{"database": "press", "table": "releases", "is_view": false, "human_description_en": "where party = \"Democrat\", state = \"OH\" and year = 2025 sorted by date descending", "rows": [["https://kaptur.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/kaptur-secures-nearly-13-million-new-safe-streets-funding-bolster", "Kaptur Secures Nearly $1.3 Million In New Safe Streets Funding To Bolster Vision For A Safer NW Ohio", "2025-12-30", "2025", "2025-12", "Democrat", "House", "OH", "Marcy Kaptur", "K000009", "kaptur.house.gov", "kaptur", "https://kaptur.house.gov/media-center/press-releases", "scraper", "The new awards announced today totaling $1,275,370 include:\n\n$653,200 awarded to Lucas County for Supplemental Planning and Demonstration Activities for Northwest Ohio Transportation Safety Action Plan\n\nThis award will be used by Lucas County to pilot and evaluate countermeasures and conduct supplemental planning to implement the Transportation Safety Action Plan across Lucas County. Activities include temporary curbs, signal preemption for emergency medical services, speed studies, walk audits, road safety audits, and development of design tools to evaluate crash and emergency response outcomes.\n\n$542,170 awarded to the City of Toledo for Toledo/Lucas County Fleet Vehicle Safety Supplemental Planning and Demonstration\n\nThis award will be used by City of Toledo to conduct supplemental planning activities and demonstration activities to assess fleet vehicle crash risk, pilot safety technologies and trainings, and update the multi-jurisdictional Northwest Ohio Transportation Safety Action Plan. Deliverables include a consultant-led fleet assessment, driver monitoring in 186 vehicles, pilot interventions, telematics and crash evaluation, and a final report with prioritized procurement and implementation recommendations for Northwest Ohio.\n\n$80,000 awarded to the Toledo Metropolitan Area Council of Governments for Safety Locations Reports for Ottawa and Sandusky Counties\n\nThis award will be used by Toledo Metropolitan Area Council of Governments to produce Safety Location Reports for Ottawa and Sandusky Counties that identify high-crash intersections and segments eligible for Ohio Department of Transportation safety funding. Deliverables include county-specific reports to prioritize eligible sites, support future road safety audits, and streamline Highway Safety Improvement Program applications to accelerate implementation of Proven Safety Countermeasures.\n\n\u201cImproving safety for walkers, bikers and drivers across Northwest Ohio is an important part of building a brighter future for all of our residents. These awards are about more than just concrete and new infrastructure improvements \u2014 it\u2019s about making life safer and creating community spaces that are accessible for all our people,\u201d said Congresswoman Marcy Kaptur (OH-09).\u201cSafe Streets investments across our region will allow our community leaders to meet the needs of today while planning the way for a safer tomorrow. I want to thank all our partners for their initiative to apply for these awards, and I will continue fighting to bring more funding like this back to our communities across Northwest Ohio.\u201d\n\n\"We are pleased to receive our third Safe Streets and Roads for All grant from the US Department of Transportation,\" said Lucas County Engineer Mike Pniewski. \"These funds will be used to develop measures to make Lucas County roadways safer for all users including better understanding the impacts of speed and safety on our roadways, improvements to access management systems, pedestrian, and bicycle facilities. These investments in highway safety pay back by providing a higher quality of life for our residents.\"\n\n\u201cWe are grateful to the US Department of Transportation for awarding this Safe Streets and Roads for All grant. These funds will allow us to identify high-crash locations in Ottawa and Sandusky Counties and prioritize safety improvements that save lives,\" said Sandy Spang, Executive Director of the Toledo Metropolitan Area Council of Governments. \"By producing detailed Safety Action Plans, we can help local communities access resources faster and implement proven strategies to make our roads safer for everyone.\u201d\n\nThe SS4A program, administered through the Office of the Secretary of Transportation, aims to fund critical projects nationwide that prevent roadway fatalities and serious injuries, especially in high-risk areas. This award is part of an ongoing initiative by the USDOT to support local efforts that prioritize the safety and wellbeing of community members through modernized infrastructure and strategic safety planning. This funding highlights the importance of investing in preventative measures that support a sustainable, people-centered approach to transportation infrastructure.\n\n# # #", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://kaptur.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/kaptur-announces-winners-2025-9th-congressional-district-congressional", "Kaptur Announces Winners of 2025 9th Congressional District Congressional App Challenge", "2025-12-23", "2025", "2025-12", "Democrat", "House", "OH", "Marcy Kaptur", "K000009", "kaptur.house.gov", "kaptur", "https://kaptur.house.gov/media-center/press-releases", "scraper", "Sandusky, OH \u2013 Today, Congresswoman Marcy Kaptur (OH-09), announced Kia Preston of Perkins High School in Erie County as the winner of the 2025 Congressional App Challenge from Ohio\u2019s 9th Congressional District for his app \u201cLight Teachings.\u201d Congresswoman Kaptur received a total of 16 applications this year from six schools in Ohio\u2019s 9th Congressional District including: Bryan High School, Sandusky High School, Perkins High School, Tinora High School, Sylvania Northview High School and Sylvania Southview High School. Defiance, Erie, Lucas and Williams Counties were each represented. The top 3 finalists included representatives from Perkins High School, Bryan High School, and Sandusky High School.\n\nThis year\u2019s 1st Place winner was Kia Preston of Perkins High School in Erie County, Ohio. Kia submitted the mobile application, \u201cLight Teachings\u201d which is an interactive app that helps users understand the fundamentals of ray tracing, a computer graphics technique that simulates how light interacts with objects to create realistic images. The winners of the 2025 Congressional App Challenge will be invited to attend a #HouseofCode reception in Washington, DC in the Spring of 2026. Kia\u2019s app will be on display in the US Capitol Building and will be featured on House.gov for one year. In addition to this, his app will be featured on CongressionalAppChallenge.us.\n\n\u201cCongratulations to Kia Preston of Perkins High School for winning Ohio\u2019s 9th District 2025 Congressional App Challenge. Mr. Preston\u2019s app, \u2018Light Teachings\u2019 brings 3D imagery to life,\u201d said Congresswoman Marcy Kaptur (OH-09). \u201cThis \u2018app\u2019 adds to the science and innovation achievements demonstrated by the students at Perkins High School. I appreciate all 16 submissions this year. Each year, students\u2019 creativity, ingenuity, and intellectual curiosity continue to astound. Every student demonstrates integral computer science, engineering, and coding skills that will prepare them for the 21st Century workforce. I also want to extend special thanks to the outstanding computer science professionals from Actual Reality Technologies, Engage Studio Architects, and Toledo Lucas County Public Library for judging this year\u2019s competition.\u201d\n\nThis year\u2019s 2nd place winner was Harrison Spitnale of Bryan High School in Williams County with his new calorie counting app, \u201cSnackulator.\u201d Last year Harrison and his brother Luke won with their app \u201cBeekeper.\u201d This year\u2019s 3rd place winner was Ishan Chopra of Sandusky High School in Erie County with his app \u201cTADOO.\u201d Ishan previously won the 2023 9th District app challenge and was runner up in 2024. This year, outstanding submissions were also received from Tinora High School, Sylvania Northview High School and Sylvania Southview High School.\n\nThis year\u2019s panel of judges included computer science, engineering and educational professionals from within the 9th Congressional District including: LeSean Shaw, COO of Actual Reality Technologies, Erin Curley, CEO of Engage Studio Architect, and Lucas Camuso-Stall, Director of Government Relations & Advocacy for the Toledo Lucas County Public Library.\n\nThe Congressional App Challenge is a yearly competition open to every Congressional District across the United States. The purpose of this challenge is to encourage students from schools across Congressional Districts to compete by creating and submitting a mobile application that will have the opportunity to be chosen as the winner. This competition is an opportunity for young adults to explore coding and computer sciences as a STEM education field. This student engagement gives them an opportunity to learn and expand new skills that are advantageous to future careers, and educational opportunities.\n\nIn 2013, leaders of the House of Representatives and the Internet Education Foundation sought avenues to acknowledge and celebrate computer science and STEM education. Later that year, the House of Representatives overwhelmingly passed House Resolution 77 \u2013 Academic Competition Resolution of 2013. This resolution was the architect for designing a computer science, or \u201capp\u201d competition that each House member could compete in. The inaugural Congressional App Challenge was held in 2015. Ohio\u2019s 9th Congressional District has participated in the Congressional App Challenge since 2019. This year, the Congressional App Challenge broke new records with 13,830 students from 394 congressional districts participating. That is a 20% increase from 2024.\n\nMore information on the Congressional App Challenge can be found by clicking here. Information about the 2023 9th District Congressional App Challenge winners and participants can be found by clicking here. Information about the 2024 9th District Congressional App Challenge winners and participants can be found by clicking here. Photos of the 9th Congressional District Congressional App Challenge 2024 recognition can be found by clicking here.\n\n# # #", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://beatty.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/new-lawsuit-challenges-illegal-renaming-of-the-kennedy-center", "New Lawsuit Challenges Illegal Renaming of the Kennedy Center", "2025-12-22", "2025", "2025-12", "Democrat", "House", "OH", "Joyce Beatty", "B001281", "beatty.house.gov", "beatty", "https://beatty.house.gov/media-center/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Congresswoman Joyce Beatty today sued President Trump and others to stop the unlawful renaming of the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts. The lawsuit was brought on behalf of the Congresswoman in her capacity as an ex officio trustee of the Kennedy Center by Democracy Defenders Action and the Washington Litigation Group. Congresswoman Beatty participated in the recent Board meeting and alleges she was prevented from speaking when she attempted to object to the renaming.\n\n\u201cOnly Congress has the authority to rename the Kennedy Center. President Trump and his cronies must not be allowed to trample federal law and bypass Congress to feed his ego,\u201d said Congresswoman Beatty. \u201cThis entire process has been a complete disgrace to this cherished institution and the people it serves. These unlawful actions must be blocked before any further damage is done.\u201d\n\nShortly after President Kennedy\u2019s assassination, Congress designated the Kennedy Center as the sole national memorial within the nation\u2019s capital to the late President. The lawsuit argues that because Congress named the center by statute, changing the Kennedy Center\u2019s name requires an act of Congress.\n\nThe suit follows a December 18, 2025 announcement that the Board had voted to rebrand the Kennedy Center with President Trump\u2019s name, and the rapid installation of new exterior signage and related digital branding changes the next day. The lawsuit contends that the Board\u2019s action is legally void and damages the institution\u2019s public mission by turning a national memorial into a political vanity project.\n\n\u201cThe President and his sycophants have no lawful authority to rename the Kennedy Center,\u201d said Amb. Norman Eisen (ret.), founder of Democracy Defenders Action and Nathaniel Zelinsky, Senior Counsel at Washington Litigation Group. \u201cCongress named the Kennedy Center as a national memorial to President Kennedy, and only Congress can change that. We are proud to represent Congresswoman Beatty as she defends the integrity of this institution and the separation of powers.\u201d\n\nThe lawsuit, filed in the U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia, asks the court to declare the Board\u2019s renaming vote unlawful and without legal effect, order removal of the physical and digital signage and branding changes, restore the Kennedy Center\u2019s lawful name, and prevent further attempts to rename it without congressional authorization.\n\nThe lawsuit can be found HERE.\n\n###\n\nDemocracy Defenders Action brings together a nonpartisan team to work with national, state and local allies across the country to defend in real-time the foundations of our democracy.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://kaptur.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/kaptur-announces-delivery-record-49-million-fema-fire-awards-across", "Kaptur Announces Delivery of Record $4.9 Million in FEMA Fire Awards Across Northwest Ohio", "2025-12-22", "2025", "2025-12", "Democrat", "House", "OH", "Marcy Kaptur", "K000009", "kaptur.house.gov", "kaptur", "https://kaptur.house.gov/media-center/press-releases", "scraper", "Toledo Fire & Rescue (Lucas County): $1,117,196\n\nMonclova Township Fire & Rescue (Lucas County): $271,707\n\nGorham Township Fire Department (Fulton County): $245,238\n\nVillage of Hicksville Fire Department (Defiance County): $809,523\n\nCity of Northwood Fire Department (Wood County): $23,158\n\nCity of Rossford Fire Department (Wood County): $124,761\n\nCity of Oregon Fire Department (Lucas County): $2,375,109\n\n# # #", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://kaptur.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/kaptur-introduces-legislation-strengthen-federal-port-infrastructure", "Kaptur Introduces Legislation to Strengthen Federal Port Infrastructure Investments Nationwide", "2025-12-19", "2025", "2025-12", "Democrat", "House", "OH", "Marcy Kaptur", "K000009", "kaptur.house.gov", "kaptur", "https://kaptur.house.gov/media-center/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington DC \u2013 Today, Representatives Marcy Kaptur (OH-09), Dave Joyce (OH-14), Debbie Dingell (MI-06), Bill Huizenga (MI-04), Frank Mrvan (IN-01), Tim Kennedy (NY-26), Randy Weber (TX-14), Claudia Tenney (NY-24), Erin Houchin (IN-09), and Robin Kelly (IL-02) led the bipartisan introduction of the Securing Smart Investments in our Ports Act. This legislation strengthens the Port Infrastructure Development Program (PIDP) by ensuring federal investments are distributed more evenly across regional port systems nationwide. Currently, inland and Great Lakes ports receive a disproportionately small share of federal support, limiting their ability to modernize infrastructure, expand capacity, and remain competitive. By rebalancing how funds are awarded, the bill helps unlock the full economic and national security potential of ports across the interior, strengthening America\u2019s supply chain resilience and global competitiveness. Senators Gary Peters (D-MI) and John Cornyn (R-TX) introduced the companion legislation in the Senate.\n\n\u201cOur ports are the front doors of American trade. This bill ensures smart federal investments in local jobs, improves supply chains, and enhances our economic security,\u201d said Congresswoman Kaptur. \u201cIn my region that means shoring up our Great Lakes ports to allow goods commodities to flow up through the Soo Locks and on to Europe through the Great Lakes-St. Lawrence Seaway. I want to thank my colleagues on both sides of the aisle for joining this effort to invest in economic growth and improve waterborne shipping to the world.\u201d\n\n\u201cInland ports are the backbone of the nation\u2019s supply chain. When they fall behind, America falls behind, and our economic security and national security are put at risk,\u201d said Congressman Joyce. \u201cFederal port infrastructure dollars can\u2019t just flow to major coastal hubs. The Securing Smart Investments in our Ports Act guarantees that ports across the Great Lakes, Gulf Coast, and inland waterways can compete for critical upgrades that keep goods moving, reduce bottlenecks, and strengthen America\u2019s strategic and economic competitiveness. I\u2019m proud to introduce this bipartisan legislation with Congressman Kennedy and grateful for his continued advocacy on behalf of the Great Lakes.\u201d\n\n\u201cThe Great Lakes are a way of life for us in Michigan and across the Heartland. They drive and support industries that create jobs and sustain communities across the country,\u201d said Congresswoman Dingell. \u201cOur Great Lakes ports are just as essential to the U.S. as coastal ports and deserve equal federal investment. I\u2019m proud to co-lead this bipartisan bill to ensure the Great Lakes port system is fairly considered for maintenance and modernization that will support competitiveness and economic security.\u201d\n\n\u201cOur ports are the backbone of our regional economy and serve as a critical link in keeping America\u2019s supply chains moving,\u201d said Congressman Tim Kennedy. \u201cIn the Great Lakes region these ports support good-paying jobs and strengthen our national security. The Securing Smart Investments in our Ports Act ensures that federal infrastructure dollars are distributed fairly, so inland ports and surrounding communities can reap the economic benefits from modernized and resilient infrastructure.\u201d\n\n\u201cIt would be a detriment to both our national security and our economy to overlook the Great Lakes when it comes to port infrastructure funding decisions,\u201d said Congressman Huizenga. \u201cOur nation\u2019s coastal ports are important, but don\u2019t operate in a vacuum. The Securing Smart Investments in our Ports Act ensures industry and commerce while enhancing security, growing the economy, supporting job creation, and lowering costs.\u201d\n\n\u201cThank you to Rep. Joyce and my Congressional colleagues for introducing this legislation to ensure that all of our ports receive their fair share of federal funding for infrastructure investments,\u201d said Congressman Mrvan. \u201cEfficient and well-functioning ports are critical to the economic success of working families and communities throughout our nation, including in Northwest Indiana, and I look forward to continuing to advance this important legislation.\u201d\n\n\u201cFederal port dollars shouldn\u2019t be funneled to the same handful of coastal ports while inland and Gulf Coast ports that move America\u2019s energy, agriculture, and manufactured goods are left behind,\u201d said Congressman Weber. \u201cThe Securing Smart Investments in our Ports Act simply requires the Department of Transportation to consider equitable geographic distribution, ensuring every port has a fair shot and that our national supply chain is stronger, more resilient, and more secure.\u201d\n\n\u201cI am pleased to cosponsor this legislation to ensure ports along Lake Ontario receive fair consideration in federal infrastructure funding,\u201d said Congresswoman Tenney. \u201cThese ports are critical to Upstate New York\u2019s economy and support manufacturing, agriculture, construction, and good paying jobs across NY-24. This bill is a smart investment in economic resilience, efficiency, and national security.\u201d\n\n\u201cCommunities across Indiana depend on efficient freight networks to move the agriculture and manufacturing goods that power our economy,\u201d said Congresswoman Houchin. \u201cWhen inland ports, like our own on the Ohio River, are overlooked for federal investment, it can create delays in shipping that affect businesses and workers. The Securing Smart Investments in our Ports Act is a practical solution that ensures every region gets a fair shot at critical funding to keep our supply chain moving.\u201d\n\n\u201cIllinois\u2019 ports, including the Illinois International Port District in Chicago, are vital to our agricultural and manufacturing supply chains,\u201d said Congresswoman Kelly. \u201cThis bill would ensure the Great Lakes and inland ports receive a fair share of federal investment so they can operate safely, efficiently, and drive economic growth in the Second District and across Illinois.\u201d\n\n\"As a leading advocate for Ohio and the Great Lakes, Congressman Joyce has been instrumental in creating good-paying American jobs and strengthening our communities,\u201d said Brian Oszakiewski, Executive Director of the American Great Lakes Ports Association. \u201cThis legislation helps ensure the Heartland receives its fair share of federal investment. We are grateful for Congressman Joyce\u2019s leadership and thank his congressional colleagues for their support of balanced, long-term funding for critical port infrastructure across the Great Lakes region.\u201d\n\n\u201cThis bill is an important step to ensure that the world's longest deep draft commercial waterway - the Great Lakes-St. Lawrence Seaway System - receives its fair share of funding to continue improving the safety and reliability of our region's ports,\u201d said Erika Jensen, Executive Director of the Great Lakes Commission.\n\nSummary:\n\nThis bill would amend the Port Infrastructure Development Program (PIDP) to ensure that federal port improvement funds are awarded more evenly across different regions of the country. The bill directs the Department of Transportation to consider geographic distribution when selecting projects for both the Port and Intermodal Improvement Program and for assistance targeted to inland and coastal ports and terminals. The legislation explicitly includes inland ports, meaning ports on the Great Lakes, along inland waterways, and other interior ports would be eligible for funding under the program and considered in the geographic distribution requirements. In practice, the bill ensures that federal investments are not concentrated in only a few regions and that ports of all sizes and locations have a fair chance to compete for funding.\n\nEndorsing Organizations: Great Lakes Commission and the American Great Lakes Ports Association.\n\nBackground:\n\nThe Port Infrastructure Development Program (PIDP) provides critical investments for port infrastructure and intermodal improvements. Historically, a disproportionate share of this funding has gone to large, coastal, or high-volume ports, leaving smaller or inland facilities with limited access to these federal resources. For example, since Fiscal Year 2019, only 2 percent of Port Infrastructure Development Program funding has gone to the Great Lakes region, compared with 38 percent to West Coast ports and 34 percent to East Coast ports. As freight movement grows increasingly interconnected, equitable investment in all types of ports is essential for improving overall logistics efficiency, economic development, and national resilience.\n\nInland ports support manufacturing supply chains, serve hundreds of millions of people, and play a critical role in national security by transporting essential materials such as iron ore, cement, and aggregates. Since America\u2019s beginning, inland waterways have provided a resilient alternative to exposed coastal shipping routes, easier to monitor and protect from physical or cyber threats. During World War II, these waterways were vital, enabling the transport of troops, materials, and supplies while avoiding German attacks on major ports. Today, inland ports remain a secure and reliable backbone of the nation\u2019s logistics network, ensuring critical materials reach where they\u2019re needed most to support both military readiness and domestic manufacturing.\n\nInvesting in these ports would strengthen national supply chains, improve cost efficiency, reduce road congestion and emissions, and enhance the resilience and reliability of freight movement. Modernization efforts, including dredging, dock improvements, and intermodal connections, ensure that these ports can accommodate larger vessels, handle seasonal peaks, and maintain timely delivery of goods. Supporting inland port systems isn\u2019t about local favoritism; it\u2019s about recognizing that inland infrastructure is just as critical as our coastal gateways.\n\n# # #", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://beatty.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/beatty-scores-major-affordable-housing-wins-in-financial-services-committee", "Beatty Scores Major Affordable Housing Wins  in Financial Services Committee", "2025-12-18", "2025", "2025-12", "Democrat", "House", "OH", "Joyce Beatty", "B001281", "beatty.house.gov", "beatty", "https://beatty.house.gov/media-center/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON D.C. \u2013 Yesterday, the House Financial Services Committee marked up various affordable housing bills, including three provisions led by Congresswoman Joyce Beatty. These measures passed through committee as part of H.R. 6644, the Housing for the 21st Century Act, which will streamline housing development and increase flexibility for local communities. The package now awaits consideration by the full House of Representatives.\n\nH.R. 5913, the Community Investment and Prosperity Act, expands banks\u2019 ability to make community investments that promote public welfare and local economic development by increasing the public welfare investment (PWI) cap. Under current law, national banks and state member banks can invest up to 15% of their capital and surplus in projects that benefit the public good, such as affordable housing, small business lending, and community revitalization. This bill increases that cap to 20%, empowering banks to direct more private capital into projects that strengthen local economies and create opportunities for families and small businesses.\n\nH.R. 6726, the Reforms to Housing Counseling and Financial Literacy Programs Act of 2025, expands foreclosure mitigation counseling, through the Mutual Mortgage Insurance Fund, to borrowers who are 30 days delinquent on their mortgage payments. As co-chair of the Financial Literacy and Wealth Creation Caucus, Congresswoman Beatty has advocated for greater access to housing counseling to ensure that hardworking families and first-time homebuyers have the financial skills they need to understand their mortgage terms, prevent foreclosure, and maintain stable housing.\n\nSeveral provisions from H.R. 2031, the HOME Investment Partnerships Reauthorization and Improvement Act, were included in an amendment to the housing package that was adopted by voice vote during the markup. Congresswoman Beatty\u2019s amendment makes key improvements to the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development\u2019s (HUD) HOME program, which is the largest federal block grant to state and local governments designed exclusively to create affordable housing for low-income and extremely low-income households. In addition to a number of technical fixes to the HOME statute to ensure that funding is being spent appropriately, the amendment eases compliance for small properties and increases flexibility for nonprofits that create and provide low-income housing.\n\nRead the full bill texts:", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://beatty.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/statement-from-kennedy-center-ex-officio-board-members-on-trump-s-illegal-effort-to-rename-arts-institution", "Statement from Kennedy Center Ex-Officio Board Members on Trump\u2019s Illegal Effort to Rename Arts Institution", "2025-12-18", "2025", "2025-12", "Democrat", "House", "OH", "Joyce Beatty", "B001281", "beatty.house.gov", "beatty", "https://beatty.house.gov/media-center/press-releases", "scraper", "House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries (D-NY-08), Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY), Senate Environment and Public Works Committee Ranking Member Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI), Senator Mark Warner (D-VA), House Transportation and Infrastructure Ranking Member Rick Larsen (D-WA-02) and Congresswoman Joyce Beatty (D-OH-03)\u2014all ex-officio members of the Kennedy Center Board of Trustees\u2014issued the following statement after the Trump-appointed Board attempted to illegally rename the Center after Trump:\n\nWASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 \u201cBeyond using the Kennedy Center to reward his friends and political allies, President Trump is now attempting to affix his name to yet another public institution without legal authority. Federal law established the Center as a memorial to President Kennedy and prohibits changing its name without Congressional action. At today\u2019s meeting, a sitting Member of Congress was muted, and participants were prevented from speaking\u2014actions that reflect a troubling lack of transparency and respect for the rule of law. This whole process displays the corruption that permeates the entire Trump Administration, and as ex-officio members of the Kennedy Center Board, we will be unwavering in our commitment to holding this Administration accountable.\u201d\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://kaptur.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/kaptur-fitzpatrick-meeks-bipartisan-colleagues-advance-new-peace", "Kaptur, Fitzpatrick, Meeks, Bipartisan Colleagues Advance New \u2018Peace Through Strength\u2019 Sanctions on Russia Toward January Floor Action", "2025-12-18", "2025", "2025-12", "Democrat", "House", "OH", "Marcy Kaptur", "K000009", "kaptur.house.gov", "kaptur", "https://kaptur.house.gov/media-center/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, DC \u2014 Today, Co-Chairs of the Congressional Ukraine Caucus, Congresswoman Marcy Kaptur (OH-09), Congressman Brian Fitzpatrick, and House Foreign Affairs Committee Ranking Member Gregory Meeks (NY-05), led a broad bipartisan coalition of House Members to introduce the Peace Through Strength Against Russia Act of 2025, comprehensive legislation that translates ongoing negotiations into decisive congressional action and advances the bill toward House Floor consideration in January.\n\nCo-leads on the bill include Representatives: Steny Hoyer (MD-05), Bill Keating (MA-09), Don Bacon (NE-02), Mike Turner (OH-10), Tom Suozzi (NY-03), and Mike Lawler (NY-17), reflecting broad, bipartisan agreement that Congress must lead with resolve as diplomatic efforts continue.\n\n\"Through force, Dictator Putin aspires to rewrite the structure of Europe and end democratic practice across the continent. America\u2019s foreign policy must promote Liberty, not bow to Tyranny,\" said Congresswoman Marcy Kaptur (OH-09), Co-Founder and Co-Chair of the Congressional Ukraine Caucus. \"With this new bipartisan bill, we are putting forward the most significant legislation introduced this Congress to place economic sanctions on Russia for its war crimes against Ukraine.\"\n\n\u201cNegotiations do not relieve Congress of its responsibility to act,\u201d said Congressman Brian Fitzpatrick (PA-01). \u201cThat responsibility has been clear for some time, and waiting is no longer an option. Peace through strength is the discipline of negotiating from strength\u2014of standing with Ukraine, making unmistakably clear that Russia\u2019s campaign of aggression will not be normalized or rewarded, and affirming that America still enforces the rules that keep peace possible. This is not just about ending one war. It is about setting the rules for a world that is watching whether America still enforces them. We can end this war. We can end Putin\u2019s tyranny. And we must lead the American way\u2014through peace, through strength. I am grateful to be working hand in hand with Ranking Member Meeks to push any and all solutions forward to the House Floor, including the Ukraine Support Act. We can end this war. We can end Putin\u2019s tyranny. And we must lead the American way\u2014through peace, through strength.\u201d\n\n\u201cRussia won't negotiate an end to its war unless real pressure is applied on the Kremlin to stop its brutality. I'm proud to have worked with Rep. Fitzpatrick on a compromise Russia sanctions bill that would impose real costs on Russia and those fueling its war effort, while avoiding further harmful global tariffs. I thank Rep. Fitzpatrick for also signing my discharge petition for the Ukraine Support Act, helping work towards both measures reaching the House floor for a vote. There is strong bipartisan support for Ukraine in the House, and this agreement makes clear that Russia cannot wait it out or continue its war of aggression without facing significant consequences,\u201d said Congressman Gregory Meeks (NY-05), Ranking Member of the House Foreign Affairs Committee.\n\n\u201cThe only viable path to peace in Ukraine is putting pressure on the Kremlin. It is beyond important that both sides of the aisle have come together on compromise legislation to impose strong sanctions on Russia for its illegal war of aggression as well as to take additional steps to move the bipartisan discharge petition for the Ukraine Support Act forward in the House,\u201d said Congressman Bill Keating (MA-09), Ranking Member of the House Foreign Affairs Subcommittee on Europe. \u201cAs Ukraine continues to defend itself from Russian aggression, the Ukrainian people must know that Ukraine has strong bipartisan support in the House of Representatives. The Kremlin must also know that we will not rest until a durable Ukraine-supported peace deal is achieved.\u201d\n\n\u201cPutin\u2019s regime only responds to resolve and takes advantage of weakness and vacillation. During these failed negotiations, Russia has continued bombing Ukrainian cities with increasing intensity. We must play hardball by sending Ukraine the weapons it needs and imposing tough sanctions on Russia that cripple his war economy, an approach Americans overwhelmingly agree with,\u201d said Congressman Don Bacon (NE-02). \u201cI\u2019m pleased to join Rep. Brian Fitzpatrick in co-leading the bipartisan Peace Through Strength Against Russia Act to impose sanctions and other measures if Russia refuses to negotiate a peace agreement with Ukraine.\u201d\n\n\u201cPeace through strength means standing up to dictators through actions, not just words,\" said Congressman Tom Suozzi (NY-03). \"The Peace Through Strength Against Russia Act does exactly that by cracking down on those responsible for the kidnapping of Ukrainian children, increasing sanction pressure on Russia, and expanding sanctions to Russian partners in North Korea. I'm proud to stand with my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to say that the United States will not tolerate Putin's murderous war in Ukraine, and will defend our democratic allies across the world.\"\n\n\u201cRussia\u2019s unprovoked war against Ukraine is a direct assault on sovereignty, democracy, and the international rules-based order. The United States will not reward aggression or allow Vladimir Putin to stall, violate agreements, or prepare for another invasion without serious consequences. Peace will only come when Russia understands that continued violence carries real costs. I\u2019m proud to cosponsor this legislation to strengthen sanctions, hold bad actors accountable, and stand firmly with the Ukrainian people,\u201d said Congressman Mike Lawler (NY-17).\n\nThe Peace Through Strength Against Russia Act of 2025 builds on Kaptur's constant efforts since the beginning of the expanded conflict and full scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022 to hold Dictator Vladimir Putin accountable, force Russia back inside its own borders, deter further aggression, and lead to meaningful negotiations, which ensure any peace agreement is real, durable, and accepted by the free and independent Government of Ukraine.\n\nUnlike piecemeal sanctions, the legislation establishes a comprehensive structure that directly links Russia\u2019s economic isolation to its willingness to pursue\u2014and honor peace. It reflects overwhelming bipartisan support for empowering the United States to use strong economic pressure as a tool to help bring this war to an end.\n\nSpecifically, the bill would:\n\nMandate sanctions on senior Russian officials, oligarchs, state-owned enterprises, and entities supporting Russia\u2019s defense, energy, and transportation sectors\n\nSever Russia\u2019s access to the global financial system, including blocking transactions with Russian financial institutions, prohibiting US investment in Russia, banning trading of Russian entities on US securities exchanges, and targeting financial messaging systems used to evade sanctions\n\nClose loopholes fueling Russia\u2019s war economy, including ending refined oil import workarounds and prohibiting US purchases of Russian sovereign debt\n\nTarget Russia\u2019s energy leverage, prohibiting new US investment and sanctioning foreign actors who enable Russian oil, gas, LNG, and uranium production\n\nImpose sanctions for war crimes, including the kidnapping and wrongful deportation of Ukrainian children and Russia-North Korea cooperation supporting Russia\u2019s illegal war\n\nIncrease duties up to 500 percent on goods imported from the Russian Federation to further isolate Russia economically\n\nThe legislation also establishes a clear and enforceable off-ramp: sanctions may only be terminated if Russia signs a peace agreement accepted by Ukraine and fully ceases hostilities\u2014subject to congressional review to prevent premature or politically motivated rollbacks.\n\nWith negotiations ongoing, Kaptur, Fitzpatrick, Meeks, and their bipartisan colleagues will continue building support with the goal of bringing the Peace Through Strength Against Russia Act of 2025 to the House Floor in January\u2014ensuring Congress does its part to match diplomacy with decisive action.\n\n# # #", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://sykes.house.gov/media/press-releases/sykes-led-beach-act-advances-in-committee-as-part-of-major-water-protection-package", "Sykes-Led BEACH Act Advances in Committee as Part of Major Water Protection Package", "2025-12-18", "2025", "2025-12", "Democrat", "House", "OH", "Emilia Strong Sykes", "S001223", "sykes.house.gov", "sykes", "https://sykes.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2014 U.S. Representative Emilia Sykes (OH-13) today announced that the Beaches Environmental Assessment and Coastal Health (BEACH) Act, bipartisan legislation she co-leads to protect public health and water quality at beaches, advanced out of the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee as part of the American Water Stewardship Act.\n\nThe American Water Stewardship Act is a comprehensive bipartisan package that strengthens EPA programs focused on water quality, ecosystem restoration, and climate resilience across the country, including critical investments in the Great Lakes.\n\n\u201cClean water is essential to public health, local economies, and the quality of life in our communities. Advancing the BEACH Act and Great Lakes investments means safer beaches, healthier waterways, and stronger local economies in Northeast Ohio and across the country,\u201d said Rep. Sykes.\n\nThe package includes the BEACH Act, which reauthorizes an EPA grant program that helps states and local governments monitor water quality at coastal recreational waters and notify the public when conditions are unsafe. The legislation also expands the program to allow communities to identify sources of contamination.\n\nThe American Water Stewardship Act also includes the Great Lakes Restoration Initiative Act of 2025, for which Rep. Sykes is an original cosponsor. The initiative supports efforts to restore habitats, improve water quality, and protect the largest freshwater system in the world.\n\nIn addition, the bill reauthorizes several EPA geographic programs, including the Long Island Sound Program, Columbia River Basin Restoration, San Francisco Bay Restoration Program, and the National Estuary Program.\n\nThe American Water Stewardship Act now moves to the full House for consideration.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://kaptur.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/kaptur-brown-lead-ohio-house-democrats-letter-trump-administration", "Kaptur, Brown Lead Ohio House Democrats in Letter to Trump Administration Demanding Answers on Frozen Manufacturing Funds", "2025-12-17", "2025", "2025-12", "Democrat", "House", "OH", "Marcy Kaptur", "K000009", "kaptur.house.gov", "kaptur", "https://kaptur.house.gov/media-center/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, DC \u2013 Congresswoman Marcy Kaptur (OH-09) and Congresswoman Shontel M. Brown (OH-11) haveled a letter to Secretary of Commerce Howard Lutnick expressing concern regarding the abrupt withholding of all federal funding supporting Ohio\u2019s Manufacturing Extension Partnership. The letter requests additional information from the Administration on their decision to suspend funding, the timeline for resolution of a pending audit, and the potential interim measures to protect Ohio\u2019s manufacturers.\n\nIn addition to Reps. Kaptur and Brown, the letter was signed by Rep. Joyce Beatty (OH-03), Rep. Emilia Sykes (OH-13), and Rep. Greg Landsman (OH-01).\n\nLast week, the Department of Commerce paused federal funding to Ohio\u2019s Manufacturing Extension Partnership (MEP) pending the results of a years-long audit. The unprecedented move threatens six MEP centers across the state, including MAGNET in Northeast Ohio andCIFT in Northwest Ohio.\n\nThe letter states: \u201cOhio is the nation\u2019s third-largest manufacturing state by employment, with a diverse industrial base that includes aerospace, automotive, steel, polymers, and defense manufacturing. Prolonged disruption in MEP funding would stall technical assistance efforts, workforce programs, and modernization projects already underway at hundreds of Ohio firms \u2014 delaying supply-chain upgrades and jeopardizing statewide economic growth.\u201d\n\n\"The Trump Administration and Commerce Department's reckless decision to freeze funding to Ohio's Manufacturing Extension Partnership offices will hit small and mid-size manufacturers hard,\" said Congresswoman Marcy Kaptur (OH-09). \"This will halt work to grow manufacturing jobs, delay critical upgrades, inject uncertainty into local production lines, and undermine new jobs being created for workers our nation depends upon. If you say you want to help people make it in America, this is a big step in the wrong direction. I thank Congresswoman Brown and my Ohio colleagues for joining me in echoing Governor DeWine's call to unfreeze these funds.\"\n\n\u201cWe need answers yesterday on this funding freeze that is creating real uncertainty for Ohio manufacturers. The Administration has cited an ongoing audit but has failed to be forthcoming about the concerns, the process, or the timeline for resolution. MAGNET and the other MEP centers in Ohio have a long track record of helping small and medium-sized manufacturers grow, hire more people, and compete with China. If the Trump Administration truly wants to support American manufacturing, they would provide transparency and find reasonable path forward instead of simply pulling the rug out from the whole state,\u201d said Congresswoman Shontel Brown (OH-11).\n\nThe text of the letter is as follows (pdf here):\n\nDecember 17, 2025\n\nThe Honorable Howard Lutnick\n\nSecretary\n\nUS Department of Commerce\n\n1401 Constitution Ave NW\n\nWashington, DC 20230\n\nSecretary Lutnick,\n\nWe write to express concern regarding the Department of Commerce\u2019s recent decision to pause federal funding for Ohio\u2019s Manufacturing Extension Partnership (MEP) centers and to request additional information on the Department\u2019s decision-making process.\n\nWe understand the Department of Commerce issued Ohio\u2019s MEP program with an initial funding notice that was later suspended pending the outcome of a years-long audit. The pause occurred before the state or the MEP centers received the audit\u2019s findings and had an opportunity to review or respond to any identified issues. Following the Commerce Department\u2019s action, the Ohio Department of Development froze its state cost-share, effectively placing all state centers into financial crisis.\n\nWhile we share a commitment to addressing any incidences of fraud and appreciate the ongoing work of the Office of Inspector General, we are concerned that the sudden nature of the funding suspension without any transparency or guidance could have widespread and long-term impacts on the Ohio manufacturing sector.\n\nOhio\u2019s MEP centers, including MAGNET, TechSolve, CIFT, FastLane, PolymerOhio, and OSU\u2019s Center for Design and Manufacturing Excellence, are a critical resource for the state\u2019s more than 14,000 manufacturers, most of which are small and medium-sized firms that rely on MEP services to stay competitive. MEP centers across Ohio play an important role in supporting manufacturers, driving innovation and technological advancement, and strengthening economic development through the creation of high-quality jobs. Furthermore, these centers produce a high return on Federal investment, with every $1 of federal invested in MEP generating approximately $24 in economic activity.[1]\n\nOhio is the nation\u2019s third-largest manufacturing state by employment, with a diverse industrial base that includes aerospace, automotive, steel, polymers, and defense manufacturing. Prolonged disruption in MEP funding would stall technical assistance efforts, workforce programs, and modernization projects already underway at hundreds of Ohio firms \u2014 delaying supply-chain upgrades and jeopardizing statewide economic growth.\n\nGiven the urgency of the situation and statewide impact, we request:\n\nA detailed explanation of the factors that informed the decision to suspend funding, including any assessment on how the suspension of funds will affect small and medium-sized manufacturers across the State.\n\nAn update on the current status of the years-long audit, the preliminary findings, and an anticipated timeline for completion.\n\nWhether, and to what extent, the Department consulted with Ohio\u2019s MEP centers, the MEP advisory committee, businesses who use these centers, or other relevant stakeholders prior to suspending funds, and how the Department intends to ensure a fair and transparent process that allows affected centers to respond to any findings.\n\nHow the Department is currently holding or intends to use the impounded funds, and whether interim or bridge funding options are being considered to prevent layoffs and service disruptions while the review continues.\n\nAt a time when US manufacturing is facing market access loss, foreign competition, and rising input costs, it is more important now than ever that we support domestic supply chains. Ohio\u2019s manufacturers rely on MEP centers for the support they need to grow, innovate, and stay competitive.\n\nWe urge the Department to provide prompt answers to these questions and to consider interim measures that protect Ohio\u2019s manufacturers and workers while the audit process is completed. Prolonged uncertainty risks jeopardizing local manufacturers, slowing statewide economic growth, and diminishing our competitiveness in an increasingly challenging global market.\n\nWe appreciate your attention to this matter and look forward to a detailed response to the questions outlined above.\n\n[[SIGNATURES]]\n\n# # #", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://shontelbrown.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-brown-kaptur-lead-ohio-house-democrats-letter-trump-administration", "Rep. Brown, Kaptur Lead Ohio House Democrats in Letter to Trump Administration Demanding Answers on Frozen Manufacturing Funds", "2025-12-17", "2025", "2025-12", "Democrat", "House", "OH", "Shontel M. Brown", "B001313", "shontelbrown.house.gov", "shontelbrown", "https://shontelbrown.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Congresswoman Shontel M. Brown (OH-11) and Congresswoman Marcy Kaptur (OH-09) have led a letter to Secretary of Commerce Howard Lutnick expressing concern regarding the abrupt withholding of all federal funding supporting Ohio\u2019s Manufacturing Extension Partnership. The letter requests additional information from the Administration on their decision to suspend funding, the timeline for resolution of a pending audit, and the potential interim measures to protect Ohio\u2019s manufacturers.\n\nIn addition to Reps. Brown and Kaptur, the letter was signed by Rep. Joyce Beatty (OH-03), Rep. Emilia Sykes (OH-13) and Rep. Greg Landsman (OH-01).\n\nLast week, the Department of Commerce paused federal funding to Ohio\u2019s Manufacturing Extension Partnership (MEP) pending the results of a years-long audit. The unprecedented move threatens six MEP centers across the state, including MAGNET in Northeast Ohio and CIFT in Northwest Ohio.\n\nThe letter states: \u201cOhio is the nation\u2019s third-largest manufacturing state by employment, with a diverse industrial base that includes aerospace, automotive, steel, polymers, and defense manufacturing. Prolonged disruption in MEP funding would stall technical assistance efforts, workforce programs, and modernization projects already underway at hundreds of Ohio firms \u2014 delaying supply-chain upgrades and jeopardizing statewide economic growth.\u201d\n\n\u201cWe need answers yesterday on this funding freeze that is creating real uncertainty for Ohio manufacturers. The Administration has cited an ongoing audit but has failed to be forthcoming about the concerns, the process, or the timeline for resolution. MAGNET and the other MEP centers in Ohio have a long track record of helping small and medium-sized manufacturers grow, hire more people, and compete with China. If the Trump Administration truly wants to support American manufacturing, they would provide transparency and find reasonable path forward instead of simply pulling the rug out from the whole state,\u201d said Congresswoman Shontel Brown (OH-11).\n\n\"The Trump Administration and Commerce Department's reckless decision to freeze funding to Ohio's Manufacturing Extension Partnership offices will hit small and mid-size manufacturers hard,\" said Congresswoman Marcy Kaptur (OH-09). \"This will halt work to grow manufacturing jobs, delay critical upgrades, inject uncertainty into local production lines, and undermine new jobs being created for workers our nation depends upon. If you say you want to help people make it in America, this is a big step in the wrong direction. I thank Congresswoman Brown and my Ohio colleagues for joining me in echoing Governor DeWine's call to unfreeze these funds.\"\n\nThe text of the letter is as follows (pdf here):\n\nDecember 17, 2025\n\nThe Honorable Howard Lutnick\n\nSecretary\n\nU.S. Department of Commerce\n\n1401 Constitution Ave NW\n\nWashington, D.C. 20230\n\nSecretary Lutnick,\n\nWe write to express concern regarding the Department of Commerce\u2019s recent decision to pause federal funding for Ohio\u2019s Manufacturing Extension Partnership (MEP) centers and to request additional information on the Department\u2019s decision-making process.\n\nWe understand the Department of Commerce issued Ohio\u2019s MEP program with an initial funding notice that was later suspended pending the outcome of a years-long audit. The pause occurred before the state or the MEP centers received the audit\u2019s findings and had an opportunity to review or respond to any identified issues. Following the Commerce Department\u2019s action, the Ohio Department of Development froze its state cost-share, effectively placing all state centers into financial crisis.\n\nWhile we share a commitment to addressing any incidences of fraud and appreciate the ongoing work of the Office of Inspector General, we are concerned that the sudden nature of the funding suspension without any transparency or guidance could have widespread and long-term impacts on the Ohio manufacturing sector.\n\nOhio\u2019s MEP centers, including MAGNET, TechSolve, CIFT, FastLane, PolymerOhio, and OSU\u2019s Center for Design and Manufacturing Excellence, are a critical resource for the state\u2019s more than 14,000 manufacturers, most of which are small and medium-sized firms that rely on MEP services to stay competitive. MEP centers across Ohio play an important role in supporting manufacturers, driving innovation and technological advancement, and strengthening economic development through the creation of high-quality jobs. Furthermore, these centers produce a high return on Federal investment, with every $1 of federal invested in MEP generating approximately $24 in economic activity.[1]\n\nOhio is the nation\u2019s third-largest manufacturing state by employment, with a diverse industrial base that includes aerospace, automotive, steel, polymers, and defense manufacturing. Prolonged disruption in MEP funding would stall technical assistance efforts, workforce programs, and modernization projects already underway at hundreds of Ohio firms \u2014 delaying supply-chain upgrades and jeopardizing statewide economic growth.\n\nGiven the urgency of the situation and statewide impact, we request:\n\nA detailed explanation of the factors that informed the decision to suspend funding, including any assessment on how the suspension of funds will affect small and medium-sized manufacturers across the State.\n\nAn update on the current status of the years-long audit, the preliminary findings, and an anticipated timeline for completion.\n\nWhether, and to what extent, the Department consulted with Ohio\u2019s MEP centers, the MEP advisory committee, businesses who use these centers, or other relevant stakeholders prior to suspending funds, and how the Department intends to ensure a fair and transparent process that allows affected centers to respond to any findings.\n\nHow the Department is currently holding or intends to use the impounded funds, and whether interim or bridge funding options are being considered to prevent layoffs and service disruptions while the review continues.\n\nAt a time when U.S. manufacturing is facing market access loss, foreign competition, and rising input costs, it is more important now than ever that we support domestic supply chains. Ohio\u2019s manufacturers rely on MEP centers for the support they need to grow, innovate, and stay competitive.\n\nWe urge the Department to provide prompt answers to these questions and to consider interim measures that protect Ohio\u2019s manufacturers and workers while the audit process is completed. Prolonged uncertainty risks jeopardizing local manufacturers, slowing statewide economic growth, and diminishing our competitiveness in an increasingly challenging global market.\n\nWe appreciate your attention to this matter and look forward to a detailed response to the questions outlined above.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://sykes.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-sykes-condemns-unauthorized-military-strikes-following-failed-house-votes", "Rep. Sykes Condemns Unauthorized Military Strikes Following Failed House Votes", "2025-12-17", "2025", "2025-12", "Democrat", "House", "OH", "Emilia Strong Sykes", "S001223", "sykes.house.gov", "sykes", "https://sykes.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 U.S. Representative Emilia Sykes (OH-13) voted in favor of two measures to halt unauthorized U.S. military actions in the Western Hemisphere and prevent unapproved hostilities involving Venezuela. Both measures failed after a majority of the House voted against them.\n\nSince early September, the administration has ordered U.S. Armed Forces to carry out lethal strikes against vessels under the guise of counter-drug operations, despite having no declaration of war or authorization from Congress. At least 25 known strikes have killed at least 95 people, and the administration has refused to provide Congress with the intelligence or legal authority used to justify the killings.\n\nOne measure would have directed the president to end U.S. military involvement in hostilities with designated terrorist organizations in the Western Hemisphere, bringing an immediate stop to unlawful strikes on Caribbean vessels. The second would have barred U.S. forces from engaging in military action in or against Venezuela without explicit congressional approval.\n\n\u201cThe president must get congressional authorization before engaging in additional strikes and suspend any and all unlawful military action,\u201d said Rep. Sykes. \u201cWhile we share the need to eliminate the threat of drug traffickers and illegal drugs flooding our streets, these strikes are an abuse of presidential power.\u201d\n\nRep. Sykes emphasized that the War Powers Resolution requires the president to withdraw U.S. forces from hostilities absent congressional authorization, a deadline that has already expired.\n\nRep. Sykes will continue to oppose unlawful military action and press Congress to uphold its constitutional responsibility to decide when the nation goes to war.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://sykes.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-sykes-introduces-airline-passenger-compensation-act-to-protect-travelers-from-airline-caused-delays", "Rep. Sykes Introduces Airline Passenger Compensation Act to Protect Travelers from Airline-Caused Delays", "2025-12-17", "2025", "2025-12", "Democrat", "House", "OH", "Emilia Strong Sykes", "S001223", "sykes.house.gov", "sykes", "https://sykes.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Today, U.S. Representative Emilia Sykes (OH-13), Vice Ranking Member of the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee, introduced the Airline Passenger Compensation Act, legislation that would require U.S. airlines to provide cash compensation and rebooking assistance to passengers affected by airline-caused flight delays and cancellations. The bill is being co-led by Ranking Member Rick Larsen and Representative Greg Stanton.\n\n\u201cPassengers should not have to bear the financial and personal burden when airlines fail to deliver the service they sell,\u201d said Rep. Sykes. \u201cThis bill ensures travelers are compensated fairly and can reach their destinations without additional stress or cost.\u201d\n\n\"Holiday season is meant to be spent with family and friends, not stuck at an airport for hours,\" Ranking Member Larsen said. \"I am pleased to join fellow T&I Democrats Reps. Sykes and Stanton to protect the wallets of travelers who are late to the holidays thanks to delayed and cancelled flights. The Trump administration could have let the Biden-era rule guaranteeing cash compensation for significant delays and cancellations stand, but they chose not to protect families. This bill rights that wrong.\"\n\n\"Millions of Americans will be flying this holiday season to see their families, and those plane tickets aren't cheap. Travelers deserve confidence that when their flight is significantly delayed or cancelled due to airline error, they won't be left paying thousands of dollars in additional expenses out of pocket,\" said Rep. Stanton.\n\nFlight cancellations and lengthy delays create serious hardships for millions of Americans. Government Accountability Office (GAO) data show that between July 2021 and April 2022, over 15 million passengers were potentially affected by cancellations, and over 116 million passengers experienced delays. U.S. airline data for 2022 and 2023 show that more than 60% of domestic delays of three hours or longer were caused by the airlines themselves.\n\nCurrently, passengers face significant obstacles in holding airlines accountable. Airline policies are often vague, frontline staff may be unable to assist, and passengers frequently must pay out of pocket with uncertain reimbursement. With federal consumer protection enforcement weakening, travelers have fewer avenues for redress.\n\nKey Provisions of the Airline Passenger Compensation Act:\n\nCash Compensation: Airlines would pay $300 for domestic and international flights delayed three or more hours and $775 for flights delayed nine or more hours. This also applies to cancellations.\n\nFree Rebooking: Airlines must rebook passengers at no additional cost on the next available flight.\n\nInternationally, countries including Canada, Brazil, the European Union, and the United Kingdom already provide compensation and services for airline-caused disruptions. Studies show that these protections reduce both the likelihood and duration of flight delays.\n\nThe bill responds directly to the Trump Administration\u2019s decision to drop the Department of Transportation rulemaking in September 2025, a move praised by airlines that put profits over passengers.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://sykes.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-sykes-votes-no-on-republican-health-care-proposal-pushes-for-real-relief-for-families", "Rep. Sykes Votes No on Republican Health Care Proposal, Pushes for Real Relief for Families", "2025-12-17", "2025", "2025-12", "Democrat", "House", "OH", "Emilia Strong Sykes", "S001223", "sykes.house.gov", "sykes", "https://sykes.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2014 U.S. Representative Emilia Sykes (OH-13) voted no on the Republican health care bill, the Lower Health Care Premiums for All Americans Act, and introduced an amendment to protect working families and access to reproductive health care that Republicans blocked.\n\n\"The name of this bill promises lower premiums for all Americans, but the reality is far from it,\" Rep. Sykes said. \"It does nothing to extend the Affordable Care Act\u2019s enhanced premium tax credits or lower costs. With January 1 coming fast, costs will skyrocket if Congress doesn\u2019t act. I voted no because families deserve real solutions, not political messaging.\"\n\nAcross the country, the expiration of the enhanced premium tax credits is expected to leave more than 4 million people without their health insurance. In Ohio\u2019s 13th Congressional District, 12,300 people are expected to lose health care and premiums are expected to increase by $720 annually.\n\nThe Lower Health Care Premiums for All Americans Act does not extend these enhanced premium tax credits, and analysis from the Congressional Budget Office shows that this bill would further leave an additional 100,000 people without health insurance due to even lower tax credits.\n\nRep. Sykes proposed an amendment to remove this section of the bill that would increase the number of uninsured. This section also included harmful language restricting access to abortion care, limiting what coverage private plans could provide using private funds.\n\nThe bill fails to provide the protections families need. Rep. Sykes believes Congress should pass a clean, permanent extension of the ACA\u2019s enhanced premium tax credits to ensure stability and coverage for all families.\n\nFollowing the vote, Rep. Sykes is calling on leaders from both parties to come together quickly and negotiate a real, bipartisan deal before the end of the year.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://beatty.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/housing-shouldn-t-block-a-degree-beatty-landsman-and-nunn-reintroduce-campus-housing-affordability-act", "Housing Shouldn\u2019t Block a Degree: Beatty, Landsman and Nunn Reintroduce Campus Housing Affordability Act", "2025-12-16", "2025", "2025-12", "Democrat", "House", "OH", "Joyce Beatty", "B001281", "beatty.house.gov", "beatty", "https://beatty.house.gov/media-center/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Today, Congresswoman Joyce Beatty (D-OH-03), Congressman Greg Landsman (D-OH-01), Congressman Zach Nunn (R-IA-03), and introduced bipartisan legislation to help low-income students pay for college campus housing.\n\nNearly 50 percent of all college students face housing insecurity. To ensure there is less of a barrier to entry, Congresswoman Beatty, Congressman Landsman, and Congressman Nunn have introduced the bipartisan Campus Housing Affordability Act. The bipartisan legislation will allow students to use Section 8 vouchers to pay for campus housing.\n\nCurrently, college students cannot use HUD\u2019s Housing Choice Voucher (also known as Section 8) program to pay for campus housing. The bill would let the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) waive certain requirements so more students have access to on-campus living.\n\n\u201cLow-income students are less likely to attend college and graduate as it stands. This critical legislation makes it easier for students across all economic backgrounds to secure campus housing, live among their fellow students, and forge their own academic future. Education is a pillar of the American Dream \u2013 yet, there are far too many hurdles that keep students from achieving academic success. I'm proud to introduce this bipartisan bill to remove barriers for underserved students, putting that dream within reach,\u201d Congresswoman Beatty.\n\n\u201cWe can make college way more affordable, and this bill does that for countless Americans. In fact, this will be transformative for students who have been historically left out and marginalized. Campus housing is an enormous expense for students, and our bill eliminates that expense for students who are eligible for a housing vouchers,\u201d said Congressman Landsman.\n\n\u201cCollege should be about learning and earning a degree, not worrying about where you\u2019re going to sleep at night. Housing insecurity undermines academic success, increases the risk of dropping out, and puts a higher education out of reach for too many students. This bipartisan bill gives every student a fair shot at success\u2014regardless of their background or ZIP code,\u201d said Congressman Nunn.\n\nRead the full bill text here.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://shontelbrown.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-brown-legislation-save-taxpayer-dollars-passes-house", "Rep. Brown Legislation to Save Taxpayer Dollars Passes House", "2025-12-15", "2025", "2025-12", "Democrat", "House", "OH", "Shontel M. Brown", "B001313", "shontelbrown.house.gov", "shontelbrown", "https://shontelbrown.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, DC \u2013 Today, the House of Representatives passed Congresswoman Shontel Brown\u2019s bipartisan SAMOSA Act, legislation to lower federal software costs and improve efficiency. The legislation was approved unanimously on the House floor after passing the House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform, earlier this month. The legislation now heads to the Senate.\n\nThe Strengthening Agency Management and Oversight of Software Assets (SAMOSA) Act requires agencies to conduct comprehensive assessments of their software licensing practices, allowing the federal government to streamline software purchasing and reduce unnecessary costs. According to a Senate Committee report, the SAMOSA Act could save taxpayers up to $5 billion annually.\n\nWATCH: Brown Floor Speech on SAMOSA Act\n\n\u201cMy SAMOSA Act makes the government more efficient, strengthens our cybersecurity efforts, and saves billions in taxpayer funds. This bipartisan bill makes sure that we\u2019re paying for the software we need, not overpaying for duplicative and outdated subscriptions we don\u2019t. This is what government efficiency efforts should look like, addressing real problems in a thoughtful way. I am grateful for the support this legislation has received in the House and will continue to work towards passage of the SAMOSA Act this Congress. The SAMOSA Act is a commonsense bill that saves taxpayer money, and it\u2019s time for the Senate to pass this legislation,\u201d said Congresswoman Shontel Brown.\n\nThe SAMOSA Act is co-led by Congresswoman Nancy Mace (SC-01), Chairwoman of the Subcommittee on Cybersecurity, Information Technology, and Government Innovation, Congressman Pat Fallon (TX-04), and Congresswoman April McClain Delaney (MD-06).\n\nCongresswoman Shontel Brown serves as Ranking Member on the Oversight Committee Subcommittee on Cybersecurity, Information Technology, and Government Innovation.\n\nThe Strengthening Agency Management and Oversight of Software Assets (SAMOSA) Act\n\nThe U.S. federal government spends billions of dollars every year on purchases, renewals, and software license modifications. However current management and procurement processes do not provide agencies with adequate transparency and often lead to wasteful spending on duplicative purchases.\n\nTo increase agency oversight of software purchasing, improve efficiency, and reduce costs, the SAMOSA Act would require:\n\nAgencies to create a comprehensive software inventory and undergo an independent assessment of software license management practices and contracts;\n\nAgency Chief Information Officers (CIOs) to develop a plan to adopt enterprise licensing agreements, improving negotiating power against software vendors, and reduce costs;\n\nOMB to publish a governmentwide strategy for software modernization based on the aforementioned audits and plans; and\n\nAgencies to include their respective plans and performance assessments in annual budget submissions.\n\nThe SAMOSA Act is supported by the following organizations: The Coalition for Fair Software Licensing, the Computer & Communications Industry Association, NetChoice, and the Alliance for Digital Innovation.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://kaptur.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/kaptur-statement-trump-department-commerce-decision-freeze-ohio-mep", "Kaptur Statement On Trump Department of Commerce Decision to Freeze Ohio MEP Funds", "2025-12-12", "2025", "2025-12", "Democrat", "House", "OH", "Marcy Kaptur", "K000009", "kaptur.house.gov", "kaptur", "https://kaptur.house.gov/media-center/press-releases", "scraper", "Toledo, OH \u2014 Today, Congresswoman Marcy Kaptur (OH-09) denounced the Trump Administration Commerce Department\u2019s abrupt decision to freeze all federal support and funding, effective immediately for Ohio\u2019s Manufacturing Extension Partnership (MEP) program \u2014 a bipartisan, Congressionally-appropriated initiative that has served thousands of Ohio manufacturers for decades.\n\nAccording to recent notices shared with Ohio MEP centers, the Department suspended funding without warning and without releasing any audit report or findings to justify such an extreme action. State officials have confirmed that no documentation has been provided for review, leaving local partners in the dark and forcing immediate pauses in technical assistance across the state.\n\n\u201cThis impulsive decision is not \u2018America First\u2019 \u2014 It is a direct blow to family-owned businesses and American entrepreneurs competing against Communist China. It delays critical upgrades, injects uncertainty into local production lines, and undermines the very workers this nation depends on,\u201d said Congresswoman Marcy Kaptur (OH-09). \u201cCongress cannot permit the Executive Branch to impound funds simply because it chooses to. I urge the Department of Commerce to release these dollars immediately.\u201d\n\nThe freeze impacts federally and state-supported MEP services that provide training, automation assistance, cybersecurity upgrades, and productivity support to manufacturers in every region of Ohio. Numerous partners have now begun winding down operations due to the sudden loss of funds.\n\n# # #", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://sykes.house.gov/media/press-releases/statement-from-rep-sykes-on-the-passing-of-former-canton-mayor-tom-bernabei", "Statement from Rep. Sykes on the Passing of Former Canton Mayor Tom Bernabei", "2025-12-12", "2025", "2025-12", "Democrat", "House", "OH", "Emilia Strong Sykes", "S001223", "sykes.house.gov", "sykes", "https://sykes.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2014 U.S. Representative Emilia Sykes (OH-13) issued the following statement on the passing of former Canton Mayor Tom Bernabei:", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://shontelbrown.house.gov/media/press-releases/brown-condemns-trump-commerce-department-funding-freeze-ohio-manufacturing", "Brown Condemns Trump Commerce Department Funding Freeze for Ohio Manufacturing, Demands Immediate Answers", "2025-12-11", "2025", "2025-12", "Democrat", "House", "OH", "Shontel M. Brown", "B001313", "shontelbrown.house.gov", "shontelbrown", "https://shontelbrown.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "CLEVELAND, OH \u2013 Congresswoman Shontel M. Brown (OH-11) today issued a statement after learning the Trump Department of Commerce paused federal funding to Ohio\u2019s Manufacturing Extension Partnership (MEP) pending the results of a years-long audit. The unprecedented move threatens MEP centers across the state, including MAGNETin Northeast Ohio.\n\n\u201cBetween reckless tariffs and this latest funding freeze, President Trump is securing his position as the greatest threat to Ohio manufacturing. This is the second time the Trump Administration has threatened to pull the rug out from under Ohio manufacturers and workers,\u201d said Congresswoman Brown. \u201cMAGNET is an economic engine for thousands of small and mid-sized businesses that drive our state\u2019s economy and support countless good-paying jobs. Talk of supporting American manufacturing is cheap when funding for the very programs that keep our manufacturers competitive is frozen with no explanation or timeline.\n\n\u201cThe Trump Administration must explain this decision, because the consequences are immediate for our state. We need to know why this drastic decision was made on such an abrupt timeline, what alternatives were considered, how the Trump Administration will support the workers who will lose their jobs because of this, and what is being done with the frozen funds that should have gone to our state. The Department of Commerce must provide answers and restore funding to ensure Ohio\u2019s manufacturers and hard-working Ohioans aren\u2019t left high and dry,\u201d Brown added.\n\nIn April 2025, $175 million in funding for Manufacturing Extension Partnership centers nationwide was frozen by the Department of Commerce. The Administration reversed course and released the funding following Congressional pressure, including a letter signed by Congresswoman Brown and more than 80 of her House colleagues.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://sykes.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-sykes-applauds-house-move-to-protect-federal-workers-rights", "Rep. Sykes Applauds House Move to Protect Federal Workers\u2019 Rights", "2025-12-11", "2025", "2025-12", "Democrat", "House", "OH", "Emilia Strong Sykes", "S001223", "sykes.house.gov", "sykes", "https://sykes.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2014 U.S. Representative Emilia Sykes (OH-13) today praised the House\u2019s passage of a discharge petition that forces a vote on legislation restoring collective bargaining rights for over one million federal employees. Rep. Sykes signed the petition, making clear she stands with the workers who keep the government running.\n\n\u201cFederal employees deserve a voice on the job,\u201d said Rep. Sykes. \u201cThis action ensures they have it. These public servants, many of whom are veterans, should never have had their rights stripped away.\u201d\n\nThe legislation overturns the executive order that took away bargaining rights from workers across major federal agencies. With House passage secured, the bill now moves to the Senate for consideration.\n\nFederal employees already have limited bargaining rights, covering only conditions of employment. This legislation restores fairness while supporting accountability, efficiency, and morale.\n\nThe measure is endorsed by a wide range of labor organizations, including the American Federation of Government Employees, the American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees, the International Federation of Professional and Technical Engineers, the National Postal Mail Handlers Union, the National Treasury Employees Union, the Professional Aviation Safety Specialists, the Laborers International Union of North America, the Service Employees International Union, and the United Steelworkers.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://sykes.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-sykes-congratulates-2025-congressional-app-challenge-winners", "Rep. Sykes Congratulates 2025 Congressional App Challenge Winners", "2025-12-11", "2025", "2025-12", "Democrat", "House", "OH", "Emilia Strong Sykes", "S001223", "sykes.house.gov", "sykes", "https://sykes.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "AKRON, OH \u2014 Today, during National Computer Science Education Week, U.S. Representative Emilia Sykes (OH-13) announced Kaxten McGrew, Bastian Nowak, and Luke Hinkelman of Akron as the 2025 winners of the Congressional App Challenge for Ohio\u2019s 13th District.\n\n\u201cI\u2019m pleased to announce Kaxten McGrew, Bastian Nowak, and Luke Hinkelman from Akron\u2019s NIHF STEM High School as the winners of the 2025 Congressional App Challenge for Ohio\u2019s 13th District. It is inspiring to see how these three students translated their interest in computer programming into an app that improves the education of other students,\u201d said Rep. Sykes. \u201cThank you to every student who entered this competition \u2014 I\u2019m excited to see what you create next!\u201d\n\nKaxten, Bastian, and Luke are students at National Inventors Hall of Fame (NIHF) STEM High School in Akron. Their app, \"Eagle Express,\" is an innovative system that allows students and teachers to better track and make transactions on their school\u2019s token-based incentive program. You can watch their demonstration here: Eagle Express\u2013 A Smarter Way to Reward\n\nRep. Sykes also recognized the ingenuity and efforts of second-place winners Joshua Walter and Logan Myers for their app \u201cStayWithMe\u201d and third-place winner Na\u2019Saebria Mabry for her app, \u201cEscape the Emotion Based Escape Room.\u201d\n\nEach year, the United States House of Representatives hosts the Congressional App Challenge, a nationwide app building competition for middle and high school students. As the winners for Ohio\u2019s 13th Congressional District, Kaxten, Bastian, and Luke will have the opportunity to travel to Washington, D.C. this spring for the annual #HouseOfCode event, which features winners from across the country.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://shontelbrown.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-brown-leads-bipartisan-and-bicameral-bill-reps-jacobs-obernolte-fallon-and", "Rep. Brown Leads Bipartisan and Bicameral Bill with Reps. Jacobs, Obernolte, Fallon and Sens. Kim, Husted to Recruit Top AI Talent to Federal Government", "2025-12-10", "2025", "2025-12", "Democrat", "House", "OH", "Shontel M. Brown", "B001313", "shontelbrown.house.gov", "shontelbrown", "https://shontelbrown.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2013 Congresswoman Shontel Brown (OH-11) is a co-lead on bipartisan and bicameral legislation to improve federal agencies\u2019 abilities to recruit and retain the AI and technical talent needed to better compete in the AI race. The AI Talent Act would modernize federal hiring for AI and other high-demand technical roles by creating specialized talent teams, enabling skills-based hiring, and providing shared tools that help agencies identify and onboard qualified candidates faster.\n\nThe bill was introduced by Rep. Sara Jacobs (CA-51), with Rep. Brown, Rep. Jay Obernolte (CA-23), and Rep. Pat Fallon (TX-04) as co-leads. Senator Andy Kim (D-NJ) and Jon Husted (R-OH) introduced the bill in the Senate.\n\n\u201cIt\u2019s past time to modernize the federal government\u2019s hiring process so we bring in the skilled workers needed to stay competitive in fast-growing fields like Artificial Intelligence. I am proud to co-lead this bipartisan bill that will help ensure AI is used responsibly throughout government and strengthen U.S. leadership in the technologies of the future,\u201d said Congresswoman Shontel Brown.\n\nRep. Sara Jacobs said: \u201cThe United States can\u2019t fully deliver on its national security mission, lead in responsible AI, and compete in the AI race if our federal agencies don\u2019t have the talent to meet this moment. Right now, the government is competing with the private sector, which can hire faster and pay more, leaving critical roles unfilled and U.S. potential untapped. That\u2019s why I\u2019m proud to introduce the bipartisan and bicameral AI Talent Act to modernize hiring, recruit and retain top technical experts into public service, and guarantee the United States has the in-house capabilities to innovate safely, protect our country, and deliver for the American people.\u201d\n\nCongressman Jay Obernolte said: \u201cModernizing the way our government hires technical talent is essential to America\u2019s competitiveness and national security. The AI Talent Act gives federal agencies the tools they need to recruit experts with real, demonstrated skills so we can responsibly adopt AI and strengthen mission delivery across government. This bipartisan bill helps ensure the United States continues to lead the world in innovation by bringing the best equipped people into public service at the right time.\u201d\n\n\u201cAmerica\u2019s strength has always come from leading the world in innovation and technology,\u201d commented Rep. Pat Fallon (TX04). \u201cTo keep that edge and protect our national security, we must have the world\u2019s best AI talent. Right now, an outdated, bureaucratic hiring system is pushing that talent elsewhere. The AI Talent Act fixes this so that we can recruit, retain, and deploy innovators who will ensure that our nation remains the global leader in AI for decades to come and can compete in the face of evolving technological threats.\u201d\n\nSenator Andy Kim said: \u201cWe should have strong bipartisan support for the importance of recruiting talent in government and uplifting the next generation of public servants. By providing specialized tools to recruit for expertise in emerging technologies like AI, this legislation can make us more competitive and build a well-equipped federal workforce to leverage AI for a more secure and stable future.\u201d\n\nSenator Jon Husted said: \u201cAI will dominate the technology landscape of the future, and our country must be prepared. To win the AI race, we need every part of our government to understand and use this technology effectively. This bill would bring critical AI expertise into federal agencies, and I\u2019m proud to lead it to make sure we\u2019re hiring for the future.\u201d\n\n\u201cWe applaud Reps. Sara Jacobs (D-CA), Jay Obernolte (R-CA), Shontel Brown (D-OH), Pat Fallon (R-TX), and Sens. Jon Husted (R-OH) and Andy Kim (D-NJ) on their bipartisan efforts to ensure that the federal government has a skilled artificial intelligence (AI) workforce to serve the American people. As demand for sharp AI minds reaches an all-time high, this legislation would make it easier for government agencies to identify, hire, and retain first-class AI talent,\u201d says Michele Stockwell, president of Bipartisan Policy Center Action (BPC Action).\n\n\u201cModernizing the way government recruits AI and technology talent is crucial for national competitiveness and public trust. This bill takes the smartest lessons from industry\u2014skills-based assessments, pooled hiring, and subject-matter expertise\u2014and puts them to work for the public good. This is a commonsense, bipartisan approach to bringing world-class technologists into federal service faster and more fairly,\u201d said Sunny Gandhi, Vice President of Political Affairs, Encode AI.\n\n\u201cTo make AI work for the American people and ensure its benefits are realized at home, government needs the talent to deploy it effectively. This bill takes a critical step toward building that capacity and accelerating trusted AI adoption across agencies,\u201d said Hodan Omaar, Senior Policy Manager at ITIF\u2019s Center for Data Innovation.\n\nThe AI Talent Act would:\n\nEstablish Agency Tech & AI Talent Teams to improve recruiting, assessments, job announcements, and candidate evaluation.\n\nAuthorize OPM to create a central AI and tech talent team to lead pooled hiring, provide training and support to agency hiring teams, and develop shared resources.\n\nAllow subject-matter experts to develop and administer skills-based assessments to ensure candidates demonstrate real technical proficiency.\n\nEnable agencies to share qualified candidate pools (\u201cshared certificates\u201d), reducing duplicate hiring cycles and speeding placement.\n\nCreate a shared online platform to reuse and customize validated technical assessments across government.\n\nPhase out automated self-assessments over five years, with limited, publicly posted waivers.\n\nAllow agencies to stand up additional talent teams in other high-need areas (e.g., cybersecurity, data science, health care, IT).\n\nAuthorize OPM to establish additional government-wide talent teams for high-need hiring priorities beyond AI and tech.\n\nThe AI Talent Act is endorsed by Encode AI, the Information Technology and Innovation Foundation (ITIF), and the Bipartisan Policy Center (BPC).\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://sykes.house.gov/media/press-releases/new-dems-led-by-housing-task-force-chair-rep-sykes-urge-the-president-to-immediately-address-the-housing-crisis", "New Dems, Led by Housing Task Force Chair Rep. Sykes, Urge the President to Immediately Address the Housing Crisis", "2025-12-10", "2025", "2025-12", "Democrat", "House", "OH", "Emilia Strong Sykes", "S001223", "sykes.house.gov", "sykes", "https://sykes.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2014 52 New Dems, led by Housing Task Force Chair U.S. Representative Emilia Sykes (OH-13) and Housing, Infrastructure, & Transportation Working Group Chair U.S. Representative Norma Torres (CA-35), penned a letter to President Trump urging the Administration to take immediate steps to help make housing more affordable and accessible for more Americans.\n\nIn the letter, the New Dems lay out eight commonsense and immediate steps the Administration could take to address the ongoing housing crisis. The letter comes as the Secretary of the Treasury has indicated the Administration is planning to declare a \u201cnational housing emergency\u201d to address rising costs, while refusing to take quick and decisive actions to actually bring down the cost of housing.\n\nThe letter reads in part:\n\n\u201cWe agree with the Secretary\u2019s comments that this is an \u2018all hands on deck\u2019 challenge and believe there are concrete steps the Administration and Congress should take to meet this ongoing crisis. However, details on actual policies that would expand affordable housing options have not been provided. In fact, recently announced policies at the Department of Housing and Urban Development would do the opposite, and reverse progress made in fighting homelessness and go against Congressional instruction.\u201d\n\nThe recommendations include restoring funding for Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) homelessness programs, lowering tariffs on construction materials to decrease costs, improving data collection and transparency, and prioritizing reforms to planning, permitting, and zoning.\n\nYou can read the full letter here, and below:\n\nDear President Trump:\n\nAccess to affordable housing is critical for our nation\u2019s long-term success. For too long, rising home prices and rents have kept home ownership out of reach for teachers, nurses, firefighters, and millions of other Americans, forcing families to choose between saving for their children\u2019s education, affording needed healthcare, and keeping a roof over their heads.\n\nThese heartbreaking financial decisions have meant too many families have given up on the American dream, an America where any child can grow up to have a better future than their parents. That is why the New Democrat Coalition has for years called for policies to make owning a home more accessible for more Americans by building more affordable housing, improving availability of capital for homebuyers, and lowering overall housing costs. We write to urge your administration to take immediate action to increase affordable housing production and lower housing costs for Americans.\n\nPast comments from the Secretary of the Treasury indicate that the administration is planning to declare a \u201cnational housing emergency\u201d to address the rising costs of housing. We need more than declarations and hollow promises. We agree with the Secretary\u2019s comments that this is an \"all hands on deck\" challenge and believe there are concrete steps the Administration and Congress should take to meet this ongoing crisis. However, details on actual policies that would expand affordable housing options have not been provided. In fact, recently announced policies at the Department of Housing and Urban Development would do the opposite, and reverse progress made in fighting homelessness and go against Congressional instruction.\n\nThere are numerous existing policy actions within your authority that you and your administration can act on today, to help build more housing and lower the cost of buying, renting, or selling a home. We urge your administration to take concrete steps to tackle the housing crisis by focusing on proven and practical solutions, including:\n\nReverse the proposed cuts and changes to the Department of Housing and Urban Development\u2019s (HUD) Continuum of Care Program announced on November 13, 2025, which puts 170,000 people at immediate risk of homelessness.\n\nDevelop best practices for zoning and land-use policies, including model codes at the HUD in consultation with agencies such as the Department of Transportation and Department of Commerce, which will help a teacher afford to live in the same community where she works, rather than commuting two hours each day.\n\nPrioritize federal funds for projects that include planning, permitting, and zoning reforms to promote more streamlined development, including updating grant criteria to reward jurisdictions with simplified codes, which will help cut through the red tape that adds tens of thousands of dollars in costs to every new home.\n\nUpdate Federal Housing Administration (FHA) mortgage disclosures to include Department of Veteran Affairs\u2019 (VA) Home Loans alongside FHA and conventional loan options to maximize transparency, which will show veterans that VA loans often offer better terms than conventional options\u2014ensuring our service members aren't missing out on benefits they've earned.\n\nImprove data collection efforts at the Census Bureau and HUD to better understand how and where housing is being lost and not replaced so Congress and the Administration can respond urgently when a community loses 100 affordable units and only builds back 20.\n\nExempt housing construction materials from tariffs to lower construction costs by thousands of dollars per home, savings that developers can pass directly to homebuyers.\n\nEnhance data transparency by requiring the Federal Housing Finance Agency, HUD, VA, and Department of Agriculture to release public loan-level appraisal data that identifies lenders and appraisers, but protects homeowner privacy, ensuring that a family's zip code or last name doesn't determine whether they can get a fair mortgage.\n\nProvide significant funding anti-discrimination programs at HUD to ensure that all Americans can buy, rent, or sell homes at fair prices, which safeguard all Americans, regardless of race, religion, gender, disability, or marriage status.\n\nThe housing crisis demands specific action with real impact. We strongly encourage your administration to work collaboratively with Congress to implement these measures and other forward-looking policies to address the nation\u2019s housing challenges. By pursuing these practical reforms, we can deliver real results for American families while respecting constitutional limits and building the bipartisan consensus necessary for lasting solutions.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://sykes.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-sykes-applauds-house-passage-of-stars-act", "Rep. Sykes Applauds House Passage of STARS Act", "2025-12-10", "2025", "2025-12", "Democrat", "House", "OH", "Emilia Strong Sykes", "S001223", "sykes.house.gov", "sykes", "https://sykes.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 U.S. Representative Emilia Sykes (OH-13) announced the House passage of the Semiquincentennial Tourism and Access to Recreation Sites (STARS) Act, which makes September 17, 2026, Constitution Day, a fee-free day at all National Park Service sites and federal recreation areas as the nation celebrates 250 years.\n\nThe bill is designed to help more Americans experience the parks, monuments, and cultural sites that tell our national story.\n\n\u201cAs we prepare to celebrate 250 years of our country, families should be able to enjoy the places that define who we are,\u201d said Rep. Sykes. \u201cNortheast Ohio has some incredible sites, and this bill helps make them even more accessible for everyone.\u201d\n\nThe National Park Service manages more than 400 sites nationwide. The fee-free day will make it easier for families and communities to visit historic, cultural, and natural landmarks during this major milestone year.\n\nIn Ohio\u2019s 13th Congressional District, the STARS Act will support access and tourism at regional destinations including Cuyahoga Valley National Park, the Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad, the First Ladies National Historic Site and Museum, and the Akron Zoo.\n\nThe bill now heads to the Senate for consideration.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://sykes.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-sykes-moves-to-cut-red-tape-speed-up-project-permits", "Rep. Sykes Moves to Cut Red Tape, Speed Up Project Permits", "2025-12-10", "2025", "2025-12", "Democrat", "House", "OH", "Emilia Strong Sykes", "S001223", "sykes.house.gov", "sykes", "https://sykes.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 U.S. Representative Emilia Sykes (OH-13) is supporting two bills in the House this week to make permitting faster and more transparent without compromising environmental protections. The Studying NEPA\u2019s Impact on Projects Act and the ePermit Act streamline environmental reviews and make the permitting process easier for communities, businesses, and federal agencies.\n\n\u201cThese bills are about common sense and smart solutions,\u201d said Rep. Sykes. \u201cThey give us clear information about how permitting works, use technology to make reviews faster, and help projects move forward efficiently while protecting our environment. It is a win-win for communities, businesses, and federal agencies.\u201d\n\nThe Studying NEPA\u2019s Impact on Projects Act requires the Council on Environmental Quality to publish an annual report on NEPA\u2019s impact, including litigation data, review timelines, and costs.\n\nThe ePermit Act modernizes reviews with digital tools, sets consistent data standards, and creates a unified interagency system for sharing information.\n\nTogether, these bills represent a significant step toward smarter, faster, and more transparent permitting.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://sykes.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-sykes-urges-metro-rta-and-twu-local-1-to-reach-contract-agreement", "Rep. Sykes Urges METRO RTA and TWU Local 1 to Reach Contract Agreement", "2025-12-10", "2025", "2025-12", "Democrat", "House", "OH", "Emilia Strong Sykes", "S001223", "sykes.house.gov", "sykes", "https://sykes.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "AKRON, OH \u2014 Today, U.S. Representative Emilia Sykes (OH-13) sent a letter urging METRO RTA and the Transport Workers Union Local 1 to reach a fair contract to protect public transit in Akron and Summit County.\n\n\u201cI strongly encourage METRO RTA and the Transport Workers Union to reach a fair contract that honors the dignity of transit operators and avoids a strike so our community can continue to rely on essential public transportation. These workers care deeply about the wellbeing of our neighbors and are committed to getting passengers to their destinations safely and on time. I urge both sides to work toward a fair and equitable agreement as soon as possible,\u201d said Rep. Sykes.\n\nNegotiations have been ongoing for more than 17 months without resolution, raising concerns that further delays could threaten access to essential transportation.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://sykes.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-sykes-votes-to-support-servicemembers-and-military-families-in-ndaa", "Rep. Sykes Votes to Support Servicemembers and Military Families in NDAA", "2025-12-10", "2025", "2025-12", "Democrat", "House", "OH", "Emilia Strong Sykes", "S001223", "sykes.house.gov", "sykes", "https://sykes.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2014 U.S. Representative Emilia Sykes (OH-13) voted in favor of the Streamlining Procurement for Effective Execution and Delivery and National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2026 (NDAA), the country\u2019s annual national defense bill. The legislation includes a 3.8 percent pay raise for all servicemembers, a 20 percent increase in the Family Separation Allowance, and key military construction investments that will strengthen Ohio installations and the communities that support them.\n\n\u201cThe recent government shutdown and the threat of missing paychecks put enormous strain on military members and their families. It has never been clearer that we must do more to support our men and women in uniform who sacrifice so much for our nation,\u201d said Rep. Sykes. The military is one of the most diverse institutions in the country, with many servicemembers coming from communities of color and lower-income backgrounds. I will always work to ensure they receive the pay, benefits, and support they deserve. I voted in favor of this bipartisan legislation to deliver long-overdue pay raises, strengthen military families, and invest in critical projects here in Ohio.\u201d\n\n\u201cAt the same time, I am disappointed that the majority once again used this bipartisan bill to score political points at the expense of our servicemembers and their families. The House-passed NDAA originally included a provision restoring collective bargaining rights for Department of Defense employees whose rights were revoked by the Trump Administration, but this language was removed in the final conference text. Still, the bill makes meaningful progress, including expanding access to affordable child care and improving access to nutritious foods on military bases.\u201d\n\nRep. Sykes offered amendments to the National Defense Authorization Act of 2026, including:\n\nAn amendment to add the Retreaded Tire Jobs, Supply Chain Security and Sustainability Act of 2025 to the NDAA to ensure that the U.S. government uses retreaded tires wherever possible rather than using cheap foreign tires. Akron, known as the \u201cRubber Capitol of the World\u201d is home to several leading American tire manufacturers including Goodyear and Bridgestone.\n\nAn amendment to add the Airship Improvement Research for Safety and Humanitarian Innovation Projects Act, or the AIRSHIPS Act to the NDAA to support research of civil use cases for airships, often referred to as blimps, that could contribute to national defense; provide economic, sustainable and clean air cargo transportation; support disaster response efforts; and provide humanitarian aid to people and areas in need.\n\nAn amendment urging the Department of Defense to collaborate with Tech Hubs to accelerate defense innovations in partnership with academia and industry.\n\nAn amendment creating a pilot program for food farmacies to increase access to low-cost, healthy foods on or nearby military bases.\n\nAn amendment directing the Department of Defense to establish an initiative to accelerate the research and development of innovative, sustainable polymer processing and manufacturing to support next generation technologies built on a resilient polymer supply chain.\n\nThe National Defense Authorization Act of 2026 includes $890 billion in authorized spending including:\n\n$1.5 billion in new construction of barracks, dormitories, housing, and child development centers;\n\n$400 million to reauthorize the Ukraine Security Assistance Initiative (USAI) for two years;\n\n$114.6 million for Historically Black Colleges and Universities and Minority Serving Institutions;\n\n$50 million for local educational agencies with military dependent students;\n\n$20 million for local educational agencies eligible to receive payment for children with severe disabilities.\n\nPay and Compensation\n\nEnacts a 3.8% pay raise for all service members.\n\n20% increase in the Family Separation Allowance, additional pay given to service members whose family members cannot live with or near them at their permanent duty station.\n\nExpands access to food on military installations by granting the Services authorities to conduct pilot programs to reform their food programs.\n\nHealthcare", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://sykes.house.gov/media/press-releases/12/08/2025/rep-sykes-hosts-naturalization-ceremony-in-akron", "Rep. Sykes Hosts Naturalization Ceremony in Akron", "2025-12-08", "2025", "2025-12", "Democrat", "House", "OH", "Emilia Strong Sykes", "S001223", "sykes.house.gov", "sykes", "https://sykes.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "46 New American Citizens Take Oath of Allegiance and Complete Their Paths to Citizenship\n\nAKRON, OH \u2014 Today, U.S. Representative Emilia Sykes (OH-13) hosted a naturalization ceremony at the Akron-Summit County Public Library, where 46 new American citizens from 30 different countries took the Oath of Allegiance and completed their paths to citizenship. Judge John. R. Adams of the United States District Court for the Northern District of Ohio presided over the ceremony and Harry Kamdar, CEO of Asian Services in Action Inc., was the keynote speaker.\n\n\u201cOhio\u2019s 13th District has long been shaped by the contributions of immigrants. Immigrants from all over have helped build the foundation of the district's economy and community. They brought with them the values of resilience, ambition, and dedication that are now integral to the very identity of this region,\u201d said Rep. Sykes. \u201cCongratulations to America\u2019s newest citizens on this monumental achievement. I wish them the best of luck as they embark on this new journey. I am proud to now call them my fellow citizens, and I look forward to serving everyone in my district in the years ahead.\u201d\n\nTo become a U.S. citizen, these individuals had to comply with certain requirements including English language proficiency, proof of residency, knowledge of U.S. history, moral character, and other requirements.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://beatty.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congresswoman-joyce-beatty-hosts-the-power-of-one-ohio-s-20th-annual-statewide-tribute-to-rosa-parks", "Congresswoman Joyce Beatty Hosts  The Power of One: Ohio\u2019s 20th Annual Statewide Tribute to Rosa Parks", "2025-12-05", "2025", "2025-12", "Democrat", "House", "OH", "Joyce Beatty", "B001281", "beatty.house.gov", "beatty", "https://beatty.house.gov/media-center/press-releases", "scraper", "COLUMBUS, OH \u2013 Tonight, Congresswoman Joyce Beatty (OH-03) hosted The Power of One: Ohio\u2019s 20th Annual Statewide Tribute to Rosa Parks at Vitria on the Square, marking the 20th anniversary of Ohio becoming the first state in the nation to designate December 1st as Rosa Parks Day.\n\nThe evening featured The Power of One: In the Company of Courage, a panel discussion with Congresswoman Beatty and Congressman James E. Clyburn, moderated by Emmy Award-winning journalist Ed Gordon. Some of the conversation drew from themes in Clyburn\u2019s new book, The First Eight: A Personal History of the Pioneering Black Congressmen Who Shaped a Nation, connecting lessons from Reconstruction-era leadership to the responsibilities of public service and civic engagement today.\n\nEvent special guests included Walter \u201cTed\u201d Carter Jr., President of The Ohio State University, and Monica T\u00e9llez-Fowler, President and CEO of the Central Ohio Transit Authority (COTA). Former Governor Bob Taft, Ohio\u2019s 67th Governor, who signed theRosa Parks Day bill into law received special recognition as a 20th anniversary event honoree. The event was also graced by a cousin of civil rights icons Coretta Scott King and a cousin of Martin Luther King, Jr.\n\nIn her opening remarks, Beatty reflected on the continued resonance of Parks\u2019 courage. \u201cOn December 1st, 1955, Rosa Parks made a deliberate choice to stay seated. In that moment, she accelerated the struggle for equality and forced our nation to confront the disconnect between what America declared and what America delivered,\u201d said Congresswoman Beatty. \u201cIt galvanized a movement that transformed the American story. Today, as the challenges facing her legacy and America\u2019s democracy grow more urgent, that single act still calls us to action.\u201d\n\nRegarding the stories in The First Eight and their place in our shared history, Congressman Clyburn said, \u201cThe First Eight is about eight South Carolinians, one of whom was a graduate of Ohio's Wilberforce University, who blazed the trail that made my journey possible. Their courage, conviction, faith, and fortitude helped shape a nation, and I hope the people of the great city of Columbus, Ohio, will come to know these extraordinary public servants and the important lessons their experiences teach us.\u201d\n\nIn speaking about Rosa Parks\u2019 enduring impact on equity and justice, Monica T\u00e9llez-Fowler, COTA President and CEO, said, \u201cBy refusing to give up her seat, she forced our nation to confront an uncomfortable truth. That equal rights could not be delayed, denied, or negotiated. She affirmed that access in every sense of the word is foundational to freedom. Her act reminds us that public transportation is more than getting from one place to another. It is tied to justice and to dignity. It reflects the promise that every person deserves the ability to move freely through their community and toward opportunity. At COTA, that belief guides every decision we make.\u201d\n\n\u201cCourage is about doing what we believe is right, even when it\u2019s hard, unpopular or risky. Rosa Parks embodied this quality as well as any figure in our history,\u201d said Ohio State President Walter \u201cTed\u201d Carter Jr. \u201cWith quiet strength, she made courageous choices that have inspired future generations to action here in Columbus and across our nation. It was an honor to join with Congresswoman Beatty, Congressman Clyburn, COTA and community leaders to honor Rosa Parks\u2019 life and legacy for this very special 20th anniversary event.\u201d\n\nAs part of the anniversary celebration, Congresswoman Beatty recognized four Ohioans whose leadership reflects the courage, service, and commitment of Rosa Parks:\n\nGovernor Bob Taft, Ohio\u2019s 67th Governor, signed Rosa Parks bill into law\n\nDr. Laura Espy-Bell, System Medical Chief, Health Equity, OhioHealth\n\nAndr\u00e9 Washington, Special Assistant to the Executive Director, OAPSE/AFSCME\n\nDawn Tyler Lee, Founder & CEO, Forrest Street Consulting\n\nThe event also brought together a broad coalition of civic, faith-based, and cultural organizations, who served as Honorary Community Hosts for this historic celebration:\n\nThe Links, Incorporated \u2013 Columbus Chapter\n\nThe Links, Incorporated \u2013 Twin Rivers Chapter\n\nAlonzo Edmundo\n\nShari Hicks-Graham, MD\n\nLawrence Lemon\n\nJerry Saunders\n\nGayle Saunders\n\nSean Walton, Jr.\n\nCarlton Weddington\n\nBrian Winston\n\nClick HERE to screen a video recording of the event.\n\nWhile serving in the Ohio House of Representatives, Beatty wrote the legislation establishing Rosa Parks Day in Ohio. The legislation passed unanimously during the 50th anniversary of Parks\u2019 historic refusal to give up her seat on a Montgomery bus, an act that sparked the 381-day Montgomery Bus Boycott and helped launch the modern civil rights movement. Beatty served five terms in the Ohio House, where she became the first female Democratic House Leader in state history. Former Governor Bob Taft, signed the legislation into law.\n\nEarlier this week, the nation marked the 70th anniversary of Rosa Parks\u2019 defining act of defiance. This year\u2019s tribute honored that milestone by reaffirming Parks\u2019 enduring influence and underscoring the ongoing responsibility to protect progress and strengthen democratic institutions.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://sykes.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-sykes-helps-lead-bipartisan-bill-to-lower-costs-and-improve-clean-water-infrastructure-for-high-need-communities", "Rep. Sykes Helps Lead Bipartisan Bill to Lower Costs and Improve Clean Water Infrastructure for High-Need Communities", "2025-12-05", "2025", "2025-12", "Democrat", "House", "OH", "Emilia Strong Sykes", "S001223", "sykes.house.gov", "sykes", "https://sykes.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2014 Today, U.S. Representative Emilia Sykes (OH-13) joined Reps. Kristen McDonald Rivet (MI-08), Brian Fitzpatrick (PA-01), and Robert Bresnahan (PA-08) in introducing the bipartisan Affordable Clean Water Infrastructure Act. The legislation would promote clean water projects in rural, low-income, and high-need communities.\n\nThe bill strengthens the Clean Water State Revolving Fund (CWSRF), a federal-state program that provides low-cost financing for wastewater and stormwater projects. The legislation clarifies which projects are eligible, increases the maximum state contribution to reduce local costs, and adds a subsidy for rural, small, and Tribal water systems.\n\n\u201cEvery community deserves clean, affordable, and reliable water infrastructure, whether they are large cities or small rural towns,\u201d said Rep. Sykes. \u201cIn Ohio, we have seen firsthand how investments through the Clean Water State Revolving Fund lower costs for residents and help cities like Akron modernize aging systems. The Affordable Clean Water Infrastructure Act strengthens this critical program by giving states more flexibility and ensuring that it helps reach the communities that need it most. I\u2019m proud to support this bipartisan effort that lowers costs, protects public health, and keeps our water systems strong for generations to come.\u201d\n\n\u201cEveryone deserves to have clean water. Too often, rural, poor, and tribal communities can\u2019t afford to invest in upgrades to their wastewater and stormwater systems. Our bipartisan bill will help the communities that need it most to upgrade outdated, unsafe water infrastructure,\u201d said Rep. McDonald Rivet.\n\n\u201cAcross the country, aging wastewater and stormwater systems go unmodernized simply because communities can\u2019t afford it, leaving families with the consequences \u2014 Congresswoman McDonald Rivet and I are committed to changing that,\u201d said Rep. Fitzpatrick. \u201cOur bipartisan legislation frees up the state dollars already available, cutting costs for communities facing the greatest strain. By focusing support where it\u2019s most needed, long-delayed upgrades can finally move forward\u2014with no new federal spending.\u201d\n\n\u201cToo many families in Northeastern Pennsylvania are paying more for water while living with aging infrastructure that\u2019s long overdue for upgrades. That\u2019s unacceptable,\u201d said Rep. Bresnahan. \u201cThe Affordable Clean Water Infrastructure Act finally delivers long overdue upgrades to rural and small communities\u2019 water systems and protects families who can\u2019t afford another increase. I\u2019m proud to help lead this effort to modernize our wastewater and stormwater systems, strengthen public health, and ensure every community, no matter its ZIP code, can afford safe, reliable water service.\u201d\n\nKey Improvements in the Bill\n\nExpands assistance for low-income households to afford essential wastewater and stormwater services.\n\nIncreases the maximum state subsidization to 50% of CWSRF capitalization grants, requiring at least 20% be used for eligible subsidies.\n\nAdds an extra 10% subsidy for rural, small, and Tribal communities, which often face higher costs for critical water projects.\n\nOhio received nearly $90 million in CWSRF funding in FY25, including investments that helped Akron meet federal EPA requirements and reduce sewage overflows, such as low-interest financing for the Northside Interceptor Tunnel. Strengthening subsidies could help even more Ohio communities finance essential clean water projects.\n\nThe Affordable Clean Water Infrastructure Act is supported by the National Association of Clean Water Agencies (NACWA) and the Healing Our Waters\u2013Great Lakes Coalition.\n\nAdam Krantz, CEO of NACWA, said: \u201cThe Affordable Clean Water Infrastructure Act is a smart, targeted effort to modernize and strengthen the Clean Water State Revolving Fund by helping ensure economically challenged communities receive the affordable wastewater and stormwater services they deserve. NACWA applauds this bipartisan effort to support economically vulnerable water systems and make our nation\u2019s clean water infrastructure more affordable and resilient.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://shontelbrown.house.gov/media/press-releases/brown-stevens-introduce-legislation-strengthen-and-expand-americas", "Brown, Stevens Introduce Legislation to Strengthen and Expand America\u2019s Cybersecurity Workforce", "2025-12-04", "2025", "2025-12", "Democrat", "House", "OH", "Shontel M. Brown", "B001313", "shontelbrown.house.gov", "shontelbrown", "https://shontelbrown.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2013 Congresswoman Shontel Brown (OH-11) and Congresswoman Haley Stevens (MI-11) today introduced the Expanding Cybersecurity Workforce Act, legislation to help more workers from underrepresented and disadvantaged communities join the growing cybersecurity field. The bill establishes a new diversity program at the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) and requires CISA to expand existing education and outreach activities and promote cybersecurity careers to a diverse audience. Bill text available here.\n\nThe bill was introduced with 27 original co-sponsors and is endorsed by the Information Systems Audit and Control Association (ISACA).\n\nAccording to Cyberseek data, there are currently more than 500,000 unfilled cybersecurity positions in the United States, with these jobs taking 21% longer to fill than other tech positions. The Aspen Institute estimatesthat only 9% of cybersecurity workers are Black, only 4% are Hispanic, only 1% are Native American, and only 24% are women.\n\nCybersecurity workforce shortages have worsened under the Trump Administration, which has halted numerous workforce development programs and enacted massive staff cuts at CISA. This decrease in staffing has reduced the capacity to fulfill cybersecurity recommendations by 10%, creating a vulnerability in our nation\u2019s efforts to deter foreign attacks and strengthen the nation\u2019s cybersecurity network.\n\n\u201cWhen our cybersecurity workforce includes everyone, our systems thrive. By bringing in Americans from all backgrounds, we can make our country more secure, expand access to good-paying jobs, and strengthen our economy. Cybersecurity is a fast-growing field that is absolutely essential to our security and our competitiveness, and we don\u2019t have enough workers to meet current demand. This bill tackles that shortage head-on. While the Trump Administration is laser-focused on closing doors, this bill creates more pathways to success for people from all backgrounds. I am proud to introduce this legislation with Congresswoman Stevens and I look forward to building further support in Congress,\u201d said Congresswoman Shontel Brown.\n\n\u201cOur cybersecurity infrastructure depends on having the best workforce possible,\u201d said Congresswoman Haley Stevens. \u201cI\u2019m proud to join Rep. Shontel Brown in introducing the Expanding Cybersecurity Workforce Act to increase recruitment and expand opportunities for cybersecurity professionals. Connecting Michiganders with good-paying jobs that keep us safe is a win for everyone.\u201d\n\n\"As a nonprofit association dedicated to building a future-ready digital trust workforce, ISACA strongly supports this legislation to expand opportunities in the cybersecurity field. Creating these critical cybersecurity pathways provides meaningful careers, strengthens our communities and improves our nation\u2019s cyberresilience.\u201d said ISACA Global Government Relations and Public Affairs Director, Emily Bastedo.\n\nThe bill's original cosponsors include House Committee on Homeland Security Ranking Member Bennie Thompson (MS-02), Vice Ranking Member on the House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform Jasmine Crockett (TX-30), First Vice Chair of the Congressional Black Caucus Troy Carter (LA-02), Former Chair of the Congressional Black Caucus Steven Horsford (NV-04), Rep. Delia. Ramirez (IL-03), Debbie Wasserman Schultz (FL-25), Eleanor Holmes Norton (DC, 00), Mike Quigley (IL-05), Robin Kelly (IL-02), Stephen Lynch (MA-08), Andre Carson (NV-07), Yassamin Ansari (AZ-03), Joyce Beatty (OH-03), Julia Brownley (CA-26), Greg Landsman (OH-01), Nydia Velasquez (NY-07), Rick Larsen (WA-02), Stacey Plaskett (VI-00), Jahana Hayes (CT-05), Dave Min (CA-47), Lucy McBath (GA-06), Wesley Bell (MO-01), Daniel Goldman (NY-10), Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick (FL-20), Julie Johnson (TX-32), Dwight Evans (PA-03), and Valerie Foushee (NC-04).\n\nCISA is an agency within the U.S. Department of Homeland Security and is the operational lead for federal cybersecurity and the national coordinator for critical infrastructure and resilience.\n\nBrown and Stevens first introduced this legislation during the 118th Congress.\n\nThe Expanding Cybersecurity Workforce Act\n\nEstablishes new diversity program at CISA: 180 days after enactment the Director of CISA shall establish a program to promote the cybersecurity field to diverse communities.\n\nProgram shall be established within CISA\u2019s Cybersecurity Education and Training Assistance Program.\n\nCISA shall conduct outreach to promote awareness of cybersecurity employment to educators, unions, chambers of commerce, workforce development officers, schools, and other institutions.\n\nCybersecurity is necessary for the public and private sector and is also a well-paying field. According to the Department of Labor, The median annual wage for Information Security Analysts is $120,360.\n\nProgram Scope: The new program created by the Expanding Cybersecurity Workforce Act is tasked with promoting the cybersecurity field to:\n\nDisadvantaged communities\n\nOlder individuals\n\nRacial and ethnic minorities\n\nWomen\n\nPeople with disabilities\n\nGeographically diverse communities\n\nSocioeconomically diverse communities\n\nIndividuals from nontraditional educational paths\n\nVeterans\n\nIndividuals who were formerly incarcerated\n\nAuthorization of Appropriations and Reporting\n\nThe Expanding Cybersecurity Workforce Act authorizes $20 million annually to the Department of Homeland Security through 2030 to carry out the program.\n\nThe legislation requires CISA to report to Congress annually on the efficacy of the program\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://sykes.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-sykes-introduces-junk-fee-prevention-act-to-protect-consumers", "Rep. Sykes Introduces Junk Fee Prevention Act to Protect Consumers", "2025-12-04", "2025", "2025-12", "Democrat", "House", "OH", "Emilia Strong Sykes", "S001223", "sykes.house.gov", "sykes", "https://sykes.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2014 Today, U.S. Representatives Emilia Sykes (OH-13) and Janelle Bynum (OR-05) introduced the Junk Fee Prevention Act. The bill cracks down on deceptive, excessive, and hidden fees that drive up prices for consumers across the country. This bill creates new transparency requirements to ensure families know the real cost of the services they rely on. The Senate version of the bill is being introduced by U.S. Senators Richard Blumenthal (D-CT) and Ruben Gallego (D-AZ).\n\n\u201cHardworking people across Ohio\u2019s 13th District should not have to shoulder deceptive fees that strain already tight budgets,\u201d said Rep. Sykes. \u201cThis bill protects our community by ending predatory junk fees and holding companies accountable for putting profits over consumers.\u201d\n\n\u201cToo many companies have built businesses around misleading fees that confuse consumers and drive up costs,\u201d said Rep. Bynum. \u201cThis bill brings real accountability by requiring upfront pricing, stronger refund protections, and clear rules that put people first. I\u2019ll always work in Congress to lower costs for Oregonians and make our economy more fair.\u201d\n\n\u201cConcealed surprise fees are nickel and diming Americans to distraction and must be stopped. Families booking flights for the holidays are experiencing surprise sticker shock firsthand when they click to confirm their tickets and are hit with hidden excessive charges,\u201d said Sen. Blumenthal. \u201cOur bill will help end this price gouging and protect consumers from abusive fees. It will mandate basic common-sense fairness and transparency, which consumers rightly demand and deserve.\u201d\n\n\u201cArizonans are tired of being hit with junk fees every time they book a flight, buy a concert ticket, or check into a hotel. They deserve to know the real price of services upfront,\u201d said Sen. Gallego. \u201cThis bill puts an end to that nonsense by requiring companies to disclose pricing upfront and holding them accountable when they try to deceive consumers. I was proud to lead this bill in the House, and I\u2019m going to keep fighting to put an end to hidden junk fees on all services.\u201d\n\nThe Junk Fee Prevention Act delivers significant protections for consumers, including:\n\nProtecting Consumers from Hidden & Excessive Fees\n\nTicket Transparency & Fairness\n\nCommunications Service Fees\n\nAirline Ancillary Fee Transparency\n\nThe bill empowers the Federal Trade Commission, Federal Communications Commission, and state attorneys general to enforce these protections and hold violators accountable.\n\nThe legislation specifically targets excessive online ticket fees, exorbitant early termination fees for communications services, surprise resort or destination fees, and airline ancillary fees. The legislation is endorsed by Consumer Reports and the National Consumers League (NCL).\n\n\u201cAmericans are fed up with hidden junk fees that can really add up and cause financial hardship for families living on tight budgets,\u201d said Chuck Bell, advocacy program director for Consumer Reports. \u201cThe Junk Fee Prevention Act will help ensure that the total cost for tickets, hotels and short-term lodging are disclosed upfront to the customer, including all mandatory fees. The bill will also prevent telecom providers from imposing early termination fees for broadband, cable and mobile phone services, and improve the transparency and presentation of prices for bundled services.\u201d\n\n\u201cAmerican companies are addicted to junk fees, and this is an addiction that harms consumers and honest businesses alike,\u201d said NCL Senior Public Policy Manager Eden Iscil. \u201cThe Junk Fee Prevention Act is a vital piece of legislation that will mandate basic common-sense fairness and transparency, ensuring consumers know the full, all-in price up front and putting an end to these deceptive, abusive practices.\u201d\n\nYou can find a section-by-section for the bill here.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://beatty.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/beatty-lee-introduce-bill-to-break-barriers-in-stem-and-strengthen-america-s-future-workforce", "Beatty, Lee Introduce Bill to Break Barriers in STEM and Strengthen America\u2019s Future Workforce", "2025-12-03", "2025", "2025-12", "Democrat", "House", "OH", "Joyce Beatty", "B001281", "beatty.house.gov", "beatty", "https://beatty.house.gov/media-center/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Today, Congresswoman Joyce Beatty (OH-03) announced the introduction of the 21st Century STEM for Girls and Underrepresented Minorities Act, legislation designed to close persistent equity gaps in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics and expand high-quality STEM education access for girls and students from underrepresented communities.\n\nAs STEM careers continue to drive economic growth and shape the future workforce, women and people of color remain significantly underrepresented. Recent declines in national mathematics performance have sharpened the urgency. According to the National Assessment of Educational Progress, only 22% of twelfth-grade students performed at or above the proficient level in mathematics in 2024. Black and Hispanic twelfth graders scored three and five percentage points lower than their 2019 averages, and female twelfth graders experienced nearly double the decline in math scores compared to their male peers.\n\n\u201cOur nation cannot afford to leave talent on the sidelines,\u201d said Congresswoman Beatty. \u201cExpanding STEM opportunities for girls and underrepresented minorities is essential for our economic future, our national competitiveness, and the next generation of innovators. This bill is an investment in the students who will build the world we live in tomorrow.\u201d\n\n\"Pittsburgh is a growing beacon for the tech industry but resources and opportunities often do not extend to students in public schools right next door, particularly for our girls and underrepresented communities,\u201d said Congresswoman Lee. \u201cThe 21st Century STEM for Girls and Underrepresented Minorities Act brings us one step closer to closing the education equity gap and ensuring all of our youth can bring their talents to this thriving industry. I am proud to co-lead this bill to support the next innovative generation of students.\"\n\nThe 21st Century STEM for Girls and Underrepresented Minorities Act will:\n\nDirect the Department of Education to make grants to qualifying local education agencies to fund STEM education activities for girls and underrepresented minorities.\n\nAuthorize $10 million to qualifying local educational agencies serving high-poverty students from fiscal years 2026 through 2029.\n\nThese investments are designed to expand access to rigorous coursework, hands-on learning, and pathways that lead to STEM degrees and high-growth careers.\n\n\u201cExpanding opportunity in STEM is about more than equity or representation; it is tied to America\u2019s economic future. When we close these gaps for our young people, we give them the power to forge their own path and break generational barriers in science, technology, engineering, math, and the careers that will shape tomorrow.\u201d\n\n\"I am laser-focused on finding opportunities for young women to succeed and thrive. Our 21st Century STEM for Girls and Underrepresented Minorities Act would provide grants to local school districts to encourage girls and underrepresented students to pursue studies and careers in STEM fields. This legislation would create real pathways for success and wealth for our girls and students of color while also fueling our economy and keeping the United States a global leader in STEM,\" said Senator Alsobrooks.\n\nSenator Alsobrooks is introducing companion legislation in the United States Senate.\n\nThe co-leads of this bill include Rep. LaMonica McIver (NJ-10), Rep. Steven Lynch (MA-08), Rep. Hank Johnson (GA-04), Rep. Summer Lee (PA-12), Rep. Bill Foster (IL-11), and Rep. Shontel Brown (OH-11), Rep. Adelita Grijalva (AZ-07)\n\nThe original co-sponsors of this bill are Rep. Eleanor Holmes Norton (DC-At Large), Wesley Bell (MO-01)\n\nRead the full bill text HERE.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://sykes.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-sykes-applauds-house-passage-of-legislation-supporting-small-manufacturers", "Rep. Sykes Applauds House Passage of Legislation Supporting Small Manufacturers", "2025-12-03", "2025", "2025-12", "Democrat", "House", "OH", "Emilia Strong Sykes", "S001223", "sykes.house.gov", "sykes", "https://sykes.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 U.S. Representative Emilia Sykes (OH-13) praised the House of Representatives for passing the Made in America Manufacturing Finance Act, which will help small manufacturers secure larger Small Business Administration (SBA) loans to grow and invest in their businesses.\n\n\u201cThis bill is a win for small manufacturers across the country and for my constituents in Ohio\u2019s 13th Congressional District,\u201d Rep. Sykes said. \u201cBy raising the loan limits, we are giving small businesses the tools they need to invest in new machinery, upgrade facilities, and grow their operations. Supporting these businesses strengthens our local economy, creates jobs, and ensures Ohio remains a leader in American manufacturing.\u201d\n\nUnder current law, small manufacturers can access up to $5.5 million for fixed assets, and $5 million through SBA 7(a) loans. The Made in America Manufacturing Finance Act doubles both limits to $10 million, helping small manufacturers overcome financing barriers and expand operations.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://sykes.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-sykes-nominates-21-students-to-united-states-military-service-academies", "Rep. Sykes Nominates 21 Students to United States Military Service Academies", "2025-12-03", "2025", "2025-12", "Democrat", "House", "OH", "Emilia Strong Sykes", "S001223", "sykes.house.gov", "sykes", "https://sykes.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "AKRON, OH \u2014 Today, U.S. Representative Emilia Sykes (OH-13) announced the newest class of service academy nominations for Ohio\u2019s 13th Congressional District. Twenty-one students from across the district have received nominations to attend one of the United States service academies, including the U.S. Military Academy (West Point), the U.S. Naval Academy, the U.S. Air Force Academy, and the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy, as part of the Class of 2030.\n\n\u201cThis program is a prestigious opportunity for young people in Ohio\u2019s 13th Congressional District who have an interest in a career in military service. It\u2019s an honor to nominate some of the best and brightest in our community to promote democracy, defend our nation\u2019s freedoms, and keep our country safe,\u201d said Rep. Sykes. \u201cI\u2019ve long called Ohio\u2019s 13th Congressional District the Birthplace of Champions, and these nominees will proudly continue this long-standing legacy.\u201d\n\nThe honor of attending a Military Service Academy comes with the obligation and commitment to serve in the military for a minimum of five years upon graduation. Now that these applicants have received a nomination from Rep. Sykes, they are eligible for an appointment, or acceptance, into the respective military service academy. In the coming months, the academies will offer some students an appointment, and those students will have until May 1 to accept or decline. A nomination does not guarantee an appointment.\n\nAs a member of the U.S. House of Representatives, Rep. Sykes may nominate applicants who legally reside within the boundaries of Ohio\u2019s 13th Congressional District. For more information regarding the service academy nomination process, please visit sykes.house.gov/services/service-academy-nominations.\n\nAfter a competitive application and interview process, Rep. Sykes nominated the following students, listed alphabetically by academy:\n\nThe following applicants will receive a nomination to the U.S. Military Academy (West Point):\n\nNaomi Amiot, New Franklin, Northwest High School\n\nVictoria Arelt, Jackson Township, Jackson High School\n\nTejomaya Bheshaj, Fairlawn, Copley High School\n\nShea Broski, Hudson, Hudson High School\n\nJake Clapper, Hudson, Hudson High School and U.S. Military Academy Preparatory School\n\nLandon Fenicle, Hudson, Hudson High School\n\nNicholas Gage, Akron, Cuyahoga Valley Christian Academy\n\nJacob Hill, Stow, Stow-Munroe Falls High School\n\nConnor Hons, Cuyahoga Falls, Woodridge High School\n\nRiley Kirkbride, Uniontown, Green High School\n\nNoah Liesen, Hudson, Hudson High School\n\nParker Maier, North Lawrence, Tuslaw High School\n\nJillian Paolucci, Hudson, Hudson High School\n\nJohnathan Schnabel, North Canton, Hoover High School\n\nNolan Trautmann, Hudson, Hudson High School\n\nThe following applicants will receive a nomination to the U.S. Naval Academy:\n\nKatelyn Brown, Norton, Norton High School\n\nDominic Dunlap, Cuyahoga Falls, Woodridge High School\n\nLandon Fenicle, Hudson, Hudson High School\n\nNicholas Gage, Akron, Cuyahoga Valley Christian Academy\n\nJacob Hill, Stow, Stow-Munroe Falls High School\n\nConnor Hons, Cuyahoga Falls, Woodridge High School\n\nGrant Hyne, Copley, Copley High School\n\nRiley Kirkbride, Uniontown, Green High School\n\nParker Maier, North Lawrence, Tuslaw High School\n\nJoseph McMullin, Hudson, Hudson High School\n\nNoah Liesen, Hudson, Hudson High School\n\nJillian Paolucci, Hudson, Hudson High School\n\nKira Perez, Akron, Revere High School\n\nKoehler Spidell, Clinton, Green High School\n\nNolan Trautmann, Hudson, Hudson High School\n\nThe following applicants will receive a nomination to the U.S. Air Force Academy:\n\nNaomi Amiot, New Franklin, Northwest High School\n\nVictoria Arelt, Jackson Township, Jackson High School\n\nKatelyn Brown, Norton, Norton High School\n\nNicholas Gage, Akron, Cuyahoga Valley Christian Academy\n\nJacob Hill, Stow, Stow-Munroe Falls High School\n\nConnor Hons, Cuyahoga Falls, Woodridge High School\n\nGrant Hyne, Copley, Copley High School\n\nRiley Kirkbride, Uniontown, Green High School\n\nJillian Paolucci, Hudson, Hudson High School\n\nKira Perez, Akron, Revere High School\n\nJohnathan Schnabel, North Canton, Hoover High School\n\nKoehler Spidell, Clinton, Green High School\n\nNolan Trautmann, Hudson, Hudson High School\n\nThe following applicant will receive a nomination to the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy:", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://sykes.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-sykes-supports-survivors-as-house-passes-human-trafficking-relief-bill", "Rep. Sykes Supports Survivors as House Passes Human Trafficking Relief Bill", "2025-12-03", "2025", "2025-12", "Democrat", "House", "OH", "Emilia Strong Sykes", "S001223", "sykes.house.gov", "sykes", "https://sykes.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 U.S. Representative Emilia Sykes (OH-13) today applauded the House of Representatives for passing the Trafficking Survivors Relief Act.\n\n\u201cSurvivors of human trafficking should not carry the burden of crimes they were coerced into committing,\u201d said Rep. Sykes. \u201cBy passing this bill, Congress is helping remove the legal barriers that stand in the way of survivors rebuilding their lives and reclaiming their future.\u201d\n\nThe Trafficking Survivors Relief Act:\n\nEstablishes a process to vacate convictions and expunge arrest records for certain offenses committed as a result of being trafficked.\n\nDefines the offenses eligible for vacatur or expungement and outlines procedures for filing a motion.\n\nRequires the Government Accountability Office to assess the impact of this process, including the number of survivors seeking post-conviction relief.\n\nPermits certain grants for legal representation to assist survivors in seeking relief.\n\nAllows defendants to demonstrate that offenses were committed under duress due to human trafficking.\n\nRep. Sykes has long championed policies that protect vulnerable populations and provide survivors with opportunities for justice and rehabilitation. She is a proud co-sponsor of this legislation and supports its passage, which marks a meaningful step forward in supporting those who have endured unimaginable hardship.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://shontelbrown.house.gov/media/press-releases/congresswoman-brown-bill-name-collinwood-post-office-after-cleveland-wwii-hero", "Congresswoman Brown Bill to Name Collinwood Post Office After Cleveland WWII Hero Tech Sergeant Alma Minter Advances Through Oversight Committee", "2025-12-02", "2025", "2025-12", "Democrat", "House", "OH", "Shontel M. Brown", "B001313", "shontelbrown.house.gov", "shontelbrown", "https://shontelbrown.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2013 Congresswoman Shontel Brown\u2019s (OH-11) legislation to name the Collinwood neighborhood Post Office in Cleveland, Ohio in honor of Tech Sergeant Alma Gladys Minter (1920-2007) today passed the House Oversight Committee and is one step closer to becoming law.\n\nIn July, Brown introduced legislation (H.R. 4635) to name the post office on East 152nd Street in Cleveland in honor of Minter, a long-time Cleveland resident who served in the 6888th Central Postal Directory Battalion during World War II. The \u201cSix Triple Eight\u201d was the first and only all-Black Women\u2019s Army Corps unit to serve overseas during the war. Brown\u2019s legislation is supported by the Minter Family.\n\nBill Text Available Here\n\n\u201cAlma Minter delivered for our country, and today Congress is one step closer to finally delivering for her. I am proud that my bill to rename the Collinwood post office in honor of Tech Sergeant Minter is one step closer to becoming law. Putting her name on the post office on East 152nd is a way to say thank you, to keep the story of Six Triple Eight alive, and to right past wrongs. These women served with courage and excellence, yet far too many never lived to see their country recognize them. The least we can do now is make sure their names and their stories are remembered. I am grateful for the support of my colleagues and will continue to work with members of both parties to get this done,\u201d said Congresswoman Shontel Brown.\n\nIn 1945, Minter along with over 800 other women, were deployed to clear a backlog of over 17 million pieces of mail in Europe. The Six Triple Eight completed their mission in less than 90 days, ensuring that mail from the Homefront could reach American troops in Europe.\n\nThe Six Triple Eight was awarded the Congressional Gold Medal by an act of Congress in 2022 and honored at a ceremony at the Capitol this year. In February, Congresswoman Brown spoke on the House floor in Washington to recognize Minter\u2019s service and share her story. She also presented Minter\u2019s family with additional military medals at her State of the District address in Cleveland.\n\nThe legislation is cosponsored by: Rep. Troy Balderson (OH-12), Rep. Joyce Beatty (OH-03), Rep. Mike Carey (OH-15), Rep. Warren Davidson (OH-08), Rep. Jim Jordan (OH-04), Rep. Dave Joyce (OH-14), Rep. Marcy Kaptur (OH-09), Rep. Greg Landsman (OH-01), Rep. Bob Latta (OH-05), Rep. Michael Rulli (OH-06), Rep. Emilia Sykes (OH-13), Rep. Dave Taylor (OH-02), Rep. Mike Turner (OH-10), Rep. Gwen Moore (WI-04), Rep. Andre Carson (IN-07), Rep. Shomari Figures (AL-02), and Rep. Deborah Ross (NC-02).\n\nFor more information on the Six Triple Eight, click here.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://shontelbrown.house.gov/media/press-releases/congresswoman-browns-bipartisan-samosa-act-save-taxpayer-dollars-federal", "Congresswoman Brown\u2019s Bipartisan SAMOSA Act to Save Taxpayer Dollars on Federal Software Spending Clears Oversight Committee", "2025-12-02", "2025", "2025-12", "Democrat", "House", "OH", "Shontel M. Brown", "B001313", "shontelbrown.house.gov", "shontelbrown", "https://shontelbrown.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, DC \u2013 Today, Congresswoman Shontel Brown\u2019s bipartisan SAMOSA Act was approved by the House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform, bringing Congress one step closer to streamlining federal software spending.\n\nThe Strengthening Agency Management and Oversight of Software Assets (SAMOSA) Act requires agencies to conduct comprehensive assessments of their software licensing practices, allowing the federal government to streamline software purchasing and lower unnecessary costs. According to a Senate Committee report, the SAMOSA Act could save taxpayers up to $5 billion annually.\n\nThe SAMOSA Act is co-led by Congresswoman Nancy Mace (SC-01), Chairwoman of the Subcommittee on Cybersecurity, Information Technology, and Government Innovation, Congressman Pat Fallon (TX-04), and Congresswoman April McClain Delaney (MD-06). Congresswoman Shontel Brown serves as Ranking Member on the Oversight Committee Subcommittee on Cybersecurity, Information Technology, and Government Innovation.\n\nCongresswoman Brown\u2019s remarks as delivered during Oversight Committee markup:\n\nI want to thank my colleagues, Representatives Mace, Fallon, and McClain Delaney for joining me in reintroducing the Strengthening Agency Management and Oversight of Software Assets Act.\n\nThe SAMOSA Act may sound complicated, but it is a simple, bipartisan bill that is urgently needed.\n\nAgencies across the federal government spend around $33 billion in taxpayer dollars on software every year. But right now, many agencies don\u2019t actually have a list of what they own, what they\u2019re fully using, or whether they are buying the same thing twice.\n\nOur bill creates a straightforward solution. It streamlines how agencies track, manage, and report their software assets by requiring complete assessments on the software paid for, used, or deployed at each agency. This will ensure agencies know exactly what they have, what they need, and where they are overspending.\n\nThe bill requires agencies to submit these assessments to the Office of Management and Budget, General Services Administration, and Congress, so we can provide accountability and confirm agencies are using consistent, modern, and efficient software management practices.\n\nIn other words, this bill will cut waste, allow agencies to negotiate better contracts, and spot vulnerabilities quickly. That means fewer headaches, better security, and real savings for taxpayers\u2014nearly $5 billion every year, according to one Senate Committee.\n\nThis is the kind of common-sense work people sent us here to do. It\u2019s not flashy, and its not partisan. But it is good government \u2013 and it is REAL government efficiency.\n\nI urge my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to support this common-sense bill.\n\nThe Strengthening Agency Management and Oversight of Software Assets (SAMOSA) Act\n\nThe U.S. federal government spends billions of dollars every year on purchases, renewals, and software license modifications. However current management and procurement processes do not provide agencies with adequate transparency and often lead to wasteful spending on duplicative purchases.\n\nTo increase agency oversight of software purchasing, improve efficiency, and reduce costs, the SAMOSA Act would require:\n\nAgencies to create a comprehensive software inventory and undergo an independent assessment of software license management practices and contracts;\n\nAgency Chief Information Officers (CIOs) to develop a plan to adopt enterprise licensing agreements, improving negotiating power against software vendors, and reduce costs;\n\nOMB to publish a governmentwide strategy for software modernization based on the aforementioned audits and plans; and\n\nAgencies to include their respective plans and performance assessments in annual budget submissions.\n\nThe SAMOSA Act is supported by the following organizations: The Coalition for Fair Software Licensing, the Computer & Communications Industry Association, NetChoice, and the Alliance for Digital Innovation.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://kaptur.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/kaptur-receives-confirmation-toledo-public-schools-head-start-program", "Kaptur Receives Confirmation Toledo Public Schools\u2019 Head Start Program Can Resume", "2025-12-01", "2025", "2025-12", "Democrat", "House", "OH", "Marcy Kaptur", "K000009", "kaptur.house.gov", "kaptur", "https://kaptur.house.gov/media-center/press-releases", "scraper", "Toledo, OH \u2013 Today, Congresswoman Marcy Kaptur (OH-09) received confirmation from the US Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) that funding for Toledo Public Schools Head Start Program has been certified and will resume immediately. Congresswoman Kaptur, Senator Husted, and Senator Moreno made multiple daily inquires to HHS to ensure funding would meet the December 1st deadline. Toledo Public Schools receives $10 Million every six months for this critical early education program.\n\n\u201cThere is no excuse for the Trump Administration to have created these funding delays, and to cause worry, especially when it impacts the education of our region\u2019s youth and their families,\u201d said Congresswoman Marcy Kaptur (OH-09). \u201cWe should continue working to expand educational opportunity for all Northwest Ohio children. I am grateful for the 100 employees, 1000 students, and their families that will return to the classroom this week, and that they will go into the holidays knowing that they will not lack for childcare, educational opportunities, or a paycheck. I look forward to continuing to work with Toledo Public Schools on initiatives that strengthen children and their families across the community.\u201d\n\n# # #", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://kaptur.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/kaptur-statement-federal-inaction-hhs-and-impact-toledo-teachers", "Kaptur Statement On Federal Inaction From HHS And Impact On Toledo Teachers, Students, And Head Start Program", "2025-12-01", "2025", "2025-12", "Democrat", "House", "OH", "Marcy Kaptur", "K000009", "kaptur.house.gov", "kaptur", "https://kaptur.house.gov/media-center/press-releases", "scraper", "Toledo, OH \u2013 Today, Congresswoman Marcy Kaptur (OH-09) released the following statement after the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) failed to provide funding for Toledo Public Schools Head Start Program, causing the closure of the program effective immediately, today December 1st. This follows the Trump Administration\u2019s cancelling of more than $100 Million in already awarded and Congressionally Appropriated funds for the City of Toledo over the course of 2025.\n\n\u201cThe Administration\u2019s inaction has now interrupted the education of more than 1,000 young minds, and caused additional burdens for educators and their families,\u201d said Congresswoman Marcy Kaptur (OH-09). \u201cMy office, and those of Ohio Senator\u2019s Husted and Moreno, have made repeated inquiries to HHS for weeks and have yet to receive a response. The education of Northwest Ohio children is not a political game, and parents and educators in my district demand clarity and a full restoration of service. This follows efforts by the Trump Administration earlier this year to end Head Start funding nationwide. I will not rest until this funding is restored, and will continue to work with Toledo Public Schools and its educators to do just that.\u201d\n\n# # #", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://kaptur.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/senior-farmers-market-nutrition-program-benefits-opportunity-0", "Senior Farmers\u2019 Market Nutrition Program Benefits: An Opportunity For Northwest Ohio Seniors To Help Fill Your Thanksgiving Table", "2025-11-26", "2025", "2025-11", "Democrat", "House", "OH", "Marcy Kaptur", "K000009", "kaptur.house.gov", "kaptur", "https://kaptur.house.gov/media-center/press-releases", "scraper", "Toledo, OH \u2014 Today, on the eve of the Thanksgiving holiday, Congresswoman Marcy Kaptur (OH-09) and the Area Office on Aging (AOoA) are reminding older adults 60+ across Northwest Ohio about the importance of using their Senior Farmers\u2019 Market Nutrition Program (SFMNP) benefits before they expire at the end of November. This program provides a wonderful opportunity to fill your Thanksgiving table with fresh, locally grown fruits, vegetables, herbs, and honey while supporting local farmers.\n\n\u201cThe Senior Farmers Market Nutrition Program is more than just food assistance \u2014 it\u2019s an investment in the health and well-being of our seniors and a boost to local farmers, producers, growers, and sellers who work tirelessly to provide fresh, nutritious foods for our communities,\u201d said Congresswoman Marcy Kaptur (OH-09). \u201cWith Thanksgiving on the horizon, we encourage seniors who have remaining program benefits for 2025 to redeem them while they still can. This is a great way to help fill your Thanksgiving table with fresh, locally-grown produce and healthy foods for the holiday.\u201d\n\n\u201cOlder northwest Ohioans can create a healthier economy for farmers and a healthier diet for themselves,\u201d said Justin Moor, President/CEO of the Area Office on Aging. \u201cTo do this, they must simply use the Senior Farmers\u2019 Market Nutrition Program benefit they have received at local farmers markets and stands by the end of this month. When they do this, local farmers will receive a part of the remaining available and older northwest Ohioans will receive a bounty of local produce for the holidays.\u201d\n\nThe Senior Farmers Market Nutrition Program, funded by the US Department of Agriculture and administered by the AOoA, connects seniors with farmers across ten counties in Northwest Ohio. Through collaborative efforts and federal support, the program recently saw a historic $50 Million expansion, increasing its reach by 250% and enabling it to serve more than 23,000 older adults 60+ in our region annually. For more details on this expansion, read Congresswoman Kaptur\u2019s official announcement from October 13, 2022.\n\nHow to Participate:\n\nSeniors age 60 and older, residing in Ohio, and meeting income eligibility requirements (185% of the poverty level) are encouraged to use their benefits before they expire on November 30, 2025.\n\nBenefits can be redeemed for fresh produce, herbs, and honey at participating farmers\u2019 markets or roadside stands throughout the region.\n\nThe SFMNP builds on Congresswoman Kaptur\u2019s longstanding commitment to expand access to nutritious foods and support local agriculture.\n\n# # #", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:52:45Z"], ["https://kaptur.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/leading-democrats-national-security-and-ukraine-urge-trump", "Leading Democrats on National Security and Ukraine Urge Trump Administration to Correct Course on Russia-Ukraine Peace Plan", "2025-11-25", "2025", "2025-11", "Democrat", "House", "OH", "Marcy Kaptur", "K000009", "kaptur.house.gov", "kaptur", "https://kaptur.house.gov/media-center/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, DC \u2013 Congresswoman Marcy Kaptur (OH-09), Co-Founder and Co-Chair of the Congressional Ukraine Caucus; Congressman Adam Smith (WA-09), Ranking Member of the House Armed Services Committee; Congressman Gregory W. Meeks (NY-05), Ranking Member of the House Foreign Affairs Committee; Jim Himes (CT-04), Ranking Member of the House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence were joined by Members of the Congressional Ukraine Caucus Congressman Steny Hoyer (MD-05), former Majority Leader; and Congressman Bill Keating (MA-09), Ranking Member of the House Foreign Affairs Europe Subcommittee in issuing the following joint response to the Trump Administration\u2019s initial 28-point proposal for ending Russia\u2019s war on Ukraine.\n\n\u201cThe Administration\u2019s attempt to impose a pro-Russian, one-sided \u2018peace\u2019 deal on Ukraine is both a policy nightmare and morally bankrupt. Pressuring Ukraine while giving aid and comfort to Russia is wrong. Forcing Ukraine to give up more of its own territory, including some that Russia doesn\u2019t even hold, is unacceptable. Crippling the Ukrainian Armed Forces would all but guarantee another Russian invasion once Moscow rebuilds its forces, further threatening NATO. Echoing Putin\u2019s baseless accusations of Nazism amplifies Kremlin disinformation and provides Russia with a convenient excuse to claim Ukraine has violated this imposed edict.\n\n\u201cThe Putin wing of the Administration cannot be allowed to abandon American interests by forcing Ukraine into an unjust and impossible-to-maintain surrender. Instead, after months of Ukraine\u2019s success in further weakening Russia\u2019s economy and military, the President should direct his National Security staff that \u2018peace through strength\u2019 does not mean copying Russian talking points to extort Ukraine into surrender. Such a capitulation would only lead to more attacks by Putin and encourage similar attacks against other peaceful democracies, further threatening global stability and undermining the national security of the United States.\n\n\u201cThe best guarantor of peace going forward will be a well-armed Ukraine that can capably defend itself against a violent and untrustworthy Russia. What has reportedly been released as a potential counteroffer, and was developed with Ukraine and European allies over the weekend, is vastly closer to what an achievable peace agreement would look like. We urge the administration to abandon its initial plan to force Ukraine into capitulation and to continue its discussions with Ukraine and European allies. We look forward to supporting such efforts.\u201d\n\n# # #", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:52:45Z"], ["https://kaptur.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/kaptur-announces-more-37-million-federal-responsible-fatherhood-grants", "Kaptur Announces More Than $3.7 Million in Federal Responsible Fatherhood Grants for Toledo-Area Programs", "2025-11-24", "2025", "2025-11", "Democrat", "House", "OH", "Marcy Kaptur", "K000009", "kaptur.house.gov", "kaptur", "https://kaptur.house.gov/media-center/press-releases", "scraper", "Toledo, OH \u2013 Today, Congresswoman Marcy Kaptur (OH-09) announced that three Northwest Ohio organizations have been awarded a combined total of more than $3.7 Million in new federal funding from the US Department of Health and Human Services\u2019 Administration for Children and Families. These awards, made through the Responsible Fatherhood Program, will strengthen families by supporting fathers with tools for responsible parenting, healthy relationships, and economic stability.\n\nThe recipients are:\n\nPathway, Inc. \u2013 Brothers United ($1,250,000): A program dedicated to empowering fathers in Toledo through workforce development, mentoring, and parenting education.\n\nZepf Center \u2013 Northwest Ohio Fatherhood Connection ($1,250,000): This initiative will serve 180 fathers each year, with a focus on promoting healthy marriages, responsible parenting, and economic independence.\n\nRidge Project, Inc. \u2013 TYRO Fathers ($1,250,000): Based in Defiance, the program supports fathers, including those re-entering from incarceration, with life-skills training, employment preparation, and tools for responsible fatherhood.\n\nThe funding comes through the Responsible Fatherhood General Program, which provides discretionary demonstration awards to organizations working to improve outcomes for fathers and their children. Collectively, these initiatives will serve hundreds of fathers annually, offering parenting classes, job readiness training, peer mentoring, and wraparound support services.\n\n# # #", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:52:45Z"], ["https://kaptur.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressional-ukraine-caucus-statement-president-trumps-reported", "Congressional Ukraine Caucus Statement on President Trump's Reported Ukraine-Russia Peace Plan", "2025-11-22", "2025", "2025-11", "Democrat", "House", "OH", "Marcy Kaptur", "K000009", "kaptur.house.gov", "kaptur", "https://kaptur.house.gov/media-center/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, DC \u2014 Today, Co-Chairs of the bipartisan Congressional Ukraine Caucus, Representatives Marcy Kaptur (D-OH-09), Brian Fitzpatrick (R-PA-01), Mike Quigley (D-IL-05), along with Representative Don Bacon (R-NE-02) Chairman of the House Armed Services Subcommittee on Cyber, Information Technologies, and Innovation issued the following statement in response to the reported peace plan between Ukraine and Russia:\n\n\u201cThe proposed \u2018peace plan\u2019 for Ukraine appears to favor the interests of the aggressor \u2014 Dictator Vladimir Putin \u2014 over the sovereignty and security of a democratic Ukraine. That is unacceptable. This framework does not offer a genuine path to lasting peace, but instead, demands the surrender and capitulation of Ukraine to Russian aggression. It rewards Russia\u2019s unprovoked invasion, illegal seizure of Ukrainian territory, such as Crimea, and pressures Ukraine to limit its defense capabilities and abandon its aspirations for NATO membership.\n\nFurthermore, Russia\u2019s ambitions do not end at Ukraine\u2019s borders. Putin continues to seek broader influence in Europe. Accepting this proposed plan not only submits Ukraine\u2019s independence to Russian tyranny, but leaves all of Europe even more vulnerable to future Russian aggression. A responsible approach must support Ukraine\u2019s sovereignty, strengthen its defense, and hold Russia accountable for its actions in coordination with our NATO and European Allies.\n\nReports indicate the plan was developed primarily by US and Russian officials, with limited to no consultation from Kyiv or key European partners. Allies have rightly rejected the proposal, describing it as a framework to reward aggression rather than defending Ukrainian freedom and securing peace through strength.\n\nThe Administration\u2019s backing of this plan, raises serious concerns. As Members of the Free World, united across political lines, we call for decisive and principled action:\n\nReject any framework that requires Ukraine surrender further territory or cede legal authority over its sovereign land.\n\nMaintain and strengthen sanctions on Russia until it fully withdraws and makes reparations.\n\nEnsure Ukraine is a full, equal partner in any, and all, negotiations \u2014 not a passive recipient of Moscow-dictated terms.\n\nProvide robust, enforceable security guarantees that deter further aggression.\n\nCoordinate closely with NATO and European allies to uphold international norms and prevent renewed conflict in Europe.\n\nThe path to lasting peace must be rooted in justice and the sovereignty of Ukraine\u2019s people. History is unambiguous: appeasing aggression does not end conflict, it enables its expansion. That warning echoes especially loud today on Holodomor Remembrance Day, during which the world commemorates the millions of Ukrainians murdered in the man-made, genocidal famines orchestrated by Moscow from 1932-1933. Allowing Russia to reclaim authority over Ukraine today would ignore that history and reopen the door to the same oppression Ukrainians have fought for generations to overcome.\n\nAccepting this proposal as it is being reported would undermine European and NATO security, weaken Ukraine\u2019s ability to defend itself, and fail to address Russian aggression. The international community must remain firm in supporting Ukraine, upholding the principles of territorial integrity and self-determination, and rejecting any plan that rewards an aggressor. Lasting peace comes not from conceding to aggression, but from the strength and unity of free nations that refuse to bow to it.\u201d\n\n# # #", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:52:45Z"], ["https://beatty.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/beatty-reintroduces-bipartisan-bill-to-educate-first-time-homebuyers-and-promote-housing-affordability", "Beatty Reintroduces Bipartisan Bill to Educate First Time Homebuyers and Promote Housing Affordability", "2025-11-21", "2025", "2025-11", "Democrat", "House", "OH", "Joyce Beatty", "B001281", "beatty.house.gov", "beatty", "https://beatty.house.gov/media-center/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON D.C. \u2013 U.S. Congresswoman Joyce Beatty (D-OH-03) and Congressman Mike Carey (R-OH-15) recently reintroduced the Housing Financial Literacy Act of 2025, H.R.6125, legislation aimed at financially educating families purchasing their first home. Specifically, the bill would give first-time homebuyers who complete a Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD)-certified counseling course a discount of 25 basis points (0.25%) on their Federal Housing Administration (FHA) mortgage insurance premium.\n\n\u201cPurchasing a home is one of the most consequential\u2014and complex\u2014financial decisions Americans will make in their lifetimes,\u201d said Congresswoman Beatty. \u201cThat\u2019s why it\u2019s integral that first-time homebuyers develop key financial skills before committing to a mortgage that will affect their household finances for decades. This bipartisan, commonsense bill promotes housing affordability and incentivizes homebuyers to educate themselves and prepare for the financial realities of owning a home.\u201d\n\n\u201cI am proud to join Rep. Beatty on this bipartisan legislation to provide more educational resources for first-time homebuyers. Improved financial literacy paired with a deduction on an insurance premium will not only help bring the price of home ownership down, it will also lower the default rate and reduce the frequency of late payments. Home ownership is an important pillar of the American Dream, and increased financial literacy will help Ohioans and Americans across the country fulfill it,\u201d Rep. Carey said.\n\nStudies confirm that homebuyers who receive pre-purchase housing counseling are nearly one-third less likely to fall behind on their mortgage and thereby face a reduced risk of foreclosure.\n\nAs Co-Chair of the bipartisan Financial Literacy and Wealth Creation Caucus, Congresswoman Beatty has championed financial literacy efforts throughout her tenure in Congress. She continues to work across the aisle to promote initiatives that equip the next generation \u2013 and all Americans \u2013 with the financial skills and knowledge they need to succeed and thrive. Additionally, as a proud member of the House Committee on Financial Services, Congresswoman Beatty advocates for housing solutions that increase the supply of affordable housing and ensure that all American families can realize the dream of homeownership.\n\nReps. Beatty and Carey were joined by Reps. Alma S. Adams (NC-12), Sanford D. Bishop (GA-02), Andr\u00e9 Carson (IN-07), Ed Case (HI-01), Yvette D. Clarke (NY-09), Emanuel Cleaver (MO-05), Steve Cohen (TN-09), Angie Craig (MN-02), Donald G. Davis (NC-01), Dwight Evans (PA-03), Cleo Fields (LA-06), Jahana Hayes (CT-05), Henry C. \u201cHank\u201d Johnson (GA-04), Julie Johnson (TX-32), Robin L. Kelly (IL-02), Raja Krishnamoorthi (IL-08), John W. Mannion (NY-22), Sarah McBride (DE-At Large), Gregory W. Meeks (NY-05), Gwen Moore (WI-04), Kevin Mullin (CA-15), Eleanor Holmes Norton (DC-At Large), David Scott (GA-13), Adam Smith (WA-09), Haley Stevens (MI-11), Shri Thanedar (MI-13), Bennie G. Thompson (MS-02), and Jill N. Tokuda (HI-02) in introducing H.R. 6125.\n\nThe full bill text can be found HERE.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:52:45Z"], ["https://kaptur.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/kaptur-latta-introduce-bipartisan-legislation-rename-us-navy-vessel", "Kaptur, Latta Introduce Bipartisan Legislation to Rename US Navy Vessel in Honor of Rear Admiral Alene B. Duerk", "2025-11-20", "2025", "2025-11", "Democrat", "House", "OH", "Marcy Kaptur", "K000009", "kaptur.house.gov", "kaptur", "https://kaptur.house.gov/media-center/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, DC \u2013 Today, Congresswoman Marcy Kaptur (OH-09) and Congressman Bob Latta (OH-05) introduced the bipartisan Rear Admiral Alene Duerk Ship Renaming Act of 2025, legislation to honor one of Northwest Ohio\u2019s most distinguished trailblazers in military history, Rear Admiral Alene Bertha Duerk, the first woman in United States Navy history to achieve Flag Rank, achieving the rank of Rear Admiral.\n\nRear Admiral Duerk, born in Defiance, Ohio, and raised in Holgate, Ohio charted a path of extraordinary service and groundbreaking leadership over her 32-year naval career. After graduating from the Toledo Hospital School of Nursing in 1941, she entered the Navy Nurse Corps during World War II, caring for wounded service members at Naval Medical Center Portsmouth and later treating newly-liberated American prisoners of war aboard the USS Benevolence in the Pacific.\n\nHer service continued during the Korean War as a nursing instructor, and in 1970, she was appointed Director of the Navy Nurse Corps. In 1972, she shattered a historic barrier, becoming the first woman in Navy history to attain Flag Rank.\n\n\u201cRear Admiral Alene Duerk embodied the highest ideals of service, sacrifice, and patriotism,\u201d said Congresswoman Marcy Kaptur (OH-09). \u201cHer courage when treating servicemembers, steadfast advocacy for improved medical care and fair treatment for those in uniform, and her pioneering leadership opened doors for generations of women who followed. It is long past time that the United States Navy honor her trailblazing legacy by naming a naval vessel in her memory.\u201d\n\nCongressman Latta, who represents the region where Admiral Duerk was raised, expressed his strong support: \"Rear Admiral Alene Bertha Duerk, the first woman to achieve the rank of Rear Admiral in the US Navy, deserves to be honored for breaking barriers and paving the way for future generations of men and women in uniform,\" said Congressman Bob Latta (OH-05). \"More than a hometown hero, she continues to inspire us through her service and sacrifice, and naming a vessel in her honor will ensure her legacy is remembered for years to come. I am proud to co-lead this bill with Congresswoman Kaptur and work together to honor Admiral Duerk's groundbreaking legacy.\"\n\nThroughout her career, Admiral Duerk championed better medical care for service members, advocated for equitable pay, and pushed for expanded opportunities for women across the armed forces. Even in retirement, she continued her life of service, teaching English to Vietnamese immigrants and volunteering with organizations such as Meals on Wheels.\n\nIn August Congresswoman Kaptur joined Representative Tim Kennedy (NY-26) in sending a letter to the Secretary of the Navy asking to rename a vessel in her honor, and in September, sponsored an amendment to this year\u2019s National Defense Authorization Act alongside Congressman Latta, Congressman Kennedy, and Congressman Dave Taylor (OH-02). This new bipartisan legislation continues this effort to honor Rear Admiral Duerk, and directs the Navy to rename a naval vessel in her honor, ensuring that her contributions are permanently recognized in the service branch she helped shape.\n\nA full copy of the bill text can be found by clicking here. A link to Congresswoman Kaptur\u2019s floor remarks about Admiral Duerk from June can be found here.\n\n# # #", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:52:45Z"], ["https://sykes.house.gov/media/press-releases/reps-sykes-co-leads-bipartisan-bill-to-restore-the-ohio-river", "Reps. Sykes Co-Leads Bipartisan Bill to Restore the Ohio River", "2025-11-19", "2025", "2025-11", "Democrat", "House", "OH", "Emilia Strong Sykes", "S001223", "sykes.house.gov", "sykes", "https://sykes.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2014 U.S. Representative Emilia Sykes (OH-13) joined a bipartisan group of regional leaders in introducing the Ohio River Restoration Program Act, a comprehensive effort to secure the first-ever dedicated federal funding for the Ohio River Basin. Rep. Sykes co-led the legislation alongside Reps. Morgan McGarvey (KY-03), Erin Houchin (IN-09), Chris Deluzio (PA-17), Mike Rulli (OH-06), and Mark Messmer (IN-08).\n\nThe bipartisan coalition of members represents districts throughout the Ohio River Basin, which spans 55 congressional districts across 15 states. The Ohio River serves as a source of drinking water for more than 25 million Americans, and its ecosystem is vital to local economies and industries, generating more than 500,000 jobs and $21 billion in wages.\n\nNationwide, more than a third of the United States\u2019 waterborne commerce travels through the Ohio River \u2013 $43 billion in commodities annually \u2013 yet the Ohio River is still the nation\u2019s largest body of water without any dedicated federal funding. The bill would dedicate up to $350 million in federal investments to the large-scale restoration of the Ohio River Basin, using initiatives similar to the Great Lakes Restoration Initiative, which resulted in more than $3 in return on every federal dollar invested in the program.\n\n\u201cMy district is home to both the Lake Erie and Ohio River watersheds. We know how vital clean water is for our communities, our economy, and our health,\u201d said Rep. Sykes. \u201cI am proud to co-lead the Ohio River Restoration Program Act, which will provide resources to restore water infrastructure while protecting the environment. This legislation ensures the Ohio River remains a thriving resource for generations to come.\u201d\n\n\u201cThe Ohio River is an economic engine that powers industries and supports billions in nationwide commerce. At home in the River City, it is our lifeblood. And yet, our local communities who rely on it most still have not received any dedicated federal funding to properly protect and restore this critical resource. The Ohio River has been overlooked for far too long, and it is time for it to get the attention and investment it deserves,\u201d said Rep. McGarvey.\n\n\u201cThe Ohio River is critical to our way of life in Southern Indiana. It strengthens our economy, supports our farmers and manufacturers, and provides drinking water for millions of families. Communities along the Ohio have invested in protecting this resource for generations, and it is time for the federal government to become a real partner in those efforts,\u201d said Rep. Houchin. \u201cI am proud to coauthor this bipartisan bill that will help restore the river, protect public health, and strengthen the economic future of the entire region.\u201d\n\n\u201cThe Ohio River is a lifeline for so many communities in Pennsylvania\u2019s 17th Congressional District. From drinking water, to commerce and recreation, our prosperity relies on a clean and healthy Ohio River. There is a lot of good work happening to improve the resilience of our river, but not enough funding to match the need. I am proud to join my colleagues in introducing the Ohio River Restoration Program Act to dedicate resources to help protect and restore the Ohio River for generations to come,\u201d said Rep. Deluzio.\n\n\u201cI am proud to co-lead this vital legislation and thank Rep. McGarvey for introducing it. For generations, the Ohio River has served as the backbone of Ohio\u2019s 6th Congressional District and an economic lifeline for our nation. This restoration program is a smart investment that will restore abundant fish and wildlife while keeping the river clean and healthy for future generations,\u201d said Rep. Rulli.\n\n\u201cThe Ohio River Basin is essential to the health of thousands of Hoosier residents and to the vitality of southern Indiana\u2019s agricultural and industrial communities. The conservation network in Indiana\u2019s 8th Congressional District has worked tirelessly to preserve access to recreation and reinforce existing ecosystems. I am proud to bolster their efforts by supporting the Ohio River Basin Restoration Program Act,\u201d said Rep. Messmer.\n\nThe Ohio River Restoration Program Act would create a federal office within the Environmental Protection Agency to guide a restoration plan in coordination with states, local governments, interstate compact agencies, tribal nations, and non-governmental organizations that includes:\n\nhabitat restoration, farm conservation, and invasive species control and management;\n\npollution prevention and clean water protection;\n\nrobust monitoring, data collection, and evaluation;\n\nlocal workforce development and training for jobs in water protection and restoration;\n\ninput from the local public to hold elected officials accountable and ensure that residents have a seat at the table in restoration decisions;\n\nguaranteed clean, safe, and affordable water for local homeowners regardless of economic status; and\n\ninvestments in local communities at particular risk of extreme storms, flooding, and pollution.\n\nRep. Sykes\u2019 leadership on this bill reflects her longstanding support for clean water infrastructure and environmental rehabilitation across Ohio\u2019s 13th Congressional District and the broader Ohio River Basin. She serves on the Ohio River Basin Caucus and the Great Lakes Task Force, and she co-sponsored this legislation last Congress.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:52:45Z"], ["https://shontelbrown.house.gov/media/press-releases/congresswoman-brown-votes-force-trump-release-epstein-files", "Congresswoman Brown Votes to Force Trump to Release the Epstein Files", "2025-11-18", "2025", "2025-11", "Democrat", "House", "OH", "Shontel M. Brown", "B001313", "shontelbrown.house.gov", "shontelbrown", "https://shontelbrown.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, DC \u2014 Congresswoman Shontel Brown (OH-11) voted for legislation to force President Trump to release the Epstein Files. The Epstein Files Transparency Act (H.R. 4405) requires the Department of Justice to publish, in a searchable format, all unclassified records, documents, communications, and investigative materials in DOJ\u2019s possession related to the investigation and prosecution of Jeffrey Epstein. The legislation includes measures to protect the privacy of survivors and ensure their personal information is redacted.\n\nBrown signed the discharge petition to require the bill to receive a vote in the House.\n\nThe vote follows months of delays from the Trump Administration and Republican leadership in Congress. The Epstein Files Transparency Act only came to the floor after 218 members signed the discharge petition in support of the bill, which forced Republican Speaker of the House Mike Johnson to bring it to the floor for a vote.\n\nCongresswoman Brown Releases the Following Statement\n\n\u201cMy vote to release the Epstein files is about justice for the survivors and accountability for the perpetrators and enablers. In Trump and Epstein\u2019s America the powerful, wealthy, and well-connected are unchecked and unaccountable \u2013 and that must end.\n\n\u201cMake no mistake, President Trump spent all last year talking nonstop about releasing these files. But this year, Trump has fought to conceal the Epstein Files and with each new release we can see why \u2013 he is a man with a lot to hide. As president, he\u2019s hiding the files \u2014 pressuring members to stay off the discharge petition and creating distraction after distraction. And it\u2019s no mystery why. The latest emails from the Epstein estate make one thing clear: Trump knew about Epstein\u2019s abuse and even spent hours alone with his victims.\n\n\u201cAnd that gets to the bigger picture: when the choice is between doing what\u2019s right for the American people and doing what\u2019s right for Donald Trump, Trump chooses Trump every single time. He\u2019ll spend endless energy protecting himself and the wealthy elites around him, but he won\u2019t lift a finger to lower people\u2019s bills, make life more affordable, or help families who are struggling.\n\n\u201cThe American people deserve the truth. Woe betide Senate Republicans who block this bill and block the release of the files. End the coverup, end the abuse of power, and release the files.\u201d\n\nOn Monday, Congresswoman Brown spoke on the House floor, calling out President Trump\u2019s misguided priorities, from the Epstein files to tax giveaways and pardons.\n\nBrown said, \u201che\u2019s working for you if you\u2019re wealthy, well-connected and don\u2019t want the Epstein files to see the light of day. But if you\u2019re struggling to afford rent or groceries? If premiums are breaking your budget? He\u2019s not working for you.\u201d\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:52:45Z"], ["https://sykes.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-sykes-takes-action-to-protect-ohio-families-facing-health-care-crisis", "Rep. Sykes Takes Action to Protect Ohio Families Facing Health Care Crisis", "2025-11-18", "2025", "2025-11", "Democrat", "House", "OH", "Emilia Strong Sykes", "S001223", "sykes.house.gov", "sykes", "https://sykes.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2014 U.S. Representative Emilia Sykes (OH-13) is raising the alarm about rising health care costs and uncertainty for families in her district. Millions of Americans who rely on the Affordable Care Act (ACA) enhanced premium tax credits (ePTCs) are at risk, and local insurance changes and federal policies are making the situation worse. Rep. Sykes is taking action, signing onto a bipartisan letter urging Senate leadership to include House members in negotiations on expiring tax credits and supporting a discharge petition to advance stalled legislation that would extend ACA enhanced premium tax credits for three years.\n\n\u201cOhio families cannot wait while Congress debates the future of their health coverage,\u201d said Rep. Sykes. \u201cWe need immediate action to extend these critical tax credits so families can afford the care they need.\u201d\n\nMore than 12,000 people in OH-13 are at risk of losing coverage. Of the 32,000 enrolled in ACA plans, 90 percent rely on these tax credits. Without them, premiums will rise sharply, increasing on average by $720 per year, a 42 percent jump.\n\nWith open enrollment underway, families are already getting renewal notices. Rising costs and confusion could push people out of coverage, which would also drive-up premiums for everyone. Time is critical: Congress must act now to extend ePTCs and prevent families from losing health insurance.\n\nAdditionally, a Trump-era ACA Marketplace rule could make matters even worse, raising premiums, increasing out-of-pocket costs, requiring new re-enrollment fees for low-income workers, and creating new barriers to enrollment. Rep. Sykes has introduced legislation to repeal this rule and prevent similar policies.\n\nLocally, AultCare is discontinuing some individual, family, and small-employer plans in 2025, affecting roughly 6,000 members, citing uncertainty over the ACA tax credits. Other plans, including Medicare Advantage and commercial group plans, will not be impacted.\n\nFederal legislation passed earlier this year has also affected the district. H.R. 1, or \u201cThe Big Ugly Bill,\u201d put more than 17,000 residents at risk of losing Medicaid coverage, cut an estimated $19 million in funding for local hospitals, and threatens the jobs of roughly 30,000 people in the local health care system.\n\nTo protect coverage for her constituents, Rep. Sykes signed onto a bipartisan letter urging Senate leadership to include House members in negotiations on ACA premium tax credits and signed a discharge petition to advance stalled legislation.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:52:45Z"], ["https://sykes.house.gov/media/press-releases/repsykes-votes-to-give-survivors-justice-supports-release-of-epstein-files", "Rep. Sykes Votes to Give Survivors Justice, Supports Release of Epstein Files", "2025-11-18", "2025", "2025-11", "Democrat", "House", "OH", "Emilia Strong Sykes", "S001223", "sykes.house.gov", "sykes", "https://sykes.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2014 U.S. Representative Emilia Sykes (OH-13) voted today in support of the bipartisan Epstein Files Transparency Act, a resolution that will release government records related to Jeffrey Epstein and Ghislaine Maxwell. She is a cosponsor of the bill and signed the discharge petition that brought it to a vote in the U.S. House of Representatives. Rep. Sykes says this vote is about standing with survivors, holding powerful interests accountable, and making sure survivors\u2019 voices are finally heard.\n\n\u201cI voted yes today because survivors deserve the truth and to know that their voices matter,\u201d said Rep. Sykes. \u201cThis vote is a step toward accountability, and I will keep working to make sure these records are fully and responsibly released. Powerful men have long used their connections to avoid accountability. This is the beginning of the end of these harmful tactics.\u201d\n\nAbout the Resolution\n\nThe bipartisan Epstein Files Transparency Act directs the Attorney General to release government records related to Jeffrey Epstein and Ghislaine Maxwell. These records include flight logs, financial ties, civil settlements, plea deals, and Department of Justice communications about investigations and charging decisions. The resolution protects sensitive information such as abuse survivors\u2019 identities and ongoing investigations, but ensures records cannot be withheld for embarrassment, reputational harm, or political reasons.\n\nRep. Sykes has long supported efforts to make these records public. She also voted against previous resolutions that were non-binding and did not guarantee full disclosure.\n\nThe discharge petition she signed allowed the U.S. House of Representatives to bypass leadership and bring the vote to the floor, ensuring that transparency and accountability could move forward without delay.\n\nLooking Ahead\n\nWith today\u2019s vote, Rep. Sykes will continue working with her colleagues, the House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform, and relevant agencies to ensure the records are released responsibly. She is committed to protecting survivors\u2019 privacy while making sure the public has access to critical information. Rep. Sykes also calls on the Senate to act quickly so that these records can be fully released, and survivors can see justice done.\n\nRep. Sykes will continue fighting for transparency and justice so that survivors\u2019 voices are heard and those involved are held accountable.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:52:45Z"], ["https://beatty.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/beatty-joins-bipartisan-push-to-boost-affordable-housing-and-community-investment", "Beatty Joins Bipartisan Push to  Boost Affordable Housing and Community Investment", "2025-11-13", "2025", "2025-11", "Democrat", "House", "OH", "Joyce Beatty", "B001281", "beatty.house.gov", "beatty", "https://beatty.house.gov/media-center/press-releases", "scraper", "Last week, Congresswoman Joyce Beatty (OH-03) joined Reps. Mike Lawler (NY-17) and Young Kim (CA-40) in introducing the Community Investment and Prosperity Act, a bipartisan bill to expand banks\u2019 ability to make community investments that promote public welfare and local economic development.\n\nUnder current law, national banks and state member banks can invest up to 15% of their capital and surplus in projects that benefit the public good, such as affordable housing, small business lending, and community revitalization. The Community Investment and Prosperity Act would increase that cap to 20%, empowering banks to direct more private capital into projects that strengthen local economies and create opportunities for families and small businesses.\n\n\u201cFamilies across America are facing a housing crisis that demands creative, bipartisan solutions,\u201d said Congresswoman Beatty. \u201cThis commonsense legislation will free up capital for historic investments in affordable housing, small businesses, and community development, delivering results for hardworking families.\u201d\n\n\u201cCommunity investment is essential to revitalizing neighborhoods, expanding affordable housing, and supporting small businesses. By giving banks the flexibility to responsibly invest more in the communities they serve, this bill helps drive economic growth and improves quality of life, particularly in areas that need it most,\u201d said Congressman Lawler.\n\n\u201cWhen we give our banks the tools they need to invest in our communities, Main Street wins,\u201d said Congresswoman Kim. \u201cThe Community Investment and Prosperity Act will help banks invest more in affordable housing and community development projects that create jobs and opportunity. I\u2019m proud to join Rep. Lawler is leading this commonsense effort to strengthen our neighborhoods, empower community partners, and make the dream of homeownership more attainable for hardworking families.\u201d\n\n\u201cWe appreciate the leadership of Congressman Lawler, Congresswoman Beatty, and Congresswoman Kim that will expand needed investments in affordable housing and community development projects,\u201d said Robert Likes, President, KeyBank Community Development Lending and Investment, Affordable Housing. \u201cWe are strong supporters of this bipartisan effort that will help neighborhoods across America grow and thrive, and make housing more affordable.\u201d\n\n\u201cWe thank Rep. Lawler and Rep. Beatty for their work introducing legislation that would increase the discretionary Public Welfare Investments cap from 15 to 20 percent. This commonsense solution would allow banks nearing the cap to increase their investments in projects that support low- and moderate-income communities, including affordable housing, dependent on approval from their primary regulator that preserves existing safeguards in the system,\u201d said Erik Rust, SVP and Head of Government Affairs, Bank Policy Institute.\n\n\u201cBanks are vital partners in building affordable housing and optimizing the Low-Income Housing Tax Credit and New Markets Tax Credit\u2019s impact on communities through equity investments. Raising the amount of public welfare investments that banks regulated by the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency (OCC) and the Federal Reserve can make will mean more potential for investments in affordable housing and economic development,\u201d said Sarah Brundage, President and CEO of the National Association of Affordable Housing Lenders. \u201cWe applaud Congressmembers Lawler and Kim for introducing this commonsense, no cost proposal and we strongly urge Congress to enact it immediately as part of a bipartisan housing package.\u201d\n\nThis legislation was introduced as companion legislation to a bipartisan bill led by Senators Tim Scott (R-SC) and Lisa Blunt Rochester (D-DE), which was included in S. 2651, the ROAD to Housing Act, and has been endorsed by the American Banking Association, the Bank Policy Institute, KeyBank, the Affordable Housing Tax Credit Coalition, and the National Association of Affordable Housing Lenders.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:52:45Z"], ["https://beatty.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congresswoman-beatty-s-statement-on-the-house-budget-vote-deepening-the-republican-health-care-crisis", "Congresswoman Beatty\u2019s Statement on the House Budget Vote Deepening the Republican Health Care Crisis", "2025-11-12", "2025", "2025-11", "Democrat", "House", "OH", "Joyce Beatty", "B001281", "beatty.house.gov", "beatty", "https://beatty.house.gov/media-center/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 U.S. Congresswoman Joyce Beatty (OH-03) released the following statement after the House passed a budget that fails to protect affordable health care for everyday Americans and their families:\n\n\u201cTonight\u2019s vote drives the country deeper into a crisis that Republicans created with their refusal to extend health care tax credits for working Americans. The Republican shutdown suffering we see now, and the health care crisis barreling toward us, lies squarely with the party in power \u2014 Republicans!\"\n\n\u201cLet\u2019s be clear: Donald Trump and his rubber-stamp Republicans have never cared about federal workers, SNAP, or health care. This shutdown has been their vehicle to accelerate the devastation of Project 2025 \u2014 a plan they\u2019ve been implementing since day one. Now, more than 200,000 federal workers have already been fired or forced out since the Trump administration began. And they also called for the historic SNAP and Medicaid cuts embedded in Project 2025. The only reason Trump and his sycophants haven\u2019t gone further is because Congressional Democrats and engaged Americans have pushed back at every turn.\"\n\n\u201cTonight, 216 Republicans chose to kick millions of Americans off their health care, threatening tens of thousands of lives because they will be uninsured. In my district, 15,000 people will lose health coverage because Republicans refuse to extend the Affordable Care Act credits. Thirty-five thousand Ohio residents will see their costs rise if the credits expire.\"\n\n\u201cStatewide, more than 400,000 Ohioans will lose access to health care due to Trump\u2019s tax credit cuts and Medicaid reductions. That means less care, higher costs, and severe strain on our health care providers. If Republicans let the ACA tax credits expire, hospitals nationwide will lose $32 billion in provider payments in 2026, unpaid care will surge by another $8 billion, and Ohio hospitals will expect a 10 percent jump in uncompensated care.\"\n\n\u201cThis isn\u2019t just a moral catastrophe; it\u2019s an economic one. Everyone pays the price except Trump\u2019s rubber-stamp Republicans and their billionaire donors.\"\n\n\u201cI will continue to fight for affordable, accessible health care, and Democrats will not stop working to prevent cuts, lower costs, and save health care. We will continue the fight!\u201d\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:52:45Z"], ["https://kaptur.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/kaptur-gop-legislation-enriches-senators-sets-millions-americans-adrift", "Kaptur: GOP Legislation Enriches Senators, sets Millions of Americans Adrift With Looming Health Care Crisis", "2025-11-12", "2025", "2025-11", "Democrat", "House", "OH", "Marcy Kaptur", "K000009", "kaptur.house.gov", "kaptur", "https://kaptur.house.gov/media-center/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, DC \u2013 Today, Congresswoman Marcy Kaptur (OH-09) voted against the Senate Amendment to H.R. 5371 \u2013 Continuing Appropriations, Agriculture, Legislative Branch, Military Construction and Veterans Affairs. Upon her vote, Congresswoman Kaptur released the following statement decrying the corruption in the bill that would enrich Senators believed linked to the January 6 Insurrection plot, while failing to address the imminent health care crisis that will cause insurance rates to increase by 114% nationwide. Kaptur noted that for some Americans, health insurance rates are doubling and tripling.\n\n\u201cToday I voted to protect the health care of tens of thousands across Northwest Ohio, 500,000 Ohioans, and 15 million or more nationwide who are at risk of losing their health insurance. Not only will millions lose coverage, almost all Americans nationwide will see their insurance rates go up next year in dramatic fashion. I want to share some examples of these dangerous health care cost increases that could lead to tens of thousands of needless deaths in the decade to come.\n\n\u201cA constituent from Clyde, Ohio said \u2018I know that the food stamp shutdown is hurting Americans right now, but the high insurance prices will allow people to die by making health care unaffordable. It was terrible before the ACA. We will band together and feed our neighbors, but we aren\u2019t doctors. We need affordable health care.\u2019\n\n\u201cAnother citizen from Edon in Williams County shared how their medications have become so costly that they now have to seek out patient assistance programs. Their prescription insurance has increased by $119 a month, which is unmanageable on a fixed income.\n\n\u201cAccess to affordable quality health care is a human right but my Republican colleagues have made it their singular mission this year to destroy health care access.\n\n\u201cA Toledo resident told me their family cannot afford another \u2018crushing expense.\u2019 They said: \u2018Groceries cost more than twice what they did a few years ago. Childcare and rent are higher than ever. And now, unless Congress acts, health insurance premiums could DOUBLE. For a family like mine, that means an extra $100 per person, per month. Money we simply do not have. Please extend the ACA enhanced premium tax credits and protect working families. We need relief, not higher costs.\u2019\n\n\u201cAs I said on the House floor this evening, Congress should be acting to bring relief to these working families. Instead, what is the GOP majority in the Senate and House doing? Well, in the dead of night, eight Senate Republicans slipped into this bill a Payola for themselves \u2014 literally raking millions of dollars to themselves. This payola is called corruption.\n\n\u201cMillions of taxpayer dollars are slated for Senators Graham, Haggerty, Hawley, Sullivan, Tuberville, Johnson, Loomis, and Blackburn. Each is teed up to rake in a minimum of $500,000 or more related to their involvement in the January 6 insurrection. The American people want more affordable health insurance but these Senators and their House allies are lining their own pockets.\n\n\u201cI say, no more tax breaks to Billionaires and Millionaires. No Payola for US Senators. Working families are scraping the bottom of the barrel to buy groceries, and these senators are scraping the till.\n\n\u201cThis is what happens when power serves itself instead of The People. This isn\u2019t leadership \u2014 it\u2019s corruption disguised as legislation! Power corrupts, absolute power corrupts absolutely. Let\u2019s rid ourselves of this disgusting corruption.\u201d\n\n# # #", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:52:45Z"], ["https://shontelbrown.house.gov/media/press-releases/brown-costa-lead-letter-criticizing-trumps-argentina-beef-bailout-and-attack", "Brown, Costa Lead Letter Criticizing Trump\u2019s Argentina Beef Bailout and Attack on US Ranchers", "2025-11-12", "2025", "2025-11", "Democrat", "House", "OH", "Shontel M. Brown", "B001313", "shontelbrown.house.gov", "shontelbrown", "https://shontelbrown.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, DC \u2014 Congresswoman Shontel Brown (OH-11) and Congressman Jim Costa (CA-21) led a letter to the Trump Administration condemning the White House\u2019s proposed beef bailout for Argentina, market-disrupting actions, and continued attacks on domestic farmers and ranchers. Brown serves as Vice Ranking Member on the House Committee on Agriculture, Costa serves as Ranking Member on the Livestock, Dairy, and Poultry Subcommittee.\n\nThe Brown-Costa letter was signed by 52 members of the House of Representatives.\n\nThe members\u2019 letter highlights the Administration\u2019s pattern of economic mismanagement and misplaced priorities \u2014 bailing out Argentina\u2019s government while destabilizing American cattle markets and leaving U.S. producers to deal with higher input costs and drought. Recent comments from the President about importing more Argentine beef triggered multiple \u201climit down\u201d days in U.S. cattle futures, costing American ranchers millions.\n\nThe members write, \u201cThe past few weeks in the beef industry perfectly capture this Administration\u2019s approach to policy: make big claims, hurt American producers, inject volatility into the marketplace, and do nothing to lower prices for everyday Americans.\u201d\n\n\u201cFrom soy to beef, the Trump Administration continues to put Argentina\u2019s farmers and ranchers ahead of America\u2019s. First Trump sent $40 billion to bail out Argentina, enabling Argentinian farmers to sell soybeans to China and undermine American farmers. Now, he has delivered Argentina a Beef Bailout that is bad for American consumers, ranchers, and the country. The chaos, volatility, and meddling from the White House are rising costs and hurting our own producers. Our message is clear: the Trump Administration needs to focus on supporting American consumers and producers, not Argentina,\u201d said Congresswoman Brown.\n\n\u201cAmerica First, means America, not Argentina first,\u201d said Congressman Costa. \u201cAs Ranking Member of the Livestock, Dairy, and Poultry Subcommittee, I am proud to lead this letter with Vice Ranking Member Rep. Brown ensuring our farmers and ranchers voices are heard. I will continue to urge the Administration to reconsider such actions and instead focus on reducing trade barriers, protecting our domestic cattle herd from foreign animal diseases, and promoting domestic production.\u201d\n\nThe text of the letter is copied below:\n\nAmbassador Jamieson Greer\n\nU.S. Trade Representative\n\nOffice of the U.S. Trade Representative\n\n600 17th St., NW\n\nWashington, DC 20250\n\nDear Secretary Rollins and Ambassador Greer,\n\nIn recent weeks, the President\u2019s repeated statements about lowering U.S. beef prices by importing more beef from Argentina have destabilized U.S. cattle markets. These comments have contributed to multiple limit down days in the futures market, which are directly due to the President\u2019s insistence on dictating policy through social media. While this volatility may not concern the billionaires the President often prioritizes, it does have real consequences for ranchers who are bringing their animals to market. We write to you today to express our concerns.\n\nFarmers and ranchers weathered difficult years during the pandemic and have only recently begun to recover and recoup their losses. The market fundamentals are clear: cattle herds have been restricted because of drought and high supply costs[1], leading to U.S. cattle inventory hitting its lowest point in decades.[2] That limited supply, combined with strong consumer demand, has naturally led to higher beef prices. Consumer demand for beef in America remains high, and supply is low; this is basic economics. The path to rebuilding herds and stabilizing prices is straightforward; it requires time, sound policy, and partnership with producers to grow domestic supply. Responsible governance demands patience and collaboration, not impulsive tweets or one-off imports from nations led by the President\u2019s political allies.\n\nThe Administration\u2019s support for Argentinian beef is a blatant political attempt to prop up Argentina\u2019s extremist leader. This all comes on the heels of bailing out the Argentinian economy at the expense of U.S. farmers and ranchers and amid a government shutdown where the Administration is deliberately choosing to help foreign leaders while refusing to feed Americans at home. These actions have made it abundantly clear that the administration\u2019s priorities lie in helping other countries rather than feeding Americans or supporting American farmers and ranchers.\n\nThe President\u2019s approach is to undercut U.S. producers by importing enough beef to lower prices. This method will directly undermine American cattle producers, forcing more out of business and increasing our dependence on a foreign supply. In response to the President\u2019s remarks, on October 20th, the United States Cattlemen\u2019s Association commented in part, \u201cgovernment intervention is not needed in an industry that is already correcting in response to years of market pressure. Today\u2019s comments alone triggered an immediate reaction in the markets\u2014cattle futures dropped significantly. It\u2019s important to underscore: the current price of beef on grocery store shelves reflects the true, inflation-adjusted cost of raising cattle in America today. USCA supports affordable food prices for American families. But we do oppose policies or loopholes that manipulate the market to address a solution that will be solved through natural market behavior. This approach weakens our industry\u2019s foundation and undermines rural America.\u201d[3]\n\nAdditionally, the National Cattlemen\u2019s Beef Association said in response to the announcement, \u201cNCBA\u2019s family farmers and ranchers have numerous concerns with importing more Argentinian beef to lower prices for consumers. This plan only creates chaos at a critical time of the year for American cattle producers, while doing nothing to lower grocery store prices\u201d[4]. Argentina is our 8th largest import market for beef, quadrupling the imports based on 2024 numbers would move them up to 6th.[5] The administration\u2019s claim that this will lower beef prices is wrong; imports only provide roughly 18% of American beef consumption, and Argentina is a small portion of that.[6] The only thing that this has done is introduce uncertainty into the marketplace and cost American cattle producers money.\n\nThe past few weeks in the beef industry perfectly capture this Administration\u2019s approach to policy: make big claims, hurt American producers, inject volatility into the marketplace, and do nothing to lower prices for everyday Americans.\n\nThe Administration must ensure that any future actions reflect sound market principles, strengthen domestic production, and support the farmers and ranchers who feed this nation. Farm groups have publicly expressed their concern with the approach, with the American Farm Bureau urging \u201cthe Administration to carefully consider the damage importing more beef and cattle from other countries will have as cattle farmers decide whether to invest in rebuilding America's herds. Just the mention of beef imports created more instability and uncertainty for America\u2019s farmers. Flooding markets with foreign-grown beef could affect our nation\u2019s ability to be food independent in the long term.\u201d[7]\n\nThe Administration should not stand with foreign governments and against America\u2019s cattle producers, and make clear that U.S. agriculture trade policy will not be short-sighted political calculations.\n\n[SIGNATURES]", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:52:45Z"], ["https://shontelbrown.house.gov/media/press-releases/brown-votes-against-republican-spending-bill-calls-legislation-cancel-health", "Brown Votes Against Republican Spending Bill, Calls for Legislation to Cancel Health Care Cuts", "2025-11-12", "2025", "2025-11", "Democrat", "House", "OH", "Shontel M. Brown", "B001313", "shontelbrown.house.gov", "shontelbrown", "https://shontelbrown.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, DC \u2014 Congresswoman Shontel Brown (OH-11) voted against the government funding bill brought to the floor by Republican Speaker of the House Mike Johnson on Wednesday. The bill funds the government through January 30, 2026, with no legislative action to extend Affordable Care Act Enhanced Premium Tax Credits, before those credits expire at the end of the year. Last night, the Republican-led House Rules Committee rejected a Democratic amendment to extend ACA tax credits for three years.\n\nThe legislation also includes a provision to provide direct cash payments of $500,000 or more to Republican Senators who were investigated for their actions related to the attack on the US Capitol on January 6, 2021.\n\nBecause of cuts to the Affordable Care Act, over 50,000 people in Cuyahoga County will see significant price increases for their ACA health care coverage for 2026 plans. This summer, President Trump also signed the largest cuts to Medicaid in history, jeopardizing the health care coverage of over 40,000 people represented by Brown in OH-11. In Cuyahoga County approximately 35,000 Ohioans will be subject to new Medicaid work requirements beginning next year.\n\nCongresswoman Brown releases the following statement:\n\n\u201cOhio cannot afford Trump\u2019s agenda. While people suffer, Trump and his MAGA allies are focused on bailouts, ballrooms, and tax cuts for the wealthy. This Republican spending bill is a bad deal for Northeast Ohio: it locks in Trump\u2019s health care cuts that will create catastrophic price increases and cause people to lose coverage.\n\n\u201cPresident Trump\u2019s actions during this government shutdown have been shameful. He illegally withheld SNAP benefits, cancelled thousands of flights, and attempted to fire thousands of workers.\n\n\u201cFor the past seven weeks I have heard a resounding message from Northeast Ohio: protect our health care. With this vote, I stand shoulder to shoulder with the people I represent. The numbers are staggering: 38,000 people in my district alone will see huge price increases for their insurance coverage. America\u2019s health care crisis is here \u2013 and Congress must act.\n\n\u201cTrump\u2019s greed and Republican cuts are breaking health care in America. There is still time for President Trump and Republicans in Congress to do the right thing, listen to the people, and keep health care affordable.\u201d\n\nAmerica\u2019s Health Care Crisis: What\u2019s at Stake in Northeast Ohio\n\nACA Plan Price Increases:\n\nIf ACA Enhanced Premium tax credits expire, ACA marketplace premiums will increase on average by $705 per year for individuals, with families seeing cost increases in the thousands.\n\nAccording to this calculator, a family of four in Cleveland with a household income of $56,000 a year (the median income in OH-11) would see their premiums increase by $2,400 in 2026, a 100% increase.\n\nHow Many People Will Pay More Due to ACA Cuts:\n\nApproximately 513,517 Ohioans benefit from ACA Enhanced Premium Tax Credits\n\nThat includes 56,800 people in Cuyahoga County and 38,000 people represented by Congresswoman Brown in OH-11\n\nMedicaid Cuts Starting in 2026:\n\nThe Republican Budget Bill signed in July included over $1 trillion in health care cuts, including the largest cuts to Medicaid in history.\n\nAccording to analysis from the Joint Economic Committee, over 25,000 people in OH-11 will lose Medicaid coverage and over 17,000 will lose ACA coverage due to Republican health care cuts.\n\nIn Cuyahoga County, approximately 35,000 people could lose Medicaid coverage.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:52:45Z"], ["https://sykes.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-sykes-opposes-government-funding-bill-that-fails-ohio-families", "Rep. Sykes Opposes Government Funding Bill That Fails Ohio Families", "2025-11-12", "2025", "2025-11", "Democrat", "House", "OH", "Emilia Strong Sykes", "S001223", "sykes.house.gov", "sykes", "https://sykes.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Shutdown ends, but Ohio families still face higher costs and lost access to affordable health care\n\nWASHINGTON, D.C. \u2014 U.S. Representative Emilia Sykes (OH-13) voted \u2018No\u2019 on the government funding bill, citing the deal\u2019s failure to lower costs or protect Americans\u2019 access to affordable health care.\n\n\u201cI was clear: any deal that would earn my support needs to lower costs and keep healthcare accessible and affordable,\u201d said Rep. Sykes. \u201cOur local economy relies on healthcare not only for our well-being, but also for jobs and economic growth. This deal does not get us there and leaves thousands of my constituents without healthcare and spending more money to live than they ever have. I will continue to fight to deliver the relief that families in Ohio\u2019s 13th District and across the country deserve.\u201d\n\nRep. Sykes has consistently recognized the toll the shutdown has taken on Ohioans and families nationwide.\n\n\u201cEvery day, I hear from Ohioans who are struggling to make ends meet, who are worried about losing their health care, or who are unsure when their next paycheck will come,\u201d Rep. Sykes said. \u201cI share their frustration and pain \u2014 and I am fighting to make sure they are not forgotten in Washington. While this so-called deal ends the shutdown, it fails to address the challenges that matter most to families in Ohio and across the country. My focus remains on solutions that put people first \u2014 lowering health care costs, improving affordability, and creating good-paying jobs.\u201d\n\nStanding Up for Ohio Families During the Shutdown\n\nRep. Sykes never stopped working for the people of Ohio\u2019s 13th District during the government shutdown. She continued delivering for her constituents, providing direct assistance, and communicating openly with Ohioans about the situation in Washington.\n\nShe held Telephone Town Halls, both individually and with fellow Ohio House Democrats, to answer questions and share updates. She hosted press conferences in the district, participated in press events in Washington, and completed dozens of interviews to keep the public informed about the shutdown\u2019s impact and the path forward.\n\nHer district and Washington, D.C. staff continued serving constituents without interruption, answering phone calls, meeting with residents, providing guidance on benefits and services, and supporting her legislative and communications priorities throughout the shutdown.\n\nRep. Sykes visited TSA workers and air traffic controllers at Akron-Canton Airport, joined volunteers with the Akron-Canton Regional Foodbank to distribute food to federal workers, and attended three Veterans Day events to honor those who served. She also met with the National Military Families Association to understand firsthand how the shutdown affected service members and their families.\n\nDelivering Results Through Legislative Action\n\nRep. Sykes worked throughout the shutdown to protect Ohioans from harmful effects and maintain critical services:\n\nIntroduced the bipartisan Pay Our Military Act to ensure service members continued to receive pay during a shutdown. House Democrats attempted to pass this legislation by unanimous consent, but Republicans refused to allow a vote.\n\nIntroduced the Feed Our Families Act to establish a three-month reserve of Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, or SNAP, funding to prevent families from going hungry during funding lapses.\n\nIntroduced the bipartisan Guaranteed Uninterrupted Access to Retiree Disbursements (GUARD) Act to keep the Social Security Administration fully operational during shutdowns.\n\nCosponsored the Federal Firefighter Paycheck Protect Act to ensure all federal wildland firefighters and firefighters on federal properties continued to receive pay and were protected from workforce reductions.\n\nCosponsored the Resolution to Keep Americans Fed During Government Shutdown that called on the Trump Administration to fully fund SNAP benefits by using the program\u2019s contingency funds and interchange authority.\n\nRep. Sykes also led and cosigned several letters advocating for benefits and services for Ohio families:\n\nShe led a letter to Ohio Attorney General Dave Yost urging protection of SNAP benefits.\n\nShe cosigned a letter to Governor Mike DeWine regarding continuity of WIC services.\n\nShe cosigned a letter to the Office of Management and Budget urging back pay for furloughed federal employees.\n\nShe joined the Democratic Women\u2019s Caucus letter to House Speaker Mike Johnson on the health care crisis and shutdown impacts.\n\nShe cosigned a letter to U.S. Department of Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins advocating for protections for the SNAP contingency fund.\n\nRep. Sykes will continue working in Washington to deliver results and solutions that matter to families in Ohio\u2019s 13th Congressional District.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:52:45Z"], ["https://beatty.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/ahead-of-veterans-day-beatty-honors-buffalo-soldiers-and-black-veterans", "Ahead of Veterans Day, Beatty Honors  Buffalo Soldiers and Black Veterans", "2025-11-10", "2025", "2025-11", "Democrat", "House", "OH", "Joyce Beatty", "B001281", "beatty.house.gov", "beatty", "https://beatty.house.gov/media-center/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON D.C. \u2013 Today, U.S. Congresswoman Joyce Beatty (OH-03), Chair Emerita of the Congressional Black Caucus introduced two resolutions ahead of Veterans Day to honor the service and sacrifice of America\u2019s Black veterans, past and present. The first resolution, H.Res.862, calls for a commemorative postage stamp recognizing the \u201cBuffalo Soldiers,\u201d the all-Black regiments of formerly enslaved people, freedmen, and Civil War soldiers who helped rebuild the nation and served with distinction for nearly 90 years. Beatty was joined by Senator Lisa Blunt Rochester (D-DE) in a second resolution, H.Con.Res.59, honoring all Black veterans across American history, acknowledging the discrimination many faced upon returning home, and urging the Department of Veterans Affairs to continue closing racial gaps in health care and benefits.\n\nAs the Trump administration continues to tear down, attack, and destroy Black history, Congresswoman Beatty is holding ground, and honoring the distinguished, valiant, Black veterans that made the ultimate sacrifice for our nation.\n\nFor nearly 90 years \u2014 almost a century \u2014 the Buffalo Soldiers served with distinction in nearly every major American conflict, including the Plains Wars, Spanish-American War, World War I, World War II, and the Korean War, until the units were disbanded in 1951. Named after their regular encounters with Native American tribes, their name came to symbolize the respect Native Americans had for their bravery and valor.\n\nA testament to their bravery and persistence, despite the racial discrimination they faced at home, over 30 of the \u201cBuffalo Soldiers\u201d earned the medal of honor for their distinguished service.\n\n\u201cEven after serving our country, these valiant servicemembers faced racial discrimination at home as they carried our country through various conflicts defending our rights, liberties, and freedom,\u201d said Congresswoman Beatty. \u201cThis recognition is long overdue and will help preserve their legacy for generations to come.\u201d\n\nThe second resolution, H.Con.Res.59, recognizes Black veterans across American history, honors their heroic military sacrifices, acknowledges the unique challenges they encounter upon their arrival home, and calls for the Department of Veterans Affairs to continue seeking solutions to mend the health and benefit disparities for minority veterans.\n\n\u201cOur Black servicemembers have played a vital role in defending our nation, even while experiencing brutal racial discrimination at home. Many put their lives on the line to defend our freedom, then returned to a society that afforded them fewer rights than their fellow white servicemembers,\u201d said Congresswoman Beatty. \u201cThough the civil rights era has ended, racial disparities have not. In the past year, the current administration has repeatedly attacked the legacy and history of African Americans \u2014 at our military bases, in our classrooms, and in every corner of our society. These resolutions are not only a statement of recognition; they are a clarion call to my Republican colleagues that our nation\u2019s commitment to honoring Black veterans must never waver. Every servicemember deserves dignity, respect, and the care they have earned.\u201d\n\n\u201cGenerations of Black veterans have served in our Armed Forces with honor and distinction but came home to a nation that did not grant them the same rights as their peers,\u201d said Senator Blunt Rochester. \u201cAs some seek to erase our history, Congresswoman Joyce Beatty and I are standing united to introduce a resolution to honor America\u2019s Black veterans and recommit to supporting them when they return home. Let us remember their sacrifice and service to our nation as we commemorate Veterans Day.\"\n\nThis effort builds on Congresswoman Beatty\u2019s longstanding leadership in honoring Black veterans and engaging all veterans of Ohio\u2019s Third District. In September, she joined congressional leaders in awarding the Congressional Gold Medal to the 369th Infantry Regiment, known as the Harlem Hellfighters, a segregated African American unit celebrated for its bravery and service in World War I. Denied the chance to fight under American command because of discrimination, the Harlem Hellfighters were placed with French forces, where they spent 191 days on the front lines without losing a foot of ground or a man to capture. Their heroism earned them France\u2019s highest military honor, the Croix de Guerre.\n\nEarlier this year, she hosted a roundtable discussion in Columbus to hear directly from local veterans about their experiences accessing benefits and health care. Their stories and insights continue to guide her work in Washington to ensure that every veteran\u2014especially those who have faced systemic barriers\u2014receives the recognition, care, and benefits they have earned.\n\nH.Res.862 recognizing the Buffalo Soldiers is cosponsored by Rep. Steven Horsford (NV-04), Rep. Cleo Fields (LA-06), Rep. Kamlager-Dove (CA-37), Rep. Steve Cohen (TN-09), Rep. Al Green (TX-09), Rep. Wesley Bell (MO-01), Rep. LaMonica McIver (NJ-10), Rep. Jonathan Jackson (IL-01), and Rep. Marc Veasey (TX-33)\n\nH.Con.Res.59 recognizing the difficult challenges Black veterans faced when returning home is cosponsored by Rep. Morgan McGarvey (KY-03), Rep. Steven Horsford (NV-04), Rep. Cleo Fields (LA-06), Rep. Kamlager-Dove (CA-37), Rep. Steve Cohen (TN-09), Rep. Al Green (TX-09), Rep. Wesley Bell (MO-01), Rep. LaMonica McIver (NJ-10), and Rep. Jonathan Jackson (IL-01)\n\nClick below to read the full text of both resolutions:\n\nH.Res. 862 \u2013 Honoring the Buffalo Soldiers\n\nH.Con.Res.59 - Recognizing the difficult challenges Black veterans faced when returning home\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:52:45Z"], ["https://beatty.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/statement-on-congresswoman-bonnie-watson-coleman-s-decision-not-to-seek-another-term", "Statement on Congresswoman Bonnie Watson Coleman\u2019s Decision Not to Seek Another Term", "2025-11-10", "2025", "2025-11", "Democrat", "House", "OH", "Joyce Beatty", "B001281", "beatty.house.gov", "beatty", "https://beatty.house.gov/media-center/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON D.C. \u2013 Today, U.S. Congresswoman Joyce Beatty (OH-03) released the following statement after Congresswoman Bonnie Watson Coleman announced she would not seek another term in the House of Representatives:\n\n\u201cAs the first African American woman elected to represent New Jersey in Congress, Congresswoman Bonnie Watson Coleman has blazed the path forward for women across her state and the U.S. House of Representatives. She has served the people of New Jersey\u2019s Twelfth District with passion, dedication, and tenacity\u2014fearlessly advocating on behalf of the most marginalized and underrepresented communities in New Jersey and across America.\"\n\n\u201cThrough her work on the powerful House Appropriations Committee, she has fought to deliver federal investments in education, community development, and programs that expand economic opportunity. As co-founder of the Congressional Caucus on Black Women and Girls\u2014the first of its kind\u2014she has helped ensure that the voices and experiences of Black women and girls are centered in policymaking. And through landmark bills such as the Healthy MOM Act, the End For-Profit Prisons Act, and the SHADE Act, she has championed equity, justice, and environmental resilience for generations to come.\"\n\n\"It has been a great privilege and honor to serve alongside her in the United States House of Representatives. She is a skilled legislator, a dedicated public servant, and one of my dearest friends in Congress. Her leadership and guidance continue to make a lasting impact, and I am grateful that we will benefit from her brilliance a little while longer. I wish her and her family all the best as she prepares for this next chapter.\u201d\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:52:45Z"], ["https://sykes.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-sykes-issues-statement-on-the-passing-of-officer-dave-wolgamott", "Rep. Sykes Issues Statement on the Passing of Officer Dave Wolgamott", "2025-11-10", "2025", "2025-11", "Democrat", "House", "OH", "Emilia Strong Sykes", "S001223", "sykes.house.gov", "sykes", "https://sykes.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2014 U.S. Representative Emilia Sykes (OH-13) released the following statement this afternoon following the tragic news regarding Canton Police Officer Dave Wolgamott.\n\n\u201cI am deeply saddened by the loss of Officer Dave Wolgamott, who passed away this morning,\u201d said Rep. Sykes. \u201cThroughout his career, he exemplified courage, dedication, and a steadfast commitment to the Canton community.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:52:45Z"], ["https://sykes.house.gov/media/press-releases/statement-from-rep-sykes-on-the-senates-vote-to-end-the-government-shutdown", "Statement from Rep. Sykes on the Senate\u2019s Vote to End the Government Shutdown", "2025-11-10", "2025", "2025-11", "Democrat", "House", "OH", "Emilia Strong Sykes", "S001223", "sykes.house.gov", "sykes", "https://sykes.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2014 U.S. Representative Emilia Sykes (OH-13) released the following statement on the Senate\u2019s vote to end the government shutdown:", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:52:45Z"], ["https://beatty.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congresswoman-beatty-s-statement-on-senate-budget-vote-that-fails-to-protect-health-care", "Congresswoman Beatty\u2019s Statement on  Senate Budget Vote That Fails to Protect Health Care", "2025-11-09", "2025", "2025-11", "Democrat", "House", "OH", "Joyce Beatty", "B001281", "beatty.house.gov", "beatty", "https://beatty.house.gov/media-center/press-releases", "scraper", "COLUMBUS, OH \u2013 Tonight, U.S. Congresswoman Joyce Beatty (OH-03) released the following statement on the Senate\u2019s budget vote that fails to protect health care for millions of Americans:\n\n\u201cThroughout this historic Republican shutdown, House Democrats have stood unwavering in our fight to protect health care for millions of Americans.\n\nAnd I will continue to stand strong for the people.\n\n\u201cThis Senate vote betrays that fight and the people who depend on it. As Americans lose access to affordable care and face skyrocketing costs right now, that suffering falls squarely on Republicans in power who have failed the nation they swore to serve.\n\n\u201cRepublicans have one job: to govern. They control the House, the Senate, and the White House, yet they continue to sow chaos, break promises, and fail the American people.\u201d\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:52:45Z"], ["https://beatty.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/beatty-you-can-t-call-yourself-pro-family-while-starving-families", "Beatty: \u201cYou can\u2019t call yourself pro-family while starving families\u201d", "2025-11-07", "2025", "2025-11", "Democrat", "House", "OH", "Joyce Beatty", "B001281", "beatty.house.gov", "beatty", "https://beatty.house.gov/media-center/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Congresswoman Joyce Beatty (OH-03) today joined Congresswoman Jahana Hayes (CT-05), Ranking Member of the Subcommittee on Nutrition and Foreign Agriculture, as an original co-sponsor of the Keep SNAP and WIC Funded Act of 2025. The legislation directs the Trump administration to release billions of dollars in available funds to ensure full food assistance benefits continue and to reimburse states that stepped up to feed families during the Republican government shutdown.\n\nThe bill comes as the Trump administration continues to defy multiple federal court orders to deliver the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits that 42 million Americans depend on to put food on the table. Despite publicly declaring last weekend that it would be his \u201chonor\u201d to fund the food assistance program, President Trump\u2019s administration is now appealing court rulings that require it to pay full benefits\u2014seeking instead to cover only a fraction of the funds Congress already appropriated.\n\n\u201cIn Ohio, over 1.4 million Ohioans rely on SNAP to put food on the table, and over 180,000 individuals rely on WIC for their children and babies,\u201d said Congresswoman Beatty. \u201cWith the holidays approaching, the stakes could not be higher. These are critical lifelines, not bargaining chips for Republicans.\u201d\n\n\u201cWithholding SNAP and WIC benefits is an orchestrated attack from Republicans on Ohio\u2019s working families,\u201d Beatty continued. \u201cFor a party that\u2019s supposed to be \u2018pro-family,\u2019 targeting low-income Americans at the dinner table and depriving infants of their critical nutrition are inhumane actions riddled with cruel hypocrisy.\u201d\n\nUnder the Keep SNAP and WIC Funded Act of 2025, the USDA would be required to release all available contingency funds immediately and reimburse states that used their own budgets to keep food assistance programs running during the shutdown.\n\n\u201cHunger is a policy choice \u2013 and every minute the Administration delays releasing the contingency funding for SNAP, it is choosing to allow millions of American children and families to go hungry,\u201d said Ranking Member Hayes. \u201cThe Keep SNAP and WIC Funded Act would prevent this volatile administration from weaponizing the most vulnerable among us. I will continue to fight to keep families fed and strengthen our food safety net programs.\u201d\n\nBeatty concluded, \u201cThis fight is about basic decency, and we will not stop until the administration releases these funds and keeps its promise to the American people.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:52:45Z"], ["https://sykes.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-sykes-presses-hud-to-protect-critical-homelessness-funding-for-summit-and-stark-counties", "Rep. Sykes Presses HUD to Protect Critical Homelessness Funding for Summit and Stark Counties", "2025-11-07", "2025", "2025-11", "Democrat", "House", "OH", "Emilia Strong Sykes", "S001223", "sykes.house.gov", "sykes", "https://sykes.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2014 U.S. Representative Emilia Sykes (OH-13) announced that she sent a letter to Housing and Urban Development (HUD) Secretary Scott Turner urging the Department to protect federal funding that supports homelessness prevention and housing programs in Summit and Stark Counties.\n\nIn her letter, Rep. Sykes called on HUD to renew all existing Continuum of Care (CoC) grants expiring in 2026 for an additional 12-month period without issuing a new Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO). She raised concerns that HUD\u2019s reported plan to issue a new NOFO, along with proposed program changes, could disrupt funding already approved under the two-year authorization enacted by Congress.\n\nThe CoC Program is the main federal funding source for local agencies working to end homelessness. It supports permanent and transitional housing, case management, and coordinated services that help families and individuals move toward stability. The two-year NOFO for fiscal years 2024 and 2025 was intended to provide continuity and reduce administrative burdens for local programs through 2026.\n\nReports indicate that HUD is considering significant changes, including a 30% cap on permanent housing and new work requirements for transitional housing. Rep. Sykes warned that these changes could result in widespread funding cuts and service disruptions.\n\nIn Ohio, approximately 72% of permanent housing is funded through the CoC Program. The proposed changes could reduce funding by an estimated $80 million statewide, including $3.6 million in Summit County and $1.6 million in Stark County. Locally, CoC funding supports nearly 2,700 beds for individuals and families in need, including veterans and youth.\n\nRep. Sykes urged HUD to uphold the two-year funding structure authorized by Congress and avoid unnecessary changes that would harm local housing networks.\n\nA full copy of the letter is available [here].", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:52:45Z"], ["https://beatty.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/statement-from-congresswoman-joyce-beatty-on-the-retirement-announcement-of-speaker-emerita-nancy-pelosi", "Statement from Congresswoman Joyce Beatty on the Retirement Announcement of Speaker Emerita Nancy Pelosi", "2025-11-06", "2025", "2025-11", "Democrat", "House", "OH", "Joyce Beatty", "B001281", "beatty.house.gov", "beatty", "https://beatty.house.gov/media-center/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C.\u2013 Today, U.S. Congresswoman Joyce Beatty (OH-03) released the following statement after Speaker Emerita Nancy Pelosi announced she would not seek another term in the House of Representatives:\n\n\u201cNancy Pelosi\u2019s brilliance, courage, and leadership have shaped the U.S. Congress and our nation, blazing a remarkable trail for those who have walked with her and for generations who will follow. A historic and visionary public servant, she was the first woman to serve as House Democratic Whip and as Speaker of the U.S. House of Representatives, leading the passage of the Affordable Care Act, the Inflation Reduction Act, and the American Rescue Plan, along with countless other measures that changed lives and strengthened our democracy. Her impact is immeasurable, and our nation is better because of her principled and bold leadership.\u201d\n\n\u201cDuring her years leading House Democrats, she navigated trials and tribulations that would test any leader, from a once-in-a-century pandemic to the January 6th attack on our Capitol, the violent assault on her husband, and other extraordinary challenges. Through it all, she led with grace, strength, and dignity. Her command of the House floor and her mastery in leading House Democrats are both inspiration and instruction for current and future Speakers.\u201d\n\n\u201cPersonally, Speaker Pelosi has been an extraordinary mentor, trusted friend, and wise counselor. In my first speech before the nation at the Democratic National Convention, she yielded her time to me, giving me the runway I needed to make my point and to soar. That gesture spoke volumes about her belief in lifting others, especially women, to use their voices boldly and without apology. While Speaker Pelosi initiated the \u2018When Women Succeed, America Succeeds\u2019 initiative, she paved the way for me to ask President Obama to include the phrase in his State of the Union address. Thank you, Nancy, for making the nation recognize the strength, courage, influence and promise of women.\u201d\n\n\u201cNancy Pelosi\u2019s love of country is surpassed only by her love for her family. We owe immense gratitude to the entire Pelosi family \u2014 Paul, their children, and grandchildren \u2014 for their years of sacrifice and support that made her historic service possible.\u201d\n\n\u201cI am honored to have served alongside, and to have learned from, the greatest Speaker in American history, and I am grateful to also call her my friend.\u201d\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:52:45Z"], ["https://shontelbrown.house.gov/media/press-releases/congresswoman-brown-statement-speaker-emerita-nancy-pelosi", "Congresswoman Brown Statement on Speaker Emerita Nancy Pelosi", "2025-11-06", "2025", "2025-11", "Democrat", "House", "OH", "Shontel M. Brown", "B001313", "shontelbrown.house.gov", "shontelbrown", "https://shontelbrown.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, DC \u2014 Congresswoman Shontel Brown (OH-11) releases the following statement:\n\n\u201cSpeaker Pelosi broke barriers, wrote history and changed what leadership in Congress looks like. She led with strength, grace, and determination, always fighting for what was right and doing things on her terms.\n\n\u201cHer leadership transformed Congress and made America a better place \u2013 passing legislation to lower health care costs, support veterans, and rebuild our infrastructure and so much more. She is undeniably the most formidable Speaker in history.\n\n\u201cWhen the history books are written, it will be my honor to say that I had the privilege to serve alongside her. Her impact will live on through the laws she passed and the generations of leaders she inspired, and I wish the best for her and her family.\u201d\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:52:45Z"], ["https://beatty.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/statement-from-congresswoman-joyce-beatty-on-the-passing-of-les-wright", "Statement from Congresswoman Joyce Beatty on the Passing of Les Wright", "2025-11-03", "2025", "2025-11", "Democrat", "House", "OH", "Joyce Beatty", "B001281", "beatty.house.gov", "beatty", "https://beatty.house.gov/media-center/press-releases", "scraper", "COLUMBUS, OH \u2013 Congresswoman Joyce Beatty (OH-03) issued the following statement on the passing of Les Wright:\n\nI honor the life, legacy, and accomplishments of Les Wright, an esteemed leader in Columbus politics and a trailblazer for women in public service across Ohio.\n\nA child of the Great Depression, Les Wright dedicated her life\u2019s work to advancing marginalized communities in Columbus. Over a six-decade career, she became the first African American woman to serve on Columbus City Council, and also built distinguished careers with Columbus Public Schools and Columbus & Southern Ohio Electric(now American Electric Power).\n\nPaving the way for women and Black leaders statewide, Wright founded the Alliance of Black Women in 1982 and Corporate Sisters in 1995 to provide mentorship, encouragement, and professional development to Black women in politics and business. She also founded the nonprofit Strategies Against Violence Everywhere (SAVE), a community-based initiative for nonviolence recognized by the Clinton Administration for its impact in reducing juvenile violence.\n\nOften the only woman in the room, Les Wright courageously opened doors for others, creating opportunity with every milestone. I am profoundly grateful for the path she blazed for me and for so many others. She was a changemaker, a trailblazer, and a tireless advocate for our community. She will be deeply missed. My thoughts and prayers are with her loved ones during this difficult time.\n\nMay she rest in power.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:52:45Z"], ["https://beatty.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/beatty-head-start-and-snap-are-lifelines-not-political-hostages", "Beatty: Head Start and SNAP Are Lifelines, Not Political Hostages", "2025-10-31", "2025", "2025-10", "Democrat", "House", "OH", "Joyce Beatty", "B001281", "beatty.house.gov", "beatty", "https://beatty.house.gov/media-center/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, DC \u2014 Congresswoman Joyce Beatty (OH-03) issued the following statement regarding the lapse in Head Start and SNAP funding set to begin tomorrow as a result of the ongoing, Republican-driven government shutdown:\n\n\u201cRepublicans\u2019 refusal to reopen the government has led to a reckless lapse in funding for critical programs that millions of families rely on every single day. Because of their shutdown, Head Start and SNAP funding will stop tomorrow\u2014leaving working families, children, and seniors as hostages in the crisis they created.\u201d\n\n\u201cIn Ohio, more than 31,000 children and their families depend on Head Start for early learning and child care, while over 1.4 million Ohioans rely on SNAP to put food on the table. Now, seven Head Start providers across our state will exhaust their funds, forcing 940 staff members off the job and leaving parents without the child care they depend on.\u201d\n\n\u201cThis morning, I met with the Franklin County Board of Commissioners to find a path forward for families across the Third Congressional District. Later in the day, I joined my colleagues in signing a letter urging Ohio Attorney General Dave Yost to take legal action against the Trump Administration for withholding contingency funds that could have covered November SNAP benefits.\u201d\n\n\u201cEarlier this week, a group of Democratic Attorneys General and governors from 25 states and Washington, D.C., filed a lawsuit demanding the release of these funds, followed by another lawsuit filed Thursday by a coalition of cities, non-profits, unions, and small businesses. It is a disgrace that these lawsuits were required to compel the Trump Administration to do the right thing. Next week, I am also cosponsoring the Resolution to Keep Americans Fed During Government Shutdown, calling on the Administration to release Congressionally directed funds to support ongoing SNAP benefits and prevent 42 million Americans from going hungry.\u201d\n\n\u201cHead Start and SNAP are lifelines that strengthen children, families, and entire communities. You cannot call yourself \u2018pro-life\u2019 while attacking the very programs that support life in its earliest, most formative stages. You cannot claim to support families while pulling the rug out from under them.\u201d\n\n\u201cRepublicans must return to Washington, work with Democrats to reopen the government, restore this critical funding, and stop using hunger and hardship as weapons against the American people.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:32:54Z"], ["https://sykes.house.gov/media/press-releases/ohio-congressional-democrats-press-attorney-general-yost-to-protect-snap-benefits-for-nearly-15-million-ohioans", "Ohio Congressional Democrats Press Attorney General Yost to Protect SNAP Benefits for Nearly 1.5 million Ohioans", "2025-10-31", "2025", "2025-10", "Democrat", "House", "OH", "Emilia Strong Sykes", "S001223", "sykes.house.gov", "sykes", "https://sykes.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2014 Today, U.S. Representative Emilia Sykes (OH-13) led members of Ohio\u2019s Democratic congressional delegation in sending a letter to Ohio Attorney General Dave Yost, asking him why he has not taken legal action to protect Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits for Ohioans after the Trump Administration announced it would unlawfully suspend the program.\n\nThe letter asks why Attorney General Yost has not joined or filed lawsuits to safeguard these essential benefits, which help nearly 1.5 million low-income Ohioans, including seniors, veterans, children, and people with disabilities, put food on the table.\n\n\u201cThe Trump Administration\u2019s decision to deny Ohioans the food assistance they are legally entitled to is both unconscionable and unlawful,\u201d said Rep. Sykes. \u201cOhio families should not go hungry because of political gamesmanship in Washington. Attorney General Yost must stand up for the people of Ohio, not stand by while the federal government withholds benefits that Congress has already funded.\u201d\n\nOn October 24, 2025, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) announced that it would suspend SNAP benefits due to a lack of funding, even though Congress had already appropriated $6 billion in contingency funds to ensure benefits continue uninterrupted, including during a government shutdown. This move directly contradicts USDA\u2019s own funding plan, which confirmed that multi-year contingency funds were available to sustain the program.\n\nSeveral states, municipalities, and nonprofit organizations have filed lawsuits to compel the release of SNAP contingency funds and prevent millions of Americans from losing access to food assistance. Without similar action from the state of Ohio, vulnerable residents may be left without relief while other states\u2019 lawsuits proceed.\n\nThe letter signed by Representatives Emilia Sykes (OH-13), Joyce Beatty (OH-03), Greg Landsman (OH-01), Shontel Brown (OH-11), and Marcy Kaptur (OH-09), asks Attorney General Yost to explain his refusal to pursue legal action and emphasizes the need to protect Ohioans\u2019 access to food assistance.\n\n\u201cIn one of the wealthiest nations in the world, no one should go hungry,\u201d the members wrote. \u201cCongress has appropriated and directed the Trump Administration to use this funding for SNAP \u2014 it\u2019s time the Administration is held accountable for failing to provide these essential benefits.\u201d\n\nA full copy of the letter can be found here.\n\nBackground\n\nThe Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) provides critical food assistance to nearly 1.5 million Ohioans, including working families, children, veterans, and seniors. Congress appropriated $6 billion in SNAP contingency funds for fiscal years 2024 and 2025 to ensure benefits would not lapse, even during a government shutdown. Despite this funding, the Trump Administration announced plans to suspend benefits starting November 1, putting millions of Americans, including hundreds of thousands of Ohio families, at risk of losing access to the food assistance they depend on.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:32:54Z"], ["https://sykes.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-sykes-applauds-dual-court-rulings-in-snap-cases-and-presses-ohio-leadership-on-joining-multi-state-action", "Rep. Sykes Applauds Dual Court Rulings in SNAP Cases and Presses Ohio Leadership on Joining Multi-State Action", "2025-10-31", "2025", "2025-10", "Democrat", "House", "OH", "Emilia Strong Sykes", "S001223", "sykes.house.gov", "sykes", "https://sykes.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2014 U.S. Representative Emilia Sykes (OH-13) released the following statement in response to two federal court rulings regarding the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) amid the ongoing government shutdown:\n\n\u201cToday\u2019s court decision and memorandum are a welcome victory for millions of Americans who rely on SNAP to feed their families,\u201d said Rep. Sykes. \u201cStatements from both of these judges make clear that there is both a lawful and moral path to continue food assistance during the shutdown. Ohioans cannot afford any delay in benefits, and our state leaders should act quickly to ensure families here are not left behind while the Trump administration disperses these funds nationwide.\u201d\n\nThe decision granting temporary, nationwide relief for SNAP beneficiaries followed a lawsuit brought by several municipalities and community-based organizations, which successfully argued that the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) cannot suspend food assistance during a shutdown because it has access to contingency funds.\n\nA separate lawsuit, brought by 25 Democratic-led states and Washington D.C., also resulted in a judge indicating that relief is likely and issuing a memorandum to the Trump administration stating that denying benefits is unlawful. However, any relief granted in this case would not impact Ohioans, since Ohio has not joined the suit. Rep. Sykes and members of the Ohio Democratic Congressional Delegation sent a letter to Ohio Attorney General Dave Yost requesting information on his lack of action to protect SNAP benefits for Ohioans. The letter highlights the urgent need for action to prevent hunger among the nearly 1.5 million Ohioans who rely on SNAP benefits each month. As litigation on this issue continues, it is critical that Ohioans are represented in court and can access relief under all of these rulings.\n\nGovernor Mike DeWine recently announced $25 million in state food assistance, including $7 million for regional food banks and $18 million in emergency relief for more than 63,000 low-income Ohioans. While this support is welcome, it represents only a fraction of the need. Sustained federal action is essential to ensure that Ohio families continue to receive full SNAP benefits.\n\nRep. Sykes continues to advocate for passage of her Feed Our Families Act and calls on House Republicans to return to Washington to end the shutdown and restore reliable food assistance for every American family.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:32:54Z"], ["https://sykes.house.gov/media/press-releases/reps-sykes-and-bresnahan-introduce-bipartisan-bill-to-protect-social-security-services-during-government-shutdowns", "Reps. Sykes and Bresnahan Introduce Bipartisan Bill to Protect Social Security Services During Government Shutdowns", "2025-10-31", "2025", "2025-10", "Democrat", "House", "OH", "Emilia Strong Sykes", "S001223", "sykes.house.gov", "sykes", "https://sykes.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2014 Today, U.S. Representatives Emilia Sykes (OH-13) and Rob Bresnahan (PA-08) introduced the Guaranteed Uninterrupted Access to Retiree Disbursements, or GUARD, Act. This bipartisan bill ensures the Social Security Administration (SSA) remains fully operational and responsive to the American people during government shutdowns.\n\nThe GUARD Act provides Fiscal Year 2026 appropriations funding for the SSA and requires the agency to continue responding to Congressional casework inquiries during any lapse in federal funding. The measure will prevent the furlough of more than 6,000 SSA employees and ensure that seniors, individuals with disabilities, and families continue receiving timely help with their Social Security benefits.\n\n\u201cSocial Security is a lifeline for millions of Americans, and its services should never be held hostage to partisan gridlock,\u201d said Rep. Sykes. \u201cDuring this shutdown, my office has been unable to help constituents with their Social Security cases \u2014 something no member of Congress should have to tell the people they serve. The GUARD Act will protect seniors, families, and workers by keeping these essential services running and accessible.\u201d\n\n\u201cSeniors in Northeastern Pennsylvania and across the country depend on the Social Security Administration and its staff for support, regardless of a government shutdown,\u201d said Rep. Bresnahan. \u201cI am proud to co-lead bipartisan legislation with Rep. Sykes to ensure the SSA has the resources it needs to keep serving the American people during a government shutdown. The GUARD Act guarantees the SSA can continue processing claims and responding to congressional casework inquiries, because our seniors and constituents should never be left waiting due to Washington gridlock.\u201d\n\nIn response to the ongoing government shutdown, the Social Security Administration recently updated its contingency plan, which resulted in the furlough of 6,197 out of 51,825 employees. While the agency continues to issue benefits and conduct limited operations, it has halted all responses to congressional inquiries, preventing congressional offices from assisting constituents with ongoing Social Security cases.\n\nSince the shutdown began on October 1, 2025, the Sykes district office has been unable to advance 51 open Social Security casework requests, leaving many Ohioans without help as they attempt to resolve issues such as delayed or incorrect benefit payments.\n\nThe impact of these disruptions is significant. In Ohio\u2019s 13th Congressional District alone, there are 175,025 Social Security recipients, including 129,266 retirees, 20,542 disabled workers, 11,536 widows, 9,785 children, and 4,896 spouses, collectively receiving $308 million in monthly benefits.\n\nBy providing SSA with targeted funding and clear requirements for maintaining constituent services, the GUARD Act will ensure that these individuals are not left without recourse during future funding lapses.\n\nBackground\n\nThe Guaranteed Uninterrupted Access to Retiree Disbursements (GUARD) Act provides Fiscal Year 2026 appropriations funding for the Social Security Administration to prevent furloughs and maintain operations. It also requires the SSA to continue responding to Congressional inquiries and constituent casework during government shutdowns. Without this funding, the SSA\u2019s contingency plan would continue to furlough more than 6,000 employees and suspend casework assistance nationwide.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:32:54Z"], ["https://shontelbrown.house.gov/media/press-releases/congresswoman-brown-calls-out-trumps-snap-shutdown-cruel-callous-careless", "Congresswoman Brown Calls Out Trump\u2019s SNAP Shutdown: Cruel, Callous, Careless, Immoral, and Illegal", "2025-10-29", "2025", "2025-10", "Democrat", "House", "OH", "Shontel M. Brown", "B001313", "shontelbrown.house.gov", "shontelbrown", "https://shontelbrown.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, DC \u2014 Congresswoman Shontel Brown (OH-11) spoke today at a press conference hosted by Assistant Democratic Leader Joe Neguse (CO-02) on Trump\u2019s illegal SNAP shutdown. The Trump Administration has announced they will suspend Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits beginning November 1. Brown blasted this decision, \u201cI am going to call it out for what it really is. It is cruel. It is callous. It is careless. It is immoral and it is illegal.\u201d\n\nLast week, Congresswoman Brown joined House Democrats in calling on the Trump Administration to release USDA contingency funds already appropriated by Congress to support benefits during emergencies.\n\nCongresswoman Brown\u2019s office remains in close contact with local governments and nonprofits and has more information for affected constituents available on her website.\n\nCongresswoman Brown\u2019s Remarks as Delivered (Video)\n\nGood afternoon everyone.\n\nThank you to our Assistant Democratic Leader, Congressman Neguse for organizing this press conference and for inviting me to be here.\n\nI am Congresswoman Shontel Brown \u2013 proudly representing Cleveland and Northeast Ohio.\n\nI serve as Vice Ranking Member on the House Agriculture Committee, where we\u2019ve been on the front lines fighting attacks on basic food benefits all year.\n\nNow, we are here today, because the President is illegally blocking $6 billion in emergency SNAP funding \u2026 money available and intended for moments exactly like this.\n\nWhy? In some cynical attempt to increase leverage so they don\u2019t have to fix the health care crisis they\u2019ve created.\n\nThey\u2019re forcing American families to go hungry rather than lowering health care costs.\n\nI wish I could say I was surprised \u2026\n\nBut this is the same President and Republican Congress that made the largest cuts to SNAP and Medicaid earlier this year to pay for tax breaks for the wealthiest Americans\u2026\n\nThat made those tax breaks for billionaires permanent but refuse to extend Enhanced Premium Tax Credits for even one year\u2026\n\nAnd that found $20 billion for a bailout for Argentina but is freezing the $6 billion sitting in the SNAP contingency fund.\n\n21% of the people in my district rely on SNAP to keep food on the table. That\u2019s one-in-five.\n\nSo when it comes to Trump\u2019s illegal SNAP shutdown\u2026\n\nI take this personally.\n\nBecause the people I represent do not deserve the pain and stress and anxiety and hunger that this is going to cause.\n\nLast week, we held an event in my district at a local grocery store.\n\nAnd a woman there named Diane spoke about what SNAP means to her.\n\nShe\u2019s not just a woman, she\u2019s a pillar in the community. Spending many of her days advocating for others.\n\nAnd I have not been able to stop thinking about what she said.\n\nShe\u2019s 75 years old, lives in public housing, and gets $63 a month in SNAP benefits for food -- and she needs every dollar of that to survive.\n\nStanding at the supermarket, she looked at food laid out \u2013 a package of ground beef, some canned food, some fruit and a loaf of bread.\n\nShe pointed out she already isn\u2019t able to afford that much on her budget.\n\nDiane does not deserve this.\n\nAnd somebody in the White House\u2026 somebody in Speaker Johnson\u2019s office\u2026 they may think this is a brilliant strategy that they have.\n\nTo threaten Diane\u2026 and to take from Diane.\n\nBut I am going to call it out for what it really is.\n\nIt is cruel. It is callous. It is careless.\n\nIt is immoral and it is illegal.\n\nThis is what happens when the people in power, only care about the people with perceived power.\n\nIt is time for the White House to release the funds.\n\nIt is time for Republicans to take the locks off the doors of the House Chamber.\n\nAnd instead of doing the extreme right wing thing for Donald Trump, it is time for my Republican colleagues to do the right thing for the people we represent.\n\nReopen the government. Release the funds. And cancel the cuts.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:32:54Z"], ["https://sykes.house.gov/media/press-releases/icymi-rep-sykes-leads-effort-to-protect-snap-benefits-as-shutdown-threatens-food-access", "ICYMI: Rep. Sykes Leads Effort to Protect SNAP Benefits as Shutdown Threatens Food Access", "2025-10-29", "2025", "2025-10", "Democrat", "House", "OH", "Emilia Strong Sykes", "S001223", "sykes.house.gov", "sykes", "https://sykes.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "AKRON, Ohio \u2014 With the government shutdown threatening to cut off Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits in just days, U.S. Representative Emilia Sykes (OH-13) announced Tuesday urgent efforts to keep food on the table for Ohio families and Americans across the country.\n\nJoined by Summit County Executive Ilene Shapiro and officials from the Summit County Department of Job and Family Services (JFS), Rep. Sykes emphasized both the immediate danger and the long-term solutions she is advancing to protect families from political gridlock. Rep. Sykes highlighted her Feed Our Families Act, legislation that would create a three-month reserve of SNAP funding to guarantee stability even during federal funding lapses.\n\n\u201cFood is not a bargaining chip,\u201d said Rep. Sykes. \u201cEvery day this shutdown continues, families in Summit County are left wondering whether they will be able to feed their children next week. We are here to say loud and clear that we will not allow hunger to be used as leverage in Washington politics. We are demanding immediate action to protect the people we serve.\u201d\n\nExecutive Shapiro underscored the local risk. On Monday night, she introduced legislation to Summit County Council to provide an additional $250,000 in emergency funding to the Akron-Canton Regional Foodbank, which the Council approved. The funds will place extra food in local pantries in anticipation of increased need.\n\n\u201cEach month, approximately 77,000 Summit County residents, living in all 31 communities, rely on SNAP benefits,\u201d said Executive Shapiro. \u201cThese residents include families with children, older adults, and people with disabilities. Ensuring they can put food on the table should never be a partisan issue. If SNAP benefits cease on Nov. 1, there is no local solution to replace the $15 million loss in monthly food aid. While the County is increasing support to the Food Bank, it simply cannot fill that gap. We thank Congresswoman Sykes for raising awareness and urge residents to contact their other federal lawmakers and ask them to prevent this crisis.\u201d\n\nOfficials from Summit County JFS reported rising community anxiety as families brace for potential benefit disruptions.\n\nThe Local Impact\n\nWithout swift action, 42 million low-income Americans, including nearly 1.5 million Ohioans and almost 115,000 residents in Ohio\u2019s 13th Congressional District, will lose assistance needed to put food on the table until the government reopens. Federal SNAP funding is expected to run out on November 1, leaving households uncertain about affording groceries next week.\n\nOhioans concerned about SNAP benefits should call 2-1-1 to connect to local foodbanks and resources. Summit County residents can visit 211Summit.org, Stark County residents can visit uwstark.org, and Portage County residents can visit 211Portage.org. Northeast Ohioans can also find shutdown resources at sykes.house.gov/shutdown.\n\nGovernment Officials Must Act\n\nThe Trump Administration has access to more than $5 billion in authorized SNAP contingency funding but has chosen not to release it. This unprecedented decision denies Ohio families critical food assistance. That is why Rep. Sykes joined her colleagues in sending a letter to the U.S. Department of Agriculture urging the release of this funding to partially cover November benefits.\n\nDenying households benefits for political gain is not only heartless, it also appears unlawful. On Tuesday, Attorneys General from 25 states and Washington, D.C. filed a lawsuit against the Trump Administration for arbitrarily suspending SNAP benefits.\n\nSNAP receives $3 billion annually in reserve funding with carryover authority for up to three years. An estimated $5 billion is currently available, which is insufficient to cover the roughly $8 billion needed monthly. Rep. Sykes\u2019 Feed Our Families Act would create a three-month reserve to guarantee program stability during federal funding lapses.\n\nRep. Sykes also joined her Ohio Democratic delegation colleagues in writing to Governor Mike DeWine regarding his administration\u2019s plans for SNAP and the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC), emphasizing the programs\u2019 importance to constituents. In the Ohio House, H.B. 502 would authorize funding to continue SNAP, WIC, and Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF).", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:32:54Z"], ["https://kaptur.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/kaptur-murray-blast-russ-voughts-move-block-funding-army-corps-projects", "Kaptur, Murray Blast Russ Vought\u2019s Move to Block Funding for Army Corps Projects in Democratic States and Cities", "2025-10-28", "2025", "2025-10", "Democrat", "House", "OH", "Marcy Kaptur", "K000009", "kaptur.house.gov", "kaptur", "https://kaptur.house.gov/media-center/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, DC \u2014 Congresswoman Marcy Kaptur (OH-09), Ranking Member of the House Appropriations Subcommittee on Energy and Water Development, and Senator Patty Murray (D-WA), Vice Chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee and Ranking Member of the Subcommittee on Energy and Water Development, sent a letter to the Army Corps of Engineers blasting the recent announcement from Office of Management and Budget (OMB) Director Russell Vought that the Trump administration will immediately pause over $11 Billion in funding for essential Corps projects in blue states and cities and will be \u201cconsidering them for cancellation.\u201d\n\nIn their letter, Kaptur and Murray slam the purported rationale for the politically-motivated \u201cfreeze,\u201d writing: \u201cDirector Vought justified this \u2018pause\u2019 by absurdly claiming it was necessary because the government shutdown \u2018has drained the Army Corps of Engineers\u2019 ability to manage billions of dollars in projects.\u2019 That is not how this works\u2014and everyone knows it. Director Vought is once again recklessly threatening communities\u2019 safety and treating the American people as pawns in his political games. Earlier in the week, the Trump administration warned of more political retribution against Democrats, and yet again, Vought has delivered, seeking to inflict more pain on the American people.\u201d\n\nThe top water development appropriators underscore what\u2019s at risk with the pause: \u201cLet\u2019s be clear: undermining these critical infrastructure projects jeopardizes public safety and will inflict serious economic harm on communities that depend on these vital investments. The Corps protects communities by providing flood control, ensuring safe navigation of the nation\u2019s waterways, environmental restoration, and emergency response\u2014work that saves lives and supports local economies.\u201d\n\n\u201cThis craven political threat betrays working families and our nation's obligation to protect life and property,\u201d they write. \u201cIt risks leaving communities more vulnerable to storms and floods\u2014and puts at risk the projects that literally save lives\u2014levees, floodwalls, wastewater upgrades, coastal protections, and so much more.\u201d\n\nKaptur and Murray also note that neither Vought nor the Corps nor OMB has provided any transparency to date about the projects that the Trump administration says it has paused funding for: \u201cIncredibly, despite this administration\u2019s claims to be the \u201cmost transparent administration,\u201d neither OMB nor the Corps of Engineers has publicly released\u2014or provided to Congress\u2014a list of the projects that Director Vought says he is targeting with his action. That, too, is unacceptable. The American people deserve transparency about how their taxpayer dollars are being spent\u2014and how this administration is hurting public safety in their own communities.\u201d\n\n\u201cWe demand that you immediately unpause all projects that have been halted since Director Vought's announcement and restore them to their previous operational status, provide details about all projects that have been affected thus far, and explain what statutory or regulatory authority the Corps claims to have to pause or cancel work on congressionally authorized and appropriated projects,\u201d they conclude.\n\nThe full letter is available by clicking here or reading below:\n\nThe Honorable Adam Telle\n\nAssistant Secretary of the Army for Civil Works\n\nU.S. Department of the Army\n\nOffice of the Assistant Secretary (Civil Works)\n\n104 Army Pentagon\n\nWashington, DC 20310\n\nLieutenant General William H. Graham\n\nCommanding General and Chief of Engineers\n\nU.S. Army Corps of Engineers\n\n441 G Street NW\n\nWashington, DC 20314\n\nDear Assistant Secretary Telle and General Graham:\n\nThe Office of Management and Budget (OMB) Director Russell Vought posted on X that the Army Corps of Engineers will immediately pause over $11 Billion in funding for essential Corps projects, including in \u201cNew York, San Francisco, Boston, and Baltimore\u201d and will be \u201cconsidering them for cancellation.\u201d Director Vought justified this \u201cpause\u201d by absurdly claiming it was necessary because the government shutdown \u201chas drained the Army Corps of Engineers\u2019 ability to manage billions of dollars in projects.\u201d That is not how this works\u2014and everyone knows it. Director Vought is once again recklessly threatening communities\u2019 safety and treating the American people as pawns in his political games. Earlier in the week, the Trump administration warned of more political retribution against Democrats, and yet again, Vought has delivered, seeking to inflict more pain on the American people.\n\nLet\u2019s be clear: undermining these critical infrastructure projects jeopardizes public safety and will inflict serious economic harm on communities that depend on these vital investments. The Corps protects communities by providing flood control, ensuring safe navigation of the nation\u2019s waterways, environmental restoration, and emergency response\u2014work that saves lives and supports local economies. This craven political threat betrays working families and our nation's obligation to protect life and property. It risks leaving communities more vulnerable to storms and floods\u2014and puts at risk the projects that literally save lives\u2014levees, floodwalls, wastewater upgrades, coastal protections, and so much more.\n\nIt has not escaped anyone\u2019s notice that the states and cities Director Vought has said he is targeting are cities represented by Democrats. This transparent political targeting of American communities is unconscionable, and unfortunately, it is par for the course for this White House. The Hatch Act prohibits federal employees from using their official authority for partisan political purposes, and this prohibition extends to all federal agencies, including the Office of Management and Budget and the Army Corps of Engineers. The Army Corps of Engineers is a professional, non-partisan organization with a proud history of dutifully serving the American public over two centuries\u2014and once again, its proud mission is being corrupted by President Trump and Director Vought.\n\nFederal infrastructure investments should be based on engineering merit, cost-benefit analysis, community need, and statutory authorization\u2014not political retribution. Every American, regardless of how their neighbors vote, deserves federal flood protection, safe navigation channels, and clean waterways. Weaponizing the Army Corps of Engineers against political opposition degrades this essential institution and betrays its mission.\n\nIncredibly, despite this administration\u2019s claims to be the \u201cmost transparent administration,\u201d neither OMB nor the Corps of Engineers has publicly released\u2014or provided to Congress\u2014a list of the projects that Director Vought says he is targeting with his action. That, too, is unacceptable. The American people deserve transparency about how their taxpayer dollars are being spent\u2014and how this administration is hurting public safety in their own communities.\n\nFurther, Congress appropriated these funds through the lawful legislative process. The executive branch lacks the authority to unilaterally cancel congressionally authorized and funded projects. We demand that you immediately unpause all projects that have been halted since Director Vought's announcement and restore them to their previous operational status, provide details about all projects that have been affected thus far, and explain what statutory or regulatory authority the Corps claims to have to pause or cancel work on congressionally authorized and appropriated projects.\n\nMake no mistake\u2014this pause is already doing damage. The uncertainty harms local governments, unions, small businesses, and families. It weakens our nation\u2019s resilience against floods and disaster. It places political considerations above public safety. That is unacceptable.\n\nWe expect your prompt response no later than October 29 and look forward to working together to ensure that the Army Corps of Engineers can continue its vital mission of serving all Americans.\n\nSincerely,\n\n# # #", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:32:54Z"], ["https://kaptur.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/kaptur-joins-hayes-and-craig-leading-house-democrats-urging-usda-take", "Kaptur Joins Hayes, and Craig in leading House Democrats In Urging USDA To Take Immediate Action To Fund SNAP", "2025-10-24", "2025", "2025-10", "Democrat", "House", "OH", "Marcy Kaptur", "K000009", "kaptur.house.gov", "kaptur", "https://kaptur.house.gov/media-center/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, DC \u2013 Today, Congresswoman Marcy Kaptur (OH-09), a senior member of the House Appropriations Subcommittee on Agriculture, Rural Development, Food and Drug Administration, and Related Agencies, joined Ranking Member of the Subcommittee on Nutrition and Foreign Agriculture, Congresswoman Jahana Hayes (CT-05), and House Committee on Agriculture Ranking Member Angie Craig (MN-02), and 211 House Democrats in sending a letter to US Department of Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins, to urge the agency to use contingency reserve dollars to fund the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) during the government shutdown. With no resolution to a bipartisan path forward to reopen the government, SNAP funding is set to lapse on November 1st, putting 42 million children and families at risk of experiencing hunger.\n\nThere is enough in the SNAP contingency reserve to cover nearly two-thirds of the amount needed for a full month of benefits. As such, the Members also advocate for the agency to use statutory transfer authority or any other legal means to supplement shortfalls the contingency reserve cannot cover.\n\n\u201cNow more than ever, millions of families across the country depend upon the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) to make ends meet. For far too many veterans, seniors, and children, SNAP benefits are the difference between having food or not,\u201d wrote the Members. \u201cNow, due to the government shutdown, they are facing crippling levels of uncertainty about whether they will be able to afford food next month. A potential lapse in benefits would be felt by Americans of all ages and affect every corner and congressional district in the country.\u201d\n\n\u201cWe urge USDA to use these funds for November SNAP benefits and issue clear guidance to states on how to navigate benefit issuance. Additionally, while the contingency reserve will not cover November benefits in full, we urge USDA to use its statutory transfer authority or any other legal authority at its disposal to supplement these dollars and fully fund November benefits. There are clear steps the administration can and must take immediately to ensure that millions of families across the country can put food on their table in November. Choosing not to ensure SNAP benefits reach those in need this November would be a gross dereliction of your responsibilities to the American people.\u201d\n\nAs a senior member of the House Appropriations Subcommittee on Agriculture, Rural Development, Food and Drug Administration, and Related Agencies, Congresswoman Kaptur has long been a champion in the fight to end hunger in the United States and globally, and to expand programs that allow American farmers, producers, and growers to find additional markets by helping to feed Americans in need. When Republicans passed HR 1, the One Big Beautiful Bill Act, she joined her colleagues in highlighting the devastating impact on SNAP benefits for the most vulnerable. The legislation eliminated $187 Billion from the SNAP program and imposes undue barriers to farmers, producers, and growers in Ohio and across America. The reluctance of the Trump Administration to step in and fund the program builds upon previous efforts at weakening SNAP and other federal nutrition assistance programs.\n\nThe letter is also signed by Representatives: Alma Adams (NC-12), Pete Aguilar (CA-33), Gabe Amo (RI-01), Yassamin Ansari (AZ-03), Jake Auchincloss (MA-04), Becca Balint (VT), Nanette Barrag\u00e1n (CA-44), Joyce Beatty (OH-03), Wesley Bell (MO-01), Ami Bera (CA-06), Donald Beyer (VA-08), Sanford Bishop (GA-02), Suzanne Bonamici (OR-01), Brendan Boyle (PA-02), Shontel Brown (OH-11), Julia Brownley (CA-26), Nikki Budzinski (IL-13), Janelle Bynum (OR-05), Salud Carbajal (CA-24), Andr\u00e9 Carson (IN-07), Troy Carter (LA-02), Greg Casar (TX-35), Ed Case (HI-01), Sean Casten (IL-06), Kathy Castor (FL-14), Joaquin Castro (T-20), Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick (FL-20), Judy Chu (CA-28), Gilbert Cisneros (CA-31), Yvette Clarke (NY-09), Katherine Clark (MA-05), Emanuel Cleaver (MO-05), James E Clyburn (SC-06), Steve Cohen (TN-09), Herbert Conaway (NJ-03), J. Louis Correa (CA-46), Jim Costa (CA-21), Joe Courtney (CT-02), Angie Craig (MN-02), Jasmine Crockett (TX-30), Jason Crow (CO-06), Henry Cuellar (TX-28), Sharice Davids (KS-03), Danny Davis (IL-07), Donald Davis (NC-01), Madeleine Dean (PA-04), Diana DeGette (CO-01), Rosa DeLauro (CT-03), Suzan DelBene (WA-01), Christopher Deluzio (PA-17), Mark DeSaulnier (CA-10), Maxine Dexter (OR-03), Debbie Dingell (MI-06), Lloyd Doggett (TX-37), Sarah Elfreth (MD-03), Veronica Escobar (TX-16), Adriano Espaillat (NY-13), Dwight Evans (PA-03), Cleo Fields (LA-06), Shomari Figures (AL-02), Lizzie Fletcher (TX-07), Bill Foster (IL-11), Valerie Foushee (NC-04), Lois Frankel (FL-22), Laura Friedman (CA-30), Maxwell Frost (FL-10), John Garamendi (CA-08), Jes\u00fas Garc\u00eda (IL-04), Robert Garcia (CA-42), Sylvia Garcia (TX-29), Laura Gillen (NY-04), Daniel Goldman (NY-10), Jimmy Gomez (CA-34), Vicente Gonzalez (TX-34), Maggie Goodlander (NH-02), Josh Gottheimer (NJ-05), Adam Gray (CA-13), Al Green (TX-09), Josh Harder (CA-09), Pablo Hern\u00e1ndez (PR- At Large), James Himes (CT-04), Steven Horsford (NV-04), Chrissy Houlahan (PA-06), Steny Hoyer (MD-05), Val Hoyle (OR-04), Jared Huffman (CA-02), Glenn Ivey MD-04), Jonathan Jackson (IL-01), Sara Jacobs (CA-51), Pramila Jayapal (WA-07), Hakeem Jeffries (NY-08), Henry Johnson (GA-04), Julie Johnson (TX-32), Sydney Kamlager-Dove (CA-37), William; Keating (MA-09), Robin Kelly (IL-02), Timothy Kennedy (NY-26), Ro Khanna (CA-17), Raja Krishnamoorthi(IL-08), Greg Landsman (OH-01), Rick Larsen (WA-02), John Larson (CT-01), George Latimer (NY-16), Summer Lee (PA-12), Susie Lee (NV-03), Teresa Leger Fernandez (NM-03), Mike Levin (CA-49), Sam Liccardo (CA-16), Ted Lieu(CA-36), Zoe Lofgren (CA-18), Stephen Lynch (MA-08), Seth Magaziner (RI-02), John Mannion (NY-22), Doris Matsui (CA-07), Lucy McBath (GA-06), Sarah McBride (DE-At Large), April McClain Delaney (MD-06), Jennifer McClellan (VA-04), Betty McCollum (MN-04), Kristen McDonald Rivet (MI-08) Morgan McGarvey (KY-03), James McGovern (MA-02), LaMonica McIver (NJ-10), Gregory Meeks (NY-05), Robert Menendez (NJ-08), Grace Meng (NY-06), Kweisi Mfume (MD-07), Dave Min (CA-47), Gwen Moore (WI-04), Joseph Morelle (NY-25), Kelly Morrison (MN-03), Jared Moskowitz (FL-23), Seth Moulton (MA-06), Frank Mrvan (IN-01), Kevin Mullin (CA-15), Jerrold Nadler (NY-12), Richard Neal (MA-01), Joe Neguse (CO-02), Donald Norcross (NJ-01),Eleanor Norton (DC-AL), Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (NY-14), Johnny Olszewski (MD-02), Ilhan Omar (MN-05), Frank Pallone (NJ-06), Jimmy Panetta (CA-19), Chris Pappas (NH-01), Nancy Pelosi (CA-11), Scott Peters (CA-50), Brittany Pettersen (CO-07), Chellie Pingree (ME-01), Stacey Plaskett (VI-AL), Mark Pocan (WI-02), Nellie Pou (NJ-09), Ayanna Pressley (MA-07), Mike Quigley (IL-05), Delia Ramirez (IL-03), Emily Randall (WA-06), Jamie Raskin (MD-08), Josh Riley (NY-19), Luz Rivas (CA-29), Deborah Ross (NC-02), Raul Ruiz (CA-25), Patrick Ryan (NY-18), Andrea Salinas (OR-06), Linda S\u00e1nchez (CA-38), Mary Gay Scanlon (PA-05), Janice Schakowsky (IL-09), Bradley Schneider (IL-10), Hillary Scholten (MI-03), Kim Schrier (WA-08), David Scott (GA-13), Bobby Scott (VA-03), Terri Sewell (AL-07), Brad Sherman (CA-32), Mikie Sherrill (NJ-11), Lateefah Simon (CA-12), Adam Smith (WA-09), Eric Sorensen (IL-17), Darren Soto (FL-09), Melanie Stansbury (NM-01), Greg Stanton (AZ-04), Haley Stevens (MI-11), Marilyn Strickland (WA-10), Suhas Subramanyam (VA-10), Thomas Suozzi (NY-03), Eric Swalwell (CA-14), Emilia Sykes (OH-13), Mark Takano (CA-39), Shri Thanedar (MI-13), Bennie Thompson (MS-02), Mike Thompson (CA-04), Dina Titus (NV-01), Rashida Tlaib (MI-12), Jill Tokuda (HI-02), Paul Tonko (NY-20), Norma Torres (CA-35), Ritchie Torres (NY-15), Lori Trahan (MA-03), Derek Tran (CA-45), Lauren Underwood (IL-14), Juan Vargas (CA-52), Gabe Vasquez (NM-02), Marc Veasey (TX-33), Nydia Vel\u00e1zquez (NY-07), Eugene Vindman (VA-07), James Walkinshaw (VA-11), Debbie Wasserman Schultz (FL-25), Maxine Waters (CA-43), Bonnie Watson Coleman (NJ-12), George Whitesides (CA-27), Nikema Williams (GA-05), and Frederica Wilson (FL-24).\n\nFull text of the letter is available by clicking here or reading below:\n\nThe Honorable Brooke Rollins\n\nSecretary US Department of Agriculture\n\n1400 Independence Avenue, SW\n\nWashington, DC 20250\n\nDear Madam Secretary,\n\nRight now, millions of Americans are struggling to afford food due to the Administration\u2019s ill-conceived trade war. Just this year, we\u2019ve seen household staples like eggs, coffee, and ground beef hit record high prices. Now more than ever, millions of families across the country depend upon the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) to make ends meet. For far too many veterans, seniors, and children, SNAP benefits are the difference between having food or not. Now, due to the government shutdown, they are facing crippling levels of uncertainty about whether they will be able to afford food next month.\n\nA potential lapse in benefits would be felt by Americans of all ages and affect every corner and congressional district in the country. As the largest food assistance program in the United States, SNAP serves 42 million people. That includes 16 million children, 8 million seniors, 4 million people with disabilities, and 1.2 million veterans.\n\nThat is why we were deeply concerned to see your comments suggesting that SNAP will run out of funding in two weeks and that no SNAP benefits will be issued in November. USDA\u2019s shutdown plan acknowledges that \u201cCongressional intent is evident that SNAP\u2019s operations should continue since the program has been provided with multi-year contingency funds...\u201d USDA still has significant funding available in SNAP\u2019s contingency reserve \u2013 which Congress provides precisely for this reason \u2013 that can be used to fund the bulk of November benefits.\n\nWe urge USDA to use these funds for November SNAP benefits and issue clear guidance to states on how to navigate benefit issuance. Additionally, while the contingency reserve will not cover November benefits in full, we urge USDA to use its statutory transfer authority or any other legal authority at its disposal to supplement these dollars and fully fund November benefits.\n\nThere are clear steps the administration can and must take immediately to ensure that millions of families across the country can put food on their table in November. Choosing not to ensure SNAP benefits reach those in need this November would be a gross dereliction of your responsibilities to the American people. We appreciate your consideration of these requests.\n\nSincerely,\n\n# # #", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:32:54Z"], ["https://kaptur.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/kaptur-massie-reintroduce-bipartisan-bill-protect-american-inventors", "Kaptur, Massie Reintroduce Bipartisan Bill to Protect American Inventors", "2025-10-24", "2025", "2025-10", "Democrat", "House", "OH", "Marcy Kaptur", "K000009", "kaptur.house.gov", "kaptur", "https://kaptur.house.gov/media-center/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, DC \u2013 Today, Congresswoman Marcy Kaptur (OH-09) and Congressman Thomas Massie (KY-04) reintroduced the Balancing Incentives Act of 2025, bipartisan legislation designed to level the playing field for America\u2019s independent inventors and small businesses by strengthening protections for patent owners.\n\nThe Balancing Incentives Act amends US patent law to require a patent owner's consent before anyone can file a petition to challenge the patent through inter partes review or post-grant review at the Patent Trial and Appeal Board (PTAB). This simple yet powerful change ensures that inventors, especially individual creators and small businesses, are not blindsided by costly legal challenges that can strip them of their intellectual property.\n\n\u201cInnovation is the beating heart of American progress,\u201d said Congresswoman Marcy Kaptur (OH-09). \u201cFrom workshops and factories to classrooms and garages, inventors across our nation embody the creativity, determination, and optimism that define the American spirit. They turn ideas into opportunities and dreams into progress. By standing up for inventors, we stand up for America\u2019s future. Because what America makes and grows, makes and grows America.\u201d\n\nThe Balancing Incentives Act of 2025 builds on years of bipartisan effort to make the patent system more balanced, transparent, and accessible to innovators of all sizes, not just large corporations. By ensuring that those who create can keep what they create, this legislation helps preserve the spirit of ingenuity that built America\u2019s middle class, powered our industries, and continues to light the way toward a more prosperous future.\n\n# # #", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:32:54Z"], ["https://kaptur.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/kaptur-wilson-lead-bipartisan-delegation-introducing-repo", "Kaptur, Wilson Lead Bipartisan Delegation Introducing REPO Implementation Act", "2025-10-24", "2025", "2025-10", "Democrat", "House", "OH", "Marcy Kaptur", "K000009", "kaptur.house.gov", "kaptur", "https://kaptur.house.gov/media-center/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, DC \u2013 Congresswoman Marcy Kaptur (D-OH-09), Congressman Joe Wilson (R-SC-02), Congressman Steve Cohen (D-TN-09), and Congressman Tom Kean (R-NJ-07) introduced the bipartisan REPO Implementation Act of 2025. This new legislation builds off the REPO for Ukrainians Act, which was signed into law by President Joe Biden as part of the Ukraine Security Supplemental Appropriations Act, 2024 and allowed for the repurposing of a sizeable subset of frozen Russian sovereign assets for Ukraine. REPO 2.0 jumpstarts the process of transferring assets to Ukraine, providing a way forward for allies to finally implement this common sense measure to make Russia pay for its war.\n\n\u201cLast year, Congress overwhelmingly passed the Rebuilding Economic Prosperity and Opportunity (REPO) for Ukrainians Act to ensure that Russia alone is held responsible for the death and destruction that Dictator Putin has forced upon the free people of Ukraine,\u201d said Congresswoman Marcy Kaptur (OH-09), Co-Chair and Co-Founder of the Congressional Ukraine Caucus. \u201cWhile that step was an essential one, which we took along with our other allies for Liberty, more can be done. Today, Congress follows through on the promise of the REPO Act and ups the pressure on Putin\u2019s Russia to come to the table for peace with the introduction of this new bipartisan legislation. Together, we will push Russia\u2019s bloody incursion back across their own borders and rebuild Ukraine so that it can take its long-sought place among the free democratic nations in Europe.\u201d\n\n\u201cWar criminal Putin chose to invade Ukraine. Despite losing his war, he continues mass murder and destruction while abducting and erasing identities of Ukrainian children. I was grateful to be among the first supporters of the original REPO Act, and I am grateful to sponsor the REPO Implementation Act of 2025 to ensure that Putin\u2019s own money is used to help Ukraine defend itself against Russian aggression,\u201d said Congressman Joe Wilson (SC-02), Co-Chair of the Congressional Ukraine Caucus.\n\n\u201cVladimir Putin put his corrupt money in the United States and Europe, and we froze it. The REPO for Ukrainians Act was a major accomplishment last year, and we must continue this progress with the REPO Implementation Act. This bill ensures that this blood money will now be put to good use supporting the Ukrainians who Putin has attacked. This is a matter of basic justice\u2014the aggressor must pay for his aggression,\u201d said Congressman Steve Cohen (TN-09).\n\n\u201cRussia\u2019s unprovoked invasion of Ukraine continues to inflict tremendous suffering on the Ukrainian people. By repurposing frozen Russian sovereign assets in the United States, we can ensure that Russia bears the cost of Putin's aggression. The REPO Implementation Act establishes a clear framework to provide Ukraine with consistent investments from the United States and encourages our G7 allies to do the same. Together, these efforts will help Ukraine sustain its defense and sovereignty, rebuild what Putin\u2019s forces have destroyed, and strengthen Europe\u2019s collective security,\u201d said Congressman Thomas Kean Jr. (NJ-07).\n\nA copy of the full text is available by clicking here.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:32:54Z"], ["https://shontelbrown.house.gov/media/press-releases/congresswoman-brown-joins-house-democrats-urging-usda-disburse-november-snap", "Congresswoman Brown Joins House Democrats in Urging USDA to Disburse November SNAP Benefits", "2025-10-24", "2025", "2025-10", "Democrat", "House", "OH", "Shontel M. Brown", "B001313", "shontelbrown.house.gov", "shontelbrown", "https://shontelbrown.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, DC \u2014 Congresswoman Shontel Brown (OH-11) today joined 214 House Democrats in calling on the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) to use available contingency funds and all legal authority to ensure that Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits are distributed for November despite the ongoing government shutdown.\n\nIn a letter co-led by Agriculture Committee Ranking Member Angie Craig (MN-02) and Congresswoman Jahana Hayes (CT-5) and the members urge USDA to use SNAP\u2019s contingency reserve to fund November benefits and to issue clear guidance to states on benefit issuance. The letter also calls on USDA to use its statutory transfer authority or other legal means to fully fund November benefits if contingency funds alone are insufficient.\n\nWith the shutdown now entering its 23rd day, more than 42 million Americans, including 1.4 million Ohioans, face uncertainty about whether they will receive the food assistance they rely on to feed their families.\n\n\u201cAfter shutting down the government instead of keeping health care affordable for working families, Trump and Republicans in Washington are now threatening to let families go hungry to score political points,\u201d said Congresswoman Brown. \u201cLet\u2019s be clear \u2014 the money to keep SNAP running is sitting right there. The Administration has the power to use it in November, and they must. There is absolutely no excuse for holding Ohio families hostage or choosing to let children go hungry when the funds are available today.\u201d\n\nBrown has consistently called for protecting access to food assistance during the shutdown. Earlier this month, she joined her Ohio Democratic Delegation colleagues in a letter to Governor Mike DeWine, urging the state to bridge any temporary gap in SNAP and WIC funding should federal support lapse.\n\nBrown also serves as the lead sponsor of H.R. 2016, the Feed Our Families Act, alongside Congresswoman Emilia Sykes (OH-13), which would ensure SNAP benefits continue automatically during any future federal shutdown.\n\n##", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:32:54Z"], ["https://sykes.house.gov/media/press-releases/reps-sykes-and-bresnahan-introduce-bipartisan-water-preservation-and-affordability-act-of-2025", "Reps. Sykes and Bresnahan Introduce Bipartisan Water Preservation and Affordability Act of 2025", "2025-10-24", "2025", "2025-10", "Democrat", "House", "OH", "Emilia Strong Sykes", "S001223", "sykes.house.gov", "sykes", "https://sykes.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2014 U.S. Representative Emilia Sykes (OH-13) and Republican Rep. Rob Bresnahan (PA-08) recently introduced the bipartisan Water Preservation and Affordability Act of 2025. This timely legislation will update the Clean Water Act to ensure that resource preservation techniques, including water reuse, energy efficiency, and stormwater mitigation, are prioritized in federally supported water infrastructure projects. The bill is designed to help protect communities from rising water and sewer bills while advancing environmental resilience.\n\n\u201cWe have no time to waste when it comes to clean, affordable water,\u201d said Rep. Sykes. \u201cToo many households are seeing their water or sewer bills climb just to maintain an outdated system. This bill brings cost-saving solutions, resilient infrastructure, and fairness to the table, because families should not have to choose between paying their bills and protecting our rivers.\u201d\n\n\"The residents of Northeastern Pennsylvania know firsthand the problems caused by stormwater runoff and the importance of reliable water infrastructure,\u201d said Rep. Bresnahan. \u201cThe Water Preservation and Affordability Act combines the need for further funding for clean water resources and projects aimed at protecting our infrastructure from stormwater runoff. I am glad to partner with Rep. Sykes to introduce this legislation and continue to develop legislative solutions to our communities\u2019 real-world problems.\"\n\nRecent local action in Akron makes the legislation especially urgent. Earlier this month, the Akron City Council approved a four-year plan of sewer rate increases to meet the costs of federally mandated clean-water upgrades. These rate adjustments are projected to raise the average household bill by more than $22 per month by 2029, with even larger increases possible if additional infrastructure is required. The Water Preservation and Affordability Act would help cities like Akron access more federal support and adopt innovations that reduce long-term costs, meaning fewer steep hikes for working families.\n\nKey Provisions:\n\nEstablishes a federal definition of \u201cresource preservation technique,\u201d which includes water reuse, recapture, conservation, energy efficiency, stormwater mitigation, sustainable planning and design, and environmentally innovative technologies.\n\nUpdates the Clean Water State Revolving Fund so that utilities receiving certain federal assistance must evaluate and use resource preservation techniques to the maximum extent practicable.\n\nExpands two critical federal support programs:\n\nAuthorizes $40 million annually for FY 2026\u20132031 for the Wastewater Efficiency Grant Pilot Program.\n\nAuthorizes $50 million annually for FY 2026\u20132031 for the Clean Water Infrastructure Resiliency and Sustainability Program.\n\nStreamlines the application process for the Clean Water State Revolving Fund by removing burdensome reporting requirements.\n\n\u201cNACWA thanks Representative Sykes for her leadership on the Water Preservation and Affordability Act, which recognizes the critical role clean water utilities play on the front lines of community resilience,\u201d said Adam Krantz, CEO of the National Association of Clean Water Agencies (NACWA). \u201cThis legislation strengthens the Clean Water State Revolving Fund (CWSRF) by prioritizing resource preservation strategies such as water reuse, energy efficiency, stormwater management, and other innovative approaches\u2014ensuring that utilities can continue protecting public health and the environment.\u201d\n\n\u201cWe are grateful to Representatives Sykes and Bresnahan for championing the Water Preservation and Affordability Act, which will boost strategic investments in water efficiency and the resiliency of clean water projects,\u201d said Heather Taylor-Miesle, Executive Director, American Rivers Action Fund. \u201cIncreasingly severe storms and intense rainfall are threatening water quality in Ohio by exacerbating the Cuyahoga River\u2019s natural flooding response, leading to worsening sewer overflows and stormwater pollution that impact communities, families, and local economies. This legislation will continue to support the work being done by local utilities to address these growing threats, and we strongly urge Congress to support this timely bill as part of the State Revolving Fund reauthorization.\u201d\n\n\u201cThank you Representative Sykes for prioritizing water access and resiliency through the introduction of the Water Preservation and Affordability Act,\u201d said Lizzy Duncan, Government Affairs Representative for the Healthy Communities team at the League of Conservation Voters (LCV). \u201cThis bill would make it easier for people to apply for funding for clean water projects, encourage sustainable project planning, and promote water efficiency and community resiliency to natural disasters across the country. We greatly appreciate Rep. Sykes\u2019 commitment to community resiliency, sustainability, and access to clean water for all, and look forward to continuing to work together to protect public health and our environment.\u201d\n\nThis legislation is endorsed by the National Association of Clean Water Agencies, League of Conservation Voters, National Resources Defense Council, & American Rivers Action Fund.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:32:54Z"], ["https://beatty.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/beatty-brown-sykes-landsman-unite-for-straight-talk-on-the-shutdown-health-care", "Beatty, Brown, Sykes & Landsman Unite for  \u201cStraight Talk on the Shutdown & Health Care\u201d", "2025-10-23", "2025", "2025-10", "Democrat", "House", "OH", "Joyce Beatty", "B001281", "beatty.house.gov", "beatty", "https://beatty.house.gov/media-center/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Last night, Congresswoman Joyce Beatty (OH-03) hosted a live virtual town hall titled Straight Talk on the Shutdown & Health Care Crossroads to help Ohioans understand and navigate the ongoing federal government shutdown and its connection to the growing health care coverage crisis.\n\nBeatty was joined by members of Ohio\u2019s Democratic Congressional Delegation \u2014 Congresswoman Shontel Brown (OH-11), Congresswoman Emilia Sykes (OH-13), and Congressman Greg Landsman (OH-01) \u2014 for an hour-long discussion on the real-life effects of the Republican government shutdown on families, small businesses, and federal workers across the state.\n\nThe event connected with thousands of residents by phone and was livestreamed on Facebook Live. Most of Congresswoman Beatty\u2019s constituents joined the virtual town hall by phone to ask questions in real time, with participation spanning all four Ohio congressional districts represented on the panel through both written and live questions.\n\nKey topics included:\n\nUnderstanding the shutdown and what\u2019s at stake for Ohio families and communities.\n\nNavigating state and local resources to sustain vital programs like SNAP, WIC, and housing assistance during a prolonged closure.\n\nResponding to the health care crossroads, including the potential loss of Affordable Care Act (ACA) Marketplace tax credits and historic Medicaid cuts under President Trump\u2019s One Big Beautiful Bill Act.\n\nStanding with federal workers reinforcing their protections during the shutdown.\n\n\u201cThis shutdown is more than politics \u2014 it\u2019s about people, paychecks, and priorities,\u201d said Congresswoman Beatty. \u201cBehind every budget fight are families wondering whether their benefits will continue, seniors worried about their health coverage, and workers unsure when their next paycheck will come. We came together to give Ohioans straight answers and to encourage them to engage all their elected officials in pursuing an end to this shutdown.\u201d\n\nThis event was part of ongoing nationwide efforts by House Democrats during the government shutdown to highlight the importance of health care to American families\u2014and their continued fight to protect it in the government funding process.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:32:54Z"], ["https://beatty.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/beatty-leads-hill-democrats-in-two-front-fight-against-trump-s-shutdown-tactics", "Beatty Leads Hill Democrats in Two-Front Fight  Against Trump\u2019s Shutdown Tactics", "2025-10-23", "2025", "2025-10", "Democrat", "House", "OH", "Joyce Beatty", "B001281", "beatty.house.gov", "beatty", "https://beatty.house.gov/media-center/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Today, U.S. Congresswoman Beatty \u2013 in a double-duty effort to condemn the Trump Administration\u2019s abuse of power during the federal government shutdown \u2013 led two letters to Trump Cabinet officials demanding the release of critical infrastructure funding and the reversal of unlawful federal employee firings, for the American people.\n\nJoined by 25 Members of Congress, Beatty sent a letter to U.S. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy and Office of Management and Budget (OMB) Director Russell Vought. The letter condemns the administration\u2019s politically motivated freeze on $32 billion in critical infrastructure projects in Democratic-led states and cities, and demands the immediate release of funds that rightfully belong to the American people.\n\nIn a second letter to United States Secretary of the Treasury Scott Bessent and OMB Director Vought, Beatty \u2014 Ranking Member of a House Financial Services Subcommittee and a longtime advocate for equitable access to financial services \u2014 denounced the Trump Administration\u2019s decision to terminate all employees at the Community Development Financial Institutions (CDFI) Fund, urging the reversal of those firings and calling for the Fund to continue its mission of expanding economic opportunity in underserved communities. Joining her in this letter was the Ohio Democratic House Delegation, Reps. Shontel Brown (OH-11), Marcy Kaptur (OH-09), Greg Landsman (OH-01), and Emilia Sykes (OH-13).\n\nOn the freeze of $32 billion in critical infrastructure projects\n\n\u201cThese projects are not designed to benefit one party, but to improve our nation\u2019s infrastructure, boost economic growth, and enhance quality of life for all Americans \u2013 regardless of political affiliation,\u201d said Members in the letter. \u201cFreezing these projects will only result in unnecessary delays, more congestion, and substantial job losses. President Trump and Director Vought think that these abuses are demonstrations of strength, but they only hurt Americans \u2013 many of whom voted for them \u2013 and hardens opposition to their lawless administration.\u201d\n\nOn the attempted firings of employees of the CDFI Fund and abrupt shuttering of the Fund\n\n\u201cDespite the Fund\u2019s historic bipartisan support and proven effectiveness, President Trump has made several attempts to undermine the Fund and is now using the government shutdown as cover to unlawfully fire all Fund staff, rendering it unable to fulfill its statutory obligations,\u201d said Members in the letter. \u201c\u2026Abruptly shuttering the Fund threatens to undo all the gains achieved by the program in recent years and will only serve to limit access to affordable credit, small business loans, and mortgages for rural families, low-income households, and first-time homebuyers.\u201d\n\nThe letter to Secretary Duffy and Director Vought, condemning the freeze in infrastructure funding, can be found HERE.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:32:54Z"], ["https://sykes.house.gov/media/press-releases/icymi-rep-sykes-joins-virtual-town-hall-with-ohio-democratic-delegation-to-answer-questions-on-government-shutdown", "ICYMI: Rep. Sykes Joins Virtual Town Hall with Ohio Democratic Delegation to Answer Questions on Government Shutdown", "2025-10-23", "2025", "2025-10", "Democrat", "House", "OH", "Emilia Strong Sykes", "S001223", "sykes.house.gov", "sykes", "https://sykes.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2014 In Case You Missed It, U.S. Representative Emilia Sykes (OH-13) joined a Straight Talk on the Shutdown & Health Care Crossroads tele-town hall on Wednesday. Rep. Sykes, along with fellow Democratic Reps. Joyce Beatty (OH-03), Shontel Brown (OH-11), and Greg Landsman (OH-01) discussed the ongoing government shutdown and its critical connection to affordable health care. The delegation spoke to thousands of constituents and provided essential information related to the impacts of the shutdown being felt in Ohio\u2019s 13th Congressional District, across the state and the country.\n\n\u201cMy heart is with the hardworking people of my community, Ohio and the United States who are feeling the pain of this shutdown,\u201d said Rep. Sykes. \u201cFamilies are worried about putting food on the table, keeping their healthcare, and getting their next paycheck. This isn\u2019t just a government shutdown; it\u2019s a Republican-led healthcare crisis that didn\u2019t have to happen. Instead of working with us to keep the government open and protect people\u2019s access to care, House Republicans chose chaos over common sense. I\u2019m ready to get back to work the moment they return to Washington because Ohio families deserve better than this.\u201d\n\nCongresswoman Sykes\u2019 office remains open and ready to help. Those who need assistance with federal benefits or have questions about how this shutdown may affect them are encouraged to visit sykes.house.gov/shutdown or call her office at 330-400-5350.\n\nRepublicans in Washington control the House of Representatives, the Senate, and the White House. They have failed to put the needs of our country first, leading to this government shutdown. Their failure to extend ACA Premium Tax Credits means higher costs for families who rely on the Marketplace for coverage. In Ohio\u2019s 13th Congressional District, 29,000 families will see their premiums rise by $720 on average. On top of that, cuts to Medicaid threaten critical care for seniors, children, and working families who depend on it most. Unfortunately, these cuts will hurt Ohio\u2019s 13th District more than other communities as our local economy is heavily dependent on healthcare systems that rely on Medicaid and Medicare reimbursements to pay for our health care services.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:32:54Z"], ["https://shontelbrown.house.gov/media/press-releases/congresswoman-brown-stands-constituents-calls-republicans-reverse-health-care", "Congresswoman Brown Stands with Constituents - Calls for Republicans to Reverse Health Care Cuts", "2025-10-22", "2025", "2025-10", "Democrat", "House", "OH", "Shontel M. Brown", "B001313", "shontelbrown.house.gov", "shontelbrown", "https://shontelbrown.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Cleveland, OH \u2013 Congresswoman Shontel Brown (OH-11) hosted a press conference Wednesday at the Village of Healing calling on Congress and the White House to reverse upcoming cuts to the Affordable Care Act and Medicaid. Three local Northeast Ohio residents joined Brown and shared their stories about how the cuts to the Affordable Care Act and Medicaid would impact their health care, finances, and their families.\n\nCongresswoman Brown was joined by Cuyahoga County Executive Chris Ronayne, Cuyahoga County Department of Health and Human Services Director David Merriman, Dr. Arthur Lavin of Doctors Organized for Healthcare Solutions, and Da\u2019na Langford CEO & Founder, Village of Healing.\n\nWithout legislative action, over 50,000 people in Cuyahoga County will see significant price increases to their ACA health care coverage when open enrollment begins on November 1. This summer, President Trump also signed the largest cuts to Medicaid in history, jeopardizing the health care coverage of over 40,000 people represented by Brown in OH-11.\n\nCuyahoga County administers Medicaid locally, where approximately 35,000 Ohioans will be subject to new Medicaid work requirements beginning next year.\n\n\u201cWe are facing a health care crisis in Northeast Ohio because of Republican cuts to Medicaid and the Affordable Care Act. It\u2019s wrong, it\u2019s cruel, and it\u2019s unnecessary. Today, I stood with constituents who will be impacted by these terrible cuts to send a clear message to the Trump White House and the Republican-controlled Congress: cancel the cuts, lower the costs, and re-open the government,\u201d said Congresswoman Shontel Brown. \u201cIf we don\u2019t reverse these cuts, over 50,000 people in Cuyahoga County will be slammed with massive price increases on their health insurance, combined with the largest cuts to Medicaid in history. It\u2019s a double-whammy that we cannot afford.\u201d\n\n\u201cHealth care is not just a privilege, it is a right, and every person, no matter their zip code, income, or background, deserves access to quality, affordable health care,\u201d said Cuyahoga County Executive Chris Ronayne. \u201cMedicaid is critical for our families, our seniors, and our workforce in Cuyahoga County, and we are asking Congress to extend the Affordable Care Act tax credits, end the Medicaid cuts, and protect healthcare access for tens of thousands of Cuyahoga County residents and millions of Americans.\u201d\n\nVideo of the Press Conference Available Here\n\nPhotos Here\n\nNE Ohio Health Care Crisis: What\u2019s at Stake\n\nACA Plan Price Increases:\n\nIf ACA Enhanced Premium tax credits expire, ACA marketplace premiums will increase on average by $705 per year for individuals, with families seeing cost increases in the thousands.\n\nAccording to this calculator, a family of four in Cleveland with a household income of $56,000 a year (the median income in OH-11) would see their premiums increase by $2,400 next year, a 100% increase.\n\nHow Many People Will Pay More Due to ACA Cuts:\n\nApproximately 513,517 Ohioans benefit from ACA Enhanced Premium Tax Credits\n\nThat includes 56,800 people in Cuyahoga County and 38,000 people represented by Brown in OH-11\n\nMedicaid Cuts Starting in 2026:\n\nThe Republican Budget Bill signed in July included over $1 trillion in health care cuts, including the largest cuts to Medicaid in history.\n\nAccording to analysis from the Joint Economic Committee, over 25,000 people in OH-11 will lose Medicaid coverage and over 17,000 will lose ACA coverage due to Republican health care cuts.\n\nIn Cuyahoga County, approximately 35,000 people could lose Medicaid coverage.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:32:54Z"], ["https://kaptur.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/new-letter-kaptur-murray-blast-latest-mass-firings-doe", "In New Letter, Kaptur, Murray Blast Latest Mass Firings at DOE", "2025-10-20", "2025", "2025-10", "Democrat", "House", "OH", "Marcy Kaptur", "K000009", "kaptur.house.gov", "kaptur", "https://kaptur.house.gov/media-center/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, DC \u2014 Congresswoman Marcy Kaptur (OH-09), Ranking Member of the House Appropriations Subcommittee on Energy and Water Development, and Senator Patty Murray (D-WA), Vice Chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee and Ranking Member of the Subcommittee on Energy and Water Development, sent a letter to Department of Energy (DOE) Secretary Chris Wright blasting the latest reductions in force (RIF) ordered during the government shutdown.\n\n\u201cWe write with outrage over the Department of Energy\u2019s (DOE) decision to move forward with reductions in force (RIFs) across critical program offices during the government shutdown in a clear act of political retribution that will hurt communities across the country,\u201d write Kaptur and Murray.\n\n\u201cThese actions, which reportedly affect 179 employees, appear to be part of a broader effort to implement the administration\u2019s budget request without congressional approval\u2014circumventing the appropriations process and undermining congressional intent,\u201d they continue. \u201cThe Department\u2019s actions will raise energy prices for American families by disrupting the implementation of key programs that increase supply and reduce costs for hard-working Americans. We are also alarmed by how your mass firings might allow waste, fraud, and abuse as you eliminate key staff conducting oversight of programs.\u201d\n\nIn the letter, Kaptur and Murray note that the planned RIFs \u201cwould effectively dismantle the very offices responsible for lowering energy costs for American families and communities.\u201d\n\nNoting that DOE has so far refused to provide any detailed information about the RIFs or a justification for them, the lawmakers conclude by calling on Secretary Wright to halt all planned firings: \u201cWe demand you immediately halt all RIF actions and provide the Committee with detailed information about the scope, timing, and justification of these reductions.\u201d\n\nThe full letter is available HERE and below:\n\nThe Honorable Christopher Wright\n\nSecretary of Energy\n\nUS Department of Energy\n\n1000 Independence Avenue SW\n\nWashington, DC 20585\n\nDear Secretary Wright:\n\nWe write with outrage over the Department of Energy\u2019s (DOE) decision to move forward with reductions in force (RIFs) across critical program offices during the government shutdown in a clear act of political retribution that will hurt communities across the country. These actions, which reportedly affect 179 employees, appear to be part of a broader effort to implement the administration\u2019s budget request without congressional approval\u2014circumventing the appropriations process and undermining congressional intent. The Department\u2019s actions will raise energy prices for American families by disrupting the implementation of key programs that increase supply and reduce costs for hard-working Americans. We are also alarmed by how your mass firings might allow waste, fraud, and abuse as you eliminate key staff conducting oversight of programs.\n\nThe Department has refused to provide information about the specific distribution of RIFs across affected offices, which include the Offices of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy (EERE), State and Community Energy Programs (SCEP), and Office of Clean Energy Demonstrations (OCED). We understand that employees have been notified of impending terminations with no set date, creating confusion and uncertainty throughout the Department. Further, a US District Court recently temporarily halted RIFs across federal agencies, finding they will likely be determined to be illegal.\n\nThese RIFs would effectively dismantle the very offices responsible for lowering energy costs for American families and communities. Eliminating staff in SCEP jeopardizes work to distribute $366 Million annually through the Weatherization Assistance Program\u2014saving households an average of $372 per year\u2014and $105 Million annually through state and community programs, which cut costs through renewable energy and efficiency upgrades. Similarly, the mass firings at EERE would end research and deployment programs in solar, wind, and hydrogen technologies that make clean energy more affordable and reliable, strengthen domestic supply chains, and reduce long-term energy costs for consumers nationwide.\n\nRecent reports from the DOE Office of Inspector General and the Government Accountability Office have identified persistent gaps in program oversight and have recommended increased monitoring and staffing to ensure proper stewardship of federal funds. These RIFs would directly undermine those recommendations\u2014eliminating institutional knowledge and capacity at a time when stronger oversight is clearly needed. With fewer career oversight and program management staff, the Department risks weaker grant monitoring, delayed audits, reduced ability to detect misconduct, and diminished follow-through on corrective actions.\n\nCompounding these concerns, OCED and SCEP are responsible for implementing and overseeing billions of dollars in Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act and Inflation Reduction Act funds\u2014funds that support demonstration projects, state energy programs, and community level deployments. It is unclear who would manage these programs and carry out required monitoring and compliance functions if these RIFs proceed\u2014further heightening the risk of inadequate oversight and mismanagement.\n\nWe demand you immediately halt all RIF actions and provide the Committee with detailed information about the scope, timing, and justification of these reductions. Please provide DOE\u2019s plan for implementing and overseeing the programs managed by these offices, as well as details on how DOE plans to implement the court order.\n\nDOE should be advancing America\u2019s clean energy future and reducing energy costs for consumers\u2014not dismantling the offices that make it possible. We look forward to your responses by October 23, 2025.\n\nSincerely,\n\n# # #", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:32:54Z"], ["https://shontelbrown.house.gov/media/press-releases/congresswoman-brown-argues-trump-causing-farmageddon-foxnews-op-ed", "Congresswoman Brown Argues Trump Causing \u2018Farmageddon\u2019 in FoxNews Op-Ed", "2025-10-17", "2025", "2025-10", "Democrat", "House", "OH", "Shontel M. Brown", "B001313", "shontelbrown.house.gov", "shontelbrown", "https://shontelbrown.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Cleveland, OH \u2013 Congresswoman Shontel Brown (OH-11), Vice Ranking Member of the House Committee on Agriculture has authored an op-ed for FoxNews.com criticizing the Trump Administration for raising costs, shrinking markets, and cutting health care for farmers and rural communities.\n\nCriticizing the devastating impacts of Trump\u2019s policies, Brown writes, \u201cThe math doesn\u2019t pencil out: higher costs on the front end, lower prices and fewer markets on the back end. It\u2019s a squeeze no amount of wishful thinking can fix.\u201d\n\nBrown\u2019s op-ed is available online and copied below:\n\nFarmageddon: Trump\u2019s Trade War and Shutdown Are Crushing the Heartland\n\nBy Congresswoman Shontel Brown\n\nBack in May, I warned that America\u2019s farm economy was under attack \u2014 that tariffs, USDA program cuts, and political posturing in Washington were hammering farmers from the farm gate to the dinner plate. Four months later, that picture has only grown worse.\n\nAcross the Midwest, combines sit idle and bins overflow with unsold grain. Corn prices are down nearly 50 percent since 2022. Soybeans have dropped 40 percent. Fertilizer and equipment costs are up double digits. And 8 in 10 farmers now say they believe the U.S. is on the brink of another farm crisis reminiscent of the 1980s. They\u2019ve even given it a name: Farmageddon.\n\nThis time, the crisis isn\u2019t a result of macroeconomic conditions \u2014 it\u2019s a direct result of decisions made by the White House.\n\nPresident Trump\u2019s reckless tariff war is crushing America\u2019s farmers. Take soybeans. China has retaliated on U.S. tariffs with a total boycott of U.S. soybeans, leaving bumper crops rotting in silos across Ohio, Iowa, and Illinois. Meanwhile, new tariffs on fertilizer, steel, and equipment have driven up production costs for nearly every crop and commodity. The math doesn\u2019t pencil out: higher costs on the front end, lower prices and fewer markets on the back end. It\u2019s a squeeze no amount of wishful thinking can fix.\n\nAnd while U.S. farmers struggle to move their grain, the administration just finalized a bailout for Argentina \u2014 a country that turned around and cut a deal with China to buy its soybeans instead of ours. Think about that: Washington is bailing out a competitor to our farmers on the brink of crisis. Unfortunately, we saw this same movie during Trump\u2019s last trade war. Farm bankruptcies soared to record highs, and Brazil walked away with our export markets. Now Argentina is lining up to do the same. And everyone knows: once you lose market share, you rarely get it back.\n\nThis isn\u2019t just economics. It\u2019s deeply personal. It\u2019s the difference between keeping the family farm for another generation and auctioning off the tractor. It\u2019s the creases across an Ohio farmer\u2019s face as he struggles to tell me he\u2019s not sure whether he wants his children to have this way of life.\n\nAnd the White House is only making it harder. Despite total control of Washington, the President\u2019s party has shut down the government rather than extend enhanced premium tax credits that keep health care affordable. Finding affordable health care as a farmer is difficult enough as it stands. But now, premiums are set to skyrocket. In fact, in rural countries, premiums are set to increase an average of 107%, a larger increase than in our cities.\n\nMoreover, when USDA shuts down, farmers get shut out. That means delays to critical farm loans, conservation payments, and disaster relief. For farmers, it\u2019s a double whammy: no markets, no safety net, and now, no one to pick up the phone.\n\nWhat is the solution? Well, the president is floating a $14 billion bailout for farmers \u2014 a temporary fix for a self-inflicted wound. We saw how this went in the first trade war, when payments were mismanaged and failed to help the farmers who were hardest hit. Even the President\u2019s allies are skeptical. I agree with Senator Jim Justice (R-WV), who said funding bailouts with tariff revenue is \u201clike putting a Band-Aid on cancer.\u201d Farmers don\u2019t want bailouts; they want a fair shake. They want open markets, stable policy, and a government that has their back.\n\nSo let\u2019s be clear: there is a way out of this mess.\n\nFirst, reopen the government and extend the enhanced premium tax credits that a quarter of all farmers rely on. It\u2019s time to get the USDA back to full strength and ensure that rural families can afford their health coverage.\n\nSecond, end the trade war that\u2019s hollowing out American agriculture. Stop punishing the very people who feed and fuel this country.\n\nThird, if the president won\u2019t end his reckless trade war, Congress must step in to reclaim our constitutional authority over tariff policy. I plan to introduce legislation soon that would require USDA to report on the impact of any proposed tariffs on farm country, giving farmers an extra tool to plan for the future. I welcome my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to join.\n\nAnd finally, let\u2019s expand domestic markets by authorizing year-round E15 fuel. This is a commonsense, bipartisan step that would boost corn demand, lower gas prices, and strengthen our energy independence.\n\nThis is only a start, but our Farmers need a real plan.\n\nBecause what\u2019s happening in farm country isn\u2019t some distant problem. It\u2019s America\u2019s problem. When farms go under, towns go quiet. When farmers stop buying seed, tractors, and feed, the hardware store closes, the diner empties, and the local school loses its tax base. The ripple effects reach every kitchen table in America \u2014 in the cost of food and in the strength of our economy.\n\nPresident Trump can end this crisis today by reopening the government and ending the trade war that\u2019s driving farm country to the brink. And if he won\u2019t, Congress should step up and do it for him.\n\nBecause this isn\u2019t just about crops or commodities. It\u2019s about a way of life that feeds our nation, fuels our economy, and defines who we are.\n\nIf we let that slip away, we\u2019ll have no one to blame but ourselves.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:32:54Z"], ["https://kaptur.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/kaptur-fitzpatrick-quigley-wilson-suozzi-mccaul-lead-bipartisan-letter", "Kaptur, Fitzpatrick, Quigley, Wilson, Suozzi, McCaul Lead Bipartisan Letter to President Trump Regarding Efforts to Secure Peace in Ukraine, Provide Additional Weapons and Levy New Sanctions Against Russia", "2025-10-16", "2025", "2025-10", "Democrat", "House", "OH", "Marcy Kaptur", "K000009", "kaptur.house.gov", "kaptur", "https://kaptur.house.gov/media-center/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, DC \u2013 Today, Congressional Caucus Co-Chairs Congresswoman Marcy Kaptur (OH-09), Congressman Brian Fitzpatrick (PA-01), Congressman Mike Quigley (IL-05), Congressman Joe Wilson (SC-02), Ukraine Caucus Member Congressman Tom Suozzi (NY-03), and former House Foreign Affairs Committee Chair Congressman Michael McCaul (TX-10) led a letter to President Donald J. Trump ahead of his White House meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy.\n\nThe letter commends President Trump\u2019s recent efforts to secure peace in Ukraine and urges the Administration to follow through on his statements to provide additional weapons to Ukraine and levy new sanctions against Russia in order to bring Dictator Vladimir Putin to the negotiating table, as well as ensure Russia is held accountable for the kidnapping of tens of thousands of Ukrainian children. The United States has always stood on the side of freedom and sovereignty\u2014and when America leads with peace through strength, the world follows.\n\nAdditional co-signers include Representatives: Don Bacon (NE-02), Wesley Bell (MO-01), Brendan Boyle (PA-02), Andr\u00e9 Carson (IN-01), Steve Cohen (TN-09), Jim Costa (CA-21), Danny Davis (IL-07), Lois Frankel (FL-22), John Garamendi (CA-08), Josh Gottheimer (NJ-05), Steny Hoyer (MD-05), Julie Johnson (TX-32), Greg Landsman (OH-01), Rob Menendez (NJ-08), Jared Moskowitz (FL-23), Joe Morelle (NY-25), Johnny Olszewski (MD-02), Frank Pallone (NJ-06), Nellie Pou (NJ-09), Brad Schneider (IL-10), and Eric Swalwell (CA-14).\n\nA full copy of the letter can be found by clicking here, or reading below:\n\nDear President Trump,\n\nWe write to applaud your leadership and recent efforts to secure peace in Ukraine. Through your strong actions and statements, America has demonstrated the value of its \u201cpeace through strength\u201d approach.\n\nWe urge you to allow the sale of new weapons systems to Ukraine, to increase sanctions on Russia, and to hold Russia to account for the kidnapping of Ukrainian children since the start of the war. These steps would significantly strengthen Ukraine\u2019s position, pressuring Russia to accept the peace negotiations that you have diligently pursued. The time for peace in Ukraine is now.\n\nIn recent weeks, you stated that Kyiv can \u201cwin all of Ukraine back in its original form.\u201d Furthermore, you have indicated your openness to sending Tomahawk weapon systems to Ukraine. Most notably, you have brokered a ceasefire between Israel and Hamas after two prolonged years of war, beginning the \u201chistoric dawn of a new Middle East.\u201d Congress and the American people support you in these efforts. As we seek to bring about a just and lasting peace in Ukraine, there are additional steps that can be taken to counter Russia\u2019s ongoing aggression and strengthen Ukraine\u2019s position at the negotiating table.\n\nFirst, per your recent statements, the United States can provide Ukraine with the weapons it needs to ensure that Russia is brought to the negotiating table. Your calls for the provision of Tomahawk missiles and the intelligence necessary for Ukraine to threaten military targets deep inside Russia would provide Ukraine with an increased ability to deter further aggression. Furthermore, the provision of capabilities including additional Patriot missile batteries and ammunition, F-16 software upgrades, and Advanced Precision Kill Weapons Systems would ensure that Ukrainians can be protected from Russia\u2019s increasingly deadly attacks on population centers and energy infrastructure. Together with large investments from our European allies, these steps would ensure a European-driven defense and reflects a \u201cpeace through strength\u201d strategy focused on ending the conflict on terms that uphold Ukraine\u2019s sovereignty and deter future Russian escalation.\n\nSecondly, we are pleased with the progress being made by our European allies, through your partnership and encouragement, to end Europe\u2019s reliance on Russian energy and the enactment of impactful new sanctions against Putin\u2019s regime. The moment is here to levy forceful new joint sanctions against Russia and its allies who continue to purchase Russian oil and, in doing so, uphold the Russian war machine. Legislation to enact such new sanctions has broad support in Congress and we are eager to work with you and your administration to promptly use this powerful tool to bring Putin to the negotiating table.\n\nLastly, we must also address the ongoing crisis of missing Ukrainian children as this war continues. The recent return of eight Ukrainian children, previously held in Russia, to their families is a welcome and meaningful development. The First Lady\u2019s passionate advocacy calling for their release\u2014through sustained engagement and diplomacy\u2014deserves recognition. Her efforts have helped draw international attention to this urgent issue. We are deeply appreciative of her ongoing commitment to the process of bringing Ukrainian children home. Over 20,000 Ukrainian children remain captive in Russia, and some are being trained to fight for the Russia military against their own country.\n\nTogether, we can help ensure that Ukraine\u2014like Israel and Gaza\u2014can pursue peace and security through a negotiated ceasefire and a just resolution to the war. To ensure that Russia can be brought to the table, we request your commitment to the provision of new arms to Ukraine, the implementing of powerful new sanctions against Russia, and the holding of Russia to account for the kidnapping of Ukrainian children since the start of the war.\n\n# # #", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:32:54Z"], ["https://sykes.house.gov/media/press-releases/reps-sykes-dingell-and-budzinski-reintroduce-fair-warning-act-to-strengthen-worker-protections-and-ensure-advance-notice-of-layoffs", "Reps. Sykes, Dingell, and Budzinski Reintroduce Fair Warning Act to Strengthen Worker Protections and Ensure Advance Notice of Layoffs", "2025-10-15", "2025", "2025-10", "Democrat", "House", "OH", "Emilia Strong Sykes", "S001223", "sykes.house.gov", "sykes", "https://sykes.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, DC \u2013 U.S. Representatives Emilia Sykes (OH-13), Debbie Dingell (MI-06), and Nikki Budzinksi (IL-13) reintroduced the Fair Warning Act. The bill would update the Worker Adjustment and Retraining (WARN) Act of 1988, hold employers accountable, and give workers and communities the notice they need to best prepare for and recover from employer decisions that cost them their jobs.\n\n\u201cLosing a job is tough enough, but it\u2019s made even worse when large corporations ignore the letter of the law and refuse to give hard-working Ohioans and our communities the advance notice they need to prepare for what comes next. People in Ohio\u2019s 13th Congressional District deserve transparency, which is why I\u2019m reintroducing the Fair Warning Act,\u201d said Rep. Sykes. \u201cThe Fair Warning Act holds employers accountable and empowers working people by ensuring workers and their families get the notice they need to prepare and respond to layoffs. As a member of the Congressional Labor Caucus, I\u2019ll always stand with working people and families in our communities by working to prevent layoffs, create better-paying jobs and fight for better worker protections.\u201d\n\n\"No worker should ever be blindsided by an unexpected layoff,\u201d said Rep. Budzinski. \u201cDespite existing laws like the WARN Act, which require companies to give advance notice of mass layoffs and plant closures, employers too often ignore or find loopholes in these rules. We must do more to protect workers, their families, and communities. I\u2019m proud to introduce this legislation to strengthen the WARN Act and hold employers accountable to treat workers with the respect and dignity they deserve.\u201d\n\n\u201cToo often, hardworking Americans are left in the dark when decisions are made that impact their jobs and their communities,\u201d said Rep. Dingell. \u201cThe Fair Warning Act gives workers and their families the notice and respect they deserve when facing job loss. It also holds employers accountable for the consequences of abrupt and mass layoffs. As a co-chair of the Labor Caucus, I will always fight for better, more fair conditions for workers.\u201d\n\nBackground:\n\nToo often, companies close down and barely give their workers or the broader community notice. Workers and their families deserve better than a last-minute email letting them know they\u2019re losing their job. While the WARN Act requires certain companies to provide full-time employees with WARN notices in some circumstances, in too many cases, existing law doesn\u2019t apply, or companies fail to follow the rules, and workers get left behind.\n\nThe Fair Warning Act modernizes existing law to ensure workers receive meaningful advance notice and that employers are held responsible when they fail to comply.\n\nThe Fair Warning Act would update current law by:\n\nUpdating the statute so the requirements under the law apply to any business that employs 50 or more employees or has an annual payroll of $2 million;\n\nUpdating definitions to ensure the legislation also covers an employer\u2019s affiliate if they violate the WARN Act;\n\nClosing loopholes in notification requirements by expanding the cases where notification is required and including both full-time and part-time employees in thresholds;\n\nIncreasing the lead-time for mass layoff or site closure notifications from 60 days\u2019 notice to 90 days\u2019 notice to provide workers, their families, and the community with advance notice;\n\nRequiring the state to establish a Rapid Response committee and an individual to lead that committee within 20 days of a WARN notice being issued so that affected employees can quickly get the training and other support services they need to prepare for their job loss;\n\nStrengthening enforcement provisions under the law to enhance compliance;\n\nProtecting employees\u2019 rights to bring suit if their employer violates their WARN Act rights; and\n\nRequiring the Department of Labor to create and make public a searchable database of all WARN notices.\n\nThe bill has been endorsed by United Steelworkers, National Employment Law Project, and Sugar Law Center for Economic & Social Justice.\n\n\u201cThe USW applauds Reps. Sykes, Dingell, and Budzinski\u2019s efforts to reform the WARN Act, close its loopholes, and institute more robust protections for workers facing the devastating consequences of a plant closure or mass layoff,\u201d said USW International President David McCall. \u201cWhile our top priority should be preventing these events, the least Congress can do is enact common-sense updates, including expanding the amount of notice workers get and shoring up compliance. Nothing can wholly mitigate the impacts of this sort of upheaval, but these reforms will at least allow workers to better plan for the future as they attempt to find new jobs.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:32:54Z"], ["https://kaptur.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/kaptur-applauds-major-toledo-jeep-stellantis-investment", "Kaptur Applauds Major Toledo Jeep Stellantis Investment", "2025-10-14", "2025", "2025-10", "Democrat", "House", "OH", "Marcy Kaptur", "K000009", "kaptur.house.gov", "kaptur", "https://kaptur.house.gov/media-center/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, DC \u2014 Today, Congresswoman Marcy Kaptur (OH-09), Co-Chair of the Bipartisan Congressional Auto Caucus released the following statement applauding the announcement of $13 Billion of investment by Jeep Stellantis in their North American Operations, including $400 Million in new investment in the Toledo Assembly Complex including the assembly of an all-new midsize truck.\n\n\u201cToday\u2019s announcement of more than $13 Billion of investment in Stellantis' North American operations is a win for American autoworkers across the industrial Heartland. Toledo's intrepid workforce has come through yet again to attract a $400 Million investment and an all-new midsize truck to the Toledo Assembly Complex creating more than 900 jobs at the heart of North America's manufacturing and transportation corridor,\u201d said Congresswoman Marcy Kaptur (OH-09), Co-Chair of the Bipartisan Congressional Auto Caucus. \u201cThese investments will build on top of investment already announced earlier this year. As a daughter of the UAW, I am thrilled to see our workforce and know-how come through and lead the way again in America's fight to maintain and grow market share in the automotive sector.\"\n\nYou can find more information about this major investment in American auto manufacturing by clicking here.\n\n# # #", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:32:54Z"], ["https://kaptur.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/kaptur-statement-agreement-between-israel-and-hamas-ceasefire-and", "Kaptur Statement on Agreement Between Israel and Hamas for Ceasefire and Release of Hostages", "2025-10-13", "2025", "2025-10", "Democrat", "House", "OH", "Marcy Kaptur", "K000009", "kaptur.house.gov", "kaptur", "https://kaptur.house.gov/media-center/press-releases", "scraper", "Toledo, OH \u2013 Today, Congresswoman Marcy Kaptur (OH-09) released the following statement on the agreement that has been reached between Israel and Hamas for a ceasefire, and release of hostages, some of whom have already returned home.\n\n\u201cToday, we are grateful for a ceasefire and pause in fighting in Gaza after more than two years of bloodshed. With an apparent agreement reached we also are very grateful for the release of all living hostages of the October 7 attack against Israel, as well as those in Israeli captivity who will return home to Gaza or the West Bank.\n\n\u201cWe still do not know all the details of how this agreement will be implemented and what it will take to hold. However, these first steps are encouraging and allow people who have lived in fear, while caught in this prolonged war, a respite from bombing and horror. We share our thanks with all leaders and states both at home and abroad who played a role in getting us to this point today.\n\n\u201cWe have finally reached a ceasefire that the public has been pleading for. While we cannot undo what has been done, and the tens of thousands of Palestinian lives lost, nor the horrors of the brutal October 7 attack by Hamas, we see a new path forward.\n\n\u201cI hope that this new path lights the way toward a two-state solution for all who inhabit this war torn region. It is my hope that these first steps towards a lasting peace, will be built upon and turned into a permanent negotiated truce.\n\n\u201cToday we celebrate the return of the hostages and an end in hostilities\u2014tomorrow we turn to the hard work of rebuilding Gaza, and moving this region forward for both the Palestinian and Israeli people. Onward!\"\n\n# # #", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:32:54Z"], ["https://sykes.house.gov/media/press-releases/house-republicans-block-vote-on-rep-sykes-pay-our-military-act-to-ensure-service-members-receive-paychecks-during-shutdown", "House Republicans Block Vote on Rep. Sykes\u2019 Pay Our Military Act to Ensure Service Members Receive Paychecks During Shutdown", "2025-10-10", "2025", "2025-10", "Democrat", "House", "OH", "Emilia Strong Sykes", "S001223", "sykes.house.gov", "sykes", "https://sykes.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, DC \u2013 This morning, House Republicans blocked a vote on U.S. Representative Emilia Sykes\u2019 (OH-13) bipartisan bill to ensure that service men and women continue to receive pay during the ongoing government shutdown.\n\nDemocrats attempted to pass Rep. Sykes\u2019 bipartisan Pay Our Military Act by unanimous consent, but were refused recognition by Republicans to even bring the bill for a vote.\n\n\u201cIt is unacceptable that House Republicans choose to play political games rather than ensuring the men and women who serve our country receive their paychecks,\u201d said Rep. Sykes. \u201cPassing my bipartisan Pay Our Military Act would have ensured that no service member misses a paycheck as the Republican government shutdown drags on. I will continue working to support our brave men and women in uniform who put their lives on the line every day and should never have to worry about going without pay.\u201d\n\nRep. Sykes\u2019 bipartisan Pay Our Military Act would provide appropriations for pay and support for all members of the Armed Forces, civilian personnel at the Department of Defense, members of the Coast Guard, necessary contractors, and reservists during a government shutdown.\n\nMore than 40,000 veterans live in Ohio\u2019s 13th Congressional District, and more than 6,000 active-duty military members reside in Ohio.\n\nThe Pay Our Military Act is co-led by Rep. Don Bacon (NE-02).\n\nRead more:", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:32:54Z"], ["https://beatty.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/beatty-padilla-reintroduce-voter-purge-protection-act-to-safeguard-americans-right-to-vote", "Beatty, Padilla Reintroduce Voter Purge Protection Act to  Safeguard Americans\u2019 Right to Vote", "2025-10-09", "2025", "2025-10", "Democrat", "House", "OH", "Joyce Beatty", "B001281", "beatty.house.gov", "beatty", "https://beatty.house.gov/media-center/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, DC \u2013 U.S. Congresswoman Joyce Beatty (OH-03), Chair Emerita of the Congressional Black Caucus, and U.S. Senator Alex Padilla (D-Calif.), Ranking Member of the Senate Committee on Rules and Administration, reintroduced the bicameral Voter Purge Protection Act to prohibit states from using questionable voter purge tactics that have been employed in Ohio and across the country to take tens of thousands of eligible voters off the voting rolls.\n\nThe Voter Purge Protection Act comes after the Department of Justice (DOJ) recently filed lawsuits against eight states, including California, for their refusal to hand over unfettered access to their state\u2019s sensitive voter information and registration lists to the federal government. A coalition of public interest organizations recently sued the Trump Administration for its efforts to create massive government databases to purge voter rolls.\n\nThis legislation prohibits the removal of individuals from the voter rolls due to changes in residence or not voting in previous elections, unless supported by objective and reliable evidence that the voter has died or moved out of the state, among other protections for registered voters and states administering elections.\n\n\u201cWe can\u2019t overlook how so-called \u2018use-it-or-lose-it\u2019 voter purges have stripped countless Americans\u2014particularly low-income citizens and people of color\u2014of their voice at the ballot box. Revoking someone\u2019s registration simply because they didn\u2019t return a mailed notice undermines the very foundation of our democracy, especially when so many of those letters never even reach voters,\u201d said Congresswoman Beatty. \u201cUse It or Lose It\u201d is not Democracy. Protecting the people\u2019s right to vote is a cornerstone of our democracy, and the Voter Purge Protection Act is a critical step toward preventing these harmful and unnecessary purges.\u201d\n\n\u201cIt should concern every single American, regardless of party, that the President of the United States wants fewer eligible Americans to vote, not more,\u201d said Senator Padilla. \u201cAs the Trump Administration prepares for widespread voter purges by unlawfully demanding states\u2019 entire sensitive voter files and building massive databases to run this voter data through, it\u2019s clear that President Trump and his allies are quietly laying the groundwork to cling to power by manipulating who gets to cast a ballot. With our democracy under attack, our bill would prevent unwarranted voter purges, protect voters, and preserve voting rights for both red and blue states, all while allowing for responsible voter roll maintenance.\u201d\n\nLast year, the Ohio Capital Journal reported an instance in Ohio demonstrating the dire reality of restrictive voter purge practices. Nearly 160,000 people were recently purged from Ohio\u2019s voter rolls, with many of them purged due to having not voted at their registered address in the past four years. Ohio civil rights organizations, like the Ohio Organizing Collaborative and the Ohio Conference NAACP have advocated against the purge, noting that more than half of Ohio voters who might be purged from the state\u2019s voter rolls are registered in counties where a majority of the population is people of color.\n\nThe Voter Purge Protection Act reflects Congresswoman Beatty\u2019s long-standing commitment to protecting access to the ballot box and strengthening democracy for every American. Together, with Senator Padilla, she remains steadfast in ensuring every eligible voter\u2014no matter their zip code, race, or party\u2014can make their voice heard and their vote count.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:32:54Z"], ["https://sykes.house.gov/media/press-releases/sykes-statement-on-the-agreement-to-release-hostages-and-end-the-fighting-in-gaza", "Sykes Statement on the Agreement to Release Hostages and End the Fighting in Gaza", "2025-10-09", "2025", "2025-10", "Democrat", "House", "OH", "Emilia Strong Sykes", "S001223", "sykes.house.gov", "sykes", "https://sykes.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Akron, OH \u2013 U.S. Representative Emilia Sykes (OH-13) released the following statement regarding the announcement of a hostage agreement and ceasefire in Gaza.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:32:54Z"], ["https://kaptur.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/kaptur-applauds-federal-award-legal-aid-western-ohio-combat-veteran", "Kaptur Applauds Federal Award for Legal Aid of Western Ohio to Combat Veteran Homelessness", "2025-10-08", "2025", "2025-10", "Democrat", "House", "OH", "Marcy Kaptur", "K000009", "kaptur.house.gov", "kaptur", "https://kaptur.house.gov/media-center/press-releases", "scraper", "# # #", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:32:54Z"], ["https://sykes.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-sykes-announces-350000-to-support-children-and-families-in-need", "Rep. Sykes Announces $350,000 to Support Children and Families in Need", "2025-10-08", "2025", "2025-10", "Democrat", "House", "OH", "Emilia Strong Sykes", "S001223", "sykes.house.gov", "sykes", "https://sykes.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "TALLMADGE, Ohio \u2013 U.S. Representative Emilia Sykes (OH-13) announced the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Administration for Children and Families awarded $350,000 to Shelter Care Inc. to assist children and families struggling with homelessness, domestic violence, and mental health issues in Ohio\u2019s 13th Congressional District.\n\n\u201cThis funding will help support some of our community\u2019s most vulnerable youth by providing the tools they need to overcome adversity and succeed,\u201d said Rep. Sykes, \u201cI\u2019m delighted to see federal investments into local solutions, and I will continue working to bring funding back to give local children the best chance to thrive.\u201d\n\n\u201cIt is with great appreciation to share that Shelter Care, Inc. was approved for funding through the Basic Center Grant from the Department of Health and Human Services. For over 40 years, this funding has been instrumental in supporting the Safe Landing Youth Shelter program which provides residential and non-residential support and services to runaway and homeless youth in our community. Shelter Care looks forward to the ability to continue to serve our community through the contribution of this funding,\u201d said Shelter Care Inc. Executive Director Joe Rizzo.\n\nThe Safe Landing Program provides crisis and emergency services to youth, ages 11-17. Services include short-term residential care, case management, drop-in counseling, and more. Annually, more than 2,500 youth and families receive counseling and supportive services through the program. All services are offered free of charge to the youth and their families.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:32:54Z"], ["https://sykes.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-sykes-announces-nearly-600000-for-professional-job-training-for-300-unionized-workers", "Rep. Sykes Announces Nearly $600,000 for Professional Job Training for 300 Unionized Workers", "2025-10-08", "2025", "2025-10", "Democrat", "House", "OH", "Emilia Strong Sykes", "S001223", "sykes.house.gov", "sykes", "https://sykes.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "AKRON, OH \u2013 U.S. Representative Emilia Sykes (OH-13) announced the U.S. Department of Transportation\u2019s Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Administration awarded $594,222 to the International Chemical Workers Union Council (ICWUC) in Akron to support professional instruction for approximately 300 HAZMAT employees.\n\n\u201cI am proud to bring back these federal funds, which will ensure our union workers have the resources and training they need to excel in their fields,\u201d said Rep. Sykes. \u201cHighly skilled and well-compensated workers are the backbone of American daily life, and this funding lives up to that standard. I will continue working to ensure the interests of local workers are recognized in Congress.\u201d\n\n\u201cWe are honored to receive the FY 2025 Hazardous Materials Inspector Training Grant, which affirms our commitment to advancing safety, preparedness, and professional excellence in hazardous materials oversight. This funding empowers us to deliver high-impact training that protects workers, communities, and the environment,\u201d said Shari L. Glines-Allen, Director for the ICWUC Center for Worker Health and Safety Education.\n\nThese funds will help train instructors who can teach Department of Transportation material and conduct outreach training and evaluation for approximately 300 HAZMAT employees.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:32:54Z"], ["https://sykes.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-sykes-reintroduces-key-domestic-violence-legislation-during-domestic-violence-awareness-month", "Rep. Sykes Reintroduces Key Domestic Violence Legislation During Domestic Violence Awareness Month", "2025-10-07", "2025", "2025-10", "Democrat", "House", "OH", "Emilia Strong Sykes", "S001223", "sykes.house.gov", "sykes", "https://sykes.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "AKRON, OH \u2013 U.S. Representative Emilia Sykes (OH-13) is marking Domestic Violence Awareness Month by reintroducing the Safer Homes and Families Package, a comprehensive legislative slate consisting of three bills to protect survivors and strengthen support systems nationwide: the Fair Social Security for Domestic Violence Survivors Act, the Better Care for Domestic Violence Survivors Act, and the Break Free from Domestic Violence Act.\n\n\u201cEvery person deserves to live free from fear and violence,\u201d said Rep. Sykes. \u201cI\u2019m committed to standing with survivors and delivering real solutions that help them rebuild their lives. During Domestic Violence Awareness Month, we honor the courage of survivors and highlight the urgent need for stronger protections. These bills reflect our promise to create safer communities where every person can heal, thrive, and live with dignity.\"\n\n\u201cIn Ohio, where the state scores \"Little Accountability\" on survivors\u2019 financial security, federal protections are critical,\u201d said Maria York, Policy Director with the Ohio Domestic Violence Network. \u201cSurvivors should never have to choose between safety and security. By removing financial and housing barriers, expanding trauma-informed healthcare training, and strengthening pathways to long-term stability, each bill addresses an important piece of the puzzle to ensure safety for families across the country. We are especially grateful to Congresswoman Sykes for introducing these bills and for her longtime support of the domestic violence programs in her district, including Hope and Healing of Summit and Medina Counties and Domestic Violence Project, Inc. in Canton.\u201d\n\n\u201cEach of these bills represents a critical step toward removing the barriers that keep survivors trapped in unsafe situations,\u201d said Teresa Stafford Wright, CEO of Hope & Healing Survivor Resource Center. \u201cThe Fair Social Security for Domestic Violence Survivors Act, the Better Care for Domestic Violence Survivors Act, and the Break Free From Domestic Violence Act all recognize that safety, health, and financial stability are deeply interconnected. By expanding access to financial resources, trauma-informed care, and safe housing options, this legislation affirms that survivors deserve not only protection from violence but the opportunity to rebuild their lives with dignity and independence.\u201d\n\nThe Fair Social Security for Domestic Violence Survivors Act would lower the current 10-year marriage requirement for spousal Social Security benefits to five years for individuals who divorce due to domestic abuse. This change would prevent survivors from being financially penalized for leaving unsafe relationships and help them achieve economic independence.\n\nThe Better Care for Domestic Violence Survivors Act invests $50 million over five years in a pilot program to train healthcare providers in evidence-based, trauma-informed care. Because survivors often seek medical attention during or after abuse, this initiative would help healthcare professionals identify and support victims more effectively, potentially saving lives through earlier intervention.\n\nThe Break Free From Domestic Violence Act ensures survivors of domestic violence, stalking or sexual assault can break a lease without penalty, giving them the freedom to leave dangerous living situations without facing financial or legal consequences.\n\nIn Ohio, there were 114 domestic violence fatalities from July 1, 2023, through June 30, 2024, including 15 children. In 2024, 1,199 incidents of domestic violence were reported in Summit County, and 1,501 in Stark County.\n\nRep. Sykes has long been a champion for survivors, earning bipartisan support and delivering tangible results. Last month, Rep. Sykes secured a $500,000 Transitional Housing Assistance grant for Domestic Violence Project Inc., providing critical resources to help survivors rebuild their lives. Her federal legislative work includes leading the Stop Electronic Stalking Act and the Skills Against Violence Act, both designed to strengthen protections, ensure accountability, and expand resources for survivors. She has also co-sponsored the Healing Partnerships for Survivors Act, Safe Vehicle Access for Survivors Act, Crime Victims Fund Stabilization Act of 2025, Lori Jackson-Nicolette Elias Domestic Violence Survivor Protection Act, the National Domestic Violence Awareness Month Resolution, & the Trafficking Survivors Relief Act of 2025. Throughout the appropriations process, she has been a strong advocate for funding for domestic violence and family violence programs, signing onto bipartisan requests for robust funding in FY26.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:32:54Z"], ["https://sykes.house.gov/media/press-releases/sykes-statement-on-two-year-anniversary-of-hamas-attack-in-israel", "Sykes Statement on Two Year Anniversary of Hamas Attack in Israel", "2025-10-07", "2025", "2025-10", "Democrat", "House", "OH", "Emilia Strong Sykes", "S001223", "sykes.house.gov", "sykes", "https://sykes.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Akron, OH \u2013 U.S. Representative Emilia Sykes (OH-13) released the following statement on the two-year anniversary of Hamas\u2019 brutal terrorist attack in Israel, which killed 1,200 civilians and saw 251 innocent Israelis taken hostage in Gaza.\n\n\u201cTwo years after Hamas\u2019 horrific terrorist attack in Israel, we remember the thousands of innocent people killed and the 48 hostages who remain missing, including two Americans,\u201d said Rep. Sykes. \u201cWe also honor the memory of hostages killed in captivity, such as American-Israeli citizen Hersh Goldberg-Polin. This attack shook Israelis and their allies, and its repercussions, including rising antisemitism targeting Jewish communities in the United States and around the world, remain deeply concerning.\n\n\u201cI welcome the ongoing ceasefire talks and remain hopeful they will succeed. Any agreement must secure the release of all hostages, end the violence, and advance a peaceful resolution that relieves suffering for Israelis and Palestinians while ensuring Hamas no longer governs Gaza.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:32:54Z"], ["https://beatty.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/statement-from-congresswoman-joyce-beatty-on-the-passing-of-ann-b-walker", "Statement from Congresswoman Joyce Beatty on the Passing of Ann B. Walker", "2025-10-06", "2025", "2025-10", "Democrat", "House", "OH", "Joyce Beatty", "B001281", "beatty.house.gov", "beatty", "https://beatty.house.gov/media-center/press-releases", "scraper", "COLUMBUS, OH \u2013 Congresswoman Joyce Beatty (OH-03) issued the following statement on the passing of Ann B. Walker:\n\nToday, I honor the life and legacy of my dear friend, Ann B. Walker, a trailblazing Columbus journalist, radio host, editor, and columnist.\n\nDuring her decades-long career in journalism, Ann became the first female and African American journalist to cover Columbus City Hall and the State of Ohio along with being the first woman to work in Columbus broadcast management, paving the way for Black female journalists across the Buckeye state.\n\nAnn bravely gave a voice to the Black community in Columbus, interviewing Martin Luther King Jr., conducting bold reporting on timely issues throughout Columbus, and humanizing the African American community. She spoke truth to power, in every way possible, even in the face of potential consequences.\n\nMay she rest in power, and may her legacy live on through our own, everyday activism.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:32:54Z"], ["https://sykes.house.gov/media/press-releases/icymi-rep-sykes-hosts-call-with-your-congresswoman-to-answer-questions-on-government-shutdown", "ICYMI: Rep. Sykes Hosts Call With Your Congresswoman to Answer Questions on Government Shutdown", "2025-10-03", "2025", "2025-10", "Democrat", "House", "OH", "Emilia Strong Sykes", "S001223", "sykes.house.gov", "sykes", "https://sykes.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "AKRON, Ohio \u2014 In Case You Missed It, U.S. Representative Emilia Sykes (OH-13) held a Call with Your Congresswoman on Thursday to give updates and answer questions from community members about the current government shutdown. Rep. Sykes spoke with thousands of constituents and provided essential information related to the impacts of the shutdown being felt in Ohio\u2019s 13th Congressional District and around the country.\n\n\u201cDue to Republican policies that have created a health care crisis, the country now finds itself in a government shutdown that never had to happen,\u201d said Rep. Sykes. \u201cI know how disruptive and stressful a government shutdown can be. That\u2019s why I\u2019m committed to keeping our community informed and supported throughout this period. Even during the shutdown, my office remains open and ready to help, and I encourage anyone struggling during this time to reach out for assistance.\u201d\n\nCongresswoman Sykes\u2019 office remains open and ready to help. Those who need assistance with federal benefits or have questions about how this shutdown may affect them are encouraged to visit sykes.house.gov/shutdown or call her office at 330-400-5350.\n\nRepublicans in Washington control the House of Representatives, the Senate, and the White House. They have failed to put the needs of our country first, leading to this government shutdown. Their failure to extend ACA Premium Tax Credits means higher costs for families who rely on the Marketplace for coverage. In Ohio\u2019s 13th Congressional District, 29,000 families will see their premiums rise by $720 on average. On top of that, cuts to Medicaid threaten critical care for seniors, children, and working families who depend on it most. Unfortunately, these cuts will hurt Ohio\u2019s 13th District more than other communities as our local economy is heavily dependent on healthcare systems that rely on Medicaid and Medicare reimbursements to pay for our health care services.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:32:54Z"], ["https://sykes.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-sykes-visits-cak-airport-to-support-federal-workers-during-government-shutdown", "Rep. Sykes Visits CAK Airport to Support Federal Workers During Government Shutdown", "2025-10-03", "2025", "2025-10", "Democrat", "House", "OH", "Emilia Strong Sykes", "S001223", "sykes.house.gov", "sykes", "https://sykes.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "AKRON, Ohio \u2013 Today, U.S. Representative Emilia Sykes (OH-13) visited the Akron-Canton Airport (CAK) to show her appreciation and support for federal employees continuing to serve the public during the ongoing government shutdown.\n\nDespite the uncertainty and financial strain caused by the shutdown, Transportation Security Administration (TSA) agents and air traffic controllers at CAK are reporting to work without pay to keep travelers safe and flights operating smoothly. Congresswoman Sykes brought coffee and doughnuts to express her gratitude and remind these essential workers that they are not forgotten.\n\n\u201cOur federal workers are the backbone of so many essential services, and they deserve our respect, gratitude, and fair compensation,\u201d said Rep. Sykes. \u201cNo one should have to work without pay. I want these dedicated public servants to know that I see them, I value them, and I am fighting in Washington to get this government back open and ensure they\u2019re paid for their critical work.\u201d\n\nRep. Sykes is continuing to be a vocal advocate for federal employees through the shutdown. She is urging congressional leadership to reach a bipartisan solution that funds the government and protects workers from financial hardship. Rep. Sykes also reaffirmed her commitment to passing legislation that ensures federal workers receive back pay as soon as the government reopens and to preventing future shutdowns that put livelihoods and public safety at risk.\n\nThe federal government entered a shutdown on Wednesday, October 1, affecting thousands of federal employees across Ohio and nationwide. TSA agents, air traffic controllers, and other federal workers are required to continue working without pay until the government is funded.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:32:54Z"], ["https://kaptur.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/president-trump-and-director-vought-terminate-blue-state-energy", "President Trump and Director Vought Terminate Blue State Energy Projects, Raising Prices for Consumers, Eliminating Jobs", "2025-10-02", "2025", "2025-10", "Democrat", "House", "OH", "Marcy Kaptur", "K000009", "kaptur.house.gov", "kaptur", "https://kaptur.house.gov/media-center/press-releases", "scraper", "**NEW FACT SHEET**\n\nWashington, DC \u2014 Today, House Appropriations Committee Energy and Water Appropriations Subcommittee Ranking Member Marcy Kaptur (OH-09) and House Appropriations Committee Ranking Member Rosa DeLauro (CT-03) released a breakdown by Congressional District of the energy projects terminated by President Trump and Office of Management and Budget (OMB) Director Russell Vought.\n\nThe canceled projects total $8 Billion in lawfully approved funding targeting 16 Democratic-led states, and impacting 136 Congressional Districts, 108 of which are represented by Democrats and 28 by Republicans.\n\nVought canceled these projects despite the fact that DOE currently remains open and fully operational using unexpired financial resources.\n\n\u201cThis week\u2019s termination of energy projects is reckless and short-sighted \u2014 it will raise energy prices for working families, kill good-paying American jobs, and cede global clean-energy leadership to Communist China,\u201d said House Appropriations Subcommittee on Energy and Water Development Ranking Member Congresswoman Marcy Kaptur. \u201cThis is political theater, not sound policy. Congress must defend communities and investments in our future \u2014 not cave to partisan threats. If we abandon an all of the above energy strategy, the American people will suffer.\u201d\n\n\u201cThis is a shameless and vindictive attack by Director Vought, which will eliminate jobs and raise energy costs for Americans across the country,\u201dsaid House Appropriations Committee Ranking Member Rosa DeLauro. \u201cThis was obviously designed as a political attack by the White House targeting Democrats. But the sad reality is that Americans\u2014the middle class, working class, and vulnerable\u2014who voted for both Democrats and Republicans will be hurt by this. This is divisive, it is petty, and unfortunately it is exactly what we have come to expect from President Trump and Russ Vought.\u201d\n\nThe list of the terminated projects can be found here.\n\n# # #", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:32:54Z"]], "truncated": false, "filtered_table_rows_count": 517, "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": "OH", "p2": "2025"}}, "facet_results": {"party": {"name": "party", "type": "column", "hideable": false, "toggle_url": "/press/releases.json?party=Democrat&state=OH&year=2025", "results": [{"value": "Democrat", "label": "Democrat", "count": 517, "toggle_url": "http://dpwillis-congress-press-search.hf.space/press/releases.json?state=OH&year=2025", "selected": true}], "truncated": false}, "chamber": {"name": "chamber", "type": "column", "hideable": false, "toggle_url": "/press/releases.json?party=Democrat&state=OH&year=2025", "results": [{"value": "House", "label": "House", "count": 517, "toggle_url": "http://dpwillis-congress-press-search.hf.space/press/releases.json?party=Democrat&state=OH&year=2025&chamber=House", "selected": false}], "truncated": false}, "state": {"name": "state", "type": "column", "hideable": false, "toggle_url": "/press/releases.json?party=Democrat&state=OH&year=2025", "results": [{"value": "OH", "label": "OH", "count": 517, "toggle_url": "http://dpwillis-congress-press-search.hf.space/press/releases.json?party=Democrat&year=2025", "selected": true}], "truncated": false}, "year": {"name": "year", "type": "column", "hideable": false, "toggle_url": "/press/releases.json?party=Democrat&state=OH&year=2025", "results": [{"value": "2025", "label": "2025", "count": 517, "toggle_url": "http://dpwillis-congress-press-search.hf.space/press/releases.json?party=Democrat&state=OH", "selected": true}], "truncated": false}}, "suggested_facets": [], "next": "2025-10-02,https~3A~2F~2Fkaptur~2Ehouse~2Egov~2Fmedia-center~2Fpress-releases~2Fpresident-trump-and-director-vought-terminate-blue-state-energy", "next_url": "http://dpwillis-congress-press-search.hf.space/press/releases.json?party=Democrat&state=OH&year=2025&_next=2025-10-02%2Chttps~3A~2F~2Fkaptur~2Ehouse~2Egov~2Fmedia-center~2Fpress-releases~2Fpresident-trump-and-director-vought-terminate-blue-state-energy&_sort_desc=date", "private": false, "allow_execute_sql": true, "query_ms": 390.2316368184984, "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"}