{"database": "press", "table": "releases", "is_view": false, "human_description_en": "where party = \"Democrat\", state = \"GA\" and year = 2024 sorted by date descending", "rows": [["https://mcbath.house.gov/press-releases?ID=57D24F5B-B5B5-45B8-9865-72F8AFCF3F99", "McBath Delivers $223 Million for Georgia District, Recounts Success of 118th Congress", "2024-12-30", "2024", "2024-12", "Democrat", "House", "GA", "Lucy McBath", "M001208", "mcbath.house.gov", "mcbath", "https://mcbath.house.gov/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, DC \u2014 Congresswoman Lucy McBath is announcing more than $223 million in federal funds, benefits, and grants secured by her office for Georgia\u2019s families during the 118th Congress. As part of the historic work of the United States Congress and the Biden-Harris Administration in the past two years, McBath helped send more than $67 billion in federal investments to the state of Georgia.\n\n\u201cAs a member of Congress, it\u2019s important that I bring back as many federal resources to Georgia as possible. We were incredibly successful in the 118th Congress, delivering hundreds of millions of dollars to keep our communities safe and prosperous,\u201d said McBath. \u201cI\u2019m also very humbled that our office\u2019s dedicated casework program was recognized for providing the Best Constituent Services and recovered millions in federal benefits for our neighbors. As always, I sought common-ground for Georgia\u2019s families and passed four bills into law. None of this could be possible without the engagement of my constituents, so I extend my gratitude to you all for being a part of our mission and ushering in a future we can all be proud to share with our families.\u201d\n\nIn 2024, McBath\u2019s office was named the Best Congressional Office for Constituent Service, making her the first member from Georgia to receive such an award. McBath\u2019s office provides Georgians with assistance with federal agencies and has yielded positive outcomes that have been shared by neighbors, garnered more than 6 million views on social media, and been documented in the New York Times.\n\nMcBath has earned a reputation as one of the most effective lawmakers in Congress and one of the most important voices in the House Democratic Caucus. Her legislation to support veterans was deemed the \u201cbiggest bill\u201d passed by a first term member.\n\nDuring the 118th Congress and in a Republican-led House, McBath passed four bills into law:\n\nFederal Prison Oversight Act: Improves transparency and safety protocols for staff and incarcerated individuals in the federal prison system.\n\nStop Campus Hazing Act: Prevents hazing on college campuses by requiring institutions to provide prevention programs and transparency to students and families. It was approved by the House and Senate and will soon be transferred to President Biden\u2019s desk for signature into law.\n\nEND Child Exploitation Act: Helps stop online child exploitation by empowering law enforcement to hold perpetrators accountable and bring missing children home.\n\nVictims Voices Act: Ensures those who act on behalf of victims can receive restitution for costs incurred during the case, including transportation, lost income, and child care.\n\nIn the 118th Congress, McBath\u2019s federal casework program returned over $8 million dollars in benefits and her work has secured more than $215 million in community investments for her Metro Atlanta constituents, including:\n\n$25,347,982 Bus and Bus Facilities grant for Metro Atlanta Rapid Transit Authority\n\n$20,000,000 Rebuilding American Infrastructure with Sustainability and Equity (RAISE) grant for the Gwinnett Place Transit Center redevelopment\n\n$7,726,607 in critical infrastructure funding to repair, rehabilitate, or replace aging pipeline infrastructure in Lawrenceville as part of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law McBath voted to approve\n\n$7,500,000 Byrne State Crisis Intervention Program award to fund Extreme Risk Protection Orders for crisis intervention in Georgia, a provision McBath championed that was included in the Bipartisan Safer Communities Act\n\n$6,100,000 Charging and Fueling Infrastructure grant for the Atlanta Regional Commission\n\n$1,750,000 Regional Infrastructure Accelerators Program grant to Metro Atlanta Rapid Transit Authority\n\n$1,600,000 Safe Streets for All grant for the Gwinnett County Department of Transportation\n\n$1,053,400 Strengthening Mobility and Revolutionizing Transportation (SMART) grant to Gwinnett Department of Transportation to fund safety improvements along the Singleton Road corridor\n\n$1,008,333 Healthy Start Initiative: Eliminating Disparities in Perinatal Health grant for the Center for Black Women\u2019s Wellness\n\n$888,000 Railroad Crossing Eliminations Program grant to study feasibility of eliminating three CSX crossings in Gwinnett County, authorized under the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law\n\n$600,000 Legal Assistance for Victims grant to Mosaic Georgia\n\n$500,000 award to Emory University to fund an apprenticeship program in the School of Nursing for which McBath made an FY2023 Community Project Funding/Congressionally-DirectedSpending request\n\n$445,500 General Departmental Sexual Risk Avoidance Education for Obria Gwinnett\n\n$309,600 Safe Streets for All grant to the City of Peachtree Corners to develop a comprehensive safety action plan and to pilot traffic camera/sensors at targeted intersections where there are high volumes of traffic and pedestrians, authorized under the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law\n\n$260,000 Safe Streets for All grant to the City of Lilburn to develop a city-wide comprehensive safety action plan and pilot temporary traffic calming measures, authorized under the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law and for which McBath sent a request\n\n$248,000 Safe Streets for All grant for the City of Norcross\n\n$150,000 Nonprofit Security Grant for a local school\n\n$125,000 COPS Hiring Program grant to the City of Lilburn\n\n$25,000 Teaching with Primary Sources grant for Student Leadership Johns Creek\n\nDuring her time representing Georgia\u2019s Seventh Congressional District, McBath has resolved nearly 3,500 federal casework inquiries. Here\u2019s what constituents had to say about their experience with her office:\n\n\u201cYour office\u2019s intervention was crucial in ensuring my nephew received a fair chance during his visa interview. Specifically, you facilitated communication with the US Embassy in Kathmandu, which made a significant difference in the processing and outcome of his application. Your efforts expedited the process and provided us with clear guidance and support throughout. Without your office\u2019s assistance, it is unlikely that we would have achieved such a positive result in a timely manner. Thanks to your help, my nephew is now in the United States and will be completing his residency in Alabama, which is a dream come true for him and our family. We are immensely grateful for your dedication and support.\u201d - Lok from Duluth\n\n\u201cWhen I first sent an email I was amazed to get a reply within the first 24 hours. Your team constantly monitored my issues with SBA and followed up with updates till the issue got resolved. I was so very impressed with your professionalism and concern for helping in solving my issues with SBA.\u201d - Deepa from Duluth\n\n\u201cMy daughter's passport was missing with USPS although I had a tracking number through priority mail. Tracking number was pointing to an endless loop within USPS. I had opened 3 cases and mail intercept per USPS recommendation. They charged me extra for mail intercept on top of priority charges. Since then still no movement/track of my daughter's passport. I made at least 50 phone calls with no answers. Finally I reached out to my Congresswoman's office. And they resolved the matter in a matter of 3-4 days by contacting USPS. We are so relieved that we can travel now. THANK YOU SO MUCH! It's been such a great experience working with your office and staff. You and your staff\u2019s professionalism is just outstanding. Great to have you as my representative.\u201d - Mohammad from Johns Creek\n\nAs part of the historic work of the United States Congress and the Biden-Harris Administration, McBath has helped send more than $67 billion in federal investments to the state of Georgia, including:\n\n$41.9 billion in private sector manufacturing and clean energy investments.\n\n$13.7 billion in public investments in clean energy, infrastructure, and manufacturing.\n\n$9.2 billion announced for transportation investments in roads, bridges, public transit, ports and airports, as well as electric buses and EV charging.\n\n$2.8 billion in funding to provide affordable, reliable high-speed internet to everyone in Georgia.\n\n$359 million for clean water and water infrastructure.\n\n$219 million in home energy rebates to help hardworking families cut their energy costs by weatherizing their homes and replacing old appliances with more efficient models.\n\n$7.5 million in funding to support Extreme Risk Protection Orders for crisis intervention and to stop gun violence.\n\nMcBath has put the national spotlight on her community, bringing members of President Biden\u2019s cabinet to her district and showcasing the rich diversity of Georgia\u2019s Seventh Congressional District and the growth and progress that is continuing to develop with the support of bold federal investments that have been championed by McBath and the Biden-Harris Administration. Since the start of 2023, McBath has welcomed the following officials from President Biden\u2019s Cabinet to her district and the surrounding metro Atlanta area:\n\nVice President Kamala Harris visited Atlanta to participate in a roundtable conversation on voting rights\n\nDepartment of Health and Human Services Deputy Secretary Andrea Palm visited Gwinnett for a tour and briefing at the Norcross OneStop and Senior Center to discuss lowering healthcare and prescription drug costs for seniors.\n\nDepartment of Housing and Urban Development Secretary Marsha Fudge visited Gwinnett to tour the Good Samaritan Health Center and participate in an affordable housing roundtable with local leaders\n\nDepartment of Education Secretary Miguel Cardona visited Atlanta and participated in a roundtable discussion with Gwinnett and Fulton-based school counselors at the American School Counselor Association annual conference. Secretary Cardona also visited Lawrenceville to announce new investments in student mental health made possible by the Bipartisan Safer Communities Act.\n\nDepartment of Veterans Affairs Secretary Denis McDonough visited Atlanta for a Regional Office renaming ceremony in honor of the late Senator Johnny Isakson\n\nSmall Business Administration Administrator Isabella Guzman visited Norcross and participated in a local chamber briefing and toured small businesses in downtown Norcross\n\nUnited States Trade Representative Ambassador Katherine Tai visited Peachtree Corners to discuss trade and American investments in electric vehicle charging infrastructure\n\nFederal Railroad Administration Administrator Amit Bose visited Duluth to discuss rail concerns in local cities and highlight federal resources for elected officials in the district\n\nSenior White House Advisor Mitch Landrieu visited Peachtree Corners and convened a transportation and infrastructure roundtable with local mayors, government leaders, and regional transportation advocates\n\nAny constituent who is in need of federal casework assistance is encouraged to contact McBath\u2019s district office by calling (470) 773-6330 or by visiting mcbath.house.gov/help.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:07:19Z"], ["https://bishop.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressman-bishop-statement-on-the-life-and-legacy-of-president-jimmy-carter", "CONGRESSMAN BISHOP STATEMENT ON THE LIFE AND LEGACY OF PRESIDENT JIMMY CARTER", "2024-12-29", "2024", "2024-12", "Democrat", "House", "GA", "Sanford D. Bishop, Jr.", "B000490", "bishop.house.gov", "bishop", "https://bishop.house.gov/media-center/press-releases", "scraper", "PLAINS, Ga. \u2013 Congressman Sanford D. Bishop, Jr. (GA-02) issued the following statement regarding the life and legacy of former President, and beloved resident of Southwest Georgia, Jimmy Carter, who passed from labor to reward on December 29:\n\n\u201cToday, the world lost a giant \u2013 a force for peace and democracy, someone who lived a life of service to others, and a compassionate leader who sought to bring people together. Jimmy Carter\u2019s legacy \u2013 from his humble beginnings in Southwest Georgia, through his time as Georgia\u2019s governor and America\u2019s president and through his eventual leadership on the world stage \u2013 will remain uplifting and inspirational.\n\n\u201cI have been blessed to call him friend and mentor for over 50 years and to be his Congressman for 32 of those years. He and his late wife, Rosalynn, were shining lights of faith, love, and devotion to each other and to humankind. Their work to promote health, housing, human rights, democracy, and peace put their Christian values into action.\n\n\u201cMy wife, Vivian, and I \u2013 along with countless others across the globe \u2013 extend our deepest condolences to the Carter family. The immense depth of sadness we feel in his passing reflects the soaring heights of altruism and selflessness he lived and for which his hometown of Plains, Georgia, and the world are all the better.\u201d\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:07:19Z"], ["https://hankjohnson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressman-johnsons-statement-passing-president-jimmy-carter", "Congressman Johnson\u2019s Statement on the Passing of President Jimmy Carter", "2024-12-29", "2024", "2024-12", "Democrat", "House", "GA", "Henry C. \"Hank\" Johnson, Jr.", "J000288", "hankjohnson.house.gov", "hankjohnson", "https://hankjohnson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases", "scraper", "Congressman Hank Johnson (GA-04) released the following statement:\n\n\u201cPresident Carter restored honest competence, integrity, and humility to the Office of the Presidency. He led the nation with vision and courage, although his Southern heritage was used to belittle him in the eyes of many. I know of no man in his post presidency who has had a greater impact on humanity than President Carter. His selfless service to mankind is unparalleled, as was his humbleness and fortitude. Rest In Peace, humble servant!\u201d\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:07:19Z"], ["https://mcbath.house.gov/press-releases?ID=225E966C-FA64-40FF-AFB6-511C2127941B", "McBath Bill to Stop College Campus Hazing Signed Into Law", "2024-12-24", "2024", "2024-12", "Democrat", "House", "GA", "Lucy McBath", "M001208", "mcbath.house.gov", "mcbath", "https://mcbath.house.gov/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2014 Legislation led by Representative Lucy McBath (D-GA) to stop hazing on college campuses was recently signed into law by President Biden. H.R. 5646, the bipartisan Stop Campus Hazing Act combats hazing and dangerous practices towards students on college campuses by ensuring transparency and preventative action.\n\n\u201cI know what it's like to lose a loved one to violence\u2014no parent should ever have to bury their child. The Stop Campus Hazing Act empowers students and their families to make informed decisions about the schools they attend and the organizations they join. That information could be life-saving,\u201d said Representative McBath. \u201cOur bipartisan legislation helps make sure that schools have the tools they need to foster safe learning environments. I thank my colleagues for this bipartisan effort and President Biden for swiftly passing this into law.\u201d\n\nBackground\n\nThe bipartisan Stop Campus Hazing Act:\n\nDefines Hazing and Promotes Transparency: This bill creates a uniform definition of hazing and requires colleges and universities to report hazing incidents annually.\n\nStrengthens Prevention Efforts: Schools are mandated to implement hazing prevention programs aimed at educating students, faculty, and staff.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:07:19Z"], ["https://bishop.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressman-bishop-supports-bipartisan-bill-that-keeps-government-open-provides-disaster-relief-extends-farm-bill-delivers-economic-aid-to-farmers", "CONGRESSMAN BISHOP SUPPORTS BIPARTISAN BILL THAT KEEPS GOVERNMENT OPEN, PROVIDES DISASTER RELIEF, EXTENDS FARM BILL, & DELIVERS ECONOMIC AID TO FARMERS", "2024-12-21", "2024", "2024-12", "Democrat", "House", "GA", "Sanford D. Bishop, Jr.", "B000490", "bishop.house.gov", "bishop", "https://bishop.house.gov/media-center/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON \u2013 Congressman Sanford D. Bishop, Jr., (GA-02) a senior member of the U.S. House Appropriations Committee and member of the House Agriculture Committee, supported the passage of a bipartisan bill that provides continued funding for federal departments, agencies, and programs as well as an extension of Farm Bill programs. The bill also includes urgently needed disaster relief for Americans as well as $10 billion in long overdue economic aid for farmers. This morning President Biden signed the bill into law.\n\n\u201cWhile it is not a perfect bill, I am happy that Democrats and Republicans, in the end, were able to come together in the best interests of the American people,\u201d said Congressman Bishop. \u201cIt is our Constitutional duty as Members of Congress to ensure that the government is open and working for the people. Additionally, this bill provides billions in supplemental economic aid for farmers and extends vital Farm Bill programs that affect every-single American from the materials that help build our country to the clothes we wear to the food we eat. Finally, this bill delivers urgently needed recovery aid, now, to Americans still reeling from natural disasters across the country.\u201d\n\nHad the temporary funding bill not passed, it would have triggered a government shutdown of federal departments, agencies, and programs that would have hindered a wide range of services \u2013 from national security to veterans, from healthcare to housing, and from Social Security and Medicare to nutrition \u2013 on which millions of Americans depend.\n\nPassage of this temporary funding bill also provided $100 billion for disaster assistance to help communities recover from Hurricanes Helene and Milton as well as other storms, floods, and wildfires.\n\nCongressman Bishop, along with Congressman Austin Scott (GA-08), led a bipartisan group of their Congressional colleagues and joined with Georgia State leaders \u2013 the Governor, Ag Commissioner, State Forester, University of Georgia, and state industry partners \u2013 and their counterparts from other affected states, to expedite the federal emergency response to these recent natural disasters.\n\nWorking together, Bishop and Scott invited Congressional leaders to see, first-hand, why disaster relief and the Farm Bill safety net are vital to Georgia\u2019s and America\u2019s farmers and producers.\n\nHurricane Helene affected every commodity that Georgia produces.\n\nOver 36% of Georgia\u2019s forest land was damaged and timber landowners lost $1.3 billion in downed trees.\n\nCotton producers sustained $350 million in crop production and quality losses.\n\nPecan growers lost nearly 400,000 trees, totaling over $196.8 million in tree and nut losses.\n\nChicken growers and cattlemen sustained $650 million in direct losses to facilities like chicken houses, barns, water tanks, and shelters.\n\nAll told, University of Georgia estimates that the hurricane caused at least $2.5 billion in direct damages to agriculture and forestry. If you add in the indirect loses to manufacturers, sawmills, input suppliers, and other industries that support our farmers and ranchers \u2013 the damage is closer to $6 billion.\n\nThe bill includes $674 million in economic and disaster relief for Georgia agriculture as well as $1.6 billion in funding that Thomas County, Richmond County, McDuffie County, Laurens County, and the entire state need to recover after losing lives and property due to Hurricanes Helene and Milton.\n\nCongress has yet to complete a new, five-year authorization of the Farm Bill. Negotiations are ongoing and the current, 2018 Farm Bill was already extended at the end of 2023 to the end of 2024. The temporary funding bill also extended the 2018 Farm Bill provisions for another year while negotiations continue.\n\nHad the Farm Bill extension not passed, it would have jeopardized the economic safety net that Georgia farmers rely on to produce the highest quality, most affordable and abundant, food and fiber.\n\nFor some time now, Congressman Bishop has been fighting to secure supplemental economic assistance for farmers who have experienced extraordinary financial stress due to increases in their input costs and decreases in their income margins over the last several years.\n\nThe $10 billion in economic assistance included in the temporary funding bill will help farmers until a new Farm Bill is finalized.\n\n\u201cThankfully, a bipartisan agreement was reached, putting the needs of people over politics,\u201d said Congressman Bishop. \u201cBut our work is not done, and I look forward negotiating with my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to complete a full-year funding bill before the new March deadline as well as finalize and pass the Farm Bill as quickly as possible.\u201d\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:07:19Z"], ["https://bishop.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/bishop-ferguson-kildee-smith-lead-house-approval-of-the-beagle-brigade-act", "BISHOP, FERGUSON, KILDEE, & SMITH LEAD HOUSE APPROVAL OF THE BEAGLE BRIGADE ACT", "2024-12-19", "2024", "2024-12", "Democrat", "House", "GA", "Sanford D. Bishop, Jr.", "B000490", "bishop.house.gov", "bishop", "https://bishop.house.gov/media-center/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, DC \u2013 Yesterday, U.S. Representatives Sanford D. Bishop, Jr. (D-GA-02), Drew Ferguson (R-GA-03), Dan Kildee (D-MI-08), and Adrian Smith (R-NE-03) led U.S. House approval of S.759, the Beagle Brigade Act. The bill was approved by the U.S. House with an overwhelmingly bipartisan vote of 381-20 and previously passed the U.S. Senate by unanimous consent last month. Having passed both chambers, the bill now heads to the President\u2019s desk to be signed into law.\n\nLast year, Reps. Bishop, Ferguson, Kildee, and Smith introduced the House companion bill, H.R. 1480, which was approved by the U.S. House Agriculture Committee by a unanimous vote.\n\nThe bill will permanently authorize the National Detector Dog Training Center, located in Newnan, Georgia. The Center extensively trains detector dogs and their U.S. Customs and Border Protection handlers to sniff out prohibited agricultural items that could carry foreign plant or animal pests and diseases into our country.\n\nIn leading debate on the bill, Congressman Bishop noted, \u201cThe U.S. agriculture sector is a $1 trillion industry constantly under the threat of foreign pests and diseases\u2026 that could be introduced through our nation\u2019s ports of entry, including airports, harbors, and mail and cargo facilities. Some of these diseases could cost the American economy tens of billions of dollars to contain and eradicate, if they are found to be in the country. Agriculture detector dogs \u2013 known as the \u2018Beagle Brigade\u2019 \u2013 are an important tool in preventing these threats and eradicating them in the event they overcome our safeguards\u2026 An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. The Brigade is well worth its value.\u201d\n\nAs the Republican co-lead of the House-version of the bill, Congressman Ferguson noted during debate that, \u201cthe Beagle Brigade Act would permanently authorize the training center to ensure that America\u2019s food supply stays protected from potentially devastating foreign pests and diseases. The National Detector Dog Training Center in Georgia\u2019s 3rd Congressional District does important work to properly train detector dogs to sniff out prohibited agricultural items in domestic and international trade.\u201d\n\n\u201cI\u2019m pleased to see the House pass our bill, the Beagle Brigade Act, to strengthen the inspection of food imports. Michigan's farmers work hard to feed our families every day, and this bill will help to protect our local food supply,\u201d said Congressman Kildee. \u201cThis legislation will help defend American agriculture from foreign diseases that could harm our livestock and increase food prices.\u201d\n\n\u201cProtecting American consumers and our agriculture industry from foreign threats to food safety before they enter our food supply is a critical task,\u201d said Congressman Smith. \u201cOur hardworking farmers and ranchers are tirelessly vigilant to safeguard their stock from contaminants, and the passage of this bill will augment Customs and Border Protection efforts to effectively identify and stop foreign pests and diseases before they can enter our food supply chain. I thank Reps. Bishop, Ferguson, and Kildee for their collaboration on this bipartisan bill, and I encourage President Biden to sign it into law.\u201d\n\n\u201cEvery day, USDA\u2019s National Detector Dog Training Center in Newnan plays an essential role in keeping our food supply safe from contamination. This legislation permanently authorizes their work and will continue to strengthen our nation\u2019s agriculture industry and the well-being of our communities,\u201d said Senator Reverend Warnock. \u201cAs a member of the Senate Agriculture committee and champion for Georgia\u2019s farmers, I am proud to have worked with my Senate and House colleagues, including Congressman Bishop, to get this bipartisan legislation over the finish line, and I urge President Biden to swiftly sign it into law.\u201d\n\n\u201cIowans know firsthand how important prevention and preparedness efforts are in combatting diseases like avian influenza, foot-and-mouth disease, and African swine fever. The Beagle Brigade is our first line of defense against foreign animal diseases that have the potential to devastate our farmers, producers, and food supply chain,\u201d said Senator Ernst. \u201cThe House and Senate have done our jobs to protect our agricultural community, and the president must sign this bipartisan legislation into law immediately.\u201d\n\nWATCH: The full debate regarding the Beagle Brigade Act during on the U.S. House Floor, led by Congressman Bishop\n\nS.759 was introduced in the U.S. Senate and led by Senators Rev. Raphael Warnock (D-GA) and Joni Ernst (R-IA).\n\nAuthorizing the United States Department of Agriculture\u2019s National Detector Dog Training Center ensures the United States has a crucial tool in its fight against foreign pests and diseases that have the potential to devastate all sectors of the agriculture economy. Over 50 prominent agricultural, veterinary, and trade organizations support the legislation.\n\nThe Center trains dogs\u2014mostly beagles\u2014and their handlers to detect prohibited fruits, vegetables, and meats in international passenger baggage, mailed packages, and vehicles entering the United States. Dogs are selected from animal shelters, rescue groups, and private owners. Those that retire from the program or do not complete training are offered for adoption.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:07:19Z"], ["https://hankjohnson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressman-johnson-celebrates-92k-cops-grant-awarded-stone-mountain-de", "Congressman Johnson Celebrates $92k COPS Grant Awarded to Stone Mountain for De-Escalation and Crisis Response Training", "2024-12-16", "2024", "2024-12", "Democrat", "House", "GA", "Henry C. \"Hank\" Johnson, Jr.", "J000288", "hankjohnson.house.gov", "hankjohnson", "https://hankjohnson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Congressman Hank Johnson (GA-04) announced today that the City of Stone Mountain has been awarded $92,985 from the Department of Justice\u2019s Office of Community Oriented Policing Services (COPS Office) as part of the Fiscal Year 2024 Safer Outcomes: Enhancing De-Escalation and Crisis Response Training for Law Enforcement grant program.\n\nThis funding will support training initiatives designed to equip law enforcement officers, support personnel, and associated mental health professionals with the skills needed to de-escalate crises safely and effectively. Stone Mountain is among the 42 agencies nationwide receiving a portion of the $15.4 million in award dedicated to advancing community safety through innovative training programs.\n\n\u201cInvesting in de-escalation and crisis response training strengthens the trust between law enforcement and the communities they serve,\u201d said Congressman Johnson. \u201cI am proud to see Stone Mountain secure this funding to promote safer outcomes for both officers and residents during high-stakes situations.\u201d\n\nThe Safer Outcomes program underscores the federal government's commitment to community policing by enhancing collaboration between law enforcement agencies and mental health professionals. These grants aim to address urgent safety needs while promoting long-term strategies for reducing confrontations and preventing harm.\n\n\u201cWe are deeply honored to receive this grant, which reflects our commitment to advancing community policing and enhancing the safety and trust of our community,\u201d said Stone Mountain Police Chief James Westerfield Jr. \u201cThese funds will enable us to provide vital de-escalation and crisis response training for our officers, equipping them with the tools to better serve and protect our citizens.\u201d\n\nAbout Congressman Hank Johnson:", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:07:19Z"], ["https://mcbath.house.gov/press-releases?ID=A3F22D87-C3F9-42CA-AF07-BEBC752E51CA", "McBath Announces Seventh District Service Academy Nominations for Class of 2029", "2024-12-13", "2024", "2024-12", "Democrat", "House", "GA", "Lucy McBath", "M001208", "mcbath.house.gov", "mcbath", "https://mcbath.house.gov/press-releases", "scraper", "Duluth, GA \u2014 This week, Rep. Lucy McBath (D-GA) announced Seventh District students who were nominated by her office to attend a United States military service academy. In total, 18 students from the Seventh District received nominations to the following academies: 12 students received a nomination to attend the United States Military Academy at West Point, 10 students received a nomination to attend the United States Naval Academy at Annapolis, 7 students received a nomination to attend the United States Air Force Academy at Colorado Springs, and 2 students received a nomination to attend the United States Merchant Marine Academy at Kings Point.\n\n\u201cEach year, I am privileged to nominate students from our community for appointments to our United States military service academies,\u201d McBath said. \u201cThese men and women represent the best and brightest of our community, and I know that they are highly qualified for an appointment to their chosen service academies. I offer my congratulations to these impressive young candidates for earning a nomination, and I wish them the best of luck in this latest step in their pursuit of a career in military service.\u201d\n\nAll students who received a nomination from McBath\u2019s office must now be selected by the service academy for a formal appointment to attend in the fall of 2025. The following students* received a congressional nomination to attend a United States military service academy in the 2025-2026 academic year:\n\nDiscovery High School student Muhammad L. Alcine of Lawrenceville received a nomination to the United States Air Force Academy\n\nArcher High School student Jalen Anderson of Lawrenceville received a nomination to the United States Naval Academy\n\nNorcross High School student Sean D. Balderas of Peachtree Corners received a nomination to the Unites States Naval Academy\n\nChattahoochee High School student Spencer T. Cavin of Alpharetta received a nomination to the United States Airforce Academy, United States Military Academy, and United States Naval Academy\n\nJohns Creek High School student Heidi J. Chung of Alpharetta received a nomination to the United States Air Force Academy, United States Military Academy, and United States Naval Academy\n\nWoodward Academy student Aidan P. Connors of Johns Creek received a nomination to United States Military Academy and United Stated Naval Academy\n\nJohns Creek High School Benjiman R. Coval of Johns Creek received a nomination to the United States Air Force Academy\n\nNorthview High School student Joshua Jung of Johns Creek received a nomination to the United States Military Academy and United Stated Naval Academy\n\nGwinnett Mathematics, Science, and Technology High School student Hortencia Kongolo of Lawrenceville received a nomination to United States Military Academy and United States Air Force Academy\n\nNorcross High School student Matthew D. Mitchell of Norcross received a nomination to United States Military Academy\n\nJohns Creek High School student Seojin J. Park of Alpharetta received a nomination to United States Air Force Academy, United States Naval Academy, and United States Military Academy\n\nParkview High School student Samuel E. Thompson of Lilburn received a nomination to United States Naval Academy\n\nDiscovery High School student Duc Duy Vo of Lawrenceville received a nomination to United States Naval Academy and United Stated Military Academy\n\nSt. Pius X Catholic High School student Charlize D. Warren of Atlanta received a nomination to United States Merchant Marine Academy and United States Military Academy\n\nJohns Creek High School student Jeffery Wu of Johns Creek received a nomination to the United Stated Military Academy\n\nChattahoochee High School student Lena Zhang of Alpharetta received a nomination to the United States Merchant Marine Academy\n\n*This list does not contain all Seventh District students who received a congressional nomination to a U.S. service academy.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T22:13:55Z"], ["https://mcbath.house.gov/press-releases?ID=0CDD72D8-F32C-490C-AF0D-5795AA02CA9E", "Senate Passes Bipartisan McBath Bill to Stop Hazing on College Campuses", "2024-12-12", "2024", "2024-12", "Democrat", "House", "GA", "Lucy McBath", "M001208", "mcbath.house.gov", "mcbath", "https://mcbath.house.gov/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2014 Representative Lucy McBath (D-GA) is joined by Representative Jeff Duncan (R-SC), Education and the Workforce Committee Chairwoman Virginia Foxx (R-NC), Ranking Member Robert C. \u201cBobby\u201d Scott (D-VA), Senator Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), Senator Bill Cassidy (R-LA), and Representative Glen \u201cGT\u201d Thompson (R-PA), in celebrating the Senate passage of H.R. 5646, the bipartisan Stop Campus Hazing Act, which combats hazing and dangerous practices towards students on college campuses.\n\n\u201cI know what it's like to lose a loved one to violence\u2014no parent should ever have to bury their child. This bill empowers students and their families to make informed decisions about the schools they attend and the organizations they join. That information could be life-saving,\u201d said Representative McBath. \u201cOur bipartisan legislation helps make sure that schools have the tools they need to foster safe learning environments. I am proud to see the Senate send this critical legislation to the President\u2019s desk, and I thank my colleagues for their continued commitment to safeguarding the well-being of our students.\u201d\n\n\u201cWith the Stop Campus Hazing Act passing in the Senate, we\u2019re one step closer to saving lives like Tucker Hipps and other students tragically killed in a suspected incidents of campus hazing. I applaud my colleagues as we honor Tucker\u2019s memory. This bipartisan, bicameral legislation mandates greater transparency in fraternity hazing reporting,\u201d said Representative Jeff Duncan.\n\n\u201cStudent safety and well-being should be the top priority at every campus in America. Unfortunately, hazing has eroded that standard at schools across the country, but thanks to the tireless efforts of students, families, and advocates, the Stop Campus Hazing Act will be law, and we can start to undo the damage. I\u2019m grateful to Ranking Member Scott and Representatives Duncan and McBath for their leadership on this issue and encourage the President to sign it quickly!\u201d said Chairwoman Foxx.\n\n\u201cSince the year 2000, there have been more than 100 hazing-related deaths on college campuses. Fortunately, the Stop Campus Hazing Act, aims to prevent students from dangerous hazing on college campuses,\" said Ranking Member Robert C. \u201cBobby\u201d Scott. \u201cBy improving reporting and mandating prevention programs, this bill is a bipartisan measure to protect the health and safety of students while ensuring that students and their parents can make informed decisions when joining campus organizations.\u201d\n\n\u201cWhen parents send their kids away to college, they expect they will get a good education and make new friends. They don\u2019t expect them to be harassed and hazed. Unfortunately, hazing is a dangerous\u2014and at times deadly\u2014reality, and we must work to end it,\u201d said Senator Klobuchar. \u201cOur bipartisan legislation to improve hazing prevention efforts on college campuses has now passed the Senate, and heads to the president's desk for signature, and I\u2019ll keep working to stop this abuse and keep students safe.\u201d\n\n\u201cEvery student should feel safe on their college campus,\u201d said Dr. Cassidy. \u201cBy increasing transparency, the Stop Campus Hazing Act ensures that hazing is never ignored. Proud to see this legislation pass Congress and look forward to it becoming law.\u201d\n\n\"Too many parents and families have suffered the serious injury or loss of a loved one through hazing. Today, Congress has reaffirmed it has no place in our society,\" said Representative Glenn \u201cGT\u201d Thompson.\n\nBackground\n\nThe bipartisan Stop Campus Hazing Act:\n\nDefines Hazing and Promotes Transparency: This bill creates a uniform definition of hazing and requires colleges and universities to report hazing incidents annually.\n\nStrengthens Prevention Efforts: Schools are mandated to implement hazing prevention programs aimed at educating students, faculty, and staff.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T22:13:55Z"], ["https://bishop.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressman-bishop-votes-to-pass-bipartisan-bills-to-strengthen-us-armed-forces-maintain-and-improve-america-s-vital-water-ways", "CONGRESSMAN BISHOP VOTES TO PASS BIPARTISAN BILLS TO STRENGTHEN U.S. ARMED FORCES, MAINTAIN AND IMPROVE AMERICA'S VITAL WATER WAYS", "2024-12-11", "2024", "2024-12", "Democrat", "House", "GA", "Sanford D. Bishop, Jr.", "B000490", "bishop.house.gov", "bishop", "https://bishop.house.gov/media-center/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON \u2013 Today, Congressman Sanford D. Bishop, Jr., (GA-02) \u2013 Co-Chair of the bipartisan Congressional Military Family Caucus and a senior member of the U.S. House Appropriations Subcommittee on Military Construction \u2013 supported the passage of the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for Fiscal Year 2025.\n\nThis bill establishes the budget and programs that make up the U.S. Defense Department and covers everything from developing and procuring the weapons and armor that America\u2019s armed forces use to paying the salaries of its troops. The bill includes a 14.5% pay raise for junior enlisted members.\n\n\u201cWhen it comes to our national defense, it is important that we do our best to maintain the world\u2019s most advanced armed forces. That means both supporting our servicemembers and their families as well as maintaining our vital military installations in Georgia and beyond and making sure our troops have cutting edge weapons and technology to get the job done,\u201d said Congressman Bishop. \u201cI am particularly pleased that this bill includes a much needed 14.5% pay raise for junior enlisted members of our armed forces. I have been raising the flag concerning food insecurity among active duty servicemembers and finding solutions to ensure no military family goes hungry. This military pay increase will help close the gap in the cost-of-living.\u201d\n\n\u201cI will continue to fight to ensure we take care of those who are securing America\u2019s national defense across the world and here at home,\u201d added Congressman Bishop.\n\nThe NDAA for Fiscal Year 2025 is supported by a wide range of military service organizations, including Blue Star Families, Military Family Advisory Network, Military Officers Association of America, and the National Military Family Association.\n\nYesterday, Congressman Bishop also supported the passage of the Water Resources Development Act (WRDA) of 2024. This bill authorizes funding and programs that improve the nation\u2019s ports and harbors, inland waterway navigation, flood and storm protection, and other aspects of the nation\u2019s water resources infrastructure.\n\n\u201cWRDA is not only crucial to maintaining America\u2019s vital waterways, but it will also create jobs. The projects supported help keep our communities safe, boost local economies by making our waterways more accessible to Georgians and visitors from across the country, and ensure our ports \u2013 like the Port of Savannah \u2013 remain thriving gateways of commerce and trade for Georgia\u2019s businesses, including our agriculture industry,\u201d said Congressman Bishop.\n\nWRDA supports a wide range of Army Corps of Engineers projects which include maintaining the vital Port of Savannah, investing in flood mitigation efforts in Albany, Georgia, and maintaining the Apalachicola-Chattahoochee-Flint River Basin. The bill also reauthorizes the Federal Emergency Management Agency\u2019s National Dam Safety Program through 2028.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T22:13:55Z"], ["https://mcbath.house.gov/press-releases?ID=95802277-641D-47AC-B20E-5B236AEE4C80", "McBath Announces Winners of 2024 Congressional App Challenge", "2024-12-11", "2024", "2024-12", "Democrat", "House", "GA", "Lucy McBath", "M001208", "mcbath.house.gov", "mcbath", "https://mcbath.house.gov/press-releases", "scraper", "Duluth, GA \u2014 Today, Rep. Lucy McBath announced the winners of the 2024 Congressional App Challenge for Georgia\u2019s Seventh Congressional District. The Congressional App Challenge invites middle and high school students to design and execute original apps, inspiring young students to explore an education and career in STEM.\n\n\u201cThe Congressional App Challenge underscores the importance of a robust STEM education in our school system, because the problems of tomorrow will be solved by today\u2019s young people,\u201d said McBath. \u201cEach competitor in this year\u2019s App Challenge submitted an idea that was designed to improve the lives of those who may utilize their apps and create solutions to a variety of significant challenges we face in our daily lives. I am grateful for each contribution to this challenge, and I want to offer a heartfelt congratulations to our top three winners!\u201d\n\nWinning third place in the competition was an app called \u201cEyeGuard.\u201d This app was created by Johns Creek High School student Jaiveer Bagga.\n\nIn second place was an app called \u201cSmoke Aware.\u201d This app was created by Johns Creek High School student Alexander Xu.\n\nThe winning app was called \u201cBioDock AI.\u201d This app was created by Johns Creek High School student Ishaan Kejriwal.\n\nThe 2024 competition was comprised of students from Johns Creek High School and Northview High School. \u201cBioDock AI\u201d will be eligible for display in the U.S. Capitol.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T22:13:55Z"], ["https://hankjohnson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/center-pan-asian-community-services-inc-receiving-240k-grant-support", "Center for Pan Asian Community Services, Inc Receiving $240K Grant to Support Citizenship Preparation Services", "2024-12-10", "2024", "2024-12", "Democrat", "House", "GA", "Henry C. \"Hank\" Johnson, Jr.", "J000288", "hankjohnson.house.gov", "hankjohnson", "https://hankjohnson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Congressman Hank Johnson (GA-04) is proud to announce that the Center for Pan Asian Community Services, Inc. (CPACS), located in Georgia\u2019s 4th Congressional District, has been awarded $240,046 through the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) Fiscal Year 2024 Citizenship and Integration Grant Program.\n\nThis funding will support CPACS in providing essential citizenship preparation services to lawful permanent residents, empowering them on their path to becoming U.S. citizens while fostering integration into American society.\n\n\u201cThis grant underscores the importance of the work being done by CPACS to support the diverse and growing immigrant communities in Georgia\u201d said Congressman Johnson. \u201cBy removing barriers and providing vital resources, this program is helping individuals realize their American Dream, and I\u2019m proud to support such transformative efforts.\u201d\n\nUSCIS awarded a total of 12.6 million to 43 organizations across 25 states through the grant program, which focuses on reaching underserved and vulnerable communities. The program includes funding under two initiatives: the Citizenship Integration and Naturalization Services Program (CINAS) and the new Citizenship and Integration Training Academy (CITA).\n\nThe Center for Pan Asian Community Services, Inc. will use these funds to expand their citizen preparation services, ensuring that lawful permanent residents in Georgia have access to the resources they need to navigate the naturalization process successfully.\n\n\u201cWe are honored and thrilled to receive the CINAS grant. In DeKalb, Gwinnett, and Fulton counties alone, there are over 113,000 legal permanent residents eligible to naturalize, and this critical funding will enable CPACS to significantly expand our naturalization services with citizenship preparation classes and workshops, legal assistance, and language resources\u201d said Alexis Nkusi, interim CEO of CPACS. \u201cBy removing barriers to citizenship, we are not only empowering individual community members but also strengthening the social fabric of our region through increased civic engagement and opportunity. We look forward to serving our community and making a meaningful difference in the lives of immigrant families!\u201d\n\nCongressman Johnson remains committed to supporting initiatives that promote equity, opportunity, and access for all residents in Georgia\u2019s 4th Congressional District.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T22:13:55Z"], ["https://hankjohnson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressman-hank-johnson-announces-winners-2024-congressional-app", "Congressman Hank Johnson Announces Winners of 2024 Congressional App Challenge", "2024-12-09", "2024", "2024-12", "Democrat", "House", "GA", "Henry C. \"Hank\" Johnson, Jr.", "J000288", "hankjohnson.house.gov", "hankjohnson", "https://hankjohnson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Congressman Hank Johnson (GA-04) announced today the winners of the 2024 Congressional App Challenge (CAC) for Georgia\u2019s Fourth Congressional District. This annual district-specific competition invites students to create and submit their original apps, showcasing their talent in coding, STEM, and computer science. More than 40 students competed from four high schools from throughout Georgia\u2019s Fourth. The first-place winners will travel to Washington, D.C. in April 2025 to accept their award with other winners from Congressional districts throughout the nation.\n\nThe winners are as follows:\n\nFirst Place: Emma Lane, Nicholas Jovanovich, Mary Lawton Jones, Ella King\n\nApp: Voting Buddy\n\nSchool: Chamblee High School\n\nWatch the App Demo\n\nSecond Place: Inioluwa Adeseye\n\nApp: Health Haven\n\nSchool: Arabia Mountain High School\n\nWatch the App Demo\n\nThird Place: Joel Lindo, Victor Olufowote\n\nApp: CuisineQuest\n\nSchool: Rockdale Magnet School for Science and Technology\n\nWatch the App Demo\n\n\u201cEvery year, I am continually impressed by the ingenuity and creativity demonstrated by the students in our district through the Congressional App Challenge,\u201d said Congressman Johnson. \u201cI\u2019m proud of all the students who participated, and I am excited to celebrate these students\u2019 hard work and look forward to seeing their future achievements.\u201d\n\nThe Congressional App Challenge was created to encourage students to explore STEM, coding, and computer science through hands-on learning. The challenge is designed to inspire, include, and innovate by actively engaging students from underrepresented communities in technology and providing them the platform to connect directly with policymakers. Each year, winners from across the nation have the opportunity to have their app displayed in the U.S. Capitol Building for one year.\n\nThe Congressional App Challenge was first launched in 2014 and has since reached over 40,000 students across all 50 states, with students submitting apps in a wide range of categories \u2013 from civic engagement to health and education. Congressman Johnson is proud to be part of this national effort to foster the next generation of tech leaders.\n\nStudents interested in participating in next year\u2019s competition can pre-register for the 2025 Congressional App Challenge in the coming weeks. For more information, visit Congressional App Challenge.\n\nAbout Congressman Hank Johnson: Hank Johnson represents Georgia\u2019s 4th Congressional District, where he is a staunch advocate for civil rights, public safety, and economic justice. Learn more at https://hankjohnson.house.gov/", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T22:13:55Z"], ["https://bishop.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressman-bishop-announces-house-passage-of-hr-9600-legislation-to-name-the-plains-ga-post-office-after-jimmy-rosalynn-carter", "CONGRESSMAN BISHOP ANNOUNCES HOUSE PASSAGE OF H.R. 9600 \u2013 LEGISLATION TO NAME THE PLAINS, GA POST OFFICE AFTER JIMMY & ROSALYNN CARTER", "2024-12-05", "2024", "2024-12", "Democrat", "House", "GA", "Sanford D. Bishop, Jr.", "B000490", "bishop.house.gov", "bishop", "https://bishop.house.gov/media-center/press-releases", "scraper", "PLAINS, Ga. \u2013 Today, the U.S. House of Representatives passed H.R. 9600, bipartisan legislation to designate the facility of the United States Postal Service located at 119 Main Street in Plains, Georgia, as the \"Jimmy and Rosalynn Carter Post Office\". Congressman Sanford D. Bishop, Jr. (GA-02), Dean of the Georgia Congressional Delegation, was the leading sponsor of H.R. 9600. The legislation now heads to the U.S. Senate for consideration.\n\n\u201cPresident Jimmy Carter and the late First Lady Rosalynn Carter dedicated their lives in service to their community, their country, and the world. From the Plains Peanut Festival to the Governor\u2019s Mansion, to the White House \u2013 and to communities around the globe \u2013 they remained grounded and humble, and Plains always remained home in their hearts,\u201d said Congressman Bishop. \u201cDesignating the Plains postal facility as the \u2018Jimmy and Rosalynn Carter Post Office\u2019 would be a small, but meaningful gesture to honor and thank two dedicated servant leaders who spent their lives working to improve the lives of others.\u201d\n\n\u201cPlains holds a special place in the heart of President Carter as the place he and First Lady Rosalynn Carter called home for most of their lives, so it is especially fitting to name the Post Office in their honor,\u201d said Paige Alexander, CEO of The Carter Center, the nonprofit organization that carries on their global work to wage peace, fight disease, and build hope. \u201cWe appreciate the Senators and House members from Georgia who introduced this legislation as a tribute to the Carters\u2019 legacy in their hometown.\u201d\n\nH.R. 9600 was cosponsored by all 14 members of Georgia\u2019s U.S. House delegation, and it passed the House of Representatives by a vote of 381-15 The Senate companion bill to the legislation, S. 5345, was led by Senator Jon Ossoff and cosponsored by Senator Rev. Raphael Warnock.\n\nH.R. 9600 now heads to the U.S. Senate where the chamber has a year-end deadline to pass the legislation and send it to the President to be signed into law.\n\nFull text of H.R. 9600 can be found here.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T22:13:55Z"], ["https://bishop.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressman-bishop-receives-friend-of-farm-bureau-award-BrinsonGA", "CONGRESSMAN BISHOP RECEIVES \u201cFRIEND OF FARM BUREAU\u201d AWARD", "2024-10-31", "2024", "2024-10", "Democrat", "House", "GA", "Sanford D. Bishop, Jr.", "B000490", "bishop.house.gov", "bishop", "https://bishop.house.gov/media-center/press-releases", "scraper", "BRINSON, Ga. \u2013 Yesterday, Congressman Sanford D. Bishop, Jr. (GA-02) received the Friend of the Farm Bureau Award from the Georgia Farm Bureau at a ceremony hosted at Glenn Heard Farms in Brinson.\n\n\u201cI want to thank the Georgia Farm Bureau for this award and honor. It has been my pleasure to work with the Farm Bureau and I will always be a strong voice in Washington for our farmers and producers,\u201d said Congressman Bishop. \u201cThe agriculture industry is crucial to our country, contributing over one trillion dollars to the U.S. economy, and that is over $80 billion in Georgia alone. Whether through the Farm Bill or the annual appropriations process, I will always work towards ensuring that Congress provides the programs and resources needed to make sure Americans continue to have the safest, most affordable, and most abundant food and fiber.\u201d\n\n\u201cToday we gathered farmers in Georgia\u2019s 2nd congressional district with Congressman Sanford Bishop to present him with his 2024 Friend of Farm Bureau Award,\u201d said Ben Parker, National Affairs Coordinator for the Georgia Farm Bureau. \u201cThrough this gesture we are happy to show our support for all the many beneficial acts Bishop has carried through his years of being a true friend and champion for Georgia agriculture.\u201d\n\n\u201cCongressman Bishop has a been a tremendous friend and supporter of agriculture during his time in Congress. His door is always open to discuss the pressing issues that face agriculture all across our country,\u201d said Tommy Dollar, President of Dollar Farms in Bainbridge, Georgia. \u201cWe need disaster assistance for our farmers that were devastated by Hurricane Helene and we need economic relief for those farmers who have been devastated by input costs. We also need a Farm Bill so that the AG community will have certainty in the days ahead. Congressman Bishop will fight to make sure that these issues are addressed, and he is indeed a friend of Agriculture.\u201d\n\n\u201cCongressman Bishop has been a friend to the Farm Bureau, but more importantly a friend to American Agriculture,\u201d said Andy Bell of Bell Farms in Climax, Georgia. \u201cThis award represents his commitment to ensuring that the United States will continue to have the safest food and fiber anywhere in the world while providing all of the necessary resources that our farmers need for the food security of the world.\u201d\n\nCongressman Bishop is one of the most senior members of the U.S. House Appropriations Committee and, as such, is the top Democrat on the subcommittee that funds the U.S. Department of Agriculture, Rural Development, the Food & Drug Administration, and related agencies. He is also a member of the U.S. House Agriculture Committee which oversees and crafts the country\u2019s agriculture and nutrition policies and programs.\n\nAn agriculture issues leader, he regularly works across the aisle to craft legislation and support funding for programs that are vital to the well-being of America\u2019s farmers.\n\nEarlier this month, he led a farm tour of Minor Brothers Farms in Sumter County. He was joined by Congressman Austin Scott (GA-08) and Congresswoman Shontel Brown (OH-11), who are the Republican and Democratic leaders of the U.S. House Agriculture Subcommittee on General Farm Commodities, Risk Management, and Credit.\n\nIn May 2024, Congressman Bishop voted in support of the Farm Bill passed by the U.S. House Agriculture Committee. In September, he sent a letter to House and Senate leaders and to the House Agriculture Committee leadership urging them to set aside differences and commit to pass a Farm Bill before the end of this Congress.\n\nHouse Republican leaders have not scheduled the Farm Bill for a vote. Some Republicans and Democrats have raised budgetary concerns about the bill and the U.S. Senate is working on its own version of the Farm Bill. Congressman Bishop remains committed to working towards a bipartisan bill this year that will get the full support of the U.S. Congress and that can be signed into law by President Biden.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T21:57:20Z"], ["https://bishop.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/us-department-of-education-awards-over-4-million-to-bibb-muscogee-county-school-districts-to-support-school-based-mental-health-services", "U.S. DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION AWARDS OVER $4 MILLION TO BIBB & MUSCOGEE COUNTY SCHOOL DISTRICTS TO SUPPORT SCHOOL-BASED MENTAL HEALTH SERVICES", "2024-10-31", "2024", "2024-10", "Democrat", "House", "GA", "Sanford D. Bishop, Jr.", "B000490", "bishop.house.gov", "bishop", "https://bishop.house.gov/media-center/press-releases", "scraper", "MACON, Ga. \u2013 Congressman Sanford D. Bishop, Jr., (GA-02) a senior member of the House Appropriations Committee, is delighted to announce a federal award from the U.S. Department of Education totaling $4,567,325 to the Bibb County ($2,569,674) and Muscogee County ($1,997,651) School Districts. The School-Based Mental Health Grant Program provides public schools with the resources needed to hire and retain mental health professionals and create a safe environment for all students.\n\n\u201cWhen children in need of help are supported at school, behavior problems are less likely to occur and grades and test scores are more likely to improve,\u201d said Congressman Bishop. \u201cGeorgia schools are places where every student should feel safe and cared for. That is why the School-Based Mental Health Grant Program exists \u2013 to make our schools safer by ensuring each student receives the care and attention they need and deserve.\u201d\n\n\"Receiving funding for our Built4Bibb School-Based Mental Health Services Program marks a transformative step for the Bibb County School District,\u201d said Tajalyn Woodruff on behalf of Bibb County Schools. \u201cThis grant will enable us to improve the way we focus on the wellness of our students by increasing student access to mental health professionals while also developing a fully coordinated system of social emotional and behavioral supports for students within our schools.\u201d\n\n\u201cMental health is truly a societal problem that extends to children as well. As educators, we must be concerned with the whole child, which includes their mental, social, and emotional well-being that can adversely impact their academic progress,\u201d said Dr. David Lewis, Muscogee School Superintendent. \u201cOn behalf of the Muscogee County School District and the many students and families who will benefit, I am very grateful for the significant funding provided through this federal grant that will augment our district\u2019s efforts through eleven additional social workers and a school psychologist focused on effective mental and behavioral interventions, support and services.\u201d\n\nThe School-Based Mental Health Grant Program was made possible by the Fiscal Year 2024 federal government funding bill, which Congressman Bishop supported.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T21:57:20Z"], ["https://bishop.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/reps-bishop-scott-and-brown-highlight-farm-bill-in-sumter-county", "REPS. BISHOP, SCOTT, AND BROWN HIGHLIGHT FARM BILL IN SUMTER COUNTY", "2024-10-23", "2024", "2024-10", "Democrat", "House", "GA", "Sanford D. Bishop, Jr.", "B000490", "bishop.house.gov", "bishop", "https://bishop.house.gov/media-center/press-releases", "scraper", "LESLIE, Ga. \u2013 On Monday, Congressman Sanford D. Bishop, Jr. (GA-02) \u2013 the top Democrat on the U.S. House Appropriations Agriculture Subcommittee as well as a member of the U.S. House Agriculture Committee \u2013 visited Minor Brothers Farms in Sumter County to discuss the Farm Bill. He was joined by Congressman Austin Scott (GA-08) and Congresswoman Shontel Brown (OH-11) who are the Republican and Democratic leaders of the U.S. House Agriculture Subcommittee on General Farm Commodities, Risk Management, and Credit.\n\n\u201cCongressman Austin Scott, Congresswoman Shontel Brown, and I are working hard in Congress on a new Farm Bill,\u201d said Congressman Bishop. \u201cMeeting in the field with peanut and cotton farmers allowed us to hear from them and see, first-hand, the challenges they face producing the food and fiber that feeds America and clothes the world. We were able to have a frank, bipartisan conversation about the immediate need for economic assistance and swift passage of the Farm Bill as well as disaster relief our producers require following the recent hurricane.\u201d\n\n\u201cAnd of course, we were eager to join with them in discussing how Congress can provide urgent help,\u201d added Congressman Bishop.\n\nCongressman Bishop noted it is important for Members of Congress from other areas of the country to visit America\u2019s farmers and producers in places like Middle and Southwest Georgia so that they are armed with sufficient information to support agriculture in the Farm Bill and get the nation\u2019s farmers and producers the resources that they need.\n\n\u201cI appreciated the opportunity to visit Minor Brothers Farms in Sumter County with Congressman Bishop and Congressman Scott. My sincere thanks are extended to Congressman Bishop for welcoming me to his district to hear directly from peanut and cotton farmers. As a member of the House Committee on Agriculture, I will continue working with my colleagues to pass a Farm Bill that supports farmers and producers as well as people in need,\u201d said Congresswoman Shontel Brown.\n\nDick Minor, a Sumter County farmer, commented, \u201cWe were pleased to host Representatives Sanford Bishop, Austin Scott, and Shontel Brown this week at our farm. In addition to these Members of Congress, we had numerous agricultural organizations to participate in discussions involving the 2024 Farm Bill, agricultural economic assistance, H2A issues, and disaster relief for those that were impacted by Hurricane Helene. These Members hold senior positions for agricultural policy in the U.S. House of Representatives, and we appreciate their interest in bipartisan solutions to very important issues to the agricultural industry.\u201d\n\nThe Farm Bill is the definitive law that governs food and agriculture policy by authorizing federal programs important to farmers, producers, nutrition programs, the agriculture industry, and rural development.\n\nIn May 2024, Congressman Bishop voted in support of the Farm Bill passed by the U.S. House Agriculture Committee. In September, he sent a letter to House and Senate leaders and to the House Agriculture Committee leadership urging them to set aside differences and commit to pass a Farm Bill before the end of this Congress.\n\nAmong its many provisions, the bill increases reference prices for commodities and crop insurance payments to help stabilize income for farmers and protect them from market volatility. It also authorizes voluntary and locally led incentive-based conservation programs and global promotion of U.S. agriculture.\n\nHouse Republican leaders have not scheduled the Farm Bill for a vote. Some Republicans and Democrats have raised budgetary concerns about the bill and the U.S. Senate is working on its own version of the Farm Bill. Congressman Bishop remains committed to working towards a bipartisan bill this year that will get the full support of the U.S. Congress and that can be signed into law by President Biden.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T21:57:20Z"], ["https://bishop.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressman-bishop-announces-14-million-in-federal-head-start-funds-serving-the-chattahoochee-valley-and-middle-georgia", "CONGRESSMAN BISHOP ANNOUNCES $14 MILLION IN FEDERAL HEAD START FUNDS SERVING THE CHATTAHOOCHEE VALLEY AND MIDDLE GEORGIA", "2024-10-16", "2024", "2024-10", "Democrat", "House", "GA", "Sanford D. Bishop, Jr.", "B000490", "bishop.house.gov", "bishop", "https://bishop.house.gov/media-center/press-releases", "scraper", "FORT VALLEY, Ga. \u2013 Congressman Sanford D. Bishop Jr. (GA-02) is happy to announce that the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services is awarding $6,134,765 to the Macon-Bibb County Economic Opportunity Council, $7,186,306 to the Fort Valley State University, and $705,440 to the Enrichment Services Program, Inc. in Columbus, GA to support their Head Start programs. The Head Start program supports disadvantaged families by providing early learning and development, health, and well-being to newborns and children up to five years of age.\n\n\u201cThe years leading up to primary school are crucial in setting children up to be successful throughout their education and eventually finding good-paying jobs. The Head Start program enriches youngsters by providing a quality preschool experience, while also providing working parents with affordable, reliable childcare,\u201d said Congressman Bishop. \u201cIt is so important that these funds are made available to dependable organizations in every community to support for family activities and childhood development.\u201d\n\n\u201cThe funds provided will be utilized to purchase a facility that will serve over 160 children in the Chattahoochee Valley. And with this purchase it will allow us to provide a safe location for children to gain school readiness skills and set them up to be successful in school and life,\u201d said Enrichment Services Program, Inc. CEO Belva Dorsey-Mott. \u201cWe thank Congressman Bishop for his ongoing support to ensure that funds are available to help children prepare for school and support families which are the foundation for strong communities.\u201d\n\n\u201cThis is exciting news, and we are very honored to have been named recipient of this federal grant award,\u201d said Ms. Sarita R. Hill, Chief Executive Officer of the Macon-Bibb County Economic Opportunity Council. \u201cThis substantial funding is designated for the construction of our new Head Start building in Macon, tentatively scheduled for completion in December 2025. The 32,000 sq. ft. building will provide 24 classrooms that will accommodate up to 384 children. This will have a meaningful impact on the many lives of those we support by increasing the invaluable services provided by Head Start and Early Head Start programs.\u201d\n\n\u201cFort Valley State University's Head Start program will create a safe and innovative learning environment that empowers families, supports mental health, and promotes school readiness.\u201d Said Ms. Nikkia Mosley, Executive Program Director at Fort Valley State University. \u201cTogether, we will make a lasting impact on our community and foster the growth and well-being of every child.\"\n\nHead Start and Early Head Start programs across Middle and Southwest Georgia provide comprehensive, high-quality family and community services to eligible children. Head Start programs help prepare young children, infants to school aged, to succeed in school and throughout the rest of their lives through individualized learning experiences in a creative environment.\n\nCongressman Bishop is a strong supporter of the Head Start Program. As a senior member of the House Appropriations Committee, he has worked to establish substantial funding that meets the changing needs of the program each year.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T21:57:20Z"], ["https://bishop.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressman-bishop-announces-new-eligibility-for-hurricane-helene-fema-disaster-relief", "CONGRESSMAN BISHOP ANNOUNCES NEW ELIGIBILITY FOR HURRICANE HELENE FEMA DISASTER RELIEF", "2024-10-16", "2024", "2024-10", "Democrat", "House", "GA", "Sanford D. Bishop, Jr.", "B000490", "bishop.house.gov", "bishop", "https://bishop.house.gov/media-center/press-releases", "scraper", "THOMASVILLE, Ga. \u2013 Congressman Sanford D. Bishop, Jr. (GA-02) announced that several counties in Georgia\u2019s Second Congressional District were added to the Federal Emergency Management Agency\u2019s (FEMA) Major Disaster Declaration for Hurricane Helene. The counties include:\n\nThomas County \u2013 Individuals and households are now eligible to apply for financial and direct services (FEMA Individual Assistance)\n\nDooly County, Grady County, Mitchell County, and Thomas County \u2013 local governments are now eligible for FEMA Public Assistance for repairs or replacement of disaster-damaged facilities (roads, bridges, water control facilities, public buildings and equipment, public utilities, parks, recreational, other facilities)\n\nMore information about these developments as well as federal, state, and local resources in response to Hurricane Helene are available on Congressman Bishop\u2019s website at https://bishop.house.gov/resources-services/hurricane-preparedness.\n\nBefore and since Hurricane Helene hit Georgia and the southeast United States, Congressman Bishop has been in contact with the White House, U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) and FEMA. He and his staff have also been in regular contact with the Georgia Governor\u2019s office, Georgia Emergency Management and Homeland Security Agency (GEMA), and nongovernmental partners as they prepared for and responded to fallout from the hurricane.\n\n\u201cI have worked with federal, state, and local officials to make sure our efforts are coordinated to expedite assistance to our families, farmers, business owners, cities, and counties,\u201d said Congressman Bishop. \u201cWorking with Congressman Austin Scott, Senators Ossoff and Warnock, the entire Georgia Delegation, and our Georgia state government partners we helped guide President Biden, Vice President Harris, and other federal emergency agencies through our Georgia communities that were hit hard by this storm.\u201d\n\n\u201cSeeing the impact, first-hand, is crucial in understanding the challenges we face and appreciating the resilient spirit of Georgians as we rebuild,\u201d added Congressman Bishop. \u201cI will continue working to assure that Congress provides the needed resources to Georgia communities impacted by this hurricane.\u201d\n\nIn response to Hurricane Helene, Congressman Bishop, along with his congressional colleagues urged President Biden to issue an expedited major disaster declaration for Georgia counties significantly impacted by the storm. That request was honored within 24 hours. He also sent a letter to U.S. House and U.S. Senate leadership asking for appropriations to be made available as soon as possible to fully fund unmet agricultural disaster relief needs.\n\nOver 8,500 federal personnel have been on the ground, working side-by-side with state and local officials, to help survivors get what they need to begin their recovery. As of today, FEMA has approved over $860 million, which includes $507 million in assistance for individuals and communities affected and over $351.5 million for debris removal and activities to save lives, protect public health and safety and prevent damage to public and private property.\n\nGeorgia residents that need emergency or immediate assistance should contact GEMA via https://gema.georgia.gov/hurricane-helene or apply for financial assistance at disasterassistance.gov. These websites provide updated information on resources and shelters.\n\nGeorgia residents that need farm or ranch assistance can reach out to the USDA either by calling 877-508-8364 or visiting https://www.farmers.gov. For personalized assistance for your individual operation, use the Disaster Assistance Discovery Tool (https://www.farmers.gov/protection-recovery/disaster-tool) to determine eligibility.\n\nLocal governments requiring rural development assistance, such as housing, sewer, and water, can reach out to USDA at https://www.rd.usda.gov/resources/rural-development-disaster-assistance.\n\nPoultry and livestock producers affected by Hurricane Helene can get assistance with emergency animal mortality disposal through USDA\u2019s Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) Environmental Quality Incentives Program. You can learn more at https://www.nrcs.usda.gov/programs-initiatives/eqip-environmental-quality-incentives or by contacting your local USDA Service Center (find yours here by visiting https://www.nrcs.usda.gov/contact/find-a-service-center).", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T21:57:20Z"], ["https://hankjohnson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressman-johnson-leads-delegation-letter-demanding-epa-regulate", "Congressman Johnson Leads Delegation Letter Demanding EPA Regulate BioLab Chemicals", "2024-10-09", "2024", "2024-10", "Democrat", "House", "GA", "Henry C. \"Hank\" Johnson, Jr.", "J000288", "hankjohnson.house.gov", "hankjohnson", "https://hankjohnson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases", "scraper", "U.S. Senators Ossoff, Warnock, and Reps. Scott, McBath, Williams Join Johnson in Urging EPA To Enhance Federal Oversight of Facilities That Manufacture and/or Store Hazardous Chemical TCCA.\n\nCONYERS, GA \u2013 Congressman Hank Johnson (GA-04), along with U.S. Sens. Jon Ossoff and Raphael Warnock and U.S. House Reps. David Scott (GA-13), Lucy McBath (GA-07) and Nikema Williams (GA-05), sent a letter to Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Administrator Michael Regan today urging him to enhance federal oversight of facilities that manufacture and/or store the hazardous chemical Trichloroisocyanuric Acid (TCCA), which is at the heart of the incident at the BioLab plant in Conyers \u2013 an environmental and health crisis that has been ongoing since Sept. 29.\n\n\u201cWe are concerned that facilities like BioLab Conyers, which manufacture and/or store TCCA are improperly managing these substances,\u201d the lawmakers wrote. \u201cWhen not handled correctly, these chemicals can contaminate local air, water, and soil, posing severe public health risks which include respiratory issues, skin irritations, and long-term conditions like lung and heart disease.\u201d\n\nSpecifically, the lawmakers urge the EPA to \u201cinclude it on the list of regulated substances under the Risk Management Program (RMP),\u201d which would prompt federal and state agencies to develop more effective safety protocols and management strategies, ensuring stricter adherence to safety standards for facilities handling this chemical.\n\n\u201cThe gravity of this situation underscores the need for changes to the federal and state regulatory systems.\u201d\n\nLawmakers are also requesting the agency respond to nine key questions surrounding the reactive chemical in question.\n\nRead the letter HERE or below.\n\nThe Honorable Michael Regan\n\nAdministrator\n\nU.S. Environmental Protection Agency\n\n1200 Pennsylvania Avenue NW\n\nWashington, DC 20460\n\nDear Administrator Regan,\n\nWe are writing to urge the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to take immediate action to enhance federal oversight of facilities that manufacture and/or store the hazardous chemical Trichloroisocyanuric Acid (TCCA).\n\nOn September 29, 2024, just after Hurricane Helene slammed the area, a catastrophic chemical fire took place at the BioLab facility in Conyers, Georgia, that stores TCCA. The fire released a large, billowing plume of hazardous, toxic gasses into the air, which caused the closure of parts of Interstate 20 for nearly 17 hours, with local businesses and government offices forced to close while 17,000 residents living near the plant were forced to evacuate.\n\nAs of today, toxic substances continue to rise into the air from the smoldering ruins of the plant, with corporate and government officials being unable to offer a specific timetable as to when the danger will end. People not just in the immediate vicinity of the plant but also millions across southeastern metropolitan Atlanta are under constant exposure to hazardous air quality. This incident has raised serious concerns about the community's vulnerability to toxic chemical exposure. The danger is heightened by approaching rain which will douse the collapsed building under which millions of pounds of TCCA remain exposed to moisture.\n\nBioLab, a division of KIK Consumer Products, manufactures and stores millions of pounds of chemical mixtures primarily composed of TCCA at the Conyers, Georgia facility. When TCCA comes into contact with small amounts of water, a hazardous chemical reaction is triggered that generates heat and causes decomposition of the chemical and can in turn produces toxic chlorine gas and can also produce explosive nitrogen trichloride. The Conyers BioLab facility has experienced three separate chemical incidents in the past seven years, four in the past 20. Each event resulted in dangerous chemical reactions and fires, releasing toxic gases like chlorine into the air.\n\nThere have been conflicting reports on what caused the most recent fire at the Conyers facility. One report cited water used to douse a fire on the roof of the plant seeping in, while another report blames the fire on a malfunctioning sprinkler system. Rainwater from Hurricane Helene seeping into the BioLab facility during and after Hurricane Helene has not been ruled out as a cause as well.\n\nWe are concerned that facilities like BioLab Conyers, which manufacture and/or store TCCA are improperly managing these substances. When not handled correctly, these chemicals can contaminate local air, water, and soil, posing severe public health risks which include respiratory issues, skin irritations, and long-term conditions like lung and heart disease.\n\nA similar incident occurred on August 27, 2020, at the Lake Charles BioLab facility in Westlake, Louisiana, in the aftermath of Hurricane Laura. The facility sustained severe damage after TCCA manufactured and stored therein was moistened by small amounts of water and decomposed, producing toxic chlorine gas and nitrogen trichloride. These gases ignited, causing a fire and noxious clouds of toxic gases. The U.S. Chemical Safety and Hazardous Investigation Board (CSB) investigated the incident and issued safety recommendations to minimize the consequences of future accidental chemical releases like the Lake Charles incident.\n\nThe 2023 (CSB) report on BioLab Lake Charles found a regulatory gap regarding the oversight of chemicals like TCCA, particularly in their classification and management under existing federal regulations. Given TCCA's involvement in multiple safety incidents due to its highly reactive properties, we urge the EPA to include it on the list of regulated substances under the Risk Management Program (RMP).\n\nThis action will prompt federal and state agencies to develop more effective safety protocols and management strategies, ensuring stricter adherence to safety standards for facilities handling this chemical. We hope the Conyers debacle will prompt the inclusion of TCCA to the Process Safety Management (PSM) Standard under the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA).\n\nWe call on the EPA to collaborate with states to implement training programs specifically designed for emergency responders and facility staff. These programs should address the unique challenges posed by reactive chemicals that adversely react to water used to extinguish fires, focusing on appropriate firefighting techniques, chemical behavior, and risk assessment. The EPA, in partnership with state fire marshals and chemical safety experts, can establish comprehensive guidelines for fire suppression techniques tailored to reactive chemicals, including recommendations for effective alternative extinguishing agents, such as dry chemical extinguishers or foam.\n\nConsidering these concerns, we respectfully request clarification by November 20, 2024, on the following matters regarding regulatory oversight and preventative measures at chemical facilities like BioLab:\n\n1. Has the EPA, in conjunction with the State of Georgia, initiated any investigations or inspections regarding BioLab Conyers\u2019\n\n2. What immediate actions are the EPA and State agencies taking in response to this latest fire, given the history of public safety concerns at the Conyers facility?\n\n3. The 2023 Chemical Safety and Hazard Investigation Board (CSB) found that TCCA and TCCA-based formulations are not covered by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) Process Safety Management (PSM) Standard. Has there been any progress in addressing this regulatory gap?\n\n4. Following the BioLab Conyers incident is the EPA considering adding TCCA to the list of regulated substances under the Risk Management Program (RMP)?\n\n5. How is the EPA collaborating with state agencies to ensure that chemical facilities like BioLab Conyers are prepared for extreme weather events that could worsen fire hazards or hazardous material spills?\n\n6. In response to BioLab Conyers\u2019 repeated safety failures, what specific measures will the EPA implement with state agencies to improve fire preparedness protocols, particularly for training facility staff and local emergency responders on handling fires involving non-water extinguishable substances?\n\n7. Does the EPA anticipate monitoring potential groundwater, soil, and water contamination from the chemical fire at the Conyers BioLab facility?\n\n8. We understand that the EPA is working to monitor air quality following the chemical fire. What steps has the EPA taken to inform affected communities of their findings and recommendations to safeguard the health and safety of these communities and their environment?\n\na. How have the locations and spatial extent of the EPA\u2019s air quality monitoring area changed as the location and direction of the smoke plume has shifted?\n\n9. What specific additional authority and resources does the EPA need to effectively prevent future incidents at chemical facilities like BioLab Conyers?\n\nThe gravity of this situation underscores the need for changes to the federal and state regulatory systems. We look forward to your prompt response and urge robust, decisive measures to address the serious environmental and safety concerns posed by incidents like this.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T21:57:20Z"], ["https://hankjohnson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressman-johnson-re-introduces-bill-protect-innocent-americans", "Congressman Johnson Re-Introduces Bill To Protect Innocent Americans From Execution", "2024-10-09", "2024", "2024-10", "Democrat", "House", "GA", "Henry C. \"Hank\" Johnson, Jr.", "J000288", "hankjohnson.house.gov", "hankjohnson", "https://hankjohnson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases", "scraper", "Congressman files legislation that allows death row inmates the ability to introduce new evidence\n\nWASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Rep. Hank Johnson (D-GA) announced that he has re-introduced the Effective Death Penalty Appeals Act, which would ensure that death row inmates have the opportunity to present newly discovered evidence of innocence.\n\nUnder current law, an inmate on death row can be stranded with no procedural options to appeal a conviction, even if there is compelling new evidence that he or she is innocent. Many states do not allow the accused to present newly uncovered evidence of innocence. The Effective Death Penalty Appeals Act would fix that injustice.\n\n\u201cWe\u2019ve got innocent people on death row right now with no opportunity to show compelling new evidence of innocence. The status quo is inhumane and unconstitutional,\u201d said Rep. Johnson, ranking member of the Courts subcommittee. As a young lawyer just out of law school, Rep. Johnson successful defend a man on death row and won his freedom.\n\n\u201cI believe we should completely abolish the death penalty, but while 25 states \u2013 half of which are in the South \u2013 still have some form of capital punishment on their books and some states like Alabama, Texas and Georgia continue to hold state executions \u2013 America needs the Effective Death Penalty Appeals Act to help wrongly convicted people on death row present newly discovered evidence that they are innocent.\u201d said Johnson.\n\nThe Effective Death Penalty Appeals Act would:\n\n(1) empower the federal courts to grant habeas corpus relief for a prisoner on death row who presents newly discovered evidence that demonstrates probable innocence; and\n\n(2) allow prisoners on death row to file successive federal habeas petitions if, and only if, they present newly discovered evidence that a federal three-judge panel determines may be reasonably expected to demonstrate innocence.\n\n(3) in reaction to the Supreme Court case of Shinn v. Ramirez, this bill includes one additional provision. Some states do not allow ineffective assistance of counsel claims on direct appeal. Then in their habeas case, the court says they cannot rule on the issue because there is no evidence. This bill provides that death row inmates from those states who raise an ineffective assistance of counsel claim can have an evidentiary hearing on the issue.\n\nIf a federal court were to grant such a habeas corpus petition, the case would likely return to its original jurisdiction for retrial.\n\nThe release of more than 200 death row inmates in the United States since 1973 shows that our justice system is far from perfect. And since 1989, there have been more than 367 post-conviction DNA exonerations in the United States \u2013 21 of which were prisoners on death row. The death penalty is the most final of sentences, and we have no way of knowing how many innocent people have been executed because of flaws in the system.\n\n\u201cWhen it comes to a human life, the courts must always be able to take a closer look at evidence that supports claims of innocence. We should never put an innocent person to death,\u201d said Rep. Johnson.\n\nOriginal Cosponsors: Chellie Pingree (ME), Eleanor Holmes Norton (DC), Schakowsky (IL).\n\nRead the full text HERE.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T21:57:20Z"], ["https://bishop.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressman-bishop-commemorates-the-1-year-anniversary-of-the-oct-7-hamas-attack-on-israel", "CONGRESSMAN BISHOP COMMEMORATES THE 1-YEAR ANNIVERSARY OF THE OCT. 7 HAMAS ATTACK ON ISRAEL", "2024-10-07", "2024", "2024-10", "Democrat", "House", "GA", "Sanford D. Bishop, Jr.", "B000490", "bishop.house.gov", "bishop", "https://bishop.house.gov/media-center/press-releases", "scraper", "SANDY SPRINGS, Ga. \u2013 Congressman Sanford D. Bishop, Jr. (GA-02) delivered the following remarks at an event at the Sandy Springs Performing Arts Center commemorating the one-year anniversary of the October 7, 2023, attack by Hamas on Israel:\n\n\u201cGood evening!\n\n\u201cTo my friends of the Jewish faith, L\u2019shana tovah!\n\n\u201cIt is my prayer that all across the world \u2013 the descendants of Abraham, Issac, and Jacob \u2013 may find peace and prosperity in the new year ahead.\n\n\u201cAnd as we approach the holiest day in Judaism, I also wish everyone a meaningful Yom Kippur and a good fast.\n\n\u201cOne year ago today, the world watched in horror as the terrorist group Hamas launched a surprise and widespread attack on Israel. Nearly 1,200 Israeli\u2019s were killed in the attack, including civilians and security forces. It was the deadliest day for Jews since the Holocaust.\n\n\u201cThousands more were injured, and over 100 Israelis were taken hostage, some of whom remain in captivity to this day.\n\n\u201cAmerica has been and remains Israel\u2019s staunchest ally. Our country is steadfast in its support for Israel\u2019s right to exist and we continue to stand shoulder to shoulder with Israel in the protection of its people. But please know, that whether in war or peace, all nations must demonstrate in all their conduct the highest value and respect for innocent human life.\n\n\u201cIn launching its attack on October 7th, Hamas not only took the lives of innocent men, women, and children, it also undermined the very aspirations that we all shared for peaceful coexistence in what we, in the Judeo-Christian culture, call the Holy Land.\n\n\u201cIn memory of those who were murdered in the heinous attack by Hamas on October 7th, we must never allow those who pose an existential threat to Israel to succeed.\n\n\u201cWe pray every day for the safe return of all hostages and hope for a day when there will be peace in the region so that all can live with mutual respect and harmony.\n\n\u201cI will always be committed to supporting Israel\u2019s right to safely exist, and I will continue my work in Congress to ensure that the United States stands firm in this commitment.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T21:57:20Z"], ["https://hankjohnson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressman-hank-johnson-announces-12-million-funding-expand-diaper", "Congressman Hank Johnson Announces $1.2 Million in Funding to Expand Diaper Distribution Networks in Georgia", "2024-10-07", "2024", "2024-10", "Democrat", "House", "GA", "Henry C. \"Hank\" Johnson, Jr.", "J000288", "hankjohnson.house.gov", "hankjohnson", "https://hankjohnson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Congressman Hank Johnson (GA-04) announced that the Georgia Community Action Association, Inc. (GCAA) has been awarded $1.2 million as part of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services\u2019 (HHS) Diaper Distribution Demonstration and Research Pilot (DDDRP). This federal funding will enable GCAA to expand its efforts to provide essential diaper supplies to families with low incomes, addressing a critical need for infants and young children across Georgia. This award comes during National Diaper Need Awareness Week and will help caregivers who struggle to maintain enough diapers to keep their children safe, dry, and healthy.\n\n\u201cEvery child deserves access to basic necessities, and no family should have to choose between diapers and other essential needs,\u201d said Congressman Hank Johnson.\n\nThe DDDRP, administered by the Office of Community Services (OCS) at HHS, is awarding $8.4 million to support seven new grant recipients to alleviate diaper need while connecting families to broader services that address the causes and conditions of poverty. In Georgia, GCAA will coordinate with local diaper banks and community action agencies (CAAs) to ensure a consistent supply of diapers and other diapering essentials for families in need. Additionally, the program will provide access to job training, housing services, and childcare assistance, helping families achieve long-term self-sufficiency.\n\nDiaper Need in Georgia:\n\n26% of children have parents who lack secure employment.\n\n20.2% of children live below the poverty line.\n\nFamilies face an average annual cost of $9,253 for center-based infant care.\n\nThe need for diapers is a growing concern for many families, with 45% of participants in the DDDRP reporting they often had to reduce spending on other essentials like food or utilities to afford diapers. The program\u2019s goal is to provide more than just a solution for diaper need\u2014it aims to support families' overall well-being.\n\nWith this $1.2 million grant, GCAA plans to serve a wide sample of families across the state, in all 159 Georgia counties, utilizing partnerships with Head Start centers, faith-based organizations, and legislators to build a robust support network.\n\nFor more information about these grants, visit the Diaper Distribution Pilot homepage.\n\nFor more information about OCS\u2019s other antipoverty programs, visit the OCS website or contact media@hhs.gov.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T21:57:20Z"], ["https://hankjohnson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressman-hank-johnson-announces-energy-efficiency-grant-funding", "Congressman Hank Johnson Announces Energy Efficiency Grant Funding for Covington, Other Georgia Communities", "2024-10-07", "2024", "2024-10", "Democrat", "House", "GA", "Henry C. \"Hank\" Johnson, Jr.", "J000288", "hankjohnson.house.gov", "hankjohnson", "https://hankjohnson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases", "scraper", "COVINGTON, GA \u2013 Congressman Hank Johnson (GA-04) announced today that Covington, located in Georgia\u2019s 4th Congressional District, has been awarded $150,000 in grant funding through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law\u2019s (BIL) Energy Efficiency and Conservation Block Grant (EECBG) Program. Covington is one of 17 Georgia communities to benefit from this $2.6 million investment aimed at reducing energy consumption, lowering emissions, and improving energy efficiency.\n\n\u201cCovington is leading the way in transitioning to clean energy with the addition of eight new electric vehicle charging stations,\u201d said Congressman Johnson. \u201cThis funding will help make clean transportation more accessible and support our community\u2019s efforts to reduce its carbon footprint while creating more economic opportunities in Georgia\u2019s Fourth District.\u201d\n\nThe Georgia Environmental Finance Authority (GEFA), which administers the program, selected Covington\u2019s project as part of a broader initiative to enhance energy efficiency across the state. Covington will use the funds to install charging stations in high-traffic areas is designed to support the growth of electric vehicles and make clean transportation more accessible to residents and visitors alike.\n\n\u201cThis is just the beginning,\u201d Congressman Johnson continued. \u201cInvestments like these are crucial for reducing our dependence on fossil fuels, improving air quality, and positioning our district and the state of Georgia as leaders in clean energy.\u201d\n\nOther projects across the state receiving funding include energy audits, building upgrades, and workforce development initiatives, with approximately 60% of the funding directed toward disadvantaged communities.\n\nFor more information about the EECBG Program and the energy efficiency projects being implemented, visit gefa.georgia.gov/EECBG.\n\nAbout the Georgia Environmental Finance Authority (GEFA):\n\nGEFA provides financing for energy, land, and water projects across Georgia. Since its establishment in 1986, GEFA has committed nearly $6 billion to local governments, businesses, and nonprofit organizations to improve environmental infrastructure throughout the state.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T21:57:20Z"], ["https://hankjohnson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressman-johnson-celebrates-intown-community-schools-designation", "Congressman Johnson Celebrates Intown Community School\u2019s Designation as a 2024 National Blue Ribbon School", "2024-10-07", "2024", "2024-10", "Democrat", "House", "GA", "Henry C. \"Hank\" Johnson, Jr.", "J000288", "hankjohnson.house.gov", "hankjohnson", "https://hankjohnson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases", "scraper", "DECATUR, GA \u2013 Congressman Hank Johnson (GA-04) announced today that Intown Community School, located in Georgia\u2019s 4th Congressional District on Lavista Road, has been named a 2024 National Blue Ribbon School by the U.S. Department of Education.\n\nThis prestigious honor, awarded to just 356 schools nationwide this year, recognizes institutions for their overall academic excellence or significant progress in closing achievement gaps among student groups.\n\n\u201cIntown Community School's designation as a National Blue Ribbon School is a testament to the dedication and hard work of its students, teachers, staff, and families,\u201d said Congressman Johnson. \u201cThis recognition reflects the school\u2019s commitment to creating an environment where all students can excel, and I could not be prouder of their accomplishments. Intown is setting a strong example for schools across the district and the nation.\u201d\n\nThe National Blue Ribbon Schools Program, now in its 41st year, has honored more than 10,000 awards to approximately 9,700 schools. Schools selected for this recognition serve as models of effective teaching and learning practices that can be emulated by educators across the country. The National Blue Ribbon School flag, presented during the recognition ceremony, is a symbol of the school's exemplary performance and commitment to educational excellence.\n\nIntown Community School will formally receive its award during the National Blue Ribbon Schools awards ceremony, which will take place in Washington, D.C., on November 7-8, 2024, at the Omni Shoreham Hotel. At the event, each school will be presented with an award plaque and a flag in recognition of their outstanding achievement.\n\nFor more information on the National Blue Ribbon Schools Program, please contact Program Director Aba Kumi at Aba.Kumi@ed.gov or (202) 401-1767.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T21:57:20Z"], ["https://hankjohnson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressman-johnson-calls-biolab-plant-conyers-close", "Congressman Johnson Calls For BioLab Plant in Conyers To Close", "2024-10-04", "2024", "2024-10", "Democrat", "House", "GA", "Henry C. \"Hank\" Johnson, Jr.", "J000288", "hankjohnson.house.gov", "hankjohnson", "https://hankjohnson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases", "scraper", "CONYERS, GA \u2013 Congressman Hank Johnson (GA-04) issued the following statement after closely monitoring the BioLab fire in conjunction with local, state and federal officials, meeting with affected residents and considering the plant\u2019s safety record:\n\n\u201cAs the number of people living in and around Conyers and the surrounding area continues to grow, this plant \u2013 which stores toxic chemicals \u2013 has become a threat to public health and should no longer be allowed to operate at its current location,\u201d said Congressman Hank Johnson (GA-04).\n\n\u201cI'm not only calling for stronger federal regulations around the storage of hazard chemicals with reactive properties, but I'll be on the side of those working to ensure the permanent closure of this plant. We can create safe, good-paying jobs without sacrificing the health, safety and wellbeing of the people who live in our communities.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T21:57:20Z"], ["https://hankjohnson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressman-johnson-statement-biolab-chemical-fire-conyers", "Congressman Johnson Statement on BioLab Chemical Fire in Conyers", "2024-09-30", "2024", "2024-09", "Democrat", "House", "GA", "Henry C. \"Hank\" Johnson, Jr.", "J000288", "hankjohnson.house.gov", "hankjohnson", "https://hankjohnson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases", "scraper", "CONYERS, GA \u2013 Congressman Hank Johnson (GA-04) issued the following statement on the latest information concerning the BioLab chemical fire that is affecting air quality in the Fourth Congressional District and beyond:\n\n\u201cOur office, in conjunction with local, state and federal officials, are monitoring the situation in Conyers closely. This has become a regional issue as people throughout the metro area are experiencing a strong chemical smell, hazy conditions and other symptoms such as irritation to the eyes, nose and throat. People should stay inside, close windows and doors and turn off air conditioning and other ventilation systems, particularly for people with pre-existing respiratory conditions and the elderly.\n\n\u201cMy office is working with federal, state and local officials to get the latest information to constituents. Rockdale, DeKalb and Fulton County Emergency Management Agencies are monitoring air quality and will issue advisories if needed.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T21:43:57Z"], ["https://mcbath.house.gov/press-releases?ID=4612A00D-978F-4FAD-9BED-F66AD542CF23", "McBath, Georgia Congressional Delegation Urge Swift Approval of State\u2019s Federal Disaster Declaration Request", "2024-09-30", "2024", "2024-09", "Democrat", "House", "GA", "Lucy McBath", "M001208", "mcbath.house.gov", "mcbath", "https://mcbath.house.gov/press-releases", "scraper", "Duluth, GA \u2014 Today, Representative Lucy McBath joined Georgia\u2019s entire Congressional Delegation in urging swift approval of Georgia\u2019s request for a Major Federal Disaster Declaration, which would unlock key Federal disaster funding for impacted families, businesses, and local governments.\n\nAfter Georgia\u2019s Emergency Management Agency (GEMA) completed disaster assessments across the state, Governor Brian Kemp formally requested the President declare a major disaster in the State of Georgia.\n\nFollowing the State of Georgia\u2019s formal request, Congresswoman Lucy McBath (GA-07), Senator Jon Ossoff, Senator Reverend Raphael Warnock, Congressman Earl L. \u201cBuddy\u201d Carter (GA-01), Congressman Sanford D. Bishop, Jr. (GA-02), Congressman Drew Ferguson (GA-03), Congressman Hank Johnson (GA-04), Congresswoman Nikema Williams (GA-05), Congressman Rich McCormick (GA-06), Congressman Austin Scott (GA-08), Congressman Andrew Clyde (GA-09), Congressman Mike Collins (GA-10), Congressman Barry Loudermilk (GA-11), Congressman Rick Allen (GA-12), Congressman David Scott (GA-13), and Congresswoman Marjorie Taylor Greene (GA-14) urged President Biden to quickly approve the State of Georgia\u2019s request, which would provide a range of important Federal assistance programs in the counties impacted by Hurricane Helene, including funds for both impacted individuals and public infrastructure.\n\n\u201cWe write to convey full support for Governor Brian Kemp\u2019s request for an expedited major disaster declaration for the counties in the State of Georgia significantly impacted by Hurricane Helene,\u201d Georgia\u2019s Congressional Delegation wrote to President Biden. \u201cWe encourage your team to promptly consider Governor Kemp\u2019s request for a major disaster declaration, and we stand ready to work with you and your Administration to support these critical recover efforts in Georgia.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T21:43:57Z"], ["https://bishop.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressman-bishop-announces-245709-to-help-shelter-southwest-georgia-s-homeless-youth-and-set-them-on-a-path-to-self-sufficiency", "CONGRESSMAN BISHOP ANNOUNCES $245,709 TO HELP SHELTER SOUTHWEST GEORGIA\u2019S HOMELESS YOUTH AND SET THEM ON A PATH TO SELF-SUFFICIENCY", "2024-09-27", "2024", "2024-09", "Democrat", "House", "GA", "Sanford D. Bishop, Jr.", "B000490", "bishop.house.gov", "bishop", "https://bishop.house.gov/media-center/press-releases", "scraper", "ALBANY, Ga. \u2013 Congressman Sanford D. Bishop, Jr., (GA-02) a senior member of the House Appropriations Committee, is delighted to announce that Open Arms Inc., a nonprofit organization in Albany, GA, has been awarded a federal grant of $245,709 through the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) to help provide emergency housing and emotional support to youth that do not have a place to live due to homelessness, domestic violence, family conflict, human trafficking, or other circumstances.\n\n\u201cHomelessness is a vicious cycle that leaves individuals vulnerable and cripples their ability to get ahead, including securing employment, healthcare, and needed social services,\u201d said Congressman Bishop. \u201cThe Transitional Living Program offers our young people, who have faced unfortunate circumstances, a lifeline to get back on their feet, beat homelessness early on, and become self-sufficient. Programs like this which support vulnerable youth are essential to community-building and setting young people on a path to find jobs, secure permanent housing, and contribute to the local economy.\u201d\n\n\u201cWe are so grateful to receive this grant. It was an incredibly competitive process, and securing this funding was critical in helping us serve the youth here in Dougherty County and Southwest Georgia,\u201d said Rosalynn Fowler Fliggins, Associate Executive Director for Open Arms, Inc. \u201cThis funding will allow us to immediately house homeless, runaway, street, and trafficked youth between the ages of 16 - 22 years. As they matriculate through this program, they will receive safe and stable housing, basic needs, life skills with personal life coaches, educational opportunities, job skills training and placement, mental and physical health care, and permanent connections with caring adults and peers. They will literally be moved from the streets to become self-sufficient citizens. This grant literally will save lives, and the entire community will benefit from the outcomes. We also want to publicly thank Congressman Sanford Bishop for his advocacy and continued support in ensuring there is funding for runaway and homeless youth programs in our community and country.\u201d\n\nEvery year, thousands of minors and young people in the United States become homeless for a variety of reasons. Some run away from home to protect their safety, some are asked to leave, and some face economic distress that leaves them experiencing homelessness. The Transitional Living Program addresses the needs of older youths, aged 16-22, who cannot safely live with their own families by providing them a safe place to live for up to 540 days in most cases. Transitional housing includes group homes, host family homes, maternity group homes, and supervised apartments.\n\nGrantees of the Transitional Living Program award are responsible for connecting the young people they serve to the necessary social services, law enforcement, educational services, vocational training, legal services, healthcare programs, and affordable childcare programs in the community. The grantee organization must also develop and supervise a Transitional Living Plan for each individual to ensure that they have the best chance possible to attain self-sufficiency after completing the program.\n\nThe Transitional Living Program was passed by Congress in 1988 as part of the Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention Actto address a growing need for long-term, supportive assistance that emergency shelter programs were not providing youth. The grant is administered through the Administration for Children and Families - Family and Youth Services Bureau at HHS.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T21:43:57Z"], ["https://bishop.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressman-bishop-announces-over-5-million-in-federal-transportation-funds-to-help-make-macon-s-roads-safer", "CONGRESSMAN BISHOP ANNOUNCES OVER $5 MILLION IN FEDERAL TRANSPORTATION FUNDS TO HELP MAKE MACON\u2019S ROADS SAFER", "2024-09-27", "2024", "2024-09", "Democrat", "House", "GA", "Sanford D. Bishop, Jr.", "B000490", "bishop.house.gov", "bishop", "https://bishop.house.gov/media-center/press-releases", "scraper", "MACON, Ga. \u2013 Congressman Sanford D. Bishop, Jr., (GA-02) is pleased to announce that Macon-Bibb County has been awarded $5,630,440 as part of the U.S. Department of Transportation\u2019s (DOT) Safe Streets and Roads for All (SS4A) Discretionary Grant Program. The SS4A program grants go directly to local communities for implementation, planning, and demonstration projects driven at the local level to improve safety and help prevent deaths and serious injuries on the nation\u2019s roadways.\n\n\u201cThis is one of the reasons I supported the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act in 2022 because it created programs like the Safe Streets and Roads for All program,\u201d said Congressman Bishop. \u201cProtecting pedestrians and bicyclists helps prevent tragic accidents, reduce traffic congestion, and make our communities safer and more livable.\u201d\n\n\u201cThe Middle Georgia Regional Commission is thrilled to support Macon-Bibb County\u2019s efforts to improve pedestrian safety in East Macon. This funding award will save lives thanks to the consistent and tireless planning efforts that made this project a reality,\u201d said Greg Boike, Director of Planning and Public Administration for the Middle Georgia Regional Commission.\n\nThe funds will be put toward improving Gray Highway and East Macon Loop by adding 1 mile of new sidewalks to Gray Highway and 3 miles of multi-use paths along the side streets Old Clinton Road and Boulevard to create East Macon Loop.\n\nThis much needed infrastructure will address pedestrian and bicyclists' safety concerns. To improve visibility, the project will include the installation of street lighting and two high-intensity activated crosswalk (HAWK) signals in the project area.\n\nIn November 2020, the Macon-Bibb County Commission adopted the Vision Zero Action Plan approach to road safety in response to a disproportionally high rate of pedestrian-traffic fatalities in the county, yet their efforts have been severely limited due to a lack of funding.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T21:43:57Z"], ["https://mcbath.house.gov/press-releases?ID=D978018B-549D-4147-9145-D2EBC5BAD455", "McBath Recognized as Best Congressional Office for Constituent Services", "2024-09-26", "2024", "2024-09", "Democrat", "House", "GA", "Lucy McBath", "M001208", "mcbath.house.gov", "mcbath", "https://mcbath.house.gov/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, DC \u2014 Today, Representative Lucy McBath (GA-07) received recognition for her outstanding public service by being named the Best Congressional Office for Constituent Service, the first winner from the state of Georgia. McBath\u2019s office provides neighbors with federal agency casework assistance and has yielded positive outcomes that have been shared by neighbors, garnered more than 6 million views on social media, and been documented in the New York Times.\n\nKnown as the \u201cOscars for Congress,\u201d the Democracy Awards recognize achievement and performance in congressional offices and by Members of Congress. McBath was one of 7 members selected in 2024. For more information from CMF about the 2024 Democracy Awards winners in each category, click here.\n\n\u201cEach week, I am privileged to read the stories of those people whose lives we have touched through our constituent services program,\u201d said McBath. \u201cIt is a tremendous honor to be recognized by the Congressional Management Foundation. I want to thank my staff for making this recognition possible, and I also want to thank my constituents back home in Georgia for allowing my team and me to walk alongside them in their time of need. It is the honor of my lifetime to serve our community in Congress.\u201d\n\nCMF cited the following as reasons for selecting Rep. McBath as winner for an award in the category of Constituent Service: \u201cFrom the beginning of her time in office, Representative Lucy McBath has inculcated in her staff a sense of shared responsibility for constituent service. Every member of the district staff handles casework, which the office feels affirms both internally and externally that serving constituents is the office\u2019s number one goal. The office has a \u2018living casework intake guide\u2019 that\u2019s altered at least every quarter as agency processes change and constituent needs fluctuate. The guide includes every step of creating a new case and all questions that need to be asked at intake for each agency with which the office interacts. For every new staffer or intern, the office has a three-day training regimen led by the District Director and Constituent Services Director that includes casework, phone communication, field representation, event management, and office operations.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T21:43:57Z"], ["https://bishop.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressman-bishop-supports-bipartisan-bill-to-rein-in-prescription-drug-costs-protect-small-pharmacies-vital-to-rural-america", "CONGRESSMAN BISHOP SUPPORTS BIPARTISAN BILL TO REIN IN PRESCRIPTION DRUG COSTS, PROTECT SMALL PHARMACIES VITAL TO RURAL AMERICA", "2024-09-25", "2024", "2024-09", "Democrat", "House", "GA", "Sanford D. Bishop, Jr.", "B000490", "bishop.house.gov", "bishop", "https://bishop.house.gov/media-center/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON \u2013 Last week, Congressman Sanford D. Bishop, Jr. (GA-02) joined a bipartisan group of legislators in front of the U.S. House to raise awareness about H.R. 9096, the Pharmacists Fight Back Act. This bipartisan bill was introduced by Congressman Jake Auchincloss (MA-05) and Congresswoman Diana Harshbarger (TN-01). This bill would prohibit large Pharmacy Benefit Managers (PBMs) from manipulating drug prices, and restricting network access and patient choice in federal healthcare plans. It also protects pharmacies, patients, and taxpayers from other unfair PBM practices.\n\n\u201cPharmacy benefit managers are fleecing independent pharmacists and consumers to the tune of billions of dollars every year\u2026 I have visited innovative pharmacies across my district over the last several years and I have seen the spreadsheets and seen the abuses they have suffered,\u201d said Congressman Bishop. \u201cPBM reform is an issue that cannot wait. I promise you that I will do everything in my power along with my colleagues to help pharmacists, particularly independent pharmacists and their customers, fight back.\u201d\n\nWATCH: Congressman Bishop\u2019s Remarks\n\nAmerica\u2019s seniors, active-duty service members, national guard/reserve members, military retirees, medal of honor recipients, and federal employees/retirees will see their drug costs lowered, and their choice of pharmacy protected via this bill.\n\nJoining members of Congress were pharmacists from across the country, including Vic Johnson, owner of Living Well Pharmacy in Augusta and Nikki Bryant, owner of Adams Family Pharmacy in Preston.\n\nWATCH: Nikki Bryant\u2019s Remarks\n\nWATCH: Vic Johnson\u2019s Remarks\n\nBil and Sharon Schmidtknecht of Wisconsin, also spoke at the event. They are the parents of Cole Schmidtknecht who passed away when a PBM increased the price of his necessary daily asthma medication to nearly the same price as his rent.\n\nThe Federal Trade Commission launched an investigation into PBMs in 2022. In July 2024, it published its interim report which found that the six largest PBMs in the U.S.\u2014Caremark, Express Scripts, OptumRx, Humana, Prime Therapeutics, and MedImpact\u2014had come to manage nearly 95% of all scripts filled in the United States. Using \u201cvertical integration,\u201d these six PBMs had come to own or be owned by or otherwise linked to some of the largest health plans or pharmacies in the nation.\n\nThe report went on to show exactly how this monopolistic situation affects independent pharmacies and their customers. According to the report, the largest PBMs often \u201cexercise significant power over\u201d drug availability and cost and which pharmacies Americans choose to use\u2015while steering people toward larger pharmacies. By prioritizing chain pharmacies, PBMs put forward contract terms that can harm independent pharmacies by cutting into their payment. They can also harm customers by limiting access to lower-cost generic competitor drugs.\n\nH.R. 9096, the Pharmacists Fight Back Act, addresses prescription drug coverage in federal programs such as Medicare Part D and Medicare Advantage Plans, Medicaid managed care, Tricare, and the Federal Employee Health Benefits Program. It proposes a transparent reimbursement model for federal programs that bans spread pricing and caps costs for patients. In addition, it prohibits PBMs from \u201csteering\u201d patients to specific pharmacies by allowing beneficiaries to use any in-network pharmacy.\n\nThe bill also prohibits PBMs from requiring a beneficiary to use a branded drug when there is a less expensive generic alternative available, among other provisions. The legislation makes it a felony with a $1,000,000 fine for each violation of the act. Finally, it empowers patients by allowing individuals to take civil action against PBMs that breach provisions in this bill.\n\n###\n\nPHOTO CAPTION: Congressman Sanford D. Bishop, Jr., (GA-02) discusses H.R. 9096, the Pharmacists Fight Back Act with reporters in front of the U.S. Capitol.\n\nImage\n\nPHOTOS CAPTION: Nikki Bryant, owner of Adams Family Pharmacy in Preston, and Vic Johnson, Vic Johnson, owner of Living Well Pharmacy in Augusta, speak to reporters about the effects that PBMs have had on pharmacists like them.\n\nImage", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T21:43:57Z"], ["https://bishop.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressman-bishop-votes-for-bipartisan-funding-bill-to-keep-government-open-through-mid-december", "CONGRESSMAN BISHOP VOTES FOR BIPARTISAN FUNDING BILL TO KEEP GOVERNMENT OPEN THROUGH MID-DECEMBER", "2024-09-25", "2024", "2024-09", "Democrat", "House", "GA", "Sanford D. Bishop, Jr.", "B000490", "bishop.house.gov", "bishop", "https://bishop.house.gov/media-center/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON \u2013 Today, Congressman Sanford D. Bishop, Jr., (GA-02), a senior member of the House Appropriations Committee, supported the passage of a short-term funding bill to keep the federal government open and serving the American people. The bill was adopted by a bipartisan vote of 341-82 and now heads to the U.S. Senate for approval.\n\nCurrent federal funding expires at the end of this month. This bill would extend funding through mid-December. The measure was necessary as Congressional Democrats continue to work towards a final, full-year funding bill with their Republican colleagues.\n\n\u201cAs Members of Congress, it is our key Constitutional duty to ensure that the government is funded and serving the people. I am glad that we were able to come to a bipartisan compromise \u2013 a short-term funding bill that gets us through to mid-December and avoids immediate catastrophe,\u201d said Congressman Bishop. \u201cHowever, I hope the House majority has learned after several months of failed attempts to pass partisan appropriations bills that we must put poison pill amendments and culture war politics aside. We must pass a bipartisan, full-year funding bill so that our federal and local governments can provide uninterrupted services to our citizens as well as plan their budgets for the year ahead.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T21:43:57Z"], ["https://hankjohnson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressman-johnson-re-introduces-bipartisan-bicameral-legislation-hold", "Congressman Johnson Re-Introduces Bipartisan, Bicameral Legislation to Hold Judiciary Accountable To Its Employees", "2024-09-25", "2024", "2024-09", "Democrat", "House", "GA", "Henry C. \"Hank\" Johnson, Jr.", "J000288", "hankjohnson.house.gov", "hankjohnson", "https://hankjohnson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases", "scraper", "Reps. Johnson, Nadler, Torres Re-Introduce Bill In House To Protect Employees of the Federal Judiciary Against Discrimination, Sexual Harassment, Retaliation, and Other Forms of Workplace Misconduct\n\nSens. Hirono, Murkowski Introduce Bill in Senate\n\nLegislation would protect workers and whistleblowers, create effective workplace misconduct prevention programs, investigate complaints, and hold the powerful accountable\n\nWASHINGTON, D.C. \u2014 Today, Rep. Hank Johnson (GA-04), ranking member of the Judiciary Subcommittee on Courts, Intellectual Property and the Internet, in concert with Judiciary Committee Ranking Member Rep. Jerrold Nadler (NY-12), and Rep. Norma Torres (CA-35), senior member of the Appropriations Committee and member of the Financial Services and General Government Subcommittee that oversees the Federal Judiciary \u2013 and Sen. Mazie Hirono (HI), a senior member of the Senate Judiciary Committee and Sen. Lisa Murkowski (AK) \u2013 reintroduced the Judiciary Accountability Act of 2024 (JAA).\n\nThe JAA would ensure the more than 30,000 employees of the federal judiciary have strong statutory rights and protections against discrimination, sexual harassment, retaliation, and other forms of workplace misconduct.\n\nThe foundational federal anti-discrimination statutes \u2014 such as Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 \u2014 still do not apply to the federal judiciary, making it one of the only employers in the entire country \u2013 public or private \u2013 whose employees are not protected by federal civil rights laws that prohibit discrimination and retaliation. The federal judiciary has faced sustained criticism for its approach to preventing, investigating, and redressing sexual harassment and discrimination by judges and other high-level judicial branch officials. This summer, back-to-back reports were released \u2014 one from the U.S. Government Accountability Office, the other from the Federal Judicial Center and National Academy of Public Administration \u2014 underscoring that the internal dispute resolution mechanisms implemented by the judiciary to combat these issues have instead led to a lack of accountability for judges who mistreat employees.\n\n\u201cIt is the height of injustice that judiciary employees who support the daily functioning of our courts lack basic workplace protections,\" said Rep. Hank Johnson, Ranking Member of the Judiciary Subcommittee on Courts. \u201cThese protections are already provided to congressional and executive branch staff. Why should we continue to exempt our third branch of government? In the face of clear, repeated evidence of unaccountable judges committing egregious misconduct, Congress has the power and the duty to fix it and ensure judicial employees who use their voices and bravely sharing their experiences do not do so in vain. I\u2019m pleased to lead re-introduction of the Judiciary Accountability Act, which is common-sense legislation that would align the federal judiciary with not just the rest of the federal government but with private sector workplaces as well.\u201d\n\n\u201cIt is unconscionable that over 60 years after the signing of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, employees of the federal judiciary are not protected from workplace discrimination,\u201d said Ranking Member Jerrold Nadler. \u201cThe lack of protections undermines credibility in the court, which is why I'm proud to reintroduce the Judiciary Accountability Act, to bring the same basic rights available to congressional and executive branch staff to the judicial branch.\u201d\n\n\u201cThe Judiciary Accountability Act is a significant step towards ensuring the safety and rights of judiciary employees. It is crucial that judiciary employees feel secure in expressing concerns about misconduct without fearing for their safety or job security. All Judiciary members are entitled to fundamental workplace rights that safeguard them from harassment and discrimination,\" said Rep. Norma Torres. \u201cThe era of judges abusing their power and instilling fear in the work environment is over. That is why I am honored to co-lead the Judiciary Accountability Act alongside ranking member of the Judiciary Subcommittee on Courts, Rep. Johnson. We are deeply committed to providing protections backed up by the full force of United States law for employees who come forward after experiencing sexual harassment. Our federal Judiciary must set an example of accountability in addressing sexual harassment, and the provisions outlined in this bill will help achieve that goal.\u201d\n\n\u201cNo one is above the law, but most federal judiciary employees lack essential workplace protections, preventing them from obtaining justice when they face discrimination and harassment,\u201d said Senator Hirono. \u201cEmployees of the federal judiciary dedicate their careers to providing justice, and they deserve justice when they face misconduct in the workplace. Yet these employees are among the only ones in the United States who lack the right to sue when they face discrimination or harassment. The Judiciary Accountability Act will help to protect the 30,000 federal judiciary employees by extending basic anti-discrimination protections to cover them, giving them access to federal court to vindicate those rights, and helping to ensure more accountability in the federal courts.\u201d\n\n\u201cThe Judiciary Accountability Act expands federal laws that prohibit workplace harassment and discrimination to employees of the judiciary, putting them on par with executive branch, congressional, and private sector employees who have long-had these protections,\u201d said Senator Murkowski. \u201cThis legislation not only helps safeguard employees from mistreatment at work, but also establishes a review system to foster accountability when those rights are violated. I appreciate the opportunity to lead this bipartisan legislation with Senator Hirono to cultivate transparency and a positive working environment within the judicial branch.\u201d\n\nThe Judiciary Accountability Act will:\n\n\u2022 Give judicial branch employees the same anti-discrimination rights and remedies private sector and government employees have had for decades. Today, judicial branch employees are not protected by the federal civil rights statutes that prohibit discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex (including sexual orientation and gender identity), national origin, age, and disability. The Judiciary Accountability Act would correct that injustice.\n\n\u2022 Protect judicial branch employees from retaliation against them by providing them with the right to sue for relief if they are retaliated against. Unlike most other federal employees, judicial branch employees currently have no statutory protection against retaliation. At a House Judiciary Committee hearing in 2020, multiple witnesses testified that they and others were afraid to come forward about the sexual harassment they suffered or witnessed.\n\n\u2022 Establish a comprehensive workplace misconduct prevention program overseen by an improved and expanded Office of Judicial Integrity. The Office\u2019s Board of Directors would include members experienced in investigating and enforcing civil rights laws against workplace discrimination, as well as experience assisting victims of discrimination, retaliation, sexual harassment, and sexual assault. The Office would administer a nationwide, confidential reporting system and a comprehensive training program addressing workplace behavior and bystander intervention, among other duties.\n\n\u2022 Establish an Office of Employee Advocacy to assist judicial branch employees in matters related to workplace discrimination and harassment. The Office of Employee Advocacy would advise covered judicial employees about their rights and the resources available to them, provide legal assistance where appropriate, and operate an anonymous reporting hotline for covered judicial employees.\n\n\u2022 Require regular assessments of workplace culture to determine the effectiveness of judicial branch policies designed to prevent and remedy harassment and discrimination.\n\n\u2022 Make clear that discrimination and retaliation constitute judicial misconduct and ensure that the judicial misconduct laws apply to all federal judges, regardless of whether they subsequently resign, retire, or pass away.\n\nCosponsors: Reps. Madeleine Dean (PA), Bonnie Watson Coleman (NJ), Rashida Tlaib (MI), Adam Schiff (CA), Eleanor Holmes Norton (DC)\n\nWhat Groups Are Saying\n\n\u201cSexual harassment in the judiciary is a judicial ethics problem\" said Debra Perlin, Policy Director at Citizens for Responsibility and Ethics in Washington (CREW). \"The public's trust in our democracy depends on the credibility of an accountable judicial branch. Repeated credible complaints of sexual harassment and assault in the judiciary undermines that accountability. CREW applauds Congressman Johnson and Senator Hirono for reintroducing the Judiciary Accountability Act to extend protections against sexual harassment and discrimination to judicial branch employees, who are essential to our courts.\u201d\n\n\u201cLegal Momentum, The Women\u2019s Legal Defense and Education Fund is proud to endorse the Judicial Accountability Act as it is a long-overdue and crucial step forward in the fight to advance workplace gender equality. Our nation\u2019s federal judicial workers deserve a workplace free from discrimination, sexual harassment, and other forms of misconduct, and it is unacceptable that federal judges are exempt from the very laws they are tasked with enforcing. History has proven time and time again that protections that benefit women benefit everyone, and when employees feel safe to advocate for themselves at work, the entire system only grows stronger,\u201d said Azaleea Carlea, Legal Director of Legal Momentum.\n\nFix the Court Executive Director Gabe Roth said: \u201cAnti-harassment policy is one of the many areas in which the judiciary falls short when compared to the other two branches and the rules that apply to them. Among the shortcomings, though, this is the most indefensible. I applaud Reps. Johnson, Nadler and Torres and Sens. Hirono and Murkowski for their legislation to give third branch employees both the remedies they need should they experience misconduct and the resources they deserve to help prevent harassment, discrimination, and retaliation from happening in the first place.\u201d\n\nBill text available HERE.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T21:43:57Z"], ["https://bishop.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressman-bishop-announces-116349-nsf-grant-to-mercer-university-for-material-science-research-that-can-help-many-industries", "CONGRESSMAN BISHOP ANNOUNCES $116,349 NSF GRANT TO MERCER UNIVERSITY FOR MATERIAL SCIENCE RESEARCH THAT CAN HELP MANY INDUSTRIES", "2024-09-24", "2024", "2024-09", "Democrat", "House", "GA", "Sanford D. Bishop, Jr.", "B000490", "bishop.house.gov", "bishop", "https://bishop.house.gov/media-center/press-releases", "scraper", "MACON, Ga. \u2013 Congressman Sanford D. Bishop, Jr. (GA-02) is pleased to announce that Mercer University has been awarded $116,349 in federal funds through the National Science Foundation (NSF) for research equipment that will help advance material science research and teaching.\n\n\u201cI am glad to see the National Science Foundation helping support research that can have broad applications across several industries,\u201d said Congressman Bishop. \u201cMercer University faculty and students are part of our country\u2019s best and brightest. They will use this grant for precision tools to conduct cutting edge research that advances American manufacturing which adds to our economic strength and supports our national security.\u201d\n\n\u201cThe ultra-high accuracy digital microscope acquisition will promote multidisciplinary research for developing antimicrobial-coated materials. It will facilitate surface investigations on polymers and composites used in the automotive, marine, construction and aerospace industries and evaluate the benefits of coatings applied onto their surface,\u201d said Dr. Dorina Mihut, Associate Professor at Mercer University. \u201cUnderstanding and preventing erosion and abrasion is a serious concern for a variety of industries, including aerospace and the oil and gas industry. The digital microscope will facilitate fundamental studies of erosion, abrasion and their effects on materials\u2019 surfaces.\u201d\n\nDr. Mihut added, \u201cIt will also significantly expand faculty and students\u2019 experimental participation to multiple research projects and training from mechanical, biomedical, environmental, and civil engineering, broadening the participation of underrepresented groups.\u201d\n\nThe National Science Foundation is an independent federal agency that invests 25% of federal funding into American universities to drive innovation and advancement of the sciences.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T21:43:57Z"], ["https://bishop.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressman-bishop-announces-387750-in-federal-funds-to-mercer-university-to-help-treat-drug-addiction", "CONGRESSMAN BISHOP ANNOUNCES $387,750 IN FEDERAL FUNDS TO MERCER UNIVERSITY TO HELP TREAT DRUG ADDICTION", "2024-09-24", "2024", "2024-09", "Democrat", "House", "GA", "Sanford D. Bishop, Jr.", "B000490", "bishop.house.gov", "bishop", "https://bishop.house.gov/media-center/press-releases", "scraper", "MACON, Ga. \u2013 Congressman Sanford D. Bishop, Jr. (GA-02) is pleased to announce that Mercer University has been awarded $387,750 in federal funds by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) through its Drug Abuse and Addiction Research Programs for biochemistry research that will help address the opioid epidemic and the additional complications arising from illicit contamination with fentanyl and xylazine.\n\n\u201cI am pleased that the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services is supporting the amazing research being done at Mercer University,\u201d said Congressman Bishop. \u201cThrough the tireless efforts of faculty and staff to better understand the biochemistry of illicit drugs, we can develop new ways to treat addiction and help prevent drug abuse.\u201d\n\n\u201cThe widespread adulteration of fentanyl with xylazine has worsened the ongoing U.S. opioid epidemic, as the addition of xylazine causes new clinical consequences, including severe skin necrosis,\u201d said Dr. Nader H. Moniri, Ph.D., Associate Dean for Research at Mercer University College of Pharmacy and Co-Principal Investigator of the study. \u201cThis NIH grant is vital for advancing the understanding of how xylazine use destroys skin tissue at a molecular level. By investigating these processes, we aim to identify pathways for developing more effective treatments and interventions.\u201d\n\nXylazine is a non-opiate sedative, analgesic, and muscle relaxant only authorized in the United States for veterinary use according to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. It is not currently a controlled substance under the U.S. Controlled Substances Act. According to the Drug Enforcement Administration, the prevalence of xylazine is increasing, spreading beyond the traditional white-powder heroin markets in the northeastern United States where it has been seen for several years.\n\nThe research supported by this grant will help better understand how xylazine affects individuals. The findings may be helpful in developing clinical treatments to counteract the negative effects seen with illicit use of the drug or substances contaminated with it.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T21:43:57Z"], ["https://mcbath.house.gov/press-releases?ID=D2AC5E54-33CC-4DC8-BB56-C1B8EB71E293", "House Passes Bipartisan McBath Bill to Combat Hazing on College Campuses", "2024-09-24", "2024", "2024-09", "Democrat", "House", "GA", "Lucy McBath", "M001208", "mcbath.house.gov", "mcbath", "https://mcbath.house.gov/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, DC \u2013 Representative Lucy McBath (D-GA), Education and the Workforce Committee Chairwoman Virginia Foxx (R-NC), Ranking Member Robert C. \u201cBobby\u201d Scott (D-VA), and Representative Jeff Duncan (R-SC) tonight are celebrating the House passage of H.R. 5646, the bipartisan Stop Campus Hazing Act, which combats hazing on college campuses and protects students across the nation.\n\n\u201cI know the pain of losing a child. I know the hole it leaves in your soul and the questions it leaves us to dwell on for the rest of our lives. Throughout this process, I have been heartbroken to hear the stories of those who lost children to hazing and are now continuing their legacies by making change,\u201d said Representative Lucy McBath. \u201cOur bipartisan, bicameral legislation strengthens important national standards for data collection and reporting so that students, their families, and our nation can stop these horrific instances. I am delighted to see it pass the House and thank my colleagues for their support as we strive to protect the health, safety, and success of our students.\u201d\n\n\u201cPostsecondary education in America has been besieged by hazing for far too long \u2013 the safety and well-being of students must remain a top priority no matter what institution they attend. The bipartisan Stop Campus Hazing Act will increase transparency and improve reporting processes at educational institutions across the nation,\u201d said Chairwoman Foxx. \u201cThe relentless advocacy of parents, families, dedicated organizations, and campus safety professionals has played an instrumental role in bringing this commonsense legislation to fruition.\u201d\n\n\u201cSince the year 2000, there have been more than 100 hazing-related deaths on college campuses. Fortunately, the Stop Campus Hazing Act, aims to prevent students from dangerous hazing on college campuses,\" said Ranking Member Robert C. \u201cBobby\u201d Scott. \u201cBy improving reporting and mandating prevention programs, this bill is a bipartisan measure to protect the health and safety of students while ensuring that students and their parents can make informed decisions when joining campus organizations.\n\n\u201c10 years after Tucker Hipps\u2019 tragic death from a suspected incident of campus hazing, the family still searches for justice. I want to thank Chair Foxx for her support, as well as Clemson University and the fraternal councils for realizing the need to move forward with these reforms,\u201d said Representative Jeff Duncan.\u201cToday, I am proud to bring bipartisan legislation to the House floor along with my friend and colleague Congresswoman McBath to honor Tucker\u2019s memory and the memories of hundreds of other campus hazing victims by mandating greater transparency in fraternity hazing reporting.\u201d\n\nBackground\n\nThe bipartisan Stop Campus Hazing Act:\n\nCombats Hazing and Protects Students: This bill requires that universities report hazing incidents under the Clery Act and creates a clear and consistent definition for hazing statistics across all postsecondary institutions.\n\nEducates and Prevents: The bill requires institutions to provide comprehensive hazing prevention programs for faculty and students to avoid hazing before it occurs and cultivate a culture of respect on campus.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T21:43:57Z"], ["https://mcbath.house.gov/press-releases?ID=FB9E7E19-B904-4D6F-B35B-37E9F3F74E8A", "McBath Announces Georgia Wellness Group, Inc. Will Receive Nearly Half a Million Dollars from Health and Human Services Grant", "2024-09-23", "2024", "2024-09", "Democrat", "House", "GA", "Lucy McBath", "M001208", "mcbath.house.gov", "mcbath", "https://mcbath.house.gov/press-releases", "scraper", "Duluth, GA \u2014 Today, Rep. Lucy McBath (GA-07) announced that The Georgia Wellness Group, Inc. DBA Obria Medical Clinics is a recipient of a $445,500 award from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. The funding will be used to expand Obria Medical Clinics\u2019 evidence-based programs focused on sexual risk avoidance education. Funding for this application was requested by McBath in a letter of support to the Administration for Children and Families in June.\n\n\u201cOur community organizations play an important role in implementing Georgia\u2019s strategy to support the health of our families and decrease the teen birth rate,\u201d McBath said. \u201cThis investment in Obria Medical Clinics\u2019 work will enable them to extend their reach to fill in the gaps and reach young people who need help the most. I was proud to support this successful grant application, and I look forward to seeing the added impact this award will have on their excellent reputation in the state.\u201d\n\n\u201cObria Medical Clinics is honored to be a recipient of the Sexual Risk Avoidance Education Federal Grant for a second cycle,\u201d said Robin Mauck, Executive Director. \u201cOur award will enable us to expand our Positive Youth Development Program, Empowered, transforming the lives of youth in our community by equipping them with the knowledge and skills necessary for making healthy relationship decisions. We are grateful to Congresswoman Lucy McBath and her support for this endeavor and eagerly look forward to continuing our impactful work in the community.\"", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T21:43:57Z"], ["https://bishop.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressman-bishop-highlights-over-480000-in-fema-funds-to-help-dawson-and-grady-county-fire-emergency-services", "CONGRESSMAN BISHOP HIGHLIGHTS OVER $480,000 IN FEMA FUNDS TO HELP DAWSON AND GRADY COUNTY FIRE & EMERGENCY SERVICES", "2024-09-19", "2024", "2024-09", "Democrat", "House", "GA", "Sanford D. Bishop, Jr.", "B000490", "bishop.house.gov", "bishop", "https://bishop.house.gov/media-center/press-releases", "scraper", "DAWSON, Ga. \u2013 Congressman Sanford D. Bishop, Jr. (GA-02) is pleased to announce that the Dawson Fire Department and Grady County Emergency Management Agency received $452,380.95 and $30,476.19, respectively through the Federal Emergency Management Agency\u2019s (FEMA) Assistance to Firefighters Grant program.\n\n\u201cEvery day our firefighters are putting their lives on the line to keep us safe. I am making sure that Congress provides funds for FEMA so that our local fire and emergency services departments have the help they need to train, equip, and keep our first responders safe while they serve and protect us,\u201d said Congressman Bishop.\n\n\u201cThe grant is going to be a very big help to our community,\u201d said Chief Rusty Hunter of the Dawson Fire Department. He noted that the award will be used for the purchase of a new, reliable fire engine. \u201cThe new truck will absolutely be a benefit to our town and firefighters,\u201d added Chief Hunter.\n\n\u201cWe just really appreciate the help we get with equipment,\u201d said Chief Richard Phillips of Grady County\u2019s Emergency Management Agency. \u201cWe thank SanfordBishop, for helping us.\u201d\n\nChief Phillips noted that the funds will help purchase Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs) and industrial washers and dryers to clean gear after fighting fires.\n\nCongress annually appropriates funds for FEMA which oversees a trio of federal programs geared towards helping fire and emergency services departments recruit, train, and equip first responders. These programs include the Assistance to Firefighters Grant (AFG) program, the Fire Prevention and Safety Program, and the Staffing for Adequate Fire and Emergency Response (SAFER) grant programs.\n\nCongressman Bishop serves in a senior role on the U.S. House Appropriations Committee and made the case for strong funding of these programs in the Fiscal Year 2024 federal spending bill. And, as of September 13, 2024, FEMA has made 1,835 awards totaling $516.2 million across all three grant programs to fire and emergency services departments across America.\n\nSince January of 2023, fire and emergency services departments in Crawford, Grady, Houston, Macon, Muscogee, Schley, and Terrell Counties have received over $2 million in federal funding through FEMA\u2019s AFG and the SAFER grant programs to assist in purchasing equipment, recruitment, and training.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T21:43:57Z"], ["https://mcbath.house.gov/press-releases?ID=450AE22F-9057-4389-A4ED-CDA02C64890E", "McBath, Fitzpatrick, Chavez-DeRemer, Mrvan, Houchin Introduce Bipartisan Resolution Designating \u201cNational Adult Education and Family Literacy Week\u201d", "2024-09-19", "2024", "2024-09", "Democrat", "House", "GA", "Lucy McBath", "M001208", "mcbath.house.gov", "mcbath", "https://mcbath.house.gov/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, DC \u2013 Representatives Lucy McBath (D-GA), Brian Fitzpatrick (R-PA), Lori Chavez-DeRemer (R-OR), Erin Houchin (R-IN), and Frank Mrvan (D-IN) have introduced a resolution designating September 15th through September 21st of 2024 as \u201cNational Adult Education and Family Literacy Week.\u201d The resolution highlights the need for every American to have the literacy skills necessary to succeed while bringing awareness to the importance of adult education and fostering a family culture of learning for America\u2019s future generations.\n\n\u201cWe want to give everyone, adult and child alike, the tools to create the best possible lives for themselves,\u201d said Rep. McBath. \u201cEducation is the greatest creator of opportunity we have, and it\u2019s an important step in building a sustainable economy that works for everyone. We can no longer neglect the basic education of American adults or the roles they play in the education of their children. With the designation of National Adult Education and Family Literacy Week, we hope to draw attention to the gaps in adult education and promote much-needed investment in American families.\u201d\n\n\u201cImproving adult literacy and basic education has a direct positive impact on our nation\u2019s social and economic well-being,\u201d said Congressman Fitzpatrick. \u201cI am proud to join my colleagues in introducing this bipartisan resolution recognizing the importance of adult education and family literacy. I remain committed to supporting access to adult foundational education, workforce skills, and family literacy programs that enable greater success at home, in the workplace, and in the community.\u201d\n\nCongressman Mrvan stated, \u201cProud to join Rep. McBath and my House colleagues in this bipartisan initiative to promote National Adult Education and Family Literacy Week. Let us continue to work to increase access to life-long education and improve literacy rates across our nation to promote the ability of everyone to thrive and succeed in our economy.\u201d\n\n\"Literacy is the foundation for success in education, employment, and community engagement, and it\u2019s crucial that we support efforts to provide these essential skills to adults across the nation. I\u2019m proud to join this initiative to ensure everyone has the opportunity to learn, grow, and succeed, regardless of age or background.\" \u2013 Congresswoman Erin Houchin\n\nThe resolution is co-sponsored by Representatives Sanford D. Bishop, Jr. (D-GA), Danny Davis (D-IL), Dan Goldman (D-NY), Henry C. \u201cHank\u201d Johnson, Jr. (D-GA), Eric Swalwell (D-CA), and Rashida Tlaib (D-MI).\n\nOver 40 million American adults lack the basic literacy, numeracy, and digital skills necessary to succeed at home, in the workplace, and in society. These skills extend into life at home\u2014parental duties for American adults account for a significant portion of education for our future generations. Whether it is the practice of reading to their child or teaching them everyday skills for later in life, increased parental involvement is a consistent indicator of success for that child later in life.\n\nAdult education programs provide English language proficiency, numeracy, literacy, digital literacy, work readiness, soft skills, high school equivalency, and numerous wraparound services to adult learners around the country. Adult education programs serve fewer than one million people out of an estimated 16 million who would like to participate. Recognizing the importance of these services is a critical first step to providing adult learners and educators the resources and support they need to teach and learn effectively.\n\nThe resolution will:\n\nRaise awareness of the importance of adult foundational education, workforce skills, and family literacy programs.\n\nEncourage people across the United States to support programs for adult education, workforce skills, and family literacy programs.\n\nAcknowledge the importance of these programs.\n\nCall on private, public, and nonprofit entities to invest in programs for adult education, workforce skills, and family literacy with the goal of creating a fully literate America.\n\nTo read the resolution, please click here.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T21:43:57Z"], ["https://bishop.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/reps-sanford-bishop-donald-norcross-and-austin-scott-introduce-bipartisan-bill-to-honor-president-jimmy-carter-with-congressional-gold-medal", "REPS. SANFORD BISHOP, DONALD NORCROSS, AND AUSTIN SCOTT INTRODUCE BIPARTISAN BILL TO HONOR PRESIDENT JIMMY CARTER WITH CONGRESSIONAL GOLD MEDAL", "2024-09-18", "2024", "2024-09", "Democrat", "House", "GA", "Sanford D. Bishop, Jr.", "B000490", "bishop.house.gov", "bishop", "https://bishop.house.gov/media-center/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON \u2013 Congressman Sanford D. Bishop, Jr. (GA-02) along with Congressman Donald Norcross (NJ-01) and Congressman Austin Scott (GA-08) introduced a bipartisan bill today that would honor former Georgia Governor, former U.S. President, Navy veteran, and lifelong humanitarian and resident of Georgia\u2019s Second Congressional District, Jimmy Carter, with the Congressional Gold Medal.\n\nThe Congressional Gold Medal is the highest civilian award granted by an act of Congress in recognition for distinguished achievements and contributions.\n\n\u201cJimmy Carter embodies the best of our country\u2019s ideals. He is a model of compassion, duty, and selfless service. Georgia is proud of this native son, a humble man from Plains, who has accomplished so much in his life,\u201d said Congressman Bishop. \u201cIt has been a privilege to know and work with him for over 50 years. He is a devoted family man whose boundless love is reflected in the fruits of his lifetime of service and sacrifice on behalf of humankind.\u201d\n\n\u201cPresident Carter is a true American patriot who dedicated his life to public service as a naval officer, Governor, and President of the United States. Growing up, President Carter inspired me to get involved in government,\u201d said Congressman Norcross. \u201cI watched as he helped negotiate the Camp David Accords, created the Department of Education, and worked to advance democracy and human rights around the globe. President Carter has earned the Congressional Gold Medal for his years of service to the American people.\u201d\n\n\u201cPresident Jimmy Carter\u2019s life of distinguished public service is a shining example for all Americans. From his time in the Navy to his humanitarian work after his Presidency, he has made Georgia proud and deserves this honor,\u201d said Congressman Scott.\n\nAs President of the United States, Jimmy Carter led the world by delivering the Panama Canal treaties, Camp David Accords, SALT II treaty, and the establishment of diplomatic relations with China. He redefined the United States\u2019 approach to education, energy, and the environment.\n\nHe has led international organizations and remains a world leader to whom others turn for inspiration and guidance. After leaving the White House, President Carter and his wife Rosalynn founded the Carter Center to keep the peace, strengthen freedom and democracy, and improve health around the world. President Carter and Mrs. Carter worked with Habitat for Humanity to build, improve, and repair thousands of homes, building homes themselves well into their nineties.\n\nHis tenacious spirit of service led President Carter to be awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 2002.\n\nYou can read the full text of the legislation on Congressman Bishop\u2019s website:\n\nhttps://bishop.house.gov/sites/evo-subsites/bishop.house.gov/files/evo-media-document/USHRBillText_CongressionalGoldMedal-JimmyCarter.pdf", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T21:43:57Z"], ["https://hankjohnson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressman-johnson-announces-200k-award-conyers-law-enforcement-mental", "Congressman Johnson Announces $200K Award for Conyers Law Enforcement Mental Health, Wellness Initiative", "2024-09-18", "2024", "2024-09", "Democrat", "House", "GA", "Henry C. \"Hank\" Johnson, Jr.", "J000288", "hankjohnson.house.gov", "hankjohnson", "https://hankjohnson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases", "scraper", "CONYERS, GA \u2013 Congressman Hank Johnson (GA-04) announced that the City of Conyers was awarded $200,000 through the Department of Justice\u2019s Office of Community Oriented Policing Services (COPS Office). The funding, part of more than $600 million in awards provided nationwide, comes through the Law Enforcement Mental Health and Wellness Act (LEMHWA) program to support the mental health and wellness of law enforcement officers and staff.\n\n\u201cThis $200,000 grant will directly benefit our law enforcement officers in Conyers by providing them with critical mental health resources and support,\u201d said Congressman Johnson. \u201cOur officers face tremendous challenges every day, and ensuring their well-being is essential not only for them but also for the safety and strength of our communities.\u201d\n\nThe award is part of a broader national initiative to support state, local, tribal, and other entities through various COPS Office grant programs, including funding to hire new officers, improve school safety, and combat the opioid and methamphetamine crises. The LEMHWA program, specifically, aims to improve access to mental health services for law enforcement officers and staff, an increasingly critical issue for police departments nationwide.\n\nIn total, the COPS Office will distribute more than $600 million to support public safety initiatives, including:\n\n$157 million through the COPS Hiring Program (CHP) to hire nearly 1,200 new officers.\n\n$73 million for school safety improvements through the School Violence Prevention Program (SVPP).\n\n$25.1 million for crisis intervention teams and community policing development.\n\n$46 million to combat the opioid and methamphetamine crises.\n\n\u201cI commend the Department of Justice for recognizing the importance of investing in public safety and providing our local law enforcement with the tools they need to serve and protect,\u201d Congressman Johnson added. \u201cThis funding will make a meaningful difference for the people of Georgia\u2019s 4th District.\u201d\n\nFor more information about the COPS Office grants, visit the Department of Justice COPS website.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T21:43:57Z"], ["https://hankjohnson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/whitehouse-and-johnson-file-public-comment-judicial-conferences", "Whitehouse and Johnson File Public Comment on Judicial Conference\u2019s Proposed Amicus Brief Disclosure Rules", "2024-09-13", "2024", "2024-09", "Democrat", "House", "GA", "Henry C. \"Hank\" Johnson, Jr.", "J000288", "hankjohnson.house.gov", "hankjohnson", "https://hankjohnson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases", "scraper", "Top Democrats on the Senate and House Judiciary Courts Subcommittees applaud the Conference\u2019s effort and offer recommendations to bring greater transparency to amicus brief funding\n\nWashington, DC \u2013 Senator Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI), Chair of the Judiciary Subcommittee on Federal Courts, and Representative Hank Johnson (D-GA), Ranking Member on the House Judiciary Subcommittee on Courts, have submitted a public comment to the Judicial Conference on the agency\u2019s proposed rules from August governing the disclosure of the identity of funders of amicus curiae (or \u201cfriend of the court\u201d) briefs.\n\n\u201cWithout taking a position on other provisions of the proposed amendment, we strongly encourage the Committee to adopt the provisions improving disclosures related to amici curiae. If adopted, the new rule would yield a long-overdue, if incomplete, improvement over existing amicus disclosure requirements,\u201d wrote Whitehouse and Johnson.\n\nThe lawmakers proposed several recommendations to strengthen the Judicial Conference\u2019s proposal, including potential ways to shine a spotlight on coordinated amicus filings.\n\n\u201cThe chief recommendation we propose is that a subsection be added related to connections among amici. The Committee is justifiably attentive to the difference in burden between disclosing links between amici and parties versus disclosing links between amici and the world at large. Some disclosures by amici are easily managed, however. For example, the Committee should require amici to disclose at least major donors funding multiple amici. To ensure consistency, the Committee could adopt the same disclosure thresholds as it has with respect to amicus-party connections,\u201d wrote Whitehouse and Johnson.\n\nWhitehouse and Johnson continued, \u201ctoo often, cases are \u2018faux litigation\u2019\u2014the litigating group found the client, judge-shopped the court, and participated in an orchestrated campaign of judicial lobbying by an amicus flotilla. It is the flotilla of coordinated amicus filings and the common funders and orchestrators of the flotilla that need disclosing. Flotillas of coordinated amicus briefs add little beyond a false appearance of numerosity and a great many extra pages, so there is little added value to the court from all the filings. Redundancy is disfavored, and so should subterfuge be.\u201d\n\nAmicus curiae briefs are written by non-parties to a case to provide information, expertise, insight, or advocacy. Amicus briefs have become an increasingly influential tool for powerful special interest groups seeking to lobby the federal courts. While interest groups lobbying Congress face stringent financial disclosure requirements, no similar requirements exist for judicial lobbying. This secrecy undermines judicial independence, is detrimental to the adversarial process, and can lead the public to view courts as political actors.\n\n\u201cA robust and coordinated system operates to flood appellate court proceedings with covertly funded amicus encouragement, while denying courts, the parties, and the public essential knowledge to evaluate the true interests behind the briefing and any resulting conflicts,\u201d wrote Whitehouse and Johnson.\n\n\u201cIn Congress, those who lobby the institution must make quite robust disclosures about their activities and payments. It is time to clean up this avenue of anonymous lobbying of the judiciary,\u201d concluded the lawmakers.\n\nFor years, Whitehouse and Johnson have urged the federal courts to adopt a stronger standard of disclosure for interests filing amicus briefs.\n\nLetter from Whitehouse to Supreme Court (1/4/19). The letter explained several issues with the current amicus disclosure rule and requested feedback on Whitehouse and Johnson\u2019s AMICUS Act to improve amicus transparency. [FULL LETTER]\n\nLetter from Whitehouse and Johnson to Supreme Court (6/18/19). The letter requested information from the Supreme Court about its enforcement of its amicus disclosure rule. [FULL LETTER]\n\nLetter from Whitehouse and Johnson to the Supreme Court (5/13/20). The letter pointed to examples demonstrating why the current amicus disclosure rule is inadequate, including Google LLC v. Oracle America Inc. and Seila Law LLC v. CFPB. [FULL LETTER]\n\nLetter from the Supreme Court to the Judicial Conference (9/18/20). The Supreme Court Clerk of Court forwarded his correspondence with Whitehouse and Johnson to the Judicial Conference\u2019s Committee on Rules of Practice and Procedure, stating that the Committee \u201cmay wish to consider whether an amendment\u201d to the lower court disclosure rule \u201cis in order.\u201d The Clerk stated \u201c[t]he Committee\u2019s consideration would provide helpful guidance on whether an amendment\u201d to the Court\u2019s disclosure rule is necessary because the two rules are similar. [FULL LETTER]\n\nLetter from Whitehouse and Johnson to the Judicial Conference (2/23/21). The letter conveyed the members\u2019 concerns with the judiciary\u2019s inadequate disclosure rules and included recommendations for improving the rules, such as Whitehouse and Johnson\u2019s AMICUS Act. [FULL LETTER]\n\nLetter from Whitehouse and Johnson to the Judicial Conference (11/10/21). The letter responded to arguments made by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce in opposition to amicus disclosure. The letter noted that the Chamber is perhaps the greatest beneficiary of the judiciary\u2019s lax disclosure requirements. [FULL LETTER]\n\nLetter from Whitehouse and Johnson to the Judicial Conference (11/3/22). The letter brought to the Judicial Conference\u2019s attention Whitehouse and Johnson\u2019s amicus brief in Moore v. Harper, which documented the failure of multiple amici in that case to disclose their connections to one another, to efforts to overturn the 2020 election, and to spending to confirm multiple justices. [FULL LETTER]\n\nLetter from Whitehouse and Johnson to the Judicial Conference (10/26/23). The letter asked the Judicial Conference to finalize a robust rule that would strengthen transparency requirements for amicus curiae brief filers and brought to the Judicial Conference\u2019s attention how the judiciary\u2019s disclosure rules prevented timely exposure of multiple NRA-amicus connections in an important Second Amendment case at the Supreme Court. [FULL LETTER]\n\nLetter from Whitehouse and Johnson to the Judicial Conference (12/14/23). The letter brought to the Judicial Conference\u2019s attention an article detailing how amici in major Supreme Court cases have filed briefs without disclosing their common, ideological donors\u2014including Leonard Leo and his network of organizations. [FULL LETTER]\n\nWhitehouse has also called out the unhealthy phenomenon of secretive, coordinated flotillas of right-wing amicus briefs in Supreme Court amicus briefs of his own. Whitehouse also wrote an essay for the Yale Law Journal in October 2021 showing how the Supreme Court and other appellate courts\u2019 funding-disclosure rules for filers of amicus briefs undermine basic fairness, and discussed potential improvements to Court rules to restore the public\u2019s faith in the judicial system.\n\nWhitehouse and Johnson\u2019s comprehensive Supreme Court Ethics, Recusal, and Transparency (SCERT) Act would: require greater disclosure of amicus curiae funding; require parties and amici curiae before the Supreme Court to disclose any recent gifts, travel, or reimbursements they\u2019ve given to a justice; and require parties and amici curiae before the Supreme Court to disclose any lobbying or money they spent promoting a justice\u2019s confirmation to the Court. The SCERT Act was approved by the Senate Judiciary Committee in July 2023.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T21:43:57Z"], ["https://mcbath.house.gov/press-releases?ID=9306F748-67EE-45D5-93BC-3B35795E2004", "McBath Shares Tearful Remarks as Legislation to Stop Campus Hazing Overwhelmingly Passes Committee", "2024-09-13", "2024", "2024-09", "Democrat", "House", "GA", "Lucy McBath", "M001208", "mcbath.house.gov", "mcbath", "https://mcbath.house.gov/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, DC \u2014 This week, Representative Lucy McBath (D-GA) shared tearful remarks as she detailed the stories of those lost to hazing survivors during the markup of her bill, the Stop Campus Hazing Act. H.R.5646 improves reporting and prevention of hazing on college campuses and was approved overwhelmingly by a bipartisan vote of 28-2 in the House Committee on Education and Workforce. The bill is co-led by Representative Jeff Duncan (R-SC) in the House and by U.S. Senators Amy Klobuchar (D-MN) and Bill Cassidy, M.D. (R-LA). The legislation now heads to the House floor for a vote.\n\nRepresentative McBath\u2019s remarks can be found here or in the transcript below:\n\nAs many of you know, my son, Jordan, was killed in a shooting in 2012.\n\nWhile the circumstances may be just somewhat different, I know the pain of losing a child. I know the hole it leaves in your soul and the questions it leaves you to continue to dwell on for the rest of your lives.\n\nThe feelings of guilt and the yearning to do anything that you can to reverse the irreversible and spend just a little more time with that person that you lost. To tell them all the things you wish you could have during their short time here on Earth.\n\nBut we know we aren\u2019t that lucky.\n\nThe only thing that we can do now is try to harness our pain and do something positive with it. To try to make a lasting change that will prevent other families from suffering a similar tragedy and creating a long-lasting legacy that truly speaks to the person that you loved so deeply.\n\nIt\u2019s the same reason that I decided to run for Congress, and the same reason that drove Jeanne Clery\u2019s parents to take their power back as parents and get the Clery Act signed into law after the tragic killing of their daughter on campus in 1986.\n\nJeanne Clery\u2019s parents made the same argument that I have heard time and time again from families who have lost loved ones to collegiate hazing.\n\n\u201cIf only we had known.\u201d\n\n\u201cIf only we had been made aware sooner.\u201d\n\n\u201cIf only we had been given a clearer picture of the real situation on the ground, maybe I could have done something different, and maybe my son or my daughter or my brother or my sister would still be here with me.\u201d\n\nThat\u2019s what this bill simply is about.\n\nIt\u2019s about empowering students and families, so that they can make an informed decision for themselves about what school they or their loved one attends or the club they may join and hopefully save their lives.\n\nI want to say thank you to the DeVercellys, the Piazzas, the Hipps family, the Gruvers, the Branhams, the Kowiaks, and all the families and the loved ones that are here today and watching from home that have been fighting for these changes to honor children and their loved ones that were taken from us far too soon.\n\nI also want to thank Representatives Jeff Duncan and Glenn Thompson for their commitment to seeing this through, as well as Ranking Member Scott.\n\nI want to thank Chairwoman Foxx for using the majority\u2019s limited time to mark this bill up today and for your and your team\u2019s hard work on this incredibly important issue that we have been trying to get something done on for so long.\n\nAnd I encourage all of my colleagues to support this truly bipartisan piece of legislation that saves our children\u2019s lives. They are the least of these. They deserve to be kept safe in their homes, in their communities, and simply when they go off to college.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T21:43:57Z"], ["https://mcbath.house.gov/press-releases?ID=814C429F-7606-4C6F-BC9F-8FC1732438C9", "Reps. McBath & Brown, Sen. Merkley Reintroduce Legislation to Reduce Class Sizes in Schools", "2024-09-12", "2024", "2024-09", "Democrat", "House", "GA", "Lucy McBath", "M001208", "mcbath.house.gov", "mcbath", "https://mcbath.house.gov/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2014 Today, Rep. Lucy McBath (GA-07), Rep. Shontel Brown (OH-11), and Senator Jeff Merkley (OR) reintroduced the Smaller Class Sizes for Students and Educators Act, legislation that makes investments to address overcrowded classrooms and set students up for success.\n\nResearch shows students achieve better academic results with more individualized attention from instructors, especially in kindergarten through third grade, but continued strain on our public education system from staff shortages and tighter budgets has meant class sizes have only continued to grow. Merkley, McBath, and Brown are making a bicameral push for better student outcomes with their legislation to boost funding for schools to reduce class sizes and allow students more one-on-one time with teachers\u2014improving the overall school experience for both students and educators.\n\n\u201cThe role that teachers and educators play is critical in our children\u2019s lives, and we must support our teachers so that students can receive an education that will set them up for future success. That includes more one-on-one time with their teachers, more tailored instruction opportunities, and more investment in developing the meaningful connection to instill a deep love of learning,\u201d said McBath. \u201cI thank Senator Merkley for his work and support on this important piece of legislation. It is efforts like these that will help us provide a brighter future for American children.\u201d\n\n\u201cEvery child in America deserves the best education we can provide, and that includes smaller class sizes, which can help students succeed. I am proud to join Congresswoman McBath and Senator Merkley in reintroducing The Smaller Class Sizes for Students and Educators Act to provide funding for schools and promote reduced class sizes, especially in school districts most in need. This legislation is good for students, good for teachers, and good for local schools,\u201d said Brown.\n\n\u201cGrowing up as an Oregon public school student, I remember having around 20 children in my first-grade class. When I dropped my son off for his first day of school, his class had 34 children, and I wondered how his teacher could organize and teach such a large group,\u201d said Merkley. \u201cIt\u2019s time to invest in the high-quality public education every American student deserves. We must ensure our children are able to succeed, and that can\u2019t happen in overcrowded classrooms.\u201d\n\nThe Smaller Class Sizes for Students and Educators Act:\n\nEstablishes a $2 billion competitive grant program for school districts to reduce class sizes to not more than 18 students per class in K-3 grades,\n\nEnables school districts to apply for grant funding to reduce class sizes, which the U.S. Secretary of Education will award based on the schools with the greatest need, and\n\nEnsures that federal grant funding is used to recruit, hire, and train qualified teachers in K-3 grades.\n\nThis bill is cosponsored by Senators Elizabeth Warren (D-MA), Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Dick Durbin (D-IL), and Cory Booker (D-NJ). The American Federation of Teachers (AFT), First Focus Campaign for Children, National Parent Teacher Association, and National Education Association support the Smaller Class Sizes for Students and Educators Act.\n\n\u201cClass size matters. That is, of course, if you care about the success of our students. It\u2019s common sense that when classrooms are overcrowded, it is harder for teachers to teach and students to learn. Most private schools have small class sizes, but shouldn\u2019t we make sure it\u2019s not just the kids whose families can afford private school have that opportunity Sen. Merkley\u2019s bill is a means to help make that smaller class size reality possible for every student in this country,\u201d said American Federation of Teachers (AFT) President Randi Weingarten.\n\n\"First Focus Campaign for Children is proud to endorse Senator Merkley\u2019s Smaller Class Sizes for Students and Educators Act. This legislation outlines a path for school districts to reduce class sizes by hiring qualified teachers and ensuring that they are prioritized for the schools that need them the most. Data consistently shows the importance of small class sizes for student achievement, and we are grateful to Senator Merkley for working to expand opportunity in education, \" said Bruce Lesley, President of First Focus Campaign for Children.\n\n\u201cSmaller class sizes enable more time to be devoted to each student, student needs to be more easily identified and material to be covered more effectively, which positively impacts children\u2019s achievement,\u201d said Yvonne Johnson, president of National PTA, the nation\u2019s oldest and largest child advocacy association. \u201cNational PTA applauds Senator Merkley and Representative McBath for introducing the Smaller Class Sizes for Students and Educators Act to make federal investments to help school districts reduce class sizes and increase students\u2019 learning.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T21:43:57Z"], ["https://bishop.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressman-bishop-commemorates-anniversary-of-september-11-terrorist-attacks", "CONGRESSMAN BISHOP COMMEMORATES ANNIVERSARY OF SEPTEMBER 11 TERRORIST ATTACKS", "2024-09-11", "2024", "2024-09", "Democrat", "House", "GA", "Sanford D. Bishop, Jr.", "B000490", "bishop.house.gov", "bishop", "https://bishop.house.gov/media-center/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON \u2013 Congressman Sanford D. Bishop, Jr. (GA-02), a senior Member of the U.S. House of Representatives, reflected on the anniversary of the September 11, 2001, terrorist attacks against the United States and issued the following statement:\n\n\u201cI was in Washington, DC, on September 11, 2001, when our country was rocked by the deadliest terrorist attack in history. Tragically, the attacks claimed the lives of 2,977 people and injured thousands of others.\n\n\u201cIt is important that we remember those who lost their lives or were affected by this senseless tragedy, especially the first responders who selflessly risked their lives and went into harm\u2019s way to protect others and save lives. We owe them a great debt. Many died while others were left with lasting wounds, both visible and invisible.\n\n\u201cToday, let us remember that there is more that binds us together as Americans than separates us. We must always use our power to overshadow those who seek to stoke fear, anger, uncertainty, and division in order to weaken us.\n\n\u201cLet us recall the solidarity and resilience of the American people as the smoke and dust cleared in the days, weeks, months, and years following the September 11 terrorist attacks. The United States unrelentingly pursued the terrorists involved. In 2011, President Obama solemnly announced that Osama Bin Laden, the mastermind of this heinous crime, had been killed in the process of apprehending him. And, though the terrorists attempted to wipe away symbols of American power and greatness, we were able to quickly rebuild, and our nation continues to grow.\u201d\n\n\u201cThese remain poignant reminders of our country\u2019s fierce resolve and collective might.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T21:43:57Z"], ["https://bishop.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressman-bishop-remembers-musical-great-frankie-beverly", "CONGRESSMAN BISHOP REMEMBERS MUSICAL GREAT FRANKIE BEVERLY", "2024-09-11", "2024", "2024-09", "Democrat", "House", "GA", "Sanford D. Bishop, Jr.", "B000490", "bishop.house.gov", "bishop", "https://bishop.house.gov/media-center/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON \u2013 Congressman Sanford D. Bishop, Jr. (GA-02) remembered musical great, Frankie Beverly, following the announcement that the renowned singer, songwriter, producer, and performer had passed away:\n\n\u201cI was deeply saddened to learn that Frankie Beverly passed away. He left an indelible mark on American music and culture.\n\n\u201cHe formed the band Maze and remained a prolific performer, always on tour. His music was a constant presence in musical culture \u2013 from family gatherings and community festivities to Historically Black College and University stadiums and marching bands. His work influenced countless artists, as evidenced by Beyonc\u00e9\u2019s 2019 cover of his hit single, \u2018Before I Let Go.\u2019\n\n\u201cTo say that he engaged an audience would be an understatement. His concerts were a conversation between him and legions of passionate fans. His music resonated across generations. And, though through his songs he will be long remembered, we will deeply miss his soulful voice.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T21:43:57Z"], ["https://bishop.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressman-bishop-announces-26-million-gear-up-partnership-grant-to-help-the-bibb-county-school-district-prepare-students-for-the-workforce", "CONGRESSMAN BISHOP ANNOUNCES $2.6 MILLION GEAR UP PARTNERSHIP GRANT TO HELP THE BIBB COUNTY SCHOOL DISTRICT PREPARE STUDENTS FOR THE WORKFORCE", "2024-09-10", "2024", "2024-09", "Democrat", "House", "GA", "Sanford D. Bishop, Jr.", "B000490", "bishop.house.gov", "bishop", "https://bishop.house.gov/media-center/press-releases", "scraper", "MACON, Ga. \u2013 Congressman Sanford D. Bishop, Jr., a senior member of the House Appropriations Committee, is delighted to announce a federal award from the U.S. Department of Education totaling $2,643,209 to the Bibb County School District. The Gaining Early Awareness and Readiness for Undergraduate Programs (GEAR UP) Partnership program is a competitive grant program designed to increase the number of low-income students who are prepared to enter and succeed in postsecondary education and job training.\n\n\u201cUplifting our students and setting them on a path to success will raise all tides and strengthen the economy for all,\u201d said Congressman Bishop. \u201cWhether it is through apprenticeship programs, career and technical education training, or attending college, the cohort of Bibb County students served by this GEAR UP Partnership award will have a better chance at graduating high school, successfully completing career training, and finding good paying jobs in the growing number of industries that are currently booming in the state of Georgia.\u201d\n\n\u201cThe U.S. Department of Education's award of the GEAR Up grant to the Bibb County School District is a significant investment in our students' future,\u201d said Dr. Lori Ward Rodgers, Assistant Superintendent for District Effectiveness and Federal Programs at the Bibb County School District. \u201cThe grant will support various initiatives focused on improving post-secondary readiness and academic achievement, including expanding tutoring services, introducing new college and career readiness programs, and offering additional resources and support for students and their families. This grant is a game-changer for our community!\u201d\n\nGEAR UP provides six-year or seven years grants to states and partnerships to provide services at high-poverty middle and high schools. GEAR UP grantees serve an entire cohort of students beginning no later than the seventh grade and follow the cohort through high school. GEAR UP funds are also used to provide college scholarships to low-income students.\n\nThis specific partnership, the GEAR UP: Built4Bibb, will serve 3,304 students in 14 schools (Weaver Middle, Ballard-Hudson Middle, Rutland Middle, Howard Middle, Miller Middle, Appling Middle, VIP Academy Middle, Westside High, Southwest High, Rutland High, Howard High, Central High, and Northeast High, and VIP Academy High).The project begins with 6th and 7th-grade cohorts and follows the 7th-grade cohort through their first year of college and the 6th-grade cohort through their high school senior year.\n\nThe GEAR UP Partnership program was made possible by the Fiscal Year 2024 federal government funding bill, which Congressman Bishop supported.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T21:43:57Z"], ["https://bishop.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressman-bishop-announces-nearly-4-million-for-albany-state-university-to-support-research-promote-stem-education", "CONGRESSMAN BISHOP ANNOUNCES NEARLY $4 MILLION FOR ALBANY STATE UNIVERSITY TO SUPPORT RESEARCH, PROMOTE STEM EDUCATION", "2024-09-10", "2024", "2024-09", "Democrat", "House", "GA", "Sanford D. Bishop, Jr.", "B000490", "bishop.house.gov", "bishop", "https://bishop.house.gov/media-center/press-releases", "scraper", "ALBANY, Ga. \u2013 Congressman Sanford D. Bishop, Jr., (GA-02) is pleased to announce that, last month, Albany State University has received three National Science Foundation (NSF) awards totaling $3,763,838. The funds will bolster biomedical research as well as help engage and support more people to pursue science, technology, engineering, and mathematics professions.\n\n\u201cFrom making discoveries that will help redefine medicine and biomanufacturing, to recruiting and training better scientists so that Georgia and America are always at the forefront of the research and development, I am proud of the wonderful work being done by Albany State University\u2019s faculty and students. I am pleased that the National Science Foundation can be a partner in this excellence,\u201d said Congressman Bishop. \u201cNSF is a catalyst for economic growth and scientific advancements in America. I am proud to support NSF funding as a leader on the House Appropriations Committee.\u201d\n\nThe three awards were:\n\n$2,999,904 to build a stronger pipeline of students and workers in STEM fields,\n\n$400,000 to improve data analysis skills for students, and\n\n$363,934 to support biomedical research.\n\nAccording to the Georgia Department of Labor, careers in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics, commonly referred to as STEM occupations, will grow by over 95,000 new jobs in Georgia over the projection period ending in 2028.\n\n\u201cEmpowering innovation and collaboration, the 'Implementation Project: Building A Community of STEM Practitioners' aims to foster a vibrant ecosystem where diverse minds unite to drive scientific and technological advancements to \u2018do STEM better\u2019,\u201d said Dr. Chinenye Ofodile, Chair of the Department of Mathematics, Computer Science, and Physics as well as project leader.\n\nA $400,000 NSF award will support efforts to improve data analysis skills for students, better preparing them to succeed in the sciences and contribute to the country\u2019s workforce.\n\n\u201cThis $400,000 NSF-funded project at Albany State University aims to integrate \u2018Data Science into Forensic Science and Biology Curricula over the next three years to address a skills gap. By creating and infusing new and existing courses, it promises to enhance students' data analysis abilities, preparing them for the workforce,\u201d said Department of Natural Sciences Professor and lead investigator for this project, Dr. Olabisi Ojo. \u201cThe project's value lies in equipping students with essential Data Science skills, making them data-enabled specialists. The wider implications include improving employment opportunities, contributing to diversity in STEM, and fostering economic development for minority graduates, potentially serving as a model for other life sciences programs.\u201d\n\nA $363,934 NSF award will support biomedical research at the university focusing on the cell mitochondria which has broad medical and biotechnological applications.\n\n\u201cMitochondria are important organelles in the eukaryotic cells. They provide energy and play a major role in cell survival. Current research is focused on developing nanoparticle-based methods to deliver drug like molecules to mitochondria. This strategy can help us to control the life and death of cells. Such technology will have several applications in human and animal health, improving plant productivity, and also in biomanufacturing,\u201d saidDepartment of Natural Sciences Assistant Professor and lead investigator for this project, Dr. Balasubramani Paranthaman. \u201cThe NSF funding provides the opportunity for the faculty and students of underrepresented minority institutions in rural South Georgia to expand their potential in this advanced field of nano-biotechnology and to aid in workforce development.\u201d\n\nThe National Science Foundation is an independent federal agency that invests 25% of federal funding into American universities to drive innovation and advancement of the sciences.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T21:43:57Z"], ["https://mcbath.house.gov/press-releases?ID=8F9AC5CA-0C7E-4FAD-BECE-6B978E76AF00", "McBath Announces Gwinnett County Will Receive $1.6 Million from Department of Transportation Grant", "2024-09-05", "2024", "2024-09", "Democrat", "House", "GA", "Lucy McBath", "M001208", "mcbath.house.gov", "mcbath", "https://mcbath.house.gov/press-releases", "scraper", "Duluth, GA \u2014 Today, Rep. Lucy McBath (GA-07) announced that the Gwinnett County Department of Transportation will be the recipient of a Safe Streets and Roads for All (SS4A) grant award. The $1,600,000 award will be used to pilot speed management treatments, employ enhanced data analytics, and integrate new traffic data technologies to both plan and evaluate safety interventions. Funding for this application was requested by McBath in a letter of support to Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg in May.\n\n\u201cGwinnett County continues to set a strong example for the metro Atlanta region in pursuing new and unique ways to grow while keeping an emphasis on safety and equity,\u201d McBath said. \u201cI was proud to lend my support to the county\u2019s application for the Safe Streets and Roads for All grant, and I am pleased that our nation\u2019s Department of Transportation recognizes the need for this funding in such an important part of our state. None of this would have been possible without the transformative Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, and I am so grateful to Secretary Buttigieg and the Biden-Harris Administration for making this needed investment in our growing community.\u201d\n\n\u201cReceiving the Safe Streets and Roads for All grant is a pivotal step for Gwinnett County as we strive to ensure the safety and well-being of our residents,\u201d said Gwinnett County Chairwoman Nicole Love Hendrickson. \u201cThis funding will empower us to implement innovative strategies that address our growing transportation needs while prioritizing equity and accessibility for every member of our community.\u201d\n\n\u201cThis federal grant represents a significant investment in the future of Gwinnett\u2019s transportation infrastructure,\u201d said Gwinnett County Transportation Director Lewis Cooksey. \u201cBy integrating advanced technologies and data analytics, we will not only enhance our ability to identify and address safety concerns but also create a more efficient and responsive transportation network. Our goal is to protect vulnerable roadway users and promote safer commuting options for everyone in our rapidly growing community.\u201d\n\nBetween 2017 and 2021, Gwinnett County experienced a total of 283 fatalities. Currently home to over 1 million residents, Gwinnett County is a rapidly growing area that is expected to be the most populous county in Georgia by 2050. This growth will lead to increased traffic over the next 25 years, creating heightened safety concerns for vulnerable roadway users along the county\u2019s 2,650 centerline miles of roadway. Gwinnett will use these new technologies to identify high-priority areas and corridors where interventions are necessary to mitigate safety risks, with priority given to corridors in Justice40 designated areas.\n\nThe Safe Streets and Roads for All discretionary grant program was established under the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law in 2021. The discretionary program will appropriate $5 billion over 5 years, 2022 to 2026. The SS4A program funds regional, local, and Tribal initiatives through grants to prevent roadway deaths and serious injuries.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T21:43:57Z"], ["https://hankjohnson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressman-johnson-announces-opening-annual-congressional-app", "Congressman Johnson Announces Opening of Annual Congressional App Challenge", "2024-08-28", "2024", "2024-08", "Democrat", "House", "GA", "Henry C. \"Hank\" Johnson, Jr.", "J000288", "hankjohnson.house.gov", "hankjohnson", "https://hankjohnson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases", "scraper", "DECATUR, GA \u2013 Today, Congressman Hank Johnson (GA-04) announced that his 2024 Congressional App Challenge is open for business.\n\nStudents can register for the 2024 Congressional App Challenge and start coding their apps for 2024 HERE. The competition deadline is October 24, 2024.\n\nCongressional App Challenge, a competition designed to encourage student participation in computer science and coding, will accept application until October 24 this year. Judging begins October 28 and winners will be announced November 22. Officially launched by the U.S. House of Representatives in 2015, this nationwide effort allows students to compete against their peers by creating and an application or \u201capp,\u201d for mobile, tablet, or computer devices. The Challenge is designed to promote innovation and engagement in coding and computer science.\n\nThe Congressional App Challenge is open to all middle school and high school students in the 4th Congressional District of Georgia. The winner from the 4th Congressional District, chosen by a panel of expert judges, will be featured on CongressionalAppChallenge.us, and the winning app will also be on display in the U.S. Capitol, honoring the winners from across the country.\n\nFor more information, please visit the official Congressional App Challenge website or contact Kaitlyn Brewster at 770-987-2291.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T21:36:13Z"], ["https://mcbath.house.gov/press-releases?ID=4D94C8BF-8C9C-4AD7-A933-362A06CB63BA", "McBath Convenes Small Business Roundtable at Gwinnett County Entrepreneur Center", "2024-08-27", "2024", "2024-08", "Democrat", "House", "GA", "Lucy McBath", "M001208", "mcbath.house.gov", "mcbath", "https://mcbath.house.gov/press-releases", "scraper", "Lawrenceville, GA \u2014 Today, Congresswoman Lucy McBath (D-GA-07) convened a meeting with small business owners, Gwinnett County District 3 Commissioner Jasper Watkins, and Gwinnett County Economic Development professionals for a tour and roundtable discussion at the Gwinnett Entrepreneur Center in Lawrenceville. Representatives from the U.S. Small Business Administration and the University of Georgia Small Business Development Center joined the conversation to speak to the resources and support they can provide to local entrepreneurs.\n\n\u201cSmall businesses are the backbone of our local community, and today\u2019s conversation was a celebration of all the benefits they provide to our economy,\u201d McBath said. \u201cIt was also an opportunity to examine the ongoing recovery of the small business community following the COVID-19 pandemic and hear the success stories of programs like the Gwinnett Small Business Grant. I want to commend Gwinnett County for their forward-thinking efforts to utilize federal funds to support local entrepreneurs\u2014this is yet another reason why I was proud to support the American Rescue Plan.\u201d\n\n\u201cToday's roundtable at the Gwinnett Entrepreneur Center highlighted the remarkable strength and resilience of our local small business community. As we continue to navigate the post-pandemic landscape, it's more crucial than ever to provide our entrepreneurs with the essential resources they need to succeed,\u201d said District 3 Commissioner Jasper Watkins, III. \u201cGwinnett County is committed to fostering an environment where innovation can thrive and today's discussions are a testament to the powerful collaboration between government, business leaders and educational institutions.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T21:36:13Z"], ["https://hankjohnson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressman-johnsons-week-hope-honors-non-profits-educates-community", "Congressman Johnson\u2019s Week of HOPE Honors Non-Profits, Educates Community About Federal Grants", "2024-08-22", "2024", "2024-08", "Democrat", "House", "GA", "Henry C. \"Hank\" Johnson, Jr.", "J000288", "hankjohnson.house.gov", "hankjohnson", "https://hankjohnson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases", "scraper", "DECATUR, GA \u2013 Last week, August 12-17, Congressman Hank Johnson (GA-04) held his annual \u201cWeek of H.O.P.E. (Helping Other People Elevate),\u201d which is comprised of a four-part grants workshop series, A Day in My Shoes, where the Congressman visited a local nonprofit, and the H.O.P.E Award ceremony that recognized the great work of local nonprofits throughout Georgia\u2019s 4th Congressional District.\n\nThe grants workshops were held via Zoom to help teach constituents, non-profits, and government stakeholders how to write, apply for, and learn about the federal grants and Community Project Funding process. The workshops featured guest speakers from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the Department of Health & Human Services, the Department of Housing & Urban Development, and the Congressman\u2019s Legislative Director Antwoin Monach, who briefed local officials on the Community Project Funding program.\n\nGrants workshops:\n\nGrant Writing 101: How to Write a Grant Proposal: https://www.facebook.com/RepHankJohnson/videos/8032842093429883\n\nAugust 13 at 1 PM: Grant Writing 102: Cheat Sheet to Obtaining Funding: https://www.facebook.com/RepHankJohnson/videos/859726825649605\n\nAugust 14 at 1 PM: Sharing Grant Opportunities: https://www.facebook.com/RepHankJohnson/videos/1147876369843525\n\nAugust 15 at 1 PM: Understanding the Community Project Funding Process: https://www.facebook.com/RepHankJohnson/videos/1892997184518065\n\nHighlights of A Day in My Shoes: The Congressman visited Kate\u2019s Club, a nonprofit organization that serves grieving children who have experienced the death of a loved one -- sibling, parent, or grandparent. https://www.asnortonccs.com/single-post/join-the-kate-s-club-a-visit-by-rep-hank-johnson-during-national-nonprofit-week-sheds-light-on-a\n\nWatch the H.O.P.E Awards ceremony: https://boxcast.tv/view/congressman-hank-johnsons-2024-ceremony-of-hope-yvhpkbrydq4y4npwpd8x?b=yamdnlfrvblwsltjtuw0&fbclid=IwY2xjawExntFleHRuA2FlbQIxMQABHW5wzp3tf_V5WyJ0p_x0wouwp26Chr1Ep5eWdsZbe9uLtlXPTm-AOMdLdQ_aem_pEVZ25HRxppzKDlf9af4eg\n\nHonorees include: CareNow Community Development Center (CDC) in Newton County | The Center for Victims of Torture (CVT) based in Clarkston | Families of Children Under Stress (FOCUS) in Atlanta | The Latin American Association (LAA) in Brookhaven | More Than Conquerors, Inc. (MTCI) based in Rockdale County | Still Waters Sinfo-Nia based in DeKalb County.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T21:36:13Z"], ["https://bishop.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/bishop-carter-introduce-bill-renaming-usda-facility-after-abit-massey", "BISHOP, CARTER INTRODUCE BILL RENAMING USDA FACILITY AFTER ABIT MASSEY", "2024-08-12", "2024", "2024-08", "Democrat", "House", "GA", "Sanford D. Bishop, Jr.", "B000490", "bishop.house.gov", "bishop", "https://bishop.house.gov/media-center/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON \u2013 Congressman Sanford D. Bishop, Jr., (D-GA) joined Congressman Earl L. \u201cBuddy\u201d Carter (R-GA) in introducing H.R. 9242, a bill to rename the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) National Poultry Research Center in Athens, Georgia after the late President of the Georgia Poultry Federation, Francis \u201cAbit\u201d Massey.\n\nAbit Massey, who passed in June at the age of 96, served as President of the Georgia Poultry Federation for 48 years and was recognized statewide for his leadership in the agricultural community. Massey was instrumental in establishing Georgia as a leading chicken producer, which is now a $4.2 billion industry.\n\n\u201cEarlier this summer, Georgia lost a giant of the poultry and agriculture industry. I had the pleasure of knowing and working with Abit Massey over many years and was witness to his visionary leadership that has left an indelible mark on our state and country. This bill rightfully honors the man and his legacy, and I proudly join my friend and colleague, Congressman Buddy Carter in this bipartisan effort to rename the USDA poultry facility in Athens after Abit Massey,\u201d said Congressman Bishop.\n\n\u201cAbit Massey was a Georgia icon who is already deeply missed. His dedication to our agricultural industry cannot be overstated, rightfully earning him the nickname \u2018Dean of the poultry industry.\u2019 No one supported Georgia farmers more than Massey, and this renaming will help preserve his memory and influence for generations to come,\u201d said Congressman Carter.\n\nFor his dedication to Georgia\u2019s agricultural community, he was recognized with the 1986 UGA Alumni Merit Award, the U.S. Poultry & Egg Association\u2019s 2012 Harold E. Ford Lifetime Achievement Award, and the inaugural Medallion of Honor for Service to the UGA College of Agricultural & Environmental Sciences.\n\nOriginal co-sponsors include: Reps. Mike Collins (R-GA), Drew Ferguson (R-GA), Hank Johnson (D-GA), Nikema Williams (D-GA), Rich McCormick (R-GA), Lucy McBath (D-GA), Austin Scott (R-GA), David Scott (D-GA), Barry Loudermilk (R-GA), Rick Allen (R-GA), and Marjorie Taylor Greene (R-GA).\n\nRead full bill text here.\n\nRead more about Abit Massey here.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T21:36:13Z"], ["https://hankjohnson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/reps-johnson-raskin-reintroduce-bill-hold-federal-officials-accountable", "Reps. Johnson, Raskin Reintroduce Bill to Hold Federal Officials Accountable", "2024-08-08", "2024", "2024-08", "Democrat", "House", "GA", "Henry C. \"Hank\" Johnson, Jr.", "J000288", "hankjohnson.house.gov", "hankjohnson", "https://hankjohnson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases", "scraper", "Congressmen introduce Bivens Act That Would Allow Citizens to Recover Damages for Constitutional Violations by Federal Officials\n\nSen. Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI) Introduces Senate companion\n\nOn August 2, Congressmen Hank Johnson (GA) and Jamie Raskin (MD) will re-introduce The Bivens Act, legislation that allows citizens to recover damages for constitutional violations committed against them by federal officials, including U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, Transportation Security Administration, Federal Bureau of Investigation, Department of Justice, and federal prison officials.\n\nSen. Sheldon Whitehouse (RI) introduced the Senate companion Aug. 1.\n\nAfter the Civil War, Congress enacted 42 U.S.C. \u00a7 1983 to ensure that state and local officials could not violate individuals\u2019 federal constitutional rights with impunity. Section 1983 is designed to allow individuals to sue state and local officials to recover damages for constitutional violations. It is the primary tool victims of police misconduct and other government abuse use to seek redress for constitutional injuries at the state and local level. But there is no comparable statute providing an express cause of action for victims of constitutional violations.\n\nInstead, victims of constitutional or statutory violations by federal officials have been left to implied causes of action. Since the 1970s, the U.S. Supreme Court\u2019s Bivens doctrine has recognized limited circumstances in which the Constitution itself authorizes a self-executing remedy for damages. But the Court has significantly curtailed the availability of Bivens claims in recent years. In February 2020, the Court in Hernandez v. Mesa went so far as to note that \u201cit is doubtful\u201d today\u2019s Court would have recognized Bivens claims at all.\n\n\u201cVictims of constitutional violations by federal officers too often have no legal recourse,\u201d said Rep. Johnson. \u201cFrom ICE officers who conduct illegal searches and seizures, to Bureau of Land Management officials who intimidate property owners into providing easements, to servicemembers who rape other members of the military and retaliate against those who report assaults to commanders \u2013 they are all too often immunized from damages for their constitutional wrongs. This bill fixes the issue by increasing judicial accountability for unlawful federal government action.\u201d\n\n\"When the rights of the people are violated by our government, it should be the right of the people to hold the government accountable,\u201d said Rep. Raskin. \u201cThe Bivens Act empowers our people to seek damages from the federal government when federal law enforcement officers exceed their authority and violate a person\u2019s constitutional rights. This legislation is about giving a remedy to victims of official misconduct and the opportunity to vindicate a violated right with a meaningful remedy. It is my honor to be leading this effort with Representative Johnson and Senator Whitehouse, two crucial friends in our shared fight for strong democracy.\u201d\n\n\u201cPublic officials at all levels of government, including law enforcement, should have a clear, fair standard of accountability when they break the law,\u201d said Whitehouse. \u201cOur Bivens Act would end the confusing judicial precedent that for too long has prevented victims from holding federal officials accountable and securing compensation for constitutional violations.\u201d\n\nCosponsors: Senators Alex Padilla (D-CA), Ron Wyden (D-OR), Peter Welch (D-VT), Ed Markey (D-MA), and Mazie Hirono (D-HI).\n\nHouse cosponsors: Crockett (TX-30), Davis (IL-07), Garcia (IL-04), Grijalva (AZ-07), Jayapal (WA-07), Lee (PA-12), Norton (DC), Ocasio-Cortez (NY-14), Schakowsky (IL-09), Tlaib (MI-12).\n\nSupporting Groups: American Civil Liberties Union, Lawyers for Good Government, Amnesty International, National Immigration Project, The Black Police Experience (BPX, LLC), Government Information Watch, Drug Policy Alliance, Constitutional Accountability Center, Protect Democracy, The Asylum Seeker Advocacy Project (ASAP), National Network to End Domestic Violence, Autistic Self Advocacy Network, Justice and Joy National Collaborative, Kids in Need of Defense (KIND), Justice in Motion, Project on Government Oversight (POGO), and NAACP Legal Defense and Education Fund, Inc.\n\nRead the bill HERE.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T21:36:13Z"], ["https://mcbath.house.gov/press-releases?ID=41F5FE2E-D6D7-4AE7-A90D-4ABE99ABB9E7", "McBath Leads Delegation Letter to Governor After Georgia Opts Out of Student Summer Meal Program", "2024-08-08", "2024", "2024-08", "Democrat", "House", "GA", "Lucy McBath", "M001208", "mcbath.house.gov", "mcbath", "https://mcbath.house.gov/press-releases", "scraper", "Duluth, GA \u2014Today, Representative Lucy McBath (D-GA-07) led a letter of the Democratic Congressional Delegation of Georgia requesting more information on Governor Kemp\u2019s decision to opt out of the U.S. Department of Agriculture\u2019s Summer EBT Program (S-EBT), also known as \u201cSun Bucks.\u201d Summer EBT provides low-income families with school-aged children a $40 benefit per eligible child per month, totaling a combined $120 dollars for the summer when school is out of session.\n\nThe letter is signed by Senators Reverend Raphael Warnock and Jon Ossoff and Representatives Sanford Bishop (GA-02), Nikema Williams (GA-05), Henry C. \u201cHank\u201d Johnson, Jr. (GA-04), and David Scott (GA-13).\n\n\u201cCommitting to participate in Summer EBT in 2025 is a simple, commonsense step that will ensure that every child in our state, regardless of where they live, has access to food when they need it most,\u201d the letter reads. \u201cStates that refuse to participate in Summer EBT for unsubstantiated reasons are needlessly putting children in jeopardy during the summer months.\u201d\n\nWith approximately 1.2 million low-income children eligible for this program, Georgia is one of only twelve states not participating for the summer of 2024 or planning to participate next Summer in 2025. With Georgia's \u201cHappy Helpings\u201d Summer Food Service Program absent in 59 of 159 Georgia counties last year, failing to opt into programs such as Summer EBT needlessly puts Georgia\u2019s families at risk.\n\nGovernor Kemp\u2019s office has yet to make clear whether the State will participate this upcoming year. Rep. McBath sent a letter in July outlining questions about the decision. The delegation letter requested more information about Governor Kemp\u2019s decision and encouraged him to commit Georgia to participating in Summer of 2025 before the upcoming USDA deadline on August 15th, 2024.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T21:36:13Z"], ["https://bishop.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressman-bishop-announces-270000-in-faa-funds-to-expand-southwest-georgia-regional-airport", "CONGRESSMAN BISHOP ANNOUNCES $270,000 IN FAA FUNDS TO EXPAND SOUTHWEST GEORGIA REGIONAL AIRPORT", "2024-08-05", "2024", "2024-08", "Democrat", "House", "GA", "Sanford D. Bishop, Jr.", "B000490", "bishop.house.gov", "bishop", "https://bishop.house.gov/media-center/press-releases", "scraper", "ALBANY, Ga. \u2013 Congressman Sanford D. Bishop, Jr., (GA-02) announced that the U.S. Department of Transportation, through the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), has awarded the Southwest Georgia Regional Airport a $270,000 Airport Improvement Grant. The grant will fund the first phase of a project to design and rehabilitate 200 feet and 500 feet of two separate runways as well as additional paved operating spaces for airplanes using the airport.\n\n\u201cOnce again, the Biden-Harris Administration is delivering for Southwest Georgia through the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA) of 2021 which I supported in Congress. The grant today will help make repairs to the runways and surrounding tarmac at Southwest Georgia Regional Airport which plays an important role in our local economy,\u201d said Congressman Bishop. \u201cProjects like this that upkeep or expand Georgia\u2019s airports often require a lot of capital. I am glad that Congress is committed to being a partner to our airports so that they remain reliable gateways to our communities and maintain the integrity of our supply chain.\u201d\n\n\u201cThe grant will fund the design work to rehabilitate Taxiway Sierra at the SWGA Regional. The City of Albany appreciates the continued support of Congressman Bishop, as he is an advocate for the SWGA Regional Airport and the SWGA Region,\u201d said Airport Director David Hamilton. \u201cThe grant award will help ensure the safety of passengers by providing a surface for pilots to maneuver safely on and off the runway.\u201d\n\nEach year, people travel through Southwest Georgia Regional Airport which plays an important role in local tourism. It is also a major cargo hub and companies, like UPS and Federal Express and others, serve families and businesses throughout Southwest Georgia, Southeastern Alabama, and the Florida panhandle. The airport also supports U.S. military operations and servicemembers who live or work in the area.\n\nIn June, Southwest Georgia Regional Airport celebrated the opening of a new, $15 million state-of-the-art hangar and terminal. The project received support from federal funds over the past several years.\n\nIn the current fiscal year, in addition to the $270,000 received in this grant, Southwest Georgia Regional Airport also received over $1 million in federal funds made possible by the IIJA.\n\nIn April 2023, in the previous fiscal year, the FAA awarded Southwest Georgia Regional Airport a $235,980 Airport Improvement Program grant for a project to expand an apron, where aircraft are parked or unloaded/loaded. This was also made possible by the IIJA.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T21:36:13Z"], ["https://bishop.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressman-bishop-announces-over-938000-in-federal-funds-to-protect-sumter-county-firefighters", "CONGRESSMAN BISHOP ANNOUNCES OVER $938,000 IN FEDERAL FUNDS TO PROTECT SUMTER COUNTY FIREFIGHTERS", "2024-08-05", "2024", "2024-08", "Democrat", "House", "GA", "Sanford D. Bishop, Jr.", "B000490", "bishop.house.gov", "bishop", "https://bishop.house.gov/media-center/press-releases", "scraper", "AMERICUS, Ga. \u2013Congressman Sanford D. Bishop, Jr., (GA-02) is pleased to announce that the Sumter County Fire Department has been awarded a $938,857.14 Assistance to Firefighters Grant (AFG) from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS). The program is administered through the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA).\n\n\"Our firefighters in Sumter County and throughout Georgia put their lives on the line to respond to emergencies in our communities and keep our families safe. But firefighter equipment and training can be a large expense, especially for smaller departments, municipalities, and counties with more limited budgets,\u201d said Congressman Bishop. \u201cI am proud to support strong funding for federal programs like Assistance to Firefighters Grants that support our fire departments with the resources they need to best protect us all.\u201d\n\n\u201cI am excited to say that every dime of this grant will go toward purchasing 90 self-contained breathing apparatus and 22 sets of turnout gear for our firefighters. This equipment will allow my first responders to protect the citizens of Sumter County more confidently,\u201d said Sumter County Fire Department Chief Jerry Harmon. \u201cThey each know that their job bears certain risks that most other jobs do not. This equipment not only helps them protect the citizens of our community but also helps ensure that each of them will return home to their families after each shift.\u201d\n\n\u201cAs a small, rural department that relies both on inmates and volunteers to fight fires alongside our paid staff, we often have to stretch our resources to the limit to protect our citizens. As the chief of our department, the burden of protecting each of those firefighters as they protect others falls upon me. In order to do that, we need up to date equipment for everyone. The cost of this equipment has continuously risen and quite simply puts our department and many others like ours in tough positions,\u201d added Chief Harmon.\n\nSince January of 2023, fire and emergency services departments in Crawford, Grady, Houston, Macon, Muscogee, and Schley Counties have received over $1.8 million in federal funding through FEMA\u2019s AFG and the Staffing for Adequate Fire and Emergency Response (SAFER) grant programs to assist in purchasing equipment, recruitment, and training.\n\nSince 2001, the Assistance to Firefighters Grant has helped firefighters and first responders obtain equipment, protective gear, and other resources that are vital to protecting the public and emergency personnel. Fire departments interested in learning more about the program and how they can apply for funding in future cycles should visit FEMA\u2019s website at https://www.fema.gov/grants/preparedness/firefighters/assistance-grants.\n\nThe SAFER Grants provide funding directly to fire departments and volunteer firefighter interest organizations to help them increase or maintain the number of trained, \"front line\" firefighters available in their communities. Fire departments interested in learning more about this program can visit https://www.fema.gov/grants/preparedness/firefighters/safer.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T21:36:13Z"], ["https://bishop.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-bishop-sen-ossoff-introduce-bill-to-protect-american-produce-from-unfairly-priced-seasonal-imports", "REP. BISHOP, SEN. OSSOFF INTRODUCE BILL TO PROTECT AMERICAN PRODUCE FROM UNFAIRLY PRICED SEASONAL IMPORTS", "2024-08-05", "2024", "2024-08", "Democrat", "House", "GA", "Sanford D. Bishop, Jr.", "B000490", "bishop.house.gov", "bishop", "https://bishop.house.gov/media-center/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON \u2013 Last week, Congressman Sanford D. Bishop, Jr., (GA-02) and U.S. Senator Jon Ossoff (GA) introduced the Protecting Our Produce Act in the U.S. House of Representatives and U.S. Senate. The companion bills establish a pilot program to provide payments to certain U.S. seasonal and perishable fruit and vegetable producers for relief from unfairly priced seasonal imports.\n\n\u201cGeorgia\u2019s farmers thrive when there is fair competition and Congress can do its part to protect them from unfairly priced imports,\u201d said Congressman Bishop. \u201cNot only is this bill important for the financial stability and security of our nation\u2019s farmers, but also to help protect our supply chain and ensure Americans can get affordable, healthy food closer to home.\u201d\n\n\u201cGeorgia family farms are getting buried by unfair crop imports from South and Central America. That\u2019s why we are introducing this bill \u2014 to ensure Georgia\u2019s family farms and rural communities can thrive,\u201d said Senator Ossoff.\n\n\u201cGeorgia growers find themselves at a disadvantage because of the increase in imported fruits and vegetables. This program will enhance the competitiveness of Georgia\u2019s growers and help insure we can continue to produce the highest quality fruits and vegetables here at home. We appreciate the work of Senator Ossoff and Congressman Bishop on addressing this critical issue,\u201d said Sam Watson,President of the Georgia Fruit and Vegetable Growers.\n\n\u201cGeorgia\u2019s fruit and vegetable farmers continue to face an unlevel playing field from rising levels of imported produce. This has resulted in our nation\u2019s first agricultural trade deficit and will ultimately increase our reliance on other countries for fresh, healthy produce. This program can be a game changer for our growers helping level the playing field and ensuring a sustainable future for farmers while providing greater access to healthy foods for all,\u201d said Chris Butts, Executive Vice President of the Georgia Fruit and Vegetable Growers.\n\n\u201cU.S. growers of seasonal and perishable fruits and vegetables in Michigan and across the country need a safety net to weather the effects of below cost of production returns caused by imports. Michigan asparagus growers face escalating costs at the same time imports are holding down the price retailers are willing to pay for fresh asparagus. A safety net like the one proposed in this bill will ensure American consumers continue to have access to perishable, locally grown fruits and vegetables,\u201d said Bill Schwass, Springdale Farms, 5th generation grower from Scottville, Michigan.\n\nPayments through this pilot program would be issued when the Secretary of Agriculture determines a grower\u2019s revenue loss is due to seasonal import volumes. The 5-year pilot program is intended for Blueberry, Squash, Bell Pepper, Cucumber, and/or Asparagus producers, which the U.S. International Trade Commission has found suffer from \u201cabove-average\u201d import growth.\n\nYou can read the House version of the bill, H.R. 9240, by visiting the Congressman\u2019s website.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T21:36:13Z"], ["https://mcbath.house.gov/press-releases?ID=74802F50-FDE1-43A7-BEC7-37DC6288040E", "McBath, Leger Fern\u00e1ndez, Colleagues Introduce the Campus Prevention and Recovery Services for Students Act of 2024", "2024-07-31", "2024", "2024-07", "Democrat", "House", "GA", "Lucy McBath", "M001208", "mcbath.house.gov", "mcbath", "https://mcbath.house.gov/press-releases", "scraper", "Duluth, GA \u2014 Today, U.S. Representatives Lucy McBath (GA-07), Teresa Leger Fern\u00e1ndez (NM-03), David Trone (MD-06), and Chris Pappas (NH-01) introduced the Campus Prevention and Recovery Services for Students Act to help higher education institutions implement programs to prevent alcohol and substance misuse on campus and support those with substance use disorders. If passed, the bill would fund college prevention and recovery services at $75 million over five years.\n\nThe bill is part of the Roadmap to College Student Success, House Democrats\u2019 campaign to reform America\u2019s higher education system for students and families.\n\n\u201cWe owe it to families to provide strong support systems for their children who are navigating life away from home for the first time,\u201d said Rep. Lucy McBath. \u201cAlcohol and substance misuse does not discriminate and troublingly, the rate of these instances is on the rise. I am very proud to join with my colleagues yet again to champion this effort which will help our institutions of higher education implement programs to prevent substance abuse and support the recovery of students with substance use disorders.\u201d\n\n\u201cAddiction is painful for everyone involved. Families suffer when we lose loved ones to overdose. College students too often find themselves isolated and without the support network to help when addiction and alcoholism creep in. I never want to see another headline of a promising young person lost to overdose,\u201d said Rep. Leger Fern\u00e1ndez. \u201cMy bill will fund prevention and recovery services on college campuses across the United States that are based on science and managed with love. This is a critical step to support young Americans \u2013 ensuring a healthy and safe campus environment.\u201d\n\n\u201cThe opioid crisis has ruthlessly swept through our nation targeting everyone in its path, including those on college campuses,\u201d said Rep. Congressman David Trone, co-chair of the Bipartisan Mental Health and Substance Use Disorder Task Force. \u201cStudents and college presidents in Maryland are struggling to get the resources to address substance use disorder on their campuses, especially on the heels of a pandemic when many students were already grappling with mental health challenges. This legislation meets the moment to provide much-needed funding and provide our students with the help they need.\u201d\n\n\u201cA comprehensive approach to confronting the addiction epidemic must include both prevention efforts and recovery services as well as a focus on young people,\u201d said Rep. Chris Pappas. \u201cThis bill provides critical steps forward by bringing evidence-informed treatment to our colleges and universities to educate students on substance misuse and help those working to overcome substance use disorder. The addiction crisis is deeply personal for New Hampshire families, and I will continue supporting efforts that address its root causes, strengthen prevention efforts, and ensure individuals in need receive proper support to recover.\u201d\n\nThe Campus Prevention and Recovery Services for Students Act:\n\nPromotes evidence-based prevention and intervention strategies on college campuses.\n\nEncourages integration and collaboration in campus-based health services to address substance use and mental health.\n\nRequires the Department of Education and the Department of Health and Human Services to identify and promote successful programs.\n\nRevitalizes a grant program to help institutions implement programs.\n\nRead the full bill text HERE.\n\n\u201cYoung adults are grappling with increasing rates of mental health and substance use challenges, yet far too often institutions of higher education lack the resources to support them,\u201d National Council for Mental Wellbeing President and CEO Chuck Ingoglia said. \u201cWe commend this effort to fund critical treatment and recovery services, along with peer support and training to help faculty, staff and students recognize and respond to those who are in distress. This legislation would provide campus-based health centers with additional resources to support the students who rely on them for care.\u201d\n\nEndorsing Organizations:\n\nNational Council for Mental Wellbeing\n\nAmerican Federation of Teachers (AFT-NM)\n\nAmerican College Health Association (ACHA)\n\nNational Hispanic Health Foundation\n\nNational Education Association\n\nAmerican Foundation for Suicide Prevention\n\nAmerican Psychological Association Services\n\nTrust for America\u2019s Health", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T21:24:45Z"], ["https://mcbath.house.gov/press-releases?ID=9A550FF5-BD3E-420B-B4BA-61C3B7617CFF", "McBath, Allred Introduce Bill to Bolster Outreach on Child Care and Leave at Higher Ed Institutions", "2024-07-31", "2024", "2024-07", "Democrat", "House", "GA", "Lucy McBath", "M001208", "mcbath.house.gov", "mcbath", "https://mcbath.house.gov/press-releases", "scraper", "Duluth, GA \u2014 Today, U.S. Representatives Lucy McBath (GA-07) and Colin Allred (TX-32) introduced the Helping Student Parents Succeed Act, which would ensure students expecting a child and student parents are made aware of child care, leave options, and other accommodations that are available to them at their schools.\n\nThe bill is part of the Roadmap to College Student Success, House Democrats\u2019 campaign to reform America\u2019s higher education system for students and families.\n\n\u201cI was raised by a working single mother who took classes to complete her master\u2019s degree,\u201c said McBath. \u201cStudent parents and those expecting work hard to raise children while pursuing a better livelihood for their families. The Helping Student Parents Succeed Act helps our families by ensuring information on child care and parental leave options are available to these parents and those who need it most.\u201d\n\n\u201cI took leave after both my sons were born because I know it's difficult to juggle so much during this period of starting a family,\u201d said Allred.\u201cThis bill will make it easier for student parents and those expecting to find information regarding leave policies and child care options at their institution of higher education. I am committed to helping all North Texans, including new parents, get the education and skills they need to enter the workforce and secure good-paying jobs.\u201d\n\nThe Helping Student Parents Succeed Act requires higher learning institutions to post on their website their policies regarding leaves of absence related to pregnancy or adoption of a child, as well as any policies related to making up missed work, lactation accommodations, the availability of child care, and housing for students with dependents.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T21:24:45Z"], ["https://mcbath.house.gov/press-releases?ID=A2358D40-6E17-4E2C-B5C7-36730DFA036C", "President Biden Signs McBath Bill to Ensure Restitution for Victims\u2019 Representatives into Law", "2024-07-31", "2024", "2024-07", "Democrat", "House", "GA", "Lucy McBath", "M001208", "mcbath.house.gov", "mcbath", "https://mcbath.house.gov/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, DC. \u2014 Today, U.S. Representatives Lucy McBath (GA-07) and Harriet Hageman (WY-At-Large) and U.S. Senators John Cornyn (R-TX), Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Marsha Blackburn (R-TN), and Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI) released the following statements after their Victims\u2019 Voices Outside and Inside the Courtroom Effectiveness (Victims\u2019 VOICES) Act was signed into law by President Biden. This law ensures those who act on behalf of victims\u2014such as family members, legal guardians, and those appointed by the court\u2014receive restitution care from convicted defendants for costs incurred during certain criminal court case proceedings such as transportation, lost income, and child care.\n\n\u201cWhen I was seeking justice after my son was shot and killed, my loved ones stood beside me throughout the court proceedings,\u201d said Rep. McBath. \u201cDevastation and hardship in the aftermath of a crime can have ripple effects across a victim\u2019s entire support network. I know how important it is for families to focus on supporting loved ones through these traumatic events, and lawmakers have a role to play in easing financial burdens. I am proud to see this important bill signed into law by President Biden. Together, we are helping support victims and their loved ones.\u201d\n\n\u201cFamily members of violent crime victims, including children and those who have died, should be reimbursed for the financial burden they take on to achieve justice for their loved ones,\u201d said Sen. Cornyn. \u201cThis legislation will make victims\u2019 representatives whole by ensuring they receive restitution from convicted criminals, and I\u2019m glad to see it become law.\u201d\n\n\u201cVictims and their loved ones face tremendous hardship in the aftermath of violent crimes, and costly fees incurred while seeking justice only add to this stress,\u201d said Sen. Blumenthal. \u201cThe Victims\u2019 Voices Outside and Inside the Courtroom Effectiveness Act ensures that those acting on behalf of victims receive fair and full compensation, lightening the burden for victims and their families and making it easier to fully access justice.\u201d\n\n\u201cUnder federal law, those convicted of certain crimes are required to pay restitution to their victims \u2013 helping cover necessary expenses such as medical care,\u201dsaid Sen. Blackburn. \u201cHowever, that is not the case for a person assuming the rights of a victim who is a minor, deceased or unable to act for themselves. This is important legislation to ensure all victims receive the justice they deserve.\u201d\n\n\u201cThe road to recovery after a violent crime can be costly for both victims and their loved ones who support them,\u201d said Sen. Whitehouse. \u201cOur new bipartisan law will expand restitution coverage to ensure families of victims are financially supported while holding perpetrators accountable and seeking justice.\u201d\n\n\u201cUnder current federal law, those convicted of a crime may be required to pay restitution to their victim, however a person assuming rights for a victim, such as a husband, wife, mother, or father, may not be eligible for restitution, even when they play a necessary role in the legal process,\u201d said Rep. Hageman. \u201cThis has been a far too common issue in crimes of violence and in tribal communities where locating and protecting missing and exploited women and children is a major challenge. The bipartisan and bicameral Victims\u2019 VOICES Act will finally address this injustice and strengthen the ability to care for victims while effectively prosecuting criminals.\u201d\n\nBackground:\n\nThe Mandatory Victims Restitution Act, which was signed into law in 1996, requires defendants convicted of certain crimes, including violent crimes, to pay restitution to their victims. The restitution can cover a number of costs, including transportation, lost income, and childcare costs incurred while participating in the investigation or prosecution of the offense as well as medical and nonmedical care and treatment and associated costs. In the case of a victim who is a minor, deceased, incapacitated, or otherwise not capable of acting on his or her own behalf, a family member, legal guardian, or a person appointed by the court may \u201cassume\u201d the victim\u2019s rights.\n\nIn many jurisdictions, individuals acting on a victim\u2019s behalf have been precluded from receiving restitution for their own lost income, transportation, childcare, and other costs. This imposes a significant hardship on the victim\u2019s representative and a barrier to vindicating the victim\u2019s rights. The Victims\u2019 VOICES Act will amend existing law to clarify that a person who acts on behalf of a victim is eligible to receive restitution for the expenses associated with participating in the investigation or prosecution of the offense, attending related court proceedings, or transporting a victim to receive medical, therapy, rehabilitation, or other services.\n\nThis legislation is endorsed by the National District Attorneys Association, Raven, National Children\u2019s Alliance, Major County Sheriffs of America, the Rape, Abuse, and Incest National Network (RAINN), National Native American Law Enforcement Association, and the National Organization for Victim Advocacy (NOVA).", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T21:24:45Z"], ["https://hankjohnson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressman-johnson-leader-jeffries-sens-durbin-collins-reintroduce", "Congressman Johnson, Leader Jeffries, Sens. Durbin, Collins, Reintroduce Bipartisan Bill to Improve Fairness in Criminal Justice System", "2024-07-30", "2024", "2024-07", "Democrat", "House", "GA", "Henry C. \"Hank\" Johnson, Jr.", "J000288", "hankjohnson.house.gov", "hankjohnson", "https://hankjohnson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases", "scraper", "The Criminal Judicial Administration Act would authorize the U.S. Marshals Service to pay for round-trip travel and subsistence for defendants who cannot afford to pay the costs on their own.\n\nWASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 U.S. Representative Hank Johnson (D-GA), Ranking Member of the House Judiciary Subcommittee on Courts, Intellectual Property, and the Internet, along with Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries (D-NY), U.S. Senate Majority Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL), Chair of the Senate Judiciary Committee, and U.S. Senator Susan Collins (R-ME), today reintroduced the Criminal Judicial Administration Act (CJAA), a bipartisan, bicameral bill that would improve fairness in the criminal justice system by facilitating court attendance by out-of-custody indigent federal defendants.\n\nThe bill would authorize federal courts to direct the United States Marshals Service (USMS) to pay for round-trip travel and subsistence for the limited number of defendants who must attend court hearings but cannot afford to pay the costs on their own. Currently, the USMS pays only for one-way transportation, leaving some indigent defendants unhoused, hungry, and stranded.\n\nThe bill would also authorize U.S. magistrate judges to hear post-conviction motions in cases in which the magistrate was the sentencing judge, instead of the post-conviction motions being assigned to a district court judge who may not be familiar with the case.\n\n\u201cAs a former magistrate judge myself, I know magistrates can help our overburdened Article III Courts run more efficiently,\u201d said Rep. Johnson. \u201cThe Criminal Judicial Administration Act of 2024 will allow magistrate judges to handle more motions in cases they have already ruled on. It will also make a big impact by giving judges the ability to provide indigent defendants with the resources they need to guarantee they attend their court proceedings without leaving some homeless, hungry, and stranded. This will ensure that justice is meted out fairly, even to our poorest citizens.\u201d\n\n\u201cOur bill, the bipartisan, bicameral Criminal Judicial Administration Act, makes a simple but impactful change in the administration of justice within federal courts. For a small annual cost, we can help hundreds of federal defendants, who are presumed innocent, get fair treatment and increase public safety at the same time,\u201d Durbin said.\n\n\u201cEqual justice under the law is one of the fundamental principles of our criminal justice system. Currently, however, a defendant who is presumed innocent but is lacking basic resources may be faced with overwhelming travel costs simply to defend themselves in court,\u201d said Collins. \u201cOur bipartisan bill would strengthen our judicial system by affording judges the discretion to provide defendants who need assistance with the resources they need to attend court proceedings. It would also increase efficiency by allowing federal magistrate judges to rule on post-judgment motions in cases they already presided over. These modest and commonsense changes would help ensure that justice is carried out fairly and effectively.\u201d\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T21:24:45Z"], ["https://hankjohnson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/johnson-torres-durbin-hirono-and-nadler-release-gao-report-constrained", "Johnson, Torres, Durbin, Hirono, and Nadler Release GAO Report Constrained by AO Blocking Access to Federal Audit of Sexual Harassment in the Judiciary System", "2024-07-30", "2024", "2024-07", "Democrat", "House", "GA", "Henry C. \"Hank\" Johnson, Jr.", "J000288", "hankjohnson.house.gov", "hankjohnson", "https://hankjohnson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases", "scraper", "Members Request Efforts to Prevent and Address Workplace Misconduct; Report Finds Judiciary\u2019s system has no performance measures and conducts no evaluations of the efficacy of its workplace misconduct protocols\n\nWASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Today, Congressman Hank Johnson, Congresswoman Norma J. Torres, Senator Dick Durbin, Senator Mazie Hirono, and Congressman Jerry Nadler released a Government Accountability Office (GAO) report addressing the Judiciary\u2019s policies and practices to prevent and respond to workplace misconduct.\n\nThe report was originally requested by Reps. Johnson, Jackie Speier (ret.) and Torres in a November 2020 letter to GAO asking it to assess the federal judiciary\u2019s lack of workplace protections and its effect on employees.\n\nThe Administrative Office of the U.S. Courts failed to fully cooperate with the GAO audit, a process that relies heavily on transparency. Over the two-year study, the Judiciary only permitted the GAO to interview one current Judiciary employee and one former employee to gain an \u201cemployee perspective,\u201d severely limiting the GAO\u2019s ability to assess the practical implementation of the Judiciary\u2019s policies. The tactics used to delay and restrict the GAO auditors' access to information and court personnel are deeply concerning.\n\nThe GAO report concluded that the Judiciary \u201cdoes not have performance measures in place for its workplace conduct efforts and has not evaluated the effectiveness of its efforts.\u201d Overall, GAO found that Judicial systems aligned with only 65% of federal standards evaluated. Deficient areas include methods to ensure written policy is implemented correctly and employee rights are substantive in practice; processes to prevent, identify, and end retaliation; training, where training materials met only 23.5% of the federal standards evaluated; and data collection, where the Judiciary does not collect adequate data on complaints including complaints involving judges and complaints using the most common form of dispute resolution, among other areas. GAO noted that the lack of data collection \u201cmay limit\u201d the Judiciary's ability to understand and fully address workplace misconduct within its organization.\n\n\u201cAll workers deserve basic workplace rights that protect them from harassment, discrimination and other forms of misconduct,\u201d said Rep. Hank Johnson (GA-04), ranking member of the Subcommittee on Courts. \u201cWhile it\u2019s encouraging to see that the federal judiciary is making strides on behalf of its more than 30,00 employees, this report reinforces the fact that more work still needs to be done. The fact that federal judiciary employees are denied basic civil rights protections \u2013 rights that the rest of the federal government and most private sector employees enjoy \u2013 is just flat wrong and must be remedied. The Constitution and the American people have entrusted the judiciary as the guardian of the rule of law and yet it doesn\u2019t even provide its own employees the full protection of it. The fix here is not revolutionary and should not be partisan. I look forward to continuing the fight to protect workers and providing the judiciary with the legislative tools to help us make this a reality.\u201d\n\n\u201cNo American should suffer sexual misconduct, abuse, or harassment while on the job and the federal Judiciary must be held to the highest standards of integrity and ethical conduct. The era of judges abusing their power and taking comfort in an environment that rewards silence and fear ends now,\u201d said Congresswoman Norma Torres. \u201cIf the Judiciary can or will not address these issues adequately, then Congress will do it for them. I urge the Judiciary to rapidly establish adequate and transparent systems to handle sexual harassment claims that meet the standard all other government entities adhere to. This report is a testament that the current system is failing to protect the over 30,000 employees throughout the federal Judiciary and that reliance on the good character and conduct of individuals alone has been grossly insufficient. The delays and restrictions placed on GAO auditors' access to information and court employees is unacceptable. The attention to this severe lack of transparency has captured the attention of the public and members of the House and Senate. The time for change is now.\u201d\n\n\u201cEvery employee should be entitled to a workplace free of sexual harassment\u2014period. That includes employees of our judicial system. The lack of urgency by the federal courts\u2019 administrative office to root out sexual harassment is shameful, and the unjustifiable defiance by the office to assist with this important study is in keeping with the AO\u2019s reticence to embracing meaningful transparency. Additional steps must be taken to ensure the judiciary protects its employees from misconduct with robust policies and procedures,\u201d said U.S. Senate Majority Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL), Chair of the Senate Judiciary Committee.\n\n\u201cEveryone deserves to be safe and respected in the workplace,\u201d said Senator Hirono. \u201cBut this report makes clear that years after its workplace misconduct problems came to light, the federal judiciary will not prevent workplace misconduct, leaving employees vulnerable to abuse without any recourse. The AO\u2019s refusal to fully cooperate with this report underscores its unwillingness to even understand this issue, let alone address it. If the federal judiciary won\u2019t take even basic action to protect its employees, Congress will. I look forward to introducing strengthened legislation with my colleagues in the weeks ahead to protect judiciary employees and stamp out the workplace misconduct that persists in our courts.\u201d\n\n\u201cThe Federal Judiciary has an obligation to ensure a workplace free of abuse and harassment, which is why this report is so jarring,\u201d said Congressman Nadler. \u201cI\u2019m proud to join my colleagues in this bicameral effort to help strengthen the judiciary\u2019s policies and procedures to ensure that the thousands of judicial employees who dedicate themselves to seeking justice for others are no longer vulnerable to misconduct, harassment, and discrimination in their own workplace. This GAO report demonstrates that while the judiciary has put into place some measures to address these issues, there is still a long way to go as the judiciary has failed to take effective steps that numerous other government institutions, including Congress, have already taken. This report provides us with a blueprint on what is left to be done and I look forward to working with my colleagues to protect the integrity of the judicial branch and providing the thousands of judiciary employees the same workplace protections that other federal government and private sector employees already enjoy.\u201d\n\nBackground: According to judiciary officials, a survey was conducted from January 12 through February 17, 2023, and they received responses from approximately 14,000 out of the 28,000 employees surveyed. The Government Accountability Office (GAO) requested access to the survey data but was denied. Similarly, Congress also requested access to the data and was denied. As of now, the circuit courts themselves have not had access to the data.\n\nFull report\n\nSummary report\n\nOriginal letter requesting report", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T21:24:45Z"], ["https://hankjohnson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressman-hank-johnsons-statement-president-bidens-embrace", "Congressman Hank Johnson\u2019s Statement on President Biden\u2019s Embrace of Fundamental Court Reform Measures", "2024-07-29", "2024", "2024-07", "Democrat", "House", "GA", "Henry C. \"Hank\" Johnson, Jr.", "J000288", "hankjohnson.house.gov", "hankjohnson", "https://hankjohnson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases", "scraper", "Congressman Hank Johnson (GA-04), ranking member of the Judiciary Subcommittee on Courts and the chairman of the Court Reform Now Taskforce, issued the following statement applauding the Biden Administration\u2019s announcement in support of key reforms to the Supreme Court:\n\n\u201cI applaud President Biden\u2019s acknowledgement of the need for Supreme Court reform. Without a binding and enforceable code of conduct and with lifetime tenure, this power grabbing Supreme Court, while becoming corrupt and unaccountable, has upset the delicate system of checks and balances upon which our democracy rests. President Biden also recognizes the grave danger caused by the Supreme Court\u2019s decision granting near absolute immunity to future presidents. I look forward to working with the White House to enact meaningful court reform now, such as my Supreme Court Ethics, Recusal and Transparency Act, the TERM Act and other reforms necessary to restore trust and faith in our judiciary. No one is above the law, including the president or justices of the Supreme Court.\u201d\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T21:24:45Z"], ["https://hankjohnson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/amidst-crisis-confidence-supreme-court-rep-johnson-senator-markey-and", "Amidst Crisis of Confidence in Supreme Court, Rep. Johnson, Senator Markey, and Environmental, Reproductive Health, Judicial Reform Advocates Push to Expand the Court", "2024-07-25", "2024", "2024-07", "Democrat", "House", "GA", "Henry C. \"Hank\" Johnson, Jr.", "J000288", "hankjohnson.house.gov", "hankjohnson", "https://hankjohnson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases", "scraper", "Call for passage of Judiciary Act to restore Court\u2019s legitimacy\n\nWashington (July 25, 2024) -- Senator Edward J. Markey (D-Mass.), the lead author of the Judiciary Act, today hosted a press conference with Congressman Hank Johnson (GA-04), Ranking Member of the Judiciary Subcommittee on Courts, Intellectual Property, and the Internet and lead House sponsor of the legislation, along with reproductive health, environmental, and judicial advocacy groups, calling to expand the U.S. Supreme Court. The Judiciary Act would expand the United States Supreme Court by adding four seats, creating a 13-justice Supreme Court and restore balance to the nation\u2019s highest court after four years of norm-breaking actions by Republicans led to its current composition and greatly undermined the Court\u2019s standing in the eyes of the American people.\n\n\u201cWhen the Court issued the Dobbs decision, I warned that it was a preview of coming atrocities. In the Court\u2019s 2023 term, they began to arrive,\u201d said Senator Markey. \u201cThe Court\u2019s recent decisions on presidential immunity, Chevron deference, and overturning Roe v. Wade laid bare that a far-right, extremist majority has been fully captured and plunged the Court into a crisis of confidence and legitimacy. Because we can no longer trust the current Supreme Court to uphold the words engraved on the outside of the Supreme Court \u2013 Equal Justice Under the Law - we must fight to return balance and legitimacy to this institution and expand the Court.\u201d\n\n\u201cIt's easy to take for granted that the number of justices on the Supreme Court must be nine but in fact this number is not set in the Constitution and has changed seven times over the course of the country's history,\u201d said Rep. Johnson (GA-04), Ranking Member of the Judiciary Subcommittee on Courts and cofounder of the Court Reform Now Taskforce. \u201cThirteen justices would mean one justice per circuit court of appeals, consistent with how the number of justices was originally determined. It is time that we start thinking about the Supreme Court like we think about the other co-equal branches of government and consider whether its current composition allows it to effectively do what we need it to do \u2014 efficiently and expertly administer justice and uphold the rule of law, rather than the unethical Court we have today that appears to be beholden to dark money influence and at times, pernicious corruption. Congress must pass reforms that add seats to the Supreme Court so we can restore balance, judicial independence, meaningful checks and balances and protect the rights of all Americans.\u201d\n\nCosponsors of the Judiciary Act include Senators Tina Smith (D-Minn.), Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.), Representatives Jerry Nadler (NY-12), Cori Bush (MO-01), and Adam Schiff (CA-30).\n\n\u201cRight-wing extremists have taken over the Supreme Court \u2014 shredding abortion rights, rigging the rules against workers, and undermining the very foundation of our democracy. The Judiciary Act will restore integrity and balance to the Supreme Court,\u201d said Senator Warren.\n\n\u201cNine justices may have made sense in the nineteenth century when there were only nine circuits, and many of our most important federal laws\u2014covering everything from civil rights, to antitrust, the internet, financial regulation, health care, immigration, and white collar crime\u2014simply did not exist, and did not require adjudication by the Supreme Court,\u201d said Ranking Member Nadler. \u201cBut the logic behind having only nine justices is much weaker today, when there are thirteen circuits. Thirteen justices for thirteen circuits is a sensible progression\u2014and in the face of repeated, destructive decisions by the overwhelming conservative majority put in place by President Trump, I urge the Senate to take up the Judiciary Act to restore balance and Americans\u2019 faith in our nation\u2019s highest court.\u201d\n\n\u201cThe right-wing majority on the Supreme Court has shown repeatedly that they do not serve the people of this country\u2014they serve Donald Trump and wealthy corporations exploiting our communities. Their decisions, including gutting environmental protections and reproductive health care access, profoundly affect every aspect of our constituents\u2019 lives,\u201d said Rep. Bush. \u201cWe know the extremists on the Court will continue to chip away at our rights until Congress acts to stop them. That means passing the Judiciary Act and other necessary Court reforms to weaken the influence of the pro-insurrection wing and establish a fair and just Court that protects our rights, instead of stripping them away.\u201d\n\n\u201cRepublicans have transformed the Supreme Court into a partisan vehicle for their conservative policies, endangering our democracy, reproductive rights, and environmental standards,\u201d said Rep. Schiff. \u201cIt\u2019s time to pass the Judiciary Act to ensure the court serves justice, not political interests. Our democracy and the rule of law depend on a fair and impartial judiciary, and we must act now to preserve it.\u201d\n\n\u201cTerm after term, the people of this country come away with fewer rights. We cannot and will not accept this as our new normal. We are not powerless to stop it. Rebalancing the Court, along with other critical reforms such as term limits and ethics, would ensure that the Court better serves the values and will of the people,\u201d said LaNita King, National Director of Programs at Demand Justice.\n\n\u201cIn the two years since the U.S. Supreme Court overturned Roe and decimated abortion rights, it\u2019s increasingly clear that other fundamental rights are on the line as well. Our freedoms are under threat, and our federal courts no longer function as the backstop in protecting and advancing our rights. Instead, they\u2019ve been misused to push deeply unpopular agendas to control our bodies, lives, and futures. Planned Parenthood Federation of America is proud to support the Judiciary Act because our futures depend on federal courts that reflect this country and the ideals of the majority,\u201d said Alexis McGill Johnson, President and CEO of Planned Parenthood Action Fund.\n\n\u201cWe need judges who will protect our climate and environment and look out for the health and safety of our families and communities. But MAGA justices on the Supreme Court, some of whom have questionable ties to the fossil fuel industry, continually twist the law to undermine critical climate, clean air, and clean water safeguards,\u201d said Doug Lindner, Senior Director of Judiciary & Democracy at the League of Conservation Voters. \u201cAt the same time, they are working to weaken our democracy, roll back voting rights, excuse insurrectionists, and sanction polluter money in politics\u2014all in defiance of longstanding legal principles. LCV is proud to join Senator Markey in the urgent call to expand and rebalance this captured Supreme Court with qualified, ethical justices who protect our climate, our democracy, and our rights instead of attacking them.\u201d\n\n\u201cDuring the Supreme Court\u2019s most recent term, the right-wing justices gutted the federal government\u2019s ability to protect the American people, criminalized homelessness, and granted presidents immunity from criminal prosecution. They will continue to erode our fundamental freedoms and our democracy unless Congress acts,\u201d said Christina Harvey, Executive Director of Stand Up America. \u201cSenator Markey has been leading the fight to hold the Roberts Court accountable, including by championing the Judiciary Act to restore balance to the bench. We applaud his leadership and urge other members of Congress to join him in supporting this vital legislation. It's time to reform this out-of-control Court.\u201d\n\n\u201cThis term, the right-wing zealots on this court showed us once again that there is no bottom. From criminalizing our unhoused neighbors to helping fraudsters and crooks to anointing Donald Trump king, no constitutional principle is safe from their power grab,\u201d said Alexa Barrett, Director of Communications for Take Back the Court Action Fund. \u201cOur democracy cannot function when a panel of unelected, unaccountable ideologues are intent on turning it into an oligarchy. That\u2019s why we\u2019re proud to stand beside Senator Markey in this urgent fight to add four new justices to the Supreme Court who will abide by the rule of law and work on behalf of the American people \u2014 not billionaire benefactors and right-wing extremists. If we want to restore legitimacy to this broken institution, we need to expand the court.\u201d\n\n\u201cTrump and MAGA Republicans spent four years stacking the federal judiciary and the Supreme Court with ideologues to advance their out-of-touch agenda\u2014and as a result, our democracy is facing a crisis. Attacks on our rights are moving through the federal courts because extremists know the system has been rigged in their favor. It\u2019s past time to do something about it. Americans support the fundamental right to abortion, and they want to see the legitimacy of our Court restored, including through court expansion as outlined in the Judiciary Act,\u201d said Mini Timmaraju, President and CEO of Reproductive Freedom for All.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T21:24:45Z"], ["https://mcbath.house.gov/press-releases?ID=56CB4BED-E89E-43DB-A6F3-7752FEAC39E0", "President Biden Signs McBath Prison Oversight Bill Into Law", "2024-07-25", "2024", "2024-07", "Democrat", "House", "GA", "Lucy McBath", "M001208", "mcbath.house.gov", "mcbath", "https://mcbath.house.gov/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, DC \u2014 Congresswoman Lucy McBath\u2019s Federal Prison Oversight Act is now law. Today, President Biden signed H.R. 3019, legislation to establish new, independent oversight of the Federal Bureau of Prisons (BOP). Representatives Lucy McBath (D-GA-07) and Kelly Armstrong (R-ND-AL) led the Federal Prison Oversight Act in the House. Senators Jon Ossoff (D-GA), Mike Braun (R-IN), and Senate Majority Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL), Chair of the U.S. Senate Judiciary Committee, led the companion bill in the Senate.\n\n\u201cMy teenage son Jordan was shot and killed by a man now serving a life sentence in prison,\u201d Rep. Lucy McBath said. \u201cThose incarcerated and the staff who work in our prisons every day deserve an environment free from unnecessary dangers. With the signing of our bill, H.R.3019, into law, greater accountability to protect staff and incarcerated individuals is now in place for our federal prison system. I\u2019m grateful to President Biden and for the partnership of Congressman Armstrong and Senators Ossoff, Durbin, and Braun. This is one more example of what is possible when Democrats and Republicans join together to deliver common-sense solutions.\u201d\n\n\u201cThis is a big moment for criminal justice reform,\u201d said Congressman Kelly Armstrong (N.D. At-Large). \u201cThe Federal Prison Oversight Act moves our prison system into the 21st century, works across agencies, creates accountability structures, and requires risk assessments for our prisons. I want to thank Congresswoman Lucy McBath for introducing this crucial legislation with me in the House. I also want to thank Senators Jon Ossoff, Mike Braun, and Dick Durbin for moving H.R. 3019 across the finish line in the Senate and I would like to thank President Biden for signing this needed legislation into law. The Federal Bureau of Prisons has an obligation to ensure the health and safety of incarcerated individuals, employees, and visitors in its facilities, and for decades they have let that responsibility lapse. Today, we made a difference for so many, and most importantly, we added a little bit more accountability to the criminal justice system.\u201d\n\n\u201cThe human rights crisis behind bars in the United States is a stain on America\u2019s conscience. I\u2019m grateful to Senator Braun, Chairman Durbin, Congresswoman McBath, Congressman Armstrong, and our Senate and House co-sponsors for joining me in authoring and passing this bill to overhaul Federal prison oversight,\u201d Sen. Ossoff said. \u201cThe United States Congress will no longer tolerate the ongoing and widespread abuse of those who are in Federal Bureau of Prisons\u2019 custody.\u201d\n\n\u201cRestoring integrity to the Bureau of Prisons and addressing mismanagement in correctional facilities is a top priority of the Senate Judiciary Committee. This bipartisan law will improve prison oversight and ensure the Bureau is fulfilling its duty to provide safe and humane conditions of confinement to prepare incarcerated individuals for a successful return to society. I'm glad to be part of this reform and thank President Biden for signing it into law,\u201d said U.S. Senate Majority Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL), Chair of the Senate Judiciary Committee.\n\nThe bipartisan law is backed by civil rights, prison union, and public safety organizations, including the Council of Prison Locals (CPL), Families Against Mandatory Minimums (FAMM), the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU), the Conservative Political Action Committee (CPAC), National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers, Justice Action Network, Due Process Institute, Right on Crime, and Niskanen Center \u2014 as well as the Department of Justice\u2019s Inspector General, who will now be charged with carrying out U.S. inspections of BOP facilities.\n\n\u201cI applaud Congress for passing the Federal Prison Oversight Act, and for the overwhelming bipartisan show of support to improve oversight of the Federal Bureau of Prisons (BOP) Last year, the OIG launched an unannounced inspection program of BOP facilities. The inspections we conducted have identified critical shortcomings in BOP operations, including staff shortages in health and education programs, infrastructure in desperate need of repair, and moldy and rotten food being served to inmates,\u201d said U.S. Department of Justice Inspector General Michael E. Horowitz. \u201cThis Act recognizes the importance of our inspection program, and we look forward to working with Congress to expand its impact. I would like to recognize the Act\u2019s primary sponsors, Senators Jon Ossoff, Mike Braun, and Dick Durbin and Representatives Lucy McBath and Kelly Armstrong, as well as all the Act\u2019s co-sponsors, for their bipartisan efforts to improve the BOP.\u201d\n\n\u201cThe Council of Prison Locals would like to thank Senator Ossoff, Senator Durbin, and Senator Braun, for spearheading this piece of Legislation. This bipartisan bill will bring more transparency to working conditions that our Federal Law Enforcement work in. Also, identifying the inadequacy of staffing within the Bureau of Prisons, including ratio of staff to inmates at each facility, the staff position vacancy rate at each facility, and the use of overtime, mandatory overtime, and augmentation instead of hiring funded positions,\u201d said Steve Markle, National Secretary-Treasurer for the Council of Prison Locals, which represents more than 30,000 Federal law enforcement officers. \u201cThe Council of Prison Locals will continue to work with Members of Congress to create legislation that will provide safer prisons for both Law Enforcement and the inmates that are incarcerated within.\u201d\n\n\u201cCongress demonstrated that it can take on big problems in a bipartisan way. By working across party lines, Senators followed the lead of correctional officers and the families of incarcerated people, who came together to lobby for this bill. These groups know better than anyone what\u2019s at stake,\u201d said Kevin Ring, vice president of criminal justice advocacy at Arnold Ventures. \u201cOur nation\u2019s prisons are in crisis, due largely to understaffing and unnecessary incarceration. Our federal prisons are falling apart, and the people who work and live in them are not safe. We hope the legislation approved today is appropriately funded and that enhanced transparency and accountability will lead to greater safety inside our prisons \u2013 and, ultimately, in our communities.\u201d\n\n\u201cAfter all the headlines, scandals, and controversy that have plagued the Bureau of Prisons for decades, we\u2019re very happy to see this Congress take action to bring transparency and accountability to an agency that has gone so long without it,\u201d said Daniel Landsman, Vice President of Policy at Families Against Mandatory Minimums. \u201cThank you to Sens. Ossoff, Braun, and Durbin for championing this bill and for prioritizing the health and safety of the more than 150,000 people incarcerated in federal prisons, as well as of the tens of thousands of people who work in the same facilities.\u201d\n\n\u201cThe ACLU applauds the bipartisan efforts of Sens. Ossoff, Braun, Durbin, and Manchin, and Reps. McBath and Armstrong to provide a common-sense solution to this ongoing crisis,\u201d said Nina Patel, senior policy counsel at the ACLU\u2019s Justice Division. \u201cThe act creates oversight and accountability mechanisms that are essential to protect the civil liberties and dignity of individuals who are incarcerated in federal prisons.\u201d\n\n\u201cPeople who have committed crimes require rehabilitation, and that cannot be accomplished when they are subjected to neglect and abuse in federal facilities without recourse or oversight. The Federal Prison Oversight Act is critically needed in light of mounting evidence of rights abuses and failures in federal facilities, and on-going staff shortages that put both corrections staff and the incarcerated people they oversee at risk. The Senate\u2019s unanimous passage of critical prison reform legislation is a timely reminder that bipartisan public safety policy is not just possible but popular and effective. We congratulate its authors in both the House and Senate, including Representatives McBath and Armstrong, and Senators Ossoff and Braun. Both Congress and the administration should actively pursue other bipartisan solutions to the public safety issues that are top of mind for voters this election season,\u201d said JC Hendrickson, Federal Affairs Director for Justice Action Network.\n\n\u201cPrison conditions must change and allow men and women behind bars to pay their debt to society in humane and secure correctional environments,\u201d said Kate Trammell, Prison Fellowship\u2019s vice president of legal and advocacy. \u201cThis issue of agency accountability, human dignity, and transparency in government has cut through the partisan noise of our day. We are glad to see an important step taken toward safer, more constructive federal prisons in America.\u201d\n\nThe new law requires the Department of Justice\u2019s Inspector General to conduct comprehensive, risk-based inspections of the BOP\u2019s 122 correctional facilities, provide recommendations to fix problems, and assign each facility a risk score, with higher-risk facilities required to be inspected more often. The IG must also report its findings and recommendations to Congress and the public, and the BOP must respond to all inspection reports within 60 days with a corrective action plan.\n\nThe law will also establish an independent Ombudsman to investigate the health, safety, welfare, and rights of incarcerated people and staff. The Ombudsman will create a secure hotline and online form for family members, friends, and representatives of incarcerated people to submit complaints and inquiries.\n\nClick here to read the full text of the bipartisan Federal Prison Oversight Act.\n\nPhoto: Rep. Lucy McBath holds a portait of her son, Jordan Davis, in the House Judiciary Committee.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T21:24:45Z"], ["https://bishop.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressman-bishop-announces-nearly-19-million-in-usda-funds-to-help-georgia-producers-expand-meat-poultry-processing", "CONGRESSMAN BISHOP ANNOUNCES NEARLY $1.9 MILLION IN USDA FUNDS TO HELP GEORGIA PRODUCERS, EXPAND MEAT & POULTRY PROCESSING", "2024-07-24", "2024", "2024-07", "Democrat", "House", "GA", "Sanford D. Bishop, Jr.", "B000490", "bishop.house.gov", "bishop", "https://bishop.house.gov/media-center/press-releases", "scraper", "BLUFFTON, Ga. \u2013 Two businesses in Middle and Southwest Georgia are being awarded a total of $1.89 million by the Biden-Harris Administration through two U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) programs, the Meat and Poultry Processing Expansion Program and the Local Meat Capacity Grant Program. The funding for these awards was made possible by the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021, which Congressman Bishop supported in Congress. The programs are meant to strengthen the food supply chain, lower food costs, and keep rural communities strong.\n\n\u201cThe American Rescue Plan Act, that I supported in Congress, continues to help tackle the vulnerabilities in our food supply chain that the recent pandemic highlighted. These USDA programs and this week\u2019s awards are not only helping give Middle and Southwest Georgia producers more options to get their goods packaged, but they are also giving Georgia families more choice at the grocery store to support local businesses,\u201d said Congressman Bishop. \u201cThis investment is just another way in which Congress and the Biden-Harris Administration are working to expand and strengthen our supply chain for our farmers and producers so that food can be more affordable for American families.\u201d\n\n\u201cWe at White Oak Pastures are delighted to have been selected to be a recipient of a Local Meat Capacity Grant. We will use these funds to increase our slaughter capacity to handle 4000 additional lambs per year. We have begun producing these sheep on 2000 acres of solar voltaic properties that we manage the vegetation on through grazing,\u201d said Will Harris, owner of White Oak Pastures. \u201cThese properties were previously cropped with conventionally managed cotton, corn, and peanuts. This land has sustained a lot of degrading tillage, chemical fertilizers, and pesticides. It is now producing power for thousands of homes and grass for our sheep. Our decades of experience have proven that, as a grazing property, the land will become healthier and more productive. We are grateful that our project was chosen out of the many worthy proposals that were submitted.\u201d\n\n\u201cAs a local cattleman, I am excited to provide access to USDA-inspected cattle and hog processing for regional farmers,\u201d said Austin Jones, Plant Manager and owner of Flint Packers. \u201cMore importantly, as a family man and resident of Macon County, I am proud to build and create employment opportunities and to provide quality farm-to-table meats for my community.\u201d\n\nEarlier this month, Secretary Tom Vilsack announced that the USDA is investing nearly $100 million across the country through the Meat and Poultry Processing Expansion Program and the Local Meat Capacity Grant Program.\n\nWhite Oak Pastures in Bluffton was awarded $690,000 in order to expand their livestock processing by 30% through the Local Meat Capacity Grant Program. White Oak Pastures is a family-owned, vertically integrated, regenerative, sustainable, and zero-waste model agricultural farm whose products are sold nationwide. They are the largest private employer in Clay County, employing over 155 local residents which has helped revitalize this rural America community. White Oak Pastures currently processes poultry for 17 neighboring producers. The company will use the grant to process more poultry as well as a greater variety of livestock, including goats, lambs, and hogs.\n\nFlint Packers LLC, a start-up cattle and hog processor in Oglethorpe, received $1,222,302 through the Meat and Poultry Processing Expansion Program, which is nearly a third of the funds required to build and equip a new 12,000 square foot cattle and hog processing facility. The facility will serve local farmers who currently must transport their livestock hundreds of miles elsewhere for processing. At full capacity, it is estimated that this facility will generate $5 million annually and create 23 jobs, including 18 full-time jobs in Macon County.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T21:24:45Z"], ["https://bishop.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressman-bishop-announces-nearly-200000-in-nih-funds-for-mercer-university-to-advance-cancer-autoimmune-disease-research", "CONGRESSMAN BISHOP ANNOUNCES NEARLY $200,000 IN NIH FUNDS FOR MERCER UNIVERSITY TO ADVANCE CANCER & AUTOIMMUNE DISEASE RESEARCH", "2024-07-24", "2024", "2024-07", "Democrat", "House", "GA", "Sanford D. Bishop, Jr.", "B000490", "bishop.house.gov", "bishop", "https://bishop.house.gov/media-center/press-releases", "scraper", "MACON, Ga. \u2013 Congressman Sanford D. Bishop, Jr., (GA-02) is pleased to announce that Mercer University has been awarded $176,238 from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS). The Exploratory Award Program is administered by the National Institute of General Medical Sciences, a part of the National Institutes of Health (NIH). The grant will support cancer and autoimmune disease-related research at Mercer University.\n\n\u201cAlmost every American knows a friend or family member who is suffering from cancer or an autoimmune disease. It is a public health challenge. Congress must support the amazing scientists across our country who are relentlessly advancing our understanding of medical science and how to better treat or even prevent these diseases,\u201d said Congressman Bishop. \u201cI am proud of our amazing researchers and physicians right here in Middle Georgia and glad that HHS is investing in this important work at Mercer University\u2019s School of Medicine. I will continue to work on Capitol Hill to make sure that Congress remains a strong and reliable partner in this effort so we can help improve the quality of life for millions of Americans.\u201d\n\n\u201cThis project is expected to increase our understanding of LINE-1 retrotransposons in the human genome. LINE-1 activity can mutate DNA, leading to genetic disease. In addition, LINE-1 is thought to contribute to diseases such as cancer, neurodegeneration, and autoimmune disease,\u201d said Assistant Professor and research project director, Pamela Cook, Ph.D. \u201cTechnical limitations have slowed investigation of the proteins encoded by LINE-1. This project seeks to develop a new approach to reveal the effects of LINE-1 proteins in diseases associated with LINE-1 activity. I am grateful to Mercer University for their support and to the NIH for funding this research.\u201d\n\n\u201cMercer University School of Medicine is very proud of Dr. Pamela Cook and this cutting-edge research. This grant will fund research that will result in meaningful insight into cancer care,\u201d added Jean R. Sumner MD FACP, Dean of the Mercer University School of Medicine.\n\nAccording to the NIH's National Cancer Institute, it is estimated that nearly 2 million Americans will be diagnosed with some form of cancer in 2024. The National Institutes of Environmental Health Science notes that there are over 80 known autoimmune diseases such as type 1 diabetes, multiple sclerosis, lupus, and rheumatoid arthritis, and many are rare and difficult to diagnose. As many as 50 million people in the U.S. have an autoimmune disease, making it the third most prevalent disease category, surpassed only by cancer and heart disease.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T21:24:45Z"], ["https://hankjohnson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressman-johnson-helps-constituents-receive-passports-bypassing-usps", "Congressman Johnson Helps Constituents Receive Passports, Bypassing USPS", "2024-07-23", "2024", "2024-07", "Democrat", "House", "GA", "Henry C. \"Hank\" Johnson, Jr.", "J000288", "hankjohnson.house.gov", "hankjohnson", "https://hankjohnson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases", "scraper", "ATLANTA, GA \u2013 Congressman Hank Johnson (GA-04), in partnership with the Department of State\u2019s Atlanta Passport Agency, hosted more than 150 constituents for his District Passport Day, Wednesday, July 17, at the Latin American Association on Buford Highway.\n\nConstituents of Georgia\u2019s Fourth Congressional District reached out to Johnson\u2019s office voicing concerns in getting their passports processed due to delays caused by the U.S. Postal Service. The District Passport Day streamlined constituents\u2019 passport experience by allowing them to apply directly with the Atlanta Passport Agency.\n\nConstituents left thanking Congressman Johnson and his staff for hosting this event as they were able to meet with the Atlanta Passport Agency and apply for their passports in 15 minutes without waiting in lines and worrying about their personal documents getting lost in the mail.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T21:24:45Z"], ["https://mcbath.house.gov/press-releases?ID=91A0738B-8600-4CAF-B518-D0DDA200DC5E", "McBath Bill to Ensure Crime Victims\u2019 Representatives Receive Restitution Heads to President\u2019s Desk", "2024-07-23", "2024", "2024-07", "Democrat", "House", "GA", "Lucy McBath", "M001208", "mcbath.house.gov", "mcbath", "https://mcbath.house.gov/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, DC \u2014 U.S. Representatives Lucy McBath (GA-07) and Harriet Hageman (WY-At-Large) and U.S. Senators John Cornyn (R-TX), Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Marsha Blackburn (R-TN), and Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI) released the following statements after their Victims\u2019 Voices Outside and Inside the Courtroom Effectiveness (Victims\u2019 VOICES) Act passed the House and now heads to the President\u2019s desk. The law will ensure family members, legal guardians, and those appointed by the court who act on behalf of a victim during certain criminal court case proceedings receive restitution from convicted defendants for costs like transportation, lost income, and child care that they incur.\n\n\u201cThe devastation and hardship in the aftermath of a crime can have ripple effects across a victim\u2019s entire support network. Families may face significant challenges of their own when assisting a loved one as they seek to heal from a traumatic event,\u201d said Rep. McBath. \u201cI am proud to see this important bill pass both chambers of Congress. We are one step closer to ensuring that a parent, guardian, or court-appointed individual is guaranteed eligibility for restitution if they must assume the rights of the victim they are supporting.\u201d\n\n\u201cUnder current federal law, those convicted of a crime may be required to pay restitution to their victim, however a person assuming rights for a victim, such as a husband, wife, mother, or father, may not be eligible for restitution, even when they play a necessary role in the legal process,\u201d said Rep. Hageman. \u201cThis has been a far too common issue in crimes of violence and in tribal communities where locating and protecting missing and exploited women and children is a major challenge. The bipartisan and bicameral Victims\u2019 VOICES Act will finally address this injustice and strengthen the ability to care for victims while effectively prosecuting criminals.\u201d\n\n\u201cFamily members of violent crime victims, including children and those who have died, should be reimbursed for the financial burden they take on to achieve justice for their loved ones,\u201d said Sen. Cornyn. \u201cThis legislation would make victims\u2019 representatives whole by ensuring they receive restitution from convicted criminals, and I urge the President to sign it into law without delay.\u201d\n\n\u201cVictims and their loved ones face tremendous hardship in the aftermath of violent crimes, and costly fees incurred while seeking justice only add to this stress,\u201d said Sen. Blumenthal. \u201cThe Victims\u2019 Voices Outside and Inside the Courtroom Effectiveness Act ensures that those acting on behalf of victims receive fair and full compensation, lightening the burden for victims and their families and making it easier to fully access justice. I applaud passage of this bill in the House and urge President Biden to sign it into law swiftly.\u201d\n\n\u201cUnder federal law, those convicted of certain crimes are required to pay restitution to their victims \u2013 helping cover necessary expenses such as medical care,\u201dsaid Sen. Blackburn. \u201cHowever, that is not the case for a person assuming the rights of a victim who is a minor, deceased or unable to act for themselves. This is important legislation to ensure all victims receive the justice they deserve.\u201d\n\n\u201cThe road to recovery after a violent crime can be costly for both victims and their loved ones who support them,\u201d said Sen. Whitehouse. \u201cOur bipartisan legislation would expand restitution coverage to ensure families of victims are financially supported while holding perpetrators accountable and seeking justice.\u201d\n\nBackground:\n\nThe Mandatory Victims Restitution Act, which was signed into law in 1996, requires defendants convicted of certain crimes, including violent crimes, to pay restitution to their victims. The restitution can cover a number of costs, including transportation, lost income, and childcare costs incurred while participating in the investigation or prosecution of the offense as well as medical and nonmedical care and treatment and associated costs. In the case of a victim who is a minor, deceased, incapacitated, or otherwise not capable of acting on his or her own behalf, a family member, legal guardian, or a person appointed by the court may \u201cassume\u201d the victim\u2019s rights.\n\nIn many jurisdictions, individuals acting on a victim\u2019s behalf have been precluded from receiving restitution for their own lost income, transportation, childcare, and other costs. This imposes a significant hardship on the victim\u2019s representative and a barrier to vindicating the victim\u2019s rights. The Victims\u2019 VOICES Act would amend existing law to clarify that a person who acts on behalf of a victim is eligible to receive restitution for the expenses associated with participating in the investigation or prosecution of the offense, attending related court proceedings, or transporting a victim to receive medical, therapy, rehabilitation, or other services.\n\nThis legislation is endorsed by the National District Attorneys Association, Raven, National Children\u2019s Alliance, Major County Sheriffs of America, the Rape, Abuse, and Incest National Network (RAINN), National Native American Law Enforcement Association, and the National Organization for Victim Advocacy (NOVA).", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T21:24:45Z"], ["https://bishop.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressman-bishop-mourns-the-loss-of-bernice-johnson-reagon-civil-rights-movement-leader-founder-of-the-freedom-singers", "CONGRESSMAN BISHOP MOURNS THE LOSS OF BERNICE JOHNSON REAGON, CIVIL RIGHTS MOVEMENT LEADER & FOUNDER OF THE FREEDOM SINGERS", "2024-07-22", "2024", "2024-07", "Democrat", "House", "GA", "Sanford D. Bishop, Jr.", "B000490", "bishop.house.gov", "bishop", "https://bishop.house.gov/media-center/press-releases", "scraper", "ALBANY, Ga. \u2013 Congressman Sanford D. Bishop, Jr. (GA-02) issued the following statement upon the passing of Bernice Johnson Reagon, a leader in the Albany Movement within the U.S. Civil Rights Movement and founding member of the Freedom Singers, a part of the Student Non-violent Coordinating Committee.\n\n\u201cSouthwest Georgia and our country have lost a fearless, resilient, and pioneering leader for social change and civil rights. Bernice Johnson Reagon transitioned from labor to reward. Her labor was long and changed the lives of millions.\n\n\u201cUnderstanding the power of song to tell the story of community and convey the emotions that drove a movement for justice, Bernice was an early leader in the Civil Rights Movement and founder of the Freedom Singers.\n\n\u201cShe went on to become a musician and an academic, sharing the Movement\u2019s history of struggle and sacrifice with subsequent generations, through her work as an educator and curator at the national Smithsonian Institute, so that Americans will continue to cherish the freedoms for which the Movement fought, reaffirm the values for which it stood, and remember that our society must always strive for justice and equality.\n\n\u201cMy wife, Vivian, and I want to give our heartfelt condolences to her family, friends, and all those that loved her. Her legacy survives in the lives she made better and the new generations of leaders she inspired.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T21:24:45Z"], ["https://bishop.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressman-bishop-mourns-the-passing-of-colleague-friend-congresswoman-sheila-jackson-lee-of-texas", "CONGRESSMAN BISHOP MOURNS THE PASSING OF COLLEAGUE & FRIEND, CONGRESSWOMAN SHEILA JACKSON-LEE OF TEXAS", "2024-07-20", "2024", "2024-07", "Democrat", "House", "GA", "Sanford D. Bishop, Jr.", "B000490", "bishop.house.gov", "bishop", "https://bishop.house.gov/media-center/press-releases", "scraper", "COLUMBUS, Ga. \u2013 Congressman Sanford D. Bishop, Jr. (GA-02) issued the following statement regarding the passing of his longtime colleague Congresswoman Sheila Jackson-Lee of Texas.\n\n\u201cI was deeply saddened to learn that my friend and colleague, Sheila Jackson-Lee, has transitioned from labor to reward.\n\n\u201cA courageous fighter for justice, fairness, and the well-being of humankind has fallen. She was a steadfast champion for Houstonians in the halls of Congress and a powerful voice for the underserved, underrepresented, and disaffected. She was relentless in her pursuit of social justice and creating public policy that built on the lessons of the past in order to create a better future. Her vision and voice will be greatly missed.\n\n\u201cI am blessed to have been her friend and colleague for almost 30 years and for her to have accepted my invitations to our area where she wowed audiences with her eloquent and profound oratorical skills. She will be greatly missed, but her legacy of service to humanity will endure for generations to come.\n\n\u201cMy wife, Vivian, and I extend our deepest condolences to her family, friends, and all those who join us in mourning her loss.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T18:32:29Z"], ["https://bishop.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressman-bishop-condemns-shooting-at-trump-rally-in-pennsylvania", "CONGRESSMAN BISHOP CONDEMNS SHOOTING AT TRUMP RALLY IN PENNSYLVANIA", "2024-07-13", "2024", "2024-07", "Democrat", "House", "GA", "Sanford D. Bishop, Jr.", "B000490", "bishop.house.gov", "bishop", "https://bishop.house.gov/media-center/press-releases", "scraper", "COLUMBUS, Ga. \u2013 Congressman Sanford D. Bishop, Jr., (GA-02) issued the following statement after a shooting incident at a campaign rally in Pennsylvania for former President Donald Trump:\n\n\u201cShooting or other violent assault on anyone, including former President Trump, is abhorrent and unacceptable! Violence has no place in our body politic and cannot be tolerated. Nor can the rhetoric that provokes it. My thoughts and prayers go out to the former President, the innocent persons who were casualties, and their families.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T21:24:45Z"], ["https://bishop.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressman-bishop-announces-over-47k-assistance-to-firefighters-grant-for-centerville", "CONGRESSMAN BISHOP ANNOUNCES OVER $47K ASSISTANCE TO FIREFIGHTERS GRANT FOR CENTERVILLE", "2024-07-12", "2024", "2024-07", "Democrat", "House", "GA", "Sanford D. Bishop, Jr.", "B000490", "bishop.house.gov", "bishop", "https://bishop.house.gov/media-center/press-releases", "scraper", "CENTERVILLE, Ga. \u2013 Congressman Sanford D. Bishop, Jr., (GA-02) is pleased to announce that the City of Centerville Public Safety Department has been awarded $47,619.04 for an Assistance to Firefighters Grant from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security through the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA).\n\n\u201cOur first responders play a vital role in ensuring the safety and health of Georgians. The Assistance to Firefighters Grant program helps departments purchase new, quality equipment which helps protect those who put their life on the line to protect us,\u201d said Congressman Bishop. \u201cI am proud to stand with our first responders in Congress. On the House Appropriations Committee, I will continue to fight against attempts to cut funding for federal programs aimed at supporting our first responders such as the Assistance to Firefighters Grant.\u201d\n\n\u201cI would like to thank our elected officials for voting to keep the FEMA Assistance to Firefighters Grant Program in the Federal Budget. If it weren't for Grant Programs such as these many fire departments would not be able to provide much-needed safety equipment, apparatus, personal protective equipment, or other items that different agencies may need to better serve the communities in which we all live. Centerville is appreciative of the funding opportunities that the AFG Program provides us,\u201d said Centerville Fire Chief Jason Jones.\n\nAs a senior member of the U.S. House Appropriations Committee, Congressman Bishop fought to secure strong funding for the Assistance to Firefighters Grant program in the Fiscal Year 2023 (FY23) federal spending bill. FEMA awarded a total of $324 million in Assistance to Firefighters grants in FY23 which supported the safety of the public and firefighters nationwide, helping protect them against fire-related deaths and hazards. Funding is given for critically needed resources to better equip and train emergency response personnel, enhance operational efficiencies, foster communications interoperability between emergency responders and support community risk reduction and resilience.\n\nIn the last 18 months, more than $5,000,000 federal funds have been awarded to Middle and Southwest Georgia\u2019s first responders, including Assistance to Firefighters Grants for Grady County, Crawford County, and Schley County as well as the City of Montezuma\u2019s fire departments. Additional federal funds have been secured to improve first responders\u2019 communications equipment in Baker, Calhoun, Colquitt, Decatur, Early, Grady, Miller, Seminole, Terrell, and Thomas Counties.\n\nFire departments interested in learning more about the program and how they can apply for funding in future cycles should visit FEMA\u2019s website at https://www.fema.gov/grants/preparedness/firefighters/assistance-grants.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T21:24:45Z"], ["https://hankjohnson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressman-johnson-secures-25m-marta-south-dekalb-transit-hub", "Congressman Johnson Secures $25M for MARTA South DeKalb Transit Hub", "2024-07-12", "2024", "2024-07", "Democrat", "House", "GA", "Henry C. \"Hank\" Johnson, Jr.", "J000288", "hankjohnson.house.gov", "hankjohnson", "https://hankjohnson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases", "scraper", "DECATUR, GA \u2013 Congressman Hank Johnson (GA-04), a senior member of the Transportation & Infrastructure Committee, provided a letter of support to MARTA that resulted in $25 million for the construction of the South DeKalb Transit Hub through the Federal Transit Administration (FTA) Buses and Bus Facilities Program.\n\nThe Buses and Bus Facilities Program is funded under the Infrastructure Investment & Jobs Act (IIJA), otherwise known as the bipartisan infrastructure law, which Congressman Johnson voted for.\n\nThe approximately 2500-square-foot multimodal hub will serve four high-ridership bus routes bordering Georgia\u2019s 4th and 5th Congressional Districts: Route 15 (Candler Road), Route 186 (Rainbow Way), Route 74 (Flat Shoals), and Route 9 (Boulevard/Tilson Road). Being built adjacent to the Gallery at South DeKalb on Candler Road, the facility will have park-and-ride availability. The hub will also provide a safe, sheltered space for riders to catch or transfer buses, purchase fares, and will feature real-time service information and SMART restrooms, which will use technology to keep the facilities safe and maintained.\n\n\u201cI\u2019m pleased to see the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA) continue to deliver for the 4th Congressional District,\u201d said Congressman Johnson. \u201cThrough the Buses and Bus Facilities Grant, more than $25 million being awarded to support the South DeKalb Transit Hub is a game changer. This significant investment will enhance our public transportation infrastructure, creating jobs and improving transit access for our community.\u201d\n\n\u201cWe are thrilled to be awarded the full grant amount requested and are grateful to the FTA for recognizing the need for this important transit hub,\u201d said MARTA General Manager and CEO Collie Greenwood. \u201cThis grant covers almost 70 percent of the funding for this project and supports the improvement of bus facilities and amenities and workforce development in DeKalb.\u201d\n\nThe South DeKalb Transit Hub was identified in the DeKalb County Transit Master Plan and memorialized in the Rapid Transit Contract and Assistance Agreement 15th Amendment. The total project investment is approximately $37.5 million, with the remaining funding coming from MARTA\u2019s Capital budget. It is scheduled to open in 2026.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T21:24:45Z"], ["https://bishop.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressman-bishop-announces-37-million-head-start-grant-to-fort-valley-state-university-to-help-improve-school-readiness", "CONGRESSMAN BISHOP ANNOUNCES $3.7 MILLION HEAD START GRANT TO FORT VALLEY STATE UNIVERSITY TO HELP IMPROVE SCHOOL READINESS", "2024-07-11", "2024", "2024-07", "Democrat", "House", "GA", "Sanford D. Bishop, Jr.", "B000490", "bishop.house.gov", "bishop", "https://bishop.house.gov/media-center/press-releases", "scraper", "FORT VALLEY, Ga. \u2013 Congressman Sanford D. Bishop, Jr. (GA-02) is pleased to announce that Fort Valley State University will receive a $3,700,656 grant from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services through the Head Start Program. These grants support local community organizations that seek to improve school readiness and provide early childhood services for low-income families with young children.\n\n\u201cThe data shows us that investing in our community\u2019s children at a young age supports greater success later in life. Helping families with young children through early learning, health, nutrition, and other support services lays a strong foundation for their success in school and beyond,\u201d said Congressman Bishop. \u201cAs a senior member of the U.S. House Appropriations Committee, I will continue to work with my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to fully fund Head Start so that it can support FVSU and other organizations working throughout Middle and Southwest Georgia as well as across the country who are working hard to build a brighter future.\u201d\n\n\u201cFort Valley State University is proud to be the only HBCU grantee in the nation operating a Head Start and Early Head Start program. Our programs continually assist families in middle Georgia empower the possible by providing high-quality early childhood education and comprehensive services to children of low-income families,\u201d said Keith Howard, Ph.D., vice president of Land Grant Affairs and dean of the College of Agriculture, Family Sciences and Technology at FVSU. \u201cThank you to Congressman Sanford Bishop for all of your support to FVSU and the Head Start program. The awarding of a $3.7 million grant to our programs by the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) will benefit young children by providing them a strong foundation for future academic success, early learning opportunities, enhanced health screenings, and nutritious meals. Georgia families will benefit through access to parenting classes, job training, and support services that promote well-being and stability.\u201d\n\nFort Valley State University operates five Head Start Centers across Georgia, with one center in Taylor County, one center in Macon County, and two centers in Dooly County as well as a center in Crisp County.\n\nHead Start was first launched in 1965 under President Lyndon B. Johnson and is administered through the Administration for Children and Families. Since then, it has served over 38 million children. HHS continues to review, evaluate, and report on the program\u2019s successes. Services provided through the program include educational preparation and child wellness initiatives. Head Start partners with families to empower them in their role as essential facilitators of their child\u2019s education.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T21:24:45Z"], ["https://bishop.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressman-bishop-announces-nearly-80-million-us-dept-of-energy-investment-in-fort-valley-to-expand-clean-bus-manufacturing-support-good-paying-jobs", "CONGRESSMAN BISHOP ANNOUNCES NEARLY $80 MILLION U.S. DEPT. OF ENERGY INVESTMENT IN FORT VALLEY TO EXPAND CLEAN BUS MANUFACTURING, SUPPORT GOOD-PAYING JOBS", "2024-07-11", "2024", "2024-07", "Democrat", "House", "GA", "Sanford D. Bishop, Jr.", "B000490", "bishop.house.gov", "bishop", "https://bishop.house.gov/media-center/press-releases", "scraper", "FORT VALLEY, Ga. \u2013 Congressman Sanford D. Bishop, Jr. (GA-02) is pleased to announce that today, the Biden-Harris Administration is awarding Blue Bird Corporation a $79,728,146 million grant through the U.S. Department of Energy\u2019s Office of Manufacturing and Energy Supply Chains. The Domestic Automotive Manufacturing Conversion Grant award is made possible by funding provided through the Inflation Reduction Act which was approved by Congress and signed into law in 2022.\n\n\u201cI was proud to support the Inflation Reduction Act last Congress which, since becoming law, has continued to deliver for America. It has lowered the cost of insulin for folks on Medicare and helped rural small businesses make investments in solar power and energy efficiency projects to help them save money. Today, we are seeing yet another way in which it is making a real difference right here in Georgia,\u201d said Congressman Bishop. \u201cToday\u2019s announcement is a major investment in Georgia manufacturing that will support hundreds of good-paying jobs, maintain our state\u2019s leadership in the world-wide electric vehicle industry, and help build clean buses that are in high demand by schools across the country.\u201d\n\n\u201cThese buses can save a school district, on average, $2,000 in fuel costs and $4,400 in maintenance costs each year. They are also healthier for our students who would otherwise be exposed to concentrated levels of air pollution on their way to and from school,\u201d added Congressman Bishop.\n\n\u201cThere is nothing harder to a manufacturing community than to lose jobs to foreign competition and a changing industry,\u201d said U.S. Secretary of Energy Jennifer M. Granholm. \u201cEven as our competitors invest heavily in electric vehicles, these grants ensure that our automotive industry stays competitive\u2014and does it in the communities and with the workforce that have supported the auto industry for generations.\u201d\n\nToday, the U.S. Department of Energy is awarding $1.7 billion to support the conversion of 11 shuttered or at-risk auto manufacturing and assembly facilities across eight states\u2014 Georgia, Illinois, Indiana, Maryland, Michigan, Ohio, Pennsylvania, and Virginia\u2014to manufacture electric vehicles and improve their supply chain.\n\nThe grant to the Blue Bird Corporation will help fund about 50% of a project to convert a previously shuttered and demolished Internal Combustion Engine motorhome manufacturing facility into a 600,000 square foot Electric Type D school bus manufacturing facility. The resulting facility will be used to manufacture safe, reliable, and clean buses for school age children.\n\nBlue Bird Corporation reported that it just delivered its 2000th electric vehicle bus this week.\n\n\u201cWe are delighted that the U.S. Department of Energy considers our conversion project worthy of support,\u201d said Phil Horlock, CEO of Blue Bird Corporation. \u201cThe potential grant could enable Blue Bird to reinvest in middle Georgia, building on a site that previously manufactured high-end motorhomes that are treasured to this day. It will also enable Blue Bird to expand our workforce and invest in a community that is integral to Blue Bird\u2019s history. We are looking forward to fully participating in the next phase of the negotiation process.\u201d\n\nThe Domestic Manufacturing Auto Conversion Grants program helps ensure that the U.S. continues to lead the world in auto manufacturing, led by the communities and workers who know this business best. The selectees will negotiate for awards to enable them to manufacture products covering a broad range of the automotive supply chain, including parts for electric motorcycles and school buses, hybrid powertrains, heavy-duty commercial truck batteries, and electric SUVs.\n\nOver the past two years, dozens of school districts across the United States, including several in Middle and Southwest Georgia, have ordered over 500 clean school buses from Blue Bird Corporation due to the Environmental Protection Agency\u2019s Clean School Bus Program. More are anticipated in the months ahead. That program was made possible by the 2021 Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act which Congressman Bishop supported.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T21:24:45Z"], ["https://hankjohnson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/reps-johnson-schakowsky-senator-welch-lead-17-members-congress", "Reps. Johnson & Schakowsky, Senator Welch Lead 17 Members of Congress in Bicameral Letter to Secretary Blinken Calling for Continued Justice in Berta C\u00e1ceres Murder Case", "2024-07-11", "2024", "2024-07", "Democrat", "House", "GA", "Henry C. \"Hank\" Johnson, Jr.", "J000288", "hankjohnson.house.gov", "hankjohnson", "https://hankjohnson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases", "scraper", "Full Text of Letter (PDF)\n\nWASHINGTON, D.C. - Today, Representatives Hank Johnson (D-GA) and Jan Schakowsky (D-IL) and Senator Peter Welch (D-VT) led 17 Members of Congress in sending a letter to Secretary of State Antony Blinken expressing concern over the status of the case of murdered Honduran Indigenous rights defender Berta C\u00e1ceres. The legislators urged Secretary Blinken to closely monitor the pending appeals and convey the State Department's support for further investigations into C\u00e1ceres' murder.\n\nThe letter highlights the progress made in prosecuting those responsible for C\u00e1ceres' 2016 assassination, including the conviction of eight men. However, the lawmakers warn that these convictions are now at risk due to pending appeals and media campaigns spreading false information.\n\n\u201cBerta was just one of hundreds of human rights and environmental defenders who have been murdered in Honduras, but her case stands out as one of only a few that have been subject to investigation and prosecution,\u201d said the lawmakers. \u201cIt has opened a crack in the wall of impunity and provides insight into the criminal structures fueling the pervasive corruption and violence that have provoked the crisis that is forcing so many Central Americans to migrate to the United States. It is vital to continue investigations of those involved in Berta's case, as well as related crimes.\"\n\nSpecifically, the letter:\n\nExpresses concern over undue pressure on judges handling the appeals of the convicted individuals.\n\nRaises alarm at spurious charges against a technology expert who provided evidence in the case.\n\nStresses the need for continued investigations into related crimes, including financial crimes and violence against villagers in Rio Blanco.\n\nUrges the U.S. Embassy to publicly repudiate false statements suggesting U.S. agencies found irregularities in the evidence against the defendants.\n\nReps. Johnson and Schakowsky and Sen. Welch were joined on the letter by Reps. Bush, Castro, Garc\u00eda, Grijalva, Lynch, McGovern, Omar, Pocan, Raskin, and Wilson and Senators Durbin, Kaine, Markey, and Merkley.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T21:24:45Z"], ["https://bishop.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressman-bishop-announces-nearly-400000-in-nih-funds-for-mercer-university-school-of-medicine", "CONGRESSMAN BISHOP ANNOUNCES NEARLY $400,000 IN NIH FUNDS FOR MERCER UNIVERSITY SCHOOL OF MEDICINE", "2024-07-10", "2024", "2024-07", "Democrat", "House", "GA", "Sanford D. Bishop, Jr.", "B000490", "bishop.house.gov", "bishop", "https://bishop.house.gov/media-center/press-releases", "scraper", "MACON, Ga. \u2013 Congressman Sanford D. Bishop, Jr., (GA-02) is pleased to announce that Mercer University has been awarded $387,616 from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS). The grant is being awarded by the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, a part of the National Institutes of Health (NIH), through its Research Enhancement Award Program.\n\n\u201cMillions of Americans across the nation face debilitating medical issues that can be physically, emotionally, and financially draining. Academic institutions such as Mercer University provide medical research that is vital to expanding our understanding of diseases as well as finding ways to treat or even prevent them,\u201d said Congressman Bishop. \u201cI am proud to say that Georgians \u2013 students, faculty, and physicians \u2013 are working right here in Middle Georgia on research that will help improve the lives of many Americans. I will continue to work with my colleagues across the aisle to make sure that Congress remains a reliable partner to support this life-changing work through grants like the one Mercer University is receiving from the NIH.\u201d\n\nThe grant will support research at Mercer University to identify the characteristics and potency of rare stem cell populations from patients with inflammatory bowel disorders and its devastating complication, perianal fistula. The research will help advance efforts to design therapies for patients with inflammatory bowel disease which, according to the Center for Disease Control, affects more than 3 million Americans.\n\n\u201cInflammatory bowel disease is a major health problem in the United States and this research will eventually inform avenues for a new stem cell therapy for patients suffering from inflammatory bowel diseases. Additionally, cellular therapy with stem cells is an emerging regenerative treatment strategy for a variety of inflammatory and degenerative disorders, and this line of research is significant to the research environment of Mercer University School of Medicine whose mission is to educate physicians and health professionals to meet the primary care and healthcare needs of rural and medically underserved areas in Georgia,\u201d said Assistant Professor and research project director, Raghavan Chinnadurai, Ph.D. \u201cExposure to these cutting-edge cellular therapy technologies in biomedical science will substantially enhance the knowledge of MUSM students, helping them implement these treatments in rural medicine.\u201d\n\n\u201cWe are very proud of the work Dr. Raghavan Chinnadurai and his team are doing. Mercer University School of Medicine is committed to the improving health of rural Georgians while finding sustainable models that will work in other areas of the globe. This research is cutting edge science and very important in assuring health,\u201d noted Jean R. Sumner MD FACP, Dean of the Mercer University School of Medicine.\n\n\u201cI am thrilled about the grant award for the \u2018Investigation of Human Gut-Derived Mesenchymal Stem Cells for Cellular Therapy.\u2019 This project holds immense significance for Mercer University School of Medicine, as it propels us to the forefront of innovative medical research and strengthens our commitment to advancing healthcare solutions for Georgia's rural and underserved populations,\u201d added Sherrie Williams, LCSW, PMP, the Mercer University School of Medicine Project Management Office Director. \u201cFor the American public, this research has the potential to revolutionize cellular therapy, offering new hope and improved treatments for those battling inflammatory bowel diseases. We are excited about the positive impact this will have on public health and the well-being of our communities.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T21:24:45Z"], ["https://mcbath.house.gov/press-releases?ID=481FD546-0EC2-4CF6-89DF-A3796C69E38E", "McBath Prison Oversight Bill Heads to President Biden for Signature After U.S. Senate Passage", "2024-07-10", "2024", "2024-07", "Democrat", "House", "GA", "Lucy McBath", "M001208", "mcbath.house.gov", "mcbath", "https://mcbath.house.gov/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, DC \u2014 The Federal Prison Oversight Act is one step closer to becoming law. The U.S. Senate unanimously agreed to H.R. 3019, legislation to establish new, independent oversight of the Federal Bureau of Prisons (BOP). Representatives Lucy McBath (D-GA-07) and Kelly Armstrong (R-ND-AL) led the Federal Prison Oversight Act in the House. Senators Jon Ossoff (D-GA), Mike Braun (R-IN), and Senate Majority Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL), Chair of the U.S. Senate Judiciary Committee, led the companion bill in the Senate. The legislation now heads to President Biden\u2019s desk for signature into law.\n\nClick below to watch McBath\u2019s remarks on the Federal Prison Oversight Act:\n\nPictured above: McBath speaks on the House floor about the Federal Prison Oversight Act\n\n\u201cMy 17-year-old son, Jordan Davis, was shot and killed 12 years ago by a man who is now serving a life sentence in prison. Through my family\u2019s pain, I found the strength to forgive my son\u2019s killer,\u201d Rep. McBath said. \u201cThe passage of my Federal Prison Oversight legislation in the Senate marks a new step forward in ensuring accountability to protect staff and incarcerated individuals in our federal prisons. I thank Senator Ossoff and Congressman Armstrong for their collaboration on this important bill. When Republicans and Democrats come together, we can deliver common-sense solutions for the American people.\u201d\n\n\u201cThe Federal Prison Oversight Act moves our prison system into the 21st century, works across agencies, creates accountability structures, and requires risk assessments for our prisons,\u201d said Rep. Armstrong. \u201cI am proud that Congress came together to improve the safety, dignity, and cost-effectiveness of our judicial system.\u201d\n\n\u201cOur bipartisan Federal Prison Oversight Act has passed the Senate. This is a major milestone. My bipartisan Senate investigations of corruption, abuse, and misconduct in the Federal prison system have revealed an urgent need to overhaul Federal prison oversight,\u201d Sen. Ossoff said. \u201cI now look forward to President Biden signing our bipartisan bill into law.\u201d\n\n\u201cMore transparency and accountability will create a safer environment for correctional officers and staff who work in our federal prisons as well as the inmates incarcerated in them. This bill does not allow the Department of Justice to intervene into the affairs of state and local jails, and will help to improve working conditions and keep our federal corrections officers safe,\u201d said Braun.\n\n\u201cRestoring integrity to the Bureau of Prisons and addressing mismanagement in correctional facilities is a top priority of the Senate Judiciary Committee. This bipartisan bill would improve prison oversight and ensure the Bureau is fulfilling its duty to provide safe and humane conditions of confinement to prepare incarcerated individuals for a successful return to society. I\u2019m glad the Senate passed our bill and look forward to President Biden signing it into law,\u201d said U.S. Senate Majority Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL), Chair of the Senate Judiciary Committee.\n\nThe bipartisan bill requires the Department of Justice\u2019s Inspector General to conduct comprehensive, risk-based inspections of the BOP\u2019s 122 correctional facilities, provide recommendations to fix problems, and assign each facility a risk score, with higher-risk facilities required to be inspected more often. The IG must also report its findings and recommendations to Congress and the public, and the BOP must respond to all inspection reports within 60 days with a corrective action plan.\n\nThe bipartisan bill will also establish an independent Ombudsman to investigate the health, safety, welfare, and rights of incarcerated people and staff. The Ombudsman would create a secure hotline and online form for family members, friends, and representatives of incarcerated people to submit complaints and inquiries.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T21:24:45Z"], ["https://mcbath.house.gov/press-releases?ID=61C1C9E1-0F29-4221-9EFA-DFCBE2D7B2D8", "Ahead of Independence Day, McBath Welcomes 150 New U.S. Citizens During Naturalization Ceremony in Gwinnett", "2024-07-03", "2024", "2024-07", "Democrat", "House", "GA", "Lucy McBath", "M001208", "mcbath.house.gov", "mcbath", "https://mcbath.house.gov/press-releases", "scraper", "Lawrenceville, GA \u2014 Today, Rep. McBath welcomed 150 new U.S. citizens as the keynote speaker at a special Independence Day naturalization ceremony at the Gwinnett Justice and Administration Center. The ceremony was the culmination of the naturalization process administered by United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). Candidates for naturalization came from 50 different countries. Reported by Atlanta Journal-Constitution, \u201cU.S. Rep. Lucy McBath welcomed the new citizens into a new phase of their lives, noting that July 2 marks the day the Continental Congress formally voted for America\u2019s independence in 1776.\u201d\n\nPictured above: McBath delivers keynote address during naturalization ceremony\n\nPictured above: McBath addresses new citizens\n\nPictured above: McBath joins new American citizens in reciting the pledge\n\n\u201cFrom the first days of our nation, immigrants made vital contributions to the very foundation of our democracy,\u201d Rep. McBath said. \u201cIt is essential that as we celebrate our nation\u2019s Independence Day, we be reminded that no matter where you come from, no matter what your story is, America yearns for the contributions of all her people.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T21:24:45Z"], ["https://mcbath.house.gov/press-releases?ID=24275AC8-331E-489A-A5AE-64CC9EBCA286", "McBath Named Best Congressional Office for Constituent Service", "2024-07-02", "2024", "2024-07", "Democrat", "House", "GA", "Lucy McBath", "M001208", "mcbath.house.gov", "mcbath", "https://mcbath.house.gov/press-releases", "scraper", "Duluth, GA \u2014 Rep. Lucy McBath has been named the top Democratic congressional office in the nation for constituent service by the Congressional Management Foundation (CMF). McBath\u2019s office provides Georgians with assistance with federal agencies and has yielded positive outcomes that have been shared by neighbors, garnered more than 6 million views on social media, and been documented in the New York Times. Rep. McBath is the first winner from the state of Georgia.\n\nEach year, the CMF selects Members of Congress as winners for its Democracy Awards, CMF's annual program to recognize the non-legislative achievements of Members of Congress. The categories include Constituent Service, \u201cLife in Congress\u201d Workplace Environment, Constituent Accountability and Accessibility, Innovation and Modernization, and Lifetime Achievement.\n\nAs part of the function of a congressional office, constituents often request assistance with issues involving federal agencies. The work congressional offices do in response to these requests is generally referred to as \u201ccasework\u201d. Members of Congress determine the structure and scope of their constituent service activities, including casework.\n\n\u201cPrioritizing constituent services is a key part of the mission of my office. Too often, we hear people say that they don\u2019t know how to ask for help from their elected officials,\u201d said Rep. Lucy McBath. \u201cIt is extremely important to me that our constituents get the casework assistance they deserve. I am honored to be recognized by the Congressional Management Foundation for the work my team and I have been doing in our communities on behalf of Georgians.\u201d\n\n\u201cAs a Democracy Award winner, the Rep. McBath office is clearly one of the best in Congress,\u201d said Bradford Fitch, President and CEO of the Congressional Management Foundation. \u201cThis designation demonstrates that Rep. McBath and her staff are working hard to provide the best public service possible for her constituents. Rep. McBath and her staff stand out for their exemplary service and dedication to her constituents.\u201d\n\nCMF cited the following as reasons for selecting Rep. McBath as winner for an award in the category of Constituent Service: \u201cFrom the beginning of her time in office, Representative Lucy McBath has inculcated in her staff a sense of shared responsibility for constituent service. Every member of the district staff handles casework, which the office feels affirms both internally and externally that serving constituents is the office\u2019s number one goal. The office has a \u2018living casework intake guide\u2019 that\u2019s altered at least every quarter as agency processes change and constituent needs fluctuate. The guide includes every step of creating a new case and all questions that need to be asked at intake for each agency with which the office interacts. For every new staffer or intern, the office has a three-day training regimen led by the District Director and Constituent Services Director that includes casework, phone communication, field representation, event management, and office operations.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T21:24:45Z"], ["https://hankjohnson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressman-johnsons-statement-response-supreme-courts-decision-0", "Congressman Johnson\u2019s Statement In Response To Supreme Court\u2019s Decision On Presidential Immunity", "2024-07-01", "2024", "2024-07", "Democrat", "House", "GA", "Henry C. \"Hank\" Johnson, Jr.", "J000288", "hankjohnson.house.gov", "hankjohnson", "https://hankjohnson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 In response to the Supreme Court\u2019s decision today in Trump v. The United States on former president Donald Trump\u2019s claim that he is immune from prosecution on charges of trying to overturn the 2020 election, House Judiciary Courts Subcommittee Ranking Member and Chair of the Court Reform Now Taskforce Congressman Hank Johnson (GA-04) released the following statement:\n\n\u201cThis suspiciously delayed ruling by the 6-3 super-MAGA majority on the court marks an early and breathtaking Independence Day for Donald Trump and for future presidents, who now are officially above the law. This ruling, and this session of the court, has been brutally assaultive on democracy and the rule of law, and we must expand the court and pass term limits to protect what constitutional order remains intact.\u201d\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T21:24:45Z"], ["https://mcbath.house.gov/press-releases?ID=D1798648-C172-4348-B79A-48E288938642", "McBath Sends Letter to Governor After Georgia Opts Out of Student Summer Meal Program", "2024-07-01", "2024", "2024-07", "Democrat", "House", "GA", "Lucy McBath", "M001208", "mcbath.house.gov", "mcbath", "https://mcbath.house.gov/press-releases", "scraper", "Duluth, GA \u2013 Today, Representative Lucy McBath (D-GA-07) sent a letter inquiring about Governor Kemp\u2019s decision to opt out of the U.S. Department of Agriculture\u2019s Summer EBT Program (S-EBT), also known as \u201cSun Bucks.\u201d Despite having approximately 1.2 million low-income children eligible for this program, Georgia is one of only twelve states not participating or planning to participate in the program for Summer 2024 or 2025. This means that each of these children will go without an additional $120 in nutritional benefits that the program offers, making them further vulnerable to food insecurity during the summer months.\n\nSummer EBT is a critical supplement to summer meal programs that may not reach all children who are food insecure. Representative McBath emphasized that opting out of this program has far-reaching consequences across the State.\n\n\u201cLast year, 59 counties in Georgia did not have a Summer Food Service Program feeding site, and some counties currently have no summer feeding sites at all,\u201d McBath wrote. \u201cSummer EBT can help ease the burden by allowing every family in all 159 counties across our state access to the flexible support when they need it.\u201d\n\nA similar program that existed during the COVID-19 pandemic, the Pandemic Electronic Benefit Transfer (P-EBT), proved to significantly reduce food insecurity in low-income families during the pandemic. The summer adaptation of this program is estimated to cost $4.5 million dollars, which is less than 0.1% of the $16 billion dollar surplus possessed by the Georgia General Reserve Fund at the end of last fiscal year.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T21:24:45Z"], ["https://hankjohnson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressman-johnsons-statement-response-supreme-courts-decision", "Congressman Johnson\u2019s Statement In Response To Supreme Court\u2019s Decision Overturning Chevron Deference", "2024-06-28", "2024", "2024-06", "Democrat", "House", "GA", "Henry C. \"Hank\" Johnson, Jr.", "J000288", "hankjohnson.house.gov", "hankjohnson", "https://hankjohnson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 In response to the Supreme Court\u2019s decision today in Loper Bright Enterprises v. Raimondo and Relentless v. Department of Commerce, which overturned the decades-old precedent of deference toward federal agency decision making that the Court announced in Chevron v. Natural Resources Defense Council, House Judiciary Courts Subcommittee Ranking Member Congressman Hank Johnson (GA-04) released the following statement:\n\n\u201cWith this ruling, polluters have been given free rein to contaminate our air and water with impunity. By overturning Chevron deference, the Supreme Court has become the ultimate rule maker when it comes to the environment, public health, workers\u2019 rights, and so much more. The decades of dark money that corporations poured into capturing our Supreme Court has clearly paid off for them. The unelected and unaccountable Supreme Court has now seized power away from the Legislative Branch and the Executive Branch, so that they can remake the political and economic system into one where the haves can dominate the have-nots, where it is a dog-eat-dog world and only the strong survive. Make no mistake: this decision is a gift to corporations and a loss for everyday Americans. We need Court Reform Now so government can work on behalf of the people, not just the rich and powerful.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T21:11:47Z"], ["https://mcbath.house.gov/press-releases?ID=D47FF375-102F-4C69-9F3C-4C9E30008CF7", "McBath, Thompson, Neguse, Scott, Kelly Mark New Action on Federal Extreme Risk Protection Order Act", "2024-06-26", "2024", "2024-06", "Democrat", "House", "GA", "Lucy McBath", "M001208", "mcbath.house.gov", "mcbath", "https://mcbath.house.gov/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, DC \u2014 Today, Rep. Lucy McBath (GA-07) was joined by Gun Violence Prevention Task Force Chair Mike Thompson (CA-04), Assistant Democratic Leader Joe Neguse (CO-02), Congressman Robert C. \"Bobby\" Scott, Ranking Member of the Committee on Education and the Workforce; and Congresswoman Robin Kelly (IL-02) to outline next steps in advancing gun safety legislation in the Republican-led House. Rep. McBath announced the filing of a discharge petition for her bill H.R.3018, the Federal Extreme Risk Protection Order (FERPO) Act, which would force a vote on common-sense gun violence prevention legislation. This is the fourth discharge petition filed on gun violence prevention legislation in the 118th Congress. In June 2023, McBath, Thompson, and Rep. Jim Clyburn (SC-06) filed discharge petitions for three of their bills: the Assault Weapons Ban, the Bipartisan Background Checks Act, and the Enhanced Background Checks Act. Under House parliamentary rules, once a petition has garnered 218 signatures, a motion to discharge can then be offered on the Floor and the measure can be put to a vote.\n\n\u201cToday\u2019s announcement marks the next step in our mission to save as many lives as possible through common-sense policies,\u201d Rep. Lucy McBath said. \u201cExtreme risk protection orders are already saving lives in Republican and Democratic states, allowing law enforcement and family members to intervene before it\u2019s too late. My bill will expand these protections from coast to coast and give every American another tool to keep their communities safe. Our \u2018gun-sense\u2019 Democratic Caucus will continue to pursue every legislative solution we can to save lives.\u201d\n\n\u201cExtreme risk protection orders save lives by providing law enforcement and concerned families and friends with a tool to disarm someone who poses a danger to themselves or others. California became one of the first states to enact a red flag law in 2016 and it has already been credited with stopping 58 mass shootings. It only makes sense to bring H.R. 3018 to a vote to help ensure these laws are implemented nationwide,\u201d said Rep. Thompson.\n\n\u201cWe know that red flag laws will in fact, do in fact, save lives. These laws have often been passed on a bipartisan basis in a variety of different states across the country, again including Colorado. This should not and cannot be a partisan issue, because fundamentally, it is a public health issue, evidenced, of course, by the Surgeon General's announcement just yesterday regarding the epidemic and scourge of gun violence impacting communities from Atlanta to Chicago to California to Colorado. So, inaction is not an option,\u201d said Assistant Democratic Leader Neguse.\n\n\u201cExtreme risk protection orders are an effective means of reducing immediate threats of gun violence while also protecting due process,\u201d said Congressman Bobby Scott. \u201cThese laws are already enacted in multiple states. I am proud to support the federal red flag law that allows law enforcement and family members to intervene swiftly when needed.\u201d\n\n\"Extreme risk protection orders, also known as red flag laws, save lives. They are a popular and commonsense measure to temporarily take away guns from someone who might harm themselves or others. Congress must do everything in its power to save lives from gun violence. I'm grateful for my friend and colleague in this fight, Rep. Lucy McBath, for urging her bill forward with full expediency,\u201d said Rep. Kelly.\n\nThe Federal Extreme Risk Protection Order Act permits law enforcement and family members to petition a judge to temporarily remove firearm access from those who are deemed a danger to themselves or to others. Twenty-one states and the District of Columbia currently have such laws. McBath\u2019s legislation would expand access to extreme risk protection orders nationwide. This legislation was approved by the House with support from Democrats and Republicans last Congress, and a similar piece of bipartisan legislation was introduced in 2018 by Senators Lindsey Graham (R-SC) and Richard Blumenthal (D-CT).", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T21:11:47Z"], ["https://bishop.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressman-bishop-announces-federal-funds-for-byron-centerville-to-expand-recreation-areas", "CONGRESSMAN BISHOP ANNOUNCES FEDERAL FUNDS FOR BYRON & CENTERVILLE TO EXPAND RECREATION AREAS", "2024-06-21", "2024", "2024-06", "Democrat", "House", "GA", "Sanford D. Bishop, Jr.", "B000490", "bishop.house.gov", "bishop", "https://bishop.house.gov/media-center/press-releases", "scraper", "BYRON, Ga. \u2013 Congressman Sanford D. Bishop, Jr., (GA-02) is pleased to announce a $250,000 grant to the City of Byron, GA, and a $50,000 grant to the City of Centerville, GA, from the National Park Service. These grants are intended for recreational facilities in the respective communities. The grants were made possible through the Land and Water Conservation Fund (LWCF) State and Local Assistance Program.\n\nIn Byron, the $250,000 grant will assist in the construction of the Byron Skatepark. The 8,000 square foot skatepark will service the community and provide a new recreational option for Byron\u2019s residents. In Centerville, the $50,000 grant will assist in the installation of additional playground equipment and a sensory area to improve the park\u2019s accessibility to everyone.\n\n\u201cProjects like this are good for the health and wellbeing of Georgians and our communities by creating safe, accessible recreation spaces that bring families together and encourage children to socialize and play with one another,\u201d said Congressman Bishop. \u201cI continue to work with my colleagues in Congress on both sides of the aisle to support the National Park Service and the Land and Water Conservation Fund so that Georgia and communities like Byron and Centerville have the resources for these community building projects.\u201d\n\n\u201cThe City of Byron is excited that we were able to secure this grant with the assistance of our partners in Congress, who always stand ready to assist when they can. This grant will provide for a new skate park, which will afford wonderful recreational opportunities for those younger citizens of our community who, unlike myself, have grown up in an era in which skating and skateboarding have become recognized sports,\u201d said Michael L. Chidester, mayor of the city of Byron. \u201cWe truly appreciate the consideration given our application not only by the Land and Water Conservation Fund and the National Park Service, but also by Rep. Bishop and our Senators.\u201d\n\n\u201cThe City of Centerville is very appreciative and excited for this wonderful opportunity to partner with the National Park Service. The city will use the $50,000 federal grant to enhance its crown jewel, Center Park, by providing new playground equipment for children under 10 as well as additional equipment that provides sensory and inclusionary activities for people of all ages. Center Park is enjoyed by people throughout the Centerville community and the entire Middle Georgia area,\u201d said John R. Harley, mayor of the city of Centerville. \u201cA huge shout out and thanks goes out to Congressman Bishop and the Land and Water Conservation Fund State and Local Assistance Program.\u201d\n\nCreated by Congress in 1964, the LWCF was a bipartisan commitment to safeguard natural areas, water resources and our cultural heritage, and to provide recreation opportunities to all Americans. In August 2020, the President signed the Great American Outdoors Act into law, which requires that the LWCF be funded at $900 million a year.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T21:11:47Z"], ["https://hankjohnson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/johnson-whitehouse-request-update-judicial-conferences-investigation", "Johnson, Whitehouse Request Update on Judicial Conference\u2019s Investigation into Billionaire-Funded, Undisclosed Gifts to Justice Thomas", "2024-06-18", "2024", "2024-06", "Democrat", "House", "GA", "Henry C. \"Hank\" Johnson, Jr.", "J000288", "hankjohnson.house.gov", "hankjohnson", "https://hankjohnson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases", "scraper", "New reports of additional undisclosed gifts raise questions about the accuracy of Justice Thomas\u2019s latest financial disclosure amendment and why he has not further amended his prior disclosure reports\n\nWashington, DC \u2013 Senator Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI), Chair of the Judiciary Subcommittee on Federal Courts, and Representative Hank Johnson (D-GA), Ranking Member of the House Judiciary Subcommittee on Courts, sent a letter to the Judicial Conference on the status of the investigation into Supreme Court Justice Clarence Thomas\u2019s omissions of billionaire-funded gifts and income from his legally required annual financial disclosure reports.\n\nIn the letter to the Director of the Administrative Office of the United States Courts, who also serves as Secretary of the Judicial Conference, Whitehouse and Johnson asked for an update on the Conference\u2019s decision on whether to refer Justice Thomas\u2019s undisclosed gift program to the Attorney General to determine whether the omissions were willful. The members also ask for more information on why Justice Thomas recently amended a prior return to include some, but not all, previously undisclosed gifts that were publicly reported on last year, and on the Judicial Conference\u2019s clarification of the personal hospitality loophole, which Justice Thomas has claimed is a new rule, to avoid cleaning up years of false financial filings.\n\n\u201cCongress created the Judicial Conference by statute, funds the Judicial Conference through appropriations, and enacted the ethics laws the Judicial Conference administers, and so has an obvious interest in overseeing these matters,\u201d wrote Whitehouse and Johnson. \u201cPlease advise us when the Conference might publish its report on its March 2024 proceedings, and please provide as much information as possible about the Conference\u2019s and the Committee on Financial Disclosure\u2019s activities related to Justice Thomas\u2019s disclosures, including whatever you can provide related to the \u2018willfulness\u2019 and \u2018clarification\u2019 determinations.\u201d\n\nDocuments obtained by the Senate Judiciary Committee and released last week revealed new travel and other gifts that Justice Thomas has failed to disclose to date, and called into question the accuracy of the details Justice Thomas had already publicly disclosed. An appendix to Whitehouse and Johnson\u2019s letter lists the publicly reported but not yet disclosed gifts and income provided to Justice Thomas by billionaire benefactors.\n\nWhitehouse and Johnson first asked the Judicial Conference to refer Justice Thomas to the Attorney General for investigation in April 2023 after reporting from ProPublica exposed Justice Thomas\u2019s long record of accepting undisclosed gifts from the politically active right-wing billionaire Harlan Crow. Whitehouse and Johnson have since urged the Conference to consider the full breadth of secret billionaire-funded gifts to Justice Thomas as support for referral to Attorney General. Whitehouse has also written to the Judicial Conference to ask for additional details on previous 2011 referrals of potentially unlawful conduct by Justice Thomas.\n\nWhitehouse and Johnson\u2019s Supreme Court Ethics, Recusal, and Transparency (SCERT) Act was advanced by the Senate Judiciary Committee last July. The bill would require Supreme Court justices to adopt a binding code of conduct, create a mechanism to investigate alleged violations of the code of conduct and other laws, improve disclosure and transparency when a justice has a connection to a party or amicus before the Court, end the practice of justices ruling on their own conflicts of interests, and require justices to explain their recusal decisions to the public. A group of Republicans blocked a unanimous consent request to pass the bill through the Senate last week.\n\nThe text of the letter is below and a PDF of the letter is available here.\n\nJune 17, 2024\n\nThe Honorable Robert Conrad\n\nDirector\n\nAdministrative Office of United States Courts\n\nOne Columbus Circle NE\n\nWashington, DC 20544\n\nDear Director Conrad:\n\nWe write to request an update on financial disclosure omissions by Justice Thomas that were referred to the Judicial Conference\u2019s Committee on Financial Disclosure. In his disclosure for 2023, Justice Thomas retroactively reported gifts of food and lodging that Harlan and Kathy Crow provided in 2019, some related to a trip to Indonesia. These omissions were publicly reported more than a year ago. The Senate Judiciary Committee has recently reported additional omissions disclosed by Harlan Crow.\n\nWe brought Justice Thomas\u2019s financial disclosure omissions to the Judicial Conference\u2019s attention in April 2023, and asked that the Judicial Conference refer the matter to the Attorney General to determine whether the omissions were willful. We have continued to update the Conference as evidence of additional undisclosed gifts emerged. We attach our current list of publicly reported but not yet disclosed gifts and income as an appendix to this letter.\n\nThe new information provided to the Senate Judiciary Committee includes gifts by Harlan Crow of undisclosed private jet and yacht travel from 2017, 2019 and 2021 (including on dates inconsistent with Justice Thomas\u2019s recent amended disclosure).[1] The plain text of the Ethics in Government Act has long been understood to require gifts of travel to be disclosed because transportation is not listed in the \u201cpersonal hospitality\u201d definition and therefore can never be considered \u201cstatutory\u201d personal hospitality.[2] The Conference\u2019s March 23, 2023 letter to Senator Whitehouse expressly referred to the Conference\u2019s recent personal hospitality guidance as a \u201cclarification,\u201d and we urge you to clarify that is indeed what you meant, as Justice Thomas has declared it a \u2018new rule,\u201d allowing him to avoid amending past misfilings.\n\nThe Judicial Conference\u2019s September 2023 meeting report suggested that the Committee on Financial Disclosure had been looking into these matters. Your office\u2019s letter dated February 12, 2024 stated that \u201c[a]ctions and recommendations taken by [the Committee on Financial Disclosure] will be reported to the Conference,\u201d and that the report published after each Judicial Conference session \u201cdetails actions taken.\u201d We look forward to the report of the Conference\u2019s March 2024 meeting, to know whether the Committee or Conference has acted to address these issues.\n\nCongress created the Judicial Conference by statute, funds the Judicial Conference through appropriations, and enacted the ethics laws the Judicial Conference administers, and so has an obvious interest in overseeing these matters. Please advise us when the Conference might publish its report on its March 2024 proceedings, and please provide as much information as possible about the Conference\u2019s and the Committee on Financial Disclosure\u2019s activities related to Justice Thomas\u2019s disclosures, including whatever you can provide related to the \u201cwillfulness\u201d and \u201cclarification\u201d determinations.\n\nYour answers to the following questions would help inform our understanding of these matters, and the potential need for a legislative response.\n\nHas the Committee on Financial Disclosure concluded its review of the various financial disclosure omissions by Justice Thomas that were referred to the Committee? If so, what were the findings and results of that review?\n\nHas the Judicial Conference taken any actions with respect to the Committee on Financial Disclosure\u2019s review of financial disclosure omissions by Justice Thomas? If so, what were they?\n\nDid the Committee on Financial Disclosure request that Justice Thomas amend his 2019 financial disclosure form to include the newly reported gifts from Harlan and Kathy Crow? Was the Committee made aware of the gifts just disclosed by Mr. Crow to the Senate Judiciary Committee? Can you explain why those gifts were not disclosed in Justice Thomas\u2019s recent amended filing?\n\nPlease describe the Committee on Financial Disclosure\u2019s fact-finding process with respect to undisclosed gifts potentially covered by the Judicial Conference\u2019s disclosure guidance.\n\nHas the Committee on Financial Disclosure made any determination on the \u201cclarification\u201d question, or otherwise requested that Justice Thomas fully update past financial disclosures to include omitted gifts and income?\n\nWhat is the status of the determination regarding reasonable cause to believe any of Justice Thomas\u2019s various omissions were willful?\n\nWas Justice Thomas advised that amending his disclosures for 2019 would end the inquiry into whether reasonable cause exists to believe any omissions were willful, and was he advised in 2012 that amending his disclosures then would end that inquiry into his disclosure omissions? Is the Conference allowing retroactive amendments to obviate making that \u201creasonable cause\u201d determination?\n\nThank you for your attention to these matters.\n\nSincerely, Sen. Whitehouse & Rep. Johnson", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T21:11:47Z"], ["https://mcbath.house.gov/press-releases?ID=154202B4-57A4-4277-B139-1AE944AAD8B0", "McBath Encourages Georgia Families to Plan for Severe Weather", "2024-06-18", "2024", "2024-06", "Democrat", "House", "GA", "Lucy McBath", "M001208", "mcbath.house.gov", "mcbath", "https://mcbath.house.gov/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, DC \u2014 With meteorologist Jim Cantore, Rep. Lucy McBath is once again encouraging Georgians to plan, prepare, and practice for severe storms and weather. A new locally targeted public service announcement featuring McBath and Cantore will be airing on The Weather Channel this summer.\n\nView the PSA by clicking here or on the image below:\n\n\u201cA weather emergency can strike at anytime and anywhere,\u201d McBath said. \u201cI encourage families across Georgia to take the steps needed to be prepared to respond to all kinds of weather emergency. I am so grateful to Jim Cantore, The Weather Channel, and every meteorologist in our region and across the country who works around the clock to keep us safe and informed.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T21:11:47Z"], ["https://hankjohnson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressman-johnsons-statement-regarding-scotus-ruling-garland-v", "Congressman Johnson's Statement Regarding SCOTUS' Ruling On Garland v. Cargill", "2024-06-14", "2024", "2024-06", "Democrat", "House", "GA", "Henry C. \"Hank\" Johnson, Jr.", "J000288", "hankjohnson.house.gov", "hankjohnson", "https://hankjohnson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases", "scraper", "June 14, 2024\n\nWashington, D.C. \u2014 Congressman Hank Johnson, the U.S. House of Representatives' leading legislator on court reform, released the following statement after the 6-3 conservative-majority Supreme Court, led by Justice Thomas, reversed a Trump-era ban on bump stocks.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T21:11:47Z"], ["https://mcbath.house.gov/press-releases?ID=4D38064A-48AE-4A9C-BC64-EA88B3711954", "McBath Joins Assistant Leader Neguse & Gun Violence Prevention Leaders to Call for Continued Action", "2024-06-14", "2024", "2024-06", "Democrat", "House", "GA", "Lucy McBath", "M001208", "mcbath.house.gov", "mcbath", "https://mcbath.house.gov/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2014 On Thursday, Rep. Lucy McBath (D-GA-07) joined House Assistant Minority Leader Joe Neguse and gun violence prevention leaders from across the House Democratic Caucus for a press conference in honor of National Gun Violence Prevention Awareness Month. Rep. McBath and Assistant Leader Neguse were joined by Gun Violence Prevention Task Force Chair Mike Thompson, as well as Task Force Members Robin Kelly, Norma Torres, and Maxwell Frost for a fierce call to act swiftly to advance common sense regulations that will help save lives.\n\nCongresswoman McBath: \u201cAs you can see, we represent every cross-section of this country, and we're all coming together to make our future brighter and safer for our future generations. [...] We, the \u2018Gun Sense\u2019 Democratic Caucus, are working to protect every American, no matter what your political affiliation is, even if the current majority doesn't want to stand up for the safety of their own constituents and their own families. I promise you we will. I'm so grateful to each and every one on the stage and all of my colleagues for all the phenomenal work that they do every single day. And as a survivor, having lost my own child, I cannot tell you how important it is to have their support.\u201d\n\nAssistant Leader Neguse: \u201c[Democrats] had great success in the last Congress, thanks to the leaders here, with President Biden's leadership in getting the Bipartisan Safer Communities Act across the finish line. The first time in two decades, over two decades, that the Congress enacted bipartisan legislation to save lives. But we know that that legislation was the starting point. A first step, not the last step. And that there's much more to do. We stand here today, to say we are ready to work with anyone in good faith to address what is clearly a pervasive problem across our country, from Colorado to California, from Florida, to Chicago and everywhere in between [...] rather than addressing the fundamental issues and challenges that we face as a country, including gun violence, [House Republicans] instead have chosen to spend their time with former President Trump, and once again, bending the knee to the former president. It's time for Republicans to join us to do the right thing.\u201d\n\nChairman Mike Thompson: \u201cWe all believe that there are things that we can do to make our communities safer, that don't violate anybody's right to own a firearm. And, this is the 165th day of 2024. We've already had 212 mass shootings. So, we have more mass shootings than we have days in the year. Every day, over 100 people in the United States of America die with some sort of firearm involved. Either they're killed by someone using a firearm, they're they accidentally shoot themselves, or someone accidentally shoots them, or they take their own life. And the people on this stage and the rest of our Caucus are working tirelessly to make sure that we can bring about a change in our colleagues who are down bending the knee.\u201d\n\nCongresswoman Kelly: \u201cThe toll of gun violence should weigh heavily on all of us. Every year, 43,000 people die from gun violence. Behind each of those deaths, are family members, loved ones, coworkers, friends who miss them every day. Not to speak of the trauma they all have to deal with. We are here to declare once again, enough is enough. It is beyond time for action. We can pass background checks on every gun sale to ensure that guns don't fall into the hands of dangerous people. We can implement safe storage practices to prevent children from unintentionally shooting their parent's guns. [...] We must continue to fund community violence and prevention efforts to address this crisis holistically and get to the root cause of gun violence. The lives of our children, neighbors, and community members are non-negotiable. Inaction is not an option.\u201d\n\nCongresswoman Torres: \u201cIt is unfair that we are teaching our children to hide from an active shooter. When I grew up, I was trained to deal with earthquakes. My grandchildren are learning to hide from active shooters. This is not the America that we want to live in, and I hope that our communities, who are being represented by the very people that stand in the way of sensible gun legislation, will stand up and communicate their wishes to their Members of Congress, because we must change, and we must pass [common sense regulations].\u201d\n\nCongressman Frost: \u201cI do feel like for the first time, the gun violence prevention movement is stronger than the gun lobby. That's why the bipartisan Safer Communities Act was passed. That's why we're seeing groundbreaking executive orders come from the White House. That's why we have the Office of Gun Violence Prevention. But when I say that I think the gun violence prevention movement is stronger than the gun lobby, a lot of people say, why haven't you got everything done? Well. You got to study the movement. We have the power now. But it's about sustained power. You don't get everything you want at once, but when you sustain it for a long period of time. [...] So, we're going to keep fighting. I trust, and hopefully a majority will be able to pass the legislation that we need and create a world where the leading cause of death for our children, teens, isn't to be shot. That's the future I want. That's the freedom I want for our people.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T21:11:47Z"], ["https://hankjohnson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/hepatitis-caucus-co-chairs-reps-johnson-velazquez-urge-cms-improve-hep", "Hepatitis Caucus Co-Chairs Reps. Johnson, Vel\u00e1zquez Urge CMS To Improve Hep B Vaccine Access", "2024-06-10", "2024", "2024-06", "Democrat", "House", "GA", "Henry C. \"Hank\" Johnson, Jr.", "J000288", "hankjohnson.house.gov", "hankjohnson", "https://hankjohnson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases", "scraper", "Lawmakers Encourage Expanded Medicare Beneficiary Vaccine Access\n\nWASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Today, Congressman Hank Johnson (GA-04) and Nydia M. Vel\u00e1zquez (NY-07), co-chairs of the Hepatitis Caucus, sent a letter to Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services urging them to expand access for seniors to the hepatitis B virus (HBV) vaccination.\n\nThe letter, addressed directly to CMS Administrator Chiquita Brooks-LaSure, stated: \u201cCMS has the authority through this rulemaking to expand the mass immunizer program to include all current and future Part B preventive vaccines, and specifically, alleviate long-standing barriers to hepatitis B virus (HBV) vaccination. We believe Medicare seniors and the disabled with intermediate to high risk factors for HBV would benefit from receiving HBV vaccines in mass immunizer sites, such as pharmacies, without the physician order requirement.\u201d\n\nThe lawmakers\u2019 letter lifted up viral hepatitis advocates, who are urging CMS to make a small fix that would improve hepatitis B vaccine access in Medicare Part B. Currently, HBV vaccines are the only vaccines not included in the Part B \u201cmass immunizer\u201d program. This program allows vaccines to be delivered through Part B in a variety of sites that are convenient for the Medicare beneficiary, such as pharmacies. By not being included, HBV vaccines must be delivered in primary care, resulting in missed opportunities for patients to receive a potentially lifesaving vaccine in environments that work best for them.\n\nCosigners of the letter include Reps. Alma Adams (NC-12), Don Beyer (VA-08), Sanford Bishop (GA-02), Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick (FL-20), Yvette Clarke (NY-09), Dwight Evans (PA-03), Grace Meng (NY-06), Eleanor Holmes Norton (DC), Barbara Lee (CA-12), Adam Smith (WA-09), Eric Swalwell (CA-14), Bonnie Watson Coleman (NJ-12), and Frederica Wilson (FL-24).\n\nEndorsing Organizations: Access Support Network, African Family Health Organization, American Association for the Study of Liver Diseases (AASLD), American Pharmacists Association (ApHA), Any Positive Change, Inc., Asian Liver Center at Stanford University, Asian Pacific Community in Action, Association of Asian Pacific Community Health Organizations (AAPCHO), B-Free Houston, Balanced Imperfection, Being Alive - LA, California Hepatitis Alliance, Canon Senior Center, Caring Ambassadors Program, Community Liver Alliance, Community Youth Center, Delaware County Community Health, End Hep C SF, End The Epidemic: Californians Mobilizing to End HIV, Viral Hepatitis, STIs, and Overdose, Glide SF, Global Liver Institute, GPHA, Greater Philadelphia Health Action, Hawai\u2019i Health and Harm Reduction Center, HBI-DC, Hep Free Hawai\u2019i, Hepatitis B Foundation, Hepatitis C Allies of Philadelphia (HepCAP), Hepatitis C Mentor and Support Group - HCMSG, HIV+Hep, Legacy Community Health, Liver Coalition of San Diego County, Mid-South Liver Alliance, NASTAD, National Asian Pacific American Families Against Substance Abuse (NAPAFASA), National Harm Reduction Coalition, National Task Force on Hepatitis B, National Viral Hepatitis Roundtable (NVHR), Pennsylvania Public Health Association, Pennsylvania Society of Gastroenterology, Prevention Point Pittsburgh, San Francisco AIDS Foundation, Self Help for the Elderly, SF Hep B Free - Bay Area, The AIDS Institute, Trans Legal Aid Clinic Texas, Treatment Action Group, Virginia Harm Reduction Coalition, Will Rodgers Liver Health Foundation.\n\nRead the letter HERE or below.\n\nThe Honorable Chiquita Brooks-LaSure\n\nAdministrator\n\nCenters for Medicare & Medicaid Services\n\n7500 Security Boulevard\n\nBaltimore, MD 21244\n\nDear Administrator Brooks-LaSure:\n\nAs we honor Hepatitis Awareness Month, we write to request that the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) consider improving Medicare beneficiary vaccine access through changes in the upcoming Calendar Year (CY) 2025 Medicare Physician Fee Schedule (MPFS).\n\nCMS has the authority through this rulemaking to expand the mass immunizer program to include all current and future Part B preventive vaccines, and specifically, alleviate long-standing barriers to hepatitis B virus (HBV) vaccination. We believe Medicare seniors and the disabled with intermediate to high risk factors for HBV would benefit from receiving HBV vaccines in mass immunizer sites, such as pharmacies, without the physician order requirement.\n\nThese important policy changes would bring us closer to national viral hepatitis elimination goals set forth by the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), universal adult HBV vaccination as recommended by the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP), the Federal Implementation Plan to eliminate vaccine-preventable diseases and helps overcome health equity disparities in Medicare and among adults.\n\nIt is estimated that 800,000 \u2013 1.9 million people in the United State are living with HBV, with two-thirds being unaware of their statues. HBV also disproportionately impacts the Asian American communities. While Asian Americans make up 6% of the U.S. population, they account for more than 60% of people with chronic HBV infection. Furthermore, people from racial and ethnic minorities are disproportionately affected when it comes to receiving recommended vaccines. Research has shown that racial minorities, older adults, and people with disabilities are more likely to have transportation services to primary health care services but would benefit from being able to receive their HBV vaccines when visiting drug stories and pharmacies.\n\nHBV vaccines are covered under the Medicare Part B medical benefit; however, they are treated differently from all other Medicare Part B preventive vaccines. HBV vaccines are excluded from being administered and reimbursed by mass immunizers, and a physician order is required for HBV vaccines to be covered. All other preventive Part B vaccines, including influenza, pneumococcal and COVID-19 vaccines, are eligible for administration and reimbursement by mass immunizers without a physician order requirement.\n\nDespite coverage under the Medicare Part B medical benefit, risk-based guidelines and the physician order requirement have served as barriers for HBV vaccination. The ACIP recommendation for vaccination included adults \u226560 years with risk factors for hepatitis B and adults aged \u226560 years without known risk factors for hepatitis B may be vaccinated. Yet, HBV vaccine coverage remains low within the Medicare population. Currently, only 19.5% of adults ages 60 years and older are vaccinated against HBV, even though many Medicare beneficiaries have known risk factors (e.g., 28% of beneficiaries are diagnosed with diabetes mellitus).\n\nExpanding HBV vaccination would result in prevention of infections and associated cost savings. Given the role that mass immunizers, particularly pharmacists, carry out in providing most vaccinations to Medicare beneficiaries, patients expect that they can access these vital healthcare services at their local pharmacy, particularly in underserved communities, where the neighborhood pharmacy may be the only healthcare provider for miles. Lack of HBV vaccination access in a pharmacy setting for those Medicare Part B beneficiaries with risk factors is an outlier compared to most other adult populations, including Medicare beneficiaries without risk factors, most Medicaid beneficiaries and those adults with private health insurance. By permitting Hepatitis B vaccination by mass immunizers, including pharmacists, vulnerable seniors and the disabled, who have added challenges to completing multiple dose series, can more easily be protected from this preventable disease.\n\nPolicies that encourage HBV vaccination are needed in order to expand the number of people that will get vaccinated. Achieving equitable protection for Medicare beneficiaries from this preventable disease is almost impossible without allowing HBV vaccines to be included in the mass immunizer program. We believe expanded access to HBV vaccination in the pharmacy setting will help move the needle for this vulnerable population.\n\nTherefore, we recommend that CMS take steps to facilitate enhanced beneficiary access to HBV vaccines by clarifying that a physician order is not necessary for HBV vaccines to be covered and allowing mass immunizer administration and reimbursement of HBV vaccines.\n\ncc: The Honorable Xavier Becerra, Secretary, Department of Health and Human Services\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T21:11:47Z"], ["https://bishop.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressman-bishop-announces-413000-grant-for-jack-hadley-black-history-museum", "CONGRESSMAN BISHOP ANNOUNCES $413,000 GRANT FOR JACK HADLEY BLACK HISTORY MUSEUM", "2024-06-07", "2024", "2024-06", "Democrat", "House", "GA", "Sanford D. Bishop, Jr.", "B000490", "bishop.house.gov", "bishop", "https://bishop.house.gov/media-center/press-releases", "scraper", "THOMASVILLE, Ga. \u2013 Today, Congressman Sanford D. Bishop, Jr. (GA-02) announced a $413,425 federal grant from the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS) to the Jack Hadley Black History Museum located in Thomasville, GA. The grant was made possible through the Museum Grants for African American History and Culture program. The Jack Hadley Black History Museum strives to educate individuals about the history and culture of African Americans both in Southwest Georgia and across the nation.\n\n\u201cThe Jack Hadley Black History Museum has been a critical organ for historical preservation and education in Thomas County for the past 30 years, and I am delighted to announce this new award which will allow the Museum to expand its programming and audience,\u201d said Congressman Bishop. \u201cMuseum grants present opportunities for our trusted, local institutions to thrive and continue to educate the American people while also attracting tourism which brings economic growth to our communities. In Congress, I will continue to support federal funding for museums to help ensure that our nation\u2019s history and culture are preserved, studied, and understood all over our country.\u201d\n\n\u201cWe are deeply appreciative of the Institute of Museum and Library Services for awarding the Jack Hadley Black History Museum a federal grant of $413,425 through their Museum Grants for African American History and Culture program. This significant support will enable us to enhance our exhibits at the future site of the museum with innovative audio/visual media and technology, creating a more engaging and immersive experience for our visitors. This grant will help us attract younger audiences, ensuring that the rich history of African Americans in Southwest Georgia is preserved, celebrated, and passed down to future generations,\u201d said Daniel J. Pittman, Executive Director of the Jack Hadley Black History Museum.\n\n\u201cThis museum means so much to our community, and we are appreciative of all the support we have received through the years. Receiving this grant would not have been possible without the work of Ms. Melanie Martin, our grant writer, and the decades of steadfast supporters of the Jack Hadley Black History Museum. We are excited about the opportunities this funding provides and are committed to continuing our mission to educate and inspire our community through the powerful stories of African American history,\u201d added Pittman.\n\nEstablished in 1995, the Jack Hadley Black History Museum is Thomasville\u2019s first African American museum. James \u201cJack\u201d Hadley, founder and historian, has preserved over 4,669 pieces of African American artifacts. The museum features exhibits on Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., African Americans in the military, Thomasville\u2019s very own black history, and a host of other topics.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T21:11:47Z"], ["https://bishop.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressman-bishop-announces-47-million-federal-investment-in-middle-georgia-families-children-s-future", "CONGRESSMAN BISHOP ANNOUNCES $4.7 MILLION FEDERAL INVESTMENT IN MIDDLE GEORGIA FAMILIES & CHILDREN\u2019S FUTURE", "2024-06-07", "2024", "2024-06", "Democrat", "House", "GA", "Sanford D. Bishop, Jr.", "B000490", "bishop.house.gov", "bishop", "https://bishop.house.gov/media-center/press-releases", "scraper", "WARNER ROBINS, Ga. \u2013 Congressman Sanford D. Bishop, Jr., (GA-02) is pleased to announce that the U.S Department of Health and Human services (HHS) has awarded a $4,768,208 Head Start grant to the Middle Georgia Community Action Agency, Inc. These awards are typically used to fund programs aiding school readiness for low-income families with children under the age of five.\n\n\u201cI am delighted to announce this Head Start grant for the Middle Georgia Community Action Inc. Children are our future, and it is crucial that we make an early investment in their lives to lay the foundation for them to live prosperous and successful lives,\u201d said Congressman Bishop. \u201cFor nearly 60 years, Head Start has been a cornerstone in the war on poverty, and its investment into early childhood continues to pay dividends. I will continue fighting in Congress for programs, like Head Start, that support local organizations that improve the lives of Georgia\u2019s families.\u201d\n\n\u201cWe are immensely grateful to Congressman Sanford Bishop, Jr. for his unwavering support in securing the federal grant from the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services Office of Head Start,\u201d saidTammy Sosebee, Executive Director of Middle Georgia Community Action Agency and Heart of Georgia Community Action Council. \u201cWe share the commitment to elevating the lives of families and children throughout Middle Georgia. With this support, we will continue our mission of providing comprehensive early learning, health, nutrition, and family support services through our Head Start program.\u201d\n\n\u201cThis investment strengthens the fabric of our community by addressing the needs of disadvantaged individuals,\u201d Sosebee added. \u201cCongressman Bishop is greatly appreciated for his dedication and support of our vision to build a brighter future for children and families.\u201d\n\nHead Start programs are making a difference throughout Middle and Southwest Georgia. In May, the Macon-Bibb Economic Opportunity Council received a $4.2 million HHS grant award for Head Start projects. In April, HHS awarded over $19 million in Head Start grants to Enrichment Services Program, Inc. in Columbus, Georgia, which services over 1,300 children and their families in the area.\n\nHead Start has been assisting America\u2019s low-income children and their families since 1965 and has helped over 38 million children across the United States. According to the National Forum on Early Childhood Policy and Programs, high quality early childhood programs can yield a $4-$9 return per $1 invested. Head Start is effective in channeling taxpayer dollars to create positive social outcomes such as increasing the odds for securing employment and earn a college degree.\n\nMiddle Georgia Community Action Agency was founded in 1974, and in 1982 it merged with Heart of Georgia Community Action Council. Together they serve 33 counties, covering 21% of the state, and work on providing Georgians with rural transportation projects, Head Start, and counseling programs.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T21:11:47Z"], ["https://hankjohnson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-johnson-sens-ossoff-grahams-bipartisan-hydrogen-aviation-strategy", "Rep. Johnson, Sens. Ossoff & Graham\u2019s Bipartisan Hydrogen Aviation Strategy Act Becomes Law", "2024-06-05", "2024", "2024-06", "Democrat", "House", "GA", "Henry C. \"Hank\" Johnson, Jr.", "J000288", "hankjohnson.house.gov", "hankjohnson", "https://hankjohnson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2014 Congressman Hank Johnson\u2019s bipartisan bill to advance the development of hydrogen energy for aviation is now law.\n\nLast year, Congressman Hank Johnson (GA-04), Sen. Ossoff & Sen. Lindsey Graham (R-SC), introduced the bipartisan Hydrogen Aviation Strategy Act to advance the study and development of hydrogen energy for use in aviation.\n\nThe bill passed the U.S. House and Senate as part of this year\u2019s Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) reauthorization and was signed into law last month.\n\nThe bipartisan law will require the FAA to research and develop strategies for the use of hydrogen fuel in aviation within the next year. The law will also require the FAA to consult industry partners, airlines, and hydrogen producers in the advancement of this new technology and establish a new advisory committee to develop recommendations on the adoption of hydrogen as an aviation energy source.\n\n\u201cAlthough the journey to zero emissions in commercial air travel won\u2019t be easy, hydrogen could be a key player in helping us get there,\u201d said Congressman Johnson. \u201cThe Hydrogen Aviation Strategy Act is a good first step. I thank Sen. Ossoff for his leadership on this front, and I look forward to the law creating good-paying Georgia jobs, providing greater energy security for the nation and fewer greenhouse emissions to fight climate change.\u201d\n\n\u201cHydrogen energy is a promising opportunity to create Georgia jobs, strengthen American energy security, and reduce greenhouse gas emissions in multiple sectors, including transportation,\u201d Sen. Ossoff said. \u201cI\u2019m grateful to my colleagues in both parties for passing our bipartisan bill to strengthen research and development of hydrogen as a next-generation fuel for the aviation sector.\u201d\n\n\u201cWith the United States at the forefront of technology development in the aviation sector, this legislation empowers manufacturers and agencies to consider various power solutions including hydrogen,\u201d said Senator Graham. \u201cI look forward to working with my colleagues to further explore advancements in hydrogen production and its integration throughout the aviation industry.\u201d\n\n\u201cThe aviation industry\u2019s ambitious sustainability roadmap depends on stakeholders across the value chain collectively exploring new technologies and innovating toward a more sustainable future for travel,\u201d said Amelia DeLuca, Delta\u2019s Chief Sustainability Officer. \u201cFrom scaling existing fuel alternatives like sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) to unlocking the potential of clean hydrogen for e-SAF and direct propulsion solutions, we are committed to working with leaders to decarbonize the future of flight and commend our leaders in Washington for prioritizing hydrogen research and development in the final FAA Reauthorization bill.\u201d\n\n\u201cAviation is the hardest sector to decarbonize. Even as we continue to develop options that can drop into our existing airlines, I\u2019m thankful to Sen. Ossoff on his leadership in passage of this bill that makes longer-range investments to enable game changing capabilities for zero carbon aviation,\u201d said Dr. Tim Lieuwen, Executive Director of the Georgia Institute of Technology\u2019s Strategic Energy Institute and Professor in its School of Aerospace Engineering.\n\n\u201cWith our longstanding commitment to sustainability, Gulfstream applauds the Hydrogen Aviation Strategy Act and its focus on long term solutions to increasing sustainability in aviation and helping our industry meet established goals for carbon neutrality,\u201d said Mark Burns, President of Gulfstream.\n\nCongressman Johnson and Sen. Ossoff will continue working to strengthen American energy security by championing hydrogen energy research and investments for the State of Georgia and the Southeast.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T21:11:47Z"], ["https://mcbath.house.gov/press-releases?ID=2648A2AE-5003-484C-93FC-DEB31EB05C6A", "McBath, Thompson, Clark, Aguilar, Neguse, Kelly Mark Gun Violence Awareness Month", "2024-06-05", "2024", "2024-06", "Democrat", "House", "GA", "Lucy McBath", "M001208", "mcbath.house.gov", "mcbath", "https://mcbath.house.gov/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, DC \u2014 On Tuesday, Rep. Lucy McBath (GA-07), Gun Violence Prevention Task Force Chair Mike Thompson (CA-04), Democratic Whip Katherine Clark (MA-05), House Democratic Caucus Chair Pete Aguilar (CA-33), House Assistant Minority Leader Joe Neguse (CO-02), and Rep. Robin Kelly (IL-02) held a press conference marking the start of Gun Violence Awareness Month and the upcoming two-year anniversary of the Bipartisan Safer Communities Act.\n\n\u201cI came to Congress after my son was murdered by a man with a gun. For years, I had been a mother crying out to our elected officials to take action to end the horror of gun violence that ripped apart families like mine and put dread in the hearts of parents,\u201d said Rep. McBath. \u201cThrough bipartisan steps in Congress and the work of the Biden-Harris Administration, the tides are changing. I feel my son\u2019s legacy every single day in this work, and I was proud to join my colleagues on the Gun Violence Prevention Task Force today to kick off Gun Violence Awareness Month as we continue this fight to save lives.\u201d\n\n\u201cIt\u2019s the 156th day of the year and our country has already experienced 197 mass shootings. That\u2019s unacceptable,\u201d said Rep. Mike Thompson, Chair of the Gun Violence Prevention Task Force. \u201cTwo years ago this month, Democrats helped pass the Bipartisan Safer Communities Act, cementing the most significant gun violence prevention law in thirty years. But our work isn\u2019t done. While Democrats push for progress, Republicans stand in the way of safer communities. This June, during Gun Violence Prevention Month, we are recommitting ourselves to keep up the fight against gun violence.\u201d\n\n\u201cTwo years ago this month, Democrats enacted the Safer Communities Act \u2014 the most significant effort to save kids from gun violence since before my own children were even born. It was a once-in-a-generation kind of achievement. But it shouldn\u2019t be,\u201d said Democratic Whip Katherine Clark. \u201cAs Democrats have always made clear, this law is just the first step. But under this Republican Majority, we have seen nothing but cruel inaction. Not one vote to save a single life. That\u2019s the difference between the two sides of the aisle. Republicans are here to pull stunts. Democrats are here to solve problems.\u201d\n\n\u201cTwo years ago, Democrats and Republicans came together in the most significant piece of legislation that we have been able to accomplish in the last 30 years,\u201d said Chair Pete Aguilar. \u201cWe urge House Republicans to join us to protect our kids and their futures, and to come to the table to find a meaningful path forward to end gun violence once and for all.\u201d\n\n\u201cColoradans and Americans across our country are demanding that the United States Congress do something about the scourge of gun violence,\u201d said Assistant Leader Joe Neguse. \u201cAnd House Democrats have risen to the occasion \u2014 heeded that call. You heard from Chairman Thompson, from Chairman Aguilar, from Whip Clark about the work we did just a few short years ago to get the Bipartisan Safer Communities Act across the finish line \u2014 not the last step, but an important first step.\u201d\n\n\u201cThe American people intimately know the impact of gun violence too well,\u201d said Rep. Robin Kelly. \u201cEvery year, 43,000 people die from gun violence. Behind each of those deaths are family members, loved ones, coworkers, and friends who miss them every day. The toll of gun violence should move Congress to action, yet many of my colleagues across the aisle don\u2019t even recognize gun violence as a problem. We must choose to change course and save lives. Inaction is not an option.\u201d\n\nThe tragic death of Hadiya Pendleton, who was shot and killed at age fifteen just days after performing at President Obama\u2019s second inauguration, inspired the creation of Gun Violence Awareness Day on the first Friday in June. Gun Violence Awareness Month is recognized as an extension of the day.\n\nThe Gun Violence Prevention Task Force was founded in the wake of the tragedy at Sandy Hook Elementary School in 2012 when 20 students and 6 educators were slaughtered in a senseless act of violence. This group, consisting of 180 Members of Congress, is devoted to finding commonsense solutions to our nation's ongoing gun violence epidemic. Rep. McBath serves as Vice Chair of the Task Force.\n\nTask Force members helped pass the Bipartisan Safer Communities Act (BSCA), the most consequential gun violence prevention legislation signed into law in decades. President Biden signed the BSCA into law in June of 2022.\n\nThe BSCA:", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T21:11:47Z"], ["https://mcbath.house.gov/press-releases?ID=BABAF0B3-816A-4FB5-BF0B-A9BB9B50407B", "Bipartisan Letter Led By McBath, Fitzpatrick Requests Changes at DOJ to Protect Children and Families from Domestic Violence", "2024-06-05", "2024", "2024-06", "Democrat", "House", "GA", "Lucy McBath", "M001208", "mcbath.house.gov", "mcbath", "https://mcbath.house.gov/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2014 Congresswoman Lucy McBath (GA-07) and Congressman Brian Fitzpatrick (PA-01) sent a letter to Attorney General Merrick Garland today requesting reforms to protect children and families experiencing domestic violence. The letter requests expanding the implementation of the Hague Convention within the Department of Justice to include domestic violence as a \u201cgrave risk\u201d when resolving international custody disputes. The lawmakers also recommend the DOJ lead a national campaign to increase awareness and training on the dynamics of abuse, recognize red flags, and implement appropriate protective measures.\n\n\u201cOur goal in seeking DOJ\u2019s answers to the questions is to ensure that the United States prioritize the safety and well-being of children and parental victims of domestic violence under the Hague Convention.,\u201d Reps. McBath and Fitzpatrick write. \u201cIn our view, one way to do so is to explicitly include domestic violence as a definition of a \u2018grave risk.\u2019 This would emphasize the seriousness of domestic violence and recognize that it poses significant harm to both children and protective parents. Another way would be to establish a connection between violence against a child and the risk it poses to the protective parent. By recognizing that harm to the child can directly affect the well-being and safety of the protective parent, our judicial system can better assess the risks involved and take appropriate measures to protect both the child and the parent.\u201d\n\n\u201cMy deepest gratitude goes to Congresswoman Lucy McBath and Congressman Brian Fitzpatrick for their leadership in writing to Attorney General Garland regarding the urgent need to reform the judicial system as it pertains to The Hague Convention and cases involving domestic violence victims and refugees. Their bipartisan letter seeks to engage the Department of Justice at the highest level, addressing the potential risk of children being returned to dangerous or abusive situations,\u201d said Veronika Mudra, the President of White Ribbon USA. \u201cAs a refugee myself, under the domestic violence protection program from Ukraine and a respondent under the Hague Convention, I am among the less than 1% of cases in which a child remained with his or her protective mother, preventing being returned to an abuser.\u201d Mudra concluded, \u201cThis congressional support is invaluable to me as a president of White Ribbon USA, a non-profit organization dedicated to awareness, education and advocacy campaigns for survivors of domestic abuse. DOJ\u2019s collaboration to reform Hague Convention procedures in the U.S. is critical to setting the correct example for other countries to better protect survivors of domestic abuse.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T21:11:47Z"], ["https://bishop.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressman-bishop-announces-federal-funds-for-mercer-university-to-help-lead-the-fight-against-opioid-abuse", "CONGRESSMAN BISHOP ANNOUNCES FEDERAL FUNDS FOR MERCER UNIVERSITY TO HELP LEAD THE FIGHT AGAINST OPIOID ABUSE", "2024-06-04", "2024", "2024-06", "Democrat", "House", "GA", "Sanford D. Bishop, Jr.", "B000490", "bishop.house.gov", "bishop", "https://bishop.house.gov/media-center/press-releases", "scraper", "MACON, Ga. \u2013 Congressman Sanford D. Bishop, Jr., (GA-02) is pleased to announce that Mercer University has been awarded $99,994 from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) through its Rural Health Network Development Planning Grant Program. The program helps organizations plan and develop integrated, collaborative health networks. The goal is to expand access to and improve the quality of basic health care services and health outcomes in rural communities.\n\n\u201cQuality healthcare is crucial for every community. Rural communities face unique obstacles maintaining facilities and services that provide families with the care they need close to home. This can be particularly challenging when facing public heath crises,\u201d said Congressman Bishop. \u201cI will always work in Congress to make sure that programs like the Rural Health Network Development Program have the resources to support our communities. With these funds, Mercer University can continue to be at the forefront helping all of Georgia improve rural healthcare and fight opioid abuse.\u201d\n\n\u201cMercer University School of Medicine is committed to our mission of improving healthcare for rural Georgia. Addressing the opioid epidemic is vitally important for all of our country and especially important in underserved rural areas of our state,\u201d said Jean Sumner, MD, FACP, Dean of Mercer University School of Medicine.\n\n\u201cWith the SERVE Health Network planning project, we aim to address critical health disparities for those impacted by the opioid epidemic in North Georgia's rural counties of Fannin, Gilmer, Gordon, and Polk,\u201d said Sherrie Williams of Mercer University School of Medicine, who serves as project manager on this program. \u201cAwarded $99,994 for a one-year planning period, our project will assess and strategize the implementation of a telehealth network leveraging local Recovery Community Organizations to improve healthcare access and quality for community members who are in or seeking recovery and/or treatment. Along with researcher Dr. Allen Tindol, the project will focus on evaluating healthcare needs, developing an implementation plan for expanded healthcare services, and enhancing the rural healthcare system's resilience and effectiveness.\u201d\n\nThe Rural Health Network Development Planning Grant Program is sponsored by the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA). To be eligible for this program, applicants must have experience serving or the capacity to serve rural underserved populations.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T21:11:47Z"], ["https://hankjohnson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressman-johnson-announces-348k-grant-georgia-piedmont-technical", "Congressman Johnson Announces $348K Grant For Georgia Piedmont Technical College", "2024-06-03", "2024", "2024-06", "Democrat", "House", "GA", "Henry C. \"Hank\" Johnson, Jr.", "J000288", "hankjohnson.house.gov", "hankjohnson", "https://hankjohnson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases", "scraper", "NSF funding will create new career pathway in STEM fields for local high school students\n\nCLARKSTON, GA \u2014 On May 29, the National Science Foundation (NSF) announced it has awarded Georgia Piedmont Technical College (GPTC) in Clarkston with a $347,888 grant for their \u201cStrengthening High School Initiatives in Future Technology\" project.\n\nThe project will develop a one-year pathway for high school dual enrollment (DE) students on the Accelerated Career Pathways (ACP) high school graduation plan, to earn two college certificates in mechatronics. Mechatronics a multidisciplinary field that refers to the skill sets needed in the contemporary, advanced automated manufacturing industry. At the intersection of mechanics, electronics, and computing, mechatronics specialists create simpler, smarter systems.\n\n\u201cI am encouraged by the growing study of STEM by students \u2014 particularly those in K-12,\u201d said Rep Hank Johnson. \u201cGeorgia Piedmont Technical College\u2019s award of this grant not only advances the interest of students looking into mechatronics, but gives those who would not otherwise be able to afford these courses an opportunity to grow their knowledge and provide them with valuable experiences.\u201d\n\nIn Georgia, the ACP offers a unique path to high school graduation for career-focused students, where they simultaneously earn a high school diploma and college credentials in a specific career pathway. Over the three years of the project, 60 students will be recruited to participate in the program. The project will align the required courses with experiential learning activities, in coordination with the local school systems and industry partners, strengthening the K-12 pipeline and improving the readiness of students to transition into the high-demand career field of mechatronics as technicians.\n\nBecause GPTC has a high population of economically disadvantaged and underrepresented students in STEM fields, the grant has the potential to broaden participation in the mechatronics workforce, generate new knowledge on how high school students are prepared for college and high-demand, good-paying career fields.\n\n\u201cThis award allows us to introduce high school students to career options in emerging technologies that result in high wages,\u201d said Georgia Piedmont Technical College President Tavarez Holston. \u201cIt is timely and relevant for regional workforce development efforts.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T21:11:47Z"]], "truncated": false, "filtered_table_rows_count": 182, "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": "GA", "p2": "2024"}}, "facet_results": {"party": {"name": "party", "type": "column", "hideable": false, "toggle_url": "/press/releases.json?party=Democrat&state=GA&year=2024", "results": [{"value": "Democrat", "label": "Democrat", "count": 182, "toggle_url": "http://dpwillis-congress-press-search.hf.space/press/releases.json?state=GA&year=2024", "selected": true}], "truncated": false}, "chamber": {"name": "chamber", "type": "column", "hideable": false, "toggle_url": "/press/releases.json?party=Democrat&state=GA&year=2024", "results": [{"value": "House", "label": "House", "count": 182, "toggle_url": "http://dpwillis-congress-press-search.hf.space/press/releases.json?party=Democrat&state=GA&year=2024&chamber=House", "selected": false}], "truncated": false}, "state": {"name": "state", "type": "column", "hideable": false, "toggle_url": "/press/releases.json?party=Democrat&state=GA&year=2024", "results": [{"value": "GA", "label": "GA", "count": 182, "toggle_url": "http://dpwillis-congress-press-search.hf.space/press/releases.json?party=Democrat&year=2024", "selected": true}], "truncated": false}, "year": {"name": "year", "type": "column", "hideable": false, "toggle_url": "/press/releases.json?party=Democrat&state=GA&year=2024", "results": [{"value": "2024", "label": "2024", "count": 182, "toggle_url": "http://dpwillis-congress-press-search.hf.space/press/releases.json?party=Democrat&state=GA", "selected": true}], "truncated": false}}, "suggested_facets": [], "next": "2024-06-03,https~3A~2F~2Fhankjohnson~2Ehouse~2Egov~2Fmedia-center~2Fpress-releases~2Fcongressman-johnson-announces-348k-grant-georgia-piedmont-technical", "next_url": "http://dpwillis-congress-press-search.hf.space/press/releases.json?party=Democrat&state=GA&year=2024&_next=2024-06-03%2Chttps~3A~2F~2Fhankjohnson~2Ehouse~2Egov~2Fmedia-center~2Fpress-releases~2Fcongressman-johnson-announces-348k-grant-georgia-piedmont-technical&_sort_desc=date", "private": false, "allow_execute_sql": true, "query_ms": 248.08008316904306, "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"}