assistance program can be found here.\n\nThursday evening at 6:30 p.m. CT, Rep. Sewell will host a live telephone town hall regarding disaster assistance available following the January 12th storms. Listeners will hear from Rep. Sewell, FEMA Federal Coordinating Officer Kevin Wallace, FEMA Disaster Response and Recovery Chief Jason Nelson, and Alabama EMA Director Jeff Smitherman. Constituents are encouraged to register in advance to receive a call by visiting Rep. Sewell\u2019s official website at sewell.house.gov. Constituents can also join by calling (877) 353-4701 at the time of the event.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T23:08:17Z"], ["https://sewell.house.gov/2023/1/rep-sewell-accepting-applications-for-summer-2023-interns", "Rep. Sewell Accepting Applications for Summer 2023 Interns", "2023-01-18", "2023", "2023-01", "Democrat", "House", "AL", "Terri A. Sewell", "S001185", "sewell.house.gov", "sewell", "https://sewell.house.gov/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2014 Today, U.S. Rep. Terri Sewell (AL-07) announced that her Washington D.C. and district offices are now accepting applications for summer 2023 interns. College students and recent graduates interested in government and public service are invited to apply for a chance to spend the summer learning about Congress and the inner workings of a congressional office. Throughout the summer, interns will work closely with Rep. Sewell\u2019s staff on a variety of important legislative, communications, and administrative tasks. Applicants must be enrolled in a college or university (rising juniors and older) or have recently graduated.\n\n\u201cI\u2019m excited to announce that my office is now accepting applications for summer 2023 internships!\u201d said Rep. Sewell. \u201cMy office\u2019s internship program is a critical part of our mission to cultivate the next generation of leaders and changemakers. I encourage college students and recent graduates interested in serving the great people of Alabama\u2019s 7th Congressional District to apply for a chance to spend the summer with me and my hard-working team and propel your career to new heights!\u201d\n\nThroughout the summer, interns will have the opportunity to research legislation, draft letters, compile media clips, answer constituent calls, and attend legislative hearings, briefings, and seminars. Candidates should be proactive, professional, dependable, and have an interest in federal policy and the legislative process. Candidates should also possess strong written and oral communication skills, the ability to multitask, attention to detail, and a willingness to learn.\n\nThe Office of U.S. Rep. Terri Sewell is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate in the hiring process based on race, color, religion, sex, gender identity, national origin, sexual orientation, marital status, disability, genetic information, age, military service, or other non-merit factors. BIPOC applicants and individuals in underrepresented communities are encouraged to apply.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T23:08:17Z"], ["https://sewell.house.gov/2023/1/rep-sewell-announces-major-disaster-declaration-granted-by-president-biden-for-the-state-of-alabama-triggering-release-of-federal-assistance", "Rep. Sewell Announces Major Disaster Declaration Granted by President Biden for the State of Alabama, Triggering Release of Federal Assistance", "2023-01-15", "2023", "2023-01", "Democrat", "House", "AL", "Terri A. Sewell", "S001185", "sewell.house.gov", "sewell", "https://sewell.house.gov/press-releases", "scraper", "Selma, AL \u2014 Today, U.S. Rep. Terri Sewell (AL-07) announced that President Joe Biden has declared a major disaster in the State of Alabama and ordered Federal aid to supplement State, tribal, and local recovery efforts in the areas affected by severe storms, straight-line winds, and tornadoes on January 12, 2023. The President\u2019s action makes Federal funding available to affected individuals in Dallas and Autauga Counties. The FEMA disaster declaration fact sheet can be viewed here.\n\n\u201cI\u2019m thankful that President Biden has heard our calls and expedited a declaration of major disaster for the State of Alabama following Thursday\u2019s devastating storms,\u201d said Rep. Sewell. \u201cThis declaration will free up critical federal resources to relieve, recover and rebuild. I look forward to continuing to partner with Governor Ivey, Alabama\u2019s congressional delegation, as well as state, local, and community stakeholders to use these resources as an opportunity to build back Selma and all the affected areas better for the people of Alabama.\u201d\n\n\u201cThe outpouring of support for our communities has been truly heartening, and I join in thanking everyone who has offered their support now and into the future,\u201d continued Sewell. \u201cThis will be a marathon, not a sprint, but rest assured we will come back stronger than before.\u201d\n\nFederal assistance can include grants for temporary housing and home repairs, low-cost loans to cover uninsured property losses, and other programs to help individuals and business owners recover from the effects of the disaster. Federal funding also is available to State, tribal, and eligible local governments and certain private nonprofit organizations on a cost-sharing basis for emergency work in the counties of Autauga and Dallas. Lastly, Federal funding is available on a cost-sharing basis for hazard mitigation measures statewide. Deanne Criswell, Administrator, Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), Department of Homeland Security, named Kevin A. Wallace, Sr. as the Federal Coordinating Officer for Federal recovery operations in the affected areas.\n\nDamage assessments are continuing in other areas, and additional areas may be designated for assistance after the assessments are fully completed.\n\nResidents and business owners who sustained losses in the designated areas can begin applying for assistance at www.DisasterAssistance.gov, by calling 800-621-FEMA (3362), or by using the FEMA App. Anyone using a relay service, such as video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, can give FEMA the number for that service.\n\nThe following FEMA fact sheets are linked below:", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T23:08:17Z"], ["https://sewell.house.gov/2023/1/rep-sewell-statement-on-tornado-damage-impacting-selma-and-the-black-belt", "Rep. Sewell Statement on Tornado Damage Impacting Selma and the Black Belt", "2023-01-13", "2023", "2023-01", "Democrat", "House", "AL", "Terri A. Sewell", "S001185", "sewell.house.gov", "sewell", "https://sewell.house.gov/press-releases", "scraper", "Selma, AL \u2014 U.S. Rep. Terri Sewell (AL-07) released the following statement regarding the tornado damage impacting Selma, Alabama, and the Black Belt:\n\n\u201cI am devastated and heartbroken by the tornado damage in my hometown of Selma and throughout the Black Belt. My office has already begun coordinating a federal response. I have spoken with the White House, FEMA, and the Small Business Administration as well as state and local officials including Alabama EMA about securing disaster assistance and expediting all available resources. I will be arriving in Selma tonight to survey the damage myself and assist with recovery efforts.\n\n\u201cI am keeping my constituents and all those affected in my prayers. The people of the Black Belt are strong, and we will get through this together!\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T23:08:17Z"], ["https://sewell.house.gov/2023/1/rep-sewell-surveys-storm-damage-joins-governor-ivey-and-senator-britt-for-tour-and-press-conference", "Rep. Sewell Surveys Storm Damage, Joins Governor Ivey and Senator Britt for Tour and Press Conference", "2023-01-13", "2023", "2023-01", "Democrat", "House", "AL", "Terri A. Sewell", "S001185", "sewell.house.gov", "sewell", "https://sewell.house.gov/press-releases", "scraper", "Selma, AL \u2014 Today, U.S. Rep. Terri Sewell (AL-07) surveyed the storm damage in Selma, Alabama, following Thursday\u2019s devastating tornado. Friday afternoon, Rep. Sewell held a press conference with Governor Kay Ivey and Senator Katie Britt to provide updates on their coordinated response. Rep. Sewell then joined Selma Mayor James Perkins Jr. and the Alabama National Guard in a Black Hawk helicopter for an aerial tour of the wreckage impacting the city.\n\n\u201cI want to thank the many first responders, workers, and volunteers who came together to assist with the recovery effort following Thursday\u2019s devastating storm,\u201dsaid Rep. Sewell. \u201cWhile the destruction impacting Selma and the Black Belt is widespread, our community is nothing if not strong and resilient. I\u2019m confident that with the close coordination of federal, state, and local partners, we will be able to secure the necessary resources to build our community back better and stronger than before.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T23:08:17Z"], ["https://sewell.house.gov/2023/1/reps-sewell-beatty-and-horsford-introduce-the-rosa-parks-day-act-to-designate-dec-1st-as-a-federal-holiday-commemorating-the-arrest-of-rosa-parks", "Reps. Sewell, Beatty, and Horsford Introduce the Rosa Parks Day Act to Designate Dec. 1st as a Federal Holiday Honoring Rosa Parks", "2023-01-12", "2023", "2023-01", "Democrat", "House", "AL", "Terri A. Sewell", "S001185", "sewell.house.gov", "sewell", "https://sewell.house.gov/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2014 Today, U.S. Reps. Terri Sewell (AL-07), Joyce Beatty (OH-03), and Steven Horsford (NV-04) led 30 of their House colleagues in introducing the Rosa Parks Day Act to designate December 1st as a federal holiday commemorating the arrest of Rosa Parks. Rep. Sewell was an original co-sponsor of the Rosa Parks Day Act in the 117th Congress and is now leading the introduction of the bill in the 118th Congress.\n\n\u201cFor my very first bill in the 118th Congress, I\u2019m proud to be introducing the Rosa Parks Day Act!\u201d said Rep. Sewell. \u201cOn December 1, 1955, in Montgomery, Alabama, Rosa Parks sat so that this nation could stand up for the values that our democracy holds so dear. Her quiet, dignified courage helped inspire the Civil Rights Movement and changed this country for the better. As the U.S. Representative for Montgomery, I\u2019m committed to ensuring the memory of Rosa Parks\u2019 brave sacrifice is never forgotten by designating December 1st as a federal holiday in her honor.\u201d\n\n\u201cOn December 1st, 1955, Rosa Parks changed the course of history when she refused to give up her seat on a segregated bus in Montgomery, Alabama \u2013 sparking a revolution that ignited the Civil Rights movement. She epitomized the Power of One,\u201d said Rep. Beatty. \u201cHer life and actions on that historic December day more than 50 years ago have inspired people across the country and around the world to stand up against discrimination and work peacefully to create a more just and fair society.\u201d\n\nBeatty continued, \u201cAs a state legislator, I was proud to lead the push to make the Buckeye State the first state to officially recognize Rosa Parks Day. It's now time for us to come together as a nation to honor this American hero through a new national holiday.\u201d\n\n\u201cRosa Parks is an icon in the story of civil rights and justice for Black Americans,\u201d said Rep. Steven Horsford, Chairman of the Congressional Black Caucus. \u201cHer brave and bold actions helped launch a movement for progress and equality, and her story must continue to be told as part of our nation\u2019s history. I am proud to co-sponsor this legislation to designate December 1st as Rosa Parks Day, to ensure that all Americans recognize the struggles we have endured as a nation to create a more perfect union.\u201d \u2013 Congressman Steven Horsford, Chairman of the Congressional Black Caucus\n\nOn December 1, 1955, in Montgomery, Alabama, Rosa Parks was arrested for refusing to give up her bus seat to a white passenger. Her arrest helped spark the Montgomery Bus Boycott, one of the most consequential events of the Civil Rights Movement. While several states have adopted their own holiday honoring Mrs. Parks, there is currently no federal holiday recognizing her contribution to the Civil Rights Movement and to our nation.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T23:08:17Z"]], "truncated": false, "filtered_table_rows_count": 102, "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 \"party\" = :p0 and \"state\" = :p1 and \"year\" = :p2 order by date desc limit 101", "params": {"p0": "Democrat", "p1": "AL", "p2": "2023"}}, "facet_results": {"party": {"name": "party", "type": "column", "hideable": false, "toggle_url": "/press/releases.json?party=Democrat&state=AL&year=2023", "results": [{"value": "Democrat", "label": "Democrat", "count": 102, "toggle_url": "http://dpwillis-congress-press-search.hf.space/press/releases.json?state=AL&year=2023", "selected": true}], "truncated": false}, "chamber": {"name": "chamber", "type": "column", "hideable": false, "toggle_url": "/press/releases.json?party=Democrat&state=AL&year=2023", "results": [{"value": "House", "label": "House", "count": 102, "toggle_url": "http://dpwillis-congress-press-search.hf.space/press/releases.json?party=Democrat&state=AL&year=2023&chamber=House", "selected": false}], "truncated": false}, "state": {"name": "state", "type": "column", "hideable": false, "toggle_url": "/press/releases.json?party=Democrat&state=AL&year=2023", "results": [{"value": "AL", "label": "AL", "count": 102, "toggle_url": "http://dpwillis-congress-press-search.hf.space/press/releases.json?party=Democrat&year=2023", "selected": true}], "truncated": false}, "year": {"name": "year", "type": "column", "hideable": false, "toggle_url": "/press/releases.json?party=Democrat&state=AL&year=2023", "results": [{"value": "2023", "label": "2023", "count": 102, "toggle_url": "http://dpwillis-congress-press-search.hf.space/press/releases.json?party=Democrat&state=AL", "selected": true}], "truncated": false}}, "suggested_facets": [], "next": "2023-01-12,https~3A~2F~2Fsewell~2Ehouse~2Egov~2F2023~2F1~2Freps-sewell-beatty-and-horsford-introduce-the-rosa-parks-day-act-to-designate-dec-1st-as-a-federal-holiday-commemorating-the-arrest-of-rosa-parks", "next_url": "http://dpwillis-congress-press-search.hf.space/press/releases.json?party=Democrat&state=AL&year=2023&_next=2023-01-12%2Chttps~3A~2F~2Fsewell~2Ehouse~2Egov~2F2023~2F1~2Freps-sewell-beatty-and-horsford-introduce-the-rosa-parks-day-act-to-designate-dec-1st-as-a-federal-holiday-commemorating-the-arrest-of-rosa-parks&_sort_desc=date", "private": false, "allow_execute_sql": true, "query_ms": 157.804389949888, "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"}