{"database": "press", "table": "releases", "is_view": false, "human_description_en": "where party = \"Republican\", state = \"NC\" and year = 2025 sorted by date descending", "rows": [["https://www.budd.senate.gov/2025/12/29/senator-budd-issues-statement-after-cms-announces-213m-in-funding-for-north-carolinas-rural-hospitals/", "Senator Budd Issues Statement After CMS Announces $213M+ in Funding for North Carolina\u2019s Rural Hospitals", "2025-12-29", "2025", "2025-12", "Republican", "Senate", "NC", "Ted Budd", "B001305", "www.budd.senate.gov", "budd", "https://www.budd.senate.gov/category/news/press-releases/page/", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2014 Earlier this month, U.S. Senator Ted Budd (R-N.C.) joined members of the North Carolina congressional delegation in sending a bipartisan, bicameral letter to the Administrator for the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS), Dr. Mehmet Oz, expressing strong support for the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Service\u2019s (DHHS) Rural Health Transformation Program (RHTP) application. Today, CMS allocated $213,008,356 in funding for North Carolina\u2019s rural hospitals, which was previously approved in the Working Families Tax Cut Act signed into law earlier this year.\n\nIn a statement following the announcement, Senator Budd said:\n\n\u201cNorth Carolina has the second-largest rural population in America, home to 7.6% of our nation\u2019s rural residents. Today\u2019s announcement by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) of $213 million from the Rural Health Transformation Program will greatly benefit patients across our state. While I was proud to support the inclusion of this funding in the Working Families Tax Cut Act, it is unfortunate that the State\u2019s application was not appropriately coordinated with federal officials and did not request funding levels that more accurately correlate with our significant rural population.\u201d\n\nRead the full text of the letter HERE and below.\n\nDear Administrator Oz:\n\nAs members of the North Carolina congressional delegation, we express our strong support for the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services\u2019 (DHHS) Rural Health Transformation Program (RHTP) application. We respectfully request that you approve the application in full before the December 31 deadline. Approval will allow our state, which has three million rural residents across 85 counties\u2014the second-largest rural population in the nation\u2014to expand proven innovative models, foster sustainable innovation, and strengthen our rural workforce.\n\nWhile our state\u2019s application requested a funding amount equal to 2 percent of total RHTP dollars available, North Carolina accounts for 7.6 percent of the rural population nationwide, so we are requesting that CMS allocate additional dollars so that the total funding amount is proportional to the disproportionately large rural population in our state. Per existing Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) guidance, North Carolina applied the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) definition of rural, which excludes counties like Burke, Moore and Pitt, with respective populations of 88,000, 108,000 and 180,000, yet includes counties like Wake, which is a primarily urban county home to over 1.2 million residents. Moore, Pitt, and similar jurisdictions serve some of the most isolated patients living in the most rural and even remote areas, and we look forward to ensuring all our rural providers and patients receive funding commensurate with their level of need.\n\nAfter applying on November 3, DHHS plans to allocate awarded funds through its Office of Rural Health (NCRHTP). A statewide steering committee, including Medicaid, Public Health, and Behavioral Health divisions, would guide implementation. The program allows sufficient flexibility for the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services to assign recipients. As population declines continue and rural hospitals increasingly rely on Medicaid, rural communities face ongoing healthcare and economic challenges, with gaps in access to care and quality. At least 24 counties lack adequate primary care, and 90 counties are designated mental health shortage areas. Since 2006, 12 rural hospitals have closed, with seven closures in eastern North Carolina.\n\nAn RHTP investment will improve health outcomes and access for nearly three million rural North Carolinians, advancing innovative care models, transforming the rural care experience, and creating a sustainable rural delivery system. By FY2031, NCRHTP aims to increase rural provider-to-population ratios, reduce preventable hospital readmissions and emergency visits, lower chronic disease risk factors, and expand access to integrated behavioral, mental health, and substance use services. Locally governed, community-tailored networks will connect medical, behavioral, and social services, making it easier for rural residents to access comprehensive care in one place.\n\nEach hub is tailored to its region, offering in-person services, care coordination, and direct family support, while also leveraging virtual care and advanced AI to improve access and data sharing. These efforts will provide an opportunity to accelerate technological innovation, access, and interoperability through expanded health information exchange participation, digital literacy programs to ensure rural residents can access modern, connected care, and the broad implementation of state-of-the-art AI-based technology to support documentation and real-time expert clinical decision support to drive down business costs for rural providers and improve sustainability.\n\nApproving North Carolina\u2019s application for the RHTP will improve health outcomes and our economy, which relies on healthy communities to thrive. We are grateful for your full and fair consideration of this crucial award ahead of the December 31 deadline.\n\nSincerely,\n\n/X/\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://murphy.house.gov/media/press-releases/murphy-bill-help-natural-disaster-victims-tax-filing-signed-law", "Murphy Bill to Help Natural Disaster Victims with Tax Filing Signed into Law", "2025-12-27", "2025", "2025-12", "Republican", "House", "NC", "Gregory F. Murphy", "M001210", "murphy.house.gov", "murphy", "https://murphy.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2014 Congressman Greg Murphy, M.D., issued the following statement after his bill, the Disaster Related Extension of Deadlines Act, was signed into law.\n\n\"Disaster victims endure unimaginable challenges as they work to rebuild their lives,\" said Congressman Greg Murphy, M.D.\"The last thing they should worry about is navigating confusing IRS filing requirements. The Disaster Related Extension of Deadlines Act provides individuals with sufficient time to claim tax refunds or credits while ensuring clear communication from the IRS to prevent unnecessary penalties or interest. I am grateful to President Trump for signing my bill into law to bring meaningful reform. I am also very appreciative of Chairman Smith for his leadership on the Ways and Means Committee and the unanimous, bipartisan support the bill received in Congress.\"\n\nBackground\n\nUnder current law, taxpayers are afforded a \u201clookback period\u201d of up to three years to claim credits or refunds. Unfortunately, the lookback period does not take into account filers who may have postponed their filing due to a disaster declaration.\n\nThis bill ensures that victims of disasters have additional time to claim any missed credits or refunds.\n\nSeparately, the IRS issues a \"notice and demand\" to inform filers of any payments they may owe by the original deadline but wait until the postponed deadline to make a payment. This creates unnecessary confusion and stress for disaster victims.\n\nThis legislation requires the IRS to extend the claim deadline and postponed filing deadline together, as well as tie the deadline for mailing a \"notice and demand\" to the postponed filing deadline for those who filed prior to the postponed deadline.", 1, "2026-04-04T05:28:40Z", "2026-04-04T05:30:10Z"], ["https://hudson.house.gov/press-releases/hudson-delivers-broadband-win-for-rural-communities-in-nc-09", "Hudson Delivers Broadband Win for Rural Communities in NC-09", "2025-12-22", "2025", "2025-12", "Republican", "House", "NC", "Richard Hudson", "H001067", "hudson.house.gov", "hudson", "https://hudson.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 U.S. Representative Richard Hudson (NC-09), who chairs the Subcommittee on Communications and Technology, announced today that North Carolina has secured more than $1.5 billion of broadband funding through the Broadband Expansion, Access, and Deployment (BEAD) program \u2014 a key step toward expanding high-speed internet access in rural communities across the Ninth District and North Carolina.\n\nFor years, broadband deployment in rural North Carolina was slowed by overburdensome federal red tape. Under President Trump and Chairman Hudson\u2019s leadership, Congress advanced reforms to streamline connectivity, including the SPEED for BEAD Act, which cut bureaucratic barriers and gave states greater flexibility to move projects forward.\n\n\u201cBroadband dollars don\u2019t connect a single home if they\u2019re trapped in red tape,\" said Congressman Richard Hudson. \"By removing unnecessary and arbitrary requirements on implementing broadband, we\u2019re making sure the best technology and connectivity can finally reach the rural communities that have waited far too long, so we can close the digital divide once and for all. I'm proud to say that we delivered for North Carolina and over half the nation with more to come.\"\n\n\u201cI want to congratulate North Carolina on the approval of its BEAD Final Proposal to achieve universal connectivity for its citizens,\u201d said Assistant Secretary of Commerce for Communications and Information and NTIA Administrator Arielle Roth. \u201cBy leveraging a smart mix of technologies tailored to the state\u2019s unique needs\u2014and securing strong private matching that puts real skin in the game\u2014North Carolina delivered more than $1 billion in savings for taxpayers. This thoughtful approach exemplifies what it means to achieve the Benefit of the Bargain.\u201d\n\nNorth Carolina has one of the largest rural populations in the country, and many communities across NC-09 remain unserved or underserved by broadband. Until recently, BEAD deployment had been stalled nationwide due to lengthy timelines and duplicative federal reviews.\n\nHudson\u2019s legislation streamlined those processes by establishing clearer timelines for approvals, reducing duplicative environmental and historic preservation reviews for low-impact projects, and restoring technology neutrality to allow providers to deploy the most effective solutions for rural areas.\n\nAs a result, broadband projects across North Carolina are now positioned to move forward more quickly, bringing high-speed connectivity to homes, businesses, schools, and emergency services throughout North Carolina.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://edwards.house.gov/media/press-releases/edwards-helene-report-recommendation-deployed-nationwide", "Edwards Helene Report Recommendation Deployed Nationwide", "2025-12-19", "2025", "2025-12", "Republican", "House", "NC", "Chuck Edwards", "E000246", "edwards.house.gov", "edwards", "https://edwards.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. - Congressman Chuck Edwards (NC-11) announced FEMA\u2019s implementation of his recommendation to expand the use of rapid estimates in the reimbursement process following Hurricane Helene, a change that has already helped move $150 million in recovery funding out the door faster.\n\nRapid estimates help state and local governments address immediate funding challenges, reduce delays in infrastructure repair, and restore essential public services sooner. This approach also allows communities to begin recovery work without waiting for final reimbursement approval, decreasing reliance on short-term borrowing or diverting funds from other public priorities.\n\nBy allowing FEMA to obligate Public Assistance funds using preliminary cost estimates, rather than waiting for fully finalized documentation, rapid estimates are speeding up infrastructure repairs and the restoration of essential services, particularly for small and rural communities facing financial challenges.\n\n\"When Hurricane Helene hit, communities across Western North Carolina were forced to spend millions of dollars immediately to restore essential services and begin the recovery process. I knew it was critical to expand the use of rapid reimbursements so local governments had the financial certainty they needed to keep projects moving and continue rebuilding,\u201d said Congressman Edwards. \u201cI am grateful that FEMA and this Administration recognized the severity of the situation and took action by implementing the recommendation I outlined in my Hurricane Helene Report to the President.\"\n\n\u201cPresident Trump\u2019s FEMA is cutting bureaucracy, which is saving hard working Americans money. RAPID has been used on 105 infrastructure projects since July 2025, totaling about $374 million. Implementation of RAPID is more quickly delivering federal funds to states, which puts states back in the driver\u2019s seat to manage their recovery after disasters,\u201d said Victoria Barton, Associate Administrator for FEMA\u2019s Office of External Affairs.\n\n###", 1, "2026-04-04T05:28:40Z", "2026-04-04T05:30:10Z"], ["https://markharris.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-mark-harris-celebrates-federal-recognition-lumbee-tribe", "Rep. Mark Harris Celebrates Federal Recognition of the Lumbee Tribe", "2025-12-19", "2025", "2025-12", "Republican", "House", "NC", "Mark Harris", "H001102", "markharris.house.gov", "markharris", "https://markharris.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, DC \u2014 On Thursday, Rep. Mark Harris (NC-08) issued the following statement after the signing of the Lumbee Fairness Act:\n\n\u201cAs the first bill I co-introduced in Congress, the Lumbee Fairness Act brings to fruition the decades-long fight on Capitol Hill for full federal recognition,\u201d said Congressman Mark Harris. \u201cFederal recognition for the Lumbee Tribe is about much more than just words on paper; it signifies they are seen. The Lumbee Tribe is now officially the 575th federally recognized tribe. What a historic moment this is for the Lumbee Tribe and an honor as their representative\u2014God is so good!\u201d\n\nWith almost 60,000 members, the Lumbee Tribe is the largest American Indian tribe east of the Mississippi River and the ninth-largest tribe in the nation.", 1, "2026-04-25T05:38:36Z", "2026-04-25T05:40:21Z"], ["https://edwards.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-edwards-votes-cut-health-care-costs-western-north-carolina", "Congressman Edwards Votes to Cut Health Care Costs for Western North Carolina Families", "2025-12-18", "2025", "2025-12", "Republican", "House", "NC", "Chuck Edwards", "E000246", "edwards.house.gov", "edwards", "https://edwards.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. - Congressman Chuck Edwards (NC-11) voted to advance the Lower Health Care Premiums for All Americans Act to reduce premiums and lower health care costs for families across Western North Carolina.\n\nThe Lower Health Care Premiums for All Americans Act puts families first instead of propping up big insurance companies by:\n\nEmphasizing choice, competition, and transparency to lower costs for patients,\n\nStrengthening Cost-Sharing Reductions, which cut out-of-pocket expenses by 11 percent,\n\nExpanding Choice Accounts, such as HRAs and FSAs, giving families more control over health care expenses, and\n\nAllowing small businesses to join Association Health Plans, making group coverage more affordable.\n\n\u201cI voted for the Lower Health Care Premiums for All Americans Act because it is a commonsense approach to lowering costs and expanding options,\u201d said Congressman Edwards. \"This bill gives families more control, putting health care decisions back where they belong \u2014 with families, workers, and the small businesses that drive our communities.\u201d\n\n###", 1, "2026-04-04T05:28:40Z", "2026-04-04T05:30:10Z"], ["https://harrigan.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-pat-harrigan-helps-launch-first-ever-congressional-trucking-caucus", "Congressman Pat Harrigan Helps Launch First-Ever Congressional Trucking Caucus", "2025-12-18", "2025", "2025-12", "Republican", "House", "NC", "Pat Harrigan", "H001101", "harrigan.house.gov", "harrigan", "https://harrigan.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Contact: Lexi Kranich (814) 380-4408\n\nWASHINGTON, D.C.\u2014Congressman Pat Harrigan (NC-10) joined a bipartisan group of House members to launch the Congressional Trucking Caucus, the first caucus of its kind in U.S. history, focused on strengthening road safety, supply chains, and the trucking workforce.\n\nThe caucus will serve as a forum for Members of Congress to engage directly on policies impacting America\u2019s trucking industry, including driver shortages, infrastructure challenges, and safety standards. Truckers move more than 70 percent of the nation\u2019s freight and remain essential to keeping goods moving across rural and urban communities alike.\n\n\u201cTruckers are the backbone of our economy, but Washington keeps making their jobs harder,\u201d said Congressman Harrigan. \u201cThey\u2019re dealing with unsafe infrastructure, a shrinking workforce, and regulations written by people who have never been behind the wheel. This caucus gives truckers a voice in Congress and focuses on real solutions that improve safety and keep supply chains moving.\u201d\n\nCongressman Harrigan will serve as a Co-Chair of the caucus alongside Representatives Dave Taylor (OH-02), Shomari Figures (AL-02), Harriet Hageman (WY-AL), Doug LaMalfa (CA-01), and Mary Miller (IL-15).", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://harrigan.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-pat-harrigan-introduces-legislation-target-cartels-and-organized", "Congressman Pat Harrigan Introduces Legislation to Target Cartels and Organized Crime Through COPS Grants", "2025-12-18", "2025", "2025-12", "Republican", "House", "NC", "Pat Harrigan", "H001101", "harrigan.house.gov", "harrigan", "https://harrigan.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Contact: Lexi Kranich (814) 380-4408\n\nWASHINGTON, D.C.\u2014Today, Congressman Pat Harrigan (NC-10) introduced the COPS Anti-Organized Crime and Cartel Enforcement Act, legislation to expand the Department of Justice\u2019s Community Oriented Policing Services (COPS) grant program to explicitly support state, local, and tribal law enforcement efforts targeting organized crime, cartels, and transnational criminal organizations operating inside the United States.\n\n\u201cDrug cartels and transnational criminal organizations are operating on American soil with near impunity, and our local law enforcement agencies need the resources to fight back. This bill gives police departments access to federal COPS grant funding specifically to create specialized units that can take on organized crime, with the training, equipment, and personnel they need to dismantle these operations. We\u2019re talking about the same criminal organizations flooding our streets with fentanyl and fueling violence in our communities, and if we\u2019re serious about securing our communities, we need to give our police the tools to do it,\u201d said Congressman Harrigan.\n\nThe COPS Anti-Organized Crime and Cartel Enforcement Act authorizes COPS grant funds to be used for the creation of specialized anti-organized crime units within local law enforcement agencies. Eligible uses include hiring additional officers, training personnel in intelligence-gathering and counter-organized crime tactics, and acquiring necessary equipment such as investigative technology, protective gear, tactical vehicles, and approved unmanned aerial systems. The bill also prioritizes funding for jurisdictions facing high levels of cartel, gang, and transnational criminal activity and authorizes $50 million annually from fiscal years 2026 through 2030 to support these efforts nationwide.\n\nCongressman Harrigan introduced the legislation as part of a broader effort to strengthen cooperation between federal, state, and local law enforcement and ensure police departments have the tools they need to dismantle criminal networks fueling violence, drug trafficking, and instability in American communities.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://harrigan.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-pat-harrigan-votes-protect-children-and-refocus-medicaid-those-who", "Congressman Pat Harrigan Votes to Protect Children and Refocus Medicaid on Those Who Truly Need It", "2025-12-18", "2025", "2025-12", "Republican", "House", "NC", "Pat Harrigan", "H001101", "harrigan.house.gov", "harrigan", "https://harrigan.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Contact: Lexi Kranich (814) 380-4408\n\nWASHINGTON, D.C.\u2014Today, Congressman Pat Harrigan (NC-10) voted to pass H.R. 498, the Do No Harm in Medicaid Act, legislation that prohibits federal Medicaid funds from being used to pay for irreversible gender transition procedures for minors. The bill reinforces Medicaid\u2019s core purpose and ensures limited resources are reserved for individuals and families who rely on the program for essential medical care.\n\n\u201cMedicaid exists for people who truly need help accessing basic medical care,\u201d said Congressman Harrigan. \u201cIt\u2019s a lifeline for families, seniors, people with disabilities, and children who don\u2019t have other options. Using those dollars to fund permanent, irreversible procedures on minors is wrong. This vote draws a clear line and keeps Medicaid focused on real medical care for the people it was created to serve.\u201d\n\nThe legislation updates the Social Security Act to bar federal Medicaid funding for gender transition surgeries, hormone treatments, and puberty-blocking drugs for individuals under 18, while preserving exceptions for rare medical conditions, serious injury, or life-threatening illness. Legitimate medical care remains protected when a patient\u2019s physical health is at risk.\n\nWith House passage, the Do No Harm in Medicaid Act now moves to the Senate. Congressman Harrigan is urging lawmakers to act with clarity and responsibility, protect children from irreversible harm, and ensure Medicaid dollars are used as intended.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://harrigan.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-pat-harrigan-votes-protect-children-irreversible-medical", "Congressman Pat Harrigan Votes to Protect Children From Irreversible Medical Procedures", "2025-12-18", "2025", "2025-12", "Republican", "House", "NC", "Pat Harrigan", "H001101", "harrigan.house.gov", "harrigan", "https://harrigan.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Contact: Lexi Kranich (814) 380-4408\n\nWASHINGTON, D.C.\u2014Today, Congressman Pat Harrigan (NC-10) voted to pass H.R. 3492, legislation that establishes clear federal standards to protect minors from undergoing permanent, life-altering medical procedures before they are legally and developmentally able to consent. The bill reinforces a child-first approach to health care by ensuring that long-term well-being takes priority over politics or social pressure.\n\n\u201cThis should not be controversial. Kids deserve time, care, and protection, not permanent medical decisions they can\u2019t fully understand,\u201d said Congressman Harrigan. \u201cThere are legitimate medical emergencies where doctors have to act, and this bill protects that. But outside of that, no child should be pushed into irreversible procedures because of ideology or pressure. Our job is to protect kids first and let them grow up before making life-altering choices.\u201d\n\nThe legislation sets firm limits on irreversible medical interventions for minors while preserving exceptions for serious medical conditions, congenital disorders, and life-threatening situations where immediate treatment is necessary. By drawing clear boundaries, the bill aims to prevent experimental or elective procedures that permanently alter healthy development in children.\n\nWith House passage, the bill now heads to the Senate for consideration. Congressman Harrigan is urging lawmakers to approach the issue with clarity and responsibility, keeping the focus where it belongs: protecting children and supporting families with common-sense safeguards.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://harrigan.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-pat-harrigan-votes-streamline-federal-permitting-and-get-projects", "Congressman Pat Harrigan Votes to Streamline Federal Permitting and Get Projects Moving", "2025-12-18", "2025", "2025-12", "Republican", "House", "NC", "Pat Harrigan", "H001101", "harrigan.house.gov", "harrigan", "https://harrigan.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Contact: Lexi Kranich (814) 380-4408\n\nWASHINGTON, D.C.\u2014Today, Congressman Pat Harrigan (NC-10) voted to pass H.R. 4776, the Standardizing Permitting and Expediting Economic Development Act (SPEED Act), legislation that reforms the federal environmental review process to reduce unnecessary delays while preserving environmental protections. The bill updates the National Environmental Policy Act to bring more clarity, certainty, and accountability to a system that has too often stalled critical projects for years.\n\n\u201cWe can protect our environment and still get things built, those two ideas are not in conflict,\u201d said Congressman Harrigan. \u201cRight now, families, small businesses, and local communities are paying the price for a permitting process that drags on forever, changes the rules midstream, and drives up costs. This bill brings common sense back into the process so projects can move forward responsibly, predictably, and on a real timeline.\u201d\n\nThe SPEED Act clarifies that NEPA is a procedural law, not a tool to endlessly delay projects, and sets firm boundaries around what impacts agencies must consider. It prevents agencies from reopening or undoing completed environmental reviews without cause, limits reviews to effects directly tied to a project, and encourages coordination across federal agencies so reviews happen concurrently rather than one after another. The bill also allows agencies to rely on prior state, tribal, or federal environmental reviews when appropriate, reducing duplication and uncertainty\n\nWith House passage, the legislation now heads to the Senate. Congressman Harrigan is calling for swift consideration to help unlock infrastructure, energy, and manufacturing projects that strengthen domestic supply chains, lower costs for families, and keep the United States competitive without sacrificing environmental stewardship.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://hudson.house.gov/press-releases/congressman-hudson-releases-statement-on-the-passing-of-greg-cristina-biffle-and", "Congressman Hudson Releases Statement on the Passing of Greg, Cristina Biffle and Their Children", "2025-12-18", "2025", "2025-12", "Republican", "House", "NC", "Richard Hudson", "H001067", "hudson.house.gov", "hudson", "https://hudson.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Congressman Richard Hudson (NC-09), Chairman of the Congressional Motorsports Caucus, released the following statement following the passing of Greg and Cristina Biffle and their children:\n\n\"I am devastated by the loss of Greg, Cristina, and their children, and my heart is with all who loved them.\n\nThey were friends who lived their lives focused on helping others. Greg was a great NASCAR champion who thrilled millions of fans.\n\nBut he was an extraordinary person as well, and will be remembered for his service to others as much as for his fearlessness on the track. The Biffles flew hundreds of rescue missions in western North Carolina after Hurricane Helene.\n\nThe last time I spoke with Cristina, just a couple of weeks ago, she reached out to ask how she could help with relief efforts in Jamaica. That\u2019s who the Biffles were.\n\nOur prayers are with their family, friends, and everyone grieving this unimaginable loss.\"", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://hudson.house.gov/press-releases/hudson-issa-reintroduce-hero-act-to-protect-service-members-harmed-by-medical", "Hudson, Issa Reintroduce HERO Act to Protect Service Members Harmed by Medical Malpractice", "2025-12-18", "2025", "2025-12", "Republican", "House", "NC", "Richard Hudson", "H001067", "hudson.house.gov", "hudson", "https://hudson.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 U.S. Representative's Richard Hudson (NC-09) and Darrell Issa (CA-48) have reintroduced the Healthcare Equality and Rights for Our Heroes (HERO) Act, legislation to make sure service members and their families can seek justice in federal court when they are victims of medical malpractice at Department of War medical treatment facilities.\n\nThe bill builds on the SFC Richard Stayskal Military Medical Accountability Act, which was signed into law in 2020 and named for Purple Heart, Green Beret and Pinehurst resident SFC Richard Stayskal, a constituent of Rep. Hudson's. That law created, for the first time, a process for service members to file malpractice claims against DoW \u2013 but an internal system run by the Department has denied relief to a majority of families who have come forward.\n\n\u201cThe law that gave hope to my friend Rich Stayskal and so many military families has been tied up and watered down by bureaucracy,\u201d said Rep. Hudson. \u201cIf preventable medical harm at a military hospital costs a servicemember their health or their life, they should have the same right as any other American to take their case to court. The HERO Act makes that clear in federal law so our heroes and their families can finally seek full and fair compensation.\u201d\n\n\u201cThe HERO Act\u201d is about more than opening an avenue to the courts. It\u2019s about recognizing that service members who are victimized by medical malpractice in a DOD facility are deserving of the opportunities to pursue the kind of justice that is currently denied to them,\u201d said Rep. Issa. \u201cCongress has previously worked to correct this obvious wrong within our system, but it isn\u2019t fixed yet. This time, we\u2019re going to set this right.\u201d\n\nIn 2017, SFC Stayskal received a Stage 4 lung cancer diagnosis from a civilian doctor after being misdiagnosed with pneumonia by military medical professionals at Womack Army Medical Center at Fort Bragg. Under long-standing law and court decisions, he had no way to sue for malpractice, even though the mistake was unrelated to combat or the risks of military service.\n\nRep. Hudson worked with SFC Stayskal to change that, authoring the SFC Richard Stayskal Military Medical Accountability Act and securing its passage in the 2020 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA). Since then, however, DoW\u2019s internal process has failed to deliver meaningful justice for most of the families who filed claims.\n\nWhat the HERO Act Does\n\nThe HERO Act:\n\nRepeals the current internal DoW malpractice claims system and adjusts claims by service members and their families to be brought to the District Court. Ensures those claims can proceed, whether the malpractice occurred in the United States or at a covered facility overseas.\n\nProtects VA and Servicemembers\u2019 Group Life Insurance (SGLI) benefits.\n\nEstablishes a clear statute of limitations by allowing claims to be brought up to 10 years after the injury.\n\nRequires regular reporting to Congress on the number of claims filed under the HERO Act, providing transparency and oversight of the new system.\n\nHudson and Issa will continue working with military families and advocates to advance the HERO Act through Congress and ensure America keeps its promise to those who serve.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://hudson.house.gov/press-releases/ndaa-wins-for-fort-bragg-military-families-and-president-trumps-peace-through", "NDAA Wins for Fort Bragg, Military Families, and President Trump\u2019s Peace Through Strength Agenda Passes the Senate", "2025-12-18", "2025", "2025-12", "Republican", "House", "NC", "Richard Hudson", "H001067", "hudson.house.gov", "hudson", "https://hudson.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 U.S. Representative Richard Hudson (NC-09) released the following statement after the Senate's final passage of the Fiscal Year 2026 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), which now heads to President Trump\u2019s desk to be signed into law:\n\n\u201cAs Fort Bragg\u2019s Congressman, I\u2019m proud to see this defense authorization bill clear Congress and head to President Trump\u2019s desk. This NDAA puts our troops, their families, and our veterans first by delivering critical investments for our Armed Forces and North Carolina\u2019s military community, including tens of millions for Fort Bragg.\n\nIt advances President Trump\u2019s Peace Through Strength agenda, strengthens readiness, and ensures our military remains the most lethal and capable force in the world. This bill also delivers long-overdue full federal recognition for the Lumbee Tribe, correcting a historic injustice and honoring their heritage.\u201d\n\nFort Bragg & North Carolina Wins in the FY26 NDAA\n\nThe FY26 NDAA includes major authorizations Rep. Hudson fought for on behalf of Fort Bragg and the Sandhills region, including:\n\n$44.7 million for upgrades at Forward Operating Base Freedom (Freedom Village) at Fort Bragg.\n\n$8.1 million for the Special Operations Forces Joint Intelligence Center (JIC) at Fort Bragg.\n\n$19 million for an Automated Infantry Platoon Battle Course.\n\n$24 million for an Aircraft Maintenance Hangar.\n\n$80 million for Power Generation and Microgrid.\n\n$80 million for a Special Operations Forces Mission Command Center.\n\n$145 million for Special Operations Forces Operational Ammunition Supply Point\n\nHistoric Win for the Lumbee Tribe\n\nThe FY26 NDAA includes the historic Lumbee Fairness Act, granting full federal recognition to the Lumbee Tribe and ensuring its members finally receive the same federal services and benefits as other federally recognized tribes. This is a major milestone for one of North Carolina\u2019s largest and most deserving Indigenous communities.\n\nIn addition, provisions Rep. Hudson supported will:\n\nBoost investments in barracks and family housing used by soldiers and families.\n\nImprove access to childcare, health care, and mental health services for military families.\n\nStrengthen recruitment, retention, and transition programs.\n\nNational Security Wins: Implementing President Trump\u2019s Peace Through Strength Agenda\n\nThe FY26 NDAA is a cornerstone of President Trump\u2019s Peace Through Strength agenda and delivers conservative wins for America\u2019s military, borders, and taxpayers:\n\nCodifies 15 Trump Executive Orders and 30 key legislative proposals to restore lethality, merit-based promotions, and accountability in the ranks, while ending left-wing ideology, wokeism, and DEI programs in the military.\n\nImproves quality of life for servicemembers with a 3.8% pay raise, expanded bonuses and special pays, better food access, upgraded barracks and family housing, and major investments in childcare, schools, and health care for military families.\n\nStrengthens border security by fully funding troops and National Guard deployments to the southern border, expanding support for Border Patrol, and authorizing over $1 billion to fight drug trafficking and transnational crime.\n\nFundamentally reforms the defense acquisition system, cutting red tape, prioritizing commercial solutions, speeding new technologies to the warfighter, and focusing every taxpayer dollar on capability instead of bureaucracy.\n\nBuilds President Trump\u2019s Golden Dome and strengthens missile defense, nuclear deterrence, and space capabilities to protect the homeland from hypersonic, ballistic, and cruise missile threats.\n\nRevitalizes the defense industrial base by expanding U.S. production capacity, onshoring supply chains, cutting dependence on China for critical minerals and components, and growing American defense manufacturing jobs.\n\nInvests in shipbuilding, aircraft, and munitions, including major funding for submarines, destroyers, 6th-generation aircraft, F-35 fighters, Blackhawk and Chinook helicopters, and a robust arsenal of precision munitions.\n\nCounters China, Russia, Iran, North Korea, and terrorist threats with a strengthened Indo-Pacific posture, support for Taiwan and key allies, tougher restrictions on adversary-linked companies, and enhanced tools to support partners on the front lines of aggression.\n\nSaves taxpayers nearly $20 billion by eliminating DEI activities, cutting wasteful climate programs at the Pentagon, retiring obsolete platforms, and trimming bureaucracy and inefficient contracts.\n\nTogether with President Trump\u2019s Working Families Tax Cut, the FY26 NDAA is part of a generational investment in America\u2019s national security, our military families, and the promise of Peace Through Strength.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://mcdowell.house.gov/media/press-releases/mcdowell-moves-bar-foreign-doctors-who-perform-irreversible-procedures", "McDowell Moves to Bar Foreign Doctors Who Perform Irreversible Procedures on American Minors", "2025-12-18", "2025", "2025-12", "Republican", "House", "NC", "Addison P. McDowell", "M001240", "mcdowell.house.gov", "mcdowell", "https://mcdowell.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2013 Today, Congressman Addison McDowell (NC-06) introduced the Protecting Children from Foreign Mutilation Act, legislation endorsed by the American Principles Project and designed to close a dangerous loophole that allows foreign doctors and clinics to perform irreversible gender transition procedures on American children overseas and then freely enter the United States without repercussions.\n\nAs more states move to protect minors from these procedures, some are being encouraged to take children abroad to bypass U.S. safeguards. McDowell\u2019s legislation responds by imposing visa sanctions on foreign individuals and institutions that perform, prescribe, or facilitate chemical or surgical gender interventions on American minors.\n\n\u201cThis is about protecting kids, plain and simple,\u201d said Congressman McDowell. \u201cIf a procedure is so extreme that it\u2019s restricted in states here at home, we shouldn\u2019t allow foreign actors to profit from it and then come back to the United States like nothing happened. American children deserve protection, not loopholes.\u201d\n\n\u201cVoters gave Republicans a mandate to fix the Democrats\u2019 immigration mess and root out evil from our health care system. The Protecting Children from Foreign Mutilation Act does both,\u201d said Terry Schilling, President, American Principles Project. \u201cAmerican families deserve the very best care delivered by ethical doctors, not glorified butchers bearing dubious diplomas.\u201d\n\nORIGINAL COSPONSORS: Congressman Josh Brecheen (OK-02), Congressman Randy Weber (TX-14), Congressman David Taylor (OH-02), Congressman Marlin Stutzman (IN-03), and Congressman Tim Moore (NC-14).\n\n\u201cAmerica is on a path toward greatness, and protecting our children must be part of that future,\u201d said Congressman Randy Weber. \u201cWe will not allow foreign providers to take advantage of American families or exploit loopholes to carry out irreversible procedures on U.S. minors. The Protecting Children from Foreign Mutilation Act draws a clear line by barring those individuals from entering the United States and puts the safety of our children first.\u201d\n\n\"Foreigners who perform irreversible gender transition procedures on our children are not welcome here. Congress must continue our work to shield our children and families from falling victim to the Left's gender ideology, and I'm proud to support the Protecting Children from Foreign Mutilation Act,\u201d said Congressman Dave Taylor.\n\nThe bill bars entry into the United States for foreign physicians and clinic operators involved in these procedures. It also applies visa sanctions to members of the World Professional Association for Transgender Health (WPATH), whose guidelines have been widely criticized for lacking age minimums for life-altering medical interventions.\n\nIn addition, the legislation creates a reporting mechanism to help identify foreign actors who should be barred from entry, while carving out protections for whistleblowers who speak out against these practices.\n\n\u201cThere is no reason Washington should look the other way while American kids are harmed overseas,\u201d McDowell added. \u201cThis bill draws a clear line \u2013 if you participate in the mutilation of American children, you are not welcome in this country.\u201d\n\nThe Protecting Children from Foreign Mutilation Act builds on growing concern about radical medical practices targeting minors and reinforces Congress\u2019s responsibility to defend children.", 1, "2026-05-30T06:11:53Z", "2026-05-30T06:13:24Z"], ["https://murphy.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-murphy-undergoes-successful-surgery", "Congressman Murphy Undergoes Successful Surgery", "2025-12-18", "2025", "2025-12", "Republican", "House", "NC", "Gregory F. Murphy", "M001210", "murphy.house.gov", "murphy", "https://murphy.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2014 The Office of Congressman Greg Murphy, M.D., issued the following statement:\n\n\"Dr. Murphy successfully underwent his procedure for his pituitary adenoma. He is resting comfortably with his family cracking jokes with the staff. He wants to thank everyone for their prayers and well-wishes. They have meant a great deal to him. He wants to wish everyone a Merry Christmas and Happy Holiday season and looks forward to joining his colleagues after the New Year.\"", 1, "2026-04-04T05:28:40Z", "2026-04-04T05:30:10Z"], ["https://timmoore.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-tim-moore-introduces-bill-expand-american-nuclear-leadership-and", "Congressman Tim Moore Introduces Bill to Expand American Nuclear Leadership and Energy Innovation", "2025-12-18", "2025", "2025-12", "Republican", "House", "NC", "Tim Moore", "M001236", "timmoore.house.gov", "timmoore", "https://timmoore.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2014 Recently, Congressman Tim Moore (NC-14) introduced the Next Generation Nuclear Deployment Act to advance America\u2019s leadership in next-generation nuclear energy and ensure the United States remains at the forefront of clean energy innovation.\n\n\u201cEnergy dominance begins with innovation,\u201d said Congressman Moore. \u201cThis bill builds on the Trump Administration\u2019s momentum to deploy cutting-edge nuclear technology that can power our future, from artificial intelligence to space exploration, while creating good-paying jobs here at home. America must lead, not follow, in the race for advanced nuclear energy.\u201d\n\nSpecifically, the Next Generation Nuclear Deployment Act will ensure the Department of Energy\u2019s (DOE) Advanced Reactor Demonstration Program encompasses at least 10 test sites across the country, including one micro-reactor, defined as capable of producing up to 10 megawatts of electricity.\n\nAdditionally, the bill would allow advanced nuclear testing and development on non-DOE sites, a major reform that will unlock public-private collaboration and relieve pressure on limited federal infrastructure. It also encourages the Secretary of Energy to pursue cost-sharing partnerships with private industry and research institutions to accelerate deployment and reduce taxpayer risk.\n\nMoore\u2019s legislation follows President Trump\u2019s Executive Order 14301, which expanded the DOE\u2019s Nuclear Reactor Pilot Program to 11 lead projects, with three expected to come online by July 4, 2026.\n\nThis legislation is supported by American companies and organizations, with Duke Energy saying, \u201cAs the operator of the nation's largest regulated nuclear fleet, Duke Energy is fully supportive of advancing federal efforts to develop new nuclear generation that we can deploy on our system. We deeply appreciate and thank Congressman Moore for his continued support of the nuclear energy industry.\n\nThe Next Generation Nuclear Deployment Act will bolster the critical work underway to develop and deploy advanced nuclear technology in the United States. Nuclear power serves as a cornerstone of reliable and affordable energy, and we remain committed to ongoing investment in and expansion of this essential energy source.\u201d", 1, "2026-04-04T05:28:40Z", "2026-04-04T05:30:10Z"], ["https://timmoore.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-tim-moore-votes-pass-bipartisan-housing-affordability-legislation", "Congressman Tim Moore Votes to Pass Bipartisan Housing Affordability Legislation Out of Financial Services Committee", "2025-12-18", "2025", "2025-12", "Republican", "House", "NC", "Tim Moore", "M001236", "timmoore.house.gov", "timmoore", "https://timmoore.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2014 Yesterday, the House Committee on Financial Services advanced the bipartisan Housing for the 21st Century Act (H.R.6644). Congressman Tim Moore (NC-14) voted to pass this legislation out of the committee, recognizing the importance of this legislation to streamline housing development and affordability by updating outdated programs, removing regulatory roadblocks, and increasing local flexibility.\n\nDuring the hearing, Congressman Moore said, \u201cRather than imposing new federal mandates, this bill takes a smarter approach. It removes unnecessary barriers to housing production and gives states and local governments greater flexibility to expand supply in ways that reflect local needs. The Housing for the 21st Century Act directly addresses regulatory inefficiencies that delay construction, that increase costs but does so by streamlining federal environmental review requirements and modernizing federal standards that no longer reflect today's modern building practices. These reforms will shorten the permitting timelines, and they will also directly lower the per unit construction costs. The bill also embraces innovation, particularly when it comes to manufactured and factory-built housing.\u201d\n\nImage\n\nWatch Congressman Moore's remarks here.\n\nSpecifically, the Housing for the 21st Century Act will:\n\n\u00b7 Expand housing supply by streamlining federal housing processes, cutting red tape, and reducing the barriers that prevent new home construction\u2014especially in fast-growing communities like those in Western North Carolina.\n\n\u00b7 Modernize outdated federal standards that slow down development and inflate costs. By aligning regulations with today\u2019s construction practices, the bill makes it easier and more affordable to build quality housing.\n\n\u00b7 Support innovation in housing, including manufactured and factory-built homes, which offer faster, more affordable solutions for families and communities facing supply shortages.\n\n\u00b7 Give states and local governments more flexibility to address housing challenges in ways that reflect their specific needs, rather than relying on one-size-fits-all mandates from Washington.\n\n\u00b7 Improve access to affordable homeownership by expanding financing options for small-dollar mortgages and manufactured homes\u2014key tools to help working families and first-time buyers.\n\n\u00b7 Increase transparency and oversight in federal housing programs to ensure resources are used effectively and families are protected from bad actors.\n\n\u00b7 Strengthen protections for veterans and vulnerable households by reinforcing the integrity of housing programs and ensuring safe, stable living environments.", 1, "2026-04-04T05:28:40Z", "2026-04-04T05:30:10Z"], ["https://www.budd.senate.gov/2025/12/18/senator-budd-releases-statement-opposing-marijuana-rescheduling/", "Senator Budd\u00a0Releases\u00a0Statement Opposing Marijuana Rescheduling", "2025-12-18", "2025", "2025-12", "Republican", "Senate", "NC", "Ted Budd", "B001305", "www.budd.senate.gov", "budd", "https://www.budd.senate.gov/category/news/press-releases/page/", "scraper", "\u201cWe should not be handing tax breaks to bad actors and foreign drug cartels to advertise a drug that will harm Americans.\u201d\n\nWashington, D.C. \u2014 Senator Ted Budd (R-N.C.) released the following statement after President Trump signed an executive order that would reschedule marijuana from a Schedule I drug to a lower classification, easing federal restrictions on the substance:\n\n\u201cRescheduling marijuana to a Schedule III substance and putting more money in the pockets of marijuana companies is a shortsighted policy decision that will have detrimental effects on the health and safety of Americans, especially our nation\u2019s youth. The negative health impacts of marijuana are numerous and well-documented\u2014increased risk of heart attack, stroke, psychotic disorders, addiction, and hospitalization. Marijuana use contributes significantly to deadly traffic and workplace accidents, and with this action, our Department of Transportation will be unable to conduct testing for marijuana\u2014even for America\u2019s pilots and truck drivers. We should not be handing tax breaks to bad actors and foreign drug cartels to advertise a drug that will harm Americans.\u201d\n\nBUDD LEADS SENATE LETTER OPPOSING MARIJUANA RESCHEDULING\n\nYesterday, Senator Budd led 21 of his Senate Republican colleagues in sending a letter to President Trump urging him to reconsider rescheduling marijuana. The full text of that letter is available HERE and below:\n\n\u201cWe write to ask you to uphold marijuana\u2019s status as a Schedule I drug. Rescheduling marijuana to a Schedule III drug will undermine your strong efforts to Make America Great Again and to usher in America\u2019s next economic Golden Age. The only winners from rescheduling will be bad actors such as Communist China, while Americans will be left paying the bill.\n\n\u201cMarijuana continues to fit the definition of a Schedule I drug due to its high potential for abuse and its lack of an FDA-approved use. The evidence shows that marijuana is harmful to its users, especially to young people and women who are pregnant and nursing. According to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Administration, studies show that marijuana is linked to \u201cdepression, anxiety, suicide planning, and psychotic episodes.\u201d Tragically, mass shootings have a link to marijuana use, including school shootings; in fact, the shooter who attacked a Catholic school in Minneapolis blamed his actions on \u201cgender and weed\u201d and wrote, \u201cI wish I never tried experimenting with either.\u201d Additionally, marijuana has long-term effects on brain health, including \u201cpermanent IQ loss\u201d when a person starts using marijuana at a young age. Lastly, babies are also at risk from marijuana, as marijuana use during pregnancy may result in \u201cfetal growth restriction, premature birth, stillbirth, and problems with brain development, resulting in hyperactivity and poor cognitive function.\u201d\n\n\u201cWe cannot reindustrialize America if we encourage marijuana use. America\u2019s workplace and America\u2019s roads are endangered by marijuana use. The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has identified studies linking marijuana use to \u201cimpaired judgment\u201d and \u201clack of concentration,\u201d as well as research finding increases in industrial accidents, injuries, and absenteeism among employees who tested positive for marijuana versus those who tested negative. Additionally, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration warns that marijuana users are more likely to be involved with car crashes and studies show that marijuana impacts motor skills, cognitive functions, and user\u2019s ability to multitask, which is a \u201ccritical skill\u201d for drivers.\n\n\u201cRescheduling would also give a massive tax break to marijuana companies. These companies are currently prohibited from taking business tax deductions under Section 280E of the Internal Revenue Code due to their involvement with marijuana, given its status as a Schedule I drug. According to the marijuana industry\u2019s own researchers, marijuana companies would obtain a $2.3 billion tax break if marijuana were to be rescheduled. Marijuana business leaders have said they will use this infusion of funds to increase their marketing and to expand their businesses into additional states. While supporters of rescheduling argue that extending tax benefits to marijuana businesses will create economic growth, the costs of workplace and vehicular accidents caused by increased marijuana usage far exceeds any perceived benefits\u2014not to mention the moral costs of marijuana advertising that could reach kids.\n\n\u201cIn light of the documented dangers of marijuana, facilitating the growth of the marijuana industry is at odds with growing our economy and encouraging healthy lifestyles for Americans. We urge you to continue your strong leadership of our country and our economy, and to turn away from marijuana rescheduling.\u201d\n\nJoining Senator Budd in sending this letter were Senators John Barrasso (R-Wyo.), Tom Cotton (R-Ark.), Shelley Moore Capito (R- W.Va.), James Lankford (R- Okla.), Roger Marshall (R- Kan.), Pete Ricketts (R- Neb.), Tommy Tuberville (R- Ala.), John Cornyn (R-Texas), Marsha Blackburn (R- Tenn.), Jim Banks (R-Ind.), Ron Johnson (R-Wis.), Mike Crapo (R-S.D.), Rick Scott (R-Fla.), Bill Hagerty (R-Tenn.), Jim Risch (R-Idaho), Kevin Cramer (R-N.D.), Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-Miss.), Lindsey Graham (R-S.C.), Cynthia Lummis (R-Wyo.), Dave McCormick (R-Pa.), and Mitch McConnell (R-Ky.).\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://www.tillis.senate.gov/2025/12/lumbee-recognition-legislation-signed-into-law", "Lumbee Recognition Legislation Signed into Law", "2025-12-18", "2025", "2025-12", "Republican", "Senate", "NC", "Thom Tillis", "T000476", "www.tillis.senate.gov", "tillis", "https://www.tillis.senate.gov/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Today, Senators Thom Tillis (R-NC) and Ted Budd (R-NC), along with Representatives David Rouzer (R-NC), Mark Harris (R-NC), Richard Hudson (R-NC), Tim Moore (R-NC), Deborah Ross (D-NC), Addison McDowell (R-NC), Valerie Foushee (D-NC), Greg Murphy (R-NC), Don Davis (D-NC), and Alma Adams (D-NC), applauded the signing of the Lumbee Fairness Act into law.\n\n\u201cFor 137 years, the Lumbee Tribe of North Carolina fought for the full federal recognition they were promised, and today that promise has finally been fulfilled,\u201d said Senator Tillis. \u201cPresident Donald Trump pledged to get this done, and he kept that promise. By signing the Lumbee Fairness Act into law, a historic injustice has been corrected, and the Lumbee people can finally access the full federal benefits they have long earned and deserve. This achievement was a true team effort, and I am grateful to Lumbee Tribal Chairman John Lowery, Senator Ted Budd, Michael Whatley, and members of the North Carolina Congressional Delegation, including Representatives Rouzer, Hudson, Harris, McDowell, and Moore, for working together to deliver this long overdue recognition for the Lumbee people.\u201d\n\n\u201cFor nearly fifty years, the Lumbee Tribe has fought for the same rights and benefits that every other federally recognized tribe receives,\u201d said Senator Budd. \u201cToday, this long fight is over, and the more than 60,000 members of the Lumbee Tribe will begin the process of receiving the benefits they deserve. I want to thank Senator Tillis for his strong leadership of the North Carolina delegation as we fought for this provision, and his unyielding dedication to the recognition of the Lumbee people throughout his time in the U.S. Senate. Under the leadership of Chairman John Lowery, the Lumbee Tribe has had strong advocates in President Trump and his administration and in Representatives Rouzer and Harris who introduced the Lumbee Fairness Act in the House. I am grateful to have played a role in securing this major victory for such an important group of North Carolinians.\u201d\n\n\u201cIt is truly a great and monumental day for the Lumbee Tribe \u2014 the effects of which will transcend generations for the Lumbee people and all of North Carolina,\u201d said Representative Rouzer, who offered the House amendment to the NDAA to provide federal recognition to the Lumbee Tribe. \u201cPassage of my legislation, the Lumbee Fairness Act, will finally grant the Tribe full federal recognition and long-deserved benefits. This historic moment reflects the perseverance of Lumbee Tribal Chairman John Lowery, the tenacity of the Lumbee people, strong support from President Trump, and years of advocacy by Senators Tillis, Budd, Dole, Burr, and many other North Carolina colleagues. Thank you all for your dedication to make this victory possible.\u201d\n\n\u201cAs the first bill I co-introduced in Congress, the Lumbee Fairness Act brings to fruition the decades-long fight on Capitol Hill for full federal recognition,\u201d said Representative Mark Harris. \u201cFederal recognition for the Lumbee Tribe is about much more than just words on paper; it signifies they are seen. The Lumbee Tribe is now officially the 575th federally recognized tribe. What a historic moment this is for the Lumbee Tribe and an honor as their representative\u2014God is so good!\u201d\n\n\u201cFor generations, the Lumbee people have fought for fairness and full recognition,\u201d said Representative Hudson. \u201cWe delivered. This long-overdue win finally honors the Lumbee Tribe\u2019s heritage and ensures they receive the federal support and opportunities they deserve.\u201d\n\n\u201cThis is a historic moment generations of Lumbee families have hoped for, and I\u2019m honored to have played a part in helping make it happen,\u201d said Representative Moore. \u201cI\u2019m especially grateful to President Trump, Chairman Lowery, Senator Tillis, and our North Carolina delegation for their leadership in delivering long-overdue recognition to the Lumbee Tribe.\u201d\n\n\u201cFinally, the Lumbee Tribe will get the recognition they deserve and worked towards for 137 years,\u201d said Representative Ross. \u201cGenerations of Lumbee strived and advocated for this hard-fought milestone. I appreciate the work of my colleagues across North Carolina who came together on a bipartisan basis to make recognition possible.\u201d\n\n\u201cThe Lumbee Fairness Act corrects a clear historical mistake and brings long-overdue clarity to the Lumbee Tribe\u2019s federal status,\u201d said Representative McDowell. \u201cFor more than a century, the People of the Dark Water have sought the fair and equal recognition they deserve. Through this legislation, the Lumbee Tribe of North Carolina will have the same rights as every other federally recognized tribe. And with the signature of President Donald Trump, we are closing a chapter of federal inconsistency and delivering an outcome that should have been resolved generations ago.\u201d\n\n\u201cI am overjoyed to see the Lumbee Tribe of North Carolina at long last receive federal tribal recognition,\u201d said Representative Foushee. \u201cThis is an effort that I have been working on closely with colleagues across the political spectrum for over a decade, but it pales in comparison to the over 100 years the Lumbee have spent seeking reprieve. The federal government owes a great debt to Native Americans and tribal communities across the country. This isn't a political issue\u2014this recognition is important for the state of North Carolina and efforts to work with, support, and uplift tribal communities cannot stop here.\u201d\n\n\u201cSince 1885, the Lumbee Tribe was recognized in North Carolina and began its long quest to seek full federal recognition thereafter,\u201d said Representative Murphy, M.D. \u201cThe community faced egregious oppression and violence, and while Congress acknowledged the Lumbee people in 1956, they did not receive the same benefits and recognition as other tribes. After many decades, justice has been achieved and with great bipartisan backing. I\u2019m very proud to have supported this effort from the beginning. Congratulations to the Lumbee Tribe!\u201d\n\n\u201cToday, our nation fulfills a generations-long promise we made to the Lumbee Tribe of North Carolina, correcting a historic injustice and allowing the Lumbee people to finally get the federal recognition and support they deserve,\u201d said Representative Adams. \u201cAfter 137 years, I\u2019m proud to see that the Lumbee Tribe has finally won their fight and that justice has finally prevailed.\u201d\n\nBackground:\n\nThe Lumbee Fairness Act grants long-overdue federal benefits to the Lumbee Tribe of North Carolina that every other federally recognized tribe receives. The Lumbee Tribe is the largest American-Indian tribe in the Eastern United States. In 1885, North Carolina formally recognized the Lumbee Tribe. Three years later, the Tribe began to seek federal recognition. On June 7, 1956, Congress enacted the Lumbee Act at the height of the Indian termination policy era, which provided the Lumbee with federal recognition but included an unfair caveat that terminated their recognition.\n\nThe Lumbee Tribe received support from over 230 federally recognized tribes, President Trump, Vice President Vance, President Biden, Vice President Harris, the North Carolina General Assembly, and various Native American scholars and organizations.\n\n###", 1, "2026-04-04T05:28:40Z", "2026-04-04T05:30:10Z"], ["https://www.tillis.senate.gov/2025/12/tillis-statement-on-the-passing-of-governor-jim-hunt", "Tillis Statement on the Passing of Governor Jim Hunt", "2025-12-18", "2025", "2025-12", "Republican", "Senate", "NC", "Thom Tillis", "T000476", "www.tillis.senate.gov", "tillis", "https://www.tillis.senate.gov/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Today, Senator Thom Tillis (R-NC) released the following statement on the passing of former North Carolina Governor Jim Hunt:\n\n\u201cSusan and I are deeply saddened by the passing of Governor Jim Hunt, who was one of the most consequential public servants in North Carolina's history. His commitment to public education and economic development made a profound impact on our state that continues to this day. We send our deepest condolences to his loving family.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://timmoore.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-tim-moore-statement-lumbee-recognition-set-become-law", "Congressman Tim Moore Statement as Lumbee Recognition Is Set to Become Law", "2025-12-17", "2025", "2025-12", "Republican", "House", "NC", "Tim Moore", "M001236", "timmoore.house.gov", "timmoore", "https://timmoore.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2014 Today, Congressman Tim Moore (NC-14) released the following statement on the Senate passage of the Lumbee Fairness Act in the FY2026 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA):\n\n\u201cToday is a historic day for the Lumbee Tribe as they are finally set to receive the full federal recognition they deserve.\n\n\u201cAs an original cosponsor of the Lumbee Fairness Act and a longtime advocate for this cause, I\u2019m proud to stand with Chairman John Lowery and the Tribe in celebrating this moment. President Trump promised to get this done and has been a strong supporter every step of the way.\n\n\u201cI\u2019m grateful to Senator Thom Tillis, Congressman David Rouzer, and the entire North Carolina delegation for helping lead the charge to deliver justice and long-overdue recognition to the Lumbee people.\u201d\n\nKey background:\n\nRead more about House passage of the NDAA and Lumbee Fairness Act HERE.", 1, "2026-04-01T05:41:29Z", "2026-04-01T05:42:36Z"], ["https://timmoore.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-tim-moore-votes-pass-lower-health-care-premiums-all-americans-act", "Congressman Tim Moore Votes to Pass the Lower Health Care Premiums for All Americans Act", "2025-12-17", "2025", "2025-12", "Republican", "House", "NC", "Tim Moore", "M001236", "timmoore.house.gov", "timmoore", "https://timmoore.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2014 Today, Congressman Tim Moore voted to pass the Lower Health Care Premiums for All Americans Act (H.R. 6703), legislation with targeted reforms to lower premium costs for all Americans, expand access, and restore integrity to America\u2019s health care system.\n\n\u201cFor years, Democrats have poured billions of taxpayer dollars into subsidies that pad the profits of big insurance companies while premiums skyrocket for working families,\u201d said Congressman Moore. \u201cThis legislation brings a much-needed set of reforms to lower premiums for all Americans at least 11%, expand affordable options for workers and small businesses, and tackle the hidden costs driving up prescription drug prices. I\u2019m proud to vote for a bill that puts patients first and delivers real relief to families in Western North Carolina.\u201d\n\nSpecifically, the Lower Health Care Premiums for All Americans Act:\n\n\u00b7 Lowers premium costs through cost-sharing reduction payments\u2014reducing premiums by at least 11%, stabilizing the individual market, and cutting out-of-pocket costs like deductibles and copays;\n\n\u00b7 Brings transparency and reduces hidden drug costs by requiring pharmacy benefit managers to report drug spending, rebates, and pricing\u2014giving employers and employees visibility into the real drivers of premium increases;\n\n\u00b7 Expands Association Health Plans by restoring President Trump\u2019s executive order, which would enroll 3.7 million Americans and provide coverage to 400,000 previously uninsured individuals;\n\n\u00b7 Strengthens employer flexibility and coverage choices by allowing workers to use tax-free employer contributions to choose the health plan that works best for them;\n\n\u00b7 Protects small businesses by preserving their ability to offer affordable, customizable benefit plans that meet the needs of their employees.\n\nRead the text of the bill HERE.\n\nKey Background: The Unaffordable Care Act Marketplace: Rising Costs and Structural Failures\n\nPremiums Have Risen Nearly Twice as Fast as Employer Coverage\n\nPremiums have increased at a rate more than three times higher than overall inflation as measured by the Consumer Price Index.\n\nSurging Premiums Are Driving Higher Federal Subsidy Costs\n\nFederal ACA subsidy costs grew from $18 billion in 2014 to $92 billionin 2023.\n\nCosts are projected to reach $138 billion in 2025 \u2014 an 8x increase.\n\nThe Cost of Extending the COVID-Biden-Era Subsidy Boost is Substantial\n\nMaking the expansion permanent would cost $335 billion over ten years.\n\nZero-Claim Enrollment Has Surged \u2014 While Insurers Collect Billions", 1, "2026-04-03T05:34:17Z", "2026-04-03T05:35:48Z"], ["https://www.budd.senate.gov/2025/12/17/budd-issues-statement-after-senate-grants-lumbee-tribe-full-federal-benefits/", "Budd Issues Statement After Senate Grants Lumbee Tribe Full Federal Benefits", "2025-12-17", "2025", "2025-12", "Republican", "Senate", "NC", "Ted Budd", "B001305", "www.budd.senate.gov", "budd", "https://www.budd.senate.gov/category/news/press-releases/page/", "scraper", "\u201cMore than 60,000 members of the Lumbee Tribe will begin the process of receiving the benefits they deserve.\u201d\n\nWashington, D.C. \u2014 U.S. Senator Ted Budd (R-N.C.) issued the following statement after the U.S. Senate passed legislation that puts the Lumbee Tribe of North Carolina on the path to receive the full federal benefits they have long been unfairly denied. In January, Senator Budd joined Senator Tillis and other members of the North Carolina congressional delegation in reintroducing the Lumbee Fairness Act. The bill was included in the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2026, which the Senate passed today. The legislative package is now headed to the president\u2019s desk to be signed into law.\n\n\u201cFor nearly fifty years, the Lumbee Tribe has fought for the same rights and benefits that every other federally recognized tribe receives,\u201d said Senator Budd. \u201cToday, with the passage of this year\u2019s National Defense Authorization Act, this long fight is over, and the more than 60,000 members of the Lumbee Tribe will begin the process of receiving the benefits they deserve. I want to thank Senator Tillis for his strong leadership of the North Carolina delegation as we fought for this provision, and his unyielding dedication to the recognition of the Lumbee people throughout his time in the U.S. Senate. Under the leadership of Chairman John Lowery, the Lumbee Tribe has had strong advocates in President Trump and his administration and in Representatives Rouzer and Harris who introduced the Lumbee Fairness Act in the House. I am grateful to have played a role in securing this major victory for such an important group of North Carolinians.\u201d\n\nBACKGROUND\n\nThe Lumbee Tribe is the largest American Indian tribe in the Eastern United States. In 1885, North Carolina formally recognized the Lumbee Tribe. Three years later, the Tribe began to seek federal recognition. In 1956, Congress finally passed legislation recognizing the tribe, but the bill included an unfair caveat that denied the Lumbee benefits that every other federally recognized tribe receives.\n\nUpon the signing of the FY26 NDAA, the Lumbee tribe will be on the path to eligibility for all federal benefits provided to federally recognized tribes.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://www.budd.senate.gov/2025/12/17/senator-budd-releases-statement-following-senate-passage-of-historic-ndaa-investing-in-u-s-national-defense/", "Senator Budd Releases Statement Following Senate Passage of Historic NDAA Investing in U.S. National Defense", "2025-12-17", "2025", "2025-12", "Republican", "Senate", "NC", "Ted Budd", "B001305", "www.budd.senate.gov", "budd", "https://www.budd.senate.gov/category/news/press-releases/page/", "scraper", "\u201cAmerica\u2019s security rests on the readiness and unmatched lethality of our military.\u201d\n\nWashington, D.C. \u2014 Senator Ted Budd (R-N.C.), a member of the Senate Armed Services Committee (SASC), voted in favor of passage of the Fiscal Year (FY) 2026 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) today. The bill includes numerous provisions to improve readiness and quality of life for our troops, increase funding for North Carolina military installations, deter China, and strengthen alliances abroad. The defense package is now headed to the President\u2019s desk to be signed into law.\n\nSenator Budd issued the following statement upon final passage:\n\n\u201cAmerica\u2019s security rests on the readiness and unmatched lethality of our military. I am proud to have worked with my colleagues to deliver a historic investment in our national defense that prioritizes peace through strength. This year\u2019s NDAA puts our warfighters first by prioritizing new weapons and platforms, eliminates regulations and DEI initiatives that detract from combat training, and enacts new policies that remove enemy capabilities off the battlefield. The United States will continue to aid Taiwan in deterring the threat of Communist China and stand shoulder to shoulder with our ally Israel in bringing about a safer and more stable Middle East. Above all, this landmark legislation authorizes a generational investment in servicemember quality of life, ensuring our troops and their families in North Carolina have the necessary resources to accomplish their mission\u2014at home and abroad.\u201d\n\nBelow is a summary of provisions Senator Budd championed that were included as amendments to the FY26 NDAA and passed by Congress:\n\nSeized Iranian Arms Transfer Authorization (SEIZE) Act streamlines the process for taking ownership over confiscated Iranian weapons seized in transit to terror proxies like the Houthis in Yemen. Senator Budd\u2019s amendment bypasses a potential year-long legal process for the distribution of captured Iranian weapons and equipment held by U.S. Central Command, allowing them to be sent to U.S. military partners around the globe.\n\nStreamlining Advanced Manufacturing Strategy Act brings greater alignment and increases efficiency to advanced manufacturing initiatives. Senator Budd\u2019s amendment keeps American manufacturers ahead in the technological race and driving our economy forward.\n\nLumbee Fairness Act puts the Lumbee Tribe of North Carolina on the path to receiving full federal benefits they have long been unfairly denied.\n\nComprehensive Operations for Unmanned-System Neutralization and Threat Elimination Response (COUNTER) Act enhances airspace security at military installations. Senator Budd is an original co-sponsor of the standalone legislation that was included as an amendment to neutralize unauthorized drones.\n\nBoosting America\u2019s Military Readiness & Supporting Military Families\n\nThis year\u2019s NDAA represents an investment in America\u2019s military personnel, a refocusing of the Pentagon\u2019s priorities to boost troop readiness, and a needed reduction of bureaucratic red tape. Senator Budd championed several key priorities to improve the quality of life and the effectiveness of our troops by:\n\nProviding a 3.8% raise for all service members.\n\nCodifying President Trump\u2019s efforts to end left-wing ideology, wokeism, and DEI in the military and restore focus on lethality, meritocracy, and accountability.\n\nReducing barriers for fighter aircraft to use the Link-16 data network in training, which will increase readiness for potential high-end conflict.\n\nDelivering for North Carolina Military Installations & Manufacturers\n\nThe FY 2026 NDAA authorizes more than $765 million for military construction projects and planning and design funding at facilities across North Carolina. Senator Budd successfully worked to include provisions to support the following facilities, programs, and units:\n\nMarine Corps Air Station Cherry Point\n\nAuthorizing $40M in funding to boost the F-35 Aircraft Sustainment Center\n\nAuthorizing $15M in funding to design the next phase of the Flightline Utilities Modernization project\n\nMarine Corps Base Camp Lejeune\n\nAuthorizing $51.4M in funding for the expansion of the Special Operations Forces Combat Service Support/Motor Transport\n\nAuthorizing $90M in funding to boost the Special Operations Forces Marine Raider Battalion Operations Facility\n\nAuthorizing $48.28M in funding to improve Amphibious Combat Vehicle Shelters\n\nFort Bragg\n\nAuthorizing $19M in funding to boost the Automated Infantry Platoon Battle Course\n\nAuthorizing $24M in funding to complete the construction of the Aircraft Maintenance Hangar\n\nAuthorizing $80M in funding to improve the Fort\u2019s power generation and microgrid\n\nAuthorizing $80M in funding for the Special Operations Forces Mission Command Center\n\nAuthorizing $145M in funding for the Special Operations Forces Operational Ammunition Supply Point\n\nAuthorizing $8M in funding for Special Operations Forces Joint Intelligence Center\n\nAuthorizing $5M in funding for the Pathfinder Airborne Program to improve soldier readiness\n\nSeymour Johnson Air Force Base\n\nAuthorizing $54M in funding to improve the Child Development Center\n\nAuthorizing $41M in funding to expand the Combat Arms Training and Maintenance Complex\n\nNorth Carolina National Guard\n\nAuthorizing $69M in funding for the Aircraft Maintenance Hangar Addition/Alteration project at Salisbury Training Center\n\nNorth Carolina Manufacturers & Projects\n\nAuthorizing $308M in funding to procure Infantry Squad Vehicles manufactured in Concord, which will support the Army Transformation Initiative\n\nAuthorizing $4M in funding to procure rare earth magnets manufactured in Durham\n\nAuthorizing $8M in funding to procure Army Load-Carrying Technology Advancements built in Concord\n\nAuthorizing $5M in funding to expand the Defense Innovation Unit OnRamp Hub, which Senator Budd has advocated for bringing to North Carolina\n\nDeterring China & Standing with Our Allies\n\nThe core mission of America\u2019s Armed Forces is to protect the United States and its citizens from threats and to defend our interests both at home and abroad. Senator Budd led the inclusion of several key priorities that will help our troops and our allies carry out this vital mission by:\n\nDeterring Threats from China:\n\nCutting bureaucratic red tape to permit fighter aircraft to use tactical datalinks needed for advanced air combat training, enhancing the preparation and readiness of 45 combat-coded fighter squadrons for high-end conflict\n\nCountering Wrongful Detention Act of 2025 provides the U.S. Government with additional tools to deter state and non-state actors from wrongfully detaining U.S. nationals for political leverage.\n\nSupporting the U.S.-Israel Bilateral Relationship:\n\nAuthorizing $80M in funding for U.S.-Israel Anti-Tunnel Cooperation and extending the program through December 2028\n\nAuthorizing $70M in funding for U.S.-Israel Counter-UAS Cooperation and extending the program through December 2028\n\nAuthorizing $100M in funding for the Arrow 3 Upper Tier Interceptor Program Co-Production\n\nAuthorizing $40M in funding for Israel\u2019s David\u2019s Sling Short Range Rocket Defense System\n\nAuthorizing $60M in funding for Iron Dome Short Range Rocket Defense System\n\nDirecting a semi-annual assessment of Israel\u2019s defense capabilities and the impact of current arms embargoes, sanctions, and restrictions by foreign countries and international organizations on Israel\n\nDirecting a U.S.-Israel Defense Industrial Base Working Group to increase integration and interoperability of between the two national technology bases\n\nStabilizing the Middle East:\n\nExtending the authorization to provide assistance to counter the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria (ISIS)\n\nRepealing the 1991 & 2002 Authorization for Use of Military Force Relating to Iraq\n\nStanding with Taiwan:\n\nEnhancing the Taiwan Security Cooperation Initiative\n\nDirecting a joint program with Taiwan to enable fielding of uncrewed systems and counter-uncrewed system capabilities\n\nTaiwan Non-Discrimination Act of 2025 requires the Department of the Treasury to support Taiwan\u2019s admission to the International Monetary Fund (IMF) or participation in activities of the Fund before it becomes a member.\n\nStreamlining Foreign Military Sales (FMS):\n\nAUKUS Improvement Act of 2025 increases flexibility in defense transfers between U.S., Australia, and the U.K.\n\nRequiring the Pentagon to establish a framework to improve processes and procedures for technology transfer and foreign disclosure policies\n\nRequiring the Pentagon to establish an office to facilitate foreign partners\u2019 acquisition of equipment that is not a program of record for U.S. forces\n\nExpediting and improving transparency of international arms transfers by streamlining bureaucracy\n\nRequiring a bi-annual review of the FMS-only list with the intent to expand defense articles available for Direct Commercial Sales\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://www.budd.senate.gov/2025/12/17/senators-budd-hassan-introduce-bipartisan-bill-to-lower-prescription-drug-prices-for-american-families/", "Senators Budd, Hassan Introduce Bipartisan Bill to Lower Prescription Drug Prices for American Families", "2025-12-17", "2025", "2025-12", "Republican", "Senate", "NC", "Ted Budd", "B001305", "www.budd.senate.gov", "budd", "https://www.budd.senate.gov/category/news/press-releases/page/", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2014 U.S. Senators Ted Budd (R-N.C.) and Maggie Hassan (D-N.H.) introduced the bipartisan Biosimilar Inspection Modernization Act, legislation that would make prescription drugs more accessible and affordable by updating and improving the Food and Drug Administration\u2019s (FDA) inspection processes for facilities manufacturing biosimilar medicines. Addressing these regulatory barriers would ultimately speed up the number of biosimilars brought to market, in turn increasing competition and lowering costs for patients.\n\n\u201cAs prescription drug prices continue to climb, Americans with chronic illnesses are being forced to choose between the medications they need and paying their bills. By reducing regulatory bottlenecks on the inspections of facilities manufacturing low-cost biosimilars, we can help reduce the amount of time it takes for patients to gain access to these more affordable, safe, proven therapies. I am grateful to Senator Hassan for working with me on a solution that will make prescriptions more affordable for American families by removing regulatory barriers and increasing competition to brand name biologic drugs,\u201d said Senator Budd.\n\n\u201cA key part of reducing prescription drug costs for families is helping more biosimilar and generic medications enter the market. The FDA should use every available resource to get biosimilar medications to patients more quickly. This bipartisan bill will cut red tape at the FDA, increase competition, and, in turn, lower prescription drug costs for Granite Staters and all Americans.\u201d said Senator Hassan.\n\n\u201cThe Biosimilars Forum strongly supports the Biosimilar Inspector Modernization Act, a critical piece of legislation that will ensure equity and uniformity to biosimilar reviews, creating consistency with other drug classes under FDA review and eliminating unnecessary bureaucracy. This legislation would not be possible without the leadership of Senator Budd and Senator Hassan. The Forum and our members thank the Senators and their staffs for spearheading this effort,\u201d said Julie Reed, Executive Director, Biosimilars Forum.\n\nThe Biosimilar Inspection Modernization Act is endorsed by the Biosimilars Forum.\n\nRead the full bill text HERE.\n\nBACKGROUND\n\nBiosimilars, the alternatives to brand-name biologics, offer a unique opportunity for reducing prescription drug costs for patients by bringing competition to brand name biologic drugs. Biosimilars are FDA approved and lower cost than their brand name competitors, but their market share remains below 20% in the United States.\n\nBiosimilar Inspection Modernization Act of 2025:\n\nRequires the FDA to develop a strategic plan for American biosimilars manufacturing, addressing FDA staffing challenges and improving internal and external communication.\n\nDirects the improved use of Mutual Recognition Agreements, ensuring that unnecessary red tape is removed to bring these drugs to patients faster.\n\nUpdates the FDA\u2019s inspection authorities to better utilize new tools and technologies in the oversight of biosimilar manufacturing facilities, so that the FDA more efficiently oversees these facilities.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://www.tillis.senate.gov/2025/12/tillis-lumbee-recognition-legislation-set-to-become-law", "Tillis\u2019 Lumbee Recognition Legislation Set to Become Law", "2025-12-17", "2025", "2025-12", "Republican", "Senate", "NC", "Thom Tillis", "T000476", "www.tillis.senate.gov", "tillis", "https://www.tillis.senate.gov/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Today, Senator Thom Tillis (R-NC) released the following statement on the passage of the Lumbee Fairness Act in the FY2026 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA):\n\n\u201cFor 137 years, the Lumbee Tribe have been fighting for federal recognition, and today the federal government has finally honored that promise. President Trump traveled to Robeson County and pledged to get federal recognition done. He kept that promise and showed extraordinary leadership. With the Senate passage of the NDAA, the Lumbee Tribe of North Carolina will now achieve full federal recognition and access to every federal benefit they have earned and deserve.\n\n\u201cThis was a team effort on the part of North Carolina leaders. I am grateful to Chairman John Lowery, Senator Ted Budd, Michael Whatley, and Members of the North Carolina Congressional Delegation \u2013 including Representatives Rouzer, Hudson, Harris, McDowell, and Moore \u2013 for working together to achieve this historic success.\n\n\u201cI want to thank my staff, especially Cirilo Perez, whose tireless and dedicated work behind the scenes played an instrumental role in breaking a decades-old legislative stalemate and making this historic moment a reality.\u201d\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://harrigan.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-pat-harrigan-votes-protect-children-trafficking-and-exploitation", "Congressman Pat Harrigan Votes to Protect Children from Trafficking and Exploitation", "2025-12-16", "2025", "2025-12", "Republican", "House", "NC", "Pat Harrigan", "H001101", "harrigan.house.gov", "harrigan", "https://harrigan.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Contact: Lexi Kranich (814) 380-4408\n\nWASHINGTON, D.C.\u2014Today, Congressman Pat Harrigan (NC-10) voted to pass H.R. 4371, the Kayla Hamilton Act, legislation that strengthens federal safeguards for unaccompanied migrant children and reduces the risk they are released to traffickers, criminals, or unsafe sponsors. The bill tightens background checks, improves coordination with law enforcement, and restores accountability to a system that has too often failed vulnerable kids.\n\n\u201cWhen the government takes custody of a child, it takes on a serious responsibility,\u201d said Congressman Harrigan. \u201cI\u2019m a dad, and I can\u2019t imagine cutting corners when it comes to where a child is placed or who they\u2019re handed off to. These decisions carry real consequences, and we owe it to these kids to get it right.\u201d\n\nThe legislation is named for Kayla Hamilton, a 20-year-old woman with autism who was brutally murdered in Maryland by an MS-13 gang member who entered the United States illegally, a case that exposed serious failures in federal screening and oversight and drew national attention to the consequences of those breakdowns.\n\nThe Kayla Hamilton Act requires federal agencies to consult with law enforcement and immigration authorities before releasing children, strengthens sponsor vetting, and mandates assessments to ensure placements do not put children at risk. With House passage, the bill now moves to the Senate, where Congressman Harrigan is urging swift action to prioritize child safety and accountability.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://harrigan.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-pat-harrigan-votes-strengthen-americas-power-grid-and-prevent", "Congressman Pat Harrigan Votes to Strengthen America\u2019s Power Grid and Prevent Unplanned Shutdowns", "2025-12-16", "2025", "2025-12", "Republican", "House", "NC", "Pat Harrigan", "H001101", "harrigan.house.gov", "harrigan", "https://harrigan.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Contact: Lexi Kranich (814) 380-4408\n\nWASHINGTON, D.C.\u2014Today, Congressman Pat Harrigan (NC-10) voted to pass H.R. 3632, the Power Plant Reliability Act of 2025, legislation that improves transparency and planning across the electric grid by requiring advance notice before major power plants are retired or taken offline. The bill is designed to prevent sudden losses of generation capacity that can strain the grid, increase costs, or raise the risk of outages for families and small businesses.\n\n\u201cWhen power plants shut down without warning, it puts the entire grid at risk,\u201d said Congressman Harrigan. \u201cThis bill makes sure regulators and grid operators aren\u2019t finding out after the fact. If a plant is coming offline, we should understand the impact ahead of time and make sure families and businesses aren\u2019t left dealing with the consequences.\u201d\n\nThe Power Plant Reliability Act requires owners of large electric generating units to notify grid operators and federal regulators before retiring facilities that supply electricity to the bulk power system. It strengthens coordination between the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission and reliability authorities so they can assess whether a shutdown could threaten service, particularly during periods of high demand or extreme weather, and determine whether additional steps are needed to maintain reliability.\n\nWith House passage, the Power Plant Reliability Act now moves to the Senate. Congressman Harrigan is urging timely action to improve grid reliability, reduce uncertainty for energy producers, and protect working families from avoidable disruptions caused by poor planning.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://hudson.house.gov/press-releases/house-passes-rep-hudsons-bipartisan-bill-to-reauthorize-the-congressional-award", "House Passes Rep. Hudson\u2019s Bipartisan Bill to Reauthorize the Congressional Award Program", "2025-12-16", "2025", "2025-12", "Republican", "House", "NC", "Richard Hudson", "H001067", "hudson.house.gov", "hudson", "https://hudson.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 The House of Representatives passed Congressman Richard Hudson\u2019s (NC-09) H.R. 860, the Congressional Award Program Reauthorization Act, a bipartisan bill with Rep. Debbie Dingell (MI-12) to extend the Congressional Award Program through fiscal year 2028.\n\n\u201cThe Congressional Award has helped generations of young people set goals, serve others, and push themselves to achieve more,\u201d said Rep. Hudson. \u201cThis bipartisan bill ensures the program can continue to recognize the dedication of future leaders.\"\n\nThe Congressional Award Program is Congress\u2019s official youth recognition program, honoring Americans ages 14 to 23 for achievement in community service, personal development, physical fitness, and goal-setting.\n\nHudson and Dingell\u2019s bill ensures the program can continue operating without interruption. It makes a small modernization update to allow flexibility in how award medals are produced, while preserving the prestige of the Congressional Award.\n\nThe legislation is bipartisan and aligns with a Senate companion bill that passed unanimously, reflecting broad support for encouraging civic engagement and leadership among young Americans.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://murphy.house.gov/media/press-releases/dr-murphy-update", "Dr. Murphy Update", "2025-12-16", "2025", "2025-12", "Republican", "House", "NC", "Gregory F. Murphy", "M001210", "murphy.house.gov", "murphy", "https://murphy.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2014 Congressman Greg Murphy, M.D., issued the following statement on his health:\n\n\"What an amazing life God gives us.\n\nSince September 2019, I have been honored to represent the wonderful people of North Carolina\u2019s Third Congressional District in Congress. From day one of my tenure, I have made transparency a top priority.\n\nAs some may recall, in May 2024, I announced that I was undergoing surgery for a benign pituitary tumor. Everything went well, and I had an uneventful recovery, returning to work within just a few weeks.\n\nIn the interest of continued transparency, I am sharing with you all that I will soon undergo follow-up treatment for this benign condition. I have been blessed by good health, but sometimes \u2018tune-ups\u2019 are needed!\n\nI look forward to rejoining my colleagues after the Christmas break to continue working to deliver a healthcare system that is accessible and affordable for all Americans. Every day, I strive to make life better for my constituents by allowing them to keep more of their hard-earned money, cutting Washington\u2019s needless bureaucracy, and promoting peace through strength.\n\nDespite our shortcomings, we still have the greatest nation on earth, and we must fight to keep it that way.\n\nThank you all for your prayers and support. Thank you in advance for respecting the privacy of my family and me.\n\nThank you all again for allowing me the privilege to serve you. I pray everyone has a wonderful and joyous Christmas season and a happy, healthy, and holy New Year.\n\nMay God bless you all.\"", 1, "2026-04-04T05:28:40Z", "2026-04-04T05:30:10Z"], ["https://www.budd.senate.gov/2025/12/16/senators-budd-fetterman-introduce-bipartisan-legislation-to-create-first-national-network-of-ai-enabled-automated-labs/", "Senators Budd, Fetterman Introduce Bipartisan Legislation to Create First National Network of AI-Enabled, Automated Labs", "2025-12-16", "2025", "2025-12", "Republican", "Senate", "NC", "Ted Budd", "B001305", "www.budd.senate.gov", "budd", "https://www.budd.senate.gov/category/news/press-releases/page/", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2014 U.S. Senators Ted Budd (R-N.C.) and John Fetterman (D-Pa.) introduced the National Programmable Cloud Laboratories Network Act to create a national network of six remotely accessible programmable cloud laboratories (PCLs) for academic research, led by the National Science Foundation (NSF). By joining existing laboratory data processing power together, this bill would help researchers use their time and financial resources more effectively through automation and integration of large data sets.\n\n\u201cIntegrating our nation\u2019s world class laboratories will increase the rate of breakthroughs, streamline and better automate the research process, and reduce the barriers and costs that throttle experimentation. North Carolina is at the cutting edge of innovation, and I am glad to work with Senator Fetterman to help our great institutions push the boundaries of discovery even further,\u201d said Senator Budd.\n\n\u201cPennsylvania is home to thousands of academic and industry researchers that are expanding the boundaries of human knowledge and developing the products of the future. We can help cut barriers researchers face and supercharge America\u2019s innovation engine with a national network of PCLs. This has never been built before, and I\u2019m proud to partner with Senator Budd to make this a reality,\u201d said Senator Fetterman.\n\nThe National Programmable Cloud Laboratories Network Act is endorsed by SeedAI, the Allegheny Conference on Community Development, and Carnegie Mellon University.\n\nRead the full bill text HERE.\n\nBACKGROUND\n\nThe high cost of building and maintaining laboratory infrastructure creates barriers for smaller, less endowed academic institutions and small businesses to conduct cutting-edge scientific research or develop innovative products. A national PCL network would allow fee-paying users to remotely access laboratory space to conduct experiments, instead of building and operating their own lab equipment or traveling to another institution to conduct experiments in-person.\n\nThis legislation would codify existing NSF proposals to create a network of up to six PCL nodes through a competitive selection process open to academic, private sector, non-profit research institutions, or partnerships between any of the three prior types of institutions. Applicants for PCL node designation would be evaluated on:\n\nThe level of existing laboratory infrastructure with automated capabilities and data integration;\n\nCapacity to support cloud-enabled workflows for multiple users;\n\nAbility to sustain long-term operations without continuous federal funding;\n\nAbility to collaborate with partners in academia, industry, or federal research entities;\n\nProtocols for research security, cybersecurity, and responsible access;\n\nDemonstration of user interest and research needs.\n\nFollowing the designation of the nodes, standards for interoperability, data sharing, cybersecurity, and technical requirements would be developed by the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST), NSF, and selected PCL node participants. Reports to Congress on non-designated laboratories would also be required to map out developing PCL research infrastructure, assess the capabilities of non-designated laboratories, and identify opportunities for collaboration with the selected nodes.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://markharris.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-mark-harris-targets-child-predators-new-bill", "Rep. Mark Harris Targets Child Predators In New Bill", "2025-12-15", "2025", "2025-12", "Republican", "House", "NC", "Mark Harris", "H001102", "markharris.house.gov", "markharris", "https://markharris.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, DC \u2014 On Monday, Representative Mark Harris (NC-08) introduced legislation aimed at protecting children from predators and ensuring severe legal consequences for exploiting minors.\n\n\u201cProtecting our children from sexual exploitation is one of the government's most sacred duties\u2014yet dangerous loopholes in federal law allow predators to evade justice and exploit minors. We must act now to close these gaps, eliminate ambiguities, and equip law enforcement with tools to prosecute criminals fully and without excuse. Said Representative Harris, Congress must act now to strengthen our laws and deliver real protections, ensuring that criminals who use children in any sexually exploitative context face real justice.\u201d\n\nThe Child Predators Accountability Act of 2025 addresses the gaps in federal law that allow predators to escape justice and exploit minors. It clarifies the language and provides law enforcement with the necessary tools to prosecute these criminals effectively and comprehensively.", 1, "2026-04-22T05:46:42Z", "2026-04-22T05:48:06Z"], ["https://timmoore.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-tim-moore-introduces-salamander-act-speed-army-corps-permits-after", "Congressman Tim Moore Introduces SALAMANDER Act to Speed Up Army Corps Permits After Natural Disasters", "2025-12-15", "2025", "2025-12", "Republican", "House", "NC", "Tim Moore", "M001236", "timmoore.house.gov", "timmoore", "https://timmoore.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2014 Recently, Congressman Tim Moore (NC-14) introduced H.R.6693, the Streamlining Authorizations for Listed At-risk Marine and Aquatic Natural Disaster Emergency Resources (SALAMANDER) Act, to create an expedited permitting process for post-disaster recovery work led by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.\n\n\u201cAfter Hurricane Helene, recovery efforts in Western North Carolina hit bureaucratic delays that slowed down critical work like dredging and debris removal,\u201d said Congressman Moore. \u201cThe SALAMANDER Act cuts through that red tape so communities can start rebuilding immediately, while still protecting vulnerable habitats.\u201d\n\nSpecifically, the SALAMANDER Act gives the Army Corps of Engineers the ability to fast-track permits for certain recovery projects, like dredging rivers or clearing debris, after a natural disaster is declared. Typically, these permits take months due to lengthy environmental reviews, even when the work is urgently needed to protect lives and property.\n\nUnder this bill, the Army Corps can issue general permits in advance, with input from federal environmental agencies, so recovery work can start immediately. These permits are valid for 18 months and must follow strict best practices designed to protect endangered species and their habitats. The bill also requires the Corps to coordinate with state wildlife officials and create clear national guidelines so the process works the same way across the country.\n\nThis legislation is cosponsored by Rep. Chuck Edwards (NC-11).", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://www.tillis.senate.gov/2025/12/tillis-blumenthal-luttrell-mcgarvey-usaa-and-vsos-urge-congress-to-pass-bipartisan-legislation-to-provide-service-dogs-to-eligible-veterans", "Tillis, Blumenthal, Luttrell, McGarvey, USAA, and VSOs Urge Congress to Pass Bipartisan Legislation to Provide Service Dogs to Eligible Veterans", "2025-12-15", "2025", "2025-12", "Republican", "Senate", "NC", "Thom Tillis", "T000476", "www.tillis.senate.gov", "tillis", "https://www.tillis.senate.gov/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Today, Senator Thom Tillis (R-NC), Senator Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Representative Morgan Luttrell (R-TX), and Representative Morgan McGarvey (D-KY), continued their push to pass theService Dogs Assisting Veterans (SAVES)Act, bipartisan legislation that would establish a program to award grants to nonprofit organizations to assist them in carrying out programs to provide service dogs to eligible veterans.\n\nAdditionally, USAA and a coalition of 22 Veterans Service Organizations (VSOs) sent a letter to Senate Majority Leader John Thune, Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer, Speaker of the House Mike Johnson, and Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries, urging them to bring up theSAVES Act for a vote in Congress.\n\n\u201cLong after the fighting on the battlefield ends, too many of the courageous servicemembers come home and continue to battle against enemies that many consider just as insidious as those with guns, grenades, and rockets. That is why in 2021, I introduced thePAWS Act that created a pilot program to provide canine training to eligible veterans, but it is clear we must continue to build on that effort to ensure this program is expanded to veterans in need,\u201dsaid Senator Tillis. \u201cTheSAVES Actwill allow more veterans who are struggling with the invisible wounds of war to receive service dogs that could ultimately save their lives. We must repay the debt to the men and women who served our country, I hope Congress quickly passes this legislation to provide them with his important resource.\u201d\n\n\u201cOurSAVES Act to improve access to service dogs for nation\u2019s veterans is long overdue,\u201dsaid Senator Blumenthal. \u201cWhen military men and women return home from service, they are often fighting invisible battles. These canine companions can offer our veterans comfort, ease their transition back into civilian life, and support their mental and physical health. I\u2019ll keep fighting for Congress to pass our bipartisan measure to ensure our veterans can access the essential and even life-saving assistance of service dogs.\u201d\n\n\u201cTheSAVES Act establishes a pathway allowing VA to provide service dogs to veterans in need,\u201dsaid Representative Luttrell. \u201cThese animals help ease the suffering and give lifesaving and lifechanging support during the transition from the battlefield to the homefront \u2014 and beyond.\u201d\n\n\u201cOur veterans are willing to put on the uniform and sacrifice everything to keep us safe and free, but that service comes at a cost,\u201d said Representative McGarvey. \u201cThat brave service oftentimes takes a toll on veterans' physical and mental health, and we've got to do everything we can to support them with tangible, proven solutions like the availability of life-saving service animals. I'm grateful to my colleagues for this bipartisan effort to prioritize the resources our veterans deserve and urge swift passage of this commonsense legislation.\u201d\n\nThe VSOs who signed the letter include the American Legion, K9s for Warriors, Vietnam Veterans of America (VVA), Student Veterans of America, Operation Freedom Paws, Paws Assisting Veterans (PAVE), The Independence Fund, Canines for Service, Warrior Canine Connection, Hero Dogs, Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America (IAVA), paws4people, Hawaii Fi-Do, VFW,DAV, PVA, Soldier's Best Friend, Paws for Purple Hearts, Air Force Sergeant Association, Fleet Reserve Association, Non Commissioned Officers Association, and Paws and Stripes.\n\n\u201cService Dogs have a proven track record of providing life-saving assistance to Veterans in critical need,\u201dsaid Daniel Bean, CEO at K9s For Warriors. \u201cAs the nation's leading provider of Service Dogs for Veterans with PTSD, traumatic brain injury and/or military sexual trauma, K9s For Warriors has seen firsthand how these service animals restore hope, stability, and purpose. The SAVES Act will ultimately put more Service Dogs in the hands of Veterans with visible and invisible wounds, allowing them to regain their independence and reintegrate into civilian life. We applaud Senator Tillis, Senator Blumenthal, Congressman Luttrell, and Congressman McGarvey for their unwavering support and urge Congress to pass this important legislation without delay \u2014 so even more Veterans can join the 1,200+ Warriors whose lives have already been saved and transformed through our program.\u201d\n\n\u201cThe VFW supports theService Dogs Assisting Veterans Act of 2025 (S. 1441/H.R. 2605), which allows veterans to receive support companions without having to endure long waitlists,\u201dsaid Meggan Coleman, National Legislative Associate Director at VFW. \u201cService dogs can assist veterans with various physical, auditory, and trauma-related disabilities, which can empower veterans to regain their independence, pride, and hope. The VFW commends Senator Tillis and Representative Luttrell for introducing this important legislation and looks forward to its swift passage.\u201d\n\n\u201cThe American Legion strongly supports theSAVES Act, and we are proud to stand with our fellow Veterans Service Organizations in leading a joint letter urging congressional leadership to bring this bipartisan bill to the floor,\u201dsaid Dan K. Wiley, National Commander at American Legion. \u201cFor veterans living with PTSD or traumatic brain injury, service dogs provide proven, life-changing support that restores independence, stability, and hope. Expanding access to these programs is a meaningful step toward ensuring every veteran has the tools they need to heal. Congress should act without delay.\u201d\n\nBackground:\n\nIt is estimated that upwards of20% of Iraq and Afghanistan war veterans have PTSD andmore than 485,000 service members have been diagnosed with at least one traumatic brain injury over the past two decades. As a result, these veterans suffer from alarmingly high rates of depression, anxiety, joblessness, homelessness, substance use disorder and other negative behaviors. Far too often, they resort to taking their own lives \u2013 roughly 20 veterans die by suicide each day, nearly one an hour.\n\nUnder theSAVES Act, nonprofit organizations would be required to submit an application to the Secretary that includes a description of the training that will be provided by the organization to eligible veterans; the training of dogs that will serve as service dogs; the aftercare services that the organization will provide for the service dogs and eligible Veteran; the plan for publicizing the availability of service dogs through a marketing campaign; the committee of the organization to have humane standards or animals.\n\nFull text of the letter is availableHERE.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://hudson.house.gov/press-releases/rep-hudsons-bill-to-speed-pipeline-approvals-lower-energy-costs-passes-house", "Rep. Hudson\u2019s Bill to Speed Pipeline Approvals, Lower Energy Costs Passes House", "2025-12-12", "2025", "2025-12", "Republican", "House", "NC", "Richard Hudson", "H001067", "hudson.house.gov", "hudson", "https://hudson.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Today, the U.S. House of Representatives passed Congressman Richard Hudson's (NC-09) H.R. 3668, the Improving Interagency Coordination for Pipeline Reviews Act, with a bipartisan vote through the House.\n\nH.R. 3668 modernizes and streamlines the federal permitting process for interstate natural gas pipelines by strengthening the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission\u2019s (FERC) role as the lead agency. This puts state and federal regulators on a single, coordinated timeline, and cuts red tape so critical projects can move forward faster \u2014 helping lower energy costs for families and businesses.\n\n\u201cDelays in the construction of new natural gas pipelines drive up energy prices,\u201d said Rep. Hudson. \u201cMy bill makes long-overdue modernizations to the permitting process by streamlining the regulatory authority of FERC. This makes sure the environment is protected, but no single state can arbitrarily block the construction of new pipelines.\u201d\n\nBACKGROUND\n\nUnder current law, FERC serves as the lead agency for coordinating environmental reviews and federal authorizations for interstate natural gas pipelines. However, approvals are often delayed by a lack of coordination or inaction among states and other federal agencies, as well as statutory challenges under the Clean Water Act\u2019s Section 401 process.\n\nThe U.S. Energy Information Administration expects natural gas demand to reach an all-time high of more than 107 billion cubic feet per day in 2026, supplying over 40 percent of U.S. electric generation. Between 2013 and 2021, several major pipeline projects were canceled, jeopardizing the energy needs of roughly 25.5 million homes they were planned to serve daily. Without reform, families face higher energy prices and increased risk of shortages, particularly in constrained regions.\n\nABOUT H.R. 3668\n\nH.R. 3668, the Improving Interagency Coordination for Pipeline Reviews Act:\n\nAffirms FERC as the sole lead agency for coordinating National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) reviews and related federal authorizations for interstate natural gas pipelines under the Natural Gas Act.\n\nRequires participating federal and state agencies to follow schedules set by FERC and conduct their reviews concurrently with FERC\u2019s NEPA process, including acceptance of appropriate remote environmental data.\n\nIncorporates Clean Water Act Section 401 water quality certification into FERC\u2019s NEPA review, including any terms or conditions required to comply with the Clean Water Act, preventing separate, indefinite processes that can delay projects for reasons unrelated to water quality.\n\nRequires FERC to act on certification requests within 90 days after completing NEPA review.\n\nRequires FERC to consult with the Transportation Security Administration regarding pipeline infrastructure and security measures.\n\nEnsures continued compliance with the Clean Water Act and all other environmental protections.\n\nSUPPORTING ORGANIZATIONS\n\nThe PAGE Coalition, INCOMPAS, the Natural Gas Council, and leading natural gas and pipeline companies back H.R. 3668. The National Taxpayers Union's support for the bill highlights its role in cutting delays and bringing commonsense permitting reform.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://murphy.house.gov/media/press-releases/murphy-hosts-5th-annual-campus-free-speech-roundtable", "Murphy Hosts 5th Annual Campus Free Speech Roundtable", "2025-12-12", "2025", "2025-12", "Republican", "House", "NC", "Gregory F. Murphy", "M001210", "murphy.house.gov", "murphy", "https://murphy.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2014 Congressman Greg Murphy, M.D., hosted his 5th Annual Campus Free Speech Roundtable, alongside Congressman Burgess Owens, Congressman Bob Onder, M.D., J.D., and Congressman Randy Fine, to convene lawmakers, stakeholders, and students to discuss challenges to free expression on college campuses and solutions to support First Amendment protections.\n\nJonathan Pidluzny, Deputy Chief of Staff for Policy and Programs, Department of Education, as well as representatives from the Young America's Foundation (YAF), Alumni Free Speech Alliance (AFSA), American Council of Trustees and Alumni (ACTA), Turning Point USA (TPUSA), Defending Education, Davidsonians for Freedom of Thought and Discourse, Princetonians for Free Speech, and The Jefferson Council for the University of Virginia were in attendance.\n\nThe livestream for the event can be viewed here.", 1, "2026-04-04T05:28:40Z", "2026-04-04T05:30:10Z"], ["https://murphy.house.gov/media/press-releases/murphy-introduces-legislation-increase-efficiency-dow-and-va-healthcare", "Murphy Introduces Legislation to Increase Efficiency in DoW and VA Healthcare Delivery", "2025-12-12", "2025", "2025-12", "Republican", "House", "NC", "Gregory F. Murphy", "M001210", "murphy.house.gov", "murphy", "https://murphy.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2014 Congressman Greg Murphy, M.D., introduced the bipartisan DoD and VA Medical Credentialing Integration Act of 2025, alongside Congresswoman Susie Lee, to direct the Secretary of Defense and the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to jointly select and implement a uniform credentialing and privileging system for medical providers.\n\n\"Efficiently aligning the Department of War and the Department of Veterans Affairs complementary healthcare missions will enhance patient care and provider readiness while saving taxpayer dollars,\" said Congressman Greg Murphy, M.D. \"By streamlining oversight, increasing accountability, and improving coordination, millions of military and veteran beneficiaries will receive high-quality care that safely meets their medical needs.\n\n\"This legislation is a strategic opportunity for the advancement of healthcare priorities throughout the federal sector healthcare system that strengthens workforce recruitment and retention, refines effective government health agency practices, and provides for service members and veterans, all while safeguarding and better utilizing Americans\u2019 hard-earned tax dollars.\"\n\nBackground:\n\nMilitary Health System & Veteran Health Administration Integration (MHS/VHA).\n\nDepartment of Defense (DoD) needs clinically active medical teams, particularly active-duty officers and enlisted personnel, delivering high complexity care to maintain skills so that military medical personnel are prepared to deploy downrange.\n\nDoD Military Treatment Facilities (MTF) are force generation platforms where health care professionals hone their clinical skills to ensure a continuous cadre of skilled medical forces.\n\nThe MHS has a statutory obligation to care for 9.5M DoD beneficiaries.\n\nThe VHA provides high-quality, comprehensive medical care to 9.1M enrolled Veterans, many of whom have complex medical conditions.", 1, "2026-04-04T05:28:40Z", "2026-04-04T05:30:10Z"], ["https://timmoore.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-tim-moore-introduces-critical-minerals-trade-security-act", "Congressman Tim Moore Introduces Critical Minerals Trade Security Act to Strengthen U.S. Supply Chain Security", "2025-12-12", "2025", "2025-12", "Republican", "House", "NC", "Tim Moore", "M001236", "timmoore.house.gov", "timmoore", "https://timmoore.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2014 Congressman Tim Moore (NC-14) introduced the Critical Minerals Trade Security Act (H.R. 6659) to create a dedicated Chief Critical Minerals Negotiator within the Office of the United States Trade Representative (USTR) to lead America\u2019s global critical mineral trade strategy.\n\n\u201cCritical minerals power everything from our military defense systems to our energy grid and the technologies we use every day,\u201d said Congressman Moore.\u201cBut right now, we\u2019re far too dependent on adversarial nations to supply them, and that puts our national security and economic future at risk. The Critical Minerals Trade Security Act is a strong America First solution that establishes a top-level negotiator to lead the charge in securing reliable supply chains and pushing back against unfair trade practices. America should never be at the mercy of foreign powers when it comes to the resources that are so essential to our safety and our economy.\u201d\n\nSpecifically, this legislation establishes a Chief Critical Minerals Negotiator charged with:\n\nCoordinating a national strategy on critical minerals in consultation with the Secretaries of State, Energy, and the Interior;\n\nNegotiating and enforcing trade agreements focused on securing stable and fair mineral supply chains;\n\nIdentifying and addressing unfair or coercive trade practices that pose risks to U.S. economic and national security;\n\nReporting annually to Congress on global supply chain vulnerabilities and appropriate U.S. responses.\n\nCritical minerals (such as rare earth elements, lithium, and cobalt) are essential to America\u2019s manufacturing strength, energy goals, military readiness, and other supply chains. However, the United States remains heavily reliant on foreign sources, including adversarial nations. The bill addresses that vulnerability by creating a new role that mirrors the structure of existing top-level trade negotiator roles within USTR, ensuring America is positioned to lead in securing the critical mineral resources necessary for long-term competitiveness.\n\nOriginal cosponsors of this legislation include Reps. John McGuire (VA-05), Andy Barr (KY-06), and Mike Lawler (NY-17).", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://www.tillis.senate.gov/2025/12/tillis-statement-on-the-european-union-s-loan-to-ukraine", "Tillis Statement on the European Union\u2019s Loan to Ukraine", "2025-12-12", "2025", "2025-12", "Republican", "Senate", "NC", "Thom Tillis", "T000476", "www.tillis.senate.gov", "tillis", "https://www.tillis.senate.gov/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Today, Senator Thom Tillis released the following statement praising the European Union\u2019s decisive support for Ukraine:\n\n\u201cToday\u2019s decision by European leaders to provide a \u20ac90 billion interest-free loan to Ukraine, backed by the strategic use of revenues from immobilized Russian state assets, sends an unmistakable message and demonstrate the kind of strategic clarity and resolve necessary to confront ongoing Russian aggression.\n\n\u201cVladimir Putin is a thug and a war criminal. It is only fitting that Russia be held financially responsible for the death and destruction he unleashed. This decision to keep Russian assets frozen until Ukraine is fully compensated is not just about economics; it is about accountability. This is a policy reflects the kind of transatlantic leadership we need at a time when some are still looking for \u2018off-ramps\u2019 instead of results.\n\n\u201cPredictably, Putin has reacted to this news with his usual brand of propaganda, calling these actions \u2018robbery.\u2019 Coming from a man who invades sovereign neighbors, targets innocent civilians, and steals children, these claims are hollow. More importantly, his rhetoric serves as a reminder that he views any hint of Western hesitation as an invitation to go further.\n\n\u201cThe lesson here is simple: appeasement never works. Putin only understands strength. Europe understands that, and America must, too. The world is watching\u2014our allies are looking for resolve, and our adversaries are looking for weakness. We must continue to lead with the strength and clarity that this challenge demands.\u201d\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://harrigan.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-pat-harrigan-votes-expand-investment-opportunities-retail", "Congressman Pat Harrigan Votes to Expand Investment Opportunities for Retail Investors", "2025-12-11", "2025", "2025-12", "Republican", "House", "NC", "Pat Harrigan", "H001101", "harrigan.house.gov", "harrigan", "https://harrigan.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Contact: Lexi Kranich (814) 380-4408\n\nWASHINGTON, D.C.\u2014Today, Congressman Pat Harrigan (NC-10) voted to pass H.R. 3383, the Increasing Investor Opportunities Act, which removes outdated restrictions in the Investment Company Act of 1940 and allows select publicly traded funds to invest in private funds. The legislation brings a decades-old regulatory structure into line with modern markets and gives everyday investors access to strategies once reserved for major institutions.\n\n\u201cMost families invest through vehicles like closed-end funds, yet the rules governing those funds still assume the markets look the way they did in the 1940s,\u201d said Congressman Harrigan. \u201cIf we want savers and retirees to have real choices, then we have to clear out the barriers that only exist because the law never evolved. This bill gives everyday investors access to strategies that were previously off-limits for no good reason.\u201d\n\nThe Increasing Investor Opportunities Act prohibits the Securities and Exchange Commission from blocking or restricting a closed-end fund\u2019s ability to invest in private funds unless the limitation is grounded in an actual investor-protection concern\u2014not simply in the fact that the underlying investment is a private fund. The bill also prevents exchanges from refusing to list closed-end funds that use these strategies and clarifies that none of these changes alter fiduciary duties, valuation standards, or liquidity requirements.\n\nWith House passage, the Increasing Investor Opportunities Act now moves to the Senate, where Congressman Harrigan is calling for swift action to open the door to more competitive investment options for families and retirees.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://harrigan.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-pat-harrigan-votes-strengthen-americas-electric-grid", "Congressman Pat Harrigan Votes to Strengthen America\u2019s Electric Grid", "2025-12-11", "2025", "2025-12", "Republican", "House", "NC", "Pat Harrigan", "H001101", "harrigan.house.gov", "harrigan", "https://harrigan.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Contact: Lexi Kranich (814) 380-4408\n\nWASHINGTON, D.C.\u2014Congressman Pat Harrigan (NC-10) voted today to pass H.R. 3638, the Electric Supply Chain Act, a bill aimed at giving the United States a clear and honest understanding of the vulnerabilities inside the nation\u2019s electric grid. With demand projected to surge and major generation sources scheduled to retire, the legislation ensures policymakers know exactly where the supply chain is exposed before those weaknesses turn into real consequences for American families.\n\n\u201cAmerica\u2019s energy future depends on whether we can build and maintain the grid fast enough to meet rising demand,\u201d said Congressman Harrigan. \u201cRight now we\u2019re flying blind on too many parts of that supply chain. If we don\u2019t understand the choke points, the workforce gaps, or where China controls critical materials, then we can\u2019t fix the problem. This bill gives us the visibility we need to stay competitive and protect the reliability families count on every single day.\u201d\n\nThe Electric Supply Chain Act directs the Department of Energy to conduct regular assessments of the supply chain for electricity generation and transmission. The bill requires DOE to analyze risks, identify barriers to domestic manufacturing, evaluate dependence on foreign entities of concern, and consult directly with industry experts to capture emerging issues. It also calls for recommendations to strengthen and expand the supply chain, from critical materials to key grid components.\n\nWith House passage, the Electric Supply Chain Act now heads to the Senate, where Congressman Harrigan is urging swift action to ensure the United States can meet growing electricity demand, build more resilient infrastructure, and reduce reliance on adversarial nations for essential materials.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://hudson.house.gov/press-releases/hudson-helps-secure-full-lumbee-recognition-in-final-ndaa-a-historic-win-decades-in", "Hudson Helps Secure Full Lumbee Recognition in Final NDAA: A Historic Win Decades in the Making", "2025-12-11", "2025", "2025-12", "Republican", "House", "NC", "Richard Hudson", "H001067", "hudson.house.gov", "hudson", "https://hudson.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 U.S. Representative Richard Hudson (NC-09) celebrates the FY26 National Defense Authorization Act inclusion of full federal recognition of the Lumbee Tribe, correcting a nearly 70-year injustice and delivering one of the most significant milestones in the Tribe\u2019s modern history.\n\n\u201cFor generations, the Lumbee people have fought for fairness and full recognition. We delivered. This long-overdue win finally honors the Lumbee Tribe\u2019s heritage and ensures they receive the federal support and opportunities they deserve,\u201d said Rep. Hudson.\n\nWhy it matters:\n\nThe Lumbee have sought federal recognition since the late 1800s.\n\nCongress partially recognized the Tribe in 1956 but denied them the services and benefits granted to every other federally recognized tribe.\n\nThat mistake has shaped the last seven decades of Lumbee life, limiting access to health care, education, housing, and economic development.\n\nWhat\u2019s in the NDAA:\n\nThe bill includes the Lumbee Fairness Act, which grants full federal status and restores access to all federal programs available to other tribes.\n\nThe recognition is expected to unlock significant economic potential for the region and bring long-awaited resources to Lumbee families.\n\nWhat\u2019s next: The NDAA now heads to President Trump\u2019s desk.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://hudson.house.gov/press-releases/hudson-secures-final-ndaa-wins-for-fort-bragg-military-families-and-president-trumps", "Hudson Secures Final NDAA Wins for Fort Bragg, Military Families, and President Trump\u2019s Peace Through Strength Agenda", "2025-12-11", "2025", "2025-12", "Republican", "House", "NC", "Richard Hudson", "H001067", "hudson.house.gov", "hudson", "https://hudson.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 U.S. Representative Richard Hudson (NC-09) released the following statement after final passage of the Fiscal Year 2026 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), which now heads to President Trump\u2019s desk to be signed into law:\n\n\u201cAs Fort Bragg\u2019s Congressman, I\u2019m proud to deliver a defense authorization bill that puts our troops, their families, and our veterans first. This NDAA secures critical investments for our armed services and North Carolina\u2019s military community, including tens of millions for Fort Bragg. The bill implements President Trump\u2019s agenda, restores America\u2019s commitment to Peace Through Strength, and ensures our Armed Forces remain the most lethal and capable in the world. From pay raises to readiness upgrades at Fort Bragg, this bill is a win for every soldier and family who sacrifices so much for our nation.\u201d\n\nFort Bragg & North Carolina Wins in the FY26 NDAA\n\nThe FY26 NDAA includes major authorizations Rep. Hudson fought for on behalf of Fort Bragg and the Sandhills region, including:\n\n$44.7 million for upgrades at Forward Operating Base Freedom (Freedom Village) at Fort Bragg.\n\n$8.1 million for the Special Operations Forces Joint Intelligence Center (JIC) at Fort Bragg.\n\n$19 million for an Automated Infantry Platoon Battle Course.\n\n$24 million for an Aircraft Maintenance Hangar.\n\n$80 million for Power Generation and a resilient Microgrid to keep critical missions running.\n\n$80 million for a Special Operations Forces Mission Command Center.\n\n$145 million for Special Operations Forces Operational Ammunition Supply Point\n\nHistoric Win for the Lumbee Tribe\n\nThe FY26 NDAA includes the historic Lumbee Fairness Act, granting full federal recognition to the Lumbee Tribe and ensuring its members finally receive the same federal services and benefits as other federally recognized tribes. This is a major milestone for one of North Carolina\u2019s largest and most deserving Indigenous communities.\n\nIn addition, provisions Rep. Hudson supported will:\n\nBoost investments in barracks and family housing used by soldiers and families.\n\nImprove access to childcare, health care, and mental health services for military families.\n\nStrengthen recruitment, retention, and transition programs.\n\nNational Security Wins: Implementing President Trump\u2019s Peace Through Strength Agenda\n\nThe FY26 NDAA is a cornerstone of President Trump\u2019s Peace Through Strength agenda and delivers conservative wins for America\u2019s military, borders, and taxpayers:\n\nCodifies 15 Trump Executive Orders and 30 key legislative proposals to restore lethality, merit-based promotions, and accountability in the ranks, while ending left-wing ideology, wokeism, and DEI programs in the military.\n\nImproves quality of life for servicemembers with a 3.8% pay raise, expanded bonuses and special pays, better food access, upgraded barracks and family housing, and major investments in childcare, schools, and health care for military families.\n\nStrengthens border security by fully funding troops and National Guard deployments to the southern border, expanding support for Border Patrol, and authorizing over $1 billion to fight drug trafficking and transnational crime.\n\nFundamentally reforms the defense acquisition system, cutting red tape, prioritizing commercial solutions, speeding new technologies to the warfighter, and focusing every taxpayer dollar on capability instead of bureaucracy.\n\nBuilds President Trump\u2019s Golden Dome and strengthens missile defense, nuclear deterrence, and space capabilities to protect the homeland from hypersonic, ballistic, and cruise missile threats.\n\nRevitalizes the defense industrial base by expanding U.S. production capacity, onshoring supply chains, cutting dependence on China for critical minerals and components, and growing American defense manufacturing jobs.\n\nInvests in shipbuilding, aircraft, and munitions, including major funding for submarines, destroyers, 6th-generation aircraft, F-35 fighters, Blackhawk and Chinook helicopters, and a robust arsenal of precision munitions.\n\nCounters China, Russia, Iran, North Korea, and terrorist threats with a strengthened Indo-Pacific posture, support for Taiwan and key allies, tougher restrictions on adversary-linked companies, and enhanced tools to support partners on the front lines of aggression.\n\nSaves taxpayers nearly $20 billion by eliminating DEI activities, cutting wasteful climate programs at the Pentagon, retiring obsolete platforms, and trimming bureaucracy and inefficient contracts.\n\nTogether with President Trump\u2019s Working Families Tax Cut, the FY26 NDAA is part of a generational investment in America\u2019s national security, our military families, and the promise of Peace Through Strength.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://markharris.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-mark-harris-celebrates-committee-passage-homeschool-graduation-recognition", "Rep. Mark Harris Celebrates Committee Passage of the Homeschool Graduation Recognition Act", "2025-12-11", "2025", "2025-12", "Republican", "House", "NC", "Mark Harris", "H001102", "markharris.house.gov", "markharris", "https://markharris.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, DC \u2014 On Thursday, Congressman Mark Harris (NC-08) celebrated the unanimous passage of his Homeschool Graduation Recognition Act by the House Education and Workforce Committee.\n\nCongressman Harris said, \u201cToday\u2019s successful markup of my bipartisan bill, the Homeschool Graduation Recognition Act, is an important step toward ending discrimination against homeschooled students. If a homeschool graduate meets or exceeds the very same academic standards as a public-school graduate, they deserve equal treatment under the law\u2014no exceptions, no excuses.\u201d\n\n###", 1, "2026-04-21T05:46:59Z", "2026-04-21T05:48:34Z"], ["https://murphy.house.gov/media/press-releases/murphy-applauds-passage-fy26-national-defense-authorization-act-1", "Murphy Applauds Passage of FY26 National Defense Authorization Act", "2025-12-11", "2025", "2025-12", "Republican", "House", "NC", "Gregory F. Murphy", "M001210", "murphy.house.gov", "murphy", "https://murphy.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2014 Congressman Greg Murphy, M.D., applauds the passage of the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for Fiscal Year 2026.\n\n\"I am pleased to support this year's National Defense Authorization Act,\" said Congressman Greg Murphy, M.D. \"Through enhancing peace through strength, improving servicemembers\u2019 quality of life, and strengthening American deterrence, we can best protect our country, keep the world safe, and safeguard taxpayers' dollars. North Carolina is home to some of our nation's finest warfighters, including those serving at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune and Marine Corps Air Stations Cherry Point and New River, who will significantly benefit from the $244,689,000 allocated to our bases. It is my honor to fight for the necessary resources for our military and their families, who sacrifice so much for our freedom.\"\n\nNC-03 Victories | By the Numbers:\n\n$90 million for an operations facility at Camp Lejeune.\n\n$51.4 million for SOF Combat Service Support/Motor Transport Expansion at Camp Lejeune.\n\n$48.2 million for Amphibious Combat Vehicle Shelters at Camp Lejeune.\n\n$40 million for the F-35 Aircraft Sustainment Center at FRC East, ensuring our Marine F-35s will be maintained for the next 50 years.\n\n$15 million for the MCAS Cherry Point Flightline Utilities needed for additional F-35 squadrons.\n\n$54 million for a child development center at Seymour Johnson.\n\n$41 million for a Combat Arms Training and Maintenance complex at Seymour Johnson.\n\nEnacts a 3.8% pay raise for all service members and expands military bonuses and special pay.\n\nBackground:\n\nThis legislation authorizes $900.6 billion for national defense discretionary programs.\n\nCodifies all or parts of 15 executive orders and 30 legislative proposals from the Trump Administration to end left-wing ideology, wokeism, and DEI in the military.", 1, "2026-04-04T05:28:40Z", "2026-04-04T05:30:10Z"], ["https://murphy.house.gov/media/press-releases/murphy-introduces-legislation-protect-campus-free-speech", "Murphy Introduces Legislation to Protect Campus Free Speech", "2025-12-11", "2025", "2025-12", "Republican", "House", "NC", "Gregory F. Murphy", "M001210", "murphy.house.gov", "murphy", "https://murphy.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2014 Congressman Greg Murphy, M.D., introduced two pieces of legislation to advance campus free speech in the United States: a resolution condemning compelled speech on college campuses and the Campus Free Speech Restoration Act.\n\n\"Free speech on university and college campuses across America is fundamental to the constitutional rights and success of students,\" said Congressman Greg Murphy, M.D. \"Sadly, in recent years, this right has been attacked by liberal administrations and professors. No student should fear for their safety, their grades, or experience retribution for publicly sharing their beliefs. Universities that do not protect the First Amendment rights of their students, or compel certain speech to succeed academically, undermine the spirit of the Constitution and forsake their responsibility to mold tolerant and open-minded individuals.\n\n\"Since coming to Congress, advocating for campus free speech protections has been a priority of mine. As a former member of the Board of Trustees at my alma mater, I understand the role institutions of higher education play in shaping young minds. Students should be taught how to think critically, not what to think. It is unbelievable that we have to even discuss this. Open dialogue - allowing ideas to be debated publicly - is the key to building a society capable of overcoming division and finding common ground.\"\n\nBackground\n\nCampus Free Speech Restoration Act\n\nLegislation to require public and private universities to report First Amendment violations to the Department of Education and publicly share campus policies on free speech. Failure to do so would restrict Title IV funding.", 1, "2026-04-04T05:28:40Z", "2026-04-04T05:30:10Z"], ["https://timmoore.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-tim-moore-votes-fund-military-and-recognize-lumbee-tribe-fy26", "Congressman Tim Moore Votes to Fund the Military and Recognize the Lumbee Tribe in FY26 National Defense Authorization Act", "2025-12-11", "2025", "2025-12", "Republican", "House", "NC", "Tim Moore", "M001236", "timmoore.house.gov", "timmoore", "https://timmoore.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2014 Yesterday, Congressman Tim Moore voted to pass the Fiscal Year 2026 (FY26) National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), annual bipartisan legislation that sets military policy and authorizes funding for the Department of War (DoW) and other national security programs.\n\nImportantly, it delivers a major win for North Carolina by including one of Congressman Moore\u2019s top priorities, the Lumbee Fairness Act, which grants full federal recognition to the Lumbee Tribe of North Carolina.\n\n\u201cFor far too long, the Lumbee people have been denied the full recognition and resources they deserve,\u201d said Congressman Moore. \u201cThis bill finally delivers justice to the Lumbee, while strengthening our military and ensuring the United States remains the most powerful force for freedom in the world.\u201d\n\nThis year\u2019s NDAA advances President Trump\u2019s Peace Through Strength agenda by investing in our men and women in uniform, revitalizing America\u2019s defense industrial base, and securing our homeland against growing threats.\n\nRead the text of the bill HERE.\n\nKey Background:\n\n*The House passed an initial version of this legislation in September. This final version, agreed to in conference, now awaits approval by the Senate.\n\nCODIFYING PRESIDENT TRUMP\u2019S EXECUTIVE ACTIONS\n\nThe FY26 NDAA carries out President Trump\u2019s commitment to rebuild American strength and deter aggression by codifying all or parts of 15 major executive actions, including:\n\nRestoring America's Fighting Force (EO 14185)\n\nEnding Radical and Wasteful DEI Programs (EO 14151)\n\nDeclaring a National Emergency at the Southern Border (Proclamation 10886)\n\nSecuring Our Borders (EO 14165)\n\nClarifying the Military's Role in Defending U.S. Territorial Integrity (EO 14167)\n\nModernizing Defense Acquisitions & Spurring Innovation (EO 14265)\n\nBuilding the Golden Dome for America (EO 14186)\n\nDeploying Advanced Nuclear Reactor Technologies for National Security (EO 14299)\n\nRestoring American Airspace Sovereignty (EO 14305)\n\nUnleashing American Drone Dominance (EO 14307)\n\nThe bill also codifies 30 key legislative proposals requested by the Trump Administration, including:\n\nEliminating statutory DEI provisions in the Department of War (DoW)\n\nRevising national missile defense policy to align with the Golden Dome for America\n\nExtending expiring bonus and special pay authorities\n\nExpanding joint counterterrorism and counter\u2013transnational organized crime authorities\n\nProviding DoW support to protect U.S. airspace, maritime domain, and territory\n\nExtending authorities to assist partners in combating ISIS in Iraq and Syria\n\nAMERICA FIRST WINS\n\nThe FY26 NDAA delivers major conservative victories that restore mission focus:\n\nEnds wokeness and DEI by eliminating programs, offices, and training across DoW.\n\nSecures the border by expanding DoW support for DHS operations, National Guard deployments, and National Defense Areas.\n\nImproves quality of life for servicemembers: Delivers a 3.8% pay raise and better housing, food, health care, and childcare.\n\nRevitalizes the defense industrial base: Grows U.S. defense manufacturing jobs, onshore critical supply chains, and expands surge capacity.\n\nEnsures allies pay their fair share: Adds new tools to push allies to shoulder more of their own defense costs.\n\nKeeps terrorists locked up at Guantanamo: Extends the prohibition on closing the GITMO detention facility and blocks the transfer of terrorists to Afghanistan or any state sponsor of terrorism.\n\nCounters global threats: Strengthens counterterrorism tools, deters China in the Indo-Pacific, and ensures allies contribute more to collective defense.\n\nBUDGET SAVINGS & REFORMS\n\nThe FY26 NDAA authorizes $900.6 billion in national defense spending \u2014 while saving nearly $20 billion through targeted reforms:\n\n$40.5 million from eliminating DEI activities\n\n$6.8 billion from reductions in unnecessary Pentagon bureaucracy\n\n$5.5 billion in cuts to consulting and service contracts\n\n$3.7 billion in cuts to inefficient defense programs\n\n$1.6 billion in cuts to climate change-related spending\n\n$1.2 billion from retiring obsolete aircraft and ships\n\nThe NDAA also advances President Trump\u2019s civil service reforms by modernizing the DoW civilian workforce, promoting skills-based hiring and performance-based advancement, and cutting wasteful red tape.\n\nREADY, CAPABLE, AND LETHAL FIGHTING FORCE\n\nThe FY26 NDAA ensures the U.S. military remains ready, capable, and lethal by:", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://www.budd.senate.gov/2025/12/11/senators-budd-and-cruz-introduce-common-sense-legislation-to-increase-affordable-healthcare-coverage-options-for-americans/", "Senators Budd and Cruz Introduce Common-Sense Legislation to Increase Affordable Healthcare Coverage Options for Americans", "2025-12-11", "2025", "2025-12", "Republican", "Senate", "NC", "Ted Budd", "B001305", "www.budd.senate.gov", "budd", "https://www.budd.senate.gov/category/news/press-releases/page/", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2014 U.S. Senators Ted Budd (R-N.C.) and Ted Cruz (R-Texas) introduced the Competition and Openness in Markets to Promote Efficiency, Transparency, and Enhanced Affordability (COMPETE) Act today. The bill would amend the Public Health Service Act to extend the maximum duration of short-term, limited-duration insurance (STLDI), and includes a renewal guarantee provision that allows consumers to purchase STLDI plans for an extended period of time.\n\n\u201cAmericans overwhelmingly agree that we need access to high-quality healthcare at a reasonable price. Healthcare costs have climbed to unsustainable rates because of bad policies, like Obamacare, that have propped up insurance companies at the cost of eliminating consumer choice. I am proud to be working with Senator Cruz to provide a common-sense solution for short-term health plans by enhancing access to lower premiums and transparently making healthcare more affordable and flexible for individuals and their families,\u201d said Senator Budd.\n\n\u201cObamacare reduced health insurance options and caused premiums to skyrocket. This legislation will promote more competition, provide consumers with more choices, and allow Americans to choose the healthcare coverage that fits their needs and budgets. I urge my colleagues to pass this legislation expeditiously,\u201d said Senator Cruz.\n\nThe COMPETE Act is endorsed by Americans for Prosperity, Foundation for Government Accountability, and Heritage Action.\n\n\u201cThe Biden administration stripped away affordable short-term plans that gave families real health coverage at a fraction of the cost. Senator Cruz\u2019s bill restores the freedom President Trump gave Americans to choose plans that actually work for them, not force them into ObamaCare\u2019s one-size-fits-all mess. Instead of continuing to prop up a failing government system with heavy subsidies, this bill unleashes free markets and real competition to give families better, cheaper coverage options,\u201d said Tarren Bragdon, President and CEO, Foundation for Government Accountability.\n\nRead the full bill text HERE.\n\nBACKGROUND\n\nSince the law took effect in 2014, premiums for Affordable Care Act (ACA) benchmark plans increased 129 percent for a typical 50-year-old enrollee\u2014nearly double the rate of employer-sponsored insurance (68 percent) and more than three times the increase in the consumer price index (39 percent).\n\nAs a result, in 2018, President Trump issued a rule to allow STLDI to cover longer time periods to shield consumers in the individual market from soaring premiums and restricted care options.\n\nIn 2024, the Biden administration imposed limits on the use of STLDI plans, effectively rolling back the 2018 regulation that expanded the duration of such plans during the first Trump administration.\n\nSTLDI is a type of health insurance coverage that was primarily designed to fill gaps in coverage that may occur when an individual is transitioning from one plan or coverage to another plan or coverage.\n\nShort Term Limited Duration Insurance\n\nPromotes Greater Freedom:\n\nIndividuals are free to select the optimal amount of health coverage for their needs without being coerced into paying for additional coverage they\u2019d never use.\n\nMakes Healthcare More Affordable:\n\nAccording to the Kaiser Family Foundation (KFF), following the Trump administration\u2019s expansion of short-term plans in 2018, these policies were priced at approximately 54% less than comparable ACA-compliant plans.\n\nHelps Uninsured:\n\nSTLDI plans can provide affordable, flexible coverage that expands access to insurance. STLDI gives individuals a realistic path to coverage at a smaller cost\u2014helping ensure that more people are protected from soaring healthcare costs.\n\nFaster Coverage:\n\nUnlike most individual market plans, which limit enrollment to specific periods or qualifying life events, short-term plans can be purchased at any time. Coverage typically begins within just a few days, compared to the several weeks it may take for other health plans to start.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://harrigan.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-pat-harrigan-votes-pass-fy26-ndaa-and-secures-14-key-provisions", "Congressman Pat Harrigan Votes to Pass FY26 NDAA and Secures 14 Key Provisions", "2025-12-10", "2025", "2025-12", "Republican", "House", "NC", "Pat Harrigan", "H001101", "harrigan.house.gov", "harrigan", "https://harrigan.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Contact: Lexi Kranich (814) 380-4408\n\nWASHINGTON, D.C.\u2014Today, Congressman Pat Harrigan (NC-10) voted to pass the FY26 National Defense Authorization Act, a national security package that strengthens America\u2019s combat readiness and includes fourteen provisions he secured to advance U.S. military power. These measures focus on weapons development, supply chain security, advanced energy, artificial intelligence, and the critical infrastructure needed to keep the United States ahead of China.\n\n\u201cAmerica does not get to choose the threats we face, but we do get to choose how prepared we are,\u201d said Congressman Harrigan. \u201cI secured these provisions to push our military toward the speed, strength, and modernization the next fight will demand. They reinforce our supply chains, expand the tools our warfighters rely on, and move the Pentagon in the direction of real capability instead of slow bureaucracy. This bill helps keep the United States in front of China, Russia, and anyone else who hopes to match our power.\u201d\n\nFourteen Harrigan Provisions Included in the FY26 NDAA:\n\nSkyFoundry Working Group: Builds domestic sUAS manufacturing capacity by establishing a working group to develop recommendations for an organic innovation center and production facility.\n\nMilitary Installation Retail Security: Prohibits DoD from entering, renewing, or extending long-term retail agreements on U.S. bases with companies owned or controlled by China, Russia, Iran, or North Korea.\n\nGlide Munitions Development: Increases Army RDT&E by $18 million to accelerate the development of high-altitude precision effects glide munitions.\n\nArmy Attestation Audit Briefing: Strengthens Army financial accountability by requiring a briefing on the use of attestation methods that complement traditional audits.\n\nSMRs and Hardened Data Centers: Directs DoD to assess the feasibility of placing Small Modular Reactors and hardened data centers on military installations to improve energy resilience and digital infrastructure.\n\nCounter-UAS Training for Initial Entry: Requires the Army to evaluate incorporating counter-sUAS training into initial entry training and early career pipelines.\n\nPhasing Out Chinese Pharmaceutical Precursors: Directs DoD to brief Congress on its strategy to eliminate reliance on Chinese-origin pharmaceutical precursors.\n\nLow-Signature UAS for Contested Environments: Requires DoD to report on developing and transitioning small, agile, low-signature UAS platforms, including bio-inspired and acoustic-reduction technologies.\n\nTelemedicine Mental Health Access: Directs DoD to assess anonymous telemedicine platforms that expand mental health support options for servicemembers.\n\nModular Battery Systems Innovation: Requires DoD to submit a strategy to accelerate standardizable modular battery systems and strengthen domestic supply chains.\n\nRifle Accessory Control Unit Evaluation: Directs the Army to report on the RACU operational evaluation as the potential common remote for the Next Generation Squad Weapon.\n\nAI in Military Construction Approval: Requires DoD to outline how AI software tools will be integrated into MILCON approval and execution to accelerate infrastructure delivery.\n\nU.S. Posture in the Sahel and West Africa: Directs DoD to assess the operational effectiveness of U.S. defense posture in the Sahel and West Africa to counter Russian influence and enhance counterterrorism operations.\n\nSmokeless Gunpowder Supply Chain: Requires the Army to provide a plan to strengthen and expand the domestic smokeless gunpowder supply chain.\n\nCongressman Harrigan is calling on the Senate to advance this national security package quickly. These fourteen provisions strengthen America\u2019s industrial base, sharpen combat capability, close critical vulnerabilities, and position the United States to win against adversaries investing heavily in next-generation warfare.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://hudson.house.gov/press-releases/hudson-announces-2025-congressional-app-challenge-winner", "Hudson Announces 2025 Congressional App Challenge Winner", "2025-12-10", "2025", "2025-12", "Republican", "House", "NC", "Richard Hudson", "H001067", "hudson.house.gov", "hudson", "https://hudson.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 In recognition of Computer Science Education Week, U.S. Representative Richard Hudson (NC-09) announced the winner of the 2025 Congressional App Challenge for North Carolina's 9th District.\n\n\u201cThe Congressional App Challenge is a great opportunity for our region's middle and high school students to showcase their creativity and computer skills on the national level,\" said Rep. Hudson.\"Congratulations to this year's winner from Alamance County for his innovative app design bring communities together and thank you to all of our region's students who participated in this year's competition.\"\n\nBelow is the winning selection for North Carolina's 9th District:\n\n\u00b7 Finn Outwater of Mebane, NC (Eno River Academy)\n\n\u00b7 Farmly: An app designed to make it easy for users to discover local farms in their area where they can enjoy authentic experiences and purchase fresh produce conveniently while minimizing their carbon footprint and supporting local businesses.\n\nThe Congressional App Challenge was launched by the U.S. House of Representatives to encourage student innovation and engagement in computer science and STEM. This national effort seeks to inspire students from every corner of the country to explore coding and computer science through hands-on practice by creating an app.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://hudson.house.gov/press-releases/reps-hudson-and-carter-introduce-next-generation-9-1-1-act-to-modernize-emergency", "Reps. Hudson and Carter Introduce Next Generation 9-1-1 Act to Modernize Emergency Communications Nationwide", "2025-12-10", "2025", "2025-12", "Republican", "House", "NC", "Richard Hudson", "H001067", "hudson.house.gov", "hudson", "https://hudson.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Today, U.S. Representatives Richard Hudson (R-NC) and Troy Carter (D-LA) introduced the Next Generation 9-1-1 Act, bipartisan legislation to modernize the nation\u2019s emergency communications systems, strengthen public safety, and ensure first responders have access to real-time information during emergencies.\n\n\u201cEvery family deserves the peace of mind that all the best and most updated technology is being utilized when they dial 9-1-1, but too many call centers are still relying on outdated, legacy systems,\u201d said Congressman Richard Hudson. \u201cOur bipartisan legislation takes a commonsense step to modernize 9-1-1 technology, support the first responders who protect our communities, and ensure families across North Carolina and the country get the help they need when seconds matter.\u201d\n\n\u201cWe have fully entered the digital age, and it only makes sense that our 9-1-1 systems evolve with it. The Next Generation 9-1-1 Act is innovative, common-sense legislation that moves our nation\u2019s legacy 9-1-1 call centers into the modern era. People rely on smartphones, tablets, and other devices in every part of their daily lives. They should be able to use them when it matters most. Public safety must remain a top priority, and it\u2019s time to fully embrace the technology we have to save lives,\u201d said Congressman Troy A. Carter, Sr.\n\nBill Overview\n\nThe Next Generation 9-1-1 Act updates and reauthorizes federal support for Next Generation 9-1-1 (NG9-1-1) systems nationwide. The legislation establishes a program at the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) that creates a clear federal framework for upgrading legacy 9-1-1 infrastructure as appropriations become available.\n\nThe bill strengthens ongoing efforts by ensuring state and local agencies have a defined pathway to adopt advanced NG9-1-1 capabilities such as real-time location data, multimedia messaging, enhanced cybersecurity, and interoperable communications.\n\nThis modernization is essential for communities like Fort Bragg, rural regions across North Carolina facing vulnerabilities highlighted by natural disasters like Hurricane Helene, and fast-growing areas seeing higher emergency call volumes.\n\nWhy the Bill Is Needed\n\nResearch found that only 13 percent of the nation is served by NG-9-1-1-capable services, and most 9-1-1 services are relying on systems designed decades ago. These outdated platforms cannot process text messages, images, or video, even though over 85 percent of Americans now own a smartphone.\n\nWithout this legislation, emergency communications will continue to face delays, dropped calls, and limited situational awareness for first responders. With the Next Generation 9-1-1 Act, local agencies will be able to deploy modern, secure, data-driven systems that improve emergency response, protect first responders, and save lives.\n\nStakeholder Support\n\nCapt. Jack Varnado, President of APCO International: \u201cModernizing America\u2019s 9-1-1 systems is both a public safety necessity and a national security imperative. This legislation represents the comprehensive, forward-looking approach needed to ensure that our emergency communications system is secure, interoperable, and capable of supporting the lifesaving work 9-1-1 professionals perform every day. APCO thanks Representatives Hudson and Carter for their steadfast leadership on this critical issue.\u201d\n\n\u201cWe are grateful for Rep. Hudson\u2019s leadership in promoting Next Generation 9-1-1 in the U.S. Congress,\u201d said NENA CEO John Provenzano. \u201cWe look forward to working with Reps. Hudson and Carter (D-LA) on this important bipartisan effort as we work to ensure deployment of a nationwide Next Generation 9-1-1 system.\"\n\n\u201cAdvancing NG9-1-1 is critical to our national security and the security of our public safety network,\u201d said Brian Davenport, Chief Strategy Officer of Intrado, the nation\u2019s largest 9-1-1 provider. \u201cFar too many Americans are relying on outdated technology to get the help they need when it matters most. Congressional action is necessary to ensure we can complete the transition across the country, and we applaud Congressman Hudson for his continued leadership on this issue.\"", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://murphy.house.gov/media/press-releases/murphy-introduces-legislation-improve-va-research-care-delivery-0", "Murphy Introduces Legislation to Improve VA Research & Care Delivery", "2025-12-10", "2025", "2025-12", "Republican", "House", "NC", "Gregory F. Murphy", "M001210", "murphy.house.gov", "murphy", "https://murphy.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2014 Congressman Greg Murphy, M.D., introduced the VA Research Reform Act, legislation to reform the Department of Veterans Affairs\u2019 research ecosystem to improve the efficiency and transparency of care delivery. This legislation will be included as part of the Chairman\u2019s broader reauthorization strategy to soundly reauthorize specific programs at the Department of Veterans Affairs, many of which have not been comprehensively reauthorized in 30 years.\n\n\"The Department of Veterans Affairs conducts vital research in the federal government, but lacks centralized coordination, efficient review and oversight, and dependable timelines,\" said Congressman Greg Murphy, M.D. \"Our veterans deserve to receive swift attention to their healthcare needs; however, the bureaucratic process often forces veterans to wait unconscionable lengths of time to receive care. The VA Research Reform Act will effectively modernize how the VA-funded research is managed, streamlining every stage of the process to prioritize the well-being of veterans and remove barriers to timely care.\"\n\nBackground", 1, "2026-04-04T05:28:40Z", "2026-04-04T05:30:10Z"], ["https://timmoore.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-tim-moore-introduces-automatic-flight-risk-status-non-citizen", "Congressman Tim Moore Introduces Automatic Flight Risk Status for Non-Citizen Criminals", "2025-12-10", "2025", "2025-12", "Republican", "House", "NC", "Tim Moore", "M001236", "timmoore.house.gov", "timmoore", "https://timmoore.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2014 Today, Congressman Tim Moore introduced the Flight Risk Reduction Act (H.R. 6582) to prevent non-U.S. citizen criminal defendants from fleeing the country and evading justice before trial.\n\n\u201cWe\u2019ve seen cases across the country where illegal aliens commit crimes and hurt innocent Americans, then flee before they can be held accountable,\u201d said Congressman Moore. \u201cOur justice system can\u2019t ignore the very real risk that non-citizen defendants, especially those in the country illegally, will flee to avoid facing justice. This bill gives courts the clear authority to detain those who are most likely to run.\u201d\n\nThe Flight Risk Reduction Act establishes a presumption that non-U.S. citizen defendants are flight risks, requiring them to present evidence showing they are unlikely to flee or pose a threat to public safety. Courts would still be allowed to consider family ties and employment as evidence of community connections, but the bill makes clear that those factors alone do not guarantee release.\n\nUnder current law, detention hearings are automatically triggered in certain criminal cases to determine whether a defendant should be held pretrial. This bill would add non-citizenship as one of those automatic triggers, ensuring judges closely examine the risk of flight before making a release decision.\n\nThe legislation follows two deeply troubling incidents involving non-citizens. In Charlotte, an illegal immigrant with two prior deportations was arrested for a brutal stabbing on the city\u2019s light rail system. Meanwhile, in Salt Lake City, a rideshare driver\u2014also a non-citizen\u2014was taken into custody for sexually assaulting a university student. During the investigation, he admitted that he planned to flee to Peru, his home country.\n\nOriginal cosponsors of this legislation include Reps. Troy Nehls (TX-22), Harriet Hageman (WY-AL), Barry Moore (AL-01), Tony Wied (WI-08), and Claudia Tenney (NY-24).\n\nThis legislation was first introduced in the Senate by Senator Mike Lee (R-UT), cosponsored by Senators Jim Banks (R-IN), Marsha Blackburn (R-TN), Katie Britt (R-AL), John Cornyn (R-TX), Ted Cruz (R-TX), Lindsey Graham (R-SC), Josh Hawley (R-MO), Dave McCormick (R-PA), Ashley Moody (R-FL), Pete Ricketts (R-NE), and Thom Tillis (R-NC).\n\n\u201cOur communities are unsafe when non-US citizens exploit loopholes to escape our justice system and continually break our laws,\u201d said Senator Mike Lee. \u201cJust last month in Salt Lake, a suspected rapist told our police he plans to return to Peru after his assault of a local university student. Under President Biden, more than 150,000 illegal aliens skipped their criminal hearings in 2023. That is eight times the rate from before he took office. The Flight Risk Reduction Act ensures courts have the necessary power to detain non-citizen criminals before trial, unless they can prove they are not a flight risk.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://www.budd.senate.gov/2025/12/10/senators-budd-and-wyden-lead-bipartisan-push-to-streamline-federal-resources-and-grow-agritourism-nationwide/", "Senators Budd and Wyden Lead Bipartisan Push to Streamline Federal Resources and Grow Agritourism Nationwide", "2025-12-10", "2025", "2025-12", "Republican", "Senate", "NC", "Ted Budd", "B001305", "www.budd.senate.gov", "budd", "https://www.budd.senate.gov/category/news/press-releases/page/", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2014 U.S. Senators Ted Budd (R-N.C.) and Ron Wyden (D-Ore.) this week introduced the bipartisan Accelerating the Growth of Rural Innovation and Tourism Opportunities to Uphold Rural Industries and Sustainable Marketplaces (AGRITOURISM) Act to support economic development and the growth of agritourism nationwide by increasing access to federal resources such as loans, grants, broadband, and educational programs to small family farmers.\n\n\u201cAgritourism is essential to keeping working farms afloat, especially in the aftermath of natural disasters. Without it, many of North Carolina\u2019s farms would have been forced to cease operations following Hurricane Helene. I\u2019m proud to lead this legislation alongside Senator Wyden to streamline federal resources for North Carolina\u2019s booming agritourism industry,\u201d said Senator Budd.\n\n\u201cSmall family farmers are the backbone of our country\u2019s agricultural sector. There\u2019s no question that the federal government needs to step up and support family farmers at a time when most are operating on a shoestring budget and barely making ends meet. Our bipartisan legislation would give family farmers much-needed resources to not only survive, but grow and thrive,\u201d said Senator Wyden.\n\nSenators Budd and Wyden were joined by U.S. Senators Peter Welch (D-Vt.), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-N.Y.), Tammy Baldwin (D-Wis.), Cynthia Lummis (R-Wyo.), Thom Tillis (R-N.C.), Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.), Patty Murray (D-Wash.), Michael Bennet (D-Colo.), Jeff Merkley (D-Ore.), Jacky Rosen (D-Nev.), Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.V.), and Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.) in introducing the legislation.\n\nU.S. Representatives Dan Newhouse (R-Wash-04) and Suhas Subramanyam (D-Va.-10) introduced the companion legislation in the House of Representatives.\n\nThe AGRITOURISM Act is endorsed by the Brewers Association, American Craft Spirits Association, and WineAmerica.\n\nRead the full bill text HERE.\n\nBACKGROUND\n\nThe AGRITOURISM Act would support local, family-owned businesses by designating a senior official at the U.S. Department of Agriculture as the federal agritourism advisor. This role would coordinate with stakeholders and other federal agencies to promote the growth of family-owned farms and advise the Secretary of Agriculture on this essential industry.\n\nAgritourism is one of the fastest growing industries that serves as a critical lifeline for rural economies nationwide by allowing family farms to offer outdoor recreational services like beer tasting, berry picking, seasonal festivities, bed-and-breakfast accommodations, and event venues.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://edwards.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-edwards-announces-33-million-helene-recovery-projects", "Congressman Edwards Announces $33 Million for Helene Recovery Projects", "2025-12-09", "2025", "2025-12", "Republican", "House", "NC", "Chuck Edwards", "E000246", "edwards.house.gov", "edwards", "https://edwards.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. - Congressman Chuck Edwards (NC-11) announced the U.S. Department of Homeland Security has released an additional $33 million for 44 recovery projects across Western North Carolina.\n\nWith this most recent funding allocation, Western North Carolina has received more than $1 billion in FEMA grants to rebuild public infrastructure, restore essential services, and support long-term recovery after Hurricane Helene.\n\nThese awards include:\n\n- $10.7 million to the City of Asheville for multiple projects including permanent repairs to the Bee Tree Dam and the city\u2019s Water Resources Department's emergency protective measures.\n\n- $7.4 million to the North Carolina Department of Transportation for road repairs across Avery, Buncombe, and McDowell counties.\n\n- $3.4 million to Avery County for repairs to the senior center and administrative building.\n\n- $1.6 million to the Town of Beech Mountain for emergency protective measures, including temporary power to the emergency operations and mass distribution centers in the immediate aftermath of the storm.\n\n- $1.2 million to the Town of Spruce Pine for repairs to their water and wastewater distribution systems.\n\n- $1 million to North Carolina Emergency Management for emergency protective measures, including activation for the state\u2019s emergency response center critical life-saving public information.\n\n\u201cSince day one, it has been my mission to make sure Western North Carolina receives every dollar needed to rebuild after Helene,\u201d said Congressman Edwards. \u201cThis new round of funding is another significant milestone in getting our communities back on their feet.\u201d\n\nFor more information, please visit: North Carolina Helene Recovery Surpasses $1 Billion in FEMA Funding as Secretary Noem Announces an Additional $33 Million | Homeland Security\n\n###", 1, "2026-04-04T05:28:40Z", "2026-04-04T05:30:10Z"], ["https://www.budd.senate.gov/2025/12/09/budd-joins-cotton-colleagues-in-urging-rubio-to-review-failed-biden-administration-vetting-process-of-afghan-nationals/", "Budd Joins Cotton, Colleagues in Urging Rubio to Review Failed Biden Administration Vetting Process of Afghan Nationals", "2025-12-09", "2025", "2025-12", "Republican", "Senate", "NC", "Ted Budd", "B001305", "www.budd.senate.gov", "budd", "https://www.budd.senate.gov/category/news/press-releases/page/", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2014 U.S. Senator Ted Budd (R-N.C.), Member of the Senate Intelligence Committee, joined Chairman Tom Cotton (R-Ark.) and several other Committee Members in sending a letter to National Security Advisor Marco Rubio last week, urging him to review the Biden administration\u2019s vetting process of Afghan nationals. The failed vetting process of Afghan nationals following the disastrous August 2021 withdrawal resulted in egregious security threats toward American servicemen and citizens.\n\nIn the letter, the Senators wrote, \u201cThe horrific terror attack in Washington, D.C. the past week that resulted in the shooting of two brave National Guard members demonstrates that it is past time for the United States to revisit the deficiencies of the Biden administration\u2019s vetting process for Afghan nationals and remedy the resulting egregious security threats such a process created in the United States after the disastrous August 2021 withdrawal. We urge you to take immediate action to prevent future attacks on American servicemen and citizens.\u201d\n\nRead the full letter text HERE or below:\n\nDear Secretary Rubio:\n\nThe horrific terror attack in Washington, D.C. the past week that resulted in the shooting of two brave National Guard members demonstrates that it is past time for the United States to revisit the deficiencies of the Biden administration\u2019s vetting process for Afghan nationals and remedy the resulting egregious security threats such a process created in the United States after the disastrous August 2021 withdrawal. We urge you to take immediate action to prevent future attacks on American servicemen and citizens.\n\nContrary to the previous administration\u2019s assertion that all Afghan nationals were subject to \u201cenhanced vetting,\u201d repeated reports by various Offices of Inspectors General (OIGs) presented to Congress reveal a different story. A February 2022 Department of War (DoW) OIG report found that Operation Allies Refuge and Operation Allies Welcome did not use all available DoW data to vet Afghan evacuees, including the Automated Biometric Identification System (ABIS). This database, compiled over the past 20 years, contains tactical data collected on the battlefield in Afghanistan. After an initial review of Afghan Evacuee data with the ABIS database, the National Ground Intelligence Center (NGIC) found that at least 50 individuals had \u201cpotentially significant security concerns.\u201d These range from the benign, such as a petty theft from a military base, to the serious, such as fingerprints found on improvised explosive devices. A September 2022 Department of Homeland Security (DHS) OIG report agreed with the DoW report and further found that approximately 31,000 Afghan evacuees were allowed into the country before DHS could form a task force to vet and support their resettlement. Congress is further aware of potentially hundreds of evacuees that the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) has found to have potential links to terrorism after their arrival in the United States.\n\nRepeated requests from the Senate Select Committee on Intelligence to multiple agencies during the previous administration, including DoW, the National Counterterrorism Center, NGIC, the Defense Intelligence Agency, and FBI for more information about these individuals and what risks \u2013 if any \u2013 their presence inside this country poses to public security have gone largely unanswered. Four years after the United States\u2019 withdrawal from Afghanistan, it is still unclear to what extent the Intelligence Community (IC) or law enforcement authorities are monitoring or tracking these individuals. Therefore, we respectfully request that you instruct DHS, DoW, and the IC to:\n\n\u2022 Implement the vetting procedures recommended by the 2022 DoW OIG report in their entirety for all Afghan evacuees currently in the United States;\n\n\u2022 Identify and locate those evacuees discovered to have significant security concerns; and\n\n\u2022 Seek immediate removal of such evacuees from the United States back to Afghanistan or other third countries, as appropriate.\n\nThank you for your prompt attention to this request, and we look forward to your response.\n\nSincerely,\n\n/X/\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://www.tillis.senate.gov/2025/12/tillis-budd-applaud-senate-confirmation-of-two-nc-judges/eb600cea-d197-4430-9970-4d89428f3779", "Tillis, Budd Applaud Senate Confirmation of Two NC Judges", "2025-12-09", "2025", "2025-12", "Republican", "Senate", "NC", "Thom Tillis", "T000476", "www.tillis.senate.gov", "tillis", "https://www.tillis.senate.gov/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Today, U.S. Senators Thom Tillis (R-NC) and Ted Budd (R-NC) applauded the Senate\u2019s recent confirmation of Susan Rodriguez and Matthew Orso to serve on the U.S. District Court for the Western District of North Carolina. Both nominees were recommended by Senators Tillis and Budd.\n\n\u201cI\u2019m glad to see Susan Rodriguez and Matthew Orso confirmed by the Senate to serve the Western District of North Carolina,\u201d said Senator Tillis. \u201cThroughout this process, my focus has been on advancing judges who demonstrate sound judgment, a strong respect for the Constitution, and an unwavering commitment to fairness. I appreciate the White House\u2019s partnership in identifying strong candidates, and I look forward to seeing both Judge Rodriguez and Judge Orso bring their experience and dedication to the federal bench.\u201d\n\n\u201cI am glad that the federal bench in North Carolina now includes highly qualified & exemplary jurists Susan Rodriguez and Matthew Orso,\u201d said Senator Budd. \u201cI have no doubt that they will serve the Western District with distinction, and I appreciate their commitment to public service and the rule of law. I am grateful for President Trump\u2019s leadership and partnership in appointing them to these critical roles.\u201d\n\nBackground:\n\nSusan C. Rodriguez currently serves as a U.S. Magistrate Judge in the Western District of North Carolina. Judge Rodriguez was previously a partner at the law firm, McGuireWoods LLP, where she was the co-leader of the firm\u2019s financial institutions industry team.\n\nMatthew Orso currently serves as a partner at the law firm, Troutman Pepper Locke LLP. Mr. Orso previously clerked for Judge Robert J. Conrad Jr. of the U.S. District Court for the Western District of North Carolina.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://www.tillis.senate.gov/2025/12/tillis-slotkin-issue-joint-statement-in-support-of-taiwan-s-special-defense-budget", "Tillis, Slotkin Issue Joint Statement in Support of Taiwan\u2019s Special Defense Budget", "2025-12-09", "2025", "2025-12", "Republican", "Senate", "NC", "Thom Tillis", "T000476", "www.tillis.senate.gov", "tillis", "https://www.tillis.senate.gov/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Today, Senators Thom Tillis (R-NC) and Elissa Slotkin (D-MI), Co-Chairs of the bipartisan Senate Taiwan Caucus, released the following joint statement applauding progress on Taiwan\u2019s special defense budget now under consideration in the Legislative Yuan:\n\n\u201cAs Co-Chairs of the Senate Taiwan Caucus, we strongly support Taiwan\u2019s historic $40 billion special defense budget and the legislative steps underway to advance it. This package represents a vital investment in Taiwan\u2019s self-defense and a clear demonstration of Taipei\u2019s commitment to deterrence, resilience, and responsibility-sharing at a moment of growing threat from the PRC. It also offers opportunities to work with Taiwan to advance American defense technology.\n\n\u201cMembers of both parties in the U.S. Senate\u2014including leaders on the Armed Services, Foreign Relations, and Appropriations Committees\u2014have spoken with one voice in support of Taiwan\u2019s efforts to accelerate critical defense capabilities. The message is clear: strengthening Taiwan\u2019s defenses strengthens stability across the Indo-Pacific and reduces the risk of conflict.\n\n\u201cWe commend Taiwan\u2019s leaders for continuing to take difficult but necessary steps to modernize its military, harden critical infrastructure, and build the stockpiles and systems required to deter aggression. As the Legislative Yuan considers this special budget, the United States will continue to stand with Taiwan as a trusted partner, a vibrant democracy, and a key contributor to regional security.\n\n\u201cWe encourage all parties in Taiwan to move forward with this package in a timely, unified, and forward-looking manner. Taiwan\u2019s continued investment in its own security is central to ensuring stability in the Taiwan Strait.\u201d\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://markharris.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-mark-harris-champions-lumbee-fairness-act-ndaa", "Congressman Mark Harris Champions Lumbee Fairness Act in the NDAA", "2025-12-08", "2025", "2025-12", "Republican", "House", "NC", "Mark Harris", "H001102", "markharris.house.gov", "markharris", "https://markharris.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, DC \u2014 On Monday, Congressman Mark Harris issued the following statement about the Lumbee Fairness Act being included in the National Defense Authorization Act of 2026.\n\nCongressman Harris said, \u201cFor decades, the Lumbee People have sought full federal recognition\u2014and today, we are closer than ever to making it a reality. We have used every tool at our disposal to secure recognition in this year\u2019s NDAA. I\u2019m deeply grateful to President Trump for his longstanding championship of the Lumbee Tribe and for working across both chambers of Congress to deliver the full federal recognition and rights our people deserve. Now is the time\u2014let\u2019s get it over the finish line!\u201d\n\nThe Lumbee Tribe is the largest American-Indian tribe east of the Mississippi River and the ninth largest tribe in the nation. The Lumbee Tribe is primarily located in Congressman Harris\u2019 district, with most tribal members living in Robeson, Hoke, Cumberland, and Scotland Counties.\n\nCongressman Harris co-led the introduction of the Lumbee Fairness Act as his first bill introduction in Congress.\n\n###", 1, "2026-04-18T05:35:53Z", "2026-04-18T05:37:16Z"], ["https://timmoore.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-tim-moore-announces-over-4-million-fema-funding-catawba-meadows", "Congressman Tim Moore Announces Over $4 Million in FEMA Funding for Catawba Meadows Park in Morganton", "2025-12-08", "2025", "2025-12", "Republican", "House", "NC", "Tim Moore", "M001236", "timmoore.house.gov", "timmoore", "https://timmoore.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2014 Today, Congressman Tim Moore (NC-14) announced that the Town of Morganton will receive $4,063,203.21 in federal funding from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to restore and replace two buildings at Catawba Meadows Park that were destroyed during Hurricane Helene in 2024.\n\n\"The Catawba Meadows Park is a beautiful park located along the Catawba River that serves as an important part of the community,\u201d said Congressman Moore. \u201cI'm grateful to the Trump Administration and FEMA for stepping up with the funding of this restoration. This project will support local community events and marks another important step in rebuilding Western North Carolina after Hurricane Helene.\"\n\nThis funding is authorized under Section 406 of the Robert T. Stafford Act and will support the full replacement of two buildings located on the Catawba Meadows Park. The project includes demolition, excavation, and the installation of a new structure built to current codes and standards.\n\nThe total cost of the project is $4,514,670.23, with 90% covered by federal funds. FEMA Public Assistance grants to Western North Carolina communities have now surpassed $1 billion since Hurricane Helene.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://edwards.house.gov/media/press-releases/edwards-introduces-disaster-recovery-bill-assist-nc-tree-growers", "Edwards Introduces Disaster Recovery Bill to Assist NC Tree Growers", "2025-12-05", "2025", "2025-12", "Republican", "House", "NC", "Chuck Edwards", "E000246", "edwards.house.gov", "edwards", "https://edwards.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. - Congressman Chuck Edwards (NC-11) introduced the Advance Tree Assistance Program (TAP) Payments Act to help orchardists and nursery tree growers replant or rehabilitate eligible trees, bushes, and vines damaged by natural disasters and plant disease.\n\nHurricane Helene caused severe damage to orchards and nurseries across western North Carolina. Because tree losses create long-term financial setbacks, replanting as soon as possible is essential for economic recovery. Without programs like TAP, affected growers could face years of lost income, or in some cases permanent closure. Currently, TAP is one of the few USDA programs that does not allow any portion of payment to be made up front. This legislation would authorize TAP to cover a percentage of producers\u2019 upfront costs, reducing the financial burden on growers working to recover from natural disasters. Congressman Edwards introduced this bipartisan legislation alongside Congresswoman Jill Tokuda (HI-02).\n\n\u201cIn the wake of Hurricane Helene\u2019s devastation, the agricultural community across Western North Carolina face extensive challenges on the road to recovery. Growers across the region indicate that TAP\u2019s pay-up-front structure created a major barrier to accessing the critical relief they needed,\u201d said Congressman Edwards. \u201cBy allowing TAP to cover a portion of upfront costs, this bill lowers that burden and helps producers recover and rebuild stronger.\u201d\n\n###", 1, "2026-04-04T05:28:40Z", "2026-04-04T05:30:10Z"], ["https://www.budd.senate.gov/2025/12/05/budd-joins-cornyn-and-gop-senators-to-introduce-back-the-blue-act/", "Budd Joins Cornyn and GOP Senators to Introduce Back the Blue Act", "2025-12-05", "2025", "2025-12", "Republican", "Senate", "NC", "Ted Budd", "B001305", "www.budd.senate.gov", "budd", "https://www.budd.senate.gov/category/news/press-releases/page/", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2014 U.S. Senator Ted Budd (R-N.C.) joined Senator John Cornyn (R-Texas) and several of their Senate Republican colleagues in introducing the Back the Blue Act, which would increase penalties for criminals who target law enforcement officers and provide new tools for officers to protect themselves.\n\n\u201cEvery day, the brave men and women of law enforcement work around the clock to keep our communities safe. Any criminal that puts a target on the backs of our police officers must be held firmly accountable for their actions to the fullest extent of the law,\u201d said Senator Budd.\n\n\u201cOur law enforcement officers bravely risk their lives daily to protect our communities, and anyone who targets them should be met with the full force of the law, including the death penalty. America was built on the principles of law and order, and this legislation sends a clear message that targeted attacks on law enforcement will not be tolerated, dangerous criminals will be held accountable, and our men and women in blue have our full and unwavering support,\u201d said Senator Cornyn.\n\nRead the full bill text HERE.\n\nBACKGROUND\n\nStrengthens Laws to Protect Police Officers\n\n\u2022 Creates a new federal crime for killing, attempting to kill, or conspiring to kill a federal judge, federal law enforcement officer, or federally funded public safety officer. The offender would be subject to the death penalty and a mandatory minimum sentence of 30 years if death results; the offender would otherwise face a minimum sentence of 10 years.\n\n\u2022 Creates a new federal crime for assaulting a federally funded law enforcement officer with escalating penalties, including mandatory minimums, based on the extent of any injury and the use of a dangerous weapon. However, no prosecution can be commenced absent certification by the Attorney General that prosecution is appropriate.\n\n\u2022 Creates a new federal crime for interstate flight from justice to avoid prosecution for killing, attempting to kill, or conspiring to kill a federal judge, federal law enforcement officer, or federally funded public safety officer. The offender would be subject to a mandatory minimum sentence of 10 years for this offense.\n\nCreates a Specific Aggravating Factor for Federal Death Penalty Prosecutions\n\n\u2022 Clarifies that the murder or attempted murder of a law enforcement officer or first responder is a statutory aggravating factor for purposes of the federal death penalty.\n\nLimits Federal Habeas Relief for Murders of Law Enforcement Officers\n\n\u2022 Imposes time limits and substantive limits on federal courts\u2019 review of challenges to state-court convictions for crimes involving the murder of a public safety officer, when the public safety officer was engaged in the performance of official duties or on account of the performance of official duties. These changes are consistent with the fast-track procedures created in 1996, which are applied to federal death penalty cases.\n\nLimits Recovery of Certain Damages and Fees for Individuals Engaged in Felonies\n\n\u2022 Limits the type of civil damages and attorney\u2019s fees recoverable by a criminal as a result of purported injuries incurred during the commission of a felony or crime of violence.\n\nExpands Self-Defense and Second Amendment Rights for Law Enforcement Officers\n\n\u2022 Allows law enforcement officers, subject to limited regulation, to carry firearms into federal facilities and other jurisdictions where such possession is otherwise prohibited.\n\nThe Back the Blue Act is endorsed by the Fraternal Order of Police (FOP), National Association of Police Organizations (NAPO), Federal Law Enforcement Officers Association (FLEOA), Major County Sheriffs of America (MCSA), National Narcotic Officers\u2019 Associations\u2019 Coalition (NNOAC), Association of State Criminal Investigative Agencies (ASCIA), and the Sergeants Benevolent Association NYPD.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://www.budd.senate.gov/2025/12/05/senator-ted-budd-applauds-fema-announcement-of-29-million-in-public-assistance-grants-for-helene-recovery/", "Senator Ted Budd Applauds FEMA Announcement of $29 Million in Public Assistance Grants for Helene Recovery", "2025-12-05", "2025", "2025-12", "Republican", "Senate", "NC", "Ted Budd", "B001305", "www.budd.senate.gov", "budd", "https://www.budd.senate.gov/category/news/press-releases/page/", "scraper", "Senator Budd Lifts Existing Holds on DHS Nominees After Funds Approved\n\nWashington, D.C. \u2014 U.S. Senator Ted Budd (R-N.C.) released the following statement after Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Secretary Kristi Noem today announced more than $29 million in public assistance reimbursements for Hurricane Helene recovery projects in Western North Carolina.\n\n\u201cI am grateful for Secretary Noem working with me to more regularly approve reimbursements for Helene and past disaster recovery projects. While I have released my holds on DHS nominees, I will continue to engage all relevant federal agencies to make sure Western North Carolina receives the focus and attention it deserves, particularly the final distribution of funds to the municipalities and state agencies in desperate need of financial relief. There is still more work to be done to make the people of Western North Carolina whole in the wake of Hurricane Helene\u2019s devastation, and the federal government must continue to do its part,\u201d said Senator Budd.\n\nToday\u2019s announcement of the $29+ million in public assistance reimbursements follows an announcement last month when the agency released $155 million in funding for Western North Carolina projects.\n\nBACKGROUND\n\nBelow is a chart detailing the funds that will be disbursed in the coming days.\n\n*PA denotes public assistance program\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://harrigan.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-pat-harrigan-introduces-secure-stem-act-block-foreign-adversaries", "Congressman Pat Harrigan Introduces the SECURE STEM Act to Block Foreign Adversaries from U.S. Research System", "2025-12-04", "2025", "2025-12", "Republican", "House", "NC", "Pat Harrigan", "H001101", "harrigan.house.gov", "harrigan", "https://harrigan.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Contact: Lexi Kranich (814) 380-4408\n\nWASHINGTON, D.C.\u2014Today, Congressman Pat Harrigan (NC-10) introduced the SECURE STEM Act, legislation designed to shut down the visa pathways that adversarial regimes have used to infiltrate American universities, national laboratories, and taxpayer-funded STEM programs.\n\n\u201cFor years, adversarial regimes have used our visa system to place their people inside U.S. labs, harvest our research, and move America\u2019s breakthroughs straight into the hands of foreign intelligence services. It should never have been allowed,\u201d said Congressman Harrigan. \u201cMy SECURE STEM Act closes those gaps and restores basic national-security standards. If you\u2019re tied to a hostile government, you don\u2019t get access to America\u2019s innovation ecosystem. That era is over.\u201d\n\nThe SECURE STEM Act strengthens U.S. research security by:\n\nBlocking research, student, and employment visas for nationals from China, Russia, Iran, North Korea, and Cuba seeking access to sensitive STEM roles in the United States.\n\nProhibiting employment at national research laboratories for these nationals, protecting federal research from foreign penetration.\n\nRequiring biannual public reporting from DHS and State detailing every waiver granted, the recipient\u2019s background, any foreign-state affiliations, and the justification for approval.\n\nAddressing documented cases of CCP-linked theft of lab data, covert technology transfer, and attempts to smuggle biological agents intended to disrupt the U.S. food supply.\n\nCongressman Harrigan is urging his colleagues to support the SECURE STEM Act and reinforce America\u2019s leadership in innovation, security, and strategic competitiveness.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://harrigan.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-pat-harrigan-votes-block-chinese-government-influence-american", "Congressman Pat Harrigan Votes to Block Chinese Government Influence in American Schools", "2025-12-04", "2025", "2025-12", "Republican", "House", "NC", "Pat Harrigan", "H001101", "harrigan.house.gov", "harrigan", "https://harrigan.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Contact: Lexi Kranich (814) 380-4408\n\nWASHINGTON, D.C.\u2014Today, Congressman Pat Harrigan (NC-10) voted to pass H.R. 1069, the PROTECT Our Kids Act, legislation that prevents federal education funds from going to any elementary or secondary school that receives direct or indirect support from the Chinese Communist Party. The bill ensures federal dollars do not subsidize foreign influence in American classrooms and gives schools a clear path to compliance.\n\n\u201cBeijing is not a neutral actor. The Chinese Communist Party views the United States as a strategic adversary, and they invest in American institutions to advance their interests, not ours,\u201d said Congressman Harrigan. \u201cWhen they get a foothold in a school, even through something as simple as curriculum materials or cultural programs, it is designed to shape narratives, limit what can be taught, and normalize their influence. Parents deserve to know when a foreign government that openly works against the United States is trying to reach into their child\u2019s classroom. If a school chooses to partner with the CCP, it can answer to its community, but it will not do it with American taxpayer money.\u201d\n\nThe PROTECT Our Kids Act bars federal education funds from going to schools that host Confucius Institutes, operate Confucius Classrooms, or receive personnel, materials, or financial support from entities acting on behalf of the Chinese government. The bill also requires full disclosure of existing contracts, establishes a waiver process for schools with preexisting agreements, and directs the Secretary of Education to issue guidance to ensure full compliance within one year.\n\nWith House passage, the legislation now moves to the Senate. Congressman Harrigan is urging swift action so parents can be confident that decisions in the classroom are made by American educators and American communities, not the Chinese Communist Party.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://harrigan.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-pat-harrigan-votes-strengthen-transparency-around-foreign", "Congressman Pat Harrigan Votes to Strengthen Transparency Around Foreign Influence in Schools", "2025-12-04", "2025", "2025-12", "Republican", "House", "NC", "Pat Harrigan", "H001101", "harrigan.house.gov", "harrigan", "https://harrigan.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Contact: Lexi Kranich (814) 380-4408\n\nWASHINGTON, D.C.\u2014Today, Congressman Pat Harrigan (NC-10) voted to pass H.R. 1049, the TRACE Act, legislation that ensures parents are informed when foreign governments or foreign entities provide funding, materials, or support to their child\u2019s public school. The bill creates basic transparency requirements so families know who is influencing classroom content and school operations.\n\n\u201cParents deserve to know who is investing in their schools and what strings might come with that money,\u201d said Congressman Harrigan. \u201cWhen foreign entities are involved, there are real consequences if families are kept in the dark. It affects what gets taught, what materials are used, and what values are pushed in front of our kids. Transparency is the bare minimum, and this bill guarantees parents have the information they need to push back if something doesn\u2019t align with their community.\u201d\n\nThe TRACE Act requires school districts to disclose curricular materials, donations, agreements, and financial transactions that come from foreign countries or foreign entities of concern. It ensures parents can review this information upon request, mandates yearly public notices of these rights, and requires states and school districts to communicate these expectations clearly to families.\n\nWith House passage, the TRACE Act now moves to the Senate. Congressman Harrigan is urging quick action so parents have straightforward answers, school districts operate with transparency, and families can be confident about who is influencing their children\u2019s education.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://markharris.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-mark-harris-targets-colleges-discriminating-against-homeschoolers", "Rep. Mark Harris Targets Colleges Discriminating Against Homeschoolers", "2025-12-03", "2025", "2025-12", "Republican", "House", "NC", "Mark Harris", "H001102", "markharris.house.gov", "markharris", "https://markharris.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, DC \u2014 On Wednesday, Representative Mark Harris (NC-08) introduced legislation targeting universities that discriminate against homeschoolers during the admissions process.\n\n\"No student should ever face discrimination or disadvantage during the college admissions process simply because they were homeschooled,\u201d said Representative Harris, \u201cYet, many universities still treat homeschoolers as second-class applicants by requiring excessive documentation and additional testing. With nearly 3 million homeschooled students across America, it\u2019s long past time to end this discrimination and guarantee every student a fair shot at higher education.\u201d\n\nThe Homeschool Graduation Recognition Act closes a legal loophole that some colleges use to discriminate against homeschool graduates, ensuring homeschooled students face no disadvantage in the admissions process solely because of their educational path.\n\nJim Mason, President of the Home School Legal Defense Association, said, \u201cThe Home School Graduation Recognition Act will eliminate ambiguity, prevent ongoing misinterpretation, and ensure equal treatment for homeschool graduates by clarifying that homeschool graduates meet the definition of high school graduates for federal student aid purposes. HSLDA strongly supports this legislation.\u201d\n\nRead the full piece of legislation for the Homeschool Graduation Recognition Act here.\n\n###", 1, "2026-04-04T05:28:40Z", "2026-04-04T05:30:10Z"], ["https://www.budd.senate.gov/2025/12/03/senator-budd-announces-senior-staff-changes/", "Senator Budd Announces Senior Staff Changes", "2025-12-03", "2025", "2025-12", "Republican", "Senate", "NC", "Ted Budd", "B001305", "www.budd.senate.gov", "budd", "https://www.budd.senate.gov/category/news/press-releases/page/", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2014 U.S. Senator Ted Budd (R-N.C.) released the following statement announcing the upcoming departure of his Chief of Staff Tucker Knott.\n\n\u201cTucker Knott is a true son of North Carolina, and I am grateful for his many years of faithful service in my office, to our State, and to the Congress. For more than a decade, Tucker has provided invaluable advice to Representatives and Senators, particularly within the North Carolina Congressional Delegation. His strong moral compass, political instincts, and personal relationships on and off the hill were critical to the success of our office over the last three years. Tucker has grown to be a close friend, and I know his positive impact will continue to be felt as he enters the private sector. I look forward to continuing to call on his counsel long into the future,\u201d said Senator Budd.\n\n\u201cI am thankful that Ryan Alban will continue to serve my office and step into the role of Chief of Staff. Over the last several years, Ryan has held key leadership positions as a member of the team, proving himself as a dedicated public servant, strong legislative mind, and thoughtful leader,\u201d Senator Budd added.\n\nRyan Alban promoted to Chief of Staff. Ryan previously served as Deputy Chief of Staff, Legislative Director, and National Security Advisor for Senator Budd. Before joining Sen. Budd\u2019s staff, he served as an Infantry Officer in the Army, including a combat tour to Afghanistan, and has held roles as an Army Legislative Liaison to the Senate, Defense Fellow for Senator Josh Hawley (R-MO), and Legislative Liaison for the National Guard to both the House and Senate.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://edwards.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-edwards-equal-representation-act-passes-out-committee", "Congressman Edwards' Equal Representation Act Passes Out of Committee", "2025-12-02", "2025", "2025-12", "Republican", "House", "NC", "Chuck Edwards", "E000246", "edwards.house.gov", "edwards", "https://edwards.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. - Congressman Chuck Edwards (NC-11) announced his legislation, the Equal Representation Act, has passed out of the House Oversight and Government Reform Committee. The bill aims to ensure fair and equal representation for U.S. citizens by including a citizenship question on the decennial census and excluding non-citizens from congressional apportionment.\n\nStarting with the 2030 census, the bill requires respondents indicate whether they or members of their household are United States citizens. Within 120 days of the census, the Secretary of Commerce must publicly release statistics on citizenship status by state.\n\n\u201cOur democracy works best when every citizen\u2019s voice is heard fairly. The Equal Representation Act makes sure congressional representation reflects the people who have the right to vote, not those who don\u2019t,\u201d said Congressman Edwards. \u201cAmericans deserve fair and equal representation, something that will not be possible until we eliminate the influence of noncitizens in our elections.\u201d\n\n###", 1, "2026-04-04T05:28:40Z", "2026-04-04T05:30:10Z"], ["https://mcdowell.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-addison-mcdowell-leads-bipartisan-effort-expand-early-stuttering", "Congressman Addison McDowell Leads Bipartisan Effort to Expand Early Stuttering Screenings and Therapy for Young Children", "2025-12-02", "2025", "2025-12", "Republican", "House", "NC", "Addison P. McDowell", "M001240", "mcdowell.house.gov", "mcdowell", "https://mcdowell.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2013 Today, Congressman Addison McDowell (NC-06) led a bipartisan effort with Congressman Shomari C. Figures (AL-02) to help young children who stutter receive early intervention. The Kidd\u2019s Stuttering Act will add mandatory stuttering screenings for children ages two to six and guarantee Medicaid and CHIP coverage for speech-therapy services.\n\n\u201cI\u2019m proud to introduce the Kidd\u2019s Stuttering Act. This bill makes early stuttering detection available to kids on Medicaid and CHIP, giving us a real chance to identify these issues early on for thousands of children across the country. A four-year-old has a 75% better chance of recovery when we identify it early,\u201d Congressman McDowell said. \u201cThe work Michael Kidd-Gilchrist has done at the state and national level has already changed lives, and I\u2019m looking forward to helping carry that progress forward legislatively in Congress.\u201d\n\n\"As a father and an advocate for families, I am proud to work with Congressman Addison McDowell and Michael Kidd-Gilchrist to introduce legislation to better support children and families,\" said Congressman Figures. \"We know that early intervention can make all the difference in a child's speech development, their confidence, and their overall well-being. This legislation is an important step in providing families with the support and medical coverage they need and deserve.\"\n\nThe bill was championed by advocate and former NBA player Michael Kidd-Gilchrist, who has become a national voice for stuttering awareness. Kidd-Gilchrist has worked on similar bipartisan legislation that passed at the state level in Kentucky, Pennsylvania, and Nevada.\n\n\u201cI am grateful for the chance to support this important work as we push to make early screenings and therapy available to every child that stutters,\u201d said Kidd-Gilchrist. \u201cFamilies should not have to fight for basic care that helps to make a difference in their child\u2019s future. I know the difference it can make in a child\u2019s life and it's much needed.\u201d\n\nChildhood-onset stuttering typically begins between the ages of two and five. 20% of those cases stutter for over a year and 1% (approximately 3 million people in the U.S.) persist into adulthood. Early diagnosis and intervention can make a significant difference in a child\u2019s confidence, communication skills, learning & overall growth, and long-term development into adulthood.\n\nWhat the Kidd\u2019s Stuttering Act does:", 1, "2026-04-04T05:28:40Z", "2026-04-04T05:30:10Z"], ["https://www.tillis.senate.gov/2025/12/tillis-budd-applaud-senate-confirmation-of-two-nc-judges", "Tillis, Budd Applaud Senate Confirmation of Two NC Judges", "2025-12-02", "2025", "2025-12", "Republican", "Senate", "NC", "Thom Tillis", "T000476", "www.tillis.senate.gov", "tillis", "https://www.tillis.senate.gov/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Today, U.S. Senators Thom Tillis (R-NC) and Ted Budd (R-NC) applauded the Senate\u2019s confirmation of David Bragdon and Lindsey Freeman to serve on the U.S. District Court for the Middle District of North Carolina. Both nominees were recommended by Senators Tillis and Budd.\n\n\u201cDavid Bragdon and Lindsey Freeman are exceptionally qualified, and I\u2019m grateful my colleagues joined me in confirming them to serve the people of North Carolina,\u201d said Senator Tillis. \u201cThroughout this process, I\u2019ve remained committed to advancing judges who uphold the Constitution, apply the law fairly, and serve with integrity. I appreciate the White House\u2019s partnership in identifying strong candidates, and I look forward to seeing both Judge Bragdon and Judge Freeman bring their experience and dedication to the federal bench.\u201d\n\n\u201cToday, the great state of North Carolina gained two accomplished and highly competent jurists on the federal bench,\u201d said Senator Budd. \u201cI look forward to seeing the great work Judge David Bragdon and Judge Lindsey Freeman will do as they uphold the rule of law and defend the Constitution in the Middle District. I am proud to have worked alongside President Trump to secure their confirmations.\u201d\n\nBackground:\n\nDavid Bragdon currently serves as the Appellate Chief for a U.S. Attorneys\u2019 Office. Mr. Bragdon previously clerked for Supreme Court Justice Clarence Thomas and served as the U.S. Department of Justice\u2019s Resident Legal Advisor for the Philippines.\n\nLindsey Freeman currently serves as an Assistant U.S. Attorney. Ms. Freeman previously clerked for the Sixth Circuit Court of Appeals, was Of Counsel at the law firm O\u2019Melveny & Myers LLP, and served in senior roles at the U.S. Department of Justice.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://murphy.house.gov/media/press-releases/murphy-announces-new-chief-staff-0", "Murphy Announces New Chief of Staff", "2025-12-01", "2025", "2025-12", "Republican", "House", "NC", "Gregory F. Murphy", "M001210", "murphy.house.gov", "murphy", "https://murphy.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2014 Congressman Greg Murphy, M.D., announces that Marisa Burleson will take on the role of Chief of Staff.\n\n\"Marisa is an exceptionally driven and highly respected professional on Capitol Hill,\" said Congressman Greg Murphy, M.D. \"I am proud to announce she will serve as my Chief of Staff, leading my team in Washington and in the Third District. Marisa has a wealth of experience navigating complex challenges in the House of Representatives and many invaluable qualities, including strong leadership and communication skills. Team Murphy will continue to succeed and perform at a high level with her on board. I look forward to having her take on this role.\"", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://murphy.house.gov/media/press-releases/murphy-statement-tragic-shooting-national-guardsmen-washington-dc", "Murphy Statement on Tragic Shooting of National Guardsmen in Washington, DC", "2025-11-28", "2025", "2025-11", "Republican", "House", "NC", "Gregory F. Murphy", "M001210", "murphy.house.gov", "murphy", "https://murphy.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Greenville, NC \u2014 Congressman Greg Murphy, M.D., issues the following statement on the tragic shooting of National Guardsmen in Washington, DC.\n\n\u201cAmerica mourns the loss of Specialist Sarah Beckstrom, one of two members of the West Virginia National Guard who were shot in the line of duty protecting the community,\u201d said Congressman Greg Murphy, M.D. \u201cPlease pray for her family in their time of grief and for Staff Sergeant Andrew Wolfe, who is fighting for his life. This unspeakable crime has shaken our nation, and the evil individual responsible must be brought to swift and thorough justice. Thank you to law enforcement and the first responders on the scene who acted swiftly with courage.\n\n\u201cAmerica stands with our heroes in uniform who put their lives on the line to keep us safe. May God give the families of these individuals peace in this extraordinarily difficult time and heal Andrew.\n\n\u201cI will continue to monitor this situation closely and the ongoing, active investigation.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:52:45Z"], ["https://murphy.house.gov/media/press-releases/murphy-calls-deployed-marines-sailors-thanksgiving", "Murphy Calls Deployed Marines & Sailors on Thanksgiving", "2025-11-27", "2025", "2025-11", "Republican", "House", "NC", "Gregory F. Murphy", "M001210", "murphy.house.gov", "murphy", "https://murphy.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Greenville, NC \u2014 Congressman Greg Murphy, M.D., called members of the 22nd Marine Expeditionary Unit deployed in the Caribbean to wish them a Happy Thanksgiving.\n\n\"While America observes Thanksgiving with our families and friends, our service members across the world remain at the ready to defend and protect our country,\" said Congressman Greg Murphy, M.D. \"It is always an honor to call Marines and Sailors deployed from Camp Lejeune to wish them a Happy Thanksgiving and express gratitude to them for the sacrifices they make to keep us safe. It is a privilege to gather with loved ones to celebrate the blessings we are afforded as Americans. We must never forget those in the line of duty, and their families, who cannot do the same today.\"", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:52:45Z"], ["https://murphy.house.gov/media/press-releases/murphy-announces-new-senior-advisor", "Murphy Announces New Senior Advisor", "2025-11-24", "2025", "2025-11", "Republican", "House", "NC", "Gregory F. Murphy", "M001210", "murphy.house.gov", "murphy", "https://murphy.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Greenville, NC \u2014 Congressman Greg Murphy, M.D., announces that District Director Lindy Robinson will take on the role of Senior Advisor.\n\n\"Lindy has been one of my most trusted staffers from day one,\" said Congressman Greg Murphy, M.D. \"I am proud to announce Lindy to serve as my Senior Advisor, in addition to her duties as our district director. This promotion reflects the strategic advantage and leadership qualities that Lindy brings to our team and the 3rd district. Lindy is a natural-born leader and exceptional public servant. I look forward to having her take on this role.\"", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:52:45Z"], ["https://www.budd.senate.gov/2025/11/24/new-budd-bill-would-hold-mamdani-municipalities-accountable-following-threats-to-enforce-international-criminal-court-arrest-warrants/", "New Budd Bill Would Hold Mamdani, Municipalities Accountable Following Threats To Enforce International Criminal Court Arrest Warrants", "2025-11-24", "2025", "2025-11", "Republican", "Senate", "NC", "Ted Budd", "B001305", "www.budd.senate.gov", "budd", "https://www.budd.senate.gov/category/news/press-releases/page/", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2014 U.S. Senator Ted Budd (R-N.C.) recently introduced the American Allies Protection Act, legislation which would disqualify a state or local government from receiving Department of Justice grant money for a four-year period if it enforces an International Criminal Court (ICC) warrant against an official of a NATO ally or major non-NATO ally.\n\nOn November 21, 2024, the ICC issued baseless arrest warrants for Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and former Defense Minister Gallant. As recently as last week, New York City Mayor-elect Zohran Mamdani has repeatedly stated he would order the arrest of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu if the Prime Minister visited New York City.\n\nUpon introducing this legislation, Sen. Budd said:\n\n\u201cMayor-Elect Mamdani\u2019s pledge to facilitate the arrest of Benjamin Netanyahu is not just ridiculous; it represents a grave threat that could seriously damage America\u2019s relationship with our closest allies and partners. The United States is not bound by the morally bankrupt ICC or the Rome Statute, displaying that Mamdani\u2019s comments aren\u2019t based in respect for any law, but rather to virtue signal to his radical, anti-Israel base. Seeking to prevent Prime Minister Netanyahu from setting foot in New York, home to the United Nations, would put Israel at a unique disadvantage at a critical time for the nation ahead of the next meeting of the U.N. General Assembly. It is unconscionable that the man elected to lead the city home to the largest Jewish population outside of Israel would seek to target Israel\u2019s leader, and Congress must take action to hold any leader accountable should they pursue this blatant overreach. My American Allies Protection Act would disqualify any state or municipality from receiving Justice Department funds should they take action that would harm America\u2019s standing with our allies by throwing their governments into complete chaos.\u201d\n\nREAD:GOP senator calls Mamdani\u2019s Netanyahu arrest vow a \u2018grave threat\u2019 as he introduces defund bill\n\nBackground:\n\nProtecting and welcoming American allies on U.S. soil is critical to strengthening bilateral relationships critical to our national security, particularly with NATO and non-NATO allies. Mayor-Elect Mamdani\u2019s stated goal would harm our bilateral relationship with Israel and align NYC with a morally bankrupt international organization, the ICC. This demands forceful consequences.\n\nNotably, the ICC has failed to issue an arrest warrant for Iranian Ayatollah Khamenei, who has directly bolstered and facilitated the terrorist activities of Iran\u2019s proxies, that have targeted U.S. allies and are responsible for the death of American service members.\n\nSen. Budd\u2019s American Allies Protection Act may only be waived if the President certifies to Congress that enforcing a particular ICC warrant is essential to the national security of the U.S. and provides a detailed justification for this waiver.\n\nFor full text of the American Allies Protection Act, click HERE.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:52:45Z"], ["https://harrigan.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-pat-harrigan-votes-denounce-horrors-socialism", "Congressman Pat Harrigan Votes to Denounce the Horrors of Socialism", "2025-11-21", "2025", "2025-11", "Republican", "House", "NC", "Pat Harrigan", "H001101", "harrigan.house.gov", "harrigan", "https://harrigan.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Contact: Lexi Kranich (814) 380-4408\n\nWASHINGTON, D.C.\u2014Today, Congressman Pat Harrigan (NC-10) voted to pass H.Con.Res. 58, a resolution denouncing socialism in all its forms and reaffirming that the United States must remain a nation rooted in freedom, opportunity, and individual responsibility. The resolution highlights the historic failures and human suffering caused by socialist regimes around the world, including Cuba, North Korea, China, and Russia.\n\n\u201cSocialism has never produced more freedom or more prosperity for anyone,\u201d said Congressman Harrigan. \u201cIt replaces opportunity with control and leaves nations weaker, poorer, and less free. Every country that has taken this path has paid a steep price, and the United States should never pretend we\u2019re immune to those consequences. America succeeds because people are free to work, build, and make decisions for themselves, and that\u2019s the future we should protect.\u201d\n\nThe resolution makes clear that socialism is fundamentally incompatible with America\u2019s founding principles and warns against efforts to normalize the ideology as it gains favor among some younger Americans. It cites decades of economic collapse, political repression, and humanitarian crises under socialist governments, underscoring why the United States must stand firmly against any movement that seeks to expand state control over citizens\u2019 lives.\n\nH.Con.Res. 58 now heads to the Senate. Congressman Harrigan is urging swift passage to ensure that America remains a nation defined by freedom and opportunity, not government control.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:52:45Z"], ["https://hudson.house.gov/press-releases/its-time-for-democrats-to-end-their-shutdown", "It\u2019s Time For Democrats to End Their Shutdown", "2025-11-21", "2025", "2025-11", "Republican", "House", "NC", "Richard Hudson", "H001067", "hudson.house.gov", "hudson", "https://hudson.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE\n\nOctober 31st, 2025\n\nContact: James Laverty\n\nPRESS RELEASE:\n\nCongressman Richard Hudson: It\u2019s Time For Democrats to End Their Shutdown\n\nWASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 On Day 31 of the Democrat Shutdown, U.S. Representative Richard Hudson (NC-09) is calling on Senate Democrats to stop using Americans\u2019 pain as political \u201cleverage\u201d and vote for the clean Continuing Resolution (CR) the House passed over a month ago.\n\n\u201cHouse Republicans passed a clean bill to keep the government open, pay our troops, and protect families,\u201d said Hudson. \u201cDemocrats are using families\u2019 pain as leverage for $1.5 trillion in new spending and handouts for illegal immigrants. Enough is enough.\u201d\n\nThese are the facts of the Democrat Shutdown:\n\nHouse Republicans voted to fund the government on September 19.\n\nAll North Carolina Democrats voted to shut down the government on September 19.\n\nSenate Democrats voted to keep the government closed for the thirteenth time this week.\n\nPresident Trump paid the troops with existing funds, but those funds will run out imminently - leaving military families without paychecks.\n\n79,000 federal workers in NC, including at Fort Bragg, Camp Lejeune, Veterans offices, Air Traffic Control, Transportation Security Administration officials, Farm Service Offices and more will miss paychecks.\n\nMore than 1.3 million North Carolinians and 42 million Americans could lose SNAP benefits in November.\n\n238,000 Women, Infants and Children (WIC) beneficiaries who will miss their funding.\n\nFlight delays, food aid disruptions, and higher costs are hitting families and small businesses across North Carolina.\n\n\u201cThe House has done its job, and it\u2019s time for Senate Democrats to do theirs. Vote to fund the government, pay our troops, give veterans and seniors their hard-earned benefits and let\u2019s get America back to work so we can focus on what matters: growing the economy and getting the cost of living down, cutting red tape, unleashing American energy, and delivering commonsense solutions for families, farmers and small businesses.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:52:45Z"], ["https://markharris.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-mark-harris-leads-lawmakers-cracking-down-labor-union-bosses", "Rep. Mark Harris Leads Lawmakers in Cracking Down on Labor Union Bosses", "2025-11-21", "2025", "2025-11", "Republican", "House", "NC", "Mark Harris", "H001102", "markharris.house.gov", "markharris", "https://markharris.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, DC \u2014 Representative Mark Harris (NC-08) led Reps. Randy Fine (FL-06) and Bob Onder (MO-03) in introducing a package of bills to crack down on union bosses and amplify the voices of America\u2019s workers.\n\nRepresentative Harris said, \"Union leadership has lost its way\u2014trampling workers\u2019 rights, funneling dues into partisan politics, and silencing dissent. Enough is enough. It\u2019s time to crack down on out-of-control union bosses and restore the voice and the freedom of the American worker.\u201d\n\nThe Fair Access to Justice for Union Members Act supports workers\u2019 rights by ensuring they can go directly to court to protect their rights under federal law \u2014 without waiting months for the very union violating those rights to decide their fate.\n\nThe second piece of legislation, the Ask the Union Members Act, strengthens workers\u2019 rights to ensure that decisions with major personal and national consequences, such as going on strike or negotiating contracts, receive approval from members through secret ballot elections.\n\nEducation and Workforce Committee Chairman Tim Walberg said, \u201cThe Fair Access to Justice for Union Members Act and the Ask the Union Members Act put power back where it belongs \u2014 in the hands of rank-and-file members. Too often, an individual\u2019s voice is drowned out by his or her union leadership, rather than amplified. These bills protect members from being sidelined by lengthy internal processes or decisions made without their input and reaffirm that unions function best when the people they represent are fully informed, fully heard, and fully empowered.\u201d\n\nRead the full piece of legislation for the Fair Access to Justice for Union Members Act and the Ask the Union Members Act.\n\n###", 1, "2026-04-04T05:28:40Z", "2026-04-04T05:30:10Z"], ["https://murphy.house.gov/media/press-releases/murphy-announces-new-deputy-chief-staff", "Murphy Announces New Deputy Chief of Staff", "2025-11-21", "2025", "2025-11", "Republican", "House", "NC", "Gregory F. Murphy", "M001210", "murphy.house.gov", "murphy", "https://murphy.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2014 Congressman Greg Murphy, M.D., announces that Communications Director Alexander Crane will take on the role of Deputy Chief of Staff.\n\n\"Alex has been a great asset in my D.C. office,\" said Congressman Greg Murphy, M.D. \"I am thrilled to recognize his hard work, initiative, insightfulness, and unmatched dedication with the promotion to Deputy Chief of Staff. I know he\u2019s going to excel in this role, and I am looking forward to him continuing his work for the people of North Carolina\u2019s 3rd district.\"", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:52:45Z"], ["https://timmoore.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-tim-moore-delivers-floor-speech-honoring-life-gaston-county", "Congressman Tim Moore Delivers Floor Speech Honoring the Life of Gaston County Paramedic Mary Jolly", "2025-11-21", "2025", "2025-11", "Republican", "House", "NC", "Tim Moore", "M001236", "timmoore.house.gov", "timmoore", "https://timmoore.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2014 Today, Congressman Tim Moore (NC-14) delivered a floor speech to honor the life and heroism of Gaston County Paramedic Mary Jolly, who passed away after being struck by a car as she was rendering aid on the side of I-95 in Florida.\n\nImage\n\nRemarks as prepared for delivery:\n\nMr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life and heroism of Paramedic Mary Jolly of Gaston County, North Carolina, who tragically passed away at just 27 years old.\n\nOn November 15th, Mary stopped along I-95 in Florida to help a driver who had been struck by a vehicle. While rendering aid, she was hit by another car and critically injured. Mary died exactly as she lived\u2014serving others.\n\nSince joining Gaston County EMS in 2021, Mary distinguished herself as a highly skilled, deeply compassionate paramedic and a member of the swift water rescue team. She was named B-Shift Outstanding Paramedic in 2023, a reflection of her dedication and professionalism.\n\nHer colleagues describe her as courageous and kind-hearted to every patient she encountered. Her loss is felt across Gaston County.\n\nWe extend our deepest condolences and our prayers to her family, her friends, and her fellow first responders.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:52:45Z"], ["https://knott.house.gov/media/press-releases/knotts-tren-de-aragua-bill-passes-house", "Knott\u2019s Tren de Aragua Bill Passes the House", "2025-11-21", "2025", "2025-11", "Republican", "House", "NC", "Brad Knott", "K000405", "knott.house.gov", "knott", "https://knott.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, DC \u2013 Today, the U.S. House of Representatives passed the Tren de Aragua Border Security Threat Assessment Act. Congressman Brad Knott (NC-13), a member of the Committee on Homeland Security, introduced the bill directing the Department of Homeland Security to conduct a study and implement a strategy to combat the Foreign Terrorist Organization known as Tren de Aragua.\n\nRep. Knott: \u201cAs a prosecutor, I saw the immeasurable impact transnational crime organizations have had on every corner of our country that were enabled by dangerously weak borders and immigration policy. This problem is here and we see it. International, violent criminals attacking law enforcement officers, brazenly taking over neighborhoods, and moving drugs, guns, and human captives throughout our country. Few organizations have been more effective at exploiting these dangerous policies to secure a permanent presence in the United States than the group known as Tren de Aragua, or TdA. We must gear up, dig in, and remove this threat to the homeland. Today is an important step towards achieving that goal.\u201d\n\nHomeland Security Committee Chair Andrew Garbarino: \u201cTren de Aragua has wreaked havoc on our communities and has facilitated human, drug, and weapons trafficking on U.S. soil. The Tren de Aragua Border Security Threat Assessment Act will be crucial in helping DHS restore law and order after the Biden-Harris administration\u2019s open-border policies allowed public safety and national security threats into our country. I applaud the House\u2019s passage of Congressman Knott\u2019s legislation today, which will commit the proper resources to assessing the scope of the threat, and I urge the Senate to do so as well.\u201d", 1, "2026-06-27T21:44:12Z", "2026-06-27T22:31:22Z"], ["https://harrigan.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-pat-harrigan-votes-strengthen-americas-energy-independence", "Congressman Pat Harrigan Votes to Strengthen America\u2019s Energy Independence", "2025-11-20", "2025", "2025-11", "Republican", "House", "NC", "Pat Harrigan", "H001101", "harrigan.house.gov", "harrigan", "https://harrigan.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Contact: Lexi Kranich (814) 380-4408\n\nWASHINGTON, D.C.\u2014Today, Congressman Pat Harrigan (NC-10) voted to pass H.R. 1949, the Unlocking Our Domestic LNG Potential Act, legislation that removes federal barriers on natural gas imports and exports and restores America\u2019s ability to meet rising energy demand at home and abroad.\n\n\u201cThe Biden Administration\u2019s freeze on LNG exports created uncertainty for producers, discouraged investment, and pushed our allies back toward Russian energy,\u201d said Congressman Harrigan. \u201cThis bill ends that obstruction and puts the permitting authority in one place, so American energy can actually move. When we cut red tape and give our producers a fair process, we lower costs for families and strengthen our national security at the same time.\u201d\n\nH.R. 1949 overturns the Biden\u2013Harris Administration\u2019s indefinite ban on LNG export approvals and streamlines the permitting process by giving FERC exclusive authority to approve or deny LNG import and export facilities. The bill preserves all existing environmental and safety reviews and maintains the President\u2019s ability to impose national security\u2013related sanctions.\n\nWith House passage, H.R. 1949 will now advance to the Senate for consideration, where Congressman Harrigan is urging prompt action to protect American energy leadership.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:52:45Z"], ["https://markharris.house.gov/media/press-releases/harris-miller-lead-28-republicans-slamming-brakes-abortion-tourism-program", "Harris & Miller Lead 28 Republicans in Slamming Brakes on \u201cAbortion Tourism\u201d Program for Illegals", "2025-11-20", "2025", "2025-11", "Republican", "House", "NC", "Mark Harris", "H001102", "markharris.house.gov", "markharris", "https://markharris.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, DC \u2014 On Thursday, Representative Mark Harris (NC-08) and Rep. Mary Miller (IL-15) led a group of 28 lawmakers in introducing legislation that would prohibit taxpayer-funded abortion travel for illegal aliens.\n\n\u201cNo American should ever have their tax dollars used to shuttle illegal aliens across state lines for abortions,\u201d Representative Harris said. \u201cThat\u2019s why we're fighting to stop these outrageous Biden-era policies that turned federal programs into a taxpayer-funded Uber for abortions. We\u2019re going to end it.\u201d\n\nRep. Mary Miller said, \u201cJoe Biden turned federal agencies into abortion traffickers by directing the Office of Refugee Resettlement to arrange and finance abortion travel for illegal alien minors. President Trump's administration is rightfully moving to reverse this shocking abuse of taxpayer dollars, and I'm proud to partner with Congressman Mark Harris on legislation that permanently ends it.\u201d\n\nThe No Taxpayer-Funded Abortion Travel For Illegal Aliens Act aligns with anticipated movement from the Trump Administration to eliminate a Biden-era regulation and properly enforce the Hyde Amendment, which prohibits taxpayer-funded abortions.\n\nCo-sponsors include: Reps. John Rose (TN-06), Barry Moore (AL-01), Eli Crane (AZ-02), August Pfluger (TX-11), Clay Higgins (LA-03), Chip Roy (TX-21), Marjorie Taylor Greene (GA-14), Randy Fine (FL-06), Robert Aderholt (AL-04), Randy Weber (TX-14), Marlin Stutzman (IN-03), Keith Self (TX-03), Eric Burlison (MO-07), Jefferson Shreve (IN-06), Glenn Grothman (WI-06), John McGuire (VA-05), Warren Davidson (OH-08), Andy Harris (MD-01), Daniel Webster (FL-11), Scott Fitzgerald (WI-05), Byron Donalds (FL-19), Thomas Massie (KY-04), Jim Baird (IN-04), Doug LaMalfa (CA-01), Brian Babin (TX-36), Tim Moore (NC-14), Bob Onder (MO-03), and Sheri Biggs (SC-03).\n\nSupporting organizations include: Family Research Council, March for Life Action, Students for Life Action, CatholicVote, and Center for Urban Renewal and Education\n\nRead the full piece of legislation for the No Taxpayer-Funded Abortion Travel For Illegal Aliens Act here.\n\n###", 1, "2026-04-04T05:28:40Z", "2026-04-04T05:30:10Z"], ["https://murphy.house.gov/media/press-releases/murphy-lankford-introduce-bicameral-legislation-restore-conscience-protections", "Murphy, Lankford Introduce Bicameral Legislation to Restore Conscience Protections for Medical Residents", "2025-11-20", "2025", "2025-11", "Republican", "House", "NC", "Gregory F. Murphy", "M001210", "murphy.house.gov", "murphy", "https://murphy.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2014 Congressman Greg Murphy, M.D., introduced the Conscience Protections for Medical Residents Act to prohibit residency programs from compelling medical residents to participate in abortion training and discriminating against individuals who do not complete the optional training.\n\n\"Medical residents should not be compelled to participate in abortion training if it violates their conscience,\" said Congressman Greg Murphy, M.D. \"Opting out of such training enables potential retaliation by faculty who have enormous power over residents and their future success. Pursuing an elective abortion is not the same as receiving lifesaving care, such as for miscarriages or ectopic pregnancies, and training should reflect that. This issue is about restoring a non-ideological educational environment where individuals do not fear expressing moral or religious objections.\"\n\n\"Medical residents should never be pressured to violate their beliefs in order to finish their training or advance in their careers,\" said Senator James Lankford (OK). \"Many went into medicine to protect life, not take it. No one should have to choose between their conscience and their future in medicine. Our bill makes that clear and ensures medical students and residents can follow their convictions as they care for their patients.\"\n\nBackground\n\nCurrently, the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education (ACGME), which accredits medical residency programs, requires that medical residents with moral or religious objections be allowed to opt-out of abortion training. However, this opt-out system exerts unethical pressure on residents by placing them at risk of being targeted for their beliefs if they opt-out of abortion training.\n\nThe bill prohibits residency programs from requiring opt-out abortion training and prohibits discrimination on the basis that the individual does not voluntarily choose to opt-in to undergo such training or perform, assist in, or provide counseling or referrals for abortions.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:52:45Z"], ["https://www.budd.senate.gov/2025/11/20/senator-budd-leads-colleagues-in-effort-to-ban-terrorist-sympathizers-from-the-united-states/", "Senator Budd Leads Colleagues in Effort to Ban Terrorist Sympathizers from the United States", "2025-11-20", "2025", "2025-11", "Republican", "Senate", "NC", "Ted Budd", "B001305", "www.budd.senate.gov", "budd", "https://www.budd.senate.gov/category/news/press-releases/page/", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2014 U.S. Senator Ted Budd (R-N.C.) introduced the Terrorist Inadmissibility Codification Act today to close loopholes in the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA). The bill expands the existing INA provision that bans officers, officials, representatives, or spokesmen of the Palestine Liberation Organization to additionally include any member or anyone who publicly endorses the terrorist activities of Hamas, Hezbollah, Al-Qaeda, ISIS, and Palestine Islamic Jihad, or any successor or affiliate group, from receiving a visa or admission into the United States.\n\n\u201cEver since the horrific terrorist attacks of October 7, we have seen a dramatic rise in pro-Hamas rhetoric across our country, including from international students here on visas. This needs to stop. Those seeking to come to the U.S., whether for school, work, or otherwise, and who publicly endorse Foreign Terrorist Organizations, must face consequences for their actions. The Terrorist Inadmissibility Codification Act will close ambiguous loopholes in our immigration law by prohibiting them from entering our borders,\u201d said Senator Budd.\n\n\u201cFreedom of speech does not protect terrorism and calls to terror. We\u2019re strengthening the law so terrorists and their supporters can go hate us somewhere else,\u201d said Dr. Cassidy.\n\n\u201cWe have a fundamental responsibility to protect American citizens and our allies from those who would spread hatred and violence on our soil. This legislation simply codifies what should be common sense: if you\u2019re a member of or spokesperson for Hamas, Hezbollah, or other terrorist organizations\u2014or if you publicly endorse their barbaric acts\u2014you have no right to enter or remain in the United States. We saw the disgusting displays on college campuses after October 7th, and this bill ensures we have the statutory tools to prevent terrorist sympathizers from exploiting our visa system,\u201d said Senator Lummis.\n\n\u201cThe October 7 terrorist attacks were a dark day for the world. Since those attacks, we have witnessed a disturbing rise in pro-Hamas support among foreign visa holders inside the United States. The Terrorist Inadmissibility Codification Act would ensure that an alien who backs Hamas, Hezbollah, ISIS, or any other group supporting the Palestine Liberation Organization is deemed inadmissible to the United States,\u201d said Senator Blackburn.\n\n\u201cOur nation has learned the hard lesson that when terrorists come into our country, they harm Americans. I\u2019m proud to join Senator Budd and our colleagues in this commonsense effort to further prevent terrorist sympathizers and associates from coming to the U.S., threatening our national security, and spreading their anti-American propaganda and hatred,\u201d said Senator McCormick.\n\n\u201cIsrael is our strongest ally in the Middle East and those who sympathize with terrorists like Hamas and Hezbollah have absolutely no place in our country. I\u2019m proud to join Senator Budd and our colleagues in introducing this bill to keep our nation safe and send a strong signal across the globe that America will not tolerate any form of violent antisemitism,\u201d said Senator Daines.\n\n\u201cIn the aftermath of Hamas\u2019 unprovoked attack on Israel two years ago, we\u2019ve seen an alarming wave of antisemitic, pro-terrorist advocacy by foreign visa holders present in the U.S. who seek to do Americans harm. By broadening the Immigration and Nationality Act, this commonsense legislation would ensure those who support or sympathize with terrorist groups and their affiliates are inadmissible to the United States, and I\u2019m proud to support it,\u201d said Senator Cornyn.\n\n\u201cTerrorist organizations like Hamas, Hezbollah, Palestinian Islamic Jihad, ISIS, and Al-Qaeda seek to murder Americans. Their terrorist members, spokesmen, and supporters should not be allowed into our country. This bill will keep Americans safe,\u201d said Senator Ricketts.\n\n\u201cAmerica must never be a safe haven for anyone who supports terrorist organizations or celebrates violence against our ally, Israel. After the horrific terrorist attacks on October 7, we saw individuals in this country openly praising Hamas and other foreign terrorist groups. That is unacceptable. This bill makes crystal clear in federal law that any individual in the U.S. on a visa who openly support Hamas, Hezbollah, ISIS, or any other terrorist organization, is not welcome in the United States. We are closing dangerous loopholes and standing firmly with Israel, with the Jewish community, and with America\u2019s commitment to fight terrorism at every turn,\u201d said Senator Scott.\n\n\u201cThere is no place in America for foreign adversaries or terrorist sympathizers. As our nation faces a disturbing rise in antisemitic and illegal alien terror attacks, along with increasing pro-Hamas sentiment on our college campuses, we must take action to ensure our borders are secure from those wishing harm against Americans. The Terrorist Inadmissibility Codification Act would take a critical step in that effort,\u201d said Representative Pfluger.\n\nU.S. Senators Bill Cassidy (R-La.), Cynthia Lummis (R-Wyo.), Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.), Dave McCormick (R-Pa.), Steve Daines (R-Mont.), John Cornyn (R-Texas), Pete Ricketts (R-Neb.), and Rick Scott (R-Fla.) joined Senator Budd in introducing this legislation.\n\nU.S. Representative August Pfluger (R-Texas-11) previously introduced the legislation in the House of Representatives.\n\nRead the full bill text HERE.\n\nBACKGROUND\n\nFollowing the terrorist attacks on October 7, 2023, there has been a wave of anti-Israel, antisemitic, and pro-Hamas advocacy by foreign visa holders present in the United States, as well as visa applicants seeking to enter the country.\n\nThe Trump administration has revoked the visas of individuals who engaged in pro-Hamas advocacy and tightened the vetting process to detect such advocacy conducted by visa applicants.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:52:45Z"], ["https://www.budd.senate.gov/2025/11/20/senators-budd-coons-lead-bicameral-bipartisan-push-to-reinvest-in-domestic-biopharmaceutical-manufacturing/", "Senators Budd, Coons Lead Bicameral, Bipartisan Push to Reinvest in Domestic Biopharmaceutical Manufacturing", "2025-11-20", "2025", "2025-11", "Republican", "Senate", "NC", "Ted Budd", "B001305", "www.budd.senate.gov", "budd", "https://www.budd.senate.gov/category/news/press-releases/page/", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2014 U.S. Senators Ted Budd (R-N.C.) and Chris Coons (D-Del.) introduced the bicameral, bipartisan Biomanufacturing Excellence Act this week, which would promote U.S. leadership in biotechnology and strengthen domestic biopharmaceutical manufacturing. The bill reinvests in domestic biopharmaceutical manufacturing by reducing dependence on unreliable foreign supply chains, expanding access to cutting-edge medicines, and supporting high-quality American jobs.\n\n\u201cNot only is biomanufacturing a key pillar of America\u2019s and North Carolina\u2019s innovation economy, it has the potential to transform major aspects of everyday life. We must foster this critical technology and continue to lead the world in enabling life-saving medical breakthroughs, fortifying our critical supply chains, and creating good-paying, high-skilled jobs. I am proud to partner with Senator Coons to help build on the public-private partnerships that have unlocked significant economic potential and unleashed next-generation technology,\u201d said Senator Budd.\n\n\u201cDelaware and innovation have always gone hand in hand. The extraordinary biomedical research that happens in the First State has grown our economy, turned start-ups into industry leaders, and saved lives around the world. China is surging ahead in biotechnology, putting our national security, economy, and health at risk. This bipartisan bill will ensure the United States continues to lead the world in biotech manufacturing, protecting Americans\u2019 security and our health,\u201d said Senator Coons.\n\n\u201cI am grateful to our congressional partners for their strong commitment to the future of U.S. biotechnology leadership and their introduction of this important legislation. In our report, we found that advancing innovation in the biopharmaceutical sector is essential to catalyzing full-scale production for new medicines in the United States, and this center would bring together industry, academia, and government to do just that. Through our Biotech Across America roadshow, I\u2019ve had the opportunity to personally visit biotech hubs around the country to see the impact this type of cutting-edge biomanufacturing innovation can have on U.S. national, health, and economic security,\u201d said National Security Commission on Emerging Biotechnology, Vice Chair, Michelle Rozo.\n\n\u201cThe creation of a National Biopharmaceutical Manufacturing Center of Excellence is pivotal to advancing US leadership in bioprocess innovation, supply chain resiliency, and workforce competitiveness. We greatly appreciate Congressional leadership in recognizing the importance of biomanufacturing to national and economic security. For over four decades, North Carolina has created an integrated ecosystem focused on a steadfast commitment to life sciences manufacturing, establishing the state as a global leader with over $17 Billion of investment and 7,500 jobs announced since 2021. This success is built on a community of partners that work to seamlessly integrate world-class institutions of innovation with over 150 life sciences manufacturing companies, forming a uniquely dense hub for accelerating the translation of cutting-edge biomanufacturing innovations to scaled commercial outputs,\u201d a joint statement from NCLifeSci and NCBiotech reads.\n\n\u201cITIF supports the bipartisan Biomanufacturing Excellence Act, which would create a National Biopharmaceutical Manufacturing Center of Excellence that would convene industry, academic, and government stakeholders to ensure that America leads in the biomanufacturing revolution of the future. With experts estimating that 60 percent of the world\u2019s physical inputs could be made using biological processes going forward, biomanufacturing won\u2019t just transform the future of medicines, but also everything from energy, to food, to industrial manufacturing. The Biomanufacturing Excellence Act will help equip the United States with the technology, workforce, and know how to achieve leadership in this critical emerging field,\u201d a statement from the Information Technology and Innovation Foundation reads.\n\n\u201cThe Biomanufacturing Excellence Act is a decisive investment in America\u2019s health, security, and economic strength. The American Alliance for Biomanufacturing is proud to support this effort to bring cutting-edge biomanufacturing back home,\u201d said American Alliance for Biomanufacturing, Executive Director, Brooke Coleman.\n\nU.S. Representatives Chrissy Houlahan (D-Pa.-06), Jim Baird (R-Ind.-04), David Rouzer (R-N.C.-07), and Deborah Ross (D-N.C.-02) led the companion legislation in the House of Representatives.\n\nThe bill is endorsed by the National Security Commission on Emerging Biotechnology (NSCEB), NCLifeSci and NCBiotech, the Delaware BioScience Association, the Biotechnology Innovation Organization, the Information Technology and Innovation Foundation (ITIF), Life Sciences Pennsylvania, and the American Alliance for Biomanufacturing.\n\nRead the full bill text HERE.\n\nBACKGROUND\n\nBiotechnology will shape how the U.S. defends itself, secures its food supply, and cures life-threatening diseases. NSCEB warned that without rapid and significant investment, the U.S. will fall behind its global competitors, specifically China.\n\nThe Biomanufacturing Excellence Act would additionally establish a public-private center dedicated to advancing biopharmaceutical manufacturing \u2013 a key recommendation from the NSCEB report.\n\nSpecifically, the National Biopharmaceutical Manufacturing Center of Excellence would:\n\nUnite industry professionals with academic researchers to conduct collaborative research on new technology for scaling biopharmaceutical manufacturing\n\nHost a facility that replicates industrial manufacturing conditions and complies with Food and Drug Administration\u2019s (FDA) Current Good Manufacturing Practice (CGMP) regulations, where innovators would develop and test new manufacturing processes\n\nIdentify challenges and opportunities for scaling biopharmaceutical manufacturing, especially for products important to U.S. national security, public health, and economic security\n\nTrain tomorrow\u2019s biopharmaceutical manufacturing workforce by partnering with educational, industry, and community leaders to bolster biotechnology talent\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:52:45Z"], ["https://harrigan.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-pat-harrigan-votes-confront-threat-tren-de-aragua", "Congressman Pat Harrigan Votes to Confront the Threat of Tren de Aragua", "2025-11-19", "2025", "2025-11", "Republican", "House", "NC", "Pat Harrigan", "H001101", "harrigan.house.gov", "harrigan", "https://harrigan.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Contact: Lexi Kranich (814) 380-4408\n\nWASHINGTON, D.C.\u2014Today, Congressman Pat Harrigan (NC-10) voted to pass H.R. 4070, the Tren de Aragua Border Security Threat Assessment Act, legislation requiring the Department of Homeland Security to produce a full threat assessment and strategic plan addressing the growth, operations, and border activity of Tren de Aragua and other transnational criminal organizations.\n\n\u201cTren de Aragua is expanding faster than most people realize, and we need a clear federal picture of what that means for our communities,\u201d said Congressman Harrigan. \u201cLocal officers are already doing everything they can, but they can\u2019t confront a network of this size without solid intelligence. This bill forces DHS to lay out how the group operates, how it moves, and where it\u2019s trying to grow inside the United States. With that information, we can strengthen coordination, close the gaps they exploit, and give law enforcement the backing they need to keep people safe.\u201d\n\nH.R. 4070 directs DHS to detail Tren de Aragua\u2019s origins, strategic aims, leadership structure, funding sources, and presence within the United States. It also mandates an analysis of current and potential criminal threats, the gang\u2019s border-crossing methods, and any vulnerabilities it may be exploiting. After submitting the threat assessment, DHS must prepare a comprehensive strategic plan outlining how federal, state, and local agencies will coordinate to disrupt, interdict, and prevent the organization\u2019s expansion.\n\nWith House passage, H.R. 4070 will now advance to the Senate for consideration, where Congressman Harrigan is urging swift action to strengthen border intelligence and protect communities nationwide.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:52:45Z"], ["https://mcdowell.house.gov/media/press-releases/mcdowell-leads-bipartisan-effort-introducing-house-companion-sen-budd-and-sen", "McDowell Leads Bipartisan Effort Introducing House Companion to Sen. Budd and Sen. Welch\u2019s Foreign Robocall Elimination Act", "2025-11-19", "2025", "2025-11", "Republican", "House", "NC", "Addison P. McDowell", "M001240", "mcdowell.house.gov", "mcdowell", "https://mcdowell.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2013 Today, Congressman Addison McDowell (NC-06) led a bipartisan coalition with Reps. Greg Steube (FL-17), Kelly Morrison (MN-03), and Jimmy Panetta (CA-20) to introduce the House companion to Senators Ted Budd (R-N.C.) and Peter Welch\u2019s (D-Vt.) Foreign Robocall Elimination Act. The bill brings together government and private-sector experts to strengthen efforts to stop unlawful robocalls originating from overseas.\n\n\u201cTargeted robocall scams hit millions of Americans every month, trying to steal Social Security numbers, bank information \u2013 anything they can use to take advantage of folks,\u201d said Congressman McDowell. \u201cMany of these calls originate overseas. America needs to stay ahead of these scams, crack down on these robocallers, and protect people from bad actors no matter where they originate.\u201d\n\n\u201cSeniors face constant and malicious robocalls on a daily basis,\" said Rep. Steube. \"These sophisticated attacks pose a major risk to the personal safety and financial security of the American people. Congress cannot ignore this threat any longer. That is why I am joining with Senator Budd and Representative McDowell to introduce the Foreign Robocall Elimination Act to protect vulnerable Americans from these manipulative ploys and scams.\"\n\n\u201cNo one likes robocalls. They are irritating, predatory, and steal billions of dollars from Americans every single year. They also erode public trust. You shouldn\u2019t miss a call from the doctor just because you\u2019re scared it could be a scammer. The Foreign Robocall Elimination Act is commonsense legislation to protect people \u2013 particularly older Americans who are disproportionately targeted \u2013 from harmful scammers. I am proud to introduce this bipartisan effort,\u201d said Rep. Kelly Morrison.\n\n\"My constituents in California\u2019s 19th Congressional District are sick and tired of robocalls, scammers, and salesmen calling them on their personal phones,\" said Rep. Panetta. \"The Foreign Robocall Elimination Act would empower the federal government and the private sector to work together to find solutions that will eliminate illegal foreign robocalls and protect our vulnerable seniors. With cooperation between the brightest minds and experts in telecommunications, we can crack down on the criminal networks that seek to prey on and take advantage of Americans.\"\n\nThe Foreign Robocall Elimination Act has received key endorsements from the American Association of Retired Persons (AARP) and USTelecom.\n\n\u201cOlder Americans are disproportionately targeted by robocall scams, which often lead to financial loss, identity theft, and emotional distress. These calls not only exploit individuals but also erode trust in telecommunications systems and public institutions. The Foreign Robocall Elimination Act builds upon the TRACED Act and addresses this growing threat by convening a task force of government and private sector experts to develop actionable strategies for eliminating harmful foreign robocalls.\u201d - Jennifer Jones, Vice President, Financial Security & Livable Communities, Government Affairs, AARP\n\n\u201cWe applaud the bipartisan work of Rep. McDowell, Rep. Morrison, Rep. Steube, and Rep. Panetta to advance the Foreign Robocall Elimination Act. Their attention to and leadership on this issue demonstrate a deep commitment to protecting Americans from abuse of our communications networks.\n\n\u201cThe fight against scams and illegal robocalls requires sustained collaboration across government, law enforcement, and industry. The communications industry, including our Industry Traceback Group, is in this fight, and we remain committed to continuing these joint efforts to protect our networks, hold bad actors accountable, and safeguard consumers nationwide.\u201d - Josh Bercu, Senior Vice President of Policy at USTelecom and Executive Director of the Industry Traceback Group\n\nBackground: Millions of Americans are targeted by scam calls each month by bad actors seeking to gain access to individuals\u2019 Social Security Numbers, banking information, or other sensitive information. The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has previously estimated that eliminating illegal scam robocalls would provide a public benefit of billions of dollars annually. Legislation like the Pallone-Thune TRACED Act, which was signed into law in 2019, empowered the FCC and telecommunications companies to implement call authentication technologies that could more easily identify and trace back illegal, spoofed calls. This bill builds on the TRACED Act\u2019s success by continuing to harden our telecommunications infrastructure against foreign scammers. In the Senate, this effort is led by Senators Ted Budd (R-NC) and Peter Welch (D-VT).\n\nWhat the Foreign Robocall Elimination Act does:\n\nCreates an interagency task force comprised of federal agency representatives and seven private sector representatives. The federal agency participants shall be determined jointly by the FCC, FTC, and the Attorney General.\n\nOf the private sector representatives:\n\nThree must have experience in combating unlawful robocalls\n\nOne must be from the U.S. Traceback Consortium\n\nOne must be from a telemarketing business\n\nOne must be from a nonprofit that primarily uses telephone communication\n\nOne must be from a customer advocate organization that specializes in combating unlawful robocalls\n\nRequires the task force to report to the administration and to Congress on suggested ways to improve the federal response to unlawful robocalls made by foreign scammers\n\nRequires the task force to evaluate ways for the DOJ to improve law enforcement\u2019s response to and prevention of unlawful robocalls\n\nStrengthens the TRACED Act by extending the Industry Traceback Group\u2019s (ITG) renewal period from 1 to 3 years and provides further protections for the ITG to go after illegal robocallers.\n\nAllows for a rulemaking so the FCC can consider the introduction of a bond to increase the costs to fraudulent providers who violate the Robocall Mitigation Database.", 1, "2026-04-04T05:28:40Z", "2026-04-04T05:30:10Z"], ["https://edwards.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-edwards-votes-favor-epstein-files-transparency-act", "Congressman Edwards Votes in Favor of the Epstein Files Transparency Act", "2025-11-18", "2025", "2025-11", "Republican", "House", "NC", "Chuck Edwards", "E000246", "edwards.house.gov", "edwards", "https://edwards.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. - Congressman Edwards voted in favor of the full release of the files associated with the investigation into Jeffrey Epstein and his co-conspirators.\n\nEarlier this Congress, Congressman Edwards voted in favor of the House Oversight Committee\u2019s investigation into the \u201cEpstein Files,\u201d which has already resulted in the release of 65,000 documents. As a former member of the House Oversight Committee, Congressman Edwards maintains full confidence in the ability of the Oversight Committee to conduct such an investigation; however, it became clear the American people deserve answers sooner rather than later.\n\n\u201cWhile I continue to support the House Oversight Committee in their investigation into Jeffrey Epstein and his co-conspirators, I would not vote against any measure that makes these files more accessible to the American people. After nearly six years of being swept under the rug and termed a \u201cconspiracy theory\u201d by the prior administration, it is finally time for the American people to get answers about who the perpetrators of these heinous acts were, and for the victims to receive justice. I look forward to seeing the truth come to light and holding those involved accountable.\u201d\n\nThe resolution to release the \u201cEpstein Files\u201d passed the House with a vote of 427-1 and will now head to the Senate for a vote.\n\nThe 65,000 documents already released by the House Oversight Committee can be found here.", 1, "2026-04-04T05:28:40Z", "2026-04-04T05:30:10Z"], ["https://murphy.house.gov/media/press-releases/murphy-votes-release-epstein-files", "Murphy Votes to Release Epstein Files", "2025-11-18", "2025", "2025-11", "Republican", "House", "NC", "Gregory F. Murphy", "M001210", "murphy.house.gov", "murphy", "https://murphy.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2014 Congressman Greg Murphy, M.D., issued the following statement after voting in favor of H.R. 4405, the Epstein Files Transparency Act.\n\n\"The American people deserve transparency and accountability with respect to Jeffrey Epstein and any accomplices to his heinous and depraved crimes,\" said Congressman Greg Murphy, M.D. \"While this issue has become egregiously political, we cannot lose sight of the purpose of this vote - to deliver justice for the victims and their continued protection as information is declassified. In the age of social media, perverse incentives fuel the spread of misinformation and malicious targeting. Those responsible for the abuse of young women must be brought to justice under the full weight of the law; however, my concerns were, and still are, that some innocent individuals become guilty by proxy or just by simply being named in these voluminous articles. This issue is a grave matter and must be treated as such.\n\n\"I believe integrity is the most important quality of an individual in elected office. When I first came to Congress, I promised to be an objective, transparent, and accessible representative. I will never waver from that commitment and will always stand up for the truth and do what is right.\"", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:52:45Z"], ["https://timmoore.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-tim-moore-votes-release-epstein-files", "Congressman Tim Moore Votes to Release the Epstein Files", "2025-11-18", "2025", "2025-11", "Republican", "House", "NC", "Tim Moore", "M001236", "timmoore.house.gov", "timmoore", "https://timmoore.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2014 Congressman Tim Moore (NC-14) issued the following statement after voting in support of H.R. 4405, the Epstein Files Transparency Act:\n\n\u201cToday, I proudly voted for transparency and justice for the victims of Jeffrey Epstein. The American people deserve to know the truth.\u201d\n\nCongressman Moore has consistently supported the release of files related to Jeffrey Epstein. In September, he voted alongside House Republicans to endorse and affirm the House Oversight Committee\u2019s investigation into the horrific crimes committed by Jeffrey Epstein and Ghislaine Maxwell.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:52:45Z"], ["https://www.budd.senate.gov/2025/11/18/budd-delivers-remarks-celebrating-vulcan-elements-1b-investment-in-n-c-to-reshore-rare-earth-magnet-industry/", "Budd Delivers Remarks Celebrating Vulcan Elements $1B Investment in N.C. to Reshore Rare Earth Magnet Industry", "2025-11-18", "2025", "2025-11", "Republican", "Senate", "NC", "Ted Budd", "B001305", "www.budd.senate.gov", "budd", "https://www.budd.senate.gov/category/news/press-releases/page/", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2014 Today, U.S. Senator Ted Budd (R-N.C.) joined state and local leaders in delivering remarks after Vulcan Elements announced that they will be building a new $1 billion \u2018Polaris facility\u2019 in Benson, North Carolina. Senator Budd has championed the U.S. Government\u2019s partnership with Vulcan Elements in their efforts to reshore the rare earth magnet manufacturing industry. The Polaris facility will create 1,000 new manufacturing jobs in North Carolina and bolster America\u2019s national security by breaking our reliance on China for these vital components.\n\nAs Senator Budd said in his remarks:\n\n\u201cThis is a great day to celebrate a more than a billion-dollar investment and one thousand new jobs. It\u2019s a boost to the local economy, but I want you all to know how important this is for our national security.\n\n\u201cVulcan, uniquely, and this is what got my attention in Washington, is that Vulcan is fully decoupled from China. We had some earlier conversations, and it was interesting that China tipped their hand to what they intended to do to constrain the American supply chain, or supplies to the United States. So, this is well timed. This is well-timed for the security of our nation. You know, after meeting the Vulcan team in Washington, I immediately realized the need to prioritize Vulcan\u2019s efforts.\n\n\u201cI want to give you a few specifics, including the lead to push the Industrial Base Analysis and Sustainment, or the IBAS program funding, also working to reduce barriers to magnet production, and then talking to all of the presidential nominees who come through our Senate offices that are related to Armed Services and the Department of War supply chain. So, if they didn\u2019t know about Vulcan, and most of them did know about Vulcan, when I asked them\u2014if they didn\u2019t when they came in, they sure did when they left.\n\n\u201cAlmost every weapon in our supply chain uses magnets, including jets, submarines, and the missiles that they fire, but they\u2019re also in things that we mentioned earlier, data centers, drones, robotics, and chips; all of which depend on rare earth magnets.\n\n\u201cThe U.S. should have done this decades ago, but now we are, and we\u2019re moving the critical supply chain for rare earths and so many other things away from China. Vulcan, you\u2019re in the lead for that. So, thank you.\n\n\u201cBut also, North Carolina is key in this. This is a great state for so many reasons, whether it\u2019s semiconductors or batteries, and now rare earths. So, congratulations. We appreciate all that you do. We\u2019re glad that you\u2019re here, and we look forward to the future together.\u201d\n\nBACKGROUND\n\nSenator Budd has led the charge in the U.S. Senate to support Vulcan\u2019s efforts to reshore the rare earth magnet industry:\n\nLed a North Carolina delegation letter to the Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition and Sustainment, Michael Duffy, highlighting the impressive work of Vulcan Elements and supporting the company\u2019s application for funding through the Industrial Base Analysis and Sustainment (IBAS) Program.\n\nPushed for a provision in the FY26 NDAA directing the Secretary of Defense to provide a briefing to the Senate Armed Services Committee, no later than March 2026, on an analysis of domestic Neodymium Iron Boron (NdFeB) manufacturing in the United States or allied nations and identify barriers to domestic rare earth magnet production.\n\nChampioned a $4 million increase in IBAS funding in the Senate\u2019s Defense Appropriations bill.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:52:45Z"], ["https://www.tillis.senate.gov/2025/11/tillis-murphy-hudson-op-ed-honor-camp-lejeune-marine-veterans-and-their-families-now", "Tillis, Murphy, Hudson Op-Ed: Honor Camp Lejeune Marine Veterans and Their Families Now", "2025-11-17", "2025", "2025-11", "Republican", "Senate", "NC", "Thom Tillis", "T000476", "www.tillis.senate.gov", "tillis", "https://www.tillis.senate.gov/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Senator Thom Tillis (R-NC), alongside Representatives Greg Murphy (R-NC) and Richard Hudson (R-NC), recently penned an op-ed in the Jacksonville Daily News calling on Congress to honor Camp Lejeune Marine veterans and their families by passing theEnsuring Justice for Camp Lejeune Victims Act.\n\nRead the full op-ed HERE or below.\n\nThis week as we reflect on Veterans Day and the 250th anniversary of the United States Marine Corps, we are called to honor the Corps\u2019 legacy of service and sacrifice. There is perhaps no higher form of honor than action, and when it comes to the veterans who served at Marine Base Camp Lejeune, our country has tragically failed in its most fundamental duty: to protect those who served.\n\nFor decades, service members and their families stationed at Camp Lejeune in our home state of North Carolina drank, bathed, and cooked with water contaminated by toxic chemicals \u2014 a danger now known to government but left unaddressed for years. The human toll is heartbreaking. Veterans, their families, and civilians have faced devastating illnesses, and for too many, untimely deaths linked directly to that poisoned water.\n\nIn 2022, Congress took an important step toward addressing this historical injustice by passing the Camp Lejeune Justice Act (CLJA). The law was intended to hold the U.S. government accountable and give affected veterans and their families a path to compensation and closure. Yet, three years later, countless victims are still waiting for relief.\n\nThe CLJA was a crucial milestone, but its implementation has been mired in red tape, legal bottlenecks, and procedural hurdles that have slowed justice to a crawl. The result is an overwhelmed system and protracted legal battles, leaving veterans and other victims in limbo. That is why we introduced the Ensuring Justice for Camp Lejeune Victims Act \u2014 to restore the spirit of the original law and finally deliver the fairness these families deserve. Our bill increases the number of courts where Camp Lejeune cases can be heard, breaking the logjam and allowing claims to move forward more efficiently.\n\nIt also reaffirms a foundational American principle: the right to a jury trial. Despite the original legislation\u2019s intent, opposition has left that right uncertain. Our legislation makes clear that veterans are entitled to have their case heard by a jury of their peers. Finally, this bill addresses an issue that has quietly burdened too many families \u2014 the lack of clear guidance on attorney\u2019s fees. Our new bill sets reasonable caps to ensure that financial relief Congress intended for veterans and victims benefits them, not the lawyers representing them.\n\nThe men and women who served at Camp Lejeune are American patriots who showed up every day prepared to defend this nation. Instead, many were poised by the water they trusted their government to provide. Ensuring justice for them is not partisan, it\u2019s a moral obligation. We are proud to have the backing nearly two dozen Veteran Service Organizations, including the American Legion, Veterans of Foreign Wars, and many others who stand shoulder to shoulder in this fight.\n\nAs we honor our veterans this week, let us remember that true gratitude demands action. We cannot call ourselves champions of our military if we turn away when they need us most. The time for delay is over. Congress must come together and pass the Ensuring Justice for Camp Lejeune Victims Act.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:52:45Z"], ["https://edwards.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-edwards-votes-reopen-government-secure-funding-disaster-relief", "Congressman Edwards Votes to Reopen Government, Secure Funding for Disaster Relief", "2025-11-13", "2025", "2025-11", "Republican", "House", "NC", "Chuck Edwards", "E000246", "edwards.house.gov", "edwards", "https://edwards.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. - Congressman Chuck Edwards (NC-11) voted to reopen the federal government following the longest shutdown in American history, and added $22.5 billion in much-needed natural disaster relief funding to help restore critical services and provide relief to families, small businesses, and communities across Western North Carolina.\n\n\u201cAfter more than forty days of gridlock, this legislation delivers long-overdue relief to the American people,\u201d said Congressman Edwards. \u201cOver the last month, I've worked to ensure the people of NC-11 were not left behind, even as their federal government stood still. I spoke with constituents from every corner of Western North Carolina and witnessed firsthand the unnecessary hardship caused by the Democrats\u2019 failure to fund the government. This package restores critical services like SNAP and WIC, replenishes the Disaster Relief Fund for continued Helene recovery, and ensures support for veterans, service members, and their families. I\u2019ve said from the start we must keep our government working for the people we serve, not holding them hostage to political games. This bipartisan agreement is a step in that direction.\u201d\n\nCongressman Edwards supported the Continuing Resolution (CR) and accompanying FY 2026 Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies (MilCon-VA); Agriculture, Rural Development, Food and Drug Administration (FDA), and Related Agencies; and Legislative Branch appropriations bills. The legislation passed the House by a bipartisan vote of 222-209.\n\nThe CR portion of the package extends government funding through January 30, 2026, while the three full-year appropriations bills fund key programs such as the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC), and the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. Together, these measures ensure stability for essential programs that directly impact Western North Carolina and gives Congress time to finalize the remaining appropriations bills.\n\nThe reopening of the government will immediately restore operations for programs assisting Hurricane Helene recovery, agricultural services, and nutrition assistance, which are vital to rebuilding and strengthening Western North Carolina\u2019s economy.\n\nCongressman Edwards led the charge in securing funding for four community projects, including:\n\n$3 million for Erlanger Western Carolina Hospital Expansion \u2013 This funding will consolidate six existing outpatient clinics into a single modern facility on the main hospital campus, creating 20,000 square feet of new patient care areas with expanded lab and radiology services. It will also allow the hospital to establish a cardiac catheterization lab, enhancing access to lifesaving cardiac care for residents across WNC.\n\n$2.97 million for Hazelwood Fire Station Construction \u2013 This project will replace a functionally obsolete volunteer fire station with a modern facility featuring three apparatus bays and ADA-accessible sleeping quarters and restrooms. The upgraded station will give Waynesville firefighters the facility and tools they need to deploy swift emergency response services.\n\n$1.5 million for Transylvania County\u2019s Emergency Services Upgrades \u2013 This funding will strengthen public safety and emergency response capabilities by providing essential new equipment for the Sheriff\u2019s Office and EMS, including body camera replacements, a jail body scanner to detect contraband, two new ambulances, and critical EMS equipment upgrades to ensure the highest standard of patient care.\n\n$1.5 million for McDowell County 911 Center Construction \u2013 This investment will support the construction of a new 911 Center to enhance emergency communications and public safety for citizens, visitors, and first responders in McDowell County. The current 911 operation has long outgrown its space due to advancing technology and growing call volume.", 1, "2026-04-04T05:28:40Z", "2026-04-04T05:30:10Z"], ["https://mcdowell.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-mcdowell-secures-3-million-community-project-davidson-county", "Rep. McDowell Secures $3 million for Community Project in Davidson County", "2025-11-13", "2025", "2025-11", "Republican", "House", "NC", "Addison P. McDowell", "M001240", "mcdowell.house.gov", "mcdowell", "https://mcdowell.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2013 Today, Congressman Addison McDowell (NC-06) announced that $3 million will be invested in the construction of Davidson-Davie Community College\u2019s new Health Sciences Center. Through H.R. 5371, which the House sent to President Trump\u2019s desk last night for his signature, Congressman McDowell was able to secure this funding to assist in the construction of a health sciences center to host programs including EMS, nursing, nurse aide, surgical technology, central sterile processing, and medical assistant training.\n\n\u201cI\u2019m proud to secure the funds for this investment in our community. This new Health Sciences Center at Davidson-Davie Community College will help train healthcare professionals badly needed in our region. This funding will have a direct impact on strengthening our local hospitals and increasing access to quality healthcare for folks in our area.\u201d - Congressman Addison McDowell\n\nProject Details:\n\nProject Name: Davidson-Davie Community College Health Sciences Center, Bermuda Run, NC. NC-06.\n\nProject Recipient: Davidson-Davie Community College\n\nAwarded Amount: $3,000,000\n\nProject Explanation: The funding would be used for the construction of a Health Sciences Center to host programs including EMS, nursing, nurse aide, surgical technology, central sterile processing, and medical assistant training. The project is an appropriate use of taxpayer funds because it will address healthcare workforce shortages, facilitating the creation of jobs and economic growth in the community. Specifically, Davidson-Davie will train healthcare professionals in high-impact critical healthcare workforce positions, directly filling critical shortages in rural hospitals, clinics, and long-term care facilities.\n\nFor more information, please visit: https://mcdowell.house.gov/resources/community-projects", 1, "2026-04-04T05:28:40Z", "2026-04-04T05:30:10Z"], ["https://mcdowell.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-mcdowell-trump-administration-delivers-major-win-fight-against-fentanyl", "Rep. McDowell: Trump Administration Delivers Major Win in Fight Against Fentanyl", "2025-11-13", "2025", "2025-11", "Republican", "House", "NC", "Addison P. McDowell", "M001240", "mcdowell.house.gov", "mcdowell", "https://mcdowell.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2013 Today, Congressman Addison McDowell praised the Trump Administration and FBI Director Kash Patel for securing a landmark agreement with China to crack down on the chemicals used to produce fentanyl. The deal will save millions of lives by designating 13 precursors and placing new controls on seven additional compounds tied to fentanyl production.\n\n\u201cThis is a major win for Americans across the country and for families here in the Sixth District,\u201d Congressman McDowell said. \u201cFrom day one, President Trump made stopping the flow of fentanyl a top priority. I commend the White House for striking this agreement with China to curb the deadly chemicals responsible for taking the lives of our brothers, sisters, mothers, and fathers. I look forward to continuing my work in Congress to help end this crisis, so no family has to lose a loved one to this poison. \u201d\n\nThe announcement follows Director Patel\u2019s recent trip to China, where he met with senior officials to press for action. Patel credited President Donald J. Trump\u2019s meeting with President Xi Jinping for creating the breakthrough that led to the agreement.\n\nSince President Trump took office, fentanyl seizures at the southern border have dropped 53%. This year alone, the FBI has seized enough fentanyl to kill an estimated 127 million Americans.\n\n\u201cWhen saving American lives is the priority, real progress happens,\u201d McDowell said. \u201cPresident Trump isn\u2019t afraid to have the tough conversations or make the tough decisions needed to protect the American people.\u201d", 1, "2026-04-04T05:28:40Z", "2026-04-04T05:30:10Z"], ["https://harrigan.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-pat-harrigan-votes-end-shutdown-and-get-america-back-work", "Congressman Pat Harrigan Votes to End the Shutdown and Get America Back to Work", "2025-11-12", "2025", "2025-11", "Republican", "House", "NC", "Pat Harrigan", "H001101", "harrigan.house.gov", "harrigan", "https://harrigan.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Contact: Lexi Kranich (814) 380-4408\n\nWASHINGTON, D.C.\u2014Tonight, Congressman Pat Harrigan (NC-10) voted to pass the Senate amendment to H.R. 5371, ending the longest government shutdown in American history and restoring stability for federal workers, families, and small businesses across the country.\n\n\u201cFor weeks, Democrats refused to do their jobs and left 750,000 Americans without paychecks, troops and TSA agents working without pay, and families uncertain about their SNAP benefits,\u201d said Congressman Harrigan. \u201cRepublicans worked around the clock to stop this shutdown before it started and fought every day to end it once it began. This vote finally brings relief to hardworking Americans who were caught in the middle of a political standoff they never asked for. It gets people paid, keeps our economy moving, and protects programs families rely on. Now that we\u2019ve broken the gridlock, it\u2019s time to get back to work and keep delivering for the people who sent us here.\u201d\n\nKey Provisions of the Legislation:\n\nReopens the Federal Government: Restores operations through January 30, 2026, ending the Democrat-led shutdown that halted paychecks and disrupted essential services nationwide.\n\nProtects Workers and Families: Guarantees back pay for federal employees and continues SNAP, WIC, and other essential benefits so families can cover food, housing, and childcare needs.\n\nSupports Veterans and Servicemembers: Maintains VA, DoD, and military construction funding to protect readiness and ensure veterans continue receiving the care they earned.\n\nStrengthens Rural Infrastructure: Includes $1.57 million for the Harmony Sewer Line Extension, a key community project in Iredell County that will expand access to safe, reliable water and sewer infrastructure.\n\nStabilizes Health Care Programs: Extends key Medicare and hospital support policies to prevent coverage lapses and ensure continuity of care.\n\nProtects National Security and Critical Services: Keeps operations at FY25 levels, preserving defense, border, and homeland security functions that protect the country.\n\nThe legislation now heads to President Trump\u2019s desk for swift signature so that paychecks can resume, benefits can flow, and federal agencies can fully reopen. Once enacted, Congress will return to its core mission\u2014delivering results for the American people and restoring faith that Washington can still get things done.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:52:45Z"], ["https://mcdowell.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-addison-mcdowell-votes-reopen-government-and-restore-vital-services-0", "Rep. Addison McDowell Votes to Reopen the Government and Restore Vital Services", "2025-11-12", "2025", "2025-11", "Republican", "House", "NC", "Addison P. McDowell", "M001240", "mcdowell.house.gov", "mcdowell", "https://mcdowell.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Today, Congressman Addison McDowell (NC-06) voted \u201cYEA\u201d on the Senate Amendment to H.R. 5371 - Continuing Appropriations, Agriculture, Legislative Branch, Military Construction and Veterans Affairs, and Extensions Act, 2026 to end the over 40-day government shutdown and restore critical government services for Americans. This funding measure ensures that air traffic controllers will receive their pay and recipients of SNAP will receive assistance.\n\n\u201cAmericans have felt the pain caused by Democrats in DC for long enough. Today, I voted to re-open the government by supporting for a second time a funding bill that will ensure our skies get back to normal operations, families do not go hungry, and thousands of government employees are paid and back to work,\u201d Congressman McDowell said. \u201cThe House first passed a clean government funding bill at the end of September, and Senate Democrats voted to keep the government shut 14 times spanning over 40 days, deciding to use the hardships of the American people as leverage in their political theatre rather than govern responsibly for the betterment of the country.\u201d\n\n\u201cI look forward to getting back to governing and continuing to focus on making life more affordable for folks across the Sixth District,\u201d Congressman McDowell continued.\n\nDuring the rule debate on the Senate Amendment to H.R. 5371, Congressman McDowell took to the House floor in support of passage of the government funding bill. To view his full remarks, click here.\n\nThe final agreement, the Senate Amendment to H.R. 5371, keeps the government funded at current levels through January 30, 2026, and includes three full-year appropriations bills for agriculture, the legislative branch, and military construction and veterans programs.\n\nBackground:\n\nCongressman McDowell voted in support of H.R. 5371 on September 19th, which would have fully funded the government until November 22, 2025. 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