{"database": "press", "table": "releases", "is_view": false, "human_description_en": "where party = \"Republican\", state = \"IA\" and year = 2025 sorted by date descending", "rows": [["https://feenstra.house.gov/media/press-releases/feenstra-praises-trump-administration-protecting-american-farmland-foreign", "Feenstra Praises Trump Administration for Protecting American Farmland from Foreign Adversaries", "2025-12-30", "2025", "2025-12", "Republican", "House", "IA", "Randy Feenstra", "F000446", "feenstra.house.gov", "feenstra", "https://feenstra.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "HULL, IOWA \u2014 Today, U.S. Rep. Randy Feenstra (R-Hull) issued the following statement applauding the Trump administration for advancing its National Farm Security Action Plan, which includes Feenstra\u2019s FARMLAND Act to keep foreign enemies away from American farmland.\n\n\u201cPresident Trump\u2019s National Farm Security Action Plan defends rural Iowa from China and our foreign adversaries and ensures that Iowa farmland stays in the hands of Iowa farmers. It also includes my work to develop new oversight measures for foreign farmland purchases, require the Secretary of Agriculture to report threats of foreign acquisition of American farmland to Congress, and hold foreign investors who fail to properly disclose farmland purchases accountable,\u201d said Rep. Feenstra. \u201cKeeping foreign adversaries \u2013 like China \u2013 off our farm ground is an important matter of national and farm security. I\u2019ll keep working to ensure our farmland is passed to the next generation so that we can keep our proud agricultural traditions alive in Iowa.\u201d\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://feenstra.house.gov/media/press-releases/feenstra-applauds-approval-209-million-rural-hospitals-and-healthcare-iowa", "Feenstra Applauds Approval of $209 Million for Rural Hospitals and Healthcare in Iowa", "2025-12-29", "2025", "2025-12", "Republican", "House", "IA", "Randy Feenstra", "F000446", "feenstra.house.gov", "feenstra", "https://feenstra.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "HULL, IOWA \u2013 Today, U.S. Rep. Randy Feenstra (R-Hull) praised the Trump administration and the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) for approving $209 million for rural hospitals and rural healthcare in Iowa for 2026 as part of the Rural Health Transformation Program.\n\nThis transformational investment in rural healthcare was made possible by the Working Families Tax Cuts, which Feenstra helped write and pass.\n\n\u201cWorking with President Trump, my Republican colleagues and I delivered $50 billion for rural hospitals and rural healthcare nationwide, and today\u2019s announcement of $209 million for Iowa in 2026 alone will greatly benefit our state and rural communities. This funding will support rapid emergency medical services in Iowa, keep our rural hospitals open and operational, and make high-quality healthcare more accessible and affordable for Iowans,\u201d said Rep. Feenstra. \u201cAs a former volunteer EMT in my hometown of Hull for 15 years, I can confidently say that this investment in rural healthcare will support patients and save lives. I\u2019ll keep working with President Trump to lower healthcare costs and ensure all Iowans have access to high-quality, affordable care.\u201d\n\nYou can find more information about today\u2019s announcement HERE.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://millermeeks.house.gov/media/press-releases/miller-meeks-announces-209-million-iowa-part-historic-rural-health", "Miller-Meeks Announces $209 Million for Iowa as Part of Historic Rural Health Transformation Program", "2025-12-29", "2025", "2025-12", "Republican", "House", "IA", "Mariannette Miller-Meeks", "M001215", "millermeeks.house.gov", "millermeeks", "https://millermeeks.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "IOWA \u2014 Today, Congresswoman Mariannette Miller-Meeks (IA-01) proudly announced that Iowa will receive $209,040,064 in federal funding as part of the Rural Health Transformation Program, the largest federal investment in rural health care in American history. This groundbreaking initiative, established under the Working Families Tax Cuts legislation passed by House Republicans and signed by President Trump, represents an unprecedented $50 billion commitment to revitalizing rural health care systems across the country.\n\n\"This is a transformational moment for rural Iowa,\" said Miller-Meeks. \"Access to high-quality health care should never depend on your zip code, and today, we\u2019re delivering on that promise. This $209 million investment will bring top-tier care closer to home for families, seniors, and veterans in every corner of our state. I fought hard to ensure Iowa received its fair share, and I\u2019m proud to see that fight pay off for the people I serve.\"\n\nThe Rural Health Transformation Program is designed to support states in expanding access to care, modernizing outdated facilities and technologies, strengthening the rural health workforce, and deploying innovative care models. Iowa\u2019s share of the funding will be used to:\n\nStrengthen and expand rural health care providers and staff\n\nModernize rural hospitals and clinics with new technology and infrastructure\n\nImprove emergency medical services and mental health access in underserved communities\n\nSupport community-based care delivery models that meet the unique needs of rural populations\n\nThis achievement builds on Miller-Meeks' long-standing commitment to improving health outcomes for rural communities. A physician, veteran, and strong advocate for rural Iowa, Miller-Meeks has consistently prioritized rural health in Congress and has sent multiple letters to leadership at the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) and state leadership urging full and fair consideration for Iowa's RHTP application.\n\nBACKGROUND:\n\nIn August & September 2025, Miller-Meeks hosted roundtables with hospital leaders across Southeast Iowa to gather input and advocate for targeted relief.\n\nIn October, Miller-Meeks led the Iowa delegation in sending a letter to Governor Kim Reynolds and Iowa HHS Director Larry Johnson expressing strong support for the Rural Health Transformation Program and outlining several guiding principles for consideration as Iowa prepares its application.\n\nIn November, Miller-Meeks led the Iowa Congressional Delegation in sending a letter to CMS Administrator Dr. Mehmet Oz showing strong support of Iowa\u2019s application for the program.\n\n\"This is the result of listening to rural Iowans and delivering real results,\" Miller-Meeks continued. \"This funding will not only save lives but also strengthen our rural communities for generations to come.\"\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://nunn.house.gov/2025/12/29/nunn-secures-209-million-rural-health-investment-for-iowa/", "Nunn Secures $209 Million Rural Health Investment for Iowa", "2025-12-29", "2025", "2025-12", "Republican", "House", "IA", "Zachary Nunn", "N000193", "nunn.house.gov", "nunn", "https://nunn.house.gov/category/news/press-releases/", "scraper", "DES MOINES, IA \u2014 Representative Zach Nunn (IA-03) today applauded the award of more than $209 million to Iowa from the Rural Health Transformation (RHT) Program, a $50 billion nationwide initiative to strengthen rural health care created through the Working Families Tax Cuts.\n\n\u201cWhen we passed the Working Families Tax Cut, I fought to secure $50 billion for rural health care across the country,\u201d said Rep. Nunn. \u201cNow, more than $209 million is coming home to Iowa to strengthen care close to home, expand access through telehealth, and help rural clinics recruit and retain the providers Iowa communities rely on.\u201d\n\nThe announcement follows a letter sent by the Iowa Congressional delegation on November 20, urging the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) to approve funding for Healthy Hometowns\u2014Iowa\u2019s rural health initiative designed to expand care access, strengthen emergency response, and retain medical providers across underserved communities.\n\n###", 1, "2026-04-04T05:28:40Z", "2026-04-04T05:30:10Z"], ["https://www.grassley.senate.gov/news/news-releases/grassley-shares-overview-of-his-2025-policy-and-oversight-achievements", "Grassley Shares Overview of His 2025 Policy and Oversight Achievements", "2025-12-29", "2025", "2025-12", "Republican", "Senate", "IA", "Chuck Grassley", "G000386", "www.grassley.senate.gov", "grassley", "https://www.grassley.senate.gov/news/news-releases", "scraper", "BUTLER COUNTY, IOWA \u2013 U.S. Sen. Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa) is sharing an overview of his 2025 legislative and oversight work on behalf of Iowans.\n\n\u201cIt\u2019s an honor serving the people of Iowa every day. I\u2019m happy to report that Senate Republicans made a great impact this year by preventing the largest tax increase in U.S. history and ending the Biden Border Crisis, providing American families with increased safety and prosperity. In 2026, I\u2019ll continue my efforts to bring down costs for Iowans and make government more accountable and transparent. We\u2019ve got more work to do to lower the price of prescription drugs, pass a five-year Farm Bill and root out wasteful spending. I encourage all Iowans to share their views with me while I continue working for them in Washington,\u201d Grassley said.\n\nClick HERE to read Grassley's 2025 Year in Review.\n\nTable of Contents:\n\n1 Welcome\n\nNumbers to Know\n\n2 Iowa: Number One in the Senate\n\nHIStory Series\n\n3 Every County, Every Year\n\n4 Year One of Trump\u2019s Second Term\n\n5 Tax Cuts for Working Families\n\n6 Advancing Iowa\u2019s Clean Energy Future\n\n7 Agriculture\n\nPushing for Year-Round, Nationwide E15\n\nLowering the High Cost of Fertilizer\n\nSupporting Farm Aid\n\n9 Health Care\n\nProtecting Rural Health Care and Supporting Telehealth\n\nPreserving and Strengthening Medicaid\n\nCracking down on Obamacare Fraud\n\nLowering Prescription Drug Prices through PBM Transparency\n\nCaring for Rural Iowans\n\n11 The Senate Judiciary Committee | Chairman Chuck Grassley\n\nAbout the Committee\n\nEnding the Biden Border Crisis\n\nSupporting the American Workforce\n\nPutting President Trump\u2019s Team in Place\n\nLifetime Judicial Appointments\n\nBreaking Through the Partisan Blockade\n\nFighting Unconstitutional Judicial Overreach\n\nKeeping an Eye on the Courts\n\nRestoring Law and Order\n\nDelivering for American Communities\n\nCombating Organized Retail Crime\n\nHalting the Lethal Trafficking of Fentanyl\n\nSafeguarding Children\n\n17 Transparency Brings Accountability\n\n18 Arctic Frost: A Scandal Worse than Watergate\n\n19 Standing Strong at Home and Abroad\n\n-30-", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://www.grassley.senate.gov/news/news-releases/grassley-welcomes-historic-investment-in-iowa-rural-health-care-from-republicans-working-family-tax-cuts-law", "Grassley Welcomes Historic Investment in Iowa Rural Health Care from Republicans\u2019 Working Family Tax Cuts Law", "2025-12-29", "2025", "2025-12", "Republican", "Senate", "IA", "Chuck Grassley", "G000386", "www.grassley.senate.gov", "grassley", "https://www.grassley.senate.gov/news/news-releases", "scraper", "BUTLER COUNTY, IOWA \u2013 U.S. Sen. Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa), a senior member and former chairman of the U.S. Senate Finance Committee, welcomed news from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) that Iowa will receive $209,040,064 in Fiscal Year 2026 from the Rural Health Transformation Fund to boost hospitals, nursing homes, community health centers and other rural providers.\n\n\u201cSenate Republicans fought hard to ensure our Working Family Tax Cuts Law included significant funding for rural communities. I was proud to help craft this legislation that provides the largest federal investment in rural health care in history. It\u2019s fantastic news that Iowa will receive $209 million in the next year to support its Healthy Hometowns program and revitalize rural care across the state. I thank Governor Reynolds and her team for working with my office and our congressional delegation to make this substantial investment in Iowa health care,\u201d Grassley said.\n\nBackground:\n\nThe rural health care funding comes from the Grassley-backed Working Family Tax Cuts law, titled the One Big Beautiful Bill Act. In addition to preventing the largest tax increase in history and providing major investments in border security and law enforcement, the law includes a historic investment in rural health care.\n\nLast month, Iowa Gov. Kim Reynolds announced the state had submitted its \u201cHealthy Hometowns\u201d application for a portion of the law\u2019s funding. Iowa\u2019s plan is aimed at building a high-quality, sustainable system of care that improves the health, well-being and quality of life in rural communities across the state.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://www.grassley.senate.gov/news/news-releases/icymi-an-iowans-advice-after-70-years-of-parenting", "ICYMI: An Iowan\u2019s Advice After 70 Years of Parenting", "2025-12-27", "2025", "2025-12", "Republican", "Senate", "IA", "Chuck Grassley", "G000386", "www.grassley.senate.gov", "grassley", "https://www.grassley.senate.gov/news/news-releases", "scraper", "An Iowan\u2019s Advice After 70 Years of Parenting\n\nBy Senator Chuck Grassley\n\nDecember 26, 2025\n\nWall Street Journal\n\nLast weekend I encouraged everyone to read Rahm Emanuel\u2019s op-ed \u201cLessons From Modern Parenthood\u201d (Dec. 20). He\u2019s a Democrat, and I\u2019m a Republican, but his advice is sound for moms and dads of any stripe. Kudos to him for speaking up on a consequential issue on many Americans\u2019 minds.\n\nAfter years of policymaking and parenting, I agree that there\u2019s no \u201csecret sauce\u201d to raising a family. Good parenting isn\u2019t partisan. My wife of 71 years and I agree with the Emanuels on the ritual of eating together as a family. The conversations around the table in my own childhood are seared in my memory\u2014they prompted an interest in government that turned into my vocation.\n\nWhen our five kids were growing up, I can\u2019t pretend I was at every meal. I give Barbara credit for serving as commander in chief of our household, acting as mom, homework-helper, chore-taskmaster and more when I was in Washington. Yet there was no daylight between us in our approach to parenthood. We taught our kids to work hard and live by the Golden Rule. Farm chores and school work didn\u2019t leave much time to waste on television.\n\nRaising kids today comes with new challenges, but the fundamentals haven\u2019t changed. Our advice: Stick your nose in their business and keep strict boundaries. The internet poses risks beyond idleness and harm to mental health. Nefarious predators are targeting children with all manner of schemes.\n\nAs chairman of the Senate Judiciary Committee, I\u2019m leading bipartisan efforts with Sen. Dick Durbin (D., Ill.) to combat online child exploitation and keep the next generation safe. Our reforms will help deter bad actors by revamping federal sentencing laws, targeting online criminal networks and cracking down on offenders who use child sex-abuse material to extort and coerce children.\n\nHaving and raising children is our nation\u2019s most important work. Parents deserve to feel empowered, to be assured that Washington is an ally.\n\nBarbara and I didn\u2019t fall into helicopter- or tiger-parenting categories. Our Midwestern philosophy was handed down from our parents: Have faith in God and yourself; don\u2019t worry about failure\u2014it yields resilience\u2014and remember that love guarantees you a permanent seat at the supper table.\n\nSen. Chuck Grassley (R., Iowa)", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://www.grassley.senate.gov/news/news-releases/qanda-time-to-end-section-230", "Q&A: Time to End Section 230", "2025-12-23", "2025", "2025-12", "Republican", "Senate", "IA", "Chuck Grassley", "G000386", "www.grassley.senate.gov", "grassley", "https://www.grassley.senate.gov/news/news-releases", "scraper", "Q: What is Section 230?\n\nA: Section 230 refers to the federal statute that provides legal immunity to Big Tech. The outdated law shields social media platforms and prevents parents and victims from seeking justice from online harm. As chairman of the Senate Judiciary Committee, I\u2019m co-sponsoring the bipartisan Sunset Section 230 Act to repeal this provision of the Communication Decency Act of 1996. This nearly 30-year old measure was written to give emerging internet entities the runway to get off the ground. It allowed social media companies to host and moderate third-party content unencumbered by the fear of costly litigation. Fast forward three decades, many of these entities are among the most powerful, profitable companies in the world; they use Section 230 to evade badly needed accountability. At the helm of the Senate Judiciary Committee, I\u2019ve convened congressional hearings to gather expert testimony on child online exploitation to inform public policy; heard from witnesses exposing online child extortion rings, like the \u201c764\u201d network; and introduced bipartisan legislation to implement whistleblower protections in the Artificial Intelligence (AI) industry. I\u2019ll continue advocating for parents, including Deric and Kathy Kidd of Des Moines, who lost their son in 2021 when he took half of what he thought was a pain pill that was actually fentanyl.\n\nCongress must take swift action to empower victims and send a message to Big Tech. With passage of our legislation, social media companies would no longer have license to profit from heinous material and drug trafficking pushed on their platforms with immunity. The day is long overdue to open the courthouse doors for victims of online crimes and exploitation to seek justice and hold wrongdoers accountable.\n\nQ: What are the next steps in the new year?\n\nA: I wrote a bipartisan letter alongside the cosponsors of the Sunset Section 230 Act and called upon the Senate Majority and Minority leaders to prioritize this issue and our bipartisan bill for next year\u2019s legislative calendar. Common sense says Section 230 has outlived its utility and instead fosters a breeding ground for online harms and criminal exploitation. The bottom line is clear: Big Tech is profiting at the expense of the American people, especially young people. Section 230 allows online predators to sexually groom and extort kids. Predators create and distribute AI-generated deepfake pornography; drug traffickers sell fentanyl-laced pills to teenagers; impressionable adolescents experience harm to their mental health, with online content exploiting body image issues, anxieties about isolation and stress over peer exclusion. Vulnerable victims and distraught parents are at their wit\u2019s end with no meaningful relief for exploited consumers. Policymakers need to put the American people first and open the door to our system of justice for the redress of grievances. Too many grieving parents will observe this holiday season another year without a precious son or daughter lost to online exploitation or drug trafficking.\n\nWhen Congress returns to work in the new year, we\u2019ve asked Senate leaders to dedicate a week in February to advance bipartisan legislation that protects children from online threats \u2013 including my landmark legislative package to target lax sentencing laws, violent online criminal networks and child sextortion crimes \u2013 and end the crisis that\u2019s cropped up after three decades of legal immunity once and for all. After 30 years in the wilderness of legal immunity, it\u2019s time to chop down Section 230 and give victims of online crimes their day in court and parents better peace of mind.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://feenstra.house.gov/media/press-releases/feenstra-congratulates-iowa-hog-farmer-dwight-mogler-appointment-national-pork", "Feenstra Congratulates Iowa Hog Farmer Dwight Mogler on Appointment to National Pork Board", "2025-12-22", "2025", "2025-12", "Republican", "House", "IA", "Randy Feenstra", "F000446", "feenstra.house.gov", "feenstra", "https://feenstra.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "HULL, IOWA \u2014 Today, U.S. Rep. Randy Feenstra (R-Hull) issued the following statement congratulating Dwight Mogler, an Iowa hog farmer and member of his Agriculture Advisory Board, on being appointed to the National Pork Board.\n\n\u201cI want to congratulate my friend, Iowa hog farmer, and member of my Agriculture Advisory Board \u2014 Dwight Mogler \u2014 on being appointed to the National Pork Board. This appointment is a testament to Dwight\u2019s incredible impact on the Iowa pork industry and gives Iowa hog farmers a powerful voice at the national level,\u201d said Rep. Feenstra. \u201cFrom opening new export markets for Iowa pork to keeping African Swine Fever out of our country, having an Iowan like Dwight on this board is a game changer. I\u2019ll keep advocating for our hog farmers, strong trade deals, and pork as a healthy part of people\u2019s diet.\u201d\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://hinson.house.gov/media/press-releases/video-release-hinson-recaps-results-iowans-2025", "VIDEO RELEASE: Hinson Recaps Results for Iowans in 2025", "2025-12-22", "2025", "2025-12", "Republican", "House", "IA", "Ashley Hinson", "H001091", "hinson.house.gov", "hinson", "https://hinson.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2013 Today, Congresswoman Ashley Hinson released the below video recapping her work for Iowa's Second Congressional District in 2025.\n\nWatch the Full Video Here.\n\nExcerpt: \u201cAs 2025 comes to a close, I\u2019ve spent a lot of time reflecting on the conversations I\u2019ve had across Eastern Iowa this year \u2014 around kitchen tables, at town hall meetings, in farm shops, and in our rural communities\u2026.I\u2019m proud of what we accomplished this year \u2014 and I\u2019ll keep fighting to lower costs, solve problems, and focus on the issues Iowa families talk about around their kitchen tables every day. Thank you for the honor of serving you and your family. I will continue to be accessible and transparent, and work relentlessly to keep Iowa the best place to live, work, and raise a family. From my family to yours, I wish you a very Merry Christmas and a happy, healthy New Year.\u201d\n\nBackground:\n\nHinson\u2019s dedicated team of caseworkers helped Iowans solve problems related to the federal government.\n\nThe team closed 1,101 constituent cases this year.\n\nHinson followed through on her promise to be transparent, accessible, and responsive to those she serves.\n\nHinson made nearly 100 stops across the district, including town halls, tours of farms, small businesses, manufacturers, and meetings with community leaders.\n\nHinson and the team responded to more than 44,000 calls, emails, and messages in 2025.\n\nHinson hosted 41 press calls with members of the Iowa media.\n\nHinson introduced 21 bills, co-sponsored 172, including 98 bipartisan bills, and led 8 letters on issues ranging from rural health to agriculture.\n\nHinson secured millions of dollars for Iowa communities.\n\nHinson secured nearly $7 million in federal funding to support maternal care, rural health care, rural infrastructure, and other community projects.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://millermeeks.house.gov/media/press-releases/miller-meeks-introduces-walz-act-crack-down-government-fraud-and-protect", "Miller-Meeks Introduces WALZ Act to Crack Down on Government Fraud and Protect Taxpayers", "2025-12-22", "2025", "2025-12", "Republican", "House", "IA", "Mariannette Miller-Meeks", "M001215", "millermeeks.house.gov", "millermeeks", "https://millermeeks.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "IOWA \u2014 In response to the massive fraud scandal uncovered in Minnesota, where an estimated $9 billion or more in taxpayer funds was lost to fraudulent claims and shell operations, Congresswoman Mariannette Miller\u2011Meeks (IA\u201101) today introduced the Welfare Abuse and Laundering Zillions (WALZ) Act, comprehensive legislation aimed at preventing similar fraud across the nation\n\n\u201cWhat we\u2019re seeing in Minnesota is a jaw\u2011dropping failure of leadership, nearly $9 billion lost to fraud under Governor Tim Walz\u2019s watch,\u201d said Miller\u2011Meeks. \u201cThis is what happens when soft\u2011on\u2011crime Democrat policies run unchecked: zero accountability, zero oversight, and taxpayers left holding the bag. The WALZ Act is named for a reason, to ensure this level of negligence can never be repeated anywhere else in America. Our bill puts hard safeguards in place to protect taxpayer dollars, shut the door on scam artists, and bring real accountability back to government programs.\u201d\n\nThe Minnesota scandal revealed widespread exploitation of social services and welfare programs, with fraudulent billing, fake claims, and ghost providers draining state and federal resources meant for vulnerable Americans. Investigators described the operation as \u201cindustrial\u2011scale fraud,\u201d reflecting systemic weaknesses in verification and oversight.\n\nThe WALZ Act would:\n\nEnhanceVerification and Real\u2011Time Audits: Implement robust verification standards and real\u2011time financial audits on programs that disburse federal and state funds, closing loopholes exploited by fraudsters.\n\nTrigger Mandatory Investigations: Unexplained spikes in claims \u2014 like those seen in Minnesota, would automatically prompt federal and state investigators to examine program accounts immediately.\n\nStrengthen Accountability for State Agencies: Require clear reporting, documentation checks, and consequences for failures in oversight, eliminating the \u201crubber\u2011stamped\u201d approvals that allow fraud to flourish.\n\nProtectBenefits for Legitimate Recipients: Direct resources only to verified beneficiaries and legitimate service providers, ensuring funds reach the people programs are intended to help.\n\nEstablish Uniform National Safeguards: Set a national standard for transparency and anti\u2011fraud protections that states must meet to receive federal funding.\n\nThe WALZ Act would help ensure that fraud on the scale seen in Minnesota cannot take root in Iowa or other states, preserving essential funds for education, healthcare, infrastructure, and social support.\n\nRepresentative Miller\u2011Meeks stressed that taxpayers deserve government systems built on accountability and transparency, not waste and abuse.\n\n\u201cThis legislation isn\u2019t just a reaction to fraud, it\u2019s a proactive solution to restore trust in government programs and protect working families from having their hard\u2011earned tax dollars stolen.\u201d Miller\u2011Meeks added.\n\nTo read the full bill text for the WALZ Act, click HERE.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://www.grassley.senate.gov/news/news-releases/grassley-nominates-31-iowa-students-to-us-military-academies", "Grassley Nominates 31 Iowa Students to U.S. Military Academies", "2025-12-22", "2025", "2025-12", "Republican", "Senate", "IA", "Chuck Grassley", "G000386", "www.grassley.senate.gov", "grassley", "https://www.grassley.senate.gov/news/news-releases", "scraper", "BUTLER COUNTY, IOWA \u2013 U.S. Sen. Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa) is announcing his support for 31 Iowa students seeking acceptance to U.S. military academies.\n\n\u201cI am proud to nominate these 31 young Iowans to our nation\u2019s prestigious military academies,\u201d Grassley said. These young men and women have bright futures, and I\u2019m inspired by their leadership, achievements and motivation to serve our country. It\u2019s my honor to nominate them.\u201d\n\nEach year, Grassley nominates Iowa high school seniors for placements at the U.S. Air Force Academy, U.S. Military Academy at West Point, U.S. Naval Academy and U.S. Merchant Marine Academy. All service academies select at least one of Grassley\u2019s nominees.\n\nLearn more about service academy nominations HERE.\n\nGrassley\u2019s nominees for entrance during the 2026-2027 academic year follow:\n\nUnited States Air Force Academy\n\nJorge Camarena, Council Bluffs\n\nGabriel Conrad, Iowa City\n\nOdin Hankins, Ainsworth\n\nMackenzie McClelland, Grinnell\n\nCharlee DeJong, West Des Moines\n\nCalan Peters, Milford\n\nLydia Weininger, Palo\n\nLuke Miller, Polk City\n\nLydia Meunsaveng, Indianola\n\nAlexis Bogardus, Granger\n\nJackson Goslin, Hiawatha\n\nCamilla McArthur, Atlantic\n\nCarter Mitchell, Des Moines\n\nShae Magley, Cedar Falls\n\nJack Franzen, Urbandale\n\nUnited States Military Academy at West Point\n\nBerit Kallemeier, Urbandale\n\nAvery Schnack, Decorah\n\nNaomi Templeman, Dallas Center\n\nGabrielle Wilker, Saint Olaf\n\nKamryn Wolkenhauer, Danville\n\nAlexis Bogardus, Granger\n\nPatrick Bowser, Urbandale\n\nJackson Goslin, Hiawatha\n\nJackson Lampe, Dubuque\n\nCamilla McArthur, Atlantic\n\nQuentin Moore, Des Moines\n\nMackenzie McClelland, Grinnell\n\nAllie Sackett, Cedar Rapids\n\nDaniel Spooner, Mason City\n\nJack Franzen, Urbandale\n\nUnited States Merchant Marine Academy\n\nJackson Lampe, Dubuque\n\nJack Franzen, Urbandale\n\nUnited States Naval Academy\n\nDane Thomas, Cedar Rapids\n\nJoseph Winland, Cedar Falls\n\nLuke Miller, Polk City\n\nAlexis Bogardus, Granger\n\nPatrick Bowser, Urbandale\n\nCharles Crane, West Des Moines\n\nEllie Hance, Palo\n\nJackson Lampe, Dubuque\n\nCamilla McArthur, Atlantic\n\nQuentin Moore, Des Moines\n\nOwen Powell, Blue Grass\n\nConnor Rash, Ames\n\nAllie Sackett, Cedar Rapids\n\nDaniel Spooner, Mason City\n\nJackson Goslin, Hiawatha", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://feenstra.house.gov/media/press-releases/feenstra-applauds-president-trump-signing-national-defense-authorization-act", "Feenstra Applauds President Trump for Signing National Defense Authorization Act into Law", "2025-12-19", "2025", "2025-12", "Republican", "House", "IA", "Randy Feenstra", "F000446", "feenstra.house.gov", "feenstra", "https://feenstra.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2014 Yesterday, U.S. Rep. Randy Feenstra (R-Hull) issued the following statement praising President Trump for signing into law the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA).\n\n\u201cI\u2019m excited that President Trump signed into law the National Defense Authorization Act, which includes great news for the 185th Air Refueling Wing in Sioux City. I secured authorization to construct a new runway at the Sioux Gateway Airport so that the 322,000-pound KC-135 Stratotankers housed at the 185th can take off and land safely for various missions,\u201d said Rep. Feenstra. \u201cThis NDAA will bolster our community as it protects almost 1,000 jobs, spurs economic growth, and keeps the 185th strong and operational. After years of advocacy, I\u2019m glad that the 185th is on the path to getting a new runway that will strengthen our national security and support our troops.\u201d\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://hinson.house.gov/media/press-releases/hinson-nominates-iowa-students-us-service-academies-0", "Hinson Nominates Iowa Students to U.S. Service Academies", "2025-12-19", "2025", "2025-12", "Republican", "House", "IA", "Ashley Hinson", "H001091", "hinson.house.gov", "hinson", "https://hinson.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2014 Congresswoman Ashley Hinson (IA-02) announced her nomination of the following students from Iowa's Second Congressional District to U.S. Service Academies.\n\n\"It is my privilege to nominate these outstanding young Iowans to our U.S. Service Academies. This appointment is a tremendous honor that speaks to your hard work, values, and readiness to take on the extraordinary responsibility of serving our country. I extend my heartfelt gratitude to these patriots and their families for answering the call to a life of service and commitment to the best country in the world.\" - Congresswoman Ashley Hinson\n\nBelow are the Iowa students nominated by Congresswoman Hinson to attend U.S. Service Academies for the Class of 2030:\n\nUnited States Air Force Academy\n\nEliana Hansen \u2013 Cedar Rapids, IA\n\nShae Magley \u2013 Cedar Falls, IA\n\nMackenzie McClelland \u2013 Grinnell, IA\n\nCollin Orosco \u2013 Northwood, IA\n\nHayden Sinclair \u2013 Waterloo, IA\n\nUnited States Merchant Marine Academy\n\nEliana Hansen \u2013 Cedar Rapids, IA\n\nCollin Orosco \u2013 Northwood, IA\n\nUnited States Military Academy\n\nJackson Lampe \u2013 Dubuque, IA\n\nMackenzie McClelland \u2013 Grinnell, IA\n\nNakia Ollivierre \u2013 Wellsburg, IA\n\nAvery Schnack \u2013 Decorah, IA\n\nLydia Weininger \u2013 Palo, IA\n\nUnited States Naval Academy\n\nJackson Goslin \u2013 Hiawatha, IA\n\nEllie Hance \u2013 Palo, IA\n\nJackson Lampe \u2013 Dubuque, IA\n\nAllie Sackett \u2013 Cedar Rapids, IA\n\nDaniel Spooner \u2013 Mason City, IA\n\nDane Thomas \u2013 Cedar Rapids, IA\n\nEach year, students must receive a nomination to apply to the U.S. Air Force Academy, U.S. Merchant Marine Academy, U.S. Military Academy, or U.S. Naval Academy. Congresswoman Hinson can nominate students from Iowa's Second Congressional District to the service academies. Any students interested in attending a service academy should reach out to our office for more information.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://millermeeks.house.gov/media/press-releases/miller-meeks-hosts-telephone-town-hall-over-13000-iowans", "Miller-Meeks Hosts Telephone Town Hall with Over 13,000 Iowans", "2025-12-19", "2025", "2025-12", "Republican", "House", "IA", "Mariannette Miller-Meeks", "M001215", "millermeeks.house.gov", "millermeeks", "https://millermeeks.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. - Last night, Congresswoman Mariannette Miller-Meeks (IA-01) hosted her final telephone town hall of 2025, bringing together more than 13,000 Iowans to discuss the top issues facing families as the year comes to a close, from healthcare and the economy to border security and support for our veterans.\n\n\"It\u2019s always an honor to hear directly from Iowans, and I couldn\u2019t be more proud to end this year with one of our biggest wins yet, passing my bill to lower healthcare premiums for ALL Americans,\" said Miller-Meeks. \"Healthcare costs have been crushing families and small businesses for years. The Lowering Health Care Premiums for All Americans Act is a serious step forward in putting patients and their doctors, not insurance companies, back in charge.\"\n\nMiller-Meeks emphasized that this was a strong finish to a historic year of progress, with House Republicans delivering results to make America affordable again. From tax relief to energy independence and securing the border, she pledged to keep fighting in 2026 to protect Iowa values and ensure every family can thrive.\n\n\"We\u2019ve got more work ahead, but we\u2019re ending 2025 with real momentum,\" Miller-Meeks added. \"I want to wish every Iowan a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. Thank you for the opportunity to serve, you can count on me to keep fighting for you in 2026.\"\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://www.grassley.senate.gov/news/news-releases/more-medical-residency-positions-headed-to-iowa-thanks-to-grassley-law", "More Medical Residency Positions Headed to Iowa Thanks to Grassley Law", "2025-12-19", "2025", "2025-12", "Republican", "Senate", "IA", "Chuck Grassley", "G000386", "www.grassley.senate.gov", "grassley", "https://www.grassley.senate.gov/news/news-releases", "scraper", "BUTLER COUNTY, IOWA \u2013 U.S. Sen. Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa) announced Iowa Methodist Medical Center (UnityPoint) will receive additional Medicare funds to cover added graduate medical education (GME) residency positions in emergency medicine. The positions are a result of a 2020 law Grassley championed as then-Chairman of the Senate Finance Committee to support Iowa\u2019s growing health care workforce needs.\n\nThis is the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services\u2019 (CMS) fourth round of residency funding. Iowa has been awarded federal funding for over 14 permanent additional GME residency positions so far.\n\n\u201cDuring my 99 county meetings, I hear from patients and health care professionals who tell me our medical workforce needs more support. We especially need more emergency room doctors in rural communities, so today\u2019s announcement is welcome news. I\u2019m gratified to see my efforts are continuing to support Iowans seeking medical care,\u201d Grassley said.\n\n\u201cThe additional Medicare-funded residency slots help address critical physician shortages here in Iowa and helps ensure Iowans continue to have access to high quality health care in their local community. Our programs consistently produce physicians and surgeons that remain in Iowa to serve Iowans. We appreciate Senator Grassley\u2019s continued work on this issue,\u201d said Dr. William J. Yost, Chief Academic Officer and Vice President of Medical Education and Research at Iowa Methodist Medical Center.\n\nBelow is an overview of GME residency positions CMS has awarded to Iowa hospitals:\n\nBackground:\n\nWhile chairing the Senate Finance Committee, Grassley worked in 2020 to add 1,000 additional Medicare-funded GME residency positions nationwide to strengthen America\u2019s health care workforce \u2013 particularly in rural and underserved communities. This was the largest increase in Medicare-funded residency positions in over 25 years.\n\nFollowing further Grassley oversight, CMS confirmed it intends to meet the 10% rural hospital distribution threshold in the overall distribution of 1,000 residency positions. Grassley highlighted the importance of distributing medical residency positions to rural areas during a May 2024 Finance Committee hearing, in a March 2025 Finance Committee nomination hearing and on the Senate floor in May 2025.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://www.grassley.senate.gov/news/news-releases/qanda-national-defense-matters", "Q&A: National Defense Matters", "2025-12-19", "2025", "2025-12", "Republican", "Senate", "IA", "Chuck Grassley", "G000386", "www.grassley.senate.gov", "grassley", "https://www.grassley.senate.gov/news/news-releases", "scraper", "Q: Why is the national defense bill an annual priority?\n\nA: National security is the number one responsibility of the federal government. For 65 years in a row, Congress has passed the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) that shapes defense policies, from nuclear weapons to cybersecurity, drones, troop pay and military construction. As customary, the House and Senate Armed Services Committees conducted a series of hearings throughout the year to dig into the details of the massive legislative package that forms the blueprint for America\u2019s national defense. The $900 billion, 3,086-page bipartisan bill outlines defense priorities for the coming fiscal year to ramp up military readiness and beef up support for our nation\u2019s men and women in uniform, including a 3.8% pay raise, better housing, child care and health benefits. For example, the defense bill on its way to the president\u2019s desk paves the way for improved access to specialty care for service members by lowering the mileage for travel reimbursement for medical appointments from 100 to 75 miles. It allows members of the National Guard and reserves called up to active duty to enroll their children in Defense Department schools and bumps up the family separation allowance for deployed service members. These improvements signal to members of the Armed Forces that Uncle Sam stands shoulder to shoulder with our troops for the service and sacrifice they make for freedom and liberty.\n\nOn December 13, 2026, two Iowans made the ultimate sacrifice while serving overseas in Syria. Sergeant William N. \u201cNate\u201d Howard of Marshalltown and Sergeant Edgar B. Torres-Tovar of Des Moines were members of the Iowa National Guard Second Infantry Brigade Combat Team, 34th Infantry Division. I attended the dignified transfer at Dover Air Force Base to pay tribute to these fallen heroes on their solemn homecoming in flag-draped cases and introduced a Senate resolution with Sen. Joni Ernst honoring their service and sacrifice. The ambush attack also killed a civilian interpreter and injured three service members from the Iowa National Guard. The terrorist attack is a stark reminder of the courage, patriotism and sacrifice these fallen heroes gave to their country and affirms why it\u2019s imperative to ensure the full measure of the federal government supports the needs of our troops. That\u2019s why I work every year to strengthen the annual defense authorization bill, including my efforts to protect defense dollars from waste, fraud and abuse. Every dollar lost to fraud is one less dollar for military readiness and our troops.\n\nQ: What measures did you work to secure in the defense bill before final passage?\n\nA: I pushed successfully for authorizing funds for Iowa\u2019s military installations, including $220 million for projects at the 185th Air Refueling Wing at the Sioux Gateway Airport in Sioux City and $13.8 million for the vehicle maintenance shop at the Waterloo Armory. As a longtime advocate for the Rock Island Arsenal, I also supported bipartisan measures to beef up its minimum workload and encourage a public-private partnership to help ensure the nation\u2019s domestic arsenals stand ready long term to supply our nation\u2019s munitions needs. In addition, I worked with Sen. Dick Durbin to enhance and strengthen U.S. security cooperation with the Baltic States. Russia\u2019s unprovoked invasion of Ukraine calls for a united front to deter Vladimir Putin\u2019s aggression to resurrect the Soviet empire.\n\nAs chairman of the Senate Judiciary Committee, I held two hearings this year to examine the threat drones pose to public safety, from smuggling weapons and drugs across our borders to spying on sensitive facilities or committing acts of terror in a crowded stadium or other public space. My bipartisan bill called the SAFER SKIES Act was included in the defense bill and expands the authority of state, local, tribal, and territorial law enforcement entities, as well as correctional agencies, to use counter-unmanned aircraft system technologies to stop malicious drone activity.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://www.grassley.senate.gov/news/news-releases/senate-republicans-confirm-14-law-and-order-nominees-to-deliver-safer-streets-for-americans", "Senate Republicans Confirm 14 Law and Order Nominees to Deliver Safer Streets for Americans", "2025-12-19", "2025", "2025-12", "Republican", "Senate", "IA", "Chuck Grassley", "G000386", "www.grassley.senate.gov", "grassley", "https://www.grassley.senate.gov/news/news-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON \u2013 Senate Judiciary Committee Chairman Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa) applauded the Senate\u2019s confirmation of 13 U.S. Attorneys and the Assistant Attorney General for the Department of Justice\u2019s (DOJ) Criminal Division. The nominees were confirmed last night as part of a nominations package of 97 executive nominees, by a vote of 53-43.\n\nUnder Grassley\u2019s leadership, the Senate this year confirmed 31 of President Trump\u2019s U.S. Attorneys, which is the same number of U.S. Attorneys confirmed during the first year of the Biden administration. Four of the 31 confirmed U.S. Attorneys received blue slips from Democrat senators.\n\n\u201cU.S. Attorneys are an essential component of law enforcement \u2013 responsible for prosecuting violent criminals, protecting the public and enforcing the rule of law. Yesterday, Senate Republicans successfully voted to confirm these critical law enforcement officers to protect communities across the country. The bulk of Senate Democrats who voted \u2018no\u2019 yet again proved their disdain for the safety and wellbeing of Americans. As Chairman of the Judiciary Committee, I\u2019ll continue working in the new year to successfully and efficiently advance and confirm President Trump\u2019s nominees,\u201d Grassley said.\n\nThe nominees confirmed last night include:\n\nAndrew Duva, to be Assistant Attorney General for the Criminal Division;\n\nErin Creegan, to be U.S. Attorney for the District of New Hampshire;\n\nJerome Francis Gorgon, Jr., to be U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Michigan;\n\nDavid Courcelle, to be U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Louisiana;\n\nBraden Boucek, to be U.S. Attorney for the Middle District of Tennessee;\n\nDomonick Gerace II, to be U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Ohio;\n\nBryan Stirling, to be U.S. Attorney for the District of South Carolina;\n\nThomas Wheeler II, to be U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Indiana;\n\nAdam Mildred, to be U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Indiana;\n\nThomas Albus, to be U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Missouri;\n\nThomas Ferguson III, to be U.S. Attorney for the Western District of North Carolina;\n\nRyan Antony Kriegshauser, to be U.S. Attorney for the District of Kansas;\n\nJames Kruger, to be U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Mississippi; and\n\nScott Leary, to be U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Mississippi.\n\nBackground:\n\nHistorically, U.S. Attorneys were routinely confirmed on a bipartisan basis due to their non-political and non-controversial nature. That bipartisan tradition was destroyed this year when Senate Democrats placed indefinite, blanket holds on all of President Trump\u2019s 93 U.S. attorneys. Senate Republicans overcame the partisan blockade in October, confirming 18 U.S. Attorneys as part of the first nominations package of 107 executive nominees.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://feenstra.house.gov/media/press-releases/feenstra-helps-lead-congressional-resolution-honoring-fallen-iowa-national", "Feenstra Helps Lead Congressional Resolution Honoring Fallen Iowa National Guardsmen", "2025-12-18", "2025", "2025-12", "Republican", "House", "IA", "Randy Feenstra", "F000446", "feenstra.house.gov", "feenstra", "https://feenstra.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Today, along with the full Iowa congressional delegation, U.S. Rep. Randy Feenstra (R-Hull) helped lead a congressional resolution honoring the lives and service of Sergeant Nate Howard from Marshalltown and Sergeant Edgar Torres-Tovar from Des Moines who were murdered by a terrorist in Palmyra, Syria.\n\nThe resolution also commends the three additional Iowa National Guardsmen who were injured, condemns the horrific terrorist act, and recognizes the families affected by this attack.\n\n\u201cSergeant Nate Howard and Sergeant Edgar Torres-Tovar are real Iowa heroes who made the ultimate sacrifice in service to our grateful nation. They bravely defended their fellow servicemembers from a terrorist attack and we all mourn their loss,\u201d said Rep. Feenstra. \u201cI\u2019m humbled to help lead a congressional resolution honoring these brave Iowans, recognizing their incredible courage, and condemning this vile terrorist attack on U.S. troops. Our thoughts and prayers remain with the injured soldiers and with the families and loved ones of Sergeant Howard and Sergeant Torres-Tovar. We will never forget their service and sacrifice on behalf of Iowa and the United States of America against evil and terror.\u201d\n\nThe congressional resolution can be found HERE.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://millermeeks.house.gov/media/press-releases/congresswoman-miller-meeks-joins-iowa-delegation-honor-fallen-iowa-guardsmen", "Congresswoman Miller\u2011Meeks Joins Iowa Delegation to Honor Fallen Iowa Guardsmen", "2025-12-18", "2025", "2025-12", "Republican", "House", "IA", "Mariannette Miller-Meeks", "M001215", "millermeeks.house.gov", "millermeeks", "https://millermeeks.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON \u2014 U.S. Representative Mariannette Miller\u2011Meeks (IA\u201101) A 24-year Army veteran, joined members of the Iowa congressional delegation in introducing a resolution honoring the lives, service, and sacrifice of Sergeant William Nathaniel Howard and Sergeant Edgar Brian Torres\u2011Tovar of the Iowa National Guard. These two brave young soldiers were killed in an ambush by an ISIS\u2011affiliated terrorist near Palmyra, Syria, on December 13, 2025. Companion legislation is being introduced in the U.S. Senate by Senators Joni Ernst (R\u2011IA) and Chuck Grassley (R\u2011IA).\n\n\u201cIowa mourns the heartbreaking loss of Sgt. William Nathaniel Howard and Sgt. Edgar Brian Torres\u2011Tovar, two brave members of our Iowa National Guard who gave their lives in service to our country,\" said Rep. Miller-Meeks. \"Their courage, sacrifice, and dedication represent the very best of our state and our nation. We honor their memory, stand with their families, and commit to never forgetting the price they paid to protect our freedom.\u201d\n\n\u201cIowa lost two of our finest. Sergeant Edgar Torres-Tovar and Sergeant Nate Howard are heroes of the highest order,\u201d said Rep. Nunn. \u201cIn honoring them today, we speak with one voice to say their courage will not be forgotten. Their legacy will live on\u2014not just in the hearts of their families and fellow Guardsmen, but in the history of this nation.\u201d\n\n\u201cSergeant Edgar Torres-Tovar and Sergeant Nate Howard are American heroes,\u201d said Senator Ernst. \u201cAs we take action to remember their legacy today, we commemorate their valor and ensure their sacrifice is never forgotten. Our Iowa National Guard members are a true testament to the selfless bravery it takes to put on the uniform and keep our homeland safe from the threat of radical Islamic terror. Americans owe them an immeasurable debt and stand with their families, loved ones, and recovering soldiers during this time.\u201d\n\n\u201cSergeant Howard and Sergeant Torres-Tovar paid the ultimate sacrifice, and we owe them a debt that can never be repaid,\u201d said Senator Grassley. \u201cBarbara and I are praying for their families and loved ones. Today, I\u2019m joining Senator Ernst to introduce a resolution honoring these two remarkable young men. Their sacrifice will not be forgotten, and will be written in the Senate\u2019s history books forever.\u201d\n\n\u201cSergeant Nate Howard and Sergeant Edgar Torres-Tovar are real Iowa heroes who made the ultimate sacrifice in service to our grateful nation,\u201d said Rep. Feenstra. \u201cThey bravely defended their fellow servicemembers from a terrorist attack and we all mourn their loss. I\u2019m humbled to help lead a congressional resolution honoring these brave Iowans, recognizing their incredible courage, and condemning this vile terrorist attack on U.S. troops. Our thoughts and prayers remain with the injured soldiers and with the families and loved ones of Sergeant Howard and Sergeant Torres-Tovar. We will never forget their service and sacrifice on behalf of Iowa and the United States of America against evil and terror.\u201d\n\n\"The loss of Sgt. William Nathaniel Howard and Sgt. Edgar Brian Torres-Tovar is a sobering reminder of the immense sacrifices our servicemembers make to defend our precious freedoms,\" said Rep. Hinson. \"Mothers and fathers should never have to outlive their children. These young men will always be remembered as heroes, and we stand with their families in grief, honoring their lives, service, and enduring legacy.\"\n\nText of the resolution is available here.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://nunn.house.gov/2025/12/18/nunn-leads-iowa-delegation-to-honor-fallen-iowa-guardsmen/", "Nunn Leads Iowa Delegation to Honor Fallen Iowa Guardsmen", "2025-12-18", "2025", "2025-12", "Republican", "House", "IA", "Zachary Nunn", "N000193", "nunn.house.gov", "nunn", "https://nunn.house.gov/category/news/press-releases/", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2014 U.S. Representative Zach Nunn (IA-03), a Colonel in the Air Force Reserve, today led the Iowa delegation in introducing a resolution honoring the lives, service, and sacrifice of Sergeant Edgar Brian Torres-Tovar and Sergeant William \u201cNate\u201d Howard. The two Iowa National Guardsmen were killed in an ambush by an ISIS-affiliated terrorist near Palmyra, Syria, on December 13, 2025. The companion resolution is being led in the U.S. Senate by Senators Joni Ernst (R-IA) and Chuck Grassley (R-IA).\n\n\u201cIowa lost two of our finest. Sergeant Edgar Torres-Tovar and Sergeant Nate Howard are heroes of the highest order,\u201d said Rep. Nunn. \u201cIn honoring them today, we speak with one voice to say their courage will not be forgotten. Their legacy will live on\u2014not just in the hearts of their families and fellow Guardsmen, but in the history of this nation.\u201d\n\nThe resolution honors the lives of both fallen servicemembers and the interpreter who was killed, condemns the ISIS terrorist attack that claimed their lives, recognizes the three additional Iowa Guardsmen who were wounded in the attack, and extends the deepest condolences and unwavering support of Congress to the families, fellow servicemembers, and communities forever changed by this devastating loss.\n\n\u201cSergeant Edgar Torres-Tovar and Sergeant Nate Howard are American heroes,\u201d said Senator Ernst. \u201cAs we take action to remember their legacy today, we commemorate their valor and ensure their sacrifice is never forgotten. Our Iowa National Guard members are a true testament to the selfless bravery it takes to put on the uniform and keep our homeland safe from the threat of radical Islamic terror. Americans owe them an immeasurable debt and stand with their families, loved ones, and recovering soldiers during this time.\u201d\n\n\u201cSergeant Howard and Sergeant Torres-Tovar paid the ultimate sacrifice, and we owe them a debt that can never be repaid,\u201d said Senator Grassley. \u201cBarbara and I are praying for their families and loved ones. Today, I\u2019m joining Senator Ernst to introduce a resolution honoring these two remarkable young men. Their sacrifice will not be forgotten, and will be written in the Senate\u2019s history books forever.\u201d\n\n\u201cIowa mourns the heartbreaking loss of Sgt. William Nathaniel Howard and Sgt. Edgar Brian Torres-Tovar, two brave members of our Iowa National Guard who gave their lives in service to our country.\u201d said Rep. Miller-Meeks. \u201cTheir courage, sacrifice, and dedication represent the very best of our state and our nation. We honor their memory, stand with their families, and commit to never forgetting the price they paid to protect our freedom.\u201d\n\n\u201cSergeant Nate Howard and Sergeant Edgar Torres-Tovar are real Iowa heroes who made the ultimate sacrifice in service to our grateful nation. They bravely defended their fellow servicemembers from a terrorist attack and we all mourn their loss,\u201d said Rep. Feenstra. \u201cI\u2019m humbled to help lead a congressional resolution honoring these brave Iowans, recognizing their incredible courage, and condemning this vile terrorist attack on U.S. troops. Our thoughts and prayers remain with the injured soldiers and with the families and loved ones of Sergeant Howard and Sergeant Torres-Tovar. We will never forget their service and sacrifice on behalf of Iowa and the United States of America against evil and terror.\u201d\n\n\u201cThe loss of Sgt. William Nathaniel Howard and Sgt. Edgar Brian Torres-Tovar is a sobering reminder of the immense sacrifices our servicemembers make to defend our precious freedoms,\u201d said Rep. Hinson. \u201cMothers and fathers should never have to outlive their children. These young men will always be remembered as heroes, and we stand with their families in grief, honoring their lives, service, and enduring legacy.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://nunn.house.gov/2025/12/18/nunn-rural-housing-reform-bill-passes-financial-services-committee-in-landmark-housing-package/", "Nunn Rural Housing Reform Bill Passes Financial Services Committee in Landmark Housing Package", "2025-12-18", "2025", "2025-12", "Republican", "House", "IA", "Zachary Nunn", "N000193", "nunn.house.gov", "nunn", "https://nunn.house.gov/category/news/press-releases/", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2014 The House Financial Services Committee advanced key provisions of Representative Zach Nunn\u2019s (IA-03) bipartisan Rural Housing Service Reform Act, marking a significant step toward modernizing outdated USDA housing programs, improving oversight, and expanding access to affordable housing in rural communities.\n\n\u201cRural housing faces unique challenges that Washington has ignored for far too long,\u201d said Rep. Nunn. \u201cFamilies shouldn\u2019t have to wait a year or more for a simple home repair approval. This bill brings commonsense reforms that reduce bureaucracy and help rural Iowans stay in the homes they\u2019ve worked hard to build.\u201d\n\nIntroduced with Representative Emanuel Cleaver (MO-05), the Rural Housing Service Reform Act improves accountability, updates outdated systems, and streamlines USDA programs to better serve low-income families, seniors, and workers in small towns and farming communities. It also increases transparency and helps preserve the nation\u2019s supply of affordable rural housing.\n\nThese provisions were included in the Housing for the 21st Century Act, a broader bipartisan housing package aimed at increasing housing supply, removing regulatory barriers, and modernizing federal housing programs to better reflect the needs of rural, suburban, and urban America. The final package includes more than two dozen bipartisan proposals focused on affordability, modernization, and local flexibility.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://www.grassley.senate.gov/news/news-releases/grassley-graham-bipartisan-colleagues-introduce-legislation-to-sunset-section-230-protect-americans-online", "Grassley, Graham, Bipartisan Colleagues Introduce Legislation to Sunset Section 230, Protect Americans Online", "2025-12-18", "2025", "2025-12", "Republican", "Senate", "IA", "Chuck Grassley", "G000386", "www.grassley.senate.gov", "grassley", "https://www.grassley.senate.gov/news/news-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON \u2013 Senate Judiciary Committee Chairman Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa) joined Sen. Lindsey Graham (R-S.C.) and Ranking Member Dick Durbin (D-Ill.) in introducing the Sunset Section 230 Act. The bipartisan bill would repeal Section 230 immunity two years after the date of the bill\u2019s enactment, allowing users who have been harmed by online platforms to hold those platforms accountable.\n\n\u201cFor nearly 30 years, Section 230 has provided Big Tech cover as they turn a blind eye to heinous crimes committed on its platforms,\u201d Grassley said. \u201cAs Chairman of the Judiciary Committee, I\u2019m glad to join my colleagues in this bipartisan effort to update our nation\u2019s laws, rein in Section 230 and hold Big Tech accountable.\u201d\n\n\u201cI am extremely pleased that there is such wide and deep bipartisan support for repealing Section 230, which protects social media companies from being sued by the people whose lives they destroy. Giant social media platforms are unregulated, immune from lawsuits and are making billions of dollars in advertising revenue off some of the most unsavory content and criminal activity imaginable,\u201d Graham said. \u201cIt is past time to allow those who have been harmed by these behemoths to have their day in court.\u201d\n\n\u201cChildren are being exploited and abused because Big Tech consistently prioritizes profits over people. Enough is enough. Sunsetting Section 230 will force Big Tech to come to the table and take ownership over the harms it has wrought. And if Big Tech doesn\u2019t, this bill will open the courtroom to victims of its platforms. Parents have been begging Congress to step in, and it\u2019s time we do so. I\u2019m proud to partner with Senator Graham on this effort, and we will push for it to become law,\u201d Durbin said.\n\nAdditional cosponsors include Sens. Sheldon Whitehouse (D-R.I.), Josh Hawley (R-Mo.), Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.), Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.), Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.), Ashley Moody (R-Fla.) and Peter Welch (D-Vt.), all members of the Senate Judiciary Committee.\n\nBill text is available HERE.\n\nBackground:\n\nSection 230, enacted as part of the Communications Decency Act of 1996, provides legal immunity to online platforms for third-party content. The provision was originally created to allow then-fledgling internet entities \u2013 like social media companies \u2013 to host and moderate user content without fear of lawsuits. Today, many of these entities are some of the most powerful companies in the world and rely on Section 230 to shield themselves from much needed accountability.\n\nIn 2025, Grassley chaired two Senate Judiciary Committee hearings to examine online safety and online child exploitation, and introduced three bipartisan bills with Durbin to hold violent online criminals accountable.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://www.grassley.senate.gov/news/news-releases/grassley-thune-colleagues-introduce-legislation-to-combat-chinas-unfair-trade-practices-stand-up-for-american-farmers", "Grassley, Thune, Colleagues Introduce Legislation to Combat China\u2019s Unfair Trade Practices, Stand Up for American Farmers", "2025-12-18", "2025", "2025-12", "Republican", "Senate", "IA", "Chuck Grassley", "G000386", "www.grassley.senate.gov", "grassley", "https://www.grassley.senate.gov/news/news-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON \u2013 Sen. Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa) joined Senate Majority Leader John Thune (R-S.D.) and Sen. Tina Smith (D-Minn.) to reintroduce the Trade Cheating Restitution Act, legislation that would support American producers who have been harmed by unfair trade practices, primarily by China. The bill would direct U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) to distribute interest realized on certain anti-dumping and countervailing duties since 2000 to qualifying U.S. producers harmed by decades of trade distortions that continue to undercut these domestic industries.\n\n\u201cIowans produce some of the best agricultural products in the world. As a result of Iowa farmers\u2019 hard work, America is the world\u2019s top agricultural exporter. Unfortunately, China\u2019s unfair trade practices have hurt Americans who produce quality products in an honest manner. Our bipartisan legislation will help restore fairness to international trade and compensate producers who\u2019ve been injured by the Chinese Communist Party,\u201d Grassley said.\n\nIn addition to Grassley, Thune and Smith, the legislation is cosponsored by Sens. Gary Peters (D-Mich.) and Bill Cassidy (R-La.).\n\nRead bill text HERE.\n\nBackground:\n\nThe Trade Cheating Restitution Act of 2025 builds on a Thune-Grassley provision that was signed into law in 2015 as part of the Trade Facilitation and Trade Enforcement Act, which required CBP to distribute the interest realized on duties collected since 2014.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://www.grassley.senate.gov/news/news-releases/photos-grassley-honors-fallen-iowa-national-guardsmen", "PHOTOS: Grassley Honors Fallen Iowa National Guardsmen", "2025-12-18", "2025", "2025-12", "Republican", "Senate", "IA", "Chuck Grassley", "G000386", "www.grassley.senate.gov", "grassley", "https://www.grassley.senate.gov/news/news-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON \u2013 Sen. Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa) yesterday attended a solemn transfer of remains at Dover Air Force Base for two Iowa National Guard members killed in Syria: Sgt. William Nathaniel \u201cNate\u201d Howard of Marshalltown and Sgt. Edgar Torres-Tovar of Des Moines. President Donald Trump, Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth and Chief of Staff of the Army General Randy George also attended, along with Iowa Governor Kim Reynolds and members of the Iowa congressional delegation.\n\nGrassley and Sen. Joni Ernst (R-Iowa) also introduced a Senate resolution honoring the lives and service of Howard and Torres-Tovar. Rep. Zach Nunn (R-Iowa) is leading a companion resolution in the House of Representatives.\n\n\u201cSergeant Howard and Sergeant Torres-Tovar paid the ultimate sacrifice, and we owe them a debt that can never be repaid,\" Grassley said. \"Yesterday\u2019s transfer of remains allowed us to continue paying our respects to these young men. Barbara and I are praying for their families and loved ones. I\u2019m also joining Senator Ernst to introduce a resolution in their honor. Their sacrifice will not be forgotten, and will be written in the Senate\u2019s history books forever.\u201d\n\nDownload photos HERE.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://www.grassley.senate.gov/news/news-releases/senate-passes-peters-and-grassleys-bipartisan-bills-to-help-prevent-foreign-influence-in-us-policy", "Senate Passes Peters and Grassley\u2019s Bipartisan Bills to Help Prevent Foreign Influence in U.S. Policy", "2025-12-18", "2025", "2025-12", "Republican", "Senate", "IA", "Chuck Grassley", "G000386", "www.grassley.senate.gov", "grassley", "https://www.grassley.senate.gov/news/news-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON \u2013 The Senate unanimously approved two bipartisan bills authored by Senate Judiciary Committee Chairman Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa) and Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Ranking Member Gary Peters (D-Mich) to improve America\u2019s ability to prevent foreign governments from attempting to influence U.S. policy without making appropriate disclosures. The bills will close loopholes that foreign governments could exploit to conceal their roles in lobbying efforts.\n\n\u201cAmericans ought to know if a foreign government is trying to sway policy here in the United States,\u201d Grassley said. \u201cOur bills finally close a loophole that\u2019s allowed individuals to conceal their lobbying efforts, and they make sure all foreign actors are disclosed to the American people. By passing our bipartisan bills with broad support, the Senate demonstrated our commitment to getting these vital reforms to President Trump\u2019s desk.\u201d\n\n\u201cThe American people should know when foreign governments try to influence our political process,\u201d Peters said. \u201cThese bipartisan bills will let us take commonsense steps to protect our national security by ensuring foreign actors can\u2019t exploit loopholes to hide their activities when attempting to shape policy in the United States. We must ensure that our government is working in the best interests of the American people, not those of our adversaries.\u201d\n\nThe Lobbying Disclosure Improvement Act would improve transparency around the activities of lobbyists who represent foreign persons or organizations by requiring them to indicate whether they are taking advantage of an exemption under the Foreign Agent Registration Act (FARA) when they register under the Lobbying Disclosure Act. This will help the government ensure no lobbyists representing foreign governments are using the exemption inappropriately.\n\nThe Disclosing Foreign Influence in Lobbying Act closes a loophole in the Lobbying Disclosure Act that foreign adversaries \u2013 including the Russian and Chinese governments \u2013 can exploit to conceal their roles in lobbying efforts. Think tanks and law enforcement agencies have identified instances in which foreign adversaries exploited this loophole by using closely connected organizations and businesses to push their interests when lobbying the U.S. government. The bill makes clear that lobbying organizations must disclose when foreign governments and political parties participate in their lobbying efforts, regardless of any financial contribution to the lobbying effort.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://feenstra.house.gov/media/press-releases/feenstra-pays-respects-fallen-iowa-national-guardsmen-during-dignified", "Feenstra Pays Respects to Fallen Iowa National Guardsmen during Dignified Transfer at Dover Air Force Base", "2025-12-17", "2025", "2025-12", "Republican", "House", "IA", "Randy Feenstra", "F000446", "feenstra.house.gov", "feenstra", "https://feenstra.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Today, along with President Donald Trump and the Iowa Congressional Delegation, U.S. Rep. Randy Feenstra (R-Hull) attended the dignified transfer for the fallen Iowa National Guardsmen at Dover Air Force Base in Dover, Delaware.\n\n\u201cIt was a solemn and deeply moving experience to attend the dignified transfer of the Iowa National Guardsmen who were killed by a terrorist in Syria. Sergeant Nate Howard and Sergeant Edgar Torres-Tovar were brave Iowans and American patriots who made the ultimate sacrifice in defense of our freedoms and our nation. Our Iowa National Guard exemplify the best of our state, selflessly representing our country with integrity and courage,\u201d said Rep. Feenstra. \u201cI\u2019m grateful to President Trump for receiving these fallen heroes in a manner that truly honored their service to our country and paid tribute to their sacrifice. Our thoughts and prayers remain with their families and loved ones as we mourn these incredible Iowans who were taken from us far too soon.\u201d\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://feenstra.house.gov/media/press-releases/feenstra-votes-lower-healthcare-costs-iowans", "Feenstra Votes to Lower Healthcare Costs for Iowans", "2025-12-17", "2025", "2025-12", "Republican", "House", "IA", "Randy Feenstra", "F000446", "feenstra.house.gov", "feenstra", "https://feenstra.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Today, U.S. Rep. Randy Feenstra (R-Hull) voted for, and the U.S. House of Representatives passed, the Lower Health Care Premiums for All Americans Act.\n\n\u201cAs a father of four and former volunteer EMT for 15 years, I\u2019ve had countless conversations with Iowans about the skyrocketing cost of healthcare and declining access to care in rural communities. Iowans are paying too much for routine checkups and prescription drugs and traveling long distances for doctor\u2019s appointments and emergency care. It\u2019s unsustainable and must change,\u201d said Rep. Feenstra. \u201cThat\u2019s why I voted to lower healthcare premiums for Iowa families, seniors, veterans, and small businesses, expand access to high-quality care in rural areas, and ensure transparency in healthcare pricing. In addition to the $50 billion that we passed, and President Trump signed into law, for rural hospitals and healthcare, this legislation helps alleviate the root causes of costly health plans and brings prices down. I\u2019ll keep working to reduce healthcare costs, protect our rural hospitals, and deliver exceptional care for all Iowans.\u201d\n\nThe Lower Health Care Premiums for All Americans Act specifically:\n\nLowers premium costs by 11% and reduces out-of-pocket costs.\n\nExpands access to Association Health Plans (AHPs) by allowing small employers and self-employed workers to band together and purchase more affordable plans.\n\nCodifies and strengthens a 2019 final rule by President Trump that allows employees to use tax-free money from their employer to purchase the healthcare plan of their choice.\n\nRestores and codifies a 2018 executive order by President Trump \u2014 rescinded by the Biden Administration \u2014 that the Congressional Budget Office estimated would enroll 3.7 million Americans in AHPs and extend coverage to 400,000 previously uninsured Americans.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://millermeeks.house.gov/media/press-releases/house-passes-miller-meeks-lower-health-care-premiums-all-americans-act", "House Passes Miller-Meeks' Lower Health Care Premiums for All Americans Act", "2025-12-17", "2025", "2025-12", "Republican", "House", "IA", "Mariannette Miller-Meeks", "M001215", "millermeeks.house.gov", "millermeeks", "https://millermeeks.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "\u201cToday, House Republicans voted to lower health care costs for all Americans. Every House Democrat voted against it. After months of empty \u2018affordability\u2019 rhetoric and forcing the longest government shutdown in American history, Democrats once again rejected a valuable, common-sense solution to address the unaffordability they created with their own health insurance law \u2013 the Unaffordable Care Act.\n\n\u201cHouse Republicans are taking meaningful action to fix what Democrats broke. For too long, Democrats have forced hardworking American taxpayers to bail out big health insurance companies for hundreds of billions of dollars. Meanwhile, Americans are left paying for increasingly expensive care with fewer choices, lower quality, and worse health outcomes. They broke America\u2019s health care system and with today\u2019s vote, Democrats have abandoned a critical opportunity to fix their own failed law.\n\n\u201cThe Lower Health Care Premiums for All Americans Act puts patients first. It does exactly what its title promises and more: lowers premium costs, expands access to affordable, quality care, gives every American more options and flexibility to choose coverage that is best for their needs, and brings greater transparency to the health care system. It delivers twice the cost reduction of the Democrats\u2019 temporary, COVID-era enhanced subsidies and brings those costs down for ALL Americans \u2013 not just some. House Republicans are working to fix what is broken, restore integrity in our nation\u2019s health care system, and lower the cost of health care for every citizen.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://www.grassley.senate.gov/news/news-releases/grassley-applauds-final-passage-of-fiscal-year-2026-defense-authorization-bill", "Grassley Applauds Final Passage of Fiscal Year 2026 Defense Authorization Bill", "2025-12-17", "2025", "2025-12", "Republican", "Senate", "IA", "Chuck Grassley", "G000386", "www.grassley.senate.gov", "grassley", "https://www.grassley.senate.gov/news/news-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON \u2013 Sen. Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa) welcomed final passage of the annual defense policy bill, authorizing critical resources for national defense and military readiness. The legislation now heads to the president\u2019s desk. The National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for Fiscal Year (FY) 2026 includes several Grassley-backed provisions and was approved by a vote of 77-20.\n\nGrassley on Monday voted to end debate on the legislation and advance to a final vote on the bill. He missed today\u2019s final vote while attending a solemn ceremony at Dover Air Force Base to receive the remains of two fallen Iowa National Guard members: Sgt. William Nathaniel \u201cNate\u201d Howard of Marshalltown and Sgt. Edgar Torres-Tovar of Des Moines.\n\n\u201cToday, Congress sent President Trump a robust defense package that prioritizes our service members and ensures American dominance on the world stage. I\u2019m pleased several of my provisions were included in the final bill, like authorizing funding for Iowa\u2019s military installations, improved oversight of Defense Department spending and support for key programs to help law enforcement officers,\u201d Grassley said.\n\n\u201cWe strongly support the inclusion of several critical public safety provisions in the compromise Fiscal Year 2026 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA). These measures directly confront real threats, close longstanding operational gaps, support our nation\u2019s first responders, and will make communities across the United States safer \u2026 We appreciate your efforts to respond to the needs of public safety agencies and the attention given to these urgent issues. We stand ready to support you as Congress advances the NDAA and as these new authorities and programs are implemented to protect the public and the officers who serve them,\u201d said representatives from 16 major law enforcement groups.\n\nThe bill authorizes a 3.8% pay raise for military service members, as well as:\n\n$161 billion for procurement including missiles, combat vehicles, and aircraft;\n\n$26 billion for shipbuilding; and\n\n$25 billion for munitions.\n\nGrassley secured the following priorities in the FY26 NDAA:\n\nAuthorization of federal funds to support Iowa\u2019s military installations:\n\n$220 million for projects at the 185th Air Refueling Wing/Sioux Gateway Airport, including aircraft parking apron, extended runway, runway repair and warm-up/holding pad;\n\n$13.8 million for the vehicle maintenance shop at the Waterloo Armory (Army National Guard);\n\nProvisions to bolster the Rock Island Arsenal through a pilot program on arsenal workload sustainment, encouraging public-private partnerships to increase minimum workloads at domestic arsenals like Rock Island;\n\nThe Abducted Ukrainian Children Recovery and Accountability Act, cosponsored by Sen. Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.), to support Ukraine\u2019s efforts to investigate and track the nearly 20,000 Ukrainian children who have been abducted during Putin\u2019s brutal invasion. The legislation will also assist with the rehabilitation and reintegration of children who are returned and provide justice and accountability for perpetrators of these abductions; and\n\nThe Baltic Security Initiative Act, cosponsored by Sen. Dick Durbin (D-Ill.), to enhance and strengthen U.S. security cooperation with the Baltics amid Putin\u2019s aggressive action in the region. The legislation effectively codifies the Baltic Security Initiative effort.\n\nGrassley secured key wins in his capacity as Senate Judiciary Committee Chairman, including U.S. Marshal and police protection for retired Supreme Court Justices.\n\nThe NDAA includes four bipartisan law enforcement bills, which passed out of the Judiciary Committee during Police Week in May:\n\nThe PROTECT Our Children Reauthorization Act to aid state and local law enforcement agencies in combating child sexual exploitation online. This bill was previously blocked by Senate Democrats who were seeking to funnel federal dollars to dangerous sanctuary cities.\n\nThe Honoring Our Fallen Heroes Act to expand access to federal support for the families of firefighters and other first responders who pass away or become permanently disabled from service-related cancers.\n\nThe Improving Police CARE Act to equip law enforcement officers with quality trauma kits, allowing them to respond immediately if a civilian or fellow officer experiences a traumatic injury during a call.\n\nThe Chief Herbert D. Proffitt Act to ensure families of retired law enforcement officers who were killed as a result of their service are not unjustly denied benefits.\n\nThe NDAA also includes expanded counter-drone authorities for state, local and territorial law enforcement agencies to help mitigate threats posed by drones. This provision was based off Grassley and Sen. Gary Peters\u2019 (D-Mich.) bipartisan SAFER SKIES Act. Under Grassley\u2019s leadership, the Judiciary Committee this year has held two hearings on drones and their potential threats to public safety.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://feenstra.house.gov/media/press-releases/feenstra-urges-iowa-farmers-finalize-acreage-reports-qualify-farm-relief", "Feenstra Urges Iowa Farmers to Finalize Acreage Reports to Qualify for Farm Relief", "2025-12-16", "2025", "2025-12", "Republican", "House", "IA", "Randy Feenstra", "F000446", "feenstra.house.gov", "feenstra", "https://feenstra.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2014 Today, U.S. Rep. Randy Feenstra (R-Hull) issued the following statement urging Iowa farmers to finalize their acreage reports by 4 PM CT on Friday December 19th for use in the Farmer Bridge Assistance program payments.\n\n\u201cI\u2019m grateful to President Trump for delivering critical relief to our Iowa producers. This support will help farmers bridge the gap between disastrous Biden policies that resulted in record-high input prices and zero new trade deals while President Trump continues to secure new market access for Iowa agriculture,\u201d said Rep. Feenstra. \u201cI urge all Iowa farmers to complete their acreage reporting by 4 PM CT on Friday December 19th so that they can quality for this relief approved by President Trump. If you or someone you know have any questions about this process, please contact your local FSA office or my office online at Feenstra.House.Gov or by phone at 202-225-4426.\u201d\n\nQualifying relief payments are set to be released by February 28, 2026.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://millermeeks.house.gov/media/press-releases/miller-meeks-highlights-republican-plan-lower-healthcare-costs", "Miller-Meeks Highlights Republican Plan to Lower Healthcare Costs", "2025-12-16", "2025", "2025-12", "Republican", "House", "IA", "Mariannette Miller-Meeks", "M001215", "millermeeks.house.gov", "millermeeks", "https://millermeeks.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2014 Congresswoman Mariannette Miller-Meeks (IA-01) joined the House Republican Leadership Press Conference to discuss H.R. 6703 - Lowering Health Care Premiums for All Americans Act.\n\nCongresswoman Mariannette Miller-Meeks is lowering premium costs for ALL Americans, not just a select group. It's time to lower premiums, expand choice, and restore integrity.\n\nExcerpts from Miller-Meeks' Remarks:\n\n\"For 15 years, the Unaffordable Care Act, also known as Obamacare, has done the opposite of what it promised. President Obama promised to lower premiums by $2500; and to bend the cost curve down. Has that happened? NO.\"\n\n\"Our bill lowers premiums by 11 percent by funding cost-sharing reductions the right way, not through COVID-era bailouts that benefited only big insurers. That\u2019s up to $1,871 in savings for families each year and over $36 billion in taxpayer savings.\"\n\nShe continued...\n\n\"As we\u2019re strengthening CHOICE arrangements so more small businesses can afford to offer coverage, and more workers can choose a plan that fits their lives and their budgets.\"\n\n\"This is a plan for working Americans, not for profitable insurance companies.\"", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://nunn.house.gov/2025/12/16/nunn-introduces-bipartisan-bill-to-expand-affordable-housing-access-for-college-students/", "Nunn Introduces Bipartisan Bill to Expand Affordable Housing Access for College Students", "2025-12-16", "2025", "2025-12", "Republican", "House", "IA", "Zachary Nunn", "N000193", "nunn.house.gov", "nunn", "https://nunn.house.gov/category/news/press-releases/", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2014 Representatives Zach Nunn (IA-03) and Greg Landsman (OH-01) today introduced the Campus Housing Affordability Act, bipartisan legislation to help low-income students afford safe and stable housing while pursuing a college degree.\n\n\u201cCollege should be about learning and earning a degree, not worrying about where you\u2019re going to sleep at night,\u201d said Rep. Nunn. \u201cHousing insecurity undermines academic success, increases the risk of dropping out, and puts a higher education out of reach for too many students. This bipartisan bill gives every student a fair shot at success\u2014regardless of their background or ZIP code.\u201d\n\nNearly 48 percent of college students nationwide experience housing insecurity, forcing many to miss class or fall behind academically due to unstable living conditions. Among affected students, a majority report missing academic opportunities because of housing challenges, and 81 percent say they would perform better academically if they had access to safe, reliable housing.\n\n\u201cWe can make college way more affordable, and this bill does that for countless Americans,\u201d said Rep. Landsman. \u201cIn fact, this will be transformative for students who have been historically left out and marginalized. Campus housing is an enormous expense for students, and our bill eliminates that expense for students who are eligible for housing vouchers.\u201d\n\nHousing instability impacts Iowa students long before they reach college. This year alone, more than 550 Des Moines Public Schools students are living in shelters or temporary housing. Without targeted action, many will carry that instability into higher education, where housing costs continue to rise and affordable options remain limited.\n\nThe Campus Housing Affordability Act would:\n\nAllow students with Section 8 Housing Choice Vouchers to apply them toward campus housing;\n\nEnsure HUD vouchers used for student housing are not counted as income, preventing students from being disqualified from additional forms of financial aid; and\n\nExpand access to on-campus communities and student support systems proven to improve retention and graduation rates.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://nunn.house.gov/2025/12/16/nunn-leads-house-moment-of-silence-honoring-fallen-iowa-guardsmen/", "Nunn Leads House Moment of Silence Honoring Fallen Iowa Guardsmen", "2025-12-16", "2025", "2025-12", "Republican", "House", "IA", "Zachary Nunn", "N000193", "nunn.house.gov", "nunn", "https://nunn.house.gov/category/news/press-releases/", "scraper", "The attack also wounded three additional Iowa Guardsmen and claimed the life of U.S. interpreter Ayad Sakat. These deaths mark the first U.S. combat fatalities in Syria since 2019.\n\nRep. Nunn\u2019s Remarks as Prepared for Delivery:\n\n\u201cI rise today to honor two brave Iowans\u2014Sergeant Edgar Brian Torres-Tovar of Des Moines and Sergeant William Nathaniel Howard of Marshalltown\u2014who gave their lives in service to our country.\n\n\u201cOn December 13th, while serving with the Iowa National Guard in Syria, Edgar and Nate were killed in an attack by an ISIS terrorist. Three other Guardsmen were wounded. U.S. interpreter Ayad Sakat was also killed. This was the first combat loss of American troops in Syria in over five years\u2014and every American grieves alongside the families of the fallen.\n\n\u201cEdgar, just 25, was the first in his family to serve. He was full of energy, known for putting service before self, and just months from coming home. Nate was 29, a man of faith, a loving husband, and a Guardsman with over a decade of service. He led by example\u2014first in, last out, never leaving a brother behind. They were young men who could have chosen easier paths, but instead chose service. They stood their post when it mattered most. They carried the weight of our nation\u2019s safety on their shoulders\u2014and they did so with courage, humility, and honor.\n\n\u201cIn return, we give them our gratitude\u2014not just in words, but in remembrance and the solemn promise that justice will be served. Out of grief, we renew our resolve. Out of loss, we strengthen our unity. And out of sacrifice, we carry forward hope\u2014hope grounded in the values Edgar and Nate lived every day: service before self, faith in something greater, and love of country.\n\n\u201cMadam Speaker, I respectfully ask that the House now observe a moment of silence in honor of Sergeant Edgar Brian Torres-Tovar and Sergeant William Nathaniel Howard.\u201d\n\nAbout the Guardsmen\n\nSergeant Edgar Brian Torres-Tovar, 25, of Des Moines, and Sergeant William Nathaniel \u201cNate\u201d Howard, 29, of Marshalltown, served with the Iowa National Guard\u2019s 1st Squadron, 113th Cavalry Regiment. Both were deployed to Syria as part of Operation Inherent Resolve, a U.S.-led mission to train and advise local coalition forces.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://www.grassley.senate.gov/news/news-releases/grassley-durbin-reintroduce-bipartisan-criminal-justice-bills", "Grassley, Durbin Reintroduce Bipartisan Criminal Justice Bills", "2025-12-16", "2025", "2025-12", "Republican", "Senate", "IA", "Chuck Grassley", "G000386", "www.grassley.senate.gov", "grassley", "https://www.grassley.senate.gov/news/news-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON \u2013 Senate Judiciary Committee Chairman Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa) and Ranking Member Dick Durbin (D-Ill.) introduced four bipartisan criminal justice bills to better protect American communities and strengthen the nation\u2019s criminal justice system. The First Step Implementation Act, the Safer Detention Act, the Prohibiting Punishment of Acquitted Conduct Act and the FSA Reporting Extension Act each build off the successes of the lawmakers\u2019 First Step Act (FSA), which President Trump signed into law in 2018.\n\n\u201cCriminals must face just penalties, and our nation\u2019s criminal justice system should seek to prevent recidivism,\u201d Grassley said. \u201cI\u2019m committed to advancing efforts that will help reduce crime, improve our nation\u2019s justice system and safeguard American communities.\u201d\n\n\u201cSeven years ago, Congress came together to pass the most important criminal justice reform law in a generation. But as its name suggests, it was just the first step,\u201d Durbin said. \u201cIn order to keep making our justice system fairer and our communities safer, we must continue reforming our antiquated and outdated sentencing laws and providing opportunities for those who are incarcerated to prepare to reenter society successfully. I appreciate Senator Grassley\u2019s partnership in this important endeavor.\u201d\n\nThe First Step Implementation Act, the Safer Detention Act and the Prohibiting Punishment of Acquitted Conduct Act are endorsed by Right On Crime, the Conservative Political Action Conference and Americans for Prosperity. A full list of endorsements is available HERE.\n\n\u201cEach of these bills strengthens public safety in a different way \u2014 by ensuring fairness at sentencing, focusing resources on dangerous individuals, and fully implementing reforms that reduce recidivism. Together, they move the federal system toward a smarter, more accountable, and more effective approach to public safety,\u201d said Brett Tolman, Executive Director for Right On Crime.\n\n\u201cThese solutions complement one another and point in the same direction: a justice system that is more focused on actual risk, more respectful of constitutional limits, and more effective at reducing crime. That\u2019s the type of system communities can trust,\u201d said Rachel Wright, National Policy Director for Right On Crime.\n\nThe First Step Implementation Act:\n\nThe First Step Implementation Act would strengthen the First Step Act by:\n\nAllowing courts to apply First Step Act sentencing reform provisions retroactively;\n\nGiving courts discretion when sentencing nonviolent controlled substance offenders, or reducing sentences of juvenile offenders who have served more than 20 years;\n\nProviding for the sealing or expungement of records of nonviolent juvenile offenses; and,\n\nRequiring the Attorney General to ensure accurate criminal records are shared for employment-related purposes.\n\nThis legislation is also endorsed by the Prison Fellowship Ministries.\n\nBill text is available HERE.\n\nThe Safer Detention Act:\n\nThe Safer Detention Act would reauthorize and reform the now-expired Elderly Home Detention Pilot Program and clarify applicability of compassionate release from federal prisons.?\n\nThis legislation is also endorsed by the Prison Fellowship Ministries.\n\nBill text is available HERE.\n\nProhibiting Punishment of Acquitted Conduct Act\n\nThe Prohibiting Punishment of Acquitted Conduct Act would prohibit courts from considering conduct defendants have been acquitted of for sentencing purposes.\n\nBill text is available HERE.\n\nFSA Reporting Extension Act\n\nThe FSA Reporting Extension Act would extend the First Step Act\u2019s annual reporting requirement by five years.\n\nThe First Step Act required the Attorney General to submit annual reports to Congress on the bill\u2019s implementation and impact for five consecutive years, starting two years after implementation. The FSA Reporting Extension Act would extend this reporting through 2030.\n\nBill text is available HERE.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://www.grassley.senate.gov/news/news-releases/senate-unanimously-passes-grassley-backed-bill-to-combat-child-trafficking", "Senate Unanimously Passes Grassley-Backed Bill to Combat Child Trafficking", "2025-12-16", "2025", "2025-12", "Republican", "Senate", "IA", "Chuck Grassley", "G000386", "www.grassley.senate.gov", "grassley", "https://www.grassley.senate.gov/news/news-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON \u2013 Senate Judiciary Committee Chairman Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa) today welcomed the Senate\u2019s unanimous passage of his Preventing Child Trafficking Act. The bipartisan bill would require the Departments of Justice (DOJ) and Health and Human Services (HHS) to implement much-needed anti-child trafficking recommendations. The legislation now heads to the House of Representatives for further consideration.\n\n\u201cThis is an important bill with an important objective, fostering communication between the Departments of Justice and Health and Human Services with the result, we hope, of preventing children from falling prey to the evils of human trafficking,\u201d Grassley said on the Senate floor. \u201cPreventing future instances of trafficking is very, very essential and I\u2019m happy to support this bill\u2019s advancement today.\u201d\n\nVideo of Grassley\u2019s floor remarks is below.\n\nVIDEO", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://www.grassley.senate.gov/news/news-releases/tomorrow-grassley-to-attend-dignified-transfer-of-deceased-iowa-national-guardsmen-at-dover-afb", "TOMORROW: Grassley to Attend Dignified Transfer of Deceased Iowa National Guardsmen at Dover AFB", "2025-12-16", "2025", "2025-12", "Republican", "Senate", "IA", "Chuck Grassley", "G000386", "www.grassley.senate.gov", "grassley", "https://www.grassley.senate.gov/news/news-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON \u2013 Sen. Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa) will attend a solemn dignified transfer ceremony at Dover Air Force Base tomorrow, December 17, to receive the remains of two Iowa National Guard members killed in Syria: Sgt. William Nathaniel \u201cNate\u201d Howard of Marshalltown and Sgt. Edgar Torres-Tovar of Des Moines.\n\nPresident Donald Trump, Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth and Chief of Staff of the Army General Randy George are also scheduled to attend.\n\nGrassley spoke on the Senate floor on Monday to pay tribute to the fallen soldiers.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://feenstra.house.gov/media/press-releases/feenstra-mourns-iowa-national-guard-troops-murdered-syria-and-prays-those", "Feenstra Mourns Iowa National Guard Troops Murdered in Syria and Prays for Those Injured", "2025-12-15", "2025", "2025-12", "Republican", "House", "IA", "Randy Feenstra", "F000446", "feenstra.house.gov", "feenstra", "https://feenstra.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "HULL, IOWA \u2014 U.S. Rep. Randy Feenstra (R-Hull) issued the following statement mourning the loss of the Iowa National Guard troops who were murdered in Syria and praying for those injured.\n\n\u201cIowa and our nation mourns the brave Iowans who were murdered by terrorists in Syria and pray for those injured. Members of the Iowa National Guard are incredible patriots and selfless Americans who dedicate their lives to serving our country. I know that President Trump will hold the terrorist who committed this disgusting crime accountable,\u201d said Rep. Feenstra. \u201cOur thoughts and prayers are with their families and loved ones at this tragic time. Today and always, we owe our men and women in uniform our unwavering gratitude and deepest appreciation.\u201d\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://feenstra.house.gov/media/press-releases/feenstra-praises-unanimous-passage-whole-milk-healthy-kids-act", "Feenstra Praises Unanimous Passage of Whole Milk for Healthy Kids Act", "2025-12-15", "2025", "2025-12", "Republican", "House", "IA", "Randy Feenstra", "F000446", "feenstra.house.gov", "feenstra", "https://feenstra.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "HULL, IOWA \u2013 Today, U.S. Rep. Randy Feenstra (R-Hull) released the following statement after the U.S. House of Representatives unanimously passed the Whole Milk for Healthy Kids Act, which would allow Iowa schools to offer whole and 2% milk to their students.\n\n\u201cI am excited that the U.S. House unanimously passed the Whole Milk for Healthy Kids Act, and that it is now headed to President Trump\u2019s desk for his signature. This legislation ensures that Iowa kids can drink nutritious whole and 2% milk produced by Iowa dairy farmers,\u201d said Rep. Feenstra. \u201cPassage of this bill shows my strong support for Iowa dairy producers while promoting Iowa-made milk as part of a healthy diet for our children. I look forward to seeing President Trump sign this legislation, which is a major victory for our dairy farmers, Iowa students, and our rural communities.\u201d\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://millermeeks.house.gov/media/press-releases/miller-meeks-leads-republican-plan-lower-healthcare-costs-all-americans", "Miller-Meeks Leads Republican Plan to Lower Healthcare Costs for All Americans", "2025-12-15", "2025", "2025-12", "Republican", "House", "IA", "Mariannette Miller-Meeks", "M001215", "millermeeks.house.gov", "millermeeks", "https://millermeeks.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON \u2014 Dr. Mariannette Miller-Meeks (IA-01), a physician and the only former State Director of Public Health in Congress, alongside House Republican Leadership released the Lower Health Care Premiums for All Americans Act \u2014 legislation that lowers health care premiums, increases health care access, expands health care choices, and brings greater transparency to America\u2019s health care system. The legislation will be considered in the House next week.\n\n\u201cFor more than a decade, working Americans have been stuck with rising costs and fewer choices under the so-called Affordable Care Act,\u201d said Dr. Miller-Meeks. \u201cAs a physician, I\u2019ve seen what that means for families: sky-high premiums, out-of-pocket costs they can\u2019t afford, and limited access to care. This bill is about reversing that trend. We\u2019re delivering lower premiums, more choices, PBM transparency, and a stronger marketplace for ALL Americans.\"\n\n\u201cNearly 15 years ago, the Democrats\u2019 Unaffordable Care Act broke the American health care system. Since its inception, premium costs have skyrocketed, networks have shrunk, and the system has become bloated, inefficient, and riddled with waste, fraud, and abuse. While Democrats demand that taxpayers write bigger checks to insurance companies to hide the cost of their failed law, House Republicans are tackling the real drivers of health care costs to provide affordable care, increase access and choice, and restore integrity to our nation\u2019s health care system for all Americans,\u201d Speaker Mike Johnson said. \u201cEarlier this year, Democrats had a chance to help make life more affordable by supporting the Working Families Tax Cuts legislation. Instead, they voted to raise taxes, protect waste and fraud, and continue providing free health care to illegal immigrants. Democrats\u2019 \u2018affordability\u2019 charade has gone on long enough. Republicans are offering clear, responsible alternatives that will lower premium costs and increase access and health care options for all Americans. The Lower Health Care Premiums for All Americans Act will actually deliver affordable health care \u2013 and we look forward to advancing it through the House.\u201d\n\nThe Lower Health Care Premiums for All Act:\n\nLowers Premiums for all Americans\n\nPharmacy Benefit Manager Transparency: Requires PBMs to provide employers with detailed data on prescription drug spending, rebates, spread pricing, and formulary decisions\u2014empowering plans and workers with the transparency they deserve.\n\nAppropriates Cost Sharing Reduction Payments: Provides necessary funding for CSR payments beginning in 2027, lowering premiums and stabilizing the individual market while ensuring taxpayer dollars are used responsibly. Relief would be better directed towards low-income enrollees that need them.\n\nImproves Health Care Options for America\u2019s Workers\n\nAssociation Health Plans: Expands access to Association Health Plans by allowing employers\u2014including self-employed workers\u2014to band together across industries to purchase affordable, high-quality coverage.\n\nAccess to Stop-Loss Insurance: Ensures small and mid-sized employers can protect themselves from catastrophic claims by clarifying that stop-loss insurance is not \u201chealth insurance coverage.\u201d This would allow small businesses to offer their employees more tailored, affordable care.\n\nCHOICE Arrangements: Codifies and strengthens 2019 rules allowing employers to offer defined contributions for employees to purchase their own coverage\u2014renamed as CHOICE arrangements\u2014and permits employees to pay premiums pre-tax.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://www.grassley.senate.gov/news/news-releases/capitol-hill-report-12-15-25", "Capitol Hill Report, 12-15-25", "2025-12-15", "2025", "2025-12", "Republican", "Senate", "IA", "Chuck Grassley", "G000386", "www.grassley.senate.gov", "grassley", "https://www.grassley.senate.gov/news/news-releases", "scraper", "Senator Grassley\u2019s Capitol Hill Report can be found HERE.\n\nTopics include: health care subsidies, farm aid package, Grassley-Durbin child safety bills, New World Screwworm, annual defense bill and Ukraine and Russia negotiations.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://www.grassley.senate.gov/news/news-releases/new-records-reveal-dojs-yearslong-efforts-to-shut-down-investigation-into-clinton-foundation", "New Records Reveal DOJ\u2019s Yearslong Efforts to Shut Down Investigation into Clinton Foundation", "2025-12-15", "2025", "2025-12", "Republican", "Senate", "IA", "Chuck Grassley", "G000386", "www.grassley.senate.gov", "grassley", "https://www.grassley.senate.gov/news/news-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON \u2013 Department of Justice (DOJ) records provided to Senate Judiciary Committee Chairman Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa) offer a behind-the-scenes look at how top leadership during the Obama-Biden administration repeatedly interfered to prevent DOJ prosecutors and Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) agents from investigating the Clinton Foundation\u2019s financial dealings.\n\n\u201cThe mainstream media smeared any investigation into Hillary Clinton as unfounded nonsense, but in reality, line agents and federal prosecutors seeking to follow up on legitimate leads were sidelined by partisan leadership looking to save Clinton\u2019s reputation. That\u2019s a night-and-day departure from how the Biden Justice Department handled the Arctic Frost investigation against President Trump,\u201d Grassley said. \u201cFor too long, our Justice Department has chosen winners and losers instead of enforcing the law without regard to power, party or privilege. That must never happen again. I thank Attorney General Bondi and Director Patel for turning over these records, so the American people finally know how their Justice Department failed in the Clinton investigations.\u201d\n\nThe records, including internal emails and an investigatory timeline, were provided to Grassley in response to his oversight request and whistleblower allegations. Per the records:\n\nOn July 20, 2016\u2014111 days before the 2016 election\u2014an agent with the FBI\u2019s Criminal Investigative Division ordered that, \u201cbased on the sensitivities surrounding the Clinton Foundation,\u201d agents were prohibited from issuing subpoenas, conducting interviews or sharing information related to the case with other offices so as to avoid \u201c[creating] any impression we are investigating the Clinton Foundation or the Clintons.\u201d\n\nIn November 2016, FBI Headquarters, while under the leadership of then-Deputy Director Andrew McCabe, stepped in to block the Clinton Foundation investigative team from accessing potentially incriminating evidence located on the laptop of Anthony Weiner, the husband of Hillary Clinton\u2019s political aide, Huma Abedin. McCabe, among others, recommended the information instead be routed to the FBI\u2019s \u201cMidyear\u201d investigative team.\n\nAfter the investigation was reopened in 2017, Main Justice holdovers from the previous administration allegedly provided prosecutors in the United States Attorney\u2019s Office for the Eastern District of Arkansas (EDAR) with documents that omitted information regarding DOJ and FBI leadership\u2019s interference. Additional requests the EDAR made to the FBI in 2018 \u201cruffled some feathers\u201d and didn\u2019t result in a response.\n\nAn EDAR prosecutor concluded \u201cthere appear to be conflicts of interest for the leadership [at Main Justice, including the Public Integrity Section,] related to the 2016 [Clinton] investigations that undermine any confidence we might normally have in looking to them for assistance.\u201d\n\nView the records and Grassley\u2019s follow-up letter to the DOJ and FBI HERE.\n\nDecember 15, 2025\n\nVIA ELECTRONIC TRANSMISSION\n\nThe Honorable Pamela Bondi\n\nAttorney General\n\nDepartment of Justice\n\nThe Honorable Kash Patel\n\nDirector\n\nFederal Bureau of Investigation\n\nDear Attorney General Bondi and Director Patel:\n\nOn July 18, 2025, I wrote to the Department of Justice (DOJ) and Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) requesting records related to whistleblower allegations that during investigations into the Clintons and their associated groups, DOJ prosecutors and FBI agents didn\u2019t receive support from DOJ\u2019s Public Integrity Section (PIN) and FBI executive management for additional investigative steps.[1] Notably, my letter also requested all records relating to the FBI\u2019s Clinton Foundation investigation.[2] My letter was based on years of investigative work with courageous whistleblowers. Since then, your offices have produced records based on these whistleblower disclosures and I appreciate your cooperation with my investigative work.\n\nAccording to the records obtained by my office, during the Clinton Foundation investigation, FBI Headquarters (HQ) leadership, including former-Deputy Director (DD) McCabe, obstructed investigative activities.[3] Notably, in November 2015, former-DD McCabe\u2019s wife, Dr. Jill McCabe, received over $675,000 from political entities connected to former Virginia Governor and Clinton Foundation Board Member, Terry McAuliffe.[4] According to reports and records, $467,500 came in \u201cmonetary contributions\u201d from McAuliffe\u2019s PAC, and $207,788 came from the Virginia Democratic Party as \u201cin-kind contributions,\u201d when McAuliffe was governor of the state.[5] Ultimately, McCabe had to recuse himself from the investigation on November 1, 2016.[6]\n\nAccording to emails obtained by my office, on July 20, 2016\u2014111 days before the 2016 election\u2014an agent with the FBI\u2019s Criminal Investigative Division (CID) stated that, \u201cbased on the sensitivities surrounding the Clinton Foundation,\u201d agents were prohibited from \u201csubpoena[ing] additional records related to the Foundation, the Clintons\u201d; \u201cconduct[ing] any interviews related to the Foundation or the Clintons\u201d; and \u201cshar[ing] any of the Foundation bank account info with any other offices.\u201d[7] Emails also show that the FBI \u201c[did] not want to create any impression we are investigating the Clinton Foundation or the Clintons.\u201d[8] Internal FBI emails from January 12, 2017, show that the direction came from \u201chigher, i.e., the DD (McCabe).\u201d[9]\n\nRecords provided to my office show that on September 26, 2016, the US Attorney\u2019s Office for the Southern District of New York (SDNY) obtained a search warrant for the laptop of Anthony Weiner, whose wife, Huma Abedin, was a political aide to Hillary Clinton during her time as Secretary of State, in connection with a child exploitation investigation.[10] During the course of their investigation, the SDNY discovered information on the Weiner laptop connected to the FBI\u2019s investigation into Hillary Clinton\u2019s mishandling of classified information.[11] According to the records provided to my office, on November 1, 2016, the FBI\u2019s New York Field Office (NYFO) former-Assistant Director in Charge (ADIC) Sweeney, requested that the Clinton Foundation investigative team be allowed to either review the Weiner laptop or be provided a briefing by the Weiner review team, which allegedly FBI HQ initially refused.[12]\n\nFor example, according to records provided to my office, on November 7, 2016, then-Executive Assistant Director (EAD) Coleman noted that \u201c[i]t was determined by DD McCabe and EAD Steinbach that any follow on investigative activity concerning the emails located on Anthony Weiner\u2019s laptop would be reviewed by the MIDYEAR investigative team.\u201d[13] Accordingly, it appears that the Clinton Foundation investigators, at that time, had to depend on the MIDYEAR team, which included Peter Strzok, for information.[14]\n\nFurthermore, on July 24, 2017, under the Trump administration, the United States Attorney\u2019s Office for the Eastern District of Arkansas (USAO EDAR) and FBI Little Rock reopened their investigation into the Clinton Foundation.[15] During the course of their investigation, in November 2017, the US Attorney for the EDAR, Cody Hiland, requested information from then-head of DOJ PIN Ray Hulser and then-Acting Chief Anna Lou Tirol about \u201cwho made the decision to shut the [original] case down.\u201d[16] Documents provided to my office also note that Hulser provided Hiland with a timeline that \u201comitted ALL references to interference from DOJ and FBI leadership.\u201d[17]\n\nEmails provided to my office also show that during the course of their reopened investigation, in July 2018, attorneys at the EDAR requested additional information to determine \u201cwhether sufficient probable cause exists to submit a search warrant affidavit for the Weiner laptop related to violations of 18 U.S.C. 201(b) and 201(c), 18 U.S.C. \u00a7 208, 18 U.S.C. \u00a7\u00a7 1343, 1344, 18 U.S.C. \u00a7 1956, 1957, 18 U.S.C. \u00a7 1962 and perhaps other statutes.\u201d[18] EDAR attorneys also stated that for their team to make the assessment, \u201cour office has determined that there is a need to be given access to some of the information described in the OIG Report that was released on June 11, 2018. This is necessary in order to determine if additional information related to these potential violations is currently possessed and already within the government\u2019s knowledge.\u201d[19] According to emails, the request \u201cruffled some feathers\u201d and the EDAR didn\u2019t \u201creceive[] any response from that request.\u201d[20]\n\nEmails from September 2018 also indicate that Assistant United States Attorney (AUSA) Jonathan Ross at the EDAR had concerns about support from Main Justice and PIN regarding the Clinton Foundation investigation, stating that \u201c[b]ut as we have previously discussed, there appear to be conflicts of interest for the leadership there related to the 2016 [Clinton] investigations that undermine any confidence we might normally have in looking to them for assistance.\u201d[21] According to documents provided to my office, prosecutors at the EDAR recommended in July 2019 that a referral be made to the DOJ OIG regarding the \u201cmanner in which the investigation had been conducted,\u201d and that they did what they could do \u201cabout the interference by DOJ and FBI leadership at the time with the FBI\u2019s [Clinton Foundation] investigation.\u201d[22]\n\nThe above are just some examples of interference that occurred when agents and prosecutors investigated the Clinton Foundation. In order for Congress to conduct proper oversight of past DOJ and FBI conduct, please provide the following no later than December 29, 2025:\n\nProvide the report titled \u201cAnthony Weiner Laptop Review for Communications Pertinent to Midyear Exam\u201d dated November 15, 2016.\n\nProvide all records related to the search warrant affidavits for Anthony Weiner\u2019s laptop.\n\nProvide all records related to the \u201cyellow sheet of paper, at least 7 separate domains viewed on the device that were affiliated with the Clintons,\u201d which was provided to a NYFO ASAC by a NYFO SA Forensic Examiner.[23]\n\nProvide all records related to the decision to withdraw the third 2020 search warrant for the Weiner laptop including copies of all documents attached to the FBI EC titled \u201cWithdrawn Search Warrant \u2013 Western Digital Hard Disk Drive, MODEL WD2003FZEX, S/N WMC6N0D5ZNA9.\u201d[24]\n\nProvide the document titled \u201cInvestigative History, Status, and Recommendations Concerning the Clinton Foundation.\u201d\n\nProvide all emails related to the Clinton Foundation investigation and Anthony Weiner laptop to, from, or cc\u2019ing Cody Hiland, Jonathan Ross, John Huber, Andrew McCabe, Diane Upchurch, Randy Coleman, Ray Hulser, and Anna Lou Tirol.\n\nProvide all records requested in the July 5, 2018, email titled \u201cRequest for information related to DOJ OIG report issued June 11, 2018.\u201d\n\nProvide all emails and records in Exhibit 1, as well as records produced in conjunction with this letter, in unredacted form.\n\nThank you for your prompt review and response. If you have any questions, please contact Tucker Akin of my Committee staff at (202) 224-5225.\n\nSincerely,\n\nCharles E. Grassley\n\nChairman\n\nCommittee on the Judiciary", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://www.grassley.senate.gov/news/news-releases/grassley-statement-on-death-of-iowa-national-guardsmen", "Grassley Statement on Death of Iowa National Guardsmen", "2025-12-13", "2025", "2025-12", "Republican", "Senate", "IA", "Chuck Grassley", "G000386", "www.grassley.senate.gov", "grassley", "https://www.grassley.senate.gov/news/news-releases", "scraper", "BUTLER COUNTY, IOWA \u2013 U.S. Sen. Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa) issued a statement on the death of two members of the Iowa National Guard who were killed by an ISIS terrorist in Syria. Three additional Iowans were injured in the attack.\n\n\u201cBarbara and I are heartbroken by the loss of two brave Iowans on a counter-terrorism mission in Syria. These soldiers and the civilian interpreter who was with them paid the ultimate sacrifice, and we are forever indebted to them for their service to our country. My prayers are with their families, loved ones, fellow soldiers and Iowans as we mourn this terrible tragedy. We also pray for the full recovery of the three Iowans who suffered injuries.\u201d\n\nToday is the 389th birthday of the United States National Guard, founded on December 13, 1636, as a colonial militia to protect early settlers.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://nunn.house.gov/2025/12/12/nunn-capital-access-bill-advances-in-major-bipartisan-investment-package/", "Nunn Capital Access Bill Advances in Major Bipartisan Investment Package", "2025-12-12", "2025", "2025-12", "Republican", "House", "IA", "Zachary Nunn", "N000193", "nunn.house.gov", "nunn", "https://nunn.house.gov/category/news/press-releases/", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2014 The U.S. House of Representatives passed Representative Zach Nunn\u2019s (IA-03) bipartisan Encouraging Local Emerging Ventures and Economic Growth (ELEVATE) Act, legislation that would reduce bureaucratic red tape for small and mid-sized businesses seeking to raise capital investment through Initial Public Offerings (IPOs).\n\nRep. Nunn spoke on the House floor in favor of the ELEVATE Act. Watch the remarks here or by clicking below:\n\n\u201cWhen investment capital is trapped on the coasts, it\u2019s Iowa entrepreneurs who pay the price,\u201d said Rep. Nunn. \u201cThis bipartisan bill cuts through outdated SEC rules that sideline small businesses trying to grow. I\u2019m proud to see this commonsense, pro-growth solution moving forward in a larger package that brings investment back to the heart of the heartland.\u201d\n\nThe ELEVATE Act levels the playing field for small and mid-sized businesses seeking to go public by easing excessive reporting requirements. Specifically, the bill allows Emerging Growth Companies (EGCs) to submit two years of audited financials\u2014rather than three\u2014when pursuing an Initial Public Offering (IPO).\n\nThe standalone ELEVATE Act passed the House unanimously on June 23, 2025. This measure is now included in the Incentivizing New Ventures and Economic Strength Through Capital Formation (INVEST) Act, a comprehensive bipartisan package that modernizes federal securities laws and unlocks capital for entrepreneurs, particularly in rural and underserved communities.\n\nThe INVEST Act will now move to the Senate for consideration. A full summary of the INVEST Act is available here.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://www.grassley.senate.gov/news/news-releases/grassley-colleagues-urge-usda-to-prioritize-hpai-poultry-vaccine-strategy", "Grassley, Colleagues Urge USDA to Prioritize HPAI Poultry Vaccine Strategy", "2025-12-12", "2025", "2025-12", "Republican", "Senate", "IA", "Chuck Grassley", "G000386", "www.grassley.senate.gov", "grassley", "https://www.grassley.senate.gov/news/news-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON \u2013 Sen. Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa), a lifelong family farmer and a member of the Senate Agriculture Committee, joined Sens. Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.), Ranking Member of the committee, Mike Rounds (R-S.D.) and 20 of their Senate colleagues in a letter urging Department of Agriculture (USDA) Secretary Brooke Rollins to move forward with the USDA\u2019s avian flu vaccine strategy for poultry while encouraging a comprehensive, science-based approach.\n\n\u201cWe are writing to encourage the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) to continue prioritizing an avian flu vaccine strategy that takes into account a comprehensive, science-based approach for the potential vaccination of poultry and livestock that have been impacted by this disease,\u201d the senators wrote. \u201cAvian flu infections have already begun to increase as winter approaches, and it is essential that USDA take renewed action to address and fight this virus.\u201d\n\n\u201cThe USDA recently noted that a draft proposal of an avian flu vaccine strategy for poultry was currently under review, and we strongly urge the Department to advance this review process with speed and diligence, while allowing for proactive consultation with affected stakeholders,\u201d the senators continued. \u201cAny finalized vaccine strategy must take into account feedback from animal health stakeholders, industry experts, and be grounded in sound science. It must also be comprehensive in scope, addressing all impacted species, including turkeys and egg-laying hens. Once a vaccine is developed and USDA has confirmed its safety and efficacy, a vaccine strategy for dairy cattle should also be prioritized.\u201d\n\nThe National Turkey Federation, the United Egg Producers and the National Milk Producers Federation. endorsed the senators\u2019 call for an HPAI poultry vaccine strategy.\n\n\u201cAmerica's egg farmers genuinely appreciate the bipartisan Senate cooperation in support of farmers' fight against HPAI. Like everyone, we value food affordability, and we believe that a successful trade strategy that leads to a viable vaccine strategy is the right long-term solution. Consumers love eggs and we all benefit from the stability of a market where outbreaks of HPAI can be contained,\u201d United Egg Producers President and CEO Chad Gregory said.\n\n\u201cNational Turkey Foundation (NTF) supports USDA developing a vaccination strategy as one component of a broader approach to HPAI and we believe that plan should be shaped through meaningful stakeholder input and accompanied by active engagement with trading partners to modernize international standards and ensure trade continuity. We look forward to continuing our work with USDA, members of Congress and industry partners to strengthen animal health, ensure food affordability and maintain access to key export markets,\u201d National Turkey Federation President and CEO Leslee Oden said.\n\n\u201cInvesting in vaccine development and strategic deployment will be a critical piece of controlling and eradicating this disease from dairies across the country.. Until that day, we remain diligent in our work with our partners on Capitol Hill, at USDA and in the private sector to mitigate H5N1\u2019s negative effects on dairy producers and consumers,\u201d National Milk Producers Federation (NMPF) Chief Science Officer Dr. Jamie Jonker said. Jonker leads NMPF\u2019s efforts to coordinate the dairy industry\u2019s response to bird flu.\n\nAlong with Grassley, Klobuchar and Rounds, the letter was signed by Senate Majority Leader John Thune (R-S.D.) and Sens. Michael Bennet (D-Colo.), Joni Ernst (R-Iowa), John Fetterman (D-Penn.), Ruben Gallego (D-Ariz.), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-N.Y.), Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.), Jon Husted (R-Ohio), Jim Justice (R-W.Va.), Tim Kaine (D-Va.), Mike Lee (R-Utah), Adam Schiff (D-Calif.), Elissa Slotkin (D-Mich.), Tina Smith (D-Minn), Thom Tillis (R-N.C.), Mark Warner (D-Va.), Ted Budd (R-N.C.), Ben Ray Luj\u00e1n (D-N.M.), Todd Young (R-Ind.) and Bernie Moreno (R-Ohio).\n\nRead the full letter HERE and below.\n\nDecember 11, 2025\n\nThe Honorable Brooke Rollins\n\nSecretary\n\nU.S. Department of Agriculture\n\n1400 Independence Ave., S.W.\n\nWashington, D.C. 20250\n\nDear Secretary Rollins,\n\nWe are writing to encourage the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) to continue prioritizing an avian flu vaccine strategy that takes into account a comprehensive, science-based approach for the potential vaccination of poultry and livestock that have been impacted by this disease. We have appreciated your commitment to addressing avian flu thus far in your tenure as Secretary, including the release of the Department\u2019s February 26, 2025, \u201cFive-Pronged Approach to Address Avian Flu\u201d.\n\nSince the beginning of this outbreak in 2022, avian flu has impacted more than 184.03 million birds in 1,905 flocks, including more than 21.1 million turkeys and 141.1 million layers, and 1,083 dairy herds across the country. Avian flu infections have already begun to increase as winter approaches, and it is essential that USDA take renewed action to address and fight this virus.\n\nThe USDA recently noted that a draft proposal of an avian flu vaccine strategy for poultry was currently under review, and we strongly urge the Department to advance this review process with speed and diligence, while allowing for proactive consultation with affected stakeholders. Any finalized vaccine strategy must take into account feedback from animal health stakeholders, industry experts, and be grounded in sound science. It must also be comprehensive in scope, addressing all impacted species, including turkeys and egg-laying hens. Once a vaccine is developed and USDA has confirmed its safety and efficacy, a vaccine strategy for dairy cattle should also be prioritized. We encourage the Department to work closely with trading partners and impacted producers to fully assess and manage any potential trade implications. Finally, as the USDA rolls out any avian flu vaccine strategy, it is critical that clear and transparent communication to producers, veterinarians, and state animal health officials, along with direct guidance and resources, are in place.\n\nWe value USDA\u2019s continued action to curb the spread of avian flu. Producers, veterinarians, and the American public depend on timely, science-based action to safeguard animal health and protect our nation\u2019s food security. As we prepare and respond to the resurgence of this virus, a thoughtful and comprehensive vaccine strategy will strengthen our ability to fight and mitigate avian flu.\n\nThank you for your continued attention to this urgent matter.\n\nSincerely,", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://www.grassley.senate.gov/news/news-releases/qanda-shoppers-beware-of-online-scrooges", "Q&A: Shoppers Beware of Online Scrooges", "2025-12-12", "2025", "2025-12", "Republican", "Senate", "IA", "Chuck Grassley", "G000386", "www.grassley.senate.gov", "grassley", "https://www.grassley.senate.gov/news/news-releases", "scraper", "Q: How concerned should holiday shoppers be about counterfeit products?\n\nA: Unfortunately, the season of giving is prime time for rip-off artists to worm their way into the wallets of American shoppers during the holidays. As co-chair of the Congressional Trademark Caucus, I lead an annual dialogue in December to raise public awareness about counterfeit products to help educate consumers, particularly during the holiday shopping season. Families work hard for their money and when buying presents for friends and loved ones, you don\u2019t want to end up gifting them with imposter products and getting ripped off with fake knock-offs. What\u2019s worse, some of these fake products pose potential health hazards because they\u2019re not in compliance with safety standards, storage requirements or quality controls.\n\nWith nearly one-third of holiday spending captured by online shopping, it\u2019s even more important for shoppers to be extra savvy. Whether you\u2019re splurging or bargain hunting, every hard-earned dollar spent on toys, clothing, electronics, perfume, cosmetics or jewelry ought to be spent on authentic products. Avoid getting duped by illicit goods. Sen. Chris Coons of Delaware, co-chair of the bipartisan trademark caucus, and I use our policy platform to put fraudsters on notice. This year, we were again joined by the International Trademark Association and the U.S. Chamber of Commerce\u2019s Global Innovation Policy Center to help spread the word and arm consumers with helpful tips. Make no mistake, fake goods rip off customers and harm the bottom lines of law-abiding brands and entrepreneurs. Sales of counterfeit products also have a ripple effect on Main Street, making it harder for businesses to grow and create jobs.\n\nIn the previous Congress, I cosponsored bipartisan legislation called the INFORM Consumers Act that went into effect in 2023. The transparency law gives consumers better tools to identify third-party online sellers and deter criminals from re-selling stolen or counterfeit items via online marketplaces. I\u2019ve also introduced bipartisan, bicameral anti-counterfeiting legislation to hold fraudsters accountable and strengthen protections for consumers. It would authorize U.S. Customs and Border Protection to share suspected counterfeit packing and shipping information with key intellectual property rights holders, e-commerce platforms and transportation carriers. Adding more federal law enforcement tools will help the private sector root out bad actors.\n\nQ: What tips should shoppers keep in mind before making a purchase?\n\nA: Shoppers need to be wary and use common sense when making a purchase. Trust your gut instinct. If the price sounds too good to be true for a luxury item or branded product, it likely is. Remember, purchasing counterfeit merchandise inflicts economic harm along the supply chain and illicit goods put end users at risk for unsafe products. Don\u2019t allow the convenience of online shopping and having products delivered straight to your doorstep cloud your judgment. Counterfeits benefit transnational criminals and infringe on the intellectual property rights of law-abiding producers. Rooting out bogus goods merits your attention for every online purchase. Billions of dollars of counterfeit sales rip off consumers every year, especially during the holiday season.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://nunn.house.gov/2025/12/11/nunn-clean-water-amendment-passes-house-in-permitting-reform-package/", "Nunn Clean Water Amendment Passes House in Permitting Reform Package", "2025-12-11", "2025", "2025-12", "Republican", "House", "IA", "Zachary Nunn", "N000193", "nunn.house.gov", "nunn", "https://nunn.house.gov/category/news/press-releases/", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2014 Representative Zach Nunn (IA-03) today secured passage of a clean water amendment as part of the Promoting Efficient Review for Modern Infrastructure Today (PERMIT) Act, a bill to modernize outdated permitting rules under the Clean Water Act. Rep. Nunn\u2019s amendment creates a new pilot program empowering states to lead water quality improvement projects in areas facing high nitrogen and phosphorus levels\u2014areas like Iowa that urgently need targeted solutions.\n\n\u201cEvery family deserves peace of mind when they turn on the tap,\u201d said Rep. Nunn. \u201cIn Iowa, rivers that supply drinking water for hundreds of thousands of people have recorded dangerously high nitrate levels. My amendment puts farmers, engineers, and local communities\u2014not Washington bureaucrats\u2014in the driver\u2019s seat to improve water quality and bring nitrate levels down.\u201d\n\nIowa is currently experiencing one of its worst nitrate pollution seasons in recent years. Nitrate levels in the Raccoon River recently reached twice the federal limit. In total, more than 600 water segments statewide are classified as polluted under Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) standards. Health experts warn that elevated nitrate exposure in drinking water can contribute to blue baby syndrome in infants, increased risk of cancer in adults, and health complications for pregnant women.\n\nRep. Nunn\u2019s amendment establishes a voluntary EPA pilot program to streamline coordination between state and federal agencies on water-quality projects in nitrogen- or phosphorus-impaired watersheds. The program is strictly state-led, voluntary for producers, and does not expand federal authority, ensuring Iowa retains control over local conservation priorities.\n\n\u201cIn Iowa, commonsense conservation projects like wetlands or streamside restoration too often get held up by overlapping bureaucratic reviews,\u201d continued Rep. Nunn. \u201cThis pilot program allows states like Iowa to move these water-quality projects forward faster and more efficiently\u2014while still protecting our land and communities.\u201d\n\nText of the amendment can be found here.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://www.grassley.senate.gov/news/news-releases/grassley-votes-to-lower-health-care-costs-for-iowans", "Grassley Votes to Lower Health Care Costs for Iowans", "2025-12-11", "2025", "2025-12", "Republican", "Senate", "IA", "Chuck Grassley", "G000386", "www.grassley.senate.gov", "grassley", "https://www.grassley.senate.gov/news/news-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON \u2013 Sen. Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa), a senior member and former chairman of the Senate Finance Committee, voted for the Health Care Freedom for Patients Act to lower health care costs for Iowans. Democrats blocked the measure, which required 60 votes to advance, by a vote of 51-48.\n\n\u201cToday, Republicans put forward a health care plan that provides real relief to a broken system, and I was glad to vote for that legislation. Our bill would have built on the success of the Working Families Tax Cuts by sending money directly to patients so they can control their own health care. In Washington, I\u2019m going to continue leading the fight to lower health care costs through prescription drug middlemen reform, transparency and competition,\u201d Grassley said.\n\n\u201cRather than address the true failures of Obamacare, Democrats want to extend Biden COVID Bonuses for households making $600,000 and insurance companies. By sending billions in taxpayer dollars straight to these companies, Democrats tried to obscure the rising cost of a broken health care system they built. Even worse, they deliberately set up these COVID bonuses to expire, creating an artificial crisis of their own making. My oversight has shown this program is full of fraud and waste, and extending it without any meaningful reform is unacceptable,\u201d Grassley continued.\n\nFull text of the legislation can be found HERE.\n\nBackground:\n\nThe Health Care Freedom for Patients Act expands Health Savings Account (HSA) eligibility by allowing accounts to be paired with more affordable health insurance plans. These pre-funded, patient-driven accounts will help Americans pay for the out-of-pocket costs that are making health care unaffordable. The bill directly lowers premiums by 11% in 2027 and beyond by providing cost-sharing reduction (CSR) payments. It also bars taxpayer funding for abortion or transgender services.\n\nGrassley is a leading voice in Washington to find policy solutions that will make health care services more accessible and affordable. In April, Grassley led the Senate Judiciary Committee in approving six bipartisan bills to boost competition in the pharmaceutical industry and improve access to more affordable prescription drugs.\n\nLower- and middle-income earners will still be eligible for Federal Health Insurance Marketplace subsidies in 2026 because subsidies for households making under 400% of the federal poverty limit are in permanent law. In 2021, Democrats temporarily lifted the income cap for those making over 400% of the federal poverty limit, meaning families making $600,000 per year could qualify for Biden COVID bonuses. These Biden COVID bonuses are set to expire at the end of 2025, returning insurance subsidies to pre-pandemic levels.\n\nSeveral provisions from the Senate Finance Committee\u2019s Pharmacy Benefit Managers (PBM) Price Transparency and Accountability Act were lifted from Grassley\u2019s Prescription Drug Pricing Reduction Act, which he led through the Finance Committee as chairman in 2019.\n\nIn July, Grassley voted for the Working Family Tax Cuts law, which included a $50 billion rural health transformation fund to ensure hospitals, nursing homes, community health clinics and other rural providers can continue serving their communities and improve care.\n\nEarlier this week, Grassley spoke on the Senate floor about fraud, waste and abuse in Obamacare, and the need for real reforms.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://www.grassley.senate.gov/news/news-releases/judiciary-committee-advances-four-us-attorneys-and-three-judicial-nominations", "Judiciary Committee Advances Four U.S. Attorneys and Three Judicial Nominations", "2025-12-11", "2025", "2025-12", "Republican", "Senate", "IA", "Chuck Grassley", "G000386", "www.grassley.senate.gov", "grassley", "https://www.grassley.senate.gov/news/news-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON \u2013 The Senate Judiciary Committee today advanced the following nominations:\n\nDavid Clay Fowlkes, to be United States District Judge for the Western District of Arkansas, by a vote of 15-7;\n\nNicholas Jon Ganjei, to be United States District Judge for the Southern District of Texas, by a vote of 12-10;\n\nAaron Christian Peterson, to be United States District Judge for the District of Alaska, by a vote of 14-8;\n\nAndrew Benson, to be United States Attorney for the District of Maine, by a vote of 19-3;\n\nWilliam Boyle, to be United States Attorney for the Eastern District of North Carolina, by a vote of 12-10;\n\nRichard Price, to be United States Attorney for the Western District of Missouri, by a vote of 12-10; and\n\nDarin Smith, to be United States Attorney for the District of Wyoming, by a vote of 12-10.\n\nWatch the executive business meeting HERE. Read Chairman Chuck Grassley\u2019s (R-Iowa) opening statement at the executive business meeting HERE.\n\n-30-", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://feenstra.house.gov/media/press-releases/feenstra-secures-future-185th-air-refueling-wing-passing-national-defense", "Feenstra Secures Future of 185th Air Refueling Wing by Passing the National Defense Authorization Act", "2025-12-10", "2025", "2025-12", "Republican", "House", "IA", "Randy Feenstra", "F000446", "feenstra.house.gov", "feenstra", "https://feenstra.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Today, U.S. Rep. Randy Feenstra (R-Hull) issued the following statement after voting for the Fiscal Year 2026 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), which includes language authorizing a runway repair and replacement, ADAL Aircraft Parking Apron, and a Warm-Up/Holding Pad at the Sioux Gateway Airport in Sioux City \u2013 the home of the Iowa Air National Guard\u2019s 185th Air Refueling Wing.\n\n\u201cI\u2019m excited that the NDAA includes my work to authorize construction of a new runway, aircraft parking apron, and a warmup/holding pad for the KC-135 Stratotanker at the Sioux Gateway Airport, which is home to our incredible 185th Air Refueling Wing in Sioux City. This bill ensures that these projects are eligible for funding that will protect nearly 1,000 jobs, promote continued economic growth in the region, and strengthen our national security,\u201d said Rep. Feenstra. \u201cSince being elected to Congress, I have worked to secure the future of the 185th, ensuring that the men and women who keep this unit running can continue to support our communities, respond to disasters, and defend our state and nation. By authorizing these critical projects, we are honoring the hard work of the Iowa National Guard, protecting almost 1,000 jobs, and growing the local economy.\u201d\n\nLast month, Feenstra led the full Iowa congressional delegation in sending a letter to the leadership of the U.S. Senate Armed Services Committee and the U.S. House Armed Services Committee urging that the military construction projects at the Sioux Gateway Airport included in the Senate-passed version of the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) be retained in the final conference agreement for the Fiscal Year 2026 NDAA. This request was honored and cemented with Feenstra\u2019s vote.\n\nIn addition to support for the 185th, this year\u2019s NDAA:\n\nDelivers a pay raise for U.S. servicemembers;\n\nSupports military families through more affordable housing and childcare;\n\nEliminates red tape to streamline defense acquisition;\n\nStrengthens nuclear deterrence and the Golden Dome Missile Defense System; and\n\nCounters our adversaries by promoting U.S. shipbuilding and implementing cutting-edge technologies.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://millermeeks.house.gov/media/press-releases/miller-meeks-delivers-nearly-3-million-lee-county-health-projects", "Miller-Meeks Delivers Nearly $3 Million for Lee County Health Projects", "2025-12-10", "2025", "2025-12", "Republican", "House", "IA", "Mariannette Miller-Meeks", "M001215", "millermeeks.house.gov", "millermeeks", "https://millermeeks.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "LEE COUNTY, IA \u2014 Congresswoman Mariannette Miller-Meeks (IA-01) announced the successful delivery of nearly $3 million in Community Project Funding for major healthcare investments across Lee County.\n\n\u201cAs a physician, I know access to local, reliable care is life-saving, especially in rural communities,\u201d said Dr. Miller-Meeks. \u201cThat\u2019s why I fought to secure these funds, and I\u2019m proud to see them delivering results.\u201d\n\nThe funding includes:\n\n$2.1 million for EMS Bay Improvements, giving Lee County\u2019s Health Department its first independent base of operations in over 30 years.\n\nSupport for the newly opened Mellar Family Health Center, expanding public health capacity and emergency response services.\n\n$825,000 to support efforts to reopen Keokuk Hospital, ensuring long-term access to inpatient care in the region.\n\nThese projects were made possible through Community Project Funding and mark one of the most significant healthcare infrastructure investments in Lee County in decades.\n\n\"We\u2019re not just investing in buildings, we\u2019re investing in people, in response times, and in the future of healthcare for Southeast Iowa,\" Miller-Meeks added. \u201cThis is what it means to deliver for rural Iowa.\u201d\n\n##", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://millermeeks.house.gov/media/press-releases/miller-meeks-secures-pay-raise-troops-strengthens-us-defense", "Miller-Meeks Secures Pay Raise for Troops, Strengthens U.S. Defense", "2025-12-10", "2025", "2025-12", "Republican", "House", "IA", "Mariannette Miller-Meeks", "M001215", "millermeeks.house.gov", "millermeeks", "https://millermeeks.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, DC \u2013 Congresswoman Mariannette Miller-Meeks (IA-01) voted today to pass the Fiscal Year 2026 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), landmark legislation that supports President Trump\u2019s Peace Through Strength agenda, delivers critical investments in national security, and protects Iowa\u2019s defense workforce.\n\n\"As a 24-year Army veteran, I know firsthand the sacrifices our men and women in uniform make every day,\" said Miller-Meeks. \"This NDAA delivers a well-earned pay raise, strengthens military readiness, and ensures our servicemembers have the tools and technology they need to defend our country from all threats foreign and domestic.\"\n\nBackground\n\nThe FY26 NDAA authorizes $900.6 billion in national defense discretionary spending\u2014$8 billion more than President Trump\u2019s budget request\u2014and codifies key elements of his Peace Through Strength agenda, including 15 executive orders and 30 legislative proposals.\n\nKey provisions include:\n\nA 3.8% pay raise for enlisted servicemembers\n\nFull funding for next-generation military capabilities, including missile defense, submarines, and autonomous systems\n\nAcceleration of space capabilities to counter China and Russia\n\nRevitalization of American shipbuilding and defense supply chains\n\nRestoration of merit-based admissions and promotions in the military\n\nElimination of DEI, CRT, and climate-related programs within the Department of Defense\n\nBorder security support through National Guard deployment and counter-drug operations\n\nNew guardrails to protect American economic interests and technology investments\n\nReforms to the Pentagon\u2019s acquisition process and elimination of $20 billion in wasteful spending\n\nProtecting Rock Island Arsenal and Iowa\u2019s Defense Workforce\n\nRock Island Arsenal is a critical economic and strategic asset, supporting over 15,000 jobs and contributing $1.2 billion annually to the Quad Cities economy. Nearly half of its employees are Iowans, many of them veterans continuing their service in civilian roles.\n\nThe NDAA includes a pilot program on Army depot and arsenal workload sustainment (Sec. 348), a key provision that can benefit Rock Island by strengthening workload stability, sustaining mission-critical operations, and ensuring long-term viability across the Army\u2019s organic industrial base.\n\n##", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://millermeeks.house.gov/media/press-releases/president-trump-announces-12-billion-new-support-american-farmers", "President Trump Announces $12 Billion in New Support for American Farmers", "2025-12-10", "2025", "2025-12", "Republican", "House", "IA", "Mariannette Miller-Meeks", "M001215", "millermeeks.house.gov", "millermeeks", "https://millermeeks.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2014 Congresswoman Mariannette Miller-Meeks (IA-01) welcomed the Trump Administration's announcement of $12 billion in new relief for American farmers, including $11 billion through the Farmer Bridge Assistance (FBA) Program. This targeted relief will support Iowa's producers, particularly those growing row crops, who have faced inflation, rising input costs, and ongoing market disruptions caused by unfair trade practices from foreign adversaries.\n\n\"This is welcome news for Iowa\u2019s farm families,\" said Dr. Miller-Meeks. \"After years of uncertainty and global market instability, this bridge assistance will help keep our producers on solid footing as we continue working to open new markets and strengthen America\u2019s ag economy.\"\n\nThe FBA Program will provide proportional support to producers of barley, corn, soybeans, wheat, oats, rice, cotton, and other key crops based on uniform formulas for the 2025 crop year. Payments are expected to begin by February 28, 2026.\n\nFarmers should ensure their 2025 acreage reporting is complete and accurate by 5 PM ET on December 19, 2025 to qualify. No crop insurance linkage is required.\n\n\"I\u2019ll continue fighting for trade fairness, better market access, and policies that give Iowa\u2019s farmers the certainty they deserve,\" Miller-Meeks added. \"We produce the best food and fuel in the world, it\u2019s time the global market reflects that.\"\n\nTo submit questions, justification for USDA farmer bridge aid, or to request a meeting on farmer bridge aid, producers can reach out to farmerbridge@usda.gov.\n\n##", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://nunn.house.gov/2025/12/10/nunn-introduces-bipartisan-bill-to-cut-red-tape-for-veteran-families-seeking-health-coverage/", "Nunn Introduces Bipartisan Bill to Cut Red Tape for Veteran Families Seeking Health Coverage", "2025-12-10", "2025", "2025-12", "Republican", "House", "IA", "Zachary Nunn", "N000193", "nunn.house.gov", "nunn", "https://nunn.house.gov/category/news/press-releases/", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2014 Representatives Zach Nunn (IA-03), a Colonel in the Air Force Reserve, and Don Davis (NC-01) introduced the CHAMP VA Filing Extension Act, bipartisan legislation to extend the filing window for Civilian Health and Medical Program of the Department of Veterans Affairs (CHAMPVA) health benefits to a full year after notice of eligibility.\n\n\u201cVeterans and their families deserve timely, high-quality health care,\u201d said Rep. Nunn. \u201cNo family should lose coverage because a government office moved too slowly, especially when they\u2019ve done everything right. This is a bipartisan, commonsense fix that gives families in Iowa and across the country the time they need to access the benefits they\u2019ve earned.\u201d\n\nCHAMPVA provides health care coverage to more than 737,000 Americans. Under current law, beneficiaries have only 180 days from the date of a Medicare eligibility determination or retroactive CHAMPVA approval to file medical expense claims. This 180-day deadline doesn\u2019t account for common delays in the VA\u2019s processing and mailing systems. Many families don\u2019t receive their approval letters until weeks or months into that window, leaving little time to file claims or understand next steps.\n\n\u201cVeterans and their families should never risk losing care because of paperwork delays and red tape,\u201d said Rep. Davis. \u201cThe CHAMP VA Filing Extension Act provides veteran families a fair, workable time window to secure the coverage they have earned.\u201d\n\nThe CHAMP VA Filing Extension Act closes this gap by ensuring no veteran family loses access to earned benefits due to red tape or administrative delays outside their control. Specifically, the bill would:\n\nExtend the CHAMPVA filing window from 180 days to one full year after a beneficiary receives notice of eligibility.\n\nGive families a fair and workable timeframe to complete paperwork, gather documentation, and submit claims without risking the permanent loss of critical health coverage.\n\nAddress coordination challenges for families navigating both Medicare and CHAMPVA, reducing timing conflicts between overlapping federal programs.\n\nRequire the Department of Veterans Affairs to issue regulations to ensure the extension is applied clearly, consistently, and across all eligible cases.\n\nText of the bill can be found here.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://nunn.house.gov/2025/12/10/nunn-secures-major-wins-for-iowa-in-national-defense-authorization-act/", "Nunn Secures Major Wins for Iowa in National Defense Authorization Act", "2025-12-10", "2025", "2025-12", "Republican", "House", "IA", "Zachary Nunn", "N000193", "nunn.house.gov", "nunn", "https://nunn.house.gov/category/news/press-releases/", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2014 The U.S. House of Representatives today passed the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2026, advancing key national security priorities and delivering major wins led by Representative Zach Nunn (IA-03). These wins\u2014including a 4 percent pay raise for servicemembers\u2014strengthen national defense, support U.S. allies, protect military and firefighter families, and deliver for those who serve.\n\n\u201cAmerica remains the land of the free because of the brave men and women who serve in uniform,\u201d said Rep. Nunn. \u201cAs a twenty-year combat veteran and current Colonel in the Air Force Reserve, I will never waver in defending our national security. That means securing the southern border, confronting the Chinese Communist Party, strengthening Iowa\u2019s defense industry, and ensuring every servicemember, veteran, and first responder receives the care and support they\u2019ve earned.\u201d\n\nKey Wins Led or Backed by Rep. Nunn Secured in the Final NDAA\n\nSupporting firefighter families: The bill includes language from the Honoring Our Fallen Heroes Act to ensure firefighters who pass away from job-related cancers are eligible for federal survivor benefits. This closes a long-standing gap in federal law and delivers long-overdue support to families of first responders who risk their lives to protect our communities.\n\nMobilizing private capital for defense readiness: Language from Rep. Nunn\u2019s amendment establishes a new Department of Defense program to modernize defense contracting and expand access to private investment. This reform will help scale production, strengthen supply chains, and boost readiness across critical national security programs.\n\nStrengthening U.S.\u2013Taiwan strategic defense technology cooperation: Based on Rep. Nunn\u2019s United States\u2013Taiwan Defense Innovation Partnership Act, the bill supports joint development of critical emerging technologies, enhances deterrence, and reinforces the U.S.\u2013Taiwan partnership in the Indo-Pacific.\n\nBolstering U.S.\u2013Israel defense innovation and coordination: Building on Rep. Nunn\u2019s efforts to deepen U.S.\u2013Israel military cooperation, the bill promotes expanded collaboration on unmanned and counter-drone systems. These advancements improve operational readiness and help counter escalating regional threats.\n\nCountering adversarial AI threats: Based on Rep. Nunn\u2019s AI PLAN Act, the bill includes language to update artificial intelligence and cybersecurity policy at the Department of Defense to defend U.S. systems from rapidly evolving digital threats and preserve America\u2019s competitive edge in the cyber domain.\n\nExpanding Defense Innovation Unit outreach centers: Modeled on Rep. Nunn\u2019s amendment to open a DIU office in Israel, the bill authorizes the Pentagon to open Defense Innovation Unit offices in strategic regions worldwide. These centers will accelerate tech collaboration with key allies and field advanced capabilities faster.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://hinson.house.gov/media/press-releases/hinson-helps-introduce-bipartisan-legislation-make-homeownership-more", "Hinson Helps Introduce Bipartisan Legislation to Make Homeownership More Affordable & Attainable for Families Nationwide", "2025-12-09", "2025", "2025-12", "Republican", "House", "IA", "Ashley Hinson", "H001091", "hinson.house.gov", "hinson", "https://hinson.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2013 Congresswoman Ashley Hinson (R-IA-02) helped introduce the bipartisan First Home Savings Opportunity Act with Rep. Suhas Subramanyam (D-VA-10) to help first-time homebuyers save for a down payment and finally achieve the dream of homeownership.\n\n\u201cBuying a home is the core milestone of living out the American Dream, but it has become out of reach for hardworking families. By allowing families to save tax-free to buy a home, we\u2019ll help more families be able to afford their dream home. I\u2019ll continue working to improve housing access and affordability in Iowa and across the country.\u201d \u2013 Congresswoman Ashley Hinson\n\n\u201cPurchasing a home, which is part of the American dream for many, is now out of reach for far too many young adults. Housing costs are soaring and it is critical for Congress to take action. While our bill will make purchasing a home a little easier for first-time homebuyers, there is still a lot more Congress needs to do to address the affordability crisis across the United States.\u201d - Congressman Suhas Subramanyam\n\n\u201cRecent data show that nearly half of potential homebuyers cannot afford a down payment, as the median age of first-time homebuyers, now 40, continues to rise. For generations, access to homeownership has been the primary way Americans built wealth and homeownership remains the cornerstone of the American Dream. The bipartisan First Home Savings Opportunity Act would help turn aspiration into action, turning modest savings into the foundation of lifelong stability. The National Association of REALTORS is grateful that Representatives Suhas Subramanyam (D-VA) and Ashley Hinson (R-IA) have introduced this bill to address these challenges by establishing tax-deductible, first-time homebuyer savings accounts, helping individuals and families save for a down payment and closing costs,\u201d - Shannon McGahn, National Association of REALTORS Executive Vice President and Chief Advocacy Officer\n\nBackground:\n\nThe First Home Savings Opportunity Act would set up a new kind of savings account that can be used to put money aside for a first home. Contributions would be tax-deductible, and individuals could save up to $10,000 a year, or $20,000 for couples filing jointly.\n\nMany would-be buyers are finding it harder to break into the housing market. This bill is meant to ease some of that pressure and give families a clearer path to build up a down payment and cover their closing costs.\n\nBill text can be found here.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://www.grassley.senate.gov/news/news-releases/grassley-durbin-introduce-landmark-legislative-package-to-protect-kids-online", "Grassley, Durbin Introduce Landmark Legislative Package to Protect Kids Online", "2025-12-09", "2025", "2025-12", "Republican", "Senate", "IA", "Chuck Grassley", "G000386", "www.grassley.senate.gov", "grassley", "https://www.grassley.senate.gov/news/news-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON \u2013 Senate Judiciary Committee Chairman Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa) and Ranking Member Dick Durbin (D-Ill.) today are introducing three bipartisan bills to hold violent criminals accountable and combat the disturbing rise in online child exploitation. The Committee will also convene this morning for a hearing on child safety.\n\nThe Sentencing Accountability for Exploitation Act (SAFE Act), Ending Coercion of Children and Harm Online Act (ECCHO Act) and Stop Sextortion Act would each address concerning developments in online child abuse by revamping federal sentencing laws, targeting online criminal networks and cracking down on offenders who use child sex abuse material (CSAM) to extort and coerce children.\n\n\u201cChanges in technology have created new opportunities for criminals to harass, exploit, intimidate and harm American children. These horrific crimes \u2013 often committed by violent online groups who take advantage of our nation\u2019s outdated laws \u2013 have gone unchecked for far too long,\u201d Grassley said. \u201cCongress must stand up for American families and finally address the online rot that is hurting children nationwide. I\u2019m proud to introduce these bills to protect children from online abuse, hold dangerous criminals accountable and secure much needed justice for victims and their families.\u201d\n\n\u201cBecause of modern technology, child predators from anywhere in the world can target American kids online. As technology has evolved, so have online child exploiters. Today, offenders are engaging in sadistic online exploitation and coercing kids to take their own lives. Big Tech continues to fail our most vulnerable because they refuse to incorporate safety-by-design measures into their platforms or make meaningful efforts to detect the increasingly violent and depraved sexual exploitation of children on their services. I\u2019m proud to join Senator Grassley in introducing three bills aimed at curbing these horrific crimes online, in addition to continuing to work on advancing other critical reforms like my STOP CSAM Act. Congress has spent enough time investigating tech platforms\u2019 failures; it\u2019s now time that we deliver for the American people,\u201d Durbin said.\n\nThe Sentencing Accountability for Exploitation Act (SAFE Act):\n\nThe SAFE Act would repeal outdated sentencing laws and require the U.S. Sentencing Commission to develop a new CSAM sentencing guideline that accounts for modern indicators of especially dangerous conduct. Some of these indicators \u2013 or aggravating factors \u2013 include: (1) if the offender participated in an online group dedicated to CSAM, (2) the length of time an offender was involved in CSAM, (3) the offenders\u2019 use of software or technology to conceal their identity, (4) the offenders\u2019 use of multiple platforms to engage in CSAM and (5) the number of victims.\n\nThe current CSAM sentencing guideline doesn\u2019t consider modern aggravating factors, allowing some of the most nefarious child abusers to skate by with lesser sentences. However, because much of the current guideline was created through decades-old legislation, the Sentencing Commission is prohibited from updating the guideline without congressional action.\n\nRead bill text HERE.\n\nThe Ending Coercion of Children and Harm Online Act (ECCHO Act):\n\nThe ECCHO Act would create a new crime that prohibits individuals from coercing children into physically harming themselves, others or animals. The bill creates a penalty of up to life in prison if the offense involves the actual or attempted suicide by the victim or the death of another person, as well as a 30-year maximum penalty for harmful conduct that does not involve a death.\n\nThe U.S. has seen a recent and disturbing rise in online criminal networks \u2013 like Network 764 \u2013 that use synchronized group chats to coerce emotionally vulnerable children into engaging in abusive and degrading conduct. This conduct may include self-mutilation, online or in-person sexual acts, animal cruelty, acts of random violence, suicide and murder. Existing laws do not adequately address this extreme behavior, as there is no law that explicitly prohibits the coercion of children to hurt themselves or others.\n\nRead bill text HERE.\n\nThe Stop Sextortion Act:\n\nThe Stop Sextortion Act would target offenders that threaten to distribute CSAM to intimidate, extort or coerce children. The bill would increase the maximum penalty for these types of offenses from five to 10 years.\n\nIn recent years, the U.S. has seen a significant increase in offenders who threaten to distribute CSAM to extort and coerce children \u2013 through both financially-motivated sextortion (FMS) and sadistic online exploitation (SOE). In the case of FMS, criminals trick children into sharing sexually explicit images and threaten to release those images if the victim doesn\u2019t pay a ransom. Criminals who engage in SOE also trick children into sharing CSAM but threaten to release the images to compel victims to hurt themselves or others.\n\nAccording to the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children (NCMEC), in 2024 the number of reports concerning FMS increased by over 33%, and the number of reports concerning SOE increased by more than 200%. As of May 2025, FMS schemes have driven 40 American children to take their own lives.\n\nRead bill text HERE.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://www.grassley.senate.gov/news/news-releases/grassley-outlines-alarming-obamacare-fraud-unveils-bill-requiring-improved-fraud-risk-assessments", "Grassley Outlines Alarming Obamacare Fraud, Unveils Bill Requiring Improved Fraud Risk Assessments", "2025-12-09", "2025", "2025-12", "Republican", "Senate", "IA", "Chuck Grassley", "G000386", "www.grassley.senate.gov", "grassley", "https://www.grassley.senate.gov/news/news-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON \u2013 Sen. Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa), a senior member and former chairman of the Senate Finance Committee, is shining a light on widespread abuse in the Obamacare program and proposing legislation to stop fraud in its tracks. Grassley\u2019s Fraud Risk Assessment of Obamacare Subsidies Accountability Act would require the Centers for Medicare and Medicare Services (CMS) to improve its fraud risk assessment of Obamacare and issue annual updates to Congress and the Department of Health and Human Services Inspector General.\n\nFull text of the legislation can be found HERE and a one-page summary can be found HERE.\n\nVideo and a transcript of Grassley\u2019s floor remarks follow.\n\nVIDEO\n\nWhen the Affordable Care Act became law, President Obama promised affordable health care. So, contrary to Obama\u2019s promises, in reality, Obamacare has spiked health insurance premiums and led to higher costs.\n\nInstead of fixing Obamacare and lowering costs, Democrats established a new, temporary COVID subsidy for wealthy households. Temporary. That temporary ends December 31. Democrats want to extend it way beyond that. Another example of a temporary program never being very temporary.\n\nSo, this temporary subsidy has driven more taxpayer dollars into broken systems where premiums keep going up and more money is shoved to insurance companies. Now remember the promises of 2010, Obamacare\u2019s passage that year. It was promised to bring down health care costs by $2,500 and we see now, 15 years later, it\u2019s up at least $5,000. So you can see the promise of 2010 by President Obama was off by $7,500.\n\nSo, I want to explain how we got here, discuss my concerns about fraud, waste and abuse in Obamacare; and provide some commonsense solutions to bring down health care costs.\n\nWhen Obamacare became law, it established taxpayer-funded subsidies through the Federal Health Insurance Marketplace to reduce a household\u2019s monthly insurance premiums. However, these subsidies go directly to insurance companies, not to the consumer.\n\nIn the United States today, the median household income is $84,000 a year. Permanent law gives Obamacare premium subsidies to a family of three making up to four times the federal poverty line, which is about $106,000 a year.\n\nThat means someone making $20,000 more than the median household income is eligible for a subsidy under permanent law.\n\nI assume the Obamacare authors probably figured households making much more than the median household income made enough money to buy insurance without taxpayers subsidizing it.\n\nNothing in this debate takes away middle-income households\u2019 subsidies. A family making up to $106,000 is at 400% of the poverty line. Let me make it very clear. Those families are eligible for a subsidy today, next year, the year after and so on until the law is changed, and I don\u2019t expect it\u2019ll be changed.\n\nNow, in 2021, things changed. [It was] supposed to be temporary, as I pointed out. Temporary laws in this country soon become permanent. In 2021, the Democrats passed their partisan reconciliation law that temporarily lifted the income cap on Obamacare subsidies. Now, that was supposed to temporary.\n\nThe cap, which was at four times the poverty line, was removed temporarily in the name of COVID. In other words, the country was facing a very dramatic health issue, and the federal government shut down the economy.\n\nTwenty-two million people were unemployed, and we didn\u2019t really know what it was all about. Now, we learned a lot of lessons from that, and those lessons would not be repeated, hopefully. But this temporary program was set up in this time of great distress about what the future held.\n\nNow, as a result of this temporary program because of Obamacare and COVID, wealthy households making $600,000, which is well above the median household income, are eligible for the temporary taxpayer-funded Obamacare subsidies. Or better known as COVID bonuses.\n\nThe expansion of Obamacare subsidies for wealthy earners has cost billions, and the Congressional Budget Office\u2019s (CBO) projections for its costs keep going up.\n\nSo, in 2021, anticipating some of these problems, I wrote a letter to then-Health and Human Services (HHS) Secretary and also the IRS Commissioner.\n\nIn that letter, I expressed concern about the lack of fiscal responsibility in the Obamacare subsidy expansion and how that expansion would lead to more waste, fraud and abuse.\n\nAt the time, the HHS Secretary responded, saying, \u201cHHS and the IRS take program integrity seriously.\u201d\n\nThe HHS Secretary outlined all the ways that the agency was preventing fraud, waste and abuse. I can only conclude that the Biden administration\u2019s response was just empty rhetoric.\n\nSince my letter to the HHS Secretary, the Government Accountability Office (GAO) has found ongoing fraud risks in these Obamacare subsidies.\n\nIn the last two years, GAO successfully enrolled 96 percent of its fictitious applicants in Obamacare. I really mean fictitious people. This was a test by GAO to see how easy it was to fraud. Now when they started out, they didn\u2019t know that that might be the result. But I\u2019m going to tell you that that is the result.\n\nFor example, the GAO succeeded in enrolling these fake people despite rules requiring documentation to confirm citizenship status and income.\n\nThe GAO also found that HHS had let Social Security Numbers be misused by allowing the same number to be used more than once.\n\nThe agency also failed to match enrollment data with Social Security\u2019s death data and chose not to reconcile the tax credit overpayments with IRS tax data.\n\nFraud, waste and abuse doesn\u2019t stop with those examples. This summer, the Trump administration found 1.6 million people were dually enrolled in 2024 in Medicaid and Obamacare, leading to billions of waste. Now, understand, 1.6 million people having two sources of health care. And then at the same time, we keep telling the public how many people in this country, the millions that don\u2019t have any insurance at all, and here we had 1.6 million people that were enrolled in two health care systems.\n\nMy own oversight has shown how:\n\nBillions in Obamacare subsidy overpayments were not collected and, can you believe this, rules let billions go uncollected.\n\nThe COVID bonuses created incentives to misestimate income to qualify for larger Obamacare subsidies, leading to billions of waste. Yes, higher income people reporting lower income than they actually had, just to get a government subsidy.\n\nAnd lastly, insurance agents are using targeted internet ads to fraudulently enroll consumers with false income verification extension requests.\n\nExtending the COVID bonus permanently increases the deficit by $350 billion and lets billions more go to fraud, waste and abuse.\n\nCBO has found that 3.9 million Americans would lose their employer-sponsored health insurance if we make these subsidies for wealthy earners permanent.\n\nIn other words, because of a government program that was supposed to be temporary, and if it\u2019s continued, employers are smart enough to stop their health insurance program and turn it over to the government. And the government subsidy that goes with it.\n\nMy colleagues on the other side of the aisle will suggest that they\u2019re only asking for another \u201ctemporary\u201d extension of the COVID bonuses for wealthy households. Yet their bill will cost taxpayers nearly $300 billion, and there are no reforms to stop the fraud, waste and abuse.\n\nNow, despite warnings from GAO, the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) last issued a comprehensive fraud risk assessment of Obamacare subsidies in 2018. Now, the law doesn\u2019t require that report every year, but the GAO said it ought to be issued every year.\n\nAnd so, by not issuing that on a regular basis, [with] the agency failing to update its fraud risk assessment plan, [it] doesn\u2019t surprise me that we have a lot of fraud. My oversight in 2013 found the Obama administration at the time tried to exempt Obamacare from certain federal anti-trust [fraud] provisions. Yes, the administration, at that time, wanted anti-fraud provisions to be ignored. So, any wonder why you have an environment for fraud.\n\nThe full arsenal of civil and criminal anti-fraud protections must be used.\n\nI\u2019ve introduced the Fraud Risk Assessment of Obamacare Subsidies Accountability Act. My bill simply requires the agency to update its fraud risk assessment of Obamacare and update it yearly.\n\nI\u2019m glad the agency is already working to update its fraud risk assessment, but we must hold the agency accountable to complete this.\n\nI\u2019m glad the Republican-led Congress and the Trump administration have begun cracking down on Obamacare fraud, waste and abuse, thanks to the One Big Beautiful Bill Act that the president signed on July 4th.\n\nThe new law stops resources from going to illegal immigrants and those not here permanently, establishes improved pre-enrollment verification and requires excess subsidies to be repaid.\n\nIt\u2019s a start, but more work needs to be done.\n\nWe can lower health care costs and increase quality. It starts with expanding access and competition to high-quality, affordable health insurance through health savings accounts, association health plans and other consumer-driven health plans.\n\nLowering health care costs requires action to reduce prescription drug prices through pharmacy benefit managers (PBM) and reforming that program.\n\nI\u2019ve been leading the charge to hold PBMs accountable and put sunshine on their opaque business practices.\n\nWe also need price transparency. I\u2019m a cosponsor of a bill that\u2019s entitled Patients Deserve Price Tags Act and supported the Trump administration\u2019s efforts to establish price transparency on hospitals and health insurance companies through regulations.\n\nJust like all of my colleagues on this side of the aisle, I\u2019m committed to finding solutions to bring down health care costs for American families and not extending government handouts to insurance companies.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://www.grassley.senate.gov/news/news-releases/judiciary-witnesses-urge-congress-to-immediately-address-online-child-extortion", "Judiciary Witnesses Urge Congress to Immediately Address Online Child Extortion", "2025-12-09", "2025", "2025-12", "Republican", "Senate", "IA", "Chuck Grassley", "G000386", "www.grassley.senate.gov", "grassley", "https://www.grassley.senate.gov/news/news-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON \u2013 Senate Judiciary Committee Chairman Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa) today chaired a hearing to examine emerging online threats against children and proposed legislative solutions. Grassley and Ranking Member Dick Durbin (D-Ill.) introduced three bipartisan bills to update federal sentencing guidelines, target violent online criminal networks and crack down on sextortion threats.\n\nIn response to Grassley\u2019s questions, witnesses highlighted an urgent need to address online child extortion \u2013 specifically sextortion and violent online criminal groups like the \u201c764\u201d network. The witnesses discussed gaps in U.S. law that allow child predators to run rampant, with one witness testifying that \u201cthe imagery, the videos, the chats that we are seeing and reading are some of the most graphic that I have ever seen in my 20-year history.\u201d\n\nGrassley questioned the following witnesses:\n\nTamia Woods, mother of James Woods and co-founder of the Do It For James Foundation\n\nLauren Coffren, Executive Director of the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children\n\nJessica Lieber Smolar, Esq., Former Assistant United States Attorney for the Western District of Pennsylvania\n\nVIDEO\n\nOn combating sextortion:\n\nGrassley: \u201cRecently, there have been several news reports on the increase in sextortion cases, and how quickly bad actors can manipulate children\u2026 many of those children think that suicide is the answer\u2026 From a parent\u2019s point of view, why is it important to make sextortion illegal under federal law?\u201d\n\nWoods: \u201cWe have to make sure that, not only do our children see that we have their back on these issues, but we have to make sure that they know there are resources and laws that back them up.\u201d\n\n\u201cPeople need to be held accountable on top of that. They need to know that they shouldn\u2019t be comfortable with doing the things that they\u2019re doing. Right now they\u2019re comfortable, and you see more and more people being victimized because of that.\u201d\n\nOn violent online groups like 764:\n\nGrassley: \u201cMs. Coffren, you\u2019ve been with the National Center of Missing and Exploited Children for over 20 years, having served in a variety of positions involving online child safety. Can you describe the recent trends involving these violent gore groups like 764 and how they operate and target children online?\u201d\n\nCoffren: \u201cSadistic online exploitation, violent online groups\u2026 most often they\u2019re motivated purely by chaos. Their goal is to be able to weaponize our nation\u2019s children to create terror\u2026 Children may be looking for solace, for comfort, for advice in online platforms and spaces where they can find a community. Unfortunately, these offenders are infiltrating and targeting those communities.\n\n\u201cThe imagery, the videos, the chats that we are seeing and reading are some of the most graphic that I have ever seen in my 20-year history. We are hearing from law enforcement out in the field who\u2019ve said that this is the most disturbing content as well. So, you\u2019re talking about seasoned professionals who are really meeting their match with the new and evolving types of exploitation that we\u2019re seeing.\u201d\n\nOn gaps in federal law:\n\nGrassley: \u201cMs. Smolar\u2026 can you share why we need federal legislation specifically to address these gore groups and other individuals who engage in sextortion? Please share your experience in working investigations involving these groups.\u201d\n\nSmolar: \u201cCongress has provided so many important tools to those of us in the field, like mandatory minimums for crimes like receipt and distribution of child pornography or production. [Prosecutors] need those tools in order to properly hold these types of defendants accountable. Right now, when [prosecutors] charge crimes like sextortion or 764 across the country, we all charge them differently\u2026 There\u2019s no consistency that allows [prosecutors] to properly address the specific harm that these actors are committing.\n\n\u201cIn addition, a lot of these actors are overseas. It would be extremely helpful for those of us who want to extradite people here to the United States, to hold them accountable, to have a felony statute that specifically speaks to this harm.\n\n\u201cI\u2019m familiar with a case where a defendant was in Germany. Germany had a coercion to harm statute, but [the United States] did not. [Germany] was able to charge that 764 offender there, but we could not charge him here. That shouldn\u2019t happen. We should be able to charge these offenders, hold them accountable and deter them from continuing to hurt our children.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://feenstra.house.gov/media/press-releases/feenstra-thanks-president-trump-delivering-critical-relief-iowa-farmers", "Feenstra Thanks President Trump for Delivering Critical Relief for Iowa Farmers", "2025-12-08", "2025", "2025-12", "Republican", "House", "IA", "Randy Feenstra", "F000446", "feenstra.house.gov", "feenstra", "https://feenstra.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "HULL, IOWA \u2014 Today, U.S. Rep. Randy Feenstra (R-Hull) released the following statement thanking President Trump for delivering critical relief for Iowa farmers and producers.\n\n\u201cPresident Trump is an incredible friend to Iowa farmers, and today\u2019s announcement of immediate farm relief is welcome news for Iowa agriculture. Under the Biden administration, we had a massive agricultural trade deficit and skyrocketing inflation, which is still taking its toll on our commodity markets. This relief will help bridge the gap between Biden\u2019s failures and President Trump\u2019s work to invest in rural Iowa and support agriculture, which I helped lead through the Working Families Tax Cuts,\u201d said Rep. Feenstra. \u201cPresident Trump\u2019s historic work securing beneficial and fair trade deals for Iowa agriculture will level the playing field, produce economic gains for our producers, and strengthen the farm economy. I look forward to continuing to work with President Trump to support our farmers, lower inputs costs, and open new export markets for agriculture.\u201d\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://www.grassley.senate.gov/news/news-releases/capitol-hill-report-12-08-25", "Capitol Hill Report, 12-08-25", "2025-12-08", "2025", "2025-12", "Republican", "Senate", "IA", "Chuck Grassley", "G000386", "www.grassley.senate.gov", "grassley", "https://www.grassley.senate.gov/news/news-releases", "scraper", "Senator Grassley\u2019s weekly Capitol Hill Report is available HERE.\n\nTopics include: farmer aid package, tariffs, Venezuela boat strikes, student loans and birthright citizenship.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://www.grassley.senate.gov/news/news-releases/senate-judiciary-committee-plans-series-of-arctic-frost-hearings-for-2026", "Senate Judiciary Committee Plans Series of Arctic Frost Hearings for 2026", "2025-12-08", "2025", "2025-12", "Republican", "Senate", "IA", "Chuck Grassley", "G000386", "www.grassley.senate.gov", "grassley", "https://www.grassley.senate.gov/news/news-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON \u2013 Senate Judiciary Committee Chairman Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa) is placing Arctic Frost at the top of the committee\u2019s oversight agenda in 2026. Under Grassley\u2019s leadership, the committee plans to hold a series of hearings examining the constitutional and legal implications of the weaponized election case against President Donald Trump, which began at the Biden Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and was expanded by Jack Smith to target hundreds of Republicans, including members of Congress. Grassley is conducting oversight of Arctic Frost in partnership with Senate Permanent Subcommittee on Investigations Chairman Ron Johnson (R-Wis.) and this year has released thousands of pages of records exposing Arctic Frost\u2019s political origins.\n\n\u201cThanks to whistleblowers who sounded the alarm to me about Arctic Frost\u2019s existence, this shocking political scandal is seeing the light of day,\u201d Grassley said. \u201cArctic Frost was a runaway train that swept up information from hundreds of innocent people simply because of their political affiliation. Congress and the American people want answers, and sunshine is the best disinfectant. The Senate Judiciary Committee is leading this investigation to find out exactly what went wrong, so that bad actors can be held accountable and this sort of political witch hunt never happens again. Transparency brings accountability.\u201d\n\nSubcommittees plan to examine a range of issues related to Arctic Frost, including:\n\nHearings are expected in the following subcommittees:", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://feenstra.house.gov/media/press-releases/feenstra-announces-winner-2025-congressional-app-challenge-iowas-4th", "Feenstra Announces Winner of 2025 Congressional App Challenge in Iowa\u2019s 4th Congressional District", "2025-12-05", "2025", "2025-12", "Republican", "House", "IA", "Randy Feenstra", "F000446", "feenstra.house.gov", "feenstra", "https://feenstra.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "HULL, IOWA \u2013 Today, U.S. Rep. Randy Feenstra (R-Hull) announced that Anneka Singh from Ames High School has won the 2025 Congressional App Challenge in Iowa\u2019s 4th Congressional District.\n\nHer app, ZeroWaste, aims to reduce food waste by classifying donations to food banks as either perishable or non-perishable and helps connect Iowans who want to donate to food banks in their communities.\n\n\u201cI want to congratulate Anneka Singh from Ames High School on winning the 2025 Congressional App Challenge in the 4th District! Her app, called ZeroWaste, helps direct Iowans to local food banks to make donations, ensuring that both perishable and non-perishable food can go to those in need,\u201d said Rep. Feenstra. \u201cIt is great to see the next generation of Iowans engage in the emerging fields of technology and innovation, which are an important part of our economy. I\u2019ll keeping working to ensure that young Iowans have opportunities to grow, learn, and thrive right here in our great state.\u201d\n\nThe Congressional App Challenge is a nationwide competition that encourages students to learn to code and exposes them to the possibilities of a career in science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM).\n\nYou can read more about Anneka\u2019s app when it is posted on the Congressional App Challenge website HERE.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://feenstra.house.gov/media/press-releases/feenstra-praises-trump-administration-strengthening-crop-insurance-iowa", "Feenstra Praises Trump Administration for Strengthening Crop Insurance for Iowa Farmers and Producers", "2025-12-05", "2025", "2025-12", "Republican", "House", "IA", "Randy Feenstra", "F000446", "feenstra.house.gov", "feenstra", "https://feenstra.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "HULL, IOWA \u2013 Today, U.S. Rep. Randy Feenstra (R-Hull) released the following statement praising the Trump administration for expanding and strengthening crop insurance for Iowa farmers and producers.\n\nThe U.S. Department of Agriculture formally finalized the Expanding Access to Risk Protection (EARP) rule, which cuts burdensome regulations and strengthens the farm safety net for Iowa producers. This includes implementing Feenstra\u2019s Crop Insurance for Future Farmers Act, which was signed into law as part of President Trump\u2019s Working Families Tax Cuts.\n\n\u201cI applaud President Trump and Secretary Rollins for strengthening crop insurance for our Iowa farmers and producers. This action expands access to affordable crop insurance, cuts burdensome red tape, and bolsters the farm safety net. It also includes implementation of my Crop Insurance for Future Farmers Act, which lowers the cost of crop insurance for young producers and was signed into law as part of President Trump\u2019s Working Families Tax Cuts,\u201d said Rep. Feenstra. \u201cCrop insurance is a critical tool for Iowa farmers that must continually be defended and modernized, ensuring that Iowa agriculture can withstand the financial impacts of unpredictable natural disasters and disease outbreaks. I will continue to work with President Trump to lower costs for Iowa farmers, open new export markets, and grow our agricultural economy.\u201d\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://nunn.house.gov/2025/12/05/nunn-leads-charge-to-force-house-to-act-on-banning-congressional-stock-trading/", "Nunn Leads Charge to Force House Vote on Congressional Stock Trading Ban", "2025-12-05", "2025", "2025-12", "Republican", "House", "IA", "Zachary Nunn", "N000193", "nunn.house.gov", "nunn", "https://nunn.house.gov/category/news/press-releases/", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2014 Representative Zach Nunn (IA-03) yesterday signed a discharge petition to force a vote on the Restore Trust in Congress Act, bipartisan legislation Rep. Nunn helped lead to ban Members of Congress, their spouses, and dependent children from owning or trading individual stocks.\n\n\u201cI\u2019ve never held stocks while serving in Congress, and I\u2019ve been clear since day one\u2014this place is supposed to work for the American people, not help Members get rich,\u201d said Rep. Nunn. \u201cOne of the first bills I introduced when I got to D.C. was to ban Members and their families from trading stocks. I\u2019ve been working this through regular order, which has always been my preference. But after more than a decade of leadership punting on this issue, we\u2019re done waiting. This is one of the most bipartisan issues I hear about back home. Iowans are tired of the double standards in Washington.\u201d\n\nBackground\n\nA 2023 national survey conducted by the University of Maryland found that 86% of Americans support banning stock trading by Members of Congress.\n\nWhile serving in the Iowa state legislature, Rep. Nunn vowed not to trade stocks that would have a conflict of interest at the state level.\n\nAfter being elected to Congress, Rep. Nunn sold all individual stock holdings and has made enacting a comprehensive stock-trading ban for Members of Congress one of his top priorities. He has consistently advocated for greater transparency, accountability, and public trust in government.\n\nIn February 2023, Rep. Nunn introduced the Prohibit Insider Trading Act, one of his first bills in Congress, to ban Members and their spouses from owning or trading individual stocks.\n\nIn January 2025, Rep. Nunn introduced the No Corruption in Government Act, which broadened reforms by also ending automatic pay raises and tripling the lobbying ban for former Members.\n\nIn September 2025, Rep. Nunn joined a bipartisan coalition to introduce the Restore Trust in Congress Act, combining elements from multiple earlier proposals into a single, commonsense, enforceable reform to end congressional stock trading.\n\nThe discharge petition for the Restore Trust in Congress Act requires 218 signatures to bypass regular order and force a vote on the House floor.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://www.grassley.senate.gov/news/news-releases/grassley-wicker-colleagues-introduce-medical-foods-and-formulas-access-act", "Grassley, Wicker, Colleagues Introduce Medical Foods and Formulas Access Act", "2025-12-05", "2025", "2025-12", "Republican", "Senate", "IA", "Chuck Grassley", "G000386", "www.grassley.senate.gov", "grassley", "https://www.grassley.senate.gov/news/news-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON \u2013 Sens. Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa) and Roger Wicker (R-Miss.) introduced the Medical Foods and Formulas Access Act to help Americans with digestive or inherited metabolic disorders access the nourishment they need.\n\nThe legislation would require Medicare, Medicaid, the Children\u2019s Health Insurance Program and the Federal Employee Health Benefit Program to cover specialized formulas, vitamins, individual amino acids and other medically necessary foods prescribed for patients with specific gastrointestinal and inherited metabolic disorders.?The legislation ensures state and federal protection for existing coverage.\n\n\u201cPatients with cystic fibrosis, Crohn\u2019s disease or other inherited disorders can get very sick without specialized foods. They may suffer problems like stunted growth or even death if their special nutritional needs aren\u2019t met. Our bipartisan legislation would ensure government insurance plans provide coverage for the nutrition they need to thrive. It makes clear that medical nutrition is just as critical for certain patients as prescription drugs or other medical treatment are for others,\u201d Grassley said.\n\n\u201cIt is crucial that Americans with digestive or inherited metabolic disorders have the nourishment they need. When medical food and formula is necessary, time is of the essence. Metabolic disorders are treatable with the right resources. This legislation would ensure medically necessary nutrition is covered by government health programs,\u201d Wicker said.\n\nAdditional cosponsors include Sens. Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.) and Sheldon Whitehouse (D-R.I.). Companion legislation was introduced in the House of Representatives by Reps. John Rutherford (R-Fla.), Debbie Dingell (D-Mich.) and Jim McGovern (D-Mass).\n\nFull text of the legislation can be found HERE.\n\nBackground:\n\nMedically necessary nutrition must be specially formulated and processed, as opposed to naturally occurring food. The legislation provides coverage for patients receiving active and ongoing medical supervision. Nearly 40 states require coverage of medically necessary nutrition, but that coverage varies by state.\n\nAround 2,000 infants are diagnosed with an inherited metabolic disorder every year. When these conditions are left untreated, food can become toxic, or necessary nutrients aren\u2019t properly absorbed. Pediatric risks of these diseases include inadequate growth, abnormal development, cognitive impairment and behavioral disorders.\n\nThese patients require medically necessary nutrition prescribed by a health care provider to treat their conditions, including highly specialized formula. Many conditions can\u2019t be managed solely by avoiding certain foods.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://www.grassley.senate.gov/news/news-releases/qanda-afghan-evacuees", "Q&A: Afghan Evacuees", "2025-12-05", "2025", "2025-12", "Republican", "Senate", "IA", "Chuck Grassley", "G000386", "www.grassley.senate.gov", "grassley", "https://www.grassley.senate.gov/news/news-releases", "scraper", "Q: What prompted your oversight of Afghan evacuees paroled into the United States since 2021?\n\nA: Following the disastrous withdrawal of U.S. forces from Afghanistan, 13 American families will mourn forever the loss of their loved one when a suicide bomber attacked the airport in Kabul on Aug. 26, 2021, killing 13 U.S. service members, including a 23-year-old Marine who grew up in Red Oak, Iowa. The tragic aftermath didn\u2019t end on the day of the bombing. The emergency evacuation was a calamitous result of the Biden administration\u2019s poorly planned departure after the Taliban seized control of the country. The ensuing airlift out of Kabul is reminiscent of the 1975 airlift out of Saigon during the fall of South Vietnam. Scenes from the chaotic evacuation seemed surreal as throngs of people sprinted across the tarmac trying to climb onto the departing military plane. In the span of 16 days, the U.S. evacuated American citizens and tens of thousands of Afghan nationals. The Biden administration launched a program called Operation Allies Welcome to relocate Afghans who had worked alongside U.S. forces or faced threats from the Taliban and were eligible to apply for U.S. Special Immigrant Visas (SIV). The Afghan Allies Protection Act of 2009 expanded the SIV program to protect Afghan citizens who were employed by or on behalf of the U.S. government and included eligibility requirements for those who provided faithful and valuable service to the U.S. government.\n\nAs part of my congressional oversight responsibilities, I work to ensure the executive branch faithfully executes the laws, as Congress intended. My oversight exposed a glaring problem with the Biden administration\u2019s implementation of this program; it dropped the ball on proper precautions to rigorously screen every Afghan national cleared to resettle into the United States. The #1 job of the federal government is protecting the American people. That includes ensuring Afghan evacuees welcomed into the United States do not pose a national security risk. That\u2019s why I\u2019ve pressed the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), Department of Justice (DOJ), and Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) for answers on the botched vetting process to ensure people are properly screened and evacuees who shouldn\u2019t have gotten into our country are removed.\n\nQ: What lessons have been learned by your oversight of Operation Allies Welcome?\n\nA: From rooting out wasteful spending or holding federal agencies accountable, I\u2019ve learned that oversight matters. For example, I\u2019ve sounded the alarm for more than four years about the urgent need to thoroughly vet Afghan evacuee applicants. In 2022, I asked then-FBI Director Chris Wray during a Senate Judiciary Committee hearing about the program\u2019s national security concerns and whether the FBI knew where Afghans posing potential security concerns were located inside the United States. This year, I asked a similar concern to FBI Director Kash Patel. Also this year, the Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard told my office an important data point: of the more than 100,000 Afghan evacuees \u2013 as of August 2022 \u2013 1.6% had links to terrorism or other derogatory information. That means more than 1,600 people at that time posed a potential threat to our homeland. This summer, I called upon the Trump administration to aggressively investigate those evacuees and to shed light on the previous administration\u2019s failure to vet them. Transparency brings accountability. The Biden administration was not honest with the American people about the program\u2019s vetting vulnerabilities. Both DHS and DOJ watchdogs released reports confirming my oversight concerns and highlighted the vetting failures.\n\nTragically, an American family is in mourning for the recent killing of a U.S. service member near the White House while another family prays for the recovery of their loved one. An Afghan national who was welcomed into America under President Biden\u2019s watch is accused of shooting these two members of the West Virginia National Guard. In the same week the two National Guardsmen were shot, an Afghan evacuee was arrested for threatening to bomb a building in Texas. The failure to thoroughly vet Afghan evacuees puts Americans in harm\u2019s way and poses serious consequences yet unknown. I\u2019m glad the Trump administration is responding to my oversight requests and for its efforts to fix the failures of the Biden administration\u2019s resettlement of Afghan evacuees. My oversight will continue.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://millermeeks.house.gov/media/press-releases/dr-miller-meeks-leads-bipartisan-bill-lower-healthcare-costs-patients", "Dr. Miller-Meeks Leads Bipartisan Bill to Lower Healthcare Costs of Patients", "2025-12-04", "2025", "2025-12", "Republican", "House", "IA", "Mariannette Miller-Meeks", "M001215", "millermeeks.house.gov", "millermeeks", "https://millermeeks.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2014 Today, Representatives Mariannette Miller-Meeks (R-IA), Tom Kean, Jr. (R-NJ), Nanette Barrag\u00e1n (D-CA), Jake Auchincloss (D-MA), Brian Fitzpatrick (R-PA), and Bonnie Watson Coleman (D-NJ) reintroduced the Help Ensure Lower Patient (HELP) Copays Act to make life-saving prescription medications more affordable for patients with rare, serious, and chronic conditions.\n\nThe bill requires insurance companies and Pharmacy Benefit Managers (PBMs) to count copay assistance\u2014whether from nonprofits, drug manufacturers, or other third parties\u2014toward a patient\u2019s deductible and annual out-of-pocket limit. Under current law, insurers can pocket this assistance while still forcing patients to pay the full cost-sharing amount themselves.\n\nCongresswoman Miller-Meeks said, \u201cToo many patients are forced to walk away from the pharmacy counter because their out-of-pocket costs are simply too high. The HELP Copays Act is a commonsense, bipartisan solution that ensures financial assistance actually counts toward a patient\u2019s deductible and copay. As a physician, I know how devastating it is when a patient can\u2019t afford the medication they need. This bill puts patients first by lowering their real day-to-day costs and stopping insurance companies from shifting more of the burden onto families.\u201d\n\nCongressman Tom Kean, Jr. said, \u201cCopay assistance programs help make costly medications attainable for Americans who rely on them. Yet under current law, insurers and PBMs can pocket this assistance without lowering patients' cost-sharing obligations. Our bipartisan legislation will fix that problem by ensuring those savings are passed on to patients. This solution will protect access to essential prescription drugs, reduce overall healthcare costs for families, and hold these health companies accountable.\u201d\n\nRep. Barrag\u00e1n said, \u201cFor patients living with complex and chronic diseases, access to prescription drugs that help them manage their condition saves lives, plain and simple. But too many Americans are unable to afford the medications they need because the out-of-pocket costs are too high. This is unacceptable. Americans work hard every day to make sure they can feed their families and take care of their loved ones. They should not be priced out of receiving the life-saving medications they rely on. That is why I am proud to co-lead, the HELP Copays Act, with Congressman Kean. This bipartisan bill will help working American families afford their prescriptions by putting a stop to harmful practices by insurance companies and Pharmacy Benefit Managers, and ensuring that patients\u2019 copay assistance counts towards their cost-sharing requirements. Because drug affordability is not a blue-state issue or a red-state issue \u2014 it is an issue that affects tens of millions across the country and in every state.\u201d\n\nCongressman Auchincloss said, \"Drug pricing middlemen want patients to pay deductibles twice. That\u2019s not how insurance should work. With this bill, those schemes stop.\"\n\nCongressman Fitzpatrick said, \u201cFor people living with chronic and rare diseases, copay assistance is often the only path to staying on lifesaving treatment. Yet far too many are paying twice, while insurers and PBMs pocket that assistance without ever counting it toward a patient\u2019s costs. That\u2019s wrong\u2014and it\u2019s exactly what the bipartisan HELP Copays Act corrects. This is common-sense, patient-first reform to lower out-of-pocket costs and ensure every dollar intended to help a patient actually does.\u201d\n\nThe HELP Copays Act ensures that:\n\nFinancial assistance paid by or on behalf of a patient must be applied to their cost-sharing requirements.\n\nAny prescription drug covered by a health plan is treated as an \u201cessential health benefit,\u201d ensuring all related cost-sharing counts toward patient limits.\n\nThe legislation is endorsed by the All Copays Count Coalition, representing nearly 90 national patient and provider advocacy organizations.\n\nThe full text of the House bill is available HERE. An identical companion Senate bill (S.864) was introduced by Senators Roger Marshall (R-KS) and Tom Kaine (D-VA) in March 2025\n\n##", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://millermeeks.house.gov/media/press-releases/veteran-lawmakers-introduce-resolution-condemning-democrat-lawmakers-reckless", "Veteran Lawmakers Introduce Resolution Condemning Democrat Lawmakers\u2019 Reckless Call for Military Disobedience", "2025-12-04", "2025", "2025-12", "Republican", "House", "IA", "Mariannette Miller-Meeks", "M001215", "millermeeks.house.gov", "millermeeks", "https://millermeeks.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2013 Today, Congresswoman Mariannette Miller-Meeks (IA-01), a 24-year Army veteran, joined 17 fellow veteran lawmakers in introducing a resolution condemning several Members of Congress for publicly urging U.S. military and intelligence personnel to independently judge, and potentially refuse orders from the Commander in Chief. Such statements risk encouraging violations of the Uniform Code of Military Justice (UCMJ) and undermine national security.\n\nOn November 18, 2025, six lawmakers released a video accusing the Trump Administration of \u201cpitting\u201d the military and intelligence community against American citizens. In the video, they urged servicemembers and intelligence professionals to personally assess which presidential orders they deemed \u201cillegal\u201d and suggested they would \u201chave their backs\u201d if they refused to follow them. When pressed for evidence of any unlawful orders, Senator Slotkin acknowledged she was \u201cnot aware of things that are illegal,\u201d and none of the Members provided proof to substantiate their claims.\n\nThe resolution introduced today:\n\nDenounces the dangerous and seditious rhetoric from these Members of Congress who attempted to sow disloyalty within the United States military and intelligence community by encouraging personnel to act against the Commander in Chief and violate the Uniform Code of Military Justice.\n\nThe resolution further states:\n\nCongress has long recognized the danger of undermining the chain of command, making it a federal crime to advise, counsel, or urge insubordination or refusal of duty.\n\nIn their November 18 video, the lawmakers urged defiance of \u201cillegal\u201d orders despite offering no evidence that such orders were being issued.\n\nUCMJ case law affirms that orders are presumed lawful and must be obeyed unless they are \u201cobviously unlawful,\u201d regardless of an individual\u2019s conscience, philosophy, or political beliefs.\n\nIf adopted, the House of Representatives would hold that it:\n\n\u201c\u2026denounces the dangerous and seditious rhetoric from these six Members of Congress, which has created an environment that places troops and their families at risk, undermines national security, and jeopardizes the trust and respect owed to the brave men and women serving in the military and intelligence community.\u201d\n\nThe resolution is co-sponsored by veteran lawmakers Rick Crawford (AR-01), Abraham Hamadeh (AZ-08), Mariannette Miller-Meeks (IA-01), Scott Franklin (FL-18), John McGuire (VA-05), Andrew Clyde (GA-09), Derrick Van Orden (WI-03), Jack Bergman (MI-01), Ronny Jackson (TX-13), Sheri Biggs (SC-03), Keith Self (TX-03), Eli Crane (AZ-02), Clay Higgins (LA-03), Warren Davidson (OH-08), Jim Baird (IN-04), Barry Moore (AL-01), as well as Claudia Tenney (NY-24), Buddy Carter (GA-01), Doug LaMalfa (CA-01), Dan Newhouse (WA-04), Mark Messmer (IN-08), Randy Fine (FL-06), Mike Collins (GA-10), Rick Allen (GA-12), Lloyd Smucker (PA-11), Pete Sessions (TX-17), and John H. Rutherford (FL-05).", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://www.grassley.senate.gov/news/news-releases/key-grassley-provisions-included-in-new-bipartisan-legislation-to-lower-prescription-drug-costs-and-make-health-care-more-affordable", "Key Grassley Provisions Included in New Bipartisan Legislation to Lower Prescription Drug Costs and Make Health Care More Affordable", "2025-12-04", "2025", "2025-12", "Republican", "Senate", "IA", "Chuck Grassley", "G000386", "www.grassley.senate.gov", "grassley", "https://www.grassley.senate.gov/news/news-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON \u2013 Sen. Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa), a senior member and former chairman of the Senate Finance Committee, is cosponsoring legislation alongside Finance Chairman Mike Crapo (R-Idaho), Ranking Member Ron Wyden (D-Ore.) and 18 senators to improve accountability and oversight of pharmacy benefit managers (PBMs) and bring down the price of prescription drugs for Americans. Grassley is an original cosponsor of the legislation, called the PBM Price Transparency and Accountability Act.\n\n\u201cIowans at my 99 county meetings are fed up with the high cost of prescription drugs, and for good reason. PBMs are driving local pharmacies in Iowa out of business and making it harder for Iowans to access the medications they need. That\u2019s why I\u2019m introducing legislation with my colleagues to put patients over pharmacy benefit managers by shining a light on the complex and opaque tactics these middlemen use. This landmark bill builds on the bipartisan legislation I spearheaded during my time as Finance Chairman, and includes several proposals I helped craft,\u201d Grassley said.\n\nThe Grassley\u2013led provisions included in the bill would:\n\nIncrease PBM reporting requirements to Medicare Part D plan sponsors and the Department of Health and Human Services;\n\nRequire retail community pharmacies and certain other pharmacies to participate in the National Average Drug Acquisition Cost (NADAC) survey; and\n\nBan PBM spread pricing in the Medicaid program.\n\nSeveral of the above were lifted from the Prescription Drug Pricing Reduction Act, which Grassley led through the Finance Committee as chairman in 2019, and were included in 118th Congress Finance Committee mark-up. The Prescription Drug Pricing Reduction Act was an initiative to save seniors and Americans with disabilities $95 billion in out-of-pocket costs in Medicare Part D and reduce premiums by $1 billion.\n\nAs then-chairman of Senate Finance Committee in 2003, Grassley was instrumental in creating Medicare Part D, which was the first outpatient prescription drug benefit for seniors.\n\nYou can view the full text of the bill HERE.\n\nAdditional cosponsors include Sens. Thom Tillis (R-N.C.), Roger Marshall (R-Kan.), Bill Cassidy (R-La.), Peter Welch (D-Vt.), Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.), Steve Daines (R-Mont.), Ben Ray Luj\u00e1n (D-N.M.), John Cornyn (R-Texas), James Lankford (R-Okla.), Mark Warner (D-Va.), Maggie Hassan (D-N.H.), Catherine Cortez Masto (D-Nev.), John Thune (R-S.D.), John Barrasso (R-Wyo.), Tina Smith (D-Minn.), Michael Bennet (D-Colo.), Raphael Warnock (D-Ga.) and Sheldon Whitehouse (D-R.I.).\n\nBackground:\n\nGrassley has long championed efforts to reduce the cost of prescription drugs. In recent years, three pieces of legislation authored and coauthored by Grassley have been signed into law saving taxpayers billions to combat anticompetitive practices and stop drug makers from reaping profits at the expense of taxpayers and consumers.\n\nOther actions include:\n\nMay 2025: Grassley chaired a Senate Judiciary Committee hearing on PBMs where witnesses endorsed Grassley\u2019s PBM transparency push.\n\nApril 2025: The Senate Judiciary Committee approved six bipartisan Grassley-backed bills to boost competition in the pharmaceutical industry and improve access to more affordable prescription drugs.\n\nFebruary 2025: Grassley reintroduced two bills to lower prescription drug costs and drive accountability, the Prescription Pricing for the People Act and the PBM Transparency Act.\n\nJanuary 2025: Grassley welcomed the Federal Trade Commission\u2019s (FTC) second interim staff report on PBMs and urged congressional and executive branch action.\n\nJuly 2024: Grassley welcomed FTC\u2019s interim staff report on PBMs.\n\nJanuary 2024: Grassley sent a letter urging the FTC to complete its investigation into the health care industry\u2019s most powerful prescription drug middlemen.\n\nNovember 2023: The Finance Committee adopted a Grassley-led provision to strengthen oversight of the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services and hold PBMs accountable.\n\nJuly 2023: The Finance Committee adopted several Grassley-led PBM accountability provisions.\n\nMarch 2023: The Senate Commerce Committee passed a Grassley-backed bill to hold PBMs accountable for unfair practices driving up costs for consumers.\n\nOctober 2022: Grassley led a bipartisan letter urging the FTC to complete its investigation into PBMs to shine light on drug pricing practices.\n\nJune 2022: Following Grassley requests, FTC opens probe of prescription drug middlemen.\n\nJanuary 2021: Grassley and Senate Finance Committee Ranking Member Ron Wyden (D-Ore.) released a two-year bipartisan investigation into insulin price gouging.\n\nDecember 2019: Grassley and Wyden released the updated Prescription Drug Pricing Reduction Act to lower out-of-pocket costs.\n\nAugust 2018: Grassley requested the FTC assess pharmaceutical supply chain intermediaries.\n\nLearn more about Grassley\u2019s persistent efforts to lower prescription drug costs HERE.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://feenstra.house.gov/media/press-releases/feenstra-votes-reduce-costly-regulations-iowa-small-businesses", "Feenstra Votes to Reduce Costly Regulations on Iowa Small Businesses", "2025-12-03", "2025", "2025-12", "Republican", "House", "IA", "Randy Feenstra", "F000446", "feenstra.house.gov", "feenstra", "https://feenstra.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Today, U.S. Rep. Randy Feenstra (R-Hull), and the U.S. House of Representatives passed, two pieces of legislation to reduce the complex and costly regulatory burden on Iowa small businesses.\n\n\u201cIowa small businesses are the backbone of our Main Streets, support good-paying jobs, and power economic growth in communities of all sizes. Earlier this year, to support our small businesses, we increased the death tax exemption and made critical tax cuts permanent as part of President Trump\u2019s Working Families Tax Cuts. These provisions will grow our economy and help businesses keep their doors open,\u201d said Rep. Feenstra. \u201cHowever, our small businesses face too many regulatory burdens to operate, hire new employees, and make a profit, and under the Biden administration alone, small businesses faced almost $2 trillion in regulatory costs. That\u2019s why I supported two bills to reduce costly and burdensome regulations on Iowa small businesses so that we can grow our economy, invest in Main Street, and keep our communities strong.\u201d\n\nThe two pieces of legislation that Feenstra supported are as follows:\n\nThe Small Business Regulatory Reduction Act, which would require the Small Business Administration (SBA) to ensure that new SBA rules do not cost small businesses additional dollars.\n\nThe DUMP Red Tape Act, which would give small businesses a direct line to the SBA Office of Advocacy to report burdensome regulations.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://hinson.house.gov/media/press-releases/hinson-reintroduces-bipartisan-bill-expand-midwife-training-support-moms", "Hinson Reintroduces Bipartisan Bill to Expand Midwife Training, Support Moms in Underserved Communities", "2025-12-03", "2025", "2025-12", "Republican", "House", "IA", "Ashley Hinson", "H001091", "hinson.house.gov", "hinson", "https://hinson.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2014 Congresswoman Ashley Hinson (R-IA-02) reintroduced the bipartisan Midwives for MOMS Act alongside Congressman Adam Gray (D-CA-13) to expand the education and training pipeline for credentialed midwives and nurse-midwives, ensuring more providers can serve the communities that urgently need their care.\n\n\u201cI am on a mission to ensure women in rural Iowa have access to the best possible maternal care while they\u2019re expecting and taking care of a newborn. Increasing midwifery services is a proven way to help expecting moms get the care they need during one of the most pivotal times in their lives and will help us address significant gaps in maternal care. The bipartisan Midwives for MOMS Act will help bring more trained midwives to rural and underserved areas so we have more healthy moms and healthy babies.\u201d \u2013 Congresswoman Ashley Hinson\n\n\u201cMany expectant mothers in the Valley don\u2019t have access to dependable maternity care. But it\u2019s not a unique problem: across rural America, women are forced to travel long distances just to receive the essential care they need for a safe pregnancy. I\u2019m proud to partner with my colleague Representative Hinson on this bipartisan commonsense bill to ensure that mothers have reliable access to health care and bring resources home for mothers across the Valley.\u201d \u2013 Congressman Adam Gray\n\n\"The American College of Nurse-Midwives (ACNM) proudly commends our bipartisan congressional champions for introducing the Midwives for MOMS Act. This legislation represents a critical, forward-looking investment in our nation\u2019s maternal health workforce. By expanding support for accredited midwifery education programs, it directly addresses the severe strain U.S. communities and health systems face due to the ongoing shortage of trained maternal health providers. Strengthening access to high-quality, evidence-based midwifery care delivered by certified nurse-midwives and certified midwives is essential to improving maternal and infant health outcomes. With this legislation, we have a powerful opportunity to confront and begin to close the unacceptable disparities that persist in far too many communities across the country.\u201d \u2013 Michelle Munroe, CEO of American College of Nurse-Midwives\n\n\u201cMaternity care workforce shortages are driving the rise of maternity care deserts across the U.S. The American Association of Birth Centers commends Representatives Hinson and Gray for their leadership in expanding access to midwifery and birth center care. This legislation will help fund the education of more credentialed midwives, strengthening the maternity care workforce in the communities that urgently need it most.\u201d \u2013 Kate Bauer, Executive Director, American Association of Birth Centers\n\n\"Across the U.S., gaps in maternity care are widening, and credentialed midwives are a proven part of the solution. Representatives Hinson and Gray\u2019s introduction of the Midwives for MOMS Act takes an important, evidence-informed step toward strengthening the pipeline for midwifery education and expanding access to high-quality care in communities that urgently need more options. The National Association of Certified Professional Midwives is grateful for their leadership.\" \u2013 Cassaundra Jah, Executive Director, National Association of Certified Professional Midwives\n\nBackground:\n\nThe Midwives for MOMS Act will help increase the number of trained midwives and nurse-midwives in the United States to help fill gaps in maternity care and improve birth outcomes. The bill authorizes funding for nurse-midwifery and midwifery programs to support students, establish or expand accredited schools or programs, and prepare preceptors.\n\nBill text can be found here.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://nunn.house.gov/2025/12/03/nunn-introduces-bipartisan-bill-to-preserve-family-farming/", "Nunn Introduces Bipartisan Bill to Preserve Family Farming", "2025-12-03", "2025", "2025-12", "Republican", "House", "IA", "Zachary Nunn", "N000193", "nunn.house.gov", "nunn", "https://nunn.house.gov/category/news/press-releases/", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2014 Representatives Zach Nunn (IA-03) and Don Davis (NC-01) today introduced the Farm Transitions Act, bipartisan legislation to address the impending generational shift in American agriculture and help young and underserved farmers in Iowa carry on their family tradition.\n\n\u201cIn Iowa, farming is a way of life that\u2019s passed down from one generation to the next,\u201d said Rep. Nunn. \u201cWith over half of U.S. farmland set to change hands in the next two decades, we need to ensure that family farms can stay in the family. This bipartisan bill would give young and beginning farmers better access to the tools, capital, and support they need to build successful operations and keep our rural communities strong.\u201d\n\nOver 95% of Iowa\u2019s 87,000 farms are still family-owned, forming the backbone of a rural economy that contributes more than $159 billion annually to the state. But with two-thirds of Iowa\u2019s farmland now owned by individuals aged 65 and older, experts warn of generational consolidation when these farmers begin to retire. Without a clear path for young and beginning farmers to step in, thousands of farms that have been family-run for generations could be bought up by large corporations or outside investors.\n\n\u201cStrengthening rural America requires real partnerships and lasting solutions,\u201d said Rep. Davis. \u201cThese bipartisan bills reflect our commitment to giving rural communities the tools they need to grow, thrive, and prepare for the future. From expanding access to federal rural development resources to supporting the next generation of family farmers, this work is critical to the long-term success of eastern North Carolina and rural communities nationwide. We need more people moving to eastern North Carolina and rural America. These bills will make it easier for eastern North Carolina towns to access rural development technical assistance and for our next generation of farmers to keep our rich agricultural tradition in the east going strong.\u201d\n\nWith over 370 million acres of farmland expected to transition ownership in the coming decades, the Farm Transitions Act directs the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) to stand up the Commission on Farm Transitions\u2014Needs for 2050, which was originally authorized in the 2018 Farm Bill but never formally established. The Commission would evaluate the major challenges facing the next generation of producers, including land affordability, access to credit, tax and lending barriers, and the effectiveness of existing USDA programs. It would also assess the role of mentorship, technical training, and foreign ownership in shaping the future of American agriculture\u2014an expansion of the original Commission mandate.\n\nThe Farm Transitions Act would require the Commission to deliver a comprehensive set of policy recommendations to Congress within two years, with an emphasis on ensuring young and beginning farmers have access to the land, resources, and support they need to keep family farms strong for the next generation.\n\nText of the bill can be found here.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://www.grassley.senate.gov/news/news-releases/grassley-bipartisan-colleagues-reintroduce-inspector-general-access-act", "Grassley, Bipartisan Colleagues Reintroduce Inspector General Access Act", "2025-12-03", "2025", "2025-12", "Republican", "Senate", "IA", "Chuck Grassley", "G000386", "www.grassley.senate.gov", "grassley", "https://www.grassley.senate.gov/news/news-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON \u2013 Senate Judiciary Committee Chairman Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa), Ranking Member Dick Durbin (D-Ill.) and Sen. Mike Lee (R-Utah) reintroduced the bipartisan Inspector General Access Act to allow the Department of Justice Office of the Inspector General (DOJ OIG) to investigate alleged DOJ attorney misconduct.\n\n\u201cFederal prosecutors have significant authority to enforce our laws. In cases where they abuse that authority, independent watchdogs should be the ones to investigate \u2013 not fellow Justice Department attorneys. This is a cut-and-dry matter of accountability and public trust,\u201d Grassley said.\n\n\u201cThe American people deserve top-notch attorneys representing them at the Justice Department, and Justice Department prosecutors should be subject to independent oversight regardless of the Attorney General. Allegations of professional misconduct should be investigated by the Inspector General, or else we could end up with another instance like the Jeffrey Epstein sweetheart deal struck by then-U.S. Attorney Alex Acosta. This is a simple, bipartisan fix for a clear loophole in federal law, and I thank Senator Lee for joining me in this effort,\u201d Durbin said.\n\n\u201cThe current IG oversight exemption for attorneys is a nonsensical carve out. Our simple bill changes that, ensuring DOJ attorneys are held to the same standard as other federal agencies. I'm proud to partner again with Senator Durbin on this common-sense bipartisan effort,\u201d Lee said.\n\nAs a founding member of the bipartisan Senate Inspector General Caucus, Grassley has supported the Inspector General Access Act since it was first introduced in 2015.\n\nSens. Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.), Ted Cruz (R-Texas), Chris Coons (D-Del.), Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.), Mazie Hirono (D-Hawaii), Jon Ossoff (D-Ga.), and Peter Welch (D-Vt.) cosponsor the bill.\n\nRead bill text HERE.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://hinson.house.gov/media/press-releases/hinson-commends-dr-wendy-wintersteen-four-decades-service-iowa-state-house", "Hinson Commends Dr. Wendy Wintersteen for Four Decades of Service to Iowa State on House Floor", "2025-12-02", "2025", "2025-12", "Republican", "House", "IA", "Ashley Hinson", "H001091", "hinson.house.gov", "hinson", "https://hinson.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "\u2014 Remarks as Delivered \u2014\n\n\"I rise today to recognize Dr. Wendy Wintersteen, President of Iowa State University, on her retirement next month after more than forty years of distinguished service.\n\n\"Dr. Wintersteen has been a remarkable leader whose commitment to her students and to the state of Iowa has left a lasting impact on the institution. She brought the 'Innovate at Iowa State' vision to life, solidifying the school\u2019s role as a national leader in research and entrepreneurship.\n\n\"Under her leadership, Iowa State University has advanced cutting-edge research to strengthen Iowa agriculture. She has supported world-class faculty and helped prepare the next generation of leaders and innovators to solve challenges and better our state and our nation.\n\n\"My husband, Matt, an Iowa State alumnus, and I look forward to many more Cyclone games, and know that Dr. Wintersteen will be cheering on the Clones for many more years to come.\n\n\"Thank you and congratulations, Dr. Wintersteen, on your retirement! I yield back.\u201d\n\nWatch Rep. Hinson\u2019s remarks here.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://hinson.house.gov/media/press-releases/hinson-reintroduces-pregnant-students-rights-act", "Hinson Reintroduces Pregnant Students' Rights Act", "2025-12-02", "2025", "2025-12", "Republican", "House", "IA", "Ashley Hinson", "H001091", "hinson.house.gov", "hinson", "https://hinson.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2014 Congresswoman Ashley Hinson (IA-02) reintroduced the Pregnant Students' Rights Act, which would ensure young pregnant women are given proper information about their rights and available resources as a pregnant student and ensure these women feel supported on campus. These protections and options available to pregnant students include, and are not limited to, flexible class schedules, excused absences, and child care assistance.\n\n\u201cCollege students who are pregnant or may become unexpectedly pregnant deserve to know every resource available to them, and it is unacceptable that so many often feel they have to choose between finishing their education and having their baby. My legislation empowers young women to choose life and ensures they have the resources and support necessary to build the best future for themselves and their child.\" \u2013 Congresswoman Ashley Hinson\n\n\"Getting an education is a path out of poverty and toward hope and a future. As part of building a pro-life culture, Congress must act to protect pregnant and parenting students who are working to build a better life, and we applaud Rep. Ashley Hinson (R-IA) for introducing the Pregnant Students' Rights Act. Women balancing school, pregnancy, and family deserve our support. Yet, ironically, far too few know about Title IX, the law that is supposed to protect their rights. This effort will require schools to communicate protections in place and commit to helping such pregnant and parenting students succeed on campus. As the Pro-Life Generation knows, this is a long-term need and too common a problem.\" \u2013 Kristan Hawkins, President, Students for Life of America & Students for Life Action\n\n\u201cToo often, women on college campuses feel pressured to choose between pursuing their education and welcoming their child. Instead, every student mother should feel equipped and supported with clear information and resources to build the best future for herself and her baby. The Pregnant Students\u2019 Rights Act takes an important step by ensuring universities inform students about the life-affirming support available to them. SBA is grateful to Congresswoman Hinson for championing this vital legislation that uplifts mothers on campuses nationwide.\u201d \u2013 Honorable Marilyn Musgrave, Susan B. Anthony Pro-Life America\n\nBackground:\n\nNavigating college can be difficult for pregnant students. In many cases, women feel pressured to end their pregnancies or risk academic failure, despite protections.\n\nUnder Title IX, pregnant students already have the right to stay in school, finish their education, and achieve their career goals.\n\nAlmost 30 percent of all abortions in the United States are performed on women of college age, between the ages of 20 and 24, according to 2022 data reported by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.\n\nThese college age women may be unaware of their rights to accommodation and prohibitions against discrimination due to pregnancy under title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972 (20 U.S.C. 1681 et seq.) or deprived of information about abortion alternatives.\n\nPregnant students who choose to carry to term often face academic disparities due to limited resources, support, and protections.\n\nMany fear losing scholarships, harming their academic standing, or facing institutional pushback. This isolation can contribute to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges.\n\nResearch and personal testimonies show that many women feel conflicted or pressured into abortion, and studies have linked abortion to increased risks of mental health struggles, substance use, and medical complications. These studies show that:\n\nAccording to the Charlotte Lozier Institute, after an abortion, women are more than 150% more likely to be hospitalized for substance use, 110% more likely to rely on alcohol use or abuse, 230% greater likelihood of marijuana use, 43% more likely to develop anxiety disorders, 49% more likely to develop depression, and approximately twice the risk of being hospitalized for a suicide attempt compared to women who gave birth.\n\nBill text can be found here.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://millermeeks.house.gov/media/press-releases/miller-meeks-leads-effort-protect-children-online-spy-kids-act", "Miller-Meeks Leads Effort to Protect Children Online with the SPY Kids Act", "2025-12-02", "2025", "2025-12", "Republican", "House", "IA", "Mariannette Miller-Meeks", "M001215", "millermeeks.house.gov", "millermeeks", "https://millermeeks.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2014 Congresswoman Mariannette Miller-Meeks (IA-01) is leading the national effort to safeguard children and teens online through H.R. 6273, the Stop Profiling Youth and Kids (SPY Kids) Act, comprehensive legislation that prohibits major online platforms from conducting market or product-focused research on minors and strengthens parental oversight of data practices.\n\n\u201cProtecting children and teens online is one of the most urgent responsibilities we face as policymakers,\u201d said Miller-Meeks. \u201cDigital platforms have become central to how young people learn, communicate, and navigate the world, and we must ensure these environments are safe, transparent, and built with their well-being, not corporate profit, as the priority. Children and teens should not be profiled, studied, or targeted for commercial advantage, especially without parental oversight. Our goal is simple: to build an online ecosystem where kids can grow, learn, and connect without being exploited in the process.\u201d\n\nThe SPY Kids Act establishes new national protections for minors by:\n\nBanning market or product-focused research on children under 13.\n\nRequiring verifiable parental consent before platforms conduct such research on teenagers aged 13 to 16.\n\nApplying these rules to large user-generated content platforms that employ engagement-driven design features, such as infinite scroll, autoplay, push notifications, and algorithmic recommendations, to promote user activity.\n\nReinforcing that the well-being and privacy of minors must come before profit-driven data practices.\n\nIf passed by Congress and signed into law, the legislation would be enforced by the Federal Trade Commission, with authority also granted to state attorneys general to protect residents and pursue violations.\n\nBackground\n\nThe SPY Kids Act responds to a digital landscape where platforms are specifically engineered to capture attention, collect sensitive information, and shape behavior, often in ways young users cannot recognize or navigate safely.\n\nUnder current conditions, minors may unknowingly be subjected to behavioral profiling, algorithmic analysis, and data-driven marketing tactics. The SPY Kids Act aims to curb these practices by limiting how platforms can analyze, measure, or monetize youth activity.\n\nThe bill does not restrict young people from accessing online spaces; instead, it ensures that their information cannot be used for commercial research or engagement-driven profiling without parental oversight, and it strengthens long-standing principles embedded in federal child-privacy protections like COPPA.\n\nRead the full bill text HERE.\n\n##", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://nunn.house.gov/2025/12/02/watch-nunn-joins-gop-leadership-calls-out-ccp-influence-in-iowa-schools/", "WATCH: Nunn Joins GOP Leadership, Calls Out CCP Influence in Iowa Schools", "2025-12-02", "2025", "2025-12", "Republican", "House", "IA", "Zachary Nunn", "N000193", "nunn.house.gov", "nunn", "https://nunn.house.gov/category/news/press-releases/", "scraper", "Rep. Nunn: CCP Targeting of Iowa Students\n\n\u201cI started off my career as a counterintelligence officer. For twenty years, I worked directly inside China and saw firsthand what Communist China was doing to the United States \u2014 not just buying farmland, but literally sending agents into my district and pulling corn seed out of the ground so they could replicate it back home. Now, they\u2019re not just coming after what we grow in our fields, they\u2019re coming after what we grow in our classrooms. Most recently, a group from Des Moines Public Schools was taken on an all-expenses-paid trip to China. The Chinese weren\u2019t there under the facade of friendship, they were there to collect information, to exploit, and to manipulate. They forced these kids to hand over their digital information, required them to use WeChat \u2014 an internal public server for China \u2014 and started an early process of cultivation. In the counterintelligence world, we consider this source recruitment.\u201d\n\nRep. Nunn: Congress Must Act\n\n\u201cI\u2019ve had parents across Iowa ask, \u2018How is this legal?\u2019 And the simple truth is: there\u2019s no law preventing it. The Chinese government is creating a series of shell organizations to recruit kids to come to China, and then exploit them the moment they set foot in Beijing. This has to stop. I am so proud of this team for helping us stand up to what the Politburo in Beijing is trying to do to kids in Des Moines, Iowa, and across our country. We have the opportunity not only to push back but to send a strong signal that we are open to a real friendship with China \u2014 but we will not stand by while they attempt future exploitation.\u201d\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://feenstra.house.gov/media/press-releases/feenstra-support-us-house-representatives-unanimously-passes-several-bills", "With Feenstra Support, U.S. House of Representatives Unanimously Passes Several Bills to Support Small Businesses", "2025-12-01", "2025", "2025-12", "Republican", "House", "IA", "Randy Feenstra", "F000446", "feenstra.house.gov", "feenstra", "https://feenstra.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Today, with the strong support of U.S. Rep. Randy Feenstra (R-Hull), the U.S. House of Representatives unanimously passed five pieces of legislation to support small businesses.\n\n\u201cSmall businesses are the backbone of our Main Streets and keep our communities strong and vibrant. In Iowa alone, small businesses employ the vast majority of Iowans, delivering good-paying jobs, driving investment in our communities, and powering economic growth across our state\u2019s 99 counties. Ensuring that Iowa small businesses have the resources and support they need to grow and thrive is a top priority for me,\u201d said Rep. Feenstra. \u201cThat\u2019s why I\u2019m glad that, with my strong support, the U.S. House of Representatives unanimously passed several pieces of legislation to support Iowa\u2019s small businesses, including Iowa manufacturing and our rural business community. In Congress, I\u2019ll keep working with President Trump to create jobs, grow our economy, and support our Iowa small businesses.\u201d\n\nThe pieces of legislation are as follows:\n\nThe Investing in All of America Act, which would encourage Small Business Investment Company programs to deploy capital in manufacturing and rural communities.\n\nThe Made in America Manufacturing Finance Act, which would raise the maximum loan amounts for small businesses to $10 million under two SBA loan guarantee programs.\n\nThe SBA IT Modernization Reporting Act, which would require the SBA to implement the recommendations contained in the Government Accountability Office\u2019s November 2024 report relating to lack of oversight by the Biden Administration during its overhaul of the SBA\u2019s contracting certification program.\n\nThe SBA Fraud Enforcement Extension Act, which would extend the statute of limitations to 10 years for violations related to grants provided under the Shuttered Venue Operators program and the Restaurant Revitalization program.\n\nThe Office of Rural Affairs Enhancement Act, which would require the SBA Office of Rural Affairs to be headed by a qualified Assistant Administrator to improve accountability and effectiveness in supporting economic development in rural areas.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://feenstra.house.gov/media/press-releases/president-trump-signs-feenstra-legislation-holding-irs-accountable-iowa", "President Trump Signs Feenstra Legislation Holding IRS Accountable to Iowa Taxpayers", "2025-12-01", "2025", "2025-12", "Republican", "House", "IA", "Randy Feenstra", "F000446", "feenstra.house.gov", "feenstra", "https://feenstra.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Today, U.S. Rep. Randy Feenstra (R-Hull) issued the following statement after President Donald Trump signed into law his legislation to hold the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) accountable to Iowa taxpayers.\n\n\u201cI\u2019m thrilled that President Trump signed my bill to hold the IRS accountable to Iowa taxpayers. For too long, the IRS has caused headaches and confusion when a taxpayer makes a fixable mistake on their taxes, providing no explanation as to why a refund is different than expected, or how to correct an error,\u201d said Rep. Feenstra. \u201cThis law will require the IRS to clearly communicate tax-filing errors to Iowans and help them not only understand the mistake but also challenge it if they see fit. I will continue to work with President Trump to make government more efficient and ensure that the IRS is accountable to Iowa families, farmers, seniors, and small businesses.\u201d\n\nThe Internal Revenue Service Math and Taxpayer Help (IRS MATH) Act requires the IRS to clearly communicate tax-filing errors to taxpayers, identify the item that is being changed, and explain why a tax refund is higher or lower than expected.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://www.grassley.senate.gov/news/news-releases/capitol-hill-report-12-01-25", "Capitol Hill Report, 12-01-25", "2025-12-01", "2025", "2025-12", "Republican", "Senate", "IA", "Chuck Grassley", "G000386", "www.grassley.senate.gov", "grassley", "https://www.grassley.senate.gov/news/news-releases", "scraper", "Senator Grassley\u2019s weekly Capitol Hill Report is available HERE.\n\nTopics include: the D.C. National Guard shooting, Arctic Frost, Pharmacy Benefit Managers, the National Defense Authorization Act and staff traveling office hours.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://hinson.house.gov/media/press-releases/hinson-mcdonald-rivet-introduce-bill-make-child-care-more-affordable", "Hinson, McDonald Rivet Introduce Bill to Make Child Care More Affordable", "2025-11-26", "2025", "2025-11", "Republican", "House", "IA", "Ashley Hinson", "H001091", "hinson.house.gov", "hinson", "https://hinson.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2014 Congresswomen Ashley Hinson (R-IA-02) and Kristen McDonald Rivet (D-MI-08) introduced the bipartisan Early Education Savings Program Act. This legislation would address barriers in accessing child care by expanding 529 savings programs to cover child care expenses and increasing support for early childhood education.\n\n\u201cAccess to child care is a women\u2019s issue, a family issue, and a workforce issue, and no two families have the same needs or circumstances. That is why I\u2019m proud to help introduce bipartisan legislation to expand savings programs parents can use for child care, while also supporting early childhood education. I\u2019ll continue working across the aisle to make child care more affordable, flexible, and accessible for families because supporting parents strengthens our workforce and helps build a stronger economy, and community, for everyone.\u201d \u2014 Congresswoman Ashley Hinson\n\n\u201cEvery parent knows raising a family is way too expensive. When parents can\u2019t access affordable child care, they can\u2019t go to work, and both their families and our economy suffer. Expanding 529s to cover child care is an easy and important step that will help families save for and afford child care for their young kids.\u201d \u2014 Congresswoman Kristen McDonald Rivet\n\nBackground:\n\nChild care affordability is a crisis for America\u2019s workforce and is a women\u2019s and family issue. The U.S. Chamber of Commerce estimates states lose $1 billion per year in economic activity due to a lack of affordable and accessible child care. The same study also found that absences and employee turnover, which often stem from a lack of child care, cost employers between $400 million and $3 billion a year.\n\nA solution to the affordability crisis for families and the workforce shortage crisis is a dedicated, tax-advantaged savings program to set aside tax-free income to be used for qualified child care expenses.\n\nA 529 plan allows individuals to use invested dollars to pay for qualified education-related expenses.\n\nOriginally intended to assist with higher education, 529 plans were expanded in recent years to also cover K-12 and apprenticeship programs.\n\nSpecifically, the Early Education Savings Program Act:\n\nExpands 529 savings programs to cover qualified child care expenses, allowing parents to use tax-free income on child care.\n\nQualified child care is defined as child care provided by a State-licensed, regulated, or registered center-based child care provider, family child care provider, or another provider of child care services that is not an individual related to all children for whom care is provided.\n\nEstablishes that the designated beneficiary must be under 5 years old.\n\nDoes not put a cap on contributions or balances used for child care expenses within these accounts.\n\nBill text of the bipartisan legislation can be found here.\n\nAs a working mother of two children, Rep. Hinson understands the importance of accessible and affordable child care, and is passionate about pursuing policies to make child care more attainable for Iowa families. She has led several initiatives to support working families so they can comfortably work, raise their kids, and achieve their goals.\n\nRead more about Rep. Hinson's efforts and the historic wins she secured in the Working Families Tax Cuts here.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:52:45Z"], ["https://www.grassley.senate.gov/news/news-releases/capitol-hill-report11-25-25", "Capitol Hill Report,11-25-25", "2025-11-25", "2025", "2025-11", "Republican", "Senate", "IA", "Chuck Grassley", "G000386", "www.grassley.senate.gov", "grassley", "https://www.grassley.senate.gov/news/news-releases", "scraper", "Senator Grassley\u2019s Capitol Hill Report is available HERE.\n\nTopics include: Thanksgiving, federal judge\u2019s dismissal of indictments against Letitia James and James Comey, the Senate\u2019s focus since the government shutdown, confirming nominations, passing the remaining spending bills and rolling back Biden administration rules through the Congressional Review Act, Grassley\u2019s longtime call for transparency in the Epstein case, Senate Democrats\u2019 calls for military service members to disobey so-called \u201cunlawful\u201d orders and efforts to lower grocery prices.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:52:45Z"], ["https://www.grassley.senate.gov/news/news-releases/qanda-rural-health-matters", "Q&A: Rural Health Matters", "2025-11-25", "2025", "2025-11", "Republican", "Senate", "IA", "Chuck Grassley", "G000386", "www.grassley.senate.gov", "grassley", "https://www.grassley.senate.gov/news/news-releases", "scraper", "Q: What is the Rural Health Transformation program?\n\nA: Congress beefed up federal dollars to expand access to health care services in rural communities in the health and tax law signed in July by President Trump. The Rural Health Transformation program was designed to improve access to care, improve health outcomes, prioritize new and emergency technologies, strengthen local and regional partnerships, enhance economic opportunity, prioritize data and technology driven solutions and outline strategies to manage long-term financial solvency and operating models of rural hospitals. I led efforts in the U.S. Senate to support this initiative and add $50 billion in new federal spending to boost resources for Americans in underserved areas by keeping critical health care services available close to home.\n\nThe Rural Health Transformation program will make $10 billion available annually for five years. The law specifies 50% of the $10 billion must be distributed equally among states, so every state will get a minimum of $100 million annually for the five years. The other 50% will be distributed based on state applications reviewed by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS).\n\nThis month, I joined Iowa\u2019s federal delegation to support Iowa\u2019s application \u2013 called \u201cHealthy Hometowns\u201d \u2013 that seeks $1 billion in funding from the Rural Health Transformation program over the next five years. CMS, the federal agency administering the program, is expected to announce awards by Dec. 31.\n\nIowa\u2019s proposal outlines six specific initiatives to enhance the health care infrastructure and improve health care outcomes, including investments in telehealth, medical equipment and care for uninsured Iowans; recruiting and retaining top-tier health care professionals; increasing access to cancer screening and treatment; coordinating multidisciplinary care teams to stretch resources and support community care professionals; providing seamless access to health records across the state to support continuity of care; and bringing emergency care to rural residents with mobile health and high-risk transport support teams.\n\nQ: What other initiatives are you leading to address disparities in rural health care?\n\nA: This month, I completed my annual 99 county meetings for the 45th year in a row. Health care ranks among the top issues that come up at my meetings, no matter if I\u2019m touring a factory, visiting a school or holding an open town meeting. I also regularly meet with Iowans who come to Washington to discuss health care to inform my work at the policymaking table. Throughout my years serving Iowans in the Senate, I\u2019ve cut my teeth on health care policy as the former chairman and current member of the Senate Finance Committee, which has oversight and legislative jurisdiction over federal health care programs, including Medicare and Medicaid. As you would expect, I\u2019ve leveraged my seniority to go to the mat for Iowans, from allowing local pharmacists to get reimbursed for health care services, such as health and wellness screenings, immunizations and diabetes management, to improving maternal and child health services.\n\nI also spearheaded adoption of the voluntary Rural Emergency Hospital (REH) program to help rural communities who face workforce shortages and financial hardship keep their hometown hospital doors open. Signed into law five years ago, the program gives rural hospitals the flexibility to keep their doors open by focusing on 24/7 emergency care and outpatient services. For several years, I\u2019ve led the charge to ensure this program is working as intended to preserve access to essential health care in rural areas. So far, 42 rural hospitals in 17 states have transitioned to this model and I\u2019m working to get feedback from participating hospitals to better understand their challenges to help smooth the process for other rural hospitals across the country.\n\nEarlier this year, I welcomed action by CMS to fill 10 available spaces in its Rural Community Hospital Demonstration program. Last year, I pushed the Biden administration to fill these openings and will keep up the pressure to ensure Iowa continues to get physician residency slots to support our medical workforce in communities across the state.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:52:45Z"], ["https://hinson.house.gov/media/press-releases/hinson-announces-2025-us-service-academy-nomination-committee", "Hinson Announces 2025 U.S. Service Academy Nomination Committee", "2025-11-24", "2025", "2025-11", "Republican", "House", "IA", "Ashley Hinson", "H001091", "hinson.house.gov", "hinson", "https://hinson.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2014 Today, Congresswoman Ashley Hinson (IA-02) announced the members serving on her U.S. Service Academy Nomination Committee for Iowa's 2nd Congressional District.\n\n\"I am pleased to announce the five members serving on our 2025 U.S. Service Academy Nomination Committee, recommending the next generation of selfless leaders to our nation\u2019s service academies. Being selected to attend a service academy is an extraordinary honor\u2014one that recognizes a student\u2019s hard work, character, and readiness to lead. This interview committee helps ensure our nominees uphold the highest standards of service, leadership, and academic excellence, and I am grateful for their dedication.\u201d \u2014 Congresswoman Ashley Hinson\n\nThe committee members are as follows:\n\nSupervisor Justin Brandt, Waterloo, Iowa\n\nMr. John Gallagher, Dyersville, Iowa\n\nRepresentative Jason Gearhart, Strawberry Point, Iowa\n\nMr. Michael Harks, Marion, Iowa\n\nRepresentative Christian Hermanson, Mason City, Iowa", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:52:45Z"], ["https://www.grassley.senate.gov/news/news-releases/grassley-announces-staff-traveling-office-hours-in-28-iowa-counties", "Grassley Announces Staff Traveling Office Hours in 28 Iowa Counties", "2025-11-24", "2025", "2025-11", "Republican", "Senate", "IA", "Chuck Grassley", "G000386", "www.grassley.senate.gov", "grassley", "https://www.grassley.senate.gov/news/news-releases", "scraper", "BUTLER COUNTY, IOWA \u2013 U.S. Sen. Chuck Grassley\u2019s (R-Iowa) staff will hold traveling office hours in 28 Iowa counties next month, from December 1 to December 17. Iowans seeking assistance with a federal agency or wishing to share their views may stop by during the scheduled hours listed below.\n\nNOTE: Senator Grassley will not be in attendance. He will be represented by his Regional Directors, Rochelle Fuller, Noah Schrad, Clayton Brown, Jacob Bossman and Jonathan Bladt and his Deputy State Director, Penny Vacek.\n\n\u201cYou can\u2019t have representative government without dialogue between elected officials and the people we represent. That\u2019s why I\u2019ve held meetings in all of Iowa\u2019s 99 counties for 45 years,\u201d Grassley said. \u201cBecause I\u2019m not able to meet personally with each of Iowa\u2019s over three million people, my staff holds traveling office hours to ensure Iowans\u2019 voices are heard and their issues are addressed. I encourage any Iowan needing assistance with a federal agency to stop by and meet with my staff or contact one of my offices.\u201d\n\nThe schedule is as follows:\n\nMonday, December 1\n\nPolk County\n\n10 \u2013 11 a.m.\n\nAlleman City Hall\n\n14000 Northeast 6th Street\n\nAlleman\n\nRegional Director Noah Schrad\n\nDavis County\n\n10 \u2013 11 a.m.\n\nBy the Hearth Bookshop & Coffeehouse\n\n111 East Jefferson Street\n\nBloomfield\n\nDeputy State Director Penny Vacek\n\nDallas County\n\n2 \u2013 3 p.m.\n\nPerry Public Library\n\nThe Boardroom\n\n1101 Willis Avenue\n\nPerry\n\nRegional Director Noah Schrad\n\nDubuque County\n\n2 \u2013 3 p.m.\n\nDubuque County Courthouse\n\nBoardroom on 4th Floor\n\n720 Central Avenue\n\nDubuque\n\nRegional Director Rochelle Fuller\n\nTuesday, December 2\n\nPage County\n\n10 \u2013 11 a.m.\n\n112 East Main Street\n\nClarinda\n\nRegional Director Jonathan Bladt\n\nJasper County\n\n10 \u2013 11 a.m.\n\nColfax City Hall\n\nCouncil Chambers\n\n20 West Howard Street\n\nColfax\n\nRegional Director Noah Schrad\n\nTaylor County\n\n12 \u2013 1 p.m.\n\nTaylor County Courthouse\n\n405 Jefferson Street\n\nBedford\n\nRegional Director Jonathan Bladt\n\nAllamakee County\n\n12 \u2013 1 p.m.\n\nPostville Library\n\n235 Tilden Street\n\nPostville\n\nRegional Director Rochelle Fuller\n\nMadison County\n\n2 \u2013 3 p.m.\n\nWinterset Public Library\n\nLarge Meeting Room\n\n123 North 2nd Street\n\nWinterset\n\nRegional Director Noah Schrad\n\nClayton County\n\n2:30 \u2013 3:30 p.m.\n\nClayton County Office Building\n\nRoom 1\n\n600 Gunder Road\n\nElkader\n\nRegional Director Rochelle Fuller\n\nWednesday, December 3\n\nWinneshiek County\n\n9:30 \u2013 10:30 a.m.\n\nDecorah Public Library\n\n202 Winnebago Street\n\nDecorah\n\nRegional Director Clayton Brown\n\nAudubon County\n\n10 \u2013 11 a.m.\n\nAudubon Memorial Building\n\n410 North Park Place\n\nAudubon\n\nRegional Director Jonathan Bladt\n\nMahaska County\n\n10 \u2013 11 a.m.\n\nMahaska County Courthouse\n\n3rd Floor Conference Room\n\n106 South 1st Street\n\nOskaloosa\n\nRegional Director Rochelle Fuller\n\nFayette County\n\n11:30 a.m. \u2013 12:30 p.m.\n\nHawkeye Community Hall\n\n102 West Main Street\n\nHawkeye\n\nRegional Director Clayton Brown\n\nMills County\n\n1:30 \u2013 2:30 p.m.\n\nGlenwood Library\n\n109 North Vine Street\n\nGlenwood\n\nRegional Director Jonathan Bladt\n\nBuchanan County\n\n2 \u2013 3 p.m.\n\nIndependence Library\n\n805 1st Street East\n\nIndependence\n\nRegional Director Clayton Brown\n\nWapello County\n\n2 \u2013 3 p.m.\n\nOttumwa City Hall\n\n105 East 3rd Street\n\nOttumwa\n\nDeputy State Director Penny Vacek\n\nPoweshiek County\n\n2 \u2013 3 p.m.\n\nRenfrow Hall\n\nWeingart Room\n\n1115 8th Avenue\n\nGrinnell\n\nRegional Director Rochelle Fuller\n\nWarren County\n\n3 \u2013 4 p.m.\n\nIndianola City Hall\n\nSouth Conference Room\n\n110 North 1st Street\n\nIndianola\n\nRegional Director Noah Schrad\n\nMonday, December 8\n\nBremer County\n\n9 \u2013 10 a.m.\n\nSumner City Hall\n\n105 East 1st Street\n\nSumner\n\nRegional Director Clayton Brown\n\nChickasaw County\n\n12 \u2013 1 p.m.\n\nNew Hampton Public Library\n\n20 West Spring Street\n\nNew Hampton\n\nRegional Director Clayton Brown\n\nFranklin County\n\n2:30 \u2013 3:30 p.m.\n\nHampton Public Library\n\n4 South Federal Street\n\nHampton\n\nRegional Director Clayton Brown\n\nTuesday, December 9\n\nKossuth County\n\n11 a.m. \u2013 12 p.m.\n\nAlgona Public Library\n\nMeeting Room\n\n210 North Phillips Street\n\nAlgona\n\nRegional Director Jacob Bossman\n\nFriday, December 12\n\nMitchell County\n\n9 \u2013 10 a.m.\n\nMitchell County Courthouse\n\nBoard Room\n\n212 South 5th Street\n\nOsage\n\nRegional Director Clayton Brown\n\nClay County\n\n10 \u2013 11 a.m.\n\nSpencer City Hall\n\nCouncil Chambers\n\n101 W 5th Street\n\nSpencer\n\nRegional Director Jacob Bossman\n\nDickinson County\n\n12:30 \u2013 1:30 p.m.\n\nSpirit Lake City Hall\n\n1803 Hill Avenue\n\nSpirit Lake\n\nRegional Director Jacob Bossman\n\nButler County\n\n3 \u2013 4 p.m.\n\nParkersburg Civic Center\n\n502 3rd Street\n\nParkersburg\n\nRegional Director Clayton Brown\n\nWednesday, December 17\n\nHoward County\n\n9 \u2013 10 a.m.\n\nHoward County Courthouse\n\n137 North Elm Street\n\nCresco\n\nRegional Director Clayton Brown", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:52:45Z"], ["https://www.grassley.senate.gov/news/news-releases/icymi-iowa-association-of-business-and-industry-endorses-grassleys-combating-organized-retail-crime-act", "ICYMI: Iowa Association of Business and Industry Endorses Grassley\u2019s Combating Organized Retail Crime Act", "2025-11-24", "2025", "2025-11", "Republican", "Senate", "IA", "Chuck Grassley", "G000386", "www.grassley.senate.gov", "grassley", "https://www.grassley.senate.gov/news/news-releases", "scraper", "BUTLER COUNTY, IOWA \u2013 The Iowa Association of Business and Industry (ABI) is applauding U.S. Senate Judiciary Committee Chairman Chuck Grassley\u2019s (R-Iowa) Combating Organized Retail Crime Act (CORCA). The bipartisan bill, cosponsored by U.S. Sen. Catherine Cortez Masto (D-Nev.), would establish a multi-agency response to tackle evolving trends in retail theft, recover stolen goods and deter future attacks.\n\n\u201cGrassley\u2019s long record of practical problem-solving continues with this effort. His leadership ensures that Iowa\u2019s voice is shaping national policy on an issue that affects every business and every household in our state,\u201d wrote Brad Hartkopf, Senior Director of Public Policy at Iowa ABI.\n\nGrassley chaired a Judiciary Committee hearing on organized retail crime earlier this year, where expert witnesses urged congressional action on Grassley\u2019s \u201cgame changing\u201d legislation. Industry support for CORCA has continued to grow since the hearing \u2013 the bill has been endorsed by 38 state attorneys general, as well as leading advocacy groups, major law enforcement organizations and a coalition of over 260 impacted businesses.\n\nRead ABI\u2019s op-ed in The Gazette, or below.\n\nFighting cargo theft protects Iowa businesses and consumers\n\nBy Brad Hartkopf | Senior Director of Public Policy, Iowa Association of Business and Industry\n\nNovember 22, 2024\n\nThe Gazette\n\nOrganized cargo theft is skyrocketing, and the impact is real for businesses, workers and families here in Iowa and across the country. In fact, there was a recent 60 Minutes report about cargo theft where 24,000 bottles of Guy Fieri\u2019s tequila vanished en route to a warehouse. It might sound like a quirky headline but the truth behind it isn\u2019t novel or isolated.\n\nAccording to CBS Iowa, trucking cargo theft incidents in our state are up 1,500% since 2021, part of a national surge that\u2019s costing billions. Everything from groceries and clothing to electronics and medical supplies is being stolen off trucks, railcars and warehouses before ever reaching store shelves. Three-quarters of Iowa trucking companies say they\u2019ve been hit in the past 18 months.\n\nWhen thefts like these multiply, we all pay more. Businesses lose inventory, insurance rates rise and the higher costs ultimately reach consumers. In a time when costs are already straining Iowa families and small businesses, this is one more problem we can\u2019t afford to ignore.\n\nThat\u2019s why I want to commend Sen. Chuck Grassley for his leadership on a common sense, bipartisan solution \u2014 the Combating Organized Retail Crime Act (CORCA), which he cosponsors with Sen. Catherine Cortez Masto of Nevada. CORCA would take aim at the root of the problem: organized crime networks that exploit gaps between local, state and federal enforcement.\n\nThe bill would create a national coordination center to help law enforcement agencies share intelligence, track stolen goods and recover lost cargo across state lines. It would also give the Department of Homeland Security new tools to pursue the sophisticated rings behind many of these thefts \u2014 rings that are increasingly tied to international criminal networks.\n\nAs the Association of American Railroads noted in support of the bill, \u201cCargo theft is not a victimless crime \u2014 it increases costs for consumers, endangers workers, and threatens the reliability of the supply chain.\u201d That\u2019s especially true for freight rail, which moves roughly 40% of U.S. long-distance freight and has faced its own rise in thefts targeting high-value goods.\n\nHere in Iowa, where agriculture, manufacturing and logistics are pillars of our economy, the stakes couldn\u2019t be higher. From the pork producers shipping products nationwide to the manufacturers relying on just-in-time deliveries, cargo theft is a drag on productivity and a hidden tax on everyone\u2019s bottom line.\n\nThe Iowa Association of Business and Industry (ABI) believes in solutions that protect both economic growth and consumer well-being. CORCA does just that \u2014 strengthening law enforcement coordination, improving data sharing and helping safeguard the goods that keep our economy running.\n\nSen. Grassley\u2019s long record of practical problem-solving continues with this effort. His leadership ensures that Iowa\u2019s voice is shaping national policy on an issue that affects every business and every household in our state.\n\nCargo theft may make for an eye-catching headline, but the solution lies in steady, bipartisan work \u2014 and Iowa is once again helping lead the way.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:52:45Z"], ["https://feenstra.house.gov/media/press-releases/feenstra-iowa-delegation-urges-cms-approve-iowas-rural-health-transformation", "Feenstra, Iowa Delegation Urges CMS to Approve Iowa\u2019s Rural Health Transformation Application", "2025-11-21", "2025", "2025-11", "Republican", "House", "IA", "Randy Feenstra", "F000446", "feenstra.house.gov", "feenstra", "https://feenstra.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Yesterday, on National Rural Health Day, U.S. Rep. Randy Feenstra (R-Hull) joined the Iowa congressional delegation in sending a letter to CMS Administrator Dr. Mehmet Oz in strong support of Iowa\u2019s application for the Rural Health Transformation (RHT) Program.\n\n\u201cEarlier this year, President Trump and Republicans passed the largest investment in rural healthcare in U.S. history. We delivered $50 billion for rural hospitals and rural health, ensuring that our families, veterans, and seniors can get the high-quality care they need when they need it,\u201d said Rep. Feenstra. \u201cThe Rural Health Transformation Program will support Iowa\u2019s Healthy Hometowns initiative to invest in rapid emergency response, help recruit and retain physicians, prevent and treat cancer, and support patients. I\u2019m glad to join my colleagues in supporting Iowa\u2019s application for these funds, and I\u2019ll keep working to make high-quality healthcare more affordable and more accessible for all Iowans.\u201d\n\nThe RHT Program represents the largest investment in rural health transformation in American history, aimed at increasing access, driving innovation, and strengthening care delivery in underserved communities. Of the $50 billion allocated for the program, $25 billion automatically gets divided evenly amongst all 50 states. The second $25 billion, which Iowa has submitted its application for, is more competitive and funds will be allocated based on overall need.\n\nThe delegation letter highlights how Iowa\u2019s proposal, Healthy Hometowns, directly aligns with CMS\u2019s strategic priorities and delivers a comprehensive approach to improving care across rural communities. The initiative includes:\n\nHometown Connections: Expanding Centers of Excellence, Health Hubs, telehealth capacity, and services for uninsured Iowans.\n\nBest and Brightest: Recruiting and retaining high-quality health professionals in rural communities.\n\nCombat Cancer \u2013 Prevent and Treat: Creating cancer care hubs, increasing screenings, and supporting research and families.\n\nCommunities of Care: Co-locating providers to coordinate multidisciplinary care with community health workers.\n\nHealth Information Exchange: Ensuring seamless statewide access to medical records for continuity of care.\n\nEMS Community Care Mobile: Delivering mobile health services and high-risk transport support directly to rural residents.\n\nYou can read the full letter HERE.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:52:45Z"], ["https://nunn.house.gov/2025/11/21/watch-nunn-honors-tsa-and-faa-workers-who-kept-iowa-moving-during-shutdown/", "WATCH: Nunn Honors TSA and FAA Workers Who Kept Iowa Moving During Shutdown", "2025-11-21", "2025", "2025-11", "Republican", "House", "IA", "Zachary Nunn", "N000193", "nunn.house.gov", "nunn", "https://nunn.house.gov/category/news/press-releases/", "scraper", "DES MOINES, IA \u2014 On Monday, Representative Zach Nunn (IA-03) joined TSA agents, air traffic controllers, FAA personnel, and airport officials at Des Moines International Airport (DSM) to recognize federal aviation professionals who kept Iowa skies safe without pay during the recent government shutdown.\n\n\u201cWhile a handful of Senators chose to play politics in Washington, Iowa\u2019s aviation professionals showed up and stepped up,\u201d said Rep. Nunn. \u201cTSA and FAA teams at DSM worked without pay, under extraordinary stress, and with no certainty of when the shutdown would end. That\u2019s a credit to their dedication and exactly the kind of public service Washington should strive to emulate.\u201d\n\nDuring the visit, Rep. Nunn presented Iowa Medals of Merit and Certificates of Appreciation to staff whose dedication kept Iowa\u2019s largest airport operating without major delays and ensured travelers remained safe throughout a national crisis.\n\nB-roll video is available here.\n\nPhotos of the visit are available here.\n\nCreative video is available here.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:52:45Z"], ["https://www.grassley.senate.gov/news/news-releases/11/21/2025/qanda-national-adoption-month", "Q&A: National Adoption Month", "2025-11-21", "2025", "2025-11", "Republican", "Senate", "IA", "Chuck Grassley", "G000386", "www.grassley.senate.gov", "grassley", "https://www.grassley.senate.gov/news/news-releases", "scraper", "Q: What is National Adoption Month?\n\nA: More than four decades ago, President Ronald Reagan used the power of the bully pulpit to bring attention to the tens of thousands of children in foster care awaiting a forever home. In 1984, he signed a Senate Joint Resolution to designate the week before Thanksgiving as National Adoption Week. Choosing this week corresponds with the season of thanksgiving and appreciation for the blessings of family. Strong families are the cornerstone of society that strengthens the social fabric of America from one generation to the next. Celebrating family reunification or newly forged families united through adoption inspires others who may be in a position to consider opening their hearts and homes to the rewarding experience that parenthood can bring. During the Clinton administration, the entire month of November was designated to raise more awareness about the chasm between kids awaiting adoption and those blessed with forever homes.\n\nNational Adoption Month honors the parents and families who have answered the call to open their homes and provide a lifelong foundation of support for the tens of thousands of kids awaiting a forever family. I\u2019m glad to report my bipartisan efforts at the policymaking table in recent years have helped reunite and keep families intact, as well as provide financial resources for foster and adoptive families to take in children who encounter the foster care system. For example, the landmark Family First Prevention Services Act of 2018 is credited with helping to significantly lower the number of children in Iowa\u2019s foster care system. According to the Iowa Data Center, the number of kids in foster care in Iowa lowered from 10,400 in 2013 to 6,586 in 2022. Giving families tools and services to safely stay intact leads to brighter futures for kids to help overcome neglect and trauma with the certainty and stability of family reunification or kinship care, as an example.\n\nQ: What victories for adoptive families and foster youth have you championed in Congress?\n\nA: Through my committee assignments in the U.S. Senate, I\u2019ve worked at the policymaking table to strengthen families and support kids who enter the foster care system so they may reach their full potential, especially those who age out of foster care without the support of a forever family and permanent place to call home. As a member and former chairman of the Senate Finance Committee, I secured legislation to make the federal adoption tax credit a permanent part of the tax code. This summer, I supported the tax law signed by President Trump that expanded the child tax credit, boosted childcare financial assistance and made the adoption tax credit accessible to more families. Allowing families to keep more money in their pocket gives parents more breathing room to pay for groceries, put gas in the car and afford to take care of their kids.\n\nIn 2009, I co-founded the Senate Caucus on Foster Youth to connect federal legislators with researchers, advocates and youth who have lived in a foster care setting to identify and facilitate support as they transition into adulthood. Hosting policy forums give current foster youth and alumni a platform to share their stories and inform policymaking that can protect taxpayer dollars and improve federal programs serving families and children in need. This summer an Iowan participated at an event on Capitol Hill I hosted to discuss barriers foster kids face as they transition into adulthood.\n\nPresident Trump and First Lady Melania Trump announced an initiative called Fostering the Future for American Children and Families during National Adoption Month. The executive order seeks to modernize the child welfare system and develop partnerships with government agencies, academic institutions and private sector organizations to create educational and employment opportunities for youth who age out of the foster care system. I applaud their efforts. Reminiscent of President Reagan some 40 years ago, President Trump and the First Lady are leveraging the power of the bully pulpit to bring awareness to children in America who yearn for a forever home and for parents they can call mom and dad long after they reach adulthood. I\u2019ll continue bringing their voices to the policymaking table and was pleased to cosponsor the bipartisan Senate resolution marking November as National Adoption Month and November 22 as National Adoption Day. Of course, the needs of kids awaiting adoption require attention every day of the year. I\u2019m grateful to collaborate with grassroots advocates on child welfare issues and was pleased to present Four Oaks Family and Children\u2019s Services with the \u201cAngels in Adoption\u201d Award in September for its decades of work on behalf of children and families across Iowa.\n\nFour Oaks manages five regions across Iowa to help local families navigate the process to become foster or adoptive parents. Learn more online or call (877) 364-1113.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:52:45Z"], ["https://www.grassley.senate.gov/news/news-releases/grassley-hassan-reintroduce-legislation-targeting-illicit-drug-knockoffs", "Grassley, Hassan Reintroduce Legislation Targeting Illicit Drug Knockoffs", "2025-11-21", "2025", "2025-11", "Republican", "Senate", "IA", "Chuck Grassley", "G000386", "www.grassley.senate.gov", "grassley", "https://www.grassley.senate.gov/news/news-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON \u2013 Senate Judiciary Committee Chairman Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa) and Sen. Maggie Hassan (D-N.H.) today reintroduced the Stop Importation and Manufacturing of Synthetic Analogues (SIMSA) Act. The bipartisan bill would crack down on deadly drugs that are substantially similar to controlled substances but carefully engineered to slip into the U.S. undetected.\n\n\u201cAmerica\u2019s scheduling system is inefficient and outdated, and our law enforcement officers are struggling to keep pace with emerging drug threats,\u201d Grassley said. \u201cThe SIMSA Act would provide much-needed adaptability to get ahead of bad actors and their deadly knockoffs.\u201d\n\n\u201cCommunities across New Hampshire have been devastated by fentanyl and other deadly drugs. Fentanyl analogues pose just as severe a threat as fentanyl itself, and criminals have deliberately engineered these drugs to circumvent our laws and evade bans,\u201d Hassan said. \u201cOur bipartisan legislation will provide law enforcement with the necessary tools to crack down on the criminals flooding our streets with these drug analogues. I urge my colleagues to support this effort to protect our communities and save lives, and I will keep working to combat the fentanyl crisis.\u201d\n\nThe SIMSA Act would create a new schedule of drug \u2013 Schedule A. Substances could be classified as Schedule A if (1) their chemical structure is substantially similar to a controlled substance and (2) they are expected to have the same or greater effect on the human body. The bill would subject individuals who manufacture, export and import these knockoffs to criminal penalties, but includes provisions to ensure legitimate research can continue.\n\nRead the bill text HERE.\n\nBackground:\n\nU.S. law prohibits the unauthorized use of certain controlled substances. However, illicit drug makers and importers circumvent those laws by altering single atoms in controlled substances, creating tweaked drugs that are not yet outlawed, but have similar effects on users. Currently, uncontrolled substances must undergo a time-consuming analysis before the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) can permanently schedule them.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:52:45Z"], ["https://www.grassley.senate.gov/news/news-releases/iowa-transit-to-receive-over-82-million-from-grassley-backed-infrastructure-bill", "Iowa Transit to Receive Over $82 Million from Grassley-Backed Infrastructure Bill", "2025-11-21", "2025", "2025-11", "Republican", "Senate", "IA", "Chuck Grassley", "G000386", "www.grassley.senate.gov", "grassley", "https://www.grassley.senate.gov/news/news-releases", "scraper", "BUTLER COUNTY, IOWA \u2013 U.S. Sen. Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa) welcomed an announcement from the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) that Iowa will receive $82,144,823 to support transit improvements across the state. The awards will be administered through DOT\u2019s Buses & Bus Facilities Program and the Low- or No-Emission Program, which both received funding through the Grassley-backed Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA).\n\n\u201cI voted for the bipartisan infrastructure bill with Iowa\u2019s future in mind, and it\u2019s good to see the law continue its strong return on investment. By authorizing these grants, the Trump administration is helping provide efficient and reliable travel options for Iowans,\u201d Grassley said.\n\nAward Details:\n\nThe Iowa Department of Transportation will receive $27,834,685 for the Iowa Bus Replacement Program to buy new buses and vans, replacing older vehicles for 14 of Iowa's transit systems.\n\nThe Iowa Department of Transportation will receive $19,892,534 for the Iowa Low-No Project to replace older buses and to construct or expand three bus facilities.\n\nThe Ames Transit Agency (CyRide) will receive $14,648,686 for the Biodiesel and Facility Expansion Project to expand its administrative, maintenance and bus storage facility.\n\nIowa City Transit will receive $8,665,485 for its Driving Economic Opportunity with Replacement Heavy Duty Fixed-Route and Paratransit Vehicles program to purchase diesel and paratransit buses, replacing older buses.\n\nThe University of Iowa will receive $6,171,174 for the CAMBUS Hybrid Bus Project to buy new diesel-electric hybrid buses to replace aging buses to continue providing safe, efficient and reliable transportation.\n\nThe Regional Metropolitan Transit Authority of Omaha (Metro) will receive $4,932,259 for the Promoting Sustainability Through Low Emission Vehicles Program to buy new CNG buses to replace older diesel buses that have reached the end of their useful life.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:52:45Z"], ["https://feenstra.house.gov/media/press-releases/feenstra-hinson-introduce-legislation-lower-fertilizer-costs-iowa-farmers", "Feenstra, Hinson Introduce Legislation to Lower Fertilizer Costs for Iowa Farmers", "2025-11-20", "2025", "2025-11", "Republican", "House", "IA", "Randy Feenstra", "F000446", "feenstra.house.gov", "feenstra", "https://feenstra.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Today, U.S. Reps. Randy Feenstra (R-IA) and Ashley Hinson (R-IA) introduced the Fertilizer Research Act, which aims to provide greater certainty and transparency for Iowa farmers navigating high input costs.\n\nIt would require the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) to conduct a study of the market factors driving up input costs, including competition, long-term market trends, and regulatory costs.\n\n\"As I'm traveling across the 4th District, Iowa farmers continue to tell me that the biggest barrier to farm profitability is high input costs. Representing one of the largest agricultural districts in the country, commonsense ways that we can help lower the prices of input costs like fertilizer is critical so that that our farmers can keep feeding and fueling our country and the world,\u201d said Rep. Feenstra. \u201cIt\u2019s why I\u2019m glad to help introduce legislation that will deliver more transparency into the factors driving up the cost of fertilizer, and ultimately, help reduce financial pressures for farmers. By lowering costs for our producers, we can keep Iowa farmland in the hands of Iowa farmers and help the next generation carry on our proud agricultural traditions.\u201d\n\n\u201cAmerica\u2019s farmers are being squeezed by high fertilizer costs and low commodity prices, making it incredibly difficult to afford the inputs needed to maintain strong yields. Family farmers in Iowa tell me they need greater price transparency and stability, and my bipartisan bill delivers just that by increasing visibility into the factors that drive costs and supply. I will continue fighting for our rural communities to ensure they have a fair shot to do what they do best: feed and fuel the world,\u201d said Rep. Hinson.\n\nWithin one year of the bill\u2019s passage, the Secretary of Agriculture, in consultation with the Economic Research Service, would be required to issue a report on USDA\u2019s website regarding the U.S. fertilizer industry.\n\nSpecifically, the report should include:\n\nA description of impacts on the fertilizer market that influence price;\n\nMarket trends in the past 25 years;\n\nA description of the imported fertilizer and market impacts;\n\nImpacts of anti-dumping and countervailing duties;\n\nAn assessment of the regulatory environment governing fertilizer production;\n\nA study of fertilizer industry concentration;\n\nA study of emerging fertilizer technologies; and\n\nA description of whether current public price reporting is sufficient for market transparency.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:52:45Z"], ["https://hinson.house.gov/media/press-releases/hinson-house-colleagues-introduce-bipartisan-fertilizer-research-act", "Hinson, House Colleagues Introduce Bipartisan Fertilizer Research Act", "2025-11-20", "2025", "2025-11", "Republican", "House", "IA", "Ashley Hinson", "H001091", "hinson.house.gov", "hinson", "https://hinson.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. - Congresswoman Ashley Hinson (R-IA-02) introduced the bipartisan Fertilizer Research Act alongside Representatives Nikki Budzinski (D-IL-13), Randy Feenstra (R-IA-04), and Marie Gluesenkamp Perez (D-WA-03). This legislation aims to provide greater certainty and transparency for Iowa farmers navigating high input costs and would require the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) to conduct a study of the market factors driving those costs, including competition, long-term market trends, and regulatory costs. Senator Chuck Grassley (R-IA) introduced companion legislation in the U.S. Senate, and Rep. Mariannette Miller-Meeks (R-IA-01) is an original cosponsor of the legislation.\n\n\u201cAmerica\u2019s farmers are being squeezed by high fertilizer costs and low commodity prices, making it incredibly difficult to afford the inputs needed to maintain strong yields. Family farmers in Iowa tell me they need greater price transparency and stability, and my bipartisan bill delivers just that by increasing visibility into the factors that drive costs and supply. I will continue fighting for our rural communities to ensure they have a fair shot to do what they do best: feed and fuel the world.\u201d \u2013 Congresswoman Ashley Hinson\n\n\u201cIllinois growers are struggling to make ends meet because of high input costs, including the cost of fertilizer. Fertilizer is an essential tool for farmers to maximize their crop yields, but they often lack insight into how fertilizer prices are determined \u2013 making it harder to balance their books. I\u2019m proud to introduce this common-sense, bipartisan legislation to give our farmers more transparency and ensure that farm inputs are priced fairly.\u201d \u2013 Congresswoman Nikki Budzinski\n\n\"As I'm traveling across the 4th District, Iowa farmers continue to tell me that the biggest barrier to farm profitability is high input costs. Representing one of the largest agricultural districts in the country, commonsense ways that we can help lower the prices of input costs like fertilizer is critical so that that our farmers can keep feeding and fueling our country and the world. It\u2019s why I\u2019m glad to help introduce legislation that will deliver more transparency into the factors driving up the cost of fertilizer, and ultimately, help reduce financial pressures for farmers. By lowering costs for our producers, we can keep Iowa farmland in the hands of Iowa farmers and help the next generation carry on our proud agricultural traditions.\" \u2013 Congressman Randy Feenstra\n\nThis bill is supported by the American Soybean Association, the National Farmers Union, the Iowa Farmers Union, the Iowa Farm Bureau, the Iowa Corn Growers Association, and the Iowa Soybean Association.\n\n\u201cFarmers are getting squeezed on all sides by high input costs, corporate consolidation, and unfair markets. Fertilizer is a major part of that pressure. Studies like this increase transparency, providing a clearer picture of what\u2019s driving price and supply. We thank Representatives Hinson, Budzinski, Feenstra, and Gluesenkamp Perez for introducing this legislation and recognizing that accountability and competition in farm inputs are essential if family farmers and ranchers are going to have a fair shot in the marketplace.\u201d \u2013 Rob Larew, President of the National Farmers Union.\n\n\u201cThe Iowa Corn Growers Association (ICGA) sincerely appreciates Representative Ashley Hinson and Representative Nikki Budzinski once again honoring our request for a study to review the competition and transparency within the fertilizer industry. Fertilizer prices have continued to rise, putting pressure on Iowa corn farmers who are already facing low corn prices and increased input costs, resulting in slim or even nonexistent profit margins. This request came directly from ICGA, and Representatives Hinson and Budzinski\u2019s continued commitment to corn growers is evident with the reintroduction of the Fertilizer Research Act.\u201d \u2013 Mark Mueller, Iowa Corn Growers Association President and farmer from Waverly, Iowa\n\n\u201cFertilizer remains one of the highest and most unpredictable input costs for Iowa farmers, yet we lack the transparency to fully understand what drives those fluctuations. The Fertilizer Research Act is an important step toward greater accountability in the industry and will provide farmers with the clarity needed to better manage fertilizer cost.\" \u2013 Tom Adam, Iowa Soybean Association President and farmer from Harper, Iowa\n\nBackground:\n\nWithin one year of the bill\u2019s passage, the Secretary of Agriculture, in consultation with the Economic Research Service, would be required to issue a report on USDA\u2019s website regarding the U.S. fertilizer industry.\n\nSpecifically, the report should include:\n\nA description of impacts on the fertilizer market that influence price;\n\nMarket trends in the past 25 years;\n\nA description of the imported fertilizer and market impacts;\n\nImpacts of anti-dumping and countervailing duties;\n\nAn assessment of the regulatory environment governing fertilizer production;\n\nA study of fertilizer industry concentration;\n\nA study of emerging fertilizer technologies; and\n\nA description of whether current public price reporting is sufficient for market transparency.\n\nThe full text of the legislation can be found here.\n\nExclusive reporting on the legislation from Brownfield Ag News here.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:52:45Z"], ["https://millermeeks.house.gov/media/press-releases/iowa-delegation-urges-cms-approve-iowas-rural-health-transformation", "Iowa Delegation Urges CMS to Approve Iowa\u2019s Rural Health Transformation Application", "2025-11-20", "2025", "2025-11", "Republican", "House", "IA", "Mariannette Miller-Meeks", "M001215", "millermeeks.house.gov", "millermeeks", "https://millermeeks.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "IOWA - Today, on National Rural Health Day, Congresswoman Mariannette Miller-Meeks (IA-01) led the Iowa Congressional Delegation in sending a letter to CMS Administrator Dr. Mehmet Oz showing strong support of Iowa\u2019s application for the Rural Health Transformation (RHT) Program.\n\n\u201cAs a physician, I know how deeply rural Iowans rely on their local hospitals, not just for care, but for security, dignity, and peace of mind. That\u2019s why I fought to pass the Rural Health Transformation Program.\" Said Dr. Miller-Meeks. \"Iowa has put forward a thoughtful, forward-looking plan that will improve access, modernize care, and support the providers who serve our communities every day. I urge CMS to approve this application so we can continue building a stronger, healthier Iowa.\u201d\n\n\"The Rural Health Transformation Program\u2014included in Republicans\u2019 Working Families Tax Cuts\u2014is a historic investment, and I was thrilled to advocate for and support it.\" Said Rep. Hinson. \"In rural states like Iowa, this fund would help our rural providers keep their doors open and adopt new technologies that make care faster, easier, and better for everyone. I will continue advocating for ways to strengthen and support rural health care for Iowans\u2014and bring as many federal dollars back to Iowa through this fund as possible!\"\n\n\"When we passed the Working Families Tax Cuts, I fought to secure $50 billion for rural hospitals in Iowa and across the country,\u201d said Rep. Nunn. \u201cIowa's Healthy Hometowns program shows exactly how rural communities can lead the future of health care. This investment strengthens care close to home and gives local providers the tools they need to keep serving Iowa\u2019s families.\"\n\n\"Earlier this year, President Trump and Republicans passed the largest investment in rural healthcare in U.S. history. We delivered $50 billion for rural hospitals and rural health, ensuring that our families, veterans, and seniors can get the high-quality care they need when they need it,\" said Rep. Feenstra. \"The Rural Health Transformation Program will support Iowa\u2019s Healthy Hometowns initiative to invest in rapid emergency response, help recruit and retain physicians, prevent and treat cancer, and support patients. I\u2019m glad to join my colleagues in supporting Iowa\u2019s application for these funds, and I\u2019ll keep working to make high-quality healthcare more affordable and more accessible for all Iowans.\"\n\nBackground:\n\nThe RHT Program represents the largest investment in rural health transformation in American history, aimed at increasing access, driving innovation, and strengthening care delivery in underserved communities. Of the $50 billion allocated for the program, $25 billion automatically gets divided evenly amongst all 50 states. The second $25 billion, which Iowa has submitted its application for, is more competitive and funds will be allocated based on overall need.\n\nThe delegation letter highlights how Iowa\u2019s proposal, Healthy Hometowns, directly aligns with CMS\u2019s strategic priorities and delivers a comprehensive approach to improving care across rural communities. The initiative includes:\n\nHometown Connections: Expanding Centers of Excellence, Health Hubs, telehealth capacity, and services for uninsured Iowans.\n\nBest and Brightest: Recruiting and retaining high-quality health professionals in rural communities.\n\nCombat Cancer \u2013 Prevent and Treat: Creating cancer care hubs, increasing screenings, and supporting research and families.\n\nCommunities of Care: Co-locating providers to coordinate multidisciplinary care with community health workers.\n\nHealth Information Exchange: Ensuring seamless statewide access to medical records for continuity of care.\n\nEMS Community Care Mobile: Delivering mobile health services and high-risk transport support directly to rural residents.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:52:45Z"], ["https://nunn.house.gov/2025/11/20/nunn-introduces-bill-to-codify-trump-executive-order-supporting-foster-youth/", "Nunn Introduces Bill to Codify Trump Executive Order Supporting Foster Youth", "2025-11-20", "2025", "2025-11", "Republican", "House", "IA", "Zachary Nunn", "N000193", "nunn.house.gov", "nunn", "https://nunn.house.gov/category/news/press-releases/", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2014 Representatives Zach Nunn (IA-03) and Greg Landsman (OH-01) today introduced the Fostering the Future for American Children and Families Act, bipartisan legislation to codify President Donald J. Trump\u2019s recent Executive Order aimed at improving outcomes for children in the foster care system.\n\n\u201cAs a father and former foster parent to two amazing girls my wife and I adopted, I know the barriers foster youth face when transitioning into adulthood,\u201d said Rep. Nunn. \u201cI was proud to join President Trump for the launch of the First Lady\u2019s Fostering the Future initiative. I\u2019m even prouder to help codify this commonsense effort to give youth aging out of foster care real tools to continue their education, find a job, and build a strong, stable future.\u201d\n\nAcross the country, more than 400,000 children are in foster care. Each year, roughly 20,000 young adults age out of the system. One in five will become homeless. Half will not find gainful employment by age 25. In Iowa, over 3,000 kids are in foster care today. While the state leads the nation in connecting foster youth to support programs like the Chafee Program, fewer than half of eligible youth nationwide ever access those resources.\n\n\u201cWe\u2019re talking about kids with enormous potential and talent who have faced the kind of adversity very few people know or can even comprehend,\u201d said Rep. Landsman. \u201cThey deserve every resource and opportunity we can provide to ensure they are successful.\u201d\n\n\u201cThis legislation recognizes the potential of foster youth and removes long-standing barriers to opportunity,\u201d said Rebecca Lauve Yao, CEO of the National Foster Youth Institute. \u201cBy expanding access to short-term credentials, apprenticeships, and rapid-employment training, Rep. Nunn\u2019s bill creates real pathways to economic stability. It reflects the lived experience and advocacy of NFYI members nationwide, and we\u2019re proud to support this effort to treat foster youth as contributors to our country\u2019s future \u2014 not as a cause for charity.\u201d\n\nOn November 13, 2025, President Trump signed an Executive Order launching the Fostering the Future initiative, which directs federal agencies to improve access to training, apprenticeships, and career support for foster youth. Rep. Nunn\u2019s bill codifies and expands that initiative by:\n\nDirecting the Departments of Health and Human Services and Labor to conduct a nationwide study of current workforce and apprenticeship programs for foster youth. The study will evaluate program effectiveness, identify gaps, and recommend improvements to expand career pathways.\n\nEstablishing the \u201cFostering the Future Pipeline Program,\u201d a $50 million competitive grant initiative to support states, nonprofits, schools, and private-sector partners in providing technical training and apprenticeships in high-demand fields like healthcare, IT, skilled trades, and agriculture.\n\nExpanding the Education and Training Voucher (ETV) program under the John H. Chafee Foster Care Program to allow foster youth to use funds for short-term, career-focused credential programs, including registered apprenticeships and certificate training.\n\n\u201cWhen I aged out of foster care, college was the only path I knew \u2014 but many of my peers never got that chance. Without access to career training or guidance, too many ended up on difficult paths despite their potential,\u201d said Majd Abdallah, NFYI alum and former foster youth. \u201cThis bill opens doors that were closed for my generation. It gives foster youth real options, and real chances, to build a better future.\u201d\n\nThe Fostering the Future for American Children and Families Act is endorsed by the National Foster Youth Institute.\n\nText of the bill can be found here.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:52:45Z"], ["https://www.grassley.senate.gov/news/news-releases/grassley-donates-shutdown-paychecks-to-local-churches", "Grassley Donates Shutdown Paychecks to Local Churches", "2025-11-20", "2025", "2025-11", "Republican", "Senate", "IA", "Chuck Grassley", "G000386", "www.grassley.senate.gov", "grassley", "https://www.grassley.senate.gov/news/news-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON \u2013 Sen. Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa) issued the following statement:\n\n\u201cAfter 43 long days, the government shutdown is finally over. Dysfunction in Washington does not serve Iowans. Iowans deserve common sense, not partisan nonsense. As we approach the holiday season, I hope my colleagues are inspired to bring more bipartisanship and cooperation to the policymaking table and to the people\u2019s business. During the government shutdown, I did not take a paycheck. During this season of prayer and thanksgiving, Barbara and I will donate those missed wages to our hometown churches.\u201d\n\nDonation recipients include: First Baptist Church of New Hartford, New Hartford Community Church and Prairie Lakes Church.\n\nBackground:\n\nGrassley is a cosponsor of the Prevent Government Shutdowns Act. Under this legislation, if work on the 12 annual appropriations bills is not completed by the end of the fiscal year, all members of Congress would be required to stay in Washington, D.C. and work until the spending bills are completed. In addition, an automatic continuing resolution would kick in based on the most recent spending levels enacted in the previous fiscal year, and would remain in place until the appropriations bills have been finished. This will save taxpayer money, keep government services operating and stop government shutdowns once and for all.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:52:45Z"], ["https://www.grassley.senate.gov/news/news-releases/icymi-seven-leading-whistleblower-groups-praise-grassleys-proven-record-of-support-for-whistleblowers", "ICYMI: Seven Leading Whistleblower Groups Praise Grassley\u2019s \u2018Proven\u2019 Record of Support for Whistleblowers", "2025-11-20", "2025", "2025-11", "Republican", "Senate", "IA", "Chuck Grassley", "G000386", "www.grassley.senate.gov", "grassley", "https://www.grassley.senate.gov/news/news-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON \u2013 Seven major whistleblower groups told Sen. Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa) his whistleblower advocacy \u201chas changed the course of history for freedom of speech and government accountability to taxpayers.\u201d\n\nThis year alone, Grassley has helped secure reinstatement and restitution for at least 15 whistleblowers at three separate government agencies. One of those reinstated whistleblowers wrote in a letter to Grassley: \u201cThank you for believing in me and believing that the choices I made were right and just... I firmly believe your actions in my case should make our fellow Americans very proud and your constituents in Iowa reassured in their choice to make you, their Senator.\u201d\n\nGrassley is the co-founder and co-chair of the Senate Whistleblower Protection Caucus. Read the whistleblower groups\u2019 letter to Grassley on the Government Accountability Project\u2019s website, or below.\n\nNovember 7, 2025\n\nThe Honorable Charles Grassley\n\n135 Hart Senate Office Building\n\nWashington, D.C. 20510\n\nDear Senator Grassley,\n\nAt this year\u2019s National Whistleblower Day luncheon, you pledged to always have whistleblowers\u2019 backs. That was not mere political rhetoric. Again and again, you have proven it is a reality. This letter is to express appreciation for your leadership protecting whistleblowers through legislation and casework, and in particular your congressional amicus advocacy to the Supreme Court. You have been a leader in drafting and obtaining passage of the legal burdens of proof that are the cornerstone of civil service, intelligence community, and corporate whistleblower rights. You monitor their impact in practice as Chair of the Senate Whistleblower Caucus to close the gap between paper rights and reality.\n\nAll whistleblowers should be especially appreciative that you have defended their rights at the Supreme Court in bipartisan amicus briefs with Senator Wyden, the Whistleblower Caucus Vice Chair. You have taken that step twice recently, for corporate workers in Murray v. UBS, and last month for federal employees in Farrington v. Department of Transportation.\n\nFor decades your leadership in creating, monitoring and defending whistleblower rights has changed the course of history for freedom of speech and government accountability to taxpayers. It is deeply appreciated by those of us on the front lines fighting for those same objectives.\n\nSincerely,\n\nGovernment Accountability Project\n\nEmpower Oversight\n\nNational Security Counselors\n\nNational Whistleblower Center (NWC)\n\nPublic Employees for Environmental Accountability (PEER)\n\nProject on Government Oversight (POGO)\n\nWhistleblowers of America (WOA)\n\nThe Make It Safe Coalition is a nonpartisan network advancing whistleblower protections through education and advocacy. We combat government and corporate fraud, waste, and abuse by supporting and empowering those who expose critical public safety and accountability issues. We are united in the cause of protecting those who honor their duties to serve and warn the public as whistleblowers.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:52:45Z"], ["https://www.grassley.senate.gov/news/news-releases/judiciary-committee-advances-nominations-for-assistant-attorney-general-mississippi-and-louisiana-district-courts-and-four-us-attorneys", "Judiciary Committee Advances Nominations for Assistant Attorney General, Mississippi and Louisiana District Courts and Four U.S. Attorneys", "2025-11-20", "2025", "2025-11", "Republican", "Senate", "IA", "Chuck Grassley", "G000386", "www.grassley.senate.gov", "grassley", "https://www.grassley.senate.gov/news/news-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON \u2013 The Senate Judiciary Committee today advanced the following nominations:\n\nTysen Duva, to be Assistant Attorney General for the Criminal Division, by a vote of 12-10;\n\nRobert P. Chamberlin, to be United States District Judge for the Northern District of Mississippi, by a vote of 12-10;\n\nWilliam J. Crain, to be United States District Judge for the Eastern District of Louisiana, by a vote of 12-10;\n\nJames D. Maxwell II, to be United States District Judge for the Northern District of Mississippi, by a vote of 12-10;\n\nAlexander C. Van Hook, to be United States District Judge for the Western District of Louisiana, by a vote of 16-6;\n\nErin Creegan, to be United States Attorney for the District of New Hampshire, by a vote of 18-4;\n\nRyan Anthony Kriegshauser, to be United States Attorney for the District of Kansas, by a vote of 12-10;\n\nJames Kruger, to be United States Attorney for the Southern District of Mississippi, by a vote of 12-10; and\n\nScott Leary, to be United States Attorney for the Northern District of Mississippi, by a vote of 17-5.\n\nWatch the executive business meeting HERE. Read Chairman Chuck Grassley\u2019s (R-Iowa) opening statement at the executive business meeting HERE.\n\n-30-", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:52:45Z"], ["https://feenstra.house.gov/media/press-releases/feenstra-leads-legislation-help-students-comprehend-full-cost-student-loans", "Feenstra Leads Legislation to Help Students Comprehend Full Cost of Student Loans", "2025-11-19", "2025", "2025-11", "Republican", "House", "IA", "Randy Feenstra", "F000446", "feenstra.house.gov", "feenstra", "https://feenstra.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Today, U.S. Rep. Randy Feenstra (R-Hull) introduced legislation to help aspiring college students understand the full cost and implications of taking out student loans.\n\nThe Student Transparency for Understanding Decisions in Education Net Terms (STUDENT) Act would provide student loan applicants with an estimate of the total amount of interest they would pay \u2013 based on a standard 10-year repayment plan \u2013 during or prior to accepting a loan.\n\nU.S. Senators Joni Ernst (R-IA) and Chuck Grassley (R-IA) have introduced companion legislation in the U.S. Senate.\n\n\u201cAs a father of four, ensuring that our kids can pursue educational opportunities and build a future career is important to me. Whether it\u2019s community college or a four-year university, students need to fully understand the cost of taking out student loans, especially the amount of their interest payments. But currently, there is no requirement to explain how much the full cost of a loan would be when considering interest,\u201d said Rep. Feenstra. \u201cThat\u2019s why I introduced legislation to provide students with an estimate of how much they would pay in interest over the term of their loan. This fix will help keep students out of mountains of unsustainable debt while ensuring that the next generation can chase their dreams and pursue fulfilling educational opportunities.\u201d\n\n\u201cStudents and their families deserve to know exactly what they\u2019re taking on to make informed financial decisions about their education,\u201d said Rep. Hinson. \u201cI\u2019m proud to cosponsor this bill to give students real transparency about the true cost of their loans so they can make the choices that set them up for success.\u201d\n\nCurrent law does not require the disclosure of the total interest amount that a student loan applicant would pay based on the applicable repayment plan.\n\nAs a result, many students are not aware of the actual amount they will end up paying over the life of a loan. The STUDENT Act makes the disclosure of the total interest amount required during or before an applicant takes out a loan.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:52:45Z"]], "truncated": false, "filtered_table_rows_count": 1002, "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": "Republican", "p1": "IA", "p2": "2025"}}, "facet_results": {"party": {"name": "party", "type": "column", "hideable": false, "toggle_url": "/press/releases.json?party=Republican&state=IA&year=2025", "results": [{"value": "Republican", "label": "Republican", "count": 1002, "toggle_url": "http://dpwillis-congress-press-search.hf.space/press/releases.json?state=IA&year=2025", "selected": true}], "truncated": false}, "chamber": {"name": "chamber", "type": "column", "hideable": false, "toggle_url": "/press/releases.json?party=Republican&state=IA&year=2025", "results": [{"value": "Senate", "label": "Senate", "count": 522, "toggle_url": "http://dpwillis-congress-press-search.hf.space/press/releases.json?party=Republican&state=IA&year=2025&chamber=Senate", "selected": false}, {"value": "House", "label": "House", "count": 480, "toggle_url": "http://dpwillis-congress-press-search.hf.space/press/releases.json?party=Republican&state=IA&year=2025&chamber=House", "selected": false}], "truncated": false}, "state": {"name": "state", "type": "column", "hideable": false, "toggle_url": "/press/releases.json?party=Republican&state=IA&year=2025", "results": [{"value": "IA", "label": "IA", "count": 1002, "toggle_url": "http://dpwillis-congress-press-search.hf.space/press/releases.json?party=Republican&year=2025", "selected": true}], "truncated": false}, "year": {"name": "year", "type": "column", "hideable": false, "toggle_url": "/press/releases.json?party=Republican&state=IA&year=2025", "results": [{"value": "2025", "label": "2025", "count": 1002, "toggle_url": "http://dpwillis-congress-press-search.hf.space/press/releases.json?party=Republican&state=IA", "selected": true}], "truncated": false}}, "suggested_facets": [], "next": "2025-11-19,https~3A~2F~2Ffeenstra~2Ehouse~2Egov~2Fmedia~2Fpress-releases~2Ffeenstra-leads-legislation-help-students-comprehend-full-cost-student-loans", "next_url": "http://dpwillis-congress-press-search.hf.space/press/releases.json?party=Republican&state=IA&year=2025&_next=2025-11-19%2Chttps~3A~2F~2Ffeenstra~2Ehouse~2Egov~2Fmedia~2Fpress-releases~2Ffeenstra-leads-legislation-help-students-comprehend-full-cost-student-loans&_sort_desc=date", "private": false, "allow_execute_sql": true, "query_ms": 195.28167508542538, "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"}