{"database": "press", "table": "releases", "is_view": false, "human_description_en": "where party = \"Democrat\", state = \"PA\" and year = 2025 sorted by date descending", "rows": [["https://scanlon.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=1990", "Congresswoman Scanlon Announces Winner of 2025 Congressional App Challenge", "2025-12-31", "2025", "2025-12", "Democrat", "House", "PA", "Mary Gay Scanlon", "S001205", "scanlon.house.gov", "scanlon", "https://scanlon.house.gov/news/", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2014 Congresswoman Mary Gay Scanlon (PA-05) today announced the winner of the 2025 Congressional App Challenge. The Congressional App Challenge (CAC) is an opportunity for students in PA-05 to create and submit their original app for a chance to win the Challenge competing against students from all over the country. In order to participate in the competition: Students must be in middle or high school by the time the competition ends and must either live or go to school in the registered district they wish to compete in; and, apps can be coded on any platform, on any language, on any theme.\n\n\u201cThe annual Congressional App Challenge is a great program that engages our youth in STEM-related fields,\u201d said Rep. Scanlon. \u201cAt a time when science and technology fields are rapidly evolving, it\u2019s important that we invest in programs that help our youth develop skills for success in the future. I\u2019m pleased to celebrate all of our participants this year and congratulate this year\u2019s winner.\u201d\n\nA team of judges evaluated six submissions using a rubric to rate each of the apps along two general categories \u2014 Concept and Technology.\n\nThis year\u2019s first-place winner is Allison Tan from Lower Merion High School, who came up with OpiWarrior, an iOS app that helps people quickly find nearby pharmacies that stock buprenorphine, a life-saving medication for opioid use disorder. Runner up Christopher Armstrong from Strath Haven High School coded the app Coaster Dreams, a minimalistic, open-ended roller coaster design video game.\n\n###", 1, "2026-04-04T05:28:40Z", "2026-04-04T05:30:10Z"], ["https://deluzio.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-deluzio-releases-end-year-report-highlighting-2025-accomplishments", "Congressman Deluzio Releases End of Year Report Highlighting 2025 Accomplishments, Priorities for 2026", "2025-12-22", "2025", "2025-12", "Democrat", "House", "PA", "Christopher R. Deluzio", "D000530", "deluzio.house.gov", "deluzio", "https://deluzio.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "CARNEGIE, PA \u2013 Today, Congressman Chris Deluzio (PA-17) released his 2025 End of Year Report, detailing many of his actions and accomplishments this year and overviewing his focus areas for 2026.\n\nSome of the highlights from the report include:\n\nHelped bring Marc Fogel home after more than three years of wrongful imprisonment in Russia\n\nSecured the most federal funding for district of any U.S. House Democrat in the Appropriations Committee-passed spending bills\n\nCongressman Deluzio's bill renaming the Sewickley Post Office in honor of local historian and author Bettie Cole unanimously passed the U.S. House of Representatives\n\nRep. Deluzio successfully fought back against the closure of Navy Reserve Centers in Moon Township and across the country\n\nPennsylvania\u2019s 17th Congressional District received $923 million in federal grantsand contracts in 2025\n\nSince taking office in 2023, Congressman Deluzio and his office have:\n\nReturned $10.3 million back to Western Pennsylvanians through things like helping get delayed tax refunds and earned benefits\n\nSeen more than $4.6 billion in federal funding come home to PA\u2019s 17th Congressional District\n\nClosed more than 3,200 constituent cases, helping people with problems with federal agencies\n\nIntroduced 40 bills\n\nCo-sponsored 854 bills\n\n\u201cDespite all the progress we\u2019ve made together, there\u2019s a lot of work left to do. With the skyrocketing costs of housing, utilities, health care, and groceries; corruption running rampant and rigging the system; and corporate monopolies putting the squeeze on small businesses and workers, the American Dream has been ripped away,\u201d wrote Congressman Deluzio in his report. \u201cToo many people who work hard and play by the rules are barely treading water, while huge corporations and the ultra-rich do better than ever. We\u2019ve got to take on corporate power and corruption and restore the American Dream.\u201d\n\nA copy of Congressman Deluzio\u2019s 2025 End of Year Report can be downloaded here.\n\nTo learn more about what he\u2019s been working on this year, check out recent announcements and press releases from Congressman Deluzio on his website.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://summerlee.house.gov/newsroom/press-releases/rep-summer-lee-announces-winner-of-the-2025-congressional-app-challenge-for-pa-12", "Rep. Summer Lee Announces Winner of the 2025 Congressional App Challenge for PA-12", "2025-12-22", "2025", "2025-12", "Democrat", "House", "PA", "Summer L. Lee", "L000602", "summerlee.house.gov", "summerlee", "https://summerlee.house.gov/newsroom/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON D.C. \u2013 DECEMBER 22, 2025 \u2014 Today, Congresswoman Summer L. Lee (PA-12) announced Upper St. Clair High School student Jeffery Zhang as the 2025 Congressional App Challenge Winner for Pennsylvania\u2019s 12th Congressional District for his innovative computational-chemistry application, Isomer Enumerator.\n\nThe Congressional App Challenge, the largest student computer science competition in the nation, saw record-breaking participation this year:\n\n394 Members of the House hosted competitions \u2014 the most in program history.\n\n13,830 students participated nationwide, an increase of nearly 1,200 over last year.\n\n4,650 original applications were submitted \u2014 almost 800 more than the previous record.\n\nMore than 56% of all submissions integrated Artificial Intelligence, marking a transformative leap in student-driven innovation.\n\nStudents reported resoundingly positive impacts: 91% are now more likely to pursue STEM careers, 89% plan to keep coding, and 86% would recommend the program to a friend.\n\n\u201cJeffery\u2019s work is such a powerful reminder of the brilliance and creativity we have right here in Western Pennsylvania,\u201d said Congresswoman Lee. \u201cWhen our young people are given the support and opportunities they deserve, they show us new ways of thinking and they redefine what is possible. Jeffery took a complex scientific challenge and turned it into something extraordinary, something that can genuinely help researchers and scientists. That kind of curiosity, hard work, and imagination is exactly what gives me hope for the future. We are so proud of him here in PA-12, and we cannot wait to cheer him on as he represents us at the House of Code event next spring.\u201d\n\nAbout the Winning App: Isomer Enumerator by Jeffery Zhang\n\nZhang\u2019s web-based application, Isomer Enumerator, is designed for use in computational chemistry and cheminformatics, helping researchers and developers analyze molecular structures in the search for new materials and drugs.\n\nUsing Python and JavaScript, Zhang built a highly sophisticated backend from scratch\u2014designing original classes to model chemical bonds, electrons, and structural rules without relying on external packages. His app:\n\nGenerates and enumerates all possible linear, constitutional isomers of a given molecule.\n\nApplies chemically realistic constraints to exclude unstable or nonviable structures.\n\nProvides key chemical insights \u2014 including polarity, hybridization, and molecular geometry.\n\nImplements optimized combinatorial algorithms and graph-theory logic to reduce compute time from hours to seconds for many molecules.\n\nZhang shared that the project was inspired by a question raised in AP Chemistry: \u201cWhy is there no simple way to count molecular isomers?\u201d His exploration led him deep into combinatorics, graph theory, and chemistry \u2014 ultimately producing a tool capable of generating hundreds of chemically feasible structures in minutes.\n\nZhang completed the project independently at home and plans to continue developing the app, including creating a more advanced 3D visualization engine and exploring faster computations using C++ and parallel processing. He has also elected to pursue Congressional Certification through Hack Club.\n\nJeffery Zhang will be honored at #HouseOfCode in April 2026, where students will present their apps to lawmakers and leaders in technology and innovation on Capitol Hill.\n\nA video demonstration of the winning project is available AT THIS LINK.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://deluzio.house.gov/media/press-releases/congress-passes-whole-milk-healthy-kids-act", "Congress Passes Whole Milk for Healthy Kids Act", "2025-12-21", "2025", "2025-12", "Democrat", "House", "PA", "Christopher R. Deluzio", "D000530", "deluzio.house.gov", "deluzio", "https://deluzio.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Last week, the House of Representatives overwhelmingly approved the bipartisan Whole Milk for Healthy Kids Act of 2025. Congressman Chris Deluzio (PA-17) co-sponsored the bill that was led by fellow Pennsylvanian, Rep. G.T. Thompson (PA-15). It has since passed the Senate and awaits being signed into law by the President.\n\nThe Whole Milk for Healthy Kids Act provides schools with the flexibility to offer whole and 2% milk options, helping ensure children receive the nutrition they need to grow, thrive, and succeed in the classroom and beyond.\n\n\u201cParents should have the freedom to choose what kind of milk their kids get at school,\u201d said Congressman Deluzio. \u201cBut current federal programs do not allow kids to have whole or 2% milk at school lunch programs. I\u2019m proud that the Congress acted to fix this and give the full range of milk options to families in Pennsylvania and across the country.\"\n\nThe Whole Milk for Healthy Kids Act is supported by many groups including the Pennsylvania Farm Bureau, the American Farm Bureau Federation, the National Milk Producers Federation, the International Dairy Foods Association, and the American Dairy Coalition.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://deluzio.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressmen-deluzio-goldman-introduce-legislation-lower-cost-stadium", "Congressmen Deluzio, Goldman Introduce Legislation to Lower Cost of Stadium Concessions", "2025-12-20", "2025", "2025-12", "Democrat", "House", "PA", "Christopher R. Deluzio", "D000530", "deluzio.house.gov", "deluzio", "https://deluzio.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 This week, Congressmen Chris Deluzio (PA-17) and Dan Goldman (NY-10) introduced the Honest Oversight of Ticketed Dining and Onsite Grub (HOTDOG) Act to direct the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) to conduct a nationwide study of concession pricing practices at sports venues.\n\nDespite the significant public investment into sports venues, the cost of many concessions is too expensive for the typical American family. The average lowest price for a hot dog across MLB\u2019s 30 ballparks in 2024 was nearly $6. Hardworking families should be able to afford to take a break and see a game\u2014at venues supported by their tax dollars\u2014without massive price markups.\n\nHardworking families are already struggling to pay rising prices because of Donald Trump's reckless \u201ctrickle-down\u201d economic policies, and being charged inflated prices for concessions at publicly funded stadiums adds insult to injury. The HOTDOG Act would shine a much-needed light on exploitative pricing practices and allow the FTC, lawmakers, and, most importantly, hardworking families to gain more transparency into potential price gouging by venues and determine best practices for affordable pricing.\n\n\"One of life\u2019s great joys is a hot dog and a cold beer or pop watching the Black and Gold. But concessions at pro stadiums across the country have become a ripoff, with so many teams pricing out fans and families,\" said Congressman Deluzio. \"Congressman Goldman and I are introducing the HOTDOG Act to require the Federal Trade Commission to find ways to stop this price gouging. People should be able to go enjoy a game and grab a bite or a drink without breaking the bank.\"\n\n\u201cWe\u2019ve got to ensure that hardworking families can afford to enjoy nights out at ball games - especially when their hard earned tax dollars are supporting big sporting projects across the state and country.\u201d Congressman Dan Goldman said, \u201cThat\u2019s why I\u2019m leading legislation to push to ensure that we have a better understanding of how stadiums and sports organizations are pricing concessions. Federal dollars should be used for the benefit of the people, not just the benefit of the corporations or the owners.\u201d\n\nThe HOTDOG Act would direct the FTC to evaluate pricing practices at professional sports stadiums that were constructed or are operated with public subsidy funds. The FTC would examine the prices of comparable food and drinks inside and outside stadiums; pricing practices such as dynamic pricing, service fees, and promotions; transparency of concession prices to consumers, and other types of pricing policies. The bill requires the FTC to issue a report to Congress detailing the results of the study and any recommendations for legislative, regulatory, or industry action to improve affordability and transparency.\n\nhe HOTDOG Act is endorsed by Groundwork Collaborative, Sports Fan Coalition, and Public Citizen.\n\n\u201cAny American who's been to the ballpark or a concert recently knows that, too often, a stop by the snack counter can feel like a shakedown,\u201d said Alex Jacquez, Chief of Policy and Advocacy at Groundwork Collaborative. \u201cWorking families are already struggling to pay rising prices thanks to Trump's reckless economic agenda, and being charged inflated prices for concessions at publicly-funded facilities adds insult to injury. Rep. Goldman\u2019s legislation would bring much-needed transparency to pricing practices at stadiums and other venues so Americans can enjoy their favorite pastimes without feeling ripped off.\"\n\n\"For too long, fans have been gouged at the concession stand in the same venues built with their own tax dollars,\u201d said Brian Hess, Executive Director, Sports Fans Coalition. \u201cThe HOTDOG Act will shine a much-needed light on exploitative pricing practices and help identify solutions that make attending games affordable for working families again. When taxpayers invest hundreds of millions into stadiums, they deserve transparency about why a hot dog costs three times what it does on the street outside. We applaud Representatives Goldman and Deluzio for taking this important first step toward holding venues accountable and making game day affordable for American families.\"\n\n\"Public Citizen is singularly focused on fighting for everyday Americans\u2014especially during an affordability crisis that is stretching family budgets to the breaking point,\u201d said Joshua Miller, Director of Congress Watch at Public Citizen. \u201cWhen taxpayers help finance stadiums and arenas, working families should not be priced out of attending games or gouged once they walk through the door. This bill is about fairness, transparency, and basic respect for the public.\"\n\nOriginal cosponsors of the bill include Reps. Troy Carter (LA-02), Shri Thanedar (MI-13), Pat Ryan (NY-18), Marc Veasey (TX-33), Chuy Garc\u00eda (IL-04), and Robert Garcia (CA-42).\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://dean.house.gov/2025/12/dean-warren-democrats-urge-commerce-department-watchdog-to-investigate-lutnick-family-s-conflicts-of-interest-impact-on-ai-data-center-decisions", "Dean, Warren, Democrats Urge Commerce Department Watchdog to Investigate Lutnick Family\u2019s Conflicts of Interest, Impact on AI Data Center Decisions", "2025-12-18", "2025", "2025-12", "Democrat", "House", "PA", "Madeleine Dean", "D000631", "dean.house.gov", "dean", "https://dean.house.gov/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2013 Congresswoman Madeleine Dean (D-Pa.) and Senator Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.) led Members of Congress in pressing U.S. Department of Commerce Acting Inspector General Duane Townsend to open an investigation into Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick and his family\u2019s apparent conflicts of interest involving artificial intelligence (AI) data centers.\n\n\"Because the billionaire Lutnick family has significant financial investments in data centers\u2014and the electricity needs of those data centers drive up utility bills for families across the country\u2014there is a substantial public interest in ensuring that Secretary Lutnick is not violating federal ethics law to propel data centers that will be profitable for his family while making life more expensive for working Americans,\u201d the lawmakers wrote.\n\nFor decades, Secretary Lutnick owned and led the financial services firm Cantor Fitzgerald. After signing an ethics agreement requiring that he divest his stake in Cantor and months after his deadline for divesting, he transferred much of his stake to his adult sons. They now lead Cantor and have a controlling ownership stake in it, creating an extraordinary situation in which the office of the Commerce Secretary intersects significantly with the financial interests of the Secretary\u2019s own family.\n\nCantor is heavily invested in the AI data center industry, with \u201cunprecedented data center expansion\u201d reportedly helping fuel the company\u2019s most profitable year on record. Recent reports reveal that, as head of the Commerce Department, Secretary Lutnick helped boost AI data centers in ways that may enrich his own family. In addition to public appearances promoting projects \u2014 including at least one his family\u2019s company has worked on \u2014 Lutnick has also reportedly pressured foreign governments to invest in the U.S. data center industry, and money from those deals could flow to a Lutnick-linked firm.\n\n\u201cWhile the rapid growth of data centers is proving to be lucrative for the Lutnick family, it is also making it harder for American families to pay their monthly utility bills,\u201d the lawmakers continued.\n\nData centers are pushing energy costs up to record highs across the country, pulling American households into paying the price. When utility companies spend billions on new electricity infrastructure to support data centers, they may charge more to local households connected to the grid to offset that cost. In some communities, bills have skyrocketed by more than 250 percent over just the past five years.\n\n\u201cIn short, we are concerned that Secretary Lutnick\u2019s official actions to boost AI data centers could be influenced by his conflicts of interest \u2014 and that these actions come at the expense of everyday Americans who are forced to bear the higher energy costs of the data centers that are inflating the Lutnick family\u2019s wealth,\u201d the lawmakers concluded.\n\nThe members urged the Acting Inspector General to carefully review the ethics concerns surrounding the Lutnick family, including whether or not Secretary Lutnick has violated his obligations as a public official.\n\nThe following members also signed on: Senators Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.), Ed Markey (D-Mass.), Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.), Ron Wyden (D-Ore.), and Representatives Rashida Tlaib (D-Mich.), Glenn Ivey (D-Md.), Yassamin Ansari (D-Ariz.), Hank Johnson (D-Ga.), Maxwell Frost (D-Fla.), Jahana Hayes (D-Conn.), Eleanor Holmes Norton (D-D.C.), Summer Lee (D-Pa.), Nikema Williams (D-Ga.), Valerie Foushee (D-N.C.), Morgan McGarvey (D-Ky.), Gilbert Ray Cisneros (D-Calif.), Andr\u00e9 Carson (D-Ind.), Paul Tonko (D-N.Y.), Seth Moulton (D-Mass.), Seth Magaziner (D-R.I.), Mike Quigley (D-Ill.), Julia Brownley (D-Calif.), Sean Casten (D-Ill.), and Pramila Jayapal (D-Wash.).\n\nRead the full text of the letter here.\n\nRep. Madeleine Dean is a mother, grandmother, attorney, professor, former four-term member of the Pennsylvania House of Representatives, and U.S. Representative for the Fourth District of Pennsylvania.", 1, "2026-04-04T05:28:40Z", "2026-04-04T05:30:10Z"], ["https://deluzio.house.gov/media/press-releases/deluzio-democratic-veterans-raise-alarm-after-internal-documents-reveal-trump", "Deluzio, Democratic Veterans Raise Alarm After Internal Documents Reveal Trump VA\u2019s Plan to Slash Healthcare Jobs", "2025-12-18", "2025", "2025-12", "Democrat", "House", "PA", "Christopher R. Deluzio", "D000530", "deluzio.house.gov", "deluzio", "https://deluzio.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2014 Today, Co-Chair of the Democratic Veterans Caucus and Iraq War veteran Congressman Chris Deluzio (PA-17) was joined by his fellow Co-Chair and veteran Pat Ryan (NY-18) and other members of the Democratic Veterans Caucus to raise the alarm on the Trump Administration VA\u2019s efforts to cut around 35,000 healthcare jobs at the VA. This will hurt veterans\u2019 healthcare, likely drive up wait times, and force veterans into less accountable, more expensive, and worse healthcare with private providers who lack veterans\u2019 expertise. The Democratic members of Congress attending the event included Representatives Seth Moulton (MA-6), Mike Thompson (CA-4), Chrissy Houlahan (PA-6), Salud Carbajal (CA-24), Jimmy Panetta (CA-19), Bobby Scott (GA- and Eugene Vindman (VA-7).\n\nAt an event at the U.S. Capitol today, the group of Democratic veterans shared information from recently obtained internal VA documents that reveal the regional breakdown of job cuts at VA Medical Centers across the country. Congressman Deluzio also shared takeaways from internal Pittsburgh VA materials that specifically show that the VA serving his region in Western Pennsylvania plans to cut 481 jobs under the Trump Administration\u2019s plan.\n\n\u201cI believe in the sacred promise that those who sign up and serve our country will have a VA that is able to deliver on the promise of care that veterans earned,\u201d said Congressman Deluzio. \u201cNow, internal documents are showing that the Trump Administration VA is cutting around 35,000 VA healthcare jobs across the country, and just under 500 jobs in VA Pittsburgh. This includes clinical healthcare roles like doctors and nurses and will of course hurt veterans\u2019 care. This effort to gut healthcare jobs and sell off the VA is a betrayal. The Democratic Veterans Caucus came together today to raise the alarm to urge Secretary Collins to back off from these dangerous job cuts. In Pennsylvania, people\u2014especially veterans\u2014are getting fired up about this dumb plan, and I\u2019m going to keep fighting to get my fellow veterans the care they\u2019ve earned.\u201d\n\nCongressman Deluzio is a fighter for his fellow veterans and a fully staffed and funded VA. He previously took on the Trump Administration VA for stalling cancer trials and hurting veterans\u2019 healthcare, and has written several opinion pieces in The Hill and Military.com on the Washington GOP\u2019s effort to sell off and privatize VA healthcare.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://deluzio.house.gov/media/press-releases/deluzio-statement-passage-hr-4776", "Deluzio Statement on Passage of H.R. 4776", "2025-12-18", "2025", "2025-12", "Democrat", "House", "PA", "Christopher R. Deluzio", "D000530", "deluzio.house.gov", "deluzio", "https://deluzio.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "\u201cThis country needs permitting reform and we needed it yesterday. We need to step up and make the system work better to make sure we can reliably power the country and build it to be stronger and cleaner in the future.\n\n\u201cWhile I voted yes today in support of this labor-backed bill, I have concerns with the final version that passed the House today. I hope the Senate will act to fix the bill that threatens clean energy industries and the union jobs that they create. I have often said we need an all-of-the-above approach to energy to deliver cheaper and cleaner power, and the current version of this bill puts its thumb on the scale to favor non-renewables. I urge the Senate to strip the anti-energy competition language from the bill, and I hope that the Congress can pass a substantive, bipartisan permitting reform bill into law.\u201d\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://deluzio.house.gov/media/press-releases/monopoly-busters-caucus-chairs-call-investigation-instacarts-personalized", "Monopoly Busters Caucus Chairs Call for an Investigation into Instacart\u2019s Personalized Price Gouging", "2025-12-18", "2025", "2025-12", "Democrat", "House", "PA", "Christopher R. Deluzio", "D000530", "deluzio.house.gov", "deluzio", "https://deluzio.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 The Monopoly Busters Caucus Chairs, Representatives Chris Deluzio (PA-17), Pramila Jayapal (WA-07), Pat Ryan (NY-18), and Angie Craig (MN-02), released the following statement calling for an investigation into Instacart\u2019s reported use of AI-driven surveillance pricing to charge different customers different prices for the same items:\n\n\u201cWe are deeply alarmed by reports that Instacart is using AI to hike prices on unsuspecting customers based on their shopping habits. People shouldn\u2019t be charged higher prices than their neighbors for the same milk or eggs because their grocery app is profiling them. This is personalized price gouging, plain and simple.\n\n\u201cWhile hardworking Americans struggle to afford groceries, corporations like Instacart are inventing new ways to rip them off. Surveillance pricing is a blatant abuse of power by big tech \u2014 automating greed and making consumers pay the price.\n\n\u201cEnough is enough. With Instacart processing hundreds of millions of orders yearly, these practices warrant urgent action. The FTC and state regulators must immediately investigate Instacart and hold it accountable for ripping off its customers. And we need to ban personalized price gouging to ensure that everyone pays a fair price.\u201d\n\nBackground\n\nInstacart\u2019s pricing tactics are detailed in a new report from Groundwork Collaborative and Consumer Reports, \"Same Cart, Different Price.\" The report describes how Instacart uses AI-driven \"price experiments\" to maximize margins by charging different customers different prices for identical items at the same store. According to the report, Instacart deploys software from its subsidiary Eversight to identify the highest price an individual is willing to pay. This results in observed price swings as high as 23% and a potential \"Instacart Tax\" of $1,200 per year for a typical family. The investigation found that 74% of items tested were subject to these secret experiments.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://houlahan.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=4866", "Bio-partisanship and Leadership at Launch of Congressional Biotechnology Caucus", "2025-12-18", "2025", "2025-12", "Democrat", "House", "PA", "Chrissy Houlahan", "H001085", "houlahan.house.gov", "houlahan", "https://houlahan.house.gov/press/documentquery.aspx", "page_html", "Hoover Institution (Stanford, CA, December 2025) \u2014 Hoover Science and Senior Fellow Drew Endy joined leaders from government, industry, charities, and academia in Washington, DC, for the public launch of the Congressional Biotechnology Caucus on December 2, 2025. Nearly 200 members of Congress, staffers, and biotechnology leaders convened for the event. The strong participation showcased growing bipartisan support for strengthening America\u2019s leadership in biotechnology.\n\nEstablished earlier this year, the caucus already includes roughly 40 members from both parties. The mission of the caucus is to equip policymakers and staff with the knowledge and networks needed to ensure the United States leads responsibly and effectively in biotechnology. The caucus\u2019s initial work includes advancing biosecurity, enabling innovation, growing the domestic bioeconomy, and expanding opportunities for biotechnology to solve problems at all scales.\n\nThe launch event, themed \u201cBiotechnology means <fill in the blank>,\u201d highlighted the expansive possibilities of biotechnology, not only in medicine but also in materials science, information technology, manufacturing, and more.\n\nEndy, who leads Hoover\u2019s Bio-Strategies and Leadership (BSL) initiative, spoke after Reps. Chrissy Houlahan (D-PA) and Pete Sessions (R-TX).\n\n\u201cWe think we know what biotechnology is but, when I reflect on biotechnology today, it feels like when I was a kid in the 1970s; we thought we knew what computers were back then,\u201d Endy said \u201cBiotechnology today is poised to become routine, pervasive, networked, and generative; more wondrous than most imagine.\u201d\n\n\u201cBiotechnology can also be scary,\u201d Endy added. \u201cThat\u2019s not bad news, rather an extraordinary opportunity. Fear\u2019s gift, if invited out into the open, is a chance to become courageous together.\u201d\n\n\u201cBiotechnology is also about freedom. Biotechnology gives us options for making the things we need when and where we need them. Biotechnology gives the American people options for having good lives.\u201d\n\nEndy also celebrated the bipartisan nature of the caucus, noting that all-hands support for advancing biotechnology responsibly should be known as \u201cbio-partisanship.\u201d\n\nOther speakers highlighted the critical importance of biotechnology education for lawmakers and their staffs. Among them, caucus cochair Houlahan noted that only a small fraction of members of Congress have STEM backgrounds and that many have not taken a science class since high school, making bio-literacy efforts by the caucus and groups like Hoover\u2019s BSL all the more essential.\n\nHoover\u2019s BSL serves as a founding member of the Biotech Caucus\u2019s Advisory Coalition, building on BSL\u2019s broader work to improve bio-literacy among decision makers and to advance the Hoover Technology Policy Accelerator\u2019s work more broadly. In recent months, BSL team members have met with senators, representatives, administration officials, and staff across Washington and beyond for briefings on biotechnology and biosecurity as well as discussions of emerging policy recommendations. BSL\u2019s public education mission continued on this most recent trip, with the team meeting several senior lawmakers from both parties and chambers.\n\nTogether, these and other BSL activities reflect the program\u2019s commitment to helping leaders recognize biology as a strategic domain and to act in ways that advance flourishing and democratic futures soon enough to matter.\n\nFor more information about BSL, visit victory.stanford.edu or email Sarah Moront (smoront@stanford.edu).", 1, "2026-04-08T14:14:11Z", "2026-04-08T14:23:06Z"], ["https://houlahan.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=4867", "Houlahan, Democratic Veterans Raise Alarm After Internal Documents Reveal Trump VA\u2019s Plan to Slash Healthcare Jobs", "2025-12-18", "2025", "2025-12", "Democrat", "House", "PA", "Chrissy Houlahan", "H001085", "houlahan.house.gov", "houlahan", "https://houlahan.house.gov/press/documentquery.aspx", "page_html", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2014 Today, Rep. Chrissy Houlahan (PA-06) joined Co-Chair of the Democratic Veterans Caucus and Iraq War veteran Congressman Chris Deluzio (PA-17), his fellow Co-Chair and veteran Pat Ryan (NY-18) and other members of the Democratic Veterans Caucus to raise the alarm on the Trump Administration VA\u2019s efforts to cut around 35,000 healthcare jobs at the VA. This will hurt veterans\u2019 healthcare, likely drive up wait times, and force veterans into less accountable, more expensive, and worse healthcare with private providers who lack veterans\u2019 expertise. The Democratic members of Congress attending the event included Representatives Seth Moulton (MA-6), Mike Thompson, Salud Carbajal (CA-24), Jimmy Panetta (CA-19), Bobby Scott (GA- and Eugene Vindman (VA-7).\n\nAt an event at the U.S. Capitol today, the group of Democratic veterans shared information from recently obtained internal VA documents that reveal the regional breakdown of job cuts at VA Medical Centers across the country. Congressman Deluzio also shared takeaways from internal Pittsburgh VA materials that specifically show that the VA serving his region in Western Pennsylvania plans to cut 481 jobs under the Trump Administration\u2019s plan.\n\n\u201cI believe in the sacred promise that those who sign up and serve our country will have a VA that is able to deliver on the promise of care that veterans earned,\u201d said Congressman Deluzio. \u201cNow, internal documents are showing that the Trump Administration VA is cutting around 35,000 VA healthcare jobs across the country, and just under 500 jobs in VA Pittsburgh. This includes clinical healthcare roles like doctors and nurses and will of course hurt veterans\u2019 care. This effort to gut healthcare jobs and sell off the VA is a betrayal. The Democratic Veterans Caucus came together today to raise the alarm to urge Secretary Collins to back off from these dangerous job cuts. In Pennsylvania, people\u2014especially veterans\u2014are getting fired up about this dumb plan, and I\u2019m going to keep fighting to get my fellow veterans the care they\u2019ve earned.\u201d\n\nCongressman Deluzio is a fighter for his fellow veterans and a fully staffed and funded VA. He previously took on the Trump Administration VA for stalling cancer trials and hurting veterans\u2019 healthcare, and has written several opinion pieces in The Hill and Military.com on the Washington GOP\u2019s effort to sell off and privatize VA healthcare.", 1, "2026-04-08T14:14:11Z", "2026-04-08T14:23:06Z"], ["https://houlahan.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=4858", "Houlahan Leads Bipartisan \"IVF for Military Families Act\"", "2025-12-17", "2025", "2025-12", "Democrat", "House", "PA", "Chrissy Houlahan", "H001085", "houlahan.house.gov", "houlahan", "https://houlahan.house.gov/press/documentquery.aspx", "page_html", "Washington, D.C. \u2014 After IVF coverage for military families was stripped from the final version of the National Defense Authorization Act last week, Rep. Chrissy Houlahan (PA-06), Sara Jacobs (CA-51), Rep. Nick LaLota (NY-01) and Rep. Jen Kiggans (VA-02) introduced the Bipartisan IVF for Military Families Act to continue the fight to deliver this much-needed and deserved care for active duty service members and their dependents. This legislation mirrors text that was unanimously adopted on a bipartisan basis by the House Armed Services Committee and passed the House earlier this year.\n\nRep. Chrissy Houlahan said: \u201cMilitary families already sacrifice so much in service to our country, and they should not be forced to put their dreams of starting a family on hold because TRICARE fails to cover medically necessary fertility care. Servicemembers should never have to choose between serving their country and building a family. This bipartisan bill recognizes infertility as a real medical condition and ensures servicemembers and their families have access to fertility care without unnecessary barriers. Supporting military readiness means supporting the people who serve.\u201d\n\nRep. Sara Jacobs said: \u201cLike I said last week, the fight isn\u2019t over. Our military families shouldn\u2019t be denied IVF access just because of politics while bearing the physical and emotional costs of service. Civilian employers are increasingly providing IVF coverage to their employees, and it\u2019s even accessible to every Member of Congress and their staff, but the military is still lagging behind. This is creating an acute readiness and retention crisis because our military families are forced to pay tens of thousands of dollars out-of-pocket for IVF, forgo having children, or leave the military to get private coverage instead. That\u2019s why I\u2019m proud to introduce the Bipartisan IVF for Military Families Act to give our service members every opportunity to build their families.\u201d\n\n\u201cSince 2023, Congress has rightly focused on strengthening military recruitment and retention by increasing troop pay, improving housing, expanding health care, and investing in quality of life for servicemembers and their families. Now, Congress should expand access to IVF, as many civilian employers already do, to build on that progress and help ensure America maintains the most lethal fighting force the world has ever known,\u201d said Rep. Nick LaLota (NY-01).\n\n\u201cMilitary families already sacrifice so much in service to our nation. Access to IVF and fertility care shouldn\u2019t depend on financial means. The Bipartisan IVF for Military Families Act of 2026 is about fairness and keeping faith with the men and women who serve by ensuring TRICARE covers the fertility treatments they need to build their families,\u201d said Rep. Kiggans.", 1, "2026-04-08T14:14:11Z", "2026-04-08T14:23:06Z"], ["https://scanlon.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=1988", "Congresswoman Scanlon\u2019s Bipartisan Bill to Support Firefighters with Service-Related Cancers Heads to the President\u2019s Desk", "2025-12-17", "2025", "2025-12", "Democrat", "House", "PA", "Mary Gay Scanlon", "S001205", "scanlon.house.gov", "scanlon", "https://scanlon.house.gov/news/", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2013 Congresswoman Mary Gay Scanlon (PA-05) today applauded the final passage of her bipartisan bill that will expand access to federal death and disability benefits for families of firefighters and other first responders who contract service-related cancers. The Honoring Our Fallen Heroes Act, which now heads to the President's desk for signature, will expand the Public Safety Officer\u2019s Benefits Program (PSOB) to cover specific cancers linked to firefighting and emergency response, and make the expansion retroactive, so that families can claim PSOB benefits for deceased loved ones.\n\nToday, cancer is the leading cause of death for America\u2019s firefighters. Currently, firefighters are only eligible for support under the Public Safety Officer Benefits (PSOB) program for physical injuries sustained in the line of duty or for deaths from duty-related heart attacks, strokes, mental health conditions such as post-traumatic stress disorder, and 9/11-related illnesses. But this program does not cover service-related cancer deaths, despite a wealth of evidence linking first responder service to developing cancer.\n\nThe bill is endorsed by the International Association of Fire Fighters (IAFF), the Congressional Fire Services Institute (CFSI), the Fraternal Order of Police (FOP), and 10 other organizations representing first responders. The bill is co-led by Representatives Carlos Gimenez (FL-28), Brian Fitzpatrick (PA-01), and Gabe Amo (RI-01). Its Senate counterpart is led by Senators Amy Klobuchar (D-MG) and Kevin Cramer (R-ND).\n\n\u201cEvery day, firefighters and police officers face exposure to deadly carcinogens that take a devastating toll long after the flames are out,\u201d said Rep. Scanlon. \u201cI have had many conversations with the families of fallen firefighters who not only have to deal with the pain of losing a loved one, but who also face the struggle of supporting themselves financially when the primary breadwinner is gone. When first responders develop cancer because of their service, they and their families deserve our full support. That\u2019s why I spent the better part of this year working to advance my bill to close this benefits gap. In the end, we brought together 175 Democrats and Republicans over shared values: respect for service, care for grieving families, and the belief that our country must honor sacrifice not just in remembrance, but through tangible support. I am grateful to my colleagues who joined me in building bipartisan consensus for this bill, which required setting aside partisanship and focusing on our fundamental obligations to one another as a nation.\u201d\n\n\u201cI also want to extend a special thanks to the International Association of Fire Fighters for bringing the experiences of firefighters and their families to the forefront, ensuring that this work stayed grounded in real lives and real sacrifice,\" Rep. Scanlon continued. \u201cLastly, I\u2019m deeply grateful to the families, advocates, and colleagues whose voices and perseverance helped turn loss into lasting change.\u201d\n\nOn December 3, 2025, Scanlon and Gimenez led a bipartisan coalition of 36 lawmakers urging congressional leadership to ensure the inclusion of the Honoring Our Fallen Heroes Act (H.R. 1269 / S. 237) in the final Fiscal Year 2026 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA). A week later, on December 10, it passed the House, teeing it up for the Senate to clear and send to the President\u2019s desk today.\n\n\u201cThe IAFF is thankful for the leadership demonstrated by Representatives Scanlon and Gimenez in leading the House\u2019s passage of the Honor Act. When enacted into law, the survivors of fallen fire fighters will receive the benefits that they have been denied for decades,\u201d said IAFF General President Edward A. Kelly.\n\nFind the full bill text here.\n\nMore about the Honoring Our Fallen Heroes Act:\n\nThe Honoring Our Fallen Heroes Act would expand the Public Safety Officer\u2019s Benefits Program (PSOB) to cover certain cancers and cancer-related deaths. The PSOB program provides death, disability, and educational benefits to first responders who are killed or injured in the line of duty and their survivors. Firefighters are frequently exposed to carcinogens during their service and are more likely to develop and die from cancer as a result. Currently, the PSOB program does not cover cancer-related disabilities or death. The Honoring Our Fallen Heroes Act would expand the PSOB program to cover specific cancers linked to firefighting and emergency response, and it would make this expansion retroactive so that families can claim PSOB benefits for deceased loved ones.\n\nThe Public Safety Officers' Benefits (PSOB) program provides benefits to the survivors of firefighters, law enforcement officers, and other first responders who are killed as a result of injuries sustained in the line of duty. The program also provides disability benefits for first responders who become permanently or totally disabled. The Public Safety Officers' Educational Assistance (PSOEA) program, a component of the PSOB program, provides higher-education assistance to the children and spouses of public safety officers killed or permanently disabled in the line of duty. The PSOB and PSOEA programs are administered by the Department of Justice\u2019s Bureau of Justice Assistance (BJA).\n\nComplete list of endorsing organizations: International Association of Fire Fighters (IAFF), Association of State Criminal Investigative Agencies (ASCIA), Congressional Fire Services Institute (CFSI), Federal Law Enforcement Officers Association (FLEOA), Fraternal Order of Police (FOP), International Association of Fire Chiefs (IAFC), Major County Sheriffs of America (MCSA), Metropolitan Fire Chiefs Association (Metro Chiefs), National Association of Police Organizations (NAPO), National Fallen Firefighters Foundation (NFFF), National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), National Narcotics Officers\u2019 Associations\u2019 Coalition (NNOAC), and National Volunteer Fire Council (NVFC).\n\n\u201cBeing a law enforcement officer is a dangerous job, and our members not only expose themselves to physical threats, but threats from hazardous environments as well. This bill finally recognizes the dangers that our officers place themselves in every day. The FOP is grateful to our allies in the House and Senate who supported our efforts,\u201d said Patrick Yoes, National President of the Fraternal Order of Police.\n\n\u201cThe Congressional Fire Services Institute (CFSI) is pleased to see the Honoring Our Fallen Heroes Act become law as part of the National Defense Authorization Act. Occupational cancer\u2014a leading cause of firefighter deaths\u2014will now be recognized under the Public Safety Officers' Benefits Program, helping to align federal policy with the realities of the job and ensure that firefighters and their families receive the support they need,\u201d said CFSI Executive Director Bill Webb. \u201cCFSI thanks Senators Klobuchar and Cramer, Representatives Scanlon and Gimenez, and all members of Congress who helped to pass this legislation. This marks a critical step forward in addressing the occupational cancer risks faced by our nation\u2019s firefighters.\u201d\n\n\u201cThe IAFC is grateful to see the Honoring Our Fallen Heroes Act included in the NDAA and on its way to being signed into law,\u201d said Fire Chief Trisha L. Wolford, the President and Board Chair of the International Association of Fire Chiefs. \u201cThis long overdue reform ensures that the families of fire, law enforcement, and EMS personnel who die or become disabled from occupational cancer receive the federal benefits they deserve. By including occupational cancers in the Public Safety Officers\u2019 Benefits program, Congress is honoring the sacrifices made by our fallen heroes and standing firmly with the families they leave behind. We commend the bipartisan champions, including Representatives Mary Gay Scanlon and Carlos A. Gimenez, the bill\u2019s House sponsors, and Senators Amy Klobuchar and Kevin Cramer, the bill\u2019s Senate sponsors, who advanced this critical measure and thank lawmakers in both chambers for their commitment to our nation\u2019s fire and EMS personnel,\u201d said Fire Chief Trisha L. Wolford, the President and Board Chair of the International Association of Fire Chiefs.\n\n\u201cOn behalf of the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation, I applaud the House for passing this important bipartisan legislation. I especially would like to thank Congresswoman Mary Gay Scanlon and Congressman Carlos Gimenez for leading this effort,\u201d said Victor Stagnaro, CEO of the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation. \u201cFirefighters put their lives on the line every day to keep their communities safe. By recognizing fire service\u2013related cancers under the PSOB program, we ensure that those who risk their health for others receive the support they and their families deserve. I especially want to thank our brave Fire Hero Families who tirelessly advocated for the passage of this vital legislation. Their dedication, passion, and tenacity are why this bill will soon become law.\u201d\n\n\u201cI applaud the leadership of Representatives Scanlon and Gimenez along with Senators Klobuchar and Cramer in getting the Honoring Our Fallen Heroes Act signed into law. This vital legislation will do a great deal to help the families of first responders who are too often left struggling after their loved ones are killed or permanently disabled after battles with occupation related cancer,\u201d said Steve Hirsch, Chair, National Volunteer Fire Council.\n\n\u201cOur nation\u2019s law enforcement and public safety officers put their lives at risk each day. This certainly includes officers pulling families from polluted flood waters or rescuing children from house fires or responding to chemical spills. These acts of heroism often have long-term consequences for the officers, including exposure-related cancers. The passage of the Honoring Our Fallen Heroes Act recognizes these cancers as line-of-duty injuries under the Public Safety Officers\u2019 Benefits Program and ensures that these officers and their families are protected. We thank Representatives Scanlon and Gimenez for championing this important issue and working with us in support of our nation\u2019s officers,\u201d said Bill Johnson, Executive Director, National Association of Police Organizations.\n\n\u201cOn behalf of our law enforcement officers across the nation, I want to commend Representative Scanlon for securing the inclusion of the Honoring Our Fallen Heroes Act in the NDAA,\u201d said National President Mathew Silverman of the Federal Law Enforcement Officers Association (FLEOA). \u201cIts passage is a vital step in ensuring law enforcement officers who develop cancer due to their service receive the support and benefits they deserve. We are grateful for Representative Scanlon\u2019s leadership and proud to stand with her in advancing this essential protection for our nation\u2019s officers.\u201d\n\n\u201cThe passage of the \u2018Honoring Our Fallen Heroes Act\u2019 is a tremendous victory for the families of law enforcement officers, firefighters, and other public safety personnel who succumb to job-related cancers,\u201d said President Vincent Vallelong of the NYPD Sergeants Benevolent Association. \u201cThe 9/11 health crisis has made us well aware of the serious health risks that our members face from exposures to known carcinogens. The SBA is grateful for the leadership of Rep. Scanlon, and proud of our collaborative, bipartisan effort to ensure the inclusion of this important legislation in the final National Defense Authorization Act.\u201d\n\n###", 1, "2026-04-04T05:28:40Z", "2026-04-04T05:30:10Z"], ["https://www.fetterman.senate.gov/fetterman-mccormick-joint-statement-on-passage-of-whole-milk-for-healthy-kids-act-now-heads-to-presidents-desk/", "Fetterman, McCormick Joint Statement on Passage of Whole Milk for Healthy Kids Act, Now Heads to President\u2019s Desk", "2025-12-17", "2025", "2025-12", "Democrat", "Senate", "PA", "John Fetterman", "F000479", "www.fetterman.senate.gov", "fetterman", "https://www.fetterman.senate.gov/press-release/", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 After clearing the U.S. Senate by unanimous consent, the U.S. House of Representatives passed the Whole Milk for Healthy Kids Act, legislation to allow schools participating in the National School Lunch Program to serve whole and reduced fat milk. The bill passed on Monday and now heads to the president\u2019s desk. Pennsylvania\u2019s U.S. Senators John Fetterman (D-PA) and Dave McCormick (R-PA) released the following joint statement:\n\n\u201cWhole milk IS BACK in America\u2019s schools.\n\n\u201cThis is a commonsense bill that benefits everyone. PA farmers supply the country with some of the best milk year-round, and instead of limiting choices in our schools, this will expand the nutritious and healthy options for our kids.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://deluzio.house.gov/media/press-releases/deluzio-rulli-introduce-bipartisan-bill-protect-ssi-benefits-disaster-victims", "Deluzio, Rulli Introduce Bipartisan Bill to Protect SSI Benefits for Disaster Victims", "2025-12-16", "2025", "2025-12", "Democrat", "House", "PA", "Christopher R. Deluzio", "D000530", "deluzio.house.gov", "deluzio", "https://deluzio.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Today, Congressmen Chris Deluzio (PA-17) and Mike Rulli (OH06) introduced the Protecting Supplemental Security Income for Disaster Victims Act, legislation to ensure that Supplemental Security Income (SSI) recipients do not lose or have their benefits reduced when they receive settlement payments after a tragedy.\n\nThe February 3, 2023, derailment of a Norfolk Southern train carrying hazardous chemicals led to a controlled burn that sent toxic fumes into the air, leaving families terrified and communities deeply shaken. In the chaotic aftermath, many residents were forced to pay out of pocket for emergency housing, medical care, and other immediate needs. Months passed as millions of dollars were spent on cleanup efforts and tons of contaminated soil were removed before a monetary settlement was finally reached to begin making residents whole for the harm they suffered through no fault of their own.\n\nThis past summer, constituents began reaching out about the unintended consequences facing Supplemental Security Income recipients who accepted those settlement payments. SSI serves older, blind, and disabled individuals living on fixed incomes with very limited resources, and for some, receiving settlement funds triggered a reduction or complete loss of their benefits. No disaster victim should be forced to choose between seeking justice and keeping their only source of income. The Protecting Supplemental Security Income for Disaster Victims Act addresses this injustice by taking actions such as exempting settlement funds from being counted as income or resources for SSI eligibility\n\n\u201cAfter a disaster or health emergency, people sometimes receive settlement payments\u2014that's what happened to a lot of folks who live close to the Norfolk Southern train derailment site in East Palestine,\u201d said Congressman Chris Deluzio (PA-17). \u201cPeople dealing with the fallout of a disaster like this should not see their Social Security earned benefits lowered because they unexpectedly got money in a settlement. I\u2019m proud to introduce the bipartisan Protecting Supplemental Security Income for Disaster Victims Act with my Ohio colleague Congressman Rulli to fix this.\u201d\n\n\u201cWhether the settlement comes from a train derailment, a personal injury, or another disaster, our most vulnerable citizens should not be forced to choose between necessary compensation and their fixed income,\u201d said Congressman Mike Rulli (OH-06). \u201cNo one should see their SSI benefits reduced, clawed back, or eliminated simply because they accepted funds intended to help them recover.\u201d\n\nThe Protecting Supplemental Security Income for Disaster Victims Act ensures that settlement payments are exempt from being counted as income or resources when determining SSI eligibility and benefit amounts. The bill is aligned with IRS guidance on the treatment of settlement funds for tax purposes and covers both the East Palestine settlement and any future settlements received for personal injury, physical sickness, or damage or depreciation of property.\n\nThis legislation will help safeguard stability and dignity for SSI recipients during the aftermath of disasters and emergencies.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://houlahan.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=4859", "Rep. Houlahan Introduces Legislation to Protect American Biotech Innovation from Communist China", "2025-12-16", "2025", "2025-12", "Democrat", "House", "PA", "Chrissy Houlahan", "H001085", "houlahan.house.gov", "houlahan", "https://houlahan.house.gov/press/documentquery.aspx", "page_html", "WASHINGTON, D.C. -- Rep. Chrissy Houlahan (D-PA) and Representative Warren Davidson (R-OH) introduced legislation to protect American proprietary research from Communist China. The Biological IP Protection Act will ensure that cutting edge American intellectual property is not given to our foreign adversaries. Senator Tom Cotton (R-AR), Senator Maggie Hassan (D-NH), and Senator Ted Budd (R-NC) introduced the companion legislation in the Senate.\n\nRep. Houlahan said, \u201cAs Co-Chair of the bipartisan BIOTech Caucus and a former entrepreneur, I know how valuable intellectual property is and why it must be protected. Many companies, including in Southeastern Pennsylvania\u2019s vibrant life sciences community, either don\u2019t realize or don\u2019t fully understand the risks posed by sending synthetic DNA and RNA sequences to Chinese labs, even though we can safely do this work at home. Safeguarding this information through strong IP protections is essential to maintaining American\u2019s leadership and competitiveness in biotechnology. I\u2019m proud to partner with Rep. Davidson on the Biological Intellectual Property Protection Act, which will keep America\u2019s cutting-edge biotechnology in the hands of U.S. researchers, patients, and businesses \u2013 not with foreign adversaries that may seek to do us harm.\u201d\n\n\u201cAmerica\u2019s biotechnology industry drives innovation, fuels economic growth, and underpins our national security. Yet foreign adversaries that violate trade rules and steal U.S. intellectual property increasingly seek dominance over critical biotech supply chains. We lose billions in IP every year because we haven\u2019t taken the steps necessary to de-risk this sector. That\u2019s why I\u2019m proud to join Rep. Houlahan and Senators Cotton and Hassan in introducing the Biotechnology Intellectual Property Protection Act of 2025,\u201d said Rep. Davidson.\n\n\u201cIt\u2019s essential that we protect cutting edge American proprietary research from our chief foreign adversaries. Our bill will ensure that Communist China doesn\u2019t have access to the intellectual property that drives American biotech innovation,\u201d said Senator Cotton.", 1, "2026-04-08T14:14:11Z", "2026-04-08T14:23:06Z"], ["https://summerlee.house.gov/newsroom/press-releases/rep-summer-lee-sen-warren-lawmakers-push-fcc-doj-to-potentially-block-nexstar-acquisition-of-tegna-creating-media-giant-reaching-80-of-us-tv-households", "Rep. Summer Lee, Sen. Warren, Lawmakers Push FCC, DOJ to Potentially Block Nexstar Acquisition of Tegna, Creating Media Giant Reaching 80% of US TV Households", "2025-12-16", "2025", "2025-12", "Democrat", "House", "PA", "Summer L. Lee", "L000602", "summerlee.house.gov", "summerlee", "https://summerlee.house.gov/newsroom/press-releases", "scraper", "Text of Letter (PDF)\n\nWASHINGTON, DC \u2013 December 16, 2025 \u2014 Today, Congresswoman Summer L. Lee (PA-12), along with Representatives Doris Matsui (CA-07), Ranking Member of the House Subcommittee on Communications and Technology, and Maxwell Frost (FL-10), and U.S. Senators Elizabeth Warren (D-MA) and Chris Van Hollen (D-MD) wrote to Federal Communications Commission (FCC) Chair Brendan Carr and Assistant Attorney General Abigail Slater of the Department of Justice (DOJ), urging them to closely scrutinize Nexstar Media Group, Inc.\u2019s (\u201cNexstar\u201d) proposed acquisition of Tegna Inc. (\u201cTegna\u201d) and to block this deal if they determine that it violates federal telecommunications or antitrust laws.\n\nThe letter comes amid heightened attention to concerns about media consolidation, with lawmakers already sounding the alarm about large-scale media mergers, including the potential sale of Warner Bros. to Netflix or Paramount Skydance.\n\n\u201cRegulatory approval of the conglomerate would likely raise prices for consumers, accelerate job losses, and weaken the independence and news coverage of local TV stations,\u201d wrote the lawmakers.\n\nIn August, Nexstar announced its intention to purchase competitor Tegna in a $6.2 billion deal. Nexstar is the largest owner of local broadcast television stations in the United States, controlling 201 stations and serving more than a third of local TV households nationally. Tegna owns 64 TV stations in 51 markets. A merger between Nexstar and Tegna would create a media giant reaching 80% of U.S. TV households. Currently, federal communications law prohibits an entity from owning any number of TV stations that reach more than 39% of all U.S. TV households. If this deal is allowed, the new merged company would surpass that threshold.\n\n\u201cThe company\u2019s proposed acquisition of Tegna is presumptively illegal because it would allow Nexstar to exceed national caps on station ownership, creating a media giant that would far outstrip its competitors,\u201d wrote the lawmakers. \u201dThe FCC should abandon its attempt to circumvent Congress to change broadcast ownership rules, and should refrain from issuing a waiver to give Nexstar and Tegna permission to disregard the cap.\u201d\n\nAs a TV market industry expert explains, \u201cownership rules were designed to ensure local voices and limit concentration. Broadcasters were expected to serve their communities because the airwaves are publicly owned.\u201d\n\nAlready, the circumstances around regulatory approvals, potentially including this deal, have been politicized. One month after Nexstar announced its intention to acquire Tegna, FCC Chairman Carr said, with regard to Jimmy Kimmel Live!, that media companies \u201ccan find ways to take action on Kimmel, or there is going to be additional work for the FCC ahead.\u201d He added, \u201c[w]e can do this the easy way or the hard way.\u201d Hours later, Nexstar preempted the distribution of Jimmy Kimmel Live! and only returned the show to the airwaves after public pressure.\n\nFor this reason, the lawmakers are pushing for a government process that clearly and transparently enforces laws that protect consumers, free from political influence or backroom deals. Notably, the public is feeling the stakes of media mergers more acutely as this is happening at the same time as the Warner Bros. bidding war, which has garnered a tremendous amount of attention.\n\n\u201cThe industry\u2019s attempt to boost profits for executives through consolidation ultimately comes at the expense of viewers across the country and independent, local TV journalism,\u201d concluded the lawmakers. \u201cWe urge the FCC to carefully review the deal, including by holding public hearings, and block it if Nexstar cannot affirmatively prove that the deal will benefit the public, not just its shareholders.\u201d\n\nFull text of the letter can be found here.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://boyle.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/icymi-boyle-leads-effort-restore-funding-and-advance-path-forward", "ICYMI: Boyle Leads Effort to Restore Funding and Advance Path Forward for Chinatown Stitch Project", "2025-12-15", "2025", "2025-12", "Democrat", "House", "PA", "Brendan F. Boyle", "B001296", "boyle.house.gov", "boyle", "https://boyle.house.gov/media-center/press-releases", "scraper", "PHILADELPHIA, PA \u2014 Congressman Brendan F. Boyle (PA-02) today brought together local officials, community leaders, and advocates at the Crane Center to outline a path forward for the Chinatown Stitch project following the Trump administration and Congressional Republicans\u2019 decision to rescind roughly $150 million in previously awarded federal funding.\n\nBoyle, who spent years lobbying senior officials in the Biden administration to secure the funding through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, reaffirmed his commitment to the project and announced that he is serving as a lead cosponsor of the Restoring Essential Public Access and Improving Resilient Infrastructure (REPAIR) Act, legislation that would restore billions in funding nationwide for projects like the Chinatown Stitch.\n\n\u201cI worked damn hard to get that $160 million grant, and I'm still upset that this president took this money from Philadelphia and took this money from those who live in and around this community,\u201d said Congressman Boyle. \u201cBut the good news is, and why we're standing here today is to say, this isn't the end of the project. We're not giving up, we're not quitting. I feel confident we have a very good plan B, and we're going to keep working at it until we are here celebrating in a few years.\u201d\n\nThe Chinatown Stitch project would cap the Vine Street Expressway (I-676), reconnecting both sides of Chinatown with new green space, safer streets, and a direct link to the Rail Park. The project was awarded nearly $160 million through the Reconnecting Communities and Neighborhoods Program, a first-of-its-kind initiative created under the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law to repair damage caused by past transportation decisions that divided neighborhoods and harmed local economies.\n\n\u201cThank you, Congressman. You have been a huge supporter of Chinatown and this Chinatown Stitch project,\u201d said John Chin, Executive Director of the Philadelphia Chinatown Development Corporation. \u201cImagine what this community could be if we can get the Chinatown Stitch built and the cap to cover it. It reconnects this community, but also expands the opportunity for small businesses to grow economically and create new jobs for this community and the city of Philadelphia.\u201d\n\nEarlier this year, that funding was rescinded as part of a partisan Republican reconciliation bill that zeroed out unobligated funds from the program to help finance tax cuts for the ultra-wealthy \u2014 costing Philadelphia a once-in-a-generation opportunity to heal a highway that has cut Chinatown in half for decades.\n\nBefore the press conference, Boyle convened an off-the-record meeting with city and state officials and community leaders to assess the project\u2019s current status and identify next steps. The discussion focused on continuing progress using remaining obligated funds, exploring additional funding sources, and coordinating efforts to restore the lost federal investment.\n\nParticipants at today\u2019s event included John Chin, Executive Director of the Philadelphia Chinatown Development Corporation; State Senator Nikil Saval; Councilmember Mark Squilla; and additional state, local, and community leaders.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://evans.house.gov/media/press-releases/evans-welcomes-house-passage-hospital-home-bill-urges-action-health-care-tax", "Evans Welcomes House Passage of \u2018Hospital at Home\u2019 Bill, Urges Action on Health-Care Tax Credits ahead of Dec. 31 Cost Spike", "2025-12-15", "2025", "2025-12", "Democrat", "House", "PA", "Dwight Evans", "E000296", "evans.house.gov", "evans", "https://evans.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON (Dec. 15, 2025) \u2013 Congressman Dwight Evans (D-PA-3) welcomed the House of Representatives\u2019 recent passage of a \u201cHospital at Home\u201d bill he\u2019s co-leading, and said the same type of bipartisan cooperation is needed to prevent a cost spike on Dec. 31 for 24 million Americans\u2019 health insurance.\n\n\u201cI\u2019m pleased that we were able to get a bill to renew the vital \u2018Hospital at Home\u2019 program for five years through the deeply divided House. It\u2019s a common-sense bill that helps thousands of patients to receive better care from more than 200 hospitals around the country, including some patients in the Philadelphia area \u2013 and it saves money,\u201d Evans said.\n\nIn November 2020, the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) established a waiver to provide hospitals with increased flexibility to care for certain patients from the comfort and convenience of their homes, rather than in a hospital setting. According to the American Hospital Association, this model has been proven to \u201creduce costs, improve outcomes and enhance the patient experience.\u201d A recent CMS report shows that allowing patients to be treated in a more familiar environment and routine accelerates recovery time, lowers the mortality rate and reduces the risk of hospital-acquired infections and falls.\n\nEvans said, \u201cNow we need the Republican majorities in the House and Senate to bring that same spirit of cooperation to another health-care issue. We need them to share the sense of urgency that Democrats in Congress already have about preventing a massive cost spike about two weeks from now for health coverage that 24 million Americans count on.\n\n\u201cTax credits that make health insurance more affordable for those 24 million Americans expire at the end of the year. If Republicans let those tax credits lapse, an estimated 150,000 Pennsylvanians will have to drop their coverage, and about 350,000 other Pennsylvanians will be making tough choices to pay for a massive increase in their premiums. But this crisis is preventable!\n\n\u201cWe just need four House Republicans to join us in signing a discharge petition to force a House vote on extending these tax credits for working-class Americans. This is the same procedure we successfully used a few weeks ago to pass the Epstein Files Transparency Act. Similarly, health care can\u2019t wait!\u201d\n\nEvans also released a short video about this urgent issue.\n\n\u201cWorking Americans need congressional Republicans to act on these health-care tax credits with the same speed they displayed earlier this year, when Republicans rushed a tax cut for the richest into law,\u201d Evans said.\n\nEvans also addressed two key reasons why some Republicans in Congress have opposed renewing the tax credits:\n\n\u201cThese tax credits aren\u2019t about Covid \u2013 President Biden proposed them in 2019, several months before the Covid crisis began in the U.S., and more than a year before he took office in January 2021.\n\n\u201cAnd claims of fraud appear to be overblown, especially in states that run their own health-insurance exchanges like Pennsylvania does with Pennie.com. The Trump administration does need to explain why it reinstated 850 agents and brokers who had been suspended from Affordable Care Act enrollment for suspected fraudulent or abusive conduct related to unauthorized enrollments or plan switches.\n\n\u201cThe bottom line is: Congress needs to renew these health-care tax credits - NOW!\u201d Evans said.\n\nEvans represents the 3rd Congressional District, which includes Northwest and West Philadelphia and parts of North, South, Southwest and Center City Philadelphia. He recently announced that his office returned to or saved $4.5 million for constituents in 2024 in cases involving federal agencies such as the IRS, Social Security Administration and Department of Veterans Affairs. The 2024 figure brings Evans\u2019 office\u2019s total to more than $45.5 million returned to or saved for constituents during his first eight years in Congress.", 1, "2026-04-04T05:28:40Z", "2026-04-04T05:30:10Z"], ["https://houlahan.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=4906", "NDAA restores women\u2019s policy teams canceled in Pentagon DEI purge", "2025-12-15", "2025", "2025-12", "Democrat", "House", "PA", "Chrissy Houlahan", "H001085", "houlahan.house.gov", "houlahan", "https://houlahan.house.gov/press/documentquery.aspx", "page_html", "Originally published on MilitaryTimes.com\n\nWritten by Hope Hodge Seck\n\nDays after Pete Hegseth was installed as the Pentagon\u2019s top civilian, some all-volunteer teams of service women working to address obstacles and improve policy became casualties of his war on diversity, equity and inclusion, or DEI. But a provision tucked into the $900 billion defense policy bill would bring them back.\n\nThe National Defense Authorization Act for fiscal 2026, which passed the House Dec. 11, contains a provision that restores service-level women\u2019s initiative teams.\n\nThe bill would require the service secretaries to establish one of these teams for each of the five services under the Defense Department within a year after the bill becomes law.\n\nThese teams, composed of women in uniform representing \u201ca variety of ranks, backgrounds and occupational specialties,\u201d are to be tasked with identifying and addressing issues that hinder women\u2019s service; supporting recruiting and retention; recommending policy changes that support the needs of women in service; and fostering a sense of community, according to language in the bill.\n\nThe legislation requires the secretary of defense to submit an annual report for the next five years on the activities and progress of the women\u2019s initiative teams, including a summary of their activities, assessment of the policy impact they\u2019ve had and any recommendations for legislative or policy changes to further support their success.\n\nThe language restoring the women\u2019s initiative teams originated with Rep. Chrissy Houlahan, a Pennsylvania Democrat who served as an Air Force officer on active duty and in the Reserves from 1989-2004.\n\nDespite a contentious political climate and suspicion around policy specific to women in the military, Houlahan said she hoped that \u201ccommon sense was the thing that won the day\u201d in allowing the women\u2019s initiative teams provision to make it into the final version of the NDAA.\n\n\u201cMore importantly, it\u2019s all about readiness for the military in general,\u201d she told Military Times in an interview. \u201cAs we are 51% of the population and about 20% of the folks who serve in uniform, it\u2019s important that that demographic, for lack of a better word, be supported.\u201d\n\nHoulahan said she believed that the teams were \u201cjust a convenient target from a new administration.\u201d\n\n\u201cWhen cooler and calmer, more rational heads got in the game, and Congress did its job, we were able to bring it back to life,\u201d she said.\n\nThe legislation would also make the women\u2019s initiative teams consistent across the services.\n\nThe Air Force\u2018s team had been serving for nearly two decades when it was ordered to cease operations following President Donald Trump\u2019s inaugural raft of executive orders in January.\n\nThe Navy\u2019s team had been in service for less than a year and was not formally canceled by the service.\n\nIn the Marine Corps, female service members launched an unofficial WIT in 2020 to advocate for changes like better parental leave and adjustments to outdated body composition standards, always stressing they did not speak on behalf of the Corps or the Defense Department. This legislation would codify that team and put its membership and activities under the purview of the secretary of the Navy.\n\nIn the Air Force, WIT members have successfully advocated for uniform changes, including development of a two-piece flight suit and a system that allows women to relieve themselves more easily in the cockpit. The team also reduced restrictions that prevented shorter airmen of both genders from serving as pilots.\n\nOther issues the WIT worked on, such as child care availability and parental leave, are relevant to the total force.\n\n\u201cWhat I hope is that this administration really understands [that] this is ops and readiness for service women to do our jobs,\u201d former WIT member Alea Nadeem told this reporter in January. \u201cWe\u2019re asking for your help to make us more lethal and more ready, and give us the equipment and resources that we need to do that.\u201d\n\nIt\u2019s not clear to what extent a congressional mandate will force action by the Pentagon. Hegseth in April announced he had \u201cended\u201d the Defense Department\u2019s Women, Peace, and Security program, despite its creation by Congress.\n\nThe program continues today, but at the minimum staffing and activity level required by law.\n\nHoulahan said accountability was a key consideration in crafting the language of the WIT provision.\n\n\u201cIn this particular situation, we see the legal language of \u2018shall,\u2019 which is statutorily pretty powerful; legislatively, very powerful,\u201d she said.\n\n\u201cAnd you also see in this NDAA some guardrails being placed on the administration and on the secretary of defense,\u201d she added. \u201cI am really hopeful that the armed services committees on both sides of the Capitol are awakened, and I\u2019m very hopeful that Congress itself is realizing that we really need to put our foot down in terms of our Article One responsibilities and obligations, and hold these guys to account in the laws that we pass.\u201d", 1, "2026-04-08T14:14:11Z", "2026-04-08T14:23:06Z"], ["https://www.fetterman.senate.gov/fetterman-budd-introduce-legislation-to-create-first-national-network-of-ai-enabled-automated-labs/", "Fetterman, Budd Introduce Legislation to Create First National Network of AI-Enabled, Automated Labs", "2025-12-15", "2025", "2025-12", "Democrat", "Senate", "PA", "John Fetterman", "F000479", "www.fetterman.senate.gov", "fetterman", "https://www.fetterman.senate.gov/press-release/", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Last week, U.S. Senators John Fetterman (D-PA) and Ted Budd (R-NC) introduced the National Programmable Cloud Laboratories Network Act to create a national network of six remotely accessible programmable cloud laboratories (PCLs) for academic research, led by the National Science Foundation (NSF). By knitting together existing laboratory data processing power, this bill would help researchers use their time and financial resources more effectively through automation and integration of large data sets.\n\nIn 2024, Carnegie Mellon University in Pittsburgh, PA launched a major initiative to establish a programmable, automated laboratory environment on a university campus. This effort positions CMU as a pioneer in advancing remote, software-driven experimentation and is already generating encouraging early results in areas such as chemical and materials research. The legislation builds on this emerging model and supports the development of similar capabilities at a national scale.\n\n\u201cPennsylvania is home to thousands of academic and industry researchers that are expanding the boundaries of human knowledge and developing the products of the future,\u201d said Senator Fetterman. \u201cWe can help cut barriers researchers face and supercharge America\u2019s innovation engine with a national network of PCLs. This has never been built before, and I\u2019m proud to partner with Senator Budd to make this a reality.\u201d\n\n\u201cIntegrating our nation\u2019s world class laboratories will increase the rate of breakthroughs, streamline and better automate the research process, and reduce the barriers and costs that throttle experimentation. North Carolina is at the cutting edge of innovation, and I am glad to work with Senator Fetterman to help our great institutions push the boundaries of discovery even further,\u201d said Senator Budd.\n\nThe high cost of building and maintaining laboratory infrastructure creates barriers for smaller, less endowed academic institutions and small businesses to conduct cutting-edge scientific research or develop innovative products. A national PCL network would allow fee-paying users to remotely access laboratory space to conduct experiments, instead of building and operating their own lab equipment or traveling to another institution to conduct experiments in-person.\n\nThis legislation would codify existing NSF proposals to create a network of up to six PCL nodes through competitive selection process open to academic, private sector, non-profit research institutions, or partnerships between any of the prior three types of institutions. Applicants for PCL node designation would be evaluated on:\n\nThe level of existing laboratory infrastructure with automated capabilities and data integration;\n\nCapacity to support cloud-enabled workflows for multiple users;\n\nAbility to sustain long-term operations without continuous federal funding;\n\nAbility to collaborate with partners in academia, industry, or federal research entities;\n\nProtocols for research security, cybersecurity, and responsible access;\n\nDemonstration of user interest and research needs.\n\nFollowing the designation of the nodes, standards for interoperability, data sharing, cybersecurity and technical requirements would be developed by NIST, NSF, and selected PCL node participants. Reports to Congress on non-designated laboratories would also be required to map out developing PCL research infrastructure, assess the capabilities of non-designated laboratories, and identify opportunities for collaboration with the selected nodes.\n\nThe bill is supported by Carnegie Mellon, SeedAI, and the Allegheny Conference on Community Development.\n\n\u201cThe bipartisan legislation introduced by Senators John Fetterman and Ted Budd meets the urgency of the moment \u2013 accelerating scientific innovation, sparking entrepreneurship and fueling economic growth in nearly every sector. It is vital to realizing the full potential of American progress for generations to come,\u201d said Farnam Jahanian, President of Carnegie Mellon University.\n\n\u201cThe National Programmable Cloud Laboratories Network Act is a green light for the future of American science. Investing in AI-enabled automation and cloud-connected laboratories will accelerate discovery timelines, bring our research infrastructure into the modern era, and ensure that federal science investments translate into tangible benefits for the American people,\u201d said Joshua New, Director of Policy at SeedAI and organizer of the Accelerate Science Now coalition.\n\n\u201cWith the introduction of this bill, Senator Fetterman is demonstrating a true commitment to the future of innovation in Pennsylvania and American competitiveness,\u201d said Stefani Pashman, CEO of the Allegheny Conference on Community Development. \u201cBy advancing automated science and establishing the National Programmable Cloud Laboratories Network, this legislation ensures Pennsylvania is positioned as a leader in next-generation industries that are core to our region\u2019s growth: robotics, AI, and advanced manufacturing. These efforts will not only drive economic growth in our region but will also make everyday life better by leveraging automation to create safer, more reliable and affordable products while strengthening our supply chains and energy security.\u201d\n\nA summary of the bill text can be found here.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://deluzio.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-deluzio-announces-230000-federal-grant-improve-health-safety", "Congressman Deluzio Announces $230,000 Federal Grant to Improve Health & Safety Services for Older Veterans in Western PA", "2025-12-12", "2025", "2025-12", "Democrat", "House", "PA", "Christopher R. Deluzio", "D000530", "deluzio.house.gov", "deluzio", "https://deluzio.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "CARNEGIE, PA \u2013 Today, Congressman and Navy veteran Chris Deluzio (PA-17) announced that the Veterans Health Foundation is receiving $231,589 in federal grant funding to support the development of a new partnership model for Western Pennsylvania Area Agencies on Aging (AAAs) and U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Medical Centers.\n\nWestern PA is home to a large population of older veterans, and advocates for older veterans are concerned that when threats to their health and safety are reported to a local AAA, weak coordination and collaboration mechanisms with the local VA Medical Center can result in missed opportunities for care. The grant will help address those concerns and also support work with VA Medical Centers in Butler and Pittsburgh to pilot an innovative new program for the VA to better support patients experiencing elder mistreatment. The program is being led by VA Pittsburgh researcher Lena Makaroun, MD.\n\n\u201cEvery veteran who served wrote this country a blank check, and in return we have a sacred obligation to get them the best care possible,\u201d said Congressman Deluzio. \u201cI\u2019m glad we're finding new ways to better coordinate to improve health and safety for older veterans in our region. My fellow veterans defended the freedoms we enjoy today and earned this care.\u201d\n\n\u201cThis grant enables the Veterans Health Foundation, in partnership with VA Pittsburgh and Butler, to lead the development of a first-of-its-kind elder mistreatment intervention for older Veterans,\u201d said Alanna Caffas, CEO of the Veterans Health Foundation. \u201cThrough the THRIVE program, we\u2019re building a national model to improve care, safety, and quality of life for nearly 5 million older Veterans\u2014starting right here in Pennsylvania. With congressional support, this project has the potential to transform how VA Medical Centers and local agencies protect and empower aging Veterans across the country.\u201d\n\nThe funding was provided through the Administration for Community Living and the Administration on Aging, sub-agencies of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, as part of their Elder Justice Innovation Grant program.\n\nCongressman Deluzio\u2014a U.S. Navy veteran who deployed to Iraq and at sea, and a graduate of the United States Naval Academy\u2014is a leading voice in support of his fellow veterans. In Congress, he is a member of the House Armed Services Committee, a founding member of the Democratic Veterans Caucus, and has introduced legislation to award a Congressional Gold Medal to WWII Nurses, among many pro-veteran initiatives.\n\nThe Trump Administration\u2019s efforts to freeze funding and pause federal grants has created significant uncertainty for grantees, varying by agency and program. As of now, the courts are involved in determining whether many of these funding freezes will continue permanently or go on pause. Congressman Deluzio's office will continue to monitor these developments and fight to make sure federal funding keeps flowing to projects that make life better for Western Pennsylvanians. Recipients of federal grants with issues accessing lawfully appropriated funds, should reach out to Congressman Deluzio's office at PA17Grants@mail.house.gov.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://summerlee.house.gov/newsroom/press-releases/rep-summer-lee-joins-jayapal-norcross-and-omar-in-introducing-landmark-bill-to-protect-and-empower-app-based-workers", "Rep. Summer Lee Joins Jayapal, Norcross, and Omar in Introducing Landmark Bill to Protect and Empower App-Based Workers", "2025-12-12", "2025", "2025-12", "Democrat", "House", "PA", "Summer L. Lee", "L000602", "summerlee.house.gov", "summerlee", "https://summerlee.house.gov/newsroom/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 DECEMBER 12, 2025 \u2014 Congresswoman Summer L. Lee (PA-12) joined Representatives Pramila Jayapal (WA-07), Donald Norcross (NJ-01), and Ilhan Omar (MN-05) in introducing the Empowering App-Based Workers Act, groundbreaking legislation to bring transparency, fairness, and accountability to digital labor platforms such as Uber, Lyft, DoorDash, and Amazon Flex.\n\nThe bill establishes critical guardrails to ensure that automated decision-making systems do not result in discrimination, wage theft, or price-gouging \u2014 and that the workers who keep these companies running have the information and protections they deserve.\n\n\u201cApp-based workers in Western Pennsylvania and across this country power our economy, yet far too many are left without basic transparency, stability, or fair pay,\u201d said Congresswoman Summer Lee. \u201cThese companies use hidden algorithms and unpredictable pay structures that make it nearly impossible for workers to support their families. The Empowering App-Based Workers Act brings long-overdue accountability by requiring companies to be transparent about how they determine pay and assignments. Workers deserve protection from unfair and exploitative practices, and they deserve to receive their fair share of the value they create.\u201d\n\nOther lead sponsors emphasized the urgent need for reform.\n\n\u201cApp-based workers work long hours, often with no consistency or predictability of how much they will make,\u201d said Rep. Jayapal. \u201cThey are at the whim of algorithms that make automated decisions about who gets to work, and where, and when. Workers and consumers deserve a better system, where workers are protected, employment laws are followed, and where consumers have a transparent price.\u201d\n\n\u201cThe Empowering App-Based Workers Act is a long-overdue step toward fairness and transparency for the millions of rideshare drivers and delivery app workers who keep our economy running,\u201d said Rep. Norcross. \u201cBy guaranteeing transparent payment information and higher wages, these workers will finally receive a fair day\u2019s pay for a hard day\u2019s work. App-based workers deserve a good-paying job where they are treated with dignity, compensated fairly, and protected from exploitation.\u201d\n\n\u201cGig workers like Uber and Lyft drivers in my home state of Minnesota deserve a fair share of the wealth they create. App-based corporations have hidden behind AI algorithms and predatory take rates while drivers\u2019 pay shrinks and executive profits soar,\u201d said Rep. Omar. \u201cThe Empowering App-Based Workers Act will pull back the curtain on how these companies use data, set wages, and make decisions that shape people\u2019s livelihoods. Gig workers should be part of a transparent system that values their labor.\u201d\n\nApp-based workers face increasingly exploitative conditions. In 2024, both Uber and Lyft regularly paid drivers less than minimum wage \u2014 even while raising prices for consumers. Corporate take rates frequently hover around 40 percent and can reach as high as 70 percent on individual rides.\n\nThe Empowering App-Based Workers Act will:\n\nRequire weekly pay statements and itemized receipts so workers know exactly how their earnings are calculated;\n\nRequire transparency on electronic monitoring and automated decision-making, including how algorithms determine job assignments;\n\nGuarantee ride-hail drivers receive at least 75% of the total amount paid by the consumer;\n\nProhibit pay discrimination by ensuring equal pay for equal or comparable work.\n\nIn addition to Reps. Jayapal, Norcross, Omar, and Lee, the legislation is sponsored by Reps. Dan Goldman (NY-10), LaMonica McIver (NJ-10), Eleanor Holmes Norton (DC-AL), Mark Pocan (WI-02), Mark Takano (CA-39), and Rashida Tlaib (MI-12).", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://dean.house.gov/2025/12/congresswoman-dean-and-senator-gillibrand-reintroduce-bill-to-empower-victims-of-significant-pfas-exposure-to-sue-manufacturers", "Congresswoman Dean and Senator Gillibrand Reintroduce Bill to Empower Victims of Significant PFAS Exposure to Sue Manufacturers", "2025-12-11", "2025", "2025-12", "Democrat", "House", "PA", "Madeleine Dean", "D000631", "dean.house.gov", "dean", "https://dean.house.gov/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2014 Congresswoman Madeleine Dean (PA-04) and Senator Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY) alongside Congresswoman Debbie Dingell (MI-06), Congressman Jerry Nadler (NY-12) and Congresswoman Rashida Tlaib (MI-13), reintroduced the PFAS Accountability Act to create a federal cause of action and allow courts to award medical monitoring for victims of PFAS exposure.\n\nThe PFAS Accountability Act would allow courts to award medical monitoring for PFAS contamination victims to prevent premature morbidity, disability, or mortality. The legislation would also ensure victims of significant PFAS exposure can bring civil claims against manufacturers of PFAS and incentivize funding for PFAS safety research.\n\n\u201cVictims of PFAS exposure deserve to know how their health and well-being have been compromised \u2014 and deserve the ability to demand justice from PFAS manufacturers,\u201d Rep. Dean said. \u201cClean water is a right, yet communities in my district have long-suffered from the consequences of PFAS. That is why our bill would create a legal pathway for accountability and also fund more research so we better understand the generations of harm caused by PFAS manufacturers\u201d\n\n\u201cFor years, companies have knowingly manufactured toxic, carcinogenic chemicals that have devastated families and communities. Those companies must be held accountable for their actions,\u201d Senator Gillibrand said. \u201cOur PFAS Accountability Act would help ensure that those exposed to dangerous PFAS chemicals have legal recourse and are able to access the long-term medical monitoring they need. I\u2019m determined to deliver real justice for the victims of PFAS pollution in New York and across the country.\u201d\n\n\u201cToxic forever chemicals are hurting communities across America. We know PFAS are linked to serious health issues including increased risk of several kinds of cancer, weakened immune response, and developmental effects in children. This legislation will give people who have been hurt by PFAS the opportunity to get justice, as well as incentivize further research into PFAS and efforts to prevent its further spread,\u201d Congresswoman Dingell said.\n\nThis legislation has been endorsed by Waterkeeper Alliance, American Association for Justice, Buxmont Coalition for Safe Water, Environmental Working Group, Green Science Policy Institute, National PFAS Contamination Coalition, Southern Environmental Law Center, NRDC, and Union of Concerned Scientists.\n\n\u201cPFAS exposure has been linked to a number of long-term health issues including cancer, reproductive harm, immune system harm, vaccine efficacy and more,\" Jessica Hernandez, Legislative Director for Environmental Working Group said. \"These PFAS-related chronic diseases develop over time, which is why medical monitoring is critical to securing justice for victims of PFAS pollution. EWG applauds Senator Gillibrand and Congresswoman Dean for reintroducing the PFAS Accountability Act, which will hold polluters accountable and help give victims the justice and support they deserve.\"\n\n\u201cFamilies across the country are bearing the heavy toll of PFAS pollution\u2014enduring long-term health risks and rising medical costs that threaten the fabric of our communities,\u201d Jean Zhuang, Senior Attorney, Southern Environmental Law Center said. \"By reintroducing the PFAS Accountability Act, Senator Gillibrand and Congresswoman Dean are standing with impacted communities to ensure victims can seek medical monitoring and hold polluters financially accountable. This legislation will help ensure that polluters, not people, bear the responsibility for these toxic chemicals.\"\n\n\u201cDecades of production and use have led to widespread PFAS contamination,\" Arlene Blum, Executive Director of the Green Science Policy Institute said. \"These very persistent and often toxic chemicals are harming the health of people and ecosystems worldwide. This bill will hold manufacturers legally accountable and help stop future PFAS contamination at the source.\n\nRead the full text of the bill here.\n\nRep. Madeleine Dean is a mother, grandmother, attorney, professor, former four-term member of the Pennsylvania House of Representatives, and U.S. Representative for the Fourth District of Pennsylvania.\n\n###", 1, "2026-04-04T05:28:40Z", "2026-04-04T05:30:10Z"], ["https://deluzio.house.gov/media/press-releases/statement-congressman-deluzio-hres-939", "Statement from Congressman Deluzio on H.Res. 939", "2025-12-11", "2025", "2025-12", "Democrat", "House", "PA", "Christopher R. Deluzio", "D000530", "deluzio.house.gov", "deluzio", "https://deluzio.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "\u201cImpeachment is one of Congress' most solemn responsibilities, and I take it very seriously.\n\n\u201cI join so many patriots who have deep concerns with the dangerous actions of the President and his Administration. Any impeachment process requires more thought and investigation than this sloppy and rushed resolution.\n\n\u201cConstitutional scholar Congressman Jamie Raskin leads Democrats on the House Judiciary Committee, and today I joined him in voting not to table the motion to be able to send this resolution for full consideration in the Judiciary Committee.\u201c", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://houlahan.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=4860", "What Trump\u2019s latest dramatic Venezuela move means", "2025-12-11", "2025", "2025-12", "Democrat", "House", "PA", "Chrissy Houlahan", "H001085", "houlahan.house.gov", "houlahan", "https://houlahan.house.gov/press/documentquery.aspx", "page_html", "Originally published on CNN.com\n\nAnalysis by Stephen Collinson\n\nThe Trump administration\u2019s seizure of an oil tanker off the coast of Venezuela is one of the most dramatic twists yet in a military pressure campaign against Venezuelan dictator Nicol\u00e1s Maduro.\n\nThe boarding of a foreign ship is an unusual step and expands a US operation already highlighted by strikes against more than 20 boats in the Caribbean and Pacific Ocean that the administration claims carried drug traffickers.\n\nEarly reports suggest the swoop by US Coast Guard personnel, with the backing of the Navy and law enforcement agencies, poses fewer legal and constitutional concerns than the campaign against the boats and Trump\u2019s imminent threats of military action on Venezuelan soil.\n\nThe vessel, the Skipper, was seized in international waters and was carrying Venezuelan crude, a senior US official said. A federal judge had previously issued a warrant for its seizure because of alleged links to Iran-backed terror groups.\n\nStill, Trump\u2019s relish in announcing the take-over of the ship and Attorney General Pam Bondi\u2019s release of a video showing US personnel rappelling onto its decks from a helicopter underscore the political significance of the moment.\n\nWith his characteristic flair for the dramatic, Trump announced to the press that the US had boarded a \u201clarge tanker, very large, largest one ever seized, actually.\u201d\n\nWhile the tanker might not have been directly related to the current showdown between Trump and Maduro, its interdiction will be seen in the context of a massive US naval build-up in the Caribbean, which is part of an apparent attempt to force Maduro out of power or to convince his subordinates to oust him.\n\nWhat\u2019s at stake for Trump and Venezuela\n\nMillions of Venezuelans would welcome Maduro\u2019s departure after grim years under an authoritarian regime that has impoverished the country, imposed repression and forced millions of people to flee poverty and persecution.\n\nSo, the Washington controversy over Trump\u2019s intentions in Venezuela is less about whether Maduro\u2019s exit after ignoring his loss in a democratic election would be beneficial and more about whether the US president is acting legally. Critics fear Trump is preparing to embroil America in another prolonged foreign policy misadventure as he again seeks to flex unchecked executive power.\n\nLegal questions are most acute over the strikes against alleged drug traffickers in the Caribbean and Pacific Ocean that have killed 87 people. The administration insists that it is justified in using legal military force against what it brands as narco-terrorists that threaten American national security. But Venezuela is not regarded as a major fentanyl trafficking route into the US as the administration insists. And rights groups warn that the boat attacks infringe on the due process of the victims and amount to state sanctioned murder by the administration.\n\nOne of those strikes, on September 2, prompted Democrats and human rights groups to accuse the administration of a war crime, as it involved a follow-up strike that reportedly killed survivors of the initial US attack.\n\nDemocrats are intensifying a campaign to force Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth to turn over video of the attack to Congress. Trump had earlier said on camera he had no problems with such a step but later denied making the comment.\n\nNews of the tanker seizure and deepening intrigue over the double-tap strike came as doubt still shrouded Trump\u2019s aims in Venezuela. The symbolic weight of the massive US naval force off the country, which includes the most advanced US aircraft carrier, USS Gerald R. Ford, means any resolution to the crisis that does not lead to Maduro\u2019s ouster would be a rebuke to US power and Trump\u2019s prestige.\n\nTrump has meanwhile repeatedly warned that strikes against what he says are drug trafficking sites on land could start soon. But in an interview with Politico this week, he declined to discuss military strategy and said opaquely that he wanted the Venezuelan people treated well and \u201cto be respected.\u201d\n\nCNN reported on Wednesday that the Trump administration was working on plans for what would happen in Venezuela in the event that Maduro fell or left. Critics of the Trump approach have drawn comparisons to the US failure to prepare for regime change in Iraq in 2003 after the US invasion. Some analysts fear that Venezuela could descend into violence and instability if the Maduro regime falls, and that it could prompt a refugee crisis. But the situation there bears little comparison to post-war Baghdad.\n\nIn another development that could increase pressure on Maduro\u2019s regime, Venezuelan Opposition leader Mar\u00eda Corina Machado dramatically left hiding in the country and traveled to Oslo, where her daughter had earlier accepted the Nobel Peace Prize on her behalf.\n\nMaduro\u2019s government had warned she would be considered a fugitive should she leave Venezuela. But her emergence in the outside world may also present the Trump administration with new opportunities to highlight her cause.\n\nShip boarding \u2018normal,\u2019 former US intelligence official says\n\nThe US seizure of the tanker Skipper took place on the basis of a search warrant related to past activity transporting sanctioned oil from Venezuela and Iran, Attorney General Pam Bondi posted on X. She said FBI, Homeland Security Investigations and the US Coast Guard were involved with support from the Department of Defense.\n\nThe capture of the tanker is certain to be seen throughout the region as an implicit warning to other tanker captains of the risks in loading up in Venezuela and operating around its waters, as well as a blow to the shadow fleet of tankers that traffic sanctioned oil for nations like Iran.\n\nVenezuela has some of the world\u2019s biggest reserves of crude oil, and its illicit sales are a key source of income for its regime. The first and second Trump administrations and the Biden administration maintained multiple layers of sanctions against the Maduro regime for its suppression of democracy, including against the state-owned oil and natural gas company PDVSA.\n\nThe government in Caracas condemned the seizure, arguing that it laid bare the true motivation of Trump\u2019s pressure campaign. \u201cIt is not migration. It is not drug trafficking. It is not democracy. It is not human rights. It has always been about our natural wealth, our oil, our energy, the resources that belong exclusively to the Venezuelan people,\u201d a government statement said.\n\nBut Beth Sanner, a former senior US intelligence official, told CNN\u2019s Jake Tapper that the seizure of a Venezuelan oil tankers was \u201cabsolutely normal\u201d as part of an attempt to prevent the regime transporting sanctioned oil. \u201cIn the past, everybody has wanted to pick up these kinds of tankers, but we haven\u2019t had the assets in the region to do it,\u201d Sanner said.\n\nDemocrats on Capitol Hill are unwilling to take any of actions related to Venezuela at face value.\n\nAsked on CNN whether the US was now closer to a war with Venezuela, Rep. Chrissy Houlahan, who sits on the House Armed Services Committee, said, \u201cHow could we possibly not be closer when we are rappelling men and women from our military out of helicopters and descending on civilian tankers flying the flag of another nation? It is definitely escalatory; there is no other way to put it.\u201d\n\nShe added that if Trump\u2019s aim was regime change through military force, he was constitutionally required to get an authorization from Congress \u2014 although she believed that such a step was not in US interests.\n\nSenate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer meanwhile told Tapper on \u201cThe Lead\u201d that Trump\u2019s rhetoric was so unclear that it was impossible to know what his true intentions are. \u201cPresident Trump throws out so many different things, in so many different ways, you don\u2019t know what the heck he is talking about,\u201d Schumer said. \u201cIf Maduro would just flee on his own, everyone would like that.\u201d But Schumer added: \u201cYou cannot say, \u2018I endorse this, I endorse that\u2019 when Trump is all over the lot.\u201d\n\nLike so much in Trump\u2019s second term, there is little public transparency about the president\u2019s goals that often seem to depend on his personal whims. Trump prizes unpredictability. He\u2019s thus made no attempt to explain to Americans why so many service personnel are on ships off the Venezuelan coast or what the expensive deployment is supposed to achieve.\n\nIf the president were to successfully oust Maduro and transition Venezuela to democracy, he could claim a significant political win. He\u2019d also cement his goal of exerting American power throughout the Western Hemisphere, an aspiration consistent with his recently unveiled National Security Strategy. This appears both an attempt to reshape Latin America in his own MAGA image and a more traditional US strategy to counter Chinese and Russian influence in the region.\n\nBut history shows that even in extreme circumstances, dictatorial regimes constructed over decades are often more durable than outsiders believe. The Venezuelan government has been compared to a many layered criminal operation \u2014 with key members having huge financial stakes in perpetuating their own power. And while many outsiders hope that Trump\u2019s pressure will lead to the rise of the country\u2019s rightful democratic rulers, nothing is certain.\n\nBut the seizing of the tanker cranked the pressure on Maduro up yet another notch. And it led Trump further down what is beginning to look like an inexorable path to a confrontation in which he is investing huge personal credibility.", 1, "2026-04-08T14:14:11Z", "2026-04-08T14:23:06Z"], ["https://deluzio.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-deluzio-statement-house-passage-fy26-ndaa", "Congressman Deluzio Statement on House Passage of the FY26 NDAA", "2025-12-10", "2025", "2025-12", "Democrat", "House", "PA", "Christopher R. Deluzio", "D000530", "deluzio.house.gov", "deluzio", "https://deluzio.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "\u201cI voted NO tonight because the D.C. swampy machine did the bidding of the defense industrial complex by stripping out important bipartisan provisions that I secured in the annual defense bill to protect public money from price gouging and to make sure defense corporations cannot block our troops from fixing their own gear and equipment.\n\n\u201cThey took out provisions\u2014often that had support in both the House and the Senate from Republicans and Democrats alike\u2014that challenged corporate power, returned collective bargaining rights to workers, and protected public money from getting ripped off by defense contractors.\n\n\u201cWe need a military that has what it needs to keep us safe and win any fight that comes our way. And we need a Pentagon and a Congress that better protect public money, do not union bust patriotic civil servants, and are not afraid to push back against the defense industrial complex.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://deluzio.house.gov/media/press-releases/deluzio-led-fight-congress-keep-navy-reserve-centers-open-he-won", "Deluzio Led the Fight in Congress to Keep Navy Reserve Centers Open. He Won.", "2025-12-10", "2025", "2025-12", "Democrat", "House", "PA", "Christopher R. Deluzio", "D000530", "deluzio.house.gov", "deluzio", "https://deluzio.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 After learning that the U.S. Senate snuck a provision into the annual defense bill to close America\u2019s Navy Reserve Centers (NRCs), Western Pennsylvania Congressman and Navy veteran Chris Deluzio (PA-17) successfully led the fight to remove the provision and keep Navy Reserve Centers open. This included the NRC in Moon Township, PA at the 911th Airlift Wing\u2014in Pennsylvania\u2019s 17th Congressional District\u2014and in Harrisburg and Avoca, PA. With these centers set to remain open, our nation's Navy Reserve will stay trained, supported, and ready to do our country\u2019s bidding\u2014anytime, anywhere.\n\n\"It's important that regions like ours have Navy Reserve Centers so that Sailors can keep their ties to the fleet if we need to mobilize them for active-duty service,\u201d said Congressman Chris Deluzio. \u201cI am proud that I won the fight to protect the Navy Reserve Centers in Western Pennsylvania and across the country\u2014these are important facilities to support our Navy reservists who stand at the ready to mobilize for service.\u201d\n\nNRCs perform administrative, training, and support to Navy Reserve Sailors, ensuring readiness for the country's Navy Reserve. Congressman Deluzio helped craft the House version of the National Defense Authorization Act\u2014or NDAA\u2014as a member of the House Armed Service Committee. The version that he voted for did not include the elimination of Navy Reserve Centers. However, the Senate-passed version of the NDAA added a provision to close the more than 100 Navy Reserve Centers across the country, including one in the district that Congressman Deluzio represents.\n\nCongressman Deluzio and his office worked for months to remove the provision from the final compromise text of the defense bill. Congressman Deluzio led a letter to the Armed Service Committee leadership signed by eighteen of his congressional colleagues, both Republicans and Democrats. The full text of the letter is available here and his efforts were covered by KDKA TV news in Pittsburgh. Ultimately, his efforts were successful. When the final defense bill text was released last weekend, the provision closing NRCs was removed.\n\n\u201cSound defense policy must be grounded in reality and evidence,\u201d said Colonel Chuck Sargent, USAFR (Ret.), Chairman, Military Affairs Council of Western Pennsylvania (MACWPA). \u201cCongressman Deluzio\u2019s willingness to engage, listen, and act\u2014supported by strong research and collaboration\u2014helped preserve military readiness while maintaining vital connections between our communities and the armed forces.\u201d\n\nByron King, Capt, USN/ret, President of Pittsburgh Council of the U.S. Navy League provided the following statement celebrating Congressman Deluzio\u2019s successful effort to keep Navy Reserve Centers open:\n\n\u201cIt is gratifying to learn that the 2026 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) no longer legislates the abrupt, nationwide closure of 107 Navy Reserve Centers. Certainly, we are pleased that Pittsburgh's own Navy Reserve facility will remain operational, located adjacent to the Greater Pittsburgh International Airport.\n\n\u201cA pithy old nautical saying advises that \"time and tide wait for no one.\" And with this in mind, and on behalf of the Pittsburgh Council of the U.S. Navy League, our members and friends of the Navy want to thank Rep. Chris Deluzio and his staff for their fast, responsive and decisive efforts. Promptly, efficiently and with great focus they coordinated a broad, national-scale and bipartisan coalition of U.S. House Members to eliminate this particular \u2018shutdown\u2019 provision from the 2026 NDAA, which is otherwise critical legislation for the defense of the country.\n\n\u201cThe U.S. Navy Reserve was established in 1775, a year before the founding of the country, and for 250 years Reserve personnel have played key roles in every American military effort, and not a few peacetime missions that involved disaster relief and other humanitarian efforts. The current Reserve system is administered through Navy facilities located in every state. Shutting down these centers would be immediately detrimental to training and administering Reservists, with high likelihood of decreased readiness and negative impact on mission capabilities across the broad spectrum of Navy missions.\n\n\u201cThe Pittsburgh Council of the Navy League extends its sincere thanks to Rep. Deluzio and his staff, and to numerous other friends of the Navy who helped generate widespread public interest and support in this matter.\u201d\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://houlahan.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=4851", "New Report from Senator Warren\u2019s Office Reveals Trump Administration Siphoned At Least $2 Billion from Military Budget for Immigration Enforcement", "2025-12-10", "2025", "2025-12", "Democrat", "House", "PA", "Chrissy Houlahan", "H001085", "houlahan.house.gov", "houlahan", "https://houlahan.house.gov/press/documentquery.aspx", "page_html", "Washington, D.C. \u2014 U.S. Senator Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.) and Representative John Garamendi (D-Calif.) released a new report detailing the Trump administration\u2019s diversion of funds and resources from the Department of Defense (DoD) to the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) for immigration enforcement, and its impact on readiness and morale.\n\nSenators Cory Booker (D-N.J.), Tammy Duckworth (D-Ill.), Mazie Hirono (D-Hawaii), Jeff Merkley (D-Ore.), Alex Padilla (D-Calif.), Brian Schatz (D-Hawaii), Adam Schiff (D-Calif.), Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.), and Ron Wyden (D-Ore.), along with Representatives Chrissy Houlahan (D-Pa.) and Sara Jacobs (D-Calif.) co-authored the report.\n\nUnder a second Trump administration, the U.S. military has become heavily involved in immigration enforcement. Senator Warren\u2019s new report, the first detailed review of the Pentagon\u2019s spending on immigration, found that DoD has committed at least $2 billion to support immigration enforcement through mobilizing and deploying troops to American cities and the Southern border, deporting and transporting immigrants on military aircrafts, detaining individuals on U.S. military installations, and more.\n\n\u201cIt\u2019s an insult to our service members that Pete Hegseth and Kristi Noem are using the defense budget as a slush fund for political stunts. Stripping military resources to promote a wasteful political agenda doesn\u2019t make our military stronger or Americans safer,\u201d said Senator Warren. \u201cCongress needs to step in and hold the Trump Administration accountable for mishandling billions of taxpayer dollars.\u201d\n\n\u201cWhen President Trump recklessly diverts our military to support immigration enforcement, our armed forces pay the price. As this report shows, these disruptions come at a significant cost, in both dollars and readiness,\u201d said Representative Garamendi.\n\nDespite an unprecedented $170 billion budget allocated to DHS, it\u2019s unclear how much DoD has received in reimbursement for any of its spending on immigration enforcement. Meanwhile, the military is funding these efforts in support of DHS with money allocated for other DoD projects including updates to barracks, maintenance hangers, and military construction projects in the Pacific. Concerningly, the Pentagon has requested an additional $5 billion for further immigration support in its budget request for 2026.\n\n\u201cDiverting the military from its existing missions and thrusting it into immigration enforcement does not make Americans safer. This multi-billion-dollar political stunt is an overt waste of taxpayer resources and undermines national security, military readiness, and resources for our servicemembers,\u201d said the members.\n\nThe members\u2019 report found that, in 2025, the Pentagon has committed:\n\nAt least $1.3 billion for the deployment of troops and resources to the border;\n\nAt least $258 million to support Trump\u2019s orders to deploy troops to Los Angeles, Chicago, Portland, and Memphis, along with plans to reassign 600 Judge Advocates (JAGs) as immigration judges;\n\nAt least $420.9 million for detaining immigrants at domestic military installations and overseas bases like Guant\u00e1namo and Camp Lemonnier in Djibouti; and\n\nAt least $40.3 million for military flights to deport and transport noncitizen detainees.\n\nThe report raised concerns that, in addition to the cost of the DoD immigration efforts, it has resulted in \u201cservicemembers\u2026being pulled from their homes, families, and civilian jobs for indefinite periods of time to support legally questionable political stunts,\u201d wrote the members. The deployments also unnecessarily put our servicemembers in harm's way: in November, Specialist Sarah Beckstrom, was killed while her West Virginia National Guard unit was deployed to Washington, D.C, and Staff Sergeant Andrew Wolfe was critically injured.\n\nThe deployment of troops for immigration enforcement has also weakened the military\u2019s ability to respond to emergencies. For example, the 101st Airborne Division \u2014 the U.S. Army\u2019s only air assault division \u2014 deployed to the border instead of standing ready for national security missions. Additionally, leading into peak fire season, the California National Guard firefighting unit was \u201cunderstaffed because roughly half its members [were] deployed to Los Angeles.\u201d These deployments may also require units to miss key training exercises necessary to ensure combat readiness, as the Government Accountability Office found occurred during the first Trump administration.\n\nThe diversion of DoD funds is having a devastating effect on the military\u2019s ability to improve services for troops and their families. Among the projects impacted by the prioritization of border operations is a $1 billion renovation of military barracks. Secretary Hegseth also diverted funding from elementary schools at Fort Knox and a U.S. military installation in Germany, an ambulatory care center and dental clinic to service Naval Air Station Whidbey Island, Washington, a jet-training facility in Mississippi, and Marine barracks in Japan.\n\nDuring the first Trump administration, the DoD stopped deploying troops to the border after determining the deployments were hurting military readiness and morale. The border mission appeared to contribute to alcohol and drug abuse among service members, and may have even contributed to a number of tragic suicides among Texas National Guardsmen. The members raised concerns about similar issues arising again, particularly given the lack of clarity around how long deployments will last.\n\nThe report also slammed the administration\u2019s failure to adequately inform Congress and the public about the diversion of funds. \u201cThe Trump administration\u2019s secrecy leaves many questions unanswered. The administration has failed to provide clarity on basic questions about DoD\u2019s role in supporting DHS,\u201d said the members.\n\nThe coalition directed follow-up questions to Secretary Hegseth about the number of troops currently supporting immigration enforcement, how long military units will be supporting DHS, and whether DHS will reimburse the military.\n\nOn Thursday, December 11, 2025, the Senate Armed Services Committee will hold a hearing on deployment of the National Guard across the United States.\n\nCover Letter to the Pentagon (PDF) | Text of Report (PDF)\n\n###", 1, "2026-04-08T14:14:11Z", "2026-04-08T14:23:06Z"], ["https://houlahan.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=4852", "Houlahan Champions Key Reforms and Readiness Investments in the FY26 National Defense Authorization Act", "2025-12-10", "2025", "2025-12", "Democrat", "House", "PA", "Chrissy Houlahan", "H001085", "houlahan.house.gov", "houlahan", "https://houlahan.house.gov/press/documentquery.aspx", "page_html", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Today, Representative Chrissy Houlahan (D-PA), Ranking Member of the Military Personnel Subcommittee of the House Armed Services Committee, successfully secured 40 priorities in the bipartisan, bicameral compromise of the Fiscal Year 2026 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA). The conference report released last week reflects months of negotiations and delivers major reforms to strengthen military readiness, protect servicemembers and their families, and safeguard America\u2019s competitive edge at a time of rapid and unpredictable change within the Department of Defense.\n\n\u201cThis year\u2019s NDAA, which includes a 3.8 percent pay increase for all servicemembers, strengthens military readiness and reaffirms our commitment to the people who serve,\u201d said Houlahan. \u201cI\u2019m especially proud that we delivered landmark protections for military women by permanently codifying Women\u2019s Initiative Teams across every service branch, an achievement that was not included in the Senate bill but one I fought to keep in the final package. These protections strengthen our force, our families, and our national security, and are vital under an Administration working to sideline women and erase their contributions. I\u2019m grateful to my colleagues on both sides of the aisle for helping us get this across the finish line.\u201d", 1, "2026-04-08T14:14:11Z", "2026-04-08T14:23:06Z"], ["https://boyle.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/boyle-statement-trumps-visit-pennsylvania", "Boyle Statement on Trump\u2019s Visit to Pennsylvania", "2025-12-09", "2025", "2025-12", "Democrat", "House", "PA", "Brendan F. Boyle", "B001296", "boyle.house.gov", "boyle", "https://boyle.house.gov/media-center/press-releases", "scraper", "PHILADELPHIA, PA \u2013 Congressman Brendan F. Boyle (PA-02), Ranking Member of the House Budget Committee, released the following statement ahead of Trump\u2019s visit to Pennsylvania:\n\n\u201cDonald Trump is returning to my state, where all throughout the campaign last year he promised to lower costs on \u2018day one\u2019. And now one year later? Prices are higher than ever thanks to his policies.\n\nIn fact, Donald Trump now calls the cost-of-living crisis a \u2018con\u2019 \u2014 but the real con was his promise to lower prices.\n\nDonald Trump cares more about building ballrooms and giving tax breaks to billionaires than he does about struggling Pennsylvania families.\u201d\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://deluzio.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-deluzios-bill-rename-sewickley-post-office-after-local-historian", "Congressman Deluzio\u2019s Bill to Rename Sewickley Post Office After Local Historian & Author Unanimously Passes U.S. House of Reps", "2025-12-09", "2025", "2025-12", "Democrat", "House", "PA", "Christopher R. Deluzio", "D000530", "deluzio.house.gov", "deluzio", "https://deluzio.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Tonight, Congressman Chris Deluzio\u2019s (PA-17) bipartisan legislation to rename the post office in Sewickley, PA at 521 Thorn Street after Mary Elizabeth \"Bettie\" Cole passed the U.S. House of Representatives unanimously by a voice vote. It is a significant step forward in commemorating the beloved Western Pennsylvania community leader, local historian, and author.\n\nIn 2000, Mrs. Cole published Their Story: The History of Blacks/African Americans in Sewickley & Edgeworth. This book documented a significant and often-overlooked part of the Sewickley Valley community, and was the culmination of 20 years of research, including more than 100 interviews with community members.\n\n\u201cPost offices are more than just a place to send mail and packages\u2014they are public institutions that should reflect the community\u2019s proud past,\u201d said Congressman Deluzio. \u201cSewickley has a rich history, and community pillars like Mrs. Bettie Cole have been important to telling that shared story. Her community service should be honored. That\u2019s why I\u2019m proud to lead the effort to memorialize Bettie\u2019s contributions by renaming Sewickley\u2019s post office after her, and I thank my colleagues in the U.S. House of Representatives for recognizing the importance of this acknowledgement.\u201d\n\nMrs. Mary Elizabeth \"Bettie\" Cole was born in Edgeworth, PA, on April 5, 1923. She moved to Sewickley in 1939, where she spent the rest of her life. She was a 1940 graduate of Sewickley High School. Shortly after graduation, she married and had two daughters who she raised and nurtured.\n\nIn 1988, she retired from Point Park College (now Point Park University) as the associate director of office services and director of the mailing department. While employed at Point Park, Mrs. Cole earned her Associate of Arts degree in Journalism and Communications, and was inducted into Alpha Sigma Lambda (National Honor Society for part-time students) as one of the 13 charter members of Point Park\u2019s Gamma Epsilon Chapter. She boasted that at the time, she was possibly (and proudly) the chapter\u2019s eldest member and only grandmother. Mrs. Cole passed away in 2016 at the age of 92, leaving behind a family and community proud of her contributions.\n\nThe legislation now moves to the U.S. Senate for consideration. Congressman Deluzio will encourage his colleagues on the other side of the Capitol to pass this legislation and send it to the President\u2019s desk for signature into law as soon as possible.\n\nA video of Congressman Deluzio\u2019s floor speech is available here and a photo of the Sewickley Post Office is available here.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://deluzio.house.gov/media/press-releases/deluzio-introduces-strengthening-trade-enforcement-and-evasion-limitations-act", "Deluzio Introduces Strengthening Trade Enforcement and Evasion Limitations Act", "2025-12-09", "2025", "2025-12", "Democrat", "House", "PA", "Christopher R. Deluzio", "D000530", "deluzio.house.gov", "deluzio", "https://deluzio.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2014 Today, U.S. Representatives Chris Deluzio (D-PA) and Mike Kelly (R-PA) introduced the Strengthening Trade Enforcement and Evasion Limitations Act, or STEEL Act. This is legislation that will enhance trade enforcement and prevent dumping, an unfair trade practice by foreign nations that sell subsidized goods in the United States and devalue the prices of American steel and other domestic products.\n\n\u201cWestern Pennsylvanians know how decades of wimpy trade law enforcement have hurt American workers and industry,\u201d said Congressman Deluzio. \u201cWe need stronger enforcement, and that means stopping trade cheats from ripping us off. I was glad to work with Congressman Mike Kelly on this bill to put some muscle back into our trade enforcement laws and help level the playing field for American jobs and industries.\u201d\n\n\"For years, foreign steel producers have undercut American steel and tube producers by exporting their product at prices below the cost of production. These harmful -- and even illegal -- trade practices have hurt Pennsylvania steel producers, leading to job losses in communities across Pennsylvania and the United States,\" said Rep. Kelly. \"The Strengthening Trade Enforcement and Evasion Limitations (STEEL) Act puts American companies first, and it fully rejects the idea that foreign companies can participate in the U.S. market against U.S. companies without playing by the same rules.\"\n\nThe full bill text is availablehere.\n\nThe STEEL Act is endorsed by many groups, including the American Iron and Steel Institute and the Committee on Pipe and Tube Imports (CPTI).\n\nFor too long, bad actors have sought to evade U.S. trade laws through fraud, transshipment and other schemes. These actions have hurt American businesses and workers, including in the American steel industry. By allowing Customs and Border Protection to initiate investigations on its own initiative when it finds evidence of evasion of antidumping or countervailing duty orders, this bill will give CBP an additional tool to crack down on these illegal schemes,\" said Kevin Dempsey, President and CEO, American Iron and Steel Institute. \"AISI commends Representatives Mike Kelly and Chris Deluzio for their leadership in introducing this important legislation. AISI urges Congress to pass this and other trade enforcement legislation to ensure strict and vigorous enforcement of U.S. trade laws and to hold trade cheaters accountable.\"\n\n\u201cSteel pipe and tube producers across the country have long borne the brunt of unfairly traded imports that erode market share and put U.S. manufacturers and workers at risk. The Enforce and Protect Act (EAPA) has been an essential tool for the Committee on Pipe and Tube Imports (CPTI) and its member companies in stopping bad actors from evading antidumping and countervailing duties intended to counter unfair trade practices. Unfortunately, gaps in the current statute have still allowed some importers to exploit loopholes and avoid lawfully imposed duties,\" said Roger B. Schagrin, Executive Director and General Counsel of the Committee on Pipe and Tube Imports (CPTI). \"CPTI commends Representatives Mike Kelly (R-PA) and Chris Deluzio (D-PA) for their leadership in the introduction of this legislation to strengthen the Enforce and Protect Act. By enabling U.S. Customs and Border Protection to proactively investigate duty evasion and by curbing frivolous appeals, this legislation will strengthen enforcement and deliver meaningful relief to American manufacturers and workers across the country who rely on fair and effective trade laws. We look forward to working with Representatives Kelly and Deluzio to support this critical legislation and the jobs it protects.\"\n\n\u201cThanks to the Enforce and Protect Act (EAPA), the OCTG Manufacturers Association (USOMA) has seen more than $400 million in unpaid antidumping and countervailing duties assessed \u2014more than any other industry\u2014through this vital enforcement tool,\u201d said Guillermo Moreno, President of Tenaris US and Chairman of USOMA. \u201cStill, more must be done to stop bad actors from evading duly imposed AD/CVD orders. Our members applaud the leadership of Representatives Mike Kelly (R-PA) and Chris Deluzio (D-PA) for introducing legislation that will strengthen CBP\u2019s ability to pursue duty evaders and curb frivolous litigation that wastes government and industry resources. We look forward to working with congressional leaders to enact these critical reforms and ensure that American manufacturers are fully protected from loopholes and delay tactics.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://houlahan.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=4849", "Democratic Women\u2019s Caucus, Democratic Senators, & House Democrats Blast Army for Sexual Misconduct Failures; Demand Accountability", "2025-12-09", "2025", "2025-12", "Democrat", "House", "PA", "Chrissy Houlahan", "H001085", "houlahan.house.gov", "houlahan", "https://houlahan.house.gov/press/documentquery.aspx", "page_html", "WASHINGTON, DC \u2013 Monday, December 8, Senator Mazie Hirono (D-HI), DWC Servicewomen, Women Veterans and Military Task Force Chair Chrissy Houlahan (PA-06), DWC Progressive Caucus Liaison Jill Tokuda (HI-02), and DWC members Nanette Barrag\u00e1n (CA-44), Lori Trahan (MA-03), Veronica Escobar (TX-16), and Sylvia Garcia (TX-29) led 58 members of the Democratic Women\u2019s Caucus, House Democrats, and Democratic Senators in a letter to the Department of Defense Inspector General demanding accountability for the Army\u2019s failure to stop widespread sexual misconduct.\n\nRecently, over 80 women joined a lawsuit alleging that Dr. Major Blaine McGraw made sexual advances, directed lewd comments towards them, and secretly recorded patients during exams while working at Ford Hood and Tripler Army Medical Center. Dr. McGraw was not suspended from his position until this October.\n\nIn their letter, the Members and Senators expressed their outrage over Army leadership\u2019s inaction despite numerous complaints from servicewomen and military wives that Dr. McGraw had sexually exploited women in his care for years. They also explained some of the unconscionable abuses women experienced, including details from the story of Jane Doe.\n\nIn their letter, the Members and Senators shared how the Army ignored Jane Doe\u2019s attempts to report her abuse:\n\n\u201cAfter reportedly being assaulted during a patient visit with Dr. McGraw, Jane Doe said she begged a desk attendant to make a report. Instead, she was told to \u2018call or send an email.\u2019 Jane Doe alleges she called the hospital seven different times, but she was dismissed and hung up on each time. The purported lack of response and urgency to respond to these complaints would clearly violate reporting policy and the Army\u2019s Sexual Harassment/Assault Response and Prevention Program protocols.\u201d\n\nThe Members and Senators also expressed deep concern in their letter that this abuse is part of a recurring pattern of the Army failing to intervene in cases of sexual misconduct:\n\n\u201cIn the lawsuit, female servicemembers and patients noted that a recurring issue was the lack of adequate response from Army leadership. Reportedly, when victims and their loved ones tried to make complaints with Army leadership, they were \u2018refused meetings at every level.\u2019 If true, these women deserve better. The alleged dismissive response from the Army demonstrates an immense failure at every level to properly support survivors.\u201d\n\nThe Members and Senators concluded the letter by demanding a full investigation, explanations on how complaints were handled, and stronger protections to ensure no woman faces this abuse again:\n\n\u201cThe allegations against Dr. McGraw are extremely serious, and the Army\u2019s criminal investigation of this matter must continue unabated. That said, the separate concerns raised by survivors about members of the Army at many levels not timely acting on their complaints must be confronted immediately. Additionally, we request that DoD IG investigate to determine whether personnel within the Army properly followed procedures to timely report allegations of sexual misconduct to law enforcement and whether other SAPR procedures and existing protections were followed or not.\u201d\n\nLetter Lead Members and Senators expressed their outrage at the Army\u2019s blatant failure:\n\n\u201cWhat happened at Fort Hood and Tripler Army Medical Center is a profound betrayal of the women who trust the military with their care. For years, Dr. Blaine McGraw preyed on patients while leadership ignored warnings and allowed the abuse to continue. Survivors also begged for help and were met with silence, skepticism, or dismissal. That is not just a moral failure but a procedural one. No woman serving our country should ever fear being violated by those responsible for her safety. Our letter demands accountability and the reforms needed to make sure this never happens again,\u201d said DWC Servicewomen, Women Veterans and Military Task Force Chair Chrissy Houlahan (PA-06).\n\n\u201cReports of the Army\u2019s failure to respond to sexual misconduct allegations and the many pleas raised by military women are appalling. The allegations in this case point to a deeply troubling breakdown in accountability and oversight. Sexual misconduct must never be tolerated, regardless of rank or position. Military servicewomen are essential to our armed forces, and they deserve to be heard, protected, and taken seriously. I am proud to co-lead this letter to demand answers, prevent future misconduct, and bring accountability and transparency for survivors who have been ignored for far too long,\u201d said DWC member Sylvia Garcia (TX-39).\n\n\u201cNo woman should feel unsafe receiving medical care, especially during sensitive and private health services. Yet far too many survivors have come forward with their experiences of exploitation and alleged abuse by a doctor who reportedly violated not just the basic principles of medical care and human decency, but also the expected conduct of a U.S. Army officer and physician,\u201d said Senator Mazie Hirono (D-HI). \u201cThe Department of Defense and U.S. Army must take accountability for its failure to rapidly respond to servicemembers and patient complaints. While nothing can reverse the harm reported by patients, a comprehensive investigation into this alleged misconduct, resulting in stronger protections for patients, is necessary to ensure that no one experiences abuse by our military health system again.\u201d\n\n\u201cThe rise in physician sexual misconduct across the country has now permeated the U.S. military, leaving women servicemembers and the wives of servicemembers vulnerable,\u201d said DWC member Lori Trahan (MA-03). \u201cThe allegations against Dr. McGraw are horrific, and the Army\u2019s delayed response is unacceptable. These women deserve to know that when they report abuse, they will be protected, believed, and taken seriously. We\u2019re demanding answers because accountability cannot wait and the safety of those who serve our nation and their families cannot be compromised.\u201d\n\n\u201cServicemembers and their families make extraordinary sacrifices to keep our country safe. Yet the U.S. Army failed to protect them when they were at their most vulnerable,\u201d said DWC Progressive Caucus Liaison Jill Tokuda (HI-02). \u201cI am disgusted by the allegations against Dr. McGraw and sickened that the Army\u2019s delayed response enabled further harm to these women, who will now carry lasting trauma and emotional scars. The repeated dismissal of complaints is an appalling breach of duty, which is why we are demanding accountability, meaningful reform, and assurance that this will never happen again.\u201d\n\nRead the full letter here.\n\nIn addition to letter leads Mazie Hirono, Chrissy Houlahan, Jill Tokuda, Nanette Barrag\u00e1n, Lori Trahan, Veronica Escobar, and Sylvia Garcia, the letter was signed by Angela D. Alsobrooks,, Joyce Beatty, Julia Brownley, Nikki Budzinski, Andr\u00e9 Carson, Judy Chu, Maxine Dexter, Debbie Dingell, Sarah Elfreth, Lizzie Fletcher, Valerie Foushee, Lois Frankel, Laura Friedman, Robert Garcia, Kirsten Gillibrand, Adelita Grijalva, Val Hoyle, Jonathan Jackson, Sara Jacobs, Pramila Jayapal, Julie Johnson, Timothy Kennedy, Teresa Leger Fernandez, Lucy McBath, Sarah McBride, Betty McCollum, James McGovern, LaMonica McIver, Gwen Moore, Kelly Morrison, Seth Moulton, Eleanor Norton, Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, Nancy Pelosi, Nellie Pou, Delia Ramirez, Emily Randall, Deborah Ross, Andrea Salinas, Janice Schakowsky, Jeanne Shaheen, Lateefah Simon, Melanie Stansbury, Rashida Tlaib, Norma Torres, Chris Van Hollen, Elizabeth Warren, Debbie Wasserman Schultz, Nikema Williams, Frederica Wilson, and Ron Wyden.", 1, "2026-04-08T14:14:11Z", "2026-04-08T14:23:06Z"], ["https://dean.house.gov/2025/12/congresswoman-dean-demands-answers-from-secretary-rubio-on-abrupt-de-authorization-of-local-passport-acceptance-facilities", "Congresswoman Dean Demands Answers from Secretary Rubio on Abrupt De-Authorization of Local Passport Acceptance Facilities", "2025-12-08", "2025", "2025-12", "Democrat", "House", "PA", "Madeleine Dean", "D000631", "dean.house.gov", "dean", "https://dean.house.gov/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2014 Congresswoman Madeleine Dean (PA-04) wrote to Secretary of State Marco Rubio demanding clarity on why local passport acceptance facilities \u2014 including Boyertown, Pottstown, and Jenkintown libraries \u2014 were deauthorized from accepting passport applications.\n\nIn Fiscal Year 2025, the State Department received a record more than 23.3 million passport applications. Passport acceptance facilities alleviate the strain on the State Department to process new and renewed passports \u2014 and offer local sites for Americans seeking to travel for family, work, or recreation.\n\nYet across the country, the Bureau of Consular Affairs\u2019 Office of Acceptance Facility Oversight sent notices to public libraries to clarify whether the institution is \u201ca private, charitable, non-profit, or other type of non-governmental organization\u201d or is \u201cgovernment owned and operated\u201d by a local jurisdiction. Each institution had just 14 days from the receipt of the attestation to complete it.\n\nFollowing months of silence from the State Department, some of these institutions that are not government owned and operated were recently sent deactivation notices, ordering them to cease passport operations immediately.\n\n\u201cOur public libraries are a beacon \u2014 offering a breadth of resources right in our communities, including the ability to accept passport applications,\u201d Rep. Dean said. \u201cFrom Boyertown to Pottstown to Jenkintown, our district depends on the accessibility of passport acceptance facilities and our libraries rely on this program for crucial revenue. At at time when more Americans than ever are seeking passports, it is incomprehensible for the State Department to take away such a sensible, time-saving function.\u201d\n\nThe fees libraries receive for executing applications make up substantial portions of their operating budgets, in some cases as high as 12%. Changing their authorization status mid-year, without providing opportunities for institutions to wind down operations, will force many libraries to slash employee salaries or lay off staff.\n\nRead the full letter here.\n\nRep. Madeleine Dean is a mother, grandmother, attorney, professor, former four-term member of the Pennsylvania House of Representatives, and U.S. Representative for the Fourth District of Pennsylvania.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://houlahan.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=4845", "Representatives Houlahan and Kiggans Introduce Bipartisan Bill to Improve Communication and Readiness for our Servicemembers and their Families in Japan", "2025-12-05", "2025", "2025-12", "Democrat", "House", "PA", "Chrissy Houlahan", "H001085", "houlahan.house.gov", "houlahan", "https://houlahan.house.gov/press/documentquery.aspx", "page_html", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2014 Today, Representatives Chrissy Houlahan (D-PA) and Jen Kiggans (R-VA), along with original co-sponsors Representatives Steven Horsford (D-NV), Maggie Goodlander (D-NH), Don Bacon (R-NE), and Rob Wittman (R-VA), introduced the Improving Notification for Operational Readiness and Families (INFORM) Act, a bipartisan bill directing the Department of Defense (DoD) to establish a pilot program to deliver timely, mission-critical information directly to servicemembers and military families stationed at Marine Corps Installations Pacific in Okinawa, Japan.\n\nUnder the bill, DoD will automatically enroll eligible servicemembers and adult dependents to receive text messages providing updates on spouse employment opportunities, childcare availability, TRICARE benefits, and Department-wide policy changes. The initiative, which provides the option to opt out, aims to streamline communication and reduce reliance on fragmented channels such as social media, newsletters, and installation-specific platforms.\n\nThe bill also directs DoD to report to Congress by October 1, 2027, on participation, outcomes, costs, and whether the program should be expanded Department-wide. By consolidating routine updates into a single, efficient push-text system, the initiative is expected to reduce duplicative outreach efforts and improve long-term communication efficiency.\n\n\u201cMilitary families deserve clear, consistent, and reliable communication, especially those stationed overseas,\u201d said Representative Chrissy Houlahan. \u201cOur bill ensures that servicemembers and their families on Okinawa get the information they need directly to their phones, without having to dig through multiple systems or outdated channels. As a former Air Force officer and daughter of a naval officer, I know how much this simple, modern approach to getting timely information can improve quality of life and readiness.\u201d\n\n\"Having served overseas with my own family, I know firsthand that clear and timely communication can make all the difference. Whether it\u2019s childcare availability, TRICARE updates, or family resources, our servicemembers stationed in Okinawa deserve information they can rely on. The Push-Text Initiative will deliver that support directly to their phones, strengthening both family stability and mission readiness,\u201d said Congresswoman Kiggans.\n\n\u201cOur servicemembers and their families are relying on increasingly diverse sources of information, and they deserve to be met where they are at. Clear and dependable communication is essential for military families stationed abroad,\u201d said Congressman Bacon. \u201cI\u2019m pleased to co-lead the INFORM Act with Rep. Houlahan, to establish a DoD pilot delivering timely and relevant text updates to servicemembers and dependents in Okinawa. I am hopeful that the success of this program will lead to adoption across the force.\u201d\n\n\u201cWhen America\u2019s servicemembers answer the call to serve our country overseas, military families serve right alongside them. They need and deserve clear, reliable communication they can count on, especially when they are thousands of miles from home,\u201d said Congresswoman Maggie Goodlander. \u201cOur military readiness depends upon our operational readiness, and this commonsense bipartisan bill will strengthen both.\u201d\n\n\u201cWhen military families receive the right information at the right time, they stay resilient, informed, and mission ready,\u201d Rep. Horsford said. \u201cIf we can track flights, packages, and banking in real time, families should be able to track TRICARE deadlines and childcare openings just as easily. The pilot program we\u2019re proposing today does just that, proving that smart, modern communication doesn\u2019t have to be complicated, and that small changes can have big quality-of-life benefits for service members and their families. I\u2019m proud to partner with Representatives Houlahan, Bacon, Kiggans, Goodlander and Wittman to help give military families the consistent, direct, and timely communication they deserve.\u201d\n\n\u201cEnsuring that our service members have access to reliable, consistent communication is essential for military readiness. For those stationed in Okinawa, timely updates can make all the difference in their day-to-day lives and provide stability for their families. I\u2019m proud to cosponsor the INFORM Act, which will ensure that the brave men and women serving our nation, as well as their families, have access to the resources they need to stay informed and connected,\u201d said Congressman Wittman.\n\nThe proposal also carries significant national security implications. During major contingency scenarios, such as a crisis involving China, commercial communications systems in Okinawa could be disrupted. By building a controlled, state-side-managed communications capability, the bill lays the groundwork for a more resilient information pipeline that can operate even if local infrastructure is compromised. \u201cThis bipartisan pilot is a crucial step toward making sure no family is left without critical updates when it matters most. That\u2019s not just good communication policy, its readiness,\u201d Representative Chrissy Houlahan said.\n\nRead the bill text here.\n\n# # #", 1, "2026-04-08T14:14:11Z", "2026-04-08T14:23:06Z"], ["https://dean.house.gov/2025/12/reps-dean-and-mace-join-senators-booker-and-paul-to-introduce-bipartisan-legislation-to-promote-research-and-access-to-potential-life-saving-drugs", "Reps. Dean and Mace Join Sens. Booker and Paul on Bill to Expand Research and Access to Potential Life Saving Drugs", "2025-12-04", "2025", "2025-12", "Democrat", "House", "PA", "Madeleine Dean", "D000631", "dean.house.gov", "dean", "https://dean.house.gov/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2014 U.S. Representatives Madeleine Dean (PA-04) and Nancy Mace (SC-01) introduced the Freedom to Heal Act to remove regulatory hurdles that inhibit research and access to potentially lifesaving treatments heavily restricted by Schedule I of the Controlled Substances Act. U.S. Senators Cory Booker (D-NJ) and Rand Paul (R-KY) to introduced companion legislation.\n\nThe biparistan legislation is co-sponsored by U.S. Representatives Lou Correa (CA-46), Ro Khanna (CA-17), Ted Lieu (CA-36), Jack Bergman (MI-01), Dan Crenshaw (TX-02), and Morgan Luttrell (TX-08).\n\nThe federal Right to Try law permits patients who have been diagnosed with life-threatening diseases or conditions, and who have exhausted all approved treatment options, access to certain treatments that have not yet received final FDA approval. In general, a drug is eligible for Right to Try use after a Phase 1 clinical trial has been completed for that drug, but prior to the drug being approved or licensed by the FDA. Under the terms of the federal Right to Try law, states remain free to permit or prohibit Right to Try use under their own laws.\n\nIn recent years, two substances currently classified as Schedule I drugs\u2014MDMA and psilocybin\u2014have shown exceptional promise in treating a variety of mental health conditions, including treatment resistant depression and PTSD. In Phase 1 and 2 clinical trials, these drugs have been shown to be safe and effective\u2014so effective that FDA has designated them \u201cbreakthrough therapies,\u201d meaning that they demonstrate substantial improvement over any currently available therapies. However, the DEA currently lacks a pathway under the Right to Try law to register and approve physicians to administer these potentially life-saving drugs.\n\nTheFreedom to Heal Act would create a Schedule I Right to Try physician registration process that would give people with severe, life-threatening conditions, including Veterans, a legal, supervised path to access these safe and effective therapies that have shown exceptional promise, while ensuring DEA oversight to prevent drug misuse or diversion.\n\n\u201cAs families across the country face the growing mental health and substance use disorder crises, we must expand their options for care,\u201d Rep. Dean said. \u201cOur bipartisan legislation reduces barriers for physicians to provide compassionate use of several innovative and potentially lifesaving treatments, including MDMA and psilocybin. Our loved ones, including our veterans who served and sacrificed, deserve to heal \u2014 Congress must work to make that recovery possible for more people.\u201d\n\n\u201cPatients facing life-threatening illnesses or severe mental health conditions deserve access to every possible treatment, including investigational therapies such as MDMA and psilocybin that have shown to be safe and effective in multiple clinical trials,\u201d Senator Booker said. \u201cThousands of Americans, many of them Veterans, are desperate for access to these therapies after exhausting all approved treatments in the United States. The Freedom to Heal Act is critical legislation that will remove unnecessary barriers and give physicians a pathway to legally administer these potentially lifesaving treatments.\u201d\n\n\"As a physician, I have seen how critical Right to Try can be for patients who are running out of options. Yet current law leaves doctors with no clear, legal way to administer investigational therapies that fall under Schedule I. This bill creates that pathway. I am glad to work across the aisle to ensure patients, and their doctors are not blocked by federal barriers who have exhausted standard options. This is a practical reform that honors both patient autonomy and medical judgment,\u201d Dr. Rand Paul said.\n\nThe Freedom to Heal Act is endorsed by: The Veteran Mental Health Leadership Coalition, Reason for Hope, The American Legion, American Brain Coalition, Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America (IAVA), Americans for Ibogaine, BrainFutures, Grunt Style Foundation, Irreverent Warriors, Veteran Research and Education Curation (VetREC), Wrestle Like A Girl, Texans for Greater Mental Health, Avesta Mental Health, Healing Breakthrough, Heroic Hearts Project, iXpressGenes, Inc., Mental Joe Apparel, The Menninger Clinic, Nevada Coalition for Psychedelic Medicines, Dr. Bronner\u2019s Magic Soaps, Mpower Counseling PLLC, Beckley Retreats PB, the Veterans Alliance for Holistic Alternatives, End it For Good, Marine Reconnaissance Foundation, Athletes for Care, The Mission Within, and Sunstone Therapies.\n\n\u201cWe believe Congress should act with urgency to pass the Freedom to Heal Act. It is clearly wrong and immoral that Veterans are leaving the country they selflessly served to access potentially lifesaving treatments that should already be available within our borders under Right to Try. Lives are on the line. Let\u2019s act now,\u201d Martin R. Steele, Lieutenant General, USMC (Ret.), President of the Veteran Mental Health Leadership Coalition (VMHLC) said.\n\n\u201cI served during some of the heaviest levels of combat in Iraq and Afghanistan and came home with significant trauma. After a decade of talk therapy, surgeries, and pharmaceuticals, I was out of options\u2014and was even denied access to an MDMA-assisted therapy trial because my condition was too severe. I ultimately had to leave the country to access psychedelic-assisted therapy, and it saved my life. While I was fortunate to have this experience, nobody should have to take such drastic measures. Yet there are thousands of other Veterans with similar experiences, including many of our coalition members. We\u2019re grateful to the leaders in Congress who are taking a stand with the introduction of the Freedom to Heal Act, seeking to put an end to this injustice,\u201d Gary Hess, Director of Advocacy and Peer Support, VMHLC said.\n\n\u201cAs someone currently leading a clinical trial of psilocybin to treat Veterans with PTSD, I know firsthand the significant number reaching out for help but who don\u2019t qualify for our trial for various reasons. Unfortunately, it is often those most in need who are excluded. We must do more to help those individuals with life-threatening conditions who are out of options. The Freedom to Heal Act is a common-sense way to restore the intent of Right to Try and give patients a safe, legal path to pursue promising investigational therapies under medical supervision,\u201d Dr. Lynnette Averill, Chief Science Officer, Reason for Hope, Associate Professor at Baylor College of Medicine, and Director of Research, The Menninger Clinic said.\n\n\u201cAs a palliative care physician, I\u2019ve had many patients reach out seeking access to psilocybin for severe end of life distress, but regulation has stood in the way of the Right to Try. The Freedom to Heal Act offers a pragmatic legal fix that can meaningfully help relieve suffering for our patients in greatest need,\u201d Drew Kotler, MD, Palliative Care, Main Line Health said.\n\n\"As a coalition representing leading professional and patient organizations concerned with brain health, we recognize the need to balance additional research with access to promising treatments for those most in need. The Freedom to Heal Act will ensure the compassionate policy underlying Right to Try extends to some of our most promising investigational treatments for mental and neurological health conditions,\" Katie Sale, Executive Director of the American Brain Coalition said.\n\n\u201cIt is hard to believe that federal law continues to block patients most in need - those with terminal or life-threatening conditions - from accessing our most promising investigational mental health treatments under Right to Try. The Freedom to Heal Act proposes a narrow, targeted solution to the Schedule 1 barrier, while ensuring DEA maintains its desired oversight. We thank the Congressmembers championing this issue, and hope Congress will work with the White House and DEA to quickly fix this obvious problem,\u201d Brett Waters, Esq., Executive Director, Reason for Hope said.\n\n\"Too many Veterans and patients with severe, life-threatening conditions must seek treatment abroad when options at home fall short. The Freedom to Heal Act helps close that gap. Sunstone supports this legislation because it delivers a safe, physician-guided path for those who have run out of alternatives. These patients deserve the very best of science, not additional obstacles to care,\" Leith States, MD MPH MBA FACPM, SVP - Strategic Military Initiatives, Sunstone Therapies said.\n\n\"We absolutely must continue to fund and conduct rigorous research on these emerging therapies, which are showing real promise in treating serious mental health and neurological conditions. But we cannot ignore the fact that many patients who are desperately seeking relief do not meet inclusion criteria for existing studies. The Freedom to Heal Act offers a regulated pathway for these patients to access investigational treatments legally and safely while research continues,\" Amy L. McGuire, JD, PhD, Leon Jaworski Professor of Biomedical Ethics, Director, Center for Medical Ethics and Health Policy, Baylor College of Medicine said.\n\n\u201cThe Freedom to Heal Act is important because it gives patients facing life-threatening illnesses the ability to pursue every possible option when time is running out\u2014restoring autonomy, dignity, and hope at the moments when they need it most,\u201d Sarah Norman, Executive Director, BrainFutures said.\n\nRead the full text of the bill here.\n\nRep. Madeleine Dean is a mother, grandmother, attorney, professor, former four-term member of the Pennsylvania House of Representatives, and U.S. Representative for the Fourth District of Pennsylvania.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://deluzio.house.gov/media/press-releases/deluzio-bonamici-moylan-restart-push-protect-workers-ai-and-robot-bosses", "Deluzio, Bonamici, Moylan Restart Push to Protect Workers from AI and Robot Bosses", "2025-12-04", "2025", "2025-12", "Democrat", "House", "PA", "Christopher R. Deluzio", "D000530", "deluzio.house.gov", "deluzio", "https://deluzio.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Today, Congressman Chris Deluzio (PA-17), Congresswoman Suzanne Bonamici (OR-01), and Congressman James Moylan (GU-AL) reintroduced legislation to protect workers from AI-based discrimination and strengthen transparency in management and hiring decisions. The No Robot Bosses Act would fight back against discrimination from Artificial intelligence (AI)-based hiring tools by adding protections for job applicants and employees related to automated decision systems. The legislation also requires employers to train users on responsible system management and disclose when and how these systems are being used.\n\n\u201cIt\u2019s the Wild West out there for AI, and Congress should not twiddle its thumbs. It\u2019s time to take up proposals that will protect the humanity and rights of workers,\u201d said Congressman Deluzio. \u201cThe No Robot Bosses Act would step in to put in place common-sense guardrails during the hiring, disciplinary, or firing processes, fighting back against the rising threat of misuse and abuse of AI technologies.\u201d\n\n\u201cAs more companies rely on artificial intelligence to make hiring decisions, we must establish safeguards to protect workers from potential discrimination,\u201d said Congresswoman Suzanne Bonamici. \u201cThere are numerous examples of flawed AI systems that produce biased outcomes for people of different backgrounds, especially for lower wage jobs. No one should be shut out of a future job because of a machine\u2019s decision. We must act now to keep the doors of opportunity open to all who are seeking employment.\u201d\n\n\"AI can improve the hiring process, but only if people can trust the systems behind it,\" said Congressman Moylan. \"This bill strikes the right balance by encouraging innovation while putting commonsense safeguards in place so workers aren\u2019t disadvantaged by untested or biased algorithms. At the end of the day, human judgment still needs to guide employment decisions, ensuring that the hiring process remains rooted in transparency and accountability.\"\n\nAI has advanced considerably even since the congressmembers first introduced this bill in 2024. While some states and municipalities are working hard to assess and regulate this technology, there is currently no federal policy that puts safeguards on AI in the workplace. This summer, Congressman Deluzio discussed this issue more broadly at an event with the Roosevelt Institute.\n\nThe No Robot Bosses Act:\n\nProhibits employers from relying exclusively on an automated decision system when making employment-related decisions;\n\nRequires pre-deployment and periodic testing and validation of automated decision systems for issues such as discrimination and biases before such systems are used in employment-related decisions;\n\nRequires employers to train individuals or entities on the proper operation of automated decision systems;\n\nMandates that employers provide independent, human oversight of automated decision system outputs before using the outputs to aid an employment-related decision;\n\nRequires timely disclosures from employers on the use of automated decision systems, the data inputs and outputs from these systems, and employee rights related to the decisions aided by these systems; and\n\nEstablishes the Technology and Worker Protection Division at the Department of Labor to regulate the use of automated decision systems in the workplace.\n\nA summary of the legislation can be found here. The full text can be found here.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://houlahan.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=4853", "Pentagon Claims It \u201cAbsolutely\u201d Knows Who It Killed in Boat Strikes. Prove It, Lawmaker Says.", "2025-12-04", "2025", "2025-12", "Democrat", "House", "PA", "Chrissy Houlahan", "H001085", "houlahan.house.gov", "houlahan", "https://houlahan.house.gov/press/documentquery.aspx", "page_html", "Originally published in The Intercept\n\nWritten by Nick Turse\n\nAfter Pentagon press secretary Kingsley Wilson declared the War Department was certain about the identities of supposed drug smugglers killed in boat strikes, Rep. Chrissy Houlahan, D-Pa., had some questions about the intelligence. When Houlahan called on Wilson to appear before Congress, however, the outspoken and controversial spokesperson suddenly went silent.\n\n\u201cI can tell you that every single person who we have hit thus far who is in a drug boat carrying narcotics to the United States is a narcoterrorist. Our intelligence has confirmed that, and we stand by it,\u201d Wilson said on Tuesday during a pseudo Pentagon press briefing where attendance was limited to media outlets that have agreed to limits on the scope of their reporting.\n\n\u201cOur intelligence absolutely confirms who these people are,\u201d she said. \u201cI can tell you that, without a shadow of a doubt, every single one of our military and civilian lawyers knows that these individuals are narcoterrorists.\u201d\n\nIn exclusive comments to The Intercept, Houlahan expressed her doubts and demanded proof.\n\n\u201cIf there is intelligence that \u2018absolutely confirms\u2019 this \u2014 present it. Come before the House or Senate Intelligence committees and let Congress provide the proper oversight and checks and balances the American people deserve,\u201d said Houlahan, who serves on the House Armed Services Committee and the House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence. \u201cPut the whispers and doubts to rest once and for all. If there is intelligence to \u2018absolutely confirm\u2019 this, the Congress is ready to receive it. Until we all see it, you can surely understand why we are skeptical.\u201d\n\nBoth the House Armed Services Committee and the House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence, both of which Houlahan serves on, routinely receive classified briefings from the military.\n\nWilson \u2014 who touted a \u201cnew era\u201d of worki to \u201ckeep the American people informed and to ensure transparency\u201d on Tuesday \u2014 did not respond to questions or requests for comment from The Intercept about Houlahan\u2019s remarks or appearing before Congress.\n\nIn past classified briefings to lawmakers and congressional staff, the military has admitted that it does not know exactly who it\u2019s killing in the boat strikes, according to seven government officials who have spoken with The Intercept.\n\nRep. Sara Jacobs, D-Calif., also a member of the House Armed Services Committee, said that Pentagon officials who briefed her admitted that the administration does not know the identities of all the individuals who were killed in the strikes.\n\n\u201cThey said that they do not need to positively identify individuals on the vessels to do the strikes,\u201d Jacobs told The Intercept in October. \u201cThey just need to show a connection to a DTO or affiliate,\u201d she added, using shorthand for \u201cdesignated terrorist organizations,\u201d the Trump administration\u2019s term for the secret list of groups with whom it claims to be at war.\n\nTwenty-One Attacks\n\nThe military has carried out 21 known attacks, destroying 22 boats in the Caribbean Sea and eastern Pacific Ocean since September and killing at least 83 civilians. It has not conducted a strike on a vessel since November 15.\n\nSince the strikes began, experts in the laws of war and members of Congress from both parties say the strikes are illegal extrajudicial killings because the military is not permitted to deliberately target civilians \u2014 even suspected criminals \u2014 who do not pose an imminent threat of violence.\n\nThe summary executions mark a major departure from typical practice in the long-running U.S. war on drugs, where law enforcement agencies arrest suspected drug smugglers.\n\nA double-tap strike during the initial September 2 attack \u2014 where the U.S. hit an incapacitated boat for a second time, killing two survivors clinging to the wreckage \u2014 added a second layer of illegality to strikes that experts and lawmakers say are already tantamount to murder. The double-tap strike was first reported by The Intercept.\n\nWar Secretary Pete Hegseth has been under increasing fire for that strike. The Washington Post recently reported that Hegseth personally ordered the follow-up attack, giving a spoken order \u201cto kill everybody.\u201d\n\nHegseth acknowledged U.S. forces conducted a follow-up strike on the alleged drug boat during a Cabinet meeting at the White House on Tuesday but distanced himself from the killing of people struggling to stay afloat.\n\n\u201cI didn\u2019t personally see survivors,\u201d Hegseth told reporters, noting that he watched live footage of the attack. \u201cThe thing was on fire. It was exploded in fire and smoke. You can\u2019t see it.\u201d\n\nHe added, \u201cThis is called the fog of war.\u201d\n\nHegseth said Adm. Frank M. Bradley, then the commander of Joint Special Operations Command and now head of Special Operations Command, \u201cmade the right call\u201d in ordering the second strike, which the war secretary claimed came after he himself left the room. In a statement to The Intercept earlier this week, Special Operations Command pushed back on the contention that Bradley ordered a double-tap attack.\n\n\u201cHe does not see his actions on 2 SEP as a \u2018double tap,\u2019\u201d Col. Allie Weiskopf, the director of public affairs at Special Operations Command, told The Intercept on Tuesday.\n\nBradley and Gen. Dan Caine, the chair of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, are slated to go to Capitol Hill on Thursday to answer questions about the attack amid an ongoing uproar. Congressional staffers say that Bradley is currently slated to only meet with House Armed Services Committee Chair Mike Rogers, R-Ala., and ranking member Rep. Adam Smith, D-Wash., along with the Senate Armed Services Committee Chair Roger Wicker, R-Miss., and ranking member Sen. Jack Reed, D-R.I.\n\n\u201cThe Seditious Six\u201d\n\nHoulahan was one of six Democratic members of Congress who appeared in a video late last month reminding members of the military of their duty not to obey illegal orders. President Donald Trump called for the group to face arrest and trial or even execution, saying the video amounted to \u201cSEDITIOUS BEHAVIOR FROM TRAITORS.\u201d\n\nWilson, during her faux press briefing \u2014 delivered to mostly administration cheerleaders after outlets from the New York Times to Fox News relinquished their Pentagon press passes rather than agree to restrictions that constrain reporters\u2019 First Amendment rights \u2014 called out Houlahan and her fellow lawmakers in the video.\n\n\u201c[T]he Seditious Six urged members of our military to defy their chain of command in an unprecedented, treasonous and shameful conspiracy to sow distrust and chaos in our armed forces,\u201d said Wilson. She went on to call the video \u201ca politically motivated influence operation\u201d that \u201cputs our warfighters at risk.\u201d\n\nHegseth described the members of Congress\u2019s video as \u201cdespicable, reckless, and false.\u201d Hegseth himself, however, had delivered a similar message recorded in 2016 footage revealed by CNN on Tuesday.\n\n\u201cIf you\u2019re doing something that is just completely unlawful and ruthless, then there is a consequence for that. That\u2019s why the military said it won\u2019t follow unlawful orders from their commander-in-chief,\u201d Hegseth told an audience in the footage. \u201cThere\u2019s a standard, there\u2019s an ethos, there\u2019s a belief that we are above what so many things that our enemies or others would do.\u201d\n\nWilson did not reply to a request for comment about Hegseth\u2019s remarks.\n\nHegseth is also in the hot seat after the Pentagon Inspector General\u2019s Office determined that he risked the safety of U.S. service members by sharing sensitive military information on the Signal messaging app, according to a source familiar with the forthcoming report by the Pentagon watchdog.", 1, "2026-04-08T14:14:11Z", "2026-04-08T14:23:06Z"], ["https://deluzio.house.gov/media/press-releases/deluzio-announces-28-million-federal-grants-support-14-western-pa-fire", "Deluzio Announces $2.8 Million in Federal Grants to Support 14 Western PA Fire Departments", "2025-12-03", "2025", "2025-12", "Democrat", "House", "PA", "Christopher R. Deluzio", "D000530", "deluzio.house.gov", "deluzio", "https://deluzio.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "CARNEGIE, PA \u2013 Today, Congressman Chris Deluzio (PA-17) announced that fourteen Western Pennsylvania fire departments are receiving more than $2.8 million in federal grant funding to support their public safety missions. This followed outreach from Congressman Deluzio\u2019s office to bring home grants like these back to Pennsylvania's 17th Congressional District.\n\nThe funding was provided through the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) via the Department of Homeland Security\u2019s Fiscal Year 2024 Assistance to Firefighters (AFG) and Staffing for Adequate Fire and Emergency Response (SAFER) grant programs. The majority of the funding will help fourteen Western PA fire departments purchase critical equipment, protective gear, emergency vehicles, training, and other resources through the AFG program. Just under $1 million will help one department with firefighter recruitment and retention through the SAFER program. A total of $2,831,964.22 in federal funding is coming to fire departments in Pennsylvania\u2019s 17th Congressional District.\n\n\"I am thrilled to announce that fourteen Western Pennsylvania fire departments are getting federal dollars to help them do the hard work to keep all of us safe,\u201d said Congressman Deluzio. \u201cThese grants will help our local fire departments buy gear and equipment and better recruit and keep more firefighters on the force. Our first responders show up for all of us in our times of need\u2014I will always have their back and push to make sure our federal government does, too. I encourage other fire departments in Western Pennsylvania to apply for this funding\u2014my office stands ready to support your applications as best we can.\u201d\n\n\u201cWe would like to thank Congressman Deluzio and his staff for the assistance they provided in us obtaining our FEMA AFG grant,\u201d said Jim Essek, President of the Harmony Township Volunteer Fire Dept. \u201cWe know this grant is very competitive, and I\u2019m sure his letter helped us in purchasing the air compressor and cascade system. Not only will this grant assist our department, but also the Leetsdale and Fair Oaks fire departments.\u201d\n\nThe full list of grant awardees is as follows:\n\nAssistance to Firefighters Grants\n\nBeaver Falls Fire Dept. \u2013 $12,290\n\nBig Beaver Volunteer Fire Co. \u2013 $4,571\n\nCastle Shannon Firemens\u2019 Relief Association \u2013 $65,588\n\nCherry City Volunteer Fire Co. \u2013 $96,000\n\nDarlington Township Volunteer Fire Dept \u2013 $471,428\n\nHanover Volunteer Fire Dept. \u2013 $19,047\n\nHarmony Township Volunteer Firemen \u2013 $59,090\n\nHarrison Hills Volunteer Fire Co. \u2013 $47,419\n\nKennedy Township Independent Volunteer \u2013 $74,666\n\nMoon Township Volunteer Fire Co. \u2013 $43,636\n\nPeebles Volunteer Fire Co. \u2013 $52,436\n\nPresto Volunteer Fire Dept. \u2013 $330,604\n\nRoss/West View Emergency Medical Service \u2013 $363,181\n\nSouthern Allegheny Valley Emergency Services \u2013 $242,761\n\nStaffing for Adequate Fire Emergency Response (SAFER) Grant\n\nSouthern Allegheny Valley Emergency Services \u2013 $949,240\n\nAs a condition of AFG grants, the recipient fire department is required to contribute non-federal funds equal to or greater than five percent of the Federal funds awarded. Many other fire departments in Pennsylvania\u2019s 17th Congressional District are eligible and encouraged to apply for this grant. Interested departments should review Congressman Deluzio\u2019 office\u2019s one-pager and connect with Emma Dawson, Grants Coordinator, in his Carnegie Office by emailing PA17Grants@mail.house.gov.\n\nCongressman Deluzio will continue to support local first responders by advocating for federal funding like this and through legislation including his Bipartisan Bulletproof Vest Partnership Program Expansion Act.\n\nThe Trump Administration\u2019s efforts to freeze funding and pause federal grants has created significant uncertainty for grantees, varying by agency and program. As of now, the courts are involved in determining whether many of these funding freezes will continue permanently or go on pause. Congressman Deluzio's office will continue to monitor these developments and fight to make sure federal funding keeps flowing to projects that make life better for Western Pennsylvanians. Recipients of federal grants with issues accessing lawfully appropriated funds, should reach out to Congressman Deluzio's office at PA17Grants@mail.house.gov.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://deluzio.house.gov/media/press-releases/deluzio-warren-lawmakers-renew-fight-honor-wwii-cadet-nurses", "Deluzio, Warren, Lawmakers Renew Fight to Honor WWII Cadet Nurses", "2025-12-03", "2025", "2025-12", "Democrat", "House", "PA", "Christopher R. Deluzio", "D000530", "deluzio.house.gov", "deluzio", "https://deluzio.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, DC \u2013 United States Senators Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.), Steve Daines (R-Mont.), and Angus King (I-Maine), along with U.S. Representatives Chris Deluzio (D-Pa.), Mike Lawler (R-N.Y.), Brian Fitzpatrick (R-Pa.), and Eleanor Holmes Norton (D-D.C.), reintroduced the U.S. Cadet Nurse Corps Service Recognition Act, a bill honoring women who served in the U.S. Cadet Nurse Corps during WWII with honorary veteran status. The bill would recognize former Cadet Nurses' service to the country and provide them with honorary veterans status, honorable discharges, a service medal, a burial plaque or grave marker, and other commendations.\n\nSenator Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.) also joined in co-sponsoring the bill in the Senate.\n\nDuring WWII, a severe shortage of trained nurses threatened the United States\u2019 ability to meet domestic and military medical needs. As a result, Congress established the Cadet Nurse Corps, an integrated, uniformed service of the Public Health Administration, in 1943 to provide women with expedited nursing education in exchange for \"essential military or civilian nursing for the duration of the war.\" In 1944, the Federal Security Agency identified \"national recognition for rendering a vital war service\" as a privilege of service in the Corps.\n\nIn total, nearly 120,000 women completed the Corps' rigorous training and served in military hospitals, VA hospitals, Marine hospitals, private hospitals, public health agencies, and public hospitals until the program ended in 1948.\n\nOne of those women, Cadet Nurse Elizabeth \"Betty\" Beecher, trained to become a Cadet Nurse in Boston, Massachusetts, and then served as a nurse at a Staten Island, N.Y., marine hospital near the end of WWII.\n\n\"We prevented a total collapse of the health care system,\" she said. \"Had we not stepped up and volunteered and enlisted in the Corps, I'm afraid the country would have been demoralized and our boys would have come home to a sick country.\"\n\n\u201cCadet nurses help the United States and our Allies win World War II,\u201d said Congressman Deluzio. \u201cThey made enormous sacrifices and bravely put themselves in harm\u2019s way in their efforts to save lives. I am proud to join with my colleagues to reintroduce the United States Cadet Nurse Corps Service Recognition Act of 2023 to grant these nurses honorary veteran status and other benefits that these cadet nurses earned through their service.\u201d\n\n\u201cIt\u2019s about time we recognize these women for their service to our country during World War II,\u201d said Senator Warren. \u201cThey stepped up to prevent our nation\u2019s health care system from collapsing and were crucial to our wartime efforts \u2014 that is the definition of patriotism.\u201d\n\n\u201cThe brave women of the United States Cadet Nurse Corps, including Montanan Laura Koch-Natvig, served our nation selflessly during World War II,\u201d said Senator Daines. \u201cI\u2019m proud to introduce this bipartisan bill to give the Cadet Nurse Corps the honor and recognition they deserve, so the legacy of these brave women will be forever remembered.\u201d\n\n\u201cThe cadet nurses of World War II are unsung heroes whose bravery and selfless service helped the United States and our Allies win the war,\u201d said Senator Angus King, a member of the Senate Armed Services and Veterans Affairs Committees. \u201cAs our nation struggled to meet medical staffing levels and take care of its soldiers, young women across the country stepped up to help make a difference and save lives. It is a privilege to join my colleagues in introducing the bipartisan U.S. Cadet Nurse Corps Service Recognition Act, which will give long overdue recognition to these remarkable women of the Greatest Generation and further cement their important role in defending freedom and democracy.\u201d\n\n\u201cThe women of the Cadet Nurse Corps kept our hospitals going at a moment when our country desperately needed them. Without their service, the outcome of the war, and the world we live in today, would be very different,\u201d said Congressman Mike Lawler.\n\nThe U.S. Cadet Nurse Corps Service Recognition Act would:\n\nProvide Cadet Nurses with honorary veteran status, with an honorable discharge from service where merited and;\n\nPermit the Secretary of Defense to provide honorably discharged Cadet Nurses with a service medal, a burial plaque or grave marker, and other commendations to honor their service.\n\nThe bill was included in the House version of the FY2026 National Defense Authorization Act. While the legislation would provide the appropriate military honors, it would not provide still-living Cadet Nurses with Veterans Affairs pensions, healthcare benefits, or other privileges afforded to former active-duty service members, such as burial benefits in Arlington Cemetery.\n\n\u201cThe Military Women's Memorial strongly supports this vital legislation to finally honor the more than 124,000 members of the Cadet Nurse Corps, whose service was indispensable to the success of the World War II effort. Replacing nurses who had joined the military, they served on the home front in military and civilian hospitals across the nation, eventually providing 80% of the nursing care in the U.S. These women personify the commitment and sacrifice of women in service, stepping up to fill a critical nursing shortage. Like their military brothers and sisters, their pledge to serve 'for the duration of the war, plus six months' is a sacred commitment that deserves the highest recognition, and we urge Congress to pass this long-overdue tribute to their legacy,\" said Phyllis Wilson, President of the Military Women\u2019s Memorial.\n\n\u201cAACN applauds the introduction of the United States Cadet Nurse Corps Service Recognition Act,\" said Dr. Deborah Trautman, President and CEO of the American Association of Colleges of Nursing. \u201cWe look forward to working with Congress to honor the members of the U.S. Cadet Nurse Corps who embodied the bravery of the \u2018greatest generation' and who nobly served our country during World War II.\u201d\n\n\u201cThe Cadet Nurses answered the call of duty during a time of great need,\u201d said American Nurses Association President Jennifer Mensik Kennedy, PhD, MBA, RN, NEA-BC, FAAN. \u201cBy addressing a critical shortage of nurses during World War II, the Cadet Nurse Corp ensured that Americans maintained access to health care throughout the yearslong conflict. ANA is proud to support this bill, which honors and recognizes the extraordinary contributions that the women of the United States Cadet Corps made to their country.\n\nThe bill is endorsed by the Military Women\u2019s Memorial, the American Nurses Association, and the American Association of Colleges of Nursing.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://houlahan.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=4842", "Representatives Houlahan and Sessions Introduce the Independence Investment Fund Act to Strengthen U.S. Leadership in Biotechnology and Emerging Technologies", "2025-12-03", "2025", "2025-12", "Democrat", "House", "PA", "Chrissy Houlahan", "H001085", "houlahan.house.gov", "houlahan", "https://houlahan.house.gov/press/documentquery.aspx", "page_html", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Representative Chrissy Houlahan (PA-06) has introduced the bipartisan Independence Investment Fund Act, legislation establishing a dedicated investment fund within the Department of the Treasury to support U.S. based companies developing critical and emerging technologies, including biotechnology. She is joined in this effort by Congressman Pete Sessions (TX-17) as Co-lead, with Congressman Ro Khanna, Congresswoman April McClain Delaney, and Congresswoman Stephanie Bice serving as original cosponsors.\n\nThe bill creates a federal investment mechanism designed to bridge the funding \u201cvalley of death,\u201d where promising early-stage technologies often fail to reach commercialization due to limited access to capital. By providing strategic seed to mid-stage equity investments, the fund aims to de-risk innovation, counter adversarial foreign investment, strengthen national and economic security, and accelerate the development of technologies central to America\u2019s future competitiveness.\n\n\u201cToo many promising biotech and other emerging tech companies fall into the \u2018valley of death,\u2019 when critical early capital is hardest to secure. Meanwhile, the Chinese Communist Party is investing billions, and the U.S. is falling behind. By creating a government-backed, privately run investment fund, our legislation gives small and mid-sized innovators, especially in biotechnology, the strategic capital they need to bring breakthrough technologies to market. I\u2019m proud to partner with Rep. Sessions on this effort and grateful for our joint leadership of the BIOTech Caucus as we work to strengthen America\u2019s technological edge,\u201d said Congresswoman Houlahan.\n\n\u201cOur national security depends on our ability to innovate faster and more effectively than our adversaries,\u201d said Congressman Sessions. \u201cThe Independence Investment Fund Act strengthens America\u2019s position by directing strategic investments into technologies that are essential for our prosperity and long-term security. This bill ensures that America\u2014not China\u2014sets the pace for the next generation of biotechnology and emerging technologies.\u201d\n\n\u201cFederal investments in biotechnology and the fostering of stronger public-private partnerships will secure America its place as an innovative leader in the 21st-century economy. I\u2019m proud to cosponsor Rep. Pete Sessions Independence Investment Act and establishing a non-partisan Independence Investment Fund to strengthen U.S. national and economic security,\u201d said Rep. Ro Khanna.\n\n\u201cStrong public\u2013private partnerships keep American science and technology at the forefront of global innovation while creating good-paying jobs here at home. I\u2019m proud to cosponsor the Independence Investment Fund Act, which will help ensure the United States leads in the critical and emerging biotechnologies needed to meet 21st-century challenges,\u201d said Congresswoman April McClain Delaney.\n\n\u201cThis legislation helps strengthen and grow the United States biotechnology sector, ensuring we can remain a global leader. Without additional investment mechanisms, emerging technologies that are crucial to national security risk being outpaced by adversarial foreign nations, such as China. We must enhance our biotechnology sector and protect our national and economic security,\u201d said Congresswoman Bice.\n\nThe Independence Investment Fund Act is supported by the National Security Commission on Emerging Biotechnology, ARCH Venture Partners, Ocugen Pharma, the American Alliance for Biomanufacturing, and the Science and Technology Action Committee. Their full statements of support are included below.\n\nStatement from the National Security Commission on Emerging Biotechnology:\n\n\u201cThe U.S. innovates better than anyone in the world, but new technologies important for national security can be too risky or uncertain for private investors,\u201d said NSCEB Vice Chair Michelle Rozo. \u201cIn our April 2025 report, the NSCEB identified this as a key area for government action. We are grateful to our congressional partners for introducing legislation to create a strategic investment fund that can make targeted investments in promising technologies that incentivize follow-on private capital, all in support of U.S. national security.\u201d\n\nStatement from ARCH Venture Partners:\n\n\u201cARCH supports efforts to ensure American innovation remains the global benchmark.\u201d\n\nStatement from Ocugen Pharma:\n\n\u201cThe massive gap between research and commercial readiness remains a significant barrier for emerging biotechnology companies,\u201d said Dr. Shankar Musunuri, Chairman, CEO and Co-founder of Ocugen. \u201cExisting financing mechanisms do not fully address the development challenges that prevent promising therapies from reaching patients. The Independence Investment Fund Act fills this gap by providing targeted investment support that will strengthen domestic bio innovation and manufacturing and enable companies like ours to progress critical technologies that contribute to national and economic resilience. We encourage all American industry stakeholders to support this legislation in order to maintain our dominance as the global leader in biotech.\u201d\n\nStatement from the American Alliance for Biomanufacturing:\n\n\u201cThe Independence Investment Fund Act provides the strategic investment the U.S. needs to stay ahead in biomanufacturing. By closing critical financing gaps, the fund will help ensure that critical biotechnologies break through and scale here at home, supporting high-quality jobs in rural and urban communities alike. This is the kind of forward-looking commitment required to secure American leadership in the bioeconomy.\u201d\n\nStatement from the Science and Technology Action Committee:\n\n\u201cThis brilliant bill will empower the U.S. biotechnology sector to translate new discoveries from academia into transformative products that build economic and national security while addressing challenges to health, energy, environment, and food,\u201d said Keith Yamamoto, Co-Chair of the Science and Technology Action Committee.", 1, "2026-04-08T14:14:11Z", "2026-04-08T14:23:06Z"], ["https://scanlon.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=1980", "Ranking Member Scanlon\u2019s Opening Statement at Subcommittee Hearing on Republicans\u2019 Misguided Balanced Budget Amendment Push", "2025-12-03", "2025", "2025-12", "Democrat", "House", "PA", "Mary Gay Scanlon", "S001205", "scanlon.house.gov", "scanlon", "https://scanlon.house.gov/news/", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2014 Congresswoman Mary Gay Scanlon (PA-05), Ranking Member of the Subcommittee on the Constitution and Limited Government, today delivered opening remarks at a subcommittee hearing on Republicans\u2019 misguided attempt to advance a balanced budget amendment, just as they add trillions of dollars to the national debt by gifting their billionaire buddies generous handouts on the backs of hardworking Americans.\n\nBelow are Ranking Member Scanlon\u2019s remarks, as prepared for delivery, at today\u2019s hearing.\n\nWATCH Ranking Member Scanlon\u2019s opening statement.\n\n\u201cGood morning, and thank you to our witnesses for testifying today.\n\nThe decisions that Congress makes about the economy, about taxes, spending, and budgets, are, or should be, decisions about values\u2014who we\u2019re fighting for, what kind of country we are, or want to be, and the future we\u2019re trying to create for our children.\n\nThat brings us to the topic of today\u2019s hearing, a balanced budget constitutional amendment\u2014a misguided proposal about how to address the often competing values and interests that must be taken into account when crafting our national budget.\n\nOf course, we all share the goal of developing smart, efficient fiscal policy and budgets, but for decades, Republican presidents and members of Congress have talked a big game about \u201cfiscal responsibility\u201d while enacting policies that have exploded the federal deficit and the national debt.\n\nIt wasn't that long ago, about 25 years, when under the Clinton administration the US had a balanced budget, fueled in part by a combination of tax increases, spending cuts and reduced military spending. But since then, in the early 2000s and again during the first Trump administration, Republicans have handed the ultrawealthy huge tax breaks, eroding the federal government\u2019s revenue base and threatening our ability to fund essential programs that Americans rely on.\n\nTime and again, these policies have failed to produce the broader benefits for all Americans that the advocates of \u201ctrickle down economics\u201d have promised. And instead, they exploded the deficit, adding $10 trillion to the national debt.\n\nDespite this, this summer Republicans once again doubled down, permanently extending tax giveaways to the wealthy in their One Big Ugly Bill, further expanding the deficit and ballooning the national debt. Now, after voting for that policy, our Republican colleagues think it\u2019s time for them to turn around and make a show of caring about fiscal responsibility.\n\nBut, don\u2019t be fooled. Today\u2019s hearing is just part of a decades-long, orchestrated political effort to help corporations and the wealthiest people avoid paying their fair share, a theory that tries to convince people that reckless tax giveaways to corporations and billionaires somehow stimulate investment and economic growth for everyone, for the greater good\u2014a lie that\u2019s been debunked again and again for more than 50 years, and one that\u2019s led to sky-high income inequality and the enshrinement of a corporate oligarchy in our society.\n\nThese tax policies, these giveaways, have fueled the greatest rise in income inequality that our country has ever known, resulting in a continuing transfer of wealth from working and middle class Americans to the wealthiest people in our country. And we need look no further than the fact that the top 1% in our country pay a lower tax rate than all other Americans.\n\nThis pathological dedication to trickle-down economics is outrageous. It betrays the values that this country should stand for, and which our budgets should reflect.\n\nIf we want to shrink the deficit and lower the nation\u2019s debt, we should be talking about a tax policy that gives relief to working families and makes the rich and corporations pay their fair share, rather than allowing them to reap even more profits by imposing the costs of their businesses on the American people by paying substandard wages or poisoning the environment. This isn\u2019t a radical idea.\n\nA tax policy that makes sure that everyone pays their fair share should be the starting point of any serious discussion about bringing the two sides of the budget equation: taxes and revenue on the one hand and spending, including military spending on the other. But, it takes a different kind of politics than what we\u2019re hearing today\u2014one that believes the purpose of government is to serve all Americans, not just the wealthy and well-connected.\n\nAnd the programs that our Republican colleagues have been only too ready to slash, in their Big Ugly Bill and with political scam \u201cbalanced budget amendment\u201d they are pushing in this hearing, are critical to the health and well-being of the American people.\n\nThe majority of our yearly spending is mandatory\u2014that is, funds not subject to Congressional appropriations and which must be paid, including: Medicare, Medicaid, Social Security, veterans\u2019 benefits, and retirement programs for military service members and federal employees. These are vital programs that help our government keep its promises to the American people.\n\nLess than half of our budget goes to discretionary spending, which is spending Congress appropriates each year, and half of that money goes to defense spending.\n\nWe can make sure our national debt is on a sustainable path by investing wisely in the American people and taxing fairly. We can work to build an economy that grows from the middle out, not the top down. We can provide affordable health care and child care, affordable housing, and make sure that every child in America gets a world-class public education.\n\nBut, that\u2019s not what our Republican colleagues want to focus on today. Instead, their solution to the deficit problem they helped create is to propose Constitutional amendments that force Congress to balance the budget on the backs of working and middle-class families\u2014forcing cuts to essential benefits like Medicare and Social Security.\n\nHouse Republicans have introduced at least six different proposed amendments. Though they don\u2019t all share the same features, they all have the same common goal: to continue to put their thumb on the scale to favor big business and billionaires over working and middle-class people, seniors, and our most vulnerable Americans.\n\nA balanced budget amendment would shackle Congress and limit our flexibility to respond to changing economic conditions or crises with appropriate fiscal and budgetary policies. Tellingly, many of our Republican colleagues\u2019 proposals would require a supermajority in Congress to raise revenue or the debt limit, but not to cut spending.\n\nThe framers of our Constitution rejected the principle of requiring a supermajority for basic government functions because they believed it would shift power away from the American people\u2019s popular will to a determined minority. Balanced budget proposals requiring a supermajority would allow an extremist minority to hold our nation\u2019s economy and financial stability hostage.\n\nYou only need to look at the chaos of the current Republican majority to see what might be in store under a proposed amendment.\n\nWe\u2019ve seen political brinksmanship over the debt ceiling and government funding. We\u2019ve seen Speakers dethroned and federal budgets that slash health care and food assistance for Americans, while giving more handouts to the ultrawealthy.\n\nA balanced budget amendment would only make things worse, and this dysfunction would be baked into our Constitution and democracy forever. That\u2019s not what the American people want, or need.\n\nThe bottom line is, we don\u2019t need to amend the Constitution to balance the federal budget. Our colleagues need to get their heads out of the sand and be willing to look at the revenue side of the equation. During the 1990s, under a Democratic president and a Republican controlled Congress, the federal government ran budget surpluses without a balanced budget amendment.\n\nOur Republican colleagues control the House, the Senate, and the White House. If they wanted to do this, they could.\n\nBut, instead, they\u2019ve chosen to make their number one legislative priority this term a trillion-dollar handout to their billionaire buddies. Our budget is not just numbers on a spreadsheet. It\u2019s the choices we make: To invest in our neighbors and communities, to provide opportunities for young people, to take care of the elderly and the most vulnerable, and to invest in American prosperity.\n\nIf we want a truly prosperous economy where everyone can get ahead, we need to abandon the misguided orthodoxy of trickle-down economics. Instead, we need to focus on policies that support children, families, communities, and working people.\n\nWe don\u2019t need a balanced budget amendment. We just need to do the job the American people sent us to do.\n\nThank you, Mr. Chairman. I yield back.\u201d\n\n###", 1, "2026-04-04T05:28:40Z", "2026-04-04T05:30:10Z"], ["https://summerlee.house.gov/newsroom/press-releases/reps-summer-lee-joyce-beatty-introduce-bill-to-break-barriers-in-stem-and-strengthen-america-s-future-workforce", "Reps. Summer Lee, Joyce Beatty Introduce Bill to Break Barriers in STEM and Strengthen America\u2019s Future Workforce", "2025-12-03", "2025", "2025-12", "Democrat", "House", "PA", "Summer L. Lee", "L000602", "summerlee.house.gov", "summerlee", "https://summerlee.house.gov/newsroom/press-releases", "scraper", "Text of Bill (PDF)\n\nWASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 DECEMBER 3, 2025 \u2014 Today, Congresswoman Summer L. Lee (PA-12) and 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\"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\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\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\nSenator Alsobrooks is introducing companion legislation in the United States Senate.\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\u201cI 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\nAdditional co-leads of this bill include Rep. LaMonica McIver (NJ-10), Rep. Steven Lynch (MA-08), Rep. Hank Johnson (GA-04), Rep. Bill Foster (IL-11), and Rep. Shontel Brown (OH-11), and Rep. Adelita Grijalva (AZ-07).\n\nThe original co-sponsors of this bill are Rep. Eleanor Holmes Norton (DC-At Large) and Wesley Bell (MO-01).\n\nRead the full bill text HERE.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://summerlee.house.gov/newsroom/press-releases/rep-summer-lee-calls-for-immediate-extension-of-aca-tax-credits-during-shadow-hearing", "Rep. Summer Lee Calls for Immediate Extension of ACA Tax Credits During Shadow Hearing", "2025-12-02", "2025", "2025-12", "Democrat", "House", "PA", "Summer L. Lee", "L000602", "summerlee.house.gov", "summerlee", "https://summerlee.house.gov/newsroom/press-releases", "scraper", "(Link to video)\n\nWASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 DECEMBER 2, 2025 \u2014 Today, Congresswoman Summer L. Lee (PA-12) participated in an Education and Workforce HELP Subcommittee Democratic shadow hearing titled \u201cRepublican Priorities: Billionaire Tax Breaks, Not Health Care for Working Families,\u201d where she called for the urgent extension of Affordable Care Act (ACA) premium tax credits and renewed her push for Medicare for All.\n\nThe shadow hearing convened health policy experts, patient advocates, and small business owners to discuss rising health care costs and the devastating consequences of failing to extend the ACA\u2019s enhanced subsidies before the end of the year.\n\nDuring her remarks, Rep. Lee condemned Republican efforts to cut Medicaid and allow ACA tax credits to expire, warning that families across Western Pennsylvania and the country will see their premiums spike by thousands of dollars if Congress fails to act.\n\n\u201cPeople are rationing care in America like they had to ration food in the Great Depression. They are deciding if they can even afford to get the MRI, let alone the treatment for whatever the MRI uncovers,\u201d Lee said. \u201cWe are the only wealthy nation that has not figured out a universal healthcare system. We have so much research and data that shows a Medicare for all, single-payer system will not only allow more folks to get basic healthcare, but it\u2019s significantly cheaper than what we have now.\n\nRep. Lee highlighted that more than 24,000 residents in Pennsylvania\u2019s 12th Congressional District rely on ACA tax credits to afford coverage. Without congressional action, a 60-year-old couple in the district could see annual premiums rise by more than $12,000, while a working family of four could face increases exceeding $5,000.\n\nA central focus of Rep. Lee\u2019s participation was the testimony of her constituent, Tori Baggot, a small business owner from Pittsburgh who relies on Pennie, Pennsylvania\u2019s health insurance marketplace, to manage a chronic illness. Ms. Baggot currently pays $197 per month for coverage but would pay $2,400 more per year if the enhanced tax credits expire.\n\n\u201cOne of my constituents traveled all the way here from Pittsburgh today to let us know how important it is for Congress to fix healthcare. And in the immediate short-term, one of the things we must do is extend the Affordable Care Act premium tax credits so that folks don\u2019t lose their healthcare in January,\u201d Lee said. \u201cI\u2019m grateful you\u2019re here today, Ms. Baggot, and I wish my Republican colleagues had joined us so they could hear your story too. But my Republican colleagues decided they would rather shut down the government for 42 days, the longest shutdown in history, than ensure my constituents could afford healthcare.\u201d\n\nThe hearing also featured testimony from Justin Giovannelli, Associate Research Professor and Project Director at the Center on Health Insurance Reforms at Georgetown University, and Katie Berge, Director of Federal Affairs at Blood Cancer United.\n\nRep. Lee also pointed to a recent analysis by Center for American Progress, showing that 9 out of 10 low-income Americans enrolled in Marketplace coverage live in states that voted for Donald Trump in 2024\u2014underscoring that the harm of letting tax credits expire will disproportionately hit working-class families, including in Republican-led states.\n\n\u201cJust this summer, [Republicans] made the biggest Medicaid cuts in history to fund trillions in tax breaks for billionaires. When these cuts go into effect, over 17,000 people in my district will lose healthcare,\u201d Lee said. \u201cAnd when millions of people lose healthcare because republicans eliminate the ACA tax credits, cut Medicaid, and refuse the cheapest and most equitable healthcare model, Medicare for All, they will blame anyone and anything except for their failed policies.\u201d\n\nLink to video HERE.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://summerlee.house.gov/newsroom/press-releases/rep-summer-lee-joins-colleagues-in-reintroducing-ai-civil-rights-act-to-eliminate-algorithmic-discrimination-and-protect-civil-rights", "Rep. Summer Lee Joins Colleagues in Reintroducing AI Civil Rights Act to Eliminate Algorithmic Discrimination and Protect Civil Rights", "2025-12-02", "2025", "2025-12", "Democrat", "House", "PA", "Summer L. Lee", "L000602", "summerlee.house.gov", "summerlee", "https://summerlee.house.gov/newsroom/press-releases", "scraper", "Bill Text (PDF)\n\nWASHINGTON, DC \u2013 DECEMBER 2, 2025 \u2014 Today, Congresswoman Summer L. Lee (PA-12) joined Rep. Yvette Clarke (NY-11), Rep. Pramila Jayapal (WA-07), Rep. Ayanna Pressley (MA-07) and Senator Ed Markey (D-MA), along with a growing coalition of civil rights advocates, to reintroduce the Artificial Intelligence (AI) Civil Rights Act \u2014 comprehensive legislation to prevent companies from using biased and discriminatory AI-powered algorithms to help make critical decisions in Americans\u2019 lives, ensure algorithms are tested before and after deployment, and increase transparency of complex algorithms used for critical decisions.\n\n\u201cI represent neighborhoods that know what it feels like to be overpoliced, underinvested, and overlooked. If artificial intelligence is shaping people\u2019s lives, then we must mitigate the harm it causes. This legislation puts up the necessary guardrails in an age of disinformation and misinformation. I\u2019m grateful to Representatives Yvette Clarke, Pramila Jayapal, and Ayanna Pressley for co-leading this effort and for Senator Ed Markey for his partnership on this bill. We can and should be innovative with our technology, but never at the cost of our civil rights,\u201d said Rep. Lee.\n\n\u201cThe AI Civil Rights Act represents a bold new front in our ongoing battle to protect the rights, dignity, and safety of every American. From developers to deployers, this legislation will place strict, strong, and unambiguous guardrails on the creation and use of artificial intelligence. I am deeply grateful to Senator Ed Markey for his steadfast leadership in introducing this critical bill. Together, we are making it very clear that innovation must never come at the expense of civil rights or justice,\u201d said Rep. Clarke.\n\n\u201cAs AI innovation grows, it is incumbent on us all to prioritize the safety, rights, and opportunity of all people\u2014especially the Black, brown, and marginalized communities who disproportionately bear the burden of biased and discriminatory systems,\u201d said Rep. Pressley. \u201cWe cannot allow AI to be the latest chapter in America\u2019s history of exploiting marginalized people. That is why the AI Civil Rights Act is necessary\u2014to invest in an approach rooted in equity that safeguards all of our civil rights and liberties.\u201d\n\n\u201cThis legislation comes at an inflection point for our country. Artificial intelligence has become a part of our everyday lives and grown into a projected $244 billion industry. A major risk of this new technology is the biases and discrimination that are built into algorithms \u2013 denying people housing or jobs based on race or gender. Our bill would place critical guardrails to ensure that the technologies of the future do not harden the injustices of the past,\u201d said Rep. Jayapal.\n\n\u201cWe must address AI-powered bias and discrimination in the AI age,\u201d said Senator Markey. \u201cUnder the AI Civil Rights Act, America would show leadership in AI\u2014not just technological leadership, but moral leadership. We cannot abandon our principles in reckless pursuit of technological superiority. Otherwise, we risk building a future where innovation races ahead, but justice falls behind. I am grateful for Congresswomen Clarke, Pressley, Jayapal, and Lee for their partnership on the AI Civil Rights Act. We will not allow for AI to stand for accelerating injustice.\u201d\n\n\u201cThe Lawyers\u2019 Committee is proud to work in partnership with Senator Markey, Representatives Yvette Clarke, Summer Lee, Ayanna Pressley, and Pramila Jayapal as they introduce the AI Civil Rights Act to help ensure that AI systems are fair and equitable, as they become a large part of our daily lives. Most AI tools are built using data that reflects generations of racial discrimination, redlining, and segregation. Algorithms built on information about a troubled past can create new models that replicate these traumas as if they should be the norm for the future. So, increased transparency and accountability in the development and deployment of these technologies are critical steps for combating algorithmic bias. The Lawyers\u2019 Committee has been on the front lines of this issue, litigating in the courts and leading policy debates focused on the impacts and opportunities of emerging technology for Black people and other communities of color. We all deserve technology that works for us, not against us. Adopting appropriate human-centered guardrails is both logical and a critical need. We know that with fierce defenders of civil rights and democracy in Congress like the sponsors and co-sponsors of the AI Civil Rights Act, we can make that ambition a reality,\u201d said Damon Hewitt, President and Executive Director of the Lawyers\u2019 Committee for Civil Rights Under Law.\n\n\u201cTechnologies, including AI systems, are only innovative if they help people. AI should be a tool that works for all of us, no matter where we come from, the color of our skin, our age, or how much money we have. But every day, qualified people are unjustly locked out of jobs, housing, education opportunities, and health care, or are wrongly jailed or imprisoned because of AI systems that discriminate. AI is powerful, so when it discriminates it can supercharge bias,\u201d said Maya Wiley, President and CEO of The Leadership Conference on Civil and Human Rights. \u201cThe AI Civil Rights Act offers a way forward towards fairness and accountability by helping us see how AI is working, ensuring better accuracy, and holding companies that create and use AI accountable for protecting our rights. We are grateful for Senator Markey and Congresswoman Clarke\u2019s commitment to creating a strong pro-civil rights federal standard that ensures we can all reap the benefits of the AI revolution.\u201d\n\n\u201cWith corporations increasingly using AI systems to hire, fire, surveil, and make disciplinary decisions, workers need common-sense civil rights protections. The Artificial Intelligence (AI) Civil Rights Act introduced by Senator Markey and Congresswoman Clarke will do just that. It establishes critical guardrails to prevent AI discrimination, requires transparency from corporations around how they use AI, and holds corporations accountable when their AI systems perpetuate bias. This bill will be helpful in the labor movement\u2019s ongoing fight to make sure that AI benefits workers instead of harming their jobs, rights, and freedoms,\u201d said Jody Calemine, Director of Advocacy at the AFL-CIO.\n\n\u201cThe AI Civil Rights Act is the bold, innovative policy we need today to ensure a just tomorrow for us all. The premise is simple: the AI tools and systems used at the most critical decision points in our lives \u2013 mediating our access to homes, employment, healthcare, and opportunities \u2013should be demonstrated to be accessible and fair before being unleashed on the American public. With this technologically sophisticated bill, anchored in enduring American commitments to freedom, Senator Markey ushers in a new day for civil rights and digital equity,\u201d said Alondra Nelson, Distinguished Senior Fellow at the Center for American Progress.\n\n\u201cAI is shaping access to opportunity across the country. \u2018Black box\u2019 systems make decisions about who gets a loan, receives a job offer, or is eligible for parole, often with little understanding of how those decisions are made. The AI Civil Rights Act makes sure that AI systems are transparent and give everyone a fair chance to compete,\u201d said Cody Venzke, Senior Policy Counsel at the American Civil Liberties Union.\n\n\u201cArtificial intelligence is fast becoming a part of everyday life, impacting all of our major decisions from housing and employment to education and healthcare. We thank Senators Markey and Booker, and Representative Clarke, for their proactive leadership in safeguarding our civil rights. The AI Civil Rights Act ensures that AI technologies do not reinforce existing inequalities, and instead contribute to a more just and equitable society,\u201d said the National Urban League.\n\nThe legislation is co-led in the House by Representatives Summer Lee (PA-12), Pramila Jayapal (WA-07), Yvette Clarke (NY-11), and Ayanna Pressley (MA-07) and led by Senator Ed Markey (D-MA) in the Senate. The legislation is co-sponsored by Senators Mazie Hirono (D-Hawaii), Cory Booker (D-N.J.), Jeff Merkley (D-Ore.), and Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.), and Representatives Wesley Bell (MO-01), Andr\u00e9 Carson (IN-07), Judy Chu (CA-28), Danny K. Davis (IL-07), Chris Deluzio (PA-17), Jonathan Jackson (IL-01), Robin Kelly (IL-02), Jim McGovern (MA-02), Eleanor Holmes-Norton (D-D.C.), Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (NY-14), Mark Pocan (WI-02), Delia Ramirez (IL-03), Bennie Thompson (MS-02), Rashida Tlaib (MI-12), Bonnie Watson Coleman (NJ-12), Frederica Wilson (FL-24), Jes\u00fas G. \u201cChuy\u201d Garc\u00eda (IL-04), and Valerie Foushee (NC-04).\n\nThe AI Civil Rights Act is endorsed by the Lawyers Committee for Civil Rights Under Law, The Leadership Conference on Civil and Human Rights, the AFL-CIO, National Urban League, Alondra Nelson, Distinguished Senior Fellow, Center for American Progress and former Acting Director, White House Office of Science and Technology Policy, Sam Levine, Former Director of the FTC\u2019s Bureau of Consumer Protection, A Better Balance, Access Now, ACLU MA, American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU), American Federation of Teachers (AFT), Asian Americans Advancing Justice | AAJC, Autistic Women & Nonbinary Network, Brennan Center for Justice, Center for AI and Digital Policy, Center for Digital Democracy, Color of Change, Common Cause, Common Sense, Communications Workers of America, Deaf Equality, Demand Progress, Economic Policy Institute, Electronic Privacy Information Center (EPIC), Fight for the Future, Free Press Action, Hearing Loss Association of America, Immigrant Defenders Law Center, InnovateEDU, Interfaith Center on Corporate Responsibility, International Brotherhood of Teamsters, Investor Alliance for Human Rights, Japanese American Citizens League, Justice in Aging, NAACP, National Action Network, National Association of Consumer Advocates, National Education Association, National Housing Law Project, NETWORK Lobby for Catholic Social Justice, New America's Open Technology Institute, Open MIC, Oxfam America, Paralyzed Veterans of America, Seventh Generation Interfaith Coalition for Responsible Investment, Sojourners, The National Alliance to End Homelessness, The National Hispanic Media Coalition (NHMC), The NYU Policing Project, The Trevor Project, The Value Alliance, UnidosUS, United Church of Christ Media Justice Ministry, United Steelworkers, Writers Guild of America East (WGAE), Youth Power Project, Third Act , LGBT Tech, Consumer Federation of America, Movement Advancement Project , League of United Latin American Citizens (LULAC), Disability Rights Education & Defense Fund (DREDF), The Loop Lab / The Hope Group, National Partnership for Women & Families, and Kapor Center Advocacy.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://deluzio.house.gov/media/press-releases/deluzio-valadao-work-bolster-election-security", "Deluzio, Valadao Work to Bolster Election Security", "2025-12-01", "2025", "2025-12", "Democrat", "House", "PA", "Christopher R. Deluzio", "D000530", "deluzio.house.gov", "deluzio", "https://deluzio.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2014 Congressman Chris Deluzio (PA-17) and Congressman David Valadao (CA-22) reintroduced the Strengthening Election Cybersecurity to Uphold Respect for Elections through Independent Testing (SECURE IT) Act. This bipartisan bill would require that voting systems undergo simulated cyberattacks as part of their standard certification process to help bolster the security of our election systems from foreign and domestic bad actors.\n\n\u201cWe\u2019ve got to do everything we can to shore up America\u2019s cybersecurity and voting systems and help make sure they remain strong and secure,\u201d said Congressman Deluzio. \u201cI\u2019m proud that this bipartisan bill will help identify and fix voting system vulnerabilities and conduct important system testing. We must make sure America\u2019s democratic infrastructure can weather any and all attacks from our adversaries.\u201d\n\n\u201cEnsuring trust in our nation\u2019s elections is vital, and in order for people to have confidence in our democratic process, we need to be doing everything we can to secure any vulnerabilities,\u201d said Congressman Valadao. \u201cThe SECURE IT Act would proactively help discover potential flaws in our electoral system by outlining robust system security check requirements, and I\u2019m proud to help lead this bipartisan effort to strengthen our election infrastructure.\u201d\n\nBackground:\n\nThe security of America\u2019s election infrastructure is central to maintaining voters\u2019 confidence in the democratic process. While federal law requires the Election Assistance Commission (EAC) to test and certify voting system hardware and software, current regulations under the Help America Vote Act of 2002 do not explicitly mandate penetration testing\u2014a key cybersecurity practice that helps identify system vulnerabilities. The SECURE IT Act strengthens election security by directing the EAC to incorporate penetration testing into its certification process and establish a voluntary coordinated vulnerability disclosure program, enabling independent researchers to examine election systems for potential cybersecurity risks.\n\nRead the full bill here.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://scanlon.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=1979", "Scanlon, Huffman, Bonamici, McBath, DeSaulnier Urge Department of Education To Halt Transfer of Special Education Programs To HHS", "2025-12-01", "2025", "2025-12", "Democrat", "House", "PA", "Mary Gay Scanlon", "S001205", "scanlon.house.gov", "scanlon", "https://scanlon.house.gov/news/", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2014 Congresswoman Mary Gay Scanlon (PA-05) last week led Reps. Jared Huffman (CA-02), Suzanne Bonamici (OR-01), Lucy McBath (GA-07), Mark DeSaulnier (CA-10) and 37 House Democrats in urging the Department of Education to halt efforts to transfer special education programs under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS). Relocation of IDEA programs would violate congressional intent and threaten to further upend the lives of millions of students with disabilities and their families. The members\u2019 inquiry is a follow up to an April 21 letter to address similar questions and concerns.\n\n\u201cAs we discussed in our April 21 letter, students with disabilities across the country rely on IDEA to access the free appropriate public education to which they are legally entitled. Shifting IDEA oversight to HHS without congressional authorization is not only illegal, but it also jeopardizes federal investments in and oversight over special education programs,\u201d the members wrote.\n\n\u201cDespite this Administration\u2019s previous attempt to eliminate nearly the entire staff at the OSERS, the Department of Education remains the only federal agency with expertise, institutional knowledge, and established relationships with state and local education agencies to properly administer IDEA. We remain concerned that moving IDEA to HHS would improperly shift special education toward a medical model rather than an educational right,\u201d the members continued.\n\nThe members requested answers to the following questions by December 22, 2025:\n\nWhat steps has the Department taken towards transferring IDEA administration to another federal agency?\n\nWhat statutory authority do you have to move IDEA programs to another agency?\n\nWhat evidence do you have that such a transfer will not negatively affect students with disabilities\u2019 access to a free appropriate public education?\n\nIf you were to move forward with a transfer despite lacking the necessary authority, what office within HHS would assume responsibility for IDEA?\n\nWhat other programs within the Office of Special Education and Rehabilitative Services is the Department considering relocating, and what agencies and offices would receive those programs?\n\nHow has the staffing level in these offices changed since the beginning of this year?\n\nHas HHS notified you that it will implement to guarantee that the full intent and legal obligations of IDEA are upheld?\n\nAre you aware of any concrete steps that HHS will take to ensure that states and local education agencies receive the necessary support and guidance to comply with federal special education requirements? If so, what are those steps?\n\nHas the Administration consulted with stakeholders, including disability rights advocates and special education professionals, regarding this transfer? If so, how were those consultations conducted, and what concerns were raised?\n\n\u201cWe remain strongly opposed to efforts to transfer IDEA to HHS and urge you to properly consider the effects this change will have on millions of students with disabilities and their families,\u201d the members concluded.\n\nFind full text of the letter here.\n\n###", 1, "2026-04-04T05:28:40Z", "2026-04-04T05:30:10Z"], ["https://houlahan.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=4841", "My Statement on FBI Request for Interviews", "2025-11-25", "2025", "2025-11", "Democrat", "House", "PA", "Chrissy Houlahan", "H001085", "houlahan.house.gov", "houlahan", "https://houlahan.house.gov/press/documentquery.aspx", "page_html", "Rep. Houlahan's Statement on the FBI Request for Interview\n\nPresident Trump is using the FBI as a tool to intimidate and harass Members of Congress.\n\nYesterday, the FBI contacted the House and Senate Sergeants at Arms requesting interviews. No amount of intimidation or harassment will ever stop us from doing our jobs and honoring our Constitution.\n\nWe swore an oath to support and defend the Constitution of the United States. That oath lasts a lifetime, and we intend to keep it. We will not be bullied. We will never give up the ship.\n\n# # #", 1, "2026-04-08T14:14:11Z", "2026-04-08T14:23:06Z"], ["https://houlahan.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=4844", "Rep. Houlahan introduces legislation to strengthen biopharmaceutical manufacturing", "2025-11-24", "2025", "2025-11", "Democrat", "House", "PA", "Chrissy Houlahan", "H001085", "houlahan.house.gov", "houlahan", "https://houlahan.house.gov/press/documentquery.aspx", "page_html", "Originally appeared in Pennsylvania Business Report\n\nWritten by Liz Carey\n\nRep. Houlahan introduces legislation to strengthen biopharmaceutical manufacturing\n\nU.S. Rep. Chrissy Houlahan (D-PA) recently introduced a bicameral, bipartisan bill aimed at strengthening domestic biopharmaceutical manufacturing.\n\nThe Biomanufacturing Excellence Act would promote U.S. leadership in biotechnology, lawmakers said. Companion legislation was also introduced in the U.S. Senate.\n\n\u201cSoutheastern Pennsylvania has a storied history as a global leader in the life sciences,\u201d Houlahan said. \u201cYet too many of our breakthroughs struggle to reach patients and markets because we lack the biomanufacturing capacity to scale and commercialize them. That gap threatens jobs, our regional competitiveness, and our access to medicines, applications, solutions and treatments Americans and our nation need. Our bipartisan Biomanufacturing Excellence Act tackles this head-on by creating a national Center of Excellence to drive innovation in biopharmaceutical manufacturing. The bill would cut costs, speed production, and grow our biotech workforce here in our Commonwealth. As competitors like the Chinese Communist Party race to dominate this space, we cannot afford to fall behind.\u201d\n\nThe legislation will reinvest in domestic biopharmaceutical manufacturing, while reducing the country\u2019s dependence on foreign supply chains and expanding access to cutting-edge medicines, law makers said. Specifically, the legislation will establish a public-private center dedicated to advancing biopharmaceutical manufacturing, the National Biopharmaceutical Manufacturing Center of Excellence.\n\nThe bill is endorsed by Life Sciences Pennsylvania, as well as other national and state science-based organizations.\n\n\u201cPennsylvania\u2019s collaborative life sciences ecosystem has made our commonwealth a national leader in biopharmaceutical manufacturing for decades. We recognize the importance of the bipartisan and bicameral Biopharmaceutical Manufacturing Center of Excellence Act. This legislation will help incentivize and protect national security as well as ensure a steadfast supply chain in delivering treatments and therapeutics in Pennsylvania, across the Country, and around the world,\u201d Christopher P. Molineaux, president and CEO of Life Sciences PA, said.", 1, "2026-04-08T14:14:11Z", "2026-04-08T14:23:06Z"], ["https://houlahan.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=4840", "Congressional Democrats Introduce Legislation to Reverse SNAP Cuts and Restore Food Security for Millions of Americans", "2025-11-22", "2025", "2025-11", "Democrat", "House", "PA", "Chrissy Houlahan", "H001085", "houlahan.house.gov", "houlahan", "https://houlahan.house.gov/press/documentquery.aspx", "page_html", "WASHINGTON \u2014 Today, House Agriculture Committee Ranking Member Angie Craig (MN-02), and House Agriculture Committee's Subcommittee on Nutrition and Foreign Agriculture Ranking Member Jahana Hayes (CT-05) were joined by U.S. Senator Ben Ray Luj\u00e1n (D-NM), ranking member of the Senate Agriculture Committee\u2019s Subcommittee on Food and Nutrition, Specialty Crops, Organics, and Research, Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY), U.S. Senator Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), ranking member of the Senate Agriculture, Nutrition, and Forestry Committee, and U.S. Senator Jeff Merkley (D-OR), in introducing the Restoring Food Security for American Families and Farmers Act of 2025. The legislation would repeal all the devastating Republican cuts to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) made in the Republicans' Big Ugly Bill. The bicameral legislation is supported by over 190 House Democrats and every Democratic Senator.\n\nCongress has upheld a 50-year bipartisan commitment that Americans should not go hungry, but the Republicans' Big Ugly Bill breaks that promise with the largest SNAP cuts in history. To fund tax breaks for the ultra-wealthy, Congressional Republicans approved cuts that the Congressional Budget Office estimates will eliminate $187 billion in food assistance over the next decade, even as President Trump's tariffs increase grocery prices. These Republican cuts will take meals away from millions of Americans, including children, seniors, veterans, workers and people with disabilities, while harming farmers, ranchers, small businesses and grocers who rely on SNAP dollars. Additionally, the Republicans' Big Ugly Bill creates a massive unfunded mandate on state governments that could force deep cuts or even eliminate SNAP entirely.\n\n\u201cPresident Trump has spent his first year in office repeatedly attacking our nation\u2019s most effective anti-hunger program at a time when his tariffs are contributing to record food prices. His Big Ugly Bill cut SNAP \u2013 a basic needs food assistance program \u2013 by $187 billion, taking food away from millions of hungry American seniors, children, people with disabilities and veterans. I encourage my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to stand up for our vulnerable neighbors and help to pass the Restoring Food Security for American Families and Farmers Act,\u201d said Ranking Member Craig.\n\n\u201cAt every opportunity, Republicans have chosen to target and decimate the programs that feed people. The Big Beautiful Bill implemented the largest cut to SNAP in history \u2013 putting the most vulnerable at higher risk of hunger. Republicans have proven that cruelty is the point. During the government shutdown, all of America watched as they once again chose to use hunger as a weapon and blocked emergency funding for SNAP \u2013 marking the first ever lapse in funding. With the Restoring Food Security for American Families and Farmers Act, we can reverse the damage caused by this legislation and restore the nearly $200 billion eliminated from SNAP,\" said Representative Hayes.\n\n\u201cFrom gutting SNAP in their Big Beautiful Betrayal of a bill to refusing to provide food assistance to families in need during the shutdown, this Administration has taken every opportunity to make it harder for Americans to put food on the table. With this legislation, we will keep fighting every step of the way to restore food assistance to families in need and ensure the 42 million Americans \u2014 including veterans, seniors and children \u2014 who count on SNAP don\u2019t go to bed hungry,\" said Ranking Member Klobuchar.\n\n\u201cFor half a century, our nation has stood behind a bipartisan promise: that no child, no senior, no veteran, and no working family should go hungry. Republicans broke that promise and ripped meals away from millions of Americans in their Budget Betrayal. SNAP puts food on the table for 42 million people \u2013 including one in every five New Mexicans \u2013 yet the Trump administration spent the shutdown trying to block families from receiving food assistance and make it as difficult as possible to access their benefits. We have a responsibility to protect these families. That\u2019s why I am leading Congressional Democrats in introducing legislation to fully repeal the Republican cuts to SNAP and ensure no American family goes hungry,\" said Senator Luj\u00e1n.\n\n\u201cSNAP isn\u2019t an abstract policy or a number in a spreadsheet, it\u2019s food, dignity and survival for 42 million Americans. This summer, the Republican \u201cBig, Ugly Bill\u201d made the single largest cut to federal food assistance in our nation\u2019s history. And during the Republican shutdown, the Trump administration weaponized hunger, blocking families from receiving SNAP benefits that Congress had already funded. Democrats are fighting back. Today, we introduced legislation to reverse these disastrous and deadly cuts and restore food security for millions of Americans. We will keep fighting until every family has the basic security and dignity of food on the table,\" said Leader Schumer.\n\n\u201cChildren, seniors, and low-income families will go hungry because of the Republican cuts to SNAP. This is yet another heartbreaking consequence of the Republican agenda to fund tax breaks for the ultrarich while working families struggle. Under Trump, it is always the red carpet for billionaires and red tape for families. I\u2019ll keep fighting to reverse these devastating cuts,\" said Senator Merkley.\n\nWatch the full press conference here. Supporting quotes can be found here.\n\nAdditionally, earlier this week, nearly 1,500 national, state, and community-based organizations signed a letter voicing support for this effort.\n\nSNAP is a lifeline for over 42 million Americans, including 16 million children, 8 million seniors, 4 million people with disabilities and 1.2 million veterans.\n\nDuring the government shutdown, Ranking Member Craig led the charge against the Trump administration's illegal withholding of food assistance from hungry Americans. During debate on the Republicans' Big Ugly Bill, Ranking Member Craig spearheaded efforts to reverse the bill\u2019s drastic cuts to food assistance.\n\nTogether with Representative Hayes, Ranking Member Angie Craig led a Spotlight Hearing to underscore the devastating impact of Congressional Republicans\u2019 plan to gut SNAP.\n\nIn addition to Ranking Member Craig and Congresswoman Hayes, the House bill is cosponsored by U.S. Representatives: Alma S. Adams (NC-12), Gabe Amo (RI-01), Yassamin Ansari (AZ-03), Becca Balint (VT), Nanette Diaz Barragan (CA-44), Joyce Beatty (OH-03), Wesley Bell (MO-01), Donald S. Beyer Jr. (VA-08), Sanford D. Bishop Jr. (GA-02), Suzanne Bonamici (OR-01), Shontel M. Brown (OH-11), Julia Brownley (CA-26), Nikki Budzinski (IL-13), Janelle S. Bynum (OR-05), Salud O. Carbajal (CA-24), Andre Carson (IN-07), Troy A. Carter (LA-02), Greg Casar (TX-35), Sean Casten (IL-06), Kathy Castor (FL-14), Joaquin Castro (TX-20), Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick (FL-20), Judy Chu (CA-28), Yvette D. Clarke (NY-09), Emanuel Cleaver (MO-05), James E. Clyburn (SC-06), Steve Cohen (TN-09), Herbert C. Conaway Jr. (NJ-03), J. Luis Correa (CA-46), Jim Costa (CA-21), Joe Courtney (CT-02), Jasmine Crockett (TX-30), Jason Crow (CO-06), Sharice Davids (KS-03), Danny K. Davis (IL-07), Madeleine Dean (PA-04), Diana DeGette (CO-01), Rosa L. DeLauro (CT-03), Suzan K. DelBene (WA-01), Christopher R. 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 P. Foushee (NC-04), Lois Frankel (FL-22), Laura Friedman (CA-30), Maxwell Frost (FL-10), John Garamendi (CA-08), Sylvia R. Garcia (TX-29), Robert Garcia (CA-42), Jesus G. \"Chuy\" Garcia (IL-04), Daniel S. Goldman (NY-10), Maggie Goodlander (NH-02), Josh Gottheimer (NJ-05), Al Green (TX-09), Josh Harder (CA-09), Pablo Jose Hernandez (PR), James A. Himes (CT-04), Steven Horsford (NV-04), Chrissy Houlahan (PA-06), Steny Hoyer (MD-05), Jared Huffman (CA-02), Glenn Ivey (MD-04), Jonathan L. Jackson (IL-01), Pramila Jayapal (WA-07), Henry C. \"Hank\" Johnson Jr. (GA-04), Julie Johnson (TX-32), Sydney Kamlager-Dove (CA-37), Marcy Kaptur (OH-09), William R. Keating (MA-09), Robin L. Kelly (IL-02), Timothy M. Kennedy (NY-26), Ro Khanna (CA-17), Raja Krishnamoorthi (IL-08), Greg Landsman (OH-01), Rick Larsen (WA-02), John B. Larson (CT-01), George Latimer (NY-16), Summer L. Lee (PA-12), Teresa Leger Fernandez (NM-03), Mike Levin (CA-49), Ted Lieu (CA-36), Zoe Lofgren (CA-18), Stephen F. Lynch (MA-08), Seth Magaziner (RI-02), John W. Mannion (NY-22), Doris O. Matsui (CA-07), Lucy McBath (GA-06), Sarah McBride (DE), April McClain Delaney (MD-06), Jennifer L. McClellan (VA-04), Betty McCollum (MN-04), Kristen McDonald Rivet (MI-08), Morgan McGarvey (KY-03), James P. McGovern (MA-02), LaMonica McIver (NJ-10), Gregory W. Meeks (NY-05), Robert Menendez (N-J08), Grace Meng (NY-06), Kweisi Mfume (MD-07), Dave Min (CA-47), Gwen Moore (WI-04), Joseph D. Morelle (NY-25), Kelly Morrison (MN-03), Jared Moskowitz (FL-23), Seth Moulton (MA-06), Frank J. Mrvan (IN-01), Kevin Mullin (CA15), Jerrold Nadler (NY12), Richard E. Neal (MA01), Joe Neguse (CO-02), Donald Norcross (NJ-01), Eleanor Holmes Norton (DC), Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (NY-14), Johnny Olszewski Jr. (MD-02), Ilhan Omar (MN-05), Frank Pallone Jr. (NJ-06), Jimmy Panetta (CA-19), Chris Pappas (NH-01), Nancy Pelosi (CA-11), Scott H. Peters (CA-50), Brittany Pettersen (CO-07), Chellie Pingree (ME-01), Stacey E. Plaskett (VI), Mark Pocan (WI-02), Nellie Pou (NJ-09), Ayanna Pressley (MA-07), Mike Quigley (IL-05), Delia C. Ramirez (IL-03), Emily Randall (WA-06), Jamie Raskin (MD-08), Josh Riley (NY-19), Luz M. Rivas (CA-29), Raul Ruiz (CA-25), Patrick Ryan (NY-18), Andrea Salinas (OR-06), Linda T. Sanchez (CA-38), Mary Gay Scanlon (PA-05), Janice D. Schakowsky (IL-09), Bradley Schneider (IL-10), Hillary J. Scholten (MI-03), Kim Schrier (WA-08), Bobby Scott (VA-03), David Scott (GA-13), Terri A. Sewell (AL-07), Mikie Sherrill (NJ-11), Lateefah Simon (CA-12), Adam Smith (WA-09), Eric Sorensen (IL-17), Darren Soto (FL-09), Melanie A. Stansbury (NM-01), Greg Stanton (AZ-04), Haley M. Stevens (MI-11), Marilyn Strickland (WA-10), Suhas Subramanyam (VA-10), Thomas R. Suozzi (NY-03), Eric Swalwell (CA-14), Emilia Sykes (OH-13), Mark Takano (CA-39), Shri Thanedar (MI-13), Bennie G. Thompson (MS-02), Mike Thompson (CA-04), Dina Titus (NV-01), Rashida Tlaib (MI-12), Jill N. Tokuda (HI-02), Paul Tonko (NY-20), 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 A. Veasey (TX-33), Nydia M. Velazquez (NY-07), Eugene Simon Vindman (VA-07), Debbie Wasserman Schultz (FL-25), Maxine Waters (CA-43), Bonnie Watson Coleman (NJ-12), George Whitesides (CA-27), Nikema Williams (GA-05), and Frederica S. Wilson (FL-24).", 1, "2026-04-08T14:14:11Z", "2026-04-08T14:23:06Z"], ["https://houlahan.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=4839", "Houlahan District Office Receives Bomb Threat", "2025-11-21", "2025", "2025-11", "Democrat", "House", "PA", "Chrissy Houlahan", "H001085", "houlahan.house.gov", "houlahan", "https://houlahan.house.gov/press/documentquery.aspx", "page_html", "West Chester District Office\n\n709 E. Gay Street, Suite 4\n\nWest Chester, PA 19380\n\nPhone: (610) 883-5050\n\nOpen:\n\nMonday-Wednesday\n\n9:00am-5:00pm\n\nOpen by Appointment:\n\nThursday and Friday\n\nS\u00ed, se habla espa\u00f1ol\n\nReading District Office\n\n201 Penn Street, Suite 201\n\nReading, PA 19601\n\nPhone: (610) 295-0815\n\nOpen:\n\nWednesday-Friday\n\n9:00am-5:00pm\n\nOpen by Appointment:\n\nMonday and Tuesday\n\nS\u00ed, se habla espa\u00f1ol", 1, "2026-04-08T14:14:11Z", "2026-04-08T14:23:06Z"], ["https://summerlee.house.gov/newsroom/press-releases/rep-summer-lee-and-bicameral-coalition-reintroduce-disarm-hate-act", "Rep. Summer Lee and Bicameral Coalition Reintroduce Disarm Hate Act", "2025-11-21", "2025", "2025-11", "Democrat", "House", "PA", "Summer L. Lee", "L000602", "summerlee.house.gov", "summerlee", "https://summerlee.house.gov/newsroom/press-releases", "scraper", "Text of Bill (PDF)\n\nWASHINGTON, DC \u2013 NOVEMBER 21, 2025 \u2014 Today, Congresswoman Summer L. Lee (PA-12) joined Representatives Veronica Escobar (TX-16), Maxwell Frost (FL-10), and Senator Ben Ray Luj\u00e1n (D-NM), along with Representatives James Clyburn (SC-06), Maxine Dexter (OR-03), John Garamendi (CA-08), Tim Kennedy (NY-26), David Min (CA-47), and Nikema Williams (GA-06), reintroduced the Disarm Hate Act to prevent individuals convicted of violent misdemeanor hate crimes from purchasing or possessing firearms.\n\nThe Disarm Hate Act would address the dangerous gap in current federal law by providing that individuals who have been convicted of a misdemeanor-level hate crime, or received an enhanced sentence for a misdemeanor crime after a judicial finding that they acted with hate or bias motivation, are prohibited from buying or possessing guns.\n\n\u201cRepresenting a community still healing from the trauma of the Pittsburgh Synagogue shooting, I see every day the deadly consequences of allowing white supremacists and hate-motivated individuals access to weapons of war,\u201d said Rep. Lee. \"In this moment, when division, bigotry, and political violence are being openly stoked and normalized by the Trump administration, we cannot ignore how that hatred trickles down into our streets, our schools, and our sacred spaces. The Disarm Hate Act is a necessary step to confront the rising tide of anti-Black racism, antisemitism, Islamophobia, anti-Asian violence, anti-trans hate, and all forms of bigotry threatening our communities. Our families deserve to live without fear, and Congress must act to protect the people we serve.\u201d\n\n\u201cSix years ago, a white supremacist drove 10 hours to El Paso intent on slaughtering Mexicans and immigrants in what remains the deadliest attack against Latinos in modern American history,\u201d said Congresswoman Escobar. \u201cThe hate directed at Hispanic and immigrant communities continues to this day. When bigotry is combined with easy access to assault weapons, the result is a devastating and lethal threat, and too many communities across the nation, including my own, have lived with these consequences firsthand. As lawmakers, we carry a solemn duty to act and stop as many future tragedies that are a result of gun violence as possible. I am proud to stand with my colleagues in introducing vital legislation to ensure firearms stay out of the hands of those who should never have them.\u201d\n\n\u201cAcross the country, we have seen hate-fueled attacks claim the lives of far too many in recent years,\u201d said Senator Luj\u00e1n. \u201cDespite the concerning number of hate crimes that have plagued our country, it is horrifying that this loophole allows dangerous individuals to buy or possess a firearm. That is why I\u2019m proud to partner with Congresswoman Escobar to introduce the Disarm Hate Act and help prevent deadly, hate-fueled attacks before they terrorize our communities. We must continue to work to ensure dangerous weapons stay out of the wrong hands, and this legislation is a vital step.\u201d\n\n\u201cFor years, stories of gun violence tragedies have turned into recurring segments on our news stations. These instances of gun-enabled hate shed darkness on our communities and cost us the lives of children, parents, classmates, teachers, and community members. It\u2019s a pain my district, home to Pulse Nightclub, knows too well and will never forget. The Disarm Hate Act honors the lives stolen from the gun violence epidemic with action and is a step toward stopping the next senseless tragedy before it happens,\u201d said Rep. Frost.\n\n\u201cAs we tragically witnessed in Charleston, South Carolina at Emanuel AME Church in 2015, and far too often elsewhere, hatred and guns are a lethal mix,\u201d said Rep. Clyburn. \u201cWe must do more to keep deadly firearms out of the hands of those seeking to use them to commit these heinous crimes. To that end, earlier this year I reintroduced my legislation to close the Charleston Loophole, and today I am pleased to join Rep. Escobar in reintroducing the Disarm Hate Act. I urge the Republican majority to bring these common-sense bills to the House floor for a vote. Lives are at stake.\u201d\n\n\u201cIt is unacceptable that someone convicted of a misdemeanor-level hate crime can still purchase a firearm,\u201d said Rep. Garamendi. \u201cAs the author of California\u2019s assault weapons ban and a member of the Gun Violence Prevention Task Force, I am committed to ending America\u2019s gun violence epidemic. There have been too many hate-fueled shootings over the last decade, and we must refuse to treat them as inevitable. I am proud to work with Rep. Escobar to build a safer future for families across the country.\u201d\n\n\u201cWestern New York has seen firsthand the devastation that hate-driven gun violence can inflict on a community,\u201d said Rep. Kennedy. \u201cI\u2019m proud to co-lead the Disarm Hate Act because no one convicted of a violent hate crime, either misdemeanor or felony, should have access to a firearm. By closing this loophole, we are combating gun violence, protecting our neighbors, and standing firmly against the rising tide of hate in our nation. This common-sense legislation takes a critical step toward preventing tragedies like the racist mass shooting that shook Buffalo to its core.\u201d\n\n\u201cAs a country, we\u2019ve mourned tragedy after tragedy as a result of gun violence. It\u2019s appalling that we still have to say this \u2014 people convicted of hate crimes should never have access to guns. In 2021, Atlanta witnessed a horrific act of anti-Asian hate when an assailant attacked multiple spas, targeting Asian women. And across the nation, Black communities have long faced deadly violence fueled by racism \u2014 from church massacres to everyday acts of terror that rarely make headlines. Our communities are still mending from the trauma, and the effects are still felt to this day. No matter your race, ethnicity, or gender, everyone has the right to live without fear of violence,\u201d said Rep. Nikema Williams.\n\n\"Hate becomes even more dangerous when it\u2019s paired with easy access to a gun. We see the impact of that every day in our communities,\u201d said Angela Ferrell-Zabala, executive director of Moms Demand Action. \u201cThe Disarm Hate Act is a clear step toward keeping families safe. It closes a gap that lets people with violent hate crime convictions get their hands on a gun, and that puts all of us at risk. We\u2019re proud to stand with Rep. Veronica Escobar and Senator Ben Ray Luj\u00e1n as they work to keep guns out of dangerous hands and protect the communities targeted by hate.\u201d\n\nThe Disarm Hate Act is endorsed by GIFFORDS, Brady: United Against Gun Violence, Community Justice, American Federation of Teachers (AFT), Everytown for Gun Safety, Newtown Action Alliance, Washington Office on Latin America (WOLA), Violence Policy Center, Jewish Women International, and Sandy Hook Promise.\n\nAll original House co-leads represent districts that have been impacted by hate-motivated mass shootings.\n\nIn June 2015, a white supremacist murdered nine worshippers during a bible study at the Emanuel African Methodist Episcopal Church in Charleston, South Carolina.\n\nIn June 2016, a gunman attacked a gay nightclub in Orlando, Florida, leaving 49 people dead and 53 others injured.\n\nIn October 2018, 11 worshippers were killed and seven others injured during an attack on three Jewish congregations in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.\n\nIn August 2019, a man killed 23 victims and wounded 23 others in a shooting in a Walmart in El Paso, Texas, admitting to targeting Mexicans.\n\nIn March 2021, a gunman killed eight victims on a shooting rampage through three spas in Atlanta, Georgia, six of whom were Asian American women.\n\nIn February 2022, a gunman with a history of expressing support for Nazis and Proud Boys groups opened fire at a Black Lives Matter demonstration in Portland, Oregon, killing 1 and injuring 5 others.\n\nIn May 2022, a self-described supporter of white supremacy killed 10 people in a supermarket in a predominantly Black neighborhood in Buffalo, New York.\n\nIn May 2022, a Nevada man carried firearms into a Taiwanese Presbyterian Church, shooting and killing one congregant and injuring five others with gunfire in an attempt to kill all 44 parishioners. The man allegedly targeted the church because of the congregants\u2019 national origin and religion.\n\nIn August 2023, an individual tore down the pride flag in a Southern California store while yelling homophobic slurs. When the store owner confronted the individual, he shot and killed her. The assailant had a history of anti-LGBTQI+ posts on social media, and the incident is now being investigated as a hate crime.\n\nFull text of the bill can be found here.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:52:45Z"], ["https://summerlee.house.gov/newsroom/press-releases/rep-summer-lee-joins-people-s-hearing-in-pittsburgh-to-set-new-agenda-for-change", "Rep. Summer Lee Joins People\u2019s Hearing in Pittsburgh To Set New Agenda for Change", "2025-11-21", "2025", "2025-11", "Democrat", "House", "PA", "Summer L. Lee", "L000602", "summerlee.house.gov", "summerlee", "https://summerlee.house.gov/newsroom/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, DC \u2013 NOVEMBER 21, 2025 \u2014 Today, Congresswoman Summer L. Lee (PA-12) joined Pittsburgh leaders and members of communities throughout Pennsylvania and beyond who gathered to testify as part of The People\u2019s Hearing Tour: Speak Easy, Speak Free\u2013a national call for courage, care and collective action.\n\n\u201cI\u2019m grateful to bear witness and carry these testimonies back to Congress to inform our work, including in the first-ever People\u2019s Environmental Justice Caucus, in the Environmental Justice for All Act, and beyond,\u201d said Congresswoman Summer Lee. \u201cThese legislative actions aim to amplify the voices of those most impacted by environmental racism and injustice\u2013because Washington doesn\u2019t get to decide what\u2019s best for communities.\u201d\n\n\u201cIt takes collective leadership to build power,\u201d said Pittsburgh Mayor Ed Gainey. \u201cToday, I feel like I\u2019m in a room of peoplethat have influence.\u201d\n\nThe two-day event, which continues tomorrow at the Omni William Penn, is intended to build community and to forge a new policy agenda for the coming years to ensure the health of current and future generations. Those who testified spoke about coal mines, fracking, radioactive waste, data centers and housing insecurity, documenting trauma, grief and a wide range of health impacts from asthma to chemical burns.\n\n\u201cAir pollution is my biggest enemy,\u201d said Natalie Morris with 412 Justice, who testified about dust in the air in her community, and relies on oxygen. \u201cI\u2019m speaking for everyone who has a breathing problem - please help us.\u201d\n\nCommunities across the country have begun bearing witness to the real impacts of pollution, displacement and economic inequity, while lifting up solutions that heal our health, land and work. The People\u2019s Hearing Tour has already galvanized action in North Carolina and Arizona.\n\n\u201cNever let anybody tell you that you don\u2019t exist and that your reality is not reality,\u201d said Dr. Beverly Wright, of the People\u2019s Environmental Justice Advisory Council (PEJAC), who is the founder and executive director of the Deep South Center for Environmental Justice. PEJAC launched the tour together with nonprofit partners, and itself grew out of the White House Environmental Justice Advisory Council(WHEJAC).\n\n\u201cThe power of the people is stronger than the people in power,\u201d said Kendra Brooks, Philadelphia City Council At-Large Member, \u201cI feel the need to encourage you that there are elected officials who are willing to show up and hear what you have to say.\u201d\n\nLikewise, Michelle Naccarati-Chapkis, Allegheny County Council District 8 Representative, told those testifying, \u201cYour voices make a difference,\u201d citing important improvements to the Safe Drinking Water Act, the Environmental Protection Agency\u2019s Lead and Copper Rule that are helping ensure clean water for communities nationwide. \u201cAt this time, more than ever, it is so critically important for you to be talking to each other,\u201d she said. \u201cThese are the stories that matter. These are the stories that move policy change.\u201d\n\nThe hearing continues tomorrow as attendees share more individual experiences, and work together to establish priorities and share environmental justice solutions.\n\nFor more information on the event or to connect with its leaders or participants, please contact Anne Hawke, annehawke@gmail.com, or at (202) 329-1463.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:52:45Z"], ["https://boyle.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/boyle-helps-secure-43-million-federal-investment-modernize-septa-bus", "Boyle Helps Secure $43 Million Federal Investment to Modernize SEPTA Bus Fleet", "2025-11-20", "2025", "2025-11", "Democrat", "House", "PA", "Brendan F. Boyle", "B001296", "boyle.house.gov", "boyle", "https://boyle.house.gov/media-center/press-releases", "scraper", "PHILADELPHIA, PA \u2013 Today, Congressman Brendan F. Boyle (PA-02) applauded a $43 million federal grant he helped secure for the Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority (SEPTA). The funding will allow SEPTA to replace aging 30-foot diesel buses with new diesel-electric hybrid vehicles. The grant comes through the Federal Transit Administration\u2019s Low- or No-Emission Program and was made possible by the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law\u2014a law Congressman Boyle championed.\n\nThis investment will enable SEPTA to retire outdated buses that have exceeded their useful life and upgrade to cleaner, more reliable hybrid models that will improve service for riders across Philadelphia and the region.\n\n\u201cThis is a major win for Philadelphia,\u201d said Congressman Boyle. \u201cThese new hybrid buses will mean more reliable service, a stronger transit system, and cleaner air for the hundreds of thousands of riders who depend on SEPTA every day. I was proud to help champion the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law and to help secure this funding that delivers lasting infrastructure improvements for our city.\u201d\n\nThe grant will support bus replacements across Southeastern Pennsylvania and will help reduce emissions, lower operating costs, and strengthen long-term fleet reliability.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:52:45Z"], ["https://deluzio.house.gov/media/press-releases/joint-statement-lawmakers-deluzio-slotkin-kelly-crow-goodlander-and-houlahan", "Joint Statement from Lawmakers Deluzio, Slotkin, Kelly, Crow, Goodlander, and Houlahan", "2025-11-20", "2025", "2025-11", "Democrat", "House", "PA", "Christopher R. Deluzio", "D000530", "deluzio.house.gov", "deluzio", "https://deluzio.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "\u201cWe are veterans and national security professionals who love this country and swore an oath to protect and defend the Constitution of the United States. That oath lasts a lifetime, and we intend to keep it. No threat, intimidation, or call for violence will deter us from that sacred obligation.\n\n\u201cWhat\u2019s most telling is that the President considers it punishable by death for us to restate the law. Our servicemembers should know that we have their backs as they fulfill their oath to the Constitution and obligation to follow only lawful orders. It is not only the right thing to do, but also our duty.\n\n\u201cBut this isn\u2019t about any one of us. This isn\u2019t about politics. This is about who we are as Americans. Every American must unite and condemn the President\u2019s calls for our murder and political violence. This is a time for moral clarity.\n\n\u201cIn these moments, fear is contagious, but so is courage. We will continue to lead and will not be intimidated.\n\n\u201cDon\u2019t Give Up the Ship!\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:52:45Z"], ["https://evans.house.gov/media/press-releases/members-congress-recognize-national-family-caregivers-month-0", "Members of Congress recognize National Family Caregivers Month", "2025-11-20", "2025", "2025-11", "Democrat", "House", "PA", "Dwight Evans", "E000296", "evans.house.gov", "evans", "https://evans.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON (November 20, 2025) \u2013 Members of Congress are introducing resolutions in the House and Senate designating November as National Family Caregivers Month to honor the work of the 63 million Americans who provide unpaid, essential family care each year.\n\nCongressman Dwight Evans (D-PA), lead sponsor of the House resolution, said, \u201cFamily caregivers provide unpaid care worth an estimated $600 billion per year and play a vital role in America\u2019s health care system, supporting loved ones who have chronic illnesses or disabilities or are facing age-related health challenges. We should do more to support them.\u201d\n\nCongressman Brian Fitzpatrick (R-PA), co-lead sponsor, said, \u201cFamily caregivers represent one of the most indispensable yet overlooked pillars of our nation\u2019s health care economy. They shoulder extraordinary responsibility\u2014balancing careers, families, and the daily realities of providing care\u2014with little recognition and even less relief. Our bipartisan resolution is about more than acknowledgment; it\u2019s about accountability. It calls on our colleagues and our partners at every level to champion policies that better support caregivers, strengthen our long-term care infrastructure, and ensure that compassion is matched with commitment.\u201d\n\nIn just the past five years, the number of family caregivers has grown by 10 million and is projected to continue to increase due to growing populations of older adults and people with disabilities, the long-standing shortage of direct care workers, and the lack of affordable, accessible child care for children with disabilities.\n\nThe House resolution encourages federal agencies, states, and the private sector to swiftly implement the remaining steps and build upon the current progress of the steps described in the 2022 National Strategy to Support Family Caregivers. The text of the House resolution is available here.\n\nEndorsing organizations include the National Alliance for Caregiving, AARP, National Council on Aging, and Caring Across Generations.\n\nSenators Ed Markey (D-MA) and Susan Collins (R-ME) are introducing a similar resolution in the Senate.", 1, "2026-04-04T05:28:40Z", "2026-04-04T05:30:10Z"], ["https://houlahan.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=4838", "Joint Statement from Lawmakers Slotkin, Kelly, Crow, Deluzio, Goodlander, and Houlahan", "2025-11-20", "2025", "2025-11", "Democrat", "House", "PA", "Chrissy Houlahan", "H001085", "houlahan.house.gov", "houlahan", "https://houlahan.house.gov/press/documentquery.aspx", "page_html", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Today, U.S. Senator Elissa Slotkin (D-MI), Senator Mark Kelly (D-AZ) and Representatives Jason Crow (D-CO-06), Chris Deluzio (D-PA-17), Maggie Goodlander (D-NH-02), and Chrissy Houlahan (D-PA-06) released the following joint statement:\n\n\u201cWe are veterans and national security professionals who love this country and swore an oath to protect and defend the Constitution of the United States. That oath lasts a lifetime, and we intend to keep it. No threat, intimidation, or call for violence will deter us from that sacred obligation.\"\n\n\u201cWhat\u2019s most telling is that the President considers it punishable by death for us to restate the law. Our servicemembers should know that we have their backs as they fulfill their oath to the Constitution and obligation to follow only lawful orders. It is not only the right thing to do, but also our duty.\"\n\n\u201cBut this isn\u2019t about any one of us. This isn\u2019t about politics. This is about who we are as Americans. Every American must unite and condemn the President\u2019s calls for our murder and political violence. This is a time for moral clarity.\"\n\n\u201cIn these moments, fear is contagious, but so is courage. We will continue to lead and will not be intimidated.\"\n\n\u201cDon\u2019t Give Up the Ship!\u201d\n\n--end--", 1, "2026-04-08T14:14:11Z", "2026-04-08T14:23:06Z"], ["https://summerlee.house.gov/newsroom/press-releases/rep-summer-lee-sen-ed-markey-lead-effort-demanding-answers-from-trump-admin-s-failure-to-protect-workers-from-coercive-employer-driven-debt", "Rep. Summer Lee, Sen. Ed Markey Lead Effort Demanding Answers From Trump Admin\u2019s Failure to Protect Workers from Coercive Employer-Driven Debt", "2025-11-20", "2025", "2025-11", "Democrat", "House", "PA", "Summer L. Lee", "L000602", "summerlee.house.gov", "summerlee", "https://summerlee.house.gov/newsroom/press-releases", "scraper", "Text of Letters (PDF)\n\nWASHINGTON, DC \u2013 NOVEMBER 20, 2025 \u2014 Following a series of anti-worker actions taken by the Trump Administration, Congresswoman Summer L. Lee (PA-12) and Senator Edward J. Markey (D-MA) today sent a series of bicameral letters to the leaders of the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB), U.S. Department of Labor (DOL), Federal Trade Commission (FTC), and National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) demanding answers about the administration\u2019s rollback of protections from coercive employment agreements, including training repayment agreement provisions (TRAPs).\n\nThe bicameral letters were signed by 44 additional members of the House and Senate and mark the first time Congress has engaged in an oversight probe into the Trump Administration\u2019s efforts to dismantle worker protections intended to address the growing use of coercive employer-driven debt agreements like TRAPs.\n\nTRAPs have become increasingly prevalent across the United States, with serious consequences for workers. A 2024 study found that 1-in-12 workers in the U.S. are subject to a TRAP, with the percentage growing from 4.1 percent in 2014 to 8.7 percent in 2020. TRAPs are a type of \u201cstay-or-pay\u201d contract scheme that shifts the financial responsibility for training, equipment, and even alleged lost profits onto workers if a worker exits their job before a date set by the employer that can range from months to years. These contracts have been used to hold employees responsible for up to $75,000, and in some instances, exceeds the amount in which a worker was ever compensated.\n\n\"This anti-worker administration has made it clear: the interests of corporations are more important than the wellbeing and economic security of working people,\u201d said Congresswoman Lee. \"These federal rollbacks on protections are draining the pockets of folks who are already bearing the brunt of our cost-of-living crisis and putting their money in the hands of the wealthy. This must be stopped. I\u2019m proud to partner with Senator Markey and our colleagues to hold these bad actors to account.\"\n\n\u201cTRAPs are yet another plot from greedy CEO billionaires to pad their own pockets off the backs of workers. These dangerous schemes rob workers of the fundamental dignity of freedom to leave their jobs if a workplace is unsafe, if they are being sexually harassed, or if they need to take care of themselves or their family,\u201d said Senator Markey. \u201cBy seemingly dropping their enforcement efforts, the Trump administration is yet again prioritizing corporate profits over American workers.\u201d\n\n\u201cThe law is simple: employers are required to pay employees for their work, not the other way around. The growing trend of employers demanding departing workers pay thousands of dollars as a penalty for doing so is just as outrageous as it is illegal. The Trump Administration's rollback of these vital worker protections is a giveaway to massive corporations and bad bosses across the country,\u201d said Mike Pierce, executive director of Protect Borrowers. \u201cProtect Borrowers applauds Congresswoman Lee and Senator Markey for leading this effort to hold MAGA regulators to account and protect workers.\u201d\n\nIn the letters, Lee and Markey say that across the Trump Administration, \u201cfederal regulators and enforcement officials have retreated from a comprehensive, government-wide effort to protect workers from these predatory contracts.\u201d For instance, the letters note that the announcement of a multistate settlement announced in July 2025 with HCA Healthcare disclosed for the first time that the investigation was conducted jointly with the CFPB during the Biden Administration; however, the CFPB was not part of the settlement announced earlier this year, raising concerns that the agency \u201cmay no longer be prioritizing its role in constraining employers\u2019 use of debt to exploit workers.\u201d\n\nThe letters also note that the DOL has been silent on TRAPs since the start of the Trump administration, after years of shining a spotlight on coercive training agreements; similarly, the Trump-led NLRB rescinded key guidance outlining how regional agency offices should approach such agreements. The FTC under Trump has also refused to defend a landmark and broadly popular rule banning noncompete agreements, which are contractual clauses that prevent workers from working for competitors of the employer. These anti-worker, anticompetitive practices\u2013which are common in industries such as tech and healthcare but have even been utilized at Jimmy Johns sandwich shops and PetSmart pet grooming centers\u2013can prevent Americans from getting better, higher-paying jobs.\n\nThe letters to the agency heads request answers to numerous questions related to protecting workers from anticompetitive coercive TRAPs, including: a) the number of investigations or lawsuits related to employer-driven debt or training-related repayment obligations that the CFPB has closed; b) the number of cases regarding stay-or-pay contracts, including TRAPs, that the DOL has withdrawn or settled, as well as a public status update regarding the terms of DOL\u2019s settlement with IT staffing company Smoothstack; c) an explanation of how the FTC\u2019s new approach to one-off enforcement actions will provide a meaningful substitute for the agency\u2019s market-wide non-compete rule; and, d) an explanation of NLRB\u2019s approach to handling complaints involving stay-or-pay contracts, such as TRAPs. The letters request a response from each agency by December 19, 2025.\n\nIn addition to Rep. Lee and Senator Markey, the letters are cosigned by Representatives Alma Adams, Gabe Amo, Becca Balint, Andr\u00e9 Carson, Greg Casar, Danny Davis, Chris Deluzio, Mark DeSaulnier, Dwight Evans, Laura Friedman, Maxwell Frost, Sylvia Garcia, Jimmy Gomez, Eleanor Holmes Norton, Val Hoyle, Jonathan Jackson, Pramila Jayapal, Henry \u201cHank\u201d Johnson, Raja Krishnamoorthi, Ted Lieu, Seth Magaziner, James McGovern, Jerrold Nadler, Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, Ilhan Omar, Mark Pocan, Ayanna Pressley, Delia Ramirez, Jamie Raskin, Bobby Scott, Lateefah Simon, Thomas Suozzi, Rashida Tlaib, and Nydia Vel\u00e1zquez and Senators Richard Blumenthal, Ruben Gallego, Kirsten Gillibrand, Mazie Hirono, Alex Padilla, Jack Reed, Bernie Sanders, Chris Van Hollen , Elizabeth Warren, and Sheldon Whitehouse.\n\nThe letters are endorsed by Protect Borrowers, National Nurses United (NNU), Consumer Federation of America, Towards Justice, National Employment Law Project (NELP), P Street, Open Markets Institute (OMI), Economic Security Project Action, American Federation of Teachers (AFT), American Economic Liberties Project, and Service Employees International Union (SEIU).\n\nA copy of the letters can be found here.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:52:45Z"], ["https://www.fetterman.senate.gov/fetterman-colleagues-demand-trump-administration-to-stop-stalling-toxic-chemical-cleanups-protect-military-families-and-nearby-communities/", "Fetterman, Colleagues Demand Trump Administration to Stop Stalling Toxic Chemical Cleanups, Protect Military Families and Nearby Communities", "2025-11-20", "2025", "2025-11", "Democrat", "Senate", "PA", "John Fetterman", "F000479", "www.fetterman.senate.gov", "fetterman", "https://www.fetterman.senate.gov/press-release/", "scraper", "Trump Administration Delaying Toxic PFAS Chemical Cleanup at Approximately 150 Military Installations, Putting Remediation Efforts on Hold for Nearly a Decade in Some Cases\n\nWASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Yesterday, U.S. Senator John Fetterman (D-PA) joined 27 Senate Democratic colleagues in demanding the Trump administration reverse its decision to delay the cleanup of toxic chemicals at military installations across the country and take action to protect military families and nearby communities by addressing contamination at the affected sites.\n\nIn a letter to Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth, the senators called on the Trump administration to immediately restore the previous timetable for remediating per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) contamination at U.S. military bases and to reverse plans that would further delay long-overdue cleanups.\n\n\u201cFor years, communities contaminated by PFAS from nearby DOD installations in our states have waited for the DOD to take action. We request that the Department reverse its decision, return to the previous timetable released in December 2024, and accelerate efforts to remediate confirmed PFAS contamination,\u201d the senators wrote.\n\nAt least 700 military sites in the United States are known or suspected to have PFAS contamination from Department of Defense (DOD) activities. DOD\u2019s delayed timetable would postpone cleanup efforts at approximately 150 of them, in some cases for nearly a decade. Specifically, DOD pushed back the time frame of the Remedial Investigation/Feasibility Study (RI/FS) phase for these bases, which involves collecting detailed information on the nature and extent of the PFAS contamination and conducting a study to evaluate potential options for cleanup.\n\nPFAS chemicals are widespread contaminants found in many industrial applications and especially around U.S. military installations. PFAS exposure is linked to an array of health problems, including various cancers, reduced immune function, reproductive challenges, birth defects, thyroid issues, and more. The use of PFAS-containing firefighting foam at DOD facilities, and the subsequent stormwater runoff, is a significant source of drinking water pollution. This contamination poses serious health risks to service members and their families, as well as surrounding communities.\n\nSenator Fetterman was joined on the letter by Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY) and Senators Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY), Angela Alsobrooks (D-MD), Michael Bennet (D-CO), Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Cory Booker (D-NJ), Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), Dick Durbin (D-IL), Maggie Hassan (D-NH), Martin Heinrich (D-NM), John Hickenlooper (D-CO), Mark Kelly (D-AZ), Andy Kim (D-NJ), Angus King (I-ME), Ben Ray Luj\u00e1n (D-NM), Jeff Merkley (D-OR), Jon Ossoff (D-GA), Alex Padilla (D-CA), Gary Peters (D-MI), Jacky Rosen (D-NV), Bernie Sanders (I-VT), Brian Schatz (D-HI), Adam Schiff (D-CA), Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), Elissa Slotkin (D-MI), Chris Van Hollen (D-MD), and Ron Wyden (D-OR).\n\nThe full text of the senators\u2019 letter to Secretary Hegseth can be found here.\n\nA full list of military installations affected by the delays can be found here.\n\nA list of the military installations in Pennsylvania affected by the delays can be found below:", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:52:45Z"], ["http://houlahan.house.gov/calendar/eventsingle.aspx?EventID=4820", "Join my 104th Town Hall", "2025-11-19", "2025", "2025-11", "Democrat", "House", "PA", "Chrissy Houlahan", "H001085", "houlahan.house.gov", "houlahan", "https://houlahan.house.gov/news/rss.aspx", "scraper", "West Chester District Office\n\n709 E. Gay Street, Suite 4\n\nWest Chester, PA 19380\n\nPhone: (610) 883-5050\n\nOpen:\n\nMonday-Wednesday\n\n9:00am-5:00pm\n\nOpen by Appointment:\n\nThursday and Friday\n\nS\u00ed, se habla espa\u00f1ol\n\nReading District Office\n\n201 Penn Street, Suite 201\n\nReading, PA 19601\n\nPhone: (610) 295-0815\n\nOpen:\n\nWednesday-Friday\n\n9:00am-5:00pm\n\nOpen by Appointment:\n\nMonday and Tuesday\n\nS\u00ed, se habla espa\u00f1ol", 1, "2026-05-07T13:38:59Z", "2026-05-07T13:40:28Z"], ["https://boyle.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/boyle-ranked-most-effective-democratic-house-member-macroeconomic", "Boyle Ranked Most Effective Democratic House Member on Macroeconomic Policy", "2025-11-19", "2025", "2025-11", "Democrat", "House", "PA", "Brendan F. Boyle", "B001296", "boyle.house.gov", "boyle", "https://boyle.house.gov/media-center/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, DC \u2013 The nonpartisan Center for Effective Lawmaking (CEL) has released its new Interest & Legislative Effectiveness Scores (ILES) for the 118th Congress, finding that Congressman Brendan F. Boyle (PA-02), Ranking Member of the House Budget Committee, is the most effective Democratic lawmaker in the U.S. House on macroeconomic policy.\n\nThis latest recognition follows CEL\u2019s earlier finding that Congressman Boyle is Pennsylvania\u2019s \u201cMost Effective\u201d Democratic member of Congress, underscoring his leadership on budget, tax, and broader economic policy.\n\n\u201cI came to Congress to deliver real results for working families,\u201d said Congressman Boyle. \u201cI\u2019m honored by this recognition from the Center for Effective Lawmaking, and I\u2019ll keep fighting to protect health care, lower costs, and build an economy that works for everyone, not just the wealthy and well-connected.\u201d\n\nCEL\u2019s issue-area scores evaluate how many bills each lawmaker introduces in a given policy area, how far those bills advance through the legislative process, and the substantive importance of those proposals. CEL has published an executive summary of the new ILES rankings as well as an updated searchable database with detailed scores for all members of Congress.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:52:45Z"], ["https://deluzio.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-deluzio-announces-12-million-new-recreation-center-water-treatment", "Congressman Deluzio Announces $1.2 Million for New Recreation Center, Water Treatment System", "2025-11-19", "2025", "2025-11", "Democrat", "House", "PA", "Christopher R. Deluzio", "D000530", "deluzio.house.gov", "deluzio", "https://deluzio.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "CARNEGIE, PA \u2013 Today, Congressman Chris Deluzio (PA-17) announced that two of his requested community projects successfully received more than $1.2 million in federal funding. The Ambridge Borough Recreational Center in Beaver County will receive $1,015,000, and $200,000 will help finance Tarentum\u2019s water treatment plant and pump house upgrades in the A-K Valley. The funding was approved on November 12, 2025.\n\n\"A key part of my job fighting for Western PA is bringing back federal funding. I\u2019ll work with anyone down in Washington and back here at home to make that happen,\u201d said Congressman Deluzio. \u201cI\u2019m proud that this federal funding will help bring better recreation spaces to Ambridge and a stronger water system to Tarentum.\u201d\n\nCongressman Deluzio helped secure $1,015,000 in federal funding for the Ambridge Borough Recreational Center, which will repurpose a former steel mill brownfield site into a regional asset that will promote economic development and provide recreation opportunities for surrounding communities. The facility plans include basketball, pickleball, and volleyball courts; batting cages; basketball shooting machines; a mini shooting gallery for volleyball, futsal, and basketball; a turf field; and multipurpose fields. It will also host sports tournaments and other services like health screenings, educational programs, and job training programs.\n\nDeluzio also helped secure $200,000 in federal funding for the Tarentum Water treatment plant and pump house upgrade project, which will support critical mechanical and electrical upgrades at the municipal water plant. This project modernizes the main pump house by installing smart variable-speed pumps to improve energy efficiency and flow control, replacing aging water lines to ensure reliability and reduce water loss, and upgrading outdated electrical systems to meet current safety and operational standards. These improvements will help improve service delivery to residents and will strengthen long-term infrastructure resilience.\n\nCongressman Deluzio will continue to push to fund his other 2026 requested community projects. His office has already brought home more than $4.6 billion in federal funds, and he will keep up the fight to bring home resources to Western Pennsylvania.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:52:45Z"], ["https://deluzio.house.gov/media/press-releases/monopoly-busters-caucus-chairs-call-meta-monopoly-decision-dead-wrong-and", "Monopoly Busters Caucus Chairs Call Meta Monopoly Decision \u2018Dead Wrong and Dangerous\u2019", "2025-11-19", "2025", "2025-11", "Democrat", "House", "PA", "Christopher R. Deluzio", "D000530", "deluzio.house.gov", "deluzio", "https://deluzio.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "\u201cToday\u2019s ruling letting Meta off the hook is dead wrong and dangerous. It's a judicial rubber stamp for unchecked monopoly power. Meta didn\u2019t succeed by building the best social media network, it bought or buried every serious rival and then exploited its monopoly without accountability.\n\n\u201cThe results speak for themselves. Repeated privacy disasters. The theft of millions of people\u2019s data for political manipulation. Algorithms that worsen teenage mental health and amplify hate. Constant ads served based on surveillance of people\u2019s lives and friendships. Terrible for America but very profitable for Meta.\n\n\u201cReal competition isn\u2019t just another app on your phone. It\u2019s the freedom to delete without getting shut out of the conversation. This decision proves our antitrust laws are stuck in a pre-internet age. An appeal is the bare minimum. We need to modernize the law before a single company controls both today\u2019s conversations and tomorrow\u2019s minds.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:52:45Z"], ["https://deluzio.house.gov/media/press-releases/bipartisan-members-congress-launch-federal-push-fund-ohio-river-restoration", "Bipartisan Members of Congress Launch Federal Push to Fund Ohio River Restoration", "2025-11-18", "2025", "2025-11", "Democrat", "House", "PA", "Christopher R. Deluzio", "D000530", "deluzio.house.gov", "deluzio", "https://deluzio.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Congressman Morgan McGarvey (KY-03) led introduction of the Ohio River Restoration Program Act with Reps. Chris Deluzio (PA-17), Erin Houchin (IN-09), Emilia Sykes (OH-13), Mike Rulli (OH-06), and Mark Messmer (IN-08) to fund the economic and environmental restoration of the Ohio River.\n\nThe bipartisan coalition of Members represents districts throughout the Ohio River Basin, which spans 55 congressional districts across 15 states. The Ohio 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\u201cThe Ohio River is a lifeline for so many communities in Pennsylvania\u2019s 17th Congressional District,\u201d said Rep. Deluzio. \u201cFrom drinking water, to commerce and recreation, and more\u2014our prosperity relies on a clean and healthy Ohio River. There\u2019s a lot of good work happening to help improve the resilience and livability of our river\u2014but not a lot of funding to get things done. I\u2019m 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\n\n\u201cThe Ohio River is an economic engine that powers industries and supports billions in nationwide commerce, but at home in the River City, it\u2019s our lifeblood \u2013 it\u2019s the water we drink, it\u2019s the way we make a living, it\u2019s a place to keep traditions alive and find community with our neighbors,\u201d said Congressman McGarvey. \u201cAnd yet, our local communities who rely on it most and have helped sustain this vital resource for years still haven't gotten a dime in dedicated federal funding to properly protect and restore this critical resource right in our backyard. The Ohio River has been overlooked for far too long, and it\u2019s time for it to get the attention and investment it deserves.\u201d\n\n\u201cThe Ohio River is critical to our way of life in Southern Indiana,\u201d said Rep. Houchin. \u201cIt 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. I 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\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\u2019m 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\u201cI am proud to co-lead this vital legislation and thank Rep. McGarvey for introducing it,\u201d said Rep. Rulli. \u201cFor generations, the Ohio River has served as the backbone of Ohio\u2019s 6th Congressional District and an economic lifeline for our nation, playing a crucial role in settling America and building us into an economic powerhouse. 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\n\n\"The Ohio River Basin is essential to not only the health of thousands of Hoosier residents, but to the vitality of southern Indiana's agricultural and industrial communities,\u201d said Rep. Messmer. \u201cThe conservation network in Indiana's 8th Congressional District has worked tirelessly to preserve access to recreation within the basin and reinforce existing ecosystems. I am proud to bolster their investments in one of America's most impactful watersheds by supporting the Ohio River Basin Restoration Program Act.\"\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\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:52:45Z"], ["https://houlahan.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=4836", "Houlahan Votes to Release the Epstein Files", "2025-11-18", "2025", "2025-11", "Democrat", "House", "PA", "Chrissy Houlahan", "H001085", "houlahan.house.gov", "houlahan", "https://houlahan.house.gov/press/documentquery.aspx", "page_html", "Washington, D.C. \u2014 Today, Representative Chrissy Houlahan (PA-06) voted in favor of releasing the Epstein files. The motion passed 427 to one.\n\n\u201cSurvivors of Jeffrey Epstein\u2019s child sex-trafficking crime ring have waited far too long for transparency and accountability,\u201d said Rep. Houlahan. \u201cThey deserve the truth, and we all deserve a justice system that doesn\u2019t shield the powerful and well-connected.\u201d\n\n--end--", 1, "2026-04-08T14:14:11Z", "2026-04-08T14:23:06Z"], ["https://houlahan.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=4837", "Houlahan and House Colleagues Introduce the Biomanufacturing Excellence Act", "2025-11-18", "2025", "2025-11", "Democrat", "House", "PA", "Chrissy Houlahan", "H001085", "houlahan.house.gov", "houlahan", "https://houlahan.house.gov/press/documentquery.aspx", "page_html", "Today, U.S. Representative Chrissy Houlahan and House colleagues Jim Baird (R-Ind.), David Rouzer (R-N.C.), and Deborah Ross (D-N.C.) introduced the Biomanufacturing Excellence Act, which would promote U.S. leadership in biotechnology and strengthen domestic biopharmaceutical manufacturing. Companion legislation is being led in the U.S. Senate by Senators Chris Coons (D-Del.) and Ted Budd (R-N.C.)\n\nBiotechnology will shape how the United States defends itself, secures its food supply, and cures life-threatening diseases. The National Security Commission on Emerging Biotechnology (NSCEB) warned that without rapid and significant investment, the U.S. will fall behind its global competitors, specifically China. China\u2019s share of global pharmaceutical output has surged from about 5% in 2002 to nearly 25% in 2019. This legislation reinvests in domestic biopharmaceutical manufacturing, reducing dependence on unreliable foreign supply chains, expanding access to cutting-edge medicines, and supporting high-quality American jobs.\n\nThe Biomanufacturing Excellence Act would establish a public-private center dedicated to advancing biopharmaceutical manufacturing \u2013 a key recommendation from the National Security Commission on Emerging Biotechnology (NSCEB) report.\n\nSpecifically, the National Biopharmaceutical Manufacturing Center of Excellence would:\n\nUnite industry professionals with academic researchers to conduct collaborative research on new technology for scaling biopharmaceutical manufacturing.\n\nHost a facility that replicates industrial manufacturing conditions and complies with FDA Current Good Manufacturing Practice (CGMP) regulations, where innovators would develop and test new manufacturing processes.\n\nIdentify challenges and opportunities for scaling biopharmaceutical manufacturing, especially for products important to U.S. national security, public health, and economic security.\n\nTrain tomorrow\u2019s biopharmaceutical manufacturing workforce by partnering with educational, industry, and community leaders to bolster biotechnology talent.\n\n\"Southeastern Pennsylvania has a storied history as a global leader in the life sciences. Yet too many of our breakthroughs struggle to reach patients and markets because we lack the biomanufacturing capacity to scale and commercialize them. That gap threatens jobs, our regional competitiveness, and our access to medicines, applications, solutions and treatments Americans and our nation need. Our bipartisan Biomanufacturing Excellence Act tackles this head-on by creating a national Center of Excellence to drive innovation in biopharmaceutical manufacturing. The bill would cut costs, speed production, and grow our biotech workforce here in our Commonwealth. As competitors like the Chinese Communist Party race to dominate this space, we cannot afford to fall behind,\u201d said Representative Chrissy Houlahan.\n\n\u201cA strong domestic biopharmaceutical manufacturing industry is vital to developing innovative treatments to cure and manage diseases, improving public health, and securing our supply chains,\u201d said Congressman Baird. \u201cCommunist China has been closing the innovation gap with the U.S., creating an urgent need for strengthening our domestic biomanufacturing capabilities. I\u2019m proud to join Congresswoman Houlahan on this bipartisan legislation to reduce our reliance on an adversary for life-saving treatments, encourage innovation in biopharmaceutical manufacturing, and ensure our country continues to lead the world in finding groundbreaking cures.\u201d\n\n\u201cBiotechnology is rapidly reshaping national defense, health security, and our economy\u2019s resilience. As home to one of the strongest biotech and biomanufacturing ecosystems in the country, North Carolina has demonstrated how innovation can strengthen America\u2019s ability to develop and produce life-saving medicines,\u201d said Congressman Rouzer. \u201cThe Biomanufacturing Excellence Act reaffirms our commitment to expanding that capacity here at home. By supporting public-private collaboration and growing our domestic manufacturing base, this legislation ensures the United States can remain competitive, reduce reliance on foreign supply chains, and equip the next generation of biotechnology leaders to drive our nation forward.\u201d\n\n\u201cNorth Carolina is a national leader in biotechnology and innovation,\u201d said Congresswoman Deborah Ross. \u201cOur state is home to world-class researchers and companies, who are changing the future of medicine and stand ready to spearhead our country\u2019s leadership in biomanufacturing. Investing in innovation here at home will strengthen our supply chains, make our communities more secure, bolster our economy, and help save lives. I\u2019m proud to join a bipartisan group of colleagues in introducing this important legislation that will invest in the future of medicine.\u201d\n\n\u201cDelaware and innovation have always gone hand in hand,\u201d said Senator Coons. \u201cThe extraordinary biomedical research that happens in the First State has grown our economy, turned start-ups into industry leaders, and saved lives around the world. China is surging ahead in biotechnology, putting our national security, economy, and health at risk. This bipartisan bill will ensure the United States continues to lead the world in biotech manufacturing, protecting Americans\u2019 security and our health.\u201d\n\n\u201cNot only is biomanufacturing a key pillar of America's and North Carolina\u2019s innovation economy, it has the potential to transform major aspects of everyday life. We must foster this critical technology and continue to lead the world in enabling life-saving medical breakthroughs, fortifying our critical supply chains, and creating good-paying, high-skilled jobs. I am proud to partner with Senator Coons to help build on the public-private partnerships that have unlocked significant economic potential and unleashed next-generation technology,\u201d said Senator Budd.\n\nThe bill is endorsed by the National Security Commission on Emerging Biotechnology (NSCEB), the Delaware BioScience Association, the Biotechnology Innovation Organization, the Information Technology and Innovation Foundation (ITIF), NCLifeSci and NCBiotech, Life Sciences Pennsylvania, and the American Alliance for Biomanufacturing.\n\n\"I am grateful to our congressional partners for their strong commitment to the future of U.S. biotechnology leadership and their introduction of this important legislation,\u201d said NSCEB Vice Chair Michelle Rozo. \u201cIn our report, we found that advancing innovation in the biopharmaceutical sector is essential to catalyzing full-scale production for new medicines in the United States, and this center would bring together industry, academia, and government to do just that. Through our Biotech Across America roadshow, I\u2019ve had the opportunity to personally visit biotech hubs around the country to see the impact this type of cutting-edge biomanufacturing innovation can have on U.S. national, health, and economic security.\u201d\n\n\u201cThe United States must remain the global leader in biopharmaceuticals and advanced manufacturing to safeguard our nation\u2019s health, economic vitality and national security. The National Biopharmaceutical Manufacturing Center of Excellence will help drive this mission forward by aligning industry, academia and workforce partners to test new technologies under real manufacturing conditions and train skilled professionals for great careers \u2013 ultimately accelerating innovation, lowering costs and getting more life-changing therapies to patients faster,\u201d said Michael Fleming, President and CEO, Delaware BioScience Association.\n\n\u201cITIF supports the bipartisan Biomanufacturing Excellence Act, which would create a National Biopharmaceutical Manufacturing Center of Excellence that would convene industry, academic, and government stakeholders to ensure that America leads in the biomanufacturing revolution of the future. With experts estimating that 60 percent of the world\u2019s physical inputs could be made using biological processes going forward, biomanufacturing won\u2019t just transform the future of medicines, but also everything from energy, to food, to industrial manufacturing. The Biomanufacturing Excellence Act will help equip the United States with the technology, workforce, and knowhow to achieve leadership in this critical emerging field,\u201da statement from the Information Technology and Innovation Foundation (ITIF) reads.\n\n\u201cThe creation of a National Biopharmaceutical Manufacturing Center of Excellence is pivotal to advancing US leadership in bioprocess innovation, supply chain resiliency, and workforce competitiveness. We greatly appreciate Congressional leadership in recognizing the importance of biomanufacturing to national and economic security. For over four decades, North Carolina has created an integrated ecosystem focused on a steadfast commitment to life sciences manufacturing, establishing the state as a global leader with over $17 Billion of investment and 7,500 jobs announced since 2021. This success is built on a community of partners that work to seamlessly integrate world-class institutions of innovation with over 150 life sciences manufacturing companies, forming a uniquely dense hub for accelerating the translation of cutting-edge biomanufacturing innovations to scaled commercial outputs,\u201d a joint statement from NCLifeSci and NCBiotech reads.\n\n\u201cWe are living in an extraordinary era for biotechnology\u2014one where innovation, data-driven insights, and public-private partnerships are transforming what\u2019s possible for patients. Maintaining U.S. leadership in this sector is critical for our economic and national security. The Biotechnology Innovation Organization applauds Senators Chris Coons and Ted Budd, and Representatives Chrissy Houlahan, David Rouzer, Deborah Ross, and Jim Baird for introducing legislation that will help grow and expand the biotechnology sector to more communities across the country and better position the U.S. to develop and manufacture the next generation of medical advances,\u201d said the Biotechnology Innovation Organization.\n\n\"Pennsylvania's collaborative life sciences ecosystem has made our commonwealth a national leader in biopharmaceutical manufacturing for decades. We recognize the importance of the bipartisan and bicameral Biopharmaceutical Manufacturing Center of Excellence Act. This legislation will help incentivize and protect national security as well as ensure a steadfast supply chain in delivering treatments and therapeutics in Pennsylvania, across the Country, and around the world,\u201dsaid Christopher P. Molineaux, President and CEO of Life Sciences PA.\n\n\u201cThe Biomanufacturing Excellence Act is a decisive investment in America\u2019s health, security, and economic strength. The American Alliance for Biomanufacturing is proud to support this effort to bring cutting-edge biomanufacturing back home,\u201dsaid Brooke Coleman, Executive Director, American Alliance for Biomanufacturing.\n\n# # #\n\nThe full text of the bill is available here.", 1, "2026-04-08T14:14:11Z", "2026-04-08T14:23:06Z"], ["https://houlahan.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=4843", "Congress Passes Bill to Simplify Air Travel for Parents with Breast Milk", "2025-11-18", "2025", "2025-11", "Democrat", "House", "PA", "Chrissy Houlahan", "H001085", "houlahan.house.gov", "houlahan", "https://houlahan.house.gov/press/documentquery.aspx", "page_html", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2014 Congressman Eric Swalwell (D-CA) announced that the House of Representatives passed the Bottles and Breastfeeding Equipment Screening (BABES) Enhancement Act unanimously on November 17, a bipartisan victory that will make air travel safer, more consistent, and more humane for parents traveling with breast milk, formula, and feeding equipment. The bill will now go to the President to be signed into law.\n\nThe BABES Act is co-led in the House by U.S. Representatives Maria Salazar (R-FL), Brittany Pettersen (D-CO), and Anna Paulina Luna (R-FL). U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL) introduced companion legislation in the Senate, co-led by Senators Ted Cruz (R-TX), Steve Daines (R-MT), and Mazie K. Hirono (D-HI).\n\nThe legislation requires the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) to strengthen and streamline its screening protocols for breast milk, formula, and related feeding equipment. These improvements will ensure parents can navigate airport security without unnecessary delays, confusion, or the risk of damaging essential nutrition products.\n\n\u201cAs a husband and father, I know how overwhelming traveling with a newborn can be. Having a baby in your arms is already a challenge and the last thing mothers should worry about is whether their breast milk or formula will be mishandled at the checkpoint,\u201d said Congressman Swalwell. \u201cThis is a huge win for traveling mothers. The BABES Act ensures TSA officers receive proper training and follow robust hygienic standards so parents can travel with confidence. This is about giving families peace of mind and making sure babies have the nutrition they need. I\u2019m proud this bill passed the House with overwhelming bipartisan support.\u201d\n\n\u201cI am proud to co-lead this much-needed law to protect families and the essential breastmilk, formula and baby food their children depend on,\" said Congresswoman Salazar. \"For years, I\u2019ve heard heartbreaking stories of parents and breastfeeding mothers facing inconsistent policies at airport checkpoints, because of the absence of clear TSA standards. That's wrong, and the government should never stand between parents and their child's nourishment while traveling. This bill guarantees clear rules, proper training, and full transparency so parents can travel knowing their baby food will be protected, not mishandled or thrown away.\u201d\n\n\u201cAs a mom, I know firsthand how difficult it can be to travel when you are breastfeeding or worried about how to feed your child,\u201d said Congresswoman Pettersen. \u201cLike so many moms, I've experienced the frustration of having to throw out milk or pumping supplies, despite them being TSA-approved. Outdated regulations or lack of training shouldn\u2019t add to an already stressful situation. We need clear policies about how TSA handles breast milk, baby formula, and pumping supplies so parents can travel without worrying that they will be confiscated, contaminated or mishandled. I\u2019m glad to see it pass in the House with bipartisan support, a commonsense step to support families and keep our kids safe and healthy.\u201d\n\n\u201cAs a mother, I understand how stressful traveling with a young child can already be,\u201d said Congresswoman Luna. \u201cParents should not have to worry about whether TSA will mishandle breast milk or formula. The BABES Act brings needed consistency, hygiene, and common sense to these screenings so families can travel with confidence. I am glad to join my colleagues in advancing this bipartisan, pro-family legislation.\u201d\n\n\u201cAfter pushing for this for years, I\u2019m proud that Congress passed this long-overdue legislation to make it easier for new moms to travel with their breast milk and the breastfeeding equipment they need to pump and feed their babies,\u201d said Senator Duckworth. \u201cOur bipartisan legislation will ensure the TSA keeps its employees up to speed on their own policies and updates those policies as necessary. It\u2019s the least we can do to help parents travel through airports with the dignity and respect they deserve.\u201d\n\nBackground & Need for the Legislation\n\nUnsanitary screenings of breast milk and formula put infants at risk. Lactating parents must breastfeed or pump every few hours to avoid complications like clogged ducts or mastitis. Clear standards and consistent TSA training are essential to keeping families safe.\n\nThe BABES Act will require TSA to:\n\nDevelop clear, updated guidelines for screening breast milk, formula, and feeding equipment in consultation with nationally recognized maternal health organizations;\n\nEnsure TSA officers receive enhanced and consistent training on these procedures;\n\nImprove communication with parents about their rights at security checkpoints;\n\nUpdate its guidance every five years to reflect changing needs and technology.\n\nThe bill also directs an independent government watchdog to audit TSA\u2019s compliance with these policies to ensure accountability and prevent improper handling, like the incident experienced by Emily Calandrelli, host of Emily\u2019s Wonder Lab, whose story helped inspire this legislation.\n\nThe BABES Enhancement Act is endorsed by March of Dimes, the Association of Maternal and Child Health Programs, the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, MomsRising, and the Society for Maternal-Fetal Medicine.\n\nIt is also cosponsored by Reps. Andr\u00e9 Carson (D-IN), Bonnie Watson Coleman (D-NJ), Brian Fitzpatrick (R-PA), Andrew Garbarino (R-NY), Ra\u00fal M. Grijalva (D-AZ), Jennifer McClellan (D-VA), Tim Kennedy (D-NY), LaMonica McIver (D-NJ), Eleanor Holmes Norton (D-DC), Shri Thanedar (D-MI), Rashida Tlaib (D-MI), Debbie Dingell (D-MI), Paul Tonko (D-NY), Julie Johnson (D-TX), Seth Magaziner (D-RI), Chrissy Houlahan (D-PA), Ryan Mackenzie (R-PA), Luis Correa (D-CA), Nellie Pou (D-NJ), George Latimer (D-NY), Tom Suozzi (D-NY), Lauren Underwood (D-IL), and Josh Gotteimer (D-NJ).\n\n###", 1, "2026-04-08T14:14:11Z", "2026-04-08T14:23:06Z"], ["https://scanlon.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=1977", "Scanlon Presses Social Security Administration Regarding Rule Changes Threatening Ability of Supplemental Security Income Recipients to Live With Family", "2025-11-18", "2025", "2025-11", "Democrat", "House", "PA", "Mary Gay Scanlon", "S001205", "scanlon.house.gov", "scanlon", "https://scanlon.house.gov/news/", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2014 Congresswoman Mary Gay Scanlon (PA-05) and Rep. Danny Davis (IL-07), Ranking Member of the Ways & Means Subcommittee on Work and Welfare, today led 73 House Democrats in raising objections to Social Security Commissioner Frank Bisignano regarding a proposed change that would limit eligibility for disabled adults and children receiving Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits.\n\n\u201cAlmost 8 million Americans rely on SSI to afford basic necessities like food and shelter \u2013 all of these SSI recipients are older Americans, people with disabilities, or children. Given the vulnerability of those relying on SSI benefits, we must take care to do no harm,\u201d the members wrote. \u201cCutting these benefits \u2013 especially at a time of rapid inflation and a rising cost-of-living \u2013 threatens to inflict extreme hardship and immediate poverty on thousands of individuals and families.\u201d\n\nThe 2024 rule recognized that low-income and disabled individuals often rely on family or community members for assistance by expanding the definition of what was considered a \u201cpublic assistance household.\u201d The final rule also removed barriers that unnecessarily penalized individuals for receiving familial support. Further, by simplifying the SSI application, the final rule simultaneously helped seniors and people with disabilities, as well as improved the efficiency of SSI processing. As a result, almost 400,000 additional struggling households qualified for SSI or received increased benefits. The proposed change could cause hundreds of thousands of SSI recipients, including disabled adults and children, to have their benefits cut or lose eligibility entirely.\n\n\u201cFamilies would be discouraged from offering help to their loved ones for fear of jeopardizing their benefits. Seniors, persons with disabilities, and children deserve to live at home with family who love them. The proposed change shamefully threatens already-struggling families with the impossible choice of loss of disability benefits versus homelessness or institutionalization. Cutting this essential support will tear families apart by penalizing SSI recipients for staying with their loved ones,\u201d the members continued.\n\n\u201cThe SSA has claimed that reversing this rule will 'promote program integrity,' but it has failed to provide any information on the expected impact of this policy or any numbers on how much these cuts would actually save,\u201d the members concluded.\n\nThe members requested the following information regarding this rule change:\n\nPlease provide any documents or analysis estimating the number of households that will see their benefits cut as a result of this rule change.\n\nHow many individuals are estimated to live in these households?\n\nHow many of these individuals are disabled?\n\nHow many of these individuals are seniors?\n\nHow many of these individuals are terminally ill?\n\nHow many of these individuals are children?\n\nHow many of these individuals are children with severe disabilities?\n\nHow many of these individuals have no other source of income?\n\nWhat is the average benefit cut under this rule reversal?\n\nHow many individuals will lose their health insurance as a result of this policy?\n\nWhat is the total estimated \u201csavings\u201d from this rule change? How are these \u201csavings\u201d determined? Do these savings include additional administrative costs incurred by SSA as a result of the rule change?\n\nWhat will be the administrative costs that SSA incurs as a result of this rule change?\n\nHas your agency calculated the potential extraneous costs associated with cutting or eliminating these benefits, including but not limited to, increased burden on foster care systems, hospitals, policing, food and housing shelters, etc.? What are these costs?\n\nDid the Administration consult experts, medical professionals or families who will be affected by the policy prior to announcement? Please provide details of those consultations.\n\nHow much will this policy increase workloads for SSA staff at local offices? Please provide specific details on the impact this policy will have on waiting times for appointments and claims processing.\n\nPlease describe SSA's plans to implement the rule change, including drafting clear notices, staffing benefits reviews, and handling telephone and field office inquiries.\n\nPlease provide historical data from 1980 forward on SSI recipients living in public income maintenance (PIM) households, both in raw numbers and as a percentage of SSI enrollment.\n\nPlease provide data on how many public assistance households currently rely on each of the following programs/payments:\n\nTANF\n\nRefugee Act need payments\n\nDisaster Relief and Emergency Assistance Act\n\nGeneral assistance programs of the Bureau of Indian Affairs\n\nState or local government assistance programs based on need\n\nDepartment of Veterans Affairs programs (payments based on need).\n\nPlease provide any additional information about the budgetary and human impacts of these changes that your agency took into account when designing these proposed changes.\n\nThe letter is endorsed by Democratic Women\u2019s Caucus and co-signed by Reps. John Larson (CT-01), Don Beyer (VA-08), Brendan Boyle (PA-02), Judy Chu (CA-28), Suzan DelBene (WA-01), Lloyd Doggett (TX-35), Dwight Evans (PA-03), Jimmy Gomez (CA-34), Gwen Moore (WI-04), Steven Horsford (NV-04), Jimmy Panetta (CA-19), Stacey Plaskett (VI-AL), Linda Sanchez (CA-39), Bradley Schneider (IL-10), Terri Sewell (AL-07), Thomas Suozzi (NY-03), Mike Thompson (CA-04), Becca Balint (VT-AL), Andre Carson (IN-07), Gilbert Cisneros (CA-31), Steve Cohen (TN-09), Sharice Davids (KS-03), Diana DeGette (CO-01), Maxine Dexter (OR-03), Debbie Dingell (MI-06), Cleo Fields (LA-06), Valerie Foushee (NC-04), Maxwell Frost (FL-10), Sylvia Garcia (TX-29), Dan Goldman (NY-10), Josh Gottheimer (NJ-05), Al Green (TX-09), Chrissy Houlahan (PA-06), Jared Huffman (CA-02), Jonathan Jackson (IL-01), Pramila Jayapal (WA-07), Marcy Kaptur (OH-09), Robin Kelly (IL-02), Timothy Kennedy (NY-26), Summer Lee (PA-12), Ted Lieu (CA-36), Seth Magaziner (RI-02), Betty McCollum (MI-04), James McGovern (MA-02), Rob Menendez (NJ-08), Grace Meng (NY-06), Seth Moulton (MA-06), Kevin Mullin (CA-15), Jerrold Nadler (NY-12), Eleanor Norton-Holmes (DC-AL), Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (NY-14), Brittany Pettersen (CO-07), Chellie Pingree (ME-01), Delia Ramirez (IL-03), Emily Randall (WA-06), Jamie Raskin (MD-08), Deborah Ross (NC-02), Jan Schakowsky (IL-09), Lateefah Simon(CA-12), Adam Smith (WA-09), Eric Swalwell (CA-14), Shri Thanedar (MI-13), Dina Titus (NV-03), Rashida Tlaib (MI-12), Paul Tonko (NY-20), Ritchie Torres (NY-15), Juan Vargas (CA-52), Marc Veasey (TX-33), Nydia Velazquez (NY-12), Debbie Wasserman Schultz (FL-25), Bonnie Watson-Coleman (NJ-12), and Frederica Wilson (FL-24).\n\nFind full text of the letter here.\n\n###", 1, "2026-04-04T05:28:40Z", "2026-04-04T05:30:10Z"], ["https://summerlee.house.gov/newsroom/press-releases/rep-summer-lee-condemns-trump-administration-s-move-to-dismantle-department-of-education", "Rep. Summer Lee Condemns Trump Administration\u2019s Move to Dismantle Department of Education", "2025-11-18", "2025", "2025-11", "Democrat", "House", "PA", "Summer L. Lee", "L000602", "summerlee.house.gov", "summerlee", "https://summerlee.house.gov/newsroom/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, DC \u2013 NOVEMBER 18, 2025 \u2014 Today, Congresswoman Summer L. Lee (PA-12) issued the following statement in response to the Trump Administrationdismantling major components of the U.S. Department of Education through interagency agreements:\n\n\u201cThe Trump Administration\u2019s latest effort toward dismantling the Department of Education is a direct assault on the students, families, and educators who depend on its essential protections. Even Education Secretary Linda McMahon has acknowledged that only Congress has the authority to eliminate the Department. Trump and his administration understand the harm this will inflict on classrooms across the country, but they simply do not care. Cruelty is the point for them, and we\u2019ve said it again and again because this administration does little else but sow chaos and hurt the most vulnerable. Our children deserve better than political stunts that jeopardize their futures. And let\u2019s be clear: an uneducated electorate isn\u2019t a by-product of authoritarianism \u2014 it\u2019s a prerequisite for it. We will fight back.\u201d\n\nThroughout her time in Congress, Congresswoman Summer Lee has been afierce advocate for strengthening and defending public education, fighting to ensure every child has access to safe,well-resourced schools and the opportunities they deserve. She has consistentlypushed for investment in public schools, greater support for teachers and staff, and protections for the civil rights of students\u2014particularly those from marginalized and underserved communities. Lee has been vocal against efforts to privatize orundermine public education and has championed policies that expand access to early childhood education, affordable higher education, and student debt relief.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:52:45Z"], ["https://summerlee.house.gov/newsroom/press-releases/rep-summer-lee-launches-investigation-into-doj-for-dropping-corporate-criminal-cases-with-trump-connections", "Rep. Summer Lee Launches Investigation into DOJ for Dropping Corporate Criminal Cases with Trump Connections", "2025-11-18", "2025", "2025-11", "Democrat", "House", "PA", "Summer L. Lee", "L000602", "summerlee.house.gov", "summerlee", "https://summerlee.house.gov/newsroom/press-releases", "scraper", "Text of Letter (PDF)\n\nWASHINGTON, DC \u2013 NOVEMBER 18, 2025 \u2014 Today, Congresswoman Summer L. Lee (PA-12), Ranking Member of the Subcommittee on Federal Law Enforcement, launched an investigation into the Department of Justice (DOJ) for its concerning failure to fully prosecute large corporations that have violated the law. Reports indicate that major donors to Trump have been given leniency under this administration. The investigation comes as a criminal charge against Boeing\u2014which donated $1 million to Trump\u2019s inauguration fund\u2014was dropped. The corporation was facing prosecution for the two fatal 737 MAX plane crashes that killed 346 people.\n\nIn a letter to Attorney General Pam Bondi, Rep. Lee demanded information and documents concerning corporate criminal enforcement and rationales for each case that has been declined, paused, or resolved through prosecution or non-prosecution agreements. An investigation by Public Citizen found that 30 corporations that faced federal investigations by DOJ collectively gave $29.5 million to President Trump\u2019s inauguration fund.\n\n\u201cThe Department of Justice (DOJ) has an obligation to uphold the laws of this country. No person or corporation should be above the law, regardless of how many resources or how much money they may have. Yet DOJ has increasingly failed to fully prosecute large corporations,\u201d wrote Rep. Lee. \u201cWhen corporations break the law and exploit the American people, they must be held to account. It is your duty as attorney general to uphold the laws of this country, regardless of who committed the wrongdoing and how much support they have given to the Trump Administration.\u201d\n\nRep. Lee is requesting the DOJ provide the following information and documents by no later than December 2, 2025:\n\nAll memoranda, directives, guidance, communications, or other materials created, transmitted, or received by DOJ from January 20, 2025, to the present concerning the use of deferred prosecution agreements and non-prosecution agreements under corporate criminal enforcement;\n\nAll memoranda, directives, guidance, communications, or other materials created, transmitted, or received by DOJ from January 20, 2025, to the present concerning declinations under corporate criminal enforcement;\n\nAll communications created, transmitted, or received by DOJ from January 20, 2025, to the present from the Executive Office of the President regarding pending criminal cases against corporations;\n\nRecords of complaints or objections received by DOJ from alleged victims in the corporate criminal cases that have been declined, paused, or resolved through prosecution agreements or non-prosecution agreements since January 20, 2025;\n\nA detailed list and comprehensive explanation of DOJ\u2019s rationale for each of the corporate criminal cases that have been declined, paused, or received prosecution agreements or non-prosecution agreements since January 20, 2025; and\n\nA detailed and comprehensive list of any and all oversight mechanisms that are currently in place to ensure that there are no conflicts of interest or quid pro quo agreements between President Trump, members of his family, the Trump Organization, and the corporations facing investigation or prosecution.\n\nFull letter text is available here.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:52:45Z"], ["https://summerlee.house.gov/newsroom/press-releases/rep-summer-lee-statement-on-vote-to-release-epstein-files", "Rep. Summer Lee Statement on Vote to Release Epstein Files", "2025-11-18", "2025", "2025-11", "Democrat", "House", "PA", "Summer L. Lee", "L000602", "summerlee.house.gov", "summerlee", "https://summerlee.house.gov/newsroom/press-releases", "scraper", "DOJ Still Legally Compelled to Release Files after Rep. Lee Forced Motion to Subpoena in July\n\nWASHINGTON, DC \u2013 NOVEMBER 18, 2025 \u2014 Today, Congresswoman Summer L. Lee (PA-12) released the following statement in response to the passage of the Epstein Files Transparency Act in the House of Representatives:\n\n\u201cToday\u2019s passage of the Epstein Files Transparency Act puts every Representative on record and brings us one step further to providing justice and transparency for the survivors and the American people. It is a testament to the power of the people who pressured their government to take action.\n\n\u201cLet\u2019s not forget: The Department of Justice is already compelled to release the Epstein files to the Oversight Committee because of my motion to subpoena, and they have slow-walked their release for months. Trump also has the power to compel the DOJ to release the files immediately and has failed to do so.\n\n\u201cNow, the Senate must take up this bill and it must be signed into law. No matter how wealthy or well-connected, every person who is complicit, enabled, or abused women and girls will be brought to justice.\u201d\n\nCongresswoman Lee has continued to push for truth and transparency around the Epstein files, as demanded by Epstein\u2019s victims and the American people. The motion to subpoena the Epstein files was initially introduced by Rep. Summer Lee during a House Oversight subcommittee hearing in July. It passed with an 8-2 vote, with three Republicans joining Oversight Democrats.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:52:45Z"], ["https://summerlee.house.gov/newsroom/press-releases/rep-summer-lee-denounces-gop-attacks-on-dc-autonomy-and-public-safety-in-house-rules-committee-testimony", "Rep. Summer Lee Denounces GOP Attacks on D.C. Autonomy and Public Safety in House Rules Committee Testimony", "2025-11-17", "2025", "2025-11", "Democrat", "House", "PA", "Summer L. Lee", "L000602", "summerlee.house.gov", "summerlee", "https://summerlee.house.gov/newsroom/press-releases", "scraper", "\u201cIf Donald Trump wants to run DC, he should resign from the presidency and run for mayor.\u201d\n\nVideo of Testimony\n\nPITTSBURGH, PA \u2013 NOVEMBER 17, 2025 \u2014 Today, Congresswoman Summer L. Lee (PA-12) testified before the House Rules Committee to oppose two Republican-led bills that would strip Washington, D.C. residents of their right to self-governance, roll back police accountability reforms, and reimpose discriminatory cash bail practices.\n\nThe bills under consideration \u2014 H.R. 5107, the \u201cCommon-Sense Law Enforcement and Accountability Now (CLEAN) in D.C. Act,\u201d and H.R. 5214, the \u201cDistrict of Columbia Cash Bail Reform Act\u201d \u2014 represent what Lee called a \u201cridiculous overreach\u201d by the federal government into local D.C. affairs.\n\n\u201cIt is completely unbelievable that we are here today yet again to micromanage Washington, D.C.,\u201d said Rep. Lee in her opening statement. \u201cThe people handling D.C.\u2019s government should be local leaders who are accountable to the people who live here and who actually know the city \u2014 not some Member of Congress who has never left Capitol Hill or Navy Yard neighborhoods. If Donald Trump wants to run D.C., he should resign from the presidency and run for mayor. And my Republican colleagues are welcome to run for D.C. Council.\u201d\n\nLee sharply criticized Republicans for putting Americans\u2019 health and safety at risk during a 42-day government shutdown, even as they now claim to be acting in the name of public safety. \u201c Republicans have shown a lack of ability to govern the federal government, yet they want to take on local issues,\u201d Lee said, adding that \u201cmillions of Americans are seeing huge spikes in health insurance costs of up to 114%, and Republicans refuse to act.\u201d\n\nOn the District of Columbia Cash Bail Reform Act, Lee said:\n\n\u201cUnder this bill, if you are charged with certain crimes, you will automatically be locked up before your trial. For other crimes, the bill will require cash bail or a bond. This will make D.C.\u2019s local law far stricter than federal law. You shouldn\u2019t automatically be locked up based on a criminal charge, before you are proven guilty. It seems Republicans have forgotten about innocent until proven guilty and the Fifth Amendment \u2014 core tenets of our democracy.\u201d\n\nOn the CLEAN D.C. Act, which repeals D.C.\u2019s 2022 Comprehensive Policing and Justice Reform law, Lee stated:\n\n\u201cThese measures increased accountability for bad actors. They improved training for police officers. They strengthened independent civilian oversight and expanded public access to body-worn camera footage. None of these reforms are radical anti-police measures. They are the first, small steps toward justice \u2014 and this bill repeals all of that.\u201d\n\nLee urged her colleagues to reject both bills, declaring:\n\n\u201cBoth of these bills are opposed by D.C. residents. They are opposed by the mayor and council. They were opposed by D.C.\u2019s Member of Congress in the Oversight Committee. We should reject them. I urge the majority to keep their hands off D.C.\u201d\n\nThe hearing, which was livestreamed on theHouse Rules Committee website, featured debate over D.C.\u2019s right to home rule \u2014 a principle supported by both Republican and Democratic presidents, including Richard Nixon.\n\nRep. Lee\u2019s remarks come as part of her ongoing effort to defend D.C.\u2019s autonomy and civil rights, followingher previous viral comments on Republican efforts to \u201ccriminalize poverty and punish local democracy.\u201d\n\nFull Opening Remarks:\n\nThank you, Madam Chair.\n\nIt is completely unbelievable that we are here today yet again to micromanage Washington, DC. The federal government was shut down for a record 42 days.\n\nThe Republicans, who control the House, Senate and Presidency, put Americans\u2019 health and safety at risk, even making multiple attempts to block the most vulnerable Americans from accessing benefits that keep them from starving. Republicans have shown a lack of ability to govern the federal government, yet they want to take on local issues.\n\nMillions of Americans are seeing huge spikes in health insurance costs of up to 114%.\n\nYour monthly premiums could more than double. And Republicans refuse to act. Multiple federal courts ruled that the President must allow SNAP funds to be distributed, yet the president ignored the courts and refused to comply with the law. And still my Republican colleagues insist that micromanaging DC is the best use of our time.\n\nToday, the rules committee will consider two pieces of legislation that are a ridiculous overreach by our federal government. DC has over 700,000 residents \u2013 that\u2019s more than 2 states. DC taxpayers don\u2019t just pay federal taxes \u2013 they pay more per capita than any state. DC as a whole contributes more total federal taxes than 26 states.\n\nThe people handling DC\u2019s government should be local leaders who are accountable to the people who live here and who actually know the city. Not some Member of Congress who has never left Capitol Hill or Navy Yard neighborhoods.\n\nIf Donald Trump wants to run DC, he should resign from the presidency and run for mayor. And my Republican colleagues are welcome to run for DC Council.\n\nWe all support public safety, but the federal government should be a partner to DC, and we should focus on actual solutions.\n\nDespite the Trump Administration\u2019s repeated claims that violent crime in DC is rising, the Republican investigation into crime statistics at the Metropolitan Police Department has confirmed what we already knew: Crime has been going down. The Committee\u2019s investigation has also repeatedly highlighted the steps DC government officials have taken to bring crime down from its recent peak in 2023. The DC council passed legislation to fill gaps in the criminal code, to fix unintentional problems created by existing laws, and to empower local courts.\n\nWe have also repeatedly heard about the importance of maintaining that critical partnership between local enforcement, local elected officials, and the communities they serve. It is the responsibility of DC\u2019s elected officials to address local issues \u2013 not Congress.\n\nToday, the majority is proposing 2 bills which will both attack DC\u2019s right to self-government. First, we have the H.R. 5214 \u2013 The District of Columbia Cash Bail Reform Act. Under this bill, if you are charged with certain crimes, you will automatically be locked up before your trial. For other crimes, the bill will require cash bail or a bond. This will make DC\u2019s local law far stricter than federal law.\n\nPre-trial release should be based on a judge\u2019s determination of flight risk, and danger to the community, not just on a blanket mandate from Congress. When a person\u2019s freedom is at stake they deserve to be heard as an individual rather than be painted with a broad brush. You shouldn\u2019t automatically be locked up based on a criminal charge, before you are proven guilty. It seems Republicans have forgotten about innocent until proven guilty and the fifth amendment, core tenants of our democracy.\n\nAnd our system should not treat you more harshly just because you are poor or from D.C. Rich defendants are not less prone to criminality than poor defendants. This bill will lock up more poor people, and more innocent people. It is unfair to DC and unfair to innocent people.\n\nNext, we have the CLEAN DC Act\u2014which repeals commonsense criminal justice reforms passed by DC\u2019s elected representatives in the wake of the Black Lives Matter protests. We know that cities and communities all over the country passed similar reforms to increase trust, accountability, and safety.\n\nIn DC, these measures increased accountability for bad actors.\n\nThey improved training for police officers. They strengthened independent civilian oversight and expanded public access to body-worn camera footage. None of these reforms are radical anti-police measures. None of them are particularly transformative.\n\nThey are the first, small steps toward justice and this bill repeals all of that. It would damage what little trust there is between the DC police and the communities they protect and serve. We should oppose it.\n\nBoth of these bills are opposed by DC residents. They are opposed by the mayor and council. They were opposed by DC\u2019s Member of Congress in the Oversight committee. We should reject them. I urge the majority to keep their hands off DC and I yield back.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:52:45Z"], ["https://summerlee.house.gov/newsroom/press-releases/reps-lee-bacon-panetta-lead-bipartisan-push-urging-permanent-retainment-of-dept-of-ed-staff-serving-students-experiencing-homelessness-and-foster-care", "Reps. Lee, Bacon, Panetta Lead Bipartisan Push Urging Permanent Retainment of Dept. of Ed Staff Serving Students Experiencing Homelessness and Foster Care", "2025-11-17", "2025", "2025-11", "Democrat", "House", "PA", "Summer L. Lee", "L000602", "summerlee.house.gov", "summerlee", "https://summerlee.house.gov/newsroom/press-releases", "scraper", "Text of Letter (PDF)\n\nPITTSBURGH, PA \u2013 NOVEMBER 17, 2025 \u2014 Today, Congresswoman Summer L. Lee (PA-12) led a bipartisan letter with Reps. Don Bacon (NE-02) and Jimmy Panetta (CA-19) to the Office of Management and Budget and the U.S. Department of Education urging the permanent retainment of staff in the Office of Elementary and Secondary Education (OESE) who administer programs serving students experiencing homelessness and students in foster care.\n\nThe letter follows widespread reduction-in-force (RIF) notices issued during the government shutdown that reportedly fired almost all OESE workers, including the staff who administer the Education for Homeless Children and Youth (EHCY) program. Although the shutdown RIF has since been reversed, the lawmakers are concerned that the Department is working to gut the EHCY program and stressed that reinstating workers temporarily is not sufficient. The Department, the lawmakers emphasize, must restore\u2014and retain\u2014the specialized personnel who ensure states and districts can meet their legal obligations to students.\n\n\u201cAbout 1.4 million students in the U.S. experience homelessness each school year and about 270,000 school-aged children and youth are in foster care. Beyond the challenges of meeting their basic needs, these students face unique barriers to education including difficulty enrolling in school without a fixed address or necessary documentation, lack of transportation, frequently changing schools, and chronic absenteeism,\u201d the lawmakers wrote. \u201cFederal programs administered by the Office of Elementary and Secondary Education, like the Education for Homeless Children and Youth (EHCY) program, are one of few lifelines for children experiencing homelessness.\u201d\n\nThe letter notes that without OESE\u2019s specialized staff\u2014including those supporting the EHCY program\u2014states and districts cannot fully implement federal protections (McKinney-Vento) or effectively utilize Title I, Part A set-asides for students experiencing homelessness. The members underscore Congress\u2019s bipartisan support for EHCY, with both chambers proposing $129 million for FY 2026, and argue that permanent staffing is essential to deliver on that commitment.\n\n\u201cWithout these workers, the Department of Education will be unable to fulfill its legal responsibilities under Section 724 of the McKinney-Vento Act, which protects access to education for students experiencing homelessness. Without these workers, states and districts will be unequipped to implement EHCY funding and other critical support that students are entitled to,\u201d the lawmakers continued. \u201cAs a result, over one million children and youth may lose access to the educational services they rely on as an essential source of stability.\u201d\n\nThe letter is signed by Representatives Nanette Barrag\u00e1n, Salud Carbajal, Andr\u00e9 Carson, Greg Casar, Judy Chu, Emanuel Cleaver, Danny Davis, Madeleine Dean, Dwight Evans, Eleanor Holmes Norton, Chrissy Houlahan, Glenn Ivey, Jonathan Jackson, Hank Johnson, Seth Magaziner, Gwen Moore, Kevin Mullin, Jerrold Nadler, Brittany Pettersen, Mike Quigley, Delia Ramirez, Darren Soto, Marilyn Strickland, Shri Thanedar, Rashida Tlaib, Paul Tonko, and Gabe Vasquez.\n\nThe letter is endorsed by SchoolHouse Connection and the Homeless Children\u2019s Education Fund.\n\n\u201cEnsuring that children who are homeless or who enter foster care can stay in school is not a partisan issue. Restoring the small, specialized team at the U.S. Department of Education that helps states and school districts carry out these protections is a practical, bipartisan step that honors the law Congress passed. We are deeply grateful for the bipartisan leadership of Representatives Lee, Panetta, and Bacon in calling for the permanent reinstatement of these positions and stand ready to work with the Administration and leaders in both parties to make sure these students are not left behind,\u201d said Barbara Duffield, Executive Director of SchoolHouse Connection.\n\n\"Students experiencing homelessness and foster care face unique challenges every day and the dedicated federal workers supporting them are critical to ensuring these children have access to stable, equitable education. We urge the Office of Management and Budget and the Department of Education to permanently reinstate these essential positions. These students cannot afford to lose the advocates who fight for their success,\" said AJ Jefferson, president and CEO of Homeless Children's Education Fund, expressing her concern.\n\nFull letter text is availablehere.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:52:45Z"], ["https://boyle.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/icymi-boyle-highlights-850000-federal-funding-improvements-across", "ICYMI: Boyle Highlights $850,000 in Federal Funding for Improvements Across Philadelphia\u2019s Historic District", "2025-11-14", "2025", "2025-11", "Democrat", "House", "PA", "Brendan F. Boyle", "B001296", "boyle.house.gov", "boyle", "https://boyle.house.gov/media-center/press-releases", "scraper", "PHILADELPHIA, PA \u2013 Congressman Brendan F. Boyle (PA-02) today joined leaders from the Independence Historical Trust at the National Constitution Center to highlight $850,000 in new federal Community Project Funding he secured for improvements throughout Philadelphia\u2019s Historic District. The announcement comes as Philadelphia prepares for the nation\u2019s semiquincentennial (250th anniversary) and continues long-term work to strengthen and modernize the Historic District for decades to come.\n\n\u201cThe idea that right behind me on Independence Mall, people from all over the nation, indeed all over the world, are going to be coming here \u2014 not just the United States, but coming to Philadelphia, to the heart of America's founding \u2014 to celebrate our nation is truly inspiring,\u201d said Congressman Boyle. \u201cThis is the most historic square mile in the nation. This is literally the nation's birthplace, and I believe the $850,000 I'm presenting to you today will only help us enhance this area for all Philadelphians and indeed for all people throughout the nation to come and celebrate our nation's history.\u201d\n\n\u201cWe are fortunate as Philadelphians that your district covers this remarkable square mile of historical assets,\u201d said Bill Marrazzo, Independence Historical Trust Board Chair. \u201cWith this expression of financial support made possible by your sponsorship Congressman, the Independence Historical Trust, in partnership with so many other not-for-profits in this region, is gonna continue to invest in making it easy for people to get around this remarkable body of historical assets here in the city of Philadelphia.\u201d\n\nThe funding delivered by Rep. Boyle supports two major improvement projects in the Historic District. The Gateway Project at 6th and Race Streets will deliver long-overdue streetscape upgrades to improve safety, walkability, and connectivity near Franklin Square Park and the northern edge of Independence Mall. The final phase of Tamanend Plaza at 2nd and Market Streets will deliver a revitalized public space honoring Lenni Lenape Chief Tamanend. The plaza will feature upgraded pedestrian crossings, new bike lanes, green space enhancements, and other improvements to support a safer and more welcoming environment.\n\nAt today\u2019s event, Congressman Boyle announced that this funding brings the total amount he has secured for the Historic District to nearly $4 million over the past two and a half years. Leaders from the Independence Historical Trust\u2014including Chair Bill Marrazzo, Executive Director Tom Caramanico, and Development Director Jonathan Burton\u2014joined the Congressman in emphasizing the importance of sustained investment in the Historic District as the city approaches America\u2019s 250th anniversary.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:52:45Z"], ["https://evans.house.gov/media/press-releases/evans-votes-no-health-care-shutdown-bill", "Evans Votes \u2018No\u2019 on Health-Care Shutdown Bill", "2025-11-13", "2025", "2025-11", "Democrat", "House", "PA", "Dwight Evans", "E000296", "evans.house.gov", "evans", "https://evans.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON (November 13, 2025) \u2013 Congressman Dwight Evans (D-PA-3) said the fight isn\u2019t over to prevent a shutdown of health care for 24 million Americans whose health insurance premiums are about to spike.\n\n\u201cI voted No on a Republican government funding bill because it fails to address what amounts to a shutdown of health care for nearly 500,000 Pennsylvanians who receive a federal tax credit subsidy for coverage they buy through Pennie, the commonwealth\u2019s Affordable Care Act exchange,\u201d Evans said.\n\n\u201cIf your monthly premium spikes to double or more what you\u2019re paying now, that will force a lot of Pennsylvanians to drop coverage to keep their home and keep food on the table. That would be a shutdown of their health care \u2013 and the majority Republicans in Congress should get serious about working with Democrats to prevent it \u2013 NOW!\u201d\n\nEvans also released a short video statement about the bill, which is available here or in the Shorts section of https://www.youtube.com/@repdwightevans\n\n\u201cOpen enrollment for Affordable Care Act coverage began on Nov. 1, and many Americans will be hurt by the Republican health-care shutdown if Congress doesn\u2019t act well before Dec. 31. Working Americans need congressional Republicans to act on these health-care tax credits with the same speed they displayed earlier this year, when Republicans rushed a tax cut for the richest into law,\u201d Evans said.\n\n\u201cIn fact, Republicans could have put renewal of the health-care tax credits into the funding bill they are rushing into law now. Senate Democrats offered an amendment for a one-year renewal, and all Democratic senators, including Senator John Fetterman, voted for it. Unfortunately, Republicans, including Senator Dave McCormick, voted it down on party lines, rejecting that opportunity to help more than 400,000 Pennsylvanians keep their health coverage.\n\n\u201cI and my House Democratic colleagues will keep fighting to protect Americans\u2019 health care. Bottom line \u2013 this fight is not over!\u201d\n\nEvans represents the 3rd Congressional District, which includes Northwest and West Philadelphia and parts of North, South, Southwest and Center City Philadelphia. He recently announced that his office returned to or saved $4.5 million for constituents in 2024 in cases involving federal agencies such as the IRS, Social Security Administration and Department of Veterans Affairs. The 2024 figure brings Evans\u2019 office\u2019s total to more than $45.5 million returned to or saved for constituents during his first eight years in Congress.", 1, "2026-04-04T05:28:40Z", "2026-04-04T05:30:10Z"], ["https://summerlee.house.gov/newsroom/press-releases/rep-summer-lee-stands-in-solidarity-with-starbucks-workers-united-as-pittsburgh-area-baristas-strike-on-red-cup-day", "Rep. Summer Lee Stands in Solidarity with Starbucks Workers United as Pittsburgh-Area Baristas Strike on Red Cup Day", "2025-11-13", "2025", "2025-11", "Democrat", "House", "PA", "Summer L. Lee", "L000602", "summerlee.house.gov", "summerlee", "https://summerlee.house.gov/newsroom/press-releases", "scraper", "PITTSBURGH, PA \u2013 NOVEMBER 13, 2025 \u2014 Today, Congresswoman Summer L. Lee (PA-12) issued a statement in strong support of Starbucks Workers United (SBWU) as baristas across the Pittsburgh region and the country launched an open-ended strike on the company\u2019s annual Red Cup Day\u2014one of its busiest sales days of the year.\n\nThe strike comes as workers continue to demand fair wages, reliable scheduling, and an end to what they describe as one of the most aggressive union-busting campaigns in modern history. Starbucks workers at more than a dozen unionized stores across Western Pennsylvania joined thousands nationwide in collective action to push for a fair contract.\n\nRep Lee said, \u201cStarbucks workers are demonstrating tremendous courage by taking collective action and demanding fair pay and a real seat at the table. That is what the labor movement is all about. In Western Pennsylvania and across the country, working people are showing up, putting in the work, and still struggling to make ends meet while executives take home millions. Starbucks\u2019 corporate greed and union-busting tactics are unacceptable. No one should have to fight this hard to earn a living wage, get enough hours to qualify for benefits, or be treated with respect on the job. The power of the people will always be greater than the people in power, and I am proud to support SWU in this fight. Workers are the heart of this company, and until they get the fair contract they deserve, I will continue to stand in solidarity.\u201d\n\nRep. Lee has been a consistent advocate for labor rights and has joined workers and other union members on the picket line throughout her time in Congress.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:52:45Z"], ["https://dean.house.gov/2025/11/congresswoman-dean-s-statement-on-the-shutdown-deal", "Congresswoman Dean\u2019s Statement on the Shutdown Deal", "2025-11-12", "2025", "2025-11", "Democrat", "House", "PA", "Madeleine Dean", "D000631", "dean.house.gov", "dean", "https://dean.house.gov/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2014 Congresswoman Madeleine Dean (PA-04), member of the House Appropriations Committee, released the following statement on the Senate's continuing resolution:\n\n\"I voted No on the Senate\u2019s shutdown deal. It is a disappointing deal that does not prioritize the health of Americans \u2014 the very heart of our spending debate.\n\nBecause of Congressional Republicans\u2019 refusal to extend ACA tax credits, nearly 20,000 of my constituents are at risk of losing their healthcare. Many will not be able to afford the massive premium increases set to take effect at the end of the year. People will face unimaginable, difficult choices.\n\nThroughout the longest government shutdown in American history, we witnessed the Trump Administration\u2019s cruelty as they willfully neglected their duty to fund SNAP for 42 million Americans, including more than 50,000 of my constituents.\n\nWe have also seen the pain of dedicated federal employees working without pay \u2014 especially our military, air traffic controllers, TSA agents, and Capitol Police. It is for that reason I am relieved to see the shutdown end.\n\nBut this is no way to run a government: one temporary spending bill after another. As an appropriator, I am committed to funding our government wholly and appropriately \u2014 the Republican majority failed to do so.\n\nWhat\u2019s more alarming: the Senate snuck a shockingly corrupt provision into this \u201cclean continuing resolution\u201d that allows eight Senators, whose phone records were lawfully seized in connection to the January 6th insurrection, the ability to sue the federal government and receive a minimum of $1 million taxpayer dollars each. How does this befit our duty to fund needed federal agencies and our dedicated federal workers?\n\nOur budget is a reflection of our values. This temporary funding bill does not reflect my values \u2014 or the values of my constituents.\n\nYet, I am determined to move forward and keep fighting to lower healthcare costs for our communities.\"\n\nRep. Madeleine Dean is a mother, grandmother, attorney, professor, former four-term member of the Pennsylvania House of Representatives, and U.S. Representative for the Fourth District of Pennsylvania.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:52:45Z"], ["https://dean.house.gov/2025/11/dean-bresnahan-introduce-bill-honoring-families-of-veterans-lost-to-suicide", "Dean, Bresnahan Introduce the Sgt. Walter F. Hartnett IV Green Star Veterans Service Act to Honor Families of Veterans Lost to Suicide", "2025-11-12", "2025", "2025-11", "Democrat", "House", "PA", "Madeleine Dean", "D000631", "dean.house.gov", "dean", "https://dean.house.gov/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2014 Congresswoman Madeleine Dean (PA-04) and Congressman Rob Bresnahan, Jr. (PA-08) introduced the Sgt. Walter F. Hartnett IV Green Star Veterans Service Act, bipartisan legislation directing the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to establish an official Green Star flag for the next of kin of veterans who die by suicide.\n\nNamed in honor of Sergeant Walter F. Hartnett IV, a dedicated American servicemember whose life was tragically lost to the invisible wounds of war, the legislation seeks to provide both recognition and solace to families who continue to carry the burdens of military service after their loved one\u2019s passing.\n\nWalt was first a 13-year US Army veteran, serving nine years in the active-duty Army and four years in the reserves. As Commander of Conshohocken VFW Post 1074 and Commander of Pennsylvania VFW District 16, Walt created a home for those who needed community. For nearly two years, Walt served as the Veterans Affairs representative for Congresswoman Dean, connecting veterans to vital resources and always lending a listening ear.\n\n\u201cWalt Hartnett was a man devoted to service \u2014 to his country, his fellow veterans, his Conshohocken community, and, above all, his beautiful family. I was blessed to work alongside him, and our office was better because of his powerful voice for veterans in need. He led an expansive life, one that we lost too soon to suicide,\u201d said Rep. Dean. \u201cEvery day, we lose an estimated 22 veterans to suicide \u2014 men and women who gave of themselves entirely for our freedom, and who bore wounds civilians cannot fathom. Yet, their families receive no federal recognition for such excruciating loss. The Sgt. Walter F. Hartnett IV Green Star Veterans Service Act would change that by creating a Green Star Service flag to raise awareness of the crisis of veteran suicide and provide resources for their loved ones. I thank my fellow Pennsylvanian, Congressman Rob Bresnahan, for co-leading this important and personal bipartisan bill.\u201d\n\n\u201cWe honor those who gave their lives for our country on the battlefield, but we cannot forget those who lost their lives to the lasting wounds of service,\u201d said Rep. Bresnahan. \u201cVeterans Day is a crucial reminder of the courage, dedication, and sacrifice of each veteran, including those who lose their lives to suicide. The Green Star flag will serve as a visible reminder that these veterans and their families\u2019 sacrifices matter and that our nation stands beside them.\u201d\n\n\u201cFamilies who have lost a Veteran to suicide deserve their own place of honor, not hidden under any other banner, and no longer overlooked,\u201d said Matt Cahill, Green Star Families of America Founder. \u201cThe Green Star Service Banner affirms that their loss matters, their service endures, and their strength will forever stand as part of America\u2019s storied legacy of service and sacrifice.\u201d\n\nThe Sgt. Walter F. Hartnett IV Green Star Veterans Service Act affirms a national commitment to destigmatizing mental health in the armed forces and ensuring every veteran\u2019s legacy is honored with dignity.\n\nRead the full text of the bill here.\n\nWatch Congresswoman Dean pay tribute to Walt and the Hartnett family on the House floor here.\n\nRep. Madeleine Dean is a mother, grandmother, attorney, professor, former four-term member of the Pennsylvania House of Representatives, and U.S. Representative for the Fourth District of Pennsylvania.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:52:45Z"], ["https://houlahan.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=4819", "Rep. Houlahan's NO Vote on the Continuing Resolution", "2025-11-12", "2025", "2025-11", "Democrat", "House", "PA", "Chrissy Houlahan", "H001085", "houlahan.house.gov", "houlahan", "https://houlahan.house.gov/press/documentquery.aspx", "page_html", "Today, Representative Chrissy Houlahan (PA-06) voted NO on the short-term continuing resolution brought forward by House Republican leadership, citing the majority\u2019s continued efforts to undermine health care, raise costs for working families, and weaken America\u2019s standing in the world.\n\n\u201cEvery American deserves access to affordable, quality health care,\" said Houlahan. \u201cUnfortunately, this Republican majority has spent the past ten months pushing legislation to strip away health insurance coverage, slash Medicaid and Medicare, make prescription drugs more expensive and weaponize hunger to play to their base. I cannot support legislation that intentionally harms the majority of Americans while rewarding billionaires and lawmakers themselves.\n\nWhile the CR vote today reopens the federal government and keeps it funded until January 31, it does nothing to address the real harm the nation is suffering under President Trump and his Administration. It fails the basic test of governing responsibly,\u201d Houlahan continued.\n\n--end--", 1, "2026-04-08T14:14:11Z", "2026-04-08T14:23:06Z"], ["https://summerlee.house.gov/newsroom/press-releases/rep-summer-lee-statement-on-vote-against-budget-fueling-republican-healthcare-crisis", "Rep. Summer Lee Statement on Vote Against Budget Fueling Republican Healthcare Crisis", "2025-11-12", "2025", "2025-11", "Democrat", "House", "PA", "Summer L. Lee", "L000602", "summerlee.house.gov", "summerlee", "https://summerlee.house.gov/newsroom/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, DC \u2013 NOVEMBER 12, 2025 \u2014 Today, Congresswoman Summer L. Lee (PA-12) issued the following statement on her vote against the Republican continuing resolution that does nothing to stop healthcare costs from skyrocketing for 24 million Americans.\n\n\u201cAfter enduring the pain of the longest government shutdown in U.S. history, millions of working Americans are seeing their healthcare premiums skyrocket. This was avoidable. For weeks, House Democrats have pushed Republicans to return to the negotiating table to address this healthcare crisis of their own making and reopen the government so federal workers can receive their paychecks, benefits like SNAP can resume, and programs like Head Start and LIHEAP can continue without disruption. There is nothing in this bill that guarantees healthcare subsidies will be voted on and passed.\n\n\u201cThe American people want a government that serves them and a Democratic party that fights for them, especially at a time when we face rising authoritarianism and overburdening costs. I could not in good faith support capitulating to false promises that will hurt people in the long run. We live in the wealthiest country on the planet and should not have to choose between healthcare over any other essential need.\"", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:52:45Z"], ["https://boyle.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/boyle-calls-fetterman-mccormick-reject-legislation-raises", "Boyle Calls on Fetterman & McCormick to Reject Legislation that Raises Pennsylvanians\u2019 Health Care Costs", "2025-11-10", "2025", "2025-11", "Democrat", "House", "PA", "Brendan F. Boyle", "B001296", "boyle.house.gov", "boyle", "https://boyle.house.gov/media-center/press-releases", "scraper", "PHILADELPHIA, PA \u2014 Congressman Brendan F. Boyle (PA-02), Ranking Member of the House Budget Committee, released the following statement urging Pennsylvania Senators John Fetterman and Dave McCormick to vote no on final passage of a government funding bill that would raise health care costs for Pennsylvanians:\n\n\u201cI urge Senators John Fetterman and Dave McCormick to vote no on this bill that would strip health care from millions of Americans and send costs soaring for tens of millions more, including by more than 100 percent for hundreds of thousands of Pennsylvanians. We need an agreement that reopens the government and protects Americans\u2019 health care.\u201d\n\nEarlier today, Boyle held a press conference with local labor and civic leaders, urging Senators John Fetterman and Dave McCormick to defend Pennsylvania families and oppose this legislation.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:52:45Z"], ["https://deluzio.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-deluzio-replaces-lost-military-awards-vietnam-veteran", "Congressman Deluzio Replaces Lost Military Awards for Vietnam Veteran", "2025-11-07", "2025", "2025-11", "Democrat", "House", "PA", "Christopher R. Deluzio", "D000530", "deluzio.house.gov", "deluzio", "https://deluzio.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "CARNEGIE, PA \u2013 Leading up to Veterans Day on November 11th, Congressman Chris Deluzio (PA-17) is sharing a story of how his office recently helped a Vietnam veteran replace lost military awards. Aliquippa resident Mr. John M. Denk served in the U.S. Navy in Vietnam and earned several military decorations. After losing these awards, Mr. Denk worked for years to get replacements, to no avail. Eventually, he called the office of Congressman Chris Deluzio\u2014also a Navy veteran\u2014to ask for help. Congressman Deluzio\u2019s office worked with the Department of the Navy to successfully get replacement awards, and he had the honor of presenting them to Mr. Denk and his family at an emotional meeting.\n\n\u201cMy Western Pennsylvania constituent John Denk answered the call and served our country honorably in combat in Vietnam. He told me what it was like when he came home from the Navy, like a lot of Vietnam vets, and was made to feel shame for his service. It hurt,\u201d said Congressman Deluzio. \u201cNow, all these years later, my team and I are honored to help him get replacements for his lost medals and ribbons. \u2018You don\u2019t know how much this means,\u2019 he told me. I shared a simple message: we're proud of him.\u201d\n\nThe replacement medals and ribbons that Congressman Deluzio presented to Mr. Denk included:\n\nCombat Action Ribbon\n\nMeritorious Unit Commendation\n\nNavy Good Conduct Medal\n\nNational Defense Service Medal\n\nVietnam Service Medal (with three Bronze Campaign Stars)\n\nHonorable Reserve Discharge Button\n\nEarlier this year, Congressman Deluzio helped another Beaver County family get the medals that their Grandpap earned in WWII but never received. This work is one of the many types of constituent services that Congressman Deluzio\u2019s office provides to residents of Pennsylvania\u2019s 17th Congressional District. So far, the office of Congressman Deluzio has closed the cases of more than 3,150 constituents. Residents of Pennsylvania\u2019s 17th Congressional District can always request assistance with a federal agency by calling Congressman Deluzio\u2019s office at (412) 344-5583 or submitting this online form.\n\nCongressman Deluzio\u2014a U.S. Navy veteran deployed to Iraq and at sea, and a graduate of the United States Naval Academy\u2014is a leading voice in support of his fellow veterans. In Congress, he is a member of the House Armed Services Committee, a founding member of the Democratic Veterans Caucus, and has introduced legislation to award a Congressional Gold Medal to WWII Nurses, among many pro-veteran initiatives.\n\nPhotos from Mr. Denk\u2019s medal presentation are available for use by the press here, with consent from the Denk family.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:52:45Z"], ["https://summerlee.house.gov/newsroom/press-releases/rep-summer-lee-joins-colleagues-on-resolution-to-reconvene-house-end-republican-shutdown", "Rep. Summer Lee Joins Colleagues on Resolution to Reconvene House, End Republican Shutdown", "2025-11-07", "2025", "2025-11", "Democrat", "House", "PA", "Summer L. Lee", "L000602", "summerlee.house.gov", "summerlee", "https://summerlee.house.gov/newsroom/press-releases", "scraper", "PITTSBURGH, PA \u2013 NOVEMBER 7, 2025 \u2014 Today, Congresswoman Summer L. Lee (PA-12) joined Rep. John B. Larson (CT-01) introduced a resolution to change House rules that have allowed Speaker Johnson and Republican leadership to indefinitely recess the House during the longest government shutdown in U.S. history. The Reopening the People\u2019s House Resolution would allow a majority of Members of Congress to end a district work period. Currently, the Speaker of the House has unilateral authority to keep the House in recess.\n\n\u201cWe are in the longest government shutdown in U.S. history and House Republicans have shamelessly walked away from doing their jobs. It\u2019s long past time for Republicans to come back to the negotiating table to avert a healthcare crisis and alleviate the pain from millions across the country. Folks are hurting. SNAP benefits have been withheld by the Trump administration, federal workers are going without paychecks, and flights have been cancelled because of public safety risks\u2014to say the least,\u201d said Rep. Lee. \u201cOur country needs the government to do better. We can and must be responsive to their calls.\u201d\n\n\u201cIt\u2019s time for Republicans to end their vacation and reopen the People\u2019s House. While more than one million workers go without pay during this shutdown, the House hasn\u2019t even voted since September 19th,\u201d said Rep. Larson. \u201cIt is beyond parody to watch Members of Congress get paid to take a vacation while they demand Capitol Police, Air Traffic Controllers, and doctors and nurses to show up to work and not receive a paycheck. Democrats have been in Washington, ready to reopen government and end Donald Trump\u2019s health care crisis. Even Republicans like Marjorie Taylor Greene want to act, but Speaker Johnson is wielding his gavel to prevent us from doing our jobs. The People\u2019s House is supposed to be governed of, by, and for the people, not one man acting at the behest of a president. That is why, today, I am leading my colleagues with a new plan \u2013 to change the rules so we can end this shutdown vacation and address the people\u2019s business.\u201d\n\nIn addition to Rep. Lee, the \u201cReopening the People\u2019s House Resolution,\u201d led by Rep. Larson, is cosponsored by Reps. Jahana Hayes (CT-05), Danny K. Davis (IL-07), Terri Sewell (AL-07), Mike Thompson (CA-04), Paul Tonko (NY-20), Raul Ruiz (CA-25), Sara Jacobs (CA-51), Seth Magaziner (RI-02), Al Green (TX-09), Jill Tokuda (HI-02), Ed Case (HI-01), Tim Kennedy (NY-26), and Dina Titus (NV-01).\n\nFull text of the resolution is available HERE.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:52:45Z"], ["https://summerlee.house.gov/newsroom/press-releases/rep-summer-lee-joins-pittsburgh-water-to-celebrate-193-million-groundbreaking-for-key-water-infrastructure-renewal-projects", "Rep. Summer Lee Joins Pittsburgh Water to Celebrate $193 Million Groundbreaking for Key Water Infrastructure Renewal Projects", "2025-11-07", "2025", "2025-11", "Democrat", "House", "PA", "Summer L. Lee", "L000602", "summerlee.house.gov", "summerlee", "https://summerlee.house.gov/newsroom/press-releases", "scraper", "PITTSBURGH, PA \u2013 NOVEMBER 7, 2025 \u2014 Today, Congresswoman Summer L. Lee (PA-12) joined Pittsburgh Water, elected officials, community leaders, and representatives from labor and professional organizations to officially launch the ABC Project \u2014 a transformative initiative and cornerstone of the Authority\u2019s Water Reliability Plan. The official kick-off of this $193 million multi-year construction investment comes as the result of a years-long process of planning, strategizing, careful design, and permitting, intricately sequenced to ensure consistent service for Pittsburgh Water customers.\n\nAt today\u2019s event Congresswoman Summer Lee, Mayor Ed Gainey, PENNVEST Executive Director Robert Boos, and Secretary, Treasurer of Pittsburgh Building Trades Tom Platt, joined Pittsburgh Water CEO Will Pickering and Chief of Engineering Rachael Beam at the podium.\n\n\u201cThe ABC Project is more than an infrastructure upgrade \u2014 it\u2019s a commitment to equity, public health, and environmental justice,\u201d said Congresswoman Summer Lee. \u201cFor too long, underserved communities have lived with aging water systems. This project is a promise that every family, no matter their zip code, deserves clean, reliable water.\u201d\n\n\u201cToday\u2019s groundbreaking is more than a ceremonial milestone. It represents our commitment to delivering safe, reliable water to Pittsburghers for generations to come,\u201d said Pittsburgh Water CEO Will Pickering. \u201cThis project would not be possible without the dedicated team and stakeholders behind it. Through strategic investment, meticulous planning, and strong partnerships across public and private sectors, we\u2019re breaking ground on the most ambitious project Pittsburgh Water has undertaken since our distribution system was installed more than a century ago.\u201d\n\nThe ABC Project - named for its three major components, the Aspinwall Pump Station, Bruecken Pump Station, and the Clearwell Bypass - will modernize critical elements of Pittsburgh\u2019s drinking water treatment and distribution system. Once complete, the project will significantly improve the reliability, safety, and resilience of water service for hundreds of thousands of residents.\n\nAspinwall Pump Station Renovation: This historic facility will undergo a comprehensive overhaul, including the replacement of pumps, motors, switchgear, and piping. A new chemical building will be constructed to replace the existing fluoride building. Stormwater improvements and architectural preservation efforts will ensure the building\u2019s historic character is maintained while enhancing its operational performance.\n\nBruecken Pump Station Replacement: The aging Bruecken facility will be replaced with a new, three-story, energy-efficient building designed to house modern pumps, large-diameter piping, and advanced electrical and control systems. The new station will include upgraded lighting, HVAC, plumbing, fire suppression, and security systems, ensuring long-term reliability and support for future growth.\n\nClearwell Bypass Installation: A new bypass system will be constructed to allow Pittsburgh Water to take the Clearwell\u2014an essential 44-million-gallon underground disinfection basin\u2014offline for full replacement in the near future as the capstone project of the Water Reliability Plan. The bypass includes 144-inch and 84-inch diameter pipes, an overflow structure, and three bypass vaults, all designed to maintain water quality and service continuity during the Clearwell\u2019s reconstruction.\n\nAmong the audience, more than 20 representatives from labor unions and the building trades stood in solidarity and were recognized for their role in bringing this project to life. Others from the project team also attending include Mascaro Construction CEO John Mascaro, Jr., Michael Baker International CEO Brian Lutes, and representatives from the design engineer firm Brown and Caldwell also attended.\n\nCelebrating this milestone with the Authority includes Pittsburgh Water\u2019s board of directors, State Senator Lindsey Williams, State Representative Lindsay Powell, and Laura Sohinki, Southwest Regional Director with Governor Shapiro\u2019s Office, as well as numerous stakeholders and community representatives who work closely with Pittsburgh Water.\n\n\u201cThis project is the result of years of planning, engineering, and collaboration \u2014 and it\u2019s a major step forward in modernizing our water system,\u201d said Pittsburgh Water\u2019s Chief Engineering Officer Rachael Beam. \u201cOnce complete, the improvements at our Aspinwall Pump Station, replacement of the Bruecken Pump Station, and construction of the Clearwell Bypass will work together to enhance system reliability, improve water quality, and increase operational flexibility as we work toward completing the remaining steps of our expansive Water Reliability Plan.\u201d\n\nConstruction is expected to continue through 2029. The project is forecasted to generate more than 1,300 jobs and stimulate nearly $300 million in regional economic output. Funding includes $248 million in low-interest loans from state and federal partners, helping to reduce long-term costs for ratepayers.\n\n\u201cMajor infrastructure improvements like the ABC Project put skilled tradespeople to work and create real opportunities for local workers,\u201d said Tom Platt Secretary, Treasurer of Pittsburgh Building Trades. \u201cWe\u2019re proud to be part of building something that will serve Pittsburgh for decades to come, and we appreciate the commitment from Pittsburgh Water and the Commonwealth to invest in union labor and family-sustaining jobs.\u201d\n\n\u201cThis project is a win for Pittsburgh and a win for Pennsylvania. It\u2019s going to create good-paying jobs, strengthen our economy, and ensure that families and businesses have access to safe, reliable water for generations to come,\u201d said PENNVEST Executive Director Robert Boos. \u201cThrough state-level support from PENNVEST, we\u2019re helping to get critical infrastructure projects like this across the finish line while keeping costs down for ratepayers. This is what smart, equitable investment looks like.\u201d\n\nThe ABC Project is a key phase of the $470 million Water Reliability Plan, laying the groundwork for this multi-year initiative to modernize Pittsburgh\u2019s water system and ensure uninterrupted service during future upgrades, including the full replacement of the Clearwell.\n\n\"The ABC Project is a powerful example of what's possible when we invest in our people and our neighborhoods,\u201d said Pittsburgh Mayor Ed Gainey. \"Reliable water service is a basic necessity, and this project ensures that every Pittsburgher, no matter where they live, can count on safe, clean water. I\u2019m grateful to see Pittsburgh Water advancing infrastructure that not only creates jobs and strengthens communities, but also builds a more equitable future for all of us.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:52:45Z"], ["https://deluzio.house.gov/media/press-releases/deluzio-bill-boost-workplace-safety-public-sector-workers-gains-momentum", "Deluzio Bill to Boost Workplace Safety for Public Sector Workers Gains Momentum, Cosponsors", "2025-11-06", "2025", "2025-11", "Democrat", "House", "PA", "Christopher R. Deluzio", "D000530", "deluzio.house.gov", "deluzio", "https://deluzio.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2014 Today, Congressman Chris Deluzio (PA-17) announced that his Public Service Worker Protection Act is gaining momentum and now has 50 co-sponsors. This includes his Republican co-lead on the measure, Pennsylvania Republican Brian Fitzpatrick (PA-01).\n\nThis bill seeks to expand the Occupational Safety and Health Act of 1970 (OSH Act) to include all public sector workers under its defined safety protections on the job. The Public Service Worker Protection Act reaches this milestone of 50 cosponsors in the midst of the longest ever federal government shutdown that is leaving tens of thousands of federal workers furloughed or working without pay.\n\n\u201cNo matter where they live, American workers in every sector should have the strong safety standards and protections of OSHA in their workplace,\u201d said Congressman Deluzio. \u201cI\u2019m glad that we\u2019ve got momentum growing behind the bipartisan Public Service Worker Protection Act\u2014we need to take on this gap in worker protections and support the public servants who power our state and local governments, teach our kids, and keep all of us safe. Let\u2019s protect America\u2019s public sector workers and get this done.\u201d\n\nThe goal of the Occupational Safety and Health Act (OSH Act) is to \"assure safe and healthful working conditions for working men and women.\" The 1970 law created the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) at the federal level and provided that states could run their own safety and health programs as long as those programs were at least as effective as the federal program. Federal and state safety personnel work to ensure worker safety and health through work site enforcement, education, and compliance assistance.\n\nWhile the OSH Act protects some public sector workers working under federal authority, federal OSHA law does not inherently cover workers at state and local government agencies. Instead, public sector workers in these states are protected by the OSH Act only if their state has an OSHA-approved program\u2014leaving a gap of public sector workers whose workplaces are subject to fewer safety standards and are given less protections. As of today, around two dozen states and territories have OSHA-approved programs that cover both private sector and public sector workers. Some states and territories may also have plans that only cover public sector workers. This leaves dozens of other states and territories where public sector workers lack worker safety protections.\n\nThe bill was reintroduced in the 119th Congress in May 2025 and is endorsed by the American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees (AFSCME), American Federation of Labor and Congress of Industrial Organizations (AFL-CIO), Communications Workers of America (CWA), the American Federation of Teachers (AFT), the United Steelworkers (USW), the International Association of Fire Fighters (IAFF), and the National Education Association (NEA).\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:52:45Z"], ["https://houlahan.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=4805", "Rep. Houlahan Applauded for Taking Her Case to Speaker Johnson", "2025-11-06", "2025", "2025-11", "Democrat", "House", "PA", "Chrissy Houlahan", "H001085", "houlahan.house.gov", "houlahan", "https://houlahan.house.gov/press/documentquery.aspx", "page_html", "In the News\nRep. Houlahan Applauded for Taking Her Case to Speaker Johnson\nOn \"Way Too Early with Ali Vitali\"\nShare on Facebook\nShare on X\nPrint this Page\nShare by Email\nWashington. D.C. ,\r\n      November 6, 2025\nTags:\nTariffs, Trade and Taxes\n,\nHealth Care\n,\nVeterans\n,\nAffordable America\nClick here\nto watch Rep. Houlahan speak to Speaker Johnson at his daily press conference, and Rep. Hillary Scholten discussing the moment with journalist Ali Vitali.\nRelated News\nHoulahan Secures Key Provisions of Bipartisan Innovation Bill in Final SBIR/STTR Package\nMarch 17, 2026\n| Posted in Press Releases\nBarclay Friends Receives $1 Million Federal Grant Supporting Goshen Memory Care Neighborhood\nMarch 6, 2026\n| Posted in In the News\nDemocratic Women\u2019s Caucus & Reproductive Freedom Caucus Sound the Alarm: UN Agency Merger Threatens Decades of Global Progress for Women\nJanuary 20, 2026\n| Posted in Press Releases\nHoulahan and Bicameral Group Of Democrats Introduce Bill To Protect First Amendment Rights, Safeguard Americans From Politically Motivated Harassment And Prosecutions\nJanuary 14, 2026\n| Posted in Press Releases\nHoulahan Joins Colleagues to\u00a0Introduce\u00a0Bipartisan Solution\u00a0to Restore\u00a0Public\u00a0Library\u00a0Passport\u00a0Services\nJanuary 12, 2026\n| Posted in Press Releases\nShare\nThis Page\nShare on Facebook\nShare on Twitter\nShare by Email\nPrint This Page\nPress Contact\nPhone:\n(202) 225-4315\nEmail:\nerrin.cecil-smith@mail.house.gov\nNewsletter Archive\nMedia Kit\nConnect\nwith Chrissy\nfacebook\ntwitter\ninstagram\nyoutube\nbluesky\nFacebook\nU.S. Representative Chrissy Houlahan\nInstagram\nView this profile on Instagram\nRep. Chrissy Houlahan\n(@\nrepchrissyhoulahan\n) \u00e2\u20ac\u00a2 Instagram photos and videos\nSubscribe\nContact Me\nHow Can I Help?", 1, "2026-04-08T14:14:11Z", "2026-04-08T14:23:06Z"], ["https://houlahan.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=4807", "Rep. Houlahan Joins Colleagues Demanding Health Care Protections for All Americans", "2025-11-06", "2025", "2025-11", "Democrat", "House", "PA", "Chrissy Houlahan", "H001085", "houlahan.house.gov", "houlahan", "https://houlahan.house.gov/press/documentquery.aspx", "page_html", "West Chester District Office\n\n709 E. Gay Street, Suite 4\n\nWest Chester, PA 19380\n\nPhone: (610) 883-5050\n\nOpen:\n\nMonday-Wednesday\n\n9:00am-5:00pm\n\nOpen by Appointment:\n\nThursday and Friday\n\nS\u00ed, se habla espa\u00f1ol\n\nReading District Office\n\n201 Penn Street, Suite 201\n\nReading, PA 19601\n\nPhone: (610) 295-0815\n\nOpen:\n\nWednesday-Friday\n\n9:00am-5:00pm\n\nOpen by Appointment:\n\nMonday and Tuesday\n\nS\u00ed, se habla espa\u00f1ol", 1, "2026-04-08T14:14:11Z", "2026-04-08T14:23:06Z"], ["https://houlahan.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=4809", "Government shutdown \u2018disastrous\u2019 for veterans: Lawmakers, advocates", "2025-11-06", "2025", "2025-11", "Democrat", "House", "PA", "Chrissy Houlahan", "H001085", "houlahan.house.gov", "houlahan", "https://houlahan.house.gov/press/documentquery.aspx", "page_html", "Published by The Hill\n\nWritten by Surina Venkat\n\nClick here to watch full speakers' panels at The Hill Veterans Voices Summit\n\nLawmakers and advocates characterized the government shutdown and the partisan politics fueling it as \u201cdisastrous\u201d for retired and active-duty service members, who they said rely on food assistance and medical coverage provisions at risk amid the funding lapse.\n\n\u201cThis shutdown is really disastrous for our current military, and it\u2019s not just because of the financial worry, which is very high,\u201d Kathy Roth-Douquet, co-founder and CEO of Blue Star Families, told NewsNation\u2019s Washington bureau chief Mike Viqueira on Thursday at The Hill\u2019s \u201cVeteran Voices Summit.\u201d\n\nThough veterans\u2019 issues enjoy broad bipartisan support, lawmakers and advocates said the Trump administration\u2019s funding cuts and the shutdown disproportionately impacted service members.\n\n\u201cWe can\u2019t keep shooting ourselves in the foot on this kind of stuff,\u201d said Rep. Chrissy Houlahan (D-Pa.), a former Air Force officer. \u201cWe have to take care of our veterans and cannot be partisan about this.\u201d\n\nAbout 1.2 million veterans in the U.S. live in households that participate in the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), which provides food assistance to low-income families.\n\nSNAP\u2019s funding was set to lapse Nov. 1, though lawmakers introduced legislation to try to fund the program amid the government shutdown. Following a federal judge\u2019s ruling, the administration said it would partially fund the program in November.\n\nRoth-Douquet said the number of military members turning to food banks during the shutdown was \u201csurging\u201d because many members have spouses who are federal government workers \u2014 meaning their household income was \u201cdown one paycheck\u201d during the shutdown.\n\n\u201cBut more importantly, we are so vital in the military to our civilian leadership, and when our civilian leadership doesn\u2019t seem like they can do their basic job, it undermines our confidence in serving,\u201d she said. She said some veterans no longer wanted to recommend military service to others due to the political tumult.\n\nVirginia Burger, a senior defense policy analyst for the Project on Government Oversight and a former Marine Corps member, said the \u201cpoliticization of the military\u201d through measures such as the federal government\u2019s deployment of the National Guard in recent months has affected veterans\u2019 morale.\n\n\u201cIf the military loses credibility, that hurts veterans, right?\u201d Burger said. \u201cIt hurts our own ability, if the reputation of the organization we are associated with is discolored, it\u2019s going to have a negative impact on us.\u201d", 1, "2026-04-08T14:14:11Z", "2026-04-08T14:23:06Z"], ["https://houlahan.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=4806", "Pennsylvania Democrat interrupts Speaker Johnson\u2019s shutdown press conference", "2025-11-05", "2025", "2025-11", "Democrat", "House", "PA", "Chrissy Houlahan", "H001085", "houlahan.house.gov", "houlahan", "https://houlahan.house.gov/press/documentquery.aspx", "page_html", "Published in The Hill\n\nWritten by Emily Brooks\n\nClick here to go to story\n\nRep. Chrissy Houlahan (D-Pa.) interrupted a House Republican press conference Wednesday, urging Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.) to \u201ccall the leadership of both parties\u201d to find a solution to the government shutdown.\n\nHoulahan\u2019s interjection came as Johnson started to take questions during a press conference on the Capitol steps, yelling over the first reporter Johnson called on and saying Johnson is \u201cthe Speaker for the whole House.\u201d\n\n\u201cWe\u2019re having a press conference, thank you,\u201d Johnson said.\n\nHoulahan continued, \u201cI am part of the American people \u2014\u201d\n\n\u201cAnd you should respect free speech,\u201d Johnson said, saying he would \u201clove to talk\u201d to Houlahan in his office.\n\n\u201cCall the leadership of both parties and bring us together and solve this problem together,\u201d Houlahan said.\n\nJohnson noted he, House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries (D-N.Y.), Senate Majority Leader John Thune (R-S.D.), and Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.) all met with President Trump in the Oval Office in the days before the shutdown started.\n\nA Capitol Police officer approached Houlahan but retreated after she noted she is a member of Congress.\n\nWednesday marks the 36th day of the government shutdown, making it the longest shutdown in history.\n\nThrough the shutdown, Republicans have called on Senate Democrats to pass a Republican-crafted \u201cclean\u201d stopgap to fund the government at current levels through Nov. 21. Democrats have called on Republicans to negotiate on health care, particularly on extending enhanced ObamaCare subsidies that expire at the end of the year, before voting to fund the government.\n\n\u201cYou voted to shut down the government. You voted to stop SNAP benefits,\u201d Johnson told Houlihan [sic]. \u201cYou voted to not pay the troops, not pay TSA and Border Patrol. You may regret it now, but that\u2019s your vote, and it\u2019s on the record.\u201d\n\nJohnson and Houlihan [sic] talked over each other.\n\n\u201cYou are absolutely misrepresenting history, sir, and you\u2019re dividing the American people unnecessarily,\u201d Houlahan said. \u201cI do not regret anything. It is important that we unify and that we work together as both parties for the American people.\u201d\n\nAfter she walked away from the press conference, Houlahan told The Hill that she chose to interrupt because she had no indication Johnson had talked to the Democratic leaders \u201cin a serious way about trying to come to a compromise.\u201d\n\n\u201cThis is not a mandate. This president has no mandate. These issues are real issues. They deserve to have real conversations. We deserve to have conversations across with the Senate and with the House,\u201d Houlahan said.\n\nShe pointed to decisive Democratic wins in Tuesday\u2019s elections in New Jersey, Virginia, and elsewhere, saying Johnson was trying to \u201cgaslight the American people about the reality.\u201d\n\nHoulahan rejected Republicans\u2019 demands that negotiations begin only after Democrats vote to open the government.\n\n\u201cThis administration has been completely untrustworthy, has shown over and over again that they do nothing but renege on their promises,\u201d she said. \u201cHe should be just as angry as I am. He\u2019s the Speaker of the House, and he has abdicated his authority, his responsibility, the authority and the responsibility of this Congress to be the power of the purse.\u201d", 1, "2026-04-08T14:14:11Z", "2026-04-08T14:23:06Z"], ["https://www.fetterman.senate.gov/icymi-fetterman-colleagues-introduce-bicameral-bill-expanding-social-security-benefits-for-seniors/", "ICYMI: Fetterman,\u00a0Colleagues Introduce Bicameral Bill Expanding Social Security Benefits for Seniors", "2025-11-05", "2025", "2025-11", "Democrat", "Senate", "PA", "John Fetterman", "F000479", "www.fetterman.senate.gov", "fetterman", "https://www.fetterman.senate.gov/press-release/", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Last week, U.S. Senator John Fetterman (D-PA) joined U.S. Senators Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY), and Ruben Gallego (D-AZ), and U.S. Representative Nikki Budzinski (D-IL), to introduce the bicameral Boosting Benefits and COLAs for Seniors Act, legislation to protect and expand Social Security benefits for older adults.\n\nEach year, Social Security benefits are adjusted by the Cost-of-Living Adjustment (COLA) formula. But in recent years, benefits have failed to keep up with rising costs and inflation, especially for older Americans. This year\u2019s COLA was announced last week as 2.8 percent \u2014 a number that three out of four Americans aged 50 and older say is not enough.\n\nThe Boosting Benefits and COLAs for Seniors Act directs the Social Security Administration to adjust benefits based on the Consumer Price Index for Americans aged 62 or older (CPI-E), whereas current benefits are based on the Consumer Price Index for Urban Wage Earners (CPI-W). The CPI-E takes into account more of the costs incurred by older Americans, such as medical expenses\u2014making it a more accurate index to use when calculating benefits.\n\n\u201cIt\u2019s simple, part of the American bargain is the ability to retire with dignity. When we have seniors choosing between medication and basic needs because their Social Security benefits aren\u2019t keeping up with rising costs, we have a serious problem,\u201d said Senator Fetterman. \u201cIf you spend a lifetime working and paying into Social Security, you deserve to see those earned benefits. I have always supported our seniors, and our Boosting Benefits and COLAs for Seniors Act builds on that commitment to do right by them.\u201d\n\n\u201cThis overdue measure makes necessary adjustments to Social Security benefits\u2014more accurately accounting for rising prices and inflation\u2014to better support older Americans,\u201d said Senator Blumenthal. \u201cOur nation\u2019s seniors are struggling to afford basic necessities like food, medication, and clothing, and the overall cost of living index may not reflect their particular needs. This legislation ensures that older Americans have the support they deserve to live with dignity.\u201d\n\n\u201cAmericans deserve to retire with dignity, not spend their golden years just trying to get by,\u201d said Senator Gillibrand. \u201cOur seniors have spent a lifetime of hard work paying into Social Security, and while these benefits \u2013 including the annual cost-of-living adjustment \u2013 are a lifeline for millions, the payouts simply aren\u2019t keeping up with rising costs. Our Boosting Benefits and COLAs for Seniors Act would account for the unique expenses older Americans face and help ensure they have the resources they need so no one has to choose between paying for medication and buying groceries. As the top Democrat on the Senate Aging Committee, I\u2019m determined to pass this legislation and make sure our seniors can live comfortably, with the security and dignity they\u2019ve earned.\u201d\n\n\u201cOur seniors are feeling the squeeze of inflation right now, but Social Security\u2019s annual cost-of-living adjustment simply doesn\u2019t reflect their reality,\u201d said Representative Budzinski. \u201cThe current formula for Social Security COLAs is based on workers\u2019 cost of living, not retirees\u2019, and overlooks rising costs for essentials like prescription drugs and housing. I\u2019m proud to introduce legislation that ties Social Security adjustments to the Consumer Price Index for Older Americans, which better reflects the costs that seniors actually face. Every American should be able to retire with dignity and security and our bill will help make that a reality.\u201d\n\nThe legislation is cosponsored in the U.S. Senate by Senators Bernie Sanders (I-VT), Peter Welch (D-VT), Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI), Jack Reed (D-RI), Elizabeth Warren (D-MA), and Angela Alsobrooks (D-MD).\n\nThe Boosting Benefits and COLAs for Seniors Act is supported by a number of organizations, including the American Federation of State, County, and Municipal Employees (AFSCME), Social Security Works, California Alliance for Retired Americans, Alliance for Retired Americans, Justice in Aging, National Committee to Preserve Social Security and Medicare, National Education Association, National Organization of Social Security Claimants\u2019 Representatives, New York StateWide Senior Action Council, Strengthen Social Security Coalition, and Women\u2019s Institute for a Secure Retirement.\n\n\u201cToo many older Americans are being squeezed by rising prices,\u201d said AFSCME President Lee Saunders. \u201cAfter a lifetime of hard work, retirees should feel confident that their Social Security benefits are going to ensure they can get by. That\u2019s why AFSCME is proud to support the Boosting Benefits and COLAs for Seniors Act, which would ensure that benefits keep pace with the cost of living. Workers deserve the freedom to retire with dignity. Thank you to Senator Blumenthal for introducing this critical legislation, and we urge Congress to move this bill forward.\u201d\n\n\u201cSocial Security\u2019s annual automatic cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) is among its most important features. But benefits are slowly eroding because the COLA is based on a formula, the CPI-W, that under-measures health care costs. Those costs are currently skyrocketing, with Medicare Part B premiums projected to increase by twice as much as last year. The Boosting Benefits and COLAs for Seniors Act would correct this by incorporating a more accurate formula, the CPI-E. Social Security Works applauds Senator Blumenthal and his colleagues for introducing this important legislation,\u201d said Nancy Altman, President of Social Security Works", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:52:45Z"], ["https://summerlee.house.gov/newsroom/press-releases/rep-summer-lee-condemns-trump-s-threat-to-defy-court-order-and-starve-families", "Rep. Summer Lee Condemns Trump\u2019s Threat to Defy Court Order and Starve Families", "2025-11-04", "2025", "2025-11", "Democrat", "House", "PA", "Summer L. Lee", "L000602", "summerlee.house.gov", "summerlee", "https://summerlee.house.gov/newsroom/press-releases", "scraper", "PITTSBURGH, PA \u2013 NOVEMBER 4, 2025 \u2014 Today, Congresswoman Summer L. Lee (PA-12) issued the following statement after Donald Trumpthreatened to ignore a federal court order requiring the Trump administration to fund Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) during the ongoing federal government shutdown \u2014 a move that would leave millions of children, seniors, and working families without food assistance:\n\n\u201cTrump\u2019s decision to openly defy a court order and block food assistance is unconscionable. He is willing to use working Americans as pawns in his political game, attempting to turn their pain into leverage and their hunger into a talking point. These choices send a message that the lives of working families, children, and seniors are expendable if it helps him win a fight.\n\nLet\u2019s be clear: the White House has the authority and the funds to support full SNAP benefits for the millions of people who rely on it to feed their children and afford the high grocery prices this administration has only made worse through its chaotic and unstrategic tariffs.\n\n\u201cRight now, we are seeing the harm this administration is willing to cause. We see the people they are willing to sacrifice. And we will fight back in the courts, in Congress, and in every community to make sure no president can use hunger as a weapon against the American people.\u201d\n\nCongresswoman Lee has been a steadfast champion in the fight against food insecurity. In 2024, she delivered$1 million in community project funding to the Greater Pittsburgh Community Food Bank to support the distribution of 33 million pounds of food to 400,000 low and moderate-income individuals.\n\nLast week, Rep. Leeheld a roundtable discussion and press conference with representatives from local food banks and organizations to hear directly from community partners impacted by the loss of SNAP benefits due to federal cuts and the ongoing government shutdown.\n\nRecently, Rep. Leejoined over 200 House Democrats in urging the U.S. Department of Agriculture to use contingency reserve dollars to fund SNAP during the government shutdown.\n\nIn September, Rep. Lee, along with Representatives Alma S. Adams, Ph.D. (NC-12), Jahana Hayes (CT-05), and Nydia Vel\u00e1zquez (NY-07), along with Senator Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY), introduced the Closing the Meal Gap Act of 2025, landmark legislation aimed at addressing food insecurity by increasing SNAP benefits and allocating more funds to those with large medical and housing expenses.\n\nIn August, Rep. Lee joined Just Harvest, State Representatives Emily Kinkead and Abigail Salisbury, and community members impacted by SNAP theft at the Kingsley Association in Pittsburgh to demand urgent federal and state action to combat the rising epidemic of stolen food assistance benefits.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:52:45Z"], ["https://boyle.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/icymi-boyle-evans-scanlon-call-trump-and-johnson-reopen-government-fund", "ICYMI: Boyle, Evans, Scanlon Call on Trump and Johnson to Reopen the Government, Fund SNAP", "2025-11-03", "2025", "2025-11", "Democrat", "House", "PA", "Brendan F. Boyle", "B001296", "boyle.house.gov", "boyle", "https://boyle.house.gov/media-center/press-releases", "scraper", "PHILADELPHIA, PA \u2013 Today, Congressman Brendan F. Boyle (PA-02), Ranking Member of the House Budget Committee, joined Representatives Dwight Evans (PA-03) and Mary Gay Scanlon (PA-05) in calling on Speaker Johnson to immediately reconvene the House of Representatives and bring Members back into voting session.\n\n\u201cIt is absolutely astounding that for over six weeks now, the House of Representatives has been shut,\u201d said Boyle. \u201cThose who are on the Obamacare exchange here in Pennsylvania, called Pennie, have seen their premiums skyrocket. In addition to that, because of this government shutdown 41 million Americans who rely on SNAP now are not getting it. So, I'm proud again to stand here with my colleagues, Dwight and Mary Gay, to speak with one voice to call on Speaker Johnson to immediately reopen the House of Representatives.\u201d\n\nTogether, Philadelphia\u2019s three U.S. Representatives visited Bebashi \u2013 Transition to Hope\u2019s Philadelphia food pantry and urged the Trump administration to fully fund SNAP and comply with the federal court rulings that found President Trump illegally blocked food assistance. The Representatives were joined by Sebrina Tate, President and CEO of Bebashi - Transition to Hope. At today\u2019s press conference, Boyle also slammed the devastating food assistance cuts in Trump\u2019s Big Ugly Law.\n\n\u201cJust a few months ago, right before the 4th of July, despite our no votes the House of Representatives and Senate passed, and President Trump signed a bill that includes the largest cuts to health care in American history,\u201d Boyle continued. \u201cAlso in that piece of legislation, $187 billion worth of cuts to SNAP food assistance, also the largest in American history. Why? To help pay for tax breaks that mostly go to the top 1%.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:52:45Z"], ["https://www.fetterman.senate.gov/icymi-fetterman-colleagues-introduce-bicameral-legislation-to-provide-farmers-with-the-right-to-repair/", "ICYMI: Fetterman,\u00a0Colleagues\u00a0Introduce Bicameral Legislation to Provide Farmers with the Right to Repair", "2025-11-03", "2025", "2025-11", "Democrat", "Senate", "PA", "John Fetterman", "F000479", "www.fetterman.senate.gov", "fetterman", "https://www.fetterman.senate.gov/press-release/", "scraper", "Legislation would restore farmers\u2019 autonomy to fix their own equipment, boost competition in the agricultural repair market\n\nWASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Last week, U.S. Senator John Fetterman (D-PA) joined Senators Peter Welch (D-VT) and Elizabeth Warren (D-MA)in introducing the Freedom for Agricultural Repair and Maintenance Act (FARM Act), bicameral legislation togive farmers the right to repair their own equipment and restore competition in the agricultural repair market. The lawmakers\u2019 bill would require farm equipment manufacturers to share documentation, parts, and software with farmers and independent repair shops, giving farmers back the autonomy to fix their own equipment and support their farms.\n\nThe bill is led in the House by Representative Marie Gluesenkamp Perez (D-WA-03) and cosponsored by Representative Joe Neguse (D-CO-02).\n\n\u201cFor farmers across Pennsylvania, a broken tractor right before a harvest can ruin months of hard work. Time is money,\u201d said Senator Fetterman. \u201cOur farmers should have the freedom to repair their own equipment without having to travel hours on hours to the nearest approved service center or being price gouged on repair software subscriptions. I\u2019m proud to join my colleagues on this bill so we can help protect farmers and their right to repair.\u201d\n\n\u201cFarmers are fixers. It only makes sense that farmers should have the right to repair their own equipment, which is vital to saving money and maintaining operations. But right now, lack of a federal right to repair means that farmers in Vermont have to waste valuable time and resources getting someone else to fix their equipment\u2013even if they can do it themselves,\u201d said Senator Welch. \u201cOur bicameral legislation will help protect farmers from rip-offs and ensure they have the right to fix their own equipment.\u201d\n\n\u201cFarmers work tirelessly to feed this country. They shouldn\u2019t have to wait for weeks on end and pay sky-high prices for a manufacturer to fix essential farm equipment that farmers already know how to repair themselves,\u201d said Senator Warren. \u201cOur bill is a commonsense solution: it fights back against the manufacturers\u2019 greed and will save our farmers billions every year in repair costs.\u201d\n\n\u201cI\u2019ve heard directly from farmers across Colorado that delays to repairs for their equipment can mean thousands of dollars in lost crops. A national Right to Repair Law is a common-sense solution to ensuring these folks have more options to fix broken machinery in a timely manner,\u201d said Rep. Neguse. \u201cI\u2019m proud to join with my colleagues in introducing the FARM Act and look forward to working together to get it across the finish line.\u201d\n\nManufacturing companies\u2019 exploitation of the equipment repair market creates undue financial hardships for farmers, leaving them without vital functioning equipment for long periods of time. In 2023, U.S. farmers lost an estimated total of $4.2 billion a year as a result of these practices: $3 billion to tractor downtime and $1.2 billion in excess repair costs.\n\nThe FARM Act defines what type of information Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEM) are required to provide to make repair accessible. If the OEM does not have the digital or physical tools available, they are required to provide sufficient information to create the tools. This bill also gives the Federal Trade Commission the ability to enforce these requirements and the authority to make rules to assist in the implementation of these requirements.\n\nThe FARM Act is endorsed by the American Economic Liberties Project, FULU Foundation, National Farmers Union (NFU), and the United States Public Interest Research Group (U.S. PIRG).\n\n\u201cAs grain farmers, we have very tight planting and harvest schedules. Where we farm, the timing of planting seed is essential. So, when we\u2019re forced to wait days for the equipment dealer to come to the farm for repairs\u2014that only they can do because the information is locked in their computers\u2014 we often lose the opportunity to replant on time and have a crop to harvest the following season. When we buy farm equipment, especially expensive investments like tractors, we should have the right and freedom to fully repair it if something goes wrong. Without a right to repair, we\u2019ve seen an increase in labor rates of equipment dealers, which drives farmers deeper into debt and jeopardizes the lives of farm families,\u201d said Todd Hardie, Vermont grain farmer, President of the Northern Grain Growers Collaborative, and Board Member of the Northeast Organic Farming Association of Vermont (NOFA-VT). \u201cI support Senator Welch\u2019s FARM Act to ensure farmers have the right to repair their equipment.\u201d\n\n\u201cThe Freedom for Agricultural Repair and Maintenance Act is a major step toward restoring fairness and independence for farmers who just want to fix their own equipment,\u201d said Rob Larew, President, National Farmers Union (NFU). \u201cBy ensuring fair and affordable access to the parts, tools, and information they need, this bill levels the playing field for our family farmers and ranchers. We thank Senators Welch, Warren, and Fetterman for their leadership on this issue, and we look forward to working with them to get this bill across the finish line.\u201d\n\n\u201cIf farm equipment breaks down at the wrong time and farmers can\u2019t get it fixed, they can be forced to watch their crop\u2014and their livelihood\u2014wither on the vine. Too many farmers have told us that they are not able to fix their own equipment, even some that have paid thousands of dollars for repair tools, which the manufacturers intentionally limit. The answer to this problem is simple: Let farmers fix their stuff. We\u2019re grateful to our legislative champions like Sens. Peter Welch, Elizabeth Warren and John Fetterman for standing for farmers, and, frankly, for common sense,\u201d said Nathan Proctor, Senior Director, U.S. PIRG\u2019s Right to Repair Campaign.\n\nSenator Fetterman has long been a champion of competition in rural communities and has made farmers a key priority as a senator. In 2022, he was a vocal proponent of farmers\u2019 right to repair, writing in a January 2022 op-ed, \u201cIt\u2019s common sense: farmers should have the right to repair the equipment they own, without having to deal with the equipment\u2019s manufacturer. Period.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:52:45Z"], ["https://deluzio.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-deluzio-shares-stories-western-pennsylvanians-bracing-huge-spike", "Congressman Deluzio Shares Stories of Western Pennsylvanians Bracing for Huge Spike in Health Insurance Costs", "2025-10-31", "2025", "2025-10", "Democrat", "House", "PA", "Christopher R. Deluzio", "D000530", "deluzio.house.gov", "deluzio", "https://deluzio.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "October 31, 2025\n\nDeluzio asked constituents to share their notices of health insurance premium increases\u2014the responses underscore urgent need for congressional negotiation to re-open government & avert healthcare crisis\n\nCARNEGIE, PA \u2013 Today, Congressman Chris Deluzio (PA-17) released some of the initial submissions he received from constituents in response to his request to share stories about rising healthcare costs. The dozens of responses received to-date paint a dire picture.\n\n\u201cWestern Pennsylvanians should be focusing right now on celebrating Halloween or trick-or-treating with their family. Instead, so many are bracing for skyrocketing health insurance premiums that may force them to skip coverage altogether next year,\u201d said Congressman Deluzio. \u201cIt doesn\u2019t have to be this way\u2014Congressional Republicans can come to the table with Democrats to hash out a deal that stops this healthcare crisis. But we\u2019re running out of time.\u201d\n\nOpen enrollment for Pennie, Pennsylvania\u2019s Affordable Care Act (ACA) insurance marketplace, starts tomorrow, November 1st. Congressional Republicans have refused to extend ACA enhanced premium tax credits that made these plans more affordable\u2014and that spike is now reflected in prices Pennie shoppers see. Democrats like Congressman Deluzio are pushing to save these tax credits by including them in a compromise government funding measure. However, Republicans control every level of government in Washington and have shut the government down for almost an entire month because they refuse to return to Washington to hammer out a deal with Democrats to lower healthcare costs and reopen the government.\n\nWithout congressional action, 24,000 Pennsylvanians in the 17th Congressional District who get their coverage through Pennie can expect to see premiums skyrocket an average of about 75%, or $130 per month.\n\nHighlights from the stories shared by Congressman Deluzio\u2019s constituents include:\n\nTim currently pays $550 per month through Pennie and is looking at a new monthly premium of $1,300. He wrote to Congressman Deluzio that this cost hike will be \u201cdevastating.\u201d Tim went on to say: \u201cMy wife, who is a cancer survivor, lost her job...Her healthcare costs will double, not including additional out-of-pocket costs and a deductible that is 3 times higher than she paid as part of her employer plan.\u201d\n\nOne couple who wishes to remain anonymous shared a detailed story: \u201cWe will either have to pay dramatically more or significantly cut back on the coverage we have. My wife and I are in our 60s (but not yet old enough for Medicare). My wife took early social security after having hip replacement and recognizing that she could not go back to work as a full-time math teacher. I am self-employed right now. We rely on the marketplace for our health insurance and opted for a higher monthly premium plan in order to avoid hard-to-meet deductibles (we needed payment plans with providers after we each had surgery earlier this year and we had insurance through employment then). Health insurance is already our biggest fixed monthly expense. Now we face the prospect of either paying much larger premiums or paying the same for a plan that puts us at risk for huge deductibles and copays.\u201d\n\nStephen currently pays $135 per month for his bronze health insurance plan through Pennie. His current plan\u2019s cost without tax subsidies would be approximately $1,100 per month. He shared that this price hike would \u201churt like hell in the wallet! We will have to dip into our savings and cut back (a lot) in other areas to save money.\u201d\n\nTommy wrote that he currently pays $344 per month through Pennie\u2014and he\u2019s been alerted that the price will \u201cdouble.\u201d He wrote to Congressman Deluzio: \u201cMy family will have to go to a cheaper plan with less coverage and hope that everyone stays healthy in 2026.\ud83e\udd1e\u201d\n\nMarsha pays about $350 per month through Pennie and knows the price will go up, but isn\u2019t exactly sure by how much. She shared: \u201cI\u2019m on a limited income and I\u2019m a mom. I\u2019m not sure how I will be able to pay healthcare premiums.\u201d\n\nAnother constituent who wishes to remain anonymous already pays $1,000 per month through Pennie and is worried about an increase. They wrote: \u201cI already pay so much, and I am at their mercy, because I have health issues, so must have insurance.\u201d\n\nCongressman Deluzio has been consistently and forcefully speaking out about this issue for over a month. He recently met with several of his Western Pennsylvania constituents who get their healthcare through Pennie to hear their stories. Congressman Deluzio will keep pushing Republican House Speaker Mike Johnson to bring the U.S. House back to Washington to negotiate a deal to re-open the government and stop healthcare costs from skyrocketing. Speaker Johnson has cancelled all scheduled votes in the U.S. House of Representatives since September 19, 2025.\n\n###\n\nIssues: Health", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:32:54Z"], ["https://deluzio.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-deluzio-meets-western-pennsylvanians-worried-about-looming-lapse", "Congressman Deluzio Meets with Western Pennsylvanians Worried about the Looming Lapse of SNAP Food Assistance, People Going Hungry", "2025-10-30", "2025", "2025-10", "Democrat", "House", "PA", "Christopher R. Deluzio", "D000530", "deluzio.house.gov", "deluzio", "https://deluzio.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "CARNEGIE, PA \u2013 Today, Congressman Chris Deluzio (PA-17) met with several Western Pennsylvanians who rely on federal food assistance through the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) and are worried how they will put food on the table as funding for SNAP will run out in November because of the federal government shutdown. Congressman Deluzio heard firsthand from his constituents how they and their families could go hungry if urgent action is not taken in Washington.\n\n\u201cThousands of Western PA families are staring down the barrel of a hunger crisis unless the Trump Administration takes immediate action using the emergency funds and authorities Congress has provided,\u201d said Congressman Deluzio. \u201cThe Trump Administration has no excuse here\u2014they should stop playing politics and make sure these Western Pennsylvanians do not go hungry.\u2019\u201d\n\nAlmost 75,000 people in Pennsylvania\u2019s 17th Congressional District are enrolled in SNAP\u2014two million Pennsylvanians use the program. The vast majority of participating households are families with kids, seniors, and people with disabilities, including veterans.\n\nLast week, Congressman Deluzio joined 213 of his colleagues on a letter pushing the Agriculture Secretary to use contingency funds that Congress set aside for emergency situations like this, along with existing legal authority to transfer funds, to keep SNAP benefits flowing for November. Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro joined a lawsuit against the Trump Administration seeking to force the use of these contingency funds to avoid a shutoff in SNAP benefits.\n\n\u201cIf the Trump Administration refuses to use existing contingency funds and transfer authority to fund November SNAP benefits, they are choosing to rip away food assistance from 42 million Americans. That\u2019s on top of their $186 billion cut to the SNAP earlier this year. Roughly 16 million kids will go hungry. It's unacceptable to me to play politics with America\u2019s hungry seniors, veterans, and families,\u201d added Congressman Deluzio.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:32:54Z"], ["https://houlahan.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=4804", "The Democratic Women\u2019s Caucus calls for emergency SNAP funding", "2025-10-30", "2025", "2025-10", "Democrat", "House", "PA", "Chrissy Houlahan", "H001085", "houlahan.house.gov", "houlahan", "https://houlahan.house.gov/press/documentquery.aspx", "page_html", "Calling the decision to halt nutrition funding that feeds 42 million Americans \u2013 2 million of them her fellow Pennsylvanians \u2013 \u201cnot a budget problem,\u201d but \u201ca moral problem,\u201d U.S. Rep. Chrissy Houlahan and her colleagues on the congressional Democratic Women\u2019s Caucus urged the federal government to maintain operations of the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program through contingency funding.\n\n\u201cThere is a $5 billion contingency fund sitting at the Department of Agriculture right now, created for emergencies just like this one, that can be legally used to fund SNAP right now,\u201d said Houlahan, who chairs the caucus\u2019s Servicewomen, Women Veterans, & Military Families Task Force, in a Thursday afternoon press call. \u201cThey can unfreeze this money \u2026 They can feed our veterans and they can feed our families today; they\u2019re just choosing not to.\u201d\n\nIf no action is taken, SNAP will become the latest victim of the month-long federal government shutdown on Nov. 1, when existing funding is due to expire. The women\u2019s caucus has spotlighted this issue because a majority of recipients \u2013 26 million \u2013 are women and girls. Nearly 40% of those relying on the program for food are children, another 20% are elderly and an additional 10% have a disability.\n\n\u201cHere in Pennsylvania\u2019s Sixth (Congressional) District \u2026 88,000 of our neighbors could go hungry \u2013 28,000 people in Chester County and nearly 60,000 in Berks,\u201d said Houlahan. More than a million U.S. veterans \u2013 60,000 of them in Pennsylvania \u2013 also rely on SNAP, as well as 13% of current military households, according to Houlahan, a third-generation military veteran and a ranking member of the Military Personnel Subcommittee for the Committee on Armed Services.\n\n\u201cIn just days, we will collectively be celebrating Veterans Day,\u201d she added. \u201cWhat does it say about this administration that it\u2019s willing to let more than a million veterans go hungry on the very day that we purportedly honor their service?\u201d\n\nHer caucus colleague, U.S. Rep. Jahana Hayes of Connecticut, the ranking member on the Nutrition Subcommittee of the House Agriculture Committee, pointed out that SNAP benefits have never been allowed to lapse since the program\u2019s inception. During the current impasse, however, the federal government has thus far not committed to alternative funding arrangements.\n\n\u201cIn every other previous shutdown, there has always been a commitment to states to be reimbursed, or cards had been preloaded \u2026 to make sure that people did not go hungry while these negotiations were being worked out,\u201d said Hayes, who introduced herself as a former SNAP recipient.\n\nOne after another, the caucus members decried the Trump administration\u2019s financial priorities, including restoring funding to the military during the shutdown. \u201cHe\u2019s sending $40 billion to Argentina, but refusing to spend the $5 billion USDA has in the bank for SNAP. USDA also has another $30 billion in contingency funds it could utilize,\u201d said Rep. Teresa Leger Fernandez of New Mexico.\n\nHoulahan offered a personal testimony of the importance of nutrition: Early in her career, she taught chemistry at a school where 98% of students qualified for free and reduced lunch.\n\n\u201cWhen partisan politics hurt military families and hurt people in my district \u2013 and hurt the kinds of kids that I taught \u2013 that\u2019s not an abstract concept to me,\u201d she said. \u201cThat\u2019s personal.\u201d", 1, "2026-04-08T14:14:11Z", "2026-04-08T14:23:06Z"], ["https://dean.house.gov/2025/10/congresswoman-dean-urges-trump-administration-to-remain-committed-to-ceasefire-and-long-term-peace", "Congresswoman Dean Urges Trump Administration to Remain Committed to Ceasefire and Long-Term Peace", "2025-10-29", "2025", "2025-10", "Democrat", "House", "PA", "Madeleine Dean", "D000631", "dean.house.gov", "dean", "https://dean.house.gov/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2014 Congresswoman Madeleine Dean (PA-04), member of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, led 90 Members of Congress in a letter to President Trump in support of the ceasefire in Gaza and urging sustained American leadership to achieve further diplomatic breakthroughs.\n\nThe Members of Congress wrote following Israeli strikes in Gaza overnight that killed at least 100 people \u2014 a stark reminder of how tenuous the current moment is and the need for the Trump Administration\u2019s continued engagement and unwavering commitment to long-term peace for Israel and Palestine.\n\n\u201cWe welcome the implementation of the first phase of the ceasefire in Gaza and the return of the hostages. Sustained American pressure is critical to achieving further diplomatic breakthroughs. We urge you not to ease any leverage until all phases of the agreement come into full effect,\u201d the lawmakers wrote. \u201cAs we are already witnessing, the end to the war also marks the beginning of a longer and far more difficult process toward building durable peace, security, and stability.\u201d\n\nSpecifically, the lawmakers call for the Trump Administration to:\n\nWork with regional stakeholders to establish an effective replacement for Hamas, with the goal of ultimately transitioning control of Gaza to a reformed Palestinian Authority;\n\nSupport the IDF\u2019s full withdrawal from Gaza;\n\nOppose settlement expansion and settler violence in the West Bank;\n\nInvest long-term in Gaza\u2019s reconstruction; and\n\nLead efforts to negotiate a comprehensive regional agreement that includes a pathway to Palestinian statehood.\n\n\u201cWe stand at a major historical hinge point. If your administration moves urgently and continues to use the leverage it has, we can move toward a future where both Israelis and Palestinians live in freedom, security, and dignity in states of their own. We urge quick action and sustained and relentless engagement to implement the next phases of your 20-point plan,\u201d the lawmakers concluded.\n\nRead the full letter here.\n\nRep. Madeleine Dean is a mother, grandmother, attorney, professor, former four-term member of the Pennsylvania House of Representatives, and U.S. Representative for the Fourth District of Pennsylvania.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:32:54Z"], ["https://deluzio.house.gov/media/press-releases/deluzio-introduces-bill-help-local-communities-fight-flooding-manage", "Deluzio Introduces Bill to Help Local Communities Fight Flooding, Manage Stormwater and Sewer Overflows", "2025-10-28", "2025", "2025-10", "Democrat", "House", "PA", "Christopher R. Deluzio", "D000530", "deluzio.house.gov", "deluzio", "https://deluzio.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "CARNEGIE, PA \u2013 Transportation and Infrastructure Committee member Congressman Chris Deluzio (PA-17) introduced the Sewer Overflow and Stormwater Reuse Grant Reauthorization Act. This bill would reauthorize around $350 million in federal grants to help local municipalities fight flooding and manage and maintain their water systems.\n\n\u201cNo matter the size of a city, borough, or township: people in all types of communities should have a reliable water system that protects their drinking water and prevents dangerous flooding and stormwater overflow,\u201d said Congressman Deluzio. \u201cI\u2019m introducing the Sewer Overflow and Stormwater Reuse Grant Reauthorization Act to help municipalities pay for important, but often expensive, upgrades and maintenance to their water systems that help keep communities healthy.\u201d\n\nThis reauthorizes an existing Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) program (the Sewer Overflow and Stormwater Grant program) in the Federal Water Pollution Control Act or the Clean Water Act. Managing the cleanliness and volume of stormwater entering local water systems can be a huge problem and financial burden for smaller communities. Specifically, the funds can be used for the planning, design, and construction of combined sewer overflows (CSOs), sanitary sewer overflows (SSOs), and stormwater management projects. More details are available here.\n\nThe full text of Congressman Deluzio\u2019s Sewer Overflow and Stormwater Reuse Grant Reauthorization Act is available here.\n\nWestern Pennsylvania is no stranger to flooding, with heavy rains leading to streets full of water, power outages, expensive property damage to homes and businesses, and sometimes even tragic loss of life. With this bill, Congressman Deluzio is continuing his work to advance federal policy options to help strengthen America\u2019s infrastructure.\n\nThe Congressman is also concerned about the economic strain that extreme weather and storms can bring on communities. Following a storm in the spring of 2025, Congressman Deluzio polled his constituents on the regional power outages that disrupted a lot of families across his congressional district. You can read the report of Rep. Deluzio's survey and findings on his website.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:32:54Z"], ["https://summerlee.house.gov/newsroom/press-releases/rep-summer-lee-local-food-banks-discuss-snap-cuts-and-lapse-impact-on-western-pa-families", "Rep. Summer Lee, Local Food Banks Discuss SNAP Cuts and Lapse Impact on Western PA Families", "2025-10-28", "2025", "2025-10", "Democrat", "House", "PA", "Summer L. Lee", "L000602", "summerlee.house.gov", "summerlee", "https://summerlee.house.gov/newsroom/press-releases", "scraper", "Photos (Dropbox)\n\nPITTSBURGH, PA \u2013 OCTOBER 28, 2025 \u2014 Today, Congresswoman Summer L. Lee (PA-12) held a roundtable discussion and press conference with representatives from local food banks and organizations to hear directly from community partners impacted by the loss of SNAP benefits due to federal cuts and the ongoing government shutdown. The Congresswoman was joined by Greater Pittsburgh Community Food Bank (GPCFB), Westmoreland Food Bank (WCFB), Jewish Family and Community Services, Rainbow Kitchen, Project Destiny, and Just Harvest. The conversation comes as SNAP benefits are set to be delayed at the end of the month for 42 million Americans nationwide, including 2 million in Pennsylvania, due to the shutdown and the Trump administration\u2019s refusal to use its emergency contingency reserve funds or transfer authority to provide benefits.\n\nIn March, the Trump administration slashed more than a billion dollars in funding used to purchase food for food banks, schools, and childcare centers. A month later, it cut another $500 million from The Emergency Food Assistance Program (TEFAP). In July, Trump and Republicans passed their so-called One Big Beautiful Bill that made the largest cuts in history to SNAP\u2014a whopping $186 billion\u2014while giving tax breaks to the ultra-wealthy.\n\n\u201cFor years, food banks have struggled to keep up with rising demand. Instead of strengthening the programs that help feed our communities, the Trump administration has spent the last several months dismantling them\u2014including making the largest cuts in history to SNAP this past summer. Now, this Republican-led shutdown is putting an even bigger strain on our communities,\u201d said Congresswoman Lee. \u201cThe administration can use SNAP\u2019s billions of dollars in its contingency reserve to fund the program under this shutdown. They must support our most vulnerable families.\u201d\n\n\"Pennsylvania food banks are facing a dual crisis with a state budget impasse and the federal shutdown threatening the on-time delivery of SNAP benefits,\u201d said Lisa Scales, President and CEO of Greater Pittsburgh Community Food Bank. \u201cOur charitable feeding network is intended to complement, not replace, federal nutrition programs. With a surge of people coming to us for help in anticipation of a lapse of benefits, food banks and local food pantries need help now. Learn more and give today at pittsburghfoodbank.org and westmorelandfoodbank.org.\"\n\n\u201cThe Westmoreland Food Bank serves 15,000 households regularly. As of July, 46,270 individuals in our county relied on SNAP. For every meal a food bank provides, SNAP provides nine,\u201d said Jennifer Miller, Chief Executive Officer with the Westmoreland Food Bank. \u201cWe are here to serve\u2014but we are not designed to replace federal nutrition programs. We do not have the capacity to absorb this level of influx.\u201d\n\n\"It\u2019s deeply disturbing that the USDA is now claiming that the contingency funds cannot be used \u2014 even though earlier plans indicated that they could. Every action possible must be taken to ensure that the 42 million people who rely on SNAP have access to that lifeline. We must stop playing politics with people's lives,\u201d said Ann Sanders, Director of Public Benefits, Policy and Programs, Just Harvest.\n\n\u201cRainbow Kitchen Community Services has served the Steel Valley for over 40 years. 2,000 individuals that rely on our services represent highly vulnerable populations including children, seniors, people with disabilities and those experiencing homelessness. Federal funding from the Emergency Food and Shelter Program, a funding source we have relied on for decades to provide a hundred hot meals per day, has already been halted this year while our soup kitchen experiences a 30% increase in clients. This impending pause on SNAP benefits represents another devastating blow to everyone and will harshly impact our neighbors, friends, employees, coworkers and those already struggling to put food on the table,\u201d said Matthew Y. Bolton, Executive Director, Rainbow Kitchen Community Services.\n\nCongresswoman Lee has been a steadfast champion in the fight against food insecurity. In 2024, she delivered $1 million in community project funding to the Greater Pittsburgh Community Food Bank to support the distribution of 33 million pounds of food to 400,000 low and moderate-income individuals.\n\nLast week, Rep. Lee joined over 200 House Democrats in urging the U.S. Department of Agriculture to use contingency reserve dollars to fund SNAP during the government shutdown.\n\nIn September, Rep. Lee, along with Representatives Alma S. Adams, Ph.D. (NC-12), Jahana Hayes (CT-05), and Nydia Vel\u00e1zquez (NY-07), along with Senator Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY), introduced the Closing the Meal Gap Act of 2025, landmark legislation aimed at addressing food insecurity by increasing SNAP benefits and allocating more funds to those with large medical and housing expenses.\n\nIn August, Rep. Lee joined Just Harvest, State Representatives Emily Kinkead and Abigail Salisbury, and community members impacted by SNAP theft at the Kingsley Association in Pittsburgh to demand urgent federal and state action to combat the rising epidemic of stolen food assistance benefits.\n\nPhotos from the visit from be found here.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:32:54Z"]], "truncated": false, "filtered_table_rows_count": 698, "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": "PA", "p2": "2025"}}, "facet_results": {"party": {"name": "party", "type": "column", "hideable": false, "toggle_url": "/press/releases.json?party=Democrat&state=PA&year=2025", "results": [{"value": "Democrat", "label": "Democrat", "count": 698, "toggle_url": "http://dpwillis-congress-press-search.hf.space/press/releases.json?state=PA&year=2025", "selected": true}], "truncated": false}, "chamber": {"name": "chamber", "type": "column", "hideable": false, "toggle_url": "/press/releases.json?party=Democrat&state=PA&year=2025", "results": [{"value": "House", "label": "House", "count": 616, "toggle_url": "http://dpwillis-congress-press-search.hf.space/press/releases.json?party=Democrat&state=PA&year=2025&chamber=House", "selected": false}, {"value": "Senate", "label": "Senate", "count": 82, "toggle_url": "http://dpwillis-congress-press-search.hf.space/press/releases.json?party=Democrat&state=PA&year=2025&chamber=Senate", "selected": false}], "truncated": false}, "state": {"name": "state", "type": "column", "hideable": false, "toggle_url": "/press/releases.json?party=Democrat&state=PA&year=2025", "results": [{"value": "PA", "label": "PA", "count": 698, "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=PA&year=2025", "results": [{"value": "2025", "label": "2025", "count": 698, "toggle_url": "http://dpwillis-congress-press-search.hf.space/press/releases.json?party=Democrat&state=PA", "selected": true}], "truncated": false}}, "suggested_facets": [], "next": "2025-10-28,https~3A~2F~2Fsummerlee~2Ehouse~2Egov~2Fnewsroom~2Fpress-releases~2Frep-summer-lee-local-food-banks-discuss-snap-cuts-and-lapse-impact-on-western-pa-families", "next_url": "http://dpwillis-congress-press-search.hf.space/press/releases.json?party=Democrat&state=PA&year=2025&_next=2025-10-28%2Chttps~3A~2F~2Fsummerlee~2Ehouse~2Egov~2Fnewsroom~2Fpress-releases~2Frep-summer-lee-local-food-banks-discuss-snap-cuts-and-lapse-impact-on-western-pa-families&_sort_desc=date", "private": false, "allow_execute_sql": true, "query_ms": 347.14866802096367, "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"}