{"database": "press", "table": "releases", "is_view": false, "human_description_en": "where party = \"Republican\", state = \"NE\" and year = 2025 sorted by date descending", "rows": [["https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-floods-new-year-statement-0", "Congressman Flood's New Year Statement", "2025-12-31", "2025", "2025-12", "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 released a statement ahead of the New Year holiday, which is celebrated on Thursday, January 1st.\n\n\u201cThe New Year is a time for both reflection and renewal. As Americans and as Nebraskans, we have much to be thankful for as we turn the page and enter 2026. Our economy continues to grow, our communities enjoy great peace and prosperity, and, thanks to American leadership, a number of significant conflicts abroad have been concluded. In the new year, Congress will continue working to protect the American Dream for our hardworking families, helping them find new great opportunities, lower energy costs, make homeownership affordable, and much more. Mandi, the boys, and I wish everyone a happy New Year. May God continue to bless the Good Life and may God bless the United States of America.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/news/press-releases/ricketts-celebrates-further-award-of-more-than-215-million-for-rural-nebraska-healthcare/", "Ricketts Celebrates Further Award of More than $215 Million for Rural Nebraska Healthcare", "2025-12-30", "2025", "2025-12", "Republican", "Senate", "NE", "Pete Ricketts", "R000618", "www.ricketts.senate.gov", "ricketts", "https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/?jsf=jet-engine:press-list&pagenum=", "scraper", "Omaha, NE \u2014 Today, U.S. Senator Pete Ricketts (R-NE) celebrated the award of Rural Health Transformation Program grant money for rural healthcare in Nebraska. This funding comes from a program that was created by Congress earlier this year in the Working Families Tax Cut to strengthen rural healthcare. Senator Ricketts voted in support of the bill.\n\n\u201cThis is how you keep rural communities thriving,\u201d said Ricketts. \u201cThe Rural Health Transformation Program was an important part of the Working Families Tax Cut that Senate Republicans passed earlier this year. This is an investment in the future of rural healthcare and in the future of Nebraska.\u201d\n\nBACKGROUND:\n\nThe Center for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) announced awards to all 50 states under the Rural Health Transformation Program. The program, created by Congress earlier this year as part of the Working Families Tax Cut, committed $50 billion to invest in rural healthcare. 50% percent of this funding is split equally among the states, 50% percent is awarded after an application process. Nebraska was awarded an additional $218,529,075.\n\nAs a part of CMS\u2019 application guidelines, awarded money is to be used to help rural communities expand care reach, strengthen and sustain clinical workforce, modernize rural health infrastructure and technology, drive efficiency, empower community providers, and advance innovative care models.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=2841", "Bacon Announces $10 Million Grant for Eppley Airfield Expansion", "2025-12-26", "2025", "2025-12", "Republican", "House", "NE", "Don Bacon", "B001298", "bacon.house.gov", "bacon", "https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx", "scraper", "Thanks Senator Fischer and Eppley Leaders for Collaboration\n\nOmaha, Neb. \u2013 Rep. Don Bacon (NE-02) announced today that Eppley Airfield has secured a $10 million FY26 Airport Infrastructure Grant (AIG) for reconstructing 35,000 square feet of the existing terminal, including the concourse and security checkpoint, arrival/departure gates, and international gates that have reached the end of their useful lives. This grant funds the final phase, which consists of construction of the pedestrian walkway.\n\nThroughout his Congressional career, Rep. Bacon has made improvements to Eppley Airfield one of his top priorities, helping secure more than $94.1 million through the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act and other funding sources. These investments expand flight capacity and inspection areas while streamlining the check-in and TSA processes for travelers and increasing possible international flights.\n\n\u201cIt has been thrilling to see the airport expansion construction take place and realize how much this will add to Omaha\u2019s \u201centrance,\u201d said Rep. Bacon. \u201cThis expansion will enable Eppley to meet the travel needs of the growing metropolitan Omaha area and welcome international flights. This transformation will shape our region\u2019s future for many decades to come and will be vital for Omaha's economy. I'm pleased to work with the leaders at Eppley and Sen. Fischer in creating what will become the best airport in the Midwest.\u201d\n\n\u201cEppley Airport is a critical gateway connecting Nebraskans to the rest of the country and the world. With this funding I secured alongside Rep. Bacon, we\u2019re expanding Eppley\u2019s global reach and strengthening Nebraska\u2019s economy,\u201d said Sen. Fischer.\n\n\u201cThe Omaha Airport Authority was pleased to be notified by Congressman Bacon\u2019s office that Eppley Airfield will be receiving a grant for the Build OMA Terminal Modernization Program. We are happy to be the recipient of $10 million in Federal Aviation Administration funding from the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act,\u201d said Dave Roth, Chief Executive Officer of the Omaha Airport Authority. \u201cThis grant funding will create benefits for travelers from Omaha and throughout Nebraska. The funds will support continued improvements at Eppley Airfield including increased capacity, improved throughput, and an enhanced customer experience for decades to come.\u201d\n\nRep. Bacon also announced an Airport Improvement Program grant for the Wahoo Municipal Airport of $382,000 to construct a new 11,000 square foot sponsor-owned hangar for aircraft storage/maintenance to assist the airport to be as self-sustaining as possible by generating revenue. This project is allowable under the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act's expanded eligibility. This grant funds a portion of the final phase, which consists of construction.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=2840", "Bacon Issues Statement Following Ben Sasse\u2019s Cancer Diagnosis", "2025-12-23", "2025", "2025-12", "Republican", "House", "NE", "Don Bacon", "B001298", "bacon.house.gov", "bacon", "https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx", "scraper", "Omaha, Neb. \u2013 Rep. Don Bacon (NE-02) issued the following statement after the announcement of former Nebraska Sen. Ben Sasse\u2019s cancer diagnosis:\n\n\u201cAngie and I are heartbroken by the news shared by our friend Ben Sasse. He is a strong friend who I love to hear from. We are keeping Ben and his family in our prayers and are grateful for his willingness to share his faith and trust in the Almighty during such a difficult moment, reminding us of the eternal promise God has given all of us when we put our faith in Him.\u201d\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-flood-announces-us-military-service-academy-nominations-class-2030", "Congressman Flood Announces U.S. Military Service Academy Nominations for Class of 2030", "2025-12-23", "2025", "2025-12", "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 announced the nomination of First Congressional District constituents to the U.S. Military Service Academies. The announcement comes at the conclusion of a rigorous interview and selection process that included the input of a committee of Nebraskans with diverse backgrounds, including military leaders and community members.\n\n\u201cI want to commend this impressive class of Nebraskans who desire to serve our nation through our Armed Forces. It is one of the greatest honors to put forward talented young leaders for consideration at our U.S. Military Service Academies every year,\u201d said Congressman Flood. \u201cI would also like to express my appreciation to the selection committee for their careful and dedicated review of every applicant.\u201d\n\nThe committee was chaired by Dave Merritt of Norfolk (USN) with members including Col. Fred Phelan of Lincoln (USAF) and Chris Hove of Lincoln (USN). The committee examined 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 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", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-flood-delivers-2025-christmas-address", "Congressman Flood Delivers 2025 Christmas Address", "2025-12-23", "2025", "2025-12", "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 (R-NE) issued a recorded statement ahead of Christmas, which is observed December 25, 2025.\n\nVideo of Congressman Flood's Christmas address can be found here, while the full text of Congressman Flood\u2019s remarks are provided below. News outlets are welcome to use the video for reporting purposes.\n\nFriends and fellow Nebraskans,\n\nAs we enter into Christmas, it's an opportunity for us to pause and reflect on the blessings we've received and on the real meaning of the season.\n\nIn the coming days, we celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ in a humble manger, surrounded by family, heralded by angels, and visited by kings. The nativity of Jesus marks the arrival of our Savior and the beginning of His journey on earth. Now, 2,000 years later, Christ's life, death, and sacrifice offer each of us eternal salvation. Through the centuries, the heart of Jesus has strengthened us through times of trial and persecution, as well as times of prosperity.\n\nThis holiday season, I'm especially praying for peace in the world. Right now, American troops are serving in different capacities across the globe, helping to protect and defend American interests and keeping the world safe. I particularly hope and pray for an end to global conflicts, including the war between Russia and Ukraine, an end to violence in Sudan, and lasting peace in the Middle East.\n\nHere in America, as we gather around the Christmas tree, attend worship service or Mass, and spend time with our loved ones, we have much to be grateful for, knowing that we get to celebrate this holiday amidst great peace and prosperity at home.\n\nAs we celebrate this Christmas season and look to the new year, let us continue to strengthen the flame of faith in Jesus Christ and a deeper love and compassion for our neighbors. Whether you are spending time with family and friends or serving overseas this Christmas season, we all can draw closer to God and to one another.\n\nMandi, my sons, and our entire family wish each of you a very safe, warm, and merry Christmas. May God richly bless you, and may God bless the United States of America.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-floods-statement-former-sen-ben-sasses-cancer-diagnosis", "Congressman Flood\u2019s Statement on Former Sen. Ben Sasse\u2019s Cancer Diagnosis", "2025-12-23", "2025", "2025-12", "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 of former U.S. Senator Ben Sasse (R-NE) announcing his diagnosis of metastasized, stage-four pancreatic cancer.\n\n\u201cA remarkable response to a devastating diagnosis. From Nebraska to Florida and all across the country, we are with you and praying for you, Melissa, and your kids as you take on this new battle, Ben.\"", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=2838", "Bacon, Horsford, Kiggans, and Houlahan Introduce Bipartisan Bill Improving Health Care Access for Military Families", "2025-12-20", "2025", "2025-12", "Republican", "House", "NE", "Don Bacon", "B001298", "bacon.house.gov", "bacon", "https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2013 Representatives Don Bacon (NE-02), Maggie Goodlander (NH-02), Steven Horsford (NV-04), Jen Kiggans (VA-02), and Chrissy Houlahan (PA-06) introduced the Military Care Access, Reporting, and Evaluation (Military CARE) Act, bipartisan legislation to modernize how TRICARE beneficiaries report and resolve health care access challenges at military treatment facilities.\n\nThe Military CARE Act addresses access-to-care gaps by creating a secure, standardized digital platform for TRICARE beneficiaries to submit and monitor care issues, requiring real-time notifications to patient advocates, directing the Defense Health Agency to analyze complaint trends each quarter, and mandating annual reports to Congress that outline challenges and corrective actions.\n\n\u201cOur military families deserve timely care and a clear path to raise concerns when the system falls short. The Military CARE Act gives service members and their families a direct line to report care access issues and track their resolution, while ensuring Congress has the data needed to identify and fix systemic problems across the military health system,\u201d Rep. Bacon said. \u201cI\u2019m pleased to co-lead this vital effort with Rep. Horsford to strengthen access to care for the families who sacrifice so much in service to our nation.\u201d\n\n\u201cMilitary families serve our nation and sacrifice so much for it, and they deserve a health care system that serves them just as well,\u201d Rep. Horsford said. \u201cToo many families struggle to get timely appointments or clear information, and they\u2019re left without a reliable way to raise concerns or track whether problems are fixed. This bipartisan bill gives military families a real voice, gives providers the tools to respond quickly, and gives Congress the oversight needed to ensure servicemembers and their loved ones are never left behind.When we support our families, we strengthen the entire force.\u201d\n\n\u201cAccess to timely, reliable health care is both a personal issue and a readiness issue. Too often, military families hit administrative roadblocks or long delays with no clear way to raise concerns or track whether problems are being fixed,\u201d Rep. Houlahan said. \u201cThe Military CARE Act brings transparency and accountability to the system by giving TRICARE beneficiaries a straightforward way to report access issues and ensures those concerns reach patient advocates and senior leaders. This bipartisan, commonsense bill helps Congress identify systemic gaps and ensures our military health system works for the people it\u2019s meant to serve.\u201d\n\n\u201cToday, America\u2019s servicemembers, veterans, and military families are forced to fight endless red tape and navigate a confusing and deeply frustrating system to get the healthcare they have earned,\u201d Rep. Goodlander said. \u201cThat\u2019s not right. Our commonsense bipartisan bill will cut senseless red tape, restore basic accountability, and return the power back where it belongs: with patients. This bill is about ensuring accountability, strengthening readiness, and keeping the sacred promise we make to those who serve our country.\u201d\n\n\u201cWithout reliable data and transparency, access-to-care problems in the military health system remain unseen and unresolved,\u201d Lt. Gen. Brian Kelly, USAF (Ret), President and CEO, Military Officers Association of America said. \u201cThe Military CARE Act ensures beneficiary experiences are captured, tracked, and reported \u2013 giving leaders and Congress the visibility needed to identify systemic issues and drive meaningful, lasting improvements for military families. MOAA is grateful for the bipartisan leadership of Reps. Horsford, Kiggans, Bacon, and Houlahan in advancing this critical reform and MOAA priority.\u201d\n\nThe bipartisan Military Care Act, co-led by Reps. Don Bacon (NE-02) Steven Horsford (NV-04), Jen Kiggans (VA-02), Chrissy Houlahan (PA-06) also includes the following original cosponsors: Reps. Sanford Bishop (GA-02), Maggie Goodlander (NH-02), Sarah McBride (DE-AL), and James Moylan (GU-AL).\n\nThe legislation is endorsed by Army Aviation Association of America (AAAA), Air and Space Forces Association (AFA), Air Force Sergeants Association (AFSA), AMVETS, Blinded Veterans Association (BVA), Commissioned Officers Association of the U.S. Public Health Services (COA), Fleet Reserve Association (FRA), Gold Star Spouses of America, Jewish War Veterans of the United States of America (JWV), Military Chaplains Association (MCA), Military Officers Association of America (MOAA), National Military Family Association (NMFA), Naval Enlisted Reserve Association (NERA), Reserve Organization of America (ROA), Secure Families Initiative, Service Women\u2019s Action Network (SWAN), SPARTA, The Enlisted Association (TREA), Tragedy Assistance Program for Survivors (TAPS), TRICARE for Kids Coalition (TFK), U.S. Army Warrant Officers Association (USAWOA), USCG Chief Petty Officers Association (CPOA), and Vietnam Veterans of America (VVA)\n\nRead the full text of the Military CARE Act here.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=2837", "Bacon, Fitzpatrick, Meeks, & Bipartisan Colleagues Advance New \u2018Peace Through Strength\u2019 Sanctions on Russia Toward January Floor Action", "2025-12-19", "2025", "2025-12", "Republican", "House", "NE", "Don Bacon", "B001298", "bacon.house.gov", "bacon", "https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C.\u2014 Representatives Don Bacon (NE-02), Brian Fitzpatrick (PA-01), and Gregory Meeks (NY-5) led a broad bipartisan coalition of House Members to introduce the Peace Through Strength Against Russia Act of 2025, comprehensive legislation that translates ongoing negotiations into decisive congressional action and advances the bill toward House Floor consideration in January.\n\nCo-leads on the bill include Representatives Mike Turner (OH-10), Tom Suozzi (NY-3), Mike Lawler (NY-17), Steny Hoyer (MD-5), and Marcy Kaptur (OH-9), reflecting broad, bipartisan agreement that Congress must lead with resolve as diplomatic efforts continue.\n\n\u201cPutin\u2019s regime only responds to resolve and takes advantage of weakness and vacillation. During these failed negotiations, Russia has continued bombing Ukrainian cities with increasing intensity. We must play hardball by sending Ukraine the weapons it needs and imposing tough sanctions on Russia that cripple his war economy, an approach Americans overwhelmingly agree with,\u201d said Rep. Bacon. \u201cI\u2019m pleased to join Rep. Brian Fitzpatrick in co-leading the bipartisan Peace Through Strength Against Russia Act to impose sanctions and other measures if Russia refuses to negotiate a peace agreement with Ukraine.\u201d\n\n\u201cNegotiations do not relieve Congress of its responsibility to act,\u201d said Rep. Fitzpatrick. \u201cThat responsibility has been clear for some time, and waiting is no longer an option. Peace through strength is the discipline of negotiating from strength\u2014of standing with Ukraine, making unmistakably clear that Russia\u2019s campaign of aggression will not be normalized or rewarded, and affirming that America still enforces the rules that keep peace possible. This is not just about ending one war. It is about setting the rules for a world that is watching whether America still enforces them. I am grateful to be working hand in hand with Ranking Member Meeks to push any and all solutions forward to the House Floor, including the Ukraine Support Act. We can end this war. We can end Putin\u2019s tyranny. And we must lead the American way\u2014through peace, through strength.\u201d\n\n\u201cRussia won't negotiate an end to its war unless real pressure is applied on the Kremlin to stop its brutality. I'm proud to have worked with Rep. Fitzpatrick on a compromise Russia sanctions bill that would impose real costs on Russia and those fueling its war effort, while avoiding further harmful global tariffs. I thank Rep. Fitzpatrick for also signing my discharge petition for the Ukraine Support Act, helping work towards both measures reaching the House floor for a vote. There is strong bipartisan support for Ukraine in the House, and this agreement makes clear that Russia cannot wait it out or continue its war of aggression without facing significant consequences,\u201d said Rep. Meeks.\n\n\u201cThe only viable path to peace in Ukraine is putting pressure on the Kremlin. It is beyond important that both sides of the aisle have come together on compromise legislation to impose strong sanctions on Russia for its illegal war of aggression as well as to take additional steps to move the bipartisan discharge petition for the Ukraine Support Act forward in the House,\u201d said HFAC Subcommittee on Europe Ranking Member Keating. \u201cAs Ukraine continues to defend itself from Russian aggression, the Ukrainian people must know that Ukraine has strong bipartisan support in the House of Representatives. The Kremlin must also know that we will not rest until a durable Ukraine-supported peace deal is achieved.\u201d\n\n\u201cWe must take firm action against the Russian Federation. This bill sends a clear message: any refusal to engage in meaningful negotiations for peace or any violation of agreements will not go unpunished. We stand with Ukraine and affirm our commitment to ensuring that they are protected from further aggression. It's time for diplomacy,\u201d said Rep. Turner.\n\n\u201cRussia\u2019s unprovoked war against Ukraine is a direct assault on sovereignty, democracy, and the international rules-based order. The United States will not reward aggression or allow Vladimir Putin to stall, violate agreements, or prepare for another invasion without serious consequences. Peace will only come when Russia understands that continued violence carries real costs. I\u2019m proud to cosponsor this legislation to strengthen sanctions, hold bad actors accountable, and stand firmly with the Ukrainian people,\u201d said Rep. Lawler.\n\n\u201cPeace through strength means standing up to dictators through actions, not just words,\" said Rep. Suozzi. \"The Peace Through Strength Against Russia Act does exactly that by cracking down on those responsible for the kidnapping of Ukrainian children, increasing sanction pressure on Russia, and expanding sanctions to Russian partners in North Korea. I'm proud to stand with my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to say that the United States will not tolerate Putin's murderous war in Ukraine, and will defend our democratic allies across the world.\"\n\n\"Through force, Dictator Putin aspires to rewrite the structure of Europe and end democratic practice across the continent. America\u2019s foreign policy must promote Liberty, not bow to Tyranny,\" said Rep. Kaptur (OH-09), Co-Founder and Co-Chair of the Congressional Ukraine Caucus. \"With this new bipartisan bill, we are putting forward the most significant legislation introduced this Congress to place economic sanctions on Russia for its war crimes against Ukraine.\"\n\nThe Peace Through Strength Against Russia Act of 2025 builds on Fitzpatrick\u2019s constant efforts since the beginning of the conflict in 2022 to advance designed to force meaningful negotiations, deter further aggression, and ensure any peace agreement is real, durable, and accepted by the free and independent Government of Ukraine.\n\nUnlike piecemeal sanctions, the legislation establishes a comprehensive structure that directly links Russia\u2019s economic isolation to its willingness to pursue\u2014and honor\u2014peace. It reflects overwhelming bipartisan support for empowering the United States to use strong economic pressure as a tool to help bring this war to an end.\n\nSpecifically, the bill would:\n\nMandate sanctions on senior Russian officials, oligarchs, state-owned enterprises, and entities supporting Russia\u2019s defense, energy, and transportation sectors\n\nSever Russia\u2019s access to the global financial system, including blocking transactions with Russian financial institutions, prohibiting U.S. investment in Russia, banning trading of Russian entities on U.S. securities exchanges, and targeting financial messaging systems used to evade sanctions\n\nClose loopholes fueling Russia\u2019s war economy, including ending refined oil import workarounds and prohibiting U.S. purchases of Russian sovereign debt\n\nTarget Russia\u2019s energy leverage, prohibiting new U.S. investment and sanctioning foreign actors who enable Russian oil, gas, LNG, and uranium production\n\nImpose sanctions for war crimes, including the kidnapping and wrongful deportation of Ukrainian children and Russia-North Korea cooperation supporting Russia\u2019s illegal war\n\nIncrease duties up to 500 percent on goods imported from the Russian Federation to further isolate Russia economically\n\nThe legislation also establishes a clear and enforceable off-ramp: sanctions may only be terminated if Russia signs a peace agreement accepted by Ukraine and fully ceases hostilities\u2014subject to congressional review to prevent premature or politically motivated rollbacks.\n\nWith negotiations ongoing, Fitzpatrick and his bipartisan colleagues will continue building support with the goal of bringing the Peace Through Strength Against Russia Act of 2025 to the House Floor in January\u2014ensuring Congress does its part to match diplomacy with decisive action.\n\nRead the full bill text here.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=FFB95124-F789-4360-8B8E-249CA251CBF6", "Fischer Leads Nebraska Delegation in Support of America\u2019s First Transcontinental Railroad", "2025-12-19", "2025", "2025-12", "Republican", "Senate", "NE", "Deb Fischer", "F000463", "www.fischer.senate.gov", "fischer", "https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases", "scraper", "Today, U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-NE) led the entire Nebraska congressional delegation in a letter to the Surface Transportation Board, urging approval of the proposed merger between Union Pacific and Norfolk Southern in order to create the nation\u2019s first transcontinental railroad.\n\nIn the letter, the lawmakers underscore the merger\u2019s widespread support among labor unions and rail customers across key industries, including agriculture, manufacturing, and energy. Due to Nebraska\u2019s central location, the state serves as a vital freight-rail corridor and ranks among the top five in the nation for freight-rail employment. Since 1862, Union Pacific has been headquartered in Omaha and currently employs more than 5,000 individuals across the state, contributing millions of dollars to Nebraska\u2019s economy each year.\n\nFull text of the letter is here and below.\n\nDear Chairman Fuchs, Vice Chair Schultz, and Member Hedlund:\n\nWe write in support of the proposed merger between Union Pacific and Norfolk Southern. We trust that, after a thorough review, the Board will approve this merger, bringing about the nation\u2019s first transcontinental railroad.\n\nAs the Board conducts its review, we believe the benefits associated with the new transcontinental railroad will demonstrate that this merger will enhance competition and provide value to the public. The reduced interchange delays will result in decreased transit times and increased service reliability. The new routes and expanded intermodal service also provide significant new opportunities for shippers. Furthermore, the limited overlap in existing networks of Union Pacific and Norfolk Southern results in only a handful of shippers seeing service decreased from two freight rail carriers to one, and we trust Union Pacific will take the necessary action to ensure continued competition for their service. We are also encouraged by Union Pacific\u2019s commitment to maintain gateway access and address associated gateway pricing.\n\nNotably, the proposed merger has received the early support of multiple labor unions, including SMART Transportation Division (SMART-TD), the largest union in the country. Additionally, rail customers across key industries \u2014 including agriculture, manufacturing, and energy \u2014 have voiced their support, citing improved market access, greater operational flexibility, and faster, more reliable service.\n\nWe support the merger of Union Pacific and Norfolk Southern and look forward to the opportunities generated by our nation\u2019s first truly transcontinental railroad. As you complete your review, we are confident you will find that the proposed merger serves the public interest and strengthens competition nationwide. Thank you all for your attention to this letter and for your service at the Surface Transportation Board.\n\nPermalink: https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/2025/12/fischer-leads-nebraska-delegation-in-support-of-america-s-first-transcontinental-railroad", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-flood-congratulates-lincoln-airport-adding-american-airlines", "Congressman Flood Congratulates Lincoln Airport on Adding American Airlines", "2025-12-18", "2025", "2025-12", "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 released a statement following news that American Airlines will start flights from Lincoln to Dallas, Chicago, as well as Phoenix.\n\n\u201cAmerican Airlines\u2019 decision to start flying multiple routes out of Lincoln is huge news for Lincoln\u2019s business community and working families who will now have more options to use closer to home when traveling. Congratulations to the Lincoln Airport and the numerous stakeholders who have been pushing for years to expand the number of airlines flying from Lincoln. This is a big win for our capital city and will create momentum for growing the Lincoln Airport for years to come.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=488FE2E7-2D9D-4F4C-BF68-4741A8396AF2", "Fischer Celebrates Announcement of American Airlines Flights to Lincoln Airport", "2025-12-18", "2025", "2025-12", "Republican", "Senate", "NE", "Deb Fischer", "F000463", "www.fischer.senate.gov", "fischer", "https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases", "scraper", "Today, U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-NE), a member of the Senate Commerce Committee, released the following statement after American Airlines announced they will expand its service to the Lincoln Airport:\n\n\u201cI am pleased to see American Airlines announce new service at the Lincoln Airport, including year-round service to Dallas-Fort Worth and Chicago and seasonal service to Phoenix. This expansion underscores LNK as a driver of Nebraska\u2019s economic growth and a vital transportation hub that connects Nebraskans to opportunity, commerce, and destinations nationwide.\u201d\n\nPermalink: https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/2025/12/fischer-celebrates-announcement-of-american-airlines-flights-to-lincoln-airport", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=73823F73-6E45-447F-89D5-11B27A876485", "Fischer Reintroduces Bill to Support Ag Haulers", "2025-12-18", "2025", "2025-12", "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-NE) reintroduced the Haulers of Agriculture and Livestock Safety (HAULS) Act to strengthen the transportation of America\u2019s agricultural products.\n\n\u201cNebraska\u2019s farmers and ranchers feed and fuel our world, but burdensome regulations make it harder for their goods to be transported. That\u2019s why I\u2019ve introduced the HAULS Act to ensure that Nebraska\u2019s ag products reach consumers in a safe and timely manner,\u201d Fischer said.\n\nThe HAULS Act would:\n\nEliminate the requirement that ag and livestock hours-of-service (HOS) exemptions only apply during state designated planting and harvesting seasons.\n\nAmend and clarify the definition of \u201cagricultural commodities\u201d based on feedback provided by agriculture and livestock organizations.\n\nExpands on Fischer provision signed into law by authorizing a 150 air-mile exemption from HOS requirements on the destination side of a haul for ag commodity haulers.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/news/press-releases/ricketts-celebrates-signing-of-defense-bill-into-law/", "Ricketts Celebrates Signing of Defense Bill into Law", "2025-12-18", "2025", "2025-12", "Republican", "Senate", "NE", "Pete Ricketts", "R000618", "www.ricketts.senate.gov", "ricketts", "https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/?jsf=jet-engine:press-list&pagenum=", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Today, U.S. Senator Pete Ricketts (R-NE) recognized President Trump\u2019s signing of the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) into law. The NDAA authorizes funding levels and authorities for the U.S. military. This ensures American forces have the tools they need to carry out their missions.\n\n\u201cThe United States must deter Communist China, Russia, Iran, and North Korea,\u201d said Senator Ricketts. \u201cBy restoring peace through strength, this NDAA will help us deter our adversaries and keep Americans safe. The NDAA also delivers for Nebraska. It authorizes key funding to provide our servicemembers with the capabilities needed to keep Nebraskans safe. I appreciate Senator Deb Fischer and Congressman Don Bacon\u2019s leadership on the Armed Services Committees. Together, we\u2019re ensuring our military has what it needs to defend us.\u201d\n\nNebraska-Specific Wins:\n\nRequires the Sentinel intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) program to begin being fielded by Sept. 30, 2033;\n\nAuthorizes $11 million to support the Nuclear Command, Control, Communications (NC3) Network Sensor Demonstration at Offutt Air Force Base;\n\nAuthorizes $15 million to support the innovative NC3 Rapid Engineering Architecture Collaboration Hub program, or REACH, at Offutt Air Force Base;\n\nAuthorizes $40 million for the design of hangars and other facilities for the Survivable Airborne Operation Center (SAOC), which will replace the aging E-4B Nightwatch planes at Offutt Air Force Base;\n\nCodifies a requirement for deep cleaning of ICBM launch control centers every five years;\n\nDesignates STRATCOM\u2019s Joint Electromagnetic Spectrum Operations (JEMSO) office as the lead entity for coordinating testing and evaluation of joint employment of Dynamic Spectrum Sharing (DSS) technologies;\n\nDirects a report on the 557th Weather Wing\u2019s cloud migration, AI readiness, and infrastructure modernization roadmap;\n\nCodifies the 557th Weather Wing\u2019s authorities to provide meteorological and environmental services to the Intelligence Community;\n\nRequires CFIUS to report on real estate transactions of national security threats, which helps to target Communist China\u2019s malign activities in the U.S. and near critical military sites across the nation.\n\nWins in the NDAA:\n\nAuthorizes $900.6 billion for national defense next year;\n\nGives a 3.8% pay raise to our servicemembers;\n\nAuthorizes over $4 billion in funding for modernizing our nuclear triad, including the Sentinel ICBM program;\n\nIncludes the Ricketts-sponsored AUKUS Improvement Act, which streamlines defense industrial base collaboration and co-production between the United States, Australia, and the United Kingdom;\n\nIncludes the Ricketts-supported COUNTER Act, which combats Communist China\u2019s attempts to strengthen its global reach through military expansion;\n\nIncluded in the NDAA joint explanatory statement are elements of Senator Ricketts\u2019 THINK TWICE Act, including a requirement for a strategy and report on arms sales of the People\u2019s Republic of China.\n\nRicketts\u2019AUKUS Improvement Act:", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases/smith-statement-house-passage-lower-health-care-premiums-all-americans-act", "Smith Statement on House Passage of the Lower Health Care Premiums for All Americans Act", "2025-12-17", "2025", "2025-12", "Republican", "House", "NE", "Adrian Smith", "S001172", "adriansmith.house.gov", "adriansmith", "https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. - Today, Congressman Adrian Smith (R-NE), a senior member of the Committee on Ways and Means, issued the following statement following House passage of H.R. 6703, the Lower Health Care Premiums for All Americans Act.\n\n\u201cDemocrats broke America\u2019s health insurance system with Obamacare, driving massive increases in health insurance premiums and out-of-pocket expenses for hardworking families. Their only solution is throwing unlimited taxpayer dollars at the problem, with no consideration for reform.\u201d\n\n\u201cAmericans deserve better. They deserve true reforms to the healthcare marketplace, driving competition, increasing transparency, and making healthcare more affordable and accessible. I am especially pleased today\u2019s legislation includes language ensuring small employers can work together through association health plans to reduce risk and increase affordability, which is vital for Nebraska\u2019s family-owned farms, ranches, and small businesses.\n\n\u201cWhile I am pleased with the progress we made today, much work remains to undo the damage from Obamacare and ensure Americans can afford the healthcare they deserve. I look forward to working with my colleagues and the administration to pursue further solutions in the coming year.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-flood-celebrates-historic-bipartisan-housing-package-advances", "Congressman Flood Celebrates as Historic Bipartisan Housing Package Advances from Committee", "2025-12-17", "2025", "2025-12", "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 released a statement following the Financial Services Committee\u2019s passage of the bipartisan \u2018Housing for the 21st Century Act.\u2019 The bill is a culmination of legislative efforts and findings from the Housing & Insurance Subcommittee to address the housing shortage gripping communities across America.\n\nCongressman Flood serves as Chairman of the Housing & Insurance Subcommittee as well as the Chair of the Republican Main Street Caucus.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=459A0C31-BF64-49E9-98AA-88114C9E8FD4", "Fischer, Colleagues Request FCC Briefing on Universal Service Fund", "2025-12-17", "2025", "2025-12", "Republican", "Senate", "NE", "Deb Fischer", "F000463", "www.fischer.senate.gov", "fischer", "https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases", "scraper", "Today, U.S. Senators Deb Fischer (R-NE) and Ben Ray Luj\u00e1n (D-NM), and U.S. Reps. Richard Hudson (R-NC9) and Doris Matsui (D-CA7), sent a letter to the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) requesting a briefing to provide insight on the implementation of Congress\u2019 universal service directives and help inform the Working Group\u2019s leadership to modernize the Fund.\n\nFischer, Luj\u00e1n, Hudson, and Matsui announced the reconstitution of the Universal Service Fund Working Group in June.\n\nFull text of the letter is here and below.\n\nDear Chairman Carr, Commissioner Gomez, and Commissioner Trusty:\n\nThe bicameral, bipartisan Universal Service Fund Working Group continues to consider next steps on modernizing, strengthening, and sustaining universal service. In the wake of the U.S. Supreme Court\u2019s Federal Communications Commission v. Consumers\u2019 Research decision that upheld the constitutionality of the Universal Service Fund (USF) this past summer, members of the Senate and the House of Representatives have been hard at work discussing how best to update the USF programs. It is more essential than ever that we stay aligned on ensuring that the enduring mission of universal service will be fulfilled in the 21st century.\n\nThis fall, our USF Working Group fielded a new slate of comments from a variety of stakeholders on possible reforms to USF programs, and the Working Group is actively reviewing those recommendations. We take this responsibility seriously, recognizing the vital role that USF programs play in ensuring that households, schools, libraries, health care providers, and rural communities across the nation have access to essential communications services.\n\nAs Congress weighs and debates options to reform the USF, the Commission has valuable insights on the implementation of Congress\u2019 universal service directives. Given ongoing discussions about the Fund\u2019s stability, contribution methodology, and long-term policy direction, it is important for our offices to receive updated information directly from Commission staff.\n\nSpecifically, we request a staff-level briefing covering:\n\nThe most recent program outlays and cost projections across each USF program;\n\nAssessment of the USF contribution factor and recent fluctuations;\n\nRulemakings or reforms of USF programs under consideration by the Commission; and\n\nAny administrative challenges, program integrity concerns, or operational updates pertinent to congressional oversight of the Fund.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=AC9D2FDC-4F04-4206-8992-EE865AC42A8A", "To President\u2019s Desk: Annual Defense Bill with Provisions Championed by Fischer for Nebraska", "2025-12-17", "2025", "2025-12", "Republican", "Senate", "NE", "Deb Fischer", "F000463", "www.fischer.senate.gov", "fischer", "https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases", "scraper", "FY26 NDAA includes Fischer\u2019s provisions to enhance strategic preparedness, support service members, and invest in U.S. Strategic Command at Offutt Air Force Base\n\nU.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-NE), a senior member of the Senate Armed Services Committee (SASC) and Chair of the Strategic Forces Subcommittee, released the following statement after the Senate passed the Fiscal Year (FY) 2026 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA):", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/news/press-releases/ricketts-coons-lead-resolution-in-support-of-japan-condemns-communist-chinas-bullying/", "Ricketts, Coons\u00a0Lead Resolution in Support of Japan,\u00a0Condemns Communist China\u2019s Bullying", "2025-12-17", "2025", "2025-12", "Republican", "Senate", "NE", "Pete Ricketts", "R000618", "www.ricketts.senate.gov", "ricketts", "https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/?jsf=jet-engine:press-list&pagenum=", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Today, U.S. Senators Pete Ricketts (R-NE) and Chris Coons (D-DE), Chairman and Ranking Member of the Senate Foreign Relations East Asia Subcommittee, introduced a resolution to reaffirm the Trump Administration\u2019s unwavering support for the U.S.-Japan alliance. The resolution was introduced in response to Communist China\u2019s political, economic, and military pressure on Japan. Senators Bill Hagerty (R-TN) and Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH) co-sponsored this resolution.\n\n\u201cThe United States will always stand strong with Japan,\u201d said Ricketts. \u201cSince 1951, our alliance has served as the cornerstone of peace, security, and prosperity in the Indo-Pacific. Communist China\u2019s efforts to intimidate Japan \u2014 including economic coercion and the suggestion of beheading Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi \u2014 are unacceptable. We condemn Communist China\u2019s aggression. America is united behind our ally.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/news/press-releases/ricketts-recaps-2025-a-year-of-delivering-wins-for-nebraskans/", "Ricketts Recaps 2025, A Year of Delivering Wins for Nebraskans", "2025-12-17", "2025", "2025-12", "Republican", "Senate", "NE", "Pete Ricketts", "R000618", "www.ricketts.senate.gov", "ricketts", "https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/?jsf=jet-engine:press-list&pagenum=", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Today, U.S. Senator Pete Ricketts (R-NE) highlighted successes in 2025, delivering wins for Nebraskans with safer streets, more money in pockets, and excellent customer service.\n\n\u201cI\u2019m also proud of the legislative successes we achieved this year. We passed the Working Families Tax Cut, which delivered big wins for Nebraska families. This avoided a $2,400 tax increase on the average Nebraska family,\u201d said Ricketts. \u201cIt expanded child tax credits and tax credits for dependent care. It incentivizes businesses to invest in childcare for their workers. It increased the standard deduction while letting donations be itemized. It includes the no tax on tips and no tax on overtime provisions. We made the Death Tax exemption permanent, so Nebraska farming and ranching families can pass their business to the next generation. The Working Families Tax Cut means 88% of seniors won\u2019t have to pay income taxes on their Social Security benefits.\u201d\n\n\u201c[M]y team and I delivered excellent customer service to Nebraskans. We helped 883 Nebraskans navigate federal agencies. We cut through the red tape,\u201d said Ricketts. \u201cWe helped Nebraskans save or recover $16.4 million this year. My constituent services team held 736 outreach events in Nebraska this year. This includes Mobile Office Hours in all 93 counties.\u201d\n\nWatch the video here.\n\nTRANSCRIPT:\n\nSenator Ricketts: \u201cAmericans elected President Trump and Senate Republicans to get our country back on track.\n\n\u201cThat means safer streets, more money in your pocket, and excellent customer service.\n\n\u201cI\u2019m proud of the work we did this year.\n\n\u201cWe\u2019re delivering for Nebraskans.\n\n\u201cI continue to do what I did as Governor.\n\n\u201cI travel the state, talk to people, and listen to their concerns.\n\n\u201cThis year, I held public events across the state.\n\n\u201cThis included townhall meetings in Central and Western Nebraska.\n\n\u201cI hosted regular telephone townhalls to answer questions directly from Nebraskans.\n\n\u201cI hosted a Federal Issues Forum at the Nebraska State Fair in Grand Island.\n\n\u201cEPA Administrator Lee Zeldin and Senate Majority Whip John Barrasso joined me at the Forum.\n\n\u201cWe discussed solutions to get America back on track.\n\n\u201cI also released the \u201cRicketts Review\u201d at the State Fair.\n\n\u201cThis report outlined my work to keep Americans safe, make government work, and deliver proven Nebraska solutions that are ready for America.\n\n\u201cI released 52 weekly columns.\n\n\u201cI did 100 exclusive interviews that were seen and heard across our state.\n\n\u201cI will continue this outreach in 2026.\n\n\u201cI\u2019m also proud of the legislative successes we achieved this year.\n\n\u201cWe passed the Working Families Tax Cut, which delivered big wins for Nebraska families.\n\n\u201cThis avoided a $2,400 tax increase on the average Nebraska family.\n\n\u201cIt expanded child tax credits and tax credits for dependent care.\n\n\u201cIt incentivizes businesses to invest in childcare for their workers.\n\n\u201cIt increased the standard deduction while letting donations be itemized.\n\n\u201cIt includes the no tax on tips and no tax on overtime provisions.\n\n\u201cWe made the Death Tax exemption permanent, so Nebraska farming and ranching families can pass their business to the next generation\n\n\u201cThe Working Families Tax Cut means 88% of seniors won\u2019t have to pay income taxes on their Social Security benefits.\n\n\u201cWe also created a $50 billion rural health care fund to strengthen health care in our rural communities.\n\n\u201cThe Working Families Tax Cut delivers for Nebraska families.\n\n\u201cThe Working Families Tax Cut provides funding to finish the border wall, hire more agents and more judges.\n\n\u201cWe passed the Laken Riley Act.\n\n\u201cThis was the strongest immigration enforcement law in decades.\n\n\u201cIt closed dangerous loopholes that allowed criminal illegal aliens to hurt Americans.\n\n\u201cWe passed the HALT Fentanyl Act.\n\n\u201cThe HALT Fentanyl Act permanently reclassifies fentanyl and its analogues as Schedule I substances.\n\n\u201cIt will lead to harsher sentences for fentanyl traffickers and fewer overdose deaths.\n\n\u201cWe worked to cut red tape and restore commonsense.\n\n\u201cWe passed the GENIUS Act to support financial innovation.\n\n\u201cWe passed $9 billion in spending cuts.\n\n\u201cWe passed 24 Congressional Review Act resolutions to overturn burdensome Biden regulations, including stopping Biden\u2019s EV mandate.\n\n\u201cThis includes legislation I wrote with Rep. Mike Flood to overturn overreach from the Biden Consumer Financial Protection Bureau.\n\n\u201cAt the same time, we overcame unprecedented Democrat obstruction and confirmed President Trump\u2019s nominees.\n\n\u201cWe confirmed more than 400 civilian nominees this year.\n\n\u201cWe confirmed President Trump\u2019s Cabinet at the fastest pace since 2001.\n\n\u201cWe had more days in session and took more votes than any Senate in at least 35 years.\n\n\u201cMost Americans show up to work until the job gets done.\n\n\u201cIn Congresses past, that work ethic hasn\u2019t existed.\n\n\u201cUnder Republican leadership, the Senate is back to workback to work.\n\n\u201cIn addition, my team and I delivered excellent customer service to Nebraskans.\n\n\u201cWe helped 883 Nebraskans navigate federal agencies.\n\n\u201cWe cut through the red tape.\n\n\u201cWe helped Nebraskans save or recover $16.4 million this year.\n\n\u201cMy constituent services team held 736 outreach events in Nebraska this year.\n\n\u201cThis includes Mobile Office Hours in all 93 counties.\n\n\u201cWe will continue providing great services to Nebraskans.\n\n\u201cWe delivered for Nebraskans.\n\n\u201cMy priorities remain the same.\n\n\u201cI\u2019m working with my team to ensure your voices are heard.\n\n\u201cI\u2019m working to address your concerns.\n\n\u201cWe are delivering for Nebraskans.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-flood-spearheads-va-transparency-bill-part-broader-va", "Congressman Flood Spearheads VA Transparency Bill As Part of Broader VA Reauthorization Push", "2025-12-16", "2025", "2025-12", "Republican", "House", "NE", "Mike Flood", "F000474", "flood.house.gov", "flood", "https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Image\n\nDecember 16, 2025\n\nWASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Today, U.S. Congressman Mike Flood introduced H.R.6740, the \u201cVA TRUST Act.\u201d The bill enhances transparency and accountability of the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Senior Executive Service (SES) employees by requiring the VA to disclose to Congress the accounts from which awards and bonuses are paid to SES employees as well as their annual salaries\u2013 promoting greater oversight and fiscal responsibility within the Department to ensure appropriated funds are not being used outside of the context that Congress intended.\n\n\u201cThe VA TRUST Act is a needed step in ensuring the VA remains focused on its core mission of serving our nation\u2019s veterans,\u201d said Congressman Flood. \u201cBuilding on my efforts last Congress to bring more transparency and common sense to the pay and bonuses of the VA\u2019s Senior Executive Service employees, the VA TRUST Act will help the Department better prioritize its mission to effectively serve veterans. I\u2019m hopeful to see these reforms advance through the House Committee on Veterans\u2019 Affairs as part of its broader effort to reauthorize several key programs within the VA for the first time in decades.\"\n\nAdditionally, the \"VA TRUST Act\" promotes greater efficiency in line with the VA's commitment to serving our veterans first. It does so by allowing the VA to have broader authority in adjusting the basic rate of pay salaries of SES employees who relocate within the Department or transfer from another federal agency. Due to a lack of clarity in federal statute, some SES employees may continue receiving pay based on their previously held position or locality of employment\u2014such as Chicago\u2014even after relocating to a lower cost-of-living area like Lincoln. The VA TRUST Act clarifies the jurisdiction of the VA to authorize these changes in salary for these types of employees, within the existing framework allowed by current federal law.\n\nIn a 2024 report by the VA\u2019s Office of Inspector General, it was revealed that funds allocated by Congress (totaling $10.8 million) for recruitment and retention of VA employees that assist in processing veterans\u2019 benefits claims, were instead used to award bonuses to SES employees within the VA. These bonuses averaged $55,000 per recipient, with multiple bonuses exceeding $100,000.\n\nIn response to this finding, Congressman Flood introduced H.R.10319, the BONUS Transparency Act, during the 118th Congress, a portion of which is now included within the VA TRUST Act.\n\nFull text of the VA TRUST Act can be found here.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=6CBD661A-4312-4390-9B43-A31884E8235A", "Fischer Leads Nebraska Delegation to Maximize Retention of State\u2019s Broadband Infrastructure Funds", "2025-12-16", "2025", "2025-12", "Republican", "Senate", "NE", "Deb Fischer", "F000463", "www.fischer.senate.gov", "fischer", "https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases", "scraper", "Today, U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-NE) led the entire Nebraska congressional delegation in a letter to the National Telecommunications and Information Association (NTIA), urging the administration to allow states to retain Broadband Equity Access and Deployment (BEAD) Program funds that are not already committed to broadband deployment in priority unserved or underserved areas, in compliance with the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law.\n\nIn the letter, the lawmakers highlight the importance precision agriculture plays in farming and ranching operations and urge NTIA to clarify that precision agriculture connectivity constitutes an eligible use of remaining BEAD non-deployment funds.\n\nFull text of the letter is here and below.\n\nDear Administrator Roth,\n\nOn behalf of Nebraska communities that continue to lack reliable, high-speed broadband access, we write to urge NTIA to allow states to retain BEAD Program funds that are not already committed to broadband deployment in priority unserved or underserved areas, in compliance with the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law (BIL).\n\nThe BIL authorizes the BEAD Program to fund broadband expansion across unserved and underserved areas, with a required prioritization of deployment to those areas and, as needed, connection of eligible community anchor institutions. The statutory allocation framework assumes that funds are first applied toward deployment, and only after those priorities are satisfied do remaining resources become available for alternative, \u201cnon-deployment\u201d uses.\n\nGiven this structure and the express purpose of BEAD as a historic investment to close the digital divide, we request clarification on how NTIA intends to ensure that non-deployment funds are reallocated appropriately to expand connectivity across the nation.\n\nIn this context, we urge NTIA to clarify that precision agriculture connectivity constitutes an eligible use of remaining BEAD non-deployment funds. The BIL defines eligible locations and permissible activities in ways that encompass broadband needed for agricultural operations on farmland and ranchland. The statute directs funding toward areas lacking service \u201ccapable of supporting real-time, interactive applications\u201d and emphasizes connectivity that enables \u201ceconomic development\u201d and \u201cmodern digital applications\u201d (47 U.S.C. \u00a7 1702(a), (c)(4)).\n\nPrecision agriculture operations \u2013 including field-level sensors, automated equipment guidance, telemetry, livestock monitoring, and real-time remote management \u2013 clearly fall within these parameters. They require reliable high-speed connectivity across the last acre, directly leveraging last mile deployment connections.\n\nThis approach aligns closely with the objectives reflected in the LAST ACRE Act (S.1617; H.R. 3212), as introduced by Senator Fischer and inspired by Nebraska\u2019s own Precision Agriculture Infrastructure Grant Program. The federal legislation has received bipartisan, bicameral support in Congress, seeking to ensure that agricultural producers have robust connectivity not just at the farmstead, but across the acreage where modern, data-driven operations occur.\n\nWhile this legislation is separate from the BIL, its underlying rationale is wholly consistent with BEAD\u2019s statutory purpose: to ensure that broadband infrastructure fosters economic competitiveness, technological adoption, and resilience, particularly in hard-to-reach rural economies.\n\nFor these reasons, we respectfully request that NTIA:\n\n1. Clarify whether states may direct unobligated BEAD funds toward connectivity that enables precision agriculture applications, including deployment extensions beyond residential structures to operational acreage;\n\n2. Affirm that precision-ag connectivity falls within BIL-authorized activities supporting broadband adoption, economic development, and advanced digital applications;\n\n3. Provide guidance for states on documenting and approving such uses, especially in areas where household-level broadband availability maps do not capture agricultural operational needs, and including where the challenge process in the LAST ACRE Act may provide a viable alternative; and\n\n4. Outline the process by which any remaining BEAD funds should be applied or reallocated, consistent with BIL statutory requirements and Congressional intent.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=99D2C89A-72DC-4071-925A-DCA2E7C8F261", "Fischer Leads Colleagues to Preserve States\u2019 Ability to Use Broadband Infrastructure Funds as Congress Intended", "2025-12-16", "2025", "2025-12", "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-NE) sent a letter to Arielle Roth, the Assistant Secretary of Commerce for Communications and Information at the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA), urging the administration to preserve states\u2019 ability to use their non-deployment Broadband Equity Access and Deployment (BEAD) Program funds consistent with congressional intent and the bipartisan infrastructure law.\n\nFischer\u2019s letter also requests NTIA to provide a public accounting of unspent BEAD funds for each state, clarification of NTIA\u2019s current interpretation of allowable \u201cnon-deployment\u201d uses, and a timetable for revised guidance on non-deployment funds.\n\nU.S. Senators Luj\u00e1n (D-NM), Moran (R-KS), Cantwell (D-WA), Risch (R-ID), Rosen (D-NV), Crapo (R-ID), Shaheen (D-NH), Sullivan (R-AK), Markey (D-MA), Murkowski (R-AK), Baldwin (D-WI), Blunt Rochester (D-DE), and Klobuchar (D-MN) joined Fischer in sending the letter.\n\nThe lawmakers write:\u201cWe write to request the agency\u2019s attention to a major question emerging within the BEAD Program. Under the latest BEAD Notice of Funding Opportunity, many states likely will \u2014 or already do \u2014 have leftover BEAD allocations. Given the intent of Congress that these resources be used to expand broadband access nationwide, we respectfully seek clarity on how NTIA will ensure proper stewardship and redistribution of non-deployment funds to close the digital divide.\u201d\n\nFull text of the letter is here and below.\n\nDear Administrator Roth,\n\nWe write to request the agency\u2019s attention to a major question emerging within the BEAD Program. Under the latest BEAD Notice of Funding Opportunity, many states likely will \u2014 or already do \u2014 have leftover BEAD allocations. Given the intent of Congress that these resources be used to expand broadband access nationwide, we respectfully seek clarity on how NTIA will ensure proper stewardship and redistribution of non-deployment funds to close the digital divide.\n\nUnder the statutory framework established by Section 60102 of the Infrastructure, Investment and Jobs Act (47 U.S.C. \u00a7 1702), BEAD funding was intended first and foremost to fund broadband expansion: deployment to unserved locations, then underserved areas and connection of eligible community anchor institutions, before consideration of a broader set of permissible \u201cnon-deployment\u201d uses to facilitate goals of the program. Congress granted this authority, along with the authority to redistribute unallocated funding amongst eligible entities, to maximize broadband infrastructure expansion \u2013 and thereby boost the economic productivity that connectivity brings to every corner of our country.\n\nThe current status of non-deployment funding, however, appears unsettled. While NTIA\u2019s recent guidance stated that allowable non-deployment purposes were still under review, we were encouraged by your public comments on December 2, 2025, stating that the agency is \u201coperating under the assumption that the states will get to use their BEAD savings,\u201d though noting that \u201cnothing has been finalized.\u201d\n\nGiven these considerations, we respectfully request that NTIA provide:\n\n1. A public accounting of the unspent BEAD funds for each state, including amounts already committed to deployment projects and amounts remaining unallocated or reserved for non-deployment uses;\n\n2. Clarification of NTIA\u2019s current interpretation of allowable \u201cnon-deployment\u201d uses in light of the June 2025 policy notice and consistent with authorized use of the funds under 47 U.S.C. \u00a7 1702 moving forward, and whether any previously approved non-deployment activities may remain eligible; and\n\n3. A timetable for revised guidance on non-deployment funds, along with any criteria or conditions under which non-deployment programs will be permitted or prioritized.\n\nIn responding, we strongly urge NTIA to preserve states\u2019 ability to use their non-deployment BEAD funds consistent with congressional intent and the bipartisan infrastructure law. We look forward to your timely reply and to ensuring that every BEAD dollar is used to connect Americans for generations to come, as Congress intended.\n\nPermalink: https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/2025/12/fischer-leads-colleagues-to-preserve-states-ability-to-use-broadband-infrastructure-funds-as-congress-intended", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=2836", "Bacon Nominates 18 High School Students for Military Academies", "2025-12-15", "2025", "2025-12", "Republican", "House", "NE", "Don Bacon", "B001298", "bacon.house.gov", "bacon", "https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx", "scraper", "Washington \u2013 Today, Representative Don Bacon (NE-02) announced and congratulated 18 high school students from the 2nd District in Nebraska for their nominations to U.S. military service academies.\n\n\u201cChoosing to serve our country is one of the most profoundly honorable commitments a person can make, and these 18 young men and women have shown outstanding merit to receive nominations to our military academies,\u201d said Rep. Bacon. \u201cAs they begin their journey toward military service, I offer my heartfelt congratulations to them, as well as their parents, family, and mentors who have helped them reach this milestone. Having spent nearly 30 years in the Air Force alongside dedicated Americans who defend our freedom, I am truly inspired to see this generation step forward with patriotism and devotion to America in applying to these academies. This is one of the most important responsibilities I have as a Congressman and one of the most rewarding aspects of the job. I\u2019m grateful for these young folks willing to serve in our military and defend the greatest country in the world, our freedoms and way of life.\u201d\n\nThe 18 are listed alphabetically and their selected academies are as follows:\n\nCaden Annis of Gretna East High School \u2013 Navy\n\nLeo Bailey of Skutt Catholic High School \u2013 Air Force, Army, Merchant Marines, Navy\n\nDaniel Castillo of Millard North High School \u2013 Air Force, Army, Merchant Marines, Navy\n\nCarly Connell of Westside High School \u2013 Air Force\n\nCarter Glab of Millard South High School \u2013 Air Force, Army, Merchant Marines, Navy\n\nEthan Grinnsteiner of Elkhorn South High School \u2013 Air Force, Army, Merchant Marines, Navy\n\nTyler Harrill of Skutt Catholic High School \u2013 Air Force, Army, Merchant Marines, Navy\n\nHenry Hendershoot of Thomas Jefferson High School \u2013 Air Force, Army, Merchant Marines, Navy\n\nJames LaFramboise of Gretna High School \u2013 Air Force, Army, Merchant Marines, Navy\n\nZane Larson of Elkhorn North High School \u2013 Air Force, Army, Merchant Marines, Navy\n\nEaston Loucks of Omaha Creighton Prep \u2013 Air Force, Army, Merchant Marines, Navy\n\nMitchell Minnich of Elkhorn South High School \u2013 Air Force, Army, Merchant Marines, Navy\n\nOwen Quakenbush of Millard South High School \u2013 Air Force, Army, Merchant Marines, Navy\n\nGrant Rieser of Westside High School \u2013 Air Force, Army, Merchant Marines, Navy\n\nWesten Roberts of Millard South High School \u2013 Air Force, Army, Merchant Marines, Navy\n\nConnor Sams of Gretna East High School \u2013 Air Force\n\nReece Santamaria of Papio-LaVista South High School \u2013 Air Force, Army, Merchant Marines, Navy\n\nWilliam Tabor of Omaha Creighton Prep \u2013 Air Force, Army, Merchant Marines, Navy\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=94710FA4-284B-4FD6-BE12-82C5833EE4C6", "PHOTOS: Fischer Views OPD Helicopter Secured Through Senate Appropriations Committee Role", "2025-12-15", "2025", "2025-12", "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-NE), a member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, visited the Omaha Police Department\u2019s hangar, located in Blair, last week to see firsthand the department\u2019s upgraded air support,made possible by federal funding she secured in 2024.\n\nClick here to download photos of Fischer\u2019s visit.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/news/press-releases/video-ricketts-committee-witness-speak-on-importance-of-nebraskas-sentinel-missile-program/", "VIDEO: Ricketts, Committee Witness Speak on Importance of Nebraska\u2019s Sentinel Missile Program", "2025-12-15", "2025", "2025-12", "Republican", "Senate", "NE", "Pete Ricketts", "R000618", "www.ricketts.senate.gov", "ricketts", "https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/?jsf=jet-engine:press-list&pagenum=", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Last week, during a Senate Foreign Relations Committee hearing, U.S. Senator Pete Ricketts (R-NE) highlighted the need to modernize America\u2019s nuclear deterrent by supporting the new Sentinel intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM)program. Sentinel, which will be based partially in Nebraska, will replace the aging Minuteman III ICBMs.\n\nRicketts questioned Marshall Billingslea, Senior Fellow at Hudson Institute and former Special Presidential Envoy for Arms Control at the State Department. They discussed the importance of deterring the strategic threat posed by Communist China and Russia.\n\n\u201cHow do you get the Russians and the Chinese, given that the Chinese want to get to [nuclear weapons] parity with us \u2026 to the table?\u201d asked Ricketts. \u201c[Would replacing] the Minuteman III with the Sentinel \u2014 which again is partially based in Nebraska \u2014 is that something we need to continue to pursue? And what\u2019s the dangers if we delay the recapitalization of our nuclear forces?\u201d\n\n\u201cWe have deferred modernization of our nuclear weapons to the point where we are now at grave risk,\u201d responded Billingslea. \u201cWe have a just-in-time delivery approach to rapidly aging systems that we can\u2019t allow to slip further. So, the cost overruns with Sentinel are worrying, but we can\u2019t life extend the Minuteman III past a certain point. And it\u2019s vital now that we get on with this.\u201d\n\nClick here to watch more.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=CB1D9F40-8C9E-4199-827F-0704807344E7", "Fischer in Washington Times: Modernize the U.S. Nuclear Deterrent", "2025-12-12", "2025", "2025-12", "Republican", "Senate", "NE", "Deb Fischer", "F000463", "www.fischer.senate.gov", "fischer", "https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases", "scraper", "In case you missed it: U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-NE), a senior member of the Senate Armed Services Committee and chair of the Strategic Forces Subcommittee, penned an op-ed in theWashington Times emphasizing the urgent need for Congress to pass the Fiscal Year 2026 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) to modernize our nuclear deterrent.\n\nRead the op-ed here or below.\n\nAt a time of rising global instability, Congress faces a defining choice: whether to remain complacent or strengthen and accelerate modernization of America\u2019s nuclear deterrent.\n\nOur adversaries have been preparing, investing and testing all this while. As we near the end of the year, Congress\u2019 top priority should be passing a National Defense Authorization Act that modernizes our deterrent. That is how we continue to ensure peace through strength.\n\nThe world we live in today is the most dangerous since the end of World War II. China is accelerating its military buildup across the Indo-Pacific. Russia\u2019s brutal invasion of Ukraine continues. North Korea has become increasingly provocative with its missile tests. Iran seeks to develop its own nuclear weapons. Together, these four regimes form an axis of aggression united in their desire to undermine American leadership and the free world.\n\nThat reality makes modernizing our nuclear deterrent not a matter of choice but of survival. This year\u2019s NDAA rises to this challenge, with key provisions that will ensure our deterrent remains credible, effective and relevant. My focus remains on swiftly delivering a strong, unified NDAA to the president\u2019s desk before the end of the year.\n\nAs chair of the Senate Armed Services strategic forces subcommittee, I worked to secure several critical measures in the Senate version of the NDAA. This includes upgrading the National Nuclear Security Administration\u2019s aging infrastructure and refocusing the Nuclear Weapons Council to better oversee nuclear weapons and delivery systems. It requires the deployment of at least 400 intercontinental ballistic missiles across no fewer than 450 launch facilities \u2014 the bedrock of our deterrent.\n\nIt authorizes more than $3.8 billion for the Sentinel ICBM program and requires a sustainment strategy for our aging Minuteman III ICBMs, which must remain capable for years to come.\n\nIn addition to the land-based leg of our nuclear triad, this bill boosts the triad\u2019s sea and air legs. It accelerates the nuclear-armed sea-launched cruise missile program, bolstering our long-neglected regional nuclear deterrence options. The NDAA directs the Air Force to submit a comprehensive bomber road map and lines up the schedule for when the new stealth bomber will be formally cleared to operate with the AGM-181 cruise missile.\n\nIt also supports the new Survivable Air Operations Center aircraft, from which the president will be able to command, control and communicate with our nuclear forces under any circumstance.\n\nThese investments send a clear message to our adversaries: America\u2019s nuclear deterrent is ready and formidable. In the face of overwhelming force, they will continue to think twice and conclude: \u201cNot today.\u201d\n\nCritics may argue that nuclear modernization is costly, but the far greater cost would be failing to deter aggression and allowing hostile powers to gamble that American defenses are insufficient or unreliable. A strong nuclear deterrent is the ultimate insurance policy \u2014 the guarantee that no adversary can risk attacking the United States or its allies without catastrophic consequences.\n\nBeyond the technical details, this bill speaks to a larger truth. Our adversaries are working together to weaken America. We cannot afford to respond with hesitation or half measures. Nor can we afford to continue to delay the modernization of these capabilities. This year\u2019s NDAA ensures that our forces remain second to none, that our nuclear deterrent can pace any threat, and that peace is preserved through strength.\n\nCongress must enact these provisions in the fiscal year 2026 NDAA. The stakes are too high for delay. At this critical moment, we owe it to the American people and to future generations to ensure that the arsenal of democracy remains ready, reliable and strong.\n\nDeb Fischer, a Republican, is the senior U.S. senator from Nebraska. She is a senior member of the Senate Armed Services Committee and chairs its subcommittee on strategic forces. She represents Offutt Air Force Base near Omaha, Nebraska, home to the U.S. Strategic Command, which integrates and coordinates the necessary command and control capability to provide support with the most accurate and timely information for the executive branch and other combatant commanders.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases/smith-statement-ways-and-means-approval-agoa-haiti-and-ip-protection", "Smith Statement on Ways and Means Approval of AGOA, Haiti, and IP Protection Legislation", "2025-12-11", "2025", "2025-12", "Republican", "House", "NE", "Adrian Smith", "S001172", "adriansmith.house.gov", "adriansmith", "https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. - Today, Congressman Adrian Smith (R-NE), Chairman of the Subcommittee on Trade, released the following statement after the House Ways and Means Committee reported three pieces of trade legislation on a bipartisan basis.\n\n\u201cPresident Trump has rightly recognized the importance of trade as a tool for partnership, diplomacy, and economic development. Promoting stability through economic opportunity in Haiti and Sub-Saharan Africa provides opportunities for American consumers, creates new supply chains, and encourages those nations to look to the United States as a model for political and economic freedom, rather than to communist China. Likewise, empowering Customs and Border Patrol (CBP) with additional tools to address counterfeit products and protect American intellectual property is vital to advancing legal trade, now and into the future.\n\n\u201cI appreciate the partnership of Chairman Jason Smith and bipartisan supporters across the committee in moving constructive trade legislation forward, and I look forward to continuing our work to see these bills through the legislative process.\u201d\n\nBACKGROUND:\n\nThe Ways and Means Committee advanced three pieces of trade legislation in today\u2019s mark-up", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=2834", "Bacon Praises Passage of FY26 Defense Policy Bill", "2025-12-11", "2025", "2025-12", "Republican", "House", "NE", "Don Bacon", "B001298", "bacon.house.gov", "bacon", "https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx", "scraper", "Washington \u2013 Yesterday, Rep. Don Bacon (NE-02), Chairman of the House Armed Services Committee Cyber, Information Technology and Innovation Subcommittee, voted with his House colleagues to support final passage of S.1071, the Fiscal Year 2026 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA). The bill passed the House of Representatives with a bipartisan majority of 312 to 112, and is now headed to the Senate and then to President Trump\u2019s desk to be signed into law. This essential annual legislation, which contains multiple sections authored by Rep. Bacon, authorizes defense spending and sets the policy and priorities for the Armed Forces.\n\n\u201cMy colleagues in the House have demonstrated that when we cooperate, we can pass bipartisan legislation that benefits our national security. Once again, we have maintained the trust of the American people by passing the annual defense authorization,\u201d said Rep Bacon. \u201cThere are significant highlights in this bill for the 2nd Congressional District of Nebraska, and the entire country. This year\u2019s NDAA revolutionizes the way that the Pentagon purchases weapons systems for our warfighters while also taking care of our all-volunteer force and their families. I commend Chairman Rogers, Ranking Member Smith, my fellow Members of the Committee and Congress, and all the staff who worked tirelessly to bring this bill to the finish line.\u201d\n\nHighlights from the FY 2026 bill include:\n\nAuthorizes over $900 billion for national defense with significant investments in the defense industrial base, munitions production, and critical technologies, including artificial intelligence, space, autonomous systems, and hypersonic weapons, as well as a 3.8% pay raise for servicemembers\n\nSets major reforms to the defense acquisition system to speed development and fielding of modern technologies while reducing bureaucracy\n\nPreserves U.S. force posture in Europe and authorizes additional security assistance to the Baltic Nations and Ukraine\n\nFully funds modernization of the U.S strategic nuclear deterrent as well as scientific capabilities and nuclear command, control, and communications architectures\n\nBoosts compensation for our servicemembers, invests in barracks improvements, reforms on-base housing, and supports childcare for military families\n\nProtects senior military leaders from being dismissed or forced to resign without explanation\n\nRequires the Secretary of Defense to provide additional information and transparency to Congress on the counter-narcotics operations in the Caribbean and Eastern Pacific Ocean\n\nIn addition, this year\u2019s NDAA contains numerous legislative proposals sponsored by Rep. Bacon, including:\n\nAuthorization of support to Ukraine and the Baltic Nations of Estonia, Lithuania, and Latvia to counter Russian aggression\n\nDirects the Secretary of the Air Force to provide an acquisition and fielding strategy for the F-47 advanced fighter aircraft program\n\nCreates a program of record for a combined military-civilian medical surge capability\n\nDirects the Secretary of Defense to establish the Civil Reserve Manufacturing Network\n\nDirects significant security upgrades to DoD mobile telecommunications\n\nDirects the major defense acquisitions programs to prepare digital manufacturing transition plans for critical components\n\nDirects the Secretary of Defense to establish the Center for Strategic Deterrence and WMD Studies at the National Defense University\n\nDirects the Secretary of the Air Force to produce a study on the future of the Airborne Operations Center\n\nAuthorizes $15 million for USSTRATCOM\u2019s nuclear command, control, and communications (NC3) rapid engineering architecture collaboration hub (REACH) initiative at Offutt AFB\n\nThe text of the NDAA and related documents can be found here. Watch Rep. Bacon's remarks on the FY26 NDAA here.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=2835", "Bacon, Panetta Reintroduce Bipartisan Legislation to Hire, Train, and Retain New Prosecutors", "2025-12-11", "2025", "2025-12", "Republican", "House", "NE", "Don Bacon", "B001298", "bacon.house.gov", "bacon", "https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx", "scraper", "Washington, DC \u2013 Representatives Don Bacon (NE-02) and Jimmy Panetta (CA-19), reintroduced the bipartisan, bicameral, Helping Improve Recruitment and Retention Efforts for Prosecutors Act (HIRRE Prosecutors Act) of 2025. The legislation would allow local governments to better support, hire, train, and retain local prosecutors critical to protecting local public safety. The HIRRE Prosecutors Act would create a competitive federal grant program to better assist district attorneys in prosecuting cases and protecting the rule of law, with the staff and resources they need to get the job done. Rep. Joe Neguse (CO-02) is also co-leading this effort.\n\nSince the COVID-19 pandemic, many local prosecutors\u2019 offices have seen increased turnover. Some states have seen turnover rates as high as 43.5% in a single year, struggling to both retain and fill the staff critical to upholding the law. Unlike police departments, local prosecutors receive little to no federal assistance. The HIRRE Prosecutors Act would address that gap through a new program modeled on the successful, decades-old COPS Hiring Program, which would invest $10 million annually in the hiring, training, and retention of prosecutors and staff.\n\n\u201cOur local officials lack essential resources to effectively prosecute offenders. This legislation would provide support through the Department of Justice, helping to stabilize police departments and strengthen local attorney offices responsible for prosecuting cases,\u201dsaid Rep. Bacon. \u201cFor those facing staffing and resource shortages in Nebraska, the added support from this bill would help ensure that cases are handled efficiently and fairly. Specifically, the HIRRE Prosecutors Act would establish a program offering competitive grants to district attorneys\u2019 offices, with the goal of reinforcing public trust in the legal process.\u201d\n\n\u201cFor far too long, our local district attorneys\u2019 offices haven\u2019t had the resources they need to compete with private, better-paying law firms for top talent,\u201d said Rep. Panetta. \u201cThe HIRRE Prosecutors Act would create a first-of-its-kind federal grant program to invest in the legal talent needed to work as prosecutors and hold people accountable. With these types of grants, the federal government can play its part to help our local prosecutors\u2019 offices properly seek truth and justice and help enhance public safety.\u201d\n\n\u201cI\u2019m proud to join Rep. Panetta in support of this historic program that provides support for our state, territorial, local, and tribal prosecutors, who work each and every day to protect the public,\u201d said Rep. Neguse. \u201cThis bill, the HIRRE Prosecutors Act, will ensure that communities across the nation, especially folks in our rural and mountain communities, can recruit and retain qualified attorneys.\u201d\n\n\u201cSince the pandemic, district attorney offices have faced significant recruitment and retention challenges, which has been exacerbated by a lack of federal support needed to address workforce shortages\u201d said Brian R. Marvel, President of the Peace Officers Research Association of California (PORAC). \u201cThe HIRRE Prosecutors Act is a critical step to remedy this \u2013 establishing a grant program that mirrors the support currently given to local law enforcement through the COPS Hiring Program to ensure that district attorneys\u2019 offices have the resources they need to prosecute cases and uphold the rule of law in our communities. Thank you, Congressman Panetta, for your leadership and commitment to supporting local district attorneys across the country.\u201d\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases/congress-floods-bipartisan-bill-making-accredited-investor-status-merit-based", "Congress Flood's Bipartisan Bill Making Accredited Investor Status Merit-Based Included in House-Passed INVEST Act", "2025-12-11", "2025", "2025-12", "Republican", "House", "NE", "Mike Flood", "F000474", "flood.house.gov", "flood", "https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Today, the U.S. House of Representatives passed the \"INVEST Act.\" The bill is a package of various measures, including U.S. Congressman Mike Flood\u2019s \u201cEqual Opportunity for All Investors Act.\u201d Congressman Flood issued the following statement after the INVEST Act\u2019s passage.\n\n\u201cThe INVEST Act is a bipartisan bill that expands access to capital for small businesses and startups, creates greater opportunity for retail investors, and improves the health of our public markets. I\u2019m particularly excited that one of my bills, the Equal Opportunity for All Investors Act, is a part of this package. Thank you to Chairman Hill, Congresswoman Wagner, Congressman Meeks, and everyone who has contributed to this effort and I look forward to working together to deliver the INVEST Act to President Trump\u2019s desk.\u201d\n\nThe INVEST Act combines various independent bills to achieve the following:", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-flood-highlights-key-provisions-included-landmark-housing-21st", "Congressman Flood Highlights Key Provisions Included in Landmark \u2018Housing for the 21st Century Act'", "2025-12-11", "2025", "2025-12", "Republican", "House", "NE", "Mike Flood", "F000474", "flood.house.gov", "flood", "https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Image\n\nDecember 11, 2025\n\nWASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Today, U.S. Congressman Mike Flood released a statement following the introduction of the historic \"Housing for the 21st Century Act.\" The bill, introduced by Congressman Flood, Financial Services Committee Chairman French Hill, Ranking Member Maxine Waters, as well as Congressman Emanuel Cleaver is a broad array of legislation addressing the housing crisis in America, including several bills sponsored by Congressman Flood.\n\n\u201cAs housing gets more expensive, the American Dream of homeownership is slipping away for working families. This package is the product of bipartisan work in the Financial Services Committee to address some of the core issues driving up the cost of housing. I want to thank Chairman Hill, Ranking Member Waters and my counterpart on the Housing and Insurance Subcommittee Ranking Member Emanuel Cleaver for working together to produce this strong, bipartisan package. I look forward to working with my colleagues to advance this legislation through the committee, move it across the House floor, and ultimately to get these critical reforms enacted into law.\u201d\n\nCongressman Flood serves as Chairman of the Housing & Insurance Subcommittee as well as the Chair of the Republican Main Street Caucus.\n\nMore information on the Housing for the 21st Century Act can be read here. The bills that Congressman Flood previously introduced that are included in the Housing for the 21st Century Act are listed below:\n\nThe HOME Reform Act\n\n\u201cAmerica is in the midst of a housing crisis as families struggle to live the American dream due to the shortage of millions of homes,\u201d said Congressman Flood. \u201cThe HOME program is a federal program that builds housing supply, but it has previously been weighed down by regulatory burdens that make it hard to build housing. The reforms in this legislation will result in more homebuilding across the country as we work to tackle our nation\u2019s housing shortage. From Columbus, Nebraska to Columbus, Ohio and beyond, local communities will have an unprecedented opportunity to build affordable homes and directly address the housing crisis gripping our nation.\"\n\nThe HOME Reform Act modernizes the HOME Investment Partnership Program by exempting projects from NEPA and Build America, Buy America requirements as well as establishing a \u201csmall project\u201d exemption under Section 3 of the HUD Act of 1968. The bill raises income eligibility to 100% of area median income, extends the time communities have to commit funds, updates definitions of affordable single and multifamily housing, as well as allows funds to be used for infrastructure tied directly to new housing, such as sidewalks, sewers, and utility connections.\n\nRead the initial press release on the HOME Reform Act here. The bill was co-introduced by Housing & Insurance Subcommittee Ranking Member Emanuel Cleaver (D-MO).\n\nThe Housing Supply Frameworks Act\n\n\u201cWe need an all-of-the-above approach to addressing America\u2019s housing crisis,\" said Congressman Flood. \"To this end, the Housing Supply Frameworks Act helps establish suggested best practices for state and local governments across the country who want to break down barriers holding back development and innovation in housing and construction. This legislation is one small but important step towards bringing down the cost of housing and makes it more accessible and affordable to communities nationwide.\u201d\n\nThe House Supply Frameworks Act requires HUD to publish best practices and guidelines to assist communities in maintaining modern local and state zoning frameworks that support the production of adequate housing options at every income level.\n\nRead the initial press release on the Housing Supply Frameworks Act here. The bill was co-introduced by Congresswoman Brittany Pettersen (D-CO).\n\nThe Identifying Regulatory Barriers to Housing Supply Act\n\n\"Housing affordability is a major concern for communities nationwide. As Chairman of the Housing and Insurance Subcommittee, I have remained focused on commonsense, consensus-building efforts to find meaningful solutions to America\u2019s housing crisis. This bipartisan bill helps accomplish that goal by shedding light on onerous local zoning and development policies so we can build more housing,\u201d said Congressman Flood.\n\nThe Identifying Regulatory barriers to Housing Supply Act requires communities that receive Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) program funds to submit to HUD information regarding their implementation of certain land-use policies, such as policies for expanding high-density single-family and multifamily zoning.\n\nRead the initial press release on the Identifying Regulatory Barriers to Housing Supply Act here. The bill was co-introduced by Congresswoman Brittany Pettersen(D-CO).\n\nThe Streamlining Manufactured Housing Standards Act\n\n\u201cAmerica has been grappling with a housing crisis and cutting red tape is one of the key tools to helping home builders create more housing,\u201d said Congressman Flood. \u201cManufactured homes have historically been built to a HUD code, and in order to make manufactured homes a cost-effective option for consumers we must ensure that HUD has primary authority over all manufactured housing standards.\"\n\nThe Streamlining Manufactured Housing Standards Act clarifies that the Department of Housing and Urban Development is the primary regulator as it relates to all manufactured housing building standards.\n\nRead the initial press release on the Streamlining Manufactured Housing Starts Act here. The bill was co-introduced by Housing & Insurance Subcommittee Ranking Member Emanuel Cleaver (D-MO).\n\nUnlocking Housing Supply Through Streamlined and Modernized Reviews Act\n\n\u201cThe Unlocking Supply Through Streamlined and Modernized Reviews Act is an important step towards increasing housing supply in America,\u201d said Congressman Flood. \u201cEnvironmental reviews can slow housing projects by months- or even years. Currently, those reviews are not properly tailored to the size and scale of housing projects. This legislation is a meaningful step towards fixing that problem.\u201d\n\nThe Unlocking Housing Supply Through Streamlined and Modernized Reviews Act streamlines the environmental review process for a range of Department of Housing and Urban Development building activities.\n\nRead the initial press release on the Unlocking Housing Supply Through Streamlined and Modernized Reviews Act here. The bill was co-introduced by Congressman Sam Liccardo (D-CA).", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=19891441-18CC-4696-8DB5-E40E57A165F0", "Fischer Votes for Health Care Freedom for Patients Act", "2025-12-11", "2025", "2025-12", "Republican", "Senate", "NE", "Deb Fischer", "F000463", "www.fischer.senate.gov", "fischer", "https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases", "scraper", "Today, U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-NE) voted in favor of the Health Care Freedom for Patients Act, which will help lower the cost of health care and give patients the resources to control their own health care decisions.\n\n\u201cToday I voted for the Health Care Freedom for Patients Act to lower costs by putting money directly into Americans\u2019 pockets. Senate Democrats refused to join us, choosing to preserve a failed system that sends billions in taxpayer dollars to insurance companies, not the people. These expanded COVID-era Obamacare subsidies were meant for a pandemic that ended years ago; continuing them without reform is unacceptable. Federal support should go directly to families \u2014 not enrich insurance companies. My priority is giving Americans the freedom to choose the care that works best for them, and I urge Democrats to meet us at the table to get this done,\u201d Fischer said.\n\nHealth Care Freedom for Patients Act:\n\nSends money to patients, not insurance companies;\n\nLowers insurance premiums by funding cost-sharing reduction (CSR) payments;\n\nEmpowers Americans to choose the insurance plan that fits their needs by increasing access to low-cost catastrophic plans; and\n\nPrevents illegal immigrants from accessing Medicaid by requiring states to verify citizenship and immigration status before coverage.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/news/press-releases/ricketts-hassan-introduce-the-improving-measurements-for-loneliness-and-isolation-act/", "Ricketts, Hassan Introduce the Improving Measurements for Loneliness and Isolation Act", "2025-12-11", "2025", "2025-12", "Republican", "Senate", "NE", "Pete Ricketts", "R000618", "www.ricketts.senate.gov", "ricketts", "https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/?jsf=jet-engine:press-list&pagenum=", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Today, U.S. Senators Pete Ricketts (R-NE) and Maggie Hassan (D-NH) introduced the Improving Measurements for Loneliness and Isolation Act, legislation that would create a federal working group to standardize how loneliness and social isolation are measured nationwide.\n\n\u201cNo Nebraskan should feel alone during the holidays, or any time of year,\u201d said Senator Ricketts. \u201cFamilies are more spread out. Digital connections can\u2019t replace face-to-face relationships. This legislation will give us the tools to better understand loneliness and strengthen communities. Every Nebraskan and American should feel supported.\u201d\n\n\u201cAmericans should have support as they face challenges such as loneliness and isolation, which can have devastating impacts on mental wellbeing,\u201d said Senator Hassan. \u201cThis bill will help to bring uniformity to reporting measurements for loneliness and isolation so we can ensure that the federal government is best informed and individuals are able to get the support that they need.\u201d\n\nBACKGROUND\n\nAmericans of all ages are becoming more isolated and disconnected\u2014posing increased threats to their mental and physical health. Over four decades of research has produced robust evidence that loneliness and isolation are associated with a significantly heightened risk for early death from all causes. Furthermore, the negative health outcomes associated with loneliness and isolation can contribute to preventable healthcare costs.\n\nTo address this challenge, the Improving Measurements for Loneliness and Isolation Act calls on the Secretary of Health and Human Services to convene a working group of experts and stakeholders to provide recommendations for standardizing the measurements and definitions of loneliness and isolation\u2014unifying private and public efforts to study, understand, and combat them.\n\nCongressman Mike Flood (R-NE) and Congressman Ami Bera (D-CA) led this legislation in the House of Representatives earlier this Congress.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/news/press-releases/ricketts-highlights-efforts-to-address-loneliness-and-isolation-in-nebraska/", "Ricketts Highlights Efforts to Address Loneliness and Isolation in Nebraska", "2025-12-11", "2025", "2025-12", "Republican", "Senate", "NE", "Pete Ricketts", "R000618", "www.ricketts.senate.gov", "ricketts", "https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/?jsf=jet-engine:press-list&pagenum=", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Yesterday, U.S. Senator Pete Ricketts (R-NE) highlighted his ongoing efforts to address loneliness and isolation ahead of introducing the Improving Measurements for Loneliness and Isolation Act this week.\n\n\u201cNo Nebraskan should feel alone this holiday season. Yet, about a third of Nebraskans report feeling lonely at some point throughout the year,\u201d said Senator Ricketts. \u201cAs I travel the state, I hear stories of Nebraskans who feel like they\u2019re losing connections to their communities. That\u2019s why I am introducing the Improving Measurements for Loneliness and Isolation Act. We must recognize and address loneliness in America.\n\n\u201cIt\u2019s time to address loneliness. Like any other policy issue, we need to know what to measure in order to tackle the problem and improve lives. We must invest resources to improve measurements to target social isolation,\u201d continued Senator Ricketts. \u201cOnly then can we implement common-sense policy to address loneliness.\u201d\n\nWatch the video here.\n\nThis comes as reports show about a third of Nebraskans report feeling lonely at some point throughout the year and more than 40% of people over age 60 said they felt lonely.\n\nTRANSCRIPT:\n\nSenator Ricketts: \u201cThank you all for joining this press call today.\n\n\u201cThe holidays are a special time in Nebraska.\n\n\u201cWe volunteer to serve our communities, families and friends spend more time together, but for too many Nebraskans, the holidays can be lonely.\n\n\u201cFamilies are increasingly spread apart. I know that\u2019s true for my family.\n\n\u201cDigital connections are good, but it\u2019s not the same thing as being there in person.\n\n\u201cNebraskans of all ages are becoming more isolated as a result.\n\n\u201cNo Nebraskans should feel alone this holiday season.\n\n\u201cYet, about a third of Nebraskans report feeling lonely at some point throughout the year.\n\n\u201cAs I travel the state, I hear stories of Nebraskans who feel like they\u2019re losing connections to their communities.\n\n\u201cThat\u2019s why I recently introduced the improving measurements for loneliness and isolation act.\n\n\u201cWe must recognize and address loneliness in America across Nebraska mental health care providers are hard at work to address the growing problem of loneliness.\n\n\u201cLoneliness occurs in both our rural and urban communities. Seniors are more vulnerable.\n\n\u201cThe National Academies of Sciences, Engineering and medicine reports loneliness and isolation in older adults are strongly associated with greater incidences of morbidity, that includes cognitive decline, depression, anxiety, a decreased quality of life and early death.\n\n\u201cA report from February 2020 found that about a quarter of seniors were socially isolated. More than 40% of people over the age of 60 said they felt lonely.\n\n\u201cThe COVID pandemic exacerbated many of these problems one size fit all policies from the federal government didn\u2019t help.\n\n\u201cLoneliness does not just affect Nebraska seniors, however.\n\n\u201cA study conducted by the University of Nebraska Lincoln found that 21% of young Nebraskans feel lonely to from some or to all the time.\n\n\u201cAnother 24% reported feeling lonely a little bit of the time.\n\n\u201cThese numbers are way too high. It\u2019s time to address loneliness like any other policy issue, we need to know what measure, what to measure in order to tackle the problem and improve lives.\n\n\u201cWe must invest resources to improve measurements to target social isolation.\n\n\u201cOnly then can we implement common sense policy to address loneliness.\n\n\u201cThat\u2019s why I will be introducing the Improving Measurements for Loneliness and Isolation Act.\n\n\u201cIt\u2019s a bipartisan bill that I\u2019m leading with Senator Maggie Hassan from New Hampshire.\n\n\u201cRepresentative Mike Flood introduced the companion bill in the House.\n\n\u201cThis bill would establish a working group that standardizes the measurements of loneliness and isolation.\n\n\u201cThis will allow us, allow experts to target the root causes of loneliness.\n\n\u201cAddressing these factors is essential for what for the well-being of Nebraska communities.\n\n\u201cThis holiday season, remember to reach out to those who might be isolated.\n\n\u201cEncourage them to join your holiday festivities.\n\n\u201cAt our last Thanksgiving gathering, we had 89 people.\n\n\u201cWe invited people who didn\u2019t have any other plans.\n\n\u201cI encourage people to do the same.\n\n\u201cReach out to others and bring them with you as you volunteer with charities or churches or schools.\n\n\u201cNebraska nice is not just a phrase.\n\n\u201cIt\u2019s defined by how Nebraskans lift up one another.\n\n\u201cFederal mandates alone will not solve loneliness.\n\n\u201cIn fact, it\u2019s just the opposite.\n\n\u201cWe can do a lot at the federal level, but at the end of the day, strong communities will help lift people out of loneliness and isolation.\n\n\u201cNebraska is what America is supposed to be.\n\n\u201cLet\u2019s lead by example and support every Nebraskan this season.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/news/press-releases/ricketts-releases-statement-on-health-care-votes/", "Ricketts Releases Statement on Health Care Votes", "2025-12-11", "2025", "2025-12", "Republican", "Senate", "NE", "Pete Ricketts", "R000618", "www.ricketts.senate.gov", "ricketts", "https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/?jsf=jet-engine:press-list&pagenum=", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Today, U.S. Senator Pete Ricketts (R-NE) released the following statement after voting for a healthcare proposal led by Senators Bill Cassidy (R-LA) and Mike Crapo (R-ID):\n\n\u201cFrom the beginning, Obamacare has been broken promise after broken promise. Nebraskans couldn\u2019t keep their doctor. Premiums have more than tripled since 2013. Biden\u2019s COVID bonuses fueled massive waste, fraud, and abuse. Despite the misguided \u201cfixes\u201d, healthcare costs continued to grow. The Democrats\u2019 \u2018plan\u2019 of throwing more money at a broken system will only make these problems worse.\n\n\u201cThe Republican plan gives money to people, not insurance companies. It includes common-sense reforms to lower healthcare costs and combat waste, fraud, and abuse. It builds on the successes of the \u2018Working Families Tax Cuts Act\u2019, which expanded access to health savings accounts. These solutions allow people choice and will improve healthcare access and affordability for Nebraskans.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-flood-applauds-bipartisan-passage-ndaa-investment-offutt-air-force", "Congressman Flood Applauds Bipartisan Passage of NDAA, Investment in Offutt Air Force Base", "2025-12-10", "2025", "2025-12", "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 issued a statement following the passage of the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for FY 2026, which provides for annual defense spending, secures additional funding for Offutt AFB, and delivers a 3.8% pay raise for all U.S. service members.\n\n\u201cThis must-pass bill authorizes annual military spending and represents a robust investment in America\u2019s national defense. I am pleased that members of our Armed Forces will receive a 3.8% pay raise and that we\u2019re investing $42.35 million in Offutt Air Force Base with three projects related to the new Survivable Airborne Operations Center (SAOC). As we continue to work to grow the future of Offutt, these investments will ensure that the base stays strong for years to come.\"", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=DDB8B859-FDEC-4FA0-B48E-BB89047E6484", "Fischer Joins Colleagues in Calling for Repeal of Harmful Biden-Era Housing Regulation", "2025-12-10", "2025", "2025-12", "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-NE) sent a letter with her colleagues, led by Senator Eric Schmitt (R-MO), to Federal Housing Finance Agency (FHFA) Director William \u201cBill\u201d Pulte calling for the repeal of a Biden-era guidance that would prohibit actual cash value (ACV) homeowners insurance policies for federally-backed mortgages.\n\nIn 2024, at the direction of Biden\u2019s FHFA, new policy from Freddie Mac and Fannie Mae required replacement cost value (RCV) homeowners insurance coverage nationwide. This one-size-fits-all approach ignores the reality of America\u2019s diverse housing market and would make homeownership more unaffordable, especially in rural communities where appraisals frequently fall below replacement cost.\n\nThe letter began: \u201cAs Senators representing states with rural communities, we are particularly focused on ensuring the availability of effective and diverse options in the homeowners insurance market. Recent Enterprise Seller/Servicer requirements would impose a one-size-fits-all insurance standard that does not reflect our states\u2019 markets. This is why we are respectfully urging you to fully rescind these requirements.\u201d\n\nThe letter stated: \u201cAs you know, Fannie Mae issued an update to Selling Guide B7-3-02, \u201cProperty Insurance Requirements for One-to Four-Unit Properties,\u201d on February 7, 2024. There is parallel guidance from Freddie Mac issued in February, 2024 and May, 2024. Guidance from Freddie Mac and Fannie Mae (the Enterprises), at FHFA\u2019s direction in the last Biden administration, would formally prohibit Actual Cash Value (ACV) insurance policies for loans acquired or guaranteed by the Enterprises. This would mandate the most expensive Replacement Cost Value (RCV) coverage for Enterprise-eligible single-family mortgages nationwide. This generates significant challenges for the families we represent.\u201d\n\nThe letter continued: \u201cRCV coverage pays the amount needed to repair or replace damaged property, with no deduction for depreciation-related factors. A roof with significant wear, for example, is treated as a new roof for the purposes of RCV insurance. But in our states, housing markets and would-be homebuyers are diverse, not uniform. Homes in our states have striking differences in age, value, weather exposure, and even appraised valuations that fall under or soar over reconstruction costs. For some of these homes and homeowners, ACV insurance is a far more appropriate coverage at a preferable cost point. Prohibiting ACV insurance then gives consumers fewer options, leaving them with higher premiums and insurance policies that may not fit what it insures; in turn this will drive many of our constituents out of the Enterprises\u2019 eligible mortgage market entirely.\u201d\n\nThe letter concluded: \u201cWe believe consumers should have access to a range of insurance products that reflect their needs, circumstances, and local markets. By mandating only one product type nationwide, the Enterprises limit consumer choice, reduce competition, and impose higher costs on borrowers, particularly those in rural America. We understand that this is guidance that your administration inherited.\u201d\n\nRead the full letter HERE.\n\nThe letter was co-signed by: Senators John Curtis (R-UT), Pete Ricketts (R-NE), Bill Hagerty (R-TN), Ted Budd (R-NC), Ashley Moody (R-FL), Katie Britt R-AL), John Cornyn (R-TX), Roger Wicker (R-MS), Kevin Cramer (R-ND), Steve Daines (R-MT), Marsha Blackburn (R-TN), Jon Husted (R-OH), Tim Sheehy (R-MT), Todd Young (R-IN), Mitch McConnell (R-KY), Bernie Moreno (R-OH), and Jim Banks (R-IN).\n\nThis letter is supported by: National Association of Mutual Insurance Companies (NAMIC), American Property Casualty Insurance Association (APCIA), Independent Agents & Brokers of America, and the Farm Bureaus of multiple states.\n\nPermalink: https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/2025/12/fischer-joins-colleagues-in-calling-for-repeal-of-harmful-biden-era-housing-regulation", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=2833", "Bacon Co-leads Bipartisan Action to Prevent ACA Premium Spikes and Protect Affordable Healthcare", "2025-12-09", "2025", "2025-12", "Republican", "House", "NE", "Don Bacon", "B001298", "bacon.house.gov", "bacon", "https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx", "scraper", "Bipartisan Health Insurance Affordability Act delivers a practical, passable solution to avert year-end crisis\n\nWASHINGTON, D.C. \u2014 Today, Representative Don Bacon (NE-02) joined Representatives Brian Fitzpatrick (PA-01), Tom Suozzi (NY-02), Jared Golden (ME-02), Rob Bresnahan (PA-08), Marie Gluesenkamp Perez (WA-03), and Donald G. Davis (NC-01), to introduce the Bipartisan Health Insurance Affordability Act, a two-party, targeted solution to prevent a sharp jump in healthcare costs as current protections expire and ensure millions of Americans can maintain affordable coverage.\n\nWithout immediate congressional action, the scheduled expiration of the Affordable Care Act\u2019s enhanced premium tax credits would result in steep, sudden cost increases and widespread loss of coverage\u2014destabilizing the healthcare markets working families rely upon.\n\n\u201cI\u2019m glad we\u2019re moving the debate forward on extending and reforming the Affordable Care Act subsidies. I\u2019ve made clear to my colleagues on both sides that Congress needs a smart, bipartisan agreement that prevents our constituents\u2019 health insurance premiums from skyrocketing,\u201d said Rep. Bacon. \u201cThat\u2019s why I worked with Reps. Brian Fitzpatrick, Jared Golden, Tom Suozzi, Rob Bresnahan, and Don Davis to introduce the Bipartisan Health Coverage Affordability Act, another reasonable compromise that extends the enhanced premium tax credits for two years and applies new income caps and fraud protections. This may not be the final package Congress adopts, but it\u2019s a responsible compromise that can help break the gridlock and protect families from higher costs.\u201d\n\nKey Provisions of the Bipartisan Health Insurance Affordability Act\n\nThe legislation advances five reforms designed to protect affordability, strengthen accountability, and ensure taxpayer value:\n\nPrevents premium spikes: Extends enhanced premium tax credits through 2027, to protect families from abrupt monthly cost increases.\n\nRestores Consumer Control: Stops unauthorized plan and subsidy changes by requiring consent and prompt notification before any modifications take effect.\n\nShines Light on Middlemen: Ends hidden spread pricing, severs PBM profits from drug prices, and requires full rebate pass-through to ensure savings reach patients.\n\nGives Families New Tools to Manage Costs: Expands access to Health Savings Accounts and simplifies premium payments to reduce disruptions in coverage.\n\nSmart Stewardship of Taxpayer Dollars: Modernizes eligibility and introduces a reasonable minimum contribution to protect long-term affordability and responsible stewardship of federal dollars.\n\n\u201cFrom the outset, I committed to delivering a bipartisan solution to prevent devastating premium spikes\u2014today, we are doing exactly that. Our bill keeps the ACA\u2019s premium tax credits in place, so families are not blindsided with unaffordable increases in the care they depend on,\u201d said Rep. Fitzpatrick. \u201cThis is a practical, people-first fix that protects families now, while preserving the space to keep working toward a stronger, smarter, more affordable healthcare system. When the stakes are this high, responsible governance means securing 80 percent of what families need today rather than risking 100 percent of nothing tomorrow. We built this the right way\u2014with input from across the aisle and across chambers\u2014with the clearest pathway to the President\u2019s desk. We\u2019re ready to get this done, and we call on our colleagues to step up, join us, and put American families, not political messaging, first.\u201d\n\n\"The expiration of the ACA Premium Tax Credits on 12/31/25 would create an avoidable crisis for millions of Americans who will face an explosion of their healthcare premiums. We need a bipartisan solution now, and we must battle against the petty partisan interests that put politics above people. Simply put, while this bill is not perfect, it is a short-term, reasonable solution that prevents catastrophic premium spikes. If enacted, we must use the reprieve to craft long-term reforms to lower healthcare costs in the long run: incentivizing preventative care, lowering drug prices, and cracking down on wasteful bureaucracy and abuse in our system. To get there, we must work together now, and act with the urgency this moment demands,\" said Rep. Suozzi\n\n\u201cWe have known for months that there is no way for either party to address the looming health care cliff alone. It\u2019s long past time that members and leaders in Congress come together to prevent catastrophic coverage price spikes for millions of Americans,\u201d said Rep. Golden. \u201cThe Bipartisan Health Coverage Affordability Act preserves the ACA Enhanced Premium Tax Credits for the families who need them most, implements sensible income caps to reduce costs and better target benefits and cracks down on prescription drug middlemen. This moment requires leaders to abandon their partisan corners and govern. Our bill provides a path out of gridlock and toward solutions.\u201d\n\n\u201cCongress must act swiftly to bring certainty and reduce anxiety. We must promote greater accountability and ensure families do not lose vital health coverage or face bankruptcy due to medical emergencies,\u201d said Rep. Davis.\n\n\u201cFamilies across Northeastern Pennsylvania have expressed that affordability is a key concern in our healthcare system,\u201d said Rep. Bresnahan. \u201cThis bipartisan effort to extend ACA tax credits has the potential to help working families keep more money in their pockets and maintain the coverage they rely on.\u201d\n\nRead the full bill text here.\n\nBackground:\n\nThe Affordable Care Act established premium tax credits to help families afford coverage. To prevent sharp price increases during recent years of inflation, Congress temporarily enhanced those credits in 2021 and extended them through 2025 while broader reforms continued to be debated.\n\nThat extension now expires at year\u2019s end. Without a targeted fix, millions would see immediate and significant premium spikes on January 1\u2014jeopardizing household budgets and destabilizing the individual market.\n\nRecognizing both the urgency and the responsibility to deliver a real solution, Fitzpatrick has led months of bipartisan engagement to produce a plan that is responsible, passable, and ready to go. The Bipartisan Health Insurance Affordability Act reflects that work, providing the protections families need now and a durable framework for continuing long-term efforts to bring down healthcare costs.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-flood-joins-bipartisan-bill-support-growing-saf-industry", "Congressman Flood Joins Bipartisan Bill to Support Growing SAF Industry", "2025-12-09", "2025", "2025-12", "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. Representative Mike Flood (R-NE-01) \u2013 alongside Representatives Sharice Davids (D-KS-03), Troy Carter (D-LA-02), and Tracey Mann (R-KS-01) \u2013 introduced the Securing America\u2019s Fuels (SAF) Act. The bipartisan legislation is designed to strengthen the sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) industry, create economic opportunities for our farmers, and reduce emissions in the transportation sector.\n\n\u201cAmerica is on the cusp of the next great biofuels revolution,\u201d said Representative Mike Flood (R-NE-01). \u201cThe Securing America\u2019s Fuels Act is yet another way Congress can grow our bio economy and encourage innovation that creates great jobs across rural America. Sustainable aviation fuel will help lower emissions while expanding domestic markets for our nation\u2019s farmers, ensuring that our ag economy thrives for generations to come. I want to thank Congresswoman Davids for introducing this much-needed bill and look forward to working together to advance this commonsense, bipartisan bill through Congress.\u201d\n\n\u201cInvesting in sustainable aviation fuel isn\u2019t just good for the environment \u2014 it\u2019s good for Kansas farmers, our communities, and our economy,\u201d said Representative Shanice Davids (D-KS-03) . \u201cThe SAF Act ensures that clean fuel production incentives are strong and long-term so businesses, farmers, and innovators can plan for the future with confidence. The bipartisan support shows the incredible potential we have to build a healthier, stronger, and more prosperous future for generations to come.\u201d\n\n\u201cSustainable aviation fuel is a worthwhile investment for American agriculture and for American energy dominance,\u201d said Representative Tracey Mann (R-KS-01). \u201cThe Securing America\u2019s Fuels Act gives Kansas farmers the certainty they need to plan, invest, and keep supplying fuel to the country and our aviation sector. I will always support legislation that supports rural communities and helps the United States continue to lead the world in producing the fuels of tomorrow.\u201d\n\n\"Without coordinated action between government and industry, greenhouse gas emissions will continue to increase as more people and goods fly through our skies,\u201d said Representative Troy Carter (D-LA-02). \u201cSustainable aviation fuel is an exciting, new green fuel that\u2019s creating jobs in Louisiana and driving demand for American agricultural products. I\u2019m proud to introduce this bipartisan legislation to ensure America is on track to meet the growing demand for cleaner transportation and healthier communities.\u201d\n\nThe sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) industry currently relies on the 45Z Clean Fuel Production Tax Credit to make production economically viable. While recent legislation extended the credit for all clean fuels, it eliminated the SAF-specific bonus. To address this challenge, the SAF Act would:\n\nReinstate the SAF bonus credit, allowing qualifying SAF producers to receive up to $0.35 or $1.75 per gallon.\n\nExtend the 45Z Clean Fuel Production Tax Credit for all clean fuels through 2033, providing long-term stability for the growing clean fuels industry.\n\nSAF is a game-changer for local communities, agriculture, and the transportation industry. Scaling SAF to meet U.S. goals could generate 33,000 construction jobs over five years, sustain 4,500 permanent operations jobs, and support 60,000 jobs in agriculture and logistics by 2030. SAF can also reduce lifecycle greenhouse gas emissions by up to 80 percent, delivering major environmental benefits while using existing aviation infrastructure.\n\nSupport for the SAF Act\n\nThe bipartisan legislation is endorsed by major industry and agricultural groups, including National Corn Growers Association, SAF Coalition, Airlines for America, Nebraska Corn Growers Association, Nebraska Soybean Association, Nebraska Farm Bureau, Kansas Farm Bureau, Renew Kansas, Kansas Corn, Kansas Soybean Association, Greater New Orleans Inc., Twelve, Darling Ingredients, Louisiana Farm Bureau Foundation, Advanced Biofuels Association, Global Business Travel Association, and American Sugarcane League.\n\n\u201cThe SAF Coalition applauds Reps. Sharice Davids and Mike Flood for their leadership in introducing The Securing America\u2019s Fuels Act,\u201d said Alison Graab, Executive Director, Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) Coalition. \u201cThis legislation continues the broad, bipartisan support for SAF in Congress and recognizes SAF\u2019s unique ability to fuel America\u2019s energy dominance while supporting American farmers. The SAF Coalition urges Congress to pass this legislation so we can grow America\u2019s rural economies, create new markets for our farmers and secure a stronger energy future for our nation.\u201d\n\n\"The development of Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) holds great promise for Nebraska biofuels producers as well as Nebraska's farmers and ranchers,\u201d said Mark McHargue, President, Nebraska Farm Bureau Federation. \u201cWe appreciate the leadership of Nebraska Congressman Mike Flood in offering this legislation that provides incentives that will help get this emerging industry off the ground. Nebraska Farm Bureau stands ready to work to get this legislation approved and help Nebraska become the SAF epicenter of the country.\"\n\n\u201cAgriculture and aviation are crucial to Kansas\u2019 economy and Kansas Farm Bureau appreciates Rep. Sharice Davids\u2019 leadership in introducing the Securing America\u2019s Fuels Act alongside Rep. Tracey Mann. Incentivizing the use of domestic crops to produce sustainable fuels creates a new market for Kansas farmers while lowering the carbon emissions of the aviation industry,\u201d said Joe Newland, President, Kansas Farm Bureau.\n\n\u201cIt is crucial that Congress finds ways to support farmers with good domestic policy, at this time when international trade negotiations have left farmers in difficult market conditions,\u201d said Richard Fotenot, President, Louisiana Farm Bureau. \u201cCongressional policy changes can also provide relief to American consumers. The SAF Act does both. It creates consistency in domestic aviation fuel markets in a sustainable manner important to consumers. We are grateful to Congressman Carter and his colleagues for continuing to find ways to support these efforts through ideas like the SAF Act.\u201d\n\n\u201cSAF may offer a great opportunity for sugarcane farmers,\u201d said Jack Pettus, VP of Government Relations, American Sugar Cane League. \u201cOur mills use bagasse, the fibrous byproduct of recovering sugar from the sugarcane plant, to power their operations during harvest season. Our farmers have been growing and delivering this renewable fuel for over a century and we are anxious to find new uses for the excess biofuel (bagasse) that we currently produce. The American Sugar Cane League appreciates this bipartisan effort to identify and encourage demand for domestic renewable energy feedstocks in markets like aviation fuels.\u201d\n\n\u201cThe Advanced Biofuels Association strongly supports this bipartisan effort to strengthen sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) producers and improve the overall availability of renewable fuels for America\u2019s airline industry,\u201d said Michael McAdams, President, Advanced Biofuels Association. \u201cThis type of legislation is essential in the United States\u2019 effort to achieve its energy dominance policy agenda.\u201d\n\n\u201cDelta applauds Reps. Flood, Davids, Mann, and Carter for their leadership in introducing the Securing America's Fuels Act, which will ensure 45Z reaches its full potential and provides the critical investment certainty necessary to bring additional SAF production facilities online to meet our industry's unprecedented demand for cost-competitive, homegrown fuels,\" said Cherie Wilson, Vice President, Government Affairs - Sustainability, Delta Air Lines.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=0951F293-ADCF-4631-8A3A-F22FC49A9D83", "ICYMI: Fischer Joins RFD-TV to Talk USDA Farm Aid, E15", "2025-12-09", "2025", "2025-12", "Republican", "Senate", "NE", "Deb Fischer", "F000463", "www.fischer.senate.gov", "fischer", "https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases", "scraper", "Highlights White House ag roundtable, important role year-round E15 plays in solidifying President Trump\u2019s America First legacy in the ag & energy industry\n\nClick the image above to watch Fischer\u2019s full interview\n\nClick here to download audio\n\nClick here to download video\n\nWASHINGTON \u2013 U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-NE), a member of the Senate Agriculture Committee, joined RFD-TV to discuss the U.S. Department of Agriculture\u2019s farm assistance package and President Trump\u2019s continued efforts to support America\u2019s ag producers.\n\nDuring the interview, Fischer highlighted the vital role her Nationwide Consumer and Fuel Retailer Choice Act will play in making year-round E15 a reality and establishing President Trump\u2019s America First legacy amongst the ag industry.\n\nOn Solidifying Trump\u2019s America First Agenda for Ag Producers:\n\nFischer: We always want to be positive about the economy. And I think as long as we can get year-round E15, have that available, that opens a huge market, and those trade deals, you know, that's what's important here. And the President realizes that.\n\nAs I said, this is going to solidify his America First legacy among ag producers, to be able to get these markets open, to be able to get that year-round sale of E15.\n\nOn Supporting America\u2019s Ag Producers:\n\nFischer: It's really welcome news for the farmers across the nation and in Nebraska too. We want to make sure that we can get the farm economy back on track. So, I was really fortunate to be at the roundtable yesterday.\n\nI applaud President Trump and thank Secretary Rollins for the great work that they have done in getting this farm assistance package done. It's $12 billion it's going to help with row crop assistance, about $11 billion will go to row crop assistance. That's really great news for our corn farmers and soybeans, sorghum and wheat.\n\nSo, looking forward to being able to get that assistance there as a bridge, to be able to help them as we work to continue to open markets, to get year-round sale of E15, that is huge for corn farmers especially. It's another 2.5 billion bushels a year that would have a market. So, there's a lot that the President and Secretary Rollins and all of us are looking forward to making sure that America first legacy is going to be there for America's agriculture.\n\nOn Producer Discussions at White House Ag Roundtable:\n\nFischer: I think they're just very grateful that this assistance is going to be there for them. As you know, of course, ag producers face a lot of risks out there that we have no control over. Whether it's weather, whether it's markets, a lot of things beyond our control. So to be able to bridge that gap that exists many times, we need to see this assistance there.\n\nBut again, I really want to stress that, you know, we're all very, very supportive of the President continuing to look for and make those good trade deals. We have to have markets. We have to have markets for our products. The world wants them, and we need to have the markets to provide them. I think we might be seeing some more news out of China. We'll see. I know the President's working hard there with President Xi to make sure that not just the agreements we have continue to be met, but also to look for some new as well.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=E08378DB-39CA-43E8-9DE4-BE0FC8457518", "Fischer, Colleagues Introduce Back the Blue Act", "2025-12-09", "2025", "2025-12", "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-NE) joined Senator John Cornyn (R-TX) and 34 Senate Republican colleagues in introducing the Back the Blue Act, which would increase penalties for criminals who target law enforcement officers and provide new tools for officers to protect themselves.\n\n\u201cEvery day, our law enforcement officers step into danger to keep Nebraskans safe. Anyone who targets law enforcement should be brought to swift justice. That\u2019s why I joined my Republican colleagues in introducing the Back the Blue Act, which holds criminals accountable and sends a clear message that we will not tolerate attacks on our brave men and women in blue,\u201d Fischer said.\n\nBACKGROUND:\n\nStrengthens Laws to Protect Police Officers\n\nCreates a new federal crime for killing, attempting to kill, or conspiring to kill a federal judge, federal law enforcement officer, or federally funded public safety officer. The offender would be subject to the death penalty and a mandatory minimum sentence of 30 years if death results; the offender would otherwise face a minimum sentence of 10 years.\n\nCreates a new federal crime for assaulting a federally funded law enforcement officer with escalating penalties, including mandatory minimums, based on the extent of any injury and the use of a dangerous weapon. However, no prosecution can be commenced absent certification by the Attorney General that prosecution is appropriate.\n\nCreates a new federal crime for interstate flight from justice to avoid prosecution for killing, attempting to kill, or conspiring to kill a federal judge, federal law enforcement officer, or federally funded public safety officer. The offender would be subject to a mandatory minimum sentence of 10 years for this offense.\n\nCreates a Specific Aggravating Factor for Federal Death Penalty Prosecutions\n\nClarifies that the murder or attempted murder of a law enforcement officer or first responder is a statutory aggravating factor for purposes of the federal death penalty.\n\nLimits Federal Habeas Relief for Murders of Law Enforcement Officers\n\nImposes time limits and substantive limits on federal courts\u2019 review of challenges to state-court convictions for crimes involving the murder of a public safety officer, when the public safety officer was engaged in the performance of official duties or on account of the performance of official duties. These changes are consistent with the fast-track procedures created in 1996, which are applied to federal death penalty cases.\n\nLimits Recovery of Certain Damages and Fees for Individuals Engaged in Felonies\n\nLimits the type of civil damages and attorney\u2019s fees recoverable by a criminal as a result of purported injuries incurred during the commission of a felony or crime of violence.\n\nExpands Self-Defense and Second Amendment Rights for Law Enforcement Officers\n\nAllows law enforcement officers, subject to limited regulation, to carry firearms into federal facilities and other jurisdictions where such possession is otherwise prohibited.\n\nThis legislation\u2019s endorsements include the Fraternal Order of Police (FOP), National Association of Police Organizations (NAPO), Sergeants Benevolent Association of the NYPD (SBA), Federal Law Enforcement Officers Association (FLEOA), Major County Sheriffs of America (MCSA), and the National Narcotic Officers\u2019 Associations\u2019 Coalition (NNOAC).", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=EF92ABBC-3169-4E5E-9F52-0FE4C0A60CB0", "ICYMI: Fischer Highlights Nuclear Deterrence, Missile Defense at Reagan National Defense Forum", "2025-12-09", "2025", "2025-12", "Republican", "Senate", "NE", "Deb Fischer", "F000463", "www.fischer.senate.gov", "fischer", "https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases", "scraper", "Fischer also joinedFox News Sunday to discuss national security challenges\n\nOver the weekend, U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-NE), a senior member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, participated in the 12th annual Reagan National Defense Forum (RNDF), one of the nation\u2019s premier gatherings of national security leaders.\n\nAs Chair of the Senate Armed Services Strategic Forces Subcommittee, Fischer served as a featured speaker on the panel \u201cDefending the Homeland: Establishing Superiority in Space and Missile Defense.\u201d Fischer detailed her work to strengthen our missile defense capabilities and support Golden Dome for America.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases/smith-commends-trump-addressing-ag-concerns-calls-more-trade-progress", "Smith Commends Trump for Addressing Ag Concerns; Calls for More Trade Progress", "2025-12-08", "2025", "2025-12", "Republican", "House", "NE", "Adrian Smith", "S001172", "adriansmith.house.gov", "adriansmith", "https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2013 Today, Congressman Adrian Smith (R-NE) released the following statement after a White House event announcing federal support for agriculture producers impacted by ongoing trade disputes.\n\n\u201cI appreciate President Trump and his administration recognizing the challenges faced by American producers during ongoing trade negotiations. U.S. farmers and ranchers utilize world-leading practices to produce high quality food, strengthening our economy and national security. Through no fault of their own, producers have faced increasingly volatile market conditions in recent years due to weather, input prices, and unfair trading practices from our partners.\n\n\u201cWhile supporting producers during this critical time is important, it is not a permanent solution. Nebraska farmers and ranchers dedicate their lives to producing because they want to sell their goods at home and abroad for a fair price. It is vital President Trump and his trade negotiators continue opening new markets and ensuring fair treatment of American agriculture around the globe. I appreciate the strong progress made by the administration so far, and I look forward to working with them to achieve additional agreements and ensure our partners fulfill their commitments.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-flood-president-trumps-ag-relief-announcement-supports-our-farm", "Congressman Flood: President Trump\u2019s Ag Relief Announcement Supports Our Farm & Ranch Families", "2025-12-08", "2025", "2025-12", "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 U.S. President Donald Trump and United States Department of Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins\u2019 announcement of $12 billion in relief for America\u2019s farmers and ranchers.\n\n\u201cOnce again, President Trump is delivering for America's farmers and ranchers. Today\u2019s announcement provides much-needed bridge relief as the administration continues to deliver new trade deals and open up markets for our products around the world. Over the last year, the Trump administration has increased market access in countries like Vietnam, Japan, and Indonesia and put pressure on China to buy more American products, including soybeans. I look forward to working with the administration and Secretary Rollins to continue expanding domestic and international markets through measures like year-round E15, securing a new Farm Bill, new trade deals, and more.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=238B3B21-3BC9-4CA5-83EB-26F46980A97A", "Fischer Attends White House Ag Roundtable, Releases Statement on USDA Farm Aid Announcement", "2025-12-08", "2025", "2025-12", "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-NE), a member of the Senate Agriculture Committee, issued the following statement afterattending today\u2019s White House agriculture roundtable where President Trump announced the U.S Department of Agriculture\u2019s farm assistance package:\n\n\u201cToday\u2019s farm assistance package is welcome news as we work to get the farm economy back on track. I applaud President Trump and Secretary Rollins for stepping up to ensure that America\u2019s ag producers have the support they need to feed and fuel our world. I look forward to continuing to partner with the administration to expand trade opportunities that will create strong markets for Nebraska\u2019s ag products.\u201d\n\nFischer\u2019s colleagues, Chairman of the Senate Agriculture Committee, Sen. John Boozman (R-AR), and Chairman of the Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on Agriculture, Sen. John Hoeven (R-ND), were also in attendance at the roundtable.\n\nPermalink: https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/2025/12/fischer-attends-white-house-ag-roundtable-releases-statement-on-usda-farm-aid-announcement", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/news/press-releases/ricketts-releases-statement-on-agricultural-relief-announcement/", "Ricketts Releases Statement on Agricultural Relief Announcement", "2025-12-08", "2025", "2025-12", "Republican", "Senate", "NE", "Pete Ricketts", "R000618", "www.ricketts.senate.gov", "ricketts", "https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/?jsf=jet-engine:press-list&pagenum=", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Today, U.S. Senator Pete Ricketts (R-NE) released the following statement in support of the Trump Administration\u2019s $12 billion relief package for American farmers:\n\n\u201cAgriculture is the heart and soul of Nebraska. When agriculture does well, Nebraska does well. This relief provides temporary economic assistance while President Trump continues opening new markets for agricultural products. I encourage Nebraska farmers to work with USDA and their local Farm Service Agency office to ensure their eligibility for the program.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/news/press-releases/ricketts-coons-introduce-safe-chips-act/", "Ricketts, Coons Introduce SAFE Chips Act", "2025-12-04", "2025", "2025-12", "Republican", "Senate", "NE", "Pete Ricketts", "R000618", "www.ricketts.senate.gov", "ricketts", "https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/?jsf=jet-engine:press-list&pagenum=", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Today, U.S. Senators Pete Ricketts (R-NE) and Chris Coons (D-DE), Chairman and Ranking Member of the Senate Foreign Relations East Asia subcommittee, led six senators in introducing the Secure and Feasible Exports (SAFE) of Chips Act of 2025. The bill codifies into law the Trump Administration\u2019s current limits on which advanced Artificial Intelligence (AI) chips are allowed to be sold to Communist China.\n\n\u201cThe United States leads the AI race with Communist China due in large part to our dominance of global compute power,\u201d said Senator Ricketts. \u201cAt the core of compute are advanced AI chips. The best AI chips are made by American companies. Denying Beijing access to these AI chips is essential to our national security. Codifying President Trump\u2019s current AI chip limitations on Communist China secures this goal. It will allow U.S. chip companies to continue to rapidly innovate and widen our compute lead exponentially.\u201d\n\n\u201cThe rest of the 21st Century will be determined by who wins the AI race, and whether this technology is built on American values of free thought and free markets or the values of the Chinese Communist Party,\u201d said Senator Coons. \u201cAs China races to close our lead in AI, we cannot give them the technological keys to our future through advanced semiconductor chips. This bipartisan bill will protect America\u2019s advantage in computing power so that the world\u2019s most next generation AI models are built at home by American companies, and the world\u2019s infrastructure is built on the American tech stack.\u201d\n\n\u201cIt\u2019s crucial that we protect American AI innovation from Communist China to win the AI race,\u201d said Senator Cotton. \u201cOur bill will codify current administration policy and keep our most advanced technology out of the hands of America\u2019s adversaries.\u201d\n\n\u201cPermitting the sale of advanced chips to Beijing and other adversaries would be tantamount to surrendering a vital U.S. advantage in a global competition for leadership in artificial intelligence \u2014 a competition central to our prosperity and national security interests,\u201d said Senator Shaheen. \u201cThis bipartisan bill sends a strong signal from Congress that the United States, in coordination with our closest allies and partners, must ensure that the defining technologies of the twenty-first century are led by democratic partners and not authoritarian regimes.\u201d\n\n\u201cIf America is going to maintain our strategic competitiveness and security, we need to enforce guardrails to ensure that our adversaries cannot obtain advanced technologies like high-performance chips only to use them against us,\u201d said Senator Kim. \u201cCongress must step up to bolster America\u2019s export control regime which is a critical tool in protecting our national security and technological edge.\u201d\n\nThe SAFE Chips Act of 2025would:\n\nDirect the Secretary of Commerce to deny export license applications for advanced chips to foreign adversary countries for a period not less than 30 months;\n\nAfter 30 months, the Executive Branch has discretion to update technical parameters as it sees fit;\n\nDefine Democratic People\u2019s Republic of Korea, Russia, Iran, and the People\u2019s Republic of China, including Hong Kong and Macau, as Foreign Adversary Countries;\n\nDefine advanced integrated circuits as any chips more powerful than those currently licensed for export to foreign adversary countries;\n\nAnd direct the Department of Commerce to publish any proposed updates in the Federal Register that have been approved by a majority vote of the End-User Review Committee and to brief Congress 30 days before any proposed changes.\n\nBill text can be found here.\n\nCo-sponsors include Senators Tom Cotton (R-AR), Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), Dave McCormick (R-PA), and Andy Kim (D-NJ).\n\nBACKGROUND\n\nThe United States is in a zero-sum competition with Communist China for global AI leadership. AI is a general-purpose technology that will drive the next industrial and military revolution. Our national security requires that we prevent American technology \u2014 especially semiconductors and AI \u2014 from supporting Communist China\u2019s military modernization. U.S. economic security requires that the U.S. win the race to deploy our full AI tech stack around the world. Communist China views AI as both an economic engine and a core element of its military modernization. Dictator Xi Jinping aims to become the global AI leader by 2030 through state planning, investment, and its Military-Civil Fusion strategy. However, Communist China is unable to produce the quality and quantity of AI chips it needs to compete. They rely on smuggling or legal exports of advanced chips from the U.S.\n\nSince the first Trump administration, the United States has imposed significant export controls on Communist China\u2019s semiconductor industry. The purpose of this policy is to maximize U.S. leadership in the computing capabilities that drive AI advances. Denying licenses for advanced semiconductors deprives foreign adversaries of access to computing resources that directly undermine U.S. economic prosperity and national security. This bill will keep the United States as the leader in the AI race.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/news/press-releases/ricketts-gallego-introduce-halos-act-to-strengthen-startups/", "Ricketts, Gallego\u00a0Introduce\u00a0HALOS Act\u00a0to Strengthen Startups", "2025-12-04", "2025", "2025-12", "Republican", "Senate", "NE", "Pete Ricketts", "R000618", "www.ricketts.senate.gov", "ricketts", "https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/?jsf=jet-engine:press-list&pagenum=", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Today, U.S. Senators Pete Ricketts (R-NE) and Ruben Gallego (D-AZ) introduced the Helping Angels Lead Our Startups (HALOS) Act. The HALOS Act will make it easier for entrepreneurs to connect with investors and grow their businesses. These events encourage innovation. By supporting these events, investors will be better equipped to discover promising startups and entrepreneurs will be able to connect with a broader ecosystem.\n\n\u201cStartups drive American innovation,\u201d said Ricketts. \u201cEntrepreneurs in the Silicon Prairie and across the country shouldn\u2019t be stifled by red tape when trying to share their ideas with investors. The HALOS Act cuts through unnecessary bureaucracy so that promising companies can attract the capital they need to grow, create good paying jobs, and help maintain America\u2019s technological edge.\u201d\n\n\u201cEntrepreneurs often attend demo days to share their ideas and attract investors, but confusing and outdated rules make it hard to do that without worrying about violating securities laws,\u201d said Gallego. \u201cBy cutting unnecessary red tape and clarifying the rules around demo days, we can make it easier for Arizona entrepreneurs grow their businesses, create jobs, and build a more diverse mix of small businesses and founders across our state.\u201d\n\n\u201cNVCA strongly supports the bipartisan HALOS Act, which removes unnecessary regulatory barriers that can complicate participation in Demo Days and hinder early engagement between entrepreneurs and investors,\u201d said Bobby Franklin, National Venture Capital Association President & CEO. \u201cBy clarifying that startups can discuss their products and business plans at these important events without triggering general solicitation concerns, the HALOS Act will help expedite capital access opportunities and strengthen the broader startup ecosystem in every corner of our country. We urge lawmakers on both sides of the aisle to advance this measure that will help promote American innovation.\u201d\n\nThe HALOS Act would:\n\nClarify SEC rules to ensure that showcasing of products and ideas at \u201cdemo days,\u201d pitch competitions, and community economic development events are not treated as \u201cgeneral solicitation\u201d under federal securities law so long as:\n\nThe startup does not advertise investment terms;\n\nThe event sponsor does not offer investment advice, negotiate terms, or receive compensation for connecting issuers and investors.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/news/press-releases/ricketts-highlights-successful-efforts-to-secure-border-protect-nebraskans/", "Ricketts Highlights Successful Efforts to Secure Border, Protect Nebraskans", "2025-12-04", "2025", "2025-12", "Republican", "Senate", "NE", "Pete Ricketts", "R000618", "www.ricketts.senate.gov", "ricketts", "https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/?jsf=jet-engine:press-list&pagenum=", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Yesterday, U.S. Senator Pete Ricketts (R-NE) highlighted successes in securing the border and keeping Nebraskans safe.\n\n\u201cA nation is only as secure as its borders. Joe Biden\u2019s open border policies created a national security, humanitarian, and drug catastrophe,\u201d said Ricketts. \u201cPresident Trump won re-election promising to secure the border. This year, that\u2019s exactly what we\u2019ve delivered: a secure border. President Trump and Senate Republicans are keeping Americans safe.\u201d\n\n\u201cFor six straight months, U.S. Border Patrol released zero illegal aliens into our country. It\u2019s the first time in modern history that has happened,\u201d continued Ricketts. \u201cAverage daily border encounters are 95% lower than under Biden in 2024. This fiscal year, we\u2019ve seen fewer illegal border encounters than ever before. That\u2019s fantastic progress. Biden said he needed Congress to act. Turns out, we just needed a new President.\u201d\n\nWatch the video here.\n\nRicketts made the comments as Eswin Mejia, Sarah Root\u2019s killer, faced justice for his crimes. On Monday, Mejia pled no contest on one count of motor vehicle homicide \u2013 DUI. He also pled guilty for one count of failure to appear in court.\n\nTRANSCRIPT:\n\nSenator Ricketts: \u201cA nation is only as secure as its borders.\n\n\u201cJoe Biden\u2019s open border policies created a national security, humanitarian, and drug catastrophe.\n\n\u201cPresident Trump won re-election promising to secure the border.\n\n\u201cThis year, that\u2019s exactly what we\u2019ve delivered: a secure border.\n\n\u201cPresident Trump and Senate Republicans are keeping Americans safe.\n\n\u201cUnder President Biden, there were 10 and a half million illegal border encounters.\n\n\u201cEvery state was a border state.\n\n\u201cOver 250 people on the FBI\u2019s terrorist watch list crossed into America.\n\n\u201cFentanyl is the leading cause of death for Americans aged 18\u201345.\n\n\u201c76,000 pounds of fentanyl flowed across the open border.\n\n\u201c76,000 pounds of fentanyl is over 10 billion lethal doses.\n\n\u201cThat\u2019s enough to kill every American 30 times over.\n\n\u201cPresident Biden\u2019s failed border policies exacerbated the fentanyl crisis in this country.\n\n\u201cBiden\u2019s open border policies had deadly consequences across the country.\n\n\u201cNebraska was no exception.\n\n\u201cThey stole the young life of Nebraskan Taryn Lee Griffith.\n\n\u201cThis summer, authorities arrested two members of the violent MS-13 gang in Omaha.\n\n\u201cIn August, five people were arrested in Omaha for sex trafficking and human trafficking, visa fraud, and money laundering.\n\n\u201cThey trafficked minors and illegal immigrants across hotels and salons that they owned.\n\n\u201cAll five are here in the country illegally.\n\n\u201cThis is what happens when you have an open border.\n\n\u201cThe American people voted to close Joe Biden\u2019s open borders.\n\n\u201cThey want our laws enforced.\n\n\u201cThat\u2019s what President Trump is doing.\n\n\u201cFor six straight months, U.S. Border Patrol released zero illegal aliens into our country.\n\n\u201cIt\u2019s the first time in modern history that has happened.\n\n\u201cAverage daily border encounters are 95% lower than under Biden in 2024.\n\n\u201cThis fiscal year, we\u2019ve seen fewer illegal border encounters than ever before.\n\n\u201cThat\u2019s fantastic progress.\n\n\u201cBiden said he needed Congress to act.\n\n\u201cTurns out, we just needed a new President.\n\n\u201cIn the Senate, we\u2019re doing our part to secure our border.\n\n\u201cWe passed the One Big Beautiful Bill.\n\n\u201cThe OBBB makes a generational investment to help finish the border wall, upgrade border technology, and hire more Border Patrol agents.\n\n\u201cIt will help deliver more immigration judges and prosecutors.\n\n\u201cThis will help crack down on drug cartels at the border.\n\n\u201cWe passed the Laken Riley Act into law.\n\n\u201cLaken Riley was just 22 years old when her life was taken by an illegal immigrant.\n\n\u201cThis bipartisan bill ensures that criminal illegal aliens will be detained and deported.\n\n\u201cIt protects American lives.\n\n\u201cThe Laken Riley Act also includes Sarah\u2019s Law.\n\n\u201cIn 2016, just hours after graduating college, Sarah Root was killed.\n\n\u201cShe was killed by an illegal alien drunk driver.\n\n\u201cDue to a loophole in federal law, her killer posted bail, was released from jail, and fled the country.\n\n\u201cSarah\u2019s Law requires ICE to detain aliens criminally charged with killing or seriously injuring another person.\n\n\u201cIt closes the loophole that allowed Sarah\u2019s killer to avoid accountability for nine years.\n\n\u201cWe took action to stop the flow of illegal drugs.\n\n\u201cWe passed the HALT Fentanyl Act.\n\n\u201cThe bill permanently classified fentanyl-related substances as a Schedule I drug under the Controlled Substances Act.\n\n\u201cIt will lead to harsher sentences for fentanyl traffickers.\n\n\u201cI also introduced legislation to fight against next-generation drugs like Nitazene.\n\n\u201cNitazenes are synthetic opioids that often are deadlier than fentanyl.\n\n\u201cMy bill would help prevent Nitazenes from becoming the next drug crisis.\n\n\u201cThe American people voted to close Joe Biden\u2019s open borders and restore order.\n\n\u201cI\u2019m working with President Trump and my Senate colleagues to deliver on this priority.\n\n\u201cUnder our Republican majority, order is being restored.\n\n\u201cThe continued safety and security of Nebraska is my top priority.\n\n\u201cI will keep fighting to keep our communities safe.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases/smith-statement-rev-franklin-graham", "Smith Statement on Rev. Franklin Graham", "2025-12-03", "2025", "2025-12", "Republican", "House", "NE", "Adrian Smith", "S001172", "adriansmith.house.gov", "adriansmith", "https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2013 Today, Congressman Adrian Smith (R-NE), Chairman of the House Ways and Means Subcommittee on Trade, released the following statement following reports indicating Rev. Franklin Graham was denied a visa by the Indian government on religious grounds.\n\n\u201cFor generations the Graham family have been leaders in demonstrating their faith in Christ through acts of charity to the poorest among us around the world and by sharing the gospel with all those who freely choose to hear it.\n\n\u201cThe decision by India\u2019s federal government to deny Rev. Graham a visa is a troubling affront to Indian Christians and the Indian constitution\u2019s protections for freedom of religion. The discriminatory treatment of Rev. Graham, prohibiting him from visiting a region where he was invited and expected to be warmly welcomed by thousands who share his faith does not align with Prime Minister Modi\u2019s promises to work toward improved ties with the United States nor with his promises to protect religious minorities.\u201d\n\nRev. Graham had been invited to participate in an event with thousands of Christians in Nagaland, a majority Christian state in Northeast India. His organization, Samaritan\u2019s Purse, has provided relief, aid, and religious resources to Indians for more than forty years.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases/housing-insurance-subcommittee-chairman-flood-american-dream-buying-home", "Housing & Insurance Subcommittee Chairman Flood: \u201cThe American Dream of Buying a Home is Further Out of Reach for our Country\u2019s Young People\"", "2025-12-03", "2025", "2025-12", "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 (R-NE) delivered remarks and questioned witnesses over burdensome housing red tape during a House Financial Services Committee hearing. The full committee hearing, entitled 'Building Capacity: Reducing Government Roadblocks to Housing Supply' highlighted various barriers to increasing the construction of affordable housing in America.\n\nCongressman Flood, who serves as Chairman of the Housing and Insurance Subcommittee, delivered opening remarks and questioned witnesses on the commonsense, pro-market solutions and findings developed by his subcommittee over the year.\n\nFootage of Congressman Flood's opening remarks can be found here, while video of his questions can be accessed here. Congressman Flood\u2019s opening remarks, as prepared, are provided below. News outlets are welcome to use these videos for reporting purposes.\n\nThank you, Mr. Chairman.\n\nHousing costs have been rising in this country for the last several years, and this problem is taking its toll.\n\nHousing affordability affects everyone. For example, the American Dream of buying a home is further out of reach for our country\u2019s young people.\n\nAccording to the National Association of Realtors, the median age of a first-time homebuyer today is astoundingly 40 years old.\n\nThe reason for this affordability problem is simple: we are not building enough homes in this country to meet the demand.\n\nThis committee, and the Housing and Insurance Subcommittee, have been working on solutions that will cut costs, remove government barriers and unleash more building across the country.\n\nThis hearing today is the latest step in that work. We have a wide range of bills noticed today that would address different aspects of the problem.\n\nWhether it be zoning and land-use policies at the state and local level or labor and procurement policies at the federal level\u2014our work is largely focused on addressing current government barriers that make it harder to build at the scale required to meet demand.\n\nI am excited that our committee is taking action, and I look forward to our markup at the end of this month.\n\nI yield back.\n\nThe full committee hearing also included six bills introduced by Congressman Flood that were on notice, including his landmark, bipartisan HOME Reform Act of 2025.\n\nAdditional bills sponsored by Congressman Flood are the Housing Supply Frameworks Act, the Identifying Regulatory Barriers to Housing Supply Act, the Unlocking Housing Supply Through Streamlined and Modernized Reviews Act, as well as H.R. 5263.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/news/press-releases/ricketts-chairs-subcommittee-hearing-on-american-ai-leadership-countering-communist-china/", "Ricketts Chairs Subcommittee Hearing on American AI Leadership, Countering Communist China", "2025-12-03", "2025", "2025-12", "Republican", "Senate", "NE", "Pete Ricketts", "R000618", "www.ricketts.senate.gov", "ricketts", "https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/?jsf=jet-engine:press-list&pagenum=", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Yesterday, Chairman Pete Ricketts (R-NE) led a hearing of the Senate Foreign Relations Subcommittee on East Asia, The Pacific, and International Cybersecurity Policy. The subcommittee hearing highlighted the need to counter Communist China\u2019s challenge to American AI leadership.\n\n\u201cArtificial Intelligence will revolutionize daily life and its military uses will shape the global balance of power,\u201d Chairman Ricketts said. \u201cUnlike the moon landing, the finish line in the AI race is far less clear for the U.S.\u2014it may be achieving Artificial General Intelligence, human-level or greater machine cognition. Communist China, by contrast, is focused on rapidly diffusing AI across industry, manufacturing, robotics, and smart cities.\u201d\n\n\u201cWhat\u2019s at stake is simple: a U.S.-led future that benefits the free world, or a China-led AI order that reshapes the global system in line with their authoritarian values,\u201d Ricketts said. \u201cThe risk could not be higher. This race will be won by whoever attracts the best talent, wields the best chips, and trains the best algorithms.\u201d\n\nRicketts announced his intent to introduce the SAFE Chips Act that would ensure the U.S. maintains its lead in AI development.\n\n\u201cAmerica\u2019s early lead rests in large part on our dominance of global compute power. At the core of compute are advanced AI chips, the best of which are made by American companies,\u201d Ricketts said. \u201cDenying Beijing access to these chips is therefore essential. President Trump had the foresight in his first administration to restrict specialized semiconductor manufacturing equipment from being sold to Communist China. Without cutting-edge tools, Chinese fabs produce AI chips that are inferior to ours. Today, our top chips are roughly five times more powerful than theirs, and we manufacture them at 10 times the annual scale.\u201d\n\n\u201cFurther controls by the Trump and Biden administrations on advanced AI chips have forced Chinese AI companies to smuggle U.S. chips to keep up,\u201d Ricketts continued. \u201cIf we sustain these limits while U.S. firms innovate and diffuse our technology globally, our compute lead will widen exponentially. That\u2019s why Senator Coons and I plan to introduce the SAFE Chips Act. This legislation would put in statute the Trump administration\u2019s current red lines on what AI chips are allowed to be sold to Communist China.\u201d\n\nWatch the Video HERE.\n\nRicketts\u2019 comments were made in a hearing of the Senate Foreign Relations Subcommittee on East Asia, The Pacific, and International Cybersecurity Policy: Countering China\u2019s Challenge to\n\nAmerican AI Leadership. Witnesses in the hearing included Mr. Gregory C. Allen, Senior Adviser to the Wadhwani AI Center at the Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS); Mr. Tarun Chhabra, Distinguished Visiting Fellow at the Hoover Institution and Head of National Security Policy at Anthropic; Dr. Chris Miller, Professor, the Fletcher School, Tufts University and Non-Resident Senior Fellow, American Enterprise Institute; and Dr. James Mulvenon, Chief Intelligence Officer, Pamir Consulting, LLC.\n\nTRANSCRIPT\n\n\u201cAlmost 70 years ago, Sputnik launched the greatest technological competition in US history.\n\n\u201cThe space race with the Soviet Union, which transformed global science and reshaped the Cold War.\n\n\u201cToday, we face a similar contest, this time with Communist China and even higher stakes.\n\n\u201cArtificial Intelligence will revolutionize daily life and its military uses will shape the global balance of power.\n\n\u201cBeijing is racing to fuse civilian AI with its military to seize the next revolution in military affairs.\n\n\u201cHowever, unlike the moon landing, the finish line in the AI race is far less clear for the US\u2014it may be achieving Artificial General Intelligence, human-level or greater machine cognition.\n\n\u201cCommunist China, by contrast, is focused on rapidly diffusing AI across industry, manufacturing, robotics, and smart cities.\n\n\u201cThese diverging visions were made clear this summer when both the US and Communist China released new AI strategies.\n\n\u201cThe Trump administration\u2019s AI Action Plan centers on openness, markets, and liberal norms: cutting red tape, building data centers and other AI infrastructure, exporting our full AI technology stack\u2014including hardware, models, software, applications, and standards\u2014to allies and partners, countering Beijing in international forums, and enforcing export controls.\n\n\u201cBeijing\u2019s AI Plus strategy champions state control, sovereignty, and sustained high-level diplomacy to shape the global environment.\n\n\u201cWhat\u2019s at stake is simple: a US-led future that benefits the free world, or a China-led AI order that reshapes the global system in line with their authoritarian values.\n\n\u201cThe risk could not be higher.\n\n\u201cThis race will be won by whoever attracts the best talent, wields the best chips, and trains the best algorithms.\n\n\u201cAmerica\u2019s early lead rests in large part on our dominance of global compute power.\n\n\u201cAt the core of compute are advanced AI chips, the best of which are made by American companies.\n\n\u201cDenying Beijing access to these chips is therefore essential.\n\n\u201cPresident Trump had the foresight in his first administration to restrict specialized semiconductor manufacturing equipment from being sold to Communist China.\n\n\u201cWithout cutting-edge tools, Chinese fabs produce AI chips that are inferior to ours.\n\n\u201cToday, our top chips are roughly five times more powerful than theirs, and we manufacture them at 10 times the annual scale.\n\n\u201cFurther controls by the Trump and Biden administrations on advanced AI chips have forced Chinese AI companies to smuggle US chips to keep up.\n\n\u201cIf we sustain these limits while US firms innovate and diffuse our technology globally, our compute lead will widen exponentially.\n\n\u201cThat\u2019s why Senator Coons and I plan to introduce the SAFE Chips Act.\n\n\u201cThis legislation would put in statute the Trump administration\u2019s current red lines on what AI chips are allowed to be sold to Communist China for 30 months to preserve our edge.\n\n\u201cXi Jinping has made clear he has no intention of remaining reliant on American technology.\n\n\u201cThe CCP\u2019s recent Fourth Plenum doubled down on the goal of technological self-reliance.\n\n\u201cThe US and our allies, including the Netherlands, Taiwan, Japan, and South Korea, control nearly every critical node of the supply chain, which is the most complex in human history.\n\n\u201cThis is a structural advantage that Beijing cannot easily overcome.\n\n\u201cTogether, we must collectively enforce semiconductor export controls and close loopholes so Xi Jinping\u2019s strategy fails.\n\n\u201cTo win the AI race, we must also confront our vulnerabilities.\n\n\u201cComputing alone is not enough, and Communist China has advantages elsewhere.\n\n\u201cAI data centers require massive energy.\n\n\u201cCommunist China generates twice the electricity we do and is rapidly expanding capacity while our grid ages.\n\n\u201cChina leads in domestic AI adoption and is exporting its tech globally, while US adoption lags.\n\n\u201cIt produces 27 million more STEM graduates per decade than the US, even as we face an AI talent shortage.\n\n\u201cCommunist China now leads in open AI models, accelerating diffusion of its technology, standards and influence.\n\n\u201cIt also dominates critical minerals and rare earth elements, which are the lifeblood of AI tech and hardware.\n\n\u201cCommunist China completely controls the sector with near monopolies in magnets, cobalt, and lithium.\n\n\u201cCommunist China\u2019s recent restrictions on global exports show how it can use that leverage to dominate the world and what leverage that creates for it.\n\n\u201cPresident Trump\u2019s recent critical minerals deal with Australia and other allies is a good first step, but far more is needed.\n\n\u201cSome argue these advantages mean that Communist China will inevitably win the AI race.\n\n\u201cThey said the same thing during the space race.\n\n\u201cThey misunderstand Americans\u2019 resolve and ingenuity.\n\n\u201cThey were wrong then, and they are wrong again this time.\n\n\u201cBut success will require the right policies and sustained investment.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-flood-celebrates-streaming-services-carrying-c-span-suite", "Congressman Flood Celebrates Streaming Services for Carrying C-SPAN Suite", "2025-12-02", "2025", "2025-12", "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 (R-NE) delivered remarks on the House floor ahead of the expected launch of the C-SPAN networks on the streaming services YouTube TV and Hulu + Live TV. The speech follows a year-long effort by Congressman Flood and others who called on streaming services to carry C-SPAN as satellite and cable providers do.\n\nA video of his remarks can be accessed by clicking here. News outlets are welcome to use the footage for reporting purposes. The full text of Congressman Flood\u2019s speech is provided below.\n\nThank you, Mr. Speaker. I rise today to applaud YouTube TV and Hulu + Live TV for expanding public access to Congress by carrying C-SPAN, C-SPAN2, and C-SPAN3 beginning next week.\n\nFor 46 years C-SPAN\u2019s respected nonprofit service has offered Americans unfiltered gavel-to-gavel coverage of their government in action. However, millions of streaming households were left without this vital window into the debates and decisions which shape our nation.\n\nBy adding the C-SPAN networks, YouTube TV and Hulu + Live TV are making a strong, and I hope enduring, commitment to public service, transparency, and civic engagement. They now join cable and satellite providers like Comcast, Charter, Cox, DirecTV, and Dish in supporting a treasured service that strengthens accountability and confidence in our democratic systems.\n\nThis is a big win for the American people. Full access will help inform the public no matter how they choose to watch. I thank YouTube TV, I thank Hulu + Live TV for their important decision, and I yield back.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=3A159D1A-8CC7-484D-8541-B019C213835F", "Fischer Holds Senate Commerce Subcommittee Hearing, Urges Congress to Protect America\u2019s Communications Networks", "2025-12-02", "2025", "2025-12", "Republican", "Senate", "NE", "Deb Fischer", "F000463", "www.fischer.senate.gov", "fischer", "https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases", "scraper", "Hearing witness highlights need to defend America\u2019s telecommunications networks by enacting Fischer\u2019sFACT Act\n\nClick the image above to watch a video of Senator Fischer\u2019s questioning\n\nClick here to download audio\n\nClick here to download video", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=98E0445F-28DC-4DB4-B773-A1FCFBB7E63D", "Fischer Outlines Urgent Need to Fortify America\u2019s Communications Networks", "2025-12-02", "2025", "2025-12", "Republican", "Senate", "NE", "Deb Fischer", "F000463", "www.fischer.senate.gov", "fischer", "https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases", "scraper", "Fischer chairs Senate Commerce Subcommittee on Telecommunications and Media\n\nClick the image above to watch a video of Senator Fischer\u2019s opening statement\n\nClick here to download audio\n\nClick here to download video", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases/smith-announces-2025-2026-youth-advisory-council-members", "Smith Announces 2025-2026 Youth Advisory Council Members", "2025-12-01", "2025", "2025-12", "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 (R-NE) has announced the names of the Third District high school students serving on his Youth Advisory Council for the 2025-2026 academic school year.\n\nYouth Advisory Council members include:\n\nAva Wenzel of Arthur\n\nDominic Kouba of Auburn\n\nMegan Macklin of Blue Hill\n\nPaxton Burke of Stromsburg\n\nColton Zehendner of Pleasanton\n\nBennett Murdoch of Grand Island\n\nMatthew Rosenlund of Grand Island\n\nMadeline Caskey of Ogallala\n\nLillie Uhing of Chadron\n\nBianca McDonald of Scottsbluff\n\nAddison Peck of Scottsbluff\n\nSmith\u2019s Youth Advisory Council is a forum for high school students to discuss opinions, thoughts, and concerns about local and federal issues with Smith throughout the school year. Through in-person meetings and other contacts, the council provides students with an opportunity for involvement and insight into their government and communities.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=2829", "Bacon Named One of Most Effective Lawmakers in 118th Congress", "2025-12-01", "2025", "2025-12", "Republican", "House", "NE", "Don Bacon", "B001298", "bacon.house.gov", "bacon", "https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx", "scraper", "Washington \u2013 The Center for Effective Lawmaking (CEL), a partnership between the Frank Batten School of Leadership and Public Policy and Vanderbilt University, released its Interest & Legislative Effectiveness Scores for the 118th Congress, ranking Representative Don Bacon (NE-02) as the most effective Republican House Member in the Defense policy area.\n\nThis recognition follows CEL\u2019s announcement earlier this year naming Rep. Bacon one of the top effective legislators overall for the 118th Congress. Rep. Bacon was ranked second overall in the Republican Party for effectiveness, scoring high in defense, Native Americans, banking and commerce, and law, crime and family issue areas.\n\nCEL's Legislative Effectiveness Scores methodology combines fifteen metrics capturing how many bills each member of Congress sponsors in a given issue area, how far those bills advance through the lawmaking process, and the substance of their policy proposals. In the Defense category, Rep. Bacon earned a score of 36.1 compared to 10.6 for his Democrat colleague Mark Takano (CA-39).\n\nYou can view CEL\u2019s complete Interest & Legislative Effectiveness Scores here.\n\n\u201cSince coming to Congress in 2016, I have embraced cooperation and creativity to get things done for Nebraskans and I thank the Center for Effective Lawmaking for this recognition,\u201d said Rep. Bacon. \u201cI am willing to work with anyone who shares my desire to make life better for Americans, and I look forward to continuing that level of effectiveness in the 119th Congress.\u201d\n\nThe Center for Effective Lawmaking said the following in their announcement:\n\n\u201cOur analysis found that Representative Bacon ranked as the most effective Republican House Member in the policy area of Defense in the last Congress. This is in addition to our previous analysis showing him as one of the most effective Republican House Members in the last Congress overall, as well as the most effective Representative in terms of having their sponsored standalone bills substantially incorporated into the laws of other members of Congress. We congratulate the Representative for his hard work and setting an example for promoting the importance of effective lawmaking.\u201d\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=2830", "Bacon, Tokuda, Moore, Introduce Bill Requiring 24-Hour Notice of Alleged Abuse in Military Child Care Programs", "2025-12-01", "2025", "2025-12", "Republican", "House", "NE", "Don Bacon", "B001298", "bacon.house.gov", "bacon", "https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2013 U.S. Representatives Don Bacon (R-NE-02), Jill Tokuda (D-HI-02), and Blake Moore (R-UT-01) introduced legislation requiring military child and youth programs to notify parents or guardians within 24 hours after learning of alleged or suspected abuse or neglect involving their children that occurred at a military child development center or similar program.\n\nThe Military Child and Youth Program Abuse and Neglect Notification Act would codify a Department of Defense (DOD) policy that was established after it became known that the Department had no requirement to notify parents in such cases.\n\nThis legislation also goes beyond current policy by requiring the House and Senate Armed Services Committees, as well as members of Congress who represent the district where the alleged abuse or neglect occurred, be notified within 72 hours.\n\n\u201cNo parent should ever be kept in the dark when it comes to the safety of their child. I\u2019m glad to co-lead the Military Child and Youth Program Abuse and Neglect Notification Act with Rep. Tokuda, which requires programs to notify parents within 24 hours of any suspected abuse or neglect, no exceptions. Our bipartisan bill also requires notifying the Armed Services committees and the Members of Congress for the installation where the incident happened within 72 hours to provide real oversight and ensure these failures are never repeated.\u201d said Rep. Bacon.\n\n\u201cParents who entrust their keiki to a military child care center deserve one guarantee: if something happens, they will be told quickly, clearly, and without exception. No family should ever be kept in the dark when it comes to their child\u2019s health, safety, and well-being,\u201d said Rep. Tokuda. \u201cAs the mother of two boys, we must demand nothing less for our military families, and as a member of the House Armed Services Committee, we must ensure effective Congressional oversight and accountability across the military child care system, because no federal agency should be allowed to hide the truth.\u201d\n\n\"As the congressional representative of Hill Air Force Base and father to four boys, it is an honor to serve our military community and their families. I\u2019m proud to co-lead legislation that would require the DOD to immediately brief parents over suspected abuse or neglect of minors at DOD childcare facilities and create additional congressional oversight mechanisms. We must do all we can to ensure safe and healthy environments for all children, including those under the DOD\u2019s care,\u201d said Rep. Moore.\n\nLanguage in the Military Child and Youth Program Abuse and Neglect Notification Act is also included in the House-passed Fiscal Year 2026 National Defense Authorization Act, demonstrating strong bipartisan support for transparency and protection of military families.\n\nThis legislation is cosponsored by Reps. Sara Jacobs (D-CA-51), Robert J. Wittman (R-VA-01), Marilyn Strickland (D-WA-10),Wesley Bell (D-MO-01), Derek Schmidt (R-KS-02), Ed Case (D-HI-01), Eleanor Holmes Norton (D-DC-00), Jennifer A. Kiggans (R-VA-02), Andr\u00e9 Carson (D-IN-07), Sylvia R. Garcia (D-TX-29), and Donald Davis (D-NC-01).\n\nFull text of the legislation can be found here.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-flood-names-madison-middle-schooler-first-districts-2025", "Congressman Flood Names Madison Middle Schooler as First District\u2019s 2025 Congressional App Challenge Winner", "2025-11-26", "2025", "2025-11", "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 announced Madison Middle School student Avery Stueckrath as the winner of the 2025 Congressional App Challenge for Nebraska\u2019s First District.\n\nStueckrath designed a webpage using JavaScript to showcase her coding skills by illustrating scenes and images of herself, her hobbies, and her cats through custom-designed shapes.\n\n\u201cEvery year, I am impressed by the talent and skills our schools are developing across the First District,\u201d said Congressman Flood. \u201cAvery Steuckrath\u2019s webpage design and coding skills \u2013 paired with her persistence during development \u2013 are yet another example of how Nebraska continues to build its reputation as the 'Silicon Prairie.' I want to thank all the students who submitted their projects for this year\u2019s App Challenge and encourage students interested in developing their coding skills to join next year\u2019s competition.\"\n\nAvery Stueckrath, the daughter of Jesse and Jackie Stueckrath, is an 8th grader at Madison Middle School. She was encouraged to design the webpage by her technology teacher, Bobbie Middleton.\n\nStueckrath's submission was reviewed by a committee of professionals working in the start-up and digital community from the First Congressional District.\n\nEach year, Congress hosts the 'Congressional App Challenge,' a competition among students from every Congressional District to design an app and promote student engagement in computer science.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:52:45Z"], ["https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-floods-thanksgiving-holiday-statement", "Congressman Flood\u2019s Thanksgiving Holiday Statement", "2025-11-26", "2025", "2025-11", "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 ahead of this year\u2019s Thanksgiving holiday, which will be observed on November 27th.\n\n\u201cAs family and friends gather around the table this Thanksgiving, it\u2019s an opportunity for all of us to express our gratitude to God and one another for the blessings we\u2019ve enjoyed this past year. Whether you were born in the Cornhusker State or moved here for new opportunities, we enjoy an incredible life. From Norfolk to Lincoln and Plattsmouth to Columbus and beyond, we live in the best place in the world to live, work, and raise a family. From Mandi and me and our sons, we hope you have a blessed holiday and a very happy Thanksgiving.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:52:45Z"], ["https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases/smith-castor-reintroduce-access-genetic-counselor-services-act", "Smith, Castor Reintroduce the Access to Genetic Counselor Services Act", "2025-11-25", "2025", "2025-11", "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) and Kathy Castor (D-FL) recently introduced the Access to Genetic Counselor Services Act, legislation which would allow for Medicare reimbursement to licensed genetic counselors for services which would otherwise be reimbursable if provided by a physician.\n\nGenetic counselors have extensive training in identifying which tests are most appropriate for a particular patient, and how to interpret test results to best inform the patient\u2019s plan of care. With a wide variety of tests available on the market, leveraging the knowledge and experience of a genetic counselor can save both patients and the taxpayer money by avoiding unnecessary testing and allowing physicians to focus their time on what they do best \u2013 treating patients.\n\n\u201cExpanded access to genetic counseling will improve the lives of seniors across the country\u201d said Rep. Smith. \u201cRapidly advancing technology and ever-growing knowledge of the human genome and its relationship with our health means seniors will be able to identify risks and diseases even earlier, improving outcomes and lowering treatment costs.\u201d\n\n\u201cGenetic counselors guide and support patients and their families through some of the most difficult moments in their lives with expertise and compassion, and are an integral part of the care team,\u201d said Rep. Castor. \u201cI am proud that the University of South Florida is home to the first and only Genetic Counseling Graduate Program in the State, preparing students with the technical knowledge and clinical expertise to treat our neighbors. The common-sense, cost-effective Access to Genetic Counselor Services Act would help grow the genetic counseling profession and ensure our neighbors get the most accurate care.\u201d\n\n\u201cRecognizing genetic counselors as Medicare providers would be tremendously valuable in ensuring patients receive timely, appropriate, and high-quality care. Many cancers have a genetic component, and it is genetic counselors who provide the critical expertise and reassurance families need to understand testing options and familial risk. That is why Cancer Partners of Nebraska proudly supports the Access to Genetic Counselor Services Act, led by Congressman Adrian Smith and Congresswoman Kathy Castor, which will benefit countless seniors, including those here in Nebraska,\u201d saidJustin Rousek, PhD, MPH, MS, CEO at Cancer Partners of Nebraska.\n\n\u201cGenetic counselors are specifically trained to help patients understand complex test results, weigh options, and make informed decisions for themselves and their families,\u201d saidDeborah Cragun, PhD, MS, CGC, Director of USF Genetic Counseling Graduate Program. \u201cAllowing Medicare to directly reimburse for services provided by genetic counselors is a practical step toward more equitable, person-centered genomic care. By supporting the Access to Genetic Counselor Services Act, Representative Castor is advancing a policy that improves access, supports high-quality care, and uses health-care dollars more wisely.\u201d\n\n\u201cGenetic counselors serve as connectors to the personalized care that could make all the difference for Medicare patients and their families facing diseases like hereditary cancer and Alzheimer\u2019s disease,\u201d said Sara Pirzadeh-Miller, MS, CGC, president of the National Society of Genetic Counselors and a cancer genetic counselor in Texas. \u201cWe\u2019re so grateful that Representatives Smith and Castor, plus many others in Congress, understand the tremendous value that genetic counselors offer for their constituents and America\u2019s healthcare system.\u201d\n\nRead the full letter text of the bill here.\n\nSupporting Organizations:", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:52:45Z"], ["https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=2824", "Rep. Bacon Announces Chamber Support for Legislation to Restore Congress\u2019 Constitutional Role in Trade", "2025-11-25", "2025", "2025-11", "Republican", "House", "NE", "Don Bacon", "B001298", "bacon.house.gov", "bacon", "https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx", "scraper", "Omaha, Neb. \u2013 Today, Rep. Don Bacon (NE-02) announced he has received support from the Nebraska Chamber of Commerce & Industry, Omaha Chamber of Commerce and Lincoln Chamber of Commerce for his bipartisan legislation to return Congress\u2019 constitutionally authorized role in setting and approving U.S. trade policy. H.R. 2665 The Trade Review Act of 2025 requires that unilateral tariffs proposed by the executive branch receive congressional authority.\n\n\u201cBy requiring clear justification and timely review of new tariffs, the Trade Review Act of 2025 helps prevent disruptive cost swings and strengthens Nebraska companies\u2019 ability to keep Nebraska\u2019s economy competitive and growing,\u201d said Todd Bingham, President and CEO of the NE Chamber of Commerce & Industry. \u201cThis legislation delivers real benefits for Nebraska businesses by bringing greater stability and predictability to U.S. trade policy. Nebraska Chamber members across industries \u2013 from agriculture to manufacturing \u2013 depend on consistent markets and manageable input costs. We thank Rep. Bacon for being a strong advocate for Nebraska and its world-class businesses.\u201d\n\n\u201cWe hear from businesses every day that unexpected tariff actions are driving up costs, delaying investments, and threatening the long-term competitiveness of Nebraska. H.R. 2665 introduces the level of transparency, accountability, and congressional oversight that our employers urgently need,\u201d said Heath Mello, President & CEO of the Greater Omaha Chamber. \u201cBy requiring timely economic impact assessments and ensuring Congress has a meaningful role, this legislation provides a more predictable environment for companies planning major capital investments. The Greater Omaha Chamber strongly supports this effort that gives employers the stability they need to grow and we thank Rep. Bacon for his leadership on this critical issue.\u201d\n\n\u201cThe Lincoln Chamber appreciates Congressman Don Bacon\u2019s leadership on trade and his assertion of congressional authority. Congressman Bacon\u2019s Trade Review Act of 2025 gets it right. Congressional authority and pro-active engagement is vitally important in developing trade policies, which are so important to Nebraska\u2019s economy.\u201d \u2013 Jason Ball, President & CEO of the Lincoln Chamber of Commerce.\n\n\u201cThis administration has overstepped by imposing tariffs that are bad for American consumers and businesses alike. It's time to return tariff authority back to Congress and the people by passing this legislation,\u201d said Rep. Bacon. \u201cI\u2019m thankful for the support of Nebraska\u2019s businesses as we work to return the power of imposing tariffs to the legislative branch, where it belongs.\u201d\n\nRep. Bacon has publicly stated his support for some tariffs imposed by the Trump Administration while also maintaining that the Constitution gives Congress the task of imposing tariffs under Article I Section 8.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:52:45Z"], ["https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=02572A02-ACCE-4E66-9E02-60824DE7B831", "Fischer Applauds USDA Placement of Natural Resource Conservation Service Regional Hub in Lincoln", "2025-11-25", "2025", "2025-11", "Republican", "Senate", "NE", "Deb Fischer", "F000463", "www.fischer.senate.gov", "fischer", "https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases", "scraper", "Lincoln to be one of four locations across the nation, serving 11 states including Nebraska\n\nWASHINGTON \u2013 Today, U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-NE) applauded the announcement by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) that the Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) Central Regional Hub will now be located in Lincoln, Nebraska.\n\n\u201cGood news: the USDA\u2019s NRCS Central Regional Hub will now be located in Lincoln. This marks an important step in bringing decision-makers closer to the people they serve. I was proud to push for this placement and look forward to working with the administration to ensure our ag producers and landowners have the tools they need to drive real results for rural Nebraska and America,\u201d Fischer said.\n\n\u201cThis modernization puts leadership where it belongs \u2014 in the field, side-by-side with the producers we serve. We are streamlining operations, improving accountability, and ensuring that every NRCS employee has the tools, support, and leadership they need to deliver conservation results that matter. This is about putting farmers first, cutting bureaucracy, and delivering better outcomes for rural America,\u201d Chief of the Natural Resources Conservation Service Aubrey J.D. Bettencourt said.\n\nThe Central Region includes the following states: Nebraska, Arkansas, Iowa, Kansas, Louisiana, Minnesota, Missouri, North Dakota, Oklahoma, South Dakota, Texas\n\nBackground:\n\nThe USDA\u2019s NRCS launched the Office of the Assistant Chiefs (OAC) \u2013 a realignment designed to modernize regional leadership, strengthen accountability, and put decision-makers closer to the producers and partners NRCS serves. This structure ensures every region has a dedicated leader focused on driving program delivery, strengthening coordination with State Conservationists, and expanding producer access to the tools and resources they need. By placing regional leadership closer to the field, NRCS is reinforcing its commitment to responsive service, communication, and support for farmers, ranchers, and private landowners.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:52:45Z"], ["https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/news/press-releases/ricketts-praises-usda-decision-to-locate-nrcs-central-regional-hub-in-lincoln/", "Ricketts Praises USDA Decision to Locate NRCS Central Regional Hub in Lincoln", "2025-11-25", "2025", "2025-11", "Republican", "Senate", "NE", "Pete Ricketts", "R000618", "www.ricketts.senate.gov", "ricketts", "https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/?jsf=jet-engine:press-list&pagenum=", "scraper", "OMAHA, NE \u2013 Today, U.S. Senator Pete Ricketts (R-NE) praised the announcement by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) that the Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) Central Regional Hub will be located in Lincoln, Nebraska:\n\n\u201cDecision-makers should be as close as possible to the people they serve. Locating this regional hub in Lincoln recognizes the expertise, innovation, and stewardship Nebraskans demonstrate every day. This modernization will improve accountability and efficiency. Thank you, President Trump and Secretary Rollins, for putting Nebraska farmers first.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:52:45Z"], ["https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=2825", "Rep. Bacon and 14 Bipartisan Colleagues in Letter to Sec Def on Ukraine Unmanned Aerial Systems", "2025-11-24", "2025", "2025-11", "Republican", "House", "NE", "Don Bacon", "B001298", "bacon.house.gov", "bacon", "https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx", "scraper", "WASHINGTON \u2013 Last Friday, Reps. Don Bacon (R-NE), Wesley Bell (D-MO), Donald G. Davis (D-NC), Maggie Goodlander (D-NH), Pat Harrigan (R-NC), Marcy Kaptur (D-OH), Ro Khanna (D-CA), Seth Moulton (D-MA), Michael T. McCaul (R-TX), Donald Norcross (D-NJ), Jimmy Panetta (D-CA), Mike Quigley (D-IL), Eugene Simon Vindman (D-VA), Eric Sorensen (D-IL) and Joe Wilson (R-SC) sent a letter to U.S. Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth requesting clarification on \u201cexisting authorities and appropriations provided to respond to the situation in Ukraine allow for U.S.\u2013Ukraine collaboration, not only in the co-production of tactical Unmanned Aerial Systems and other unmanned platforms, but also in the full operational ecosystem that supports them.\u201d\n\nCo-production and an operational partnership between the U.S. and Ukraine align with the goals and spirit of the President\u2019s vision for a stronger, more innovative American military. Several of America\u2019s adversaries are leveraging their experience from the war in Ukraine to advance AI-enabled warfare programs. The letter seeks confirmation from the Pentagon that current funding and policy would enable co-production.\n\n\u201cWe have seen in the Russian invasion of Ukraine that drones have revolutionized the way we think about warfare. The Ukrainians are pioneering the drone and counter-drone technology sectors, including everything from rapidly manufacturing and modifying to fielding and developing new tactics,\u201d said Rep. Bacon. \u201cThis letter asks the Pentagon to lean into the incredible strides that Ukraine has made in this new way of war, by both investing in co-production of drone and counter-drone systems with the Ukrainians, and in carefully gathering lessons learned. If we do not do this work, it is guaranteed that our adversaries will.\u201d\n\n\u201cI\u2019m joining Rep. Don Bacon in calling on the Department of Defense to allow for the increase of U.S.-Ukraine collaboration in Unmanned Aerial Systems that will help Ukraine secure itself and improve our national security. Developing drone capability is essential to America's 21st-century interests,\u201d said Rep. Khanna.\n\n\u201cPartnering with Ukraine on drone technology is not just about supporting a partner\u2014it\u2019s about ensuring the United States remains a leader in military innovation and safeguarding our position against global threats. I\u2019m proud to join my colleagues in urging the Department of Defense to expand this collaboration and advance America\u2019s next-generation drone capabilities,\u201d said Rep. Quigley.\n\nYou can read the full letter here.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:52:45Z"], ["https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases/smith-ag-trade-caucus-co-chairs-highlight-usmca-benefits-agriculture", "Smith, Ag Trade Caucus Co-Chairs Highlight USMCA Benefits for Agriculture", "2025-11-21", "2025", "2025-11", "Republican", "House", "NE", "Adrian Smith", "S001172", "adriansmith.house.gov", "adriansmith", "https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2013 Congressional Agriculture Trade Caucus Co-Chairs Reps. Adrian Smith (R-NE), Jim Costa (D-CA), Dusty Johnson (R-SD), and Jimmy Panetta (D-CA) led 109 colleagues in sending a letter to Ambassador Jamieson Greer, the U.S. Trade Representative, highlighting how the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) delivers for American agriculture.\n\nSince USMCA went into effect, overall U.S. agricultural exports to Mexico and Canada have increased by $10.7 billion and $7.6 billion respectively. The agreement\u2019s binding provisions on technical barriers to trade, paired with its dispute settlement process, provide certainty for American agricultural producers. The Members emphasized the importance of fully enforcing the existing terms while addressing remaining barriers to U.S. agricultural products.\n\n\u201cUSMCA was truly a landmark agreement for American Agriculture when it entered force, and its positive impact on U.S. agriculture has yet to reach its maximum benefit,\u201d wrote the Members. \u201cAt a time when economic challenges threaten the livelihood of family farms, producers need the certainty provided under USMCA more than ever.\u201d\n\nGregg Doud, President and CEO, National Milk Producers Federation said, \u201cUSMCA has delivered real value for America\u2019s dairy farmers. While several dairy compliance issues remain to be addressed in the 2026 Joint Review, the duty-free trade into Mexico that USMCA preserved has allowed U.S. dairy exporters to partner with Mexico to meet growing demand. We thank Reps. Smith, Costa, Johnson and Panetta for their leadership in highlighting the importance of preserving USMCA\u2019s market access provisions for the U.S. agricultural industry and fine-tuning the areas that need reform.\u201d\n\nKrysta Harden, President and CEO, U.S. Dairy Export Council said, \u201cMexico and Canada are critical markets for U.S. dairy products with over 44 percent of last year\u2019s exports destined for the two countries. USMCA has strengthened those ties with Mexico by providing certainty, clear rules, and a reliable path for growth. It is our hope that the Review will lead to just that result in our future USMCA trade with Canada as well. As dairy demand continues to rise across North America, it is vital that USMCA delivers strong trade ties and robust trade flows. USDEC strongly supports the bipartisan message coordinated by Reps. Smith, Costa, Johnson and Panetta today in support of maintaining and crucially further strengthening this important trade relationship in the 2026 Joint Review process.\u201d\n\n\u201cUSMCA is extremely important to America\u2019s corn growers whose top trading partners are Canada and Mexico,\u201d said National Corn Growers Association President Jed Bower. \u201cThe agreement provides important tools that allow unfair actions to be challenged, as the United States successfully did when Mexico banned genetically modified corn. We need this agreement to be renewed to provide stability for our farmers.\u201d\n\n\u201cThe USMCA has provided a strong foundation for North American trade since its negotiation under the first Trump administration. ASA appreciates Congressman Adrian Smith and members of Congress for their continued commitment to this vital agreement,\u201d said Caleb Ragland, President of the American Soybean Association. \u201cAt a time when soybean farmers face uncertain market conditions, the USMCA offers much-needed stability and predictability in our most important export markets \u2014 helping ensure reliable access to customers, smoother movement of goods, and a rules-based system that protects U.S. agriculture.\u201d\n\n\u201cU.S. pork producers export over 25 percent of production. With Mexico and Canada as our first and fourth largest export markets, respectively, USMCA has provided continuity and removed market uncertainty in those markets,\u201d said Duane Stateler, President of National Pork Producers Council.\n\n\u201cThe unmatched productivity of American agriculture means market access and trade relationships are critical to rural communities, and no deal is more important to the farm economy than the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement,\u201d said John Bode, President and CEO of the Corn Refiners Association. \u201cWe are proud to stand by the leaders of the Ag Trade Caucus in their strong support for USMCA. Securing the future of this agreement is vitally important for producers and consumers across North America, and we urge the deal's renewal during the upcoming evaluation period.\u201d\n\n\u201cCalifornia Citrus Mutual (CCM) appreciates the Congressional Ag Trade Caucus and its bipartisan commitment to upholding USMCA's value for California Citrus growers and U.S agriculture. Ensuring tariff-free access to two of our top markets for U.S. citrus is pivotal for our growers. Canada is a top export destination for fresh U.S. citrus \u2013 with approximately $215 million worth of exports each year. Mexico is another key export market for fresh U.S. citrus, with $93 million exported in 2024. We are grateful for Co-Chairs Reps. Adrian Smith (R-NE), Jim Costa (D-CA), Dusty Johnson (R-SD), and Jimmy Panetta (D-CA) for their leadership and support.\"\n\n\u201cThe USMCA agreement has delivered meaningful benefits for U.S. wine producers by supporting growth in Canada, our most important export market, and strengthening our competitiveness across North America,\u201d said Robert P. \u201cBobby\u201d Koch, CEO, Wine Institute. \u201cWhile recent challenges persist, preserving USMCA\u2019s framework is critical to ensuring the long-term success of the U.S. wine industry.\u201d\n\n\u201cThe National Turkey Federation is grateful for Congressional support reaffirming USMCA\u2019s value to U.S. agriculture,\u201d said Leslee Oden, President and CEO of National Turkey Federation. \u201cThis agreement has provided a strong foundation for North American trade, and we look forward to working with USTR to build on that success and explore opportunities that further enhance the benefits for U.S. turkey producers.\u201d\n\n\u201cThe USMCA has played a vital role in strengthening North American horticulture by ensuring that essential inputs move freely across our borders and giving growers the predictability they need to operate with confidence. As the agreement enters its formal review, it is critical that policymakers maintain the duty-free, integrated framework that has allowed the horticulture sector to thrive. Protecting these benefits is key to preserving the stability, affordability, and economic vitality that USMCA provides to our industry,\u201d stated Ken Fisher, AmericanHort President & CEO.\n\n\u201cWe thank these Members for their commitment to preserving and expanding the benefits that USMCA delivers to American agriculture and homegrown biofuels,\u201d said Emily Skor, CEO of Growth Energy. \u201cThis agreement benefits consumers, strengthens rural communities, and enhances energy security. Growth Energy is pleased to lend our support to consistent USMCA enforcement and a level playing field for American farmers and biofuel producers.\u201d\n\n\u201cNGFA applauds the Congressional Agriculture Trade Caucus\u2019s efforts to ensure that the USMCA can continue to be one of the most successful trade agreements in our sector\u2019s history. This landmark trade deal delivers predictable, rules-based market access that strengthens American agriculture and supports hundreds of thousands of U.S. jobs,\u201d said Mike Seyfert, President and CEO of the National Grain and Feed Association. \"As the United States undertakes this review, we must build on a success story that has benefited the grain and feed markets. NGFA strongly encourages the administration to ensure that USMCA\u2019s core benefits are protected and expanded to keep the agriculture competitive and secure.\u201d\n\n\u201cWe appreciate the Caucus Co-chairs\u2019 leadership advocating on behalf of a broad base of agricultural stakeholders supporting the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) as we move into the review next year. One of the advantages of this agreement is the enforcement mechanisms available to deal with violations that restrict free and fair trade,\u201d said Kent Swisher, President & CEO of the North American Renderers Association (NARA). \u201cFor example, NARA is urging trade negotiators to spotlight an unfair value-added tax that Mexico is applying retroactively to imported feed ingredients such as rendered animal protein meals. It amounts to a de facto tariff that violates USMCA. Full enforcement of the existing agreement will resolve this issue.\u201d\n\nThe Organic Produce Association (OPA) appreciates the leadership of Congressmen Adrian Smith, Jimmy Panetta, Dusty Johnson, and Jim Costa for highlighting the importance of USMCA to U.S. agriculture. USMCA serves as a critical trade agreement for organic produce, enabling U.S. growers to access top produce export markets of Mexico and Canada tariff-free, and ensuring consumer access to organic produce year-round. OPA is grateful for the broad bipartisan recognition of USMCA\u2019s positive impacts on U.S. agriculture ahead of the Joint Review of this key trade agreement.\n\n\"The U.S. Mexico Canada Agreement (USMCA) has been greatly beneficial to the farmers and ranchers of Nebraska. As our closest geological and economic neighbors, it only makes sense to have a strong reciprocal trade agreement with Canada and Mexico, Nebraska's two largest agricultural trading partners. As we said during the original USMCA negotiations, we urge a \"do no harm\" approach when it comes to the \"joint review\" of the agreement. At the same time, enforcement must continue to be at the top of the list when it comes to further negotiations between our three countries. Nebraska farm and ranch families celebrated the original passage of the agreement, and we look forward to continuing to build our trading relationship with both Mexico and Canada,\" said Mark McHargue, President of the Nebraska Farm Bureau Federation.\n\n\u201cThe Nebraska Corn Growers Association appreciates Congressman Adrian Smith for his leadership and continued support of the U.S.\u2013Mexico\u2013Canada Agreement,\u201d said NeCGA president Michael Dibbern. \u201cMexico and Canada are leading trading partners for Nebraska corn growers, and extending the foundation of trade that USMCA has developed is a top priority.\u201d\n\nNebraska Cattlemen president Dick Pierce stated, \u201cThe USMCA provides cattle producers with duty-free access to Canda and Mexico, which are both top five markets for U.S. beef and cattle. We appreciate Congressman Smith\u2019s leadership to help ensure producers are considered throughout the USMCA review process as market-based, rules-based, and science-based trade deals are crucial to our success.\u201d\n\n\u201cNebraska\u2019s pork producers appreciate Congressman Smith\u2019s leadership in championing USMCA and reaffirming its importance to American agriculture,\u201d said Seth Mitchell, Executive Director of Nebraska Pork Producers. \u201cUSMCA has delivered meaningful wins for our industry. Canada and Mexico remain two of the top five export markets for Nebraska pork, representing more than $100 million in value last year alone. Preserving the certainty and open market access provided under USMCA is essential for our producers, our rural communities, and the continued strength of North American trade.\u201d\n\n\u201cNebraska, the fifth largest U.S. soybean producer, depends on export markets. The USMCA has benefited our industry, with Canada and Mexico being major buyers of Nebraska\u2019s soybeans and soybean meal,\u201d said Kent Grotelueschen, President of the Nebraska Soybean Association. \u201cNew crush capacity in the state is increasing soybean meal exports to these countries, adding value for producers. Maintaining a strong USMCA ensures ongoing market access. We thank Congressman Adrian Smith for his continued work on securing a strong agreement.\u201d\n\n\"USMCA is a vital partnership that has significant benefits for Nebraska\u2019s dairy industry. Mexico and Canada are the largest purchasers of U.S. dairy products so establishing fair trade deals is essential to the profitability of dairy producers across Nebraska,\u201d said Doug Temme, Chairman of the Nebraska State Dairy Association.\n\n\u201cUSMCA remains essential to Nebraska\u2019s biofuels industry and the farmers who supply it. Its certainty and market access strengthen rural jobs, support demand for Nebraska-grown corn, and keep our producers competitive. As the joint review moves forward, we ask the Administration to preserve the agreement\u2019s core strengths and ensure its provisions to maintain strong North American trade relationships,\" said Dawn Caldwell, Executive Director, Renewable Fuels Nebraska.\n\nAdditional signers of the letter include: Representatives Michael Simpson (R-ID), Ron Estes (R-KS), Josh Riley (D-NY), Mariannette J. Miller-Meeks (R-IA), Max L. Miller (R-OH), Jeff Hurd (R-CO), Mike Carey (R-OH), David G. Valadao (R-CA), Claudia Tenney (R-NY), Jodey C. Arrington (R-TX), Troy A. Carter, Sr. (D-LA), Doug LaMalfa (R-CA), Andr\u00e9 Carson (D-IN), Donald G. Davis (D-NC), Lloyd Smucker (R-PA), Don Bacon (R-NE), Nathaniel Moran (R-TX), Brad Finstad (R-MN), John Garamendi (D-CA), Mike Bost (R-IL), Eric A. \u201cRick\u201d Crawford (R-AR), Mark B. Messmer (R-IN), Ashley Hinson (R-IA), Gregory F. Murphy, M.D. (R-NC), Henry Cuellar (D-TX), Nicole Malliotakis (R-NY), Derek Schmidt (R-KS), Terri A. Sewell (D-AL), Gabe Vasquez (D-NM), John R. Moolenaar (R-MI), Julia Brownley (D-CA), Tracey Mann (R-KS), Randy Feenstra (R-IA), Ben Cline (R-VA), James R. Baird (R-IN), Darin LaHood (R-IL), Julie Fedorchak (R-ND), Steven Horsford (D-NV), Michelle Fischbach (R-MN), Bill Huizenga (R-MI), Frank J. Mrvan (D-IN), Danny K. Davis (D-IL), Rob Bresnahan, Jr. (R-PA), Tony Wied (R-WI), W. Gregory Steube (R-FL), Jack Bergman (R-MI), Dan Newhouse (R-WA), Suzan K. DelBene (D-WA), Greg Landsman (D-OH), Blake D. Moore (R-UT), Robin L. Kelly (D-IL), Earl L. \u201cBuddy\u201d Carter (R-GA), Bradley Scott Schneider (D-IL), Mike Flood (R-NE), Tim Walberg (R-MI), Cliff Bentz (R-OR), Cleo Fields (D-LA), Dan Meuser (R-PA), Janelle S. Bynum (D-OR), Michael R. Turner (R-OH), Vince Fong (R-CA), Lance Gooden (R-TX), Trent Kelly (R-MS), John Rose (R-TN), Rudy Yakym III (R-IN), Austin Scott (R-GA), John Joyce, M.D. (R-PA), Carol D. Miller (R-WV), Josh Harder (D-CA), French Hill (R-AR), Mark Alford (R-MO), Eric Sorensen (D-IL), Angie Craig (D-MN), Ken Calvert (R-CA), Nikki Budzinski (D-IL), Troy Balderson (R-OH), Andy Harris, M.D. (R-MD), Pat Fallon (R-TX), Pete Sessions (R-TX), Shontel M. Brown (D-OH), Kevin Hern (R-OK), Julia Letlow, Ph.D. (R-LA), Frank D. Lucas (R-OK), Michael A. Rulli (R-OH), Pete Stauber (R-MN), Robert E. Latta (R-OH), David Rouzer (R-NC), August Pfluger (R-TX), Derrick Van Orden (R-WI), Sanford D. Bishop, Jr. (D-GA), Adam Gray (D-CA), Kristen McDonald Rivet (D-MI), Vicente Gonzalez (D-TX), Ronny L. Jackson (R-TX), Ami Bera, M.D. (D-CA), David Kustoff (R-TN), Mike Thompson (D-CA), Scott Fitzgerald (R-WI), Tom Cole (R-OK), Stephanie Bice (R-OK), Lauren Boebert (R-CO), Brad Knott (R-NC), Ryan K. Zinke (R-MT), Sam Graves (R-MO), Salud Carbajal (D-CA), Tony Gonzales (R-TX), Sharice L. Davids (D-KS), Michael Baumgartner (R-WA), Ann Wagner (R-MO).\n\nRead the full letter text here or below.\n\nDear Ambassador Greer:\n\nAs Members of Congress representing a diverse range of communities reliant on the success of agriculture, we strongly support the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) due to its positive impact and benefit to U.S. agriculture. As the Administration develops its priorities for the six-year \u201cjoint review\u201d of USMCA, we urge you to work closely with Congress and consider the significant positive impact North American agricultural trade has on our communities. Any changes to the agreement should be carefully examined to ensure U.S. agriculture is not negatively impacted. Further, as you consider updates to the agreement, we support efforts to fully enforce the existing terms and to address the few remaining barriers impacting U.S. agriculture, such as Canada\u2019s barriers to U.S. dairy.\n\nThis agreement provides vast benefits to our constituents, including farmers, ranchers, producers, growers, grain handlers, exporters, and the broader rural economy. The United States is the world\u2019s largest agricultural exporter, with total agricultural exports valued at $176 billion in 2024. Over a third of these exports were destined for Mexico and Canada. Overall U.S. agricultural exports have significantly increased since implementation of USMCA, with exports to Mexico and Canada increasing by $10.7 billion and $7.6 billion respectively. For most individual U.S. agricultural products, Mexico and Canada are the largest and/or second largest export markets.\n\nThe seamless integration provided under the agriculture provisions of USMCA facilitates the flow of goods by streamlining compliance measures and harmonizing regulations. Cost savings generated by the efficiencies in USMCA directly benefit American farmers, producers, and ranchers, which helps them make a living and support their local communities. The agriculture section of the USMCA provides much needed certainty within North America through its tough and effective rules on sanitary and phytosanitary measures, agricultural biotechnology, intellectual property, and technical barriers to trade. U.S. agricultural exporters depend on the binding nature of these provisions to access our closest markets and make sales, which has directly benefitted the farmers, ranchers, and producers that we represent. Further, these rules-based, science-driven commitments set a strong example for other trading partners hoping to achieve similar access to the U.S. market.\n\nUSMCA was truly a landmark agreement for American agriculture when it entered into force, and its positive impact on U.S. agriculture has yet to reach its maximum benefit. At a time when economic challenges threaten the livelihood of family farms, producers need the certainty provided under USMCA more than ever. We appreciate your attention to the views of our constituents and look forward to working together as the 2026 Review process commences.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:52:45Z"], ["https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases/smith-statement-tyson-foods-announcement", "Smith Statement on Tyson Foods Announcement", "2025-11-21", "2025", "2025-11", "Republican", "House", "NE", "Adrian Smith", "S001172", "adriansmith.house.gov", "adriansmith", "https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2013 Today, Congressman Adrian Smith (R-NE) released the following statement after Tyson Foods announced the impending closure of their Lexington, Nebraska, beef processing facility:\n\n\u201cToday\u2019s announcement by Tyson Foods is a disappointing loss for Lexington, Dawson County, the region, and the cattle industry as a whole. Nebraska\u2019s hard-working cattle producers are innovative and highly efficient as they work to provide high quality beef for consumers. As the Lexington community and Nebraska agriculture respond to this announcement I welcome input from producers and stand ready to assist as we all move forward.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:52:45Z"], ["https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=2821", "Bacon, Suozzi, Hurd, Gottheimer Introduce Bill to Avert Healthcare Affordability Crisis: The Bipartisan HOPE Act", "2025-11-21", "2025", "2025-11", "Republican", "House", "NE", "Don Bacon", "B001298", "bacon.house.gov", "bacon", "https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx", "scraper", "Washington \u2013 Today, Congressmen Don Bacon (R-NE), Tom Suozzi (D-NY), Josh Gottheimer (D-NJ), and Jeff Hurd (R-CO) co-led the introduction of the Bipartisan Healthcare Optimization, Protection, and Extension (HOPE) Act. This bill would address the healthcare affordability crisis by extending the enhanced premium tax credits (PTCs) for two years and adding new income caps and guardrails against fraud in the process.\n\n\u201cI\u2019m glad we\u2019re moving the debate forward on extending and reforming the Affordable Care Act subsidies. I\u2019ve made clear to my colleagues on both sides that Congress needs a smart, bipartisan agreement that prevents our constituents\u2019 health insurance premiums from skyrocketing. That\u2019s why I worked with Reps. Tom Suozzi, Jeff Hurd, and Josh Gottheimer to introduce the HOPE Act, which would extend the enhanced premium tax credits for two years and apply new income caps and fraud protections. This may not be the final package Congress adopts, but it\u2019s a responsible compromise that can help break the gridlock and protect families from higher costs,\u201d said Congressman Bacon.\n\n\u201cThe number one issue in our country is affordability. The rising price of health care is a pressing concern for Americans who want both parties to work together to deliver relief,\u201d said Congressman Suozzi. \u201cTime is running out for people of good faith to broker a solution. This bill is a commonsense compromise that prevents devastating premium spikes, in some cases, thousands of dollars a month. The Bipartisan HOPE Act also strengthens the premium tax credit with added safeguards against fraud and abuse, reflecting priorities shared on both sides of the aisle. Thank you to my colleagues on both sides of the aisle who were willing to sit down, negotiate in good faith, and work toward a real, practical solution for the American people.\u201d\n\nCongressman Gottheimer said, \u201cIt\u2019s time to come together, Democrats and Republicans, put aside the partisan BS, and deliver a real solution that will cut health insurance premiums. The Bipartisan HOPE Act will do just that \u2014 give hope to Jersey families struggling with the cost crisis on everything from health care to food to electric bills. Whether it\u2019s this solution or another, failure is not an option.\u201d\n\n\u201cFamilies across Colorado are already stretched thin by high health-care costs, and without action from Congress, premiums are set to rise sharply at the end of this year. I joined this bipartisan effort because doing nothing would leave too many families in rural communities facing unaffordable increases that they cannot absorb. The HOPE Act provides a temporary, responsible extension of the current premium tax credits so families do not see sudden cost spikes through no fault of their own. This bill also includes the strongest guardrails ever applied to the ACA Exchanges. We crack down on fraudulent brokers and misleading marketing practices, require documented consumer consent for plan changes, expand audit requirements, and remove \u2018ghost beneficiaries\u2019 by directing regular checks against the federal Death Master File. These reforms protect taxpayers, strengthen program integrity, and prevent vulnerable consumers from being taken advantage of. The HOPE Act is a practical, bipartisan solution that maintains affordability, enhances transparency, and improves accountability while Congress works toward long-term reforms that will make our health-care system more stable and more affordable. I will continue working with colleagues on both sides of the aisle to pursue responsible, commonsense solutions that put families first,\u201d said Congressman Hurd.\n\nThe bill would extend the enhanced PTCs for enrollees earning less than $200,000 per year for a family of four. The bill would phase out the enhanced PTCs for enrollees earning between $200,000 and $300,000 for a family of four.\n\nMoreover, the bill would create new guardrails to prevent \u201cghost beneficiaries,\u201d crack down on fraud, and enhance delivery clarity. The bill cracks down on broker fraud by implementing several measures, including those presented in the Insurance Fraud Accountability Act, to codify CMS\u2019s authority to remove bad actors from ACA marketplaces, penalize bad actors, implement new consumer protections, and more. It also directs ACA marketplaces to regularly confirm enrollee eligibility with the Death Master File and requires marketplaces to better notify recipients the value of PTCs they are receiving from the federal government.\n\nFinally, recognizing that many would-be recipients may have been discouraged from purchasing health insurance by previously high premiums, the bill would extend open enrollment to May 15.\n\nRep. Bacon and his colleague spoke to reporters today on the HOPE Act. His remarks can be heard here. You can find a one-pager on the Bipartisan HOPE Act here. The bill text is available here.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:52:45Z"], ["https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=2822", "Bacon, Beyer Introduce Bipartisan Resolution to Fix Broken House Disciplinary Process", "2025-11-21", "2025", "2025-11", "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) and Don Beyer (D-VA) today introduced a bipartisan resolution that would raise the required vote threshold to punish Members of the House with censure, disapproval, or removal of committee assignments from a simple majority to 60 percent. This measure would reform the process by which the House disciplines its Members, in response to the sharp increase in introductions of punitive resolutions in the House.\n\n\u201cA U.S. House ruled by mob mentality cannot function. The institution and American people deserve better than what we\u2019ve seen this week. The vast middle must stand up to the extremes and put commonsense safeguards in place,\u201d said Rep. Bacon. \u201cThis resolution with Rep. Beyer, which requires a 60 percent threshold before the House can censure or penalize a Member, will force future censures to have bipartisan support, restore stability, protect the institution, and get the House back to working for the American people.\u201d\n\n\u201cThe process of censures and disciplinary measures in the House is broken, and all of us know it. These measures were historically reserved for rare and exceptional cases after a lengthy process that allowed time for investigations and due process, but that precedent has deteriorated. Our resolution would break the cycle of censures to help return focus in the House to solving problems for the American people,\u201d said Rep. Beyer. \u201cThe proliferation of resolutions to punish our fellow Members with censure, disapproval, or the revocation of committee assignments has become unsustainable, to the point that they now impair our ability to work together to address serious issues. I fear this is inflicting lasting damage on this institution. Our legislation would implement desperately needed reform by creating a threshold high enough to require significant consensus between the parties that the process has been fair and that any wrongdoing rises to the level of the punishment. I thank my colleague, Congressman Bacon, for working with me on this solution and urge my colleagues to support this measure and raise the level of sanity in the People\u2019s House.\u201d\n\nArticle I of the Constitution establishes that \u201cEach House may determine the Rules of its Proceedings, punish its Members for disorderly Behaviour.\u201d Historically measures punishing Members of the House were reserved for rare, unique cases following investigations; during the 20th Century the House voted to censure its members just six times, most after lengthy ethics investigations that established criminal activity or serious misconduct. At least five resolutions to punish Members of the House have been brought forward just this week, and dozens of Members have been targeted with such measures this year.\n\nFull text of the resolution is available here.\n\nIn addition to Congressmen Bacon and Beyer, the legislation is cosponsored by U.S. Representatives Chrissy Houlahan (D-PA), Mike Lawler (R-NY), Angie Craig (D-MN), Kevin Kiley (R-CA), Brendan Boyle (D-PA), Michael Turner (R-OH), Debbie Dingell (D-MI), Brian Fitzpatrick (R-PA), Jimmy Panetta (D-CA), Tom McClintock (R-CA), Jared Moskowitz (D-FL), Sarah McBride (D-DE), Hillary Scholten (D-MI), Ilhan Omar (D-MN), Nikema Williams (D-GA), James Walkinshaw (D-VA), Kelly Morrison (D-MN), Ami Bera (D-CA), Betty McCollum (D-MN), Hank Johnson (D-GA), Jill Tokuda (D-HI), Glenn Ivey (D-MD), Lloyd Doggett (D-TX), Henry Cuellar (D-TX), Sanford Bishop (D-GA), Raja Krishnamoorthi (D-IL), Andrea Salinas (D-OR), Josh Gottheimer (D-NJ), and Jared Huffman (D-CA).\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:52:45Z"], ["https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=8628249F-799A-4AF1-848B-66F67BD68D9B", "Fischer Blasts Tyson Foods\u2019 Decision to Close Beef Processing Plant in Lexington", "2025-11-21", "2025", "2025-11", "Republican", "Senate", "NE", "Deb Fischer", "F000463", "www.fischer.senate.gov", "fischer", "https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases", "scraper", "Today, U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-NE), a member of the Senate Agriculture Committee, released the following statement after Tyson Foods announced it will close the beef processing plant located in Lexington:\n\n\u201cI am extremely disappointed by this news from Tyson today. As the single largest employer in Lexington, Tyson\u2019s announcement will have a devastating impact on a truly wonderful community, the region, and our state. Nebraskans are nothing if not resilient, and Lexington has a robust workforce. I hope their skill and experience will be sought after by other employers.\n\n\u201cNebraska is the beef state, and we know better than anyone the highs and lows of the cattle market. It\u2019s no secret that just a few years ago, packers like Tyson were making windfall profits while the rest of the industry was continuously in the red.\n\n\u201cAs we head into the holiday season, I call on Tyson to do everything in its power to take care of the families affected by this short-sighted decision.\u201d\n\nPermalink: https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/2025/11/fischer-blasts-tyson-foods-decision-to-close-beef-processing-plant-in-lexington", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:52:45Z"], ["https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/news/press-releases/ricketts-showcases-successful-efforts-to-cut-red-tape-get-results-for-nebraskans/", "Ricketts Showcases Successful Efforts to Cut Red Tape, Get Results for Nebraskans", "2025-11-21", "2025", "2025-11", "Republican", "Senate", "NE", "Pete Ricketts", "R000618", "www.ricketts.senate.gov", "ricketts", "https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/?jsf=jet-engine:press-list&pagenum=", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Today, U.S. Senator Pete Ricketts (R-NE) highlighted his successes in cutting red tape and helping Nebraskans navigate the federal bureaucracy.\n\n\u201cMy team and I have helped over 2,200 Nebraskans access federal services,\u201d said Ricketts. \u201cWe\u2019ve also helped constituents save or recover nearly $12 million from the federal government. We\u2019re continuing the fight to protect taxpayer dollars. We\u2019re ensuring federal agencies serve citizens. From streamlining government to cutting taxes, I\u2019ll keep working to make government work better.\u201d\n\nRicketts shared the story of Dayspring Academy in Manley.\n\n\u201cJen and Shelly worked hard to open a new daycare in Manley. They applied for a grant through the Department of Health and Human Services to open their new facility,\u201d said Ricketts. \u201cBut red tape and regulations made it difficult for Dayspring Academy to receive the funding. Jen and Shelly exchanged nearly 90 emails with the Department of Health and Human Services. Not one explained why the grant wasn\u2019t going through. They were approaching a critical deadline. That\u2019s when they reached out to my office. My staff called the agency. We cut through the red tape, identified the issue, and helped them get their grant money. We made sure that Dayspring Academy could open their doors. Now, families in Southeast Nebraska have access to high-quality childcare closer to home. That\u2019s not just a win for Dayspring. It\u2019s a win for every Nebraskan who deserves accessible childcare.\u201d\n\nRicketts also shared the story of Off Broadway Apartments in Broken Bow.\n\n\u201cPaul serves his community as the President of the Board of the Off Broadway Apartments. Off Broadway is a senior living community in Central Nebraska,\u201d concluded Ricketts. \u201cCOVID requirements made it difficult for Paul to pay his staff. The IRS implemented an Employee Retention Credit to help small businesses like Paul\u2019s. However, bureaucratic red tape made it difficult for him to receive the credits. After waiting for a response from the IRS and not hearing from them, Paul reached out to our constituent caseworker in Kearney. My team was able to contact the IRS and ensure that Off Broadway received proper tax credits. Without these credits, Off Broadway would have been forced to close.\u201d\n\nTRANSCRIPT:\n\nSenator Ricketts: \u201cWhen I was Governor, we focused on providing great services to Nebraskans.\n\n\u201cThe federal government should do the same.\n\n\u201cIn the Senate, my team and I are helping Nebraskans navigate the federal bureaucracy.\n\n\u201cMy team is specially trained in assisting constituents with their concerns.\n\n\u201cI\u2019m proud of our work to cut red tape and deliver wins for Nebraskans.\n\n\u201cRural Nebraskans have struggled to find accessible daycare.\n\n\u201cJen and Shelly worked hard to open a new daycare in Manley.\n\n\u201cThey applied for a grant through the Department of Health and Human Services to open their new facility.\n\n\u201cBut red tape and regulations made it difficult for Dayspring Academy to receive the funding.\n\n\u201cJen and Shelly exchanged nearly 90 emails with the Department of Health and Human Services.\n\n\u201cNot one explained why the grant wasn\u2019t going through.\n\n\u201cThey were approaching a critical deadline.\n\n\u201cThat\u2019s when they reached out to my office.\n\n\u201cMy staff called the agency.\n\n\u201cWe cut through the red tape, identified the issue, and helped them get their grant money.\n\n\u201cWe made sure that Dayspring Academy could open their doors.\n\n\u201cNow, families in Southeast Nebraska have access to high-quality childcare closer to home.\n\n\u201cThat\u2019s not just a win for Dayspring. It\u2019s a win for every Nebraskan who deserves accessible childcare.\n\n\u201cMany other Nebraskans reach out to my office for help navigating the federal bureaucracy.\n\n\u201cPaul serves his community as the President of the Board of the Off Broadway Apartments.\n\n\u201cOff Broadway is a senior living community in Central Nebraska.\n\n\u201cTheir services are critical to Kearney and Broken Bow.\n\n\u201cCOVID requirements made it difficult for Paul to pay his staff.\n\n\u201cThe IRS implemented an Employee Retention Credit to help small businesses like Paul\u2019s.\n\n\u201cHowever, bureaucratic red tape made it difficult for him to receive the credits.\n\n\u201cAfter waiting for a response from the IRS and not hearing from them, Paul reached out to our constituent caseworker in Kearney.\n\n\u201cMy team was able to contact the IRS and ensure that Off Broadway received proper tax credits.\n\n\u201cWithout these credits, Off Broadway would have been forced to close.\n\n\u201cNebraskans always advocate for their community.\n\n\u201cThat\u2019s why I always advocate for Nebraskans.\n\n\u201cThese are just two examples of how my team and I help Nebraskans navigate the federal bureaucracy.\n\n\u201cMy team and I have helped over 2,200 Nebraskans access federal services.\n\n\u201cWe\u2019ve also helped constituents save or recover nearly $12 million from the federal government.\n\n\u201cWe\u2019re continuing the fight to protect taxpayer dollars.\n\n\u201cWe\u2019re ensuring federal agencies serve citizens.\n\n\u201cFrom streamlining government to cutting taxes, I\u2019ll keep working to make government work better.\n\n\u201cMy offices are open in Scottsbluff, Kearney, Lincoln, Omaha, and Washington, D.C.\n\n\u201cWe can also answer questions about services, eligibility, or benefits.\n\n\u201cThis includes questions about Veterans Affairs, Medicare, or the Internal Revenue Service.\n\n\u201cWe\u2019re going to continue delivering excellent customer service for our constituents.\n\n\u201cNebraskans deserve nothing less.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:52:45Z"], ["https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/news/press-releases/ricketts-supports-taiwans-defense-capabilities-energy-resilience/", "Ricketts Supports Taiwan\u2019s Defense Capabilities, Energy Resilience", "2025-11-21", "2025", "2025-11", "Republican", "Senate", "NE", "Pete Ricketts", "R000618", "www.ricketts.senate.gov", "ricketts", "https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/?jsf=jet-engine:press-list&pagenum=", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Yesterday, during a Senate Foreign Relations Committee hearing, U.S. Senator Pete Ricketts (R-NE) highlighted his bipartisan Providing Our Regional Companions Upgraded Protection in Nefarious Environments (PORCUPINE) Act. The PORCUPINE Act would put Taiwan in the NATO-plus category, reducing obstacles for Taiwan to obtain necessary weapons and deter Communist China.\n\n\u201cOver the past several years, Taiwan has made real sacrifices to improve its self-defense,\u201d said Ricketts. \u201cBut even as Taiwan steps up, the United States is failing to deliver key capabilities on the timeline deterrence requires. Bureaucratic backlogs and sluggish notifications are creating vulnerabilities we cannot afford. These delays don\u2019t just hurt the timelines \u2014 they weaken Taiwan\u2019s political will and ultimately increase the risk to U.S. forces and what they would face if deterrence fails. That\u2019s exactly why I introduced the PORCUPINE Act with Senator Coons. It would put Taiwan in the NATO-plus category to cut notification times and raise thresholds.\u201d\n\nSenator Ricketts also discussed the Taiwan Energy and Anti-Embargo Act, which aims to resolve Taiwan\u2019s glaring energy insecurities in the face of Communist Chinese aggression.\n\n\u201cTaiwan\u2019s energy security is one of its biggest liabilities,\u201d said Ricketts. \u201cAn energy squeeze doesn\u2019t require a blockade or even a shot fired. Targeted coercion alone could trigger a crisis long before military action even happens. That\u2019s why strengthening Taiwan\u2019s resilience is central to deterrence. Senator Coons and I introduced the Taiwan Energy Security and Anti-Embargo Act to help counter this. This common-sense legislation would expand U.S. LNG exports to Taiwan to support its energy infrastructure and ensure adequate flows of energy shipments to Taiwan in a contingency.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:52:45Z"], ["https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=0BEEAB0E-99A2-43F9-A223-EA51460C6601", "Fischer Statement on Dept. of Transportation Effort to Advance Safety Standards for All Drivers", "2025-11-20", "2025", "2025-11", "Republican", "Senate", "NE", "Deb Fischer", "F000463", "www.fischer.senate.gov", "fischer", "https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases", "scraper", "Calls on Congress to pass her She DRIVES Act to make NHTSA\u2019s updated crash testing standards permanent\n\nToday, U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-NE), a member of the Senate Commerce Committee, released the following statement after the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA)announcedits new advanced female crash test dummy:\n\n\u201cI\u2019ve been pushing for years to update crash testing standards, which do not account for all of America\u2019s drivers \u2013 particularly women. It\u2019s why I\u2019ve been a steady champion of myShe DRIVES Act to enhance passenger vehicle safety.\n\n\u201cI want to thank Secretary Duffy and the Department of Transportation for taking this step. Now it\u2019s time to pass my legislation to ensure future National Highway Traffic Safety Administrations do not slow or deprioritize these important efforts.\n\n\u201cIt's far past time to make these testing standards permanent, which will help save thousands of lives and make America\u2019s roads safer for all drivers. I'm ready to finish the job.\"\n\nFischer\u2019s work:\n\nIn 2024, Fischer introduced theShe DRIVES Act, to modernize vehicle safety tests by requiring the use of the most advanced testing devices available\u2014including a female crash test dummy.\n\nIn January,during Secretary Sean Duffy\u2019s confirmation hearing to be Secretary of Transportation,Fischer highlighted herShe DRIVES Act and pressed Secretary Duffy to ensure that NHTSA works in a timely manner to update crash testing standards.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:52:45Z"], ["https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=842BFC11-751C-4FA1-A38B-A9B8EBE2F029", "Fischer, Smith Introduce Bill to Ensure Tribal Voices are Prioritized in Federal Nutrition Decisions", "2025-11-20", "2025", "2025-11", "Republican", "Senate", "NE", "Deb Fischer", "F000463", "www.fischer.senate.gov", "fischer", "https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases", "scraper", "Bill strengthens USDA response to low-income, elderly food assistance programs if disruptions occur\n\nToday, U.S. Senators Deb Fischer (R-NE) and Tina Smith (D-MN) introduced the Increasing Tribal Input on Nutrition Act. This bipartisan legislation will ensure the federal government does not make decisions about the nutrition assistance programs Tribes rely on without their input.\n\nIn 2024, a contracting decision made by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) left many Tribes \u2014 including the Winnebago Tribe of Nebraska \u2014 with delayed, incomplete, and expired food deliveries. This resulted in significant food shortages for several months.\n\nThe Increasing Tribal Input on Nutrition Act would prevent future food shortages by requiring the USDA to incorporate Tribal input in contracting decisions. It would also strengthen the USDA\u2019s emergency response during disruptions and encourage meaningful Tribal consultation on nutrition programs at the state level.\n\n\u201cI\u2019m pleased to introduce this bill to ensure that those who rely on food assistance programs in Tribal communities \u2014 including the elderly and low-income \u2014 are not impacted by federal government missteps. The Increasing Tribal Input on Nutrition Act ensures that Tribal voices are at the table from the start and strengthens USDA\u2019s response if disruptions occur,\u201d Fischer said.\n\n\u201cTribal governments understand what works best for their communities, and they should have control over how they feed their members. Our bill makes an important fix that allows Tribes to get food assistance to those who need it most and provides the tools to prevent any future disruptions in the food supply chain,\u201d Smith said.\n\n\u201cLast year\u2019s FDPIR supply chain disruptions had a profound impact on something most of us take for granted \u2014 the ability to put food on the dinner table. The Increasing Tribal Input on Nutrition Act of 2025 would help ensure food security for FDPIR participants during supply chain disruptions. The Winnebago Tribe appreciates Senator Fischer\u2019s leadership in addressing this issue and we look forward to working together to advance the legislation,\u201d said Winnebago Chairman Coly Brown.\n\n\u201cThe Native Farm Bill Coalition commends Senator Fisher and Senator Smith for introducing theIncreasing Tribal Input on Nutrition Act. As we have witnessed in recent years, FDPIR warehouse disruptions have devastating and lasting impacts in Indian Country, where one in four Tribal citizens experience food insecurity, but this bill is an important step to ensure USDA has the authority it needs to utilize federal resources to resolve disruptions to the Food Disruption Program on Indian Reservations (FDPIR) and provide immediate relief, including payments to Tribes to purchase food when USDA cannot due to government shutdowns, warehouse vendors, or other supply chain disruptions,\u201d said Native Farm Bill Coalition co-chairs Shakopee Mdewakanton Sioux Community Chairman Cole Miller and CEO of the Intertribal Agriculture Council Kari Jo Lawrence.\n\nBACKGROUND:\n\nThe Increasing Tribal Input on Nutrition Act would:\n\nRequire USDA to include Tribal representatives in reviewing and awarding contracts under the Food Distribution Program on Indian Reservations (FDPIR).\n\nFDPIR provides income-eligible households with food on Indian reservations. Many households participate in FDPIR as an alternative to SNAP.\n\nDirect USDA to designate an emergency contractor within 45 days of any supply chain disruption under FDPIR or Commodity Supplemental Food Program (CSFP).\n\nCSFP is targeted at low-income elderly persons 60 years or older and distributes both food and administrative funds to participating states and Tribes.\n\nAllow USDA to provide direct payments to Tribes to purchase food themselves during an FDPIR disruption.\n\nEncourage states to conduct Tribal consultation before amending CSFP State Plans.\n\nDirect USDA to support this work through cooperative agreements or technical assistance.\n\nClick here to read the text of the bill.\n\nToday, U.S. Senators Deb Fischer (R-NE) and Tina Smith (D-MN) introduced theIncreasing Tribal Input on Nutrition Act. This bipartisan legislation will ensure the federal government does not make decisions about the nutrition assistance programs Tribes rely on without their input.\n\nIn 2024, a contracting decision made by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) left many Tribes \u2014 including the Winnebago Tribe of Nebraska \u2014 with delayed, incomplete, and expired food deliveries. This resulted in significant food shortages for several months.\n\nTheIncreasing Tribal Input on Nutrition Act would prevent future food shortages by requiring the USDA to incorporate Tribal input in contracting decisions. It would also strengthen the USDA\u2019s emergency response during disruptions and encourage meaningful Tribal consultation on nutrition programs at the state level.\n\n\u201cI\u2019m pleased to introduce this bill to ensure that those who rely on food assistance programs in Tribal communities \u2014 including the elderly and low-income \u2014 are not impacted by federal government missteps. TheIncreasing Tribal Input on Nutrition Actensures that Tribal voices are at the table from the start and strengthens USDA\u2019s response if disruptions occur,\u201dFischer said.\n\n\u201cTribal governments understand what works best for their communities, and they should have control over how they feed their members. Our bill makes an important fix that allows Tribes to get food assistance to those who need it most and provides the tools to prevent any future disruptions in the food supply chain,\u201dSmith said.\n\n\u201cLast year\u2019s FDPIR supply chain disruptions had a profound impact on something most of us take for granted \u2014 the ability to put food on the dinner table. TheIncreasing Tribal Input on Nutrition Act of 2025 would help ensure food security for FDPIR participants during supply chain disruptions. The Winnebago Tribe appreciates Senator Fischer\u2019s leadership in addressing this issue and we look forward to working together to advance the legislation,\u201dsaid Winnebago Chairman Coly Brown.\n\n\u201cThe Native Farm Bill Coalition commends Senator Fisher and Senator Smith for introducing theIncreasing Tribal Input on Nutrition Act.As we have witnessed in recent years, FDPIR warehouse disruptions have devastating and lasting impacts in Indian Country, where one in four Tribal citizens experience food insecurity, but this bill is an important step to ensure USDA has the authority it needs to utilize federal resources to resolve disruptions to the Food Disruption Program on Indian Reservations (FDPIR) and provide immediate relief, including payments to Tribes to purchase food when USDA cannot due to government shutdowns, warehouse vendors, or other supply chain disruptions,\u201dsaid Native Farm Bill Coalition co-chairs Shakopee Mdewakanton Sioux Community Chairman Cole Miller and CEO of the Intertribal Agriculture Council Kari Jo Lawrence.\n\nBACKGROUND:\n\nTheIncreasing Tribal Input on Nutrition Act would:\n\nRequire USDA to include Tribal representatives in reviewing and awarding contracts under the Food Distribution Program on Indian Reservations (FDPIR).\n\nFDPIR provides income-eligible households with food on Indian reservations. Many households participate in FDPIR as an alternative to SNAP.\n\nDirect USDA to designate an emergency contractor within 45 days of any supply chain disruption under FDPIR or Commodity Supplemental Food Program (CSFP).\n\nCSFP is targeted at low-income elderly persons 60 years or older and distributes both food and administrative funds to participating states and Tribes.\n\nAllow USDA to provide direct payments to Tribes to purchase food themselves during an FDPIR disruption.\n\nEncourage states to conduct Tribal consultation before amending CSFP State Plans.\n\nDirect USDA to support this work through cooperative agreements or technical assistance.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:52:45Z"], ["https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/news/press-releases/ricketts-introduces-package-to-support-servicemembers-veterans/", "Ricketts Introduces Package to Support Servicemembers, Veterans", "2025-11-20", "2025", "2025-11", "Republican", "Senate", "NE", "Pete Ricketts", "R000618", "www.ricketts.senate.gov", "ricketts", "https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/?jsf=jet-engine:press-list&pagenum=", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 This week, U.S. Senator Pete Ricketts (R-NE) introduced a package of bills to support servicemembers and veterans. He introduced the Medical Integrity in Necessary Diagnostics (MIND) for Our Veterans Act of 2025 with Elissa Slotkin (D-MI). The bipartisan bill ensures that servicemembers receive effective, evidence-based mental health screenings prior to separation from active duty. Ricketts also introduced the Service Members Tax Relief Act of 2025. The bill would fully exempt active duty and reserve military compensation from federal income taxes.\n\n\u201cOur servicemembers and veterans sacrifice for the country. We owe them more than we can ever repay,\u201d said Ricketts. \u201cThat\u2019s why I\u2019m working to ensure these brave women and men keep all the benefits they earn during military service. We also need to make sure that servicemembers are set up for success when they transition back to civilian life. These bills strengthen our support for Nebraska servicemembers, veterans, and their families.\u201d\n\n\u201cFar too many veterans moving from active duty to civilian status slip through the cracks, said Senator Slotkin. \u201cHaving served alongside our military, I know that our veterans deserve nothing less than the highest medical standards when it comes to their mental health. The MIND Our Veterans Act is about making sure every servicemember gets the mental health care they\u2019ve earned from day one of civilian life.\u201d\n\n\u201cThese bills are in keeping with my commitment to America First principles and advances President Trump\u2019s Peace Through Strength agenda by alleviating the burdens on our service members in some small measure,\u201d said Congressman Abe Hamadeh (R-AZ-8), the House lead of the Service Members Tax Relief Act. \u201cOur service members face high operational demands and cost-of-living pressures that outpace pay tables. So, anything we can cost-effectively do to ease those pressures, should be done. These bills are fiscally conservative in that they offer relief through the tax code instead of new spending. It is a win-win; the exemption instantly improves take-home pay, while helping with recruitment and retention, which in turn keeps our war fighters strong.\u201d\n\nTheMIND Our Veterans Actwould:\n\nMandate that the Department of Defense (DoD) and Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) use only validated, evidence-based tools for screening PTSD, alcohol misuse, and violence risk during the separation process;\n\nEnsures that a drug-use assessment is considered a core part of mental health screening, recognizing the critical connection between substance use and mental health challenges;\n\nDirects Joint Executive Committee of the DoD and VA to oversee validation, implementation, and reporting on all screenings;\n\nRequires DoD to fully implement the improved Separation Health Assessment within 120 days, creating urgency and accountability.\n\nThis bill is endorsed by the American Legion.\n\nBill text can be found here.\n\nThe Service Members Tax Relief Act would:\n\nAmend the Internal Revenue Code to exclude all military compensation from gross income for federal tax purposes;\n\nApply to both active duty and reserve members of the Uniformed Services of the United States;\n\nMaintain that retirement pay and pensions remain taxable under current law to preserve the distinction between active service compensation and post-service retirement benefits;\n\nEnsures that these changes take effect for income earned after the date of enactment.\n\nBackground\n\nMIND Our Veterans Act\n\nEvery year, thousands of servicemembers transition from active duty into veteran status. This transition can bring significant challenges, especially when it comes to mental health. Research consistently shows that recently separated servicemembers face heightened risks of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), substance misuse, depression, and even suicide.\n\nCurrently, the Separation Health Assessment (SHA) lacks a standardized, validated mental health and drug-use screening. This jeopardizes early identification and intervention for servicemembers in crisis, leaving the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) to address problems after they have escalated.\n\nService Member Tax Relief Act\n\nServicemembers\u2019 basic pay is fully taxable, along with most forms of special duty pay and bonuses. While certain allowances like housing (BAH), subsistence (BAS), and combat zone pay are excluded, these exemptions only partially ease tax burdens.\n\nWhile some states already exempt portions of military income, the federal tax system continues to treat active duty and reserve military salaries as taxable income. This legislation would recognize the extraordinary service of America\u2019s men and women in uniform by ensuring they keep more of what they earn. This bill would support readiness, recruitment, and retention while honoring the sacrifices servicemembers make every day to defend the United States.\n\nCompanion legislation was introduced in the House by U.S. Representative Abe Hamadeh (R-AZ-8).", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:52:45Z"], ["https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=2820", "KETV's Rob McCartney honored at Congress by Nebraska Rep. Don Bacon", "2025-11-19", "2025", "2025-11", "Republican", "House", "NE", "Don Bacon", "B001298", "bacon.house.gov", "bacon", "https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx", "scraper", "KETV's Rob McCartney was honored on the House floor on Wednesday morning.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:52:45Z"], ["https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases/bipartisan-housing-insurance-subcommittee-leaders-highlight-proposed-major", "Bipartisan Housing & Insurance Subcommittee Leaders Highlight Proposed Major Reforms to Top Federal Housing Program", "2025-11-19", "2025", "2025-11", "Republican", "House", "NE", "Mike Flood", "F000474", "flood.house.gov", "flood", "https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Today, Housing & Insurance Subcommittee Chair Mike Flood (NE-01) and Ranking Member Emanuel Cleaver (MO-05) held a press conference to highlight historic reforms they introduced in the HOME Reform Act of 2025.\n\n\u201cAmerica is in the midst of a housing shortage as families struggle to live the American dream due to the lack of millions of homes,\u201d said Chairman Flood (R-NE). \u201cThe HOME program is a federal program that builds housing supply, but it has been weighed down by regulatory burdens that make it hard to build housing. The HOME Reform Act of 2025 will cut the red tape that has been holding this program back. Dozens of stakeholders are throwing their support behind these reforms, building momentum to tackle our nation\u2019s housing shortage. From Columbus, Nebraska to Columbus, Ohio and beyond, the HOME Reform Act of 2025 gives local communities an unprecedented opportunity to build affordable homes and directly address the housing crisis gripping our nation. Thanks to my colleague Rep. Cleaver, and I look forward to working to pass this legislation with broad bipartisan support.\"\n\n\u201cFrom the heartland to the coasts, hardworking families continue to struggle with the high cost of housing\u2014and it is imperative that Congress take strong, comprehensive, and bipartisan action to boost the construction of affordable housing across the country,\u201d said Ranking Member Cleaver (D-MO). \u201cWith overwhelming support from housing stakeholders, our HOME Reform Act takes major steps toward cutting the unnecessary red tape and strengthening public-private partnerships that will incentivize the development of affordable housing in communities nationwide. I\u2019m proud to stand with Chairman Flood as we fight to lower housing costs, and I hope that lawmakers on both sides of the aisle and in both chambers of Congress will join us in this important effort.\u201d\n\nWhat Stakeholders Are Saying:\n\n\u201cThe HOME Investment Partnerships Program is an important source of financing for affordable housing, often used in conjunction with the recently expanded Low-Income Housing Tax Credit,\u201d said Emily Cadik, Chief Executive Officer of the Affordable Housing Tax Credit Coalition. \u201cWe applaud Chairman Flood and Ranking Member Cleaver for working together on these commonsense, bipartisan proposals to make the HOME program more efficient and effective, at a time when there is such an urgent need to increase affordable housing supply.\u201d\n\n\u201cThe HOME Reform Act of 2025 strengthens a vital federal program that communities use to develop and preserve supportive housing. These improvements to the HOME Investment Partnerships Program will help ensure that people with disabilities and complex health needs have access to stable, affordable homes paired with the services that support housing success. We commend Chairman Flood and Ranking Member Cleaver for their bipartisan leadership in advancing practical reforms that reduce development barriers, improve infrastructure, and expand housing options in communities across the country. CSH is proud to support this legislation and its commitment to building stronger housing systems,\u201d said Deb De Santis, President and CEO, Corporation for Supportive Housing.\n\n\u201cCOSCDA applauds Congressman Flood and Congressman Cleaver for the introduction of the HOME Reform Act of 2025, a bill that would modernize the HOME Investment Partnerships Program and spur the development of affordable housing supply. This bipartisan bill addresses many of the barriers identified by HOME stakeholders by streamlining over-burdensome requirements and making common-sense improvements. COSCDA\u2019s state HOME grantees urge Congress to pass this bill, marking the HOME program\u2019s first modernization since its passage in the 1990s,\u201d said Tess Hembree, Executive Director, Council of State Community Development Agencies (COSCDA).\n\n\u201cHUD\u2019s HOME Investment Partnerships Program is the largest federal housing block grant. It\u2019s time for Congress to modernize and streamline the program as our nation is facing a record shortage of starter homes pushing homeownership out of reach for millions of families and essential workers nationwide,\u201d said Chris Vincent, Vice President of Government Relations and Advocacy at Habitat for Humanity International. \u201cWe applaud Representatives Mike Flood and Emanuel Cleaver for leading this bipartisan effort to ease regulatory burdens and strengthen the programs use and effectiveness in building more affordable homes, especially for homeownership.\u201d\n\n\u201cAs a Network of mission-driven housing developers and lenders that use the HOME program to reduce housing costs for households all across the country, HPN applauds and supports the introduction of the bipartisan HOME Reform Act. This is common sense legislation that reduces red tape, makes the HOME program easier to use and maintains a strong focus on people in need,\u201d said Robin Hughes, CEO, Housing Partnership Network.\n\n\"Lincoln Avenue Communities is pleased to support the HOME Reform Act of 2025. As the nation faces an unprecedented affordable housing crisis, this legislation proposes crucial changes to modernize the HOME Program and expand its impact. It creates new programmatic efficiencies that will empower local communities to help finance affordable housing where it is needed most. We urge Congress to enact this critical legislation as soon as possible,\u201d said Thom Amdur, Senior Vice President for Policy & Impact, Lincoln Avenue Communities.\n\n\u201cThe Local Initiatives Support Corporation (LISC) applauds Representatives Cleaver and Flood for their leadership in introducing the HOME Reform Act of 2025. The HOME Program is our nation\u2019s only federal block grant to state and local governments designed exclusively to create and preserve affordable housing for low-income households. It\u2019s often utilized as critical gap financing for Low-Income Housing Tax Credit developments\u201d said Matt Josephs, Senior Vice President of Policy, LISC. \u201cThe HOME Reform Act will modernize the program, making it easier to utilize, which will ultimately decrease projects costs and increase affordable housing opportunities for families.\u201d\n\n\u201cThe Mortgage Bankers Association commends Congressmen Mike Flood (R-NE) and Emanuel Cleaver (D-MO) for proposing important reforms to the HOME Act that will bring more affordable housing supply to market,\u201d said Bill Killmer, senior vice president of legislative and political affairs at Mortgage Bankers Association. \u201cMBA supports policies that streamline development, reduce regulatory burdens, and expand access to sustainable housing options for consumers.\u201d\n\n\u201cThe housing undersupply crisis impacts nearly every community across our country, and there\u2019s never been a more pressing need for decisive and bipartisan action from Congress,\u201d said National Apartment Association (NAA) President & CEO Bob Pinnegar. \u201cNAA applauds Reps. Mike Flood (R-Neb.-1) and Emanuel Cleaver (D-Mo.-5) for their steadfast leadership in introducing the HOME Reform Act. This legislation rightly places an important emphasis on reducing regulatory burdens and would ultimately help increase critically needed housing supply and ease longstanding affordability challenges for Americans nationwide.\u201d\n\n\u201cNAHB applauds Reps. Mike Flood (R-Neb.) and Emanuel Cleaver (D-Mo.) for introducing bipartisan legislation that makes much needed reforms to the HOME program. The HOME Reform Act of 2025 will improve this critical block grant program designed exclusively to create affordable housing for low-income households. The legislation increases opportunities for homeownership by expanding HOME to include workforce housing and relieves regulatory burdens on home builders and housing providers to enable them to construct more attainable, affordable housing,\u201d said Buddy Hughes, Chairman of the National Association of Home Builders.\n\n\"NAR strongly supports the HOME Reform Act and thanks Chairman Flood and Ranking Member Cleaver for their bipartisan leadership in modernizing a program that hasn't been updated in decades,\" said National Association of Realtors Executive Vice President and Chief Advocacy Officer Shannon McGahn. \"By cutting red tape and giving communities more flexibility, these reforms will unlock housing production and open doors to homeownership for more first-time buyers.\"\n\n\"America\u2019s affordable housing crisis is made worse by federal rules that slow down construction and increase costs. The National Community Development Association supports the HOME Reform Act of 2025, which simplifies regulations and gives administrators more flexibility to deliver affordable housing faster,\u201d said Vicki Watson, Executive Director, National Community Development Association (NCDA).\n\n\u201cThe HOME program is critical to the production and preservation of affordable rental and homeownership opportunities in rural, urban, and suburban communities. It also provides states and local participating jurisdictions with much-needed flexibility to meet their unique housing needs. Chairman Flood and Ranking Member Cleaver\u2019s HOME Reform Act makes meaningful reforms to the program that promote flexibility, streamline program requirements and regulations, and reduce barriers to entry. This proposal will reduce costs, promote affordable housing development and preservation, and support more homebuyers and renters. NHC looks forward to working with Congress to advance this legislation,\u201d said David M. Dworkin, President and CEO of the National Housing Conference.\n\n\u201cNMHC applauds the tremendous work that Chaiman Flood and Ranking Member Cleaver have undertaken to streamline and strengthen the HOME program. Today\u2019s legislation will make this critical program more effective and efficient in addressing our nation's housing supply shortage and reducing the cost of housing. We look forward to working with Congress on enacting this and other legislation that will help realize our goal of ensuring that all Americans have a safe and decent place to call home at a price they can afford,\u201d said Sharon Wilson G\u00e9no, National Multifamily Housing Council President.\n\n\u201cThe National NeighborWorks Association applauds Chairman Flood and Ranking Member Cleaver for their thoughtful, bipartisan leadership on the HOME Reform Act of 2025,\u201d said Lou Tisler, Executive Director of National NeighborWorks Association. \u201cThis legislation will help unlock the full potential of the HOME program through much-needed streamlining and common-sense reforms. The 250 NeighborWorks-chartered organizations across the country are on the front lines of America\u2019s housing crisis, and these reforms will enable them to use HOME resources more effectively\u2014 building more affordable supply and helping more families achieve the dream of homeownership.\u201d\n\n\u201cAmerica\u2019s housing affordability crisis has reached a breaking point, and the HOME Reform Act of 2025 rises to meet it,\u201d said Mike Kingsella, CEO of Up for Growth. \u201cThis bill will make it easier for public and private partners to work together to build more affordable homes and ensures program funds support the infrastructure that communities, especially those long overlooked, need to meet their housing needs. With the bipartisan leadership of Chairman Flood and Ranking Member Cleaver, Congress has a clear opportunity to help communities across the country deliver affordable homes, expand pathways to ownership, and open doors of opportunity for individuals and families nationwide.\u201d\n\nThe HOME Reform Act is endorsed by Affordable Housing Tax Credit Coalition, American Planning Association (APA), Bipartisan Policy Center Action, Corporation for Supportive Housing (CSH), Council for Affordable and Rural Housing (CARH), Council of State Community Development Agencies (COSCDA), Community Opportunity Alliance, Enterprise Community Partners, Fahe, Habitat for Humanity International, Housing Partnership Network (HPN), Local Initiatives Support Corporation (LISC), Lincoln Avenue Communities, Mortgage Bankers Association (MBA), Manufactured Housing Institute (MHI), National Apartment Association (NAA), National Association of Affordable Housing Lenders (NAAHL), National Association of County Community and Economic Development (NACCED), National Association of Home Builders (NAHB), National Association of Housing and Redevelopment Officials (NAHRO), National Association of Real Estate Brokers (NAREB), National Association of Realtors (NAR), National Community Development Association (NCDA), National Community Stabilization Trust (NCST), National Council of State Housing Agencies (NCSHA), National Housing Conference (NHC), National Housing and Redevelopment Officials (NH&RA), National Multifamily Housing Council (NMHC), National NeighborWorks Association (NNA), Stewards of Affordable Housing for the Future (SAHF), Up for Growth and the US Conference of Mayors.\n\nCongressman Flood serves as the Chairman of the Housing & Insurance Subcommittee, Chair of the Republican Main Street Caucus, and is a member of the House Financial Services Committee.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:52:45Z"], ["https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=1323C477-D50A-4B9A-9758-62E934E8F6FD", "Fischer, Colleagues Introduce Bipartisan Bill to End Financial Burdens of Wildfires Started by the Federal Government", "2025-11-19", "2025", "2025-11", "Republican", "Senate", "NE", "Deb Fischer", "F000463", "www.fischer.senate.gov", "fischer", "https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases", "scraper", "U.S. Senators Deb Fischer (R-NE), Ben Ray Luj\u00e1n (D-NM), and Cynthia Lummis (R-WY) introduced the Responsible Wildland Fire Recovery Act, legislation to boost federal wildfire recovery efforts. The legislation would allow the Secretary of Agriculture to waive all cost share requirements for U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) programs as a result of wildfires started by controlled burns and other land management activities conducted by the USDA. Current law does not fully cover remediation costs in cases where the government is responsible for a wildfire ignition.\n\n\u201cIf a prescribed burn, started by the federal government, escapes containment, Nebraskans shouldn\u2019t be left to foot the bill for recovery. Our bipartisan Responsible Wildland Fire Recovery Act will protect Nebraskans from being impacted by the federal government if prescribed burns are mismanaged and destructive to private property,\u201d said Fischer.\n\n\u201cWell-intentioned federal controlled burns and land management activities can be critical tools for preventing devastating wildfires, however, if they unexpectedly escape containment, they can devastate communities. Many New Mexicans know this devastation personally after living through the Hermit\u2019s Peak/Calf Canyon fire. While I passed legislation to rebuild communities in the aftermath of Hermit\u2019s Peak, the federal government currently bears no responsibility to fully cover costs for remediation and recovery. That\u2019s why I\u2019m introducing bipartisan legislation that allows the Secretary of Agriculture to remove costs share requirements and ensure communities across the country are not left to fend for themselves during their recovery,\u201d said Luj\u00e1n.\n\n\"Federal controlled burns are one of our most effective tools for protecting Wyoming communities from catastrophic wildfires. While these prescribed fires rarely escape containment, when they do, they can damage the very areas they're designed to protect. The Responsible Wildland Fire Recovery Act gives the Secretary of Agriculture the authority to compensate affected residents and repair any damage from when controlled burns exceed their boundaries\u2014while maintaining our commitment to proven wildfire prevention strategies,\u201d said Lummis.\n\nBACKGROUND:\n\nThis bill will allow the Secretary of Agriculture to waive all cost share requirements for the remediation of damage deemed to be to be a result of management activities conducted by the Secretary on National Forest System land.\n\nThis waiver will only apply to cash cost shares, not in-kind contributions, and may only be applied at the Secretary\u2019s discretion. With this added authority, the Secretary will be able to expedite much needed infrastructural repairs in communities devasted by wildfires that are out of their control.\n\nClick here to read the text of the bill.\n\nPermalink: https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/2025/11/fischer-colleagues-introduce-bipartisan-bill-to-end-financial-burdens-of-wildfires-started-by-the-federal-government", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:52:45Z"], ["https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases/smith-releases-statement-after-voting-release-epstein-files", "Smith Releases Statement After Voting to\u00a0Release the Epstein Files", "2025-11-18", "2025", "2025-11", "Republican", "House", "NE", "Adrian Smith", "S001172", "adriansmith.house.gov", "adriansmith", "https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2013 Today, Congressman Adrian Smith released the following statement after voting for H.R. 4405, the Epstein Files Transparency Act:\n\n\u201cThe crimes of Jeffrey Epstein are appalling. The American people deserve transparency into who else participated, who else knew, and why Epstein received the treatment he did from prosecutors.\n\n\u201cToday\u2019s vote is another small step towards accountability and justice for the survivors of these heinous crimes. I appreciate the work which the House Oversight and Government Reform Committee has already done to release more than 65,000 pages of documents relating to Epstein, and I hope further accountability will be the result as additional files are reviewed and released.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:52:45Z"], ["https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=2814", "Bacon, Khanna Applaud Administration Decision to Exempt Coffee from Costly Reciprocal Tariffs", "2025-11-18", "2025", "2025-11", "Republican", "House", "NE", "Don Bacon", "B001298", "bacon.house.gov", "bacon", "https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx", "scraper", "Reversal Follows Bacon & Khanna\u2019s Bipartisan No Coffee Tax Act to Repeal Coffee Tariffs\n\nWashington \u2013 Representatives Don Bacon (NE-02) and Ro Khanna (CA-17) today applauded the Trump administration\u2019s decision to exempt coffee from the costly reciprocal tariffs driving up prices across the United States.\n\nLast week, President Trump signed an Executive Order modifying the scope of the reciprocal tariffs first announced on April 2, 2025. Under the updated order, certain qualifying agricultural products, including coffee, will no longer be subject to those tariffs. The decision follows Rep. Bacon\u2019s bipartisan No Coffee Tax Act, introduced with Reps. Ro Khanna (CA-17), Don Beyer (VA-08), and Maggie Goodlander (NH-02), which would have repealed the tariffs on coffee.\n\n\u201cFamilies across America are feeling the cost of higher coffee prices, which are already up 21 percent due to the reciprocal tariffs. The U.S. is the largest importer of coffee in the world and relies almost entirely on imports for coffee,\u201d said Rep. Bacon. \u201cTariffing a product we can't grow at a large, commercial scale doesn't make sense and only drives prices higher for consumers. I applaud President Trump and his administration for listening to our concerns and recognizing the harm these tariffs were causing. I hope this marks the beginning of the administration reversing course on these harmful tariffs.\u201d\n\n\u201cRepresentative Don Bacon and my efforts are working. We have been calling for coffee tariffs to be repealed and introduced our bipartisan bill. Increasing prices for small businesses and coffee drinkers makes no economic sense,\u201d said Rep. Khanna\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:52:45Z"], ["https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-flood-applauds-commonsense-wotus-proposal", "Congressman Flood Applauds Commonsense WOTUS Proposal", "2025-11-18", "2025", "2025-11", "Republican", "House", "NE", "Mike Flood", "F000474", "flood.house.gov", "flood", "https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Today, U.S. Congressman Mike Flood issued a statement on the proposed rule announced by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to revise the \u201cWaters of the United States\u201d (WOTUS) rule and provide greater certainty for farmers.\n\n\u201cFor years, the Biden administration refused to listen to ag producers and the states that have given ongoing feedback about changes to the WOTUS rule. The Trump administration\u2019s proposed rule reflects significant stakeholder input and is a big win for our farmers and ranchers. The new rule rolls back red tape, gives clarity to our ag producers, and protects Americans from the overreach they endured during the last administration.\u201c", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:52:45Z"], ["https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-flood-votes-epstein-files-transparency-act", "Congressman Flood Votes for the Epstein Files Transparency Act", "2025-11-18", "2025", "2025-11", "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 issued a statement following his vote for H.R. 4405, the Epstein Files Transparency Act.\n\n\"I support releasing the Epstein files and voted to do so today. Epstein\u2019s victims deserve justice. This is yet another step towards ensuring that our country exposes corruption and sends a message that America will never tolerate the horrific crimes that came with the evil trafficking operation Epstein ran.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:52:45Z"], ["https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=CA6ACA3C-DCE1-409B-BFCA-B934A1BCA222", "Fischer in Scottsbluff Star-Herald: Western Nebraska\u2019s role in upholding our national security", "2025-11-18", "2025", "2025-11", "Republican", "Senate", "NE", "Deb Fischer", "F000463", "www.fischer.senate.gov", "fischer", "https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases", "scraper", "In case you missed it: U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-Neb.), a senior member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, penned an op-ed in the Scottsbluff Star-Herald highlighting the essential role Western Nebraska plays in strengthening our national security and maintaining a robust nuclear deterrent.\n\nRead the op-ed here or below:\n\nWhen Nebraskans think about our state\u2019s role in national defense, Omaha usually comes to mind. Offutt Air Force Base and U.S. Strategic Command are vital to America\u2019s military readiness, and they deserve that recognition. But another part of our state plays just as critical a role.\n\nIn the Panhandle of Nebraska sit roughly 82 of the 450 Minuteman III Intercontinental Ballistic Missiles (ICBMs) that make up the backbone of our nation\u2019s nuclear deterrent. These missiles are housed underground in secure silos, monitored 24 hours a day by teams of missileers working in fortified launch control centers. While the rest of the country goes about daily life, these men and women stand watch every hour of every day \u2014 quietly helping keep America safe.\n\nThis mission doesn\u2019t happen in isolation. It is supported by Nebraska families who make a home in these communities and by small businesses that supply and sustain the base. The people of western Nebraska are vital partners in this mission. You carry a significant weight of global security on your shoulders.\n\nThe Minuteman III system was built during the Cold War. It\u2019s served us well, but it\u2019s time for modernization so we can meet the emerging threats of the future. That\u2019s why the Air Force is transitioning to the new Sentinel missile \u2014 and why in the U.S. Senate, I worked to ensure the program stays on track. Now that the federal government has reopened, Congress\u2019 next priority should be passing the National Defense Authorization Act. This year\u2019s bill authorizes more than $4 billion for the Sentinel program, requires at least 400 deployed ICBMs spread across no fewer than 450 sites, and sets a firm deadline of 2033 for completion. I fought to ensure these provisions made it into the Senate\u2019s version of the bill and will continue to fight to include them in the final bill passed by both chambers of Congress.\n\nThese steps aren\u2019t about building toward conflict \u2014 they\u2019re about making sure conflict never happens. Our ICBMs don\u2019t sit unused for decades \u2014 they are used every single day to deter our adversaries. A strong, modern deterrent sends a clear message: no adversary can risk attacking the United States or our allies without facing devastating consequences. That peace of mind is made possible, in large part, by the work happening in western Nebraska.\n\nSo to the people of the Panhandle: thank you. Your contributions are essential to our nation\u2019s safety. I will continue fighting on the Senate Armed Services Committee to make sure you have the resources, recognition, and support you deserve to continue this vital mission. Because when Nebraska stands ready, America stands strong.\n\nPermalink: https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/2025/11/fischer-in-scottsbluff-star-herald-western-nebraska-s-role-in-upholding-our-national-security", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:52:45Z"], ["https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/news/press-releases/ricketts-releases-videos-showcasing-successful-efforts-to-cut-red-tape-get-results-for-nebraskans/", "Ricketts Releases Videos Showcasing Successful Efforts to Cut Red Tape, Get Results for Nebraskans", "2025-11-18", "2025", "2025-11", "Republican", "Senate", "NE", "Pete Ricketts", "R000618", "www.ricketts.senate.gov", "ricketts", "https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/?jsf=jet-engine:press-list&pagenum=", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Today, U.S. Senator Pete Ricketts (R-NE) released two videos showcasing his team\u2019s successful efforts to cut red tape and get results for Nebraskans navigating the federal bureaucracy.\n\n\u201cWhen the federal bureaucracy fails Nebraskans, my team and I are here to help,\u201d said Senator Ricketts. \u201cI\u2019m proud of our work to cut red tape and deliver wins for Nebraskans. We\u2019re committed to providing excellent customer service.\u201d\n\nThe first video features Jen and Shelly from Manley. Jen and Shelly worked hard to open a daycare to meet a growing need for childcare. They applied for a federal grant through the Department of Health and Human Services. They exchanged 88 emails but continued to wait. Team Ricketts was able to cut through the red tape. Jen and Shelly got their grant in time to open their doors. Now, families in Southeast Nebraska have access to high-quality childcare closer to home.\n\nClick HERE to watch Jen and Shelly\u2019s story.\n\nThe second video features Paul in Broken Bow. Paul is the President of the Board of Off Broadway Apartments, a senior living community. COVID requirements made it difficult for Paul to pay his staff. Bureaucratic red tape made it difficult for Paul to receive the Employee Retention Credit. Without it, he would be forced to close. Team Ricketts contacted the IRS and ensured that Off Broadway received the proper tax credits.\n\nClick HERE to watch Paul\u2019s story.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:52:45Z"], ["https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/news/press-releases/ricketts-supports-bill-to-release-the-epstein-files/", "Ricketts Supports Bill to Release the Epstein Files", "2025-11-18", "2025", "2025-11", "Republican", "Senate", "NE", "Pete Ricketts", "R000618", "www.ricketts.senate.gov", "ricketts", "https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/?jsf=jet-engine:press-list&pagenum=", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Today, U.S. Senator Pete Ricketts (R-NE) released a statement after supporting passage of a bill to compel the Justice Department to release the Epstein files:\n\n\u201cJeffrey Epstein committed disgusting, illegal acts. I\u2019ve long pushed for transparency and the release of the Epstein files. That\u2019s why I supported passage tonight. I appreciate Leader Thune for passing it through the Senate as quickly as possible.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:52:45Z"], ["https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases/smith-statement-wotus", "Smith Statement on WOTUS", "2025-11-17", "2025", "2025-11", "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), Vice Chair of the Congressional Western Caucus, released the following statement after the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the Department of the Army, Corps of Engineers (USACE) announced their proposed rule to define waters of the United States (WOTUS) under the Clean Water Act. The proposed rule will provide needed clarity and reduce permitting barriers while ensuring EPA fulfills its mandate to protect navigable American waters.\n\n\"Today\u2019s announcement is a win for farmers, ranchers, and landowners across the United States. For years, overreaching and inconsistent WOTUS definitions have created burdensome red tape and threatened property rights in rural America. I applaud Administrator Zeldin for taking the necessary action to restore certainty and common sense.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:52:45Z"], ["https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=2819", "Bacon, Lee, Panetta Lead Bipartisan Push Urging Permanent Retainment of Dept. of Ed Staff Serving Students Experiencing Homelessness and Foster Care", "2025-11-17", "2025", "2025-11", "Republican", "House", "NE", "Don Bacon", "B001298", "bacon.house.gov", "bacon", "https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx", "scraper", "Text of Letter (PDF)\n\nWashington \u2013 Today, Representative Don Bacon (NE-02) led a bipartisan letter with Reps. Summer L. Lee (PA-12) and Jimmy Panetta (CA-19) to the Office of Management and Budget and the U.S. Department of Education urging the permanent retainment of staff in the Office of Elementary and Secondary Education (OESE) who administer programs serving students experiencing homelessness and students in foster care.\n\nThe letter follows widespread reduction-in-force (RIF) notices issued during the government shutdown that reportedly fired almost all OESE workers, including the staff who administer the Education for Homeless Children and Youth (EHCY) program. Although the shutdown RIF has since been reversed, the lawmakers are concerned that the Department is working to gut the EHCY program and stressed that reinstating workers temporarily is not sufficient. The Department, the lawmakers emphasize, must restore\u2014and retain\u2014the specialized personnel who ensure states and districts can meet their legal obligations to students.\n\n\u201cAbout 1.4 million students in the U.S. experience homelessness each school year and about 270,000 school-aged children and youth are in foster care. Beyond the challenges of meeting their basic needs, these students face unique barriers to education including difficulty enrolling in school without a fixed address or necessary documentation, lack of transportation, frequently changing schools, and chronic absenteeism,\u201d the lawmakers wrote. \u201cFederal programs administered by the Office of Elementary and Secondary Education, like the Education for Homeless Children and Youth (EHCY) program, are one of few lifelines for children experiencing homelessness.\u201d\n\nThe letter notes that without OESE\u2019s specialized staff\u2014including those supporting the EHCY program\u2014states and districts cannot fully implement federal protections (McKinney-Vento) or effectively utilize Title I, Part A set-asides for students experiencing homelessness. The members underscore Congress\u2019s bipartisan support for EHCY, with both chambers proposing $129 million for FY 2026, and argue that permanent staffing is essential to deliver on that commitment.\n\n\u201cWithout these workers, the Department of Education will be unable to fulfill its legal responsibilities under Section 724 of the McKinney-Vento Act, which protects access to education for students experiencing homelessness. Without these workers, states and districts will be unequipped to implement EHCY funding and other critical support that students are entitled to,\u201d the lawmakers continued. \u201cAs a result, over one million children and youth may lose access to the educational services they rely on as an essential source of stability.\u201d\n\nThe letter is signed by Representatives Nanette Barrag\u00e1n, Salud Carbajal, Andr\u00e9 Carson, Greg Casar, Judy Chu, Emanuel Cleaver, Danny Davis, Madeleine Dean, Dwight Evans, Eleanor Holmes Norton, Chrissy Houlahan, Glenn Ivey, Jonathan Jackson, Hank Johnson, Seth Magaziner, Gwen Moore, Kevin Mullin, Jerrold Nadler, Brittany Pettersen, Mike Quigley, Delia Ramirez, Darren Soto, Marilyn Strickland, Shri Thanedar, Rashida Tlaib, Paul Tonko, and Gabe Vasquez.\n\nThe letter is endorsed by SchoolHouse Connection and the Homeless Children\u2019s Education Fund.\n\n\u201cEnsuring that children who are homeless or who enter foster care can stay in school is not a partisan issue. Restoring the small, specialized team at the U.S. Department of Education that helps states and school districts carry out these protections is a practical, bipartisan step that honors the law Congress passed. We are deeply grateful for the bipartisan leadership of Representatives Lee, Panetta, and Bacon in calling for the permanent reinstatement of these positions and stand ready to work with the Administration and leaders in both parties to make sure these students are not left behind,\u201d said Barbara Duffield, Executive Director of SchoolHouse Connection.\n\n\"Students experiencing homelessness and foster care face unique challenges every day and the dedicated federal workers supporting them are critical to ensuring these children have access to stable, equitable education. We urge the Office of Management and Budget and the Department of Education to permanently reinstate these essential positions. These students cannot afford to lose the advocates who fight for their success,\" said AJ Jefferson, president and CEO of Homeless Children's Education Fund, expressing her concern.\n\nFull letter text is available here.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:52:45Z"], ["https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/news/press-releases/ricketts-praises-trump-administrations-wotus-update-this-is-what-reining-in-overregulation-looks-like/", "Ricketts Praises Trump Administration\u2019s WOTUS Update: \u201cThis is What Reining in Overregulation Looks Like\u201d", "2025-11-17", "2025", "2025-11", "Republican", "Senate", "NE", "Pete Ricketts", "R000618", "www.ricketts.senate.gov", "ricketts", "https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/?jsf=jet-engine:press-list&pagenum=", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Today, U.S. Senator Pete Ricketts (R-NE), a member of the Environment and Public Works Committee, praised the Environmental Protection Agency\u2019s (EPA) proposed rule to modify the definition of Waters of the United States (WOTUS) under the Clean Water Act. The proposed rule aligns with the Supreme Court\u2019s 2023 Sackett v. EPA decision, which struck down the Biden administration\u2019s WOTUS definition. Ricketts said the following:\n\n\u201cThis is what reining in overregulation looks like. The Obama and Biden administrations tried to illegally increase the EPA\u2019s authority. The Trump administration is following the law. This action will deliver clarity and predictability for Nebraska farmers, ranchers, and small business owners. I applaud President Trump and Administrator Zeldin for delivering on the promise they made to end regulatory overreach.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:52:45Z"], ["https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases/smith-announces-upcoming-staff-outreach-events-21", "Smith Announces Upcoming Staff Outreach Events", "2025-11-14", "2025", "2025-11", "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 these outreach events in Hastings, Ravenna, Central City, York, Geneva, Wilber, Auburn, Falls City, Pawnee City, Red Cloud, Aurora, Tecumseh, Imperial, Grant, Blair, Bartlett, Tryon, Stapleton, and Brewster.\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, November 18, 2025\n\nHastings Public Library\n\n314 N. Denver Avenue, Hastings\n\n10:30 a.m. - 11:30 a.m. CT\n\nRavenna Public Library\n\n324 Milan Avenue, Ravenna\n\n1:30 p.m. - 2:30 p.m. CT\n\nCentral City Library\n\n1604 15th Avenue, Central City\n\n4:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m. CT\n\nWednesday, November 19, 2025\n\nYork Area Chamber of Commerce\n\n603 N. Lincoln Avenue, York\n\n10:30 a.m. - 11:30 a.m. CT\n\nGeneva Public Library\n\n1043 G Street, Geneva\n\n2:30 p.m. - 3:30 p.m. CT\n\nWilber Public Library\n\n419 W. 3rd Street, Wilber\n\n4:30 p.m. - 5:30 p.m. CT\n\nThursday, November 20, 2025\n\nAuburn Public Library\n\n1810 Courthouse Avenue, Auburn\n\n11:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. CT\n\nFalls City Library\n\n1400 Stone Street, Falls City\n\n1:00 p.m. - 2:00 p.m. CT\n\nPawnee City Library\n\n735 8th Street, Pawnee City\n\n3:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m. CT\n\nFriday, November 21, 2025\n\nRed Cloud Library\n\n537 N. Webster, Red Cloud\n\n1:00 p.m. - 2:00 p.m. CT\n\nMonday, November 24, 2025\n\nAurora Public Library\n\n1603 L Street, Aurora\n\n10:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m. CT\n\nTecumseh Public Library\n\n170 Branch Street, Tecumseh\n\n3:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m. CT\n\nTuesday, November 25, 2025\n\nChase County Courthouse\n\n921 Broadway, Imperial\n\n8:15 a.m. \u2013 9:15 a.m. MT\n\nPerkins County Courthouse\n\n200 Lincoln Avenue, Grant\n\n10:30 a.m. \u2013 11:30 a.m. MT\n\nWashington County Courthouse\n\n1555 Colfax Street, Blair\n\n4:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m. CT\n\nWednesday, November 26, 2025\n\nWheeler County Courthouse\n\n301 Third Street, Bartlett\n\n8:30 a.m. - 9:30 a.m. CT\n\nThursday, December 4, 2025\n\nMcPherson County Courthouse\n\n500 Anderson, Tryon\n\n2:00 p.m. \u2013 3:00 p.m. CT\n\nTuesday, December 16, 2025\n\nLogan County Courthouse\n\n317 Main Street, Stapleton\n\n10:00 a.m. \u2013 11:00 a.m. CT\n\nBlaine County Courthouse\n\n145 Lincoln Avenue, Brewster\n\n1:00 p.m. \u2013 2:00 p.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.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:52:45Z"], ["https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/news/press-releases/ricketts-25-colleagues-applaud-trump-admins-exclusion-of-unrwa-from-gaza-peace-process/", "Ricketts, 25 Colleagues Applaud Trump Admin\u2019s Exclusion of UNRWA from Gaza Peace Process", "2025-11-13", "2025", "2025-11", "Republican", "Senate", "NE", "Pete Ricketts", "R000618", "www.ricketts.senate.gov", "ricketts", "https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/?jsf=jet-engine:press-list&pagenum=", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Today, U.S. Senators Pete Ricketts (R-NE), a senior member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, led 25 colleagues in applauding President Trump and Secretary Rubio for excluding the United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA) from the Gaza peace process, citing UNRWA\u2019s ties to Hamas.\n\n\u201cAs discussions on Gaza\u2019s future continue, we must avoid repeating the mistakes that empowered the terror group to take hold in the first place,\u201d the lawmakers wrote. \u201cFor decades, the United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA) has operated in Gaza, yet extensive reporting, investigations, and intelligence assessments documented systemic infiltration of the agency by Hamas and other U.S.-designated foreign terrorist organizations.\u201d\n\n\u201cIn response to these alarming findings, the United States rightfully suspended funding to UNRWA and Israel barred the agency from operating on its territory,\u201d the lawmakers continued. \u201dThese steps were necessary because UNRWA has shown it cannot maintain neutrality or operate without being co-opted by terrorists. During your recent visit to Israel, you reaffirmed UNRWA\u2019s ties to terrorism, describing the agency as \u2018a subsidiary of Hamas\u2019 and making clear that it \u2018is not going to play any role\u2019 in the delivery of aid to Gaza. Reinstating UNRWA would only recreate the very conditions that allowed Hamas to entrench itself and exert control in Gaza.\u201d\n\n\u201cWe strongly urge the administration to ensure that UNRWA play no role in any efforts to stabilize, govern, and rebuild Gaza,\u201d the lawmakers concluded. \u201cInstead, we encourage the United States to work with vetted international partners, trusted regional actors, and nongovernmental organizations that are demonstrably free of terrorist influence and committed to transparency, accountability, and peace.\u201d\n\nAdditional signers included Senators Jim Risch (R-ID), Steve Daines (R-MT), Ted Budd (R-NC), Cynthia Lummis (R-WY), Tommy Tuberville (R-AL), Bill Hagerty (R-TN), John Cornyn (R-TX), Roger Wicker (R-MS), Tom Cotton (R-AR), Tim Scott (R-SC), Susan Collins (R-ME), Bernie Moreno (R-OH), Chuck Grassley (R-IA), John Boozman (R-AR), Tim Sheehy (R-MT), Lindsey Graham (R-SC), Deb Fischer (R-NE), Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV), Ted Cruz (R-TX), James Lankford (R-OK), Mike Crapo (R-ID), Mike Lee (R-UT), Dave McCormick (R-PA), Katie Britt (R-AL), and John Hoeven (R-ND).\n\nFull text of the letter can be found here and below:\n\nDear Secretary Rubio,\n\nWe write in support of the Trump administration\u2019s efforts to advance lasting stability in Gaza and enduring security for Israel. President Trump\u2019s leadership has been instrumental in negotiating and maintaining the ceasefire agreement and in securing the ongoing release of hostages. It is vital to continue applying maximum pressure on Hamas to release the remaining hostages still held in Gaza. We also commend the administration\u2019s continued commitment to ensuring that Hamas is fully disarmed and can never rule again in the territory. As discussions on Gaza\u2019s future continue, we must avoid repeating the mistakes that empowered the terror group to take hold in the first place.\n\nFor decades, the United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA) has operated in Gaza, yet extensive reporting, investigations, and intelligence assessments documented systemic infiltration of the agency by Hamas and other U.S.-designated foreign terrorist organizations. At least twelve UNRWA employees took part in the Hamas-led October 7 attacks, and roughly ten percent of UNRWA\u2019s Gaza staff have ties to terrorist groups, with many more having close relatives involved in these organizations. Since October 7, Hamas has repeatedly stolen the agency\u2019s aid and supplies, weapons have been found in its schools, tunnel infrastructure has been uncovered in or near its facilities, and its buildings were even used to hold hostages. Long before the war, UNRWA\u2019s curriculum was already known to radicalize Palestinian youth by promoting antisemitism and glorifying terrorism.\n\nIn response to these alarming findings, the United States rightfully suspended funding to UNRWA and Israel barred the agency from operating on its territory. These steps were necessary because UNRWA has shown it cannot maintain neutrality or operate without being co-opted by terrorists. During your recent visit to Israel, you reaffirmed UNRWA\u2019s ties to terrorism, describing the agency as \u201ca subsidiary of Hamas\u201d and making clear that it \u201cis not going to play any role\u201d in the delivery of aid to Gaza. Reinstating UNRWA would only recreate the very conditions that allowed Hamas to entrench itself and exert control in Gaza.\n\nWe strongly urge the administration to ensure that UNRWA play no role in any efforts to stabilize, govern, and rebuild Gaza. Instead, we encourage the United States to work with vetted international partners, trusted regional actors, and nongovernmental organizations that are demonstrably free of terrorist influence and committed to transparency, accountability, and peace.We appreciate your leadership and stand prepared to work with the Trump administration to support Gaza reconstruction efforts and ensure lasting security for Israel.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:52:45Z"], ["https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=2810", "Bacon Votes to Reopen the Government and End the Democrat Leadership Shutdown", "2025-11-12", "2025", "2025-11", "Republican", "House", "NE", "Don Bacon", "B001298", "bacon.house.gov", "bacon", "https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2013 Rep. Don Bacon (NE-02) issued the following statement after voting to reopen the government and end the Democrat leadership shutdown:\n\n\"I voted yes to open the government back up after this unnecessary and damaging shutdown perpetrated by Congressional Democrat leaders that achieved nothing. Today\u2019s vote funds three of twelve appropriations bills through September 30th next year and funds the rest of government through January 31st. It brings back the 1.4 million federal workers, restores their paychecks, and gets SNAP benefits going again for the 42 million Americans who rely on them. House Democrats who voted against this are opposing the unions representing federal employees and air traffic controllers, and millions of Americans who simply want their government open. I\u2019m grateful to the eight Senate Democrats who stood up to their leadership and voted to end this harmful shutdown. Most in the GOP are ready to negotiate and find a bipartisan, reasonable consensus on the ACA tax credits.\"\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:52:45Z"], ["https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-flood-government-reopening-budget-deal-delivers-nebraska", "Congressman Flood: Government Reopening Budget Deal Delivers for Nebraska", "2025-11-12", "2025", "2025-11", "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 issued a statement following House passage of Senate Amendment to H.R. 5371, the \"Continuing Appropriations and Extensions Act.\u201d The legislation provides full-year funding for Agriculture, Military Construction/Veterans Affairs, and Legislative Branch appropriations bills. Other federal government funding is extended until January 30th by the package.\n\n\"After more than 40 days, the Democrat shutdown is finally over. Over the last several weeks, families have waited for food assistance, homebuyers couldn\u2019t purchase flood insurance, and over a million federal employees went without pay. This bipartisan agreement to reopen the government delivers three of the twelve annual appropriations bills while giving Congress until January 30th to complete the rest. Importantly, the package extends SNAP, WIC, and other critical programs through the end of the fiscal year, so that working families have certainty. Additionally, it includes $16 million to further support the construction of the National Center for Resilient and Regenerative Precision Agriculture located at Innovation Campus in Lincoln and over $42 million in funding for Offutt Air Force Base's Survivable Airborne Operations Center program.\"", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:52:45Z"], ["https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-flood-issues-statement-ahead-veterans-day", "Congressman Flood Issues Statement Ahead of Veterans Day", "2025-11-10", "2025", "2025-11", "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 ahead of Veterans Day, which will be observed on November 11, 2025.\n\n\"From the shores of Omaha Beach to the jungles of Vietnam, Nebraskans have served to protect and defend our country and the cause of liberty around the world for generations. As we honor the heroes who have worn our nation\u2019s uniform, Veterans Day is an opportunity to express our personal appreciation for everyone who has served in the U.S. Armed Forces. This year as we approach this day, I introduced a series of bills to support our veterans and honor unsung military heroes. Even small steps help to build a brighter future for our veterans as they live out the American Dream after their time in active duty. Thank you to everyone across Nebraska who works to support our veterans. Together, we\u2019ll keep making the Good Life an even better place for our service members to live, work, and raise their families.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:52:45Z"], ["https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=04E4CA4E-07FF-44F8-8A33-204D326FEA15", "Fischer Votes For Funding Package to Reopen Government", "2025-11-10", "2025", "2025-11", "Republican", "Senate", "NE", "Deb Fischer", "F000463", "www.fischer.senate.gov", "fischer", "https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases", "scraper", "Package includes key funding provisions for Nebraska secured by Fischer\n\nWASHINGTON \u2013 Today, U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-NE) voted for a funding package that would reopen the federal government and allocate $72 million for community projects she secured for Nebraska. The legislative package \u2013 which passed the Senate by a vote of 60-40 \u2013 includes the Fiscal Year (FY) 2026 Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies (MilCon-VA) Appropriations Act; Agriculture, Rural Development, Food and Drug Administration (FDA), and Related Agencies Appropriations Act; and the Legislative Branch and Related Agencies Appropriations Act. It also continues current funding levels for the remaining federal agencies through January 30, 2026.\n\n\u201cAfter voting 16 times to reopen the federal government, I am encouraged that Senate Democrats have finally come to the table. This package delivers results I secured for Nebraska \u2013 including crucial funding that will benefit the Omaha VA and over $54 million for mission critical programs at Offutt Air Force Base. It also directs an additional $16 million for UNL\u2019s ARS center, which follows a total investment of over $56 million I\u2019ve helped secure over the last five fiscal years. While this legislation is an important step forward, we still need the House to take up and pass this package swiftly so we can reopen the government and get back to work for the American people,\u201d Fischer said.\n\nProvisions advanced by Fischer in theMilCon-VA Appropriations Actto support our veterans:\n\nSecures nearly $1.4 billion for the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA)\u2019s major construction account that will provide future funding for the Omaha VA hospital project;\n\nDirects the VA to purchase essential medical devices, such as needles, syringes, and blood collection products from U.S. manufacturers or allied trading partners. Also, directs the VA to submit a report on ways to reduce dependency on Chinese medical devices while safeguarding against shortages; and\n\nDirects the VA to report on the success of the External Provider Scheduling (EPS) program while identifying barriers to increased implementation and creating recommendations on how to increase community provider participation.\n\nFunding advanced by Fischer in theMilCon-VA Appropriations Actto support next generation of \u2018doomsday\u2019 planes, critical investments at Offutt Air Force Base:\n\n$42.3 million to plan and design the new Survivable Airborne Operations Center (SAOC) at Offutt;\n\n$6 million to plan and design a Consolidated Training Complex/Professional Development Center at Offutt; and\n\n$6 million to plan and design a new dormitory at Offutt.\n\nFunding advanced by Fischer in the Agriculture, Rural Development, FDA, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act:\n\n$16 million for the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Agricultural Research Service (ARS) facility at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln\u2019s (UNL) Innovation Campus; and\n\n$1.5 million for the National Drought Mitigation Center at UNL.\n\nProvisions advanced by Fischer in the Agriculture, Rural Development, FDA, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act:\n\nPrioritizing ARS research for the beef industry at the U.S. Meat Animal Research Center (USMARC) in Clay Center, Nebraska; and\n\nRequiring the USDA to streamline contracting and procurement services for livestock research facilities to help USMARC with cost overruns on facility improvements.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:52:45Z"], ["https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/news/press-releases/ricketts-calls-for-quick-passage-of-bipartisan-solution-to-end-government-shutdown-give-americans-relief/", "Ricketts Calls for Quick Passage of Bipartisan Solution to End Government Shutdown: \u201cGive Americans Relief\u201d", "2025-11-10", "2025", "2025-11", "Republican", "Senate", "NE", "Pete Ricketts", "R000618", "www.ricketts.senate.gov", "ricketts", "https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/?jsf=jet-engine:press-list&pagenum=", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Today, U.S. Senator Pete Ricketts (R-NE) called for expedited passage of the bipartisan solution to end the government shutdown.\n\n\u201cLast night, eight Democrats finally joined Republicans to begin re-opening government,\u201d said Senator Ricketts. \u201cThis bipartisan package is important for Nebraska. It extends critical farm bill authorities and supports agricultural research at the University of Nebraska. It also delivers funding to support critical missions at Offutt Air Force Base. We should pass this bill quickly and give Americans relief.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:52:45Z"], ["https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/news/press-releases/ricketts-highlights-nebraska-wins-in-bipartisan-solution-ending-government-shutdown/", "Ricketts Highlights Nebraska Wins in Bipartisan Solution Ending Government Shutdown", "2025-11-10", "2025", "2025-11", "Republican", "Senate", "NE", "Pete Ricketts", "R000618", "www.ricketts.senate.gov", "ricketts", "https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/?jsf=jet-engine:press-list&pagenum=", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Today, U.S. Senator Pete Ricketts (R-NE) highlighted the Nebraska wins in the bipartisan package to end the government shutdown.\n\n\u201cThis bipartisan package delivers for Nebraska,\u201d said Senator Ricketts. \u201cIt extends critical farm bill authorities and supports agricultural research at the University of Nebraska. It helps fight against the New World Screwworm. It also delivers funding to support critical missions at Offutt Air Force Base. The House should pass this package quickly so Americans can get relief.\u201d\n\nWins in the Bipartisan Package to End the Government Shutdown:", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:52:45Z"], ["https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/news/press-releases/ricketts-issues-statement-after-voting-for-bipartisan-solution-to-end-schumer-shutdown/", "Ricketts Issues Statement After Voting for Bipartisan Solution to End Schumer Shutdown", "2025-11-09", "2025", "2025-11", "Republican", "Senate", "NE", "Pete Ricketts", "R000618", "www.ricketts.senate.gov", "ricketts", "https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/?jsf=jet-engine:press-list&pagenum=", "scraper", "\u201cRepublicans have been consistent. We\u2019ve offered a bipartisan funding resolution that Democrats have previously voted to pass four times over the last 19 months. After 40 days of delays, disruptions, and missed paychecks, Democrats finally appear to vote with Republicans to reopen government. I urge my colleagues to pass this bipartisan solution without delay.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:52:45Z"], ["https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/news/press-releases/ricketts-condemns-schumers-unserious-demands-shares-letters-from-nebraska-air-traffic-controllers-are-the-democrats-deaf/", "Ricketts Condemns Schumer\u2019s Unserious Demands, Shares Letters from Nebraska Air Traffic Controllers: \u201cAre the Democrats Deaf?\u201d", "2025-11-08", "2025", "2025-11", "Republican", "Senate", "NE", "Pete Ricketts", "R000618", "www.ricketts.senate.gov", "ricketts", "https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/?jsf=jet-engine:press-list&pagenum=", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Yesterday, in a speech on the Senate floor, U.S. Senator Pete Ricketts (R-NE) condemned Minority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY) and the Democrats for making unserious demands in exchange for reopening the federal government.\n\n\u201cBut why I\u2019m here today is to talk about people. Not leverage. Not power. People. Air traffic controllers,\u201d said Ricketts. \u201cThese are letters that I have received from air traffic controllers. Handwritten letters that are talking about what they are going through right now because of the minority leader\u2019s shutdown.\u201d\n\nRicketts read letters from air traffic controllers in Nebraska who are suffering due to the Schumer Shutdown. The air traffic controllers described they are being forced to decide between paying their mortgage or car loan and putting food on their table for their families.\n\n\u201cAre the Democrats deaf? Do they not hear from the people that they are putting in these situations? This is their shutdown,\u201d said Ricketts. \u201cWe have patriots here who are suffering. Why don\u2019t they show some of the courage that these people are and stand up to their far-left wing and vote for this bill so that least the people who are working can get paid? Is that so much to ask?\u201d\n\n\u201cA Democrat staffer was earlier quoted as saying, \u2018we\u2019re going to do this until planes start falling from the sky.\u2019 Well, folks, we already heard that the FAA is going to cut back 10% this week on the number of flights because of safety concerns,\u201d concluded Ricketts. \u201cBut it\u2019s the people that are the air traffic controllers and our law enforcement and everybody else who is working in a federal job that is not getting paid are paying the price for the Minority Leader\u2019s shutdown.\u201d\n\nWatch the video here.\n\nTRANSCRIPT:\n\nSenator Ricketts: \u201cEarlier today, we heard about an offer from the Minority Leader.\n\n\u201cIt shows just how unserious he and the Democrats are.\n\n\u201cThat offer is full of horse hockey.\n\n\u201cIt has things in it that Republicans cannot accept, and he knows it.\n\n\u201cAnd my colleague from Michigan, a Democrat from Michigan, was just talking about power, because this is what it\u2019s about.\n\n\u201cHe mentioned power.\n\n\u201cA number of other folks have talked about leverage.\n\n\u201cThey need to have this shutdown for leverage.\n\n\u201cNumber of Democrats have said this.\n\n\u201cBut why I\u2019m here today is to talk about people.\n\n\u201cNot leverage.\n\n\u201cNot power.\n\n\u201cPeople.\n\n\u201cAir traffic controllers.\n\n\u201cThese are letters that I have received from air traffic controllers.\n\n\u201cHandwritten letters that are talking about what they are going through right now because of the minority leader\u2019s shutdown.\n\n\u201cLet me just read you some of these.\n\n\u201cMy wife suffers from a chronic autoimmune disease that without her medication would cripple her.\n\n\u201cOur monthly co pay for her specialty medication is $2,800 a month.\n\n\u201cWe have less than two weeks before her next round of medication is due.\n\n\u201cOur situation is not sustainable, even with pulling money from our savings.\n\n\u201cThat\u2019s from one of our aircraft controllers in Nebraska.\n\n\u201cHere\u2019s another one.\n\n\u201cEach shutdown gets harder than the last.\n\n\u201cThe mental stress of the unknown gets harder each time with my growing family and medical bills for my family, it gets harder every time.\n\n\u201cBoth my children have neurological disorders that require constant monitoring and medical care.\n\nI take pride in my job and the service we provide here at Omaha approach control.\n\n\u201cAs a patriot and a veteran, I take my federal oath seriously.\n\n\u201cI will always continue to do my job and keep the sky safe and expeditious.\n\n\u201cOr here\u2019s another one.\n\n\u201cMyself and my family, to include my three-year-old daughter, are struggling to make ends meet.\n\n\u201cI now have to decide between putting food on the table, paying my mortgage, paying my car note and many other things I need to survive.\n\n\u201cAre the Democrats deaf?\n\n\u201cDo they not hear from the people that they are putting in these situations?\n\n\u201cThis is their shutdown.\n\n\u201cThis is their Biden budget.\n\n\u201cThey\u2019re not voting for it, they voted for this four times over last 19 months and now they won\u2019t because they\u2019re far left wing tells them not to!\n\n\u201cWe have patriots here who are suffering.\n\n\u201cWhy don\u2019t they show some of the courage that these people are and stand up to their far-left wing and vote for this bill so that least the people who are working can get paid?\n\n\u201cIs that so much to ask?\n\n\u201cThat we pay the people we\u2019re actually trying to keep the skies safe?\n\n\u201cA Democrat staffer was earlier quoted as saying, \u2018we\u2019re going to do this until planes start falling from the sky.\u2019\n\n\u201cWell, folks, we already heard that the FAA is going to cut back 10% this week on the number of flights because of safety concerns.\n\n\u201cBut it\u2019s the people that are the air traffic controllers and our law enforcement and everybody else who is working in a federal job that is not getting paid are paying the price for the Minority Leader\u2019s shutdown.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:52:45Z"], ["https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-flood-announces-package-bills-supporting-our-nations-veterans", "Congressman Flood Announces Package of Bills Supporting Our Nation\u2019s Veterans", "2025-11-07", "2025", "2025-11", "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 announced the introduction of three bills ahead of this year\u2019s Veterans Day, observed on November 11, 2025. The legislation in the package includes a focus on providing relief to veterans facing crushing medical debt as well as efforts that honor the service and sacrifice of America\u2019s service members during times of conflict.\n\n\u201cOur nation\u2019s veterans are too often left behind after their service,\u201d said Congressman Flood. \u201cThrough the years, I\u2019ve heard directly from veterans\u2019 communities across Nebraska\u2019s First District. It\u2019s so important that we deliver practical solutions to better support and honor those who served our country. I\u2019m grateful to my colleagues for joining me in introducing these bills as we approach Veterans Day, which is an opportunity for our country to reaffirm its commitment to those who\u2019ve worn the uniform.\u201d\n\nThe bills that Congressman Flood and his colleagues introduced are provided below:\n\nLincoln Post Office Renaming to Honor Commodore Dixie Kiefer\n\n(Photo credit: Naval History and Heritage Command)\n\n\u201cAs a hero of Nebraska, and America, Commodore Dixie Kiefer served with distinction through both World Wars,\u201d said Congressman Flood. \u201cHis courage and leadership were exemplified in the Second World War, where he earned two Purple Hearts, the Navy Cross, the Distinguished Service Medal, and other honors for his actions during the Battles of Midway, the Coral Sea, and throughout the Pacific Theater. I am honored to introduce this measure to name the Calvert Street Post Office in honor of Commodore Dixie Kiefer, who was a graduate of Lincoln High School, as a long overdue recognition of his extraordinary service and sacrifice.\u201d\n\nIf enacted, this legislation will designate the post office located at 1201 Calvert Street in Lincoln, Nebraska, as the \u201cCommodore Dixie Kiefer Memorial Post Office Building.\u201d Commodore Kiefer served in the United States Navy from 1918 until his passing in a Navy transport plane accident in 1945.\n\nFull text of the bill can be found here.\n\nStamp Out Veterans Medical Debt Act\n\n\u201cVA medical debt is a concern that remains top of mind for far too many of our nations veterans,\u201d said Congressman Flood. \u201cThose who have served and sacrificed to protect our nation should not face the burden of overwhelming medical debt for care received at a VA facility or through a VA Community Care Program partner. I look forward to seeing this bill advance through Congress and launching a new stamp campaign so the American people can once again demonstrate our shared commitment in supporting our nation\u2019s veterans.\"\n\n\"Congressman Flood\u2019s legislation provides a meaningful, bipartisan solution to alleviate the crushing weight of medical debt, enabling veterans to focus on recovery, reintegration, and financial stability. By addressing this issue head-on, the \u201cStamp Out Veterans Medical Debt Act\u201d reinforces the nation\u2019s sacred promise to care for those who have borne the battle.\" \u2013 James McCormick, Executive Director of Government Affairs at Vietnam Veterans of America\n\nThe \"Stamp Out Veterans Medical Debt Act\" seeks to help relieve approximately $280 million in unpaid fees and co-pays accrued by veterans in relation to their care via the VA, including VA approved Community Care. The legislation directs the U.S. Postal Service to issue and sell a Veterans Medical Debt Relief Stamp, with proceeds going directly to the Department of Veterans Affairs to help pay down veterans\u2019 medical debt. As a result of this bill, the VA would pay down debt related to unpaid copayment or coinsurance billings as a result of hospital care, medical services, and extended care provided by the VA or through approved medical care administered via the Community Care Program.\n\nThe Stamp Out Veterans Medical Debt Act is proudly supported by Vietnam Veterans of America and The American Legion.\n\nFull text of the bill can be found here.\n\nUSS Frank E. Evans Act\n\n(Garry Hodgson of Omaha. Photo credit: Nebraska Vietnam Veterans Memorial Foundation)\n\n(Sage brothers of Niobrara. Photo credit: Vietnam Veterans Memorial Fund)\n\n\u201cThe tragedy of the USS Frank E. Evans\u2019 sinking in 1969, closely following missions in the Vietnam combat zone, should never be forgotten,\u201d said Congressman Flood. \u201cFor decades, the names of the 74 crew members lost in the accident, which includes four sons of Nebraska, have remained absent from the Vietnam Veterans Memorial in Washington, DC. I want to thank Congresswoman Judy Chu of California for joining me in ensuring that these brave sailors receive the recognition they have long deserved for their sacrifice in service to our country, and so many of their families have fought for.\u201d\n\n\"I am proud to join Rep. Flood in introducing the bipartisan USS Frank E. Evans Act to honor the 74 sailors, including 22 Californians, whose ultimate sacrifice must not be forgotten,\u201d said Rep. Judy Chu (CA-28). \u201cI have heard from the families and survivors who have long sought this recognition for their loved ones and am committed to supporting these efforts. These brave Americans deserve to be honored alongside their fellow service members at the Vietnam Veterans Memorial.\u201d\n\n\"Vietnam Veterans of America supports the USS Frank E. Evans Act, which would authorize the inclusion of the 74 brave sailors lost on June 3, 1969, aboard the USS Frank E. Evans on the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Wall. These sailors served with honor during the Vietnam War and made the ultimate sacrifice while participating in operations connected to that conflict. Their names deserve a permanent place beside their brothers and sisters who gave their lives in the same war. This legislation is an act of long-overdue recognition and respect. It honors the service, sacrifice, and shared legacy of all who served during the Vietnam era.\u201d \u2013 Tom Burke, Vietnam Veterans of America President\n\n\"The American Legion is proud to endorse the USS Frank E. Evans Act, which would add the names of the 74 sailors who lost their lives in a collision at sea on June 3, 1969, to the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Wall. Although these sailors had recently completed combat operations within the designated Vietnam combat zone, their sacrifice remains unrecognized because the collision occurred just outside the official boundary. The American Legion remains steadfast in its commitment to honoring and commemorating all servicemembers who make the ultimate sacrifice in defense of our nation.\u201d\u2013 Julia Mathis, National Legislative Director at The American Legion\n\nThe \"USS Frank E. Evans Act\" seeks to honor the sailors\u2019 ultimate sacrifice aboard the USS Frank E. Evans by directing the Department of War to add the names of the 74 fallen crew members to the Vietnam Veterans Memorial in Washington, DC. To date, more than 380 names have been added to the Memorial through changes in criteria and special exceptions for those whose service and sacrifice were connected to the conflict in Vietnam.\n\nThe USS Frank E. Evans had recently completed a combat mission in the Vietnam combat zone before it sank in a tragic naval accident on June 3, 1969. The destroyer collided with an Australian aircraft carrier in the South China Sea, claiming the lives of 74 sailors\u2013 including four Nebraskans: Gary Sage, Greg Sage, Kelly Jo Sage, and Garry Hodgson.\n\nThe USS Frank E. Evans Act is proudly supported by Vietnam Veterans of America and The American Legion.\n\nOriginal cosponsors for this bill include: Reps. Nanette Barragan (CA-44), Joe Courtney (CT-02), Robert Garcia (CA-42), Mike Levin(CA-49), Brad Sherman (CA-32), Pete Stauber (MN-08), Mike Thompson (CA-04), and Jefferson Van Drew (NJ-02).\n\nFull text of the bill can be found here.\n\nCongressman Flood is the Chair of the Republican Main Street Caucus and has made veterans\u2019 issues a priority as he represents the First Congressional District, which includes Offutt Air Force Base, two State Veterans Homes, and multiple VA health care facilities.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:52:45Z"]], "truncated": false, "filtered_table_rows_count": 701, "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": "2025"}}, "facet_results": {"party": {"name": "party", "type": "column", "hideable": false, "toggle_url": "/press/releases.json?party=Republican&state=NE&year=2025", "results": [{"value": "Republican", "label": "Republican", "count": 701, "toggle_url": "http://dpwillis-congress-press-search.hf.space/press/releases.json?state=NE&year=2025", "selected": true}], "truncated": false}, "chamber": {"name": "chamber", "type": "column", "hideable": false, "toggle_url": "/press/releases.json?party=Republican&state=NE&year=2025", "results": [{"value": "Senate", "label": "Senate", "count": 376, "toggle_url": "http://dpwillis-congress-press-search.hf.space/press/releases.json?party=Republican&state=NE&year=2025&chamber=Senate", "selected": false}, {"value": "House", "label": "House", "count": 325, "toggle_url": "http://dpwillis-congress-press-search.hf.space/press/releases.json?party=Republican&state=NE&year=2025&chamber=House", "selected": false}], "truncated": false}, "state": {"name": "state", "type": "column", "hideable": false, "toggle_url": "/press/releases.json?party=Republican&state=NE&year=2025", "results": [{"value": "NE", "label": "NE", "count": 701, "toggle_url": "http://dpwillis-congress-press-search.hf.space/press/releases.json?party=Republican&year=2025", "selected": true}], "truncated": false}, "year": {"name": "year", "type": "column", "hideable": false, "toggle_url": "/press/releases.json?party=Republican&state=NE&year=2025", "results": [{"value": "2025", "label": "2025", "count": 701, "toggle_url": "http://dpwillis-congress-press-search.hf.space/press/releases.json?party=Republican&state=NE", "selected": true}], "truncated": false}}, "suggested_facets": [], "next": "2025-11-07,https~3A~2F~2Fflood~2Ehouse~2Egov~2Fmedia~2Fpress-releases~2Fcongressman-flood-announces-package-bills-supporting-our-nations-veterans", "next_url": "http://dpwillis-congress-press-search.hf.space/press/releases.json?party=Republican&state=NE&year=2025&_next=2025-11-07%2Chttps~3A~2F~2Fflood~2Ehouse~2Egov~2Fmedia~2Fpress-releases~2Fcongressman-flood-announces-package-bills-supporting-our-nations-veterans&_sort_desc=date", "private": false, "allow_execute_sql": true, "query_ms": 139.97917203232646, "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"}