{"database": "press", "table": "releases", "is_view": false, "human_description_en": "where party = \"Republican\", state = \"MI\" and year = 2026 sorted by date descending", "rows": [["https://barrett.house.gov/media/press-releases/barrett-urges-secretary-rubio-un-ambassador-waltz-work-international-ai", "Barrett Urges Secretary Rubio, UN Ambassador Waltz to Work on International AI Agreement", "2026-09-29", "2026", "2026-09", "Republican", "House", "MI", "Tom Barrett", "B001321", "barrett.house.gov", "barrett", "https://barrett.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2014 Today, Congressman Tom Barrett (MI-07) wrote a letter to Secretary of State Marco Rubio and U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations Mike Waltz, encouraging them to collaborate with other nations to develop an international agreement to set guardrails on artificial intelligence (AI).\n\nBarrett\u2019s letter comes the day after the United Nations concluded its High-level Week at the beginning of the 81st Session of the UN General Assembly. Barrett asked the foreign policy officials to tackle risks from AI in light of warnings from AI researchers earlier this month.\n\n\u201cIt is my strong belief, as the General Assembly begins its intensive working period, that conversations surrounding artificial intelligence (AI) should include robust efforts for plans and collaboration towards an international agreement,\u201d Barrett wrote. \u201cWhile there has been productive dialogue between industry and world leaders about the future of AI, it is imperative for the United States to chart the path forward.\u201d\n\nHe continued, \u201cThe 81st Session of the UN General Assembly is uniquely positioned to begin these conversations with other countries. This should not only happen with our allies, but our adversaries as well. While we may have disagreements, we should all work towards the common goal of ensuring this technology is properly regulated for the common good and safety of all countries. These exchanges should include ideas for an international AI treaty, incident report sharing, risk management techniques, and human control over offensive and nuclear weapons. Beginning these discussions will ensure we are all prepared.\n\n\u201cThis next frontier in emerging technology has the ability to propel this world into a golden age or send us into collapse. I respectfully request that you both work to create regular and consistent multilateral dialogue on AI moving forward. It is critical that we begin these talks before it is too late.\u201d\n\nBackground\n\nBarrett has been a leader on increasing accountability and transparency for artificial intelligence and data centers. In addition to his call for international collaboration, Barrett has introduced or co-sponsored the following bills in Congress:\n\nThe Human Authority over Autonomous Weapons Act (H.R. 9729) to ensure that no autonomous or artificial intelligence-enabled weapon system used by the United States military can carry out an intentionally lethal strike without meaningful human oversight or a human decision-maker in the loop.\n\nThe Children Harmed by AI Technology (CHAT) Act (H.R. 7218) to require AI chatbots to implement age verification measures to protect minors. The bill requires parental consent for minors using chatbots, bans chatbots from engaging in sexually explicit communications with minors, and requires chatbots to notify a minor\u2019s parent if the minor\u2019s chat shows signs of suicidal ideation.\n\nThe AI Threat Output and Monitoring Incident Containment Act (H.R. 9965) to test advanced AI systems to prevent risks to nuclear safety.\n\nThe Doctors Not AI Act (H.R. 10210), introduced by Barrett and Landsman, to ensure that artificial intelligence cannot make or dictate health insurance coverage decisions involving medical judgment.\n\nThe VA Claims AI Accountability Act (H.R. 10418) to require VA employees \u2014 not AI \u2014 to make the final decisions for approval of disability claims or benefits. The bill also strengthens oversight and accountability for the VA\u2019s digital benefits system.\n\nThe VA AI Transparency Act (H.R. 10417) to require the VA to disclose to every veteran any use of AI by the VA, including in claims processing and customer service chats.\n\nThe Protecting Local Control of Data Centers Act (H.R. 10119) to prohibit federal agencies from overriding local land-use, zoning, siting, or permitting authority related to data centers.\n\nThe No Data Center NDAs Act (H.R. 10118) to prohibit members of Congress from signing non-disclosure agreements (NDAs) about data centers, including any information about possible locations or how much water or energy a facility is expected to consume.\n\nThe No Secrets for Data Centers Act (H.R. 10570) to prohibit and invalidate NDAs signed by federal, state, and local government officials to conceal details of data center projects. The bill would also prohibit data center operators from receiving government incentives if the conditions include entering an agreement to keep information about the project confidential.", 1, "2026-09-30T10:57:52Z", "2026-09-30T10:59:04Z"], ["https://mcclain.house.gov/2026/9/chairwoman-mcclain-announces-1-45-million-for-port-huron-township-sewer-upgrades", "Chairwoman McClain Announces $1.45 Million for Port Huron Township Sewer Upgrades", "2026-09-29", "2026", "2026-09", "Republican", "House", "MI", "Lisa C. McClain", "M001136", "mcclain.house.gov", "mcclain", "https://mcclain.house.gov/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON \u2013 House Republican Conference Chairwoman Lisa McClain (R-Mich.) announced that the Environmental Protection Agency is awarding $1,450,000 to Port Huron Township to modernize the aging Maywood Sanitary Sewer Pump Station to maintain public health in the local community.\n\n\u201cThe Maywood Sanitary Sewer Pump Station has served Port Huron Township for nearly 50 years, but it\u2019s outlived its intended service life, leading to operational issues and costly repairs,\u201d Chairwoman McClain said. \u201cI'm proud to bring home this $1.45 million investment to modernize the sanitary sewer system, protect public health, and reduce messy backups. This gives Port Huron Township the infrastructure it needs to grow and succeed for the next five decades and beyond.\u201d\n\n\u201cPort Huron Township is grateful for Congresswoman McClain\u2019s assistance in securing the EPA Grant to rehabilitate the Maywood Sanitary Lift Station,\u201d said Bob Lewandowski, Supervisor of Port Huron Twp. \u201cThe current station has been running for almost 50 years, serving the residents of the neighborhood. We will construct a new station with up-to-date technology that will serve the residents for another 50 years and probably longer. It is great that we are getting federal funding back to our community where it came from. Thanks again to Congresswoman McClain and her staff for making this happen.\u201d\n\nThe Maywood pump station is critical to keeping sewage flowing safely through the surrounding sewer district, but the aging station has reached the end of its anticipated useful life. The project will rehabilitate the existing structure and replace aging equipment to reduce the risk of equipment failures and sewer backups.\n\nMcClain requested funding for the Maywood project through the FY2023 appropriations process.\n\n###", 1, "2026-09-30T10:57:52Z", "2026-09-30T10:59:04Z"], ["https://mcclain.house.gov/2026/9/chairwoman-mcclain-applauds-new-rule-lowering-costs-for-american-drivers", "Chairwoman McClain Applauds New Rule Lowering Costs for American Drivers", "2026-09-29", "2026", "2026-09", "Republican", "House", "MI", "Lisa C. McClain", "M001136", "mcclain.house.gov", "mcclain", "https://mcclain.house.gov/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON \u2014 House Republican Conference Chairwoman Lisa McClain (R-Mich.) released the following statement after the Department of Transportation finalized new fuel economy standards for passenger cars and light trucks.\n\n\u201cThe Biden Administration forced automakers to meet increasingly costly fuel-economy mandates and American families paid the price,\u201d Chairwoman McClain said. \u201cWe ended that. President Trump\u2019s new standards give automakers the freedom to build the cars and trucks Americans actually want, and they will save families an estimated $1,300 on a new vehicle. Over the next five years, that adds up to $13 billion in savings for Americans buying cars. That\u2019s real money back in people\u2019s pockets. This is what common sense looks like: more choice, lower costs, and Washington forced out of the way.\u201d\n\nThe rule lowers the projected fleetwide requirement to 34.9 miles per gallon by model year 2031. The Biden-era standards would have required automakers to reach a projected fleetwide average of 50.4 miles per gallon by 2031.", 1, "2026-09-30T10:57:52Z", "2026-09-30T10:59:04Z"], ["https://walberg.house.gov/media/press-releases/walberg-honors-hillsdale-county-veteran-1", "Walberg Honors Hillsdale County Veteran", "2026-09-29", "2026", "2026-09", "Republican", "House", "MI", "Tim Walberg", "W000798", "walberg.house.gov", "walberg", "https://walberg.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Yesterday, Congressman Tim Walberg (MI-05) recognized Turner Korotzer of Hillsdale as the Veteran of the Month for September. The Congressman presented Turner with the Congressional Record containing his remarks honoring Turner\u2019s service and dedication to our nation.\n\nTurner enlisted in the United States Marine Corps in 2015, serving proudly as a Network Administrator with the Headquarters Battalion of the 1st Marine Division at Camp Pendleton in California. During his service, Turner deployed twice to Kuwait and later to Syria with the 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit. In recognition of his service, Turner earned both the Navy Achievement Medal and the Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal.\n\nAfter leaving the Marine Corps, Turner never stopped serving, shifting his efforts to the local veteran community. He became involved with several veteran service organizations, including the Hillsdale American Legion, where he took on a leadership role organizing Hillsdale\u2019s annual Independence Day fireworks celebration. Turner has also demonstrated a strong commitment to supporting fellow veterans and fire departments across Hillsdale through his volunteer work with the Major Henry Holloway Canteen Unit.\n\n\u201cIt is a privilege to honor Turner as the Veteran of the Month for September,\u201d said Rep. Walberg. \u201cTurner\u2019s service in the United States Marine Corps and his continued commitment to supporting his fellow veterans exemplifies the highest ideals of leadership, sacrifice, and service. Whether assisting veterans in need or volunteering throughout the Hillsdale community, Turner continues to make a meaningful difference in the lives of others. His dedication to both our nation and community serves as an example for us all, and I am grateful for his continued service.\u201d\n\nYou can access pictures of the presentation here.\n\nBackground\n\nCongressman Walberg\u2019s office is accepting submissions for the Veteran of the Month program, an initiative to honor the exemplary contributions of veterans in Michigan\u2019s 5th Congressional District. Each month, Congressman Walberg recognizes one outstanding veteran, celebrating their commitment to serving our community and their exceptional service in the military.", 1, "2026-09-30T10:57:52Z", "2026-09-30T10:59:04Z"], ["https://barrett.house.gov/media/press-releases/barrett-joins-midwest-colleagues-introducing-bipartisan-legislation-bolster", "Barrett Joins Midwest Colleagues in Introducing Bipartisan Legislation to Bolster Great Lakes Conservation", "2026-09-28", "2026", "2026-09", "Republican", "House", "MI", "Tom Barrett", "B001321", "barrett.house.gov", "barrett", "https://barrett.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2014 Today, Congressmen Tom Barrett (MI-07), Tim Walberg (MI-05), Hillary Scholten (MI-03), Bill Huizenga (MI-04), Debbie Dingell (MI-06), Haley Stevens (MI-11), Marcy Kaptur (OH-09), and Dave Joyce (OH-14) introduced the Regional Great Lakes Partnership Act, a bipartisan, bicameral bill to bolster federal support for Great Lakes research and conservation. This legislation designates the Great Lakes Commission (GLC) as the official Regional Great Lakes Partnership within the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration\u2019s (NOAA) Regional Ocean Partnerships Program.\n\nThis designation ensures that the Great Lakes region receives a fair share of program funding, delivering federal resources to support the GLC\u2019s longstanding work to coordinate Great Lakes research and conservation efforts.\n\n\u201cProtecting the Great Lakes means protecting our water, wildlife, and communities throughout the region,\u201d said Barrett. \u201cThis bipartisan legislation will help bring federal resources to the table and strengthen the partnerships already working to preserve our state's natural resources. I\u2019m proud to work with colleagues from across the region to ensure our Great Lakes remain healthy for generations to come.\u201d\n\n\u201cAs the largest freshwater system in the world, the Great Lakes are central to Michigan\u2019s economy, identity, and long\u2011term prosperity,\u201d said Walberg. \u201cThe bipartisan Regional Great Lakes Partnership Act ensures the region receives its fair share of federal support, strengthening the research and conservation work needed to protect this indispensable resource. We must equip our partners with the tools necessary to safeguard the waters and communities that rely on a healthy Great Lakes ecosystem.\u201d\n\n\u201cAs the largest freshwater system in the world, the Great Lakes are one of Michigan\u2019s greatest assets,\u201d said Scholten. \u201cI\u2019m proud to join my colleagues on both sides of the aisle in supporting the Regional Great Lakes Partnership Act. This commonsense bill will strengthen the research and coordination that keeps the Great Lakes region healthy. Investing in our Great Lakes is investing in our future, and it\u2019s crucial that we conserve this resource for the next generation.\u201d\n\n\u201cAs Co-Chair of the bipartisan Congressional Great Lakes Task Force, I have made it my mission to have the federal government recognize the Great Lakes as a national priority,\u201d said Huizenga. \u201cThe Regional Great Lakes Partnership Act furthers this objective by enhancing the Great Lakes Commission\u2019s steadfast work to protect and conserve Michigan\u2019s most valuable natural resource.\u201d\n\n\u201cThe Great Lakes and their connected waterways are invaluable resources for Michigan and the United States,\u201d said Dingell. \u201cAs a co-chair of the Congressional Great Lakes Task Force, I am proud to help introduce this bipartisan bill to strengthen federal support for Great Lakes research and conservation for future generations to enjoy these national treasures.\u201d\n\n\u201cMichigan is the Great Lakes state, period. Jobs, recreation, and tourism across the Midwest depend on a healthy and flourishing Great Lakes ecosystem,\u201d said Stevens. \u201cI\u2019m proud to work alongside my colleagues of both parties to ensure that Michigan receives our fair share of federal investment that will protect and preserve our Lakes for generations to come.\u201d\n\n\u201cAs a Co-Chair of the bipartisan Congressional Great Lakes Task Force, I helped introduce this legislation to close a gap in a national program that benefits only coastal ocean states. The bill continues our work together to ensure the Federal Government levels the playing field to commit equivalent, well\u2011deserved resources to our Great Lakes region,\u201d said Kaptur. \u201cThe Great Lakes are central and essential to Northwest Ohio\u2019s livelihood and economic well-being, and enabling the Great Lakes Commission to participate in this NOAA program will strengthen data sharing, enhance information access, and improve management of our coastal and ecosystem resources. In Lake Erie\u2019s Western Basin, home to the shallowest and southernmost shoreline in the Great Lakes system, we face these challenges in real ways and will continue to lead in advancing research and information exchange for the benefit of our entire region.\u201d\n\n\u201cThe Great Lakes are a critical resource for the economies and communities that surround them,\u201d said Joyce. \u201cAs Co-Chair of the Congressional Great Lakes Task Force, I am proud to be an original co-sponsor of this bipartisan legislation, which will strengthen federal partnerships and expand funding opportunities to advance the research, coordination, and conservation efforts needed to protect the Great Lakes \u2014 ensuring they remain a resource our communities can rely on for generations to come.\u201d\n\n\u201cThe Great Lakes Commission is grateful to Rep. Walberg for introducing this important legislation to designate the GLC as a regional partnership for the Great Lakes,\u201d said GLC Chair Timothy Bruno, Great Lakes Program Coordinator at the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection. \u201cThis designation will allow the agency to build on its more than 70 years of regional leadership \u2014 fostering dialogue, building consensus, and advancing coordinated solutions to the Great Lakes\u2019 most pressing challenges \u2014 to ensure the Great Lakes region continues to speak with a strong, unified voice. We look forward to working with our partners to realize the full benefits of this program for the region.\u201d\n\nBackground\n\nThe Great Lakes Commission (GLC) brings together eight U.S. states and two Canadian provinces to protect the Great Lakes and promote economic growth in the Great Lakes Basin. The GLC is composed of the States of Illinois, Indiana, Michigan, Minnesota, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, and Wisconsin.\n\nNOAA\u2019s Regional Ocean Partnerships (ROPs) coordinate interstate ocean and coastal resource management efforts and create opportunities for increased efficiency and cost-effectiveness. Although NOAA administers four Regional Ocean Partnerships (ROPs) across the Northeast, Mid\u2011Atlantic, Gulf, and West Coast, the Great Lakes currently lack an ROP. Designating the GLC as the region\u2019s ROP will ensure the Great Lakes region receives its fair share of program funding.\n\nCompanion legislation, introduced in the Senate by U.S. Senators Gary Peters (D-MI) and Bernie Moreno (R-OH), has been advanced by the Senate Commerce, Science, and Transportation Committee.", 1, "2026-09-29T11:07:12Z", "2026-09-29T11:08:49Z"], ["https://walberg.house.gov/media/press-releases/walberg-colleagues-introduce-bipartisan-bicameral-legislation-bolster-great", "Walberg, Colleagues Introduce Bipartisan, Bicameral Legislation to Bolster Great Lakes Conservation Efforts", "2026-09-28", "2026", "2026-09", "Republican", "House", "MI", "Tim Walberg", "W000798", "walberg.house.gov", "walberg", "https://walberg.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Today, Representatives Tim Walberg (R-MI), Marcy Kaptur (D-OH), Bill Huizenga (R-MI), Debbie Dingell (D-MI), David Joyce (R-OH), Haley Stevens (D-MI), Tom Barrett (R-MI), and Hillary Scholten (D-MI) introduced the Regional Great Lakes Partnership Act, a bipartisan, bicameral bill to bolster federal support for Great Lakes research and conservation. This legislation designates the Great Lakes Commission (GLC) as the official Regional Great Lakes Partnership within the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration\u2019s (NOAA) Regional Ocean Partnerships Program.\n\nThis designation ensures that the Great Lakes region receives a fair share of program funding, delivering federal resources to support the GLC\u2019s longstanding work to coordinate Great Lakes research and conservation efforts.\n\n\"As the largest freshwater system in the world, the Great Lakes are central to Michigan\u2019s economy, identity, and long\u2011term prosperity,\u201d said Rep. Walberg. \"The bipartisan Regional Great Lakes Partnership Act ensures the region receives its fair share of federal support, strengthening the research and conservation work needed to protect this indispensable resource. We must equip our partners with the tools necessary to safeguard the waters and communities that rely on a healthy Great Lakes ecosystem.\"\n\n\"As a Co-Chair of the bipartisan Congressional Great Lakes Task Force, I helped introduce this legislation to close a gap in a national program that benefits only coastal ocean states. The bill continues our work together to ensure the Federal Government levels the playing field to commit equivalent, well\u2011deserved resources to our Great Lakes region,\" said Rep. Kaptur. \"The Great Lakes are central and essential to Northwest Ohio\u2019s livelihood and economic wellbeing, and enabling the Great Lakes Commission to participate in this NOAA program will strengthen data sharing, enhance information access, and improve management of our coastal and ecosystem resources. In Lake Erie\u2019s Western Basin, home to the shallowest and southernmost shoreline in the Great Lakes system, we face these challenges in real ways and will continue to lead in advancing research and information exchange for the benefit of our entire region.\"\n\n\"As Co-Chair of the bipartisan Congressional Great Lakes Task Force, I have made it my mission to have the federal government recognize the Great Lakes as a national priority,\" said. Rep. Huizenga. \"The Regional Great Lakes Partnership Act furthers this objective by enhancing the Great Lakes Commission\u2019s steadfast work to protect and conserve Michigan\u2019s most valuable natural resource.\"\n\n\"The Great Lakes and their connected waterways are invaluable resources for Michigan and the United States,\" said Rep. Dingell. \"As a co-chair of the Congressional Great Lakes Task Force, I am proud to help introduce this bipartisan bill to strengthen federal support for Great Lakes research and conservation for future generations to enjoy these national treasures.\"\n\n\"The Great Lakes are a critical resource for the economies and communities that surround them,\" said Rep. Joyce. \"As Co-Chair of the Congressional Great Lakes Task Force, I am proud to be an original co-sponsor of this bipartisan legislation, which will strengthen federal partnerships and expand funding opportunities to advance the research, coordination, and conservation efforts needed to protect the Great Lakes \u2014 ensuring they remain a resource our communities can rely on for generations to come.\"\n\n\"Michigan is the Great Lakes state, period. Jobs, recreation, and tourism across the Midwest depend on a healthy and flourishing Great Lakes ecosystem,\" said Rep. Stevens. \"I\u2019m proud to work alongside my colleagues of both parties to ensure that Michigan receives our fair share of federal investment that will protect and preserve our Lakes for generations to come.\"\n\n\"Protecting the Great Lakes means protecting our water, wildlife, and communities throughout the region,\" said Rep. Barrett. \"This bipartisan legislation will help bring federal resources to the table and strengthen the partnerships already working to preserve our state's natural resources. I\u2019m proud to work with colleagues from across the region to ensure our Great Lakes remain healthy for generations to come.\"\n\n\"As the largest freshwater system in the world, the Great Lakes are one of Michigan\u2019s greatest assets,\" said Rep. Scholten. \"I\u2019m proud to join my colleagues on both sides of the aisle in supporting the Regional Great Lakes Partnership Act. This commonsense bill will strengthen the research and coordination that keeps the Great Lakes region healthy. Investing in our Great Lakes is investing in our future, and it\u2019s crucial that we conserve this resource for the next generation.\"\n\n\"The Great Lakes Commission is grateful to Rep. Walberg for introducing this important legislation to designate the GLC as a regional partnership for the Great Lakes,\" said GLC Chair Timothy Bruno, Great Lakes Program Coordinator at the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection. \"This designation will allow the agency to build on its more than 70 years of regional leadership \u2014 fostering dialogue, building consensus, and advancing coordinated solutions to the Great Lakes\u2019 most pressing challenges \u2014 to ensure the Great Lakes region continues to speak with a strong, unified voice. We look forward to working with our partners to realize the full benefits of this program for the region.\"\n\nBackground\n\nThe Great Lakes Commission (GLC) brings together eight U.S. states and two Canadian provinces to protect the Great Lakes and promote economic growth in the Great Lakes basin. The GLC is composed of the States of Illinois, Indiana, Michigan, Minnesota, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, and Wisconsin.\n\nNOAA\u2019s Regional Ocean Partnerships (ROPs) coordinate interstate ocean and coastal resource management efforts and create opportunities for increased efficiency and cost-effectiveness. Although NOAA administers four Regional Ocean Partnerships (ROPs) across the Northeast, Mid\u2011Atlantic, Gulf, and West Coast, the Great Lakes currently lack an ROP. Designating the GLC as the region\u2019s ROP will ensure the Great Lakes region receives its fair share of program funding.\n\nCompanion legislation, introduced in the Senate by U.S. Senators Gary Peters (D-MI) and Bernie Moreno (R-OH), has been advanced by the Senate Commerce, Science, and Transportation Committee.", 1, "2026-09-29T11:07:12Z", "2026-09-29T11:08:49Z"], ["https://barrett.house.gov/media/press-releases/barrett-epa-administrator-zeldin-highlight-reliable-energy-environmental", "Barrett, EPA Administrator Zeldin Highlight Reliable Energy, Environmental Protection Efforts in Mid-Michigan", "2026-09-26", "2026", "2026-09", "Republican", "House", "MI", "Tom Barrett", "B001321", "barrett.house.gov", "barrett", "https://barrett.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Stockbridge, Mich. \u2014 Today, Congressman Tom Barrett welcomed U.S. Environmental Protection Agency Administrator Lee Zeldin to mid-Michigan to highlight efforts to unleash reliable energy production and promote critical research to help protect the environment from harmful chemicals.\n\nThe officials visited Enbridge\u2019s Stockbridge Terminal and met with local energy leaders before heading to Michigan State University to see how researchers are studying the potential lasting effects and possible mitigation of PFAS chemicals. While at Enbridge, Barrett announced his support for pausing diesel exports to help rein in prices for transporting goods across the country.\n\n\u201cHard-working families deserve to have confidence that they\u2019ll be able to reliably heat their homes in the winter. Secure pipelines are the safest, most efficient, and most dependable way to transport fuel throughout our state,\u201d said Barrett. \u201cPrices at the pump and on utility bills are too expensive right now, and that\u2019s why I\u2019m continuing my work in Congress to unleash American energy production, expand refinery capacity, and protect the infrastructure that safely, cost-effectively transports fuel to and from those refineries. It\u2019s also why I support pausing diesel exports to rein in prices that make shipping groceries and other products more expensive. Thank you to Administrator Zeldin for coming to mid-Michigan to see the work so many in our region are doing to fuel our communities and to protect people and our natural resources.\u201d\n\n\u201cEnergy fuels every part of our lives, but for years, Washington bureaucrats abused power to restrict critical energy infrastructure,\u201d said Administrator Lee Zeldin. \u201cAt the Trump EPA, we are following the law, applying common sense, and helping to unleash U.S. energy dominance. As a result, good-paying energy jobs are being protected and created, and trillions of dollars in regulatory costs are being cut, while simultaneously fulfilling our statutory obligations and protecting our environment. It is great to be working alongside Representative Barrett to deliver for the American public.\u201d\n\nThe Stockbridge Terminal is a crude oil tank facility which allows for the temporary storage of crude oil as it moves through the Enbridge pipeline system in mid-Michigan, connecting supply with numerous regional refineries. It serves as an important hub in Enbridge\u2019s large North American network of critical pipelines, which are the safest and most affordable way to transport oil and natural gas. Barrett and Zeldin toured the facility and then met with leaders in Michigan\u2019s energy industry. During the roundtable conversation, the group discussed the importance of expanding reliable energy production and maintaining critical infrastructure to safely, efficiently transport fuel for Michigan residents. Industry leaders also emphasized the need to build more refinery capacity to process raw materials into usable fuels. Barrett has made boosting American energy production a priority, helping pass critical reforms in the Working Families Tax Cuts Act (H.R. 1) that will increase domestic production and help lower costs in the long run. He has long championed policies to promote competition and encourage production of affordable, reliable energy.\n\nBarrett and Zeldin then met with researchers and toured Michigan State University\u2019s Center for PFAS Research. University scientists are studying the impact on human health, agriculture, and the environment from per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances \u2014 long-lasting chemicals that break down very slowly \u2014 as well as how to mitigate any harm.\n\nBackground:\n\nThe Working Families Tax Cuts Act (H.R. 1) boosted American energy production by authorizing new oil and gas leases and undoing red tape imposed during the Biden administration. The historic law removed subsidies and carveouts for special interests, providing a level playing field that allows companies producing oil, natural gas, wind, solar, nuclear, or other energy sources to compete, innovate, and provide more efficient energy.", 1, "2026-09-27T10:23:37Z", "2026-09-27T10:25:08Z"], ["https://bergman.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=1540", "Bergman, Van Drew, Davis, Golden introduce SMILE for Veterans Act", "2026-09-25", "2026", "2026-09", "Republican", "House", "MI", "Jack Bergman", "B001301", "bergman.house.gov", "bergman", "https://bergman.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx", "scraper", "Last week, Reps. Jack Bergman, Jeff Van Drew, Don Davis, and Jared Golden introduced the SMILE for Veterans Act, bipartisan legislation establishing a Department of Veterans Affairs pilot program to reimburse community-based dental providers for care provided to rural Veterans.\n\nUnder current law, only about 15 percent of the nearly nine million Veterans enrolled in VA health care are eligible for VA dental services. Eligibility is generally limited to Veterans with a service-connected dental condition, a 100 percent disability rating, or former prisoner-of-war status.\n\n\u201cFor too many Veterans in rural communities, basic dental care is either too far away or simply out of reach,\u201d said Rep. Jack Bergman. \u201cThe SMILE for Veterans Act offers a practical solution by connecting Veterans with trusted dental providers already serving their communities. Rather than building an expensive new federal system from the ground up, this legislation uses existing local providers to deliver care efficiently and closer to home.\u201d\n\nEfforts to broadly expand dental coverage through the VA have faced significant cost and capacity challenges, including the need for additional personnel, facilities, and community-care infrastructure.\n\nThe SMILE for Veterans Act takes a targeted approach by creating a reimbursement pathway for existing community-based dental providers to serve rural Veterans. By leveraging providers and infrastructure already in place, the legislation would expand access to dental care in underserved communities without requiring the VA to build a new system from the ground up.\n\n\u201cI spent 30 years as a dentist, and I can tell you that putting off dental care usually only makes things worse,\u201d said Rep. Jeff Van Drew. \u201cFor veterans living in rural communities, sometimes the hardest part is simply finding a dentist close enough to get the care they need. That should not be the case. The SMILE for Veterans Act is a practical way to connect veterans with that care closer to home. To me, that is common sense.\u201d\n\n\u201cQuality dental care is a critical part of keeping our veterans healthy, and too often, veterans in rural communities face significant challenges getting the care they need. The bipartisan SMILE for Veterans Act would give community providers across eastern North Carolina a way to deliver that care closer to home. Our veterans kept their promise to our nation, and we must always keep ours to them,\u201d said Rep. Don Davis.\n\n\u201cVA health care is an essential benefit for our nation\u2019s veterans, but for too long a lack of dental coverage has been a massive gap in care. The mouth is part of the body, and our veterans shouldn\u2019t have to jump through hoops to get basic dental care. I\u2019m proud to work with Reps. Bergman, Davis and Van Drew on the SMILE Act, which takes a smart first step toward more comprehensive coverage by focusing on rural areas where barriers to care are the highest and community providers that can help close the gap,\u201d said Rep. Jared Golden.\n\nThe SMILE for Veterans Act is supported by AMVETS, the National Rural Health Association, and the CareQuest Institute for Oral Health.\n\nIn 2024, the CareQuest Institute funded 10 projects across the country to identify the barriers Veterans face in getting oral health care. The Upper Peninsula Commission for Area Progress (UPCAP) was among the recipients, and with the help of the funding, was able to hold community forums across the region. The forums brought together Veterans, servicemembers, families and caregivers, dental providers, insurers and health plans, and policymakers to discuss Veteran oral health and what keeps Veterans from getting care. The project, led by Frank Lombard, UPCAP\u2019s U.P. Veterans Program Manager, produced troubling findings about the dental health and unmet needs of Veterans in rural Michigan. One survey of 835 Veterans found:\n\nPoor oral health: More than a third of Veterans surveyed rated their oral health as only fair or poor.\n\nVeterans are pulling their own teeth: 32 Veterans reported extracting one of their own teeth during or after military service because they couldn't get in to see a dentist \u2013 1 in 8 of those who answered the question. Among Veterans who rated their oral health as poor, the rate was more than 1 in 4.\n\nWidespread tooth loss: More than 75 percent of respondents who answered reported losing two or more teeth to decay or gum disease. Nearly 40 percent have lost six or more.\n\nEnrolled in VA care, but no dental benefit: 83 percent of respondents are enrolled in VA health care, yet 44 percent reported they are not eligible for VA dental care, with another 32 percent unsure whether they qualify. Fewer than 2% reported being service-connected for dental care.\n\nNo dental insurance: Nearly 37 percent of Veterans reported having no dental insurance. Among those rating their oral health as poor, more than half are uninsured.\n\nCost is the leading barrier: Affordability was the most frequently cited reason for not visiting the dentist more often. That includes 43 percent of Veterans in poor oral health.\n\nLong gaps in care: Nearly a third of Veterans had not seen a dentist in more than a year. More than 20 percent had gone three or more years. Among Veterans in poor oral health, 58 percent had not had a dental visit in the past year.\n\n\u201cThe CareQuest Institute for oral health generously provided funding for the Upper Peninsula Commission for Area Progress to conduct a rural Veteran oral health survey across our region. The results revealed systemic issues regarding problems with Veteran access to dental care. Although the majority of the 835 Veterans who completed the survey reported being enrolled in VA healthcare (696/83%), only 162 (19.4%) reported being eligible for dental services through the VA. Approximately 34% of Veterans reported their oral health as being fair (166) or poor (123). 307 Veterans reported having no dental insurance and 15 reported being unsure if they had any coverage. Lack of eligibility for dental care through the VA and the cost of care were some of the most frequent barriers highlighted in the survey results. Those who reported paying the most out-of-pocket for dental care were middle and lower income categories. The survey also revealed that many Veterans are struggling with serious and painful dental problems such as broken and cracked teeth, cavities, and abscesses. 32 veterans who completed the rural Veteran oral health survey even reported having to extract one of their own teeth during or after military service because they could not get into a dentist in time. No Veteran should ever have to pull one of their own teeth after the sacrifices they have made. This is a problem that must be solved,\u201d said Frank Lombard.\n\n\u201cNo Veteran should struggle to get the dental care they need because of where they live. For veterans in rural communities, limited options and long distances can make accessing oral health care especially difficult, and we all have a responsibility to help close those gaps,\u201d said Melissa Burroughs, Senior Director of Public Policy at CareQuest Institute for Oral Health. \u201cThis legislation is an important step in addressing longstanding barriers to care for rural veterans, and it\u2019s encouraging to see leaders from both parties working together on such a critical need.\u201d", 1, "2026-09-26T09:43:57Z", "2026-09-26T09:44:55Z"], ["https://barrett.house.gov/media/press-releases/barrett-helps-introduce-bipartisan-bill-increase-transparency-ban-data-centers", "Barrett Helps Introduce Bipartisan Bill to Increase Transparency, Ban Data Centers NDAs", "2026-09-24", "2026", "2026-09", "Republican", "House", "MI", "Tom Barrett", "B001321", "barrett.house.gov", "barrett", "https://barrett.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2014 Today, Congressmen Tom Barrett (MI-07), Greg Landsman (OH-01), and Jamie Raskin (MD-08) introduced the No Secrets for Data Centers Act to prohibit non-disclosure agreements (NDAs) by government officials to conceal details of data center projects from the public.\n\nThe bipartisan bill, which applies to federal, state, and local officials, builds on the No Data Center NDAs Act Barrett introduced last month to prohibit members of Congress from signing NDAs to hide data center details. The legislation comes as government officials are increasingly signing NDAs with data center developers, keeping local residents in the dark about how the projects could affect natural resources and electric rates.\n\n\u201cLocal residents must have the final say about data centers in their communities, and that means they need to know all the facts so they can make an informed decision,\u201d Barrett said. \u201cThe recent surge in NDAs is keeping people in the dark about how a data center might affect their land, their water, and their electric bills \u2014 until it\u2019s too late. Blocking these confidentiality agreements is an important step in our fight to increase transparency and protect citizens\u2019 right to decide what is best for their community.\u201d\n\n\u201cBig Tech needs to be transparent about these deals, not force local officials to sign NDAs and keep secrets from their communities,\u201d said Landsman. \u201cThat means no more NDAs. Transparency can\u2019t just be a promise \u2013 it needs to be law.\u201d\n\n\u201cThe American people have a right to know how data centers being built in their communities will affect local utilities, the local environment, and the local economy, and who will be responsible if and when things go wrong,\u201d said Raskin. \u201cYet throughout the country, local officials are blocked from discussing these projects with their constituents because of the Non-Disclosure Agreements Big Tech companies are imposing to cloak these projects in secrecy. I\u2019m proud to introduce this bill with Rep. Landsman to ban these corporate gag orders and make sure no public official is stifled in their most fundamental duty: answering to the people they represent and protecting their interests.\u201d\n\nThe new bill also comes the week after Barrett and the U.S. House of Representatives approved the Ratepayer Protection Act to require large-load energy customers, such as data centers, to cover the full costs of increased grid capacity.\n\nBackground\n\nThe No Secrets for Data Centers Act would prohibit and invalidate NDAs signed by government officials to conceal details of data center projects. NDAs have gained attention in Michigan in recent years, with many federal, state, and local officials signing secrecy deals about a variety of proposed corporate projects.\n\nThe bill would also prohibit data center operators from receiving government incentives if the conditions include entering an agreement to keep information about the project confidential. Michigan currently prevents disclosure of details about data centers receiving targeted tax incentives, and other states have adopted similar confidentiality provisions.\n\nBarrett has been a leader on reining in government overreach and increasing transparency and accountability for artificial intelligence and data centers. He voted against Michigan\u2019s corporate welfare for data centers when he was a state lawmaker, and he\u2019s introduced or co-sponsored the following bills in Congress:\n\nThe Protecting Local Control of Data Centers Act (H.R. 10119) to prohibit federal agencies from overriding local land-use, zoning, siting, or permitting authority related to data centers.\n\nThe No Data Center NDAs Act (H.R. 10118) would prohibit members of Congress from signing non-disclosure agreements (NDAs) about data centers, including any information about possible locations or how much water or energy a facility is expected to consume.\n\nThe Doctors Not AI Act (H.R. 10210), introduced by Barrett and Landsman, to ensure that artificial intelligence cannot make or dictate health insurance coverage decisions involving medical judgment.\n\nThe Children Harmed by AI Technology (CHAT) Act (H.R. 7218) to require AI chatbots to implement age verification measures to protect minors. The bill requires parental consent for minors using chatbots, bans chatbots from engaging in sexually explicit communications with minors, and requires chatbots to notify a minor\u2019s parent if the minor\u2019s chat shows signs of suicidal ideation.\n\nThe AI Threat Output and Monitoring Incident Containment Act (H.R. 9965) to test advanced AI systems to prevent risks to nuclear safety.\n\nThe Human Authority over Autonomous Weapons Act (H.R. 9729) to ensure that no autonomous or artificial intelligence-enabled weapon system used by the United States military can carry out an intentionally lethal strike without meaningful human oversight or a human decision-maker in the loop.\n\nThe VA Claims AI Accountability Act (H.R. 10418) to require VA employees \u2014 not AI \u2014 to make the final decisions for approval of disability claims or benefits. The bill also strengthens oversight and accountability for the VA\u2019s digital benefits system.\n\nThe VA AI Transparency Act (H.R. 10417) to require the VA to disclose to every veteran any use of AI by the VA, including in claims processing and customer service chats.", 1, "2026-09-25T10:04:52Z", "2026-09-25T10:05:46Z"], ["https://barrett.house.gov/media/press-releases/barrett-introduces-two-bills-ensure-transparency-accountability-ai-use-va", "Barrett Introduces Two Bills to Ensure Transparency, Accountability for AI Use at the VA", "2026-09-18", "2026", "2026-09", "Republican", "House", "MI", "Tom Barrett", "B001321", "barrett.house.gov", "barrett", "https://barrett.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2014 Congressman Tom Barrett (MI-07) this week introduced the VA Claims AI Accountability Act (H.R. 10418) and the VA AI Transparency Act (H.R. 10417) to ensure veterans get efficient, transparent, quality service and human review for benefit claims when the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) uses artificial intelligence.\n\n\u201cTechnology is supposed to be a tool to provide better, faster service. It should never get in the way of the care and benefits veterans earned,\u201d Barrett said. \u201cThe bills I\u2019m introducing will always put veterans first at the VA by requiring transparency about any AI use and making sure a real person \u2014 not just an AI system \u2014 reviews every veteran\u2019s claim.\u201d\n\nBarrett, who chairs the House Veterans\u2019 Affairs Subcommittee on Technology Modernization, has been leading efforts in Congress to oversee technological upgrades at the VA to ensure new systems are truly helping VA staff meet veterans\u2019 needs. At a recent hearing, he discussed with senior VA officials the need for transparency and human accountability for AI use at the department.\n\nBackground\n\nThe VA provides a variety of benefits and services to veterans based on disabilities resulting from their military service. The VA Claims AI Accountability Act (H.R. 10418) would:\n\nEnsure VA employees make all final decisions for approval of disability claims and benefits, including human review of each individual disability condition claimed;\n\nRequire the VA to maintain and continue improving its digital disability claims processing system to make sure it is accurately and efficiently getting veterans the benefits they earned; and\n\nStrengthen oversight and accountability from Congress and the independent comptroller general.\n\nThe VA AI Transparency Act (H.R. 10417) would require the VA to disclose to every veteran any use of AI by the VA, including in claims processing and customer service chats.\n\nBarrett has been a leader in reining in government overreach and increasing transparency and accountability for artificial intelligence technology and data center facilities. He has introduced or co-sponsored the following bills in Congress:\n\nThe Doctors Not AI Act (H.R. 10210) to ensure that artificial intelligence cannot make or dictate health insurance coverage decisions involving medical judgment.\n\nThe Children Harmed by AI Technology (CHAT) Act (H.R. 7218) to require AI chatbots to implement age verification measures to protect minors. The bill requires parental consent for minors using chatbots, bans chatbots from engaging in sexually explicit communications with minors, and requires chatbots to notify a minor\u2019s parent if the minor\u2019s chat shows signs of suicidal ideation.\n\nThe AI Threat Output and Monitoring Incident Containment Act (H.R. 9965) to test advanced AI systems to prevent risks to nuclear safety.\n\nThe Human Authority over Autonomous Weapons Act (H.R. 9729) to ensure that no autonomous or artificial intelligence-enabled weapon system used by the United States military can carry out an intentionally lethal strike without meaningful human oversight or a human decision-maker in the loop.\n\nThe Protecting Local Control of Data Centers Act (H.R. 10119) to prohibit federal agencies from overriding local land-use, zoning, siting, or permitting authority related to data centers.\n\nThe No Data Center NDAs Act (H.R. 10118) to prohibit members of Congress from signing non-disclosure agreements (NDAs) about data centers, including any information about possible locations or how much water or energy a facility is expected to consume.\n\nCLICK HERE to read the VA Claims AI Accountability Act.", 1, "2026-09-19T09:11:33Z", "2026-09-19T09:12:45Z"], ["https://barrett.house.gov/media/press-releases/barrett-joins-harrigan-davis-increase-rural-access-quality-health-care", "Barrett Joins Harrigan, Davis to Increase Rural Access to Quality Health Care", "2026-09-17", "2026", "2026-09", "Republican", "House", "MI", "Tom Barrett", "B001321", "barrett.house.gov", "barrett", "https://barrett.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2014 Today, Congressman Tom Barrett (MI-07) joined Congressmen Pat Harrigan (NC-10) and Don Davis (NC-01) in introducing the Resources for Essential Access to Community Health (REACH) Act. This bipartisan legislation would incentivize health care professionals to serve rural areas and address critical workforce shortages.\n\n\u201cToo many of our rural communities don\u2019t have enough doctors and nurses to provide essential care for the local residents who need it,\u201d said Barrett. \u201cWhere you live should never be a barrier to accessing quality care. By providing an incentive to attract these professionals to our communities, our bipartisan REACH Act will make health care more affordable and accessible for families in rural mid-Michigan.\u201d\n\nBackground\n\nSpecifically, the REACH Act (H.R. 10440) would provide a tax credit of up to $10,000 for primary care physicians (including OB-GYNs), mental health professionals, nurses, and medical residents who work at least 900 hours per year in a rural area. The tax credit would decrease for individuals making more than $170,000.\n\nRural communities face especially severe shortages of medical professionals. Approximately 61% of federally designated Health Professional Shortage Areas are in rural communities, including Eaton and Shiawassee counties.\n\nThe legislation builds on the historic Rural Health Transformation Program, which Barrett and his colleagues passed into law last year to lower costs and expand access to health care in rural communities. Michigan will be receiving $173 million through the program, including $25 million announced this month to improve technology and internet infrastructure to help rural residents access quality health care.", 1, "2026-09-18T09:27:43Z", "2026-09-18T09:29:09Z"], ["https://james.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=1305", "James: Families should not have to pay higher electric rates due to data centers", "2026-09-17", "2026", "2026-09", "Republican", "House", "MI", "John James", "J000307", "james.house.gov", "james", "https://james.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Rep. John James voted on Wednesday for legislation to help ensure that companies profiting from data centers are the ones paying the cost of the electric grid upgrades needed to power them.\n\n\u201cFamilies should not have to pay higher electricity prices due to data centers,\u201d said James, R-Shelby Township. \u201cIf a local community decides it wants to allow a data center, then the companies that build and profit from the data centers should cover the increased costs. There should be no increase in electricity bills for individual households.\u201d\n\nH.R. 9340, the Ratepayer Protection Act, requires state utility regulators and non-regulated utilities to consider implementing a federal standard for large-load customers. Under that standard, new facilities such as data centers with a peak demand of 100 megawatts or more would have to pay for the full incremental cost of power generation, transmission and distribution upgrades required to support the data center.\n\nIn addition, large-load customers would be required to provide the utility financial assurances to cover the up-front costs in advance of the utility making upgrades, so that the expense does not fall on local residential customers should a project fall through.\n\nJames said that preventing electricity rates from going up is only one of many factors surrounding the data center issue. He said local communities must retain control, and that data centers must not pollute, including water and noise pollution. He also said that data centers should go on old industrial brownfields, not productive green farmland.\n\nThe legislation now goes to the Senate for consideration.\n\nJames represents Michigan\u2019s 10th Congressional District, which includes portions of Oakland and Macomb counties.", 1, "2026-09-18T09:27:43Z", "2026-09-18T09:29:09Z"], ["https://walberg.house.gov/media/press-releases/walberg-smith-owens-and-cassidy-lead-bicameral-effort-expand-educational", "Walberg, Smith, Owens, and Cassidy Lead Bicameral Effort to Expand Educational Opportunities", "2026-09-17", "2026", "2026-09", "Republican", "House", "MI", "Tim Walberg", "W000798", "walberg.house.gov", "walberg", "https://walberg.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Congressman Tim Walberg (R-MI) joined Rep. Adrian Smith (R-NE), Rep. Burgess Owens (R-UT), and Senator Bill Cassidy (R-LA) in introducing the Educational Opportunities Expansion Package, two bills to strengthen his Federal Scholarship Tax Credit, a key provision of the Working Families Tax Cuts. The package aims to expand educational opportunities for students nationwide by removing the current state opt-in requirement and ensuring that scholarship donors are not restricted in their giving based on their marital status.\n\n\"Last year, Republicans' Working Families Tax Cuts became law, delivering the largest expansion of school choice in history. I support giving every family the opportunity to benefit, providing parents with greater flexibility to choose the educational environment that best supports their child\u2019s needs. All children deserve access to an education that helps them achieve the American Dream, no matter their background or address,\u201dsaid Chairman Walberg.\n\n\"My Federal Scholarship Tax Credit marked a critical victory for educational freedom nationwide. However, I know our work is not done. This is why I introduced my Educational Opportunities Expansion Package to ensure students nationwide can reap the full benefits of these scholarships, while also protecting benefactors from penalties based on their marital status. I am grateful for the strong bicameral support of my colleagues, and I look forward to working together to build on our success,\u201d said Smith.\n\n\u201cParents know what is right for their kids much better than any bureaucrat. I\u2019m grateful for this legislation that strengthens school choice policies which puts parents in the driver\u2019s seat of their child\u2019s education and ensures the student can receive the education they deserve,\u201dsaid Owens.\n\n\u201cAs parents, we know our children better than anyone. When we put parents in charge of their child\u2019s education, we give children the best opportunity to thrive,\u201dsaid Dr. Cassidy. \u201cAnother win for School Choice!\u201d\n\nThe Educational Opportunities Expansion Package is supported by the American Federation for Children, Invest in Education Coalition, Federal Scholarship Tax Credit Coalition Steering Committee, Ed Choice, and Agudath Israel of America.\n\nBACKGROUND:\n\nThe Educational Opportunities Expansion Package includes two bills aimed at expanding access to the Federal Scholarship Tax Credit and restoring Congressional intent following changes made during the Senate parliamentarian\u2019s review of the 2025 reconciliation.", 1, "2026-09-22T09:42:49Z", "2026-09-22T09:44:35Z"], ["https://barrett.house.gov/media/press-releases/house-unanimously-passes-barrett-bill-honor-medal-honor-recipient-killed-pearl", "House Unanimously Passes Barrett Bill to Honor Medal of Honor Recipient Killed at Pearl Harbor", "2026-09-16", "2026", "2026-09", "Republican", "House", "MI", "Tom Barrett", "B001321", "barrett.house.gov", "barrett", "https://barrett.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. - Today, the U.S. House of Representatives unanimously passed Congressman Tom Barrett's (MI-07) bipartisan bill (H.R. 9570) to name the post office in Charlotte, Mich., after U.S. Navy Ensign Francis Flaherty, who was awarded the Medal of Honor for his bravery and sacrifice during Japan's attack on Pearl Harbor.\n\n\"Ensign Francis Flaherty truly was a homegrown hero for our Charlotte community,\" Barrett said. \"He selflessly laid down his life during the attacks on Pearl Harbor trying to get his fellow sailors to safety, and his ultimate sacrifice continues to serve as an example for us all. Naming the post office in his honor will further promote and preserve his heroic legacy for generations to come.\"\n\nBarrett's bill (H.R. 9570) would name the Charlotte post office the \"Francis C. Flaherty Post Office Building.\" He introduced the legislation in July with support from all 12 other members of the Michigan delegation in the House of Representatives.\n\nBackground:\n\nFrancis Charles Flaherty was born on March 15, 1919, in Charlotte, Michigan. He graduated from Charlotte High School and attended the University of Michigan before joining the U.S. Naval Reserve. Flaherty was stationed on the USS Oklahoma at Pearl Harbor during the December 7, 1941, attack. When the crew was ordered to abandon the sinking ship, Flaherty stayed in his turret, holding a flashlight to help the rest of his turret crew escape and sacrificing his own life. For this heroism, Flaherty was posthumously awarded the Medal of Honor, which was presented to his brother.\n\nHis remains were initially unable to be identified and were buried in the National Memorial Cemetery of the Pacific in Honolulu, Hawaii. In 2019, the military was able to identify his remains using DNA samples from family members, and the family chose to have him reinterred at the Maple Hill Cemetery in Charlotte in 2021. Barrett, a state senator at the time, participated in the homecoming procession and ceremony along with thousands of attendees, including family members, local residents, and U.S. Navy Rear Admiral Jeff Spivey.\n\nBarrett previously led a successful effort to rename a portion of M-50 in Charlotte in honor of Flaherty. The bill that included Barrett's amendment naming the \"Ensign Francis Flaherty Memorial Highway\" passed the Michigan Legislature unanimously, and Gov. Gretchen Whitmer signed it into law on July 29, 2021.\n\nClick here to read H.R. 9570.", 1, "2026-09-17T09:52:05Z", "2026-09-17T09:53:00Z"], ["https://mcclain.house.gov/2026/9/chairwoman-mcclain-secures-50-million-for-water-projects-in-house-passed-wrda-bill", "Chairwoman McClain Secures $50 Million for Water Projects in House-Passed WRDA bill", "2026-09-16", "2026", "2026-09", "Republican", "House", "MI", "Lisa C. McClain", "M001136", "mcclain.house.gov", "mcclain", "https://mcclain.house.gov/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON \u2013 House Republican Conference Chairwoman Lisa McClain (R-Mich.) today secured authorization for $50,000,000 in water infrastructure projects in Lapeer, Macomb, Oakland, and St. Clair Counties in the Water Resources Development Act (WRDA) of 2026. The legislation now heads to the Senate for further consideration.\n\n\u201cWhen you turn on the tap, you expect clean, safe drinking water to come out,\u201d Chairwoman McClain said. \u201cBut as many families in Michigan know, aging infrastructure means we can\u2019t take that for granted. This $50 million authorization will help communities upgrade the water systems families and businesses rely on every single day.\n\nThe legislation comes after a May 2026 water main break left families and businesses in Lake Orion and surrounding communities without running water for days. Subject to appropriations, the funding authorized by WRDA 2026will allow the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to partner with local communities to improve water supply resiliency in the future.\n\n###", 1, "2026-09-18T09:27:43Z", "2026-09-18T09:29:09Z"], ["https://walberg.house.gov/media/press-releases/walberg-backed-ratepayer-protection-act-passes-house-0", "Walberg-Backed Ratepayer Protection Act Passes House", "2026-09-16", "2026", "2026-09", "Republican", "House", "MI", "Tim Walberg", "W000798", "walberg.house.gov", "walberg", "https://walberg.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Today, Congressman Tim Walberg (MI-05) voted to pass the Ratepayer Protection Act, legislation that would require state public utility commissions to consider a strategy to make data centers pay their own way instead of passing costs on to American consumers.\n\nThe Ratepayer Protection Act codifies the White House\u2019s Ratepayer Protection Pledge from earlier this year, under which more than 300 other organizations ranging from utilities to data center developers committed to protecting communities from increased costs resulting from data center construction. The legislation would have state utility commissions consider large-load standards for data centers drawing more than 100 MW of power, to ensure they pay for the full incremental costs to serve their loads.", 1, "2026-09-18T09:27:43Z", "2026-09-18T09:29:09Z"], ["https://walberg.house.gov/media/press-releases/walberg-votes-strengthen-oversight-and-crack-down-fraud", "Walberg Votes to Strengthen Oversight and Crack Down on Fraud", "2026-09-16", "2026", "2026-09", "Republican", "House", "MI", "Tim Walberg", "W000798", "walberg.house.gov", "walberg", "https://walberg.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Today, Congressman Tim Walberg (MI-05) voted in favor of two bills that would strengthen federal oversight of taxpayer-funded programs and crack down on fraud. The National Fraud Enforcement Division Act and the Preventing Rip-offs and Obtaining Oversight of Funds (PROOF) Act passed the House by votes of 352-72 and 217-207, respectively.\n\n\"Federal programs should support real families, rather than fraudsters,\" said Rep. Walberg. \"As Chair of the Education and Workforce Committee, I helped usher multiple bills through the House earlier this year to strengthen oversight and institute safeguards against fraud in federal student aid and child care programs. These bills would build upon these efforts to further identify and crack down on fraud and hold criminals who are exploiting the system accountable.\"\n\nBackground\n\nEach year, fraudsters steal billions of dollars from Americans and taxpayer-funded programs, with the Government Accountability Office estimating up to $521 billion being lost due to fraudulent payments.\n\nThe National Fraud Enforcement Division Act would codify President Trump's Division for National Fraud Enforcement within the Department of Justice. Since its establishment in January, the division has uncovered billions of dollars in fraud. This legislation would ensure that an office is permanently in place to combat fraud across the federal government, safeguard taxpayer dollars, and hold fraudsters accountable.\n\nThe Preventing Rip-offs and Obtaining Oversight of Funds (PROOF) Act would improve information-sharing between state administrators and federal law enforcement, making it easier to identify fraud more quickly.", 1, "2026-09-18T09:27:43Z", "2026-09-18T09:29:09Z"], ["https://walberg.house.gov/media/press-releases/walbergs-legislation-bridge-digital-divide-advanced-energy-and-commerce", "Walberg's Legislation to Bridge the Digital Divide Advanced by Energy and Commerce Committee", "2026-09-16", "2026", "2026-09", "Republican", "House", "MI", "Tim Walberg", "W000798", "walberg.house.gov", "walberg", "https://walberg.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Today, the Energy and Commerce Committee voted to pass the Proper Leadership to Align Networks (PLAN) for Broadband Act. Introduced by Congressmen Tim Walberg (R-MI) and Scott Peters (D-CA), the bipartisan legislation would implement a national strategy to accelerate the deployment of critical broadband infrastructure across the country.\n\n\"We cannot let Michigan's rural communities get left behind in today's digital age due to fragmented and overlapping broadband deployment efforts,\" said Rep. Walberg. \"I am proud to see the Energy and Commerce Committee advance the PLAN for Broadband Act to improve the efficiency and coordination of federal broadband programs. Developing a detailed roadmap that streamlines deployment efforts is a commonsense step we can take to increase reliable high-speed internet access for the rural communities that need it most.\"\n\n\"For too long, broadband has failed to reach many of the communities who need it most,\" said Rep. Peters. \"This shortfall has left constituents in San Diego and communities across the country still waiting to be connected to the internet. Today, I'm glad to see the PLAN for Broadband Act pass out of committee, bringing us one step closer to closing the digital divide.\"\n\nBackground\n\nThe PLAN for Broadband Act is based upon a Government Accountability Office report that found that federal broadband efforts are oftentimes fragmented and duplicative. While enough federal funding exists to bridge the digital divide, a national broadband strategy is needed to avoid duplicative efforts and ensure that funds are available to reach the truly unserved and underserved areas. The PLAN forBroadband Act would require the Administration to develop and implement a national strategy to close the digital divide.", 1, "2026-09-18T09:27:43Z", "2026-09-18T09:29:09Z"], ["https://walberg.house.gov/media/press-releases/committee-advances-walbergs-legislation-protect-great-lakes-fisheries", "Committee Advances Walberg's Legislation to Protect Great Lakes Fisheries", "2026-09-15", "2026", "2026-09", "Republican", "House", "MI", "Tim Walberg", "W000798", "walberg.house.gov", "walberg", "https://walberg.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Today, the House Natural Resources Committee unanimously advanced the Responsible Cormorant Management and Control Act. Introduced by Congressman Tim Walberg (MI-05), the bill would ensure effective, science-based management of double-crested cormorant populations across the United States. The bill directs the Secretary of the Interior to develop regional management frameworks to guide the responsible take of double\u2011crested cormorants, working in coordination with the nation\u2019s four Regional Flyway Councils.\n\nDouble\u2011crested cormorants have long posed challenges for fisheries and wildlife populations when their numbers become overabundant. In the Great Lakes, cormorant populations have wreaked havoc on fish stocks, inflicting millions of dollars in damage to the Great Lakes fisheries and threatening $5.1 billion in economic impact for recreational fishing.\n\nThe Responsible Cormorant Management and Control Act would establish a comprehensive, collaborative framework to ensure that population management is effective and sustainable, better protecting fisheries and other wildlife habitats.\n\n\"The Great Lakes fisheries are vital to Michigan\u2019s economy and environment, offering recreational opportunities for families and supporting local jobs and tourism,\" said Rep. Walberg. \"However, overabundant cormorant populations have damaged Great Lakes fish stocks. To protect our fisheries, we need a flexible, science\u2011driven framework to manage cormorants responsibly. The Responsible Cormorant Management and Control Act will give our fisheries the tools they need to thrive and support Michigan\u2019s economy for years to come.\"", 1, "2026-09-16T09:43:13Z", "2026-09-16T09:44:22Z"], ["https://mcclain.house.gov/2026/9/house-passes-chairwoman-mcclain-s-common-cents-act-to-end-wasteful-penny-production", "House Passes Chairwoman McClain's Common Cents Act to End Wasteful Penny Production", "2026-09-14", "2026", "2026-09", "Republican", "House", "MI", "Lisa C. McClain", "M001136", "mcclain.house.gov", "mcclain", "https://mcclain.house.gov/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON\u2014 Today, the House passed H.R. 10167, the Common Cents Act, legislation led by House Republican Conference Chairwoman Lisa McClain (R-Mich.), to permanently end production of the penny for general circulation and modernize America\u2019s coinage system.\n\n\u201cWashington has a spending problem, and it shows up in places big and small,\u201d Chairwoman McClain said. \u201cIf the federal government is spending nearly four cents to make a penny worth one cent, something is broken. House Republicans are proving that common sense still has a place in government by cutting waste and protecting taxpayer dollars.\u201d\n\nThe Common Cents Act ends production of pennies for general circulation while keeping existing pennies legal tender and allowing the U.S. Mint to continue producing collectible coins. It also establishes uniform guidance allowing cash transactions to be rounded to the nearest five cents when exact change is unavailable. Electronic payments and other non-cash transactions will continue to be charged to the exact cent.\n\nThe legislation also directs the Federal Reserve to develop a national transition plan for the hundreds of billions of pennies already in circulation and requires Treasury to notify Congress before discontinuing any other circulating coin. It also authorizes a lower-cost nickel composition if testing shows it will reduce production costs without significantly disrupting coin-operated machines.\n\n###", 1, "2026-09-16T09:43:13Z", "2026-09-16T09:44:22Z"], ["https://huizenga.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=404531", "Huizenga Statement Commemorating the 25th Anniversary of 9/11", "2026-09-11", "2026", "2026-09", "Republican", "House", "MI", "Bill Huizenga", "H001058", "huizenga.house.gov", "huizenga", "https://huizenga.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx", "scraper", "Twenty-five years ago, our nation was forever changed. On September 11th, nearly 3,000 people were spending time with their friends, families, and loved ones for what would be the last time. For those of us who saw these tragic events unfold on national tv, the memories remain vivid. We remember watching in disbelief as a second plane struck the World Trade Center. We remember the smoke rising from the Pentagon and learning that another plane had gone down near Shanksville, Pennsylvania.\n\nAcross Southwest Michigan, friends. families, and communities, watched in disbelief. We prayed for our nation, our neighbors, and those directly impacted by his tragic day.\n\nA quarter-century later, an entire generation of Americans know September 11 only as history. We promised to never forget, and part of that promise is ensuring we teach younger Americans about the events that transpired.\n\nOur children and grandchildren should know about the passengers aboard Flight 93 who fought back. They should know about ordinary Americans who helped complete strangers in a time of crisis.\n\nTeaching the next generation also means understanding what happened afterward too.\n\nAcross Southwest Michigan and the nation, Americans displayed the flag, gathered in churches, donated blood, and checked on their neighbors. At one of our darkest moments, Americans showed what courage, service, faith, and patriotism looked like.\n\nToday, parents, grandparents, teachers, and veterans across Southwest Michigan have an important responsibility.\n\nWe cannot allow September 11th to merely become a chapter in a history book. We owe it to those who never came home, to the heroes who ran toward danger, and to friends and families who carry the memory of their lost loved ones forward. We must tell the next generation what happened that day, how our nation responded, and how every day Americans came together to meet the moment.", 1, "2026-09-12T09:02:30Z", "2026-09-12T09:03:27Z"], ["https://moolenaar.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressman-moolenaar-introduces-patriot-week-resolution-0", "Congressman Moolenaar Introduces Patriot Week Resolution", "2026-09-11", "2026", "2026-09", "Republican", "House", "MI", "John R. Moolenaar", "M001194", "moolenaar.house.gov", "moolenaar", "https://moolenaar.house.gov/media-center/press-releases", "scraper", "Today, Congressman John Moolenaar introduced legislation to designate September 11 through 17 as Patriot Week. The legislation intends to honor the victims of the 9/11 terrorist attacks, recognize the ratification of the United States Constitution, and encourage each generation to reflect on our history and freedoms.\n\n\u201cAs we remember the heroes and innocent victims killed on September 11 twenty-five years ago, we should also recall the profound unity Americans felt in the aftermath of the terrorist attacks. Patriot Week is a time to reflect on our founding values, and encourage a deeper exploration of our history with hope to restore this national unity. I am proud to introduce this resolution to recognize this week as Patriot Week; to encourage Americans to celebrate the freedoms we cherish and honor our Constitution,\u201d said Congressman Moolenaar.\n\n\u201cTwenty-five years ago, terrorists attacked our country believing they could break the American spirit. Instead, one of our darkest days brought out the very best of America,\u201d said Congressman Zach Nunn. \u201cFirst responders ran toward danger, passengers aboard Flight 93 rushed the cockpit rather than allow their plane to become another weapon, and a generation of Americans raised their hand to serve. This Patriot Week, we honor the values our Founding Fathers passed down to us, embodied by everyday Americans in the weeks and months that followed the 9/11 attacks: service before self, courage in the face of adversity, and an unwavering commitment to our nation.\u201d", 1, "2026-09-12T09:02:30Z", "2026-09-12T09:03:27Z"], ["https://huizenga.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=404530", "Huizenga Announces $1.6 Million in New Mental Health Funding for Kalamazoo, Ottawa, and Van Buren Counties", "2026-09-10", "2026", "2026-09", "Republican", "House", "MI", "Bill Huizenga", "H001058", "huizenga.house.gov", "huizenga", "https://huizenga.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx", "scraper", "Today, Congressman Bill Huizenga (R-MI) announced that Ottawa County, Van Buren County, and Western Michigan University will receive new grant funding through the Department of Health and Human Services to strengthen mental health services and support substance abuse recovery. These federal grant funds are a direct result of legislation supported by Congressman Huizenga.\n\n\u201cConnecting children, parents, and families across Southwest Michigan with mental health resources creates positive outcomes, strengthens our community, and makes Southwest Michigan an even better place to call home,\u201d said Congressman Bill Huizenga. \u201cI am committed to ensuring that those facing mental health and substance use challenges\u2014some of life\u2019s hardest struggles\u2014have access to the best possible care, support, and resources.\u201d\n\nWestern Michigan University in Kalamazoo is being awarded a $599,999 grant for their Family Trauma Assessment of Children and Caregivers work\n\nOttawa County Community Mental Health in Holland is being awarded a $616,685 grant for mental health & substance abuse services.", 1, "2026-09-12T09:02:30Z", "2026-09-12T09:03:27Z"], ["https://moolenaar.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/moolenaar-goldman-obernoltes-locomotives-act-passed-committee", "Moolenaar, Goldman, Obernolte's LOCOMOTIVES Act Passed by Committee", "2026-09-02", "2026", "2026-09", "Republican", "House", "MI", "John R. Moolenaar", "M001194", "moolenaar.house.gov", "moolenaar", "https://moolenaar.house.gov/media-center/press-releases", "scraper", "Today, Congressmen John Moolenaar, Craig Goldman, (R-TX), and Jay Obernolte's (R-CA) legislation, the LOCOMOTIVES Act was passed by the House Committee on Energy and Commerce. The bill prevents the State of California from placing unsustainable regulations on trains crossing into the state by revising Section 209 of the Clean Air Act. Current law allows states like California to request waivers from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to adopt policies stricter than federal emission standards.\n\n\"California bureaucrats should not be able to supersede federal law and prevent vital parts of Michigan's economy from accessing global markets. Our LOCOMOTIVES Act is a common sense proposal to allow industries that rely on railway transportation like Michigan agriculture and our auto industry to continue to operate under one national standard. I am grateful for Chairman Guthrie's leadership and his committee's support for my legislation, and I will continue my work to ensure our supply chains remain strong,\" said Congressman Moolenaar.\n\n\u201cA single state should not be allowed to impose unworkable mandates on our national rail system,\u201d said Congressman Obernolte. \u201cThe LOCOMOTIVES Act protects jobs and investment in my district, including the Barstow International Gateway, while providing the consistent federal standards needed to keep goods moving across the country. I\u2019m glad the Energy and Commerce Committee advanced this commonsense legislation.\u201d\n\n\"I\u2019m proud to have joined Rep. Moolenaar and Rep. Obernolte in leading the LOCOMOTIVES ACT, preventing California\u2019s extreme green energy regulations from dictating how states like Texas handle their freight rail industry. Only Texas should set the rules for Texas\u2014and I\u2019ll keep fighting to make sure it stays that way,\" said Congressman Goldman.\n\nThe legislation's passage through committee was applauded by Energy and Commerce Committee Chairman, Brett Guthrie.\n\n\u201cA strong freight rail system is the backbone of America's supply chain and interstate commerce, and no individual state should be allowed to mandate rules for the entire country. California's push to impose emissions mandates on locomotives would drive up costs on nearly everything that families buy from groceries to building materials. The LOCOMOTIVES Act ensures clear standards are in place to keep prices low for communities across the country. Thank you to Congressmen Moolenaar, Goldman, and Obernolte for their work on this important issue,\u201d said Chairman Guthrie.\n\nIn 2023 the California Air Resources Board requested a waiver from the EPA to prohibit trains older than 23 years old from operating in the state, unless they are zero-emission, which would prevent two-thirds of currently operating trains from entering the state. Although California's waiver request was withdrawn, the state may resubmit a similar request at any time.\n\nThe LOCOMOTIVES Act is endorsed by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, the Michigan Farm Bureau, the Association of American Railroads, the American Short Line and Regional Railroad Association, the North American Millers Association, the Supply Chain Federation, and the National Grain and Feed Association.", 1, "2026-09-03T09:29:33Z", "2026-09-03T09:31:32Z"], ["https://barrett.house.gov/media/press-releases/barrett-helps-introduce-bipartisan-bill-protect-patients-ai-insurance-denials", "Barrett Helps Introduce Bipartisan Bill To Protect Patients From AI Insurance Denials", "2026-09-01", "2026", "2026-09", "Republican", "House", "MI", "Tom Barrett", "B001321", "barrett.house.gov", "barrett", "https://barrett.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2014 Today, Congressmen Tom Barrett (MI-07), Greg Landsman (OH-01), Buddy Carter (GA-01), and Kim Schrier (WA-08) introduced the bipartisan Doctors Not AI Act to ensure that artificial intelligence cannot make or dictate health insurance coverage decisions involving medical judgment. The bill would require a qualified, licensed health care professional, exercising independent clinical judgment, to make any decision that a particular procedure, treatment, or prescription is not medically necessary.\n\n\u201cArtificial intelligence should never replace the judgment of a doctor,\u201d said Barrett. \u201cWhen it comes to someone\u2019s health and well-being, the outcome is too important to leave it up to an algorithm. This bill makes sure doctors \u2014 not AI \u2014 remain responsible for determining what care patients need while bringing greater transparency to the use of these technologies in health insurance.\u201d\n\n\u201cWhen a computer system is making decisions about health care, people will get hurt,\u201d said Landsman. \u201cWe have to make sure health care professionals remain the decision makers. If not, folks will be left with massive bills, their health getting worse, or even life-threatening consequences.\u201d\n\nThe Doctors Not AI Act:\n\nEnsures AI is used only in a supporting role and requires independent clinical judgment for decisions about whether care is medically necessary;\n\nRequires insurers to include AI-generated outputs in the administrative record, disclose the use of AI systems in the claims review process, and make the documentation available to patients; and\n\nPromotes fair coverage for mental health treatment by preventing disproportionate algorithmic scrutiny of care for mental health and substance use disorders.", 1, "2026-09-02T09:19:58Z", "2026-09-02T09:20:51Z"], ["https://walberg.house.gov/media/press-releases/walberg-votes-condemn-horrors-socialism", "Walberg Votes to Condemn the Horrors of Socialism", "2026-09-01", "2026", "2026-09", "Republican", "House", "MI", "Tim Walberg", "W000798", "walberg.house.gov", "walberg", "https://walberg.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Today, Congressman Tim Walberg (MI-05) voted in favor of H.Res.1490, a resolution he cosponsored to condemn socialism in all its forms and the Democratic Socialists of America (DSA). The resolution also condemns specific DSA policies, including allowing noncitizens to vote in American elections, and pledges to protect Americans\u2019 right to vote. The resolution passed with 192 Democrats voting in opposition.\n\n\"Over the past few years, Michigan and the United States as a whole have seen a concerning rise in support for the destructive policies of socialism and leaders who seek to replace freedom with government control,\" said Rep. Walberg. \"From defunding the police to allowing noncitizens to vote in U.S. elections and seizing ownership of private corporations, the dangerous policies being pushed by the Democratic Socialists of America seek to undermine the very principles that have carried our nation through 250 years of freedom, ingenuity, and opportunity. America will not survive another 250 years by turning to extreme ideologies that have destroyed every society in history that they touched. We must reject these attempts and preserve the rights and freedoms of hardworking Michigan families.\"\n\nYou may view a video of Congressman Walberg speaking on the House floor in support of the resolution here.", 1, "2026-09-02T09:19:58Z", "2026-09-02T09:20:51Z"], ["https://walberg.house.gov/media/press-releases/walberg-votes-keep-government-open-and-prevent-another-democrat-shutdown", "Walberg Votes to Keep the Government Open and Prevent Another Democrat Shutdown", "2026-09-01", "2026", "2026-09", "Republican", "House", "MI", "Tim Walberg", "W000798", "walberg.house.gov", "walberg", "https://walberg.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Today, Congressman Tim Walberg (MI-05) voted in favor of, and the House passed, the Senate Amendment to H.R. 6500, the Continuing Appropriations Act of 2027. The legislation would continue federal funding through December 11, 2026, while Congress completes work on the full-year fiscal year 2027 appropriations bills.\n\n\"Senate Democrats have refused to advance a single fiscal year 2027 appropriations bill, abandoning regular order and jeopardizing the funding process,\" said Rep. Walberg. \"House Republicans will not allow the obstruction of Senate Democrats to trigger another government shutdown. This clean, short-term continuing resolution will keep the government open, providing stability for hardworking Michigan families while Congress continues to complete the appropriations process.\"\n\nBackground\n\nHouse Republicans have advanced all 12 bills for fiscal year 2027 funding out of the House Appropriations Committee, including 3 that have passed the House with bipartisan support. However, Senate Democrats have refused to advance a single appropriations bill ahead of the September 30 funding deadline.", 1, "2026-09-02T09:19:58Z", "2026-09-02T09:20:51Z"], ["https://walberg.house.gov/media/press-releases/subcommittee-advances-walbergs-legislation-accelerate-broadband-deployment", "Subcommittee Advances Walberg's Legislation to Accelerate Broadband Deployment", "2026-09-01", "2026", "2026-09", "Republican", "House", "MI", "Tim Walberg", "W000798", "walberg.house.gov", "walberg", "https://walberg.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Today, the House Committee on Energy and Commerce's Subcommittee on Communications and Technology advanced the Proper Leadership to Align Networks (PLAN) for Broadband Act. The legislation, introduced by Congressmen Tim Walberg (R-MI) and Scott Peters (D-CA), would implement a national strategy to accelerate the deployment of critical broadband infrastructure across the country.\n\n\"As co-chair of the Congressional Rural Broadband Caucus, I understand how current gaps in broadband coverage affect opportunities for families, students, and small businesses,\" said Rep. Walberg. \"The lack of a national broadband strategy has led to duplicative and wasteful efforts that delay the deployment of high-speed broadband across the nation. The PLAN for Broadband Act would increase coordination among all relevant agencies to streamline permitting, identify barriers to deployment, and ensure we can improve connectivity for rural communities. I am glad to see the subcommittee advance this vital legislation so we can bridge the digital divide.\"\n\nBackground\n\nThe PLAN for Broadband Act is based upon a Government Accountability Office report that found that federal broadband efforts are oftentimes fragmented and duplicative. While enough federal funding exists to bridge the digital divide, a national broadband strategy is needed to avoid duplicative efforts and ensure that funds are available to reach the truly unserved and underserved areas. The PLAN for Broadband Act would require the Administration to develop and implement a national strategy to close the digital divide.", 1, "2026-09-03T09:29:33Z", "2026-09-03T09:31:32Z"], ["https://barrett.house.gov/media/press-releases/barrett-meets-workers-community-leaders-packed-week-traveling-mid-michigan", "Barrett Meets with Workers, Community Leaders in Packed Week Traveling Mid-Michigan", "2026-08-28", "2026", "2026-08", "Republican", "House", "MI", "Tom Barrett", "B001321", "barrett.house.gov", "barrett", "https://barrett.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Lansing, Mich. \u2014 Congressman Tom Barrett (MI-07) this week met with local workers, business leaders, community officials, and residents across mid-Michigan to hear from them and discuss efforts to strengthen Michigan\u2019s economy, improve infrastructure, and support local manufacturing.\n\nAdditionally, Barrett hosted a roundtable in Lansing on Monday where he met with leaders from Michigan\u2019s energy industry to discuss ways to increase domestic energy production and lower costs for Michigan families.\n\n\u201cThis summer I\u2019ve had the opportunity to meet with thousands of workers, families, business owners, and community leaders from across mid-Michigan. I look forward to taking their views back to Washington to do the work that matters most to them,\u201d said Barrett. \u201cFrom lowering costs to standing up for local control and ending endless wars \u2014 I\u2019ve heard their concerns firsthand, and I\u2019ll never stop fighting to make sure the voices of the people I represent are heard in Congress.\u201d\n\nFirst, Barrett visited Michigan Paving and Materials in Lansing, whose workers produce asphalt and pave roads across the region. Barrett met with plant employees and highlighted how the no tax on overtime provision and federal investments in local infrastructure are supporting their industry and the communities they serve.\n\nBarrett then toured the Clinton County Road Commission and met with local leaders about efforts to improve roads and bridges and strengthen cooperation between federal, state, and county governments to support safe and reliable transportation. Barrett has made rebuilding infrastructure a priority in Congress; he\u2019s secured more than $15 million for mid-Michigan infrastructure projects and voted for the BUILD America 250 Act in the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee to extend and strengthen federal infrastructure funding programs.\n\nBarrett also visited Clinton Transit, where he met with leaders, dispatchers, and drivers responsible for helping residents get to work, medical appointments, grocery stores, and other destinations across the community. The BUILD America 250 Act would also strengthen support for transit systems like Clinton Transit.\n\nIn Durand, Barrett and the Shiawassee Economic Development Partnership hosted a roundtable at Great Lakes Fusion with local business leaders, who discussed strengthening the local economy, helping small businesses provide health insurance for their employees, promoting skilled trades education, and supporting workers.\n\nBarrett then visited Lake Trust Credit Union in Brighton, where he met with the team about their work to help residents save for the future and access financing to buy homes or start small businesses. They also discussed Barrett\u2019s work in Congress to lower costs and make homeownership more attainable for Michigan families.\n\nThe congressman also toured TG Fluid Systems in Brighton, a key supplier to Michigan\u2019s automotive industry. He met with the men and women who manufacture vehicle fuel systems and discussed how Congress can continue supporting American manufacturing and Michigan\u2019s auto industry.\n\nAt Eaton Community Bank, Barrett met with a wider range of community banking leaders from across mid-Michigan to discuss ways Congress can make housing more affordable and help more families achieve the American Dream of homeownership while strengthening protections against fraud and scams that steal their hard-earned savings.\n\nFinally, Barrett met with members of the American Council of Engineering Companies to discuss his work investing in roads and bridges and hear from Michigan engineers about how Congress can continue improving transportation infrastructure across the state.", 1, "2026-08-29T11:31:28Z", "2026-08-29T11:32:37Z"], ["https://mcclain.house.gov/2026/8/conference-chairwoman-mcclain-attends-michigan-farm-bureau-dinner-on-the-farm", "ICYMI: Conference Chairwoman McClain Attends Michigan Farm Bureau Dinner on the Farm", "2026-08-27", "2026", "2026-08", "Republican", "House", "MI", "Lisa C. McClain", "M001136", "mcclain.house.gov", "mcclain", "https://mcclain.house.gov/press-releases", "scraper", "MICHIGAN \u2013 House Republican Conference Chairwoman Lisa McClain (R-Mich.) this week joined the annual Michigan Farm Bureau Dinner on the Farm at Zwerk & Sons Farms to highlight the benefits of the Working Families Tax Cuts for Michigan farmers and to discuss ongoing work to pass a long-term Farm Bill.\n\nAttendees included House Agriculture Committee Vice Chairman Austin Scott (R-Ga.); Matt Frostic of Frostic Farms and the National Corn Growers Association; Mike Noll of Noll Farms and Michigan Farm Bureau; and Michigan Farm Bureau President Ben LaCross.\n\n\u201cIt was a rewarding evening of honest discussions with Michigan farmers who work tirelessly every day to feed our families and boost our economy. Washington should support their efforts by making their work easier,\u201d Chairwoman McClain said. \u201cI fought to deliver meaningful wins for our farmers through the Working Families Tax Cuts, and I will continue pushing to reduce input costs, cut through excessive red tape, and get a long-term Farm Bill across the finish line to bring much-needed relief to our agricultural community.\u201d\n\n\u201cI want to thank Chairwoman McClain for inviting me to join her at Dinner on the Farm and giving me the opportunity to hear from Michigan\u2019s farmers. Though our commodities may differ, our message remains the same: we will continue the fight in Washington to advance policies that support our producers and rural communities. Across the country, farmers want fair access to markets both domestically and abroad, they want Congress to address rising input costs, and they want to ensure the next generation can succeed on the farm. Chairwoman McClain is a fierce advocate for addressing these issues and I look forward to continuing to work with her on behalf of American agriculture,\u201d House Agriculture Committee Vice Chairman Austin Scott said.\n\n\u201cWe always look forward to working with our federal partners to advance crucial ag policies,\u201d said Michigan Farm Bureau President Ben LaCross. \u201cFarm Bureau couldn't be the voice of agriculture without our members coming to events like this, lending their voices and your credibility in the ag discussion. Because of our members, we are able to engage with elected officials in Washington, D.C., and in Lansing who are willing to advocate and listen to us \u2014 just like Congresswoman McClain is doing with the farm bill and E15.\u201d\n\nThe Working Families Tax Cuts delivered major wins for farmers by strengthening crop insurance, raising reference prices, strengthening dairy coverage, and providing tax relief that helps family farms plan for the next generation.\n\nThe House passed the Farm, Food, and National Security Act of 2026 in April, but the Senate has yet to advance a Farm Bill to the floor.", 1, "2026-08-28T17:11:49Z", "2026-08-28T17:13:14Z"], ["https://barrett.house.gov/media/press-releases/barrett-hosts-energy-roundtable-highlight-work-expand-energy-production-lower", "Barrett Hosts Energy Roundtable to Highlight Work to Expand Energy Production, Lower Costs", "2026-08-25", "2026", "2026-08", "Republican", "House", "MI", "Tom Barrett", "B001321", "barrett.house.gov", "barrett", "https://barrett.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Lansing, Mich. \u2014 Congressman Tom Barrett (MI-07) on Monday joined leaders from Michigan\u2019s energy industry for a roundtable conversation to highlight his work and discuss additional solutions to increase domestic energy production and lower costs for Michigan families.\n\nBarrett voted to spur American energy dominance in the Working Families Tax Cuts Act last year, and he has long championed policies to promote competition and encourage production of affordable, reliable energy.\n\n\u201cThe pain at the pump is real for all of the families like mine that are crisscrossing mid-Michigan to get from school to soccer practice and everywhere in between,\u201d said Congressman Barrett. \u201cIn Congress, I\u2019ve proudly led the charge to increase American energy production and strengthen competition in the market by advocating for permitting reform and rolling back burdensome regulations that have driven costs through the roof. It\u2019s going to take all of us working together with the private sector to bring down energy prices, and I hope Democrats in Lansing can set aside their Green New Deal Mandates to join me in that effort.\u201d\n\nUnder a state law passed in 2023 by Democrats along party lines, Michigan will require electricity production to use 100% green energy sources by 2040. Due to the cost of building the wind turbines and solar farms necessary to comply with the mandate, electric rates in Michigan are projected to double. Electric rates in the state are already the highest in the Midwest.\n\n\u201cMichigan\u2019s oil and natural gas industry plays a critical role in powering millions of homes and businesses, supporting hundreds of thousands of jobs and strengthening the state\u2019s economy,\u201d said Chris Zeigler of the American Petroleum Institute, who spoke at the roundtable. \u201cModern, predictable permitting processes are essential to helping advance critical energy infrastructure projects and improve access to reliable, affordable American energy, and we applaud Congressman Barrett for his leadership on energy issues.\u201d\n\nBackground:\n\nThe Working Families Tax Cuts Act (H.R. 1) boosted American energy production by authorizing new oil and gas leases and undoing red tape imposed during the Biden administration. The historic law removed subsidies and carveouts for special interests, providing a level playing field to allow companies producing oil, natural gas, wind, solar, nuclear, or other energy sources to compete, innovate, and provide more efficient, affordable energy.\n\nAt a time when the ongoing Iran conflict has throttled the worldwide energy market, Barrett has voted three times to end the conflict unless the people\u2019s representatives in Congress provide clear authorization for military force in the region.", 1, "2026-08-26T05:33:32Z", "2026-08-26T05:34:56Z"], ["https://mcclain.house.gov/2026/8/chairwoman-mcclain-holds-field-hearing-on-supporting-servicemembers-serving-on-school-boards", "Chairwoman McClain Holds Field Hearing on Supporting Servicemembers Serving on School Boards", "2026-08-25", "2026", "2026-08", "Republican", "House", "MI", "Lisa C. McClain", "M001136", "mcclain.house.gov", "mcclain", "https://mcclain.house.gov/press-releases", "scraper", "MICHIGAN - House Republican Conference Chairwoman Lisa McClain (R-Mich.) and Education and Workforce Committee Chairman Tim Walberg (R-Mich.) today held a field hearing at Richmond City Hall titled Deployed, Not Disqualified: Defending Servicemembers in Our Schools. The hearing examined how schools, communities, and government can better support servicemembers participating in their local school systems.\n\nMaster Sergeant Raymond Stier, an elected member of the Richmond Board of Education, faced pressure from fellow board members to resign while deployed overseas, despite attending board meetings virtually when he could. Some board members later criticized his absence as a \"disservice\".\n\nThe hearing featured testimony from Amy Stier, Master Sergeant Stier's wife; Colonel Chris Neeley, superintendent of the South Carolina Public Charter School District; and Jonathan Butcher, an education policy expert at the Heritage Foundation.\n\n\"Richmond knew exactly whom it elected, a man with three decades in uniform,\" Chairwoman McClain said. \"After being deployed to the Middle East, despite significant time zone differences, Master Sergeant Stier continued to serve his community virtually. He kept his oath to his country and to this community and took fire for both. The board members should be ashamed of forcing a servicemember to choose between serving their country and their community.\"\n\n\"Unfortunately, too many servicemembers face professional obstacles because of their military service, both while they are deployed and when they return home. Some have even faced outright employment discrimination, including in our nation's school systems,\" Chairman Walberg said. \"Our schools should welcome servicemembers home, not criticize or penalize them for serving. These are parents who can bring a spirit of service to school boards, classrooms, volunteer organizations, and school leadership.\"", 1, "2026-08-26T05:33:32Z", "2026-08-26T05:34:56Z"], ["https://barrett.house.gov/media/press-releases/barrett-finishes-full-week-engaging-constituents-across-mid-michigan-including", "Barrett Finishes Full Week of Engaging with Constituents Across Mid-Michigan, Including an Interactive Town Hall", "2026-08-21", "2026", "2026-08", "Republican", "House", "MI", "Tom Barrett", "B001321", "barrett.house.gov", "barrett", "https://barrett.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Lansing, Mich. \u2014 This week, Congressman Tom Barrett (MI-07) met with manufacturing workers, builders, military service members, and engaged with thousands of other local residents during a week of meetings across mid-Michigan that featured an interactive town hall event.\n\nOn Tuesday, Barrett was joined by U.S. Secretary of the Interior Doug Burgum and Speaker of the House Mike Johnson for some of the week\u2019s visits. He also held a live interactive town hall with more than 14,700 constituents from across Michigan\u2019s 7th Congressional District.\n\n\u201cThe best way to represent the people of mid-Michigan is to be where they are \u2014 seeing how they live, meeting them where they work, and listening to the challenges they face every day,\u201d said Barrett. \u201cI\u2019ve had the opportunity to meet with thousands of people across our communities, and those conversations continue to give me a better understanding of what matters most to the families, workers, and businesses I represent. I\u2019ll keep showing up, listening, and bringing their voices with me to Congress.\u201d\n\nFirst, Barrett visited the Military Entrance Processing Station in Lansing, which tests and enlists new recruits for the U.S. Armed Forces. Barrett met with station leadership and swore in a group of recruits.\n\nBarrett then went to Clock Mobility, which sells accessible vehicles, wheelchair lifts, and other mobility equipment for individuals with disabilities. He met with customers and staff and heard an update from Clock Mobility leaders about payment delays they have experienced when getting reimbursed by the Department of Veterans Affairs for veterans\u2019 vehicle modifications. Barrett\u2019s CRUISE Act, which passed the House Veterans\u2019 Affairs Committee earlier this year, would streamline the VA\u2019s payment system for vehicle modifications.\n\nIn downtown Lansing, Barrett then hosted Speaker of the House Mike Johnson for a tour of construction at Tower on Grand. The skyscraper project is part of the New Vision Lansing development, which is investing more than $300 million to build about 600 new housing units and revitalize Lansing\u2019s Downtown and Old Town neighborhoods.\n\nBarrett also joined local residents and community leaders at the East Lansing Amtrak Station for CN Rail\u2019s America250 Hometown Whistle Stop Tour. Featuring two locomotives emblazoned with patriotic designs, the tour through four Midwest train stations highlighted CN\u2019s role in shipping products across the United States, including vehicles manufactured in Lansing.\n\nDuring his live, interactive town hall over the phone and online, Barrett connected with more than 14,700 constituents, heard feedback, and answered tough questions about the USS Abraham Lincoln, data centers, North Korea, Medicaid, and more.\n\nFinally, Barrett toured American Rheinmetall\u2019s Lansing facility to meet with the workers manufacturing advanced technology and strengthening America\u2019s defense industrial base.", 1, "2026-08-22T05:24:59Z", "2026-08-22T05:26:16Z"], ["https://barrett.house.gov/media/press-releases/barrett-introduces-bills-protect-local-communities-data-center-overreach", "Barrett Introduces Bills to Protect Local Communities from Data Center Overreach", "2026-08-20", "2026", "2026-08", "Republican", "House", "MI", "Tom Barrett", "B001321", "barrett.house.gov", "barrett", "https://barrett.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Image\n\nWashington, D.C. \u2014 Congressman Tom Barrett (MI-07) today introduced legislation to ensure every community in Michigan and across the United States maintains their autonomy over the decision-making process related to building a data center. Specifically, the two bills would protect local control by prohibiting the federal government from overriding local zoning decisions and banning members of Congress from signing non-disclosure agreements related to data center projects.\n\nThe introduction of the legislation was first reported in The Detroit News.\n\n\u201cPeople in mid-Michigan are tired of big corporations and politicians negotiating backroom deals, especially when it comes to data center projects that impact every community differently,\u201d said Barrett. \u201cFamilies in my district are rightly concerned about the effect data centers could have on their utility bills, as well as the land and water in their neighborhood. They deserve to know all the facts and have the final say over any proposed project. That starts with stopping federal overreach and preventing the secrecy pledges that have plagued Michigan and undermined the power of local residents.\u201d\n\nBarrett has long opposed the government putting a thumb on the scale in favor of data centers. When he served in the Michigan House of Representatives, he voted against legislation his own party passed to give corporate welfare for data center construction and equipment purchases.\n\nBelow is additional information on the two bills Congressman Barrett introduced:\n\nThe Protecting Local Control of Data Centers Act (H.R. 10119) would prohibit federal agencies from overriding local land-use, zoning, siting, or permitting authority related to data centers. It would also prevent federal agencies from leveraging federal funds for a data center to force state and local governments to give up their authority.\n\nThe No Data Center NDAs Act (H.R. 10118) would prohibit members of Congress from signing non-disclosure agreements (NDAs) about data centers, including any information about possible locations or how much water or energy a facility is expected to consume. NDAs have gained attention in Michigan in recent years, with many federal, state, and local officials signing secrecy deals about proposed corporate projects.\n\nBarrett also recently co-sponsored a variety of bills to promote transparency and strengthen safeguards around the misuse of artificial intelligence (AI), including:\n\nThe Children Harmed by AI Technology (CHAT) Act (H.R. 7218) to require AI chatbots to implement age verification measures to protect minors. The bill requires parental consent for minors using chatbots, bans chatbots from engaging in sexually explicit communications with minors, and requires chatbots to notify a minor\u2019s parent if the minor\u2019s chat shows signs of suicidal ideation.\n\nThe AI Threat Output and Monitoring Incident Containment Act (H.R. 9965) to test advanced AI systems to prevent risks to nuclear safety.\n\nThe Human Authority over Autonomous Weapons Act (H.R. 9729) to ensure that no autonomous or artificial intelligence-enabled weapon system used by the United States military can carry out an intentionally lethal strike without meaningful human oversight or a human decision-maker in the loop.\n\nCLICK HERE to read the Protecting Local Control of Data Centers Act.", 1, "2026-08-21T05:30:57Z", "2026-08-21T05:32:22Z"], ["https://huizenga.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=404529", "Huizenga, Peters and Bipartisan Fiscal Forum Members Respond to Troubling Debt Milestone", "2026-08-20", "2026", "2026-08", "Republican", "House", "MI", "Bill Huizenga", "H001058", "huizenga.house.gov", "huizenga", "https://huizenga.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx", "scraper", "Today, U.S. Representatives Bill Huizenga (R-MI) and Scott Peters (D-CA), Co-Chairs of the Bipartisan Fiscal Forum, released the following statements with fellow Members of the Bipartisan Fiscal Forum, as the gross national debt recently surpassed $40 trillion. Annual interest payments on the debt are already approaching $1 trillion, more than the United States is projected to spend this year on defense, Medicare, or Medicaid. Absent meaningful action, the debt is only projected to increase, and this has real consequences for hardworking families.\n\n\u201cOur national debt threatens our economy, drives up interest rates, slows wage growth, and leaves us less prepared for the next emergency. We are in this together, regardless of party label. Addressing our looming fiscal challenges will take both parties, and a bipartisan fiscal commission is a practical step toward doing so.\u201d \u2014 Representative Bill Huizenga (MI-04), Co-Chair of the Bipartisan Fiscal Forum\n\n\u201cThe national debt is now more than $40 trillion and we borrow nearly $2 trillion every year just to pay our expenses. As government borrowing grows, there is less money available in the system to help San Diegans afford homes, invest in their businesses, or take out loans. Congress must help working people keep up with the cost of living. The first step is to pass the Fiscal Commission Act.\u201d \u2014 Congressman Scott Peters (CA-50), Co-Chair of the Bipartisan Fiscal Forum\n\n\u201cIt is difficult to comprehend the scale of a $40 trillion national debt. What should be easy to understand is that we cannot continue down this path. The cost of servicing our debt is already consuming resources that could be used to grow our economy, strengthen our national security, and improve Americans\u2019 lives. Generations of leaders from both parties share responsibility for the debt we have accumulated, and all must share responsibility for the solution. That means controlling spending, pursuing policies that grow our economy, and addressing the long-term drivers of our debt. The scale of this challenge is immense, but it is not beyond our ability to solve. America is a land of possibility, and we still have the opportunity to put our finances on a stronger foundation. If we make responsible choices today, we can strengthen our economy, expand opportunity, and leave future generations a more prosperous nation.\u201d \u2014 Representative Lloyd Smucker (PA-11), Vice Chair of the House Budget Committee\n\n\u201cBoth parties talk a big game on fiscal responsibility \u2014 until they\u2019re the ones who have to govern. Reducing our national debt shouldn\u2019t be seen as a threat to one party\u2019s agenda, but as a once-in-a-generation chance to work together for the good of all Americans. It\u2019s worth remembering: the last time we actually balanced the budget, Republicans controlled Congress and a Democrat sat in the White House. Absent bipartisan legislation, it's only a matter of time before one of the two parties is left holding the bag.\u201d \u2014 Representative Jared Golden (ME-02)\n\n\u201cThis milestone is a grave reminder of what is at stake if we do not seek legislative solutions to our federal spending crisis. Before long, the next generation will not be able to secure a car or home loan, afford everyday purchases due to inflation, or save for the future. Congress must come together to craft bold solutions, crack down on fraud in our government programs, and put the wellbeing of our children and grandchildren at the forefront of our discussions.\u201d \u2014 Representative Blake Moore (UT-01)\n\n\u201cHard working families across the nation know the bitter reality of living with and paying off debt. Hopefully the painful reality of more than $40 trillion of gross national debt is the wake-up call Congress needs to take a page from our constituents, balance the budget, and restore fiscal stability to Washington.\u201d \u2014 Representative Marie Gluesenkamp Perez (WA-03)\n\n\u201cThis is yet another sobering realization for lawmakers that we can no longer delay in addressing the fiscal state of our nation. Our record level of debt threatens our national security, strains our vital safety net programs, and creates a cascade of negative consequences for Americans from Main Street to Wall Street. Congress must come together expeditiously to pursue bipartisan solutions that responsibly rein in runaway spending before it is too late \u2014 the future prosperity of our nation depends on it.\u201d \u2014 Representative Steve Womack (AR-03)\n\n\"Reaching $40 trillion in national debt is a dark milestone that should concern every American. Democrats and Republicans alike have contributed to this crisis, including doubling the national debt over the past decade. We must make realistic, aggressive changes if we want to ensure that the most critical functions of our government continue to operate for future generations. We cannot solve this crisis without both parties coming together with a true willingness to do whatever it takes. It's time for Congress to take decisive action now.\" \u2014 Representative Mike Quigley (IL-05)\n\nWhile the Bipartisan Fiscal Forum does not endorse legislation, members of the group are leading a range of proposals that would seek to improve the nation\u2019s fiscal outlook, including the Fiscal Commission Act, Sustainable Budget Act, Budgeting for a Better America Act, Fiscal Contingency Preparedness Act, Fiscal State of the Nation Act, and a resolution that would encourage Congress to achieve and maintain deficits at 3% of GDP. Adopting any or all these reforms would be a meaningful down payment toward fiscal responsibility.\n\nThe Bipartisan Fiscal Forum is a group of House members committed to raising awareness of the nation's unsustainable debt and working across the aisle toward a more responsible fiscal future.", 1, "2026-09-12T09:02:30Z", "2026-09-12T09:03:27Z"], ["https://barrett.house.gov/media/press-releases/barrett-welcomes-secretary-burgum-and-speaker-johnson-mid-michigan-0", "Barrett Welcomes Secretary Burgum and Speaker Johnson to Mid-Michigan", "2026-08-19", "2026", "2026-08", "Republican", "House", "MI", "Tom Barrett", "B001321", "barrett.house.gov", "barrett", "https://barrett.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Lansing, Mich. \u2014 Yesterday, Congressman Tom Barrett welcomed U.S. Secretary of the Interior Doug Burgum and Speaker of the House Mike Johnson to mid-Michigan to highlight the hard work of local residents in research, manufacturing, and construction.\n\nBarrett and Burgum toured Michigan State University\u2019s Facility for Rare Isotope Beams (FRIB), which is receiving $125 million in federal investments Congressman Barrett secured earlier this year. They also both participated in the grand opening at LG Energy Solution in Lansing. Barrett and Johnson then toured the ongoing Tower on Grand construction, which will be a mixed-use skyscraper with housing and commercial units.\n\n\u201cExciting things are happening every day across mid-Michigan that will continue to support new opportunities and growth in our communities \u2014 from cutting-edge rare isotope research to historic development that will make housing more affordable and revitalize our downtown,\u201d said Barrett. \u201cIn Congress, I've taken action to lower costs for Michigan workers, create opportunities for manufacturing and engineering, and make it easier to build affordable homes for Michigan families. It was great to have Secretary Burgum and Speaker Johnson here to see the progress happening in my district thanks to the innovation and work ethic of the people I have the honor to represent.\u201d\n\n\u201cGreat to be hosted by Congressman Barrett in the Great Lake State to see firsthand the Facility for Rare Isotope Beams (FRIB), which demonstrates the importance of investing in cutting-edge research, advanced technologies and preparing the next generation to strengthen America's energy future - innovation made possible with the help of the Working Families Tax Cuts Act,\u201d said Secretary of the Interior Doug Burgum. \u201cThe U.S. needs more highly trained American workers capable of developing our domestic energy resources. Right here in Michigan, Michigan State University is playing a critical role in advancing that mission and helping drive innovation, workforce development and the leadership needed to deliver on the American Energy Dominance Agenda.\u201d\n\n\u201cIt was great to be in Michigan today and tour the New Vision Lansing development that is bringing new investment and housing to Lansing,\u201d said Speaker of the House Mike Johnson. \u201cThanks to Republicans\u2019 Working Families Tax Cuts and the leadership of members like Congressman Tom Barrett, businesses are expanding and creating new jobs, working families are keeping more of what they earn, and we\u2019re seeing long-term growth in all 50 states that\u2019s raising wages for American workers. After four failed years of Bidenomics, Republicans are giving businesses the tools they need to grow and working families the relief they need to thrive.\u201d\n\nBarrett and Burgum met with Dr. Thomas Glasmacher, the laboratory director, along with other scientists and skilled workers, at the FRIB, a user facility for the Department of Energy that conducts nuclear physics research that is critical for national security and also has applications for energy, medicine, industry, and more. The lab has contributed more than $1 billion to Michigan\u2019s economy since 2011, employs hundreds of workers from mid-Michigan, and purchases from hundreds of local suppliers. A government funding bill signed into law in January included $125 million Barrett secured for FRIB \u2014 $15 million to continue construction of its High Rigidity Spectrometer and $110 million for optimal operations and energy upgrades at the facility.\n\nBarrett then attended a grand opening for LG Energy Solution\u2019s new Lansing plant, which will manufacture battery cells for energy storage systems. The facility now employs about 900 workers, with plans to hire more as production scales up.\n\nBarrett and Johnson toured construction at Tower on Grand Lansing, part of the five-building New Vision Lansing development, which includes five new or renovated buildings in Lansing\u2019s Downtown and Old Town neighborhoods. Combined, the project will add nearly 600 residential units, as well as some commercial units.", 1, "2026-08-20T05:28:41Z", "2026-08-20T05:29:58Z"], ["https://barrett.house.gov/media/press-releases/barrett-hosts-fifth-interactive-town-hall-14700-participants-across-mid", "Barrett Hosts Fifth Interactive Town Hall With 14,700 Participants Across Mid-Michigan", "2026-08-18", "2026", "2026-08", "Republican", "House", "MI", "Tom Barrett", "B001321", "barrett.house.gov", "barrett", "https://barrett.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2014 Tonight, Congressman Tom Barrett (MI-07) hosted a successful interactive town hall with more than 14,700 constituents from across Michigan\u2019s 7th Congressional District. This is Barrett\u2019s fifth interactive town hall since taking office, which has allowed him to connect with more than 34,000 constituents no matter where they are.\n\n\u201cMy job is to be mid-Michigan\u2019s representative in Washington \u2014 not Washington\u2019s representative in mid-Michigan,\u201d said Barrett. \u201cThe best way I can do that is by hearing directly from the people I serve, and I\u2019ve spent the summer on the road meeting with thousands of hardworking people to talk about real issues and hear their stories to help me do the real work back in Washington to improve their lives. I will keep fighting on behalf of every mid-Michigander to make our community safer, more prosperous, and a better place to raise a family.\u201d\n\nDuring tonight\u2019s hour-long event, Barrett provided an update on his recent work in the House of Representatives, including his votes and legislation to limit the military conflict in Iran. He also spoke about his recent travels throughout the district to hear directly from families, business owners, farmers, workers, and more about the issues that matter to them.\n\nThe congressman also took questions on a wide range of issues, including his stance on the USS Abraham Lincoln, data centers, North Korea, Medicaid, and more.\n\nBACKGROUND:\n\nIn the last 4 weeks, Barrett has traveled throughout Michigan\u2019s 7th District to meet with constituents from all walks of life. He has visited dozens of locations across mid-Michigan, including local businesses, hospitals, colleges, factories, farms, and more.\n\nThe congressman has also responded to more than 148,000 phone calls, emails, and letters from constituents since taking office, on top of the many people from mid-Michigan he meets with each and every week. Barrett remains committed to hearing directly from his constituents, even those who disagree.", 1, "2026-08-19T05:29:02Z", "2026-08-19T05:30:24Z"], ["https://walberg.house.gov/media/press-releases/walberg-honors-calhoun-county-veteran", "Walberg Honors Calhoun County Veteran", "2026-08-17", "2026", "2026-08", "Republican", "House", "MI", "Tim Walberg", "W000798", "walberg.house.gov", "walberg", "https://walberg.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Today, the office of Congressman Tim Walberg (MI-05) recognized Samuel \"Sam\" Dougherty of East Leroy as the Veteran of the Month for August at the Calhoun County Fair. The Congressman's office presented Sam with the Congressional Record containing his remarks honoring Sam's service and dedication to our country.\n\nSam Dougherty served in the United States Marine Corps Reserve as a Combat Engineer from 1988 to 1994.\n\nFollowing his service, Sam worked as the Director of Southwest Michigan Operations for the Michigan Workforce Development Institute, where he helped job seekers, including veterans, find employment opportunities. Since 2023, Sam has served as the Michigan State Representative for Helmets to Hardhats, a national nonprofit organization that connects military service members, veterans, and reservists with quality careers in the building trades.\n\nSam also served as a volunteer for a freedom hunt for disabled veterans at Fort Custer for 20 years and currently volunteers with the Michigan Wounded and Returning Warrior Program, offering steadfast support to those who have borne the heaviest burdens of war. For his volunteer work with veterans, he has been awarded the Marine Corps League Distinguished Citizen Award.\n\n\"I am honored to recognize Sam Dougherty whose continued service and dedication to serving others represents the best of our armed forces,\" said Rep. Walberg. \"From his time serving as a Combat Engineer with the Marine Corps Reserve to his role helping fellow veterans find reliable employment and care, Sam's commitment to his country and local community has never wavered. I commend him for his service, which serves as an inspiration to us all.\"\n\nYou can view a picture here.\n\nBackground\n\nCongressman Walberg's office is accepting submissions for the Veteran of the Month program, an initiative to honor the exemplary contributions of veterans in Michigan's 5th Congressional District. Each month, Congressman Walberg will recognize one outstanding veteran, celebrating their commitment to serving our community and their exceptional service in the military.", 1, "2026-08-18T05:27:41Z", "2026-08-18T05:29:06Z"], ["https://mcclain.house.gov/2026/8/icymi-chairwoman-mcclain-hosts-oakland-county-job-fair-for-michigan-job-seekers", "ICYMI: Chairwoman McClain Hosts Oakland County Job Fair for Michigan Job Seekers", "2026-08-15", "2026", "2026-08", "Republican", "House", "MI", "Lisa C. McClain", "M001136", "mcclain.house.gov", "mcclain", "https://mcclain.house.gov/press-releases", "scraper", "MICHIGAN\u2014 On Thursday, August 13, House Republican Conference Chairwoman Lisa McClain (R-Mich.), in partnership with Michigan Works, hosted the inaugural Southeast Michigan Job Fair at Oakland University. The event connected employers with job seekers from across the region.\n\nJoined by the Small Business Administration (SBA) Deputy Administrator Bill Briggs, the event connected nearly 700 hardworking Michiganders with 100 businesses. Participating companies included General Motors, McLaren Health Care, and ZF Axle Drives, each offering a wide range of positions, from entry-level to skilled roles.\n\n\u201cEvents like the Southeast Michigan Job Fair are critical to connecting job creators with hardworking Michigan job seekers,\u201d Chairwoman McClain said. \u201cThrough the Working Families Tax Cuts, America is getting back to work, and employers and employees alike are experiencing much-needed relief, helping fulfill the America First agenda by expanding opportunities to quality, high-paying jobs.\u201d", 1, "2026-08-26T05:33:32Z", "2026-08-26T05:34:56Z"], ["https://barrett.house.gov/media/press-releases/barrett-hears-about-agriculture-education-and-transportation-during-week", "Barrett Hears About Agriculture, Education, and Transportation During Week of Meetings Across Mid-Michigan", "2026-08-14", "2026", "2026-08", "Republican", "House", "MI", "Tom Barrett", "B001321", "barrett.house.gov", "barrett", "https://barrett.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Lansing, Mich. \u2014 Congressman Tom Barrett (MI-07) this week met with hardworking mid-Michiganders in agriculture, education, and transportation to hear from them about the issues that matter to their families and local businesses.\n\nThroughout the week, Barrett toured local farms, held a roundtable discussion on free and fair agricultural trade, learned about research on crops and mobility technology at Michigan State University, visited a tutoring center, and hosted U.S. Secretary of Transportation Sean Duffy for conversations about infrastructure and transportation.\n\n\u201cMeeting directly with mid-Michiganders, seeing their work firsthand, and hearing about their needs is the most important part of my job,\u201d said Barrett. \u201cThis week, I appreciated listening to farmers, educators, scientists studying crop diseases and developing vehicles, local transportation leaders, and other hardworking residents. These helpful and informative discussions enable me to better represent the people of our communities and make sure their voices are heard in Washington.\u201d\n\nOn Monday, Barrett visited Certain League Farms in Williamston and met with Mike and Roseann Bills, who raise asparagus, sunflowers, corn, horses, and puppies. The Billses have a daughter with special needs, and they founded the farm with a vision to offer adults with special needs the opportunity to reach their full potential and work a job that gives them dignity and purpose.\n\nBarrett then visited the Plant Pathology Field Laboratory at Michigan State University and met with scientists who are conducting critical research to help farmers across mid-Michigan and the United States manage and mitigate crop diseases.\n\nOn Tuesday, Barrett met with Michigan farmers and agricultural industry leaders at AgroLiquid in St. Johns for a roundtable discussion hosted by Farmers for Free Trade. They discussed trade policy and priorities for the administration\u2019s negotiations around extending the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA).\n\nBarrett then attended AgroExpo, an annual outdoor farm show in St. Johns, where he met with local residents participating in the event. AgroExpo brought together farmers, manufacturers, and others to make connections, showcase their work, and continue advancing the future of Michigan agriculture.\n\nBarrett next attended Michigan State University\u2019s Mobility Summit in East Lansing. He met with educators, students, and other researchers and addressed attendees about his work to invest in infrastructure and promote innovation that will ensure Michigan\u2019s universities and industries continue leading in developing the next generation of transportation technology. He also highlighted the federal investment in autonomous vehicle research he secured on behalf of MSU.\n\nOn Wednesday, Barrett visited Sylvan Learning of Brighton, where Jessica and George Rollins shared about the tutoring and support their educators provide for local students.\n\nOn Thursday, Barrett welcomed U.S. Secretary of Transportation Sean Duffy to Lansing for a discussion with local transportation and infrastructure leaders, a tour of the Capital Region International Airport, and a visit to Dean Transportation.\n\nOn Friday, Barrett toured Two Sparrows Farm in Eaton Rapids, where Dan and Whitney Belprez raise livestock. Their first-generation family farm is especially focused on providing healthy meat and milk to mid-Michigan families.", 1, "2026-08-15T05:23:20Z", "2026-08-15T05:24:50Z"], ["https://james.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=1302", "Republican Reps. Steve Scalise, John James visit Temple Israel in show of support for Jewish community", "2026-08-14", "2026", "2026-08", "Republican", "House", "MI", "John James", "J000307", "james.house.gov", "james", "https://james.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "A top member of Congress visited Michigan on Thursday to show support to the Jewish community following an attempted mass casualty attack that happened in March.\n\nHouse Majority Leader Steve Scalise (R-LA) visited Temple Israel in West Bloomfield. The congregation was the target of an attack by a gunman who rammed his truck, loaded with fireworks and gasoline, into the building and began shooting. The attack failed in part because the vehicle became jammed and the attacker was unable to get out of the burning vehicle, and he shot himself.\n\nAround 140 children and staff were reportedly in the building at the time of the attack; had the attacker been able to exit the vehicle, the incident likely would have been far worse.\n\nScalise is the second highest-ranking member of the U.S. House of Representatives, behind just the Speaker of the House. He was joined at Temple Israel by Rep. John James, who represents parts of Oakland and Macomb counties in Congress.\n\nJames co-sponsored the Jewish American Security Act (H.R. 9211), which would help protect members of the Jewish community and other faith groups. One of the ways it would do that is by authorizing a significant increase in funding for the Nonprofit Security Grant Program that supports security at synagogues and other at-risk nonprofits.\n\n\u201cI appreciate Leader Scalise coming here to see the site of the attack first-hand, and to talk with community leaders,\u201d said James, R-Shelby Township. \u201cTo have a top member of Congress visit signals that we are treating the rise in threats seriously, and that this is an urgent national concern.\u201d\n\nJames immediately spoke in support of the congregation following the failed attack.\n\nJames also visited Israel in Nov. 2023, following the Oct. 7 terrorist attack in which Hamas militants raped and murdered innocent civilians, many of them young people peacefully enjoying a music festival.\n\n\u201cThere is a sickness in a certain segment of our population that reacted to the Oct. 7 terrorist attack with sympathy for the attackers, and which has spent the past few years irrationally targeting members of the Jewish community here in Michigan with hateful words and actions,\u201d James said. \u201cI fought extremists in Iraq; we cannot let that kind of violent thinking take root here in Michigan. Everyone should be able to live and worship in peace.\u201d", 1, "2026-08-15T05:23:20Z", "2026-08-15T05:24:50Z"], ["https://barrett.house.gov/media/press-releases/barrett-welcomes-secretary-duffy-mid-michigan-meet-transportation-leaders", "Barrett Welcomes Secretary Duffy to Mid-Michigan to Meet with Transportation Leaders, Workers", "2026-08-13", "2026", "2026-08", "Republican", "House", "MI", "Tom Barrett", "B001321", "barrett.house.gov", "barrett", "https://barrett.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Lansing, Mich. \u2014 Today, Congressman Tom Barrett welcomed U.S. Secretary of Transportation Sean Duffy to mid-Michigan to meet with local leaders and workers, as well as to highlight the congressman and Trump administration\u2019s joint efforts to invest in infrastructure, modernize air traffic control, and improve transportation for all Michiganders.\n\nThe officials held a roundtable with local leaders, toured the Capital Region International Airport, and visited Dean Transportation in Lansing. Transportation issues have been a top priority for Barrett, who successfully secured $15.3 million for mid-Michigan infrastructure projects, supported the BUILD America 250 Act to maintain and strengthen federal infrastructure and transit funding programs, and led efforts to make air travel safer after the tragic January 2025 collision over Reagan National Airport in Washington, D.C.\n\n\u201cWhether flying across the country or driving to work across town, mid-Michiganders deserve safe, reliable transportation,\u201d said Barrett. \u201cThat\u2019s why I\u2019ve been working in Congress and with the Trump administration to invest the people\u2019s tax dollars in local infrastructure that makes a difference. I\u2019m proud to have Secretary Duffy in Lansing to hear about the work our communities are putting in to fix our roads and bridges to continue making transportation safer and smoother.\u201d\n\n\u201cMichiganders are fortunate to have Representative Barrett advocating on their behalf in Congress. His leadership has helped deliver vital funding for aviation infrastructure projects, including an overhaul of LAN\u2019s air traffic control system,\u201d said U.S. Transportation Secretary Sean P. Duffy. \u201cTogether, we are building a stronger Michigan that will support not just jobs, but entire communities like Lansing for years to come.\u201d\n\nAt the Capital Region International Airport, Barrett and Duffy held a roundtable with Capital Region Airport Authority CEO/President Nicole Noll-Williams, Lansing Mayor Andy Schor, and other government, business, and education leaders involved in the transportation and infrastructure industry. Following the discussion, Barrett and Duffy toured airport facilities and equipment and took questions from press. Barrett recently secured a $7.8 million federal investment to help the airport replace its aging jet bridges.\n\n\u201cWe\u2019re grateful to welcome Congressman Barrett and Secretary Duffy to the Capital Region International Airport (LAN) and appreciate the opportunity to have a meaningful conversation about the issues and opportunities facing our airport and our region. It was also a great opportunity to showcase some of the exciting development taking place at LAN and the role the airport plays in connecting Mid-Michigan to the rest of the country and the world,\u201d said Nicole Noll-Williams, president and CEO of the Capital Region Airport Authority (CRAA). \u201cWe appreciate Congressman Barrett\u2019s continued support of LAN and the region, and we\u2019re grateful to have Secretary Duffy here to hear directly from our community and see the airport firsthand.\u201d\n\nBarrett and Duffy then joined CEO Kellie Dean and President Patrick Dean for a tour of the headquarters of Dean Transportation, which provides transportation consulting and bus and shuttle services \u2014 including transporting students for many school districts throughout Michigan.\n\n\u201cAs we enter the back-to-school season, we\u2019re grateful for the opportunity to showcase the work being done to keep students safe and to discuss how collaboration between transportation providers and policymakers can strengthen student transportation across the country,\u201d said Patrick Dean, president of Dean Transportation. \u201cAs a family-owned and operated business, we are proud to highlight the work our team does daily.\u201d\n\nParticipants in today\u2019s roundtable included, among others:", 1, "2026-08-14T06:13:05Z", "2026-08-14T06:14:08Z"], ["https://barrett.house.gov/media/press-releases/barrett-meets-mid-michigan-farmers-discuss-trade-joins-effort-strengthen-usmca", "Barrett Meets with Mid-Michigan Farmers to Discuss Trade, Joins Effort to Strengthen USMCA", "2026-08-12", "2026", "2026-08", "Republican", "House", "MI", "Tom Barrett", "B001321", "barrett.house.gov", "barrett", "https://barrett.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "St. Johns, Mich. \u2014 Congressman Tom Barrett (MI-07) on Tuesday met with mid-Michigan farmers, producers, and agricultural industry leaders to discuss trade policy and hear their priorities for negotiations around extending the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA).\n\nA few days prior to the roundtable discussion, which was hosted by Farmers for Free Trade at AgroLiquid in St. Johns, Barrett joined a majority of House Republicans in sending a letter to U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer pushing for improvements to the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) before agreeing to an extension.\n\n\u201cThe farmers and producers in our mid-Michigan agricultural community work tirelessly to raise the animals and grow the food we all rely on,\u201d said Congressman Tom Barrett. \u201cThanks to Farmers for Free Trade for bringing so many of them together. It was great to meet with them to hear how competitive access to trade markets in Canada and Mexico will help give them the certainty they need to continue fulfilling that mission. That goal \u2014 and leveling the playing field \u2014 must remain a top priority as the Trump administration begins renegotiating the USMCA.\u201d\n\n\u201cWe appreciate Congressman Tom Barrett for meeting with mid-Michigan agriculture leaders to discuss the importance of North American trade for our industry,\u201d said Michigan Agri-Business Association President Chuck Lippstreu. \u201cMichigan agriculture benefits greatly from exports and relies on strong trading relationships with Canada and Mexico. North American agricultural trade remains a top priority for our organization because exports are a key ingredient in the success of our state\u2019s agricultural sector and broader rural economy.\u201d\n\n\u201cThank you to Congressman Tom Barrett for meeting with mid-Michigan farmers and agriculture leaders to discuss the ongoing USMCA negotiations,\u201d said Jacob Smith, Michigan Farm Bureau Associate National Legislative Counsel. \u201cA strong trading relation with our neighbors is vital to Michigan agriculture and ensures a dependable agriculture market across North America.\u201d\n\n\u201cCanada and Mexico are Michigan's top two agricultural markets, and more than $1.7 billion in Michigan farm and food exports depend on them,\u201d said Brian Kuhel, Executive Director of Farmers for Free Trade. \u201cCongressman Barrett gave producers a direct line into that conversation today, and that is what the Joint Review needs. We are encouraged by the work underway to extend and strengthen USMCA, and we want farmer voices shaping that work.\u201d\n\nThe letter, which 168 House Republicans signed, supports the Trump administration\u2019s approach to the Joint Review process, which prioritizes outcomes over a set deadline to secure an extension.\n\n\u201cWe believe that the USMCA has delivered many positive benefits, but there are key improvements that can and should be made through the Joint Review process,\u201d said the lawmakers. \u201cThus, while our desired result is an extension agreed to by the United States, Mexico, and Canada, we support the decision to prioritize outcomes over a deadline. We hope that Mexico and Canada work constructively and expeditiously to achieve that result.\u201d\n\nThey continued, \u201cThose outcomes should include securing market access that was promised six years ago but not meaningfully delivered; addressing new actions taken by Mexico and Canada that harm American manufacturers, agriculture, service providers, and workers; confronting unfair trade and investment practices from third countries that seek to undermine the North American economy and threaten American jobs; and rationalizing tariff structures to strengthen regional competitiveness in the global marketplace.\u201d\n\nJuly 1 marked the first USMCA Joint Review, in which the U.S., Mexico, and Canada met to decide whether to extend the agreement for 16 more years. Mexico and Canada agreed to an extension, while the U.S. did not.\n\nThe USMCA remains in force until 2036 as the three sides continue to discuss improvements to the agreement.", 1, "2026-08-13T06:17:16Z", "2026-08-13T06:18:13Z"], ["https://barrett.house.gov/media/press-releases/barrett-joins-army-secretary-michigan-officials-northern-strike-military", "Barrett Joins Army Secretary, Michigan Officials for Northern Strike Military Training at Camp Grayling", "2026-08-07", "2026", "2026-08", "Republican", "House", "MI", "Tom Barrett", "B001321", "barrett.house.gov", "barrett", "https://barrett.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Grayling, Mich. \u2014 Congressman Tom Barrett (MI-07) today joined U.S. Secretary of the Army Daniel P. Driscoll, Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer, Congressman Jack Bergman (MI-01), and other officials at Camp Grayling for Exercise Northern Strike, the annual military training coordinated by the Michigan National Guard.\n\nDuring the exercise, Driscoll announced a new Army initiative to expand testing range access for private industry partners at Camp Grayling and four other bases. The initiative is designed to expedite testing for new weapons, drone systems, and other technologies that have practical applications for combat, reconnaissance, and other military purposes.\n\n\u201cExercise Northern Strike enables our military to take advantage of the best Michigan has to offer \u2014 from our lakes, terrain, and airspace to our advanced engineering and manufacturing base,\u201d Barrett said. \u201cI experienced that firsthand during my years participating in Northern Strike in the Army, and I enjoyed seeing our troops in action alongside Secretary Driscoll and bipartisan leadership from across our state. I\u2019m confident Michigan will continue to lead the way in training our armed forces in the tactics and skills they need to keep our nation secure.\u201d\n\nExercise Northern Strike takes place throughout the National All-Domain Warfighting Center, which encompasses the state of Michigan, including Camp Grayling and other sites. Driscoll's announcement comes after Barrett and his colleagues secured a decision by the Army and the National Guard Bureau to designate NADWC as a national drone testing site.\n\nThis year\u2019s Exercise Northern Strike brought together more than 9,000 participants from 36 states and territories and five international allies. From August 3 to 14, the Army, Navy, Marines, Air Force, reserves, National Guard, and foreign partners are conducting combat training operations in the land, sea, air, space, and cyber domains.\n\nBarrett participated in a roundtable with Driscoll, Whitmer, and other officials about the secretary's announcement. He then took an aerial tour of the camp in a Chinook helicopter, met with defense industry stakeholders, witnessed a firefighting exercise, a doorway clearing detonation, and more.", 1, "2026-08-10T06:13:07Z", "2026-08-10T06:14:46Z"], ["https://barrett.house.gov/media/press-releases/barrett-builds-maha-agenda-helps-introduce-bipartisan-bill-require-clear", "Barrett Builds on MAHA Agenda, Helps Introduce Bipartisan Bill to Require Clear Gluten Labeling", "2026-08-04", "2026", "2026-08", "Republican", "House", "MI", "Tom Barrett", "B001321", "barrett.house.gov", "barrett", "https://barrett.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2014 Congressman Tom Barrett (MI-07) joined Congresswoman Anna Paulina Luna (FL-13) and colleagues from both sides of the aisle in introducing the Food Allergy Safety, Treatment, Education, and Research (FASTER) Act of 2026. This bill would amend the Food and Drug Administration\u2019s major food allergen labeling requirements to include barley, rye, and oats alongside wheat, closing a gap in federal law that leaves millions of Americans with celiac disease and gluten intolerance exposed to hidden sources of gluten.\n\n\u201cFamilies deserve to know exactly what\u2019s in the food they serve themselves and their children,\u201d said Barrett. \u201cClear labeling gives parents and consumers the transparency they need to make informed decisions and stay healthy. This bipartisan bill will help millions of people with celiac disease and gluten intolerance avoid hidden sources of gluten \u2014 giving families real peace of mind.\u201d\n\nThis action comes amid growing concern over the health risks posed by accidental gluten exposure. An estimated 25.7 million Americans have celiac disease, gluten intolerance, or an IgE-mediated wheat allergy with potential cross-reactivity to barley, rye, and oats.\n\n\u201cI actually have a gluten intolerance myself, and it\u2019s terrifying when labels aren\u2019t clear because that can have serious medical consequences,\u201d said Luna. \u201cMillions of Americans are affected by celiac disease or gluten intolerance; it\u2019s a real and serious issue, and it\u2019s time the food industry respected that. We need transparent labeling so Americans can make informed decisions and safeguard their health.\u201d\n\nThe legislation has also been championed by 13-year-old Jax Bari, known as the \u201cMAHA Kid\u201d and co-founder of Celiac Journey, whose advocacy has helped bring national attention to the gaps in federal gluten-labeling requirements.\n\n\u201cI\u2019m grateful to Congresswoman Luna and the original co-sponsors for introducing the bipartisan FASTER Act of 2026 which will require the labeling of barley, rye, and oats as Major Food Allergens,\u201d said Jax Bari. \u201cMy goal is to eat without fear because celiac is every bite, every day \u2014 constant questioning, constant worrying. Just a crumb of gluten is like kryptonite to me. 87 other countries require the labeling of wheat, barley, rye and oats, including in Canada, in the United Kingdom and across the European Union. We\u2019re really behind in the United States, and the FASTER Act will help close the gap and better protect 729,000 kids like me with Celiac.\u201d\n\nThe FASTER Act is also cosponsored by Reps. Randy K. Weber Sr. (TX-14), Paul A. Gosar (AZ-09), Daniel Meuser (PA-09), Jefferson Van Drew (NJ-02), Chellie Pingree (ME-01), Madeleine Dean (PA-04), Tom Suozzi (NY-03), Brian Fitzpatrick (PA-01), and Michael Rulli (OH-06).\n\nClick here to read the bill.\n\n###", 1, "2026-08-05T07:37:37Z", "2026-08-05T07:38:44Z"], ["https://barrett.house.gov/media/press-releases/barrett-celebrates-local-businesses-meets-first-responders-students", "Barrett Celebrates Local Businesses, Meets with First Responders, Students", "2026-07-31", "2026", "2026-07", "Republican", "House", "MI", "Tom Barrett", "B001321", "barrett.house.gov", "barrett", "https://barrett.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Lansing, Mich. \u2014 Congressman Tom Barrett (MI-07) on Thursday and Friday met with first responders, educators, students, and workers across mid-Michigan as he visited Lansing Community College\u2019s Aviation Maintenance Technology Center, Clinton Area Ambulance Service, Livingston County EMS Education, and celebrated Highland Engineering\u2019s 40th anniversary and Merlo Construction\u2019s ribbon cutting.\n\n\u201cEvery day, Michiganders across our state are working hard and providing the services that keep our communities strong \u2014 from saving lives in emergencies to educating the next generation,\u201d said Barrett. \u201cMeeting with first responders, educators, construction professionals, engineers, and other mid-Michigan workers allows me to hear directly from the people on the front lines about the challenges they face and the policies they need to do their jobs and succeed. I\u2019m committed to supporting our workforce, strengthening our communities, and delivering results for Mid-Michigan.\u201d\n\nOn Thursday, Barrett toured the Lansing Community College Aviation Maintenance Technology Center, which is located at the Mason-Jewett Field Airport. Barrett met with college leaders, educators, and students in the aviation technology program, which is recognized as the best in the Midwest. They discussed the program\u2019s success at preparing students for careers and the program\u2019s opportunities for expansion. Barrett recently highlighted the program in a conversation about aviation careers in the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee.\n\nBarrett then met with leadership at the Clinton County Ambulance Service Authority to hear about their lifesaving work serving northern Clinton County and the needs the agency is facing.\n\nOn Friday, Barrett joined Highland Engineering Inc. in Howell for the company\u2019s 40th anniversary celebration. Highland began as a fixture and automation design firm and now provides is a leading defense contractor, providing the military with equipment for classified information facilities, water purification, electricity, medical care, cargo transportation, and more.\n\nBarrett then attended the ribbon cutting for Merlo Construction\u2019s new headquarters in Genoa Township near Brighton. Merlo, a family-owned business previously based in Milford, is a leading contractor providing construction site development, concrete, asphalt, and rigging services.\n\nAt Livingston County EMS, Barrett toured the cutting-edge education center and met with instructors and other emergency responders to hear about their service to the community and their program that provides hands-on education for future emergency medical professionals. Barrett also toured the agency\u2019s hangar and ambulance bay.", 1, "2026-08-04T07:35:49Z", "2026-08-04T07:37:27Z"], ["https://barrett.house.gov/media/press-releases/barrett-joins-michigan-delegation-bipartisan-effort-bring-coast-guard-drone", "Barrett Joins Michigan Delegation in Bipartisan Effort to Bring Coast Guard Drone Testing to Michigan", "2026-07-31", "2026", "2026-07", "Republican", "House", "MI", "Tom Barrett", "B001321", "barrett.house.gov", "barrett", "https://barrett.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2014 Congressman Tom Barrett (MI-07) joined colleagues from Michigan in the U.S. House and Senate in a bipartisan effort to bring Coast Guard drone testing to northern Michigan. Michigan\u2019s decades-long manufacturing legacy has made it a national leader in autonomous systems, with the expertise, strategic location, and partnerships to support Coast Guard testing missions.\n\nEstablishing Northern Michigan as a designated site for Coast Guard drone testing would:\n\nBuild on the region's growing leadership in autonomous technology.\n\nCreate new opportunities for research and workforce development.\n\nEnsure the Coast Guard can test next-generation technologies in real-world Great Lakes conditions.\n\nHelp the Coast Guard save lives, respond to disasters faster, improve maritime safety and security, inspect critical infrastructure, and monitor the environment.\n\nStrengthen search-and-rescue operations\u2014all while reducing costs and keeping people out of harm's way.\n\nThe letter was also signed by Senators Elissa Slotkin (D-MI) and Gary Peters (D-MI) along with Representatives Jack Bergman (MI-01), John Moolenar (MI-02), Hillary Scholten (MI-03), and Haley Stevens (MI-11).\n\n\u201cEarlier this year, the Administration released its Maritime Action Plan: Restoring America's Maritime Dominance, directing the Coast Guard to make one or more such designations, including in the Great Lakes,\u201d said the lawmakers. \u201cNorthern Michigan is an ideal location for this designation given that Coast Guard Air Station Traverse City already possesses the operational expertise, strategic location, and public-private partnerships needed to become the Coast Guard\u2019s premier site for testing autonomous maritime technologies.\u201d\n\n\u201cServing all five Great Lakes, Air Station Traverse City is uniquely positioned to support Coast Guard missions ranging from search and rescue to homeland security and disaster response,\u201d continued the lawmakers. \u201cCombined with uncongested airspace, significant capacity for expansion, and a community that embraces Coast Guard families and operations, it provides an exceptional platform for continued investment and innovation.\u201d", 1, "2026-08-04T07:35:49Z", "2026-08-04T07:37:27Z"], ["https://barrett.house.gov/media/press-releases/barrett-meets-health-care-professionals-um-health-sparrow-visits-williamston", "Barrett Meets with Health Care Professionals at UM Health-Sparrow, Visits Williamston Construction Site", "2026-07-29", "2026", "2026-07", "Republican", "House", "MI", "Tom Barrett", "B001321", "barrett.house.gov", "barrett", "https://barrett.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Lansing, Mich. \u2014 This week, Congressman Tom Barrett (MI-07) visited University of Michigan Health-Sparrow Hospital in Lansing and a road construction site in Williamston. During the visits, Barrett met with health care professionals and the road crew and discussed his work to lower health care costs, invest in mid-Michigan infrastructure, and deliver tax relief to hardworking Michiganders.\n\n\u201cWhether treating patients or paving our roads, Michigan\u2019s health care professionals and skilled workers keep our communities running every day,\u201d said Barrett. \u201cThat\u2019s why I was proud to deliver no tax on overtime for construction workers, and it\u2019s why I\u2019m proud to advocate for policies that will make health care more affordable, invest in our infrastructure, and more. It was valuable to hear directly from those on the front lines about the challenges they face and what issues matter most to them. I\u2019m committed to fighting to strengthen our workforce and put more money back into the pockets of working families.\u201d\n\nDuring his Monday visit to UM Health-Sparrow, Barrett toured the facility and met with hospital leadership and staff to discuss the importance of ensuring Michigan families have access to high-quality health care and supporting the professionals who provide it. Barrett has made Michiganders\u2019 health a top priority and the focus of two pillars of his Blueprint for a Better America: Making Health Care Affordable Again and Making America Healthy Again.", 1, "2026-07-30T07:32:48Z", "2026-07-30T07:34:08Z"], ["https://walberg.house.gov/media/press-releases/walberg-sends-letter-sec-lutnick-regarding-risks-foreign-humanoid-robot", "Walberg Sends Letter to Sec. Lutnick Regarding Risks of Foreign Humanoid Robot Technology", "2026-07-29", "2026", "2026-07", "Republican", "House", "MI", "Tim Walberg", "W000798", "walberg.house.gov", "walberg", "https://walberg.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Yesterday, Congressman Tim Walberg (MI-05) sent a letter to Secretary of Commerce Howard Lutnick urging the Department of Commerce to investigate the national security risks associated with Hypserscale Data in Dowagiac, Michigan, assembling humanoid robots made with components from AGIBOT, a Shanghai, China based manufacturer.\n\n\"Foreign adversaries, especially the People\u2019s Republic of China, remain a threat to America,\" Rep. Walberg writes. \"Their military-civil fusion strategy and national intelligence laws that require citizens and companies to assist the Chinese government intelligence efforts when requested create risks for American companies who may choose to partner with them in key fields such as humanoid robotics.\"\n\n\"Recently, a U.S. robotics company, Omnipresent Robotics, and its parent company\n\nHypserscale Data have partnered with AGIBOT a Shanghai, China, based humanoid robotics manufacturer to import humanoid robotics components and control software, assemble them, operate them, and eventually sell them to other U.S. companies under the Omnipresent Robotics logo,\" Rep. Walberg continues. \"Currently, Hyperscale Data plans to import, assemble, and field a fleet of 143 robots and is producing the first batch which will be called OPR-R2. They will begin using them at their datacenter and robotics lab campus in Dowagiac, Michigan, to 'support the development of embodied artificial intelligence applications, autonomous workflows, and advanced robotics systems.'\"\n\n\"These intelligent robots made with components from AGIBOT could pose an\n\nunacceptable risk to U.S. companies, infrastructure, and national security,\" Rep. Walberg concludes. \"AGIBOT was founded in 2023 and has previously received financial backing from BYD and the Shanghai Embodied Intelligence Fund. The Department of Commerce has the authority to investigate these products and if it deems it necessary take action to keep the U.S. safe.\"\n\nYou may view the full letter here.\n\nCongressman Walberg is a cosponsor of H.R. 9129, the Guarding the U.S. Against Adversarial Robotics Dominance (GUARD Act), which would mandate that any components, communications equipment, or software used in humanoid or quadruped robotics originating from a foreign country of concern be added to the Department of Commerce or Federal Communications Commission's covered entity list.", 1, "2026-07-30T07:32:48Z", "2026-07-30T07:34:08Z"], ["https://barrett.house.gov/media/press-releases/barrett-launches-final-pillar-reform-agenda-make-america-healthy-again", "Barrett Launches Final Pillar of Reform Agenda to Make America Healthy Again", "2026-07-28", "2026", "2026-07", "Republican", "House", "MI", "Tom Barrett", "B001321", "barrett.house.gov", "barrett", "https://barrett.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2014 Congressman Tom Barrett (MI-07) today launched the sixth and final pillar of his Blueprint for a Better America: Make America Healthy Again, introducing four bills to make baby formula healthier and safer, increase fresh healthy food options for military families, inform parents about what\u2019s in their children\u2019s school meals, and encourage a minimum amount of school recess.\n\n\u201cParents shouldn\u2019t have to worry about what\u2019s in the food they buy for their kids \u2014 especially those taking care of a newborn or military families raising kids while one parent is away defending our country,\u201d said Barrett. \u201cIt\u2019s time we enact serious reforms to give Americans transparency and access to real, healthy options. Whether it's a cafeteria, a commissary, or a grocery store, all of our communities deserve policies that put people\u2019s well-being first and make it easier to raise healthy families.\u201d\n\nThe four bills included in Barrett\u2019s plan to Make America Healthy Again are:\n\nSafe Baby Formula Act (H.R. 9949) to ban, as close to zero as possible, all toxic heavy metals from baby formula and require the Food and Drug Administration to study the effects of metals in formula.\n\nHealthy Commissaries, Healthy Families Act (H.R. 9950) to require the Department of Defense to partner with local farmers and expand healthy food options in military commissaries \u2014 the department-run stores for service members, retirees, and their families.\n\nKnow What\u2019s on the Tray Act (H.R. 9951) to require schools participating in the National School Lunch Program and School Breakfast Program to publish information about each menu item on the school website so parents can know what their children are eating: the item\u2019s ingredient list, the item\u2019s manufacturer or producer, the location where the item was produced, and whether the item is locally sourced or produced on a family farm.\n\nHealthy Recess for Learning Act (H.R. 9952) to encourage elementary and middle schools to expand recess to at least 60 minutes a day.\n\nBarrett has previously led and supported several initiatives aimed at addressing America\u2019s declining physical and mental health, including:\n\nIntroducing the Great American Healthcare Plan to expand access to tax-free health savings accounts (HSAs) and allow people to use HSAs to pay for nutritious food, vitamins, gym memberships, and other healthy lifestyle choices.\n\nHelping pass a Farm Bill amendment to preserve states\u2019 ability to hold pesticide makers accountable for harmful products.\n\nVoted in support of a Farm Bill amendment to prevent SNAP benefits from being used to purchase sugary sodas.\n\nIntroduced the Tech Wellness for Young Men Act and the Tech Wellness for Men Act to study how screen time and video game use may affect the mental health and well-being of boys and young men.\n\nAbout Barrett\u2019s Blueprint for a Better America:", 1, "2026-07-29T07:41:48Z", "2026-07-29T07:42:57Z"], ["https://walberg.house.gov/media/press-releases/walberg-celebrates-great-lakes-legislative-accomplishments-during-lake", "Walberg Celebrates Great Lakes Legislative Accomplishments During Lake Appreciation Month", "2026-07-27", "2026", "2026-07", "Republican", "House", "MI", "Tim Walberg", "W000798", "walberg.house.gov", "walberg", "https://walberg.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "As Lake Appreciation Month comes to a close, Congressman Tim Walberg (MI-05) recognizes the vital role the Great Lakes play in Michigan's economy and way of life. This Congress, the Congressman has introduced and supported multiple bipartisan pieces of legislation to preserve the health of the Great Lakes and their fisheries.\n\n\"As Michiganders, we all understand the vital role the Great Lakes play in our livelihood and way of life,\" said Rep. Walberg. \"Whether it\u2019s casting a line into the sparkling waters of Lake Michigan or enjoying the world-class fisheries of Lake Erie, these lakes are central to who we are. However, the Great Lakes have faced various challenges over the years, threatening our fisheries, economy, and recreational opportunities for Michigan families. This Congress, I have been proud to work across the aisle to safeguard the health of the Great Lakes. By advancing bipartisan solutions, we can ensure that future generations enjoy the same world\u2011class fisheries and natural treasures we cherish today.\"\n\nCongressman Walberg has supported and introduced various pieces of legislation to protect the Great Lakes.", 1, "2026-07-28T07:37:32Z", "2026-07-28T07:38:50Z"], ["https://walberg.house.gov/media/press-releases/walberg-congratulates-jackson-chamber-commerce-national-chamber-year-award", "Walberg Congratulates Jackson Chamber of Commerce on National Chamber of the Year Award", "2026-07-27", "2026", "2026-07", "Republican", "House", "MI", "Tim Walberg", "W000798", "walberg.house.gov", "walberg", "https://walberg.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Today, Congressman Tim Walberg (MI\u201105) congratulated the Jackson County Chamber of Commerce on being named the 2026 Category Two Chamber of the Year by the Association of Chamber of Commerce Executives (ACCE). The Chamber of the Year award is the highest honor in the chamber industry, recognizing outstanding leadership in operations, member service, and community impact.\n\n\u201cWith this recognition, the Jackson County Chamber of Commerce has once again shown why our community is such a powerful engine for innovation, collaboration, and local growth,\u201d said Rep. Walberg. \u201cTheir long\u2011term commitment to strengthening Jackson County through strategic planning, strong partnerships, and a focus on quality of life continues to deliver meaningful results for families, businesses, and the future of our community.\u201d\n\nThe ACCE honor is awarded to chambers that demonstrate exceptional organizational strength and leadership on key community priorities, including education, transportation, economic vitality, and overall quality of life. This year\u2019s award highlights the Chamber\u2019s work through Drive Jackson, a 20\u2011year strategic plan advancing quality of place, education, housing, public safety, and economic growth across Jackson County.", 1, "2026-07-28T07:37:32Z", "2026-07-28T07:38:50Z"], ["https://walberg.house.gov/media/press-releases/walberg-applauds-dol-plan-make-health-benefits-easier-access", "Walberg Applauds DOL Plan to Make Health Benefits Easier to Access", "2026-07-24", "2026", "2026-07", "Republican", "House", "MI", "Tim Walberg", "W000798", "walberg.house.gov", "walberg", "https://walberg.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Education and Workforce Committee Chairman Tim Walberg (R-MI) released the following statement after the Department of Labor proposed a rule to improve how employers and health plans communicate with workers about their health benefits:\n\n\"Americans shouldn't have to rely on outdated paper notices to learn about their health benefits. This proposal gives workers and their families timely, easy access to information about their health benefits, while reducing unnecessary costs for employers.\n\n\"Last year, Committee Republicans urged the Department of Labor to make electronic delivery the default for health plan disclosures because it would lower costs while improving access to important information. I'm pleased the Department has acted on our request, and I look forward to seeing this rule finalized.\"\n\nBACKGROUND\n\nLast year, Chairman Walberg led Committee Republicans in urging the Department of Labor to establish a default electronic delivery safe harbor for ERISA health and welfare plan disclosures, pointing out the change would reduce regulatory burdens, lower costs, and improve workers' access to benefit information.", 1, "2026-07-25T07:13:44Z", "2026-07-25T07:15:09Z"], ["https://walberg.house.gov/media/press-releases/walberg-lankford-lead-amicus-brief-defending-religious-liberty-supreme-court", "Walberg, Lankford Lead Amicus Brief Defending Religious Liberty in Supreme Court School Choice Case", "2026-07-24", "2026", "2026-07", "Republican", "House", "MI", "Tim Walberg", "W000798", "walberg.house.gov", "walberg", "https://walberg.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Education and Workforce Committee Chairman Tim Walberg (R-MI) and Senator James Lankford (R-OK) led 43 Members of Congress\u201435 Representatives and eight Senators\u2014in filing an amicus brief in St. Mary Catholic Parish in Littleton, CO, et al. v. Lisa Roy, et al., a case the Supreme Court will hear during its October 2026 Term.\n\nThe brief urges the Court to protect the constitutional rights of faith-based schools participating in school choice programs and warns that allowing the 10th Circuit's decision to stand could undermine Congress's tax credit scholarship program established under the Working Families Tax Cuts.\n\nChairman Walberg said:\"Every family deserves the freedom to choose the school that's right for their child, including a faith-based school. When parents have more educational options, students have a better chance to learn in an environment where they can thrive. That's exactly what Congress worked to expand through the Working Families Tax Cuts Act. States shouldn't be able to shut faith-based schools out of school choice programs. That's not religious liberty, and it's not what the Constitution requires. We urge the Supreme Court to reverse the 10th Circuit's decision.\"\n\nSenator Lankford said: \"In Oklahoma, we believe parents know what\u2019s best for their kids, including what school fits their family\u2019s faith. Colorado decided Catholic preschools didn\u2019t get the same shot as everyone else, just because of their beliefs. That\u2019s not religious liberty, that\u2019s discrimination. I\u2019m proud to join this brief and ask the Court to protect every family\u2019s right to choose a school that reflects who they are.\"\n\nColorado's universal preschool program gives families funding to send their children to the public or private preschool of their choice. But while the state made exceptions for some secular schools, it excluded Catholic preschools from participating because those schools ask families to support Catholic teachings on sex and gender.\n\nAfter lower courts ruled against the Catholic preschools, the Supreme Court agreed to hear the case next term.\n\nThe Members' brief argues that if the 10th Circuit's decision is allowed to stand, states could adopt similar policies that effectively exclude faith-based schools from participating in the federal tax credit scholarship program enacted by Congress in 2025, undermining the religious freedom protected by the First Amendment.\n\nFull text of the brief is available here.\n\nHere is a full list of Members signing onto the brief: Reps. Tim Walberg, Robert B. Aderholt, Rick W. Allen, Tom Barrett, Michael Baumgartner, Aaron Bean, Andy Biggs, Sheri Biggs, Mike Bost, Jeff Crank, Byron Donalds, Gabe Evans, Randy Fine, Virginia Foxx, H. Morgan Griffith, Glenn Grothman, Mark Harris, Clay Higgins, Julia Letlow, John McGuire, Mark Messmer, Mary Miller, John Moolenaar, Riley M. Moore, Andy Ogles, Bob Onder, Burgess Owens, August Pfluger, John Rose, Michael A. Rulli, John Rutherford, Adrian Smith, Chris Smith, Daniel Webster, Joe Wilson; and Senators James Lankford, Ted Budd, Kevin Cramer, Ted Cruz, Charles E. Grassley, Jim Justice, Roger Marshall, and Pete Ricketts.", 1, "2026-07-25T07:13:44Z", "2026-07-25T07:15:09Z"], ["https://walberg.house.gov/media/press-releases/walberg-recognizes-national-hire-veteran-day", "Walberg Recognizes National Hire a Veteran Day", "2026-07-24", "2026", "2026-07", "Republican", "House", "MI", "Tim Walberg", "W000798", "walberg.house.gov", "walberg", "https://walberg.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Ahead of National Hire a Veteran Day on July 25, Congressman Walberg (MI-05) released the following statement recognizing the strength, leadership, and expertise veterans bring to our communities and workplaces.\n\n\"Our nation's veterans have sacrificed so much for our freedoms, and we must ensure they have every opportunity to succeed when transitioning into civilian life,\" said Rep. Walberg. \"On this upcoming National Hire a Veteran Day, I encourage employers across our district to consider the unmatched value veterans bring to their organizations. When we hire veterans, we strengthen our communities, our economy, and our future.\"\n\nRep. Walberg has supported multiple pieces of legislation that have passed the House this Congress and would invest in the future success of our nation's veterans.\n\nVeterans Readiness and Employment Improvement Act: strengthens the VA\u2019s Veterans Readiness and Employment (VR&E) program, which places veterans with counselors who assist them in pursuing education, employment, independent living, and entrepreneurship opportunities.\n\nVeterans Education and Technical Skills (VETS) Opportunity Act: updates the GI Bill to provide veterans with broader access to high-quality in-person and hybrid independent study programs, connecting them to careers in critical fields and strengthening the American workforce.", 1, "2026-07-25T07:13:44Z", "2026-07-25T07:15:09Z"], ["https://walberg.house.gov/media/press-releases/walberg-upholds-commitment-supporting-parental-rights", "Walberg Upholds Commitment to Supporting Parental Rights", "2026-07-24", "2026", "2026-07", "Republican", "House", "MI", "Tim Walberg", "W000798", "walberg.house.gov", "walberg", "https://walberg.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "As communities across the nation celebrate National Parents\u2019 Day on Sunday, Congressman Tim Walberg (MI-05) released the following statement recognizing the role parents play as their children's first educators and reaffirming their right to be involved in decisions impacting their children.\n\n\"On National Parents' Day, we celebrate the parents who nurture curiosity at home, advocate for their children at school, and work tirelessly to ensure every child has the opportunity to reach their full potential,\" said Rep. Walberg. \"Supporting parental rights means ensuring every family stays informed, engaged, and empowered in their child\u2019s learning journey. Educational success is greatest when parents\u2019 voices are welcomed and respected, and I remain committed to ensuring that parents are involved in the key choices affecting their children at school.\"\n\nBackground\n\nIn May, the House passed the Stopping Indoctrination and Protecting Kids Act, legislation led by Education and Workforce Committee Chairman Tim Walberg (R-MI) and Rep. Burgess Owens (R-UT) to increase transparency in K-12 schools, strengthen parents\u2019 rights, and ensure federal education dollars are not used to advance radical political or ideological agendas in the classroom.\n\nThe bill:\n\nEnsures schools keep parents informed and involved in key decisions affecting their children.\n\nProhibits federal funds from being used to promote radical gender ideology or compel ideological beliefs\u2014codifying President Trump\u2019s executive actions and affirming that there are two sexes.\n\nRequires clear communication with families and establishes consequences for withholding critical information.\n\nPuts parents\u2014not bureaucrats\u2014back in charge of their children\u2019s education.", 1, "2026-07-25T07:13:44Z", "2026-07-25T07:15:09Z"], ["https://barrett.house.gov/media/press-releases/barrett-votes-raise-troop-pay-strengthen-national-security-house-passes-ndaa", "Barrett Votes to Raise Troop Pay, Strengthen National Security As House Passes NDAA", "2026-07-23", "2026", "2026-07", "Republican", "House", "MI", "Tom Barrett", "B001321", "barrett.house.gov", "barrett", "https://barrett.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2014 Yesterday, Congressman Tom Barrett (MI-07) and the U.S. House of Representatives passed the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for Fiscal Year 2027 with bipartisan support. This legislation authorizes $1.15 trillion in investments for the U.S. military and national security \u2014 including a 5% to 7% pay increase for all service members.\n\nThe bill also promotes peace through strength by bolstering the armed forces, boosting America\u2019s defense production, and deterring hostile foreign powers. The bill includes key priorities Barrett advocated: preparing Michigan\u2019s Selfridge Air National Guard Base for its next fighter jet mission, making military and commercial air travel safer, and taking steps to correct the injustices of the COVID-19 vaccine mandate.\n\n\u201cBuilding a strong military means investing in the men and women who put their lives on the line to defend our freedom,\u201d said Barrett. \u201cThis bill makes those investments by providing a historic pay raise, more housing and child care resources, and the tools our armed forces need to keep our nation safe. I\u2019m proud the bill also includes several important provisions I led to make air travel safer for all Americans, right the wrongs service members faced during COVID-19, and prepare Selfridge for a new fighter mission. Our service members deserve the best, and I\u2019ll continue fighting to ensure they have the support and resources to continue protecting our nation.\u201d\n\nBackground:\n\nThe National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2027 strengthens America\u2019s armed forces and national security by:\n\nAuthorizing $1.15 trillion in defense spending, including targeted resources to deter threats from China, Russia, Iran, and North Korea.\n\nIncreasing pay for service members by 5% to 7%.\n\nImproving critical support resources for military families, including housing and child care services.\n\nRevitalizing America\u2019s defense industrial base by investing in weapons, equipment, and vehicles for the military; lowering regulatory barriers that make it difficult for new and small contractors to compete; and supporting private-sector investment that will create thousands of American jobs.\n\nProtecting taxpayer dollars by removing wasteful spending, setting up a fraud task force, and auditing the entire Department of Defense (DoD).\n\nSelfridge\n\nThe bill authorizes $451.9 million for critical infrastructure improvements Selfridge Air National Guard Base will need for the F-15 EX Eagle II squadron that President Trump announced last year as well as prepare the base for the arrival of the KC-46 tankers. The bill also requires the Air Force to maintain the A-10 Warthog fleet as the base transitions from its A-10 mission to the F-15 EX mission. Barrett has been a leader of successful efforts to ensure Selfridge remains mission-ready during the transition period.\n\nVaccine Mandate\n\nThe NDAA includes a provision that mirrors Barrett\u2019s COVID-19 Military Mandate Transparency Act, requiring the Department of Defense to determine and publicly report how many veterans were forced to retire or leave the military early for refusing the COVID vaccine. The calculation will pave the way for Barrett\u2019s Patriots Over Politics Act, which would restore these veterans\u2019 ability to transfer their unused GI Bill benefits to their children.\n\nAviation Safety\n\nThe House also adopted an amendment to the NDAA that Barrett proposed to make military aircraft safer in light of the tragic crash in January 2025 between an Army helicopter and a passenger jet. The amendment mirrors the Military Next-Gen Collision Avoidance Act, legislation Barrett introduced several weeks ago to require the DoD to create an action plan for implementing next-generation anti-crash technology, known as Airborne Collision Avoidance System X (ACAS-X), in military aircraft.", 1, "2026-07-24T07:30:11Z", "2026-07-24T07:31:13Z"], ["https://barrett.house.gov/media/press-releases/barrett-votes-third-time-limit-operations-iran-absent-authorization-congress", "Barrett Votes For Third Time To Limit Operations In Iran Absent Authorization From Congress", "2026-07-23", "2026", "2026-07", "Republican", "House", "MI", "Tom Barrett", "B001321", "barrett.house.gov", "barrett", "https://barrett.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2014 Today, Congressman Tom Barrett (MI-07) for the third time voted in support of a measure (H.Con.Res. 89) to limit and wind down the ongoing military operations in Iran absent authorization from Congress. The resolution passed the House of Representatives by a vote of 214-208.\n\nAfter the vote, Barrett released the following statement:\n\n\u201cMy position hasn\u2019t changed. Only Congress has the authority to authorize military action in Iran. I remain ready to work with anyone to eliminate hostile threats to our nation without getting us into another endless war.\u201d\n\nThis is the third resolution Barrett has supported this year (H.Con.Res. 86 and H.Con.Res. 75). He is also the first and only member of Congress to introduce an Authorization for Use of Military Force (H.J.Res. 176) for the conflict in Iran. Specifically, this AUMF he introduced in May would have given President Trump congressional authority for a limited time to successfully demolish, degrade, or defeat Iran\u2019s nuclear weapons program without putting American boots on the ground or engaging in nation-building.", 1, "2026-07-24T07:30:11Z", "2026-07-24T07:31:13Z"], ["https://walberg.house.gov/media/press-releases/subcommittee-holds-hearing-examining-walbergs-legislation-bridge-digital-0", "Subcommittee Holds Hearing Examining Walberg's Legislation to Bridge Digital Divide", "2026-07-23", "2026", "2026-07", "Republican", "House", "MI", "Tim Walberg", "W000798", "walberg.house.gov", "walberg", "https://walberg.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Yesterday, the House Committee on Energy and Commerce Committee's Subcommittee on Communications and Technology held a legislative hearing to discuss legislation to expand access to the reliable broadband needed for the 21st Century. The Subcommittee examined the Proper Leadership to Align Networks (PLAN) for Broadband Act, introduced by Congressmen Tim Walberg (R-MI) and Scott Peters (D-CA).\n\n\"Students, families, and small businesses rely on internet connectivity each day, and we can\u2019t allow rural America to get left behind in today\u2019s digital age,\" said Rep. Walberg. \"We must develop a national strategy to streamline our efforts and deliver high-speed broadband across the country. I am proud to see the subcommittee consider my legislation, the bipartisan PLAN for Broadband Act, which would increase coordination among all relevant federal agencies so we can close the digital divide.\"\n\nBackground\n\nThe PLAN for Broadband Act is based upon a Government Accountability Office report that found that federal broadband efforts are oftentimes fragmented and duplicative. While enough federal funding exists to bridge the digital divide, a national broadband strategy is needed to avoid duplicative efforts and ensure that funds are available to reach the truly unserved and underserved areas. The PLAN for Broadband Act would require the Administration to develop and implement a national strategy to close the digital divide.", 1, "2026-07-24T07:30:11Z", "2026-07-24T07:31:13Z"], ["https://walberg.house.gov/media/press-releases/walberg-applauds-passage-budget-resolution-unlock-reconciliation-30", "Walberg Applauds Passage of Budget Resolution to Unlock Reconciliation 3.0", "2026-07-22", "2026", "2026-07", "Republican", "House", "MI", "Tim Walberg", "W000798", "walberg.house.gov", "walberg", "https://walberg.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Today, Congressman Tim Walberg (MI-05) voted in favor of the Concurrent Resolution on the Budget for Fiscal Year 2027, which moves the process forward for Congressional Republicans' third reconciliation bill, the SAVE and Protect America Act.\n\n\"Today, House Republicans took the first step in the budget reconciliation process to address urgent national priorities that the American people have been asking for,\" said Rep. Walberg. \"The SAVE and Protect America Act will help restore American greatness by protecting and strengthening our homeland and bolstering our election integrity. I urge the Senate to quickly pass the budget resolution so we can begin the process of securing our elections, supporting our troops, and providing certainty for our food supply.\"\n\nBackground\n\nDespite finding noncitizens and similarly ineligible restraints on voter rolls and over 83% of Americans supporting requiring government-issued photo ID, fourteen states still refuse to require photo ID for voting. The budget resolution would provide instructions to implement commonsense election integrity measures along with providing our troops with the resources they need and securing our nation's food supply.", 1, "2026-07-23T07:31:02Z", "2026-07-23T07:32:26Z"], ["https://walberg.house.gov/media/press-releases/walberg-votes-strengthen-defense-and-improve-quality-life-servicemembers", "Walberg Votes to Strengthen Defense and Improve Quality of Life for Servicemembers", "2026-07-22", "2026", "2026-07", "Republican", "House", "MI", "Tim Walberg", "W000798", "walberg.house.gov", "walberg", "https://walberg.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Congressman Tim Walberg (MI-05) released the following statement after he voted in favor of and the House passed the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for Fiscal Year 2027.\n\n\"The United States faces a growing threat of national security challenges every day, and our military must have the resources, training, and capabilities necessary to keep us all safe,\" said Rep. Walberg. \"The NDAA for Fiscal Year 2027 will help rebuild the arsenal of freedom, restore peace through strength, and support our brave servicemembers. The legislation enhances the quality of life for servicemembers by increasing their pay by 5 to 7 percent, as well as improving housing, education, and access to childcare for military families. It also prioritizes investment in the forces and capabilities needed to strengthen deterrence and improve military readiness to maintain a strong U.S. posture.\"", 1, "2026-07-23T07:31:02Z", "2026-07-23T07:32:26Z"], ["https://moolenaar.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/moolenaar-votes-empower-american-military-and-support-servicemembers", "Moolenaar Votes to Empower American Military and Support Servicemembers", "2026-07-22", "2026", "2026-07", "Republican", "House", "MI", "John R. Moolenaar", "M001194", "moolenaar.house.gov", "moolenaar", "https://moolenaar.house.gov/media-center/press-releases", "scraper", "Today, Congressman John Moolenaar voted to pass legislation to strengthen American national security and support members of the armed forces. The National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for 2027 authorizes policies and programs for the Department of War, cuts wasteful spending while funding the revitalization American defense manufacturing, and provides servicemembers with a 5-7% raise with improved benefits for military families.\n\n\"Our commitment to the brave men and women who serve in the U.S. Armed Forces will never waiver. The FY27 NDAA will help ensure our military remains the world's premiere fighting force, and provides increased support those who serve and their families. This legislation is a win for Michigan; restores our defense industrial base, provides vital funding for Selfridge Air National Guard Base and opens the door to new innovations in a constantly changing battlefield. I'm also proud my provision to prevent foreign surveillance of military cargo was included in this bill to bolter our national security,\" said Moolenaar.\n\nMoolenaar serves as the Chairman of the House Select Committee on China. He added, \"The legislation passed by the House today will defend our country against the Chinese Communist Party, which is the biggest threat we face. Including part of my bipartisan GUARD Act sends a clear sign that Congress is addressing the privacy and national security risks posted by Chinese robots. We cannot allow these robots to become predominate in our country and we need to support American innovation in robotics. The NDAA also addresses the continued threat of CCP aggression in the Indo-Pacific and supports continued coordination with our allies and like-minded partners in the region.\"\n\nThe National Defense Authorization Act is passed annually by Congress to direct policy and authorize funding for the Department of War. All three amendments submitted by Moolenaar were adopted and passed by the House.\n\nAll three of Moolenaar's amendments to the NDAA were adopted prior to passage. Those amendments are:\n\nKeeping China Off the Rails - Prohibits sensitive monitoring technology manufactured in China or by a foreign entity of concern from being used on railcars owned or leased by the Department of War. Moolenaar introduced the bipartisan Keeping China Off the Rails Act in April.\n\nGUARD Act of 2026 - Requires the Department of War to add a determination of whether Chinese unmanned robotics including ground vehicle systems pose a risk to U.S. national security.\n\nPacific Command Military Construction Acceleration - Directs the Department of War to inventory, assess and prioritize all military construction and infrastructure projects in the Pacific Islands aligned to operational requirements set for 2030, 2035, and 2040.", 1, "2026-07-24T07:30:11Z", "2026-07-24T07:31:13Z"], ["https://moolenaar.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/moolenaar-votes-end-insider-trading-congress", "Moolenaar Votes to End Insider Trading in Congress", "2026-07-22", "2026", "2026-07", "Republican", "House", "MI", "John R. Moolenaar", "M001194", "moolenaar.house.gov", "moolenaar", "https://moolenaar.house.gov/media-center/press-releases", "scraper", "Today, Congressman John Moolenaar voted in favor of, H.R. 7008, the Stop Insider Trading Act, to ban members of Congress and their immediate families from purchasing individual stocks. Moolenaar cosponsored the bill upon its introduction, and applauds its passage through the House of Representatives.\n\n\"Members of Congress are entrusted by their constituents to represent them faithfully in Washington, D.C., and members should never use their position to enrich themselves and their families. In Congress, I have never bought or sold individual stocks; unfortunately, far too often elected officials have used knowledge gained in classified settings for profit. The Stop Insider Trading Act will ensure that members of Congress do not benefit financially from their role as public servants, and I urge the Senate to immediately pass this commonsense legislation,\" said Moolenaar.\n\nSpecifically, the legislation prohibits Members of Congress, their spouses, and their dependent children from purchasing individual stocks of publicly traded companies. Additionally, it requires public disclosure seven days prior to the sale of any previously held stock, and establishes penalties including forced divestment for violations.\n\nH.R. 7008 passed the House of Representatives in a bipartisan vote of 232 to 198. All 198 representatives who voted against the legislation are members of the Democrat Party.", 1, "2026-07-24T07:30:11Z", "2026-07-24T07:31:13Z"], ["https://barrett.house.gov/media/press-releases/barrett-helps-pass-congressional-stock-trading-ban-voter-id-requirement", "Barrett Helps Pass Congressional Stock Trading Ban, Voter ID Requirement", "2026-07-22", "2026", "2026-07", "Republican", "House", "MI", "Tom Barrett", "B001321", "barrett.house.gov", "barrett", "https://barrett.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. - Today, Congressman Tom Barrett (MI-07) and the U.S. House of Representatives passed the Stop Insider Trading Act (H.R. 7008), which would prohibit members of Congress and their family members from trading individual stocks. The bill, which earned bipartisan support, would also implement voter ID requirements for federal elections.\n\nClick here or above to watch the congressman's statement.\n\nBarrett helped introduce the Stop Insider Trading Act in January as part of his Blueprint for a Better America: Restoring Trust in Government. Both provisions of the Stop Insider Trading Act have overwhelming support, with 84% of Americans in favor of the voter ID requirements and 86% of Americans in favor of banning individual stock trading by members of Congress.\n\nSpecifically, the Stop Insider Trading Act will prevent conflicts of interest by:\n\nBanning each member of Congress, his or her spouse, and his or her dependent children from purchasing publicly traded stocks;\n\nRequiring members to file a public notice at least seven days, but no more than 14 days, in advance of each intended sale of stocks they already own; and\n\nRequiring the House and Senate Ethics Committees to penalize members who break the law with a fee equal to $2,000 or 10% of the value of the stock, whichever is greater, as well as any net gain realized from the sale.\n\nThe bill will also strengthen election security in federal elections by:\n\nRequiring all voters to present photo identification when voting at the polls; a voter who forgot to bring ID to the polling place could cast a provisional ballot, which would be counted if a voter presents ID within three days;\n\nRequiring all absentee voters to submit a copy of their photo ID, the last four digits of their Social Security number, or a notarized attestation that the ballot was cast by the specific voter; and\n\nAllowing access to printers at government offices so absentee voters can copy their photo ID free of charge.\n\nThe Stop Insider Trading Act now advances to the Senate for consideration.\n\nAbout Barrett's Blueprint for a Better America:\n\nRestoring Trust in Government: Making Government Serve the People, Not Special Interests\n\nReviving the American Dream:Helping Families Afford Homes in Mid-Michigan\n\nMaking Health Care Affordable Again:Lowering Costs for Working Families\n\nRecalibrating American Foreign Policy: Ending Endless Wars and Promoting Peace Through Strength\n\nReforming Campaign Finance:Putting Governing Before Campaigning\n\nMaking America Healthy Again: Prioritizing Public Health Over Corporate Profits", 1, "2026-07-25T07:13:44Z", "2026-07-25T07:15:09Z"], ["https://walberg.house.gov/media/press-releases/walberg-votes-prevent-another-democrat-shutdown", "Walberg Votes to Prevent Another Democrat Shutdown", "2026-07-21", "2026", "2026-07", "Republican", "House", "MI", "Tim Walberg", "W000798", "walberg.house.gov", "walberg", "https://walberg.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Today, Congressman Tim Walberg (MI-05) voted in favor of, and the House passed H.R. 9770, the Continuing Appropriations Act of 2027, by a vote of 220-205. The legislation would continue federal funding through December 4, 2026, while Congress completes work on the full-year fiscal year 2027 appropriations bills.\n\n\"Last year, congressional Democrats triggered the longest full government shutdown in American history, disrupting air travel, critical services, and nutrition assistance,\" said Rep. Walberg. \"Their obstruction left servicemembers, air traffic controllers, TSA personnel, federal law enforcement officers, and other federal employees unsure of when they would receive their next paycheck and Michigan families wondering how they would put food on the table. This clean continuing resolution ensures that another costly government shutdown does not befall the American people while Congress continues to complete the appropriations process in regular order.\"\n\nBackground\n\nA 43-day government shutdown began on October 1, 2025, following a lapse in federal appropriations. While House Republicans voted on September 19, 2025, for a bipartisan government funding deal, Democrats in the Senate voted 15 times against it to keep the government closed, forcing the longest full government shutdown in U.S. history that cost taxpayers $15 billion per week.\n\nBeginning on February 14, 2026, the Department of Homeland Security also experienced a historic 75-day funding lapse, jeopardizing our homeland security and placing undue financial insecurity on employees of one of our nation\u2019s largest federal agencies.", 1, "2026-07-22T07:34:13Z", "2026-07-22T07:35:16Z"], ["https://walberg.house.gov/media/press-releases/walbergs-legislation-combat-invasive-species-examined-subcommittee", "Walberg's Legislation to Combat Invasive Species Examined by Subcommittee", "2026-07-21", "2026", "2026-07", "Republican", "House", "MI", "Tim Walberg", "W000798", "walberg.house.gov", "walberg", "https://walberg.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Today, the House Committee on Natural Resources' Subcommittee on Water, Wildlife and Fisheries held a legislative hearing and examined the Aquatic Invasive Species (AIS) Control and Prevention Act, introduced by Representatives Tim Walberg (R-MI) and Sarah Elfreth (D-MD). The bipartisan legislation would modernize federal AIS authorities to better prevent, control, and eradicate aquatic invasive species.\n\nCongressman Walberg, a member of the House Natural Resources Committee, had the opportunity to ask Dr. Marc Gaden, the Executive Secretary of the Great Lakes Fishery Commission, about how the legislation would bridge gaps in the federal government's current approach to preventing and managing aquatic invasive species.\n\n\"As Michiganders, we know the long-term health of our fisheries is critical to our fishing industry, economy, and way of life,\" said Rep. Walberg. \"I was glad to see the subcommittee consider my legislation, the bipartisan AIS Control and Prevention Act, to streamline coordination and prioritize prevention and rapid response. The Great Lakes are a national treasure, and we must continue to be good stewards of their waters and wildlife.\"\n\nBackground\n\nAquatic invasive species, including zebra mussels, invasive Asian carp, and sea lamprey, impose billions of dollars in costs annually, damaging fisheries, aquatic habitat, hydropower, irrigation, drinking water, and other water infrastructure nationwide. They also pose a significant threat to the ecological and economic health of the Great Lakes region by outcompeting native fish populations, degrading water quality, and endangering the economies and communities that depend on a healthy ecosystem.\n\nThe Aquatic Invasive Species (AIS) Control and Prevention Act would:\n\nSupport state-led, coordinated invasive species management\n\nProtect fisheries, boating access, water infrastructure, and outdoor recreation economies\n\nImprove coordination across existing federal, state, and regional AIS programs\n\nPrioritize prevention and rapid response to reduce long-term, costly management\n\nThe Aquatic Invasive Species (AIS) Control and Prevention Act is supported by a number of organizations representing recreational anglers, boaters, and the industries they support.", 1, "2026-07-22T07:34:13Z", "2026-07-22T07:35:16Z"], ["https://huizenga.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=404474", "House Passes 2 Huizenga Measures in Bipartisan Bill to Help Main Street, Improve Affordability", "2026-07-21", "2026", "2026-07", "Republican", "House", "MI", "Bill Huizenga", "H001058", "huizenga.house.gov", "huizenga", "https://huizenga.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx", "scraper", "Tonight, Congressman Bill Huizenga (R-MI), Vice Chairman of the House Financial Services Committee, released the following statement after the U.S. House of Representatives passed H.R. 6955, the Main Street Capital Access Act. This legislation is designed to strengthen community banks, expand access to credit, and end debanking. Importantly, this bipartisan bill includes two measures authored by Huizenga that strengthen oversight and promote greater competition within the banking system.\n\n\"Washington should not be making life more expensive for Americans with needless red tape,\u201d said Congressman Bill Huizenga. \u201cLess competition means fewer financing options, higher borrowing costs, and less investment on Main Street. By cutting through the red tape this bipartisan bill reduces costs and helps community lenders make life more affordable for American families. Lastly, I am glad this legislation includes my provisions to increase accountability and reduce concentration across our financial system.\u201d\n\nAccess to affordable credit is critical for families buying a home, farmers investing in their operations, entrepreneurs starting a business, and employers creating jobs. The Main Street Capital Access Act removes unnecessary regulatory burdens on community banks, encourages the formation of new community banks, and allows local lenders to devote more resources to making loans.\n\nEarlier today, Congressman Huizenga spoke on the floor in support of the Main Street Capital Access Act. The video of his remarks is available below.\n\nThe Main Street Capital Access Act incorporates two bills authored by Huizenga. The FDIC Board Accountability Act that strengthens governance and accountability at the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation, as well as the Enhancing Bank Resolution Participation Act, which broadens participation in failed-bank resolutions to promote competition, protect depositors, and reduce concentration within the banking system. Together, these measures reflect Huizenga's continued work to ensure federal policy supports community financial institutions and the small businesses and families they serve.\n\nThe Main Street Capital Access Act passed the House by a vote of 270-155 and now advances to the Senate for consideration.", 1, "2026-07-23T07:31:02Z", "2026-07-23T07:32:26Z"], ["https://walberg.house.gov/media/press-releases/walberg-honors-hillsdale-county-veteran-0", "Walberg Honors Hillsdale County Veteran", "2026-07-20", "2026", "2026-07", "Republican", "House", "MI", "Tim Walberg", "W000798", "walberg.house.gov", "walberg", "https://walberg.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "On Friday, Congressman Tim Walberg (MI-05) recognized Patrick Knight of Hillsdale as the Veteran of the Month for July. The Congressman presented Patrick with the Congressional Record containing his remarks honoring Patrick's service and dedication to our country.\n\nPatrick Knight served in the United States Navy as a Search and Rescue Helicopter Crewman from 1966 to 1970. During his time in active duty, Patrick served with Helicopter Combat Support Squadron One (HC-1) at NAS Imperial Beach in California and overseas with Helicopter Combat Support Squadron Seven (HC-7), the Navy\u2019s premier Combat Search and Rescue unit that is also known as the \u201cSea Devils.\u201d While with HC-7, he assisted in rescuing pilots that had been shot down in Vietnam and the surrounding waters, helping his squadron to rescue approximately 150 pilots.\n\nPatrick was awarded the Navy Commendation Medal, Vietnam Service Medal, Meritorious Unit Citation, Good Conduct Medal, National Defense Service Medal, and the Combat Search and Rescue Air Wings. In 1971, the Sea Devils were awarded the Presidential Unit Citation by President Richard Nixon for their extraordinary heroism while performing rescue operations under adverse conditions.\n\nFollowing his time in the military, Patrick spent 32 years as a member of the Riverview Police Force and recently retired as Chief of Police. Patrick is also a member of the VFW Post 1136 in Wyandotte and serves on the Board for the Emergency Telephone Services for Hillsdale County and the Board of the Hillsdale Senior Center.\n\n\"I am honored to recognize Patrick Knight whose life of service reflects the very best of our nation as the Veteran of the Month for July,\" said Rep. Walberg. \"From his courageous work as a Sea Devil helping to save the lives of downed pilots, to his decades of service protecting his community in the Riverview Police Force, Patrick has demonstrated unwavering dedication, courage, and sacrifice. Patrick serves as an inspiration to us all.\"\n\nYou can access pictures of the presentation here.\n\nBackground\n\nCongressman Walberg's office is accepting submissions for the Veteran of the Month program, an initiative to honor the exemplary contributions of veterans in Michigan's 5th Congressional District. Each month, Congressman Walberg will recognize one outstanding veteran, celebrating their commitment to serving our community and their exceptional service in the military.", 1, "2026-07-21T07:32:02Z", "2026-07-21T07:33:33Z"], ["https://walberg.house.gov/media/press-releases/house-acts-crack-down-fraud-federal-workers-comp-program", "House Acts to Crack Down on Fraud in Federal Workers Comp Program", "2026-07-20", "2026", "2026-07", "Republican", "House", "MI", "Tim Walberg", "W000798", "walberg.house.gov", "walberg", "https://walberg.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "The House today unanimously passed H.R. 8823, Putting Patients First by Strengthening Provider Accountability in FECA Act, bipartisan legislation to strengthen the Federal Employees\u2019 Compensation Act (FECA) and crack down on fraud in the program.\n\nChairman Tim Walberg said:\u201cFederal workers who are navigating an injury deserve timely, honest, and compassionate care\u2014not to become the target of fraud. Unfortunately, certain medical providers have treated FECA like a personal ATM, submitting fraudulent claims and abusing the system at the expense of both taxpayers and the very people they were entrusted to help. This legislation puts an end to that abuse and reaffirms that these funds are meant to serve injured workers\u2014not line the pockets of fraudsters.\u201d\n\n\u201cAs Chairman of the Workforce Protections Subcommittee, I\u2019m committed to protecting workers\u2019 benefits from fraudsters,\u201dsaid Congressman Mackenzie. \u201cEvery dollar that goes to a fraudulent provider is one less dollar going towards providing high-quality care to an injured federal worker. Federal workers deserve commonsense protections in the law that safeguard their benefits against fraudsters. That\u2019s why my bill, H.R. 8823, gives the Department of Labor permanent authority to suspend payments to medical care providers who are convicted of fraudulent activity.\u201d\n\nH.R. 8823, Putting Patients First by Strengthening Provider Accountability in FECA Act, authored by Rep. Mackenzie:\n\nStops payments to medical providers convicted of fraud involving FECA or other government health care programs.\n\nPrevents taxpayer dollars from going to fraud.\n\nEnsures FECA funds go toward workers who need them\u2014not scammers.", 1, "2026-07-25T07:13:44Z", "2026-07-25T07:15:09Z"], ["https://barrett.house.gov/media/press-releases/barrett-beyer-jacobs-introduce-bipartisan-bill-require-human-oversight-over", "Barrett, Beyer, Jacobs Introduce Bipartisan Bill To Require Human Oversight Over Autonomous And AI Weapons", "2026-07-17", "2026", "2026-07", "Republican", "House", "MI", "Tom Barrett", "B001321", "barrett.house.gov", "barrett", "https://barrett.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2014 Today, Congressmen Tom Barrett (MI-07), Don Beyer (VA-08), and Sara Jacobs (CA-51) introduced the Human Authority over Autonomous Weapons Act (H.R. 9729) to ensure that no autonomous or artificial intelligence-enabled weapon system used by the United States military can carry out an intentionally lethal strike without meaningful human oversight or a human decision-maker in the loop. The bill would establish a clear legal requirement that commanders and operators retain appropriate levels of human judgment in decisions involving the use of lethal force.\n\n\u201cArtificial intelligence is playing an increasingly critical role in strengthening our national defense, but it should never be the one making life-or-death decisions,\u201d Barrett said. \u201cWe must establish safeguards now to ensure these technologies are used ethically and transparently. This bipartisan bill sets clear limits to make sure people stay in control whenever lethal force is involved while allowing our military to continue leading the world in technological innovation.\u201d\n\n\u201cNo machine should ever be allowed to independently decide to kill a human being because allowing AI systems to independently select and engage targets carries serious risks. Machines cannot understand morality or the value of human life, nor can they be held accountable for mistakes, war crimes, or catastrophic escalation,\u201d said Beyer. \u201cThese life and death decisions must remain in human hands. As AI becomes more powerful and more integrated into military systems, Congress has a responsibility to establish clear guardrails and responsible standards for the military use of AI. Our legislation would ensure that a human decision-maker always remains in the loop and integral to the chain of command when lethal force is involved.\u201d\n\n\u201cAI mistakes on the battlefield have the potential to be catastrophic: civilian casualties, friendly fire, unintended escalation, and calculations made on faulty data,\u201d said Jacobs. \u201cThese aren\u2019t risks worth taking \u2013 not when they can result in unnecessary lives lost or war. That\u2019s why I\u2019m proud to join Congressman Beyer and Congressman Barrett in introducing legislation to ensure that humans are meaningfully involved before autonomous or AI-enabled weapon systems are used for lethal force. This is a common-sense step to help our military keep pace with emerging technologies while upholding our commitments to international humanitarian law and ethics.\u201d\n\nBarrett also recently introduced an amendment to the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) to prohibit the use of artificial intelligence to independently carry out offensive lethal force. Although the amendment was not made in order for House floor consideration, Barrett has continued working with colleagues on bipartisan legislation to establish statutory guardrails for the military use of AI-enabled and autonomous weapons.\n\nClick here to read the bill.", 1, "2026-07-18T06:58:50Z", "2026-07-18T07:00:34Z"], ["https://barrett.house.gov/media/press-releases/barrett-introduces-two-more-bills-reform-campaign-finance-limit-fundraising", "Barrett Introduces Two More Bills to Reform Campaign Finance, Limit Fundraising and Out-of-State Spending", "2026-07-17", "2026", "2026-07", "Republican", "House", "MI", "Tom Barrett", "B001321", "barrett.house.gov", "barrett", "https://barrett.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2014 Today, Congressman Tom Barrett (MI-07) introduced two new bills in his plan to Reform Campaign Finance, which is part of his broader Blueprint for a Better America.\n\nThe Campaign Accountability and Parity (CAP) Act (H.R. 9726) and Outside Influence Prevention Act (H.R. 9727) would cap congressional campaign fundraising and require political action committees (PACs) to raise at least half of their funds from the state in which they are advertising.\n\n\u201cThe balance between campaigning and representing the people in Congress is completely out of whack. No member of Congress should be spending more money to get reelected than it costs to do the work people elected them to do in the first place,\u201d said Barrett. \u201cThese new bills in my plan to Reform Campaign Finance will finally put the people first by leveling the playing field, capping congressional campaign funds to align with the cost of running a congressional office, and limiting out-of-state spending.\u201d\n\nIn the House of Representatives, the average Members\u2019 Representational Allowance (MRA) is approximately $1.9 million. This is the annual allowance a congressional office is given to support the member of Congress in his or her official and representational duties. The MRA, which is determined by a formula and funded through the appropriations process, may be used for official expenses, including staff compensation, mail, office equipment and supplies, district office space, and more.\n\nThe Campaign Accountability and Parity (CAP) Act would limit congressional campaigns from spending more than an amount equivalent to the average MRA within a single year.\n\nThe Outside Influence Prevention Act would require any PACs that make independent expenditures to promote or attack a candidate to raise at least half of their funds from the state in which those dollars are spent.\n\nBarrett has consistently emphasized that Congress and state legislatures must be able to reclaim their authority over campaign finance rules. Last month, he introduced the Constitutional Campaign Finance Reform Amendment (H.J.Res. 191), which makes clear that the Constitution allows Congress and states to regulate and limit campaign contributions and spending.\n\nThe new bills come after Barrett and the House unanimously passed two other campaign finance bills Monday evening:\n\nThe Stop Foreign Funds in Elections Act (H.R. 3535) to extend the ban on foreign spending in American elections to include state and local ballot initiatives, referenda, and recall elections.\n\nThe FEC Administrative Improvements Act (H.R. 8738) to modernize the Federal Election Commission, expand online filing requirements, and allow for political committees to use credit cards instead of checks.\n\nAbout Barrett\u2019s Blueprint for a Better America:\n\nRestoring Trust in Government: Making Government Serve the People, Not Special Interests\n\nReviving the American Dream:Helping Families Afford Homes in Mid-Michigan\n\nMaking Health Care Affordable Again:Lowering Costs for Working Families\n\nRecalibrating American Foreign Policy: Ending Endless Wars and Promoting Peace Through Strength\n\nReforming Campaign Finance:Putting Governing Before Campaigning\n\nMaking America Healthy Again: Prioritizing Public Health Over Corporate Profits", 1, "2026-07-18T06:58:50Z", "2026-07-18T07:00:34Z"], ["https://walberg.house.gov/media/press-releases/michigan-republican-delegation-sends-letter-demanding-action-canadian", "Michigan Republican Delegation Sends Letter Demanding Action on Canadian Wildfires", "2026-07-17", "2026", "2026-07", "Republican", "House", "MI", "Tim Walberg", "W000798", "walberg.house.gov", "walberg", "https://walberg.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Today, Congressman Tim Walberg (MI-05) led members of the Michigan Republican Delegation in sending a letter to the Ambassador of Canada to the United States, Mark Wiseman. The letter requests a meeting with the Ambassador to discuss efforts that can be taken to improve wildfire prevention and protect the health and safety of residents.\n\n\"As you know, wildfires are a challenge our countries share, and they pose a significant threat to life, property, and the communities we have the privilege of representing,\" the lawmakers write. \"This crisis has been largely driven by decades of inadequate forest management that allowed hazardous fuels to accumulate, leading to larger, and more devastating fires. That is why we passed bipartisan legislation in the United States House of Representatives, H.R. 471, the Fix Our Forests Act, to increase resilience to catastrophic wildfires, promote collaboration across state and federal agencies, restore forest health, and encourage more active forest management.\"\n\n\"The cooperation between our two countries is paramount to protect the health and safety of our constituents,\" the lawmakers continue. \"As a shared challenge both of our countries face, we would like to work with you to find solutions that will increase forest management, improve wildfire prevention, and enhance wildland fire suppression efforts to limit harmful wildfire smoke.\"\n\n\"Therefore, we promptly request a meeting no later than July 24, 2026, to discuss what steps can be taken to address the wildfires plaguing both of our countries, any progress being made in Canada on wildfire containment, prevention, and forest management, and how the United States can assist in providing active solutions to benefit Canadians and our constituents,\" the lawmakers conclude.\n\nThe lawmakers' letter can be found in full here.\n\nThe letter was signed by Reps. John Moolenaar (MI-02), Bill Huizenga (MI-04), Tim Walberg (MI-05), Tom Barrett (MI-07), and Lisa McClain (MI-09).", 1, "2026-07-18T06:58:50Z", "2026-07-18T07:00:34Z"], ["https://barrett.house.gov/media/press-releases/barrett-highlights-need-balance-disaster-resilience-housing-affordability", "Barrett Highlights Need To Balance Disaster Resilience With Housing Affordability", "2026-07-15", "2026", "2026-07", "Republican", "House", "MI", "Tom Barrett", "B001321", "barrett.house.gov", "barrett", "https://barrett.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2014 Today, during a Transportation and Infrastructure Committee hearing on disaster resilience and emergency preparedness, Congressman Tom Barrett (MI-07) discussed balancing disaster resilience in construction permitting with housing affordability. In an exchange with U.S. Chamber of Commerce Vice President for Environmental Affairs and Sustainability Chuck Chaitovitz, Barrett highlighted the need for Congress to strengthen new construction against disasters while ensuring building requirements do not price ordinary Americans out of homeownership.\n\nClick here or the image above to watch Rep. Barrett\u2019s testimony.\n\nBelow are highlights from their conversation.\n\nBarrett: Mr. Chaitovitz\u2026 I know you talk about resiliency and kind of preventative nature of things being an important and critical piece of this. Not directly under the jurisdiction of this committee, but certainly in front of us as members of Congress is this issue of housing affordability and the ability to get people into homes. We're short the number of homes that we need for the number of people that have demand for homes, and that's become a very critical concern for all of us.\n\nOne of the challenges with that, I think, is \u2014 we talked a little bit here on this panel about the building codes and building to the next highest level of building code that evolves over time, but within that is sometimes things that are not related to resiliency. They're related to energy efficiency or other things like that. Can you speak to that tradeoff a little bit? Because I think we want resilient homes that are not going to be vulnerable to natural disaster without over-regulations and things unrelated to that resiliency that are going to drive up the cost of homes and price out ordinary Americans.\n\nChaitovitz: Well, thanks so much for the question. I really appreciate it, and I'll go back to how I focused on the economic growth argument for resilience, and I'll turn to, Mr. Fugate mentioned the Alabama study, and there's specific numbers that building to the fortified standard would save in claims about $105 million in that area, and then reduce the amount of deductibles that homeowners would have to pay, and so if you're building to those higher standards, you are getting the economic payback. That also is very consistent with the study that we talked about before.\n\n$1 invested in preparedness gives you $13 in reduced losses in economic savings. That doesn't mean you're going to eliminate those losses, but for income, GDP, and jobs, that's going to mean more communities are able to respond and recover more quickly, and the same goes with homeowners. I think there's a good analogy there.\n\nBarrett: Sure, and I think that resiliency and maybe sturdiness of a home or a building, whether it's a public municipal building or whether it's an individual home is one aspect, certainly, but I have concerns that we're layering on additional burdensome regulations unrelated to the resiliency of a structure. Is that something that you think we can parse through and make sure that the regulations that we are asserting are ones that are actually designed to make homes more resilient but not unaffordable for people?", 1, "2026-07-16T07:21:44Z", "2026-07-16T07:23:13Z"], ["https://bergman.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=1536", "Michigan Republicans: Canada's Apologies Won't Clear Michigan's Skies", "2026-07-15", "2026", "2026-07", "Republican", "House", "MI", "Jack Bergman", "B001301", "bergman.house.gov", "bergman", "https://bergman.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx", "scraper", "Today, Reps. Jack Bergman, John James, Lisa McClain, and John Moolenaar are demanding immediate action from the Canadian government as another wildfire season brings dangerous smoke across the border and into Michigan communities.\n\nAfter repeated conversations sharing concerns, and a lack of meaningful progress, the Members are making clear that continued inaction from Canada is unacceptable. The Members say Canadian leaders have had years to address the underlying causes of worsening wildfires, yet American families continue to bear the consequences.\n\nIn a joint letter to Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney, Michigan Republicans warned that patience has run out and called on Canada to move beyond promises and take real action to protect communities on both sides of the border.\n\nIn their letter, the Members argued that, \"We write today as members of Michigan's congressional delegation to raise our voices on an issue that has already drawn letters from our colleagues in past years: wildfire smoke drifting across the border from Canada into our communities. Additionally, last year, Reps. James and Bergman each wrote letters to your government to raise the alarm about wildfire smoke pouring across our border from Canada into our communities. We write jointly this time because a year has passed, the season has come around again, and nothing has changed except that our patience has run out.\"\n\nThe letter to Prime Minister Carney continued, \"We were told last year that this would be treated with urgency. It was not. We were told the causes, chronic under-investment in forest thinning, fuel reduction, and prescribed burns, along with inadequate enforcement against arson, were being addressed. They were not, or not adequately enough to matter to the people we represent. Provincial leaders have offered excuses instead of results, and in some cases have openly dismissed the health of American citizens as an inconvenience to their own summer. That attitude is unacceptable from a neighbor and an ally.\"\n\n\"We are done accepting apologies in place of action. If Canada will not manage its forests to prevent these fires, the United States will look elsewhere, and act on our own, to protect our people. That means our own agencies exploring direct involvement in cross-border fuel reduction and firefighting capacity. It means reconsidering how much benefit of the doubt this relationship continues to earn on an issue where American lungs are paying the price for Canadian inaction, year after year. Sovereignty comes with responsibility, and the responsibility to prevent a foreseeable disaster from crossing into another country's airspace has not been met.\"\n\nRead the full letter here.", 1, "2026-07-16T07:21:44Z", "2026-07-16T07:23:13Z"], ["https://moolenaar.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/moolenaar-bill-improve-rural-health-care-passes-committee-unanimously", "Moolenaar Bill to Improve Rural Health Care Passes Committee Unanimously", "2026-07-15", "2026", "2026-07", "Republican", "House", "MI", "John R. Moolenaar", "M001194", "moolenaar.house.gov", "moolenaar", "https://moolenaar.house.gov/media-center/press-releases", "scraper", "Today, Congressman John Moolenaar's legislation H.R. 9642, the Medicare Access to Rural Anesthesiology Act, passed the Ways and Means Committee unanimously. The legislation would allow hospitals in rural communities to utilize Medicare funds already available to them to hire and pay physician anesthesiologists. Current law only permits these hospitals to use these funds to hire nurse anesthetists or certified anesthesiologist assistants.\n\n\"Rural Michiganders should be able to receive the same quality of health care as non-rural residents. My Medicare Access to Rural Anesthesiology Act will help rural hospitals recruit and pay physician anesthesiologists so their patients can access the level of care they deserve. I am grateful for Chairman Jason Smith and his leadership on the Ways and Means Committee to advance this commonsense, bipartisan legislation,\" said Moolenaar.\n\n\u201cRural Americans deserve access to reliable, high-quality health care regardless of where they live,\u201d said Ways and Means Committee Chairman Jason Smith (R-MO-08). \u201cRepresentative Moolenaar has consistently worked to address the challenges facing rural communities, and the Medicare Access to Rural Anesthesiology Act continues that effort by helping rural hospitals maintain access to critical anesthesia services. Too many patients today face long travel times or limited options because of provider shortages. This legislation is an important step toward ensuring Michigan seniors in rural communities can receive the care they need closer to home.\u201d", 1, "2026-07-16T07:21:44Z", "2026-07-16T07:23:13Z"], ["https://moolenaar.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/moolenaar-huffman-introduce-legislation-improve-modernize-rural-health", "Moolenaar, Huffman Introduce Legislation to Improve, Modernize Rural Health Care", "2026-07-15", "2026", "2026-07", "Republican", "House", "MI", "John R. Moolenaar", "M001194", "moolenaar.house.gov", "moolenaar", "https://moolenaar.house.gov/media-center/press-releases", "scraper", "This week, Congressman John Moolenaar and Congressman Jared Huffman (D-CA) introduced the Medicare Access to Rural Anesthesiology Act. The legislation would allow rural hospitals to use Medicare funding to hire physician anesthesiologists. Under current law, hospitals are only permitted to use Medicare funding to hire certified anesthesiologist assistants or nurse anesthetists.\n\n\"Rural Michigan residents deserve to have access to the highest quality health care available. That is why we must modernize Medicare's regulations and allow rural hospitals to recruit and pay physician anesthesiologists. Our commonsense, bipartisan legislation makes a small change to existing law to let these hospitals effectively use the funds already available to them and ensure Americans in rural communities can receive the anesthesia services they need, when they need them,\" said Moolenaar.\n\n\u201cRural hospitals and health centers, like the many throughout my district, serve communities that would otherwise have no access to essential health care. But their remote locations present many unique challenges \u2013 including building and sustaining a strong workforce,\u201d saidRep. Huffman. \u201cOur bill would remove barriers for anesthesiologists to participate in rural incentive programs that are a critical tool for rural medical facilities to attract and retain the staff they need to care for our communities.\u201d", 1, "2026-07-16T07:21:44Z", "2026-07-16T07:23:13Z"], ["https://james.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=1301", "Michigan Republicans: Canada's apologies won't clear Michigan's skies", "2026-07-15", "2026", "2026-07", "Republican", "House", "MI", "John James", "J000307", "james.house.gov", "james", "https://james.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington \u2013 Today, Reps. Jack Bergman, John James, Lisa McClain, and John Moolenaar are demanding immediate action from the Canadian government as another wildfire season brings dangerous smoke across the border and into Michigan communities.\n\nAfter repeated conversations sharing concerns, and a lack of meaningful progress, the members are making it clear that continued inaction from Canada is unacceptable. The members say Canadian leaders have had years to address the underlying causes of worsening wildfires, yet American families continue to bear the consequences.\n\nIn a joint letter to Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney, Michigan Republicans warned that patience has run out and called on Canada to move beyond promises and take real action to protect communities on both sides of the border.\n\nIn their letter, the members argued that, \"We write today as members of Michigan's congressional delegation to raise our voices on an issue that has already drawn letters from our colleagues in past years: wildfire smoke drifting across the border from Canada into our communities. Additionally, last year, Reps. James and Bergman each wrote letters to your government to raise the alarm about wildfire smoke pouring across our border from Canada into our communities. We write jointly this time because a year has passed, the season has come around again, and nothing has changed except that our patience has run out.\"\n\nThe letter to Carney continued, \"We were told last year that this would be treated with urgency. It was not. We were told the causes, chronic under-investment in forest thinning, fuel reduction, and prescribed burns, along with inadequate enforcement against arson, were being addressed. They were not, or not adequately enough to matter to the people we represent. Provincial leaders have offered excuses instead of results, and in some cases have openly dismissed the health of American citizens as an inconvenience to their own summer. That attitude is unacceptable from a neighbor and an ally.\"\n\n\"We are done accepting apologies in place of action. If Canada will not manage its forests to prevent these fires, the United States will look elsewhere, and act on our own, to protect our people. That means our own agencies exploring direct involvement in cross-border fuel reduction and firefighting capacity. It means reconsidering how much benefit of the doubt this relationship continues to earn on an issue where American lungs are paying the price for Canadian inaction, year after year. Sovereignty comes with responsibility, and the responsibility to prevent a foreseeable disaster from crossing into another country's airspace has not been met.\"\n\nRead the full letter here.", 1, "2026-07-17T07:15:58Z", "2026-07-17T07:17:05Z"], ["https://barrett.house.gov/media/press-releases/barrett-introduces-fifth-aviation-safety-bill-response-2025-potomac-river", "Barrett Introduces Fifth Aviation Safety Bill in Response to 2025 Potomac River Crash", "2026-07-14", "2026", "2026-07", "Republican", "House", "MI", "Tom Barrett", "B001321", "barrett.house.gov", "barrett", "https://barrett.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2014 Today, Congressman Tom Barrett (MI-07) introduced the Military Next-Gen Collision Avoidance Act (H.R. 9620), legislation aimed at helping prevent tragedies like the January 2025 Potomac River crash between an Army helicopter and a commercial jet. Specifically, this bill would direct the United States Secretary of Defense to advance the deployment of the Airborne Collision Avoidance System\u2013X (ACAS-X) \u2014 the next generation of anti-crash technology \u2014 in military aircraft.\n\n\u201cAfter the Potomac River tragedy, it became clear we must identify shortcomings in how military aircraft operate alongside civilian flights and take real steps to fix them,\u201d said Barrett. \u201cThis bill helps accelerate the deployment of the next generation of collision avoidance technology across our military fleet so our pilots have the best tools available to prevent midair collisions. We owe it to the 67 people who lost their lives \u2014 and to every service member and air traveler \u2014 to keep strengthening our aviation safety systems so tragedies like this never happen again.\u201d\n\nThe Military Next-Gen Collision Avoidance Act builds on Barrett\u2019s first four bills in response to the Potomac River Crash:\n\nThe Military Helicopter Training Safety Act was signed into law in December 2025 and began the process of equipping military helicopters with traffic collision avoidance systems, as well as the ADS-B In system, which received data from ADS-B Out systems on other aircraft.\n\nThe Safety in Shared Skies Act would require the Automatic Dependent Surveillance-Broadcast (ADS-B) Out system in every military aircraft to be tested and serviced every 90 days.\n\nThe Military ADS-B Out Loophole Act would prevent military helicopter pilots from turning off ADS-B Out transmissions during non-sensitive portions of flight missions.\n\nThe Next-Gen Collision Avoidance Act would require the Federal Aviation Administration to advance the deployment of the ACAS-X in civilian and military aircraft.", 1, "2026-07-15T07:12:08Z", "2026-07-15T07:13:45Z"], ["https://mcclain.house.gov/2026/7/house-passes-chairwoman-mcclain-s-common-cents-act-to-end-wasteful-penny-production", "House Passes Chairwoman McClain\u2019s Common Cents Act to End Wasteful Penny Production", "2026-07-14", "2026", "2026-07", "Republican", "House", "MI", "Lisa C. McClain", "M001136", "mcclain.house.gov", "mcclain", "https://mcclain.house.gov/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON\u2014Today, the House of Representatives passed House Republican Conference Chairwoman Lisa McClain's (R-Mich.) Common Cents Act. This legislation permanently ends production of the penny for general circulation.\n\n\u201cWashington has a spending problem, and it shows up in places big and small,\u201d Chairwoman McClain said. \u201cIf the federal government is spending nearly four cents to make a penny worth one cent, something is broken. House Republicans are proving that common sense still has a place in government by cutting waste and protecting taxpayer dollars.\u201d\n\nPresident Trump directed the Treasury Department to end production of new pennies after the cost of producing each coin reached 3.69 cents. The Common Cents Act permanently codifies that policy while allowing the U.S. Mint to continue producing limited collectible pennies. Existing pennies may still be used for all cash transactions, and businesses may continue providing exact change. Payments made electronically, by credit card, check, gift card, or other non-cash methods are still charged to the exact cent.\n\nThe legislation establishes a national framework for cash transactions when exact change is unavailable. It also authorizes the Treasury Department to use a lower-cost composition for the nickel if testing demonstrates it reduces production costs without significantly affecting coin-operated machines.", 1, "2026-07-16T07:21:44Z", "2026-07-16T07:23:13Z"], ["https://mcclain.house.gov/2026/7/mcclain-celebrates-housing-bill-becoming-law-to-help-more-families-own-a-home", "McClain Celebrates Housing Bill Becoming Law to Help More Families Own a Home", "2026-07-14", "2026", "2026-07", "Republican", "House", "MI", "Lisa C. McClain", "M001136", "mcclain.house.gov", "mcclain", "https://mcclain.house.gov/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON\u2014The 21st Century ROAD to Housing Act, bipartisan housing legislation led by House Committee on Financial Services Chairman French Hill (R-Ark.), is now law.\n\nThe bill package includes two provisions championed by House Republican Conference Chairwoman Lisa McClain (R-Mich.) to expand housing supply and give Michigan families more affordable housing options.\n\n\u201cMichigan families should not have to give up on homeownership because there are not enough homes available or because outdated federal rules make ownership more expensive,\u201d Chairwoman McClain said. \u201cMy Modular Housing Production Act and Build Now Act tackle both sides of the problem. They help communities build more homes and remove financing barriers that stand between families and a home they can afford. These are practical reforms that will give Michigan families more choices and a better chance to achieve the American Dream.\u201d\n\nThe new law includes provisions from Chairwoman McClain's Modular Housing Production Act to modernize federal financing policies for modular and factory-built homes. The changes help remove outdated barriers that can delay construction and increase costs for homebuyers.\n\nIt also includes provisions from Chairwoman McClain's Build Now Act to establish a pilot program that rewards participating communities for expanding housing development. The program gives local leaders additional tools to increase housing supply and create more opportunities for families to purchase a home.\n\nThe broader law removes federal barriers to housing construction, updates housing programs, and limits competition from certain large institutional investors in the single-family housing market.", 1, "2026-07-16T07:21:44Z", "2026-07-16T07:23:13Z"], ["https://barrett.house.gov/media/press-releases/barrett-va-officials-discuss-it-modernization-and-claim-processing-va", "Barrett, VA Officials Discuss IT Modernization And Claim Processing in VA Subcommittee Hearing", "2026-07-13", "2026", "2026-07", "Republican", "House", "MI", "Tom Barrett", "B001321", "barrett.house.gov", "barrett", "https://barrett.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2014 Today, Congressman Tom Barrett (MI-07) chaired a House Veterans\u2019 Affairs Subcommittee on Technology Modernization hearing where he spoke with officials from the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) to conduct oversight of the department\u2019s modernization of the Veterans Benefits Management System (VBMS). Specifically, the officials discussed how new technology can be used to deliver decisions on veterans\u2019 claims more quickly, but must have necessary guardrails to ensure AI does not make decisions without human oversight or transparency.\n\nWitnesses at today\u2019s hearing included:\n\nMr. Robert Orifici, Acting Deputy Chief Information Officer, Product Delivery Service, VA\u2019s Office of Information and Technology\n\nMr. Derek Herbert, Acting Chief Production Officer, Veterans Benefits Administration\n\nDr. Sterling Thomas, Chief Scientist, Science, Technology Assessment, and Analytics, Government Accountability Office\n\nMr. Caleb Max, President and CEO, National Artificial Intelligence Association\n\nMr. Jeremy Villanueva, Associate Legislative Director, Paralyzed Veterans of America\n\nMr. Gregg Orto, Deputy Director, National Veterans Service, Veterans of Foreign Wars\n\nImage\n\nClick here or the image above to watch Rep. Barrett\u2019s testimony.\n\nBelow are highlights from their conversation.\n\nBarrett: The first question I have, Mr. Orifici, if you could just, for the benefit of myself and others, can you give me some examples of the difference between AI and automation and how they are distinct from one another while perhaps trying to achieve the outcome we're going for?\n\nOrifici: Yes. So thank you for that question. So when we talk about automation, we're talking about very explicit tasks that are rules-based, that could follow a very explainable set of logic to accomplish that task, like ordering mail from one point and having that delivered into the system, or repopulating a form with data that's set from a basis of rules. When we look at AI, we're looking at various models. We're looking at some models which look at predictions and patterns to really make recommendations forward from data sets that are available, and then we have generative AI which is really using that to generate a response or some piece of action from that. And so those are three different categories in their distinction.\n\nBarrett: Is AI being used in a chat function with veterans as they're going about interfacing with the VA in different ways right now? You see a lot of these on customer service platforms and things like that. Is the VA using that technology to communicate with veterans right now?\n\nOrifici: I do not believe we're using AI to communicate in chats to veterans at this point in time.\n\nBarrett: Okay. Assuming that may be an interest of the VA at some point, are we able to get assurances that there would be a disclaimer of sorts or a notice to veterans that this is being done using an AI feature?\n\nOrifici: Yeah, that's a great question, and I will commit to taking that back with our AI governance to make sure that that is a disclaimer.\n\nBarrett: Okay, thank you. I wanted to next ask you about a situation that came up in my district speaking with one of the county VSOs [veteran service organizations] in my district. They had a veteran that came to them who had filed a claim with 14 unique situations within it or 14 separate conditions. And he was using the quick submit system that the VA has. Now, he didn't have one of those Adobe subscriptions to fill out the PDF and everything else. So he used an online tool that he downloaded for free and it offset some of the formatting by enough to throw off the system. It flagged it as being incomplete, and it sent it to a VA employee for review, which is ideally what should happen is that a human takes over to look at it. But then the employee entered only the very first condition into the system, not the remaining 13 other conditions that were claimed. And obviously, that set him back significantly and it became very difficult to overcome that.\n\nWhere within the VBA's metrics or error reporting or accuracy logs would those, you know, 13 failed submissions, where would that be counted and where would it be accounted for?", 1, "2026-07-14T07:08:55Z", "2026-07-14T07:10:52Z"], ["https://mcclain.house.gov/2026/7/chairwoman-mcclain-helps-secure-better-deal-to-open-gordie-howe-international-bridge", "Chairwoman McClain Helps Secure Better Deal to Open Gordie Howe International Bridge", "2026-07-13", "2026", "2026-07", "Republican", "House", "MI", "Lisa C. McClain", "M001136", "mcclain.house.gov", "mcclain", "https://mcclain.house.gov/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON\u2014Today, House Republican Conference Chairwoman Lisa McClain (R-Mich.) announced new details on the deal to open the Gordie Howe International Bridge on July 27. McClain joined President Donald Trump and Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick as the administration negotiated better terms for the United States.\n\n\u201cWe took a bad deal and turned it into an economic opportunity for Michigan and the entire country,\u201d Chairwoman McClain said. \u201cI am proud to have worked with President Trump and Secretary Lutnick to get this bridge open while securing a better deal for the American people. The Gordie Howe Bridge will strengthen Michigan\u2019s economy and keep trade moving across our northern border. I will remain directly involved as we put these new resources to work creating jobs and expanding economic opportunity in Michigan.\u201d\n\nUnder the old deal, the United States wouldn't see a single penny in toll revenues for at least 50 years. Under the new agreement, the United States will receive half of the bridge\u2019s revenue after operating costs for 15 years and will have a say on toll changes. The agreement also establishes a 15-year economic development fund tied to bridge revenue. Those revenues will flow to the federal government, and McClain will work with the Trump administration to ensure the resulting investments support economic development in Michigan.\n\nThe six-lane bridge will provide a direct connection between Interstate 75 and Ontario\u2019s Highway 401. It will also include the largest land ports of entry on the U.S.-Canada border. The new crossing is expected to reduce congestion, shorten trips for commercial traffic, and save the trucking industry an estimated $2.3 billion over 30 years.", 1, "2026-07-14T07:08:55Z", "2026-07-14T07:10:52Z"], ["https://barrett.house.gov/media/press-releases/historic-barrett-backed-housing-package-becomes-law", "Historic, Barrett-Backed Housing Package Becomes Law", "2026-07-11", "2026", "2026-07", "Republican", "House", "MI", "Tom Barrett", "B001321", "barrett.house.gov", "barrett", "https://barrett.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2014 Today, Congressman Tom Barrett (MI-07) celebrated the 21st Century ROAD to Housing Act (H.R. 6644) becoming law to expand affordable housing options and lower costs for Americans. Specifically, this housing package that Barrett helped pass would increase housing supply by cutting unnecessary red tape, expanding financing opportunities for local housing projects, and more. It also includes an effort that Barrett has helped lead to ban large corporations from buying up single-family homes.\n\n\u201cFor generations, owning a home has been a cornerstone of the American Dream, but that dream is slipping away for too many Michigan families,\u201d said Barrett. \u201cThat changes today. The 21st Century ROAD To Housing Act becoming law will finally ease the burdensome regulations that have made it impossible to build new homes and prevent corporate investors who treat family homes like their personal stock portfolio from buying up all the supply. Every American deserves a fair shot at owning a home and building a future in their community, and I was proud to fight to make sure they get it.\u201d\n\nAccording to the Competitive Enterprise Institute, hidden regulatory expenses currently cost families more than $16,000 annually, with an additional $130,000 in regulatory costs added to building a new home. This bill would cut this red tape and lower costs for homebuyers by:\n\nProhibiting large institutional investors that own more than 350 single-family homes from buying up more of the market.\n\nSpeeding up home construction by streamlining permitting, and reducing regulatory delays;\n\nModernizing federal housing programs to support more affordable housing development;\n\nExpanding financing opportunities for community banks so they can support more local housing projects; and\n\nEncouraging the construction of single-family homes, apartments, manufactured housing, and other affordable housing options.\n\nOn February 9, the House of Representatives passed the 21st Century ROAD to Housing Act by a vote of 390-9. On June 22, the Senate passed an amended version of the bill by a vote of 85-5. The House voted to concur with the Senate version on June 23, by a vote of 358-32, sending the package to the president\u2019s desk. The bill became law at midnight last night.\n\nAbout Barrett\u2019s Blueprint for a Better America\n\nRestoring Trust in Government: Making Government Serve the People, Not Special Interests\n\nReviving the American Dream:Helping Families Afford Homes in Mid-Michigan\n\nMaking Health Care Affordable Again:Lowering Costs for Working Families\n\nRecalibrating American Foreign Policy: Ending Endless Wars and Promoting Peace Through Strength\n\nReforming Campaign Finance:Putting Governing Before Campaigning\n\nMaking America Healthy Again: Prioritizing Public Health Over Corporate Profits", 1, "2026-07-14T07:08:55Z", "2026-07-14T07:10:52Z"], ["https://walberg.house.gov/media/press-releases/walberg-backed-transformational-housing-legislation-becomes-law", "Walberg-Backed Transformational Housing Legislation Becomes Law", "2026-07-11", "2026", "2026-07", "Republican", "House", "MI", "Tim Walberg", "W000798", "walberg.house.gov", "walberg", "https://walberg.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Congressman Tim Walberg (MI-05) released the following statement after the bipartisan 21st Century ROAD to Housing Act became law.\n\n\"Americans deserve access to affordable housing, and the 21st Century ROAD to Housing Act is transformational legislation that will help restore the American Dream of homeownership,\" said Rep. Walberg. \"By reducing burdensome regulatory barriers and allowing banks to freely deploy funding, we can increase housing supply and lower costs for hardworking Michigan families. This bipartisan legislation includes real solutions that will alleviate housing shortages and make life more affordable for all Americans.\"\n\nThe 21st Century ROAD to Housing Act cuts regulatory barriers that slow housing construction, modernizes Housing and Urban Development (HUD) programs, and strengthens local lending capacity to support new housing development. Congressman Walberg voted in favor of the legislation, which passed the House on June 23, 2026.", 1, "2026-07-16T07:21:44Z", "2026-07-16T07:23:13Z"], ["https://walberg.house.gov/media/press-releases/walberg-and-usda-deputy-secretary-vaden-visit-weir-and-leitz-farms", "Walberg and USDA Deputy Secretary Vaden Visit Weir and Leitz Farms", "2026-07-10", "2026", "2026-07", "Republican", "House", "MI", "Tim Walberg", "W000798", "walberg.house.gov", "walberg", "https://walberg.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Today, Congressman Tim Walberg (MI-05) welcomed Department of Agriculture Deputy Secretary Stephen Vaden to Michigan's 5th Congressional District. They began the day at Weir Farms in Horton meeting with local farmers from five different counties in Michigan to discuss the Administration's priorities and explore ways to continue to support hardworking farmers. They specifically focused on the benefits of the Working Families Tax Cuts and this year's Farm Bill, which have strengthened risk management tools, protected family farms from the increased death tax, expanded access to markets, and cut taxes for farmers. Congressman Walberg and Deputy Secretary Vaden then travelled to Leitz Farms in Sodus to tour the farm and learn more about their operations.\n\n\"I was honored to join Deputy Secretary Vaden today in meeting with farmers across Michigan's 5th District to discuss how we can provide them with the necessary tools to maintain the world\u2019s safest and most abundant food supply,\" said Rep. Walberg. \"Farmers work tirelessly every day, and policies like those included in the Working Families Tax Cuts and this year's Farm Bill will support their efforts to put affordable food on the tables of hardworking Michigan families.\"", 1, "2026-07-16T07:21:44Z", "2026-07-16T07:23:13Z"], ["https://barrett.house.gov/media/press-releases/barrett-celebrates-78-million-federal-investment-secured-lansing-airport", "Barrett Celebrates $7.8 Million Federal Investment Secured For Lansing Airport", "2026-07-09", "2026", "2026-07", "Republican", "House", "MI", "Tom Barrett", "B001321", "barrett.house.gov", "barrett", "https://barrett.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Lansing, Mich. \u2014 Today, Congressman Tom Barrett (MI-07) joined President and CEO Nicole Noll-Williams and other leadership of the Capital Region International Airport to review the airport\u2019s outdated passenger boarding bridges, which he secured federal funding to replace through a bipartisan appropriations bill in February. The $7.823 million investment to replace the aging passenger boarding bridges is part of the $146 million Barrett has secured for mid-Michigan projects since taking office last year.\n\n\u201cThe Lansing airport connects mid-Michigan families and our economy with the world,\u201d said Barrett. \u201cI was proud to secure $7.8 million to replace the outdated passenger boarding bridges and make traveling in and out of our community an even better experience. The new jet bridges will not only allow the airport to accommodate passengers more efficiently, but they will also ensure mid-Michiganders and visitors can safely and conveniently Fly Lansing for years to come.\u201d\n\n\u201cThis nearly $8 million in federal funding is a critical infrastructure investment for the Capital Region International Airport (LAN). Replacing our passenger boarding bridges is a necessary upgrade that directly supports the safety, efficiency, and reliability of our facilities for our tenants, airline partners and passengers,\u201d said Nicole Noll-Williams, president and CEO of the Capital Region Airport Authority (CRAA). \u201cWe are grateful for the continued support of our federal legislative partners whose advocacy helps ensure LAN remains a safe, modern and competitive gateway for the Mid-Michigan region.\u201d\n\nThe $7.823 million Barrett secured will help replace five of the airport\u2019s six passenger boarding bridges. The current bridges are outdated and require constant repair, and one of them is inoperable. The new bridges will be energy efficient and meet the most up-to-date accessibility standards under the Americans with Disabilities Act.\n\nAt the airport, Barrett met with Nicole Noll-Williams, president and CEO; Rob Benstein, vice president and chief operating officer; Rob O\u2019Neil, director of infrastructure, facilities, and environmental management; Steve Ball, manager of facilities maintenance; and Steve Gonzalez, chief of public safety.", 1, "2026-07-10T08:20:04Z", "2026-07-10T08:21:18Z"], ["https://barrett.house.gov/media/press-releases/barrett-welcomes-secretary-collins-back-mid-michigan-discusses-work-improve", "Barrett Welcomes Secretary Collins Back to Mid-Michigan, Discusses Work to Improve Services for Veterans", "2026-07-09", "2026", "2026-07", "Republican", "House", "MI", "Tom Barrett", "B001321", "barrett.house.gov", "barrett", "https://barrett.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Lansing, Mich. \u2014 Today, Congressman Tom Barrett welcomed U.S. Secretary of Veterans Affairs Doug Collins to mid-Michigan to discuss ongoing efforts and progress by Congress and the Trump administration to support veterans and improve access to the benefits and care they\u2019ve earned.\n\nThe officials met with staff at a Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) clinic in Lansing, visited the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) National Home in Eaton Rapids, and held a roundtable discussion with local veteran leaders. Following the roundtable, Barrett presented Vietnam veteran Sgt. Robert Haywood with Purple Heart and service ribbons that Barrett obtained to replace the originals that were stolen from Haywood\u2019s residence.\n\n\u201cThe men and women who honorably served our country shouldn\u2019t have to jump through hoops when they come home to get the benefits they earned,\u201d said Barrett. \u201cI\u2019m grateful to Secretary Collins for visiting mid-Michigan again to hear directly from local veterans and dedicated VA staff about additional steps we can take to continue improving service at the VA. I\u2019m eager to continue working to ensure all our nation\u2019s heroes can access the support they deserve.\u201d\n\n\u201cCongressman Barrett has been a champion for Veterans, and it was inspiring to see how the improvements we\u2019re making at VA are helping Michiganders who wore the uniform,\u201d said VA Secretary Doug Collins. \u201cWe\u2019re putting Veterans first by expanding access to care, shrinking the backlog of Veterans waiting for benefits, repairing VA facilities at a record pace, and listening to Veterans on visits like this one so we can keep finding ways to improve.\u201d\n\nBarrett and Collins first visited the VA\u2019s Community-Based Outpatient Clinic in Lansing to hear from health care professionals and other staff about their work serving veterans, the implementation of the VA\u2019s new electronic health record system, and possible improvements to better serve veterans.\n\nThe officials then visited the VFW National Home in Eaton Rapids, which provides housing, child care, and other support services to veteran and military families, especially those transitioning to civilian life. After touring the campus, they met with VFW National Home leaders, veteran service officers, and other Michigan veterans to discuss how the VA can continue strengthening support, reducing delays, and improving service for the men and women who have served in the military.\n\n\u201cWe are grateful to welcome Congressman Tom Barrett and Secretary of Veterans Affairs Doug Collins to the VFW National Home and appreciate the opportunity to share our mission firsthand,\u201d said Dr. Jerred Johnson, Executive Director of the VFW National Home. \u201cFor more than a century, the VFW National Home has been dedicated to helping military, veteran, and service families build new beginnings, and visits like this help shine a light on the importance of ensuring those who have served our nation have the support they deserve.\u201d\n\n\u201cWe're proud to welcome the Secretary to Ingham County and appreciate the opportunity to highlight the needs, successes, and resilience of our local veterans,\u201d said Amy Pocan, director of the Ingham and Clinton County Department of Veterans Affairs. \u201cOur veterans deserve leaders who are willing to listen. The Secretary's visit provides an important opportunity to engage directly with the County Veteran Service Officers of Ingham County, whose firsthand experience and working knowledge can help identify challenges, develop practical solutions, and strengthen services for the veterans we serve.\u201d\n\n\u201cVETLIFE is honored to welcome Congressman Barrett and Secretary Collins as they take the time to hear directly from organizations serving veterans across Michigan,\u201d said Joshua Parish, President & CEO of VETLIFE. \u201cEvery day, we see veterans and their families working to navigate a system that can be difficult to access, especially for those living in rural communities or facing barriers to care. As our veteran population and workforce continue to evolve, we have an opportunity to modernize how veterans connect with the benefits, healthcare, and support they have earned\u2014making access simpler, more responsive, and available before challenges become crises. We appreciate Congressman Barrett\u2019s leadership on veterans\u2019 issues and Secretary Collins\u2019 willingness to engage with organizations on the front lines. Together, government, nonprofits, and community partners can build a stronger, more connected system that empowers veterans and their families to thrive.\u201d\n\n\u201cThe opportunity to sit down with Congressman Barrett and Secretary Collins to discuss the MWTEC Veterans Academy is monumental,\u201d said Jason Peterson, Director of Veteran Academy MWTEC. \u201cTogether, we have an opportunity to strengthen the systems that connect veterans to education, meaningful careers, and the support they need to build successful futures in Michigan.\u201d\n\n\u201cIt isn't every day that the staff from a community college veteran support office gets to meet directly with their U.S. Representative AND the Secretary of the VA,\u201d said Andrew Cosgrove, Veteran Services Director at Lansing Community College. \u201cWe are honored to have the opportunity Rep. Barrett\u2019s office has provided us to meet with Secretary Collins to discuss some of the issues our veterans and dependents face when transitioning out of the military and into higher education and utilizing their GI Bill benefits. Our Veterans have sacrificed so much for us and our country; we, the staff of LCC\u2019s Center for Veteran and Family Support, do what we can to provide assistance and support so our veterans can be successful at LCC and move on to the next chapter of their lives, whether that\u2019s transferring to a university or entering the workforce.\u201d\n\n\u201cWe trust that Rep. Barrett and Secretary Collins will work to ensure our veterans and dependents are taken care of and provide veteran support offices around the country with the tools they need to assist veterans seeking better opportunities for themselves and their families,\u201d Cosgrove continued.\n\nParticipants in today\u2019s roundtable included:\n\nDr. Jerred Johnson, Executive Director of the VFW National Home\n\nDave Lewis, COO of the VFW National Home\n\nTodd Butler, deputy director of the Michigan Veterans Affairs Agency\n\nMike Reeve, director of veteran affairs at the Shiawassee County Veterans Affairs Department\n\nAmy Pocan, director of veteran services at the Ingham and Clinton County Department of Veterans Affairs\n\nJohn Taylor, deputy director of veteran services at the Ingham and Clinton County Department of Veterans Affairs\n\nDenise Formolo, president of the Michigan Association of County Veteran Counselors\n\nKatrina Golab, enlisted corps representative at the National Guard Association of Michigan\n\nIan Knapp, coordinator of the Center for Veteran and Military-Affiliated Students at Michigan State University\n\nAndrew Cosgrove, director of veteran services at Lansing Community College\n\nRebecca Allen, veteran coordinator at Lansing Community College\n\nJason Peterson, director of the veteran academy at the Michigan Workforce Training and Education Collaborative\n\nJosh Parish, president and CEO of Vetlife\n\nMatthew Leach, partnership coordinator at VETLIFE", 1, "2026-07-10T08:20:04Z", "2026-07-10T08:21:18Z"], ["https://barrett.house.gov/media/press-releases/barrett-secretary-duffy-announce-more-125-million-funding-real-infrastructure", "Barrett, Secretary Duffy Announce More Than $12.5 Million In Funding For Real Infrastructure In Mid-Michigan", "2026-07-07", "2026", "2026-07", "Republican", "House", "MI", "Tom Barrett", "B001321", "barrett.house.gov", "barrett", "https://barrett.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2014 Today, Congressman Tom Barrett (MI-07) celebrated the announcement of more than $12.5 million in U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) funding for real infrastructure improvements in Ingham County and the City of Lansing through the Better Utilizing Investments to Leverage Development (BUILD) Grant Program.\n\n\u201cI'm grateful to Secretary Duffy and the Trump administration for recognizing the need for these investments that will significantly improve the roads that mid-Michigan families and businesses rely on every day,\u201d said Barrett. \u201cThese projects will make our communities safer, reduce congestion, and lay the groundwork for future economic growth. I look forward to seeing these investments move our transportation infrastructure forward.\u201d\n\n\u201cAmerica is fortunate to have a Builder in the White House who knows America is only as great as our infrastructure,\u201d said U.S. Transportation Secretary Sean P. Duffy. \u201cThat\u2019s why this Department is investing in repairing critical roads and bridges that connect Americans to job opportunities, port infrastructure that bolsters our national security, and aviation and transit projects that move American families. The impact of these dollars will be felt in communities nationwide for years to come.\u201d\n\nThe newly awarded funding includes:\n\n$11,352,306 for Ingham County to reconstruct sections of Okemos Road, including turn lanes, sidewalks, stormwater and sewer infrastructure, traffic signal modernization, and more.\n\n$1,200,000 for the City of Lansing to advance planning and preliminary engineering for roadway and intersection improvements, develop corridor-level concepts, evaluate alternatives, and more to create safer and more efficient streets.\n\nThe Better Utilizing Investments to Leverage Development (BUILD) Grant is a longstanding U.S. DOT program that supports investments in surface transportation projects with significant local or regional impact. Originally created in 2009 as the Transportation Investment Generating Economic Recovery (TIGER) grant program, BUILD grants help fund projects that improve safety, mobility, economic competitiveness, and quality of life in communities across the country.\n\nBarrett supports extending funding for this critical program for local and regional infrastructure projects. The bipartisan BUILD America 250 Act, which Barrett and his colleagues approved this spring in the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee, would authorize the key program for another five years.", 1, "2026-07-08T07:27:19Z", "2026-07-08T07:28:28Z"], ["https://james.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=1300", "John James recovers $20 million for constituents", "2026-07-07", "2026", "2026-07", "Republican", "House", "MI", "John James", "J000307", "james.house.gov", "james", "https://james.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Rep. John James announced his office recently hit a milestone: more than $20 million recovered for constituents during his two terms in office.\n\nJames\u2019 team has recovered a total of $20,657,956 for constituents who contacted his office for help dealing with the federal government. This includes money that was owed to people who were having trouble getting their tax refund from the IRS, denied veteran disability benefits, or who had problems getting their Social Security payments, among other issues.\n\nThe tally does not include money James brought back to the district through legislative funding requests, such as money for local roadways or the $162 million that the U.S. House of Representatives recently approved to upgrade and improve Selfridge Air National Guard Base to prepare for the new fighter mission.\n\n\u201cConstituent service is a top priority, and I\u2019m proud that my team was able to return more than $20 million to our friends and neighbors,\u201d James said. \u201cMy team can help cut through red tape \u2013 if you need assistance dealing with the federal government, please do not hesitate to reach out.\u201d\n\nJohn James represents Michigan\u2019s 10th Congressional District, which includes portions of Oakland County and Macomb County. Residents may contact his office by visiting james.house.gov or calling 586-498-7122.", 1, "2026-07-08T07:27:19Z", "2026-07-08T07:28:28Z"], ["https://walberg.house.gov/media/press-releases/walberg-welcomes-constituents-washington-americas-250th-birthday", "Walberg Welcomes Constituents to Washington for America's 250th Birthday", "2026-07-07", "2026", "2026-07", "Republican", "House", "MI", "Tim Walberg", "W000798", "walberg.house.gov", "walberg", "https://walberg.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Last week, Congressman Tim Walberg (MI-05) welcomed constituents from across southern Michigan to our nation's capital in honor of our nation's 250th anniversary. During their visits, Congressman Walberg led families on tours of the U.S. Capitol Building to share our country's history with them. He released the following statement reflecting on the tours.\n\n\"It was an honor to spend time with families from across southern Michigan and join them in reflecting on America's rich history and storied heritage,\" said Rep. Walberg. \"As we celebrate the 250th anniversary of our nation's founding, it is important to remember the freedoms our nation was founded on and the values that continue to unite us. I hope that these families' visits to our nation's capital help deepen their appreciation for the resilience, ideals, and aspirations that have carried our nation through 250 years. Michigan residents like them will continue to play an integral role in driving America forward and helping us preserve the traditional values and spirit of freedom that have defined our nation.\"\n\nYou can view pictures and videos from the tours here.", 1, "2026-07-08T07:27:19Z", "2026-07-08T07:28:28Z"], ["https://bergman.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=1534", "ICYMI: President Donald J. Trump Approves Major Disaster Declaration for Michigan", "2026-07-07", "2026", "2026-07", "Republican", "House", "MI", "Jack Bergman", "B001301", "bergman.house.gov", "bergman", "https://bergman.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx", "scraper", "FEMA announced that federal disaster assistance is available to the state of Michigan to supplement recovery efforts in the areas affected by severe storms, tornadoes and flooding from April 10-21, 2026.\n\nThe President's action makes federal funding available to affected individuals in Alcona, Allegan, Alpena, Antrim, Barry, Benzie, Charlevoix, Cheboygan, Crawford, Emmet, Grand Traverse, Gratiot, Iosco, Kalamazoo, Kalkaska, Manistee, Mecosta, Montcalm, Muskegon, Newaygo, Oceana, Osceola, Presque Isle, Roscommon, Saginaw, Washtenaw and Wexford counties.\n\nAssistance can include grants for temporary housing and home repairs, low-cost loans to cover uninsured property losses and other programs to help individuals and families recover from the effects of the disaster.\n\nFederal funding is also available to state, tribal and eligible local governments and certain private nonprofit organizations on a cost-sharing basis for emergency work and the repair or replacement of facilities damaged by the severe storms, tornadoes and flooding in Alcona, Alpena, Benzie, Charlevoix, Cheboygan, Crawford, Eaton, Emmet, Grand Traverse, Gratiot, Iron, Kalkaska, Lake, Manistee, Marquette, Mecosta, Menominee, Missaukee, Montmorency, Newaygo, Ogemaw, Osceola, Oscoda, Presque Isle, Tuscola and Wexford counties.\n\nBrian F. Schiller has been named the Federal Coordinating Officer for federal recovery operations in the affected areas. Additional designations may be made at a later date if warranted by the results of damage assessments.\n\nIndividuals and families who sustained losses in the designated areas should first file claims with their insurance providers and then apply for assistance online at www.DisasterAssistance.gov, by calling 1-800-621-3362 or by using the FEMA App.\n\nIf you use a relay service, such as video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, provide FEMA the number for that service.", 1, "2026-07-09T08:24:13Z", "2026-07-09T08:26:05Z"], ["https://mcclain.house.gov/2026/7/chairwoman-mcclain-hosts-trump-accounts-forum-to-help-families-plan-for-the-future", "Chairwoman McClain Hosts Trump Accounts Forum to Help Families Plan for the Future", "2026-07-07", "2026", "2026-07", "Republican", "House", "MI", "Lisa C. McClain", "M001136", "mcclain.house.gov", "mcclain", "https://mcclain.house.gov/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON\u2014House Republican Conference Chairwoman Lisa McClain (R-Mich.) hosted a Trump Accounts forum at the Oxford Public Library with parents and grandparents from Michigan\u2019s 9th District to discuss how families can start building long-term financial security for their children.\n\n\u201cTrump Accounts give the next generation a head start on the American Dream,\u201d Chairwoman McClain said. \u201cHouse Republicans and President Trump believe families should have more tools to save, invest, and plan for their children\u2019s future. This is a powerful way to help parents put their kids on a stronger financial path from the very beginning.\u201d\n\nChairwoman McClain discussed how Trump Accounts were created through the Working Families Tax Cuts and explained the one-time $1,000 seed contribution available for eligible children born between January 1, 2025, and December 31, 2028. Families also received information on how to enroll, including IRS Form 4547, and had the opportunity to ask questions.\n\nTrump Accounts are federally authorized, tax-advantaged investment accounts for children under 18. Parents and guardians manage the accounts until their children reach adulthood to help build long-term financial security.", 1, "2026-07-09T08:24:13Z", "2026-07-09T08:26:05Z"], ["https://moolenaar.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/federal-assistance-now-available-michigan-residents-affected-flooding", "Federal Assistance Now Available to Michigan Residents Affected by Flooding", "2026-07-06", "2026", "2026-07", "Republican", "House", "MI", "John R. Moolenaar", "M001194", "moolenaar.house.gov", "moolenaar", "https://moolenaar.house.gov/media-center/press-releases", "scraper", "Last week, President Donald Trump approved a major disaster declaration in the State of Michigan in response to severe flooding, storms, and tornadoes which impacted the state in April. Congressman John Moolenaar supports the President's announcement and joined his colleagues from Michigan in Congress in urging him to approve Governor Gretchen Whitmer's request for federal assistance.\n\n\"I am grateful President Trump stepped in to approve the major disaster declaration in our state,\" said Congressman Moolenaar. \"April's flooding and storms devastated communities across the Second District, and now FEMA will be able to assist residents and local organizations as they continue to recover. I encourage all Michigan families who were affected by the flooding to apply for assistance before the August 31 deadline.\"\n\nThe President's declaration includes direct federal assistance for homeowners and renters affected by the flooding in the following counties in Michigan's Second Congressional District: Barry, Gratiot, Manistee, Mecosta, Montcalm, Muskegon, Newaygo, Oceana, Osceola, and Wexford.\n\nMichigan residents who experienced property loss or damage from the flooding in these counties may apply for assistance at DisasterAssistance.gov or call the FEMA helpline at 800-621-3362. FEMA requires homeowners and renters seeking individual assistance to file an insurance claim prior to submitting an application.\n\nFEMA's declaration also includes Public Assistance to reimburse local governments, tribal agencies, and certain non-profit organizations for response costs, infrastructure repair, and debris removal in Eaton, Gratiot, Lake, Manistee, Mecosta, Newaygo, Osceola, and Wexford counties.", 1, "2026-07-07T08:20:12Z", "2026-07-07T08:22:09Z"], ["https://barrett.house.gov/media/press-releases/america-250-years-later-restoring-foundation-trust", "America 250 Years Later: Restoring The Foundation Of Trust", "2026-07-02", "2026", "2026-07", "Republican", "House", "MI", "Tom Barrett", "B001321", "barrett.house.gov", "barrett", "https://barrett.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "In case you missed it, Congressman Tom Barrett (MI-07) wrote an op-ed in the Lansing City Pulse reflecting on America's 250th anniversary and arguing that Restoring Trust in Government is essential to preserving our democracy. This is the first pillar of Barrett\u2019s Blueprint for a Better America, his plan to challenge the status quo and take on the issues that Americans care about most.\n\nYou can read the op-ed here or below.\n\nImage\n\nThis week marks 250 years since our Founding Fathers boldly embarked on the greatest experiment in self-governance the world has ever known. For the next two and a half centuries, the United States of America would chart its own path forward as a nation that recognized that each person is endowed with the unalienable right to life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness.\n\nAgainst the odds, America grew from a fragile new republic into the greatest nation in the world. Generations before us led the world in harnessing electricity, building the highways and railroads that connected the continent, saving the world from tyranny, putting a man on the moon, pioneering breakthroughs in medicine and technology and by creating opportunities that drew generations of people from around the world seeking freedom and a better future.\n\nDespite these advancements in the face of unthinkable adversity, our nation feels more divided than ever \u2014 much of which stems from a breakdown in trust in our government and institutions. If we want to preserve this experiment for the next 250 years, we need to get back to our founding principle: that we are a government of the people, by the people, for the people.\n\nThat\u2019s why I am leading the Blueprint for a Better America \u2014 my bold policy agenda to challenge the status quo and tackle the issues that matter most to everyday Americans.\n\nThe first pillar of my plan is restoring trust in government. That starts with holding elected officials to the same standard of integrity Americans expect in every other profession and ensuring our political system works for the people it represents.\n\nI helped lead the introduction of the Stop Insider Trading Act and the PREDICT Act to ban members of Congress from trading individual stocks and betting on prediction markets. I do not own any individual stocks and I also set an office policy that prohibits my staff from betting on prediction markets. Like you, I believe that members of Congress should serve the public \u2014 not profit from privileged information or the office they hold.\n\nI also introduced legislation to require congressional districts to be redrawn only once every decade following the census. By ending mid-decade redistricting, we can provide voters with fairer, more stable representation and reduce politically motivated gerrymandering battles that undermine confidence in our elections.\n\nMy Blueprint for a Better America doesn\u2019t stop at restoring trust in government. Another key pillar is reforming campaign finance so our elections belong to voters \u2014 not the biggest checkbooks.\n\nI introduced a constitutional amendment to restore the authority of Congress and the states to enact reasonable campaign finance reforms, including limits on corporate spending in elections. Giving elected representatives the ability to establish commonsense guardrails would help ensure that every American\u2019s voice carries weight, not just those with the deepest pockets.\n\nNone of these reforms alone will restore faith in our government. But together, they represent a commitment to making Washington more accountable, more transparent, and more responsive to the people it serves.\n\nAs the United States celebrates 250 years of self-governance, we should remember that our founders entrusted this republic not to politicians, but to the American people.\n\nOur responsibility is to preserve that trust for the next 250 years by building a government worthy of the people it represents. To read my full Blueprint for a Better America, you can visit barrett.house.gov/reform.\n\nHappy Independence Day and happy 250th birthday to the United States of America, my home sweet home.", 1, "2026-07-03T08:00:00Z", "2026-07-03T08:01:30Z"], ["https://barrett.house.gov/media/press-releases/barrett-introduces-bill-name-charlotte-post-office-after-medal-honor-recipient", "Barrett Introduces Bill to Name Charlotte Post Office After Medal of Honor Recipient Killed at Pearl Harbor", "2026-07-02", "2026", "2026-07", "Republican", "House", "MI", "Tom Barrett", "B001321", "barrett.house.gov", "barrett", "https://barrett.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Public domain photo from the U.S. Naval History and Heritage Command.\n\nWashington, D.C. \u2014 Today, Congressman Tom Barrett (MI-07) introduced a bill to name the post office in Charlotte, Mich., after U.S. Navy Ensign Francis Flaherty, who was awarded the Medal of Honor for his bravery and sacrifice during Japan\u2019s attack on Pearl Harbor.\n\nBarrett\u2019s bill (H.R. 9570) to name the \u201cFrancis C. Flaherty Post Office Building\u201d is co-sponsored by all 12 other U.S. representatives from Michigan.\n\n\u201cEnsign Francis Flaherty sacrificed his life while rescuing his fellow sailors during the attack on Pearl Harbor,\u201d Barrett said. \u201cI was proud to help ensure that his remains were finally brought home to Charlotte a few years ago, where thousands of people from our community came together to finally lay to rest and honor a hometown hero. Naming the local post office after this Medal of Honor recipient will be a permanent and lasting tribute to his patriotic service and sacrifice.\u201d\n\nBackground\n\nFrancis Charles Flaherty was born on March 15, 1919, in Charlotte, Michigan. He graduated from Charlotte High School and attended the University of Michigan before joining the U.S. Naval Reserve. Flaherty was stationed on the USS Oklahoma at Pearl Harbor during the December 7, 1941, attack. When the crew was ordered to abandon the sinking ship, Flaherty stayed in his turret, holding a flashlight to help the rest of his turret crew escape and sacrificing his own life. For this heroism, Flaherty in 1946 was posthumously awarded the Medal of Honor, which was presented to his brother.\n\nHis remains were initially unable to be identified and were buried in the National Memorial Cemetery of the Pacific in Honolulu, Hawaii. In 2019, the military was able to identify his remains using DNA samples from family members, and the family chose to have him reinterred at the Maple Hill Cemetery in Charlotte in 2021. Barrett, a state senator at the time, participated in the homecoming ceremony along with family members, local residents, and U.S. Navy Rear Admiral Jeff Spivey.\n\nBarrett previously led a successful effort to rename a portion of M-50 in Charlotte in honor of Flaherty. The bill that included Barrett\u2019s amendment naming the \u201cEnsign Francis Flaherty Memorial Highway\u201d passed the Michigan Legislature unanimously, and Gov. Gretchen Whitmer signed it into law on July 29, 2021.", 1, "2026-07-03T08:00:00Z", "2026-07-03T08:01:30Z"], ["https://walberg.house.gov/media/press-releases/walberg-applauds-730000-epa-brownfields-grant-stevensville", "Walberg Applauds $730,000 EPA Brownfields Grant to Stevensville", "2026-07-02", "2026", "2026-07", "Republican", "House", "MI", "Tim Walberg", "W000798", "walberg.house.gov", "walberg", "https://walberg.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced new federal funding for U.S. communities through the Brownfields Multipurpose, Assessment, and Cleanup grant program. The EPA awarded Stevensville a $733,250 grant to clean up and restore the former Anstey Foundry and support community engagement activities.\n\nFollowing the EPA grant notice, Congressman Tim Walberg (MI-05) visited the brownfield site in Stevensville and issued the following statement.\n\n\"The Brownfields Program has delivered millions of dollars to Michigan communities to help with economic development projects,\" said Rep. Walberg. \"After having ongoing discussions with EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin regarding priorities in Michigan, I am pleased to see the Trump administration make this targeted investment in Stevensville, which will make a difference for our environment and encourage local job growth, providing more opportunities for hardworking Michigan families.\"\n\nBackground\n\nThe Brownfields Program empowers states, communities, and other stakeholders to work together to prevent, assess, safely clean up, and sustainably reuse brownfields. Brownfield sites are properties whose expansion, redevelopment, or reuse may be complicated by the presence or potential presence of a hazardous substance, pollutant, or contaminant.", 1, "2026-07-03T08:00:00Z", "2026-07-03T08:01:30Z"], ["https://moolenaar.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/bipartisan-moolenaar-resolution-recognizes-americas-250th-anniversary", "Bipartisan Moolenaar Resolution Recognizes America's 250th Anniversary, Michigan's Role in National History", "2026-07-02", "2026", "2026-07", "Republican", "House", "MI", "John R. Moolenaar", "M001194", "moolenaar.house.gov", "moolenaar", "https://moolenaar.house.gov/media-center/press-releases", "scraper", "This week, Congressman John Moolenaar introduced a bipartisan resolution to honor the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence and recognize the State of Michigan's role in our nation's history.\n\n\"Michigan and its residents have played a crucial role in our nation's history, making significant contributions in manufacturing, medicine, government, and more. The 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence serves as an important opportunity for us to rededicate ourselves to the principles that make our nation the greatest country on earth and educate young people on the legacy of the Founders and these great Michiganders. As we prepare to celebrate the Fourth of July, I encourage all Michigan residents to reflect on the ideals set forth by our Founders in the Declaration of Independence,\" said Moolenaar.\n\nMoolenaar was joined in introducing his resolution by every member of the Michigan Congressional delegation including Representatives Jack Bergman (R-MI), Hillary Scholten (D-MI), Bill Huizenga (R-MI), Tim Walberg (R-MI), Debbie Dingell (D-MI), Tom Barrett (R-MI), Kristen McDonald Rivet (D-MI), Lisa McClain (R-MI), John James (R-MI), Haley Stevens (D-MI), Rashida Tlaib (D-MI), and Shri Thanedar (D-MI).", 1, "2026-07-07T08:20:12Z", "2026-07-07T08:22:09Z"], ["https://huizenga.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=404445", "Huizenga Leads Bipartisan Effort to Strengthen Defense Cooperation with Key Allies Through UNLOCK AUKUS Act", "2026-07-02", "2026", "2026-07", "Republican", "House", "MI", "Bill Huizenga", "H001058", "huizenga.house.gov", "huizenga", "https://huizenga.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx", "scraper", "Today, Congressman Bill Huizenga (R-MI), a senior member of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, announced the introduction of H.R. 9517, the bipartisan UNLOCK AUKUS Act, to strengthen the AUKUS security partnership by providing the United States, Australia, and the United Kingdom greater flexibility to collaborate on advanced defense technologies while preserving critical national security safeguards.\n\nThe legislation builds on Huizenga's longstanding efforts to strengthen AUKUS and ensure America's closest allies can work together more effectively to meet evolving security challenges. By removing an outdated statutory restriction that no longer reflects today's strategic environment, the bill strengthens cooperation among trusted partners while maintaining strong protections for America's most sensitive defense technologies.\n\n\"As the Chinese Communist Party rapidly expands its military capabilities, the United States must ensure our closest allies can innovate and work alongside us without unnecessary bureaucratic barriers,\u201d said Congressman Bill Huizenga. \u201cThe UNLOCK AUKUS Act strengthens one of the world's most important security partnerships, meets the security challenges of today, and delivers a force multiplier to the AUKUS partnership.\"\n\n\u201cAUKUS provides a once-in-a-lifetime security enhancement for all three nations. Pillar I is happening in real-time in the Indo-Pacific and in our shipyards, and Pillar II is making exciting new progress with the recent announcement of collaboration between the three nations on payloads for undersea unmanned vessels,\u201d said Congressman Joe Courtney (D-CT). \u201cThrough the UNLOCK AUKUS Act, Congress is building on that announcement by streamlining further collaboration on advanced missile capabilities in Pillar II. I\u2019m excited to partner with my colleagues to introduce this bipartisan and bicameral bill, which reaffirms the clear-eyed and stalwart commitment by both parties in Congress to make AUKUS a success.\u201d\n\n\u201cAlthough the AUKUS Partnership has improved defense cooperation with our Australian and British allies through the production of advanced technology like the hypersonic weaponry being developed at Crane Naval Surface Warfare Center in Indiana\u2019s Eighth District, we must do better,\u201d said Congressman Mark Messmer (R-IN). \u201cI am proud to support Rep. Huizenga\u2019s UNLOCK AUKUS Act, which will continue these important efforts, while also removing bureaucratic red tape that is preventing America from reaching our highest potential in our national defense strategic game plan.\u201d\n\n\"Strengthening the AUKUS pact will keep Americans safe and strengthen our values-based alliances with the UK and Australia,\" said Congressman Gabe Amo (D-RI). \"The bipartisan, bicameral UNLOCK AUKUS Act unleashes the full power of AUKUS for collaboration on 21st century defense systems to protect against our adversaries in the Indo-Pacific, while providing good jobs and supporting American businesses.\"\n\n\"The Chinese Communist Party is working at lightning speed to advance its military apparatus, and it does not play fair,\u201d said Congressman Rep. Michael McCaul (R-TX). \u201cThe UNLOCK AUKUS Act empowers the United States and its allies to meet that generational challenge head-on by removing burdensome red tape that slows the transfer of critical military technologies. I urge my colleagues to support this important bill that will strengthen crucial partnerships like the AUKUS defense pact and deter the CCP's malign activity in the Indo-Pacific and beyond.\"\n\n\u201cThe strength of our AUKUS partnership is critical to deterring an increasingly aggressive China and countering new, emerging threats in the Indo-Pacific,\u201d said Congressman Pat Ryan (D-NY). \u201cThis bipartisan, bicameral legislation would streamline collaboration with our partners and ensure we collectively maintain our technological edge. As co-chair of the House Defense Modernization Caucus, this is simple, smart bill to cut through red tape and accelerate innovation.\u201d\n\nAnnounced in 2021, AUKUS is a trilateral security partnership between the United States, Australia, and the United Kingdom that is designed to deepen defense cooperation and promote stability throughout the Indo-Pacific. Pillar I focuses on Australia's acquisition of conventionally armed, nuclear-powered submarines. Congressman Huizenga championed this provision, the AUKUS Submarine Transfer Authorization Act, which was signed into law in December 2023. Pillar II accelerates cooperation on advanced capabilities including artificial intelligence, quantum technologies, cyber capabilities, electronic warfare, hypersonics, undersea technologies, and other emerging defense systems.\n\nTo support that mission, Congress previously established a streamlined export framework that allows many defense technologies to be shared more efficiently among the three nations. However, current law automatically excludes all technologies controlled under the Missile Technology Control Regime (MTCR), even if there is intent to transfer such articles under AUKUS. The UNLOCK AUKUS Act removes that blanket statutory prohibition and instead allows the President to determine which technologies should remain excluded based on evolving national security considerations.\n\nHuizenga introduced the legislation alongside Representatives Mark Messmer (R-IN), Joe Courtney (D-CT), Michael McCaul (R-TX), Pat Ryan (D-NY), Blake Moore (R-UT), and Gabe Amo (D-RI). The Senate companion is led by Senators Pete Ricketts (R-NE) and Tim Kaine (D-VA).", 1, "2026-07-12T07:28:31Z", "2026-07-12T07:30:18Z"], ["https://barrett.house.gov/media/press-releases/barrett-its-congress-prevent-another-endless-american-war", "Barrett: It\u2019s Up to Congress to Prevent Another Endless American War", "2026-07-01", "2026", "2026-07", "Republican", "House", "MI", "Tom Barrett", "B001321", "barrett.house.gov", "barrett", "https://barrett.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "In case you missed it, Congressman Tom Barrett (MI-07) wrote an op-ed on Fox News Digital today on the role Congress must play in preventing America from being dragged into another endless war. In the op-ed, Barrett discusses his package of legislation from earlier this year to Recalibrate Foreign Policy and End Endless Wars, as well as his recent votes to require congressional authorization for any further military operations in Iran.\n\nBarrett served 22 years in the U.S. Army and is the only member of Congress to introduce an Authorization for Use of Military Force (AUMF) to wind down and limit the conflict in Iran.\n\nYou can read the op-ed here or below.\n\nImage\n\nWar is something we are all contemplating as tensions with Iran continue. It certainly keeps me up at night. After spending 22 years in the Army and deploying around the world, it still consumes a lot of my attention.\n\nEurope and America fought the \"War to End All Wars\" more than 100 years ago in the trenches of World War I. Of course, it didn\u2019t really end wars, and it directly fed into World War II, which left millions dead and reset the global national hierarchy. In the book \"1984,\" George Orwell wrote that \"by becoming continuous war has ceased to exist.\" When we normalize war, it becomes a constant in our lives, like a chronic disease we try to manage but never fully cure.\n\nThat\u2019s why one of the proudest votes I took in my first year in Congress was to repeal the 2002 authorization for use of military force in Iraq \u2014 almost 17 years to the day after I came home from my own deployment in that war. This marked the first time in my life that Congress successfully repealed an authorization for use of military force.\n\nEarlier this year I introduced my own bipartisan reform plan to repeal another dormant authorization and require future authorizations to be reapproved at least every five years. This package would also give Congress more tools to quickly and clearly define future missions after the president uses force to confront urgent threats.\n\nOur Constitution is clear: Only Congress can declare war and decide to engage in the use of military force. In 1973, Congress passed the War Powers Act, which delegated some authority to the president for up to 60 days before Congress must give consent for the effort to continue.\n\nWhen that timeline expired for the conflict in Iran, I felt compelled to enforce it for one simple reason \u2014 the decision of when and how to go to war is perhaps the most consequential that a government can make. It literally involves life and death.\n\nDecisions like this demand the highest level of constitutional scrutiny. Iran must never get a nuclear weapon, but the people\u2019s representatives must have a say when American lives and taxpayer dollars are on the line.\n\nDecisions about war can\u2019t be taken lightly. Sadly, I have encountered what feels like a growing mindset that some Americans think we can fight wars using other people\u2019s sons and daughters with technology that keeps us far from the battlefield. We haven\u2019t had a draft in over 50 years, so it\u2019s easy to feel insulated from the effects of war.\n\nBut an entire generation of Global War on Terror-era veterans see it differently. We lost friends and battle buddies who either didn\u2019t make it home or came back physically or psychologically wounded, with thousands more losing the battle to suicide than to combat. At the end of two decades, it was easy to wonder if it was all worth it or not.\n\nStaff Sergeant Duane Dreasky was my friend and roommate on a deployment to Guantanamo Bay, Cuba, during Operation Enduring Freedom. He was struck by an IED in Iraq and is buried at Arlington National Cemetery, just three miles from where I now cast my votes as a member of the United States Congress.\n\nOther friends were lost to suicide or overdose. I think about the total human cost of war as I carry their memories and the thousands of other War on Terror veterans with me as I make these decisions.\n\nWhile my time in the military has passed, I owe it to this generation of warfighters to set clear, unambiguous objectives, prevent mission creep and protect against endless conflicts and nation building.\n\nWhen we do need to use military force, a clearly defined mission allows for overwhelming force to defeat the enemy quickly and decisively. It\u2019s time for Congress to step up and have the debate on the use of force and avoid the tragic mistakes of the past.", 1, "2026-07-02T06:20:02Z", "2026-07-02T06:21:32Z"], ["https://walberg.house.gov/media/press-releases/walberg-one-year-later-working-families-tax-cuts-are-delivering", "Walberg: One Year Later, the Working Families Tax Cuts are Delivering", "2026-07-01", "2026", "2026-07", "Republican", "House", "MI", "Tim Walberg", "W000798", "walberg.house.gov", "walberg", "https://walberg.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Congressman Tim Walberg (MI-05) released the following statement reflecting on the upcoming one-year anniversary of the Working Families Tax Cuts.\n\n\"Last July, House Republicans passed the Working Families Tax Cuts, which provided the single largest tax cut in American history,\" said Rep Walberg. \"Over the past year, this historic legislation has delivered real relief for the American people with policies like no tax on tips, overtime, and Social Security helping Americans keep more of their hard-earned money. The legislation also included over $280 billion in taxpayer savings, which I ushered through the Education and Workforce Committee as chair. America's golden age is just around the corner, thanks to policies like the Working Families Tax Cuts that are putting money back where it belongs: in the pockets of hardworking families in Michigan.\"\n\nBackground\n\nOn July 4, 2025, President Trump signed into law the One Big Beautiful Bill Act \u2014 the historic Working Families Tax Cuts. A year later, the legislation delivered the largest tax refund season in history due to key policies that are lowering costs for American workers and families.\n\nThe Working Families Tax Cuts' impact this past tax season, courtesy of the Treasury Department:", 1, "2026-07-02T06:20:02Z", "2026-07-02T06:21:32Z"]], "truncated": false, "filtered_table_rows_count": 334, "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": "MI", "p2": "2026"}}, "facet_results": {"party": {"name": "party", "type": "column", "hideable": false, "toggle_url": "/press/releases.json?party=Republican&state=MI&year=2026", "results": [{"value": "Republican", "label": "Republican", "count": 334, "toggle_url": "http://dpwillis-congress-press-search.hf.space/press/releases.json?state=MI&year=2026", "selected": true}], "truncated": false}, "chamber": {"name": "chamber", "type": "column", "hideable": false, "toggle_url": "/press/releases.json?party=Republican&state=MI&year=2026", "results": [{"value": "House", "label": "House", "count": 334, "toggle_url": "http://dpwillis-congress-press-search.hf.space/press/releases.json?party=Republican&state=MI&year=2026&chamber=House", "selected": false}], "truncated": false}, "state": {"name": "state", "type": "column", "hideable": false, "toggle_url": "/press/releases.json?party=Republican&state=MI&year=2026", "results": [{"value": "MI", "label": "MI", "count": 334, "toggle_url": "http://dpwillis-congress-press-search.hf.space/press/releases.json?party=Republican&year=2026", "selected": true}], "truncated": false}, "year": {"name": "year", "type": "column", "hideable": false, "toggle_url": "/press/releases.json?party=Republican&state=MI&year=2026", "results": [{"value": "2026", "label": "2026", "count": 334, "toggle_url": "http://dpwillis-congress-press-search.hf.space/press/releases.json?party=Republican&state=MI", "selected": true}], "truncated": false}}, "suggested_facets": [], "next": "2026-07-01,https~3A~2F~2Fwalberg~2Ehouse~2Egov~2Fmedia~2Fpress-releases~2Fwalberg-one-year-later-working-families-tax-cuts-are-delivering", "next_url": "http://dpwillis-congress-press-search.hf.space/press/releases.json?party=Republican&state=MI&year=2026&_next=2026-07-01%2Chttps~3A~2F~2Fwalberg~2Ehouse~2Egov~2Fmedia~2Fpress-releases~2Fwalberg-one-year-later-working-families-tax-cuts-are-delivering&_sort_desc=date", "private": false, "allow_execute_sql": true, "query_ms": 243.7324950005859, "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"}