{"database": "press", "table": "releases", "is_view": false, "human_description_en": "where party = \"Republican\", state = \"NE\" and year = 2023 sorted by date descending", "rows": [["https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-floods-new-years-statement", "Congressman Flood\u2019s New Year\u2019s Statement", "2023-12-29", "2023", "2023-12", "Republican", "House", "NE", "Mike Flood", "F000474", "flood.house.gov", "flood", "https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C.\u2013U.S. Congressman Mike Flood issued a recorded statement ahead of New Year\u2019s, which is observed January 1, 2024.\n\nVideo of the remarks can be found by clicking here. News outlets are welcome to use the footage for their reporting purposes. The full text of the speech is below.\n\nFriends and fellow Nebraskans, as we enter 2024, I want to reflect on the moments and blessings 2023 gave us.\n\nThere were many highs: House Republicans took control of the House and passed some historic bills, like the Lower Energy Costs Act and the Secure the Border Act.\n\n2023 was my first full year in Congress. I introduced and passed my first bill on a bipartisan basis. My office assisted hundreds of constituents to resolve issues. I traveled around the world to meet with international leaders to strengthen America\u2019s relationships \u2013 and that\u2019s just a few of the most significant moments.\n\nI am so grateful for all the opportunities to serve you in Congress this year. I came to Washington to make life better for everyone in Nebraska\u2019s First District, and together, we can continue work to achieve even more in 2024.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T01:14:16Z"], ["https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases/smith-announces-upcoming-staff-outreach-events-4", "Smith Announces Upcoming Staff Outreach Events", "2023-12-22", "2023", "2023-12", "Republican", "House", "NE", "Adrian Smith", "S001172", "adriansmith.house.gov", "adriansmith", "https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2013 Constituents of Third District Congressman Adrian Smith (R-NE) are invited to meet with a member of his staff during the month of January in Harrison, Pawnee City, Chadron, Beatrice, Rushville, Tecumseh, Alliance, and Auburn.\n\nA staff outreach event is an opportunity for constituents to meet directly with a member of Smith's staff about federal issues, receive assistance with a federal agency, or take advantage of the services available through his office.\n\nSmith, who has offices in Grand Island, Scottsbluff, and Nebraska City, will provide a staff member at the following times and locations:\n\nTuesday, January 2nd\n\nSioux County Courthouse\n\n325 Main Street, Harrison\n\n2:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m. MT\n\nTuesday, January 9th\n\nPawnee County Courthouse\n\n625 6th Street, Pawnee City\n\n11:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. CT\n\nDawes County Courthouse\n\n451 Main Street, Chadron\n\n12:00 p.m. - 1:00 p.m. MT\n\nWednesday, January 10th\n\nBeatrice Chamber of Commerce\n\n218 N. 5th Street, Beatrice\n\n11:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. CT\n\nTuesday, January 16th\n\nSheridan County Courthouse\n\n303 East 2nd Street, Rushville\n\n12:00 p.m. - 1:00 p.m. MT\n\nJohnson County Courthouse\n\n351 Broadway Street, Tecumseh\n\n10:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m. CT\n\nWednesday, January 17th\n\nBox Butte Courthouse, 1st Floor\n\n515 Box Butte Avenue, Alliance\n\n11:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. MT\n\nNemaha County Courthouse\n\n1824 N Street, Auburn\n\n10:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m. CT\n\nFor additional information, please contact Smith\u2019s Grand Island office at (308) 384-3900, his Scottsbluff office at (308) 633-6333, or his Nebraska City office at (402) 874-6050.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T01:14:16Z"], ["https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-flood-slams-bidens-border-mismanagement", "Congressman Flood Slams Biden\u2019s Border Mismanagement", "2023-12-22", "2023", "2023-12", "Republican", "House", "NE", "Mike Flood", "F000474", "flood.house.gov", "flood", "https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "LINCOLN, NEBRASKA \u2013 Today, U.S. Congressman Mike Flood issued a statement regarding the reopening of rail crossings on the U.S.-Mexico border.\n\n\u201cClosing rail crossings only to reopen them days later under pressure is just the latest example of Secretary Mayorkas\u2019 mismanagement of border policy. I\u2019m glad he reopened the crossings, however, they never should have been shut in the first place. This decision only added chaos and needless complexity to an already busy holiday season. President Biden and Secretary Mayorkas need to put their focus on getting control of our border and building the wall instead of shutting down transportation that\u2019s critical to our economy.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T01:14:16Z"], ["https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-floods-christmas-statement-0", "Congressman Flood\u2019s Christmas Statement", "2023-12-22", "2023", "2023-12", "Republican", "House", "NE", "Mike Flood", "F000474", "flood.house.gov", "flood", "https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C.\u2013U.S. Congressman Mike Flood issued a recorded statement ahead of Christmas, which is observed December 25, 2023.\n\nVideo of the remarks can be found by clicking here. News outlets are welcome to use the footage for their reporting purposes. The full text of the speech is below.\n\nFriends and fellow Nebraskans, as we enter this season, I want to take a moment to briefly reflect on the true meaning of Christmas.\n\nMore than two thousand years ago, Jesus Christ was born, wrapped in swaddling clothes, and laid in a manger.\n\nHis birth was announced to shepherds.\n\nIt was a humble beginning for the Savior of the world \u2013 an unexpected one that shattered the expectation of some that the Messiah would be a politically powerful figure.\n\nTwo millennia later, the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus continues to offer hope, grace, and salvation.\n\nAs we gather with family and friends to celebrate Christmas, let\u2019s give thanks for what we\u2019ve received this year.\n\nWe are richly blessed with a country in which we are free to live, work, and raise a family.\n\nIf you\u2019re traveling throughout the holidays, please be sure to watch the weather closely, buckle up, and have fun celebrating!", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T01:14:16Z"], ["https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=13F3D30C-8D2A-4CAB-8A4D-09A2AFC6BFEE", "Fischer\u2019s Christmas Message", "2023-12-20", "2023", "2023-12", "Republican", "Senate", "NE", "Deb Fischer", "F000463", "www.fischer.senate.gov", "fischer", "https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Today, U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-Neb.) released the following video to celebrate Christmas day.\n\nClick the image above to watch video of Sen. Fischer\u2019s remarks\n\nClick here to download video", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T18:56:20Z"], ["https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=E38959C8-0DB0-4838-BF81-A84FD5F6F02C", "Fischer Statement on Colorado Supreme Court Ruling", "2023-12-20", "2023", "2023-12", "Republican", "Senate", "NE", "Deb Fischer", "F000463", "www.fischer.senate.gov", "fischer", "https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2014U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-Neb.) released the following statement today in response to the Colorado Supreme Court\u2019s recentruling disqualifying President Donald Trump from the state\u2019s 2024 ballot:\n\n\u201cRegardless of your political persuasion, denying a candidate even the ability to stand for election is wrong. It\u2019s the right of American voters to support who they wish, but this ruling takes away that right. This election interference is deeply unAmerican. I encourage the Supreme Court to weigh in quickly.\n\nPermalink: https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/2023/12/fischer-statement-on-colorado-supreme-court-ruling", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T18:56:20Z"], ["https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=D0DAF740-0B67-4E73-AB95-214A93014A49", "Fischer, Ricketts Applaud Nomination of Susan Bazis to U.S. District Court of Nebraska", "2023-12-19", "2023", "2023-12", "Republican", "Senate", "NE", "Deb Fischer", "F000463", "www.fischer.senate.gov", "fischer", "https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2014U.S. Senators Deb Fischer (R-Neb.) and Pete Ricketts (R-Neb.) released the following statements regarding President Biden\u2019s nomination of Susan M. Bazis of Omaha to be a federal judge for the District of Nebraska:\n\n\u201cI was honored to recommend Susan Bazis to be a federal judge for the District of Nebraska to the White House earlier this year. A bright legal mind, Judge Bazis is a dedicated public servant who works hard not only to administer justice fairly, but to make our court system more efficient,\u201dsaid Senator Fischer. \u201cHer broad experience in both criminal and civil affairs will continue to serve our state and its people well. I encourage all of my Senate colleagues to support her nomination\u2014congratulations, Susan!\u201d\n\n\u201cI applaud Senator Fischer for working with the president to nominate a qualified and well-respected Nebraskan to the federal bench,\u201d said Senator Ricketts. \u201cJudge Susan Bazis\u2019s varied experience, strong intellect, and temperament will benefit us all. I have every confidence she will receive strong, bipartisan support. Congratulations, Judge Bazis!\u201d\n\nBackground:\n\nSenator Fischer first recommended Susan Bazis as a federal judge to President Biden for the District of Nebraska in January of 2023.\n\nBazis\u2019 nomination now enters the Senate confirmation process. After a confirmation hearing before the Senate Judiciary Committee, the committee will vote on her nomination. Following approval by the committee, her nomination heads to the Senate floor for a final vote.\n\nPermalink: https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/2023/12/fischer-ricketts-applaud-nomination-of-susan-bazis-to-u-s-district-court-of-nebraska", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T18:56:20Z"], ["https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-flood-and-chairman-mchenry-lead-letter-urging-cfpb-extend-comment", "Congressman Flood and Chairman McHenry Lead Letter Urging CFPB to Extend Comment Period for Larger Participants Rule", "2023-12-18", "2023", "2023-12", "Republican", "House", "NE", "Mike Flood", "F000474", "flood.house.gov", "flood", "https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Today, Congressman Mike Flood and Financial Services Committee Chairman Patrick McHenry led 18 of their colleagues on a letter to Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) Director Rohit Chopra requesting an extension of the comment period for the proposed rulemaking entitled, \u201cDefining Larger Participants of a Market for General-Use Digital Consumer Payment Applications.\u201d\n\n\u201cInnovation is the driving engine of the American economy and the proposed rulemaking\u2019s broad scope will have significant consequences on the ability for nonbank firms to offer innovative products and services and for consumers to benefit from competition in the market,\u201d the Members of Congress wrote. \u201cGiven the breadth of the proposal and ambiguity regarding its applicability, we urge the Bureau to extend the comment period for an additional 30 days. This additional time will give market participants the opportunity to provide comprehensive feedback.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T01:14:16Z"], ["https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-floods-statement-former-state-senator-lautenbaughs-passing", "Rep. Flood\u2019s Statement on Former State Senator Lautenbaugh\u2019s Passing", "2023-12-18", "2023", "2023-12", "Republican", "House", "NE", "Mike Flood", "F000474", "flood.house.gov", "flood", "https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "LINCOLN, NEBRASKA \u2013 Today, U.S. Congressman Mike Flood issued a statement following news that former State Senator Scott Lautenbaugh had passed away.\n\n\u201cI am stunned that my former colleague Scott Lautenbaugh passed away this morning. He was an enterprising, creative, and skilled orator who challenged the status quo and fought for conservative values. In the legislature, he championed fair election laws and was an early advocate for school choice. We are praying for his family and will long remember his incredible sense of humor and his friendship.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T01:14:16Z"], ["https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=228CDC6B-2BDE-4CD5-AE13-1A126595C175", "Fischer to Mayorkas: Your Border Negligence Caused an Economic Crisis", "2023-12-18", "2023", "2023-12", "Republican", "Senate", "NE", "Deb Fischer", "F000463", "www.fischer.senate.gov", "fischer", "https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases", "scraper", "Demands Action to Reopen Railways, Protect Commerce\n\nWASHINGTON, D.C. \u00ad\u2013 Today, U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-Neb.), a senior member of the Armed Services Committee and a member of the Agriculture Committee, sent a letter to Secretary of Homeland Security Alejandro Mayorkas criticizing the closure of the international railway crossing bridges in Eagle Pass and El Paso, Texas.\n\nIn her letter, Senator Fischer said the closure would hurt agriculture producers across the United States, and demanded the administration enact policies to curb the record levels of migration at the U.S. southern border.\n\n\u201cThe border crisis is not new. Since President Biden took office, CBP personnel have encountered over 6.6 million migrants \u2013 not counting additional millions of got-aways\u2026 Your office had an opportunity to implement policies that would stem the flow of illegal migration to prevent these suspensions from reoccurring. Instead, you failed to act and placed a heavier burden on American businesses and industries,\u201d wrote Senator Fischer.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T18:56:20Z"], ["https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=A13EA98D-F1B9-45A2-9692-12752539547F", "Fischer Statement on the Passing of Scott Lautenbaugh", "2023-12-16", "2023", "2023-12", "Republican", "Senate", "NE", "Deb Fischer", "F000463", "www.fischer.senate.gov", "fischer", "https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases", "scraper", "LINCOLN, Neb. \u2013 U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-Neb.) released the following statement today after learning of the passing of former Nebraska State Senator Scott Lautenbaugh:\n\n\u201cI was saddened to learn of the passing of my former colleague Scott Lautenbaugh this morning. Scott was a valuable member of the Legislature and of the Transportation and Telecommunications Committee. I enjoyed working with him on the infrastructure needs of Nebraska. He helped build a stronger Nebraska and was always guided by his conservative values.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T18:56:20Z"], ["https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=1380", "Rep. Don Bacon on NDAA Passage", "2023-12-15", "2023", "2023-12", "Republican", "House", "NE", "Don Bacon", "B001298", "bacon.house.gov", "bacon", "https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx", "scraper", "WASHINGTON - Today, Rep. Don Bacon voted with his House colleagues to support the final passage of the Fiscal Year 2024 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), which passed with a bipartisan majority of 310 to 118.\n\n\u201cEach year, the NDAA is a critical part of preserving American military superiority,\u201d said Bacon. \u201cThe FY24 NDAA is a victory for our service members and their families who will receive the largest pay increase in 20 years and ensuring that our military is modernized and ready for the threats we face.\u201d\n\nWith the recent terror attack in Israel, the ongoing war in Ukraine, and threats from the CCP, the bill is a victory for the American people.\n\nThe 2024 NDAA:\n\n\u00b7 Authorizes $886 billion for national defense including significant investments in the defense industrial base, munitions production, and critical technologies including artificial intelligence, space, autonomous systems, and hypersonic weapons. This amount is consistent with the topline defense discretionary spending agreement as part of the Fiscal Responsibility Act (FRA)\n\n\u00b7 Fully funds modernization of the nuclear weapons enterprise to replace aging systems and reverse the dangerous decline in the effectiveness and reliability of America\u2019s nuclear deterrent.\n\n\u00b7 Authorizes a 5.2 percent pay increase, expands servicemember eligibility for a supplemental basic needs allowance, and improves access to childcare.\n\n\u00b7 Provides a path back to service for the 8,000 servicemembers discharged for failing to take the COVID-19 vaccine.\n\nThe 2024NDAA also includes the following additional legislative provisions championed by Rep. Bacon:\n\n\u00b7 Authorizes $10 million for USSTRATCOM\u2019s nuclear command, control, and communications (NC3) rapid engineering architecture collaboration hub (REACH) initiative at Offutt AFB.\n\n\u00b7 Authorizes $41 million to construct a backup electric power \u201cmicro-grid\u201d for Offutt AFB.\n\n\u00b7 Authorizes an increase of $50 million to provide for accelerated integration of SABRE mission capability for the EA-37B Compass Call replacement aircraft.\n\n\u00b7 Directs the Secretary of Defense to establish a major defense acquisition program for Nuclear Command, Control and Communications.\n\n\u00b7 Directs the Secretary of Defense to enter into an agreement with a university affiliated research center to study multipolar strategic deterrence.\n\n\u00b7 Directs the Secretary of the Air Force to provide a future force design for the Department of the Air Force.\n\n\u00b7 Directs the Secretary of Defense to implement a plan of action to provide air, missile and counter-drone defensive capabilities for Kurdish Peshmerga and Iraqi security forces under frequent attack by Iran and its proxy forces in the region.\n\n\u00b7 Authorizes a cost-plus contract structure for construction of the first three Sentinel Inter-Continental Ballistic Missile (ICBM) replacement launch facilities.\n\n\u00b7 Directs the Secretary of Defense to consider the past performance of small-business affiliates during the evaluation and selection of defense contacts.\n\n\u00b7 Extends the authority of the Secretary of Defense to provide inflation adjustments payments for defense contracts.\n\n\u201c[Providing] for the common defense\u2019 is an essential Constitutional duty of Congress, and this year\u2019s NDAA will strengthen our military which defends our freedoms. The NDAA delivers for America, and for Nebraska\u2019s Second Congressional District,\u201d said Bacon.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T01:14:16Z"], ["https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=1381", "Bacon Introduces Bipartisan Military Personnel Confirmation Restoration Act", "2023-12-14", "2023", "2023-12", "Republican", "House", "NE", "Don Bacon", "B001298", "bacon.house.gov", "bacon", "https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx", "scraper", "Washington \u2013 Representatives Don Bacon (R-NE-02), Ruben Gallego (D-AZ-03,) Jen Kiggans (R-VA-02), Chrissy Houlahan (D-PA-06), and Abigail Spanberger (D-VA-07), introduced the bipartisanMilitary Personnel Confirmation Restoration Act of 2023to provide back pay for military officers whose promotions were delayed in the Senate. The legislation would also provide retroactive promotion dates and other administrative fixes. Senators Joe Manchin (D-WV) and Mike Rounds (R-SD) previously introduced the Senate version of the bill.\n\n\u201cDisagreements between elected representatives on abortion access should not negatively impact the pay and promotion of the men and women who serve our country,\u201d said Bacon. \u201cWhile I do not support the Department of Defenses\u2019 policy of paying travel expenses for service members and their dependents seeking an abortion, we need to send a clear message that the pay and promotions of senior military leaders we urgently need in key positions should not be used as political leverage.This bipartisan legislation fixes that.\u201d\n\n\u201cFor months, our officers were left waiting for promotions while Senator Tuberville used them to pressure the Pentagon to follow his extreme position on abortion,\u201d saidGallego. \u201cMilitary personnel should not be pawns for partisan officials. That\u2019s why I\u2019m proud to lead this bipartisan bill to ensure our military leaders are not deprived of the benefits they deserve.\u201d\n\n\"At a time when our great nation is facing unprecedented threats from every corner of the world, it is critical we prioritize our military men and women,\" said Kiggans. \"Preventing the promotions of more than 400 general and flag officers did the opposite and negatively impacted our military's readiness. While I share my colleagues' disagreements regarding DoD policies, Congress cannot allow our military families to get tangled up in partisan politics. I'm proud to join my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to provide benefits and backpay to the members of our Armed Forces who were negatively affected by this delay in promotions.\"\n\n\u201cWhen our servicemembers raise their right hands and swear an oath to protect our nation, they do so believing their elected leaders will put the interests of military personnel ahead of personal, political agendas,\" said Houlahan. \u201cI'm still angry that sacred trust was broken these past nine months, but it's time to repair it. This legislation will fulfill our obligation to hundreds of officers, ensuring that each of them receives the pay they would have received were it not for the harmful actions of one Senator. I hope this legislation will be quickly taken up to demonstrate to military personnel that the vast majority of us in Congress are truly thankful for their service and sacrifice.\u201d\n\n\u201cSenator Tuberville\u2019s actions jeopardized our national security and threatened to cripple our military readiness at home and abroad,\u201d said Spanberger. \u201cBy ensuring that impacted servicemembers receive the compensation they are owed for the promotions Senator Tuberville blocked, this bipartisan bill would demonstrate that lawmakers should not tolerate another one-man show.I want to thank my colleague Congressman Bacon for his partnership in this effort.\u201d\n\nFull text of the bill can be found here.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T01:14:16Z"], ["https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-mike-flood-votes-support-military-members-stop-woke-ideology-ndaa", "Rep. Mike Flood Votes to Support Military Members, Stop Woke Ideology in the NDAA", "2023-12-14", "2023", "2023-12", "Republican", "House", "NE", "Mike Flood", "F000474", "flood.house.gov", "flood", "https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Image\n\nDecember 14, 2023\n\nWashington, D.C. \u2013 Today, U.S. Congressman Mike Flood issued a statement following the passage of the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA).\n\n\u201cOur U.S. Service Members make great sacrifices to keep our nation safe, and it\u2019s critical that our country provide them and their families with a great quality of life. This year\u2019s NDAA delivers the largest pay increase for service members in two decades, expands access to healthcare, and includes key measures to stop the Chinese Communist Party. I applaud the Republican negotiators that delivered significant protections against woke ideology in this NDAA, which were especially challenging to secure in this time of divided government.\u201d\n\nWHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT THE FY24 NDAA\n\nBackground Provided by House Republicans\n\nThe FY24 NDAA pushes back against the radical woke ideology being forced on our servicemen and women and restores the focus of our military on lethality.\n\nBanning Critical Race Theory (CRT)\n\nProhibits funding for the teaching, training, or promotion of CRT in the military, including at service academies and DoD schools.\n\nGutting DEI\n\nGuts the Pentagon\u2019s DEI bureaucracy by putting in place a DEI hiring freeze and cutting and capping the pay of DEI bureaucrats.\n\nThe DEI Hiring Freeze prevents DoD from establishing any new positions or filling any open DEI positions until the GAO completes an investigation of the Pentagon\u2019s DEI programs.\n\nThe DEI Pay Cap would cut the base pay of current DEI bureaucrats and cap it at $70k.\n\nProhibits the display of any unapproved flags, such as the LGBTQ pride flag at military installations. Eliminates funding for the DoD\u2019s politically biased Countering Extremism Working Group. Prohibits DoD from contracting with advertising firms like NewsGuard that blacklist conservative news sources.\n\nRestoring Meritocracy\n\nRequires all military promotions and accessions to be based on individual merit and demonstrated performance.\n\nRequires the Army to establish higher minimum fitness standards that are sex-neutral for all combat arms soldiers.\n\nPreventing a Military Green New Deal\n\nDoes not authorize any climate change programs.\n\nProhibits DoD from issuing costly new greenhouse gas rules on defense contractors.\n\nPrevents DoD from deploying electric vehicles at installations until it certifies that doing so will not impact installation readiness and that sufficient charging infrastructure is in place.\n\nEnhancing the Rights of Servicemembers\n\nPermits Servicemembers to appeal verdicts of courts-martial to the Supreme Court.\n\nRequires DoD to provide Congress with legislative text and a timeline to implement unanimous jury verdicts for courts-martial.\n\nRequires DoD to review the foreign legal protections afforded U.S. Servicemembers stationed overseas and determine whether they are consistent with Servicemember rights under the Constitution.\n\nProtecting Children and Parents Rights\n\nIncludes a Parents Bill of Rights to ensure parents of children in DoD schools have the right to review curriculum, books, and instructional materials; meet with teachers; and provide consent before schools conduct medical exams or screenings of students.\n\nImproves training and the capability of military criminal investigative units to prevent and combat child sexual exploitation.\n\nThe FY24 NDAA boosts Servicemember pay and benefits and improves the quality of life for military families.\n\nServicemember Pay and Benefits\n\nSupports a 5.2% increase in Servicemember basic pay, the largest pay raise in over 20 years.\n\nAuthorizes the Secretary of Defense to pay junior enlisted members a monthly bonus to counteract the effects of Biden\u2019s record-high inflation.\n\nImproves the Basic Allowance for Housing calculation to increase reimbursement for junior enlisted Servicemembers and counteract soaring rental rates.\n\nExpands Basic Needs Allowance to assist low-income Servicemembers supporting a family.\n\nIncreases the monthly Family Separation Allowance.\n\nExtends military recruitment and retention bonuses and special pay authorities.\n\nMakes more Servicemembers living in high-cost areas eligible for additional cost-of-living allowances. Ensures members of the National Guard and Reserve are reimbursed for all of their housing costs during military training.\n\nLimits reductions in the cost-of-living allowance for Servicemembers assigned to foreign duty stations. Establishes the new Space Force Personnel Management Plan, easing service member transitions from active to inactive duty.\n\nHousing\n\nAuthorizes $38 million over the budget request for new family housing.\n\nAuthorizes $356 million over the budget request to renovate and build new barracks.\n\nRequires DoD to establish minimum standards for safety, security, and habitability of military barracks before assigning Servicemembers to live in such barracks.\n\nAuthorizes an additional berthing barge to provide a safe and healthy housing alternative for Navy Servicemembers during dry dock availabilities.\n\nRequires the DoD to identify locations where there is known contamination of drinking water systems on military installations and develop detailed plans to remediate and cleanup these sites.\n\nMilitary Spouses\n\nExpands reimbursements available to military spouses for relicensing or business costs when Servicemembers transfer locations.\n\nHelps military spouses keep their federal government jobs by authorizing telework when they move because of a military change of station.\n\nAllows temporary deferment of student loans for military spouses who lose their job as the result of a military change of station.\n\nRequires the Defense Health Agency to examine the feasibility of hiring qualified spouses while they await the transfer of professional licenses.\n\nOpens commissary and recreational facility access to remarried Gold Star Spouses.\n\nChildcare and Schools\n\nAuthorizes DoD to reduce out of pocket childcare expenses for military families.\n\nAuthorizes $153 million over the budget request for the construction of new childcare centers.\n\nRequires DoD to develop an outreach campaign relating to waiting lists for Military Child Development. Authorizes over $280 million to build new schools for military children.\n\nAuthorizes $50 million in Impact Aid assistance to public schools with military dependent students and an additional $10 million in assistance to local schools teaching children with severe disabilities.\n\nRequires a review of the availability of mental health services in military schools.\n\nMental Health\n\nAuthorizes the DoD to fund, and members of the Armed Services to participate in, clinical trials using psychedelic substances and cannabis to treat post-traumatic stress and traumatic brain injuries.\n\nWaives cost-sharing for three mental health outpatient visits each year for active duty family members and children.\n\nExpands mental health counseling services for Servicemembers transitioning to the private sector. Authorizes license portability for mental health professionals who provide non-medical counseling services.\n\nRequires DoD to examine ways to reduce time to credential providers and reimburse providers. Requires a study of the role of non-clinical behavioral health services to expand mental health services.\n\nHealthcare\n\nWaives fees and copays on the TRICARE Dental Program for all members of the Selected Reserve. Expands access to dental care for military families at remote or isolated duty locations.\n\nStrengthens oversight of TRICARE pharmacy program.\n\nExpands cardiac care pilot program to provide electrocardiograms to all individuals entering military service.\n\nRequires DoD to determine ways of enhancing medical resources for Servicemembers conducting missions in Japan and Guam.\n\nRequires DoD to study and report on health conditions of members of the Armed Forces on active duty developed after administration of COVID-19 vaccine.\n\nExpands eligibility for hearing aids under TRICARE.\n\nCareer Transition Assistance\n\nExpands counseling services for Servicemembers transitioning to the private sector.\n\nRequires DoD to meet minimum staffing and funding levels for the SkillBridge program.\n\nIncreases to 5 percent the Government-wide goal for participation in Federal contracts by small business concerns owned and controlled by service-disabled veterans.\n\nImproves, expands, and extends the Troops to Teachers program.\n\nImproving Military Recruitment\n\nExtends military recruitment bonuses.\n\nCracks down on colleges and universities that deny access to military recruiters.\n\nIncreases the number of JROTC programs and instructors at U.S. high schools.\n\nRequires high schools to allow military recruiters to participate in career fairs.\n\nEstablishes an enlisted training pilot program at community colleges.\n\nIncreases the health professions scholarship program from $30,000 to $50,000, ensuring DoD can compete with civilian medical schools for talent.\n\nThe FY24 NDAA builds and maintains the overmatch we need to counter Communist China\u2019s aggression.\n\nEnhancing Military Readiness\n\nAuthorizes the call up of the Selected Reserve to respond to cyber attacks that harm national security.\n\nLimits the ability of the Biden Administration to reduce the number of U.S. Special Forces.\n\nProhibits the decommissioning of 4 battle force ships with years of service life remaining.\n\nRejects the Biden Administration\u2019s request to divest certain aircraft, including the F-22, KC-135, E-3, and C-130 to ensure continued air superiority in the near-term.\n\nProhibits the DoD from reducing the number of Intercontinental Ballistic Missiles below 400 or reducing the responsiveness or alert status of the arsenal.\n\nLimits the ability of the Biden Administration to retire certain nuclear weapons or nuclear capable B-1 bombers.\n\nIncreases funding for military exercises.\n\nProhibits DoD from sourcing operational energy from Russia or China or any entity controlled by Russia or China.\n\nRequires the Air Force to maintain sufficient capability, capacity, and proficient aircrews to support geographical combatant commanders' requirements.\n\nPermanently increases the minor military construction threshold to give the services greater flexibility to build out necessary infrastructure.\n\nRequires MARAD to establish a working group to assess the size and readiness of the U.S. flag fleet to meet national defense and commercial requirements.\n\nExtends direct hire authority for military ranges and organic industrial base facilities to quickly fill critical vacancies with qualified civilians.\n\nCertainty for the Defense Industrial Base\n\nEstablishes a grant program to expand capacity at private shipyards building Navy ships.\n\nProvides for the implementation of the AUKUS agreement, unlocking over $3 billion in Australian investment in the U.S. submarine industrial base.\n\nEstablishes a Joint Energetics Transition Office to improve the domestic manufacture of energetic materials critical to the production of munitions.\n\nSupports additional investments in shipyard infrastructure and recapitalization efforts.\n\nProvides multi-year procurement for domestically produced rare earth elements and requires DoD to assess ways to increase stockpiles of rare earth elements.\n\nProvides multi-year procurement authority for the APL and Virginia Class sub.\n\nProvides multi-year procurement authority for several munitions critical to conflict in the Indo-Pacific. Establishes a critical reserve of long-lead items and components to provide the capability to quickly access the required components to accelerate the delivery of munitions.\n\nProvides emergency acquisition authority for purposes of replenishing United States stockpiles.\n\nIncreases investment in the Army Ammunition Plants to expand domestic munition production capacity. Increases funds for the expansion of the sonobuoy industrial base.\n\nSupply Chain and Industrial Base Security\n\nProhibits DoD from contracting with any CCP owned or controlled company operating in the U.S.\n\nRequires the Space Force to implement a plan to share threats from China and other adversaries with commercial space operators.\n\nEstablishes a pilot program to monitor and analyze supply chains for weapons systems critical to INDOPACOM. Requires an assessment of foreign control and influence over the supply chain for critical minerals and metals used for defense technologies.\n\nDirects GAO to review and assess DoD\u2019s efforts to plan and execute fuel resupply needs in a contested Indo- Pacific environment.\n\nRequires DoD to report to Congress on foreign control and influence over the supply chain for critical minerals, metals, supplies, services, and materials used for defense technologies.\n\nDirects DoD to review certain biotechnology companies that could be military-civil fusion entities. Extends and expands the \u201cNever Contract with the Enemy\u201d law to terminate contracts with persons or companies engaging in activities that present a direct or indirect risk to U.S. or allied forces.\n\nDeterrence\n\nExtends the Pacific Deterrence Initiative to enhance U.S. deterrence and defense posture in the Indo-Pacific region.\n\nFunds the initiative at $14.7 billion, an increase of $5.6 billion over the budget request. Authorizes over $987 million in INDOPACOM Commander priorities left unfunded in the Biden budget.\n\nProvides for the implementation of the AUKUS agreement between the U.S., U.K., and Australia and authorizes the eventual sale of nuclear capable submarines to Australia.\n\nRejects Biden administration\u2019s effort to reduce the size of the Navy.\n\nBuilds more projection forces (battle force ships and ISR aircraft) than requested to ensure overmatch in a CCP fight.\n\nIncreases funding for essential military construction projects and expands logistics capabilities in the Indo-Pacific to ensure our forces can sustain the fight.\n\nIncreases funding and provides multi-year procurement authority for munitions critical to the fight, including advanced autonomous drones, precision missiles, and anti-ship capabilities. Increases funding for innovative new technologies needed to deter the CCP on future battlefields, including AI, autonomous systems, cyber, mobile micronuclear reactors, and high energy lasers. Requires the DoD to undertake efforts to expand the deployable capacity of U.S. nuclear forces to counter the CCP\u2019s unprecedented nuclear buildup.\n\nStrengthening Homeland Defense and Preventing CCP Espionage\n\nProhibits DoD from contracting with any CCP owned or controlled company operating in the U.S. Requires the DoD to identify and mitigate harmful encroachment near military installations, especially land purchases made by CCP-backed entities.\n\nProhibits former members of the Armed Services from being employed by China or a CCP controlled company.\n\nRemoves outdated policy limitations preventing missile defenses from being oriented against threats to the homeland from adversaries such as China.\n\nAccelerates the deployment of advanced radars to track high-altitude balloons and other CCP threats to our homeland.\n\nAssists universities engaged in DoD research to improve the security of their research operations. Closes loopholes that enable DoD funds to go to universities operating CCP fronts like Confucius Institutes.\n\nProhibits DoD from contracting with EcoHealth Alliance for any research in China.\n\nProhibits DoD from working with the Wuhan Institute of Virology.\n\nLimits DoD\u2019s ability to hire consulting firms that also do business with the CCP.\n\nProhibits DoD and U.S. seaports from contracting with any entity that uses CCP backed transportation logistics software.\n\nProhibits DoD from procuring operational energy, certain battery technologies, and chemical munition materials from China.\n\nRequires the Space Force to implement a plan to share threats from China and other adversaries with commercial space operators.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T01:14:16Z"], ["https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=4BF1B1C4-CBB5-4D02-AA9D-8EF7CC1BB6C1", "Fischer, Colleagues Condemn Hamas\u2019 Use of Sexual Violence During October 7th Terrorist Attack on Israel", "2023-12-14", "2023", "2023-12", "Republican", "Senate", "NE", "Deb Fischer", "F000463", "www.fischer.senate.gov", "fischer", "https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 U.S. Senator DebFischer (R-Neb.), asenior member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, joined U.S. Senators JeanneShaheen (D-N.H.), KatieBritt (R-Ala.), and Kirsten Gillibrand (D-N.Y.) in leading a resolution condemning Hamas for using sexual and gender-based violence against Israelis during the October 7th terrorist attack.\n\n\u201cSome events are so evil they cannot be ignored or explained away\u2014they should unite us in condemnation, speaking in one, human voice. And yet, in the wake of mass rape on October 7th, human rights activists became terror apologists, while women\u2019s groups turned their backs on thousands of Israeli women. Every organization that has denied or ignored Hamas\u2019s war crimes must speak out and help bring justice to the perpetrators,\u201d said Senator Fischer.\n\nIn addition to Senators Fischer, Shaheen, Britt, and Gillibrand, the resolution was cosponsoredby U.S. Senators John Fetterman (D-Pa.), Susan Collins (R-Maine), Bob Casey (D-Pa.), Raphael Warnock (D-Ga.), Jon Ossoff (D-Ga.), Angus King (I-Maine), Mazie Hirono (D-Hawaii), Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.), Tammy Duckworth (D-Ill.), Ron Wyden (D-Ore.), Chris Murphy (D-Conn.), Sheldon Whitehouse (D-R.I.), Tim Kaine (D-Va.), Catherine Cortez Masto (D-Nev.), Mark Warner (D-Va.), Jacky Rosen (D-Nev.), Maggie Hassan (D-N.H.), Shelley Moore Capito (R-Wyo.), andMichael Bennet (D-Colo.).\n\nFull text of the resolution can be foundhere.\n\nPermalink: https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/2023/12/fischer-colleagues-condemn-hamas-use-of-sexual-violence-during-october-7th-terrorist-attack-on-israel", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T18:56:20Z"], ["https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=B5072EA0-FEB7-4CC2-ABEA-EA1B76D25E49", "Fischer: Europe\u2019s Munitions \u2018Cupboard\u2019 is Bare", "2023-12-14", "2023", "2023-12", "Republican", "Senate", "NE", "Deb Fischer", "F000463", "www.fischer.senate.gov", "fischer", "https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases", "scraper", "\u201cThis Boom-And-Bust Cycle of Production Has Put the United States Dangerously Behind\u201d\n\nWASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 In a speech on the Senate floor this week, U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-Neb.), a senior member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, called on the United States and Europe to build up their stockpiles of weapons and munitions.\n\nSenator Fischer stated that the U.S. is currently unprepared to increase munitions production at the scale and speed required to win a large war \u2014 noting that Russia and China far outpace America\u2019s current capacity to build and replace equipment.\n\nDuring her remarks, Senator Fischer cited a Wall Street Journal article outlining the damaging impact of budget cuts and an eroded defense industry on European armed services. According to the article, Germany\u2019s army only has enough ammunition to last for two days of battle, and the British military previously considered removing rocket launchers from museums to upgrade and donate to Ukraine.\n\nClick the image above to watch video of Sen. Fischer\u2019s remarks\n\nClick here to download audio\n\nClick here to download video", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T18:56:20Z"], ["https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=06C85282-252E-45A9-AEF9-D6762CD26580", "Fischer Applauds Final Passage of Annual Defense Bill", "2023-12-13", "2023", "2023-12", "Republican", "Senate", "NE", "Deb Fischer", "F000463", "www.fischer.senate.gov", "fischer", "https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases", "scraper", "Fischer Secured Dozens of Key Provisions to Strengthen U.S. National Security, Support State of Nebraska\n\nWASHINGTON, D.C. \u00ad\u2013 Today, U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-Neb.), a senior member of the Senate Armed Services Committee and the top Republican on the Strategic Forces Subcommittee, voted in favor of the Fiscal Year (FY) 2024 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA). This annual legislation authorizes defense spending and sets the policies and priorities for the U.S. military.\n\nSenator Fischer secured dozens of key national security provisions in the bill that strengthen America\u2019s military and support the state of Nebraska.\n\n\u201cThe first responsibility of the federal government is the safety and security of this nation. As the United States faces growing threats from China, Russia, and Iran, it\u2019s vital that Congress act to equip our military to protect the American people. This year\u2019s NDAA secures a pay raise for our troops and supports key defense priorities across the country, including at Offutt Air Force Base. Our bipartisan legislation will also update our aging nuclear forces, boost domestic munitions production, and bolster our national security.\u201d\n\nKey National Security Priorities\n\nNuclear Capabilities\n\nSea-Launched Cruise Missile (SLCM) \u2013 Created a program of record for SLCM, authorization for $190M for development, and $70M for National Nuclear Security Administration to develop the warhead.\n\nSentinel ICBM \u2013 Improved contracting flexibility for Sentinel Military Construction projects and created a Sentinel task force.\n\nNew START Treaty \u2013 Prohibited the sharing of New START information with Russia without equivalent sharing from Russia.\n\nW76-2 Warheads \u2013 Prohibited a reduction in W76-2 warheads, a low-yield variant of a thermonuclear weapon for submarine-launched missiles.\n\nMinuteman III \u2013 Retained key Minuteman III provisions, including a requirement to maintain and modernize all 150 silos at each of the three sites and to decrease upload times.\u201d\n\nMunitions\n\nMulti-year Procurement \u2013 Included multi-year procurement authority for munitions, which is vital for long-term planning and the support of our military industrial base.\n\nB83 Gravity Bomb \u2013 Prohibited retirement of the B83 gravity bomb and authorized the production of B61-13 gravity bombs, which are more capable against hard and deeply buried targets.\n\nIsrael Cooperation\n\nMissile Defense \u2013 Authorized cooperation between the United States and Israel on directed energy missile defense programs like the Iron Beam.\n\nEmerging Technology \u2013 Authorized $25M for the additional cooperation between the United States and Israel on emerging technologies, like artificial intelligence and cyber capabilities.\n\nDeterring China\n\nChinese Appeasement \u2013 Prevents the Department of Defense from participating in entertainment projects that seek pre-approval from or modify content to appease PRC or CCP-linked entities.\n\nPacific Deterrence \u2013 Extended a wide variety of investments in our capabilities to compete with and deter China (Pacific Deterrence Initiative) through 2026.\n\nU.S. Strategic Command\n\nREACH Program \u2013 Included authorization for $10M for U.S. Strategic Command\u2019s Nuclear Command, Control, and Communications (NC3) REACH program\n\nCyber Threats \u2013 Included authorization for $15M for U.S. Strategic Command\u2019s NC3 network sensor demonstrator\n\nElectronic Warfare \u2013 Included provision restructuring the Department of Defense\u2019s electronic warfare activities to more effectively align under the Joint Electromagnetic Spectrum Enterprise Operations (JEMSO) office at U.S. Strategic Command\n\nKey Nebraska Priorities\n\nNebraska National Guard\n\nNational Guard Readiness Center \u2013 Authorized $9.09M to complete the National Guard Readiness Center in Bellevue, NE\n\nTroop Housing \u2013 Authorized $1.2M for the planning and design of Collective Training Unaccompanied Housing at Greenlief Training Site, NE\n\nTroop Housing \u2013 Authorized $1.9M to complete the Collective Training Unaccompanied Housing at Mead Training Site, NE\n\nVehicle Maintenance Shop \u2013 Authorized $400K to complete the National Guard Vehicle Maintenance Shop in North Platte, NE\n\nOffutt Air Force Base\n\nLogistics Readiness Squadron \u2013 Authorized $3.5M for planning and design of the Logistics Readiness Squadron Transportation Facility at Offutt Air Force Base\n\nCivil Engineering Squadron \u2013 Authorized $4.5M for planning and design of the new maintenance facility and warehouse for the 55th Wing's Civil Engineering Squadron (CES) Pavements and Grounds Shop at Offutt Air Force Base\n\nBase Operations Center \u2013 Authorized $5M for planning and design of the Base Operations/Mobility Center at Offutt Air Force Base\n\nPower Grid \u2013 Authorized $41M for microgrid and backup power at Offutt Air Force Base\n\nPOW/MIA Accountability Agency \u2013 Authorized $5M for planning and design of the new Defense POW/MIA Accountability Agency Laboratory at Offutt Air Force Base\n\n55th Wing \u2013 Authorized $20M to upgrade RC-135 position, navigation, and timing systems to operate in a GPS-denied environment.\n\n557th Weather Wing \u2013 Authorized $9M to accelerate the Wing\u2019s data migration efforts.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T18:56:20Z"], ["https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases/smith-buchanan-and-wenstrup-reintroduce-bill-protect-medicare-patients-and", "Smith, Buchanan, and Wenstrup Reintroduce Bill to Protect Medicare Patients and Providers", "2023-12-12", "2023", "2023-12", "Republican", "House", "NE", "Adrian Smith", "S001172", "adriansmith.house.gov", "adriansmith", "https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2013 Today, Congressmen Adrian Smith (R-NE), Vern Buchanan (R-FL), and Brad Wenstrup (R-OH) introduced the Strengthening Innovation in Medicare and Medicaid Act. This legislation aims to restore accountability for the Center for Medicare and Medicaid Innovation (CMMI) through commonsense guardrails.\n\n\"There\u2019s no question CMMI lacks transparency. Worse, since its creation, it has failed to improve Medicare and Medicaid for beneficiaries \u2014 which is why I am introducing this bill to increase accountability and reassert congressional authority,\" said Rep. Smith. \"Proper oversight of CMMI will safeguard innovation and spur improvements in health care services to benefit both patients and providers. I thank Chairman Buchanan and Dr. Wenstrup for partnering with me on this important legislation.\"\n\n\"Created under ObamaCare, CMMI has been allowed to operate and increase direct spending by billions of taxpayer dollars a year without Congressional approval or any meaningful oversight for far too long,\u201d said Rep. Buchanan. \"It\u2019s past time Congress reassert much-needed oversight and put guardrails on this program to protect our nation's seniors from further unnecessary overreach. As Chairman of the House Ways and Means Health Subcommittee, I believe it\u2019s essential we put Congress back in the driver's seat instead of unaccountable bureaucrats. Thank you, Congressman Smith, for introducing this critical legislation.\u201d\n\n\"The Center for Medicare and Medicaid Innovation (CMMI) was created to find innovative ways to pay for and deliver care that can lower costs and improve care,\" said Rep. Wenstrup. \"According to a recent analysis, CMMI\u2019s activities have increased direct spending by $5.4 billion between 2011 and 2020. This legislation would bring key reforms empowering Congress to conduct oversight over CMMI\u2019s activities to ensure that tax-payer dollars are being used to pursue models that improve the future of health care delivery.\"\n\nCMMI was created to rapidly test new methods of payment or patient care intending to lower costs and improve patient outcomes. However, CMMI was given overly broad exemptions from existing regulations and judicial review, allowing these models to make sweeping changes without any Congressional oversight. Overly large and arbitrary models can cause uncertainty for health care providers and force patients into mandatory demonstration projects which impact the way they receive dialysis, cancer treatment, or prescription drugs. Additionally, a recent GAO study found that, since its inception, CMMI has failed to deliver any of the projected cost savings and instead resulted in billions of excess federal spending.\n\nThis legislation will reduce the uncertainty for both patients and providers by better defining the phases and steps in CMMI's model testing process. It will ensure new models are appropriately limited in size and scope during initial testing, while reasserting Congressional authority to review model expansion, bringing much-needed transparency to CMMI operations, and creating additional opportunities to improve quality of care for Medicare and Medicaid beneficiaries.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T01:14:16Z"], ["https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases/smith-commends-chairman-gallagher-ranking-member-krishnamoorthi-china-report", "Smith Commends Chairman Gallagher, Ranking Member Krishnamoorthi for China Report", "2023-12-12", "2023", "2023-12", "Republican", "House", "NE", "Adrian Smith", "S001172", "adriansmith.house.gov", "adriansmith", "https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2013 Rep. Adrian Smith (R-NE), Chairman of the Ways and Means Committee\u2019s Trade Subcommittee, released the following statement after the House Select Committee on Strategic Competition Between the United States and the Chinese Communist Party released their bipartisan report.\n\n\u201cI commend Chairman Gallagher and Ranking Member Krishnamoorthi for their work on this extensive report,\u201d said Subcommittee Chairman Smith. \u201cI strongly support the development of a cohesive strategy to ensure American leadership combats CCP influence around the world. The report includes some interesting recommendations and \u2013 as the Ways and Means Trade Subcommittee Chairman \u2013 I look forward to working with members of the Select Committee on policies to support American jobs and job creators, foster American leadership around the world, and use the tools at our disposal to responsibly hold China accountable.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T01:14:16Z"], ["https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=981A0E61-68CF-4935-ACD1-322689837C79", "WHAT THEY ARE SAYING: Groups Support Fischer Effort to Protect Rural Seniors\u2019 Access to Care, Halt Damaging Medicare Staffing Rule", "2023-12-12", "2023", "2023-12", "Republican", "Senate", "NE", "Deb Fischer", "F000463", "www.fischer.senate.gov", "fischer", "https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases", "scraper", "Stakeholders Say President Biden\u2019s CMS Rule \u201cThreatens Access to Long-Term Care for Seniors Everywhere\u201d\n\nWASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Recently, U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-Neb.) introduced the Protecting Rural Seniors\u2019 Access to Care Act. The legislation prohibits the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) Secretary from finalizing a proposed nursing home staffing rule that would hurt facilities across rural Nebraska and could force many to close.\n\nSince its introduction, the legislation has received broad support from stakeholders.\n\nThe bill is endorsed by over 100 organizations including: the American Association of Post-Acute Care Nursing (AAPACN), American Health Care Association (AHCA), American Hospital Association, American Society of Consultant Pharmacists, American Seniors Housing Association, Association of Jewish Aging Services, Catholic Health Association of the United States, Federation of American Hospitals, Good Samaritan, Immanuel, LeadingAge, LeadingAge Nebraska, Lutheran Services in America, National Association of State Veterans Homes (NASVH), National Center for Assisted Living National Organization of State Offices of Rural Health (NOSORH), National Rural Health Association, Nebraska Health Care Association, Nebraska Hospital Association, Tabitha Health, and Vetter Senior Living.\n\nStakeholder Support:\n\n\u201cWe are already facing a crisis in access to care in Nebraska nursing homes, and the proposed staffing mandate would only make this worse. We have more people needing services than we have available providers, and many waiting for services in our hospitals and at home. The CMS proposed minimum staffing mandate will only make it harder for older adults and families to receive the care they need. Getting this wrong will jeopardize equity and access for care now and into the future with a growing number of older adults. The issues that need to be addressed are developing a strong workforce and assuring providers receive adequate funding to cover the cost of services. LeadingAge Nebraska wholly supports Senator Fischer in this bill and will encourage our advocates across the U.S. to urge their representatives to do the same,\u201d said LeadingAge Nebraska CEO Kierstin Reed.\n\n\u201cWe applaud Senators Fischer and Tester for introducing this legislation. This unfunded mandate threatens access to long term care for seniors everywhere, but especially our nation\u2019s rural and underserved communities. It requires substantial resources that nursing homes simply don\u2019t have to hire more than 100,000 additional caregivers that simply don\u2019t exist, ultimately threatening to close nursing homes across the country. Rather than this impossible, one-size-fits-all mandate, we need thoughtful workforce policies that will help address nationwide nursing shortages and incentivize caregivers to choose a career in long term care. We fully support this bill and look forward to working with Congress on more productive solutions to ensure access to critical long term care services,\u201d said the American Health Care Association/National Center for Assisted Living (AHCA/NCAL).\n\n\u201cEnsuring that older Americans have access to quality care in nursing homes is a widely shared goal. The proposed nursing home staffing requirement is the wrong approach. By prohibiting this unrealistic and unfunded mandate, the Protecting Rural Seniors\u2019 Access to Care Act will help to ensure older adults can get the care and services they need and fend off more nursing home closures. It further offers a path to solutions by establishing a panel to address workforce shortages that are chronic throughout the sector. We applaud Sen. Fischer\u2019s effort to get this right for all Americans,\u201d said LeadingAge President and CEO Katie Smith Sloan.\n\nFull list of endorsements:\n\nAdvena Living Group, ADVION, Alabama Nursing Home Association, American Association of Post-Acute Care Nursing (AAPACN), American Health Care Association, American Hospital Association, American Seniors Housing Association, American Society of Consultant Pharmacists, Arizona Health Care Association, Arkansas Health Care Association, Association of Jewish aging services, Avera, California Association of Health Facilities (CAHF), Care Providers of Minnesota, Care Providers Oklahoma, Cascadia Healthcare, Catholic Health Association of the United States, Colorado Health Care Association, Connecticut Association of Health Care Facilities, District of Columbia Health Care Association, Essentia Health, Federation of American Hospitals, Genesis Healthcare, Georgia Health Care Association, Good Samaritan, Health Care Association of Michigan, Hill Top House, Hospital and Health System Association of Pennsylvania, Idaho Health Care Association, Illinois Health Care Association, Immanuel, Indiana Health Care Association, Iowa Health Care Association, Iowa Hospital Association, Kansas Health Care Association/KS Center for Assisted Living, Kansas Hospital Association, Kentucky Association of Health Care Facilities, LeadingAge, LeadingAge California, LeadingAge Colorado, LeadingAge Connecticut, LeadingAge DC, LeadingAge Florida, LeadingAge Georgia, LeadingAge Iowa, LeadingAge Kansas, LeadingAge Maine & New Hampshire, LeadingAge Massachusetts, LeadingAge Minnesota, LeadingAge Nebraska, LeadingAge New Jersey & Delaware, LeadingAge New York, LeadingAge North Carolina, LeadingAge Oklahoma, LeadingAge PA, LeadingAge South Carolina, LeadingAge Tennessee, LeadingAge Texas, LeadingAge Virginia, LeadingAge Wyoming, Louisiana Hospital Association, Louisiana Nursing Home Association, Lutheran Services in America, Maine Council on Aging, Maine Health Care Association, Maine Hospital Association, Maine Medical Association, Maine Osteopathic Association, Maryland Rural Health Association, Massachusetts Senior Care Association, Midwest Health, Inc., Minnesota Hospital Association, Minnesota Rural Health Association, Mission Health, Mississippi Health Care Association, National Association of State Veterans Homes (NASVH), National Center for Assisted Living, National Organization of State Offices of Rural Health (NOSORH), National Rural Health Association, Nebraska Health Care Association, Nebraska Hospital Association, New England Rural Health Association, New Hampshire Health Care Association, North Carolina Health Care Facilities Association, North Dakota Hospital Association, North Dakota Long Term Care Association, Ohio Health Care Association, Pennsylvania Health Care Association, Pennsylvania Rural Health Association, Rhode Island Health Care Association, Sanford Health, South Dakota Assoc. of Healthcare Organizations, South Dakota Health Care Association, St. Otto's Care Center Inc., Tabitha Health, Texas Health Care Association, The Alaska Hospital & Healthcare Association, Trinity Health, Utah Health Care Association, Vetter Senior Living, Virginia Health Care Association-Virginia Center for Assisted Living, Wisconsin Health Care Association, and the Wyoming Health Care Association", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T18:56:20Z"], ["https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-flood-introduces-resolution-condemning-uns-anti-beef-food-strategy", "Rep. Flood Introduces Resolution Condemning UN's Anti-Beef Food Strategy", "2023-12-11", "2023", "2023-12", "Republican", "House", "NE", "Mike Flood", "F000474", "flood.house.gov", "flood", "https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Today, U.S. Congressman Mike Flood introduced a resolution pushing back on a new food systems strategy from the United Nations\u2019 (UN) Food & Agriculture Organization (FAO). In a memo released at COP28 over the weekend, the FAO recommends reducing the amount of beef in diets, promotes recommendations that include non-meat alternatives, and suggests that meat production be \u201crebalanced,\u201d threatening existing ranching and feeding producers.\n\n\u201cThe UN\u2019s plans for your diet would be nothing short of a disaster for your health and food security worldwide,\u201d said Rep. Flood. \u201cMeat is one of the most efficient ways to deliver protein, and here in the Beef State, cattle are a critical part of the Golden Triangle that\u2019s supplying clean ethanol fuel around the world. The resolution I\u2019m introducing today makes it clear that the United States opposes any attempt to reduce or eliminate meat production. Doing so would shatter the world\u2019s food security and end an age-old way of life for millions of farm and ranch families across the globe.\u201d\n\n\u201cIt's laughable that a U.N. agency spearheaded by a top CCP official is calling on Americans to eat less meat in the name of climate change when China is the world's worst polluter,\u201d said Rep. Ashley Hinson. \u201cThis is a thinly veiled attempt by China to undermine U.S. agriculture as well as the Iowa farmers who produce high quality meat. The impact of the CCP infiltrating the UN is clear: they can strongly call for Americans to stop eating meat but can't strongly condemn Hamas for their human rights atrocities in Israel. I'm proud to lead the charge to condemn this nonsense from the UN alongside Representative Flood, stand up for U.S. agriculture, and set the record straight.\"\n\nA copy of the full resolution can be found by clicking here. A copy of the FAO report released over the weekend can be found here. Background on Nebraska\u2019s Golden Triangle can be found here.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T01:14:16Z"], ["https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases/smith-bipartisan-colleagues-introduce-maintaining-and-enhancing", "Smith, Bipartisan Colleagues Introduce Maintaining and Enhancing Hydroelectricity and River Restoration Act", "2023-12-07", "2023", "2023-12", "Republican", "House", "NE", "Adrian Smith", "S001172", "adriansmith.house.gov", "adriansmith", "https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2013 Reps. Adrian Smith (R-NE), Suzan DelBene (D-WA), Claudia Tenney (R-NY), Annie Kuster (D-NH), Brian Fitzpatrick (R-PA), and Kim Schrier (D-WA) introduced the Maintaining and Enhancing Hydroelectricity and River Restoration Act, legislation extending a 30 percent investment tax credit (ITC) to American hydroelectric investments to improve power production, provide environmental benefits, or remove outdated dam infrastructure through 2031.\n\nThe members released the following statements:\n\n\u201cAs an affordable and highly sustainable source of energy, hydroelectric power is a valuable component of an all-of-the-above strategy for American energy dominance. H.R. 6653 addresses the primarily frontloaded development cost of hydropower to maximize infrastructure investment, energy savings, and stewardship of our natural resources,\u201d said Rep. Smith. \u201cIn an increasingly competitive global energy market, the United States cannot afford to leave any opportunity to increase energy production on the table. I thank Reps. DelBene, Tenney, Kuster, Fitzpatrick, Schrier, and our colleagues in the Senate for their cooperation on this bipartisan legislation.\u201d\n\n\u201cWashington has long been a trailblazer in leveraging hydropower to provide clean, affordable energy and this legislation would help us build on that success,\u201d said Rep DelBene. \u201cThe bill would create a new tax incentive for hydropower facilities to enhance the safety of dams, protect and enhance fish habitat and passage across the Pacific Northwest, improve grid resiliency, and water quality. This will help lower energy costs for Washingtonians and help us meet our emissions reduction goals.\u201d\n\n\u201cIncentivizing renewable energy, including hydroelectricity, is a proven way to transition to a clean energy future,\u201d said Rep. Fitzpatrick. \u201cOur bipartisan Maintaining and Enhancing Hydroelectricity and River Restoration Act implements a 30 percent investment tax credit for improvements to hydroelectric facilities to further tap into renewable energy resources in Pennsylvania and nationwide.\u201d\n\n\u201cWe must embrace an all-of-the-above approach to meet our clean energy goals \u2013 hydropower is a critical part of the effort,\u201d said Rep. Kuster. \u201cThis legislation is a key step forward toward improving dam safety, increasing hydroelectricity production, and enhancing the health of our nation\u2019s rivers. Let\u2019s get this done!\u201d\n\n\u201cHydropower is the largest source of electricity in Washington state, comprising 67% of the energy generation mix. It\u2019s important we invest in the safety of this reliable, affordable resource to achieve our emissions goals while restoring river health and safe passage for salmon and steelhead populations,\u201d said Rep. Schrier. \u201cThis legislation will incentivize safer hydroelectric energy production while also enhancing aquatic ecosystems, water quality, and public use upgrades.\u201d\n\nCurrently, the ITC covering hydropower only applies to investments that produce a marginal increase in power generation. Vital environmental and maintenance investments such as new fish passage to help enhance aquatic ecosystems, structural upgrades to ensure the safety of dams, and generator rewinds to improve grid resiliency that do not result in power increases are not currently eligible for this credit. With many decades-old hydroelectric dams facing costly upgrades to continue operating safely and economically, the Maintaining and Enhancing Hydroelectricity and River Restoration Act of 2023 bridges the gap in current law. Examples of eligible investments include adding fish-friendly turbines or new fish ladders, managing river sediments to improve habitat, upgrading or replacing floodgates and spillways, and expanding access to public waterways impacted by existing dams.\n\nThe bipartisan bill would also support local efforts to remove non-power producing river barriers, including abandoned or obsolete dams, dikes, or embankments, allowing those rivers to run free and naturally once again. Private, state, local, and non-profit groups could use the 30 percent federal tax incentive, with a direct pay option, to support efforts to demolish and remove unnecessary barriers with the owner\u2019s consent. Removing obsolete river obstructions that no longer meet their intended purpose nor benefit society can provide new outdoor recreation opportunities, create new fish and wildlife habitat, spur local economic development, and increase the resilience of rivers.\n\nIndustry leaders shared the following statements in support of the legislation:\n\n\u201cCentral wishes to thank Congressman Adrian Smith for introducing The Maintaining and Enhancing Hydroelectricity and River Restoration Act,\u201d said Dave Rowe Central Nebraska Public Power and Irrigation District Board President. \u201cThis is a transformative piece of legislation that will support our long-standing commitment this District and Nebraska has dedicated to our water resources through the infrastructure like Kingsley Dam as it approaches a century of service to our State.\u201d\n\n\u201cLake McConaughy is one of the most important pieces of water infrastructure in Nebraska and this bill can help provide resources necessary to help maintain the safety and structure of Kingsley Dam for generations to come,\u201d said Devin Brundage Central Nebraska Public Power and Irrigation District General Manager. \u201cIt will ensure all of those benefits that were envisioned in the construction of this and other projects continue for generations to come.\u201d\n\n\u201cA clean energy grid requires water power to complement wind and solar for 24/7 reliability,\u201d said Malcolm Woolf President and CEO of the National Hydropower Association. \u201cI send my deepest gratitude to Representatives Smith and DelBene for carrying forward this vital priority in the House. Hydropower currently provides an estimated 30 million American homes with zero-carbon electricity. Yet almost half of the non-federal hydropower fleet faces expensive relicensing in the next several years, with 17,000 MWs of flexible, carbon-free generation at risk of premature retirement. This bill, like its Senate counterpart, will help preserve the existing fleet by enabling facilities to make environmental and dam safety enhancements \u2013 outcomes that will lead to healthier rivers and a more reliable grid. I urge Congress to pass this bill as soon as possible; our industry, our environment, and the energy needs of Americans can\u2019t wait a moment longer.\"\n\n\u201cCity Light applauds the collaborative effort of the bipartisan leaders for introducing this bill that incentivizes environmental, infrastructure, and dam safety improvements to support the future of hydropower generation and strengthen the health of our rivers\u2019 ecosystems,\u201d said Mike Haynes Interim General Manager and CEO of Seattle City Light.\n\nFor text of the legislation click here.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T01:14:16Z"], ["https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=04AAE713-7855-47CC-9B78-338F170D7255", "Fischer Secures Key National Security Priorities in Defense Bill", "2023-12-07", "2023", "2023-12", "Republican", "Senate", "NE", "Deb Fischer", "F000463", "www.fischer.senate.gov", "fischer", "https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u00ad\u2013 U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-Neb.), a senior member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, released the following statement in response to the release of the final Fiscal Year 2024 National Defense Authorization Act.\n\nSenator Fischer secured dozens of key national security provisions in the bill that strengthen our military and support the state of Nebraska.\n\n\u201cThe federal government\u2019s primary responsibility is the safety and security of this nation. The threats facing the United States from China, Russia, Iran, and elsewhere are the gravest in decades, and Congress must equip our military to protect the American people. This year\u2019s defense bill will advance vital defense priorities nationwide and in Nebraska, including key updates to our nuclear forces, munitions production, and Offutt Air Force Base.\u201d\n\nKey National Security Priorities\n\nNuclear Capabilities\n\nSea-Launched Cruise Missile (SLCM) \u2013 Created a program of record for SLCM, authorization for $190M for development, and $70M for National Nuclear Security Administration to develop the warhead.\n\nSentinel ICBM \u2013 Improved contracting flexibility for Sentinel Military Construction projects and created a Sentinel task force.\n\nNew START Treaty \u2013 Prohibited the sharing of New START information with Russia without equivalent sharing from Russia.\n\nW76-2 Warheads \u2013 Prohibited a reduction in W76-2 warheads, a low-yield variant of a thermonuclear weapon for submarine-launched missiles.\n\nMinuteman III \u2013 Retained key Minuteman III provisions, including a requirement to maintain and modernize all 150 silos at each of the three sites and to decrease upload times.\u201d\n\nMunitions\n\nMulti-year Procurement \u2013 Included multi-year procurement authority for munitions, which is vital for long-term planning and the support of our military industrial base.\n\nB83 Gravity Bomb \u2013 Prohibited retirement of the B83 gravity bomb and authorized the production of B61-13 gravity bombs, which are more capable against hard and deeply buried targets.\n\nIsrael Cooperation\n\nMissile Defense \u2013 Authorized cooperation between the United States and Israel on directed energy missile defense programs like the Iron Beam.\n\nEmerging Technology \u2013 Authorized $25M for the additional cooperation between the United States and Israel on emerging technologies, like artificial intelligence and cyber capabilities.\n\nDeterring China\n\nChinese Appeasement \u2013 Prevents the Department of Defense from participating in entertainment projects that seek pre-approval from or modify content to appease PRC or CCP-linked entities.\n\nPacific Deterrence \u2013 Extended a wide variety of investments in our capabilities to compete with and deter China (Pacific Deterrence Initiative) through 2026.\n\nU.S. Strategic Command\n\nREACH Program \u2013 Included authorization for $10M for U.S. Strategic Command\u2019s Nuclear Command, Control, and Communications (NC3) REACH program\n\nCyber Threats \u2013 Included authorization for $15M for U.S. Strategic Command\u2019s NC3 network sensor demonstrator\n\nElectronic Warfare \u2013 Included provision restructuring the Department of Defense\u2019s electronic warfare activities to more effectively align under the Joint Electromagnetic Spectrum Enterprise Operations (JEMSO) office at U.S. Strategic Command\n\nKey Nebraska Priorities\n\nNebraska National Guard\n\nNational Guard Readiness Center \u2013 Authorized $9.09M to complete the National Guard Readiness Center in Bellevue, NE\n\nTroop Housing \u2013 Authorized $1.2M for the planning and design of Collective Training Unaccompanied Housing at Greenlief Training Site, NE\n\nTroop Housing \u2013 Authorized $1.9M to complete the Collective Training Unaccompanied Housing at Mead Training Site, NE\n\nVehicle Maintenance Shop \u2013 Authorized $400K to complete the National Guard Vehicle Maintenance Shop in North Platte, NE\n\nOffutt Air Force Base\n\nLogistics Readiness Squadron \u2013 Authorized $3.5M for planning and design of the Logistics Readiness Squadron Transportation Facility at Offutt Air Force Base\n\nCivil Engineering Squadron \u2013 Authorized $4.5M for planning and design of the new maintenance facility and warehouse for the 55th Wing's Civil Engineering Squadron (CES) Pavements and Grounds Shop at Offutt Air Force Base\n\nBase Operations Center \u2013 Authorized $5M for planning and design of the Base Operations/Mobility Center at Offutt Air Force Base\n\nPower Grid \u2013 Authorized $41M for microgrid and backup power at Offutt Air Force Base\n\nPOW/MIA Accountability Agency \u2013 Authorized $5M for planning and design of the new Defense POW/MIA Accountability Agency Laboratory at Offutt Air Force Base\n\n55th Wing \u2013 Authorized $20M to upgrade RC-135 position, navigation, and timing systems to operate in a GPS-denied environment.\n\n557th Weather Wing \u2013 Authorized $9M to accelerate the Wing\u2019s data migration efforts.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T18:56:20Z"], ["https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=A239BAFF-9085-464B-B243-E80BED2AB8C5", "Nebraska\u2019s Senators Raise Concerns with Ineffective Emergency Relief Program for Producers", "2023-12-07", "2023", "2023-12", "Republican", "Senate", "NE", "Deb Fischer", "F000463", "www.fischer.senate.gov", "fischer", "https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2014 U.S. Senators Deb Fischer (R-Neb.) and Pete Ricketts (R-Neb.) joined their colleagues in the Senate and House of Representatives to call attention to issues regarding the 2022 Emergency Relief Program (ERP). In a recent letter to U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Secretary Thomas Vilsack, the Senators highlighted ongoing producer concerns with the new program.\n\n\u201cThe 2022 crop year was challenging for many of America's farmers and ranchers who were saddled with record-high production costs, inflation, and met with historic drought conditions in the West and significant flood and freeze events in other regions of the country. In light of these challenges, we thank you for the swift assistance made to livestock producers with drought or wildfire losses in 2022. However, following the USDA\u2019s 2022 ERP rollout for qualified crop losses, we have heard from producers in our states with concerns regarding the new program,\u201dthe members wrote.\n\nThe Senators outlined several questions for Secretary Vilsack to increase transparency on how the emergency reimbursements were calculated, administered, and what would be done with remaining funds.\n\n\u201cWe recognize that ad hoc disaster assistance is costly to U.S. taxpayers and only a band-aid to issues exacerbated by extreme weather volatility. It is for this reason that we believe an adequate farm safety net, including conservation investments that address persistent drought, are critical in any upcoming multi-year Farm Bill reauthorization,\u201dthe members continued.\n\nIn addition to Senators Fischer and Ricketts, the letter was signed by U.S. Senators Jerry Moran (R-Kans.), Michael Bennet (D-Colo.), Thom Tillis (R-N.C.), John Hickenlooper (D-Colo.), and James Lankford (R-Okla.), and Representatives Dusty Johnson (R-S.D.), Henry Cuellar (D-Texas), Nathaniel Moran (R-Texas), Lance Gooden (R-Texas), Jim Costa (D-Calif.), Pete Sessions (R-Texas), Yadira Caraveo (D-Colo.), Jake Ellzey (R-Texas), August Pfluger (R-Texas), Troy Nehls (R-Texas) and Vincente Gonzalez (D-Texas).\n\nThe full letter can be foundhereand below.\n\nDear Secretary Vilsack:\n\nWe write to you concerning the U.S. Department of Agriculture\u2019s (USDA) 2022 Emergency Relief Program (ERP). Almost a year ago, Congress passed, and the President signed into law the Disaster Relief Supplemental Appropriations Act, 2023 (P.L. 117-328), which authorized $3.74 billion in emergency financial relief through the ERP to America\u2019s farmers and ranchers who were afflicted by devasting natural disasters last year.\n\nAs you know, the 2022 crop year was challenging for many of America's farmers and ranchers who were saddled with record-high production costs, inflation, and met with historic drought conditions in the West and significant flood and freeze events in other regions of the country. In light of these challenges, we thank you for the swift assistance made to livestock producers with drought or wildfire losses in 2022. However, following the USDA\u2019s 2022 ERP rollout for qualified crop losses, we have heard from producers in our states with concerns regarding the new program.\n\nTo that end, we request your prompt response to the following questions:\n\n1. Can you explain the economic justification of the new progressive payment factor for ERP Track 1 and Track 2 losses, recognizing that 2022 losses far exceeded the $3.7 billion disaster assistance authorization?\n\na. How will the progressive payment factor for ERP Track 1 and Track 2 losses translate into total payments to states?\n\nb. Specifically, will the top states with losses in 2022 \u2013 Texas, Kansas, Nebraska, California, South Dakota, Montana, and Colorado \u2013 be the same top states with disaster payments made to producers?\n\nc. If not, which states will likely see the most payments?\n\n2. In the Federal Register Notice of Funds Availability (Docket ID FSA-2023-0020)1, the agency includes an additional 75% payment factor for all calculated Track 1 and Track 2 payments for eligible crop producers, including underserved producers. This additional reduction of 25% is not currently included in the publicly available program factsheet posted on USDA\u2019s website. Can you confirm that all Track 1 and Track 2 payments for eligible crop producers will see the additional 75% proration?\n\n3. According to USDA estimates, ERP Track 1 benefits will reach more than 206,000 producers who received indemnities for losses covered by federal crop insurance and more than 4,500 producers who obtained Noninsured Crop Disaster Assistance Program (NAP) coverage for the 2022 crop year. What is the average payment USDA will likely issue compared to the amount of actual loss not covered through crop insurance and NAP indemnities?\n\na. How much does USDA estimate to issue in total to recipients with losses under Track 1?\n\n4. In the 2020 and 2021 ERP, producers were individually reimbursed for crop insurance or NAP premiums and fee costs. However, in the 2022 ERP, a percentage of these reimbursements will only be made available to certain producers. If USDA has leftover funds following the initial payments made, would the Department consider providing reimbursement of some of these costs for all producers in order to provide additional support to producers who have availed themselves of existing risk management tools?\n\n5. In the Federal Register Notice of Funds Availability (Docket ID FSA-2023-0020)2, the Department indicates that if funds remain, additional payments could be made. Please outline how the Department would issue additional payments?\n\na. Can you specify if they would be made through Track 1, Track 2, or through crop insurance or NAP premiums and fee cost reimbursements?\n\n6. Did USDA consider an across-the-board payment factor instead of the progressive payment factor? If so, what payment factor would have been required?\n\n7. For natural disaster-related losses in 2020 and 2021, Congress provided $10 billion through the Extending Government Funding and Delivering Emergency Assistance Act (P.L. 117-43). These funds are available until December 31, 2023.\n\na. As of today, how much of the $10 billion remains unobligated?\n\nb. How much money does the agency plan to spend by December 31, 2023?\n\nc. How much money does the agency plan to withhold to address appeals?\n\n8. Will the agency continue its commitment to transparency of disaster assistance and post the outlays publicly on a 2022 ERP dashboard?\n\nAs you continue to make 2022 ERP implementation decisions, we urge you to consider reimbursing crop insurance and NAP premiums as well as fee costs to some extent for all 2022 ERP-eligible producers.\n\nWe recognize that ad hoc disaster assistance is costly to U.S. taxpayers and only a band aid to issues exacerbated by extreme weather volatility. It is for this reason that we believe an adequate farm safety net, including conservation investments that address persistent drought, are critical in any upcoming multiyear Farm Bill reauthorization.\n\nThank you in advance for your response to these critically important questions.\n\nPermalink: https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/2023/12/nebraska-s-senators-raise-concerns-with-ineffective-emergency-relief-program-for-producers", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T18:56:20Z"], ["https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-flood-highlights-temporary-flexibility-ag-relief-programs", "Congressman Flood Highlights Temporary Flexibility for Ag Relief Programs", "2023-12-06", "2023", "2023-12", "Republican", "House", "NE", "Mike Flood", "F000474", "flood.house.gov", "flood", "https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Today, U.S. Congressman Mike Flood highlighted new temporary flexibility for two key relief programs for Nebraska ag producers. The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) recently announced changes to 2023 Notice of Loss Requirements for the Emergency Assistance for Livestock, Honeybees, and Farm-raised Fish (ELAP) and Livestock Indemnity Program (LIP).\n\n\u201cI appreciate the USDA\u2019s move to give producers more flexibility in reporting losses,\u201d said Congressman Flood. \u201cOur farmers and ranchers already have a lot of priorities to meet. This will give ag producers the time they need to get information to the FSA that provides a full picture of their losses as they seek to participate in these programs,\u201d said Congressman Flood\n\n\u201cOur goal is to get producers into these disaster programs, and they are always encouraged to turn in an application if they believe they are eligible,\u201d said FSA Administrator Zach Ducheneaux at the time of the announcement. The USDA\u2019s full news release can be found by clicking here.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T01:14:16Z"], ["https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-flood-thanks-congressman-mccarthy-his-service", "Congressman Flood Thanks Congressman McCarthy for His Service", "2023-12-06", "2023", "2023-12", "Republican", "House", "NE", "Mike Flood", "F000474", "flood.house.gov", "flood", "https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013Today, U.S. Congressman Mike Flood released the statement below following Congressman Kevin McCarthy\u2019s retirement announcement.\n\n\u201cKevin McCarthy led House Republicans through two successful elections, delivering a Republican majority in 2022. Members rallied around his Commitment to America uniting our caucus around fundamental conservative principles. He accomplished all this while expertly navigating a difficult political environment. He has dedicated much of his professional life to public service, which has made a positive impact on both his state and his country. Best wishes to Kevin on his retirement. I know he will keep making a big impact wherever he chooses to invest his time and talent next.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T01:14:16Z"], ["https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=872279AF-3F59-4BE0-9879-69ADD8052407", "Fischer Legislation to Protect Rural Seniors\u2019 Access to Care, Halt Damaging Medicare Staffing Rule", "2023-12-06", "2023", "2023-12", "Republican", "Senate", "NE", "Deb Fischer", "F000463", "www.fischer.senate.gov", "fischer", "https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2014 This week, U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-Neb.) introduced the Protecting Rural Seniors\u2019 Access to Care Act. The legislation would prohibit the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) Secretary from finalizing a proposed nursing home staffing rule that would hurt facilities across rural Nebraska and could force many to close.\n\nIn addition to Senator Fischer, the legislation is cosponsored by U.S. Senators Roger Marshall (R-Kan.), James Lankford (R-Okla.), Jon Tester (D-Mont.), Kyrsten Sinema (I-Ariz.), Joe Manchin (D-W.Va.), Roger Wicker (R-Miss.), Susan Collins (R-Maine), and Angus King (I-Maine).\n\nThe legislation would also establish an advisory panel on nursing home staffing that includes voices from both urban and rural communities. The panel would submit a report to Congress that analyzes workforce shortages and makes practical recommendations to strengthen the workforce.\n\n\u201cNursing homes across the country face historic staffing shortages, and nowhere are those challenges more real than in rural states like Nebraska. This mandate from the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services would force many facilities to reduce their number of patients or even close their doors for good. My legislation will stop this staffing rule and allow time to find a fairer solution that protects rural facilities across our state,\u201d said Senator Fischer.\n\n\u201cImposing a one-size-fits-all staffing mandate on nursing homes will have costly and devastating impacts on Kansas seniors\u2019 access to care. The pandemic, compounded with reimbursement challenges and staffing shortages, has led to the closure or reduced services in nearly 50 nursing homes across Kansas. The importance of having access to local long-term quality care facilities for seniors cannot be understated. Kansas seniors should be able to live and age comfortably in a local community where they can stay connected to their families. This unachievable rule further highlights the Biden Administration's continued disregard for rural America. I'm proud to champion this important bipartisan legislation,\u201d said Senator Marshall.\n\n\u201cOklahoma seniors, especially in rural communities, deserve quality, safe health care. CMS has proposed a one-size-fits-all staffing mandate that has significantly threatened the ability for patients to receive post-acute care in rural communities. My colleagues and I are taking all available steps to stop the overreaching staffing mandate from CMS\u2014they are not in our communities and clearly do not adequately understand the problems families and seniors are facing when finding care in rural America,\u201d said Senator Lankford.\n\n\u201cI\u2019ve told the Biden Administration from the jump that imposing a burdensome one-size-fits-all staffing mandate simply won\u2019t work for Montana\u2019s rural nursing homes. Our long-term care facilities are already facing severe workforce shortage issues, and this federal staffing mandate could force facilities to shut their doors. My bipartisan bill will stop this rule dead in its tracks, and I\u2019m committed to working with my colleagues to address the nursing home workforce so we don\u2019t leave rural seniors in the lurch,\u201dsaid Senator Tester.\n\n\u201cWe\u2019re strengthening rural nursing home care by pushing back against a misguided federal rule that could result in the closure of rural nursing home facilities. I support efforts to ensure our seniors receive the best care from dedicated nursing and health staff, but a one-size-fits all approach does not work for Arizona communities,\u201d said Senator Sinema.\n\n\u201cAllowing the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services\u2019 staffing mandate to be forced upon all nursing homes would be a disaster for older Americans who reside in rural areas, as many do in the State of Maine. This bipartisan legislation would allow for the chance to negotiate fair rules for all long-term care facilities, helping to avoid wide-scale displacement of residents and closures of rural nursing homes that are facing severe staffing shortages,\u201d said Senator Collins.\n\n\u201cThe Biden administration recently proposed a national plan to address healthcare provider shortages, a challenge which especially hurts rural areas. But what works in one state may not work in Mississippi,\u201d Wicker said. \u201cClosing our rural-urban healthcare gap will require tailored solutions designed by those who know their communities best \u2013 local leaders. This legislation empowers them to make decisions they believe are best for their towns while rejecting the Biden administration\u2019s one-size-fits-all approach,\" said Senator Wicker.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T18:56:20Z"], ["https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=E03D7F43-1744-4C9A-A6E3-AE8CEF9345BD", "Fischer, Ricketts Call on Senate to Pass Bipartisan CARS Act Following House Passage", "2023-12-06", "2023", "2023-12", "Republican", "Senate", "NE", "Deb Fischer", "F000463", "www.fischer.senate.gov", "fischer", "https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Following passage of the Choice in Automobile Retail Sales (CARS) Act in the U.S. House of Representatives, U.S. Senators Deb Fischer (R-Neb.) and Pete Ricketts (R-Neb.) called for immediate Senate passage. Senators Fischer and Ricketts are cosponsors of the CARS Act in the Senate.\n\n\u201cMandating electric vehicles is unfair, expensive, and deeply unrealistic. The Senate should follow the House\u2019s lead by passing the CARS Act and put the needs of Americans before climate alarmism,\u201d said Senator Fischer.\u201cThe EPA cannot continue to pick winners and losers. This legislation ensures the Biden administration can\u2019t prioritize their radical left agenda over affordable and reliable transportation. I\u2019ll always fight to protect Nebraskans\u2019 ability to choose what is best for them and their families. The Senate should pass it swiftly,\u201d said Senator Ricketts.\n\nIn October, Senators Fischer and Ricketts joined U.S. Senator Mike Crapo (R-Idaho) to introduce the Senate version of the CARS Act. The bill aims to counter Biden Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) emissions mandates that would require two-thirds of new cars and trucks be electric in just eight years. More information about the bill is available here.\n\nBACKGROUND:\n\nOn April 12, 2023, the EPA introduced the \u201cMulti-Pollutant Emissions Standards for Model Year 2027 and Later Light-Duty and Medium-Duty Vehicles.\u201d This is the most aggressive emissions standards ever released by the agency. It is a de facto mandate for the mass production of electric vehicles (EVs). This mandate would require two-thirds of all vehicles be electric by 2032.\n\nThe average price of an EV is over $17,000 more than gas-powered vehicles. The Biden administration\u2019s persistent advocacy for EVs raises concerns for Americans about higher costs and less choice. It also has the potential to cause a loss of jobs in the auto industry. The mandate would also increase our dependency on the Chinese Communist Party, the global supply leader for the critical minerals necessary for EV battery production. Last week, nearly 4,000 American auto dealers asked President Biden to slow down his proposed regulations. They explained EV \u201centhusiasm has stalled\u201d and supply is already outpacing consumer demand.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T18:56:20Z"], ["https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-flood-announces-us-military-service-academy-nominations-class-2028", "Congressman Flood Announces U.S. Military Service Academy Nominations for Class of 2028", "2023-12-05", "2023", "2023-12", "Republican", "House", "NE", "Mike Flood", "F000474", "flood.house.gov", "flood", "https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Today, U.S. Congressman Mike Flood announced the nomination of several First Congressional District constituents to the country\u2019s Military Service Academies. The announcement comes at the conclusion of a rigorous interview and selection process that included the input of a committee of diverse Nebraskans, including military leaders and community members.\n\n\u201cCongratulations to this new generation of Nebraskans who are stepping up to serve in our nation\u2019s Armed Forces. It\u2019s an honor to nominate each of these outstanding young Nebraskans to our Military Service Academies,\u201d said Congressman Flood. \u201cI also offer my sincere gratitude to the committee who helped review the applications of each of these outstanding nominees.\u201d\n\nThe committee members include retired U.S. Brigadier General Roma Amundson of Lincoln (AUS), Kent Smith of Howells (USAF), Dave Merritt of Norfolk (USN), Col. Fred Phelan of Lincoln (USAF), and Col. Robert J. Newbauer of Omaha (USACE). The committee worked diligently to examine each applicant\u2019s understanding of the nature of the Military Service Academies, the role of Officers in the Armed Forces, the applicant\u2019s desire to serve, their academic records, and their ability to communicate effectively in a high stakes environment.\n\nWith the input of the committee, Congressman Mike Flood nominated applicants that met the rigorous academic and physical requirements of the Military Service Academies. There are five U.S. Military Service Academies: U.S. Military Academy, U.S. Air Force Academy, U.S. Naval Academy, U.S. Coast Guard Academy, and U.S. Merchant Marine Academy. The office received no applications for nomination to the U.S. Coast Guard Academy.\n\nCongressman Mike Flood\u2019s nominations are in alphabetical order by last name.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T01:14:16Z"], ["https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-flood-combatting-bidens-30-x-30-land-grab", "Congressman Flood Combatting Biden's 30 x 30 Land Grab", "2023-12-04", "2023", "2023-12", "Republican", "House", "NE", "Mike Flood", "F000474", "flood.house.gov", "flood", "https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013Today, U.S. Congressman Mike Flood released a video highlighting work being done to combat President Joe Biden\u2019s 30 x 30 land grab.\n\nThe video can be found by clicking here. News outlets are welcome to use the footage for their reporting purposes. The full text of the video is below.\n\nFour years ago, a resolution promising a \u201cGreen New Deal\u201d was introduced in the House. At the time, it seemed more like an extreme dream from the far Left than something that would ever happen\u2026 but it\u2019s becoming a reality.\n\nLast year, President Biden\u2019s Inflation Reduction Act enacted several Green New Deal Policies\u2026 It introduced billions of dollars into government programs aimed at restructuring America\u2019s energy and automotive industries.\n\nOver the last year, using the Antiquities Act, he\u2019s placed restrictions on vast swaths of land in Arizona, Colorado, Mississippi, Nevada, and Texas. This blocks the possibility of making land more productive in the future. This action also permanently banned mining uranium on 900,000 acres \u2013 a resource that could help America produce clean energy and achieve energy independence.\n\nFederal designations like these are key to achieving the 30 by 30 goal of liberals and President Biden. This goal aims to conserve or permanently protect 30 percent of the nation\u2019s land and water by 2030. Reaching 30 percent is like restricting area the size of nine states of Nebraska.\n\nI have hope for success in this battle though. The fight against Biden\u2019s 30 by 30 executive order started in Nebraska and that early opposition raised awareness about the consequences of federal land controls.\n\nAmerica doesn\u2019t need the federal government to tell us how to steward our land and water. Instead, Congress needs to empower America\u2019s farmers and ranchers to pursue sustainable agricultural practices \u2013 the way they have for generations.\n\nI\u2019m fighting for change in Washington. Last year, I voted against the IRA and this year, I\u2019ve made it a top priority to keep conservation programs in the new Farm Bill voluntary.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T01:14:16Z"], ["https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-flood-congresswoman-lee-push-drought-program-funding-upcoming-farm", "Congressman Flood & Congresswoman Lee Push for Drought Program Funding in Upcoming Farm Bill", "2023-12-04", "2023", "2023-12", "Republican", "House", "NE", "Mike Flood", "F000474", "flood.house.gov", "flood", "https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Today, Congressman Mike Flood (R-NE) and Congresswoman Susie Lee (D-NV) sent a letter to the leadership of the Agriculture Committee for the U.S. House of Representatives to support funding for critical drought monitoring and prevention in the upcoming Farm Bill.\n\n\u201cWe write today to underscore our support for the National Drought Mitigation Center (NDMC) and the U.S. Drought Monitor (USDM) in the upcoming Farm Bill. We respectfully request that the Farm Bill provide funding of $3.8 million per year for the NDMC to support both the U.S. Department of Agriculture\u2019s (USDA) risk management programs as well as the many Tribal, state, local, and regional decision-makers who depend on USDM data to make critical judgments for the diverse communities and constituencies they serve\u2014from Nebraska to Nevada and beyond.\u201d\n\nEstablished in 1995, the NDMC is headquartered at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln where it works to reduce the effects of drought on people, the environment, and the economy by researching the science of drought monitoring and the practice of drought planning.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T01:14:16Z"], ["https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-flood-my-team-helps-nebraskans-navigate-federal-agency-issues", "Congressman Flood: My Team Helps Nebraskans Navigate Federal Agency Issues", "2023-12-04", "2023", "2023-12", "Republican", "House", "NE", "Mike Flood", "F000474", "flood.house.gov", "flood", "https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "LINCOLN, NE \u2013 Today, Congressman Mike Flood issued a reminder that his district office team stands ready to help Nebraskans who need help navigating issues with federal agencies.\n\n\u201cSince I came to Congress, my office has helped hundreds of Nebraskans across the First District find solutions to problems they\u2019ve encountered with the federal government,\u201d said Congressman Flood. \u201cEven if you\u2019re unsure of how we may help, my office stands ready to assist you. I take great pride in the solutions we\u2019ve been able to find for many Nebraskans and hope you\u2019ll reach out if we can ever be of service.\u201d\n\nSince taking office, Congressman Flood\u2019s team has helped over 450 Nebraskans favorably resolve issues.\n\nThe Congressman\u2019s team works to navigate issues with federal agencies like the Internal Revenue Service, the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, and the U.S. Department of State among many others. Congressman Flood\u2019s office stands ready to help with the following matters:\n\nAssistance with federal agencies\n\nRequest the Congressman\u2019s appearance\n\nMilitary Service Academy nominations\n\nCongressional commendations\n\nHonorary flags flown over the Capitol\n\nInternships and Capitol tour requests\n\nNebraskans who live in the First Congressional District are strongly encouraged to contact Congressman Flood\u2019s office for help with federal issues. Anyone can do so by filling out this online form or by calling 402-438-1598.\n\nWHAT NEBRASKANS ARE SAYING ABOUT REP. FLOOD\u2019S WORK\n\n\u201cWe just made contact, sent in the forms, and the process started very quickly. In a matter of days they had been successful working with immigration, and her green card was processed.\u201d \u2013 Tracy Milius of Plattsmouth\n\n\u201cAs someone who just lives here, in this district, I figured they probably had more important things to do than deal with my little issue, but they had the staff and the know-how to make it happen.\u201d \u2013 Robert Prince of Norfolk", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T01:14:16Z"], ["https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases/office-congressman-flood-host-mobile-office-hours-columbus-and-david-city", "Office of Congressman Flood to Host Mobile Office Hours in Columbus and David City", "2023-12-04", "2023", "2023-12", "Republican", "House", "NE", "Mike Flood", "F000474", "flood.house.gov", "flood", "https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "LINCOLN, NEBRASKA \u2013Today, the Office of Congressman Mike Flood announced that district staff will host mobile office hours in Columbus and David City. During the office hours, district office team members will be available to assist with challenges regarding federal agencies, military academy nominations, scheduling requests and any other needs constituents might encounter.\n\nDetails about the mobile office hours are listed below. Congressional staff are available to answer questions about the mobile office for media in the days ahead of the mobile office event. The office hours are closed to press to allow the Congressman\u2019s district staff members to provide private consultations.\n\nColumbus Mobile Office Hours\n\nTuesday, December 5, 2023\n\n1:00-2:30 PM CT\n\nColumbus Chamber of Commerce\n\n753 33rd Ave.\n\nColumbus, NE 68601\n\nDavid City Mobile Office Hours\n\nMonday, December 11, 2023\n\n10:00-11:30 AM CT\n\nDavid City Library\n\n399 N. 5th St.\n\nDavid City, NE 68632", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T01:14:16Z"], ["https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=1B64BCB4-1238-4921-A203-BA35A9E08482", "Fischer Statement on Attacks Against USS Carney in the Red Sea", "2023-12-03", "2023", "2023-12", "Republican", "Senate", "NE", "Deb Fischer", "F000463", "www.fischer.senate.gov", "fischer", "https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u00ad\u2013 U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-Neb.), a senior member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, released the following statement today after reports that a U.S. warship was attacked in the Red Sea:\n\n\u201cThe Biden administration\u2019s anemic attempts to deter attacks on U.S. forces have failed. Attacks on Americans demand a forceful, credible response. It\u2019s also beyond time for President Biden to correct his error and redesignate the Houthis as a terrorist organization.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T18:56:20Z"], ["https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=1375", "Bacon Issues Statement on Protecting our Communities from Failure to Secure the Border Act of 2023", "2023-12-01", "2023", "2023-12", "Republican", "House", "NE", "Don Bacon", "B001298", "bacon.house.gov", "bacon", "https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx", "scraper", "Washington \u2013 Rep. Don Bacon (NE-02) issued a statement on his vote for H.R. 5283 Protecting our Communities from Failure to Secure the Border Act of 2023. It would prohibit federal funds from being used to provide housing to illegal aliens on any land under the jurisdiction of any of the four federal land management agencies. It would also revoke the lease agreement finalized on September 15, 2023, by the National Park Service (NPS) with New York City, which authorized establishment of temporary housing for aliens within the Gateway National Recreation Area.\n\n\u201cPresident Biden\u2019s immigration policies, or lack thereof, have led to an influx of illegal immigrants being released into the United States. Even New York City Mayor Eric Adams has said that this issue will destroy New York City, and that \u2018the President ad the White House have failed New York City.\u2019 Providing these individuals with housing paid for with federal funds is wrong.\u201d\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T01:14:16Z"], ["https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=1376", "Bacon Votes to Expel Santos from Congress", "2023-12-01", "2023", "2023-12", "Republican", "House", "NE", "Don Bacon", "B001298", "bacon.house.gov", "bacon", "https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx", "scraper", "Washington \u2013 Rep. Don Bacon today voted to expel George Santos from Congress.\n\n\u201cGeorge Santos had the opportunity to do the honorable thing and resign from office and he chose not to. I voted to expel him because the ethics report was damning. Some may say he had not yet been adjudicated, but the Constitution clearly gives each Chamber of Congress the power to set its rules and punish members. The House executed that right today.\u201d (Article I Section 5)\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T01:14:16Z"], ["https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-flood-highlights-governor-pillens-success-tax-relief-educational", "Congressman Flood Highlights Governor Pillen\u2019s Success on Tax Relief, Educational Opportunities", "2023-12-01", "2023", "2023-12", "Republican", "House", "NE", "Mike Flood", "F000474", "flood.house.gov", "flood", "https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C.\u2013U.S. Congressman Mike Flood recently delivered a speech on the House Floor highlighting Governor Pillen\u2019s successes during his first year in office.\n\nVideo of the remarks can be found by clicking here. News outlets are welcome to use the footage for their reporting purposes. The full text of the speech is below.\n\nI rise today to highlight the success of Governor Jim Pillen in Nebraska to help reduce property and income taxes while expanding educational opportunities across our state.\n\nLess than a year ago, Pillen took office as Nebraska experienced historic levels of tax revenues.\n\nHis first budget poured billions into property tax relief, helping to alleviate Nebraska\u2019s high property taxes.\n\nHe cut income taxes and sped up the total repeal of Social Security taxes.\n\nHe also increased the amount of funding the state provides for special education and created an Education Future Fund, which committed $1 billion to help Nebraska\u2019s schools.\n\nAlong the way, he made history by bringing school choice to Nebraska by establishing a scholarship tax credit to help families access more educational opportunities.\n\nThis is really just a snapshot of what Governor Pillen has accomplished in less than 12 months, and there\u2019s more to come.\n\nKeep up the great work, Governor Pillen!", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T01:14:16Z"], ["https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=0621EF8C-541E-4874-97E4-350B013DDA6F", "Fischer Statement on Passing of Justice O\u2019Connor", "2023-12-01", "2023", "2023-12", "Republican", "Senate", "NE", "Deb Fischer", "F000463", "www.fischer.senate.gov", "fischer", "https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u00ad\u2013 U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-Neb.) released the following statement today after learning of the passing of Justice O\u2019Connor:\n\n\u201cSandra Day O\u2019Connor embodied the pioneer spirit of the rural West, trail-blazing her way from a cattle ranch in the American Southwest to our nation\u2019s highest court. A lawmaker herself and a gifted jurist, she loved our country and left future generations of Americans a stronger, fairer nation. I was privileged to spend time with Justice O\u2019Connor at The Prairie Club near Valentine, where we enjoyed an evening of conversation exploring many topics, including her love for golf and ranching. May her family find comfort and peace in her remarkable legacy.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T18:56:20Z"], ["https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=7A19E523-0793-4F3D-AA94-8753EAECBFA3", "Fischer: Biden Admin Rule Would Close Down Nursing Homes Nationwide", "2023-12-01", "2023", "2023-12", "Republican", "Senate", "NE", "Deb Fischer", "F000463", "www.fischer.senate.gov", "fischer", "https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases", "scraper", "Following is a transcript of Senator Fischer\u2019s remarks as prepared for delivery:\n\nAcross the country, over 1.2 million Americans live in nursing homes. Many of our own parents, grandparents, and other loved ones are among them. Nursing facilities provide specialized, attentive care to seniors in critical need of their services.\n\nLong-term care facilities are especially indispensable in small towns and rural areas like much of my home state of Nebraska. In those areas, a larger percentage of the population is over 65.\n\nUnfortunately, the Biden administration released a rule this fall that could force many nursing facilities around the country to close their doors.\n\nThe new rule, introduced in September by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services, mandates new minimum staffing standards for long-term care facilities. It requires each facility to staff a registered nurse on site 24/7 and would require staff to provide each resident with at least three hours of direct care per day.\n\nThe administration believes this rule would improve the quality of care in our nursing facilities. Unfortunately, the rule as written would simply force many facilities to shut down \u2014 denying care to seniors entirely.\n\nAccording to CMS, 75% of nursing homes would have to increase staffing to comply with these proposed standards. But across our country, these homes already face historic staffing shortages.\n\nAccording to federal labor statistics, nursing homes lost more than 200,000 workers from February 2020 to December 2022. The industry is still rebuilding its workforce after a devastating pandemic.\n\nUnder this rule, nursing homes would be forced to go to great lengths to find staff in the midst of these overwhelming shortages. If they failed, they would likely need to shut their doors, depriving seniors of care.\n\nEven one nursing home closure could be detrimental to seniors in certain rural communities. Highly populated urban areas may host several long-term care options \u2014 but these facilities are few and far between in the rural areas of our country.\n\nIf one facility closes, the next closest one could be many miles or even hours away. It might not be feasible for every senior to move so far from home.\n\nThis mandate from CMS would devastate facilities across Nebraska, across rural America, and across the country. It would devastate families who are relying on these facilities to serve their loved ones. And it would devastate the seniors who urgently need care.\n\nAfter the release of this proposed rule in September, I joined the rest of the Nebraska delegation in sending a letter to CMS Administrator Chiquita Brooks-LaSure opposing the new standards.\n\nWe never received a response.\n\nI plan to introduce legislation that would prevent these misguided standards from going into effect. My bill would also establish an advisory panel on the nursing home workforce. The panel would host members representing various stakeholders \u2014 including members from rural and underserved areas.\n\nThe Biden administration must hear from voices outside the big cities on the coasts. This proposed rule is a one-size-fits-all attempt at a solution \u2014 but the so-called solution simply doesn\u2019t fit.\n\nIt\u2019s a misguided mandate that will prove destructive for the communities that most need care.\n\nI\u2019ll keep fighting for our rural communities and for the seniors who rely on long-term care facilities. I encourage my colleagues to do the same by joining me in support of this legislation to protect nursing homes and the Americans they serve.\n\nThank you, Mr. President, I yield the floor.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T18:56:20Z"], ["https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-flood-secures-line-speed-trial-extension-pork-producers-calls", "Congressman Flood Secures Line Speed Trial Extension for Pork Producers, Calls for Permanent Solution", "2023-11-30", "2023", "2023-11", "Republican", "House", "NE", "Mike Flood", "F000474", "flood.house.gov", "flood", "https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013Today, U.S. Congressman Mike Flood issued a statement following news the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) extended the Time-Limited Trial for New Swine Inspection System for six pork processing plants.\n\n\u201cI\u2019m pleased the USDA extended the Time-Limited Trial for the time being, but pork processors across the country need more certainty beyond this three-month extension,\u201d Rep. Flood said. \u201cThe trial has been very helpful because it\u2019s shown increased line speeds don\u2019t degrade workplace safety. The USDA needs to help processors operate at full capacity, so we can help deliver the food we need to feed America and the world.\u201d\n\nPreviously, Congressman Flood joined his colleagues to urge the USDA to extend the Time-Limited Trial for pork processing plants to run at increased line speeds in the New Swine Inspection System (NSIS.) The NSIS temporarily waived line speed limits at six establishments to collect data that would be used to evaluate the impact of increased line speed on workers.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T01:01:09Z"], ["https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases/office-congressman-flood-host-mobile-office-hours-papillion", "Office of Congressman Flood to Host Mobile Office Hours in Papillion", "2023-11-28", "2023", "2023-11", "Republican", "House", "NE", "Mike Flood", "F000474", "flood.house.gov", "flood", "https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "LINCOLN, NEBRASKA \u2013Today, the Office of Congressman Mike Flood announced that district staff will host mobile office hours in Papillion. During the office hours, district office team members will be available to assist with challenges regarding federal agencies, military academy nominations, scheduling requests and any other needs constituents might encounter.\n\nDetails about the mobile office hours are listed below. Congressman Flood is available for interviews in the days ahead of the mobile office event. The office hours are closed to press to allow the Congressman\u2019s district staff members to provide private consultations.\n\nPapillion Mobile Office Hours\n\nTuesday, December 12, 2023\n\n1:00-2:30 PM CT\n\nSarpy County Chamber of Commerce\n\n1243 Golden Gate Dr. #2\n\nPapillion, NE 68046\n\nCongressman Flood maintains permanent offices in Lincoln and in Washington, D.C. Location and contact information for the permanent offices can be found at https://flood.house.gov.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T01:01:09Z"], ["https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases/smith-statement-dairy-announcement", "Smith Statement on Dairy Announcement", "2023-11-27", "2023", "2023-11", "Republican", "House", "NE", "Adrian Smith", "S001172", "adriansmith.house.gov", "adriansmith", "https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2013 Rep. Adrian Smith, Chairman of the Ways and Means Trade Subcommittee, released the following statement after the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) dispute settlement panel issued their final report on the U.S.-Canada dairy tariff-rate quota (TRQ) allocation dispute:\n\n\u201cI remain fully supportive of Ambassador Tai and Secretary Vilsack\u2019s efforts to hold Canada to its USMCA commitments, and I am disappointed in the dispute settlement panel\u2019s ruling. This decision does not take away from the panel\u2019s 2022 determination that Canada breached its USMCA commitments with its dairy restrictions. Canada\u2019s failure to come to the table and honor its USMCA commitments would have a lasting and negative impact on the bilateral and economic partnership between our countries. Market access is one of the most important components of our rules-based trading system, and I call on Canada to make the changes necessary to come into compliance.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T01:01:09Z"], ["https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases/smith-announces-upcoming-staff-outreach-events-3", "Smith Announces Upcoming Staff Outreach Events", "2023-11-24", "2023", "2023-11", "Republican", "House", "NE", "Adrian Smith", "S001172", "adriansmith.house.gov", "adriansmith", "https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2013 Constituents of Third District Congressman Adrian Smith (R-NE) are invited to meet with a member of his staff during the month of December in Loup City, St. Paul, and Lexington.\n\nA staff outreach event is an opportunity for constituents to meet directly with a member of Smith's staff about federal issues, receive assistance with a federal agency, or take advantage of the services available through his office.\n\nSmith, who has offices in Grand Island and Scottsbluff, will provide a staff member at the following times and locations:\n\nMonday, December 11th\n\nSherman County Courthouse\n\n630 O Street, Loup City\n\n11:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. CT\n\nTuesday, December 12th\n\nHoward County Courthouse\n\n612 Indian Street, St. Paul\n\n10:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m. CT\n\nFriday, December 29th\n\nDawson County Courthouse\n\n700 N. Washington Street, Lexington\n\n10:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m. CT\n\nFor additional information, please contact Smith\u2019s Grand Island office at (308) 384-3900 or his Scottsbluff office at (308) 633-6333.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T01:01:09Z"], ["https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-floods-thanksgiving-statement-0", "Congressman Flood's Thanksgiving Statement", "2023-11-22", "2023", "2023-11", "Republican", "House", "NE", "Mike Flood", "F000474", "flood.house.gov", "flood", "https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C.\u2013U.S. Congressman Mike Flood issued a recorded statement ahead of Thanksgiving, which will be observed November 23, 2023.\n\nVideo of the remarks can be found by clicking here. News outlets are welcome to use the footage for their reporting purposes. The full text of the speech is below.\n\nFellow Nebraskans\u2026\n\nAs we enter this season of giving back, I want to wish you and your family a very happy Thanksgiving.\n\nOver 400 years ago, the first Thanksgiving meal was celebrated in 1621. And in 1870, President Grant made the day a federally recognized holiday.\n\nAs we each carry out annual traditions this week, whether we\u2019re feasting with family and friends, watching football, or putting up a Christmas tree, let\u2019s all remember what and who you\u2019re thankful for.\n\nAs we celebrate, let\u2019s remember and show appreciation for the men and women in uniform serving around the world to protect our freedom.\n\nAs an American, I\u2019m grateful for the peace and liberty we enjoy here at home. But we can never forget the great sacrifices they\u2019ve made through the years.\n\nDuring this season, I hope you will take some time to slow down, rest, and connect with family and friends.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T01:01:09Z"], ["https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=23541332-FE0F-4A86-9840-B11C591EA2D1", "Fischer\u2019s Thanksgiving Day Message", "2023-11-22", "2023", "2023-11", "Republican", "Senate", "NE", "Deb Fischer", "F000463", "www.fischer.senate.gov", "fischer", "https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases", "scraper", "LINCOLN, Neb. \u2013 Today, U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-Neb.) released the following video ahead of Thanksgiving Day.\n\n\u201cAs we approach Thanksgiving Day, I want to express my gratitude to the people of Nebraska. It is a tremendous honor to work for you in the United States Senate. I also want to extend my sincerest gratitude to the brave members of our Armed Forces who keep us safe, especially those who cannot be with their loved ones this holiday,\u201d said Senator Fischer.\n\nClick the image above to watch video of Sen. Fischer\u2019s remarks\n\nClick here to download audio\n\nClick here to download video", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T18:49:58Z"], ["https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=8E93F599-1A5D-4A3C-A5E2-901B6937F6A9", "Fischer Statement on Conditioning U.S. Support for Israel", "2023-11-21", "2023", "2023-11", "Republican", "Senate", "NE", "Deb Fischer", "F000463", "www.fischer.senate.gov", "fischer", "https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-Neb.), a senior member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, released the following statement after Democrats in Congress held discussions about placing conditions and restrictions on U.S. support for Israel:\n\n\u201cThis administration has said from the beginning that it would not tell Israel how to protect itself \u2014 President Biden and Democrats in Congress should stay the course. The political whims of a far-left minority shouldn\u2019t erode American support for our ally. In the coming weeks, Congress ought to reject attempts to dictate Israel\u2019s response to the worst terrorist attack in its history.\u201d\n\nPermalink: https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/2023/11/fischer-statement-on-conditioning-u-s-support-for-israel", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T18:49:58Z"], ["https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=3E1BC658-59E6-43A3-9A24-4043F97A6A7A", "Fischer, Casey Introduce Rural Partnership and Prosperity Act, Investing in Rural Communities", "2023-11-17", "2023", "2023-11", "Republican", "Senate", "NE", "Deb Fischer", "F000463", "www.fischer.senate.gov", "fischer", "https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2013 U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-Neb.), a member of the Senate Agriculture Committee, joined U.S. Senator Bob Casey (D-Penn.) in introducing the Rural Partnership and Prosperity Act. This legislation will help rural communities access federal funding and resources.\n\nRural communities struggle to compete for federal investment opportunities due to insufficient funding, low capacity, and staffing shortages.\n\n\u201cRural Nebraskans deserve to see their tax dollars invested in projects that help their communities. Our bipartisan legislation would optimize federal funding for local communities and enhance their access to federal programs,\u201d said Senator Fischer.\u201cOur rural communities deserve a fair shot to grow their economies and improve their quality of life. This legislation will put rural communities on a level playing field to compete for federal resources alongside our cities and suburban areas. This is a critical moment to ensure that communities that have been the bedrock of our Nation for generations are receiving the support they need to thrive,\u201d said Senator Casey.\n\nClick here to read an overview of the bill.\n\nClick here to read the text of the bill.\n\nBackground:\n\nThe Rural Partnership and Prosperity Act will:\n\nCreate a grant program providing awards to communities to address urgent needs, including affordable child care, housing, and job training\n\nProvide technical assistance grants to help rural communities navigate existing federal funding opportunities.\n\nImprove supportive services offered by the federal government to rural communities.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T18:49:58Z"], ["https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-flood-announces-2023-congressional-app-challenge-winner", "Congressman Flood Announces 2023 Congressional App Challenge Winner", "2023-11-16", "2023", "2023-11", "Republican", "House", "NE", "Mike Flood", "F000474", "flood.house.gov", "flood", "https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013Today, U.S. Congressman Mike Flood announced Adam Khattak, a Lincoln Southwest High School student, as the Congressional App Challenge (CAC) winner for Nebraska\u2019s First Congressional District.\n\nFor the challenge, Khattak coded an app called \u201cAI Corn Disease Detector.\u201d The application allows users to upload pictures of crops, and then the app would detect if they had any diseases.\n\n\u201cThe CAC is meant to challenge middle and high school students to code and pursue careers in computer science, but it also brings forth great apps that can truly be helpful,\u201d Rep. Flood said. \u201cI\u2019m very impressed with Adam\u2019s work. Agriculture is Nebraska\u2019s top industry, and applications like this one can be beneficial not only to our ag producers here but to farmers around the world.\u201d\n\n\u201cIt was an honor to participate in and to be named the winner for the First Congressional District App Challenge,\u201d said Adam Khattak. \u201cThere\u2019s a lot of cool innovation being done in ag technology, which inspired me to focus in this area. My app has a very practical purpose, and I hope to build on this success as I dig deeper into the field of coding for ag producers.\u201d\n\n\u201cThe corn disease detection application is an excellent and promising tool that can assist farmers and potentially manage different crop diseases. Adam has done a fantastic job and created something that can have an immediate impact,\u201d wrote a member of the review committee. \u201cIt is so refreshing to see these young people being creative and innovative with something benefits the agriculture community.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T01:01:09Z"], ["https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-flood-tiktok-pushing-evil-messaging-agenda-terrorism", "Congressman Flood: TikTok Pushing Evil Messaging, Agenda of Terrorism", "2023-11-16", "2023", "2023-11", "Republican", "House", "NE", "Mike Flood", "F000474", "flood.house.gov", "flood", "https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "LINCOLN, NE \u2013Today, Congressman Mike Flood issued a statement following news that TikTok influencers were promoting messages from Osama Bin Laden.\n\n\u201cWhen things seem like they couldn\u2019t get any more shocking, they have. TikTok influencers are now promoting Osama Bin Laden\u2019s so-called \u2018Letter to America,\u2019 which evangelizes anti-Semitism, anti-capitalism, and anti-American messages. It\u2019s appalling to see people mainstreaming the lies of one of the most famous and evil terrorists on American social media.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T01:01:09Z"], ["https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=F260B4E5-6324-4B0C-820E-9AB7330E9D4C", "Fischer Applauds FCC Action Supporting Survivors of Domestic Violence", "2023-11-16", "2023", "2023-11", "Republican", "Senate", "NE", "Deb Fischer", "F000463", "www.fischer.senate.gov", "fischer", "https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u00ad\u2013 U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-Neb.), a member of the Senate Commerce Committee, released the following statement in response to the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) action today to implement the Safe Connections Act.\n\nSenator Fischer led the Safe Connections Act with U.S. Senator Brian Schatz (D-Hawaii), which was passed into law in 2022. In compliance with this legislation, the new FCC rules will protect survivors of domestic violence by enabling them to separate their phone lines from shared mobile accounts, shield their privacy when calling domestic violence hotlines for help, and access the FCC\u2019s affordability resources.\n\n\u201cI\u2019m grateful to the FCC and Senator Schatz for their teamwork to pass and implement the Safe Connections Act. Survivors of domestic violence should never have to live in fear of their abusers. The FCC\u2019s implementation of our legislation will ensure that these survivors have the tools to safeguard their communications and connect with critical services securely.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T18:49:58Z"], ["https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=51E4F79C-C394-4422-B296-72C7ECA25415", "Fischer Leads Letter Urging EPA to Consider Impact of Proposed Rulemaking on Small Meat and Poultry Processing Facilities", "2023-11-15", "2023", "2023-11", "Republican", "Senate", "NE", "Deb Fischer", "F000463", "www.fischer.senate.gov", "fischer", "https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-Neb.), a member of the Senate Agriculture Committee, led a letter with 7 of her Senate Republican colleagues to Environmental Protection Agency Administrator Michael S. Regan urging the agency to ensure that very small and small meat and poultry processing facilities are fairly considered under proposed revisions to the Meat and Poultry Products (MPP) Effluent Guidelines and Standards.\n\n\u201cAs you know, small to mid-sized meat and poultry processing facilities have a vital role in the economy. This was proven throughout the COVID-19 pandemic when these facilities remained open while large facilities were closed. Additionally, many federal resources have been used to expand meatpacking capacity, so we need to ensure that these very small and small facilities do not face regulations that will force them to close,\u201d wrote the Senators.\n\nIn their letter, the Senators asked Administrator Regan to explain what testing and data has been collected from very small and small processing facilities. The Senators also called on the EPA to outline the number of small processing facilities with which it has engaged while drafting its proposed revisions.\n\n\u201cAs EPA seeks to update Meat and Poultry Products (MPP) wastewater regulations, we strongly encourage you to work with very small and small meat and poultry processing facilities to certify that any new regulations are practical, science-based, and don\u2019t create an unnecessary burden for the continued operations of these facilities,\u201d the Senators concluded.\n\nIn addition to Senator Fischer, the letter was signed by U.S. Senators Cynthia Lummis (R-Wyo.), Pete Ricketts (R-Neb.), Joni Ernst (R-Iowa), Mike Crapo (R-Idaho), James Risch (R-Idaho), John Barrasso (R-Wyo.), and Mike Braun (R-Ind.).\n\n\"We are happy for the support of Senator Fischer as we await the new proposed rule from EPA on wastewater. From the information we have seen from EPA, the proposed rule could have a major impact on the meat industry and especially small processors who offer vital services to farmers and consumers in rural communities across the country,\" said Chris Young, Executive Director at American Association of Meat Processors.\n\nBackground:\n\nOn September 14, 2021, the EPA announced the Preliminary Effluent Guidelines Program Plan 15 (Plan 15). The plan stated that the EPA would complete a detailed study on the MPP category and revise existing discharge standards for the industry. The EPA intends to publish a notice of proposed rulemaking by December 2023 and publish a final rule by August 2025.\n\nSenator Fischer\u2019s letter specifically asks the EPA to outline its work with small processors while drafting the proposed rulemaking. The letter also requests that the agency explains how much wastewater testing and data has been collected from small processors to understand the amount of nutrient concentration these facilities produce. Small processing facilities have expressed concerns that complying with burdensome mandates could be extremely costly and drive some companies out of business.\n\nThe Senators sent their letter ahead of December 2023, the EPA\u2019s intended date to publish the proposed rule.\n\nRead the full letter here or below.\n\nThe Honorable Michael S. Regan\n\nAdministrator\n\nU.S. Environmental Protection Agency\n\n1200 Pennsylvania Avenue, N.W., Mail Code 1101A\n\nWashington, D.C. 20460\n\nDear Administrator Regan:\n\nWe write to encourage the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to ensure very small and small meat and poultry processing facilities are highly considered while working on the proposed revisions to the Meat and Poultry Products (MPP) Effluent Guidelines and Standards.\n\nOn September 14, 2021, the EPA published the Preliminary Effluent Guidelines Program Plan 15 (Plan 15). Plan 15 announced that the EPA will be completing a detailed study on the MPP category and revising existing wastewater discharge standards. The agency intends to publish a proposed rulemaking by December 2023.\n\nAs EPA is developing the proposed rule, we ask EPA to respond to the following questions:\n\nHow many very small and small processing facilities has the agency worked with while drafting the upcoming proposed rulemaking?\n\nWhat testing and data does EPA have from very small and small processing facilities?\n\nHas the EPA performed a cost analysis for very small and small processing facilities to update wastewater systems and remain compliant? What is the average capital investment for these processors?\n\nHas EPA considered changing the definition of \u201csmall processing facilities\u201d from an establishment with less than 1,000 employees to an establishment with less than 200 employees?\n\nHas the agency considered exempting very small and small processors from the proposed updates?", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T18:49:58Z"], ["https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=5939FE3E-5873-4254-AEE3-4DF6A3EB8239", "Fischer Legislation Removes Barriers to Precision Ag Technologies", "2023-11-15", "2023", "2023-11", "Republican", "Senate", "NE", "Deb Fischer", "F000463", "www.fischer.senate.gov", "fischer", "https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u00ad\u2013 At a Senate Agriculture Committee hearing this week, U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-Neb.) discussed how three of her bills address common barriers to the adoption of precision agriculture tools. These barriers include financing, connectivity, and internet access.\n\nSenator Fischer also noted that the joint FCC and USDA Precision Ag Connectivity Task Force recommended including both her PAL Act and her LAST ACRE Act in the Farm Bill.\n\nClick the image above to watch video of Sen. Fischer\u2019s questioning\n\nClick here to download audio\n\nClick here to download video", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T18:49:58Z"], ["https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=883F435E-BD18-400D-AEB1-F55C8DF580BB", "Fischer Statement on United Nations Security Council Resolution", "2023-11-15", "2023", "2023-11", "Republican", "Senate", "NE", "Deb Fischer", "F000463", "www.fischer.senate.gov", "fischer", "https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u00ad\u2013 U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-Neb.), a senior member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, released the following statement in response to the United States\u2019 failure to veto the United Nations Security Council\u2019s resolution calling for extended humanitarian pauses in Gaza.\n\n\u201cA pause in Israel\u2019s offensive will allow Hamas to regroup and plot attacks against innocent Israelis and will only prolong this war. It\u2019s shameful that President Biden has abandoned our ally at the United Nations.\u201d\n\nPermalink: https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/2023/11/fischer-statement-on-united-nations-security-council-resolution", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T18:49:58Z"], ["https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=AA8632D3-27EA-40A0-8C8E-B8CF4C22D0C9", "End EV Freeloading", "2023-11-15", "2023", "2023-11", "Republican", "Senate", "NE", "Deb Fischer", "F000463", "www.fischer.senate.gov", "fischer", "https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases", "scraper", "\u201cIf anyone should be paying into federal road repair, it should be EV users.\u201d\n\nWASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-Neb.), a member of the Senate Commerce Committee, spoke on the Senate floor this week about the need to end electric vehicle (EV) freeloading and secure continued funding for America\u2019s infrastructure.\n\nIn her remarks, Senator Fischer noted that the Highway Trust Fund, which maintains U.S.infrastructure, will run out of money in the next few years. The current funding structure does not consider EVs and only generates revenue from gas-powered vehicles. This places an unnecessary burden on gas-powered vehicles and limits the funding available to modernize and upgrade U.S. infrastructure.\n\nSenator Fischer\u2019s Stop EV Freeloading Act would help address the fund\u2019s impending insolvency by requiring EVs to contribute to the Highway Trust Fund, leveling the playing field for all drivers. Senator Fischer\u2019s weekly column on the legislation can be found here.\n\nClick the image above to watch video of Sen. Fischer\u2019s remarks\n\nClick here to download audio\n\nClick here to download video\n\nFollowing is a transcript of Senator Fischer\u2019s remarks as prepared for delivery:\n\nAs Americans in 2023, there\u2019s plenty we disagree on. But last week, USA Today released a new study on something we can all agree to hate.\n\nPotholes.\n\nThe study ranked all 50 states based on how many potholes cover their roads. It also included that the average car repair after a tussle with a pothole costs over $400.\n\nThat\u2019s a lot of money for Americans to pay unexpectedly after a road incident.\n\nAnd unfortunately, our pothole problem is about to get much worse.\n\nFor the past 67 years, the Highway Trust Fund has largely funded road maintenance across our nation. The Fund repairs wear and tear from vehicles on the highway.\n\nThat\u2019s critical for our roads, for our infrastructure, and for our transportation.\n\nBut the Highway Trust Fund is running on empty. It\u2019s projected to run out of money in the next few years.\n\nThe insolvency of the Fund would necessitate a total restructuring of our highway repair system. And it would throw our national infrastructure under the bus.\n\nSo how do we prevent this from happening?\n\nThe main source of revenue for the fund is the federal gas tax, a user fee. The money drivers pay in taxes when they fill up with gas automatically goes toward road construction. But as a smaller percentage of vehicles fill up with gas, a smaller amount of money goes to the Highway Trust Fund.\n\nThe use of electric vehicles, or EVs, has shot up in the past several years. Of course, EVs don\u2019t use gas. Since they don\u2019t fill up with gas, they don\u2019t pay the gas tax \u2014 and they don\u2019t pay into the Highway Trust Fund.\n\nAs more EVs have been adopted, the fund has become more unstable. It\u2019s not receiving the same revenue as it used to. According to Deloitte, U.S. adoption of EVs will increase to 30 percent of new car sales by 2030. So that\u2019s 30 percent of new car drivers not paying into the fund.\n\nBut if anyone should be paying into federal road repair, it should be EV users.\n\nEVs can be up to three times heavier than gas-powered cars due to their large batteries. This significant weight puts extra stress onto our roads \u2014 it pulverizes the road bed, causing more maintenance, more upgrades, and more costs.\n\nThe Highway Trust Fund exists to fix exactly the type of damage that these heavy EVs can cause \u2014 so it\u2019s only fair that all highway users, both gas-powered and electric vehicles, pay into the fund.\n\nMy recent bill, the Stop EV Freeloading Act, would fix this discrepancy. This new legislation would require EVs to contribute to the Highway Trust Fund through a two-tier fee structure.\n\nThe first tier corresponds to the federal gas tax. Under my bill, buyers would pay a one-time $1,000 fee on EVs at the point of sale. That money would contribute to the Highway Trust Fund.\n\nThis $1,000 fee equals the average amount consumers currently contribute to the fund from gas taxes over 10 years. Ten years is the average lifespan of an EV battery. The fee would tax EVs the same amount once that gas-powered cars pay over the lifespan of an EV battery.\n\nThe second tier corresponds to the heavy vehicle use tax, which also contributes to the Highway Trust Fund.\n\nUnder my legislation, manufactures would pay a one-time fee of $550 on each EV battery module with a weight greater than 1,000 pounds. The average EV battery weight is a little less than 1,000 pounds, so taxing those heavier than average would ensure that the Highway Trust Fund has enough money to cover any damage these vehicles inflict on highways.\n\nThe $550 tax is comparable to the fees imposed on heavy trucks because of the additional stress they cause to roads and bridges.\n\nThe current structure of the Highway Trust Fund doesn\u2019t account for the damage EVs can and do cause to our roads \u2014 and it\u2019s only fair that EVs and gas-powered vehicles pay the same fees.\n\nBoth types of vehicles should contribute to the fund for vital repairs and maintenance. And ultimately, the changes included in the Stop EV Freeloading Act would help the fund escape its impending insolvency.\n\nRight now, the Highway Trust Fund is losing to the EV industry. That means our roads are going to lose to heavy electric vehicles. And when our infrastructure starts deteriorating, the American people pay the price.\n\nMy bill will stop that from happening. Let\u2019s put gas-powered vehicles and electric vehicles on a level playing field \u2014 that\u2019s the only way we all win.\n\nThank you, M. President, I yield the floor.", 1, "2026-04-07T15:46:19Z", "2026-04-08T01:01:09Z"], ["https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-flood-votes-keep-government-working-people", "Congressman Flood Votes to Keep Government Working for the People", "2023-11-14", "2023", "2023-11", "Republican", "House", "NE", "Mike Flood", "F000474", "flood.house.gov", "flood", "https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013U.S. Congressman Mike Flood released the statement below following the passage of the two-step continuing resolution.\n\n\u201cKeeping the government open ensures that our soldiers, sailors, Air Force, and Marines get paid while they serve overseas protecting our freedoms as America celebrates Thanksgiving,\u201d Rep. Flood said. \u201cAdditionally, this staggered plan puts our country on a path to controlling spending, giving Congress time to finish work on the 12 appropriations bills. Thank you to Speaker Johnson for his leadership and keeping government open and working for the people.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T01:01:09Z"], ["https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=CF95D8C6-FF84-4494-AC2C-E8942C0FFB6E", "Administration\u2019s Spectrum Strategy Undermines National Security Needs", "2023-11-14", "2023", "2023-11", "Republican", "Senate", "NE", "Deb Fischer", "F000463", "www.fischer.senate.gov", "fischer", "https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u00ad\u2013 U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-Neb.), a senior member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, released the following statement in response to the administration\u2019s recent announcement of its national spectrum strategy.\u201cThe administration\u2019s newspectrum strategy deliberately undermines our military\u2019s use of federal airwaves. Modern equipment vital to our nation\u2019s defense, including aircraft and radar, operates on specific airwaves and cannot be moved. The administration\u2019s first priority must be the safety and security of our country \u2014 that means preserving a portion of the finite spectrum for vital military use.\u201d\n\nPermalink: https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/2023/11/administration-s-spectrum-strategy-undermines-national-security-needs", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T18:49:58Z"], ["https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=ECEF8ED8-126F-4161-8B03-CF2B6E72620B", "Senate Unanimously Passes Fischer Legislation to Give Tribal Colleges and Universities a Stronger Voice in Education Funding", "2023-11-14", "2023", "2023-11", "Republican", "Senate", "NE", "Deb Fischer", "F000463", "www.fischer.senate.gov", "fischer", "https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u00ad\u2013 U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-Neb.) released the following statement after the U.S. Senate unanimously approved her National Advisory Council on Indian Education Improvement Act.\n\nThe legislation would give Tribal Colleges and Universities (TCUs) greater input over federal funding discussions that impact them. U.S. Senators Jon Tester (D-Mon.), Mike Rounds (R-S.D.), Tina Smith (D-Minn.), Jerry Moran (R-Kan.), Ben Ray Luj\u00e1n (D-N.M), and Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.) cosponsored the legislation. The legislation now heads to the U.S. House of Representatives.\n\n\u201cTribal Colleges and Universities should not be left out of the conversation when it comes to federal education resources. I am glad to see this strong, bipartisan legislation pass the Senate with unanimous support. It\u2019s long past time to ensure that the Departments of Education and Interior hear directly from TCU leaders about their challenges and funding needs,\u201d said Senator Fischer.\n\n\u201cMontana\u2019s Tribal Colleges and Universities educate and inspire Montana\u2019s next generation of leaders, so it\u2019s important that they have the tools they need to be successful. TCU leaders know best what their students and faculty need which is why they ought to have the opportunity to work directly with the Departments of Education and the Interior to make sure federal dollars are spent effectively. The Senate passing our commonsense bill is a big step forward and I\u2019ll keep fighting to ensure Montana Tribes and TCU leaders have a seat at the table,\u201d said Senator Tester.\n\n\u201cI am pleased that the NACIE Improvement Act has passed the Senate. Leaders of Tribal Colleges and Universities know the needs of their organizations, faculty and students better than anyone else. This legislation will amplify their voice on how to best meet those needs and improve the effectiveness of federal resources,\u201d said Senator Rounds.\n\n\u201cA quality education is the foundation for success, and too often Tribal Colleges and Universities (TCUs) are left out of the decision-making process on federal funding. TCUs know and understand their students' needs, and when it comes to Native education they need to have their voices heard. That\u2019s why I\u2019m proud to celebrate passage of this bipartisan legislation that will ensure TCUs are at the table and have their needs considered in the agencies\u2019 annual budget requests to Congress,\u201d said Senator Luj\u00e1n.\n\n\u201cTribal Advisory Councils are an integral part of the federal trust responsibility, ensuring that the voices of our Tribal Nations have a formal role in advising the federal government. The National Advisory Council on Indian Education Improvement Act is an important step that will serve to uplift the Nation-to-Nation relationship, securing the future of our Native children. It is time NACIE\u2019s role in the Departments of Education and Interior is empowered and solidified. NIEA applauds the Senate passage of the NACIE Act and now looks towards the House to continue moving this important legislation forward,\u201d said National Indian Education Association President Tesia Zientek.\n\n\u201cWe are pleased that the NACIE bill has passed the Senate. It is important to include a seat at the table for our Tribal Colleges and Universities. They offer great insight and knowledge not only into the needs of their students and institutions but also of the educational system that serves these students throughout their education journey. Our students will be best served by all tribal educational systems working together to ensure they have the best possible educational opportunities,\u201d said Interim President of the American Indian Higher Education Consortium John Phillips.\n\n\u201cTribal Colleges and Universities applaud the Senate\u2019s passage of the NACIE bill. Giving TCU\u2019s a voice on NACIE advisory board and requiring these agencies to consider the board\u2019s annual report in budget decisions will strengthen all levels of education, enhance opportunities for students, and deepen the relationships between the Departments of Education and the Interior and the constituents they serve,\u201d said College of the Muscogee Nation President Monte Randall.\n\n\u201cThanks to Senator Fischer\u2019s leadership and other supporters of this bill, passage of the NACIE Act might be a real possibility. It will give one of the 35 Tribal Colleges and Universities (TCUs) President a seat on the federal budget committees to educate, advise and advocate for all TCUs. With the passage of this act, there will also be a better understanding between the Department of Education and Department of Interior (Bureau of Indian Education) regarding the needs of the TCUs,\u201d said Little Priest Tribal College President Manoj Patil.\n\n\u201cThe inclusion of Tribal Colleges on the NACIE board, under Senator Fischer\u2019s leadership, is a needed step forward in making sure all of the educational entities that serve Native American learners have a voice and a vote,\u201d said Nebraska Indian Community College President Dr. Mike Oltrogge.\n\nBackground The Department of Education\u2019s Tribal advisory group, the National Advisory Council on Indian Education (NACIE), advises the Secretaries of Education and Interior on programs serving Tribes and their members. NACIE releases an annual report, but the Department of Education does not have a process for considering NACIE\u2019s report when developing its budget request.\n\nAdditionally, Department of Education tribal consultation sessions often do not provide the opportunity for TCU leaders to provide direct input.\n\nThe National Advisory Council on Indian Education Improvement Act would address these challenges by:\n\nRequiring at least one of NACIE\u2019s members be the president of a Tribal College or University\n\nRequiring the Secretaries of Education and Interior to consider NACIE\u2019s annual report when preparing their budgets each year", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T18:49:58Z"], ["https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=F5B32E37-3E9E-4272-96A7-836F70A36C37", "Fischer Reintroduces Real MEAT Act to End Deceptive Labeling of Imitation Meat Products, Stop Smear Campaign Against Real Beef and Pork", "2023-11-14", "2023", "2023-11", "Republican", "Senate", "NE", "Deb Fischer", "F000463", "www.fischer.senate.gov", "fischer", "https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u00ad\u2013 U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-Neb.), a member of the Senate Agriculture Committee, recently reintroduced the Real Marketing Edible Artificials Truthfully (MEAT) Act to end deceptive labeling practices for alternative protein products. The Real MEAT Act would clarify the definition of beef and pork for labeling purposes by requiring alternative proteins to clearly display the word \u201cimitation\u201d on their packaging. The legislation would eliminate the consumer confusion that results from misbranding and ensure that the federal government is able to enforce labeling standards.\n\n\u201cIt\u2019s time to end the deceptive propaganda of plant-based protein products that deliberately confuse consumers by mimicking beef and pork. My Real MEAT Act will clarify that these imitation products aren\u2019t held to the same food safety and labeling standards as real, nutritious beef and pork. Americans deserve to know what\u2019s on their dinner plate, and my bill will bring certainty to the supermarket and end the smear campaign against real meats,\u201d said Senator Fischer.\n\n\u201cUSCA appreciates Senator Fischer\u2019s leadership on truthful, accurate labeling of meat products and protein alternatives through the introduction of the REAL Meat Act. As new alternatives and substitutes are brought to market, it\u2019s important that consumers remain confident in national food safety and labeling programs. What is on the label is what should be inside the package, every time,\u201dsaid U.S. Cattlemen\u2019s Association President Justin Tupper.\n\n\u201cThe National Cattlemen\u2019s Beef Association has long been a supporter of the Real Meat Act. Cattle producers work hard every day to raise a high-quality, wholesome protein and we appreciate Congress' continued effort to bring further transparency to plant based products,\u201d said National Cattlemen\u2019s Beef Association Vice President Buck Wehrbein, a Nebraska cattle producer.\n\n\u201cNebraska\u2019s hardworking beef cattle producers are globally recognized for providing prime product to consumers. While imitation meat will never come close to the quality and taste of real beef, Cattlemen do not deserve to have their reputation damaged by deceptive labeling practices. We commend Senator Fischer for introducing this important legislation which aims to protect both producers and consumers by strengthening food safety and labeling standards,\u201dsaid Nebraska Cattlemen President Steve Hanson.\n\n\u201cNebraska\u2019s pork producers work hard to raise safe, sustainable, and affordable pork for American families. Fake meat misleads consumers about the nutritional benefits and ingredients used in products. The Nebraska Pork Producers Association thanks Senator Fischer for introducing legislation to ensure that fake meat cannot benefit off of the good reputation of Nebraska pork,\u201d said Nebraska Pork Producers Association Executive Director Al Juhnke.\n\n\u201cNebraska Farm Bureau thanks Senator Deb Fischer for introducing this common-sense legislation. For decades, U.S. livestock producers have developed and fostered a sterling reputation for the high-quality meat products they produce. It is high time the federal government recognizes that work and investment by ensuring artificial meat products are labeled as such,\u201d said Nebraska Farm Bureau President Mark McHargue.\n\nClick here to read the text of the bill.\n\nBackground:\n\nThe Real MEAT Act would clarify the definition of beef and pork for labeling purposes, reinforce existing misbranding provisions to eliminate consumer confusion, and enhance the federal government\u2019s ability to enforce labeling standards. The term \u201cbeef\u201d is defined as the flesh of cattle and \u201cbeef product\u201d as edible products produced in whole or in part from beef, exclusive of milk and milk products. The term \u201cpork\u201d is defined as the flesh of pigs and \u201cpork product\u201d as any food produced or processed in whole or in part from pork. The legislation defines the terms \u201cmeat,\u201d \u201cmeat food product,\u201d \u201cmeat byproducts,\u201d and \u201cmeat broker\u201d based on the definitions established in the code of federal regulations.\n\nThe bill would reinforce the Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act\u2019s (FDCA) misbranding provisions, stating that any imitation meat food product, beef or beef product, or pork or pork product is misbranded unless its label has the word \u201cimitation\u201d in the same size and prominence immediately before or after the name of the food. The imitation product must also include a statement clearly indicating that it is not derived from and does not contain meat.\n\nFinally, the bill would require the Secretary of U.S. Health and Human Services to submit a notice within 60 days to the Secretary of the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) if a product is misbranded. If the HHS Secretary failed to initiate an enforcement mechanism within 30 days of sending the notice, the USDA Secretary would be able to treat the product as being misbranded.\n\nPermalink: https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/2023/11/fischer-reintroduces-real-meat-act-to-end-deceptive-labeling-of-imitation-meat-products-stop-smear-campaign-against-real-beef-and-pork", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T18:49:58Z"], ["https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=AEBCF4E4-04C2-4BC4-B57C-BA61E52E23AA", "VIDEO: Fischer: Bidenomics Driving Up Costs for Families, Hurting Small Businesses Across Nebraska", "2023-11-13", "2023", "2023-11", "Republican", "Senate", "NE", "Deb Fischer", "F000463", "www.fischer.senate.gov", "fischer", "https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases", "scraper", "\u201cOur Economy is Sick, and This Administration is Making It Sicker with Every Reckless Financial Decision.\"\n\nWASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-Neb.) spoke on the Senate floor recently about President Biden\u2019s failing economic agenda and the damaging impact of \u201cBidenomics\u201d on families and small business owners across Nebraska. In her remarks, Senator Fischer discussed how skyrocketing inflation has driven up costs for fuel oil, electricity, groceries, and even Halloween candy.\n\nClick the image above to watch video of Sen. Fischer\u2019s remarks\n\nClick here to download audio\n\nClick here to download video", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T18:49:58Z"], ["https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=B1B572DA-17A4-40D5-A38E-3DC0EB47D732", "Fischer Statement on Growing Iranian Aggression, Attacks on U.S. Troops", "2023-11-13", "2023", "2023-11", "Republican", "Senate", "NE", "Deb Fischer", "F000463", "www.fischer.senate.gov", "fischer", "https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u00ad\u2013 U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-Neb.), a senior member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, released the following statement today after repeated reports of attacks on U.S. forces by Iran-aligned groups.\n\n\u201cIran is the world\u2019s leading state sponsor of terrorism and a destabilizing force in the Middle East. These ongoing attacks on U.S. troops cannot go unanswered. The United States must do more to effectively deter Iran and its proxies from attacking our forces in the region. Strong deterrence is essential to preventing further regional escalation.\u201d\n\nPermalink: https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/2023/11/fischer-statement-on-growing-iranian-aggression-attacks-on-u-s-troops", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T18:49:58Z"], ["https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=5B5DC743-2363-49C3-866F-48E64492742C", "Fischer Statement on Veterans Day", "2023-11-10", "2023", "2023-11", "Republican", "Senate", "NE", "Deb Fischer", "F000463", "www.fischer.senate.gov", "fischer", "https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u00ad\u2013 U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-Neb.), a senior member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, released the following statement ahead of Veterans Day:\n\n\u201cOn Veterans Day, we honor the brave men and women who answered the call to serve our nation. They exemplify the best our country has to offer: courage, honor, integrity, and patriotism. We are forever grateful for their sacrifices to defend our freedom. I invite every Nebraskan to thank a veteran for all they have done to safeguard the American way of life.\u201d\n\nClick here for Senator Fischer\u2019s Veterans Day Column.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T18:49:58Z"], ["https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=1359", "Reps. Bacon and Jackson Introduce Bipartisan Success for Military Connected Students Act", "2023-11-09", "2023", "2023-11", "Republican", "House", "NE", "Don Bacon", "B001298", "bacon.house.gov", "bacon", "https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx", "scraper", "Washington \u2013 Reps. Don Bacon (R-NE-02) and Jeff Jackson (D-NC-14) today introduced the bipartisan H.R. 6287, the Success for Military Connected Students Act, which extends the maximum number of students to teacher ratio directive for Department of Defense Education Activity (DoDEA) schools around the world, which was set in the FY21 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) by Congress at 18:1 for grades K-3 and about 24:1 for grades 3-12.\n\nResponsible for providing quality educational opportunities and services to military dependents around the globe, DoDEA schools currently have more than 66,000 military children enrolled in 160 schools located in 11 foreign countries, seven states and two territories. With more than 8,000 educators dedicated to teaching these students, DoDEA schools also provide support and resources to Local Educational Agencies throughout the U.S. that serve children of military families.\n\n\u201cNumerous studies have shown that lower student to teacher ratios provides a better-quality education for students and continuing these mandated levels will ensure the dependents of our service members receive the best education no matter where their family is stationed,\u201d said Rep. Bacon. \u201cI thank Rep. Jackson for joining me in this bipartisan effort to service those who sacrifice so much for our country.\u201d\n\n\u201cServicemembers and their families make sacrifices every day to defend freedom and keep our country safe. We have an obligation to ensure their children have access to a great education and that DoDEA remains one of the highest achieving school systems in the world,\u201d said Rep. Jackson. \u201cThis bill will prevent increases to class sizes and ensure that our teachers can provide students with the excellent education they deserve. I\u2019m proud to join Rep. Bacon to introduce it in the House.\u201d\n\nThe National Education Association also expressed their support for the legislation.\n\n\u201cEvery day, DoDEA educators have a mission to ensure all military-connected students have the opportunity for an education that inspires their curiosity and enthusiasm for discovery. To meet this goal, engaging students at a high level requires class sizes that enable educators to connect one-on-one with their students,\u201d said Marc Egan, Director of Government Relations at the National Education Association. \u201cOn behalf of the 6,000 educators we represent that teach in DoDEA schools, NEA strongly supports the Success for Military Connected Students Act, which would maintain current student-to-teacher ratios through the 2029-2030 DoDEA academic year. Year after year, DoDEA educators deliver a world class education to DoDEA students and maintaining current class sizes will continue to provide military-connected students the individualized support they so deserve.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T01:01:09Z"], ["https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-floods-veterans-day-statement-0", "Congressman Flood\u2019s Veterans Day Statement", "2023-11-09", "2023", "2023-11", "Republican", "House", "NE", "Mike Flood", "F000474", "flood.house.gov", "flood", "https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013U.S. Congressman Mike Flood issued a recorded statement ahead of Veterans Day, which will be observed November 11, 2023.\n\nVideo of the remarks can be found by clicking here. News outlets are welcome to use the footage for their reporting purposes. The full text of the speech is below.\n\nOn Veterans Day, we pay tribute to the men and women who have fought over the years to keep America free.\n\nThrough the wars our country has fought, the natural disasters we\u2019ve sustained, and the help our allies have needed, American solidiers have always stood by, ready to assist and defend.\n\nFrom the seas to the sands, the islands to the deserts, veterans have endured the toughest training to be prepared for whatever may come.\n\nToday, not only do our veterans deserve recognition, but their family and friends need our support as well. Thank you for enduring the sleepless nights and the worrisome days waiting for your loved one to come home.\n\nAlthough this is a special day to recognize our vets, it\u2019s important to let our veterans know how grateful we are for them all year long.\n\nAnd to those who are currently serving, thank you for your continued devotion to your mission. Your service and sacrifice are appreciated more than you\u2019ll ever know.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T01:01:09Z"], ["https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=C38084D3-89D0-4957-B700-204F64FB3778", "VIDEO: Fischer Presses Homeland Security Secretary on National Security Crisis at the Southern Border", "2023-11-09", "2023", "2023-11", "Republican", "Senate", "NE", "Deb Fischer", "F000463", "www.fischer.senate.gov", "fischer", "https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases", "scraper", "Senator Also Slams HHS Secretary on Administration\u2019s Push to Extend Temporary, Partisan Priorities: \u201cCOVID Emergency Funding Was Never Intended to be Indefinite.\u201d\n\nWASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 At a Senate Appropriations Committee hearing this week, U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-Neb.) pressed U.S. Department of Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas on the historic crisis at the U.S. southern border. During the hearing, Senator Fischer urged the Biden administration to enact substantive policy changes to address the border crisis, like tightening asylum standards or limiting the use of parole. As Senator Fischer noted, 169 migrants with positive terrorism watchlist matches were arrested between ports of entry on the southern border in Fiscal Year 2023.\n\nSenator Fischer also questioned U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Secretary Xavier Becerra on the administration\u2019s attempts to extend a temporary program that was included in the partisan American Rescue Plan and expired on September 30, 2023. Senator Fischer stressed the need to address America\u2019s important childcare challenges through the regular appropriations process \u2014 including amendments and open debate \u2014 instead of inconsistent year-end supplemental packages.\n\nClick the image above to watch video of Sen. Fischer\u2019s remarks\n\nClick here to download audio\n\nClick here to download video", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T18:49:58Z"], ["https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=E950AC28-6047-46D6-B3A2-2E2627676E98", "Fischer Welcomes Groundbreaking for Nebraska Veterans Cemetery in Grand Island", "2023-11-09", "2023", "2023-11", "Republican", "Senate", "NE", "Deb Fischer", "F000463", "www.fischer.senate.gov", "fischer", "https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-Neb.), a senior member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, released the following statement ahead of the groundbreaking ceremony for the Nebraska Veterans Cemetery in Grand Island, which will be held on Friday, November 10.\n\n\u201cWe owe so much to those who have served our country and sacrificed in defense of our freedoms. The Nebraska Veterans Cemetery in Grand Island will provide a fitting location to honor these heroes and stand as a solemn tribute to their patriotism and service. I was pleased to secure funding for this project, and I want to thank the many who have been fighting to make this a reality,\u201d said Senator Fischer.\n\nEarlier this year, Senator Fischer commended the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs\u2019 (VA) announcement that it had awarded up to $8,391,524 for the establishment of a Nebraska Veterans Cemetery in Grand Island. The VA also announced it would reimburse the state of Nebraska $577,495 for the cost of fabrication and delivery of outer burial receptacles used for the project.\n\nBackground:\n\nSenator Fischer secured funding in the Senate\u2019s Fiscal Year 2024 (FY24) Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies (MilCon-VA) Appropriations Act to continue honoring Nebraska\u2019s fallen veterans through the Veterans Cemetery Grant Program. The program provides funding to establish, expand, and improve veteran cemeteries, ensuring that veterans in Nebraska and across the U.S. are buried with the honors they deserve.\n\nAccording to the VA, the Nebraska Veterans Cemetery in Grand Island will serve more than 13,000 veterans and their eligible family members. The grant will fund 506 pre-placed crypts, 548 cremains gravesites, 640 columbarium niches, an administration building, a maintenance facility, a committal service shelter, and landscaping.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T18:49:58Z"], ["https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases/smith-announces-upcoming-staff-outreach-events-2", "Smith Announces Upcoming Staff Outreach Events", "2023-11-08", "2023", "2023-11", "Republican", "House", "NE", "Adrian Smith", "S001172", "adriansmith.house.gov", "adriansmith", "https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2013 Constituents of Third District Congressman Adrian Smith (R-NE) are invited to meet with a member of his staff during the month of November in Holdrege and Broken Bow.\n\nA staff outreach event is an opportunity for constituents to meet directly with a member of Smith's staff about federal issues, receive assistance with a federal agency, or take advantage of the services available through his office.\n\nSmith, who has offices in Grand Island and Scottsbluff, will provide a staff member at the following times and locations:\n\nTuesday, November 14th\n\nHoldrege Area Chamber of Commerce\n\n504 4th Avenue, Holdrege\n\n11:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. CT\n\nTuesday, November 28th\n\nCuster County Courthouse\n\n431 South 10th Avenue, Broken Bow\n\n11:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. CT\n\nFor additional information, please contact Smith\u2019s Grand Island office at (308) 384-3900 or his Scottsbluff office at (308) 633-6333.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T01:01:09Z"], ["https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases/smith-bipartisan-colleagues-reintroduce-keep-physicians-serving-patients-act", "Smith, Bipartisan Colleagues Reintroduce Keep Physicians Serving Patients Act", "2023-11-08", "2023", "2023-11", "Republican", "House", "NE", "Adrian Smith", "S001172", "adriansmith.house.gov", "adriansmith", "https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2013 Reps. Adrian Smith (R-NE), Terri Sewell (D-AL), Darin LaHood (R-IL), and Melanie Stansbury (D-NM) reintroduced the Keep Physicians Serving Patients Act, legislation to help ensure seniors in rural America have access to health care providers by adjusting the geographic practice cost index (GPCI) to more accurately portray the costs of practicing medicine in rural areas.\n\nThe members released the following statements:\n\n\u201cThe last thing rural communities need is to lose health care providers to an outdated, flawed reimbursement index,\u201d said Rep. Smith. \u201cModernizing the GPCI is a commonsense step we can take to ensure Medicare patients in rural America have access to care while also setting a reasonable, responsible reimbursement minimum for rural providers. I thank Reps. Sewell, LaHood, and Stansbury for partnering with me on this important legislation.\u201d\n\n\u201cWe in Alabama have seen our rural health care providers come under immense strain, due in part to Medicare reimbursement rates that fail to fully reflect the cost of providing services in smaller, rural communities,\u201d said Rep. Sewell. \u201cBy modernizing the GPCI, this legislation would help ensure that providers are fairly reimbursed so that our health care professionals can focus on treating patients and saving lives.\u201d\n\n\u201cEnsuring Medicare providers in rural communities are not unfairly impacted from lower payments based on an outdated geographic practice cost indexes (GPCI) is critical for access to care in Illinois,\u201d said Rep. LaHood. \u201cI am proud to join this bipartisan group to introduce this commonsense bill, which will modernize the GPCI formula, accounting for the unique practice needs of rural providers, and ensure physicians can continue serving patients in need regardless of where they live.\u201d\n\n\u201cSeniors in our rural communities, and the physicians that serve them, are on the frontlines of the healthcare crisis. Rural America, especially in New Mexico, have been left behind,\u201d said Rep. Stansbury. \u201cHealth care providers are leaving rural areas because of an outdated system that doesn\u2019t accurately calculate reimburse costs, making practicing in rural areas unaffordable for providers. The Keep Physicians Serving Patients Act corrects for this by adjusting the geographic practice cost index (GPCI), assuring that the costs of practicing medicine in rural areas is accurately portrayed and reimbursed to rural providers. I\u2019m happy to join this bipartisan coalition in reintroducing this crucial piece of legislation, which will pave the way to ensure care for our seniors in rural America.\u201d\n\nCurrently, Medicare adjusts payments to providers based on GPCI estimates; however, the index consistently underestimates the costs associated with practicing medicine in rural communities. This leads to rural providers receiving lower, less competitive payment than providers practicing in more urban areas. The Keep Physicians Serving Patients Act \u2013 which you can read here \u2013 would set a permanent minimum GCPI to ensure all providers are adequately and fairly compensated for their services.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T01:01:09Z"], ["https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressmen-flood-trone-introduce-bipartisan-bill-measure-scope-loneliness", "Congressmen Flood & Trone Introduce Bipartisan Bill to Measure Scope of Loneliness Epidemic", "2023-11-08", "2023", "2023-11", "Republican", "House", "NE", "Mike Flood", "F000474", "flood.house.gov", "flood", "https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2014 Today, U.S. Congressman Mike Flood and Congressman David Trone (D-MD) introduced the Improving Measurements for Loneliness and Isolation Act. Earlier this year, the Surgeon General declared loneliness a public health epidemic in America.\n\nIn a significant first step to combat loneliness and isolation federally, the Improving Measurements for Loneliness and Isolation Act brings subject matter experts, researchers, and various stakeholders to unify existing efforts to increase social connection.\n\n\u201cIncreased mobility and digital living have accelerated community fragmentation and underlie the epidemic,\u201d said Congressman Flood. \u201cAs I\u2019ve traveled the district, elderly residents in rural Nebraska have shared stories about loneliness, and it often leads to poor health outcomes. The Improving Measurements for Loneliness and Isolation Act is a first step towards getting our arms around the scope of this epidemic so we can support solutions that work. Thank you to my colleague Rep. Trone and to Senator Ricketts for helping lead this important work.\u201d\n\n\"As our nation continues to grapple with declining mental health, it's vital that we are equipped with the right data to turn the tide on this worsening epidemic,\" said Congressman Trone, co-founder and co-chair of the Bipartisan Mental Health and Substance Use Disorder Task Force. \"The Improving Measurements for Loneliness and Isolation Act will help us provide clear measurements and definitions of loneliness, which can help us better address and treat the impacts to folks\u2019 mental and physical health. With this bill, we are improving lives one step at a time.\"\n\n\u201cSenior Americans are facing more loneliness than ever. This has devastating public health consequences,\u201d said Senator Ricketts. \u201cWe need accurate data to guide our policy response. My Improving Measurements for Loneliness and Isolation Act is a solid step toward restoring the benefits of community and improving health outcomes for our seniors.\u201d\n\nBill text can be found here. A one-pager on the bill can be found here. Senator Pete Ricketts (R-NE) is introducing companion legislation in the Senate. Earlier this week, Politico previewed the introduction of the Improving Measurements for Loneliness and Isolation Act here.\n\nMultiple groups have endorsed this legislation including the American Association of Suicidology, American Foundation for Suicide Prevention, Coalition to End Social Isolation and Loneliness, National Association for County Behavioral Health and Disability Directors, and National Association for Rural Mental Health.\n\n\"The Coalition is proud to support Representative Flood and his introduced legislation to advance our knowledge base on social isolation and loneliness, paving the way for future efforts to secure national surveillance of these pervasive issues. We look forward to working with his office to encourage bipartisan support and ensure the passage of this legislation.\" - Jillian Racoosin, Executive Director of the Coalition to End Social Isolation and Loneliness", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T01:01:09Z"], ["https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=4EAC29E7-A48D-4EA3-BAFA-6EB346EF2901", "Fischer, Colleagues Urge Blinken to Bring New Suite of UN Sanctions Against Iranian Regime", "2023-11-08", "2023", "2023-11", "Republican", "Senate", "NE", "Deb Fischer", "F000463", "www.fischer.senate.gov", "fischer", "https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u00ad\u2013 U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-Neb.), a senior member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, recently joined 12 of her Senate Republican colleagues in sending a letter to Secretary of State Antony Blinken demanding that the Biden administration press for a broader, more permanent framework of sanctions on Iran from the United Nations Security Council (UNSC). The letter was led by U.S. Senator Dan Sullivan (R-Alaska).\n\nOn October 18, the United Nation\u2019s (UN) sanctions on Iran\u2019s ballistic missile and drone programs expired, and in October 2020, the UN\u2019s conventional arms embargo against Iran expired. Both expirations are delayed consequences of the Obama administration\u2019s Iran Nuclear Deal.\n\n\u201c[Iran\u2019s] systemic support of terror merits broader, permanent treatment by the UN Security Council. If the Russian Federation and the People\u2019s Republic of China wish to demonstrate their opposition to the UN Charter\u2019s call to advance peace and security, it would provide important clarity to other nations suffering from Iranian terror threats of their true allegiances,\u201d wrote the Senators.\n\n\u201cA new UNSC resolution should target the same activity the UN permanently sanctioned prior to the 2015 enactment of Resolution 2231, including \u2026 involvement in Iran\u2019s enrichment, reprocessing, and heavy water production; assistance with its ballistic missile testing, development, and launches; transfer of nuclear and missile technology to Iran; transfer of conventional weapons, rockets, and drones to and from Iran. It should also add a multilateral prohibition on the import of Iranian oil, petroleum products, metals, or investment in its energy sector, essentially multi-lateralizing the objective of American secondary sanctions in these areas,\u201d the Senators continued.\n\nThe Senators argued that Iran\u2019s material support for terrorist organizations poses a significant threat to the world and merits strong sanctions, just like Iran\u2019s nuclear program \u2014 especially following the recent Hamas attack on Israel.\n\nIn addition to Senators Fischer and Sullivan, the letter was signed by U.S. Senators Roger Wicker (R-Miss.), Lindsey Graham (R-S.C.), Katie Boyd Britt (R-Ala.), John Hoeven (R-N.D.), John Kennedy (R-La.), Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa), John Thune (R-S.D.), Steve Daines (R-Mont.), Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-Miss.), James Lankford (R-Okla.), and Tom Cotton (R-Ark.).\n\nRead the full letter here or below.\n\nThe Honorable Antony Blinken\n\nSecretary of State\n\nUnited States Department of State\n\n2201 C Street, NW\n\nWashington, DC 20520\n\nDear Mr. Secretary:\n\nWe were dismayed to witness the October 18, 2023 expiration of UN Security Council (UNSC) Resolution 2231 sanctions on Iran\u2019s ballistic missile and drone programs. We urge you to table a new comprehensive framework for Iran-related sanctions that supersedes UNSC Resolution 2231 and lays the groundwork in advance of the resolution\u2019s slated termination in October 2025.\n\nIran\u2019s nuclear program remains the number one long-term threat to stability and security in the Middle East and beyond. However, this is not the only threat the Iranian regime poses. Iran\u2019s material support for terrorist organizations like Hamas, Palestinian Islamic Jihad, Hezbollah, and other proxy forces in the Middle East are front and center in the current crisis in Israel, as is Tehran\u2019s assistance for Russia\u2019s war in Ukraine. Iran, according to the State Department\u2019s own \u201cCountry Reports on Terrorism,\u201d is the world\u2019s \u201cleading sponsor of state terrorism\u201d, \u201cinvolved in supporting terrorist recruitment, financing, and plots across Africa, Asia, Europe, and North and South America.\u201d\n\nThis systemic support of terror merits broader, permanent treatment by the UN Security Council. If the Russian Federation and the People\u2019s Republic of China wish to demonstrate their opposition to the UN Charter\u2019s call to advance peace and security, it would provide important clarity to other nations suffering from Iranian terror threats of their true allegiances.\n\nIn addition to the expiry in October 2020 of the UN\u2019s conventional arms embargo against Iran, the most recent expiration of sanctions on ballistic missiles and drones leaves the world with a rapidly evaporating UN framework for multilateral sanctions on Iran at precisely the time the threat from Iran has become so menacingly clear.\n\nA new UNSC resolution should target the same activity the UN permanently sanctioned prior to the 2015 enactment of Resolution 2231, including the following:\n\nInvolvement in Iran\u2019s enrichment, reprocessing, and heavy water production.\n\nAssistance with its ballistic missile testing, development, and launches.\n\nTransfer of nuclear and missile technology to Iran.\n\nTransfer of conventional weapons, rockets, and drones to and from Iran.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T18:49:58Z"], ["https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-flood-joins-bipartisan-coalition-introduce-bipartisan-farm-fly-act", "Congressman Flood Joins Bipartisan Coalition to Introduce the Bipartisan Farm to Fly Act", "2023-11-07", "2023", "2023-11", "Republican", "House", "NE", "Mike Flood", "F000474", "flood.house.gov", "flood", "https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Today, U.S. Congressman Mike Flood joined Max Miller (R-OH), alongside Angie Craig (D-MN), Brad Finstad (R-MN), Nikki Budzinski (D-IL), Ashley Hinson (R-IA), Jasmine Crockett (D-TX), and Randy Feenstra (R-IA) in introducing the bipartisan Farm to Fly Act to create new, robust markets for American agricultural products and to strengthen domestic energy\n\nThe bill would foster the development of Sustainable Aviation Fuels (SAF) within existing U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) programs, allow for greater collaboration, and ensure USDA\u2019s SAF definitions reflect eligibility for American agricultural crops.\n\n\u201cExpanding opportunities for biofuels will not only help family farmers across the country but will also help connect more American businesses with homegrown clean energy,\u201d said Congressman Flood. \u201cMaking the eligibility criteria for Sustainable Aviation Fuels at the U.S. Department of Agriculture clearer is a great step forward on this journey. Thank you to Congressman Miller for your leadership on the Farm to Fly Act, and I urge my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to move this commonsense legislation quickly.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T01:01:09Z"], ["https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=159D3F35-9120-49E6-833A-71850F8885BC", "Fischer Introduces Bill to Return Improperly Seized Army Corps of Engineers Land Back to Nebraska\u2019s Winnebago Tribe", "2023-11-07", "2023", "2023-11", "Republican", "Senate", "NE", "Deb Fischer", "F000463", "www.fischer.senate.gov", "fischer", "https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u00ad\u2013 This week, U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-Neb.) led the introduction of the Winnebago Land Transfer Act. The legislation would transfer approximately 1,600 acres of land back to the Winnebago Tribe of Nebraska that were illegally seized in the 1970s by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers for a proposed recreation project that was never started.\n\nIn addition to Senator Fischer, the legislation is cosponsored by U.S. Senators Pete Ricketts (R-Neb.), Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa), and Joni Ernst (R-Iowa).\n\n\u201cThe U.S. Army Corps of Engineers was wrong to seize this land through eminent domain in the 1970s. After decades of inaction, it\u2019s time for us to make this right. My legislation will return this land to the Winnebago Tribe of Nebraska, and I look forward to getting this bill to the President\u2019s desk,\u201d said Senator Fischer.\n\n\u201cThe Army Corps of Engineers\u2019 decision to condemn and seize land from the Winnebago Tribe of Nebraska was a classic case of government overreach. My colleagues in the Nebraska and Iowa delegations and I want to see this wrong corrected, and the land returned to the Winnebago people,\u201d said Senator Ricketts.\n\n\u201cThe introduction of the Winnebago Land Transfer Act by Senators Fischer, Ricketts, Grassley, and Ernst is a historic and beautiful moment for the Winnebago people. We have been waiting for this wrong to be made right, and we are grateful for the leadership demonstrated by our congressional delegation. We look forward to the passage of this important legislation,\u201d said Winnebago Tribal Chairwoman Victoria Kitcheyan.\n\nClick here to read the text of the bill.\n\nBackground:\n\nThe Treaty of 1865 established the Winnebago Reservation in northeastern Nebraska along the Missouri River. Due to westward shifts in the river, portions of the reservation are now in Iowa.\n\nIn 1970, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (Corps) was performing stabilization efforts on the Missouri River\u2019s banks and condemned land on both the Nebraska and Iowa sides of the river for a proposed recreation project. The condemned land included tracts of reservation land in Iowa. The Corps filed eminent domain proceedings to acquire the land, triggering years of legal challenges.\n\nUltimately, the Nebraska tract of land was returned to the Tribe. However, both tracts of land in Iowa that were illegally taken remain under the Corps\u2019 jurisdiction today and are maintained by the Iowa Department of Natural Resources (DNR). Neither the Iowa DNR nor the Corps has objection to the Tribe regaining control of the land. The latest renewal agreement of the license between the Iowa DNR and the Corps includes a provision that anticipates the return of the land to the Tribe.\n\nSenator Fischer\u2019s Winnebago Land Transfer Act would transfer administrative jurisdiction of the approximately 1,600 acres from the Army Corps of Engineers to the Bureau of Indian Affairs to hold in trust for the Winnebago Tribe of Nebraska.\n\nU.S. Representative Randy Feenstra (R-Iowa) introduced the House version of this legislation in February. In addition to Congressman Feenstra, the legislation is cosponsored by U.S. Representatives Mike Flood (R-Neb.), Adrian Smith (R-Neb.), Don Bacon (R-Neb.), Zachary Nunn (R-Iowa), Sharice Davids (D-Kan.), Mariannette Miller-Meeks (R-Iowa), and Ashley Hinson (R-Iowa).", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T18:49:58Z"], ["https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-flood-host-norfolk-town-hall-nov-20th", "Congressman Flood to Host Norfolk Town Hall on Nov. 20th", "2023-11-06", "2023", "2023-11", "Republican", "House", "NE", "Mike Flood", "F000474", "flood.house.gov", "flood", "https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "LINCOLN, NEBRASKA \u2013Today, U.S. Congressman Mike Flood announced he will hold a town hall in Norfolk, Nebraska on November 20, 2023. The town hall will be hosted at the Northeast Community College Lifelong Learning Center. A map of the campus is located here.\n\nDuring the town hall, Congressman Flood will provide an update on the priorities he\u2019s been working on for Norfolk and Nebraska\u2019s First Congressional District. There will be a question-and-answer period.\n\nCongressman Flood\u2019s Norfolk Town Hall\n\nMonday, November 20, 2023\n\n5:30PM \u2013 6:30PM CT\n\nNortheast Community College \u2013 Lifelong Learning Center\n\n601 E Benjamin Ave, Norfolk, NE 68701\n\nParking and facility map here.\n\nThis event is open to the public.\n\nIn addition to the program, district staff will be available to assist with challenges regarding federal agencies, military academy nominations, scheduling requests and other needs constituents might encounter.\n\nFor questions about the town hall, please contact Congressman Flood\u2019s Lincoln Office at 402-438-1598.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T01:01:09Z"], ["https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=A999885C-9E64-441C-99A7-A5C10DC8D102", "Senate Unanimously Approves Fischer\u2019s Bipartisan Legislation to Expand Vets\u2019 Access to CDL Schools", "2023-11-06", "2023", "2023-11", "Republican", "Senate", "NE", "Deb Fischer", "F000463", "www.fischer.senate.gov", "fischer", "https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-Neb.) released the following statement today after the U.S. Senate unanimously approved her Veteran Improvement Commercial Driver License Act.\n\nThe legislation, which was co-led by U.S. Senator Alex Padilla (D-Calif.), ensures that veterans\u2019 GI benefits can be utilized at new branches of commercial driving program (CDL) schools whose primary institutions have already received regulatory approval.\n\nCurrently, if an approved trucking school opens a secondary facility in a new location, existing laws require the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) and state regulators to deny the branch\u2019s ability to receive GI benefits for two years.\n\n\u201cI\u2019m glad to see our bipartisan legislation to support veterans pass the Senate with unanimous support. Trucking is a vital part of our economy, yet unnecessary red tape continues to prevent some veterans from utilizing their GI benefits in the industry. I look forward to working with my colleagues in the House to get this legislation to the President\u2019s desk,\u201d said Senator Fischer.\n\nSenator Fischer led the introduction of the legislation in March. The bill now heads to the U.S. House of Representatives, where it is being led by U.S. Representative Chuck Edwards (NC-11).\n\nThe bill has received endorsements from:\n\nVeteran Service Organizations: American Legion, Moving Veterans Forward, Student Veterans of America, Veterans of Foreign Wars, Great Plains Chapter of Paralyzed Veterans of America, and Nebraska Military Officers Association of America\n\nLabor: International Brotherhood of Teamsters\n\nIndustry: Werner Trucking, American Trucking Association, Commercial Vehicle Training Association, Nebraska Trucking Association, North Carolina Trucking Association, American Road and Transportation Builders Association, and Home Depot\n\nBackground The trucking industry is currently facing a shortage of 80,000 drivers, with some estimates showing that number could reach 160,000 by 2030. Trucking shortages have a ripple effect across our nation\u2019s supply chains, worsening bottle necks and delaying delivery times.\n\nIt is estimated that 8,400 commercial driving programs are approved for use by eligible veterans under the GI bill.\n\nThe Fischer-Padilla legislation would ensure CDL schools that offer courses at new branches do not have to wait two years if the primary institution has been approved by the VA and State Approving Agencies to receive GI benefits. By clarifying this two-year moratorium statute, the bill will allow veterans more accessibility to nearby CDL schools and ultimately to high-paying careers in the industry.\n\nCDL schools must still comply with state and VA rules regarding curriculum standards to ensure that programs are not exploiting veterans or offering fraudulent courses.\n\nClick here to read the text of the bill.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T18:49:58Z"], ["https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases/smith-announces-upcoming-mobile-office-hour-0", "Smith Announces Upcoming Mobile Office Hour", "2023-11-03", "2023", "2023-11", "Republican", "House", "NE", "Adrian Smith", "S001172", "adriansmith.house.gov", "adriansmith", "https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2013 Congressman Adrian Smith will meet constituents of the Third District during a mobile office hour on Friday, November 10th, in Aurora.\n\nA mobile office hour is an opportunity for constituents to meet directly with Congressman Smith about federal issues, receive assistance with a federal agency, or take advantage of the services available through his office.\n\nSmith, who has offices in Grand Island and Scottsbluff, will hold the mobile office hour at the following time and location:\n\nFriday, November 10th\n\nEdgerton Explorit Center Theater\n\n208 16th Street, Aurora\n\n1:30 p.m. - 2:30 p.m. CT\n\nFor additional information, please contact Smith\u2019s Grand Island office at (308) 384-3900 or his Scottsbluff office at (308) 633-6333.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T01:01:09Z"], ["https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=6B3B6979-5410-4B54-9027-3335E6B78656", "VIDEO: Fischer Urges Continued Support for Israel, Stresses Need to Expand U.S. Defense Production Capacity", "2023-11-02", "2023", "2023-11", "Republican", "Senate", "NE", "Deb Fischer", "F000463", "www.fischer.senate.gov", "fischer", "https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases", "scraper", "\u201cWe\u2019ve Been Asleep to Changes in the Global Threat Environment for Too Long \u2014 Now Is the Time to Wake Up.\u201d\n\nWASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-Neb.), a senior member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, spoke on the Senate floor this week about the Biden administration\u2019s national security supplemental funding request and the importance of U.S. military aid for Israel.\n\nDuring her remarks, Senator Fischer emphasized the need to expand domestic defenseproduction capacity to better address the changing global threat environment. Senator Fischer also cited a recent bipartisan report, which found that the current U.S. strategic posture will not effectively deter America\u2019s two peer nuclear competitors, China and Russia.\n\nClick the image above to watch video of Sen. Fischer\u2019s remarks\n\nClick here to download audio\n\nClick here to download video\n\nFollowing is a transcript of Senator Fischer\u2019s remarks as prepared for delivery:\n\nWe\u2019ve heard story after story this past month about Hamas\u2019s brutal ground attacks on Israel. Hamas militants murdered Israelis and Americans alike as they stormed places from border towns to music festivals.\n\nHamas didn\u2019t just attack from the ground. They continue to rain rockets upon Israel. These rockets have destroyed people\u2019s homes, ruptured their livelihoods, and taken their lives.\n\nThroughout this conflict, Israel\u2019s Iron Dome defense system has played a crucial role. The Iron Dome acts as a shield, detecting rockets and firing missiles to intercept them before they hit the ground.\n\nThe United States has stood by Israel \u2014 our closest ally in the Middle East \u2014 since the country\u2019s inception. We\u2019ve always pledged our support in times of crisis.\n\nSo it\u2019s critical that my colleagues and I on the Senate Appropriations Committee work together to ensure that Israel receives the defensive and offensive capabilities it\u2019s requested from the United States.\n\nThat includes replenishing the Iron Dome system so that Israel is able to protect its people from rocket attacks by terrorist groups.\n\nIt includes replenishing Israel\u2019s David\u2019s Sling system and investing in the development of the Iron Beam system. These defensive systems set Israel up for an effective response to the havoc Hamas and Hezbollah continue to wreak.\n\nWe must provide Israel with the time and resources its government needs to eliminate these threats.\n\nBut as we consider the aid we will provide to Israel, we also consider the question: how do we better position the United States to support our allies, as well as bolster our own defense amid escalating global threats?\n\nA few days after the heinous attacks on Israel, a bipartisan, bicameral congressional commission released its report on the strategic posture of the United States.\n\nThis report \u2014 based on the consensus of respected national security experts from across the political spectrum \u2014 concluded that the United States will be woefully underprepared for the threats we\u2019re facing.\n\nOur two peer nuclear adversaries, Russia and China, have dramatically expanded their nuclear forces over decades. They continue to develop novel nuclear weapons and delivery systems.\n\nMeanwhile, the United States is barely keeping up with modernizing our nuclear forces.\n\nThe report emphasized the need to grow our nuclear and conventional forces, and above all else, to expand our production capacity \u2014 including our workforce, supply chain, and infrastructure.\n\nAs Senators, we regularly receive briefings and intelligence reports that clearly outline the threats we face from actors like Russia and China.\n\nI\u2019ve often said that if the American people had access to more of this information themselves, they would better understand the nature and severity of the threats we face. Investment in national security would move to the top of their priority list.\n\nThese events \u2014 the release of a disquieting defense report and the assault against our ally Israel \u2014 should serve as a wake-up call for the United States.\n\nWe must expand our production capacity to meet the needs of our country. And if we don\u2019t expand our production capacity, we also won\u2019t be able to effectively support our allies and partners or supply them with the lethal aid they desperately need.\n\nBuilding out our capacity, so we can meet future threats \u2014 that will take time and resources. But we can start now by making targeted investments in munitions production.\n\nThe administration\u2019s supplemental request includes $25 billion just to replenish our own weapons stockpiles and expand critical munition production capacity \u2014 initiatives that, frankly, should already have begun.\n\nIncluding this funding in the supplemental will be a step in the right direction.\n\nThe supplemental request must bring together our goals of strengthening our own military readiness, supporting our troops in Europe and the Middle East, and providing our allies and partners with lethal aid.\n\nI look forward to working with my colleagues to ensure that the supplemental includes these priorities.\n\nWe\u2019ve been asleep to changes in the global threat environment for too long \u2014 now is the time to wake up.\n\nThank you, M. President, I yield the floor.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T18:49:58Z"], ["https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=06BF36FC-DA64-40D4-9C18-D1C9C87A2CEA", "VIDEO: Fischer Highlights Need to Replenish U.S. Weapons Stockpiles, Boost Domestic Munitions Production at Senate Appropriations Hearing", "2023-11-01", "2023", "2023-11", "Republican", "Senate", "NE", "Deb Fischer", "F000463", "www.fischer.senate.gov", "fischer", "https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases", "scraper", "\u201cWe Simply Do Not Have the Workforce, Supply Chain, or Infrastructure Necessary to Meet the Coming Threats.\u201d\n\nWASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 At a Senate Appropriations Committee hearing this week, U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-Neb.) questioned Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin about the administration\u2019s national security supplemental funding request and spoke about the urgent need to replenish U.S. weapon stockpiles and boost domestic munitions production.\n\nIn her remarks, Senator Fischer highlighted a recent report from the Congressional Commission on the Strategic Posture of the United States, which found that the nation\u2019s current strategic posture is not sufficient to effectively deter America\u2019s two peer nuclear competitors: China and Russia.\n\nClick the image above to watch video of Sen. Fischer\u2019s remarks\n\nClick here to download audio\n\nClick here to download video", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T18:49:58Z"], ["https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=A09B0F15-1536-4CE9-81F5-9E015165414F", "VIDEO: Fischer Joins \u201cFox Report\u201d to Discuss U.S. Support for Israel, Anti-Semitism on College Campuses, and Key Upcoming Hearing", "2023-10-30", "2023", "2023-10", "Republican", "Senate", "NE", "Deb Fischer", "F000463", "www.fischer.senate.gov", "fischer", "https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases", "scraper", "Senator Calls on Homeland Security Secretary Mayorkas to Testify Before Key Appropriations Hearing: \u201cHe Needs to Be There.\u201d\n\nWASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-Neb.), a senior member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, joined \u201cFox Report\u201d with Jon Scott on Sunday to discuss the latest national security news including Israel\u2019s response to Hamas\u2019s brutal attacks and the importance of U.S. aid to Israel. During the interview, Senator Fischer called on every Member of Congress to recognize Hamas as a terrorist group.\n\nSenator Fischer expressed concern about reports of pro-Hamas activities and demonstrations on college campuses in the United States. Recently, Senator Fischer joined a letter urging U.S. Secretary of Homeland Security Alejandro Mayorkas to review and remove visa holders who participated in, or encouraged the spread of, pro-Hamas, pro-terrorist activity.\n\nIn addition to the Senate Armed Services Committee, Senator Fischer serves on the Senate Appropriations Committee, which will hold a hearing this week to question Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin and Secretary of State Antony Blinken about President Biden\u2019s national security supplemental request.\n\nDuring the interview, Senator Fischer called on Secretary Mayorkas to appear before the Appropriations Committee to defend the Biden administration\u2019s funding request and outline its plans to address the border crisis. The annual number of encounters at the southern border set an all-time record during Fiscal Year 2023 at 2,475,669. September set the all-time monthly record at 269,735 encounters.\n\nClick the image above to watch video of Sen. Fischer\u2019s interview\n\nClick here to download audio\n\nClick here to download video\n\nFollowing is a transcript of Senator Fischer\u2019s interview:\n\nJon Scott: Let's bring in Nebraska Senator Deb Fischer. She is a member of the Armed Services Committee. How would you assess, Senator, what the administration has provided Israel so far? And, in your view, is it enough?\n\nSenator Fischer: Well, first of all, I think that we all need to make sure that we continue to support what Israel is doing. They suffered a tremendous attack, over 1,400 people were killed. If you compare that to the United States on 9/11, we would have lost over 40,000 people. And, we've seen horrific events take place by these terrorists. And Israel needs to have the time and the resources to be able to step forward and address Hamas\u2014the terrorists that continue to attack them and take hostages, have them in their tunnels. So, I think the administration, first of all, came out\u2014President Biden\u2014with a strong statement of support. That's good. I think the administration has also stepped forward by putting those two carrier strike groups in the Mediterranean to send a strong message to Iran and to their proxies that we are there as a friend, as a supporter to provide Israel with the resources they need. But it's up to Israel now to be able to implement a plan that they are clear about, that we have a full understanding of, and that takes into account the threats that they face.\n\nJon Scott: There have been more and more pro-Palestinian protests across the country, and that seems to be splintering Democrats on Capitol Hill. There are many who are overtly in favor of the Palestinians. Do you think that that's going to cause the president to wobble at all in his support of Israel?\n\nSenator Fischer: I think every Member of Congress needs to step forward and declare that Hamas is a terrorist group, and they need to be gone. They committed atrocities. They butchered babies. They burned people. They raped. They kidnapped. They murdered. That was something that they were proud of. They were videoing it while they were doing it. This is a terrorist organization that's a proxy of Iran. And, if Members of Congress have a problem in standing up and saying that, I think the American people need to be able to make their views known to those members. I am very concerned as I watch what's happening on college campuses. For example, with these demonstrations where, while they're supportive of Palestinians, in many cases, they're also supportive of Hamas. That cannot continue. We need to look at addressing that. And college campuses need to step forward and address that as well. We've said, you know, after the Holocaust, \"never again.\" The Jewish people and Jewish Americans, especially on these college campuses, should not be afraid.\n\nJon Scott: The President is asking for $106 billion from Congress: much of it for Israel, also aid for Ukraine, and supposedly some money to go to the southern border, and a couple of other things. Is that going to be split up, do you think? Are senators okay with the idea of voting on individual packages of aid, as the House Speaker seems to want to do?\n\nSenator Fischer: I'm the second ranking Republican on the Armed Services Committee, and I'm also the only Republican who serves on that committee and also on the Appropriations Committee. On the Appropriations Committee, we're going to have a hearing on the supplemental package on Tuesday. And, at that time, we'll be able to meet as a full committee, bipartisan, have our Secretary of Defense Austin there, Secretary of State Blinken, be able to question them. I would hope Secretary Mayorkas would be there as well. He needs to be there when we address the southern border. This is a package that's been presented by the administration. We have members on our side of the aisle and on the other side as well that are looking at possibly addressing that step by step. What I think the American people need to know is that we face a number of threats as a nation. And those threats come from Russia. They come from China. They come from Iran. When we see what's happening in Ukraine by the Russians feeling emboldened to invade a sovereign country, that's testing us. The tipping point was Afghanistan in my mind, where we had a botched withdrawal. So now, we see countries that are emboldened to invade Ukraine. We see action by Iran with their proxies, whether it's Hamas or Hezbollah, and the Chinese are watching this as well. They have ambitions towards Taiwan. They are not shy about that. And, that's another front that America has to look at. All the while, looking at our southern border\u2014and not having a border at all. There's chaos there, national security risks, humanitarian crisis. So, we are facing threats across the board. And, we have to make sure that a supplemental package will address those threats, building up our own munitions programs that we need as a country, being able to provide for our allies and being able especially to control our own border.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T18:43:12Z"], ["https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=6E7FD47F-A522-443D-BA20-B98962CA51D4", "Fischer, Colleagues Introduce Legislation to Recognize Benefits of Biofuels, Promote Efficient Farming", "2023-10-27", "2023", "2023-10", "Republican", "Senate", "NE", "Deb Fischer", "F000463", "www.fischer.senate.gov", "fischer", "https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases", "scraper", "Bill Would Require EPA to Apply Argonne National Lab\u2019s GREET Model\n\nWASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-Neb.), a member of the Senate Agriculture Committee, recently co-led the reintroduction of the Adopt Greenhouse Gases, Regulated Emissions, and Energy Use in Transportation (GREET) Act. The legislation would require the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to update its greenhouse gas modeling for all renewable fuels under the Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS).\n\nSpecifically, the bill would require EPA to apply the Argonne National Lab\u2019s GREET Model to any fuel for which EPA has approved a pathway and deemed qualified for the RFS. EPA would then be required to update its modeling every five years or report to Congress to affirm its modeling is current or otherwise explain why no updates were made. U.S. Senators John Thune (R-S.D.) and Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.) led the introduction of the legislation.\n\n\u201cThe biofuels industry is on the frontlines of innovation, and it\u2019s critical that the EPA\u2019s modeling is updated to reflect the latest science and technology \u2014 including in the biofuels industry. Our bipartisan legislation would ensure that the EPA is using the GREET Model to more efficiently and accurately recognize how biofuels can be a source of clean, homegrown energy,\u201d said Senator Fischer.\n\nIn addition to Senators Fischer, Thune, and Klobuchar, the legislation is cosponsored by U.S. Senators Tammy Baldwin (D-Wis.), Sherrod Brown (D-Ohio), Tammy Duckworth (D-Ill.), Dick Durbin (D-Ill.), Joni Ernst (R-Iowa), Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa), Roger Marshall (R-Kan.), Pete Ricketts (R-Neb.), and Mike Rounds (R-S.D.).\n\nThe legislation is supported by Growth Energy, the Renewable Fuels Association, the American Coalition for Ethanol, POET, the National Corn Growers Association, Gevo, and the National Oilseed Processors Association.\n\nClick here to view the legislation.\n\nBackground:\n\nIn June, Senator Fischer co-led the introduction of the Sustainable Aviation Fuels Accuracy Act of 2023. The legislation would require the federal government to use the most up-to-date lifecycle emissions models, including the GREET model, for sustainable aviation fuels.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T18:43:12Z"], ["https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=34D66194-CA78-4B40-852A-7F46E6B9A9D4", "VIDEO: Fischer Outlines Devastating Impact of Barbaric Hamas Attack, Reaffirms U.S. Support for Israel in Senate Floor Speech", "2023-10-26", "2023", "2023-10", "Republican", "Senate", "NE", "Deb Fischer", "F000463", "www.fischer.senate.gov", "fischer", "https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases", "scraper", "\u201cWe Must Send a Clear Message to Hamas, Hezbollah, and Their State Sponsor Iran: We Will Not Equivocate in Our Support for Israel.\u201d\n\nClick the image above to watch video of Sen. Fischer\u2019s remarks\n\nEighteen days ago, terror shook the Middle East. Eighteen days ago, Hamas tore children from their parents, tore mothers, fathers, brothers, and sisters from their families. Eighteen days ago, terrorism swept across Israel, destroying everything in its path.\n\nWe all know this. We\u2019ve heard about these attacks repeatedly with every news cycle. Even as we continue reading articles, hearing analysis, and seeing new information, let\u2019s not forget the reality of these terrorist attacks \u2014 the seriousness of such a massive loss of human life.\n\nHamas killed over 1400 people, over 1400 innocent civilians, in its attacks this month. Death touched thousands of friends and family members, and its aftereffects are still rippling across Israel and across the world.\n\nLet\u2019s resist our modern impulse to leave this tragedy behind in favor of the next headline. Let\u2019s allow the abuse, torture, and murder of Israelis and Americans alike to strike a fresh sense of grief and anger in our hearts every time we hear of them.\n\nThat grief and anger must drive us to respond to the horror of terrorism. Israel is responding, yes. But the response to terrorism should not be bound by Israel\u2019s national borders. Because terrorism itself is not bound by national borders.\n\nHamas killed American citizens in its assaults on innocent people across Israel. Terrorists are still holding American citizens hostage in Gaza. Hamas has American blood on its hands.\n\nOne American, Hayim Katsman, hid in a closet with his neighbor as Hamas militants rained gunfire on an Israeli village. A neighbor told CNN that Katsman covered him with his body and saved his life by absorbing the bullets.\n\nAmerican Deborah Matias and her husband sacrificed themselves for their 16-year-old son, acting as human shields against Hamas\u2019s fire.\n\nTwo American brothers, Igal and Amit Wachs, died together \u2014 both trying to save those around them. Amit, who volunteered as head of the village\u2019s self-defense unit, ran outside to help his neighbors at the beginning of the attack. In the process, he was killed. Igal was killed as he searched for a weapon to defend himself and his family.\n\nThese are real people \u2014 real Americans \u2014 whose lives were extinguished far too early by the terror in Israel.\n\nIt\u2019s critical that we see the return of every American stranded in Israel or held hostage in Gaza. Every American must be accounted for and safely brought home.\n\nFollowing the cold-blooded slaughter of both Americans and Israelis, the United States must stand firmly with Israel. We must send a clear message to Hamas, Hezbollah, and their state sponsor Iran: we will not equivocate in our support for Israel. We will stand with them and provide the assistance they need as they make difficult decisions to defend their sovereign nation.\n\nCongress and the administration must work together to gather all of our diplomatic and economic strength against Iran. We must work together to aid Israel \u2014 whether through economic support, lethal aid, or increased intelligence sharing.\n\nWe know Israel will need more defensive capabilities, including Tamir interceptors for its Iron Dome air defense system \u2014 the backbone of its missile defense architecture. I support the Department of Defense\u2019s plans to send our two Iron Dome batteries to Israel to bolster their security. My colleagues and I introduced a bill to reallocate aid funding to Israel\u2019s Iron Dome that could have ended up in Hamas\u2019s pockets. This legislation would be an important first step in defending Israel against further attacks.\n\nWe know Israel will need more offensive capabilities, including precision guided munitions to hit specific ground targets. We know Israel will need our intelligence on the Middle East so it can eliminate the Hamas threat completely.\n\nAnd we know standing with Israel against terror will buttress and fortify our own national defense.\n\nOur support of Israel will help it triumph over terrorism. And our support of Israel will help us show strength and deter our adversaries. By protecting Israeli interests, we will promote American interests as well.\n\nThank you, M. President, I yield the floor.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T18:43:12Z"], ["https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=DE496BEA-E023-492F-AA9E-8CDAE621A08E", "Fischer, Rubio, Colleagues Push for Removal of Terrorist Supporters", "2023-10-26", "2023", "2023-10", "Republican", "Senate", "NE", "Deb Fischer", "F000463", "www.fischer.senate.gov", "fischer", "https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-Neb.), a senior member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, recently joined four of her Senate colleagues in sending a letter to U.S. Secretary of Homeland Security Alejandro Mayorkas urging him to review and remove those who participated in, or encouraged the spread of, pro-Hamas, pro-terrorist activity. The letter was led by U.S. Senator Marco Rubio (R-Fla.).\n\n\u201cYou have an opportunity\u2013and the obligation\u2013to use the tools Congress has already provided to you to protect the safety of the United States during this critical time. We urge you to work hand-in-hand with the agencies of DHS, the U.S. Department of State, state and local law enforcement, and institutions of higher education to ensure that aliens who support terrorism are quickly removed from our country,\u201d the Senators said.\n\nSince the October 7, 2023, attacks on Israel by Hamas, an Iranian-backed Foreign Terrorist Organization (FTO), protests and demonstrations have spewed hateful and antisemitic messages across the United States.\n\nIn addition to Senators Fischer and Rubio, the letter was signed by U.S. Senators Pete Ricketts (R-Neb.), Markwayne Mullin (R-Okla.), and Rick Scott (R-Fla.).\n\nFull text of the letter can be found here or below.\n\nWe write with regard to recent demonstrations supporting Hamas, a U.S. designated Foreign Terrorist Organization (FTO), on American soil. On October 7, 2023, Hamas launched a brutal terrorist attack on the State of Israel. This attack included the raping, mutilating, and kidnapping of innocent Israeli civilians, including children, as well as several Americans. Support for this attack is vile, and sadly, American universities have caved to terrorist sympathizing students by allowing rampant antisemitism and support for Hamas to pervert their grounds. Unfortunately, this abhorrent support could also be shared by those who are in the United States on a myriad of visa categories.\n\nThe U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) is tasked with protecting America from those who seek to do us harm. Section 101 of the Homeland Security Act states that DHS\u2019s \u201cprimary mission \u2026 is to ... prevent terrorist attacks within the United States\u201d and \u201creduce the vulnerability of the United States to terrorism.\u201d This core responsibility was born from lessons learned on September 11, 2001, when terrorists, many of whom were studying in the United States or had overstayed visas, carried out the deadliest attack on American soil. Sadly, twenty-two years later, our country is witnessing public displays from terrorist sympathizers taking to the streets and condoning Hamas\u2019 brutal attacks against the State of Israel.\n\nAs you know, 8 U.S.C. \u00a7 1182(a)(3) mandates that, in addition to those who engage in terrorist activity or material support thereof, anyone who \u201cendorses or espouses terrorist activity or persuades others to endorse or espouse terrorist activity or support a terrorist organization\u201d is inadmissible into the United States and ineligible for a visa. As an FTO, support for Hamas and calling for others to join in Hamas\u2019 \u201cDay of Rage\u201d fits squarely into this criteria. Further, under 8 U.S.C. \u00a7 1201, the U.S. Department of State has the authority to revoke visas. Under these authorities, you must immediately perform a full review and coordinate with the Department of State to revoke the visas of those who have endorsed or espoused Hamas\u2019 terrorist activities and then deport them. Aside from identifying and deporting jihadist supporters, DHS should also be proactively working to ensure these aliens cannot obtain any additional immigration benefits.\n\nThe Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS) serves as a valuable tool for both DHS and universities, and you must ensure that you use it to protect Americans, particularly on our university and college campuses. Under current regulations, institutions of higher education, via their designated school official (DSO), are tasked with maintaining accurate records for the students in their programs. This includes those students who have completed their course study, transferred, received a change in status as well as those whom have been terminated due to violations \u201cto school policy, standards or requirements; the student\u2019s nonimmigrant status; or civil or criminal law.\u201d In addition to current requirements, DSOs should be required to immediately report pro-Hamas, or related activity, whether on campus or not, into SEVIS as a disqualifier for continued possession of a visa or lawful status as a student or exchange visitor. This type of hatful, anti-Semitic behavior should not be tolerated anywhere in the United States, and we should certainly not permit it from guests to our country who are studying at the greatest colleges and universities in the world.\n\nAdditionally, revising DHS\u2019s Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP) eligibility requirements to clarify that no educational institution can qualify for SEVP eligibility if that institution has officially supported, endorsed, or espoused Hamas or its recent activities, whether by issuing official statements, allowing pro-Hamas demonstrations on campus, or officially recognizing or providing financial assistance to student groups that support Hamas is crucial and timely. Support for terror should have no place on America\u2019s campuses, and we should not be inviting foreign students into our country to study at any institution that supports Hamas\u2019s reprehensible acts.\n\nAlso, we note the provisions of 18 U.S.C. \u00a7 2339A et sq, prohibits material support for Hamas and other designated foreign terrorist organizations. We ask that you coordinate with the U.S. Department of Justice National Security Division and the U.S. Department of Treasury Office of Terrorism and Financial Intelligence to take action against any institution of higher education that recognizes, or provides financial assistance, to student groups, including but not limited to \u201cStudents for Justice in Palestine,\u201d and other similar front organizations.\n\nFinally, we urge you to respond quickly and appropriately when a university or college in the United States reaches out regarding potential national security concerns about individuals in their student body. We know from the past, terrorism can occur when the signs, sometimes subtle and sometimes blatant, are ignored. We fully anticipate that some universities and colleges will use the tools at their disposal to ensure potential terrorists are not wandering their campuses. We expect DHS and the federal personnel under your control to also respond appropriately.\n\nYou have an opportunity\u2013and the obligation\u2013to use the tools Congress has already provided to you to protect the safety of the United States during this critical time. We urge you to work hand-in-hand with the agencies of DHS, the U.S. Department of State, state and local law enforcement, and institutions of higher education to ensure that aliens who support terrorism are quickly removed from our country.\n\nThank you for your attention for this important matter.\n\nSincerely,", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T18:43:12Z"], ["https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=F27C5B7F-CE7B-4945-928E-5205A285BC22", "VIDEO: Fischer Calls for Additional Enforcement to Protect Consumers Against Illegal Robocalls", "2023-10-26", "2023", "2023-10", "Republican", "Senate", "NE", "Deb Fischer", "F000463", "www.fischer.senate.gov", "fischer", "https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases", "scraper", "\u201cWe Must Be Able to Empower Consumers with the Knowledge of Who Is Actually Calling Them and the Ability to Block Illegal Callers\u201d\n\nWASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-Neb.), a member of the Senate Commerce Committee, delivered remarks at a hearing this week highlighting the urgent need to improve enforcement and protect consumers from illegal and spoofed robocalls. In her remarks, Senator Fischer discussed the damaging impact of unlawful scam calls and texts that can lead to devastating financial losses and personal identity theft.\n\nIn 2019, Senator Fischer cosponsored the TRACED Act to advance solutions that would reduce illegal robocalls. Senator Fischer also introduced the Spoofing Prevention Act in 2016 to close existing legal loopholes allowing fraudulent caller ID information to be conveyed through texts, certain IP-enabled voice services, and calls originating outside the United States. Both bills are now law.\n\nClick the image above to watch video of Sen. Fischer\u2019s remarks\n\nClick here to download audio\n\nClick here to download video\n\nFollowing is a transcript of Senator Fischer\u2019s opening remarks:\n\nGood morning,\n\nThank you, Chairman Luj\u00e1n, for holding this hearing. The persistent issue of illegal robocalls has been a long-standing concern of mine. Nationwide illegal and spoofed robocalls continue to be the number one consumer complaint. I want to ensure that we have the right tools in place to protect consumers from these calls that prey on them. As we all know, our phones give us a connection to the world around us. Whether it's calling family, friends, or colleagues, scheduling appointments, or summoning emergency services, they are integrated into our daily lives.\n\nOur phone numbers are a very personal part of our identities as well. We use them to verify who we are, and we hold on to them for decades \u2014 sometimes for a lifetime. But, as we know too well, this allows scammers to reach directly into our homes and into our pockets. Bad actors are increasingly savvy in the technologies they use to defraud consumers. This can result in devastating financial losses.\n\nCriminals are engaging in more targeted calls and impersonating businesses like banks to steal personal data or commit financial fraud. Phone scams are still yielding the highest reported fraud losses per person, despite the rapid growth of scammers on social media platforms. In fact, fraud losses due to phone scams are higher than ever. According to a recent report, over 68 million Americans lost approximately $40 billion to phone scams in 2021 alone.\n\nIn many ways, it feels like we have had this conversation so many times over so many years. But crucially, in 2019, Congress passed the TRACED Act to put wide-ranging solutions in motion that would reduce illegal robocalls. I commend my colleague, Senator Thune, for leading this legislation and I was glad to be a cosponsor of it.\n\nPreviously, I also led the Spoofing Prevention Act with Senator Bill Nelson, which passed into law in 2018. This law was a foundational effort to increase penalties and boost enforcement tools that fight illegal spoofing. Deterrence through fines for illegal robocall activities is a key part of cracking down on nuisance calls that endanger consumers. On this front, federal agencies \u2013 particularly the Justice Department \u2013 must improve how they work together to ensure that unpaid fines are collected.\n\nThere are no silver bullets to eradicate the scourge of illegal scam calls and texts. Lawmakers have to remain vigilant and monitor how illegal robocall schemes are evolving. We must be able to empower consumers with the knowledge of who is actually calling them and the ability to block illegal callers. We all share the goal of being able to pick up our phone safely, trusting that we know who's going to be on the other end of the line. But we are not there just yet. The industry has made commendable efforts to reduce the prevalence of these illegal calls, including through advancements in call authorization and traceback technology.\n\nNew statistics from the federally designated Traceback Consortium \u2013 ITG \u2013 indicate that certain common robocall scams have started to decline over the last couple of years. Continuing this trend will take the united cooperation of all voice service providers. As lawmakers, we need to maintain this momentum and ensure that traceback efforts are fully supported.\n\nI urge the FCC to spend its time and resources to prevent genuine criminal activity and create meaningful safe harbors for businesses acting in good faith compliance with the law. I look forward to hearing from today's witnesses about where we are in this effort and where additional assistance may be needed. Thank you for being here. And thank you, Chairman Luj\u00e1n.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T18:43:12Z"], ["https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases/smith-supports-mike-johnson-house-speaker", "Smith Supports Mike Johnson for House Speaker", "2023-10-25", "2023", "2023-10", "Republican", "House", "NE", "Adrian Smith", "S001172", "adriansmith.house.gov", "adriansmith", "https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2013 Today, Rep. Adrian Smith (R-NE) released the following statement after Rep. Mike Johnson (R-LA) was elected to serve as Speaker of the House of Representatives:\n\n\"I\u2019ve known Mike Johnson to be a sincere, capable, and humble leader,\" said Rep. Smith. \"A man of faith and stand-up guy who has always been thoughtful, honest, and principled, he has the qualities to bring us together and confront the challenges we face as Americans. This afternoon, I was pleased to vote for him for Speaker on the House floor, and under his leadership I look forward to all we can accomplish to get our country back on track.\"\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T00:49:26Z"], ["https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-flood-congratulates-speaker-johnson", "Congressman Flood Congratulates Speaker Johnson", "2023-10-25", "2023", "2023-10", "Republican", "House", "NE", "Mike Flood", "F000474", "flood.house.gov", "flood", "https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Today, Congressman Mike Flood issued a statement after voting along with fellow Republicans to elect Rep. Mike Johnson of Louisiana as the next Speaker of the U.S. House of Representatives.\n\n\u201cCongratulations to Rep. Mike Johnson on his election to be the next Speaker of the House. He is a principled, constitutional conservative who will do a fantastic job leading House Republicans. We have important work in front of us: America needs to step up and support Israel as they fight back against Palestinian terrorism. We need to keep government running for the people, and we need to continue to deliver on our Commitment to America. I know Speaker Johnson has what it takes to bring the House together around these critical priorities, and I look forward to working together on them in the coming days and weeks.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T00:49:26Z"], ["https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=2677F555-175D-4C12-9082-FDF22A46C4F1", "Fischer, Colleagues Demand Biden Expand Border Wall Construction", "2023-10-25", "2023", "2023-10", "Republican", "Senate", "NE", "Deb Fischer", "F000463", "www.fischer.senate.gov", "fischer", "https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-Neb.) recently joined 12 of her Senate Republican colleagues in sending a letter to President Joe Biden encouraging the administration to resume and expand construction of the border wall. The letter was led by U.S. Senator Marco Rubio (R-Fla.).\n\n\u201cDespite the administration\u2019s messaging on this issue, construction of a border wall is sorely needed as communities and elected officials across the country demand a more robust response to illegal immigration,\u201d the Senators wrote.\n\n\u201cYour administration\u2019s decision to continue construction of the Trump Administration\u2019s physical border wall is a step in combating \u2018high illegal entry\u2019 rates. With that, more must be done,\u201d the Senators continued.\n\nIn August, the administration sought funding from Congress to address the migration crisis on the border, but did not request resources to construct a border wall. After the Senators\u2019 letter was sent, the Biden administration submitted a supplemental budget request that failed to include additional funding for border wall construction.\n\nIn addition to Senators Fischer and Rubio, the letter was signed by U.S. Senators Rick Scott (R-Fla.), Tommy Tuberville (R-Ala.), Mike Braun (R-Ind.), Kevin Cramer (R-N.D.), Dan Sullivan (R-Alaska), Cynthia Lummis (R-Wyo.), Katie Boyd Britt (R-Ala.), Bill Cassidy (R-La.), Mitt Romney (R-Utah), Steve Daines (R-Mont.), and John Hoeven (R-N.D.).\n\nRead the full letter here or below.\n\nPresident Joe Biden\n\nThe White House\n\n1600 Pennsylvania Avenue NW\n\nWashington, D.C. 20500\n\nDear Mr. President:\n\nWe write with regard to the U.S. Department of Homeland Security\u2019s (DHS) notice of determination to begin construction of the border wall along the U.S. southern border. This acknowledgement of the law will help deter illegal immigration. However, less than 24 hours after the posting of the notice, this administration has sought to walk back this common-sense initiative. While technology can be deployed as a useful tool on our southern border, it does not act as a physical deterrent that is required, both under the law and in the full reality of the crises that continue. Despite the administration\u2019s messaging on this issue, construction of a border wall is sorely needed as communities and elected officials across the country demand a more robust response to illegal immigration. We hope that this decision signals the beginning of a bipartisan consensus on the need for more physical deterrents on our southern border.\n\nIn light of Secretary Mayorkas\u2019 announcement, we write to urge your administration to ensure that more land mass is covered by the border wall and for you to rescind and resubmit your August 2023 supplemental funding request to Congress to specifically include additional resources for construction. Under the current proposal, approximately 20 miles of border wall will be established. However, more must be done to deter unfettered illegal immigration, which is continuing at a record-breaking pace. If we are to ensure the safety of American communities, more miles of border wall must be constructed.\n\nIn August, your administration sought supplemental funding for a variety of purposes, including to \u201cmanage [the] Southwest border safely and effectively.\u201d This funding request specifically cited the need for additional resources as it relates to, among other things, \u201cmigration surges,\u201d \u201cShelter and Services Program grants,\u201d \u201cnon-intrusive inspection technology,\u201d and \u201ccounter-drug activities related to fentanyl.\u201d This funding request did not include funds for border wall construction along the U.S.-Mexico border, despite the Secretary\u2019s subsequent decision to ramp up construction after years of inaction and reports of the Secretary auctioning off parts of the border wall that went unused during the prior administration.\n\nYour administration\u2019s decision to continue construction of the Trump Administration\u2019s physical border wall is a step in combating \u201chigh illegal entry\u201d rates. With that, more must be done. We urge you to expand border wall construction efforts along the U.S.-Mexico border. Further, we additionally urge you to resubmit your August 2023 supplemental funding request to Congress to specifically include additional resources for physical border deterrents, taking into account the need for more land mass to be covered.\n\nThank you for your attention to this important matter. We look forward to your prompt response.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T18:43:12Z"], ["https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=BDE6970A-ECE5-4A3F-96F9-0894B9EEC10B", "Senate Passes Fischer, Ricketts Resolution to Honor \u201cVolleyball Day in Nebraska,\u201d Celebrate Women\u2019s Collegiate Athletics", "2023-10-25", "2023", "2023-10", "Republican", "Senate", "NE", "Deb Fischer", "F000463", "www.fischer.senate.gov", "fischer", "https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Today, the U.S. Senate unanimously passed a resolution introduced by U.S. Senators Deb Fischer (R-Neb.) and Pete Ricketts (R-Neb.) to honor the record-setting \u201cVolleyball Day in Nebraska\u201d event on August 30 and celebrate the importance of women\u2019s collegiate athletics in Nebraska.\n\nAhead of the bill\u2019s passage, Senators Fischer and Ricketts delivered remarks on the Senate floor to support the resolution and honor the historic occasion.\n\nClick the image above to watch video of Senator Fischer\u2019s remarks\n\nClick the image above to watch video of Senator Ricketts\u2019 remarks", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T18:43:12Z"], ["https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=5D7ACB90-E60B-401E-AF95-AC42C06B5169", "VIDEO: Fischer Joins \u201cMornings with Maria\u201d to Talk U.S. Aid to Israel, Threats from Iran, and Jack Lew\u2019s Nomination", "2023-10-24", "2023", "2023-10", "Republican", "Senate", "NE", "Deb Fischer", "F000463", "www.fischer.senate.gov", "fischer", "https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-Neb.), a senior member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, joined Maria Bartiromo on Fox Business today to discuss the horrific attack on Israel by Hamas and the importance of providing lethal aid to Israel. Senator Fischer also discussed the need to replenish U.S. weapons stockpiles and bolster domestic munitions production.\n\nDuring the interview, Senator Fischer pushed back against President Biden\u2019s failed Iran policy, including the administration\u2019s attempts to release $6 billion to Iran. Senator Fischer announced she would oppose Jack Lew\u2019s nomination to serve as U.S. Ambassador to Israel given his previous appeasement of Iran and his work to promote the Obama administration\u2019s flawed Iran nuclear deal.\n\nClick the image above to watch video of Sen. Fischer\u2019s interview\n\nClick here to download audio\n\nClick here to download video\n\nFollowing is a transcript of Senator Fischer\u2019s interview:\n\nMaria Bartiromo: Joining me right now is Nebraska Senator Deb Fischer. She's a member of the Senate Armed Services Committee. Senator, thanks very much for being here. Assess the situation as you know it.\n\nSenator Fischer: Well, we have a really horrible situation that the Israelis are facing. And our part of this: we need to be able to give them the time that they need to really defend their nation and to wipe out Hamas. We also need to give them the resources that they need. They are a strong partner for us. This is a strategic relationship that we have with them, and we need to make sure that we stand with them.\n\nMaria Bartiromo: Well, I mean, for the last two and a half years, this administration has been trying to get an Iran deal done with the Iranians and appeasing the Iranians \u2014 sanctions, enabling the Iranians to generate billions of dollars in revenue on the oil money, so that they could sell the oil money. Do you think that's going to reverse course anytime soon?\n\nSenator Fischer: Well, I would hope it would. Obviously, I was not in favor of that Iran deal to begin with. But now, we're looking at, as you said, the appeasement of this administration, whether it's with Iran and their movement to release that $6 billion, which I'm glad they are talking about walking that back. That should be frozen permanently. And I'm on different bills and letters to push that that happens. But we also saw the horrible, misguided withdrawal from Afghanistan, which I think really was a tipping point. And it showed the world that things had changed with the leadership here in the United States that was coming from the White House.\n\nMaria Bartiromo: Well, the Pentagon is now vowing to hold Iran responsible for rocket attacks on American troops in the Middle East. They also expect a, \u201csignificant escalation of attacks against our troops.\u201d Senator, your thoughts on that?\n\nSenator Fischer: We've seen a number of attacks already on our troops with no response by this administration for the vast majority of those attacks. So, it's good that the administration is standing up and saying it, but I want to see the action that follows it. We have to be able to have a strong response when our men and women overseas are being attacked by a state-sponsored terrorists and their government that is constantly promoting attacks on the United States, on our allies. And we need to make sure that we do have a firm, strong response to that.\n\nMaria Bartiromo: Let me get your take on some of the business in Washington this week. First of all, Jack Lew\u2019s confirmation hearing, where does that stand? The administration would like Jack Lew to be the next ambassador to Israel.\n\nSenator Fischer: Well, he had his hearing before the Foreign Relations Committee. I have a strong response to that nomination. I will not support it. I believe that Jack Lew is not the person to be an ambassador from the United States to Israel when he was such a strong promoter of the Iran deal. He has a relationship with Iran that has been, I would say, on more friendly terms than I want to see from our ambassador to Israel. There are others that I think the administration should be looking at. And I hope my colleagues on the other side of the aisle are going to take this nomination seriously, are going to really, really question it and look at the type of person that should be in that position. And it is not Jack Lew.\n\nMaria Bartiromo: And then there is this packaging of money that Biden wants. Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell says he supports packaging aid to Ukraine and Israel together. Biden, as you know, requesting $61.4 billion for Ukraine, $14.3 billion for Israel. Senator, where do you stand on that?\n\nSenator Fischer: Well, the administration, they send over a supplemental package \u2018suggestion\u2019, I would take it. But let's remember, it's Congress who's going to pass the bill. We are going to decide what is included in that supplemental package. There is a lot under what has been classified as aid to Ukraine. I would point out that much of the money in there is to replenish our own stocks, which is necessary. On the Armed Services Committee where I'm second in seniority, we had a hearing last week from the Congressional Commission on the Strategic Posture of the United States, and it was a wakeup call for this country and how unprepared we are.\n\nMaria Bartiromo: Are we running out of ammunition?\n\nSenator Fischer: We are behind in being able to produce the things that we need. So, while we are providing Ukraine with Javelins and Stingers and GMLRS, what is part of that package also reinforces our capability to produce what we need.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T18:43:12Z"], ["https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=63E63E95-6601-413E-9FA0-639CAD8D0CCB", "Fischer, Colleagues Introduce Legislation to Resupply Israel\u2019s Iron Dome", "2023-10-24", "2023", "2023-10", "Republican", "Senate", "NE", "Deb Fischer", "F000463", "www.fischer.senate.gov", "fischer", "https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-Neb.), a senior member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, recently co-led the introduction of the Emergency Resupply for Iron Dome Act of 2023.\n\nThe legislation would require the Executive Branch to transfer the U.S. foreign assistance that the U.S. Department of State plans to send to Hamas-controlled Gaza and redirect it to resupply Israel\u2019s highly effective missile defense interceptors. U.S. Senator Bill Hagerty (R-Tenn.) led the introduction of the bill.\n\n\u201cIsrael has the right and the responsibility to defend itself against unconscionable assaults from groups like Hamas and Hezbollah. Our bill would reallocate aid funding that could have ended up in Hamas\u2019s pockets to Israel\u2019s Iron Dome air defense system \u2014 the backbone of its missile defense architecture. The United States will stand by our ally,\u201d said Senator Fischer.\n\nIn addition to Senators Fischer and Hagerty, the legislation is cosponsored by U.S. Senators Ted Cruz (R-Texas), Marco Rubio (R-Fla.), John Barrasso (R-Wyo.), Thom Tillis (R-N.C.), Katie Britt (R-Ala.), Cynthia Lummis (R-Wyo.), Josh Hawley (R-Mo.), Tommy Tuberville (R-Ala.), and Rick Scott (R-Fla.).\n\nClick here for bill text.\n\nPermalink: https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/2023/10/fischer-colleagues-introduce-legislation-to-resupply-israel-s-iron-dome", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T18:43:12Z"], ["https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-flood-america-continues-support-israel", "Congressman Flood: America Continues to Support Israel", "2023-10-20", "2023", "2023-10", "Republican", "House", "NE", "Mike Flood", "F000474", "flood.house.gov", "flood", "https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Today, U.S. Congressman Mike Flood released a video expressing continued support for America\u2019s ally, Israel, as they defend their country in a brutal war incited by Hamas.\n\nVideo of the remarks can be found by clicking here. News outlets are welcome to use the footage for their reporting purposes. The full text of the speech is below.\n\nFriends and fellow Nebraskans\u2026\n\nIt has now been almost two weeks since Hamas unleashed brutal attacks on Israel.\n\nMore than thirteen hundred Israelis and over thirty Americans have been killed by terrorists.\n\nAnd now many expect Hamas will use hostages and even Palestinian civilians as body shields as the war progresses.\n\nThe photos and videos circulating in the news and on social media are gut-wrenching.\n\nI am here to say America will continue to stand by Israel as the country continues to respond to the evil perpetrated by Hamas.\n\nI\u2019ve been encouraged by the quick response of the U.S. President and U.S. Senators who have already visited Israel.\n\nHere at home, Americans are coming together to do everything we can to support Israel in the war.\n\nInitial steps have been taken to stop Iran from accessing the six billion dollars that President Biden was returning. We need to ensure that Iran never has access to that money, which would give them more flexibility to further support Hamas and other terrorists who want to harm Israel and America.\n\nWe also need to deliver aid to support Israel, so that they have all the tools they need to crush Hamas. This is critical and I look forward to voting on this in the coming weeks.\n\nAs Israel fights this war, I want our friends to know that the House stands with you. We support you. And we will keep working alongside you to free the hostages and to end Hamas.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T00:49:26Z"], ["https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-flood-launches-unity-pledge-speakers-race", "Congressman Flood Launches Unity Pledge for Speaker\u2019s Race", "2023-10-20", "2023", "2023-10", "Republican", "House", "NE", "Mike Flood", "F000474", "flood.house.gov", "flood", "https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Today, U.S. Congressman Mike Flood unveiled a Unity Pledge to rally members of the House Republican caucus to pledge unified support for the conference\u2019s eventual Speaker Designate. The Speaker Designate is expected to be elected early next week.\n\n\u201cElecting the next Speaker of the House will require unity from House Republicans,\u201d said Congressman Flood. \u201cThis pledge is a new effort to help our conference put our differences aside and come together. I\u2019m urging all my colleagues to join this pledge so we can move forward with electing a Speaker and get on with the people\u2019s business.\u201d\n\nThe text of the Unity Pledge reads as follows:\n\n\u201cHouse Republicans need to elect a Speaker as soon as possible in order to return to work on behalf of the American people. It is time to put politics and personalities aside and unite behind the next Republican Conference choice for Speaker.\n\nI, _______ , hereby pledge to support the Speaker Designate duly elected by the House Republican Conference\u2014regardless of who that candidate is\u2014when their election proceeds to the House Floor. Further, I pledge to vote for the Speaker Designate on the House Floor for as long as they remain the Speaker Designate.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T00:49:26Z"], ["https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=1D40E574-87DE-4413-A298-45235B09ED81", "Fischer Questions Officials on Program Supporting Service Members During Military to Civilian Transition", "2023-10-20", "2023", "2023-10", "Republican", "Senate", "NE", "Deb Fischer", "F000463", "www.fischer.senate.gov", "fischer", "https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u00ad\u2013 U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-Neb.), a senior member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, questioned officials from the U.S. Department of Defense and the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs about the Transition Assistance Program (TAP) at a joint hearing this week with the Senate Veterans\u2019 Affairs Committee. TAP is a cooperative interagency effort that provides important resources and tools to service members transitioning from military to civilian life.\n\nDuring the hearing, Senator Fischer stressed the importance of ensuring TAP offices can specifically tailor their curriculum to an individual\u2019s needs. Senator Fischer also pressed officials regarding a 2022 Government Accountability Office (GAO) study that found nearly 25% of service members who needed maximum support did not attend a mandatory two-day class.\n\nClick the image above to watch video of Sen. Fischer\u2019s questioning\n\nClick here to download audio\n\nClick here to download video\n\nFollowing is a transcript of Senator Fischer\u2019s questioning:\n\nSenator Fischer: Thank you, Mr. Chairman. Mr. Vazirani, within the [Transition Assistance Program], how much leeway is given to individual TAP offices to teach the curriculum so they can tailor it to their needs? For example, if you have a service member who's going to sign up again, but that doesn't show in their records yet, they still have to attend the weeklong class. Is that correct?\n\nUnder Secretary Vazirani: Senator, if I can clarify your question, if a service member has gone through TAP, transitioned, and then come back into service? Is that the question? I\u2019m sorry.\n\nSenator Fischer: No, No. If they are still in the service, but with the requirements and the timeline that's there, they have to start the process. But yet, their records haven't kept up with their intentions that they plan to reenlist, for example. Are the programs given any kind of flexibility there to be able to tailor it to certain instances?\n\nUnder Secretary Vazirani: Senator, the program is designed to tailor to each individual. Each individual goes through an individual assessment. They are tiered. They then have a separation counseling to help them understand which elements of the TAP program will be beneficial for them. At the end of the program, there's also a capstone which the commander will sign off on completion. If during that time period, the service member decides they want to stay in service, then there would not be a need to complete the program.\n\nSenator Fischer: Okay. Do you think you have the program appropriately staffed to handle the current number of military personnel?\n\nUnder Secretary Vazirani: Senator, we do believe we have the current level of staffing correct. I think, as we continue to learn more about the program, we'll continue to evolve that and determine whether or not additional authorizations are required to fulfill the program. But, at this point, we do believe that we have the right staffing.\n\nSenator Fischer: We've seen a GAO study from December of 2022, and it found that nearly 25% of service members who needed that maximum support didn't attend the mandatory two-day class. So, what steps do you see the department needs to take, or are you taking now that would address that?\n\nUnder Secretary Vazirani: Senator, we are taking steps to get a better understanding of why service members are electing not to participate. There are service members who, as I indicated earlier, the personal decisions why they wouldn't. So, we're trying to get a better understanding of that. We\u2019re also ensuring that \u2014\n\nSenator Fischer: What specifically are you doing?\n\nUnder Secretary Vazirani: Through the TAP assessment, we're digging into that and understanding those barriers. And then, the other thing. Through the commander's capstone, getting a better understanding of why that service member would not want to participate in that program.\n\nUnder Secretary Jacobs: Senator Fischer, if I might add, one of the things that we're doing is we\u2019re recognizing that TAP is a commander\u2019s program. We're creating a visual management tool so that commanders have greater visibility of their transitioning service members. It's work that Mr. Boerstler is leading through human design element. We're prototyping that tool. If it\u2019s appropriate, I'd love for him to share a little bit about it.\n\nSenator Fischer: That would be great. When you say you're prototyping it, do you have a pilot program in place? Are you using it?\n\nMr. Boerstler: Yes, Senator, we're currently actually testing it this week with command teams. So, this can not only include the commanders themselves with the senior enlisted personnel that are supporting the commanders\u2019 decisions. It will grow give them much greater visibility, as Mr. Jacobs mentioned, to actually see which units that they oversee are in compliance with the 12-month or 24-month requirements. This is a decision that's been co-designed from all of our agencies, plus a few more, including all six service branches. And, it has been taken through our governance process. So, it's underway, and it should be available next year.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T18:43:12Z"], ["https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=4C3B0CB7-F0AC-4E37-A0DE-09BD17CBE1AA", "Fischer, Colleagues Press Buttigieg on Grants Favoring New York City Rail Projects Over Rest of Country", "2023-10-20", "2023", "2023-10", "Republican", "Senate", "NE", "Deb Fischer", "F000463", "www.fischer.senate.gov", "fischer", "https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases", "scraper", "Senators Express Concern Over Ballooning Costs, Excess Grant Funding for NY-NJ\n\nGateway Program\n\nWASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-Neb.), a member of the Senate Commerce Committee, joined five fellow Republican committee members this month in sending a letter to the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) pressing Secretary Pete Buttigieg about the decision-making behind certain grants to the Amtrak NY-NJ Gateway Program.\n\nIn the letter, the Senators asked the department to commit to giving fair consideration to the whole country for grants, rather than favoring the Northeast Corridor. The letter was led by U.S. Senator Ted Cruz (R-Texas).\n\n\u201cDOT\u2019s lack of transparency with Congress and potential misadministration of grant programs, particularly with respect to the billions of dollars in DOT funding for the Gateway Program, are deeply concerning. We request that you rectify the inadequate responses to our past letters,\u201d the Senators said.\n\nThe letter highlights the project\u2019s ballooning costs over the last decade from $13 billion (2012 estimate) to $37 billion (2022 estimate). In addition, the Senators requested the DOT provide a number of answers related to how the funding for the Hudson Tunnel project was awarded and how much could ultimately be awarded to the Gateway Program overall.\n\nIn addition to Senators Fischer and Cruz, the letter was signed by U.S. Senators John Thune (R-S.D.), Roger Wicker (R-Miss.), Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.), and Ted Budd (R-N.C.).\n\nRead the full letter here or below.\n\nWe write to follow up on letters to the Department of Transportation (DOT) earlier this year. In February, Senators Cruz, Thune, and Fischer sent a letter (\u201cthe February letter\u201d) asking the administrators of the Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) and the Federal Transit Administration (FTA) about those agencies\u2019 support and oversight of the Amtrak-New York-New Jersey Gateway Program (\u201cthe Gateway Program\u201d). In April, Republican senators of the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation wrote asking you to amend funding notices for a major rail grant program that had been drafted to unfairly favor the Northeast and the Gateway Program to the detriment of projects elsewhere in the country (\u201cthe April letter\u201d).\n\nYou did not respond to the April letter, instead tasking the FRA administrator to respond. Moreover, the agency\u2019s responses failed to either fully answer the questions posed or commit to improving DOT\u2019s approach. DOT\u2019s lack of transparency with Congress and potential misadministration of grant programs, particularly with respect to the billions of dollars in DOT funding for the Gateway Program, are deeply concerning. We request that you rectify the inadequate responses to our past letters by personally answering this letter, and including (1) a description of how DOT will use its authorities to provide oversight and (2) the commitments that we have requested or an explanation why you are refusing to make those commitments.\n\nIn February 2022, Amtrak\u2019s Office of Inspector General (OIG) released a report finding that Amtrak lacked a comprehensive framework to manage its commitments to the Gateway Program. Among other concerns, Amtrak lacked an integrated master schedule; a program management plan; and mechanisms to collect and provide information regarding the program\u2019s status, including its budget and schedule. The report indicated a risk to Amtrak\u2019s ability to \u201cmeet its commitments in scope, on time, and in budget,\u201d warning that \u201cassessments of prior complex construction and acquisition programs found that when [Amtrak] did not put this framework in place early enough, it experienced cost increases, schedule delays, and stress on its partner relationships as projects matured.\u201d\n\nDOT has awarded more than $8?billion in federal funding to the Gateway Program, despite the Amtrak OIG\u2019s serious concerns about potential cost overruns and schedule delays. Based on the latest estimates from the Gateway Development Commission, the nine projects that comprise the Gateway Program will cost $37?billion over the next 15 years. Grants that DOT has awarded to the Gateway Program include an unprecedent single grant of nearly $7 billion for the Hudson Tunnel project via a Capital Investment Grant (\u201cCIG\u201d), as well as:\n\n$91.5?million via a Federal-State Partnership for Intercity Passenger Rail (\u201cFed-State\u201d) grant for the Portal North Bridge and Substation 41, awarded May 2020;\n\n$766.5?million via a CIG for the Portal North Bridge, awarded January 2021;\n\n$45?million via a Fed-State grant for the Sawtooth Bridges, awarded August 2022;\n\n$292?million via a National Infrastructure Project Assistance (Mega) grant for the Hudson Tunnel, awarded January 2023; and\n\n$25 million via a Local and Regional Project Assistance (RAISE) grant for the Tonnelle Avenue bridge and utility work (for the Hudson Tunnel), awarded June 2023.\n\nIn this period of historically high inflation, it is especially important that you be judicious with taxpayer dollars and resist political pressure to simply cut checks to this or any other project. Both the law and simple prudence demand a real evaluation of the huge cost estimates and verification that Gateway Program grantees have the capacity to deliver the planned infrastructure timely and on budget. The February letter inquired about the Gateway Program\u2019s budget and readiness, but DOT failed to respond meaningfully. For example, FRA stated it would employ a \u201crisk-based approach to targeted engagement\u201d with Amtrak, without indicating what aspects of the Gateway Program, if any, would get independent review. Awarding billions of taxpayer dollars to projects that Amtrak and other grantees may not be capable of delivering is financially irresponsible\u2014opening the door to fraud, waste, and abuse.\n\nThis recent string of awards reflects what appears to be a troubling effort to prioritize the Gateway Program above deserving projects elsewhere in the country. Indeed, your Department seems to be maximizing the funding for the Gateway Program in many grant programs, whether a good fit or not. As pointed out in the April letter, DOT and FRA manipulated the massive Fed-State grant program to ensure the absolute maximum amount of funding from the 2021 infrastructure law will go to the Northeast (and Gateway), effectively depriving projects from the rest of the country of the opportunity to compete for as much as $7?billion under that program. In his response, FRA Administrator Amit Bose refused to correct this.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T18:43:12Z"], ["https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=3B59129C-B28B-4859-8EF4-514C4B3816D8", "VIDEO: Fischer Highlights Urgent Need to Update U.S. Strategic Posture Following Alarming Bipartisan Report", "2023-10-19", "2023", "2023-10", "Republican", "Senate", "NE", "Deb Fischer", "F000463", "www.fischer.senate.gov", "fischer", "https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases", "scraper", "\u201cUnless We Change Our Strategy, We Will Not Be Able to Deter Both China and Russia\u201d\n\nWASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-Neb.), a senior member of the Senate Armed Services Committee and the top Republican on the Strategic Forces Subcommittee, delivered remarks at a hearing today to highlight the urgent need for the United States to comprehensively update its strategic posture, including by modernizing its nuclear deterrent. The hearing focused on the findings from a recent bipartisan report on the long-term strategic posture of the United States.\n\nDuring her remarks, Senator Fischer noted that the current U.S. strategy is not sufficient to effectively deter America\u2019s two peer nuclear competitors, China and Russia. Senator Fischer also emphasized the importance of turning the Commission\u2019s recommendations into legislation.\n\nThis week, Senator Fischer released a joint statement with the Chair of the Strategic Forces Subcommittee in support of the bipartisan report.\n\nClick the image above to watch video of Sen. Fischer\u2019s remarks\n\nClick to download audio\n\nClick to download video\n\nFollowing is a transcript of Senator Fischer\u2019s remarks:\n\nThank you, Mr. Chairman.\n\nI do want to begin by thanking the commissioners for your work on this report. The report is thoughtful, clear-eyed about the threats, and honest about how underprepared we are to address these threats. And we are woefully underprepared.\n\nSince the Second World War, the United States\u2019 national security strategy has been predicated on having one major nuclear adversary. And we now face two major nuclear adversaries for the first time in history. Russia and China have rapidly modernized their strategic nuclear forces. They have dramatically expanded their theater nuclear forces, and they are developing novel nuclear weapons and delivery systems. Meanwhile, we have barely begun to modernize our strategic nuclear forces, and only plan to replace them on a one-for-one basis \u2013 a plan that was developed on outdated assumptions.\n\nAs you say in your report, our nuclear force modernization program of record is \u201cabsolutely essential, although not sufficient to meet the new threats posed by Russia and China.\u201d\n\nAnd, as your report also conveys, the United States has no strategy to address this threat. We cannot effectively deter two nations with a national defense strategy that has a \u2018one major war\u2019 sizing construct. Unless we change our strategy, we will not be able to deter both China and Russia. If our adversaries believe that we lack capacity or lack the will to respond to an attack and to defend our allies and partners, they will act accordingly.\n\nYour report had 131 findings and 81 recommendations which, if acted upon, will provide the United States with the capacity and capability necessary to maintain our place in the world. These recommendations include changes to the planned size and composition of our nuclear forces, including the development of new theater nuclear delivery systems. They include overhauling the NNSA, dramatically expanding our domestic industrial base \u2014 including the establishment of a third nuclear shipyard, developing a comprehensive homeland missile defense architecture and a resilient space architecture that includes both offensive and defensive elements.\n\nAnd we must do this with a sense of urgency \u2014 Senator Kyl, urgency \u2014 which has, frankly, been utterly lacking from the Department of Defense and the Department of Energy.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T18:43:12Z"], ["https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=5993AFDF-E530-4BDD-B8D6-58656F6DF8A8", "VIDEO: Fischer: U.S. Must Stand With Israel After Brutal Hamas Attack", "2023-10-19", "2023", "2023-10", "Republican", "Senate", "NE", "Deb Fischer", "F000463", "www.fischer.senate.gov", "fischer", "https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases", "scraper", "On Israel\u2019s Right to Defend Itself:\n\n\u201cHamas's cold-blooded attack last week, it was loathsome, and it was obscene. And what we see when we look at terror of that proportion: We have to have a response. Israel has to have a response. We stand with Israel. They have the right, and they have the responsibility to do what needs to be done.\u201d\n\nOn Israel\u2019s Defense Needs:\n\n\u201cWe know that Israel will need more defensive capabilities. They will need interceptors for the Iron Dome. We know that Israel will also need more offensive capabilities like precision guided munitions. And we know that Israel is going to need medical equipment to help their troops, to help their citizens, to help them recover from these vicious attacks by Hamas, who is backed by Iran. The United States and Israel have long partnered and have a special relationship. We share intelligence with the Israelis on terrorism that happens in the Middle East. And that must continue.\u201d\n\nOn U.S. Assistance to Israel:\n\n\u201cThey have to defend themselves, and we are there to offer them assistance. We need to provide the Israeli Government with the support that it needs to defend its own territory and to defend its people. And this will allow Israel the resources to make difficult decisions that it's going to have to make in the days and the weeks and the months ahead.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T18:43:12Z"], ["https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=50772407-2474-4FFD-836F-6A8E8393BCC4", "Fischer Praises Introduction of Senate Resolution to Stand with Israel Against Terrorism", "2023-10-18", "2023", "2023-10", "Republican", "Senate", "NE", "Deb Fischer", "F000463", "www.fischer.senate.gov", "fischer", "https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-Neb.), a senior member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, released the following statement in support of a bipartisan Senate resolution introduced this week to support Israel against terrorism. The resolution was led by U.S. Senators Jim Risch (R-Idaho) and Ben Cardin (D-Md.).\n\n\u201cThe relationship between the U.S. and Israel is unbreakable, and Israel has the right to defend itself against this brutal, barbaric attack from Hamas. Our strong, bipartisan resolution is a powerful sign of the American people\u2019s support for Israel. The United States stands by our ally,\u201d said Senator Fischer.\n\nThe resolution secured the support of nearly every member of the U.S. Senate. In addition to Senators Fischer, Risch, and Cardin, the resolution is cosponsored by U.S. Senators Mitch McConnell (R-Ky.), Leader Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.), Tim Kaine (D-Va.), Dan Sullivan (R-Alaska), Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.), Ted Budd (R-N.C.), Bob Casey (D-Penn.), John N. Kennedy (R-La.), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-N.Y.), Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa), Tammy Baldwin (D-Wis.), John Barrasso (R-Wyo.), Bob Menendez (D-N.J.), Susan Collins (R-Maine), Dick Durbin (D-Ill.), Thom Tillis (R-N.C.), Ben Luj\u00e1n (D-N.M.), Cynthia Lummis (R-Wyo.), John Fetterman (D-Penn.), Roger Marshall (R-Kan.), Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.), Mike Crapo (R-Idaho), Chris Coons (D-Del.), Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.), Chris Murphy (D-Conn.), Marco Rubio (R-Fla.), Catherine Cortez-Masto (D-Nev.), Katie Britt (R-Ala.), Jacky Rosen (D-Nev.), Mitt Romney (R-Utah), Cory Booker (D-N.J.), Roger Wicker (R-Miss.), Joe Manchin (D-W.Va.), Markwayne Mullin (R-Okla.), Jeanne Shaheen (D-N.H.), John Boozman (R-Ark.), Mazie Hirono (D-Hawaii), Lindsay Graham (R-S.C.), Mark Kelly (D-Ariz.), Bill Cassidy (R-La.), Brian Schatz (D-Hawaii), Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.), Maria Cantwell (D-Wash.), Ted Cruz (R-Texas), Laphonza Butler (D-Calif.), Mike Lee (R-Utah), Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.), John Hoeven (R-N.D.), Tom Carper (D-Del.), Tina Smith (D-Minn.), Todd Young (R-Ind.), Joni Ernst (R-Iowa), Debbie Stabenow (D-Mich.), Josh Hawley (R-Mo.), Mark Warner (D-Va.), John Cornyn (R-Texas), Sherrod Brown (D-Ohio), Kevin Cramer (R-N.D.), Maggie Hassan (D-N.H.), Tim Scott (R-S.C.), Jeff Merkley (D-Ore.), Pete Ricketts (R-Neb.), Alex Padilla (D-Calif.), James Lankford (R-Okla.), Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.), J.D. Vance (R-Ohio), Tammy Duckworth (D-Ill.), Bill Hagerty (R-Tenn.), Jon Tester (D-Mont.), Rick Scott (R-Fla.), Ron Wyden (D-Ore.), Jerry Moran (R-Kan.), Michael Bennet (D-Colo.), Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-Miss.), Gary Peters (D-Mich.), Tommy Tuberville (R-Ala.), Kyrsten Sinema (I-Ariz.), Eric Schmitt (R-Mo.), John Hickenlooper (D-Colo.), Steve Daines (R-Mont.), Edward J. Markey (D-Mass.), Ron Johnson (R-Wis.), Sheldon Whitehouse (D-R.I.), John Thune (R-S.D.), Raphael Warnock (D-Ga.), Tom Cotton (R-Ark.), Angus King (I-Maine), Lisa Murkowski (R-Alaska), Patty Murray (D-Wash.), Mike Rounds (R-S.D.), Jon Ossoff (D-Ga.), Mike Braun (R-Ind.), Peter Welch (D-Vt.), Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.), Jack Reed (D-R.I.), and Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.).\n\nA copy of the resolution can be foundhere.\n\nPermalink: https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/2023/10/fischer-praises-introduction-of-senate-resolution-to-stand-with-israel-against-terrorism", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T18:43:12Z"], ["https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=95E8DD35-233F-4EE5-97B3-F8910AC76596", "Fischer, Colleagues Oppose Biden FCC\u2019s Internet Takeover", "2023-10-18", "2023", "2023-10", "Republican", "Senate", "NE", "Deb Fischer", "F000463", "www.fischer.senate.gov", "fischer", "https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-Neb.), a member of the Senate Commerce Committee, recently joined more than 40 of her colleagues in sending a letter to the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) urging Chairwoman Jessica Rosenworcel to abandon her proposal to reinstate the failed, heavy-handed Obama-era regulations on the internet. This letter was led by U.S. Senators John Thune (R-S.D.) and Ted Cruz (R-Texas).\n\n\u201cRe-imposing heavy-handed, public-utility regulations on the internet would threaten the progress our country has made since 2017, and it would steer our country out of the fast lane and into a world of less competition, less choice, less investment, slower speeds, and higher prices,\u201d the Senators said.\n\n\u201cFurther, the FCC lacks this statutory authority over broadband internet access. Any attempt by the FCC to reinstate net neutrality regulations and the onerous rules of Title II on internet service providers will not survive judicial review. The FCC has pushed net neutrality and already lost in court \u2013 more than once \u2013 and two of President Obama\u2019s former solicitors general have warned that reclassification by the FCC cannot survive the major questions doctrine,\u201d the Senators continued.\n\nIn addition to Senators Fischer, Thune, and Cruz, the letter was also signed by U.S. Senators John Barrasso (R-Wyo.), Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.), John Boozman (R-Ark.), Katie Britt (R-Ala.), Ted Budd (R-N.C.), Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.), Bill Cassidy (R-La.), John Cornyn (R-Texas), Tom Cotton (R-Ark.), Kevin Cramer (R-N.D.), Mike Crapo (R-Idaho), Steve Daines (R-Mont.), Joni Ernst (R-Iowa), Lindsey Graham (R-S.C.), Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa), Bill Hagerty (R-Tenn.), John Hoeven (R-N.D.), Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-Miss.), Ron Johnson (R-Wis.), James Lankford (R-Okla.), Mike Lee (R-Utah), Cynthia Lummis (R-Wyo.), Roger Marshall (R-Kan.), Mitch McConnell (R-Ky.), Jerry Moran (R-Kan.), Markwayne Mullin (R-Okla.), Rand Paul (R-Ky.), Pete Ricketts (R-Neb.), Jim Risch (R-Idaho), Mitt Romney (R-Utah), Mike Rounds (R-S.D.), Marco Rubio (R-Fla.), Eric Schmitt (R-Mo.), Rick Scott (R-Fla.), Tim Scott (R-S.C.), Dan Sullivan (R-Alaska), Thom Tillis (R-N.C.), Roger Wicker (R-Miss.), and Todd Young (R-Ind.).\n\nRead the full letter here or below.\n\nThe Honorable Jessica Rosenworcel\n\nChairwoman\n\nFederal Communications Commission\n\nWe write regarding our strong opposition to the Federal Communication Commission\u2019s (FCC\u2019s) proposal to reinstate the heavy-handed, public-utility regulations of Title II of the Communications Act on the internet. Doing so would be an historic mistake.\n\nWhen the FCC rescinded the Obama-era Title II order almost six years ago, partisans argued that it was the \u201cend of the internet as we know it,\u201d that \u201cyou\u2019ll get the internet one word at a time,\u201d that consumers would have to pay by the tweet, and that online access would slow to a crawl. All such hyperbolic claims have proven false, as even FCC Democrat commissioners have admitted.\n\nThe growth of the internet continues to be a great American success story. Broadband investment has increased, deployment has increased, speeds have increased, and high-speed internet access has become more affordable than ever. American networks, freed from obtrusive regulations, easily handled the surge in demand during the COVID-19 pandemic. In contrast, Europe\u2019s heavily regulated internet providers were forced to actively slow down speeds to maintain connectivity. Indeed, America is now a leader in adopting next-generation telecommunications services like 5G and Wi-Fi 6e while Europe struggles to keep pace.\n\nRe-imposing heavy-handed, public-utility regulations on the internet would threaten the progress our country has made since 2017, and it would steer our country out of the fast lane and into a world of less competition, less choice, less investment, slower speeds, and higher prices.\n\nFurther, the FCC lacks this statutory authority over broadband internet access. Any attempt by the FCC to reinstate net neutrality regulations and the onerous rules of Title II on internet service providers will not survive judicial review. The FCC has pushed net neutrality and already lost in court \u2013 more than once \u2013 and two of President Obama\u2019s former solicitors general have warned that reclassification by the FCC cannot survive the major questions doctrine.\n\nGiven the lack of any policy or legal rationale for moving forward with such a proposal, the FCC should not pursue a hyper-partisan, politicized rulemaking.\n\nOur country faces real challenges. A lack of public-utility regulations for the internet is not one of them. Instead, the FCC and the Biden administration should be focusing on bipartisan efforts to address real problems, such as addressing rampant waste, fraud, and abuse in the federal government\u2019s broadband subsidy programs, and regulatory and permitting obstacles to broadband deployment, both of which divert funds and resources from the goal of connecting unserved Americans.\n\nWe urge you to end this charade and shelve this fifth attempt to adopt so-called \u201cnet neutrality\u201d regulations.\n\nSincerely,", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T18:43:12Z"], ["https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=D2C51929-A40B-40B7-A23D-DC6E82D55090", "VIDEO: Fischer Condemns Brutal Hamas Attack, Urges Support for Israel in Senate Floor Speech", "2023-10-18", "2023", "2023-10", "Republican", "Senate", "NE", "Deb Fischer", "F000463", "www.fischer.senate.gov", "fischer", "https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases", "scraper", "\u201cIf We Can\u2019t Stand Up Against This, What Can We Stand Against?\u201d\n\nWASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-Neb.), a senior member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, spoke on the Senate floor this week about the brutal Hamas attack against Israel and the importance of America\u2019s continued support for the people of Israel. In her remarks, Senator Fischer stressed the importance of deterring Iran and other countries seeking to take advantage of the situation and further destabilize the region.\n\nClick the image above to watch video of Sen. Fischer\u2019s remarks\n\nClick here to download audio\n\nClick here to download video\n\nFollowing is a transcript of Senator Fischer\u2019s remarks as prepared for delivery:\n\nAlong with Americans all across our country, I am appalled at what has happened in Israel over the past week. It\u2019s hard to watch the brutality of Hamas\u2019s attack on Israel. It\u2019s hard to believe that the terror Hamas perpetrated is something human beings are capable of doing.\n\nLast week, Hamas militants stormed the Israel-Gaza border in a despicable, deadly attack against Israeli civilians. Men and women, children and the elderly, Israelis and foreigners, Americans \u2014 Hamas killed person after person with no regard for human dignity.\n\nThe militants seized and kidnapped almost 200 hostages, including many of our own American citizens.\n\nWhen civilians in small Israeli towns came out of hiding \u2014 sheltering for their lives and praying that they would be spared \u2014 they came out to find corpses in their streets. Doors riddled with bullet holes. The ground stained with human blood. Houses burning and collapsing.\n\nThey\u2019ve told journalists the horror they felt when they stepped out into the wreckage and were met with the smell of decaying flesh.\n\nThis is obscene. This is hideous. We can and should all agree on that. Secretary of State Blinken, on his visit to Israel, said he saw images of a baby covered in bullet holes, soldiers who\u2019d been beheaded, and people burned alive in their cars.\n\nHe said: \u201cImages are worth a thousand words. These images may be worth a million.\u201d\n\nHow do we respond to such a tragedy? Not only are these actions depraved and inhumane \u2014 they\u2019ve been perpetrated against one of our closest partners in the world.\n\nHamas\u2019s goal in this attack, its goal in kidnapping babies and elderly women, was to shock Israel to the core, bring it to its knees, so that vicious terrorist groups could get the upper hand \u2014 Hamas from the west, and now Hezbollah from the north.\n\nM. President, Hamas and Hezbollah will not get the upper hand. Israel will defend its sovereignty and its people \u2014 standing tall \u2014 and we will support them.\n\nNow is not the time for the United States to shrink back from the world stage and let Israel stand in isolation.\n\nWe must stand up against terror. We must stand up against the kidnapping of little babies. We must stand up against the rape and torture of innocent civilians. We must stand up against those who would grasp at political power by committing war crimes.\n\nIf we can\u2019t stand up against this, what can we stand against?\n\nAnd in response to this terror, we must stand with Israel. In response to a brutal attack on its sovereign territory, we must stand with Israel. In response to the heinous massacre of its citizens, we must stand with Israel. In response to violations of the laws of war, we must stand with Israel.\n\nIsrael has the right and the responsibility to defend itself against this unconscionable aggression. We must provide its government with the support it needs to defend its territory and its citizenry. We must take steps that allow Israel to regain its footing and make the difficult decisions it needs to make as a sovereign nation.\n\nThe United States and Israel are bound by shared values and strategic interests. And we are now further bound by shared tragedy. Hamas has American blood on its hands after this attack. Some of our own citizens are being held hostage underground in Gaza. We must act to show terrorist groups, and their close friend Iran, that we will not abide the slaughter and kidnapping of Americans.\n\nAs a member of the Senate Armed Services Committee and the Senate Appropriations Committee, I am working with my colleagues and the administration to ensure that the United States is able to provide Israel with the support and resources it needs to eliminate this threat.\n\nOur allies and partners, as well as our adversaries, are closely watching how our country will respond to Hamas\u2019s loathsome attack. Our actions should encourage allies and partners to follow suit in supporting Israel and denouncing this terrorism. And our actions must deter our adversaries from taking advantage of the volatility in the Middle East and to further destabilize the region.\n\nOur focus in the region must turn to one adversary in particular: Iran. The Iranian regime bankrolls terrorist activity throughout the Middle East. Iran has provided Hamas with the weapons it uses against Israel. The regime directly supports Hezbollah, the group barraging Israel from across the border in Lebanon.\n\nFor the time I have served in the Senate, I\u2019ve supported efforts to curb Iran\u2019s incessant attempts to sow chaos in the Middle East. Today, those attempts are coming to a head. We need to gather all of our economic and diplomatic strength to send a strong message to Iran.\n\nCountering Iran will help Israel, but it will advance American interests as well. Iran is hellbent on destroying the United States. Its proxy forces continue to attack our forces regularly in Iraq and Syria. The risks are too great to allow Iran to accelerate this conflict.\n\nMy Republican colleagues and I sent a letter last week urging President Biden to immediately convene the G7 nations and take coordinated action to isolate Iran using severe sanctions.\n\nOur letter also called on the president to reverse a decision allowing Iran access to a six-billion-dollar fund, which had previously been frozen under sanctions. We urged President Biden to instead lead America\u2019s partners and allies in securing agreements from as many nations as possible \u2014 agreements to take the most severe economic and diplomatic action possible under the law against Iran.\n\nThe U.S. must lead in imposing multilateral sanctions against Iran, and continue to lead in making certain these sanctions are enforced.\n\nThis week, my colleagues and I introduced legislation that would revoke that six billion-dollar fund. The United States must not allow funding to flow to state sponsors of terrorism.\n\nAs Americans, we must come together in a bipartisan manner to keep terrorism in check and stand with our ally Israel. I call on my colleagues in Congress, as well as the administration and people across our country, to continue to unequivocally condemn the evil acts committed by Hamas, Hezbollah, and their primary sponsor, Iran.\n\nWe must stand together to support Israel and protect both Americans and Israelis being harmed by the conflict and bloodshed in the Middle East.\n\nThank you, M. President, I yield the floor.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T18:43:12Z"], ["https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=ADED0CC2-158D-4F96-BC21-0A37E15DCE1F", "Fischer, Colleagues Introduce Legislation to Permanently Freeze $6 Billion Payment to Iran Immediately", "2023-10-17", "2023", "2023-10", "Republican", "Senate", "NE", "Deb Fischer", "F000463", "www.fischer.senate.gov", "fischer", "https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-Neb.), a senior member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, recently joined her colleagues in introducing legislation that would block Iran from accessing a $6 billion fund released in August by the Biden administration. These actions respond to the attacks against Israel committed by Iranian-backed Hamas terrorists. The legislation is led by U.S. Senators Tom Cotton (R-Ark.) and Mitch McConnell (R-Ky.).\n\n\u201cIran is an adversary of the United States and the world\u2019s leading state sponsor of terrorism. It funds, trains, and equips terrorist groups like Hamas and Hezbollah, advancing its malign influence across the region. Our legislation will permanently prevent this $6 billion from flowing to the government of Iran,\u201d said Senator Fischer.\n\nText of the bill may be found here.\n\nPermalink: https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/2023/10/fischer-colleagues-introduce-legislation-to-permanently-freeze-6-billion-payment-to-iran-immediately", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T18:43:12Z"], ["https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=C17FE629-B7BF-472A-8DCA-2355DF181A51", "Fischer, Colleagues Introduce Bill to Freeze $6 Billion to Iran, Probe Additional Iranian Assets", "2023-10-17", "2023", "2023-10", "Republican", "Senate", "NE", "Deb Fischer", "F000463", "www.fischer.senate.gov", "fischer", "https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases", "scraper", "U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-Neb.), a senior member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, joined her colleagues in introducing the Revoke Iranian Funding Act. The legislation would rescind the general licenses that enabled the release of the $6 billion to Iran and prevent the Iranian regime from accessing and using the funds held in Qatar to finance terrorist attacks against Israel or any other nation.\n\nIn addition, the bill would direct the Treasury Secretary to study all high-value Iranian assets around the world that are currently blocked by U.S. sanctions. This information would be provided to Congress to ensure it has the information necessary to enact further targeted legislation, if necessary. U.S. Senator Tim Scott (R-S.C.) led the introduction of the bill.\n\n\u201cHamas couldn\u2019t have planned or carried out its attack against Israel without support from Iran, the world\u2019s number one state sponsor of terrorism. Our legislation will halt efforts to provide billions of dollars to Iran. It will also increase transparency by providing Congress with more information about Iran\u2019s high-value assets around the world that are currently subject to U.S. sanctions,\u201d said Senator Deb Fischer.\n\nIn addition to Senators Fischer and Scott, the legislation is cosponsored by U.S. Senators Mike Crapo (R-Idaho), John Cornyn (R-Texas), Lindsey Graham (R-S.C.), John Barrasso (R-Wyo.), John Hoeven (R-N.D.), Marco Rubio (R-Fla.), Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.), Bill Cassidy (R-La.), Tom Cotton (R-Ark.), Steve Daines (R-Mont.), Mike Rounds (R-S.D.), Thom Tillis (R-N.C.), Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.), Kyrsten Sinema (I-Ariz.), Kevin Cramer (R-N.D.), Mike Braun (R-Ind.), Rick Scott (R-Fla.), Cynthia Lummis (R-Wyo.), Bill Hagerty (R-Tenn.), JD Vance (R-Ohio), Katie Britt (R-Ala.), and Pete Ricketts (R-Neb.).\n\nClick here for an overview of the bill. Click here for bill text.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T18:43:12Z"], ["https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=D972A900-E8CF-4700-9C76-E710246C7494", "Fischer, King Welcome Key Report on U.S. Strategic Posture", "2023-10-17", "2023", "2023-10", "Republican", "Senate", "NE", "Deb Fischer", "F000463", "www.fischer.senate.gov", "fischer", "https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases", "scraper", "Senators Highlight Need to Address Changing Global Threat Environment\n\nWASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 U.S. Senators Deb Fischer (R-Neb.) and Angus King (I-Maine), the Ranking Member and Chair of the Subcommittee on Strategic Forces, released the following statement after the Congressional Commission on the Strategic Posture of the United States released its final unclassified report:\n\n\u201cAs the top members of the Strategic Forces subcommittee, we understand the need for a nuclear force posture that can successfully deter adversaries in a worsening global threat environment. We appreciate the bipartisan Commission\u2019s work to develop and unanimously endorse this report. We look forward to continuing conversations with the Commissioners on their findings and options to strengthen our national defense.\u201d\n\nBackground\n\nThe Fiscal Year 2022 (FY 2022) National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) established the Congressional Commission on the Strategic Posture of the United States (Commission) and tasked it with examining the long-term strategic posture of the United States. The Commission\u2019s report includes a comprehensive review of the current and projected threat environment; an assessment of our current nuclear weapons policies and strategic posture; and recommendations for the most appropriate strategic posture and nuclear weapons strategy.\n\nThe bipartisan Commission is led by Madelyn Creedon, who most recently served as Principal Deputy Administrator of the National Nuclear Security Administration (NNSA) from 2014 to 2017, and former U.S. Senator Jon Kyl of Arizona.\n\nThe Senate Armed Services Committee will hold a hearing on the findings of the Commission\u2019s report at 9:30 a.m. ET on Thursday, October 19th.\n\nClick here to read the report.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T18:43:12Z"], ["https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases/smith-announces-upcoming-staff-outreach-events-1", "Smith Announces Upcoming Staff Outreach Events", "2023-10-16", "2023", "2023-10", "Republican", "House", "NE", "Adrian Smith", "S001172", "adriansmith.house.gov", "adriansmith", "https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2013 Constituents of Third District Congressman Adrian Smith (R-NE) are invited to meet with a member of his staff during the month of October in Fullerton, Blair, St. Paul, Grant, Nelson, Alma, and Dakota City.\n\nA staff outreach event is an opportunity for constituents to meet directly with a member of Smith's staff about federal issues, receive assistance with a federal agency, or take advantage of the services available through his office.\n\nSmith, who has offices in Grand Island and Scottsbluff, will provide a staff member at the following times and locations:\n\nTuesday, October 24th\n\nNance County Courthouse\n\n209 Esther Street, Fullerton\n\n10:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m. CT\n\nBlair City Office\n\n218 S. 16th Street, Blair\n\n2:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m. CT\n\nWednesday, October 25th\n\nSt. Paul Community Library\n\n1301 Howard Avenue, St. Paul\n\n11:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. CT\n\nHastings Memorial Library\n\n505 Central Avenue, Grant\n\n2:30 p.m. - 3:30 p.m. MT\n\nMonday, October 30th\n\nNuckolls County Courthouse\n\n150 Main Street, Nelson\n\n11:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. CT\n\nHarlan County Courthouse\n\n706 W. 2nd Street, Alma\n\n3:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m. CT\n\nDakota County Courthouse\n\n1601 Broadway Street, Dakota City\n\n3:15 p.m. - 4:15 p.m. CT\n\nFor additional information, please contact Smith\u2019s Grand Island office at (308) 384-3900 or his Scottsbluff office at (308) 633-6333.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T00:49:26Z"]], "truncated": false, "filtered_table_rows_count": 421, "expanded_columns": [], "expandable_columns": [], "columns": ["url", "title", "date", "year", "month", "party", "chamber", "state", "member_name", "bioguide_id", "domain", "scraper", "source", "date_source", "text", "has_text", "collected_at", "updated_at"], "primary_keys": ["url"], "units": {}, "query": {"sql": "select url, title, date, year, month, party, chamber, state, member_name, bioguide_id, domain, scraper, source, date_source, text, has_text, collected_at, updated_at from releases where \"party\" = :p0 and \"state\" = :p1 and \"year\" = :p2 order by date desc limit 101", "params": {"p0": "Republican", "p1": "NE", "p2": "2023"}}, "facet_results": {"party": {"name": "party", "type": "column", "hideable": false, "toggle_url": "/press/releases.json?party=Republican&state=NE&year=2023", "results": [{"value": "Republican", "label": "Republican", "count": 421, "toggle_url": "http://dpwillis-congress-press-search.hf.space/press/releases.json?state=NE&year=2023", "selected": true}], "truncated": false}, "chamber": {"name": "chamber", "type": "column", "hideable": false, "toggle_url": "/press/releases.json?party=Republican&state=NE&year=2023", "results": [{"value": "House", "label": "House", "count": 279, "toggle_url": "http://dpwillis-congress-press-search.hf.space/press/releases.json?party=Republican&state=NE&year=2023&chamber=House", "selected": false}, {"value": "Senate", "label": "Senate", "count": 142, "toggle_url": "http://dpwillis-congress-press-search.hf.space/press/releases.json?party=Republican&state=NE&year=2023&chamber=Senate", "selected": false}], "truncated": false}, "state": {"name": "state", "type": "column", "hideable": false, "toggle_url": "/press/releases.json?party=Republican&state=NE&year=2023", "results": [{"value": "NE", "label": "NE", "count": 421, "toggle_url": "http://dpwillis-congress-press-search.hf.space/press/releases.json?party=Republican&year=2023", "selected": true}], "truncated": false}, "year": {"name": "year", "type": "column", "hideable": false, "toggle_url": "/press/releases.json?party=Republican&state=NE&year=2023", "results": [{"value": "2023", "label": "2023", "count": 421, "toggle_url": "http://dpwillis-congress-press-search.hf.space/press/releases.json?party=Republican&state=NE", "selected": true}], "truncated": false}}, "suggested_facets": [], "next": "2023-10-16,https~3A~2F~2Fadriansmith~2Ehouse~2Egov~2Fmedia~2Fpress-releases~2Fsmith-announces-upcoming-staff-outreach-events-1", "next_url": "http://dpwillis-congress-press-search.hf.space/press/releases.json?party=Republican&state=NE&year=2023&_next=2023-10-16%2Chttps~3A~2F~2Fadriansmith~2Ehouse~2Egov~2Fmedia~2Fpress-releases~2Fsmith-announces-upcoming-staff-outreach-events-1&_sort_desc=date", "private": false, "allow_execute_sql": true, "query_ms": 130.81287685781717, "source": "dwillis/congress-press", "source_url": "https://github.com/dwillis/congress-press", "license": "MIT", "license_url": "https://github.com/dwillis/congress-press/blob/main/LICENSE"}