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Data license: MIT · Data source: dwillis/congress-press

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bioguide_id
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4,600 rows where chamber = "House", party = "Democrat" and state = "MO" sorted by date descending

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url title date ▲ year month party chamber state member_name bioguide_id domain scraper source date_source text has_text collected_at updated_at
https://bell.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-bell-helps-bring-billion-dollar-navy-fighter-contract-st-louis Congressman Bell Helps Bring Billion-Dollar Navy Fighter Contract to St. Louis 2026-09-29 2026 2026-09 Democrat House MO Wesley Bell B001324 bell.house.gov bell https://bell.house.gov/media/press-releases scraper Today, St. Louis-based Boeing Defense, Space & Security (BDS) announced the company's successful bid for the U.S. Navy's next-generation carrier fighter that will replace the F/A-18E/F Super Hornet In total, the contract is worth billions and is expected to bring new, high-paying jobs for St. Louis-area workers and suppliers As a member of the House Armed Services Committee, Rep. Bell has worked to support St. Louis's defense industry and the workers who power it St. Louis, Missouri – Today, Congressman Wesley Bell (D-MO-01) issued the following statement on the St. Louis-based Boeing Defense, Space & Security (BDS) winning the bid for the Navy's next-generation stealth fighter. The contract is estimated to be worth billions and will bring jobs to the St. Louis region and help spur economic growth. "For decades, St. Louis has been a cornerstone of America’s aerospace and defense industrial base, helping build the aircraft and advanced capabilities that keep our nation and allies safe. Throughout that time, Boeing Defense, Space & Security has been at the front lines of innovation, powered by the proud and dedicated machinists, engineers, and skilled tradespeople who call this region home. This win underscores that unwavering commitment to our national security and reflects the unparalleled skill that local machinists bring to crafting every aircraft. As a member of the House Armed Services Committee, I know how vital it is that our Navy has the most capable aircraft in the world, and this contract moves us one step closer to putting that capability in the hands of our naval aviators. This award is a proud moment for our entire region, and I'll keep fighting to make sure St. Louis remains at the center of America's national security, defense, and aerospace. That means making sure this investment delivers for our families, and that the people doing the work have the training, wages, and protections they deserve." ### 1 2026-09-30T10:57:52Z 2026-09-30T10:59:04Z
https://bell.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-bell-announces-over-2-million-missouri-hbcus Congressman Bell Announces Over $2 Million for Missouri HBCUs 2026-09-24 2026 2026-09 Democrat House MO Wesley Bell B001324 bell.house.gov bell https://bell.house.gov/media/press-releases scraper Today, Congressman Bell announced $2,677,061 for Missouri Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs), Harris-Stowe State University and Lincoln University Congressman Bell: “With adequate federal funding, they [HBCUs] can continue to educate Black Americans from Missouri and beyond for generations to come” Washington, D.C. – Today, Representative Wesley Bell (D-MO-01) announced over $2 million in federal funding for Missouri Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs). Harris-Stowe State University and Lincoln University are set to receive $1,093,222 and $1,583,839, respectively. Harris-Stowe State University is in Congressman Bell’s district. "HBCUs have long punched above their weight," said Congressman Bell. "And with adequate federal funding, they can continue to be the great equalizer for Black students (and students of all backgrounds) from Missouri and beyond for generations to come. I'll keep fighting to make sure our state's historic HBCUs have the resources they need to thrive." Congressman Bell has long supported our nation’s HBCUs. Earlier this year, he secured a $1.03 million federal investment for Harris-Stowe to advance its Urban Policing initiatives and modernize the university's IT infrastructure. Additionally, Rep. Bell has supported several legislative efforts advocating for funding for HBCUs during the annual government funding process. This funding is part of the U.S. Department of Education's Title III Strengthening Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCU) Program, which provides federal support to strengthen HBCUs' academic resources, facilities, and student services. 1 2026-09-29T11:07:12Z 2026-09-29T11:08:49Z
https://bell.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-bell-introduces-bipartisan-legislation-cut-bureaucratic-red-tape Congressman Bell Introduces Bipartisan Legislation to Cut Bureaucratic Red Tape, Delivering Disaster Relief Without Delay 2026-09-22 2026 2026-09 Democrat House MO Wesley Bell B001324 bell.house.gov bell https://bell.house.gov/media/press-releases scraper Today, Congressman Wesley Bell announced the introduction of his bipartisan Relief Without Delay Act The bill keeps disaster aid flowing during shutdowns, cuts bureaucratic delays, and invests in tornado preparedness The legislation builds on Bell’s previous efforts to overhaul the disaster aid process Congressman Bell: “When a disaster tears through your community, the last thing you should have to worry about is whether Washington's dysfunction will delay your recovery needs” From STLPR: Bell pushes disaster response package as St. Louis seeks more federal aid Washington, D.C. — Today, Representatives Wesley Bell (D-MO-01) and Jeff Hurd (R-CO-03) led 20 of their colleagues in introducing the Relief Without Delay Act, a bipartisan bill that would ensure the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) disaster aid continues flowing to families and communities during a government shutdown. Additionally, the bill would bring new transparency to how disaster relief dollars are spent, and strengthen the nation's tornado detection, warning systems, and community storm shelters. "When a disaster tears through your community, the last thing you should have to worry about is whether Washington's dysfunction will delay your recovery needs," said Congressman Wesley Bell. "I've seen this devastation firsthand in St. Louis. Families who’ve lost everything need help to come fast, not get caught up in bureaucratic red tape. The Relief Without Delay Act makes sure disaster aid never stops, brings real transparency to how those dollars are spent, and invests in tornado warning systems and storm shelters that save lives. Recovery isn’t a partisan issue. It is a promise we keep to every American, no matter what." “When disaster strikes, families, local governments, and first responders should be able to count on the federal government to do its job, regardless of what is happening in Washington,” said Congressman Jeff Hurd. “Communities across Colorado’s Third District know how important a timely and reliable federal respon… 1 2026-09-23T09:45:16Z 2026-09-23T09:46:14Z
https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/house-representatives-passes-water-resources-development-act-multiple House of Representatives Passes Water Resources Development Act with Multiple Priorities Secured by Rep. Cleaver 2026-09-18 2026 2026-09 Democrat House MO Emanuel Cleaver C001061 cleaver.house.gov cleaver https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases scraper (Washington, D.C.) – This week, the House of Representatives passed the Water Resources Development Act of 2026, bipartisan legislation that authorizes critical U.S. Army Corps of Engineers projects to strengthen infrastructure, protect communities, and support long-term economic growth. The legislation includes numerous provisions championed by U.S. Representative Emanuel Cleaver, II (D-MO) that will benefit the Fifth Congressional District of Missouri. “The investments made in this year’s WRDA legislation, including several infrastructure improvements I was able to secure for our congressional district, will lead to better protection for the Missouri River, cleaner water for Missouri families, and stronger economic development for communities throughout the region,” said Congressman Cleaver. “I was pleased to obtain critical funding that will go towards local projects that will improve water quality for families while preserving water resources for western Missouri, and I look forward to the legislation being signed into law." The provisions secured by Congressman Cleaver include: A $45 million authorization for Phase 5 of the Brookside Sewer Separation Project in Kansas City Language prohibiting out-of-basin water transfers from the Missouri River and its tributaries, helping safeguard one of the region’s most vital natural resources Authorization of the Lower Missouri River Flood Risk and Resiliency Comprehensive Study, a critical step toward protecting communities from increasingly severe flooding while improving long-term resilience throughout the region The $45 million authorization for the Phase 5 of Kansas City’s Brookside Sewer Separation Project will support ongoing efforts to modernize aging wastewater infrastructure, reduce sewer overflows, improve water quality, and protect public health while ensuring the city can continue meeting federal environmental standards. The bill also includes Congressman Cleaver’s effort to prevent out-of-basin water transfers from the Missouri River and its tribut… 1 2026-09-19T09:11:33Z 2026-09-19T09:12:45Z
https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressman-cleaver-votes-legislation-protect-missourians-paying Congressman Cleaver Votes for Legislation to Protect Missourians from Paying for Development of Data Centers 2026-09-17 2026 2026-09 Democrat House MO Emanuel Cleaver C001061 cleaver.house.gov cleaver https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases scraper (Washington, D.C.) – Yesterday, U.S. Representative Emanuel Cleaver, II (D-MO) voted in favor of the Ratepayer Protection Act to protect Missouri families from bearing the burden of increased costs for energy and grid upgrades required for the development of new data centers. The legislation was passed by the House of Representatives with a bipartisan majority. The Ratepayer Protection Act requires state utility regulators to establish rules to ensure that community members do not pay for the costs of building new power generation, transmission lines, and other upgrades to serve large-load customers, including data centers. Without proper safeguards, families and small businesses in communities where data center development occurs could see higher electricity bills at the end of every month. “At a time when Missouri families are already struggling to stay afloat, they should not have to bear the costs of data center development in the form of higher energy bills at the end of every month,” said Congressman Cleaver. “This bipartisan legislation is a commonsense step to ensure that burden falls on the corporations building these projects, not the people of Missouri’s Fifth District. However, I know there is more that Congress must do to protect the American people, which is why I will continue pushing for stronger safeguards that ensure Silicon Valley CEOs are not taking advantage of our communities.” The Ratepayer Protection Act would propose standards that state regulators could enforce when considering the integration of new large-load customers with a demand of 100 megawatts or more onto the grid. Those recommendations include: Recovery of the full incremental cost of upgrades by the large-load customer over a long period of time through a special rate charge or other agreements. This protects utilities and their ratepayers from being left responsible for upgrade costs associated with a large-load customer, even if that customer later reduces operations or leaves the system entirely. Financial assurances t… 1 2026-09-18T09:27:43Z 2026-09-18T09:29:09Z
https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/reps-cleaver-and-wagner-introduce-backlog-justice-act-2026 Reps. Cleaver and Wagner Introduce Backlog Justice Act of 2026 2026-09-17 2026 2026-09 Democrat House MO Emanuel Cleaver C001061 cleaver.house.gov cleaver https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases scraper (Washington, D.C.) – This week, U.S. Representative Emanuel Cleaver, II (D-MO) and Representative Ann Wagner (R-MO) reintroduced the Backlog Justice Act of 2026, legislation designed to bring justice to victims of sexual violence by addressing the national backlog of untested sexual assault kits (SAKs). Almost every minute, someone in the U.S. is sexually assaulted. After an assault, survivors can choose to undergo a thorough forensic analysis conducted by a doctor or nurse, where medical needs are evaluated and key evidence is obtained from their person. That evidence, which can include samples of the perpetrator’s hair and bodily fluids and evidence of the harm they inflicted on the victim, is then collected and stored in an SAK. The evidence in SAKs can be key to catching perpetrators, delivering justice to victims, exonerating innocent parties, and connecting cases of assaults carried out by serial offenders. Unfortunately, far too often, SAKs are not tested. Bias against victims, lack of training and technology, and under-resourced crime labs are just some of the many factors that have created this crisis. Today, experts estimate the national untested SAK backlog ranges from the tens of thousands to the hundreds of thousands. This is a failure that must be addressed. “Too often, the trauma of sexual assault is made even more painful by delayed justice,” said Rep. Cleaver. “Having already lived through a horrific experience, survivors must often deal with additional trauma from a system that doesn’t believe them, doesn’t prioritize them, and doesn’t hold perpetrators accountable for their crimes. While untested SAKs sit on shelves, survivors live in fear while predators continue to walk free. By leveraging the coordination and capacity-building powers of the federal government, the Backlog Justice Act is a step towards addressing this vital issue, bringing justice to victims, and keeping our communities safe. I thank Rep. Wagner and our colleagues from both sides of the aisle for their partnership in this … 1 2026-09-18T09:27:43Z 2026-09-18T09:29:09Z
https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/quindaro-townsite-national-historic-landmark-act-receives-hearing Quindaro Townsite National Historic Landmark Act Receives Hearing in Natural Resources Committee 2026-09-16 2026 2026-09 Democrat House MO Emanuel Cleaver C001061 cleaver.house.gov cleaver https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases scraper (Washington, D.C.) – Today, the Quindaro Townsite National Historic Landmark Act, introduced by U.S. Representatives Emanuel Cleaver, II (D-MO), Sharice Davids (D-KS), and Derek Schmidt (R-KS), received a hearing in the House Committee on Natural Resources. The bipartisan legislation would designate the Quindaro Townsite in Kansas City, Kansas, as a National Historic Landmark. The site served as a critical entry point for anti-slavery settlers and a sanctuary for those escaping bondage via the Underground Railroad prior to and during the U.S. Civil War. “The history of the Quindaro Townsite is an important piece of the story of Kansas City that must be told for generations to come,” said Congressman Cleaver. “I’m pleased that our bipartisan legislation to designate Quindaro as a National Historic Landmark was heard in the Natural Resources Committee, and following this important step in the legislative process, I look forward to continuing our push to ensure it becomes law.” “Quindaro holds an important place in the history of Kansas and our nation. Founded during the turbulent days of Bleeding Kansas, it became a place of hope and refuge for those fighting for freedom and seeking a better future. This hearing is an important step toward ensuring Quindaro’s legacy is properly preserved and recognized for generations to come. I’m proud to lead this bipartisan effort with Representatives Cleaver and Davids, and I look forward to working with the committee to advance this legislation,” Rep. Schmidt said. "This national landmark designation for Quindaro is long overdue. From its role on the Underground Railroad to its deep roots with the Wyandot Nation, Quindaro represents a crucial chapter of the Kansas City story. Today’s hearing gets our bill one step closer to cutting through administrative delays and making sure this history is preserved for our kids and grandkids," said Rep. Sharice Davids. National Historic Landmarks are designated through the National Park Service System Advisory Board or an official act … 1 2026-09-17T09:52:05Z 2026-09-17T09:53:00Z
https://bell.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-bell-leads-members-missouri-delegation-bipartisan-resolution Congressman Bell Leads Members of Missouri Delegation in Bipartisan Resolution Honoring Partnership with Panama 2026-09-14 2026 2026-09 Democrat House MO Wesley Bell B001324 bell.house.gov bell https://bell.house.gov/media/press-releases scraper The resolution commemorates the 30th anniversary of the Missouri-Panama State Partnership Program Additionally, the legislation celebrates the enduring partnership between the State of Missouri and the Republic of Panama The Missouri-Panama State Partnership Program was established in 1996 through the National Guard Bureau’s State Partnership Program Congressman Bell: “For thirty years, Missouri and Panama have stood together as partners and as friends” Washington, D.C. — Today, Congressman Wesley Bell (D-MO-01) led four bipartisan members of Missouri’s Congressional delegation in introducing a resolution commemorating 30 years of partnership between Missouri and Panama. "For thirty years, Missouri and Panama have stood together as partners and as friends," said Congressman Bell. "What began in 1996 as a National Guard partnership has grown into something far greater – three decades of shared training, disaster response, and cooperation that have made both Missouri and Panama safer and stronger. This partnership is proof that one of America's greatest strengths lies in our alliances and the relationships we build with nations who share our values. I'm proud to lead this resolution honoring those who have sustained this friendship, and I look forward to deepening these ties for the next thirty years and beyond." “For 30 years, the Missouri National Guard and Panama’s Public Forces have built a partnership grounded in trust, shared values and a commitment to strengthening our communities and our countries. What began as a military partnership has grown into a lasting relationship that reaches across education, trade, culture, and diplomacy. This anniversary is an opportunity to recognize the men and women who have helped build this partnership and to reaffirm our commitment to the strong ties between Missouri and Panama for years to come,” said Congressman Mark Alford (R-MO-04). Since coming to Congress, Congressman Bell has made it a priority to maintain and strengthen the relationship between Missouri and … 1 2026-09-15T09:50:21Z 2026-09-15T09:52:05Z
https://bell.house.gov/media/press-releases/representatives-bell-thanedar-and-lawler-introduce-bipartisan-legislation Representatives Bell, Thanedar, and Lawler Introduce Bipartisan Legislation Commemorating 988 Day 2026-09-08 2026 2026-09 Democrat House MO Wesley Bell B001324 bell.house.gov bell https://bell.house.gov/media/press-releases scraper The 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline assists people experiencing suicidal thoughts, mental health challenges, or substance use crises The bipartisan 988 Day resolution raises awareness of the lifesaving role of the suicide & crisis lifeline A companion bill will be introduced in the Senate by U.S. Senator Cory Booker Washington, D.C. — Today, Representatives Wesley Bell (D-MO-01), Shri Thanedar (D-MI-13), and Mike Lawler (R-NY-17) introduced a bipartisan resolution commemorating September 8 as a day to raise awareness of the lifesaving role of the suicide & crisis lifeline. A companion resolution will be introduced in the Senate by Senator Cory Booker (D-NJ). The House’s 988 Day resolution is part of a broader legislative package highlighting the importance of suicide prevention. “The number 988 is a cornerstone of our nation's mental health safety net, but too many people still don't know it's there to help them on one of the hardest days of their life," said Congressman Bell. “During an ongoing nationwide mental health epidemic that is especially impacting our nation’s young people, recognizing 988 Day means making sure that in the hardest of moments, no one in Missouri or anywhere else feels they have to face the darkness alone. Help is always within reach." "In 1996, I lost my first wife due to her battle with mental health struggles," said Representative Shri Thanedar. "It was a heartbreaking loss for my entire family, and this incident drives my advocacy to create a healthcare system where everyone has access to high-quality mental health care. 988 is an incredible resource that saves lives every day, and I am proud to co-lead this resolution that highlights their crucial work. Americans should know that there is no shame in seeking help, suicide is preventable, and you can call 988 at any time." The 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline was launched nationwide in July 2022 to provide an easy-to-remember number for people experiencing suicidal thoughts, mental health challenges, or substance use crises. The hot… 1 2026-09-09T09:27:09Z 2026-09-09T09:29:04Z
https://bell.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-bell-tours-st-louis-usps-facility-postmaster-general-steiner-and Congressman Bell Tours St. Louis USPS Facility with Postmaster General Steiner and House Oversight Members 2026-09-04 2026 2026-09 Democrat House MO Wesley Bell B001324 bell.house.gov bell https://bell.house.gov/media/press-releases scraper The purpose of the tour was to shed light on several postal issues that have been plaguing the region Representatives Budzinski and Sessions joined Bell for the tour, which was led by Postmaster General Steiner Congressman Bell has been outspoken about postal issues in the St. Louis region and recently introduced the St. Louis Postal Accountability and Reform (STL Up To PAR) Act Residents of the region have complained about mail delays that have impacted prescription medication, bills, ballots, and more Congressman Bell: “We’re not here to criticize what is going right, we are here to figure out how to fix what is going wrong” Washington, D.C. — Today, Representatives Wesley Bell (D-MO-01), Nikki Budzinski (D-IL-13), and Oversight and Government Reform Subcommittee on Government Operations Chairman Pete Sessions (R-TX-17) toured the United States Postal Service (USPS) St. Louis Processing and Distribution Center (P&DC) to better understand some of the postal issues impacting the region. Postmaster General David Steiner led the tour. Steiner has been serving as Postmaster General since May 2025. “We’re not here to criticize what is going right, we are here to figure out how to fix what is going wrong,” said Rep. Bell following the tour. “This isn’t a partisan issue – mail delays aren’t dictated by your political allegiance, which is why it is so important that these issues are being addressed in a bipartisan fashion. I look forward to working with Chairman Sessions and Congresswoman Budzinski to fix the postal problems people are facing here in St. Louis and across the nation.” Congressman Bell has made it a priority in Congress to address the postal issues in the St. Louis region. Two audits by the U.S. Postal Service Office of the Inspector General (OIG) in 2025 found longstanding operational challenges that have caused persistent mail delays for residents across the St. Louis region. To address some of the issues detailed in the report, Rep. Bell introduced the bipartisan St. Louis Postal Accountability… 1 2026-09-07T09:58:26Z 2026-09-07T09:59:51Z
https://bell.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-bell-leads-resolution-recognizing-missouri-tigers-1960-college Congressman Bell Leads Resolution Recognizing the Missouri Tigers as the 1960 College Football National Champions 2026-09-01 2026 2026-09 Democrat House MO Wesley Bell B001324 bell.house.gov bell https://bell.house.gov/media/press-releases scraper The 1960 Missouri Tigers football team had an undefeated season, besting Kansas in the Big Eight Conference Minnesota was ultimately chosen as the 1960 National Champion due to polling organization rankings, but Missouri holds a claim to the title The Senate version of the resolution passed last month Washington, D.C. — Recently, Congressman Wesley Bell (D-MO-01) led a resolution recognizing the 1960 University of Missouri Tigers football team for its undefeated regular season, Orange Bowl victory, and claim to the 1960 National Championship. “As a proud Mizzou graduate, I’m always going to champion my school,” said Rep. Bell. “As we head into another football season, I want to recognize the legacy of our 1960 football team and rightfully place them in history as national champions. These men represented the heart of Missouri. They worked tirelessly to earn their championship and record, and they deserve to be recognized for it. I’m proud to introduce this resolution to recognize the 1960 national champion Mizzou Tigers. In 1960, there was no official National Championship game. Instead, major polling organizations and selectors named teams as national champions. Missouri University’s 1960 team, coached by Dan Devine, finished its season 11-0 after a Kansas win in the Big Eight was reversed due to their use of an ineligible player. However, despite their record, Minnesota was ultimately recognized as the 1960 national champion. This resolution offers the chance to rewrite history and renew the Missouri Tigers’ claim to the title. Read the full resolution HERE. ### 1 2026-09-02T09:19:58Z 2026-09-02T09:20:51Z
https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressman-cleaver-votes-pass-bipartisan-funding-bill-avoid-another Congressman Cleaver Votes to Pass Bipartisan Funding Bill, Avoid Another Government Shutdown 2026-09-01 2026 2026-09 Democrat House MO Emanuel Cleaver C001061 cleaver.house.gov cleaver https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases scraper (Washington, D.C.) – Today, U.S. Representative Emanuel Cleaver, II (D-MO) voted in favor of a Continuing Resolution that maintains funding for federal programs through December 11. The bipartisan legislation was passed by the House of Representatives by a vote of 370-48, averting another government shutdown under Republican leadership. “Government shutdowns are deeply harmful to Missouri families and workers across our congressional district. Thankfully, after overseeing the longest government shutdown in history last year, Republicans in the House, Senate, and White House have agreed to work with Democrats on legislation that will keep the government funded, workers paid, and programs running for Americans nationwide,” said Congressman Cleaver. “I was proud to vote for today’s Continuing Resolution that will maintain current funding levels while allowing lawmakers to continue the important work of crafting a comprehensive, bipartisan budget that will help lower costs for families and meet the needs of the American people in every community,” Congressman Cleaver concluded. Emanuel Cleaver, II is the U.S. Representative for Missouri's Fifth Congressional District, which includes Kansas City, Independence, Lee's Summit, Raytown, Grandview, Sugar Creek, Greenwood, Blue Springs, North Kansas City, Gladstone, and Claycomo. He is a member of the exclusive House Financial Services Committee and Ranking Member of the House Subcommittee on Housing and Insurance. 1 2026-09-02T09:19:58Z 2026-09-02T09:20:51Z
https://bell.house.gov/media/press-releases/bell-strickland-mfume-lead-70-members-effort-stop-navy-renaming-ship-honoring Bell, Strickland, Mfume Lead 70+ Members in Effort to Stop Navy from Renaming Ship Honoring Black War Hero in Honor of President Trump 2026-08-28 2026 2026-08 Democrat House MO Wesley Bell B001324 bell.house.gov bell https://bell.house.gov/media/press-releases scraper The letter comes following recent news that the U.S. Navy is considering renaming the USS Doris Miller in honor of the president Doris Miller was a sailor aboard the USS West Virginia when Japan began its attack on Pearl Harbor who put himself in harm’s way to help save his fellow wounded sailors The letter was signed by 73 members, including Ranking Member Adam Smith and 24 Members from the House Armed Services Committee Washington, D.C. — Today, Representatives Wesley Bell (D-MO-01), Marilyn Strickland (D-WA-10), and Kweisi Mfume (D-MD-07) led over 70 of their Democratic House colleagues in an effort pressing Department of Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth and Acting Navy Secretary Hung Cao to keep the name of the USS Doris Miller as is. “Renaming this ship after a sitting President would be unprecedented and break longstanding tradition,” wrote the Representatives. “Most importantly, this would diminish the recognition of one of our country’s greatest military heroes. It was during President Trump’s first term that the Navy announced CVN-81 would bear Doris Miller’s name. Reversing that decision now would be a significant step backward in honoring the courage and sacrifice of those who have served our country.” News broke last week about the Navy potentially renaming its ship, CVN-81, to honor Trump. During the president’s first term, the Navy had announced that CVN-81 would bear Doris Miller’s name, making it the first aircraft carrier to be named for an African American, as well as the first named in honor of an enlisted sailor. Doris ‘Dorie’ Miller was serving aboard the USS West Virginia on December 7, 1941, when Japan began its attack. At the time, Miller was a Mess Attendant Second Class, and after his station came under fire, he took control of an anti-aircraft gun and fired at incoming aircraft. Even as the ship sank, he kept fighting until he ran out of ammunition, and assisted his fellow wounded sailors to reach safety. “Doris Miller’s story is one of extraordinary bravery, service, and pure patr… 1 2026-08-29T11:31:28Z 2026-08-29T11:32:37Z
https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressman-cleaver-calls-president-trump-reconsider-importation Congressman Cleaver Calls on President Trump to Reconsider Importation of Foreign Beef Products 2026-08-24 2026 2026-08 Democrat House MO Emanuel Cleaver C001061 cleaver.house.gov cleaver https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases scraper (Washington, D.C.) – Today, U.S. Representative Emanuel Cleaver, II (D-MO) urged the Trump Administration to reverse course on its plan to import 300,000 metric tons of foreign beef over the next 90 days. In a Truth Social post, the President indicated that these beef products will not be subject to out-of-quota tariffs and will allegedly be sold at 25% below current market prices. In a letter to President Trump, Congressman Cleaver acknowledged that Missourians are struggling with the rising cost of groceries, but emphasized that the importation of foreign beef fails to address the primary forces which have driven up the cost of beef products. As noted in the Congressman’s letter, the size of the American cattle herd has reached a 75-year low, and this development has contributed to a shortage of beef products made available to retailers and consumers. Moreover, according to the USDA, the number of cattle producers declined by 17% between 2017 and 2022, an alarming trend largely influenced by drought conditions in cattle-producing areas alongside higher input prices for necessities such as farm equipment and feed. “Flooding the market with Argentinian beef isn’t how you show support for American cattle producers,” said Congressman Cleaver. “Market manipulation is also a misguided approach to bringing down grocery prices, so I struggle to see who will benefit from this plan other than foreign competitors. If anything, the President’s proposal will further discourage cattlemen here in the United States from expanding their herds, thereby perpetuating one of the very problems that led to higher beef prices in the first place. Also, I’d be remiss to not point out that the proposed lifting of out-of-quota tariffs on foreign beef extends just past the upcoming midterm elections. Selling out American cattlemen in hopes of performing better at the ballot box is a sad betrayal of the farmers who keep this country fed.” Statements in strong opposition to the President’s plan have been issued by the National Cattlemen’s… 1 2026-08-25T05:31:37Z 2026-08-25T05:33:09Z
https://bell.house.gov/media/press-releases/representatives-bell-courtney-and-goodlander-lead-colleagues-urging-clarity Representatives Bell, Courtney, and Goodlander Lead Colleagues in Urging Clarity from Pentagon on USS Lincoln’s Overextended Deployment & Sailors’ Safety 2026-08-14 2026 2026-08 Democrat House MO Wesley Bell B001324 bell.house.gov bell https://bell.house.gov/media/press-releases scraper The letter follows reports of an intensifying mental health crisis aboard the USS Abraham Lincoln The aircraft carrier’s crew is in its 9th month at sea and has spent a record 250 consecutive days without making land Congressman Bell serves on the House Armed Services Committee Washington, D.C. — Today, Representatives Wesley Bell (D-MO-01), Maggie Goodlander (D-NH-02), and Joe Courtney (D-CT-02) led a group of 34 lawmakers in demanding immediate answers from the Department of Defense on the conditions aboard the USS Abraham Lincoln. The letter addresses mounting reports of poor living conditions, food shortages, and a mental health crisis among the crew. The ship and its crew have been deployed at sea for more than 8 months — including a record-breaking 208 days without a single port call — and multiple sailors have reportedly attempted to jump overboard in recent weeks. “Like the USS Gerald R. Ford (CVN-78) before it, CVN-72’s extended deployment is accompanied by deeply troubling reports about sailors’ mental health and living conditions. These reports are not political conjecture; they come from sailors’ worried family members,” the lawmakers wrote. “Navy leadership took the appropriate step in meeting to address families’ concerns, but there remains more to be done to ensure that the families and the public have faith that these sailors are being taken care of and that the Department is appropriately managing the fleet and its readiness for Operation Epic Fury.” On Tuesday, the Navy Times reported on the mental health strain, exhaustion, and safety concerns of sailors aboard the USS Abraham Lincoln, which has been deployed for over eight months supporting President Trump’s war with Iran, which included a span of 208 continuous days without porting, a carrier record. “The Ford and Lincoln's successive overextended deployments and subsequent challenges have become a pattern in the Administration's handling of its war against Iran. As of August 13, the USS George Washington (CVN-73) is reported to replac… 1 2026-09-03T09:29:33Z 2026-09-03T09:31:32Z
https://bell.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-bell-hosts-women-veterans-roundtable-address-issues-facing-veteran Congressman Bell Hosts Women Veterans Roundtable to Address Issues Facing Veteran Communities 2026-08-12 2026 2026-08 Democrat House MO Wesley Bell B001324 bell.house.gov bell https://bell.house.gov/media/press-releases scraper The discussion brought together women veterans and veteran advocates from across the St. Louis region The roundtable addressed problems specific to women veterans Women are among the fastest-growing groups in the armed forces and veteran community Congressman Bell during the discussion: “Your [female servicemembers] experiences are not a footnote to the veteran story. They are central to it” St. Louis, Missouri – On Monday, Congressman Wesley Bell (D-MO-01) hosted a roundtable event for women veterans in the St. Louis region. During the discussion, the group of veterans addressed unique problems they have faced as women in a historically male-dominated field. “Women are among the fastest-growing groups of veterans in this country,” said Congressman Bell during the roundtable. “And for too long, the systems meant to serve you were built without you in mind. Too many women veterans have been asked whether they're really the veteran in the family. Too many have struggled to get health care designed for their needs. Too many have navigated the benefits process, the disability claims process, the transition home, feeling like they had to fight a second battle just to receive what they earned. This is simply unacceptable.” Additionally, Congressman Bell noted that this conversation was about large-scale women veterans’ issues and that his office remained available for specific problems people faced with their benefits or care. “We have an obligation to ensure we do everything we can to fight for our vets when they return home. This includes fighting for proper healthcare, housing, and resources,” said Rep. Bell. “While today’s conversation is about the big-picture issues facing our veteran community, if you're dealing with a specific problem, my office is here for you. My casework team is the best, and they can sit down with you one-on-one to assist with whatever specific issues you are facing. No one should leave here today without knowing where to turn.” Missouri has a long history as a military state, home t… 1 2026-08-13T06:17:16Z 2026-08-13T06:18:13Z
https://bell.house.gov/media/press-releases/representatives-bell-wagner-issue-statement-escalating-pressure-srebrenica Representatives Bell, Wagner, Issue Statement on Escalating Pressure on Srebrenica Memorial Center and Staff 2026-08-11 2026 2026-08 Democrat House MO Wesley Bell B001324 bell.house.gov bell https://bell.house.gov/media/press-releases scraper The statement comes after 26 current and former employees of the Srebrenica Memorial Center were summoned for police questioning by the Zvornik Police Department Congressman Bell and Congresswoman Wagner are two the Co-Chairs of the Congressional Bosnia Caucus in the House of Representatives Missouri’s 1st district has the largest Bosnian population outside of Bosnia and Herzegovina Washington, D.C. – Today, Representatives Wesley Bell (D-MO-01) and Ann Wagner (R-MO-02), issued the following statement on the Zvornik Police Department's summoning of 26 current and former Srebrenica Memorial Center staff for questioning. Bell and Wagner are two of the Co-Chairs of the Bipartisan Congressional Bosnia Caucus in Congress and also represent the St. Louis region, which hosts the largest Bosnian population outside of Bosnia and Herzegovina. "We are deeply troubled by reports that current and former staff of the Srebrenica Memorial Center have been called in for questioning by Republika Srpska authorities. The scope and the timing of these summonses raise serious alarm — especially given that the Memorial Center's work is essential to safeguarding the historical record, honoring those who were killed, and defending human rights. We urge the relevant authorities to respect the rule of law, protect the independence of Bosnia and Herzegovina's institutions, and allow the Memorial Center to carry out its vital mission without fear of intimidation.” ### Wesley Bell is the U.S. Representative for Missouri's First Congressional District, which includes St. Louis City and a portion of St. Louis County. He is a member of the House Oversight and Government Reform Committee, House Armed Services Committee, and House Foreign Affairs Committee. 1 2026-08-13T06:17:16Z 2026-08-13T06:18:13Z
https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressman-cleaver-sounds-alarm-regarding-potential-closure-missouri Congressman Cleaver Sounds the Alarm Regarding Potential Closure of Missouri Farm Service Agency Offices 2026-08-10 2026 2026-08 Democrat House MO Emanuel Cleaver C001061 cleaver.house.gov cleaver https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases scraper (Washington, D.C.) – Today, U.S. Representative Emanuel Cleaver, II (D-MO) raised concerns about plans to close or reduce services at Farm Service Agency offices throughout the state of Missouri. In a letter to Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins, Congressman Cleaver highlighted the significant challenges confronting American farmers and demanded answers regarding the extent to which FSA operations will be scaled back across the state. Employing over 460,000 people, agriculture remains Missouri’s number one industry, with soybeans and corn representing the state’s top commodities. Notably, Missouri is home to nearly 88,000 farms, which account for 66% of the state’s total land use. Over the last two years, however, the USDA reports that profit margins for U.S. soybeans and corn have been negative, all while the costs of fertilizer, fuel, seeds, labor, and equipment maintenance have skyrocketed. Moreover, according to a February report from the American Farm Bureau Federation, Chapter 12 farm bankruptcies surged by 46% in 2025, the second consecutive year of increased bankruptcies. “American farmers are facing an economic crisis that’s made it nearly impossible for many of them to continue producing crops or raising livestock,” said Congressman Cleaver. “The Midwest led the nation last year in the number of farmers declaring Chapter 12 bankruptcy, and Missouri alone saw sixteen farms reach that point in 2025. When you factor in all the families who don’t qualify for Chapter 12, the picture becomes even more dire. Given the current situation, it makes absolutely no sense for the USDA to start unexpectedly closing and reducing services at FSA County Offices. In many respects, the wellbeing of this country depends upon the wellbeing of our farmers, and we know for a fact that Missouri farmers are struggling right now. The FSA is a lifeline to programs needed to keep midwestern farms afloat,” Congressman Cleaver continued, “and reducing the agency’s presence in this state will add yet another burden to the long lis… 1 2026-08-11T05:54:29Z 2026-08-11T05:56:25Z
https://bell.house.gov/media/press-releases/representatives-bell-and-moylan-introduce-legislation-expanding-radiation Representatives Bell and Moylan Introduce Legislation Expanding Radiation Exposure Benefits 2026-08-01 2026 2026-08 Democrat House MO Wesley Bell B001324 bell.house.gov bell https://bell.house.gov/media/press-releases scraper "Long before I got to Congress, I heard from St. Louisans who endured decades of health crises, economic struggles, and neglect after radioactive contamination from the Manhattan Project upended their lives. Families from across my district have suffered from terrible cancers, thyroid issues, and even death because of the improper storage of this deadly waste,” said Congressman Wesley Bell. "While no legislation can truly rectify that harm, this expansion of compensable diseases and increase in RECA benefits from $50,000 to $150,000, in addition to covering medical expenses, is a huge step in the right direction. Nothing can fully right this wrong, but this effort tips the scales toward justice — for everyone from St. Louis to Guam.” "This legislation brings together a strong bipartisan coalition of Members of Congress, survivors, advocates, and communities who have refused to give up this fight,” said Congressman Moylan. “Together, our voices are stronger, and together, we will keep fighting until every American harmed by radiation exposure receives the justice they have been denied. I’m not backing down until we get this across the finish line for the people of Guam who were impacted and all those still left behind.” 1 2026-09-02T09:19:58Z 2026-09-02T09:20:51Z
https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressman-cleaver-celebrates-passage-amendment-provide-5-million Congressman Cleaver Celebrates Passage of Amendment to Provide $5 Million for Alpha-Gal Syndrome Research 2026-07-23 2026 2026-07 Democrat House MO Emanuel Cleaver C001061 cleaver.house.gov cleaver https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases scraper (Washington, D.C.) – Today, U.S. Representative Emanuel Cleaver, II (D-MO) released the following statement after his bipartisan amendment to provide $5 million for alpha-gal syndrome research was included in the underlying text of the Fiscal Year 2027 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA). “Today marks an important step forward for the hundreds of thousands of Americans living with alpha-gal syndrome. By including my bipartisan amendment to invest $5 million in dedicated research, Congress is finally beginning to address a growing health challenge that has gone underrecognized and underfunded for far too long. “For too many families, an alpha-gal diagnosis has meant navigating life-altering condition without answers, treatments, or resources they deserve. This investment will help researchers better understand the disease, improve care for patients, and move us closer to effective treatments. I’m grateful to my bipartisan partners and advocates who helped elevate this issue and ensure these families were heard. “Unfortunately, despite this important victory, House Republican leadership chose to include deeply partisan provisions unrelated to our national defense – including language from the SAVE Act and discriminatory amendments targeting LGBTQ+ Americans – which prevented me from supporting final passage of the legislation. “My opposition to the final bill should not be mistaken for opposition to our troops or the important bipartisan priorities included in the underlying legislation. I will continue working with colleagues on both sides of the aisle to advance policies that strengthen our national defense, support our servicemembers, and improve the lives of the people we are sent here to serve – without sacrificing the civil rights and constitutional protections that define our democracy.” ### Emanuel Cleaver, II is the U.S. Representative for Missouri's Fifth Congressional District, which includes Kansas City, Independence, Lee's Summit, Raytown, Grandview, Sugar Creek, Greenwood, Blue Springs, No… 1 2026-07-24T07:30:11Z 2026-07-24T07:31:13Z
https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressman-cleaver-reintroduces-legislation-remove-transportation Congressman Cleaver Reintroduces Legislation to Remove Transportation Barriers for Formerly Incarcerated Citizens 2026-07-23 2026 2026-07 Democrat House MO Emanuel Cleaver C001061 cleaver.house.gov cleaver https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases scraper (Washington, D.C.) – Today, U.S. Representative Emanuel Cleaver, II (D-MO), reintroduced the Transportation for Reentry Act, legislation designed to help formerly incarcerated individuals successfully reintegrate into their communities by expanding access to reliable, affordable public transportation during the critical first year after their release. Each year, approximately 610,000 Americans leave state and federal prisons. While many are eager to find work, attend medical appointments, reunite with family, and rebuild their lives, the cost and availability of transportation often stand in the way. “Too often, we tell returning citizens to get a job, keep appointments, support their families, and contribute to their communities, while denying them one of the most basic tools needed to accomplish those goals: a reliable way to get there,” said Congressman Cleaver. “If we are serious about reducing recidivism, strengthening public safety, and helping people rebuild productive lives, we must remove unnecessary barriers to success. The Transportation for Reentry Act is a practical investment in second chances, safer communities, and a stronger workforce.” "Every person deserves an opportunity to rebuild their life after incarceration, but a lack of transportation to work or a probation meeting can derail their progress. Transportation should never determine whether someone succeeds or is pulled back into the criminal legal system. Rep. Cleaver's Transportation for Reentry Act recognizes that safety means investing in the tools people need to thrive in their communities. Federal programs that remove re-entry barriers and promote economic opportunity are smart justice investments in people, not prisons,” said Nina Patel, ACLU Justice Policy & Government Affairs Senior Policy Counsel. The Transportation for Reentry Act would expand the Federal Public Transportation Program to provide eligible individuals recently released from incarceration with up to one year of free public transportation, helping connect them to… 1 2026-07-24T07:30:11Z 2026-07-24T07:31:13Z
https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressman-cleaver-introduces-charts-act-modernize-and-improve-long Congressman Cleaver Introduces CHARTS Act to Modernize and Improve Long-Term Care for Seniors 2026-07-22 2026 2026-07 Democrat House MO Emanuel Cleaver C001061 cleaver.house.gov cleaver https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases scraper (Washington, D.C.) – Today, U.S. Representative Emanuel Cleaver, II (D-MO), introduced the Connecting Health and Records Technology for Seniors (CHARTS) Act, legislation to help long-term and post-acute care providers modernize patient record systems, improve care coordination, and ensure America’s seniors receive safer, more connected healthcare. When Congress passed the HITECH Act of 2009, hospitals and physician practices received federal incentives to adopt electronic health records (EHRs). Long-term care providers, including skilled nursing facilities, nursing homes, rehabilitation centers, and home health agencies, were largely left out. As a result, many facilities caring for older Americans continue to rely on outdated systems that make it more difficult to share patient information, coordinate care between providers, and participate in today’s increasingly data-driven healthcare system. The legislation comes as the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid services continues its transition toward value-based care models, where providers are increasingly expected to coordinate care across multiple settings. Yet many long-term care providers remain unable to fully participate because implementing electronic health record systems can cost between $100,000 and $250,000 – a significant financial hurdle for many facilities. “Healthcare doesn’t stop when a patient leaves the hospital, and neither should access to their medical records,” said Congressman Cleaver. “Too many seniors experience fragmented care simply because the providers caring for them don’t have the tools to communicate effectively with one another. Whether someone is transitioning from a hospital to a rehabilitation facility, a nursing home, or receiving care at home, their health information should move with them. The CHARTS Act is a commonsense investment that will improve care, reduce unnecessary costs, and give healthcare professionals more time to focus on what matters most: their patients.” “ADVION thanks Congressman Emanuel Cleaver for introdu… 1 2026-07-23T07:31:02Z 2026-07-23T07:32:26Z
https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressman-cleaver-celebrates-more-34-million-kansas-city-bio-tech-hub Congressman Cleaver Celebrates More than $34 Million for Kansas City Bio Tech Hub, Applauds Additional Investment in Missouri Innovation 2026-07-21 2026 2026-07 Democrat House MO Emanuel Cleaver C001061 cleaver.house.gov cleaver https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases scraper (Washington, D.C.) – Today, U.S. Representative Emanuel Cleaver, II (D-MO), celebrates the U.S. Economic Development Administration’s (EDA) announcement of approximately $34 million in implementation funding for the Kansas City BioSecure Manufacturing Hub (KC Bio) as part of the federal Tech Hubs Program, along with an additional $38 million for Missouri’s Critical Minerals and Materials for Advanced Energy Tech Hub (CM2AE) based in Rolla. Tech Hubs was authorized by the bipartisan CHIPS and Science Act, a key part of President Biden’s Investing in America agenda, which he signed into law in August 2022. The investments are designed to strengthen America’s global competitiveness by accelerating innovation, expanding advanced manufacturing, strengthening domestic supply chains, and positioning regions like Kansas City as national leaders in critical technologies essential to both economic growth and national security. “Today’s announcement is a major victory for the region and our nation’s future,” said Congressman Cleaver. “The Kansas City region has long been home to world-class research institutions, pioneering life sciences companies, and an unmatched spirit of collaboration. This investment recognizes what we’ve known for years - that Kansas City is uniquely positioned to lead America in the next generation of biomanufacturing and biotechnology innovation.” The Kansas City BioSecure Manufacturing Tech Hub, led by BioNexus KC and supported by a broad coalition of public, private, academic, and nonprofit partners, was designated as a federal Tech Hub to strengthen domestic bio manufacturing capacity and accelerate the commercialization of emerging technologies. Rep. Cleaver has supported efforts to establish Kansas City as a national leader in biosciences and advanced manufacturing sectors, recognizing both the economic opportunity and the national security importance of developing resilient domestic supply chains for critical technologies. The announcement follows last week’s selection of the University o… 1 2026-07-22T07:34:13Z 2026-07-22T07:35:16Z
https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/reps-cleaver-davids-call-release-delayed-funding-supporting-local Reps. Cleaver, Davids Call for Release of Delayed Funding Supporting Local History and Tourism 2026-07-17 2026 2026-07 Democrat House MO Emanuel Cleaver C001061 cleaver.house.gov cleaver https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases scraper (Kansas City, MO) – Today, U.S. Representatives Emanuel Cleaver, II (D-MO) and Sharice Davids (D-KS), are calling on the Trump Administration to immediately release overdue federal funding approved by Congress more than five months ago that supports museums, historic sites, classrooms, and tourism throughout western Missouri and eastern Kansas. Despite Congress approving the funding earlier this year, National Heritage Areas across the country, including the Freedom’s Frontier National Heritage Area (FFNHA), have yet to receive the resources they rely on to keep staff employed, preserve historic sites, expand educational programming, and support local economies. “These repeated delays in funding are causing significant strain on our [National Heritage Areas] - many of which rely on small staffs and robust volunteer networks,” wrote the Members. “[The Freedom’s Frontier National Heritage Area] is facing this shortfall - and on the verge of having to lay off staff - while servicing a record number of grant applications, providing opportunities to 122 percent more students compared to the last fiscal year, and meeting increased tourism demand from the semiquincentennial and the FIFA World Cup 2026.” Federal investments in National Heritage Areas help preserve historic landmarks, support museums and cultural organizations, provide grants to local communities, expand education opportunities for students, and attract visitors whose spending strengthens local businesses. Every federal dollar invested through National Heritage Areas is matched by at least one dollar in private funding and generates more than five dollars in additional nonfederal investment. Established in 2006, the FFNHA connects more than 300 museums, historic sites, libraries, trails, and cultural organizations across 41 counties in Missouri and Kansas. Together, these partners tell the story of the western frontier, Bleeding Kansas, the Civil War, Brown v. Board of Education, Native American history, and influential Americans such as President Har… 1 2026-07-18T06:58:50Z 2026-07-18T07:00:34Z
https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressman-cleaver-named-co-chair-house-democratic-task-force-defend Congressman Cleaver Named Co-Chair of House Democratic Task Force to Defend 14th Amendment 2026-07-16 2026 2026-07 Democrat House MO Emanuel Cleaver C001061 cleaver.house.gov cleaver https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases scraper (Washington, D.C.) – Today, U.S. Representative Emanuel Cleaver, II (D-MO), announced his appointment as Co-Chair of the newly established House Democratic Defend the 14th Amendment Task Force, a coalition of Members dedicated to protecting the constitutional guarantees of equal protection, due process, birthright citizenship, and civil rights in the face of ongoing legal and political challenges. Rep. Cleaver joins Representatives Analilia Mejia (D-NJ), Emily Randall (D-WA), Lateefah Simon (D-CA), and Suhas Subramanyam (D-VA) in leading the Task Force, which will coordinate congressional oversight, engage constitutional scholars and legal experts, educate the public, and respond to efforts that undermine the rights secured by the Fourteenth Amendment. “As someone whose life has been shaped by the Civil Rights Movement and whose ministry and public service have always been rooted in the pursuit of justice, I know the promises of our Constitution are only as strong as our willingness to defend them,” said Congressman Cleaver. “The 14th Amendment is the constitutional foundation for equal protection, due process, and civil rights in America. When those protections come under attack, we cannot afford silence or complacency. I am honored to help lead this Task Force as we work to ensure these constitutional guarantees remain real and meaningful for every American.” “The 14th Amendment reminds us that the promise of the Constitution belongs to all of us. It serves as the basis for the civil rights movement and ensures that every American has equal rights in this country, no matter who they are or where they come from. As Trump and Republicans attempt to undermine these liberties, House Democrats stand united in fighting for equal opportunity and equal protection under the law, and I’m grateful to Reps. Mejia, Cleaver, Randall, Simon and Subramanyam for their leadership in this fight,” said Chairman Pete Aguilar. “We are witnessing a coordinated campaign by the Trump administration and a radicalized Supreme Court t… 1 2026-07-17T07:15:58Z 2026-07-17T07:17:05Z
https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressman-cleavers-statement-rep-massies-amendment-gop-foreign-aid Congressman Cleaver’s Statement on Rep. Massie's Amendment to GOP Foreign Aid Budget Bill & Policy in the Middle East 2026-07-16 2026 2026-07 Democrat House MO Emanuel Cleaver C001061 cleaver.house.gov cleaver https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases scraper (Washington, D.C.) – Today, U.S. Representative Emanuel Cleaver, II (D-MO), released the following statement on his vote on Rep. Thomas Massie’s amendment to the Fiscal Year 2027 State Foreign Operations, and Related Programs Appropriations Act. “This Republican foreign aid bill debated yesterday decimates needed humanitarian aid and undercuts American diplomacy around the world. Republicans included an amendment to the bill by Rep. Massie that could block all foreign aid to Israel, including programs I strongly support that are focused on peacebuilding and humanitarian aid. I voted no on Rep. Massie’s amendment because I ardently believe in peacebuilding programs which are working daily to bring people together, rather than divide them. “Despite its title and messaging, the amendment was drafted in such a broad way that it leaves the Trump Administration, who will implement it, with wide discretion to decide which funding accounts should be blocked. This creates the false impression that Congress had ended their support. That’s not honest policymaking, and it’s not how we should approach an issue with such profound humanitarian consequences. “Israel has the right to exist and the right to defend their people, and I believe the U.S. should continue to have a strong strategic alliance with Israel. However, the status quo is not tenable; not for the Israeli people long term, not for the Palestinians trying to live in an ever-shrinking territory in the West Bank, and certainly not for the people still suffering in Gaza. “It is outrageous that this Republican bill provided no aid for the Palestinian people continuing to suffer in Gaza. “If Congress is serious about examining and changing U.S. policy, then we should debate and vote on legislation that actually does what it claims to do.” ### Emanuel Cleaver, II is the U.S. Representative for Missouri's Fifth Congressional District, which includes Kansas City, Independence, Lee's Summit, Raytown, Grandview, Sugar Creek, Greenwood, Blue Springs, North Kansas City… 1 2026-07-17T07:15:58Z 2026-07-17T07:17:05Z
https://bell.house.gov/media/press-releases/representatives-bell-morelle-host-voting-rights-roundtable-stakeholders-and Representatives Bell & Morelle Host Voting Rights Roundtable with Stakeholders and Community Organizers 2026-07-15 2026 2026-07 Democrat House MO Wesley Bell B001324 bell.house.gov bell https://bell.house.gov/media/press-releases scraper On Friday, Representatives Wesley Bell and Joe Morelle hosted a voting rights roundtable discussion to address the current state of voting rights in Missouri and across the country In addition to Representatives Bell and Morelle, stakeholders from across the state joined the discussion Bell believes that voting rights are preservative of all other rights and that every eligible American should have fair and equal access to the ballot box Congressman Bell: “Voting rights are preservative of all other rights. Without the right to vote, without access to the ballot box, all the other rights and liberties we hold dearly are in jeopardy” Ranking Member Morelle: “We’ve all seen it – Donald Trump, House Republicans, and their allies on the Supreme Court are determined to prevent eligible Americans from participating in the election because they know cheating is the only way they will win." Congressman Bell, Ranking Member Morelle, and roundtable participants St. Louis, Missouri – Last week, Representative Wesley Bell (D-MO-01) and Ranking Member of the House Administration Committee Joe Morelle (D-NY-25) hosted a voting rights roundtable discussion in St. Louis to discuss the current state of voting rights across the country. The roundtable also featured voting rights and community organizers from across the state, as well as community stakeholders. “Voting rights are preservative of all other rights. Without the right to vote, without access to the ballot box, all the other rights and liberties we hold dearly are in jeopardy," said Congressman Bell. "It's no secret that Republicans are working to eliminate Democratic seats — and that threat is real right here in Missouri, where they are actively targeting Rep. Cleaver's seat in Kansas City. Your vote is your voice, and I will do everything in my power to protect the voice of every St. Louisan. Thank you to Ranking Member Morelle and all the voting rights advocates on the front lines of this effort for joining our district roundtable." "I was pleased to join Re… 1 2026-07-16T07:21:44Z 2026-07-16T07:23:13Z
https://bell.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-bell-issues-statement-amendment-no-votes Congressman Bell Issues Statement on Amendment “No” Votes 2026-07-15 2026 2026-07 Democrat House MO Wesley Bell B001324 bell.house.gov bell https://bell.house.gov/media/press-releases scraper Washington, D.C. – Today, Congressman Wesley Bell (D-MO-01) issued the following statement on his votes against the amendments to the National Security, Department of State, and Related Programs Appropriations Act, H.R. 8595. The specific amendments Congressman Bell is voting against were offered by Republican Representatives Thomas Massie, Chip Roy, and Lauren Bobert. “Today, I voted against a slew of reckless amendments offered by Republicans following a ‘Trump doctrine’ that does nothing but destabilize the Middle East, weaken our allies and global institutions like the UN, and withhold humanitarian aid from those who need it most. At a time when our allies, including Ukraine, Israel, Taiwan, Jordan, and others, are on the frontlines against our sworn enemies, we cannot afford to turn a blind eye and withhold support and assistance. No ally is perfect, and just like the U.S. government, I do not agree with all the actions of our allies abroad. 1 2026-07-29T07:41:48Z 2026-07-29T07:42:57Z
https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressman-cleaver-celebrates-umkc-led-critical-materials-crossroads Congressman Cleaver Celebrates UMKC-Led Critical Materials Crossroads Engine Selection for $160 Million NSF Award 2026-07-14 2026 2026-07 Democrat House MO Emanuel Cleaver C001061 cleaver.house.gov cleaver https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases scraper (Washington, D.C.) – Today, U.S. Representative Emanuel Cleaver, II (D-MO), celebrates the National Science Foundation’s selection of the University of Missouri-Kansas City-led Critical Materials Crossroads Engine as one of just twelve new NSF Regional Innovation Engines nationwide. The designation makes the Kansas City region eligible to receive up to $160 million over the next decade, positioning Missouri’s Fifth Congressional District as a national hub for critical materials research, advanced manufacturing, workforce development, and supply chain innovation. “Today’s announcement proves that the future of American innovation is being built right here in Missouri’s Fifth Congressional District,” said Congressman Cleaver. “UMKC’s designation as an NSF Regional Innovation Engine reflects the extraordinary talent and collaboration that define our community. This investment will strengthen our economy, create good-paying jobs, and ensure our region continues to lead in developing the critical technologies of tomorrow. I congratulate Chancellor Agrawal, UMKC, and all of the partners who helped make this achievement possible. Today, we are reminded that our greatest successes come when there’s collaboration towards a shared vision. That’s the Kansas City way, and today the nation is taking notice.” The UMKC-led consortium includes more than 260 partners across Missouri and Kansas spanning higher education, industry, entrepreneurship, government, and workforce development. The initiative is expected to support approximately 10,000 jobs by 2036 while generating as much as $40 billion in economic output across the region. Critical Materials Crossroads will help establish the Kansas City region as a national leader in developing and commercializing the advanced materials used in technologies ranging from semiconductors and batteries to medical devices, aerospace, and national defense. Earlier this year, Rep. Cleaver joined a bipartisan, bistate delegation from Missouri and Kansas in sending a letter to the Acting D… 1 2026-07-15T07:12:08Z 2026-07-15T07:13:45Z
https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressman-cleaver-receives-carl-coan-sr-lifetime-achievement-award Congressman Cleaver Receives Carl A.S. Coan, Sr., Lifetime Achievement Award for Public Service 2026-07-13 2026 2026-07 Democrat House MO Emanuel Cleaver C001061 cleaver.house.gov cleaver https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases scraper (Washington, D.C.) – At the end of June, U.S. Representative Emanuel Cleaver, II (D-MO), Ranking Member of the Financial Services Subcommittee on Housing & Insurance, received the Carl A.S. Coan, Sr., Lifetime Achievement Award for Public Service from the National Housing Conference. Congressman Cleaver was presented the award, along with Congressman Mike Flood, Chairman of the Subcommittee on Housing & Insurance, at the NHC’s Housing Visionary Awards Gala in Washington, D.C. for their work in helping pass the bipartisan 21st Century ROAD to Housing Act, including the HOME Reform Act, the most significant housing proposal passed by Congress in nearly four decades. “The American people do not wish to see their elected officials bicker and grandstand when they go to Washington—they want to see cooperation, compromise, and concrete solutions that will improve the lives of everyday Americans,” said Congressman Cleaver. “From day one of the 119th Congress, Chairman Flood and I have chosen to work together to deliver real results for those we represent. Because of that bipartisan commitment, we were able to work in partnership with Ranking Member Waters and Chairman Hill to pass the most significant housing reform package in nearly four decades. This award is recognition of the long hours and difficult road it took to arrive at this moment and I’m grateful to the National Housing Conference, and its many member organizations, for helping pave the way. Together, we will continue pushing to expand access to affordable housing and revitalize the American dream for hardworking families in Missouri and all across this great nation." The Carl A.S. Coan, Sr., Lifetime Achievement Award for Public Service recognizes their bipartisan leadership on the 21st Century ROAD to Housing Act, including the HOME Reform Act, an effort to expand the nation’s affordable housing supply at a time when millions of Americans face rising housing costs and limited availability. The HOME Reform Act modernizes the federal HOME Investment Partne… 1 2026-07-14T07:08:55Z 2026-07-14T07:10:52Z
https://bell.house.gov/media/press-releases/representative-bell-issues-statement-21st-century-road-housing-act-becoming Representative Bell Issues Statement on the 21st Century ROAD to Housing Act Becoming Law 2026-07-13 2026 2026-07 Democrat House MO Wesley Bell B001324 bell.house.gov bell https://bell.house.gov/media/press-releases scraper Washington, D.C. – Today, Representative Wesley Bell (D-MO-01) issued the following statement on the 21st Century ROAD to Housing Act becoming law, despite President Trump’s refusal to sign the bill. “The most transformative piece of housing legislation in a generation is now law. The 21st Century ROAD to Housing Act will do so much for the people of the St. Louis region, the state of Missouri, and millions of Americans across the country. I hear all the time from folks in the district about the housing crisis in America. This bill will help people build generational wealth through homeownership and give them a shot at a foundational piece of the American Dream. Despite this amazing win for the American people, what saddens me is our president’s refusal to sign this bill into law even with its overwhelming bipartisan support in both chambers. This bill only became law because of a constitutional 10-day rule, which automatically makes legislation that was passed by both chambers law if the president has not signed the bill after ten days. Instead of doing what’s best for the American people, we have a president who holds good legislative progress hostage when he doesn’t get his way. I look forward to continuing to work in Congress to push for legislation that helps every American fight for their dreams.” 1 2026-07-21T07:32:02Z 2026-07-21T07:33:33Z
https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressman-cleavers-statement-21st-century-road-housing-act-becoming Congressman Cleaver’s Statement on the 21st Century ROAD to Housing Act Becoming Law 2026-07-11 2026 2026-07 Democrat House MO Emanuel Cleaver C001061 cleaver.house.gov cleaver https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases scraper (Kansas City, MO) – Today, U.S. Representative Emanuel Cleaver, II (D-MO), Ranking Member of the House Financial Services Subcommittee on Housing and Insurance, celebrates the enactment of the Housing for the 21st Century Act, the most significant bipartisan housing reform package in nearly 50 years, which officially became law at midnight Eastern Time without the President’s signature. The bill was introduced in the House by Rep. Cleaver, House Financial Services Committee Chairman French Hill (R-AR), Ranking Member Maxine Waters (D-CA), and Housing and Insurance Subcommittee Chairman Mike Flood (R-NE), and in the Senate by Banking Committee Chairman Tim Scott (R-SC) and Ranking Member Elizabeth Warren (D-MA). “Today, the most consequential housing legislation in nearly half a century is now law. “This legislation was not born out of political convenience. It was forged through countless hours of difficult conversations, honest disagreements, mutual respect, and an uncommon willingness to find common ground. At a time when cynicism too often overshadows cooperation, Democrats and Republicans chose something different. We chose to listen, negotiate, and ultimately, to govern. “For more than eighteen months, I was proud to work alongside Chairman Flood, our colleagues in both chambers, housing advocates, lenders, local leaders, and stakeholders from across the political spectrum to confront one of the defining challenges facing our nation: the cost of keeping a roof over your head. We did not always share the same approach, but we shared the same conviction that America’s housing crisis demanded action, not excuses. “That spirit of partnership produced landmark legislation that will expand housing supply, modernize our housing finance system, remove unnecessary barriers to development, and help make homeownership and affordable housing more attainable for millions of Americans. It is proof that when we choose progress over partnership, Congress can still deliver transformative results for constituents like min… 1 2026-07-12T07:28:31Z 2026-07-12T07:30:18Z
https://bell.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-bell-leads-effort-pressing-trump-turkey-sanctions-reversal-and Congressman Bell Leads Effort Pressing Trump on Turkey Sanctions Reversal and Family Ties 2026-07-10 2026 2026-07 Democrat House MO Wesley Bell B001324 bell.house.gov bell https://bell.house.gov/media/press-releases scraper The letter comes following the Administration’s announcement it would lift CAATSA sanctions on Turkey and may readmit it to the F-35 program Additionally, the letter aims to address questions about the Trump family's personal dealings with Erdoğan's government Representatives Dan Goldman, Dina Titus, Debbie Wasserman Schultz, Brad Schneider, Gabe Amo, Jim Costa, Jared Moskowitz, Brad Sherman, and Robert J. Menendez joined the effort in addition to Bell ICYMI from Jewish Insider: Dems allege Turkey sanctions relief, F-35 deal being driven by Trump’s personal interests Washington, D.C. – Today, Congressman Wesley Bell (D-MO-01) led nine of his Democratic House colleagues in an effort pressing President Trump and the administration’s potential decision to reverse sanctions on Turkey. In addition to Congressman Bell, Democratic House Representatives Dan Goldman, Dina Titus, Debbie Wasserman Schultz, Brad Schneider, Gabe Amo, Jim Costa, Jared Moskowitz, Brad Sherman, and Robert J. Menendez also joined in signing the letter to President Trump. We are perplexed by what you believe justifies this potential action,” wrote the Representatives. “…Erdogan has continued to provoke our democratic allies, undermine regional stability, and support U.S. adversaries and their proxies – including Foreign Terrorist Organizations (FTOs). In the absence of any reasonable explanation justifying this, allowing Turkey back into the F-35 program without substantial concessions raises serious questions about your Administration's personal dealings with the Turkish government.” The letter also raises pointed questions about the relationship between President Trump, his family, and the Turkish government. It notes that Donald Trump Jr. — who holds no official role in the Administration — reportedly traveled to Istanbul in September 2025 for "secret conversations" with President Erdoğan, and that Trump's chosen Ambassador to Turkey, Tom Barrack, was previously indicted for acting as an unregistered foreign agent. “With all these conce… 1 2026-08-13T06:17:16Z 2026-08-13T06:18:13Z
https://bell.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-bell-announces-over-12-million-bolster-training-and-employment Congressman Bell Announces Over $1.2 Million to Bolster Training and Employment Programs in St. Louis 2026-07-01 2026 2026-07 Democrat House MO Wesley Bell B001324 bell.house.gov bell https://bell.house.gov/media/press-releases scraper Congressman Bell announced $1,285,628 in federal funding for the St. Louis Agency on Training and Employment The funding came through the Department of Labor’s YouthBuild award Congressman Bell recently hosted his second annual job fair to further support job seekers in the St. Louis region Congressman Bell: “So many amazing things happen when people have a stable, good-paying job” Washington, D.C. – Today, Representative Wesley Bell (D-MO-01) announced over $1.2 million in federal funding heading for the St. Louis Agency on Training and Employment. The funding came through the Department of Labor’s YouthBuild award. “So many amazing things happen when people have a stable, good-paying job,” said Congressman Bell. “Which is why I'm doing everything in Congress to make sure my constituents have every opportunity possible to be gainfully employed. I am proud to help bring these federal dollars to the St. Louis region and excited to see all the good it will do for our community.” Representative Bell has used his time in Congress to support programs that bring job opportunities back to the St. Louis region. He has hosted two Congressional job fairs that have brought together hundreds of employers and potential employees from around the area. As the St. Louis County Prosecutor, Congressman Bell understands the direct correlation between job opportunity and crime rates in the St. Louis region. The St. Louis Agency on Training and Employment (SLATE) is the City of St. Louis government agency that offers job seekers and businesses a variety of no-cost services related to employment, job training, and career advancement. YouthBuild is a community-based pre-apprenticeship program that provides job training and educational services for opportunity youth ages 16-24 who left school without a secondary diploma. Participants learn vocational skills in construction, as well as in other in-demand industries that include healthcare, information technology, and hospitality. Participants also provide community service throug… 1 2026-07-02T06:20:02Z 2026-07-02T06:21:32Z
https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-cleaver-secures-key-missouri-priorities-house-water-resources-bill Rep. Cleaver Secures Key Missouri Priorities in House Water Resources Bill 2026-07-01 2026 2026-07 Democrat House MO Emanuel Cleaver C001061 cleaver.house.gov cleaver https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases scraper (Washington, D.C.) – Today, U.S. Representative Emanuel Cleaver, II (D-MO) celebrates the inclusion of several Missouri priorities he championed in the House’s Water Resources Development Act (WRDA), bipartisan legislation that authorizes critical U.S. Army Corps of Engineers projects to strengthen infrastructure, protect communities, and support long-term economic growth. Among the provisions secured by Congressman Cleaver are: A $45 million authorization for Phase 5 of the Brookside Sewer Separation Project in Kansas City Language prohibiting out-of-basin water transfers from the Missouri River Watershed, helping safeguard one of the region’s most vital natural resources Authorization of the Lower Missouri River Flood Risk and Resiliency Comprehensive Study, a critical step toward protecting communities from increasingly severe flooding while improving long-term resilience throughout the region “Investing in our nation’s infrastructure means investing in safer communities, cleaner water, and a stronger economy,” said Congressman Cleaver. “These provisions represent collaboration with local leaders, engineers, advocates, and stakeholders who understand the needs of our region. I’m proud to see these priorities included in the House WRDA bill because they will help strengthen our infrastructure, protect the Missouri River, and better prepare our communities for the challenges of the future.” The $45 million authorization for the Phase 5 of Kansas City’s Brookside Sewer Separation Project will support ongoing efforts to modernize aging wastewater infrastructure, reduce sewer overflows, improve water quality, and protect public health while ensuring the city can continue meeting federal environmental standards. The bill also includes Congressman Cleaver’s effort to prevent out-of-basin waste transfers from the Missouri River Watershed, preserving water resources that are essential to communities, agriculture, navigation, industry, and ecosystems throughout Missouri and neighboring states. Additionally, the … 1 2026-07-02T06:20:02Z 2026-07-02T06:21:32Z
https://bell.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-bell-spearheads-effort-include-disaster-relief-funding-any Congressman Bell Spearheads Effort to Include Disaster Relief Funding in Any Supplemental Legislation 2026-07-01 2026 2026-07 Democrat House MO Wesley Bell B001324 bell.house.gov bell https://bell.house.gov/media/press-releases scraper The letter urges House leadership to immediately put together a supplemental funding package to address needed disaster recovery funds for the St. Louis region This effort builds on several other legislative initiatives Congressman Bell has championed to address the lack of federal support stemming from last year’s tornado Congressman Bell sent the letter to House leadership, as well as the Chair and Ranking Member of the House Appropriations Committee Congressman Bell: “The tornado impacted communities already facing economic challenges and aging infrastructure, making recovery especially difficult in St. Louis's most vulnerable neighborhoods Washington, D.C. – Today, Congressman Wesley Bell (D-MO-01) led an effort urging House leadership and the Appropriations Committee Chair and Ranking Member to include disaster relief funding in any supplemental legislation brought to the House floor. “As St. Louis communities recover from the 2025 storms, I urge you to bring supplemental disaster relief appropriations funding to the House floor as soon as possible," wrote the Congressman in the letter. “The storm damaged or destroyed about 5,000 buildings, including homes, businesses, schools, and critical public facilities. More than 100,000 customers lost power, at least five people died, and dozens were injured. Local officials estimate total damages exceed $1.6 billion,” Congressman Bell continued. This letter builds on Rep. Bell’s broader efforts to strengthen and modernize the federal government’s disaster relief and recovery response. In May, he introduced the Tornado Preparedness Act to improve the nation’s ability to detect, forecast, and respond to tornadoes, and to strengthen community resilience in high-risk areas. “I urge Congress to act quickly to ensure our community receives the resources needed to rebuild and recover from recent disasters. Local governments continue to bear the burden of increasingly frequent and severe natural disasters and require sustained federal partnership to respond effective… 1 2026-07-21T07:32:02Z 2026-07-21T07:33:33Z
https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressman-cleaver-visits-heroes-home-gate-campus-presents-850000 Congressman Cleaver Visits Heroes Home Gate Campus, Presents $850,000 Federal Investment to Support Homeless Veterans 2026-06-26 2026 2026-06 Democrat House MO Emanuel Cleaver C001061 cleaver.house.gov cleaver https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases scraper (Kansas City, MO) – On Monday, June 15th, U.S. Representative Emanuel Cleaver, II (D-MO) visited Footprints, Inc.’s Heroes Home Gate Campus and formally presented a ceremonial check recognizing the $850,000 federal investment he secured to expand the transitional housing program serving homeless veterans in the Kansas City region. The funding will support the expansion of Heroes Home Gate Campus, allowing Footprints, Inc. to increase its capacity to provide safe housing, supportive services, and career development opportunities for veterans working to rebuild their lives after experiencing homelessness. “After serving our country in uniform, no veteran should have to wonder where they will sleep at night,” said Congressman Cleaver. “Heroes Home Gate Campus is doing the critical work of helping veterans reconnect with their families, improve their physical and mental health, and achieve long-term housing stability. This investment reflects our commitment to ensuring that those who defended our nation have access to the resources, support, and opportunities they deserve.” The expanded facility will provide additional space and programming designed to help veterans successfully transition to independent living. Through housing assistance, workforce development, counseling, and other supportive services, the facility helps veterans overcome barriers and build a foundation for lasting success. "At Heroes Home Gate, we are committed to helping veterans move from crisis and uncertainty to stability, purpose, and independent living,” said Joel Bailey, Executive Director. "Through a holistic approach that goes far beyond providing housing, we provide veterans with the resources, skills, support, and opportunities needed to achieve long-term success. From case management and life skills development, to wellness programs, recreational activities, and community engagement, every aspect of our program is designed to foster healing, connection, and personal growth. We believe that true transformation happens when veterans … 1 2026-06-27T21:44:12Z 2026-06-27T22:11:26Z
https://bell.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-bell-announces-500000-federal-funding-clean-and-revitalize-land-st Congressman Bell Announces $500,000 In Federal Funding to Clean Up and Revitalize Land in St. Louis 2026-06-25 2026 2026-06 Democrat House MO Wesley Bell B001324 bell.house.gov bell https://bell.house.gov/media/press-releases scraper The $500,000 is part of $7 million coming to Missouri in grants from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) The federal funding is part of the EPA’s Brownfield Assessment Grant program The program helps transform underutilized properties into community assets Congressman Bell: “These federal funds will help our city assess and eventually transform what are now dilapidated and sometimes uninhabitable areas” Washington, D.C. – Today, Representative Wesley Bell (D-MO-01) announced $500,000 in federal funding for environmental revitalization projects in St. Louis. The funding will go to the Bethlehem Lutheran Church in the northern part of the city. “St. Louisans deserve to live in clean and environmentally safe areas. These federal funds will help our city assess and eventually transform what are now dilapidated and sometimes uninhabitable areas,” said Congressman Bell. “I’m proud to help bring this needed funding back home.” “Congratulations to our Brownfields selectees in Missouri,” said Jim Macy, who is the EPA Administrator for Region 7, which covers St. Louis. “These grants have the power to transform communities by opening the door to reuse, revitalization, and economic growth. We are proud to deliver these resources to Region 7.” EPA’s Brownfields Program began in 1995 and, once these grants are awarded, will have provided over $3 billion in grant funding to assess and clean up contaminated properties and return blighted properties to productive reuse throughout the country. To date, Brownfields investments have leveraged more than $45 billion in cleanup and redevelopment. Over the years, the relatively small investment of federal funding was able to leverage, from both public and private sources, more than 228,900 jobs. Through fiscal year 2025, on average, $19.47 was leveraged for each EPA Brownfields Grant dollar awarded through multipurpose, assessment, revolving loan fund, and cleanup cooperative agreements. 1 2026-06-27T21:44:12Z 2026-06-27T22:11:26Z
https://bell.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-bell-issues-statement-support-avoid-medical-staff-shortages-st Congressman Bell Issues Statement of Support to Avoid Medical Staff Shortages in St. Louis County Jails 2026-06-24 2026 2026-06 Democrat House MO Wesley Bell B001324 bell.house.gov bell https://bell.house.gov/media/press-releases scraper “Regardless of the mistakes someone has made in life, health care is a human right. As the St. Louis County Prosecutor, I know firsthand the vital role nurses play in our corrections system and why supporting this proposal is so important. Letting these contracts expire will have a devastating impact on both the juvenile and adult prison populations, essentially rendering our county prison health care system incapable of providing life-saving services. I remain committed to working with our County partners to make sure everyone in St. Louis County gets the health care they need.” This funding request comes as the St. Louis County Council is currently debating a funding request of $2.89 million to cover the cost of 23 nurses who work at the St. Louis County Jail and the county’s Juvenile Detention Center. If the funding request is not approved, it is projected that the detention facilities will not be able to provide adequate health care services for detainees. 1 2026-06-27T21:44:12Z 2026-06-27T22:11:26Z
https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressman-cleaver-submits-amendment-provide-5-million-alpha-gal Congressman Cleaver Submits Amendment to Provide $5 Million for Alpha-gal Syndrome Research 2026-06-24 2026 2026-06 Democrat House MO Emanuel Cleaver C001061 cleaver.house.gov cleaver https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases scraper (Washington, D.C.) – Today, U.S. Representative Emanuel Cleaver, II (D-MO) announced that he, along with Jeff Van Drew (R-NJ), has submitted an amendment to the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2027 (NDAA) to provide $5 million in federal funding for alpha-gal syndrome research. Alpha-gal syndrome is a life-threatening allergy triggered by tick bites that impacts approximately 500,000 Americans across the United States, including tens of thousands of Missourians. “Due to the lack of research and monitoring systems, it is difficult to know for certain the exact number of Americans living with alpha-gal syndrome—but we know the number is rising and its impact is devastating to thousands of Missourians across our state,” said Congressman Cleaver. “As the alpha-gal syndrome community continues to grow, Congress owes it to these Americans to invest in life-saving research that will help discover new treatments and improve the lives of those dealing with the condition. I’m proud to lead the effort to provide dedicated federal funding for alpha-gal syndrome research, and I’m hopeful my colleagues on both sides of the aisle will support it.” "Alpha-gal syndrome is a life-altering, tick-acquired allergy that changes the foods you can safely eat and the medications and medical procedures that are safe for you. For service members, a diagnosis can be disqualifying and career-ending, making it a direct threat to military readiness. More than half of all service members are stationed within the range of the lone star tick, which causes most cases of the disease, and studies show they are developing it in the course of their duties,” said Sharon Forsyth, Executive Director of Alpha-gal Alliance Action Fund. “Despite this burden, research into treatment and prevention has received only limited federal support. Representative Cleaver's amendment addresses this need directly, directing $5,000,000 to alpha-gal syndrome research within the Combat and Operational Medicine Program without increasing overall spendi… 1 2026-06-27T21:44:12Z 2026-06-27T22:11:26Z
https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/house-representatives-passes-historic-housing-package-sending House of Representatives Passes Historic Housing Package, Sending Legislation to President’s Desk 2026-06-23 2026 2026-06 Democrat House MO Emanuel Cleaver C001061 cleaver.house.gov cleaver https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases scraper (Washington, D.C.) – Today, the House of Representatives passed the 21st Century ROAD to Housing Act with overwhelming bipartisan support. The historic housing package includes numerous bills introduced and supported by Housing & Insurance Subcommittee Ranking Member Emanuel Cleaver, II (D-MO), including proposals to modernize the HOME and Rural Housing Service programs, expand development of manufactured housing, and incentivize the creation of affordable housing in communities nationwide. The legislation will now head to the president’s desk to be signed into law. “The cost of housing is the number one concern of American families. The historic housing package passed today is the culmination of years of bipartisan work to cut unnecessary red tape, modernize federal housing programs, and address our national housing affordability crisis,” said Ranking Member Cleaver. “Chairman Hill, Ranking Member Waters, Chairman Flood, and I have worked tirelessly to bridge partisan divides and forge bipartisan solutions that will lower housing costs and revitalize the American dream for hardworking families in Missouri and all across this great nation. I’m extremely proud of the overwhelming support this legislation was able to garner in a deeply divided Congress, and I am hopeful it will serve as a blueprint for lawmakers seeking to address other challenges facing the American people.” The 21st Century ROAD to Housing Act includes numerous provisions sponsored by Ranking Member Cleaver, including: Innovation Fund: The innovation fund is a section first proposed in the American Housing and Economic Mobility Act, introduced by Ranking Member Cleaver, Senator Elizabeth Warren (D-MA), Senator Raphael Warnock (D-GA) and Representative Ayanna Pressley (D-MA). This section authorizes a seven-year $200 million annual competitive grant program for jurisdictions pursuing innovative policies, interventions, or programs for increasing housing supply. HOME Reform Act: Introduced by Ranking Member Cleaver and Chairman Flood (R-NE), th… 1 2026-06-27T21:44:12Z 2026-06-27T22:11:26Z
https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressman-cleaver-celebrates-deal-pass-historic-housing-legislation Congressman Cleaver Celebrates Deal to Pass Historic Housing Legislation 2026-06-17 2026 2026-06 Democrat House MO Emanuel Cleaver C001061 cleaver.house.gov cleaver https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases scraper June 17, 2026 (Washington, D.C.) - Today, U.S. Representative Emanuel Cleaver, II (D-MO), Ranking Member of the Financial Services Subcommittee on Housing & Insurance, released the following statement after the announcement of an agreement between the House of Representatives and the Senate to finalize the 21st Century ROAD to Housing Act. The U.S. Senate is expected to pass the legislation this week, paving the way for consideration in the House of Representatives. "As American families struggle with our national housing affordability crisis, I am thrilled that the House and the Senate, Republicans and Democrats, have come together to reach a compromise that will enable the passage of historic and desperately needed housing reforms. "The 21st Century ROAD to Housing Act has been years in the making. It modernizes federal housing programs like the Rural Housing Service and the HOME program; cuts through harmful red tape that has limited the development of innovative and manufactured housing; and incentivizes public-private partnerships that will lead to the construction of affordable housing in communities nationwide. "Not only is this legislation important in our work to lower housing costs for working-class families, but it should be an example of what lawmakers can accomplish when we make the conscious decision to work together, rather than tear each other apart. As the Ranking Member of the Subcommittee on Housing, I am proud of the final product we have today—which includes solutions provided by Republicans, Democrats, and lawmakers from every end of the political spectrum. "As Congress prepares to send this historic housing package to the president’s desk, it is my hope that the collaborative process that got us to this point will be a blueprint to solving other challenges facing the country today.” The 21st Century ROAD to Housing Act includes numerous provisions sponsored by Ranking Member Cleaver, including: Innovation Fund: The innovation fund is a section first proposed in the American Housingan… 1 2026-06-27T21:44:12Z 2026-06-27T22:11:26Z
https://bell.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-bell-issues-statement-i-44-sinkhole Congressman Bell Issues Statement on I-44 Sinkhole 2026-06-15 2026 2026-06 Democrat House MO Wesley Bell B001324 bell.house.gov bell https://bell.house.gov/media/press-releases scraper St. Louis – Today, Representative Wesley Bell (D-MO-01) issued the following statement on the I-44 sinkhole in downtown St. Louis. "I’ve been clear all along; infrastructure is critical to the safety and well-being of our community. I will continue to work with local officials and stakeholders to push for increased infrastructure upgrades.” 1 2026-06-27T21:44:12Z 2026-06-27T22:11:26Z
https://bell.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-bell-appointed-powerful-house-foreign-affairs-committee Congressman Bell Appointed to Powerful House Foreign Affairs Committee 2026-06-09 2026 2026-06 Democrat House MO Wesley Bell B001324 bell.house.gov bell https://bell.house.gov/media/press-releases scraper Washington, D.C. – Today, Representative Wesley Bell (D-MO-01) announced his appointment to the House Foreign Affairs Committee. The announcement follows the House Democratic Caucus’s unanimous support of his appointment to the committee. “The St. Louis region has a rich and diverse population and represents communities from across the globe. Folks from Bosnia, China, West Africa, and so many more, I am proud to represent such a multicultural group of people that help make our district stronger,” said Congressman Bell. “I am excited to use my new position on the House Foreign Affairs Committee to continue advocating for my constituents, while pushing back against the President’s foreign policies that have eroded our position on the global stage.” The House Foreign Affairs Committee has legislative and oversight jurisdiction over the foreign relations of the United States, including foreign assistance, arms control, and international economic policy. Congressman Bell currently serves and will continue to serve on the House Oversight and Government Reform and Armed Services Committees. Foreign Affairs subcommittee assignments are yet to be announced. 1 2026-06-27T21:44:12Z 2026-06-27T22:11:26Z
https://bell.house.gov/media/press-releases/bell-introduces-cdbg-dr-automated-assessment-act-modernizing-disaster-recovery Bell Introduces CDBG-DR Automated Assessment Act Modernizing Disaster Recovery and Improving Federal Response 2026-06-08 2026 2026-06 Democrat House MO Wesley Bell B001324 bell.house.gov bell https://bell.house.gov/media/press-releases scraper Washington, D.C. — Today, Representative Wesley Bell (D-MO-01) introduced the Community Development Block Grant Disaster Recovery (CDBG-DR) Automated Assessment Act, “CDBG AAA,” which seeks to improve how the federal government identifies and addresses unmet housing, infrastructure, and economic recovery needs after major disasters. “Communities recovering from natural disasters deserve a recovery process that is timely, transparent, and responsive to their actual needs,” said Rep. Bell. “Far too often, communities are forced to rebuild while the federal government is working with outdated or incomplete information. This bill ensures recovery gaps are identified early and continuously assessed so communities can access the support and resources they need to rebuild stronger and faster.” The legislation would require the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) to conduct ongoing assessments of disaster-impacted communities to ensure federal recovery resources align with their evolving needs. Under the bill, HUD must submit reports to Congress within 60 days of a presidential major disaster declaration and provide quarterly updates identifying unmet needs that could be addressed through CDBG-DR funding and related federal programs. Current federal disaster recovery systems often rely on one-time or delayed assessments that do not reflect how housing shortages, infrastructure damage, and economic challenges change over time. This legislation aims to establish a more proactive, data-driven recovery process that enhances coordination and accountability across federal programs to better assist our communities recovering after a disaster. The introduction of this bill builds on Rep. Bell’s broader efforts to strengthen and modernize the federal government’s disaster relief and recovery response. This May, he introduced the Tornado Preparedness Act to improve the nation’s ability to detect, forecast, and respond to tornadoes, and to strengthen community resilience in high-risk areas. After the devast… 1 2026-06-27T21:44:12Z 2026-06-27T22:11:26Z
https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/reps-cleaver-wasserman-schultz-miller-bacon-introduce-legislation Reps. Cleaver, Wasserman Schultz, Miller, Bacon Introduce Legislation to Accelerate Cures for Polycystic Kidney Disease 2026-06-05 2026 2026-06 Democrat House MO Emanuel Cleaver C001061 cleaver.house.gov cleaver https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases scraper (Washington, D.C.) – Today, U.S. Reps. Emanuel Cleaver, II (D-MO), Debbie Wasserman Schultz (D-FL), Carol Miller (R-WV), and Don Bacon (R-NE) announced the introduction of the PKD Cures Act to expand polycystic kidney disease (PKD) research at the National Institutes of Health and develop a comprehensive roadmap to identify research gaps and priorities, enhance collaboration between the public and private sectors, and develop a plan for integrating innovative technologies such as precision medicine and artificial intelligence into PKD research and care. Between 500,000 and 600,000 Americans live with PKD, a condition that often leads to end-stage renal disease and kidney failure, necessitating dialysis and transplantation for many patients. It is estimated that cystic kidney diseases, including PKD, cost Medicare approximately $3 billion annually. The PKD Cures Act ensures NIH is dedicating the resources necessary to develop the next generation of cures for individuals living with PKD. “Despite roughly 600,000 Americans living with Polycystic Kidney Disease across the country, it is a condition that too often gets overlooked, both in terms of public awareness and medical research,” said Cleaver. “There are steps Congress can take to bolster research efforts that will lead to better outcomes and desperately needed relief for Americans facing this chronic disease. I’m proud to introduce the bipartisan PKD Cures Act with Reps. Wasserman Schultz, Bacon, and Miller to begin that process immediately, providing the pathway to an eventual cure.” “PKD impacts more than half a million Americans, but doesn’t get nearly enough attention. We must pass this legislation to invest in research, improve treatment, and work towards a cure,” said Wasserman Schultz. “I’m proud to introduce this bipartisan bill to support Americans with polycystic kidney disease and their families.” “Kidney disease remains one of the most underrepresented and underfunded chronic diseases in our nation, despite the profound impact it has on hundred… 1 2026-06-27T21:44:12Z 2026-06-27T22:11:26Z
https://bell.house.gov/media/press-releases/ice-denies-efforts-bell-deports-constituent ICE Denies Efforts from Bell, Deports Constituent 2026-06-04 2026 2026-06 Democrat House MO Wesley Bell B001324 bell.house.gov bell https://bell.house.gov/media/press-releases scraper St. Louis, MO — Today, despite efforts from Representative Wesley Bell (D-Mo.), his constituent, Boanerges Flores-Bravo, was deported to Nicaragua. OFFICIAL STATEMENT: “The more I think about my visit to help Mr. Flores-Bravo in the Louisiana detention center, the more disgusted I get with Donald Trump and ICE. This is a hard-working man who followed the correct steps to seek asylum and obtain a work permit. Today he has been taken away from his wife and daughter, and shipped to a country thousands of miles away from them. It’s not fair, and it’s not right. As soon as I heard about Mr. Flores-Bravo’s situation, I went to the Richwood Correctional Center to meet him in person and secured a privacy form to advocate on his behalf. But just two days later, ICE deported him. Mr. Flores-Bravo told me that prior to me reaching him, he had already been coerced into signing self-deportation paperwork by being told his family would be deported without him if he did not voluntarily sign. My heart is broken for him and his family. But this is not the end. I vow to hold these officials accountable. I want to thank the House Oversight and Homeland Security Committee Democratic staff members who rallied to join us in working to help Mr. Flores-Bravo. It’s going to take all of us continuing to fight together to reform ICE and the immigration process.” Rep. Bell toured the Ste. Genevieve facility in Missouri with Rep. Budzinski (D-Ill.) on May 26th, where Flores-Bravo was initially held after his detainment. Shortly after that, Flores-Bravo was transferred to the facility in Monroe, Louisiana. Since learning about Flores-Bravo’s detainment and transfer, Rep. Bell and his team members sought every avenue to bring him back to his family in the St. Louis region, including going to Monroe, Louisiana to get the privacy form signed. 1 2026-06-27T21:44:12Z 2026-06-27T22:11:26Z
https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/reps-cleaver-mejia-demand-trump-administration-automatically-refund Reps. Cleaver, Mejia Demand Trump Administration Automatically Refund Illegal Tariffs Collected from U.S. Small Businesses and Provide Refunds to American Consumers 2026-06-03 2026 2026-06 Democrat House MO Emanuel Cleaver C001061 cleaver.house.gov cleaver https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases scraper (Washington, D.C.) – Today, U.S. Representatives Emanuel Cleaver, II (D-MO) and Analilia Mejia (D-NJ) led dozens of lawmakers in demanding the Trump administration make consumers eligible for tariff refunds and implement an automatic refund system to pay back small businesses that were harmed by the president’s illegal tariffs. In a letter to Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, Trade Representative Jamieson Greer, Small Business Administration Administrator Kelly Loeffler, and Customs and Border Protection Commissioner Rodney Scott, the lawmakers called on the administration to forgo the current claims-based refund process that overwhelmingly benefits giant corporations, and instead implement an automatic refund system focused on compensating small businesses while also making consumers eligible for reimbursement. “While American families and mom-and-pop businesses faced the brunt of the damage caused by the president’s illegal tariff scheme, the administration’s current refund system prioritizes relief for giant corporations without any consideration for those who suffered the most,” said Congressman Cleaver. “We believe it is the American consumers that were forced to pay higher prices and the small businesses weighed down by higher costs that should receive immediate compensation. Unfortunately, that’s not what we’re seeing on the ground under the current system, and it is important that the administration make necessary changes before more damage is done to local economies across the country.” "Working people and small businesses paid the price for Donald Trump’s illegal tariffs. Families saw higher prices at the grocery store, higher costs for everyday goods, and small businesses were forced to absorb costs they could not afford. Now that the courts have made clear these tariffs were unlawful, the administration cannot leave relief up to a cumbersome claims process that favors large corporations with teams of lawyers and staff. Every small business that was harmed should receive an automatic refund, and Amer… 1 2026-06-27T21:44:12Z 2026-06-27T22:11:26Z
https://bell.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-bell-visits-constituent-detained-ice-louisiana Rep. Bell Visits Constituent Detained by ICE in Louisiana 2026-06-02 2026 2026-06 Democrat House MO Wesley Bell B001324 bell.house.gov bell https://bell.house.gov/media/press-releases scraper Monroe, LA— Today, Representative Wesley Bell (D-Mo.) visited the Richwood Correctional Center, currently being used as a detention center by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). Rep. Bell visited a constituent from Missouri’s First District who is currently detained in the Louisiana correctional facility. He was able to secure a privacy form needed to assist his constituent with his immigration case. “When I heard that one of my constituents had been separated from his family, brought to a detention center in Louisiana, and ICE officials weren’t even allowing him to sign a privacy form so we could help him with his case, I immediately headed there myself. I was able to secure this form today, and we'll do everything we can to reunite him with his family,” said Rep. Bell. “But there is a great deal more work to be done. People being detained by ICE deserve so much more than they are being given. I’m fighting for fair access to legal representation, help with the immigration process, and better treatment in ICE facilities for detainees.” Boanerges Flores-Bravo, a resident of the St. Louis region, was detained on May 18, 2026 during his scheduled immigration meeting for being “unlawfully present in the United States,” according to ICE agents. Flores-Bravo and his family came to the United States in 2022, seeking asylum and being granted work permits and an authorization to stay in the U.S. during their immigration proceedings. Flores-Bravo was sent to Ste. Genevieve County Jail in Missouri before being transferred to the Richwood Correctional Center in Louisiana. Flores-Bravo’s wife, Alba Del Socorro Matamoro-Hernandez, and his daughter are being allowed to remain in the United States during his detainment. Del Socorro Matamoro-Hernandez is required to wear an ankle monitor and ICE has recommended that she and her daughter self-deport to Nicaragua. According to ICE, Flores-Bravo will be deported this month. Rep. Bell is a member of the House Oversight Committee and conducted congressional oversight … 1 2026-06-27T21:44:12Z 2026-06-27T22:11:26Z
https://bell.house.gov/media/press-releases/bell-announces-30-million-funding-lambert-airports-new-terminal Bell Announces $30 Million in Funding for Lambert Airport’s New Terminal 2026-05-29 2026 2026-05 Democrat House MO Wesley Bell B001324 bell.house.gov bell https://bell.house.gov/media/press-releases scraper St. Louis, MO — Yesterday, Representative Wesley Bell (D-Mo.) announced $30 million in federal funding for St. Louis Lambert International Airport. The funds will go toward the construction of a new terminal, improving airport efficiency and flight capability. “When companies decide where to expand and create job hubs, the airport is one of the first things they look at,” said Rep. Bell. “This federal investment helps make the St. Louis region more competitive– by improving and expanding the airport, we encourage more business, more flights, and more regional growth. These funds will increase energy efficiency and modernize the flow of the airport, improving the travel experience for everyone flying in and out of St. Louis.” 1 2026-06-27T21:44:12Z 2026-06-27T22:21:02Z
https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/cleaver-mccollum-introduce-celiac-safety-act-protect-americans-celiac Cleaver, McCollum Introduce Celiac Safety Act to Protect Americans with Celiac Disease 2026-05-28 2026 2026-05 Democrat House MO Emanuel Cleaver C001061 cleaver.house.gov cleaver https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases scraper (Washington, D.C.) – Today, during Celiac Disease Awareness Month, U.S. Representatives Emanuel Cleaver, II (D-MO) and Betty McCollum (D-MN) introduced the Celiac Safety Act to strengthen food labeling law and protect the roughly 3 million Americans with Celiac Disease. The legislation is the first proposal in Congress to require the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to mandate the inclusion of “gluten-containing grains” as a major food allergen, ensuring manufacturers label the inclusion of all gluten-containing ingredients in products made available to the public. “More than three million Americans are impacted by Celiac Disease in the United States, forcing them to maintain a careful diet or face serious health challenges that come with the disease,” said Congressman Cleaver. “Current food labeling law does not account for all gluten-containing ingredients, like barley and rye, making the tedious task of avoiding these ingredients in public products extremely and unnecessarily challenging for many of our neighbors. By taking the simple step of requiring the FDA to include all gluten-containing grains as a major food allergen, we can help prevent unnecessary health struggles for millions across the country.” “All of us know someone with Celiac disease, and all of us have seen the suffering that can come with it. As co-chair of the Celiac Disease Caucus, I’m glad to co-lead the Celiac Safety Act with Congressman Cleaver. The United States is one of the only developed nations that doesn't require food manufacturers to list gluten as a major allergen. Our bill would change that, helping the nearly three million Americans with the disease to avoid gluten exposure and make informed choices about the food they consume,” said Congresswoman McCollum. "Gluten-containing grains trigger a serious autoimmune response in celiac disease patients, yet current labeling laws fail to recognize that risk with the same clarity afforded to other ingredients listed as major allergens. Recategorizing gluten-containing grains as a… 1 2026-06-27T21:44:12Z 2026-06-27T22:21:02Z
https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-cleaver-convenes-manufacturing-roundtable-strengthen-workforce Rep. Cleaver Convenes Manufacturing Roundtable to Strengthen Workforce, Supply Chains, and Regional Competitiveness 2026-05-28 2026 2026-05 Democrat House MO Emanuel Cleaver C001061 cleaver.house.gov cleaver https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases scraper (Kansas City, MO) – Today, U.S. Representative Emanuel Cleaver (D-MO) joined Kansas City-area business leaders and industry stakeholders for a manufacturing roundtable to discuss the challenges and opportunities facing Missouri companies and identify strategies to strengthen the region’s economic competitiveness. This discussion comes amid continued instability in the nation’s manufacturing sector following the implementation of illegal tariff policies that have increased costs for small businesses, disrupted supply chains, and contributed to the loss of roughly 100,000 manufacturing jobs nationwide over the past year. Ongoing economic uncertainty and dysfunction emanating from the White House has made it increasingly difficult for manufacturers in Missouri and across the country to confidently plan and grow. Hosted in partnership with Missouri Enterprise, the discussion brought together manufacturing leaders to examine workforce shortages, supply chain resilience, infrastructure investment, utility costs, automation and artificial intelligence adoption, and the long-term future of advanced manufacturing in the Kansas City region. “Manufacturing built the middle class in communities like Kansas City, and it remains essential to our region’s economic future,” said Congressman Cleaver. “Today’s conversation made clear that if we want American manufacturing to continue growing and competing globally, we must invest in workers, modern infrastructure, workforce pipelines, and domestic supply chains. Those investments don’t just impact factory floors, they directly affect farmers, producers, and surrounding rural communities that rely on strong manufacturing and transportation networks to move products, control costs, and stay competitive. We cannot afford to leave small and mid-sized manufacturers behind as technology and global competition continue to evolve.” During the discussion, participants highlighted ongoing labor shortages, rising utility and operating costs, and the need for stronger public-private partne… 1 2026-06-27T21:44:12Z 2026-06-27T22:21:02Z
https://bell.house.gov/media/press-releases/bell-budzinski-visit-missouri-ice-detention-center Bell, Budzinski Visit Missouri ICE Detention Center 2026-05-27 2026 2026-05 Democrat House MO Wesley Bell B001324 bell.house.gov bell https://bell.house.gov/media/press-releases scraper STE. GENEVIEVE, MO — Yesterday, Representatives Wesley Bell (D-Mo.) and Nikki Budzinski (D-Ill.) visited the St. Genevieve County Jail, which serves as an Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) detention center. The representatives conducted congressional oversight by touring the facilities and speaking to detainees. Detainees from Missouri’s First District often end up in the Ste. Genevieve detention center. Reports show that many detainees face issues related to lack of access to medical care, poor living conditions, and an inability to get in touch with ICE officers for legal or personal needs. "As a Member of Congress and the House Oversight Committee, and as a former prosecutor and public defender, I’m committed to conducting oversight to ensure DHS and ICE are operating humanely and according to their written standards,” said Rep. Bell. "Speaking to detainees and witnessing the conditions of the Ste. Genevieve County Jail, where detainees from Missouri’s First District are often sent, was exactly what I expected: these facilities were not designed for this use, but for incarceration. Many of these individuals are here working jobs, raising families and following the rules. They did not break the law and were appearing at their asylum or immigration hearings as instructed - and they were detained anyway. The human beings detained across our country need to be treated as just that — and they deserve so much more care than they are being given. I’ll continue to fight to ensure these detainees are given adequate healthcare and legal protections and are treated with the dignity and respect all people deserve, not only in the St. Louis region, but across the country.” “Over the last year, we’ve seen members of our community detained by ICE while going to work, picking up their kids, or simply going about their daily lives. Many of those individuals have been transferred to the Ste. Genevieve detention facility. As their representative, I have a responsibility to conduct oversight and see that these faciliti… 1 2026-06-27T21:44:12Z 2026-06-27T22:21:02Z
https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressman-cleaver-secures-over-13-million-house-appropriations Congressman Cleaver Secures Over $13 Million in House Appropriations Legislation to Support Local Projects Across Missouri’s Fifth District 2026-05-26 2026 2026-05 Democrat House MO Emanuel Cleaver C001061 cleaver.house.gov cleaver https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases scraper May 26, 2026 The federal funding would support twenty projects in western Missouri, boosting public safety, transportation, and economic development (Kansas City, MO) – Today, U.S. Representative Emanuel Cleaver, II (D-MO) announced that he has secured $13,103,920 in Community Project Funding (CPF) in appropriations packages announced by the House Committee on Appropriations. With the appropriations process moving forward in the full committee, Congressman Cleaver successfully included federal investments for twenty projects across Missouri’s Fifth Congressional District in the funding bills drafted by the Subcommittee on Transportation, Housing and Urban Development (THUD), as well as the Subcommittee on Commerce, Justice, and Science (CJS). “From Kansas City to Independence, Grandview to Lee’s Summit, I’m proud to support local projects in every community across Missouri’s Fifth Congressional District that will help to boost public safety, support critical infrastructure, and spur economic development,” said Congressman Cleaver. “I know that these federal investments are critical to our congressional district and the Missourians who will benefit from them. As the appropriations process continues to move forward, I will do everything in my power to ensure they make their way home to the people of the Fifth District.” Included in the recently announced funding packages are twenty separate investments for local projects supported by Congressman Cleaver, including: $1,200,000 to the Kansas City Area Transportation Authority (KCATA) to be used for environmental cleanup, demolition, and erosion control necessary to prepare a 16.5-acre site for eventual transit-oriented development in the Northland . $1,000,000 to the Independence Housing Authority’s Gateway Crossing to be used to modernize the existing public housing community to ensure safe, high-quality housing remains available for low- and very low-income families in Jackson County. $1,000,000 to the City of Kansas City for 18th & Vine Capital Improvements… 1 2026-06-27T21:44:12Z 2026-06-27T22:21:02Z
https://bell.house.gov/media/press-releases/bell-introduces-legislation-expand-affordable-housing-and-revitalize Bell Introduces Legislation to Expand Affordable Housing and Revitalize Communities 2026-05-22 2026 2026-05 Democrat House MO Wesley Bell B001324 bell.house.gov bell https://bell.house.gov/media/press-releases scraper Washington, D.C.— Today, Representative Wesley Bell (D-Mo.) introduced the Vacancy to Value Act of 2026, legislation aimed at helping communities redevelop vacant and underutilized federal properties into affordable housing, economic development projects, and vital community facilities. The legislation would establish a pilot program and redevelopment grant program through the General Services Administration (GSA), in partnership with the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), to support the sale or transfer of underutilized federal properties for redevelopment projects that promote growth and community revitalization. “Across the country, communities are facing rising housing costs, economic challenges, and a shortage of community-centered development opportunities, while federal properties sit vacant or underutilized,” said Rep. Bell. “This bill creates a pathway to use these spaces to uplift the community, bringing more opportunities for resources and services to those who need it most.” Under the bill, eligible redevelopment projects could include affordable housing development, job creation initiatives, infrastructure improvements, and community facilities such as health clinics, childcare centers, schools, workforce development centers, and community centers. To ensure accountability, entities acquiring property through the pilot program would be required to submit redevelopment plans and begin redevelopment within five years of acquisition. The legislation also includes recapture provisions if redevelopment obligations are not met. In addition, the bill establishes a new Federal Redevelopment Grant Program administered by HUD in coordination with GSA. The program would provide competitive grants to eligible entities to support redevelopment projects, expand affordable housing opportunities, and promote long-term community revitalization. The legislation directs priority toward projects that: Create or preserve permanent affordable housing; Benefit low-income and historically unders… 1 2026-06-27T21:44:12Z 2026-06-27T22:21:02Z
https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/cleaver-davids-demand-answers-halted-pediatric-brain-cancer-research Cleaver, Davids Demand Answers on Halted Pediatric Brain Cancer Research 2026-05-21 2026 2026-05 Democrat House MO Emanuel Cleaver C001061 cleaver.house.gov cleaver https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases scraper (Washington, D.C.) – Today, U.S. Representatives Emanuel Cleaver, II (D-MO) and Sharice Davids (D-KS) have called on the National Institutes of Health (NIH) to provide information into the recent decision to cease federal funding for the Pediatric Brain Tumor Consortium (PBTC), which is the oldest pediatric cancer research network in the U.S. and consists of 15 hospitals and research centers nationwide. The PBTC oversees early-stage clinical trials and plays a critical role in the nation’s work to treat and cure pediatric brain cancer. Following an announcement last year, the administration officially ceased federal funding for the PBTC in March. “Brain cancer is the deadliest type of cancer among American children,” said Congressman Cleaver. “Rather than ending federal investments into essential studies and clinical trials that could provide the pathway to better treatments and an eventual cure, we should be increasing funding for pediatric cancer research. Even in today’s polarizing political climate, curing childhood cancer should have universal support. If the administration disagrees, I think the American people deserve to know why.” “Families facing pediatric brain cancer are already dealing with the unimaginable — they should not also have to worry about whether critical research and clinical trials will disappear. Cutting that research threatens to stall lifesaving progress and leaves patients, families, and researchers with an incredible amount of uncertainty. Representative Cleaver and I are demanding answers and fighting to make sure this work continues so more children have a chance to survive and thrive,” said Rep. Sharice Davids. “The Head for the Cure Foundation strongly supports the continued Federal funding of the Pediatric Brain Tumor Consortium (PBTC), which plays a critical role in advancing innovative research and clinical trials for children diagnosed with brain tumors. Pediatric brain tumors remain the leading cause of cancer-related death among children, underscoring the urgent need for… 1 2026-06-27T21:44:12Z 2026-06-27T22:21:02Z
https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressman-cleaver-joins-bipartisan-push-create-stronger-oversight Congressman Cleaver Joins Bipartisan Push to Create Stronger Oversight of Missouri River Management 2026-05-20 2026 2026-05 Democrat House MO Emanuel Cleaver C001061 cleaver.house.gov cleaver https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases scraper (Washington, D.C.) – Today, U.S. Representative Emanuel Cleaver, II (D-MO) announced that he has joined a bipartisan call for stronger oversight of Missouri River Management. In a letter to the Army Corps of Engineers delivered last week, Congressman Cleaver joined Reps. Bob Onder (R-MO) and Chris Deluzio (D-PA), along with 34 other lawmakers, in calling for the creation of an Inland Navigation Construction Organization (INCO) within the Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) Headquarters to coordinate inland waterway infrastructure projects at the federal level. The proposed INCO would strengthen transparency, establish clear accountability across all levels of project management, and improve the coordination of planning, strategy, and execution for critical inland waterway infrastructure projects. By creating a centralized system of oversight, and checks and balances, the INCO would help ensure federal investments are managed more efficiently and effectively. “Proper coordination is critical to efficient and effective management of taxpayer dollars,” said Congressman Cleaver. “By establishing an organization within the Army Corps of Engineers with the sole responsibility of overseeing federal investments dedicated to our nation’s inland waterway system, we can ensure projects move forward in a timely manner and without wasteful spending. I am proud to join colleagues in this bipartisan push to establish the Inland Navigation Construction Organization, which will benefit communities across the Show Me State.” “America’s inland waterways are one of our greatest natural advantages over our competitors, and they’re currently managed through a patchwork of disconnected regional structures, with limited centralized oversight and little long-term strategic coordination. Actions taken upstream on the Mississippi and Missouri Rivers have significant downstream consequences for communities in Missouri’s Third District, yet no single entity is responsible for evaluating inland navigation projects as a whole or ensuring that t… 1 2026-06-25T06:30:03Z 2026-06-25T06:31:21Z
https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/house-representatives-passes-bipartisan-housing-package-numerous-bills House of Representatives Passes Bipartisan Housing Package with Numerous Bills Co-Authored by Congressman Cleaver 2026-05-20 2026 2026-05 Democrat House MO Emanuel Cleaver C001061 cleaver.house.gov cleaver https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases scraper (Washington, D.C.) – Today, the House of Representatives passed a bipartisan amendment the 21st Century ROAD to Housing Act, a legislative vehicle that was negotiated by, and includes seven bipartisan bills sponsored by, U.S. Representative Emanuel Cleaver, II, Ranking Member of the Subcommittee on Housing & Insurance. Ranking Member Cleaver spoke in support and voted in favor of the amendment, which will now move to the U.S. Senate for consideration. “While the American people are drowning under the rising cost-of-living crisis, Congress has an opportunity to provide a desperately needed lifeline by passing comprehensive, bipartisan housing reforms that will lower costs for families nationwide,” said Ranking Member Cleaver. “For over a year, I have worked with Chairman Hill, Ranking Member Waters and Chairman Flood to craft legislation that will cut through unnecessary regulations and boost the development of affordable housing. I’m pleased that work has paid off with today’s legislation, which was passed with overwhelming bipartisan support. Now, I look forward to working with our Senate colleagues to get this legislation across the finish line and deliver relief to the American people.” Provisions included in the bipartisan amendment sponsored by Congressman Cleaver include: Innovation Fund: The innovation fund is a section first proposed in the American Housing and Economic Mobility Act, introduced by Ranking Member Cleaver, Senator Elizabeth Warren (D-MA), Senator Raphael Warnock (D-GA) and Representative Ayanna Pressley (D-MA). This section authorizes a seven-year $200 million annual competitive grant program for jurisdictions pursuing innovative policies, interventions, or programs for increasing housing supply. HOME Reform Act: Introduced by Ranking Member Cleaver and Chairman Flood (R-NE), the legislation is the most significant reform to the HOME Investment Partnerships Program since authorization in 1990. The legislation includes provisions introduced by Representative Joyce Beatty (D-OH) and would… 1 2026-06-27T06:16:17Z 2026-06-27T06:17:30Z
https://bell.house.gov/media/press-releases/bell-introduces-bill-directing-fema-and-noaa-modernize-disaster-warning Bell Introduces Bill Directing FEMA and NOAA to Modernize Disaster Warning on Anniversary of St. Louis Tornado 2026-05-15 2026 2026-05 Democrat House MO Wesley Bell B001324 bell.house.gov bell https://bell.house.gov/media/press-releases scraper Washington, D.C.— Today, Representative Wesley Bell (D-Mo.) introduced the Tornado Preparedness Act, a bill aimed at strengthening our nation’s ability to detect, forecast, and respond to tornadoes while improving community resilience in high-risk areas. The bill directs the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) and the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to modernize forecasting and warning capabilities while improving coordination and planning with state and local emergency management agencies. The bill comes one year after the devastating May 16, 2025 tornado, which significantly impacted the St. Louis region, including North St. Louis. “One year after the worst natural disaster to hit our region since the late 1950s, families across St. Louis are still rebuilding and recovering from the devastation left behind by last year’s tornado,” said Rep. Bell. “Not only do we need to continue to support these communities and expedite federal funds, but we must learn from the failures exposed during the storms. We must ensure that every level of government has the most advanced technologies, warning systems, and emergency coordination capabilities in place to warn residents in advance before severe weather strikes.” The bill directs NOAA and FEMA to establish a national program to modernize tornado detection and warning capabilities. This includes investing in next-generation radar and sensor technologies, advancing forecasting models using artificial intelligence and machine learning, and expanding localized, impact-based warning systems integrated with state and local emergency management. The legislation also establishes a FEMA grant program to help communities build and retrofit storm shelters, modernize warning systems, deploy backup power capabilities, and expand public preparedness efforts. The bill aims to implement lessons learned from the May 2025 St. Louis tornado, which exposed serious concerns in local warning systems and emergency coordination. Rep. Bell has fought to hold FEMA … 1 2026-06-27T06:16:17Z 2026-06-27T06:17:30Z
https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/cleaver-graves-bell-alford-introduce-bipartisan-resolution-honoring Cleaver, Graves, Bell, Alford Introduce Bipartisan Resolution Honoring America’s Teachers 2026-05-05 2026 2026-05 Democrat House MO Emanuel Cleaver C001061 cleaver.house.gov cleaver https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases scraper (Washington, D.C.) – Today, in honor of National Teacher Appreciation Week, U.S. Representatives Emanuel Cleaver, II (D-MO), Sam Graves (R-MO), Wesley Bell (D-MO), and Mark Alford (R-MO) introduced a resolution in the House of Representatives to recognize the lasting impact of America’s teachers. The bipartisan resolution highlights the critical role that teachers play in preparing the next generation, and encourages every American to show appreciation for the teacher and education staff in their life. “America’s teachers are the bedrock of our education system, providing the wisdom and care needed to shape our children into the bright, honest, and moral individuals that make our communities strong,” said Congressman Cleaver. “Every American remembers a handful of teachers that left a lasting impact on their life, and today’s resolution is a small gesture demonstrating our appreciation for everything they have done, and will continue to do, to improve the lives of students nationwide.” “Thank you to America’s teachers who are committed to ensuring that our students get the quality education they deserve,” said Congressman Graves. “Their tireless efforts and dedication ensure that our students can learn and succeed. Throughout my life, I’ve been fortunate to learn from many great teachers, as have my kids and grandkids. Teacher Appreciation Week is a great opportunity to thank our teachers and I’m proud to join with my colleagues from across Missouri to recognize the critical role they play in our great state and across the country.” “I can’t say enough about how important teachers are to the fabric of our country. Every day, teachers inspire generations of students, instilling a desire for knowledge and a determination to make a change in the world around them. I was lucky enough to learn from some wonderful teachers growing up, and was able to pour back those lessons into my own students. I’m proud to join my Missouri colleagues in recognizing the importance of teachers in America, who deserve to be celebrate… 1 2026-06-24T06:25:30Z 2026-06-24T06:26:49Z
https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressman-cleavers-statement-farm-bill Congressman Cleaver’s Statement on the Farm Bill 2026-04-30 2026 2026-04 Democrat House MO Emanuel Cleaver C001061 cleaver.house.gov cleaver https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases scraper (Washington, D.C.) – Today, U.S. Representative Emanuel Cleaver, II (D-MO) released the following statement after voting against the Farm Bill, which was passed by the House of Representatives without traditional broad bipartisan support. “Historically, the Farm Bill has been broadly bipartisan legislation that marries food and farm priorities to the benefit of Americans in every community across the country. Regretfully, after making the largest cut to SNAP in history and slashing food assistance for 40 million Americans, my colleagues across the aisle drafted a partisan Farm Bill that locks those cuts into place as grocery prices soar and families go hungry. “Meanwhile, despite farm bankruptcies continuing to skyrocket due to the president’s reckless tariffs and disastrous war driving up prices, today’s Farm Bill fails to provide any additional aid that was promised to family farmers who need it most. “While I am proud I was able to improve the bill by includingmy legislation to lower utility costs by establishing a program that would provide $50 million per year to plant millions of trees in communities nationwide, I do not believe the final bill meets this moment. “As currently drafted, today’s legislation fails farmers and families alike. I believe Congress can do better, and it is my hope that the Senate will work together to craft a truly bipartisan and comprehensive Farm Bill that provides meaningful relief to Americans who desperately need it. When that occurs, I look forward to supporting the final package.” ### Emanuel Cleaver, II is the U.S. Representative for Missouri's Fifth Congressional District, which includes Kansas City, Independence, Lee's Summit, Raytown, Grandview, Sugar Creek, Greenwood, Blue Springs, North Kansas City, Gladstone, and Claycomo. He is a member of the exclusive House Financial Services Committee and Ranking Member of the House Subcommittee on Housing and Insurance. 1 2026-06-18T06:41:00Z 2026-06-18T06:43:25Z
https://bell.house.gov/media/press-releases/bell-wagner-introduce-st-louis-postal-accountability-and-reform-act-hold-usps Bell, Wagner Introduce St. Louis Postal Accountability and Reform Act to Hold USPS Accountable for Delayed Mail 2026-04-30 2026 2026-04 Democrat House MO Wesley Bell B001324 bell.house.gov bell https://bell.house.gov/media/press-releases scraper Washington, D.C.— Today, Representatives Wesley Bell (D-Mo.) and Ann Wagner (R-Mo.) introduced the St. Louis Postal Accountability and Reform (STL Up To PAR) Act, to direct the United States Postal Service (USPS) to submit a report to Congress on mail and package delivery service performance in the St. Louis region. In 2025, two audits by the U.S. Postal Service Office of the Inspector General (OIG) documented longstanding operational challenges that have caused persistent mail delays for residents across the St. Louis region. The OIG provided a list of detailed recommendations to improve service, and Postmaster General Steiner has since engaged constructively with Congress on corrective actions. This legislation builds on that momentum by requiring USPS to document delivery performance benchmarked against national averages, workforce conditions including vacancy and turnover rates, the status of corrective actions on all OIG recommendations, and the management systems in place to prevent recurrence. “The mail delays in the St. Louis region have gone on for far too long,” said Rep. Bell. “I’ve heard from constituents who wait for weeks on prescription medications, benefit checks, and utility notices — mail that can't be late. The St. Louis ‘Up To PAR’ Act will give us real accountability for whether USPS is delivering on its commitments.” “I constantly hear complaints from constituents and neighbors about the complete lack of accountability in the United States Postal Service (USPS) and their frequent inability to deliver mail and critical packages like medications on time,” said Rep. Wagner. “People rely on this service, and we expect the Postal Service to do their job and deliver the mail on time. I have brought in USPS leadership to hold them accountable for their service failures, but it’s clear more needs to be done. The St. Louis Postal Accountability and Reform Act will provide for clear service benchmarks so we can ensure they are fixing these problems on an appropriate timeline and with full transpar… 1 2026-06-25T06:30:03Z 2026-06-25T06:31:21Z
https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressman-cleavers-statement-supreme-courts-decision-gut-voting Congressman Cleaver’s Statement on the Supreme Court’s Decision to Gut the Voting Rights Act 2026-04-29 2026 2026-04 Democrat House MO Emanuel Cleaver C001061 cleaver.house.gov cleaver https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases scraper (Washington, D.C.) – Today, U.S. Representative Emanuel Cleaver, II (D-MO) released the following statement after the Supreme Court released their decision in Louisiana v. Callais, effectively gutting the Voting Rights Act of 1965. “For over sixty years, the Voting Rights Act has been a vital pillar of American democracy, ensuring fair representation and the protection of voting rights that are entitled to every citizen across this great nation. Passage of this landmark legislation, along with the Civil Rights Act, was the seminal moment of the Civil Rights Movement and another step in America’s march toward becoming a true multi-racial democracy, helping to fulfill the promise of our nation’s founding. “Today’s appalling decision by the Supreme Court to unilaterally gut this historic law is not only wrong—it is deeply disrespectful of the generations of African Americans and civil rights advocates who gave their freedom, their blood, and even their lives to make it possible. With one fell swoop, this increasingly partisan and unaccountable court has turned the clock back decades to a time when state legislatures were legally allowed to silence the voices of entire communities based on the color of their skin. “This decision reiterates that the current Supreme Court is out of step with the American people. And it was not done in a vacuum; state legislatures have already acted to redraw congressional maps in Missouri and Texas to disenfranchise voters, and this decision will only accelerate those efforts nationally. “Now more than ever, it is incumbent on lawmakers who genuinely believe in the principles of American democracy to reject the court’s invitation to racially gerrymander our fellow citizens out of representation in the halls of power. Congress can, and must immediately, enact legislation that puts an end to these undemocratic practices and protects the voices and voting rights of all Americans. Failure to do so would be an everlasting stain on this chapter of American history.” ### Emanuel Cleaver… 1 2026-06-09T06:27:37Z 2026-06-09T06:30:10Z
https://bell.house.gov/media/press-releases/bell-baltic-bill-passes-out-house-foreign-affairs-committee Bell Baltic Bill Passes Out of House Foreign Affairs Committee 2026-04-22 2026 2026-04 Democrat House MO Wesley Bell B001324 bell.house.gov bell https://bell.house.gov/media/press-releases scraper Washington, D.C.— Today, Representative Wesley Bell (D-Mo.)’s Baltic Security Assessment Act of 2025, a bipartisan measure to ensure the United States maintains a clear, comprehensive understanding of the threats facing Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania from hostile actors, including Russia, China, Iran, Belarus, and North Korea, passed out of the House Foreign Affairs Committee with a 41-3 vote. Under the legislation, the Secretary of State, in coordination with the Secretary of Defense, will be required to deliver a detailed report to Congress within 180 days assessing emerging military, cyber, hybrid, and political threats to the Baltic nations. The report will also identify opportunities to strengthen U.S.–Baltic defense cooperation, reinforce the North Atlantic Treaty Organization’s (NATO) collective defense posture, bolster cybersecurity infrastructure, and enhance democratic resilience in the region. “The Baltic States are among our most steadfast and reliable allies, standing on the frontlines of Russian aggression and other merging threats. Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania continue to invest heavily in their defense and are upholding their commitments within NATO amidst an increasingly complex security landscape,” said Rep. Bell. “The Baltic Security Assessment Act will provide the United States with a clearer, more comprehensive understanding of the evolving threats facing the region. I'm glad to see this bill pass out of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, and the House must now act to get this bill signed into law so we can strengthen our support for the Baltics and stay ahead of growing hybrid threats.” The Baltic Security Assessment Act is co-led by Reps. Salud Carbajal (D-Calif.) and Don Bacon (R-Neb.) and has 80 bipartisan co-sponsors. The bill is being led in the Senate by Senators Dick Durbin (D-Ill) and Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa). The legislation is endorsed by The Joint Baltic American National Committee. Rep. Bell is a member of the bipartisan House Baltic Caucus and the bipartisan Congressional… 1 2026-06-16T06:53:21Z 2026-06-16T06:55:02Z
https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressman-cleaver-reintroduces-legislation-strengthen-civics Congressman Cleaver Reintroduces Legislation to Strengthen Civics Education in Schools 2026-04-21 2026 2026-04 Democrat House MO Emanuel Cleaver C001061 cleaver.house.gov cleaver https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases scraper (Washington, D.C.) – Today U.S. Representative Emanuel Cleaver, II (D-MO) reintroduced legislation to strengthen civics education in schools across the country. The Civics Learning Act would reaffirm Congress’ commitment to protecting American democracy by ensuring schools have the resources needed to provide a proper, robust education in civics and our constitutional system of government to students in every community. “To guarantee our democratic ideals live on for generations to come, we must ensure the youth of America are well-versed in the legal framework and concepts of our constitutional republic, as well as their responsibilities as citizens to uphold it,” said Congressman Cleaver. “Unfortunately, with civics scores declining for the first time in the history of the National Assessment of Education Progress Civics Exam in 2022, it’s clear that we have work to do. My Civics Learning Act will reverse this troubling trend by equipping schools with the resources necessary to give students a thorough and well-rounded education in modern civics.” For the first time in the history of the National Assessment of Education Progress Civics Exam, civics scores declined in 2022, with less than one quarter of eighth graders performing at or above a proficient level on the exam, demonstrating a need to bolster civics education in schools. While there are numerous reasons that contribute to America’s decline in civic understanding, a 2018 report from the Brown Center on Education Policy found that social studies teachers are some of the least supported teachers in schools. Rep. Cleaver’s Civics Learning Act would help to bolster civics education in Missouri and across the country by amending the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965 to increase funding by $70 million for civics education and awarding grants that: Support investments in innovative and evidence-based civics learning and teaching programs. Fund elementary, middle, and high school programs to ensure a lasting foundation of civic knowledge accu… 1 2026-06-07T06:35:01Z 2026-06-07T06:36:30Z
https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-cleaver-senator-schiff-introduce-legislation-increase-education-and Rep. Cleaver, Senator Schiff Introduce Legislation to Increase Education and Literacy Opportunities for Incarcerated Americans 2026-04-16 2026 2026-04 Democrat House MO Emanuel Cleaver C001061 cleaver.house.gov cleaver https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases scraper (Washington, D.C.) – Today, U.S. Representative Emanuel Cleaver, II (D-MO) and Senator Adam Schiff (D-CA) introduced legislation to support the education and skills training of incarcerated Americans, aiming to improve opportunities upon their release. The Rehabilitation through Reading Act enables individuals in custody to challenge book bans and provides greater transparency around Federal Bureau of Prisons (BOP) book bans by requiring the BOP to establish an independent commission to review decisions by BOP officials to ban books at facilities and give incarcerated individuals an opportunity to appeal those decisions, and set guidelines for what books can and cannot be banned. Additionally, Senator Schiff introduced the Prison Libraries Act in the Senate, bipartisan legislation introduced by Congressman Cleaver, along with Reps Shontel Brown (D-OH) and Valerie Foushee (D-NC), earlier this year. “Access to wide-ranging and quality books offer incarcerated Americans the opportunity to learn and sharpen valuable skills that will assist in their reintegration into society, helping them turn the page to a new chapter and better life,” said Congressman Cleaver. “I’m thankful for Senator Schiff’s partnership in introducing the Prison Libraries Act and the Rehabilitation through Reading Act as we seek to expand library resources in correctional facilities nationwide, thereby increasing educational opportunities, reducing recidivism, and creating stronger communities for all.” “Access to books, skills training and educational opportunities improves an individual’s chance of successfully reintegrating when returning to the community after a prison sentence,” said Senator Schiff. “These bills will help prepare those impacted to re-acclimate to life in the outside world and reduce recidivism. I’m proud to support those efforts.” The Rehabilitation through Reading Act is endorsed by American Library Association, PEN America, ACLU, and Ella Baker Center for Human Rights, Californians for Safety and Justice, and Asian Am… 1 2026-05-30T06:11:53Z 2026-05-30T06:13:24Z
https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/cleaver-kamlager-dove-and-schiff-introduce-bill-require-epa-examine Cleaver, Kamlager-Dove, and Schiff Introduce Bill to Require EPA to Examine Impact of Climate Change on Superfund Sites to Protect Vulnerable Communities 2026-04-15 2026 2026-04 Democrat House MO Emanuel Cleaver C001061 cleaver.house.gov cleaver https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases scraper (Washington, D.C.) – This week, U.S. Representatives Emanuel Cleaver, II (D-MO) and Sydney Kamlager-Dove (D-CA), along with Senator Adam Schiff (D-CA), introduced legislation to protect communities from toxic waste at Superfund sites that are vulnerable to natural disasters and the effects of climate change. The Preparing Superfund for Climate Change Act would require the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to account for climate change risks, including natural disasters and extreme weather hazards, when managing toxic waste sites, enhancing protections for nearby communities. There are currently 39 Superfund sites in Missouri and 3 in the Kansas City metropolitan area. Twenty of these sites were deemed currently "vulnerable" to climate change by the GAO. “As natural disasters become more prevalent and intense due to climate change, it is critically important that we take preemptive action to protect communities near Superfund sites across the country, particularly those that are vulnerable to floods and fires,” said Congressman Cleaver. “By requiring the EPA to account for climate change in their management of Superfund sites, we can safeguard American families from the toxic waste contained at these sites in the event of a disaster. I’m proud to introduce this commonsense legislation with Representative Kamlager-Dove and Senator Schiff as we seek to prevent avoidable and unnecessary tragedies.” “As the climate crisis causes more and more extreme weather, we must ensure our communities have the resources they need to be resilient,” said Congresswoman Kamlager-Dove. “With 15 active EPA Superfund sites across LA County, climate-driven disasters like last year’s LA Fires threaten to upend pollution cleanup efforts that keep our neighbors safe. I’m proud to join Sen. Schiff and Rep. Cleaver in introducing this legislation that would better prepare us for climate disasters and help protect our communities from toxic waste.” “With the ongoing and ever-worsening climate crisis, we must take strong action to mitig… 1 2026-05-29T06:31:28Z 2026-05-29T06:32:48Z
https://bell.house.gov/media/press-releases/bell-bilirakis-lead-bipartisan-resolution-recognizing-april-parkinsons-0 Bell, Bilirakis Lead Bipartisan Resolution Recognizing April as Parkinson’s Awareness Month 2026-04-14 2026 2026-04 Democrat House MO Wesley Bell B001324 bell.house.gov bell https://bell.house.gov/media/press-releases scraper Washington, D.C.— Today, Representatives Wesley Bell (D-Mo.) and Gus Bilirakis (R-Fla.) re-introduced a bipartisan resolution recognizing April as Parkinson’s Awareness Month. The resolution honors the more than one million Americans living with Parkinson’s disease and calls for increased public awareness, federal research investment, and support for individuals and families affected by the condition. “Parkinson’s disease is a heartbreaking reality for far too many families,” said Rep. Bell. “I’m proud to lead this bipartisan resolution with Congressman Bilirakis because the patients and families impacted by this disease deserve to know that people are advocating for them. By publicly recognizing the scope of this disease, we are taking a step toward a better future for the families impacted– a future that includes earlier diagnosis, better patient care, and more funding for research and breakthroughs.” “Parkinson’s disease is not just a diagnosis - it is a life-altering condition that impacts entire families and communities,” said Rep. Bilirakis. “For too many Americans, the emotional and financial toll is overwhelming. This resolution ensures we elevate awareness, encourage early diagnosis, and reaffirm our commitment to advancing research and care. Congress must continue working in a bipartisan manner to confront the challenges posed by Parkinson’s disease. Together, we can improve quality of life for those affected today while driving progress toward a cure for tomorrow.” “The Michael J. Fox Foundation commends Representatives Bell and Bilirakis for spearheading this bipartisan effort to recognize the 1.2 million Americans living with Parkinson’s and related diseases,” said Dan Feehan, Chief Policy and Government Affairs Officer at The Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson’s Research. “As we mark Parkinson’s Awareness Month, we remain focused on accelerating the pace of discovery and ensuring broader access to high-quality care. That means sustaining and increasing federal investment in Parkinson’s resea… 1 2026-06-11T06:38:38Z 2026-06-11T06:41:07Z
https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/reps-cleaver-schmidt-davids-introduce-bill-designating-quindaro Reps. Cleaver, Schmidt, Davids Introduce Bill Designating Quindaro Townsite as National Historic Landmark 2026-04-14 2026 2026-04 Democrat House MO Emanuel Cleaver C001061 cleaver.house.gov cleaver https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases scraper (Washington, D.C.) – Today, U.S. Representatives Emanuel Cleaver, II (D-MO), Derek Schmidt (R-KS), and Sharice Davids (D-KS) introduced the Quindaro Townsite National Historic Landmark Act to designate the Quindaro Townsite in Kansas City, Kansas, as a National Historic Landmark. The site served as a critical entry point for anti-slavery settlers and a sanctuary for those escaping bondage via the Underground Railroad prior to and during the U.S. Civil War. “The Quindaro Townsite is an important piece of the regional history in eastern Kansas and western Missouri – and its legacy must be preserved for the generations still to come,” said Congressman Cleaver. “By designating Quindaro as a National Historic Landmark, we can ensure the story of those who resided on these grounds lives on through the locals and tourists who visit every day, spreading the inspiring story of Americans who fought to ensure the United States lives up to its highest ideals. I’m proud to introduce this bipartisan legislation with Reps. Schmidt and Davids, and I look forward to working with them to ensure it is passed into law.” “Quindaro holds an important place in the history of our region and nation,” said Rep. Schmidt. “Designating the site as a National Historic Landmark would ensure its legacy is properly preserved and recognized for generations to come. I’m honored to lead this bill and join my fellow Kansas City-area lawmakers in supporting Quindaro.” “Quindaro was a place of courage, hope, and resilience — a sanctuary for those risking everything for freedom. Designating this site as a National Historic Landmark has been long overdue and would ensure future generations can learn from the sacrifices and triumphs of those who came before us. I’m proud to join Representatives Schmidt and Cleaver in this bipartisan effort to protect our Kansas City history and honor Quindaro’s legacy,” said Rep. Davids. National Historic Landmarks are designated through the National Park Service System Advisory Board or an official act of Congress. … 1 2026-05-28T06:29:45Z 2026-05-28T06:31:18Z
https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-cleaver-presents-1031000-check-rockhurst-university-expand Rep. Cleaver Presents $1,031,000 Check to Rockhurst University to Expand Cybersecurity and AI Programs 2026-04-02 2026 2026-04 Democrat House MO Emanuel Cleaver C001061 cleaver.house.gov cleaver https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases scraper (Kansas City, MO) – Today, U.S. Representative Emanuel Cleaver, II (D-MO) joined University President Dr. Sandra Cassady, students, and faculty at Rockhurst University to present a ceremonial check for $1,031,000 in federal Community Project Funding secured by Rep. Cleaver to support the expansion of the university’s innovative technology programs, focused on cybersecurity and artificial intelligence (AI). This investment will strengthen Rockhurst University’s capacity to prepare students for high-demand careers in rapidly evolving fields, enhance hands-on learning opportunities, and deepen partnerships with local leading organizations in the tech sector. “This funding is about investing in the future of our workforce and ensuring Kansas City remains competitive in a rapidly changing, technology-driven economy,” said Congressman Cleaver. “I was proud to secure $1,031,000 in federal funding for Rockhurst to expand its cutting-edge programs in cybersecurity and artificial intelligence – fields that are critical to our national security and economic growth. This investment not only opens doors for students by enabling new research and providing additional experience, but it also strengthens our local talent pipeline and positions our region as a leader in innovation.” “We are grateful for Congressman Cleaver’s partnership and advocacy on this project,” said Dr. Sandra Cassady. “This grant is critical as we build out state-of-the-art learning facilities on campus and expand faculty and staff to support the expansion of tech and AI-based education and workforce development in Kansas City." This project is part of a broader effort by Rep. Cleaver to deliver direct federal resources to communities across the district. The Rockhurst investment is one of 15 community projects the congressman successfully secured federal funding for in the recent appropriations package, supporting a wide range of local priorities. The funding will support research infrastructure and personnel to advance the university’s tech-focused de… 1 2026-05-22T06:27:39Z 2026-05-22T06:29:18Z
https://bell.house.gov/media/press-releases/bell-courtney-garamendi-call-department-defense-take-measures-protect-well Bell, Courtney, Garamendi Call on the Department of Defense to Take Measures to Protect Well-Being of USS Gerald R. Ford Carrier Strike Group 2026-03-31 2026 2026-03 Democrat House MO Wesley Bell B001324 bell.house.gov bell https://bell.house.gov/media/press-releases scraper Washington, D.C.— Today, Representatives Wesley Bell (D-Mo.), Joe Courtney (D-Ct.), and John Garamendi (D-Ca.) wrote a letter to Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth expressing concern regarding the condition, operational strain, and crew welfare aboard the USS Gerald R. Ford Carrier Strike Group as its deployment approaches its tenth consecutive month at sea. The letter was signed by Democratic Members of the House Armed Services Committee. In the letter, the members call on the Department of Defense to provide a classified briefing to members of the House Armed Services Committee to provide information on the status of the Ford and all future measures that will be taken to ensure the health and safety of the strike group. “The strike group has now been deployed for more than nine months, with indications that operations may continue beyond that mark,” wrote the 11 Members of Congress. “This will place this deployment at the outer edge of, and potentially exceeding, standard Navy deployment timelines, and breaking the record of 294 days set by the U.S.S. Abraham Lincoln in 2020. The cumulative effects of an extended, high-tempo deployment raise significant concerns about force sustainability, crew endurance, and long-term readiness.” “These concerns are compounded by reports of degraded living conditions and equipment strain during this extended deployment, including loss of berthing capacity, persistent maintenance challenges, and declining crew morale,” the Members of Congress continued. “Taken together, these issues raise broader questions about the cumulative impact of prolonged high-tempo operations on both readiness and the well-being of deployed servicemembers.” “The United States Navy’s ability to project power globally depends not only on advanced platforms, but on the resilience and readiness of the sailors who operate them,” the Members of Congress concluded. “Ensuring that deployment practices remain sustainable is essential to preserving both mission effectiveness and the long-term health of the fo… 1 2026-06-10T06:36:00Z 2026-06-10T06:37:32Z
https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-cleaver-secures-850000-grandview-main-street-market-helps-unveil Rep. Cleaver Secures $850,000 for Grandview Main Street Market, Helps Unveil Official Name of Main Street Space 2026-03-31 2026 2026-03 Democrat House MO Emanuel Cleaver C001061 cleaver.house.gov cleaver https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases scraper (Grandview, MO) – Today, U.S. Representative Emanuel Cleaver, II (D-MO) joined Grandview Mayor Leonard Jones and local leaders for a check presentation of $850,000 in federal funding Cleaver secured for the City of Grandview’s new Main Street Market. Following the presentation, the leaders unveiled the name of the transformative space in the heart of the community. The Main Street Market is one of 15 separate investments totaling more than $15 million for local projects supported by the congressman. “This Community Project Funding for Grandview’s Main Street Market is an investment in the heart of the south Kansas City community, and I’m proud to have secured this $850,000 in federal funding to help bring this vision to life,” said Congressman Cleaver. “This project will transform downtown Grandview into a vibrant, accessible gathering space where families can connect, small businesses can grow, and local farmers can thrive. By creating a permanent market with modern amenities, green space, and sustainable infrastructure, the city is not just building a structure, it’s building opportunity, strengthening our local economy, and creating a place that reflects the pride and spirit of Grandview for generations to come.” “Congressman Cleaver shows up for Grandview and takes action for our residents,” said Mayor Jones. “His advocacy in Washington helped secure crucial dollars the city needed to build a space on Main Street to serve as a gathering space and promote public health as home of the Grandview Farmers Market.” The future home of the Grandview Farmers Market will also serve as a year-round gathering space designed to support small businesses, local farmers, and community events. The new facility will feature a mix of enclosed and open-air market space, modern amenities, green space, and flexible design elements to support programming through every season. Located along the railroad corridor, the structure will included slanted rooftops, steel and timber elements, multiple garage doors, and an outdoor plaza f… 1 2026-05-21T06:28:16Z 2026-05-21T06:29:43Z
https://bell.house.gov/media/press-releases/bell-stanton-introduce-resolution-recognize-critical-missions-tsa-fema-and Bell, Stanton Introduce Resolution to Recognize the Critical Missions of TSA, FEMA, and CISA and Express Concern on Dangerous Undermining of Those Missions 2026-03-26 2026 2026-03 Democrat House MO Wesley Bell B001324 bell.house.gov bell https://bell.house.gov/media/press-releases scraper Washington, D.C.— Today, Representatives Wesley Bell (D-Mo.) and Greg Stanton (D-Az.) introduced a resolution to recognize the critical missions of the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA), and the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) and express concern that the systematic reduction of their career workforces has undermined those missions and endangered the safety and security of United States citizens. “TSA, FEMA, and CISA perform critical duties for our country, and their employees deserve to be treated fairly,” said Rep. Bell. “America is experiencing a tumultuous time, and as we handle a rise in violence and threats, our TSA officers, disaster response teams, and cybersecurity professionals need to receive their paychecks. The American people rely on these organizations to ensure safety and security, so it is critical that their missions are not hindered from being carried out.” "The skilled men and women of FEMA, CISA, and TSA don't make headlines — they prevent them. They rush into disasters and work behind the scenes every day to keep Americans safe,” said Rep. Stanton. “This administration has gutted their ranks, and now Trump and House Republicans are using these essential workers as a bargaining chip rather than have a serious conversation about accountability measures for ICE. Our constituents are less safe as a result. I'm joining Rep. Bell to say these essential workers deserve our gratitude and support.” “On behalf of the American Federation of Government Employees, which represents more than 800,000 federal and D.C. workers, I strongly support this resolution introduced by Reps. Wesley Bell and Greg Stanton recognizing the critical mission of the Department of Homeland Security and the dedicated public servants who carry it out every day,” said Everett B. Kelley, National President of the American Federation of Government Employees. “At a time of heightened threats, DHS employees ­- from TSA officers to cybersecurity exp… 1 2026-06-10T06:36:00Z 2026-06-10T06:37:32Z
https://bell.house.gov/media/press-releases/bell-introduces-bridge-act-expand-pathways-economic-mobility-and-employment Bell Introduces BRIDGE Act to Expand Pathways to Economic Mobility and Employment for Justice-Impacted Individuals and Opportunity Youth 2026-03-19 2026 2026-03 Democrat House MO Wesley Bell B001324 bell.house.gov bell https://bell.house.gov/media/press-releases scraper Washington, D.C.— Today, Representative Wesley Bell (D-Mo.) introduced the Building Reentry and Inclusive Development for Greater Employment (BRIDGE) Act, to strengthen the workforce by expanding pathways to economic mobility and employment for justice-impacted individuals and opportunity youth, two groups that have long faced significant barriers to entering the workforce. “A bad situation should not define a person’s entire story. I support expanding the Work Opportunity Tax Credit to include justice-impacted individuals and opportunity youth because people deserve a chance to make a better life for themselves,” said Rep. Bell. “Our workforce is only as strong as the resources we put into it. Let’s uplift our community members, invest in our workforce, and see the good it brings to the economy.” "Our team is particularly encouraged to see the focus on Opportunity Youth—those young people who, despite being disconnected from school or work, possess incredible potential. Far too often, those impacted by the criminal justice system are left out of the conversation. This bill changes that,” said Phillip Robinson, CEO of the Forum for Youth Investment. “By expanding the Work Opportunity Tax Credit, we are creating real pathways to job training and meaningful employment. Our mission is to ensure that every young person has the support they need to reach their fullest potential in education, work, and life. We look forward to this work and to ensuring no one is left behind." "The BRIDGE Act will make impactful adjustments to the Workforce Opportunity Tax Credit and better serve individuals returning home from incarceration. This legislation will create stronger pathways for justice-impacted jobseekers, disrupting cycles of incarceration and supporting self-sufficiency and economic mobility,” said Sam Schaeffer, CEO of the Center for Employment Opportunities. “CEO strongly supports these steps to promote fair-chance hiring and make the Workforce Opportunity Tax Credit a more impactful tool for justice-impacted jobse… 1 2026-06-10T06:36:00Z 2026-06-10T06:37:32Z
https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/reps-cleaver-kamlager-dove-senator-booker-introduce-legislation Reps. Cleaver, Kamlager-Dove & Senator Booker Introduce Legislation to Guarantee Minimum Wage to Incarcerated Workers 2026-03-19 2026 2026-03 Democrat House MO Emanuel Cleaver C001061 cleaver.house.gov cleaver https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases scraper (Washington, D.C.) – Today, U.S. Representative Emanuel Cleaver, II (D-MO), Senator Cory Booker (D-NJ), and Representative Sydney Kamlager-Dove (D-CA) introduced legislation that would guarantee incarcerated workers nationwide receive the federal minimum wage for their labor. The Fair Wages for Incarcerated Workers Act would ensure incarcerated workers are paid at least the federal minimum wage, eliminate excessive wage deductions, and extend basic labor protections to workers in correctional facilities nationwide. This legislation builds on ongoing efforts to address the lack of fair compensation for incarcerated workers across the United States and recognizes the vital contributions of those in correctional facilities, including their heroic efforts battling the Los Angeles wildfires in 2025. The Fair Wages for Incarcerated Workers Act is endorsed by criminal justice reform advocate Kim Kardashian. “For too long, incarcerated workers across our country have labored for pennies an hour while performing essential work that keeps our correctional facilities and communities running,” said Congressman Cleaver. “The Fair Wages for Incarcerated Workers Act is about restoring dignity to work and fairness to a system that has too often taken advantage of those seeking redemption. By guaranteeing the federal minimum wage and extending basic labor protections, we can help incarcerated individuals meet their financial obligations, support their families, and better prepare for successful reentry into society. If we are serious about reducing recidivism and building safer communities, we must ensure that work performed by incarcerated Americans is valued and compensated fairly.” “It is time to end the exploitative practices in correctional facilities and ensure incarcerated workers are treated with dignity and paid minimum wage for their labor,” said Senator Booker. “Too often, incarcerated people are never able to pay restitution to their victims, or save enough money to ensure a successful reentry, resulting in a never-… 1 2026-05-21T06:28:16Z 2026-05-21T06:29:43Z
https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressman-cleaver-convenes-housing-leaders-federal-home-loan-bank Congressman Cleaver Convenes Housing Leaders with Federal Home Loan Bank, Highlights Funding Opportunities for Kansas City 2026-03-13 2026 2026-03 Democrat House MO Emanuel Cleaver C001061 cleaver.house.gov cleaver https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases scraper (Kansas City, MO) – Yesterday, U.S. Representative Emanuel Cleaver (D-MO) hosted Kris Williams, President and CEO of the Federal Home Loan Bank of Des Moines (FHLB Des Moines), alongside senior bank officials, and local housing leaders for a roundtable discussion on strategies to expand affordable housing opportunities across Missouri’s Fifth Congressional District. The conversation brought together representatives from local financial institutions and housing organizations to discuss housing affordability challenges, access to financing, and the role of the Federal Home Loan Bank system in supporting community development. Participants also discussed how programs administered by FHLB Des Moines, including mandatory and voluntary affordable housing initiatives, can improve access to safe, stable housing for families throughout the Kansas City region. Last year, through its mandatory and voluntary affordable housing and community development programs, the Federal Home Loan Bank of Des Moines provided a total of $1.86 million for an impact of $8.63 million in Missouri’s Fifth Congressional District. “Access to safe and affordable housing is foundational to strong communities and economic opportunity,” said Congressman Cleaver. “Today’s discussion with the Federal Home Loan Bank of Des Moines and local housing lenders and leaders highlighted the important partnerships needed to expand housing opportunities throughout Missouri’s Fifth Congressional District. I’m grateful for the work of our local housing advocates and financial partners who are committed to addressing housing challenges and ensuring more families have a place to call home.” Rep. Cleaver emphasized the importance of continued collaboration between federal partners, local institutions, and community organizations to address rising housing costs and expand access to affordable housing in the region. Officials from FHLB Des Moines provided an overview of the bank’s investments and housing programs available to member institutions and community organiza… 1 2026-05-06T06:05:57Z 2026-05-06T06:07:49Z
https://bell.house.gov/media/press-releases/bell-introduces-epstein-act-establish-independent-commission-oversee-epstein Bell Introduces EPSTEIN Act to Establish Independent Commission To Oversee Epstein Investigation 2026-03-06 2026 2026-03 Democrat House MO Wesley Bell B001324 bell.house.gov bell https://bell.house.gov/media/press-releases scraper Washington, D.C.— Today, Representative Wesley Bell (D-Mo.) introduced the Ensuring Prosecutorial Scrutiny, Transparency, and Equal Impartiality Nationwide Act, or the EPSTEIN Act, to establish an independent, bipartisan commission to investigate and provide oversight, transparency, and accountability over the Department of Justice's handling of the Epstein Files. "The American people deserve to know the truth about Jeffrey Epstein's crimes and everyone who enabled them," said Rep. Bell. "For too long, victims have been left without answers and the public has been left in the dark. This commission would ensure that the DOJ's handling of the Epstein files receives the rigorous, independent scrutiny it demands — and that any criminal conduct is referred for prosecution. Justice delayed is justice denied, and we owe it to survivors to get this right." The EPSTEIN Act will create the Epstein Transparency and Accountability Commission, an independent statutory commission responsible for examining and investigating the documents and evidence within the Epstein Files. This commission will be made up of eight expert members equally split between Democrats and Republicans, and will be entirely separate from the DOJ. Members will be selected by the House and Senate Majority and Minority leadership. The commission’s core responsibilities include independently reviewing all criminal violations committed by Jeffrey Epstein and his accomplices, as well as examining unredacted files and information related to Epstein to create transparency to the public on the DOJ’s enforcement of federal human trafficking laws and delivering justice. The commission will have the authority to refer findings to state attorney generals to allow for prosecution. Upon completion of the investigation, the commission will issue a final report to Congress outlining the findings of the investigation and make these findings available to the public on a website established by the commission. Bell is a member of the Committee on Oversight and Governme… 1 2026-06-10T06:36:00Z 2026-06-10T06:37:32Z
https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-cleavers-statement-vote-war-powers-resolution Rep. Cleaver’s Statement on Vote for War Powers Resolution 2026-03-05 2026 2026-03 Democrat House MO Emanuel Cleaver C001061 cleaver.house.gov cleaver https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases scraper (Washington, D.C.) – Today, U.S. Representative Emanuel Cleaver, II (D-MO) released the following statement after voting in favor of the War Powers Resolution to stop the President's unauthorized war in the Middle East. “Today, I voted in favor of the War Powers resolution to reaffirm Congress’s constitutional responsibility in decisions of war and peace. The Constitution is clear - the authority to declare war rests with Congress, and the American people deserve transparency and accountability before our nation is drawn into another open-ended military conflict costing precious American lives and taxpayers billions. “Our service members deserve leadership guided by strategy, oversight, and respect for the rule of law, not unilateral decisions that risk escalating tensions without a clear plan. Congress must play its role to ensure that any use of military force reflects the will of the American people and the long-term interest of our nation. This vote is about restoring constitutional balance and ensuring that decisions of such consequence are made with the full accountability the public deserves. “This moment did not arise from an imminent threat to the United States, but from a series of erratic and unilateral actions that have brought us closer to a widespread instability. Americans have seen the cost of prolonged conflicts that begin without clear objectives or accountability. We owe it to our service members and their families to ensure that decisions that could put them in harm’s way are made with deliberation, transparency, and the full participation of Congress. Independent estimates place the cost of this war at over $3 billion already. That's over $890 million each day the war goes on. President Trump's war of choice is taking away funding which could be used for programs such as children's healthcare, housing, or restoring SNAP benefits to help families put food on the table - which were cut by Congressional Republicans last year. Exercising our constitutional responsibility today helps prevent re… 1 2026-05-01T06:06:26Z 2026-05-01T06:08:22Z
https://bell.house.gov/media/press-releases/bell-introduces-legislation-rename-st-louis-post-office-honoring-chuck-stone Bell Introduces Legislation to Rename St. Louis Post Office Honoring Chuck Stone 2026-03-02 2026 2026-03 Democrat House MO Wesley Bell B001324 bell.house.gov bell https://bell.house.gov/media/press-releases scraper Washington, D.C.— Today, Representative Wesley Bell (D-Mo.) introduced legislation to designate the United States Postal Service located at 8390 North Broadway in St. Louis, Mo. as the “Chuck Stone Post Office.” “Chuck Stone deserves to be remembered and celebrated in St. Louis,” said Rep. Bell. “I am proud to introduce this bill to honor his legacy of service as a Tuskegee Airman, a civil rights leader, and a trailblazing journalist. He fought alongside Martin Luther King Jr. for the Black community during an incredibly turbulent time in American history, and I will carry his lessons with me as I continue my work in Congress. By renaming this post office in his honor, future generations will be reminded of his lasting impact and be inspired to advocate for change just as he did.” Charles “Chuck” Stone Jr., born in St. Louis in 1924, was a journalist who fought for equality during the height of the desegregation movement. He served as a Tuskegee Airman in the U.S. Army Corps, traveled the world helping with foreign aid projects, and was the first President of the National Association of Black Journalists. He went on to be a professor, sharing stories and lessons from his illustrious career to classes of aspiring journalists. He passed away in 2014 at the age of 89. 1 2026-06-06T06:16:30Z 2026-06-06T06:17:47Z
https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-cleavers-statement-supreme-court-ruling-president-trumps-unlawful Rep. Cleaver’s Statement on Supreme Court Ruling on President Trump’s Unlawful Tariffs 2026-02-20 2026 2026-02 Democrat House MO Emanuel Cleaver C001061 cleaver.house.gov cleaver https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases scraper (Kansas City, MO) – Today, U.S. Representative Emanuel Cleaver, II (D-MO) released the following statement after the Supreme Court of the United States ruled that President Trump’s global tariffs were unlawful. “Today’s decision reaffirms a fundamental principle of our Constitution, which is that no president has the authority to unilaterally rewrite trade policy or bypass Congress. The power to levy tariffs rests with the legislative branch, and that separation of powers exists to protect the American people from economic instability and executive overreach. “For too long, reckless tariff decisions have raised costs for consumers, strained small businesses, and injected uncertainty into our economy. Working families and manufacturers deserve trade policies that are strategic, stable, and grounded in the law – not impulsive actions that create chaos. “This ruling is a victory for the rule of law, for Congress’s constitutional role, and for the American people.” ### Emanuel Cleaver, II is the U.S. Representative for Missouri's Fifth Congressional District, which includes Kansas City, Independence, Lee's Summit, Raytown, Grandview, Sugar Creek, Greenwood, Blue Springs, North Kansas City, Gladstone, and Claycomo. He is a member of the exclusive House Financial Services Committee and Ranking Member of the House Subcommittee on Housing and Insurance. 1 2026-04-30T06:05:15Z 2026-04-30T06:07:09Z
https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressman-cleaver-local-leaders-highlight-federal-funding-strengthen Congressman Cleaver, Local Leaders Highlight Federal Funding to Strengthen World Cup Security 2026-02-19 2026 2026-02 Democrat House MO Emanuel Cleaver C001061 cleaver.house.gov cleaver https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases scraper (Kansas City, MO) – Today, U.S. Representative Emanuel Cleaver (D-MO) hosted a press conference with local leaders from KC2026, Mid-America Regional Council (MARC), and the Kansas City Transportation Authority (KCATA) to highlight federal funding secured to support World Cup security and readiness in Kansas City. Cleaver secured nearly $6,118,000 for public safety and transportation projects through the appropriations process in recent years. Following a bipartisan push in Congress, Kansas City will receive $59,000,000 for the FIFA World Cup Grant Program and $14,240,568 for the Counter Unmanned Aircraft Systems Grant Program, bringing a total federal investment of $79,358,568 to the region ahead of the World Cup. The investments will strengthen coordination between local public safety agencies and improve regional transportation operations, helping ensure residents, workers, and visitors can safely move through and enjoy the region during this global event. “As a host city, our responsibility is clear: deliver a safe, secure, and seamless experience for fans while protecting our local community,” said Congressman Cleaver. “This federal funding strengthens security coordination, modernizes transportation infrastructure, and ensures our first responders and transit systems are equipped to handle a global event of this scale. When the world comes to Kansas City, they will be met with a community that is prepared, resilient, and ready to welcome our neighbors from across the globe.” Included in the recently passed funding packages are investments for local projects supported by Congressman Cleaver: $1,994,000 to the Mid-America Regional Council (MARC) to purchase automated license plate readers to combat reckless driving and boost traffic safety. $1,031,000 to the Kansas City Area Transportation Authority (KCATA) to support their Transit Ambassador Program, which is aimed at strengthening transit security during the 2026 World Cup. $1,031,000 to KCATA to purchase a combination of public safety technology, inclu… 1 2026-04-22T05:46:42Z 2026-04-22T05:48:06Z
https://bell.house.gov/media/press-releases/bell-introduces-reinvest-public-schools-act-cut-costs-districts-and-support Bell Introduces Reinvest in Public Schools Act to Cut Costs for Districts and Support Safer, Modern Schools 2026-02-18 2026 2026-02 Democrat House MO Wesley Bell B001324 bell.house.gov bell https://bell.house.gov/media/press-releases scraper Washington, D.C.—Today, Representative Wesley Bell (D-Mo.) introduced the Reinvest in Public Schools Act of 2026, legislation to restore a critical financing tool that allows public school districts to refinance bonds at lower interest rates and reinvest the savings directly into classrooms and facilities. “Strong public schools are one of the clearest paths to opportunity in this country,” said Rep. Bell. “When classrooms are outdated or buildings are in disrepair, it’s our kids who pay the price. This bill helps school districts lower their borrowing costs so they can reinvest in safer facilities, modern classrooms, and the kind of learning environments every child deserves. If we’re serious about expanding opportunity, we have to be serious about investing in our public schools.” “One of the core responsibilities of every school district is to be a good steward of local resources. Restoring tax‑exempt advance refunding would allow districts to refinance bonds at lower interest rates, which directly benefits taxpayers and helps us invest more in students and safe, well‑maintained schools. We appreciate efforts that reflect the real needs we hear from our communities,” said Dr. Mark Penny, Executive Director of the Missouri Association of School Administrators. The Reinvest in Public Schools Act reinstates the use of tax-exempt advance refunding bonds for public school infrastructure projects, reversing a provision in the 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act that eliminated this option. By allowing school districts to refinance debt under better terms, the legislation will help free up resources for construction, rehabilitation, repair of school facilities, and acquisition of land for future projects. The Reinvest in Public Schools Act is supported by the National Education Association and Missouri Association of School Administrators. Read the full bill text here. ### 1 2026-05-23T06:08:46Z 2026-05-23T06:10:20Z
https://bell.house.gov/media/press-releases/bell-delivers-over-123-million-critical-projects-across-st-louis-region Bell Delivers Over $12.3 Million for Critical Projects Across the St. Louis Region 2026-02-17 2026 2026-02 Democrat House MO Wesley Bell B001324 bell.house.gov bell https://bell.house.gov/media/press-releases scraper Washington, D.C.—Today, Representative Wesley Bell (D-Mo.) announced $12,386,000 in Community Project Funding awards for critical projects across Missouri’s First Congressional District in FY2026. These investments will support critical infrastructure, public safety, workforce development, and neighborhood revitalization efforts across St. Louis City and North County. “From day one, one of my top priorities has been making sure federal dollars make their way back home to St. Louis,” said Rep. Bell. “Our communities send their tax dollars to Washington. They deserve to see that investment come back in the form of safer streets, modern infrastructure, stronger neighborhood institutions, and real economic opportunity. I’m proud to have secured this funding, and I’m excited to see these projects move from paper to reality in the neighborhoods they’re meant to serve.” Bell championed funding for 14 projects that will directly benefit the St. Louis Region. These include: ● $3,150,000 for St. Louis Lambert International Airport to construct a new Central Utility Plant and West Electrical Substation, critical infrastructure that supports the airport’s Consolidated Terminal Program and long-term economic growth in the region. ● $1,200,000 for St. Louis County’s Operation Smart Street initiative to install advanced roadside units at traffic signals that communicate with vehicles, including emergency responders and buses, as well as pedestrians and cyclists, improving safety and modernizing regional transportation infrastructure. ● $1,031,000 for the University of Missouri–St. Louis to establish the API Advanced Manufacturing Innovation Hub, advancing cutting-edge pharmaceutical manufacturing research and strengthening domestic production of active pharmaceutical ingredients and finished drug products. ● $1,031,000 for Harris-Stowe State University to modernize critical Urban Policing IT infrastructure, enhancing public safety training capabilities while expanding educational access for students. ● $1,000,000 for the… 1 2026-05-16T06:05:00Z 2026-05-16T06:06:37Z
https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-cleavers-statement-passing-civil-rights-leader-reverend-jesse Rep. Cleaver’s Statement on the Passing of Civil Rights Leader, Reverend Jesse Jackson 2026-02-17 2026 2026-02 Democrat House MO Emanuel Cleaver C001061 cleaver.house.gov cleaver https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases scraper (Kansas City, MO) – Today, U.S. Representative Emanuel Cleaver, II (D-MO) released the following statement on the passing of Reverend Jesse Jackson. “I am deeply saddened by the passing of my dear friend, Reverend Jesse Jackson. “For decades, Reverend Jackson served as the head of Operation Breadbasket – a program of the Southern Christian Leadership Conference and later founded his own organization in Chicago, Operation Push, which later became The Rainbow Coalition. Rev. Jesse Jackson stood at the forefront of the struggle for justice, equality, and human dignity. From the days of the Civil Rights Movement to his relentless advocacy for voting rights, economic opportunity, and peace, he never stopped pushing America to live up to its highest ideals. His faith was not quiet, it was active, courageous, and unwavering. “In Kansas City, and across this nation, we felt the impact of his organizing, his preaching, and his belief that ordinary people could do extraordinary things when they stood together. “On a personal level, I lost a friend, a mentor, and a brother in the movement. Our conversations about faith, justice, and the long arc of history strengthened me more than he knew. “His life was a testament to the power of hope and persistence. And while we mourn his passing, we honor him best by continuing the work. “May he rest in power.” ### Emanuel Cleaver, II is the U.S. Representative for Missouri's Fifth Congressional District, which includes Kansas City, Independence, Lee's Summit, Raytown, Grandview, Sugar Creek, Greenwood, Blue Springs, North Kansas City, Gladstone, and Claycomo. He is a member of the exclusive House Financial Services Committee and Ranking Member of the House Subcommittee on Housing and Insurance. 1 2026-04-17T05:47:03Z 2026-04-17T05:48:33Z
https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/reps-cleaver-fletcher-senators-whitehouse-sanders-merkley-lead-amicus Reps. Cleaver, Fletcher & Senators Whitehouse, Sanders, Merkley Lead Amicus Brief Supporting Solar for All Program 2026-02-13 2026 2026-02 Democrat House MO Emanuel Cleaver C001061 cleaver.house.gov cleaver https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases scraper (Washington, D.C.) – Today, U.S. Representatives Emanuel Cleaver, II (D-MO), and Lizzie Fletcher (D-TX) alongside Senators Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI), Bernie Sanders (D-VT), and Jeff Merkley (D-OR) led a coalition of over 80 Members in the House and Senate in filing an amicus brief urging the U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia to vacate the Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) unlawful termination of the Inflation Reduction Act’s (IRA) Solar for All program. The $7 billion Solar for All program was designed to help low-and moderate-income communities invest in residential and community solar projects – lowering energy costs for working families while creating jobs in the clean energy economy. The program was expected to deliver solar access to more than 900,000 households nationwide and save participating families an estimated $350 million annually on utility bills. “The Solar For All program was created by Congress, funded by Congress, and signed into law to lower energy costs for working families while accelerating the transition to clean energy,” said Congressman Cleaver. “This administration does not have the authority to unilaterally dismantle a program established by statute. That’s not how our Constitution works. This amicus brief defends both the rule of law and the communities – like those across Missouri - that were counting on these investments to reduce utility bills, create jobs, and confront the climate crisis. I am grateful to Congresswoman Fletcher and Senator Whitehouse for the collaboration on this effort and to all of my colleagues who joined us.” “Solar for All is one of the most important affordable energy programs in our country’s history,” said Congresswoman Lizzie Fletcher. “The Trump administration’s decision to terminate Solar for All was not just reckless — it was unlawful. Congress established the Solar for All program. Congress appropriated the funds for it. No president or political appointee can unilaterally eliminate a program Congress has created. We created thi… 1 2026-04-16T05:48:36Z 2026-04-16T05:50:08Z
https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-cleavers-statement-platform-ventures-decision-not-sell-south-kansas Rep. Cleaver’s Statement on Platform Ventures’ Decision Not to Sell South Kansas City Warehouse for Proposed ICE Detention Facility 2026-02-12 2026 2026-02 Democrat House MO Emanuel Cleaver C001061 cleaver.house.gov cleaver https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases scraper (Kansas City, MO) – Today, U.S. Representative Emanuel Cleaver, II (D-MO) released the following statement after Platform Ventures announced they will not sell their south Kansas City warehouse for the purpose of a mega Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) detention center. “I welcome Platform Ventures’ decision to not move forward with the sale of its south Kansas City warehouse. “From the outset, I had serious concerns about the scope, oversight, and justification for placing a large-scale immigration detention center in Missouri’s Fifth District. That is why I sent two letters to Secretary Noem demanding transparency from the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) about their intentions and process. The questions I raised in my letters remain part of a broader responsibility Congress has to conduct oversight of DHS and ensure its actions are aligned with the law, basic standards of accountability, and human dignity. “While this specific sale will not move forward, my concerns about the expansion of mass detention and the lack of transparency surrounding immigration enforcement decisions have not changed. Congress has a constitutional obligation to serve as a check on the executive branch, and I will continue pressing DHS for answers wherever due process, human rights, and fiscal responsibility are at stake. “Kanas Citians deserve thoughtful public policy, responsible use of taxpayer dollars, and federal actions that respect both the law and the communities they impact. I remain committed to ensuring DHS is held accountable – in Missouri’s Fifth District and nationwide.” ### Emanuel Cleaver, II is the U.S. Representative for Missouri's Fifth Congressional District, which includes Kansas City, Independence, Lee's Summit, Raytown, Grandview, Sugar Creek, Greenwood, Blue Springs, North Kansas City, Gladstone, and Claycomo. He is a member of the exclusive House Financial Services Committee and Ranking Member of the House Subcommittee on Housing and Insurance. 1 2026-04-15T05:46:42Z 2026-04-15T05:48:27Z
https://bell.house.gov/media/press-releases/bell-introduces-bill-increase-transparency-and-oversight-fema-disaster Bell Introduces Bill to Increase Transparency and Oversight of FEMA Disaster Spending 2026-02-11 2026 2026-02 Democrat House MO Wesley Bell B001324 bell.house.gov bell https://bell.house.gov/media/press-releases scraper Washington, D.C.—Today, U.S. Representatives Wesley Bell (D-Mo.) and Jared Moskowitz (D-Fla.) introduced the FEMA Accountability Act, legislation that would require the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to publicly report, on a monthly basis, how disaster relief funds are being obligated and spent. “After the tornadoes last year, too many families were left wondering where the help was and when it would arrive,” said Rep. Bell. “When disaster strikes, people deserve clear answers—not silence or confusion. This bill is about basic accountability. By requiring regular, public reporting on how disaster relief funds are being obligated and spent, we can shine a light on delays, identify what’s getting stuck, and make sure communities are not left in the dark when they are trying to recover.” “When disaster strikes, speed and transparency are not optional. As the only former Emergency Management Director in Congress, I know how critical it is that relief dollars move quickly and are tracked clearly. The FEMA Accountability Act gives Congress and the public a real-time look at how Disaster Relief Fund dollars are being obligated and spent. Transparency is the first step toward restoring confidence in disaster response and ensuring families are not left in the dark, and this bill will make sure disaster relief is delivered with the accountability families deserve,” said Rep. Moskowitz. The FEMA Accountability Act would require FEMA to submit and publish detailed monthly reports on all projects funded through the Disaster Relief Fund, giving Congress and the public a clear picture of how disaster aid is being managed. The reports would break down how much money remains unobligated, how much has been committed, and how much has actually been disbursed. The bill also requires FEMA to identify projects that have been stalled for more than 180 days, explain why funds are being withheld or delayed, and standardize this data using federal open-data standards so communities can track, in real time, whether disaster … 1 2026-05-02T05:53:08Z 2026-05-02T05:54:44Z
https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressman-cleaver-presses-secretary-homeland-security-proposed Congressman Cleaver Presses Secretary of Homeland Security on Proposed Immigration Detention Center in Kansas City 2026-02-11 2026 2026-02 Democrat House MO Emanuel Cleaver C001061 cleaver.house.gov cleaver https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases scraper (Washington, D.C.) – Today, U.S. Representative Emanuel Cleaver, II (D-MO) sent a letter to Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Secretary Kristi Noem requesting a meeting with her, local law enforcement, and area officials to discuss the proposed immigration detention center in Kansas City, Missouri. The letter underscores deep and growing opposition from the community and calls out DHS’s failure to respond to questions first raised by the Congressman in a January 2026 letter. In the earlier correspondence, Rep. Cleaver condemned Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s (ICE) actions surrounding the proposed facility and raised serious concerns about the lack of transparency in the decision-making process and the inhumane practice of warehousing people in detention centers. The letter also warned that the continued expansion of these facilities threatens due process, civil liberties, and the fundamental human rights of both immigrants and American citizens – concerns that, to this day, have gone unanswered. “The chaos this administration brought to the streets of Minneapolis has no place in Kansas City. If there is any confusion, look to the actions of our local government. Without hesitation, the city council passed a resolution that implemented a five-year moratorium on non-municipal detention facilities. For an administration that often flexes their ‘mandate’ and perception of the voters’ will, it would be a disrespectful miscalculation to ignore the Kansas City community,” Congressman Cleaver wrote in a letter to DHS Secretary Kristi Noem. Today’s letter reiterates unanswered questions, requests a meeting before the end of the month to allow federal officials to hear directly from local leaders and law enforcement about the real-world consequences of the proposed facility and their united opposition against its creation, and reaffirms Rep. Cleaver’s commitment to ensuring that any federal action affecting the region prioritizes community safety, transparency, and accountability. “Given that these concerns a… 1 2026-04-07T05:38:05Z 2026-04-07T05:39:14Z
https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressman-cleaver-applauds-house-passage-landmark-bipartisan-housing Congressman Cleaver Applauds House Passage of Landmark Bipartisan Housing Package 2026-02-10 2026 2026-02 Democrat House MO Emanuel Cleaver C001061 cleaver.house.gov cleaver https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases scraper (Washington, D.C.) – Today, the Housing for the 21st Century Act, led by Subcommittee on Housing and Insurance Ranking Member Emanuel Cleaver (D-MO), Subcommittee on Housing and Insurance Chair Mike Flood (R-NE), House Committee on Financial Services Chairman French Hill (R-AR), and Ranking Member Maxine Waters (D-MO), passed the full U.S. House of Representatives by a strong bipartisan vote of 390-9. This bipartisan housing package addresses the housing shortage facing America and the need to build more homes by cutting red tape, modernizing the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), and unlocking financing to boost supply. Included in the Housing for the 21st Century Act are multiple reforms introduced by Rep. Cleaver, including the HOME Reform Act, Choice in Affordable Housing Act, Housing Supply Expansion Act, Streamlining Manufactured Housing Standards Act, HUD Accountability Act, and legislation making long-overdue improvements to the US Department of Agriculture (USDA) Rural Housing Service. The Housing for the 21st Century Act takes historic steps to expand the development and preservation of affordable housing in communities across the country, ensuring lower housing costs and more opportunities for hardworking families to achieve the American dream,” said Ranking Member Cleaver. “I’m proud of the overwhelming support we were able to obtain with this comprehensive housing package, which underscores the bipartisan nature of the legislation and the broad support for the reforms that will drive down costs. As we move toward negotiations with the Senate, I’m confident that we can achieve a bicameral agreement that will address our national housing affordability crisis and lead to relief for the American people." Chairman Hill said, “Owning a home has been the cornerstone achievement many Americans have equated with attaining the American Dream,” said Chairman Hill. “This dream has unfortunately grown increasingly out of reach after years of inflationary Biden-era policies and housing supply fa… 1 2026-04-03T05:34:17Z 2026-04-03T05:35:48Z
https://bell.house.gov/media/press-releases/bell-calls-block-ice-using-taxpayer-funds-propaganda-ads Bell Calls to Block ICE from Using Taxpayer Funds on Propaganda Ads 2026-02-06 2026 2026-02 Democrat House MO Wesley Bell B001324 bell.house.gov bell https://bell.house.gov/media/press-releases scraper Washington, D.C.—Today, U.S. Representative Wesley Bell (D-Mo.) introduced the No ICE Ads Act, legislation that would prohibit the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) from obligating or expending funds to produce, purchase, distribute, or broadcast television advertisements intended to promote U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), recruit ICE personnel, or enhance ICE’s public image or branding. “The last thing Americans’ hard-earned tax dollars should fund is hype videos for ICE,” said Rep. Bell. “That money could be going to real needs in St. Louis—health care, housing, and help with the cost of groceries. Instead, it’s being spent on misleading propaganda meant to paper over the chaos and unconstitutional behavior coming out of a rogue agency. The American people have already seen who ICE is. No commercial is going to change that.” Ahead of this year’s Super Bowl, expected to be one of the most watched events of the year, single commercial slots have reportedly sold for between $8 and $10 million. At the same time, Republicans have handed ICE a blank check through their “One Big Ugly Bill,” allowing Secretary Noem to spend taxpayer dollars on reckless, misleading, and offensive commercials designed to recruit for and promote ICE and its tactics. Original co-sponsors of the bill include Reps. Dan Goldman (D-N.Y.), Emanuel Cleaver (D-Mo.), and Andre Carson (D-In.). Read the full bill HERE. ### 1 2026-04-29T06:03:53Z 2026-04-29T06:05:09Z
https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/reps-cleaver-ross-pocan-sykes-reintroduce-legislation-end-prison Reps. Cleaver, Ross, Pocan, Sykes Reintroduce Legislation to End Prison Gerrymandering 2026-02-06 2026 2026-02 Democrat House MO Emanuel Cleaver C001061 cleaver.house.gov cleaver https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases scraper (Washington, D.C.) – This week, U.S. Representatives Emanuel Cleaver, II (D-MO), Deborah Ross (D-NC), Mark Pocan (D-WI), and Emilia Sykes (D-OH) reintroduced the End Prison Gerrymandering Act. The legislation will help ensure equal representation for all by requiring the Census Bureau to count incarcerated people at their last place of residence rather than the prison in which they are held at the time of the Census. Every ten years when the Census is conducted, incarcerated people are counted as residents of the places where they are imprisoned rather than the cities and towns they call home. This practice skews the population count and interferes with equal representation in virtually every state. Many states, including Missouri, have redistricting processes that use prison gerrymandering to give disproportionate representation to rural voters at the expense of voters in urban areas and communities of color. “The practice of prison gerrymandering puts the interests of partisan politicians above the wishes of our communities, using incarcerated Americans as unwilling pawns in the process,” said Congressman Cleaver. “The American people are sick and tired of partisan trickery that undermines the voice of voters, and I’m proud to join Representatives Ross, Sykes, and Pocan to introduce the End Prison Gerrymandering Act to outlaw this damaging practice once and for all.” “North Carolina has a long history of manipulating voters’ places of residence to produce maps that benefit the party in power, including through prison gerrymandering,” said Congresswoman Ross. “Across the country, we are witnessing unprecedented attempts to rollback voting rights and dilute voters’ voices, particularly voters of color. Now more than ever, we need maps that are fair and ensure every voter can participate fully in our democracy. I’m proud to lead my colleagues introducing legislation that will end prison gerrymandering at the federal level.” “Nearly no one would consider the facility in which they’re incarcerated home,” said Re… 1 2026-04-04T05:28:40Z 2026-04-04T05:30:10Z
https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressman-cleaver-secures-more-15-million-public-safety Congressman Cleaver Secures More than $15 Million for Public Safety, Infrastructure, and Economic Development Initiatives in MO-05 Through Appropriations Packages 2026-02-05 2026 2026-02 Democrat House MO Emanuel Cleaver C001061 cleaver.house.gov cleaver https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases scraper February 5, 2026 (Washington, D.C.) – Today, U.S. Representative Emanuel Cleaver, II (D-MO) announced that he has secured $15,468,000 in Community Project Funding for public safety, infrastructure, and economic development initiatives across the Fifth Congressional District of Missouri as part of the 2026 appropriations packages that were recently signed into law. “Responsible governance in the United States of America demands compromise in Congress. While the recent funding packages were by no means perfect, they contained vital investments that are important to communities across western Missouri,” said Congressman Cleaver. “I’m proud to have secured more than $15 million within those funding bills that will support public safety, economic development, and infrastructure initiatives in my congressional district, creating safer and more prosperous communities for all our neighbors. As the Representative for Missouri’s Fifth Congressional District, I will continue working to bring additional investments back to western Missouri to meet the needs of hardworking families.” Included in the recently passed funding packages are 15 separate investments for local projects supported by Congressman Cleaver: $2,000,000 to Kansas City, Missouri for a Brush Creek Park Greenway to create improved pedestrian and recreational opportunities for the neighborhoods that were fractured by the Bruce R Watkins Highway Project and the Brush Creek Flood Control Project. $1,200,000 to Independence, Missouri for Kentucky Avenue Bridge Replacement to replace the existing bridge that was built in the 1920’s and which has been closed since 2019 due to safety concerns. Replacing the bridge on Kentucky Road, which serves as an arterial roadway for residential and commercial areas through Independence and Sugar Creek, will allow for greater access between communities, quicker response for emergency services, and reduce logistics and scheduling costs for businesses. $1,039,000 to Lee’s Summit to purchase additional public safety technology… 1 2026-04-04T05:28:40Z 2026-04-04T05:30:10Z
https://bell.house.gov/media/press-releases/bell-introduces-bipartisan-bill-establish-regional-innovation-hubs-strengthen Bell Introduces Bipartisan Bill to Establish Regional Innovation Hubs to Strengthen U.S. National Security and Accelerate Defense Technologies 2026-02-03 2026 2026-02 Democrat House MO Wesley Bell B001324 bell.house.gov bell https://bell.house.gov/media/press-releases scraper Washington, D.C.—Today, U.S. Representatives Wesley Bell (D-Mo.), Deborah Ross (D-N.C.), Richard Hudson (R-N.C.), and Mark Messmer (R-Ind.) introduced the bipartisan Defense Technology Hubs Act of 2026, directing the Department of Defense to create a nationwide network of regional hubs focused on accelerating emerging defense technologies. These hubs would support talent development, technology transition, and collaboration among universities, defense partners, nonprofits, and local governments. By expanding innovation capacity and strengthening workforce pipelines, the bill reinforces U.S. national security and enables communities nationwide to contribute to the future of American defense. “At a time when our global adversaries are investing heavily in next-generation technologies, America must not just compete, but lead, in research, development, and innovation. That means building innovation capacity in regions across the country,” said Rep. Bell. “St. Louis has already solidified its vital role in U.S. national security, and this bill ensures our region continues to drive that mission—not get left behind—as the race for technological dominance accelerates. We can strengthen our national defense while creating good-paying jobs, attracting new industry, and developing the strong, expansive workforce needed to keep America at the forefront of technological leadership.” “As someone who represents one of the nation’s most critical defense innovation regions, I know firsthand how important it is to move new technology from concept to capability as quickly as possible,” said Rep. Messmer. "The Defense Technology Hubs Act creates a clear pathway for the Department of Defense, industry, and research institutions to work together to accelerate emerging technologies that keep our warfighters ahead of threats to our national security. This legislation strengthens our defense industrial base, protects American innovation, and ensures the future of military technology is built right here in the United States.” “The Res… 1 2026-04-15T05:46:42Z 2026-04-15T05:48:27Z
https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-cleavers-statement-supporting-impeachment-secretary-noem Rep. Cleaver’s Statement on Supporting Impeachment of Secretary Noem 2026-01-29 2026 2026-01 Democrat House MO Emanuel Cleaver C001061 cleaver.house.gov cleaver https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases scraper (Kansas City, MO) – Today, U.S. Representative Emanuel Cleaver, II (D-MO) released the following statement after cosponsoring H.Res. 996 to initiate the impeachment of Department of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem. “Following the second killing of an American citizen and numerous violations of court orders under her leadership, I signed onto H.Res. 996 and am calling for the impeachment of Secretary Kristi Noem. This moment demands moral clarity, not political convenience. When those entrusted with immense power abuse it, showing contempt for the rule of law, human dignity, and constitutional liberties, Congress has not just the authority, but the obligation to act. “In my theology of government, impeachment is not a step I take lightly. It is a grave constitutional mechanism meant for moments exactly like this – when misconduct is not incidental, but systemic; when harm is not abstract, but real; and when officials are not only failing to uphold the Constitution, but actively undermining it. Our democracy cannot endure if those at the highest levels of government are allowed to operate above the law or beyond consequence. “My decision is consistent with the stand I took just last week. I voted against funding the Department of Homeland Security because I refuse to endorse an agency that has lost their moral compass, leaving them only guided by a desire to inflict suffering without due process. Oversight without accountability is meaningless, and funding without reform is surrendering to injustice. “At its core, this is about right and wrong. It is about whether we are willing to meet the moment with integrity, or whether we will avert our eyes while power is misused and lives are diminished. I choose to stand on the side of accountability, justice, and the enduring promise of our Republic – if we can keep it.” ### Emanuel Cleaver, II is the U.S. Representative for Missouri's Fifth Congressional District, which includes Kansas City, Independence, Lee's Summit, Raytown, Grandview, Sugar Creek, Greenw… 1 2026-04-04T05:28:40Z 2026-04-04T05:30:10Z
https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/reps-cleaver-brown-and-foushee-introduce-prison-libraries-act-reduce Reps. Cleaver, Brown, and Foushee Introduce Prison Libraries Act to Reduce Recidivism and Expand Educational Opportunities for Incarcerated Americans 2026-01-27 2026 2026-01 Democrat House MO Emanuel Cleaver C001061 cleaver.house.gov cleaver https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases scraper (Washington, D.C.) - Today, U.S. Representatives Emanuel Cleaver, II (D-MO), Shontel Brown (D-OH), and Valerie Foushee (D-NC) re-introduced the Prison Libraries Act to expand library resources in U.S. state and territory correctional facilities, aiming to increase educational opportunities, advance reintegration efforts, and reduce recidivism. The bill will authorize $60,000,000 over six years for state prisons to expand library resources and services to support the education and skills training of incarcerated Americans. “America’s correctional system is far too often focused on punishment rather than rehabilitation. The Prison Libraries Act is an attempt to shift this dynamic, providing incarcerated Americans with increased access to education and skills training services that will better prepare them for reintegration into society,” said Congressman Cleaver. “By making strategic investments in the rehabilitative components of America’s correctional facilities, we can reduce recidivism, strengthen public safety, and curtail the growing costs of our correctional system.” “Everyone deserves to have access to learning, ideas, information and literature no matter where they are,” said Congresswoman Brown. “The Prison Libraries Act would help give incarcerated community members the resources they need to pursue knowledge and development opportunities they would not have otherwise received. When people have access to education and information, they’re better equipped to succeed when they come home, and our communities are safer and stronger.” “Libraries give everyone the chance to learn and grow, yet many correctional facilities lack the infrastructure to provide these essential resources,” said Congresswoman Valerie Foushee (NC-04). “To reduce recidivism and support successful reintegration, our justice system must provide incarcerated individuals with ways to prepare for life after release. I’m proud to join my colleagues in introducing the Prison Libraries Act to help more prisons establish libraries and educat… 1 2026-04-04T05:28:40Z 2026-04-04T05:30:10Z
https://bell.house.gov/media/press-releases/bell-introduces-legislation-fight-lower-energy-costs-st-louis-families Bell Introduces Legislation to Fight for Lower Energy Costs for St. Louis Families 2026-01-23 2026 2026-01 Democrat House MO Wesley Bell B001324 bell.house.gov bell https://bell.house.gov/media/press-releases scraper Washington, D.C.—Today, U.S. Representative Wesley Bell (D-Mo.) introduced the Home Energy Relief Act, legislation aimed at lowering home energy costs for St. Louis families. The bill makes targeted, common-sense improvements to existing federal home energy rebate programs so working families, renters, and owners of older homes can actually use them. “While Republicans squabble over legislation that defines what is and isn't a showerhead, families in St. Louis are watching their bills go up,” said Rep. Bell. “Right now, federal programs are too complicated and too restrictive to meet people where they are. This bill fixes that. It makes sure working families, renters, and folks living in older homes can actually access assistance they need—and see real savings on their energy bills.” While federal home energy rebates were designed to help families save money, many households have been locked out due to rigid rules that prevent programs from working together. Specifically, the legislation allows families to combine HOMES rebates and High-Efficiency Electric Home Rebates with other federal grants, ensuring federal dollars work together instead of at cross-purposes. The bill also creates a bonus rebate for homes built before 1970, helping offset the higher costs of electrification and efficiency upgrades in older housing, while maintaining safeguards to ensure rebates never exceed total project costs. Lowering costs for St. Louis families has been a central focus of Rep. Bell’s work in Congress. In addition to tackling rising energy bills, he has pushed to reduce health care costs, lower everyday expenses for working families, and make federal programs simpler and more responsive to the people they are meant to serve. The bill is supported by the National Association of Realtors. 1 2026-04-08T05:38:19Z 2026-04-08T05:39:49Z
https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-cleavers-statement-vote-against-department-homeland-security Rep. Cleaver’s Statement on Vote Against Department of Homeland Security Funding Bill 2026-01-22 2026 2026-01 Democrat House MO Emanuel Cleaver C001061 cleaver.house.gov cleaver https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases scraper (Washington, D.C.) – Today, U.S. Representative Emanuel Cleaver, II (D-MO) released the following statement after voting against legislation to fund the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), which was passed by the House of Representatives. “As the current administration pursues the most reckless and extreme mass deportation agenda in modern American history, the Department of Homeland Security and ICE have spiraled out of control. Nearly every day, the public is faced with new reports of inhumane treatment of migrants, violence against our fellow citizens, and Americans who have had their constitutional rights undermined by agents of this Department. This erosion of civil liberties and the rule of law have sown chaos in our communities and even led to the tragic and unnecessary death of a mother and American citizen. “As a co-equal branch of government, Congress is charged with the responsibility to protect the civil rights of our fellow citizens, ensure transparency for the public, and put an end to executive overreach when necessary. Unfortunately, while Democrats in Congress have asked for basic reforms to uphold these duties, such as requiring warrant standards for detentions, use of force standards and trainings, and the protection of sensitive locations like churches and schools, Republicans in Congress refuse to take any meaningful action to rein in this administration. In fact, rather than addressing immigration reform or tackling issues important to all Americans such as skyrocketing health care, utility, and housing costs, Republicans in Congress prefer to spend more taxpayer dollars supporting this irresponsible agenda while developing mega detention centers across the country, including in Kansas City. “While I have long supported comprehensive immigration reform that will strengthen border security in conjunction with upholding America’s tradition of welcoming hardworking immigrants, I cannot support the continuation of chaos that this agency is creating in communities nationwide. Therefore, I v… 1 2026-04-04T05:28:40Z 2026-04-04T05:30:10Z
https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-cleaver-condemns-reported-dhs-detention-center-opening-kansas-city Rep. Cleaver Condemns Reported DHS Detention Center Opening in Kansas City, Demands Additional Information 2026-01-13 2026 2026-01 Democrat House MO Emanuel Cleaver C001061 cleaver.house.gov cleaver https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases scraper (Washington, D.C.) – Today, U.S. Representative Emanuel Cleaver, II (D-MO) condemned the Department of Homeland Security’s (DHS) reported plans to open an immigration detention center in Kansas City, Missouri, calling for additional information on the process before the plan moves forward. According to the report, DHS intends to build several detention centers across the country, including in Kansas City, to hold approximately 80,000 immigrants. DHS recently awarded a $29.9 million no-bid contract to an organization that had no previous history of government contracts to facilitate the plan—which is just shy of the $30 million threshold that requires the administration to justify forgoing a competition process for the award. “Since day one, this administration has fractured communities with ICE raids and severed families with hundreds of thousands of deportations, sweeping up legal residents and American citizens in the process. While we believe strongly in an orderly immigration system, Kansas Citians and I do not want to see the stench of these extreme mass deportation policies centralized in Kansas City,” Congressman Cleaver wrote in a letter to DHS Secretary Kristi Noem and ICE Acting Director Tom Lyons. “No human deserves to be rounded up as cattle, shipped across the country, imprisoned in warehouses, and stripped of their dignity. The proposed plan will degrade our society, divide our communities, waste taxpayer dollars, and stress the civility of our institutions to the point of fracture,” Rep. Cleaver continued. “America’s immigration system is far from perfect, and border security is a key component. But those millions of dollars for detention centers would be better spent on finding criminals rather than attacking families and those with no criminal history,” Cleaver concluded. In addition to condemning the administration’s plans, Rep. Cleaver requested answers to the following questions by January 23: Has the administration briefed Congress on the plans and locations of these facilities? Why did… 1 2026-04-04T05:28:40Z 2026-04-04T05:30:10Z
https://bell.house.gov/media/press-releases/bell-calls-department-energy-lead-long-delayed-cleanup-west-lake-landfill Bell Calls on Department of Energy to Lead Long-Delayed Cleanup of West Lake Landfill 2026-01-09 2026 2026-01 Democrat House MO Wesley Bell B001324 bell.house.gov bell https://bell.house.gov/media/press-releases scraper Washington, D.C.—Today, U.S. Representative Wesley Bell (D-Mo.) sent a letter to U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) Secretary Chris Wright urging the agency to take a leadership role in resolving the decades-long cleanup of radioactive contamination at the West Lake Landfill. In the letter, Rep. Bell calls on DOE to replicate the successful federal cost-allocation framework that helped advance cleanup efforts at the Latty Avenue site, arguing that the Federal Government must finally acknowledge and act on its role in the Manhattan Project-era contamination that continues to affect the St. Louis region. “Recent progress at Coldwater Creek and other St. Louis-area sites shows what is possible when the federal government acts with clarity and coordination,” wrote Rep. Bell. “It is beyond time for that same approach to be applied to West Lake Landfill.” “It’s wonderful to finally see the U.S. Department of Energy take accountability for their radioactive waste along Coldwater Creek. Now they must do the same at West Lake Landfill,” said Dawn Chapman and Karen Nickel, Co-Founders of Just Moms STL.“The horrific chapter of the Manhattan Project in Missouri began with them, and only they can end it. It’s time for them to stop creating casualties of World War II in the St. Louis Region!” The letter calls for DOE to convene all relevant agencies and private parties to finalize a cost-share agreement that recognizes DOE’s role in the contamination and ensures long-term funding and coordination for the cleanup. Read the full letter here. 1 2026-04-04T05:28:40Z 2026-04-04T05:30:10Z
https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressman-cleaver-votes-extend-aca-tax-credits-lower-health-care Congressman Cleaver Votes to Extend ACA Tax Credits to Lower Health Care Costs for Missouri Families 2026-01-08 2026 2026-01 Democrat House MO Emanuel Cleaver C001061 cleaver.house.gov cleaver https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases scraper (Washington, D.C.) – Today, U.S. Representative Emanuel Cleaver, II (D-MO) voted in favor of legislation to extend Affordable Care Act (ACA) tax credits that help lower health care premiums for more than 20 million Americans across the country, including more than 46,000 Missourians in the Fifth Congressional District. Following an intense effort from the Speaker of the House and the vast majority of congressional Republicans to prevent an extension, the enhanced tax credits lapsed on January 1st, immediately driving up costs on millions of Americans. However, House Democrats successfully forced a vote on legislation to revive the credits for three years through the discharge petition process with the support of 4 House Republicans. The legislation passed today by a vote of 230-196. “For months now, as American families plead for bipartisan solutions that will address the cost-of-living crisis, I have been working with lawmakers to extend ACA tax credits that help more than 46,000 of my constituents afford quality health care,” said Congressman Cleaver. “Thanks to every Democratic lawmaker and a handful of my Republican colleagues, we have successfully passed legislation that would extend this lifeline and provide immediate relief to working-class families across the country. It is my hope that the Senate will put partisanship aside and pass this legislation so that no family is forced to choose between keeping their health care or keeping food on the table.” According to the House Budget Committee, the failure to extend ACA tax credits will send premiums skyrocketing. For example: A 60-year-old couple earning $85,000 a year in Missouri’s Fifth Congressional District would see their annual premiums rise by 333%. A family of four earning $66,000 a year in Missouri’s Fifth Congressional District would see their annual premiums rise by 254%. A family of four earning $133,750 a year in Missouri’s Fifth Congressional District would see their annual premiums rise by 121%. The legislation will now go to the U.S. S… 1 2026-04-04T05:28:40Z 2026-04-04T05:30:10Z

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