Press releases
Data license: MIT · Data source: dwillis/congress-press
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179 rows where chamber = "Senate", state = "UT" and year = 2026 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 |
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| https://www.curtis.senate.gov/press-releases/curtis-calls-for-investigation-into-presidential-families-business-dealings | Curtis Calls for Investigation into Presidential Families’ Business Dealings | 2026-09-22 | 2026 | 2026-09 | Republican | Senate | UT | John R. Curtis | C001114 | www.curtis.senate.gov | curtis | https://www.curtis.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases | scraper | Senator urges Judiciary Committee to examine use of presidential connections for private financial benefit WASHINGTON—U.S. Senator John Curtis (R-UT) sent a letter to Senate Judiciary Committee Chairman Chuck Grassley (R-IA) and Ranking Member Dick Durbin (D-IL) calling for an investigation into the use of presidential family relationships for private financial benefit, preferential treatment, or access by domestic and foreign interests. As part of that investigation, the letter urges the Committee to subpoena Donald Trump Jr. and Hunter Biden to testify regarding their past business dealings, relationships with foreign individuals and entities, gifts or other benefits they have received, and any instances in which their relationship to the President was invoked or understood to provide value. The full letter is available here and below: Dear Chairman Grassley and Ranking Member Durbin: Trust in our government institutions continues to fall to near historic lows. According to the Partnership for Public Service, only 27% of Americans have trust in the federal government, while 72% say it is “corrupt.” There are many reasons for this, but an important one is the perception that those with close proximity to political power are provided with opportunities, access, and treatment unavailable to ordinary Americans. That concern should not depend on which party controls the White House. For years, serious questions have been raised about members of presidential families using their names and proximity to the President to advance private business interests. The son of former President Joe Biden, Hunter Biden, conducted substantial business with foreign entities, including interests in China and Ukraine, while his father held or sought public office. Congressional testimony has produced conflicting accounts about the extent to which his father’s name, presence, or political stature played a role in those relationships. Hunter Biden has denied involving his father in his business dealings, but there is little questi… | 1 | 2026-09-23T09:45:16Z | 2026-09-23T09:46:14Z |
| https://www.lee.senate.gov/2026/9/mike-lee-warren-davidson-urge-department-of-war-to-adopt-clear-standards-for-banned-substances | Mike Lee, Warren Davidson Urge Department of War to Adopt Clear Standards for Banned Substances | 2026-09-22 | 2026 | 2026-09 | Republican | Senate | UT | Mike Lee | L000577 | www.lee.senate.gov | mikelee | https://www.lee.senate.gov/press-releases | scraper | WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Mike Lee (R-UT) and Representative Warren Davidson (R-OH) today authored a letter to Secretary of War Pete Hegseth and DoW General Counsel Earl Matthews urging the military to reform the broken system used to ban certain substances and supplements for use by servicemembers, which has resulted in disciplinary action against innocent men and women in uniform. They note that the ongoing legal review of Pentagon standards and processes ordered by Secretary Hegseth is a perfect opportunity to adopt the policies of their PERFECT Act, protecting good-faith servicemembers from a malfunctioning bureaucratic system. ****** Dear Secretary Hegseth and Mr. Matthews: We write to support the Department of War’s (DoW) comprehensive review of legal support functions and operations,1 and to bring a relevant issue to the DoW’s attention. Many of our most motivated troops use health supplements to increase nutrient intake and muscle performance, using common off-the-shelf and name-brand supplements. Some of these supplements are even sold in retail facilities on military bases. Due to valid military readiness and health concerns, many of these commercially available supplements are prohibited for servicemembers. These substances are listed in a database called Operation Supplement Safety (OPSS). Unfortunately, OPSS is an obscure, not-user-friendly tool that has caused much trouble for highly motivated servicemembers.3 Rather than providing a comprehensive list of prohibited ingredients and substances, it only features a search box where exact spelling of unfamiliar and complex names like “enclomiphene” or “dimethylamylamine” is necessary. If the servicemember searches the brand name, or messes up a single letter, the database will approve its use, even if it is banned. Moreover, OPSS is regularly updated as more products are added to the commercial market. The database currently includes over 800 prohibited substances and over 1700 synonyms. For a servicemember to maintain full compliance while optimiz… | 1 | 2026-09-23T09:45:16Z | 2026-09-23T09:46:14Z |
| https://www.curtis.senate.gov/press-releases/curtis-blunt-rochester-call-for-ai-hearings-regulation | Curtis, Blunt Rochester Call for AI Hearings, Regulation | 2026-09-16 | 2026 | 2026-09 | Republican | Senate | UT | John R. Curtis | C001114 | www.curtis.senate.gov | curtis | https://www.curtis.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases | scraper | Bipartisan members of the Senate Commerce Committee issue joint statement on artificial intelligence (AI) WASHINGTON—U.S. Senators John Curtis (R-UT) and Lisa Blunt Rochester (D-DE), members of the Senate Commerce, Science, and Transportation Committee, issued the following joint statement calling for swift public congressional hearings to inform lawmakers on potential AI regulatory solutions: “Americans deserve representation in Congress that is not only well-informed on cutting-edge AI development, but also has the wherewithal to cross the aisle and overcome political pressures to address the concerns these technologies pose. “That is why we are calling for immediate public hearings to bring lawmakers, model makers, and other stakeholders into the same room and work through solutions that maintain America’s competitive edge in development while ensuring that these technologies serve human interests and remain fully under human control. In the meantime, Congress must ensure necessary safeguards are in place. “At the end of the day, technology must be wholly designed to improve our lives, further opportunities for rising generations, and let the human spirit prevail. With no clear partisan divide on this issue, there is an opportunity to prove that Congress is functional, cooperative, and that it can deliver on what is becoming the hallmark issue of our time.” | 1 | 2026-09-17T09:52:05Z | 2026-09-17T09:53:00Z |
| https://www.lee.senate.gov/2026/9/lee-miller-fight-for-student-privacy-with-student-voter-data-protection-act | Lee, Miller Fight for Student Privacy with Student Voter Data Protection Act | 2026-09-16 | 2026 | 2026-09 | Republican | Senate | UT | Mike Lee | L000577 | www.lee.senate.gov | mikelee | https://www.lee.senate.gov/press-releases | scraper | WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Mike Lee (R-UT) and Representative Mary Miller (R-IL) introduced the Student Voter Data Protection Act, a bill to safeguard the personal data of college students from being exploited for partisan voter registration efforts. This legislation amends the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) to explicitly prohibit students' private information from being shared without their consent for voter registration drives, additionally banning federal funds from postsecondary education institutions that engage in these practices. In recent years, colleges and universities nationwide have participated in the National Study of Learning, Voting, and Engagement (NSLVE), which compels institutions to hand over students' FERPA-protected data. This data is then shared through the National Student Clearinghouse (NSC) with third-party voter processing companies. Without student consent, these companies match student information with voter databases. "Partisan organizations should not have access to college students' personal data under the guise of civic engagement," said Senator Lee. "Our bill closes the loopholes that allow institutions to disregard the consent of their students. If leftist groups want a student’s info for electioneering, they can do it the old-fashioned way: standing on campus with a clipboard." "The Student Voter Data Protection Act puts a hard stop to Left-wing data harvesting, making student data strictly opt-in and cutting off the pipeline to non-consensual personal information,” said Rep. Miller. “I am proud to lead this effort in the House alongside Senator Mike Lee to stand up for our students' basic privacy rights." The Student Voter Data Protection Act would amend FERPA to ensure that universities cannot share students' personally identifiable information for voter registration activities unless the student gives explicit consent. The legislation responds to ongoing concerns that organizations like Civic Nation, an affiliate of the Obama Foundation, are using this … | 1 | 2026-09-17T09:52:05Z | 2026-09-17T09:53:00Z |
| https://www.curtis.senate.gov/press-releases/curtis-wildfire-emissions-prevention-bill-unanimously-passes-committee | Curtis Wildfire Emissions Prevention Bill Unanimously Passes Committee | 2026-09-16 | 2026 | 2026-09 | Republican | Senate | UT | John R. Curtis | C001114 | www.curtis.senate.gov | curtis | https://www.curtis.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases | scraper | Bipartisan legislation to remove regulatory burden on proactive forest management unanimously passes Senate EPW Committee WASHINGTON—U.S. Senator John Curtis (R-UT) today applauded the Senate Environment and Public Works (EPW) Committee’s unanimous passage of the Wildfire Emissions Prevention Act (WEPA), bipartisan legislation to streamline states’ use of prescribed fires to prevent wildfire emissions, protect ecosystems and wildlife habitats, and make American forests and communities safer, healthier, and cleaner. The bill—led by Senator Curtis—is cosponsored by EPW Chair Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV) and Senators Jeff Merkley (D-OR), John Boozman (R-AR), Alex Padilla (D-CA), and Mark Kelly (D-AZ). “Today’s unanimous approval by the Committee brings us one step closer to addressing the glaring irony in our current environmental regulations: They deter prescribed burns due to pollution concerns, practically guaranteeing catastrophic wildfires that emit far more carbon than proactive management ever would,” said Senator Curtis. “I thank my colleagues for their work and support and look forward to the bill’s passage by the full Senate.” “The unanimous passage of the WEPA through the EPW Committee represents a key step toward implementing common-sense solutions that will help states more effectively prevent wildfires and protect their land and communities. I am grateful to Senator Curtis and Senator Merkley for their leadership on this bill, and I look forward to supporting its passage through the full Senate,” said Chair Capito. “As climate chaos fuels longer, hotter, and more dangerous wildfire seasons, our communities need to have all the necessary resources to mitigate wildfire threats. Prescribed fire and cultural burning on the landscape are one such tool by reducing hazardous fuels,” said Senator Merkley. “This bipartisan bill would streamline the use of prescribed burns and establish the Smoke Ready Communities Program, which is based on provisions from my Smoke and Heat Ready Communities Act. As our Wildf… | 1 | 2026-09-18T09:27:43Z | 2026-09-18T09:29:09Z |
| https://www.curtis.senate.gov/press-releases/curtis-joins-tillis-armstrong-on-delegation-to-ukraine | Curtis Joins Tillis, Armstrong on Delegation to Ukraine | 2026-09-15 | 2026 | 2026-09 | Republican | Senate | UT | John R. Curtis | C001114 | www.curtis.senate.gov | curtis | https://www.curtis.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases | scraper | Senators affirmed support for Ukraine, assessed security conditions and defense capabilities amid continued Russian aggression KYIV, UKRAINE—U.S. Senator John Curtis (R-UT), member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, joined a Republican congressional delegation with Senators Thom Tillis (R-NC) and Alan Armstrong (R-OK) to Ukraine to affirm American support for the Ukrainian people and assess the security situation amid Russia’s continued war of aggression. The trip marks the first time since the start of the invasion that a congressional delegation visited Kharkiv, a heavily fortified frontline city just miles from the Russian border. While in Kyiv, the delegation met with U.S. and Ukrainian officials and key stakeholders to receive updates on the war, negotiations, and Ukraine’s rapidly developing defense technologies. Before going to Ukraine, the delegation was joined by Senator Elissa Slotkin (D-MI) in Poland. Photos from the visit can be downloaded here. Senator Curtis shared the following comments on his experience: On Ukraine’s military capabilities: “Ukraine has gone from a fragment of the Soviet Union to a global symbol of freedom and democracy in the face of authoritarianism. The Ukrainian people are fighting for their sovereignty, but they are also defending values Americans cherish: free speech, free markets, and free people. “While in Ukraine, we witnessed an extremely capable military on the forefront of innovation in the UAS and counter-UAS space. It was particularly helpful to see how Ukraine is providing these capabilities across Europe and the Middle East.” On the future of U.S. support for Ukraine: “It is clear that Putin intends to make the coming winter hard for Ukraine. He will not succeed. The Ukrainians provided us with concrete asks to help them get through the winter, including House passage and the full enactment of the Lindsey Graham Russia Sanctions Act. It’s important to note that the requests made by the Ukrainians require no U.S. taxpayer dollars nor further aid pack… | 1 | 2026-09-19T09:11:33Z | 2026-09-19T09:12:45Z |
| https://www.curtis.senate.gov/press-releases/opinion-thank-capitalism-and-free-markets-for-human-flourishing | Opinion: Thank Capitalism and Free Markets for Human Flourishing | 2026-09-14 | 2026 | 2026-09 | Republican | Senate | UT | John R. Curtis | C001114 | www.curtis.senate.gov | curtis | https://www.curtis.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases | scraper | America should not abandon the economic system that has lifted billions from poverty and driven unprecedented human progress WASHINGTON—U.S. Senator John Curtis (R-UT) authored an opinion piece in The Washington Post highlighting the extraordinary gains in prosperity, health, and quality of life made possible by capitalism and free enterprise. “To what do we owe this phenomenal progress? Capitalism. It’s the only system in which individuals have the freedom to own their land, homes and businesses—and to be paid for their talent, labor and innovation,” Senator Curtis wrote. “Just one century into America’s experiment in capitalist free enterprise, Karl Marx and Friedrich Engels—capitalism’s most prominent critics—could not help but admit that the system had driven more productivity ‘than have all preceding generations together.’ There is a clear link between economic freedom and standards of living, financial resources and personal health.” “Free enterprise made America a ‘shining city on a hill’—a heritage the country will surely lose if it abandons its zeal for the only economic system capable of making upward mobility and prosperity possible for all,” Senator Curtis continued. In the piece, Senator Curtis points to dramatic improvements in human well-being over the past several decades. More than one billion people were lifted out of extreme poverty between 1990 and 2015, while global child mortality has fallen 60 percent since 1990. In the United States, inflation-adjusted household income increased from roughly $59,000 in 1970 to nearly $84,000 in 2024. Senator Curtis also reflects on his own experience in Taiwan, where he first lived as a missionary in 1979 and returned earlier this year as the co-lead of a Congressional delegation. He argues that Taiwan’s transformation from a poor, agrarian society into an economic powerhouse demonstrates the ability of market-oriented capitalism to improve lives and create opportunity. Amid recent electoral victories by members of the Democratic Socialists of Americ… | 1 | 2026-09-15T09:50:21Z | 2026-09-15T09:52:05Z |
| https://www.curtis.senate.gov/press-releases/curtis-cosponsors-national-park-week-resolution | Curtis Cosponsors National Park Week Resolution | 2026-08-25 | 2026 | 2026-08 | Republican | Senate | UT | John R. Curtis | C001114 | www.curtis.senate.gov | curtis | https://www.curtis.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases | scraper | Bipartisan resolution designates August 22–30 as “National Park Week” WASHINGTON—U.S. Senator John Curtis (R-UT) joined his colleagues in cosponsoring a bipartisan resolution designating the week of August 22 through August 30, 2026, as “National Park Week.” The resolution, introduced by Senator Steve Daines (R-MT), recognizes the National Park Service’s role in preserving the United States’ natural, historical, and cultural treasures and encourages Americans to responsibly enjoy the nation’s public lands. “Utahns know better than most what a gift our national parks are,” said Senator Curtis. “These landscapes connect us to our history, strengthen local economies, and give families from across the country and around the world the chance to experience some of the United States’ most remarkable places. National Park Week is an opportunity to celebrate these treasures and recommit ourselves to preserving them for generations to come.” Background: Utah is home to five national parks—Arches, Bryce Canyon, Canyonlands, Capitol Reef, and Zion—which draw millions of visitors each year and serve as major economic drivers for gateway communities across the state. Together with Utah’s national monuments, recreation areas, and historic sites, these public lands showcase the state’s unique landscapes while supporting outdoor recreation, tourism, and local jobs. More broadly, the National Park System welcomed more than 323 million recreational visits in 2025, underscoring the important role national parks play in recreation and communities across the country. In 2024, visitor spending associated with national parks generated approximately $56.3 billion in economic output nationwide. The resolution: Designates August 22–30, 2026, as National Park Week; Recognizes the National Park Service’s work to preserve the nation’s natural, historical, and cultural resources; Highlights the economic and recreational benefits of the National Park System; and Encourages Americans to responsibly visit, enjoy, and support national pa… | 1 | 2026-08-26T05:33:32Z | 2026-08-26T05:34:56Z |
| https://www.curtis.senate.gov/press-releases/curtis-convenes-utah-leaders-to-explore-bold-solutions-for-great-salt-lake-utahs-water-future | Curtis Convenes Utah Leaders to Explore Bold Solutions for Great Salt Lake, Utah’s Water Future | 2026-08-21 | 2026 | 2026-08 | Republican | Senate | UT | John R. Curtis | C001114 | www.curtis.senate.gov | curtis | https://www.curtis.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases | scraper | SALT LAKE CITY—U.S. Senator John Curtis (R-UT) convened a group of experts—including state elected officials, water experts, researchers, conservation leaders, and members of Utah’s technology sector—for a roundtable discussion on bold, long-term solutions to strengthen Utah’s water supply and protect the Great Salt Lake. “A rich part of Utah’s heritage is our ingenuity and determination to solve societal challenges, particularly when it comes to water, and protecting the Great Salt Lake is no exception,” said Senator Curtis following the event. “This roundtable was focused on putting every idea on the table, bringing the right people together, and thinking boldly about what’s possible. There won’t be one silver bullet, but I’m confident that Utah can lead the way, and I’ll keep working to ensure the federal government is a strong partner in getting it done.” Photos from the event are available here. The discussion focused on both immediate and long-term strategies to strengthen Utah’s water supply and protect the Great Salt Lake. Participants explored ideas ranging from desalination and interstate water infrastructure to expanded cloud seeding and improved forest management. The group also discussed reducing water loss from evaporation and mineral production, and engaging Utah’s technology sector to develop new solutions. Throughout the conversation, participants emphasized that no single approach will solve the challenge and that progress will require a combination of innovation, conservation, infrastructure, and continued federal, state, private, and philanthropic partnership. The roundtable group included Hannah Freeze, Great Salt Lake Commissioner; Clint Betts, CEO and Co-Founder of Silicon Slopes; Dr. Kevin Perry, Professor in the Department of Atmospheric Sciences at the University of Utah; Dr. Ben Abbott, Associate Professor of Environmental Science and Ecology at Brigham Young University and Executive Director of Grow the Flow; Scott Sandall, State Senator; Jill Koford, Utah Representative; Tim Hawke… | 1 | 2026-08-22T05:24:59Z | 2026-08-22T05:26:16Z |
| https://www.lee.senate.gov/2026/8/lee-colleagues-call-for-investigation-of-california-s-climate-pacts-with-china | Lee, Colleagues Call for Investigation of California’s Climate Pacts with China | 2026-08-20 | 2026 | 2026-08 | Republican | Senate | UT | Mike Lee | L000577 | www.lee.senate.gov | mikelee | https://www.lee.senate.gov/press-releases | scraper | WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Mike Lee (R-UT) joined Senators Rick Scott (R-FL), Marsha Blackburn (R-TN), and Congresswoman Young Kim (R-CA-39) to call for an investigation into the state of California’s numerous climate agreements with the Chinese Communist Party (CCP). The members of Congress penned a letter to Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Attorney General Todd Blanche outlining California’s inappropriate climate agreements with China. “If Governor Newsom would like to assume foreign affairs authorities constitutionally vested in the federal government, that option, however quixotic, ill-conceived, and downright laughable, is theoretically available to him. As it stands, however, he is likely violating the Constitution, serving as China’s useful pawn while destroying the pocketbooks of millions of hardworking Americans,” wrote the members of Congress. Background The Compact Clause of the Constitution gives the federal government authority over foreign affairs, and the Supreme Court has upheld that even state action with a mere "direct impact upon foreign relations"[1]may be unconstitutional. Despite this, California has an extensive history of circumventing Congressional approval and entering into agreements with CCP conduits, including: California China Climate Institute Founded in 2019 by Governor Jerry Brown and the CCP’s longtime global climate envoy, Xie Zhenhua, the goal was to shape U.S. and subnational climate policy and advance the goals of the Paris Agreement. The California China Climate Institute was codified into law by Governor Newsom. China-U.S. ZEV Policy Lab Agreed upon by the University of California-Davis and the China Automotive Technology and Research Center, the China-U.S. ZEV Policy Lab committed both sides to speed the commercialization of electric cars. Read the full letter here. ### | 1 | 2026-08-21T05:30:57Z | 2026-08-21T05:32:22Z |
| https://www.curtis.senate.gov/press-releases/curtis-promotes-policy-to-address-utahs-growth-affordable-housing-with-utah-transportation-leaders | Curtis Promotes Policy to Address Utah’s Growth, Affordable Housing with Utah Transportation Leaders | 2026-08-19 | 2026 | 2026-08 | Republican | Senate | UT | John R. Curtis | C001114 | www.curtis.senate.gov | curtis | https://www.curtis.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases | scraper | U.S. Senator John Curtis (R-UT), member of the Commerce and Environment and Public Works Committees, today joined leaders from the Wasatch Front Regional Council (WFRC), Utah Transit Authority (UTA), Salt Lake City, Mountainland Association of Governments (MAG), and others to discuss policy developments that would strengthen Utah’s transportation network, expand affordable housing opportunities near transit hubs, and prepare the state’s infrastructure for continued growth and upcoming high-traffic events like the Salt Lake Temple open house in 2027 and the 2034 Winter Olympic and Paralympic Games. “Like Americans across the country, Utahns are facing affordability pressures. But we are also facing uniquely rapid growth, which is good for our economy but can worsen traffic and lead to overcrowding,” said Senator Curtis following the event. “Today’s event brought together transit officials, local leaders, and the private sector to discuss real solutions that will serve Utahns and address these problems. Whether it’s securing investments in FrontRunner, ensuring transportation investments proactively address our population growth, or creating more housing near transit, we have an opportunity to maintain a strong quality of life for Utahns well into the future.” Photos of the event are available here. The group met at WFRC’s offices before visiting the North Temple FrontRunner station, where participants discussed the FrontRunner 2X project and Senator Curtis’ bipartisan Promoting Advancement Through Transit and Housing (PATH) Act and Build Housing, Unlock Benefits and Services (Build HUBS) Act. Curtis also highlighted the recent advancement of the FrontRunner 2X project into the Engineering phase of the Federal Transit Administration’s Capital Investment Grants program, an important step toward securing nearly $1.3 billion in federal funding for improvements to FrontRunner. Read more about the PATH Act here, the Build HUBS Act here, and the FrontRunner 2X project here. | 1 | 2026-08-20T05:28:41Z | 2026-08-20T05:29:58Z |
| https://www.curtis.senate.gov/press-releases/curtis-daines-introduce-bill-to-strengthen-american-critical-mineral-production | Curtis, Daines Introduce Bill to Strengthen American Critical Mineral Production | 2026-08-14 | 2026 | 2026-08 | Republican | Senate | UT | John R. Curtis | C001114 | www.curtis.senate.gov | curtis | https://www.curtis.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases | scraper | Critical Mineral and Extraction Tax Parity Act would expand incentives for domestic mining, processing, and production WASHINGTON—U.S. Senators John Curtis (R-UT) and Steve Daines (R-MT) introduced the Critical Mineral and Extraction Tax Parity Act, legislation to strengthen America’s domestic critical mineral supply chains by expanding and improving the Advanced Manufacturing Production Tax Credit under Section 45X of the Internal Revenue Code. “The United States should not have to depend on foreign adversaries for the minerals that power our economy, support our national defense, and underpin modern technology,” said Senator Curtis. “Utah and states across the West have the resources, workers, and expertise to produce more of these materials here at home. Our bill makes sure the tax code recognizes the full cost of American mineral production and gives domestic producers a fair opportunity to compete with heavily subsidized, artificially propped-up foreign supply chains.” “There is no reason the United States should rely on other foreign nations for critical minerals that can be found right here at home, including in Montana. I’m proud to work with Senator Curtis to expand our critical mineral supply chain and ensure fairness in the tax code for American producers and businesses. It’s time to unleash America’s natural resources to power our economy and strengthen our national security,” said Senator Daines. Background: Critical minerals are essential inputs for energy infrastructure, advanced manufacturing, defense systems, agriculture, electronics, and other sectors of the U.S. economy. The Critical Mineral and Extraction Tax Parity Act updates Section 45X to better reflect the economics of domestically producing those minerals, including the extraction activities necessary before refining can occur. The legislation would add several strategically important minerals to the Section 45X credit, recognize qualifying costs associated with extracting ore, and eliminate the reduced credit rate currently applied… | 1 | 2026-08-15T05:23:20Z | 2026-08-15T05:24:50Z |
| https://www.lee.senate.gov/2026/8/lee-introduces-kayleigh-s-law-to-protect-victims-of-sexual-crimes-from-contact-by-abusers | Lee Introduces Kayleigh’s Law to Protect Victims of Sexual Crimes from Contact by Abusers | 2026-08-12 | 2026 | 2026-08 | Republican | Senate | UT | Mike Lee | L000577 | www.lee.senate.gov | mikelee | https://www.lee.senate.gov/press-releases | scraper | WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Mike Lee (R-UT) introduced Kayleigh’s Law to protect victims from any further unwanted contact with their abuser. Named for survivor Kayleigh Kozak who bravely testified against her soccer coach for sexually abusing her as a sixth grader, the bill will require courts to issue permanent no-contact orders at the request of victims who have suffered violence or sexual abuse. “Victims of sexual crimes often have to face their abusers in court over and over again, and even hear from these monsters outside of the courtroom. They fear for their safety, and they deserve better protection,” said Senator Mike Lee. “Kayleigh Kozak bravely faced her abusive soccer coach multiple times in court after he assaulted her in the sixth grade. Survivors like Kayleigh have suffered vile abuse and should never be dissuaded from coming forward by fear of retaliation or further contact from their attacker. I’m proud to sponsor Kayleigh’s Law to require courts to issue permanent no-contact orders on convicted defendants at victims’ request.” “The harm caused by sexual assault is not temporary. It is lifelong,” said Kayleigh Kozak. “The protections for those who have been sexually violated should be lifelong, too.” Kayleigh’s Law is endorsed by public safety authority Right On Crime: “Kayleigh’s Law reflects a simple truth: justice should not come with an expiration date for victims. When the system allows dangerous offenders back into a victim’s life, it fails its most basic responsibility. Courts should have the authority to stand with survivors for the long term, and Kayleigh’s Law makes that possible.” – Brett Tolman, Executive Director, Right On Crime Kayleigh’s Law Applies to defendants convicted of a crime of violence or a felony offense that includes as an element a sexual act or sexual conduct. Requires the court—on motion of the Government (with the consent of a victim) or a victim—to issue a permanent order during sentencing to prohibit the convicted defendant from contacting a victim directly o… | 1 | 2026-08-13T06:17:16Z | 2026-08-13T06:18:13Z |
| https://www.lee.senate.gov/2026/8/lee-introduces-circuit-court-of-appeals-reorganization-act | Lee Introduces Circuit Court of Appeals Reorganization Act | 2026-08-11 | 2026 | 2026-08 | Republican | Senate | UT | Mike Lee | L000577 | www.lee.senate.gov | mikelee | https://www.lee.senate.gov/press-releases | scraper | WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators Mike Lee (R-UT) introduced the Circuit Court of Appeals Reorganization Act, restructuring the Eighth, Ninth, and Tenth U.S. Circuit Courts of Appeals to more accurately reflect modern population growth and geographic interests. Cosponsoring the legislation are Senators John Barrasso (R-WY), Mike Crapo (R-ID), Ted Cruz (R-TX), Steve Daines (R-MT), Jim Risch (R-ID), and Tim Sheehy (R-MT). “Congress is entrusted with the authority to ‘ordain and establish’ inferior federal courts,” said Senator Mike Lee. “For too long, we have failed to modernize our western circuit courts, despite the Ninth Circuit’s comparatively immense size – both in terms of geography and population. Congress needs to prioritize the efficiency of the federal judiciary to ensure a more balanced, predictable, and effective appellate system. I hope that this new proposal can serve as the basis for future bipartisan discussions.” “The Ninth Circuit’s disproportionate caseload and vast geographic reach have contributed to an overburdened and inefficient judiciary,” said Senator Mike Crapo. “Reorganizing the circuit would help reduce these pressures, improve the timely administration of justice and better align Idaho with a court that reflects the needs of our state and region.” “Our judicial system was designed to be deliberative but not completely obstructive,” said Senator Steve Daines. “The 9th Circuit Court faces a significant backlog that hinders the administration of justice throughout the West. Montanans deserve better. I’m proud to work with Senator Lee on this bill to better organize the western circuit courts and ensure timely justice for all.” “Idahoans have endured a Ninth Circuit dominated by California’s values for far too long,” said Senator Jim Risch. “The Circuit Court of Appeals Reorganization Act would restructure the Eighth, Ninth, and Tenth Circuits to create a more efficient judicial system that better reflects Idaho’s values and interests.” "The immense size of the Ninth Circuit has created unne… | 1 | 2026-08-12T06:18:38Z | 2026-08-12T06:20:33Z |
| https://www.lee.senate.gov/2026/8/lee-warren-urge-pentagon-to-codify-trump-s-successful-eo-to-cut-defense-waste-boost-efficiency | Lee, Warren Urge Pentagon to Codify Trump’s Successful EO to Cut Defense Waste, Boost Efficiency | 2026-08-11 | 2026 | 2026-08 | Republican | Senate | UT | Mike Lee | L000577 | www.lee.senate.gov | mikelee | https://www.lee.senate.gov/press-releases | scraper | WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators Mike Lee (R-UT) and Elizabeth Warren (D-MA) published a bipartisan analysis revealing the success of President Trump’s executive order to cut wasteful government spending and boost America’s national security by limiting individual defense contractors’ stock buybacks in response to how efficiently they deliver on their contracts with the federal government. The senators urged Secretary of War Pete Hegseth to codify this progress into law by supporting their bipartisan Prioritizing the Warfighter in Defense Contracting Act. The legislation will make permanent President Trump’s plan to boost efficiency and competition within defense contracting. “The Pentagon is handing companies billions – and now potentially trillions – of taxpayer dollars,” wrote the senators. “Congress and the Administration must work together to ensure they fulfill their contractual obligations and enhance national security.” For decades, defense contractors have consistently fallen short in delivering weapons programs to DoW on time and on budget. In January, President Trump issued an executive order to address this problem, restricting executive pay packages and limiting stock buybacks and dividend payments for defense contractors that don’t meet DoW’s performance needs and fail to invest in expanding their production capacity. A new review of the top 20 defense industry’s latest earnings calls and financial reports, conducted by the offices of Senators Lee and Warren, reveals that the DoW’s signal for accountability is already generating a positive response — and underscores the need for legislation to make the progress permanent. In the six months since President Trump issued his executive order, each of the four largest defense contractors that engaged in stock buybacks and dividend payouts in the first quarter of 2025 cut them dramatically in the first quarter of 2026. Combined, these four companies — Lockheed Martin, RTX, Northrop Grumman, and General Dynamics — spent $4.2 billion on buybacks and dividends… | 1 | 2026-08-12T06:18:38Z | 2026-08-12T06:20:33Z |
| https://www.lee.senate.gov/2026/8/utah-colorado-senators-honor-firefighters-killed-in-wildfires | Utah, Colorado Senators Honor Firefighters Killed in Wildfires | 2026-08-11 | 2026 | 2026-08 | Republican | Senate | UT | Mike Lee | L000577 | www.lee.senate.gov | mikelee | https://www.lee.senate.gov/press-releases | scraper | WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators Mike Lee (R-UT), John Curtis (R-UT), Michael Bennet (D-CO), and John Hickenlooper (D-CO) introduced a bipartisan resolution honoring the bravery and sacrifice of several firefighters whose lives were lost while combatting recent wildfires on the Utah-Colorado border. “We honor and mourn the courageous firefighters who gave their lives to protect the people we love and the frontier we call home,” said Senator Mike Lee. “These brave Americans from across the country dropped into the eye of the storm via helicopter to fight the wildfires ripping through Utah’s eastern border. Their sacrifice will always be remembered in the lands they protected. Utah’s prayers are with the families grieving these heroes.” “Behind every wildfire are brave men and women who embody the very best of public service: courage, selflessness, and an unwavering commitment to protecting our communities, often at great personal risk,” said Senator John Curtis. “Since this resolution was introduced, it was confirmed that Utah has lost two more heroic individuals in a helicopter crash while fighting the Widemouth 2 Fire. My heart is with the families, friends, and fellow firefighters mourning the devastating loss of these brave Americans.” “Our hearts are with the families, loved ones, and fellow firefighters grieving the loss of the five wildland firefighters who gave their lives protecting others,” said Senator Michael Bennet. “Today’s resolution honors the courage, sacrifice, and service of those who risk their lives to keep their fellow Americans safe during wildfires.” “The bravery and heroism of these firefighters deserve our deepest gratitude,” said Senator John Hickenlooper. “Our hearts are with the families and friends of these heroic men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice protecting lives, homes, and the landscapes we all cherish.” Read the full resolution text here. | 1 | 2026-08-12T06:18:38Z | 2026-08-12T06:20:33Z |
| https://www.curtis.senate.gov/press-releases/utah-colorado-senators-honor-casualties-from-wildfires | Utah, Colorado Senators Honor Casualties from Wildfires | 2026-08-10 | 2026 | 2026-08 | Republican | Senate | UT | John R. Curtis | C001114 | www.curtis.senate.gov | curtis | https://www.curtis.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases | scraper | WASHINGTON—U.S. Senators John Curtis (R-UT), Michael Bennet (D-CO), Mike Lee (R-UT), and John Hickenlooper (D-CO) introduced a bipartisan resolution honoring all those who serve on the front lines of wildland firefighting efforts in the United States. “Behind every wildfire are brave men and women who embody the very best of public service: courage, selflessness, and an unwavering commitment to protecting our communities, often at great personal risk,” said Senator Curtis. “Since this resolution was introduced, it was confirmed that Utah has lost two more heroic individuals in a helicopter crash while fighting the Widemouth 2 Fire. My heart is with the families, friends, and fellow firefighters mourning the devastating loss of these brave Americans.” “Our hearts are with the families, loved ones, and fellow firefighters grieving the loss of the five wildland firefighters who gave their lives protecting others,” said Senator Bennet. “Today’s resolution honors the courage, sacrifice, and service of those who risk their lives to keep their fellow Americans safe during wildfires.” “Last month, five courageous firefighters gave their lives to protect the people we love and the frontier we call home,” said Senator Lee. “These brave Americans from across the country dropped into the eye of the storm via helicopter to fight the wildfires ripping through Utah’s eastern border. Their sacrifice will always be remembered in the lands they protected. Utah’s prayers are with the families grieving these heroes.” “The bravery and heroism of these firefighters deserve our deepest gratitude,” said Senator Hickenlooper. “Our hearts are with the families and friends of these heroic men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice protecting lives, homes, and the landscapes we all cherish.” Background: Utah fire seasons typically begin in July and end in October. Not even through the second month of the 2026 fire season, Utah has already experienced 820 total wildfires with over 514,000 acres burned in 2026. This has also been on… | 1 | 2026-08-11T05:54:29Z | 2026-08-11T05:56:25Z |
| https://www.lee.senate.gov/2026/8/lee-introduces-stopping-border-surges-act | Lee Introduces Stopping Border Surges Act | 2026-08-10 | 2026 | 2026-08 | Republican | Senate | UT | Mike Lee | L000577 | www.lee.senate.gov | mikelee | https://www.lee.senate.gov/press-releases | scraper | WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Mike Lee (R-UT) introduced the Stopping Border Surges Act to disincentivize child trafficking and combat bad-faith asylum fraud. The bill is cosponsored by Senators Jim Banks (R-IN), Katie Britt (R-AL), Tom Cotton (R-AR), Ted Cruz (R-TX), Rick Scott (R-FL), and Tommy Tuberville (R-AL). “Child traffickers have smuggled abused children across our border thanks to the Biden administration’s policies that made it easier for them to cross by claiming to have a child,” said Senator Mike Lee. “On top of that, many of these kids were released into their kidnapper’s arms. This is not merciful; it’s a Democrat-concocted system that favored traffickers. All the while, these coyotes were claiming to seek asylum, passing multiple safe countries on their way here without stopping. The Stopping Border Surges Act will disincentivize asylum fraud and give President Trump’s border team the tools they need to protect exploited kids.” “Loopholes in our immigration laws have encouraged illegal crossing, fueled asylum fraud, and put vulnerable children at risk,” said Senator Jim Banks. “The Stopping Border Surges Act closes those loopholes, strengthens enforcement, and restores integrity to our immigration system.” “Illegal border crossings not only endanger Americans; they also incentivize the abuse and trafficking of migrant women and children,” said Senator Katie Britt. “Now is the time to pass the Stopping Border Surges Act to permanently close these loopholes that embolden criminals and bad actors. I will always fight to keep American families and communities safe.” “Joe Biden’s reckless open border policies allowed illegal aliens to exploit our immigration system,” said Senator Tom Cotton. “Our bill would close loopholes that incentivize illegal border crossings, endanger children and families, and undermine our asylum system.” “America saw what open borders and mass amnesty looked like for four miserable years,” said Senator Rick Scott. “Democrat policies failed Laken Riley, Sheridan Gorman, Jocel… | 1 | 2026-08-11T05:54:29Z | 2026-08-11T05:56:25Z |
| https://www.curtis.senate.gov/press-releases/curtis-van-hollen-introduce-legislation-to-combat-affordable-housing-crisis-strengthen-usps | Curtis, Van Hollen Introduce Legislation to Combat Affordable Housing Crisis, Strengthen USPS | 2026-08-07 | 2026 | 2026-08 | Republican | Senate | UT | John R. Curtis | C001114 | www.curtis.senate.gov | curtis | https://www.curtis.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases | scraper | WASHINGTON—U.S. Senators John Curtis (R-UT) and Chris Van Hollen (D-MD) introduced the Delivering Americans Affordable Homes Act, bipartisan legislation to address the shortage of affordable housing and funding shortfalls at the United States Postal Service (USPS). Amid record-breaking housing costs, the Senators’ new bill would allow local communities to lease Postal Service propertyrights for new affordable housing construction. At the same time, this legislation protects against the sale of Postal Service assets, supports the rehabilitation and new construction of Postal facilities, and eases the Postal Service’s critical financial constraints. “Utah desperately needs more housing, and the Postal Service needs new sources of revenue; this commonsense legislation helps accomplish both,” said Senator Curtis. “By giving USPS the authority to lease underutilized property for housing development, we can put unused land to work, expand the housing supply, and strengthen an institution that millions of Americans rely on every day.” “Far too many working Americans are faced with housing costs they simply cannot afford. At the same time, the Postal Service faces financial struggles that, if left unaddressed, will result in USPS running out of money to operate. With this legislation, we’re not only bringing new, affordable homes to communities across the country, we’re also working to shore up the Postal Service so that it can continue serving Americans for generations to come. It’s a win-win,” said Senator Van Hollen. Background: Currently, USPS owns about 8,500 properties around the United States, many of which are located in places suitable for housing construction and in areas with high housing demand. According to a recent analysis from Brookings, housing construction on postal property could build over 200,000 new homes and bring hundreds of millions of dollars to the Postal Service each year. The Delivering Americans Affordable Homes Act would set guardrails on housing construction by USPS by allowing for th… | 1 | 2026-08-08T05:41:38Z | 2026-08-08T05:43:24Z |
| https://www.lee.senate.gov/2026/8/lee-cosponsors-ballots-by-election-day-act-to-restore-confidence-in-federal-elections | Lee Cosponsors Ballots by Election Day Act to Restore Confidence in Federal Elections | 2026-08-07 | 2026 | 2026-08 | Republican | Senate | UT | Mike Lee | L000577 | www.lee.senate.gov | mikelee | https://www.lee.senate.gov/press-releases | scraper | WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Mike Lee (R-UT) cosponsored the Ballots by Election Day Act with Senator James Lankford (R-OK) to require that all absentee and mail-in ballots in federal elections be received by the time polls close on Election Day in order to be counted. “Congress holds the constitutional authority to set the times, places, and manner of federal elections,” said Senator Mike Lee. “States counting late ballots are inviting fraud and sowing doubt in their own election results. Our bill will clarify protocol and restore trust by counting only ballots received before the polls close on election day.” "Election Day should mean Election Day," said Senator James Lankford. "Americans should not have to wait days or weeks while states like California keep counting ballots. The SAVE Act, this bill, and every other effort to secure our elections are about the same thing: making sure the American people can trust the results. If your ballot is going to count, it needs to be in the hands of election officials by the time the polls close." Background In Watson v. Republican National Committee, the U.S. Supreme Court allowed mail-in ballots postmarked by Election Day to be counted up to five days later and held that federal election-day statutes do not set a deadline for ballot receipt. The Ballots by Election Day Act legislatively closes this gap by setting a uniform federal deadline that requires ballots to be in the hands of election officials by the time polls close to be counted as valid. The Ballots by Election Day Act: Amends the Help America Vote Act of 2002 to require that absentee and mail-in ballots in federal elections be received by the appropriate election official no later than the time polls close on Election Day. Prohibits states from counting absentee or mail-in ballots received after polls close on Election Day. Preserves existing protections for absent uniformed services voters and overseas voters under the Uniformed and Overseas Citizens Absentee Voting Act (UOCAVA). Applies to federal … | 1 | 2026-08-08T05:41:38Z | 2026-08-08T05:43:24Z |
| https://www.curtis.senate.gov/press-releases/curtis-highlights-need-to-reduce-regulatory-burdens-preserve-family-farms | Curtis Highlights Need to Reduce Regulatory Burdens, Preserve Family Farms | 2026-08-06 | 2026 | 2026-08 | Republican | Senate | UT | John R. Curtis | C001114 | www.curtis.senate.gov | curtis | https://www.curtis.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases | scraper | During opening remarks, Senator Curtis introduced Mr. Rigby as a hearing witness. During questioning, Curtis focused on the growing regulatory burden facing farmers and ranchers, asking how federal regulations contribute to consolidation in agriculture and what Congress can do to help family operations remain competitive. Mr. Rigby explained that simplifying regulations, expanding access to capital, and supporting value-added agriculture are critical to helping producers manage rising costs and continue operating. Video of the Senator’s introduction and questioning can be found here, and a transcript is below. Introduction: Senator Curtis: Thank you, Chair Young. It’s my privilege to introduce today’s witness from the great state of Utah. Mr. ValJay Rigby, thank you for being here today. Mr. Rigby serves as president of the Utah Farm Bureau Federation, our state’s largest general agriculture organization, representing more than 3,700 members and their families. ValJay is a fifth-generation farmer from Newton, Utah, where his family continues to farm land that was part of its original 1869 homestead. Today, he farms alongside his brothers and his children, raising beef cattle and growing approximately 1,500 acres of alfalfa and small grains. Mr. Rigby holds a bachelor’s degree in finance and a master’s degree in information systems from Utah State University. He has also served as president of the Cache County Farm Bureau, on local planning and zoning and water boards, and as a volunteer firefighter. Thank you, Mr. Rigby, for making the trip from Utah to join us today. I’m sure they’re missing you back on the farm, but thank you for being here, and I look forward to hearing your testimony. Questioning: Curtis: Mr. Rigby, two things you said in your testimony: one I have a comment on; the other, I have a question. You talked about how you were developing character in youth, and I will just tell you, as a previous small business owner myself, if anybody ever walked in my door and said they grew up on a farm … | 1 | 2026-08-07T06:11:19Z | 2026-08-07T06:12:42Z |
| https://www.curtis.senate.gov/press-releases/curtis-bill-to-prevent-youth-suicide-passes-senate | Curtis Bill to Prevent Youth Suicide Passes Senate | 2026-08-06 | 2026 | 2026-08 | Republican | Senate | UT | John R. Curtis | C001114 | www.curtis.senate.gov | curtis | https://www.curtis.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases | scraper | WASHINGTON—The U.S. Senate passed the Youth Poisoning Prevention Act, bipartisan legislation led by U.S. Senators John Curtis (R-UT), Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), Bernie Moreno (R-OH), and Tammy Baldwin (D-WI) to help prevent youth suicide by banning high-concentration sodium nitrite from being available to the public. Since 2017, the National Poison Data System has shown a sharp annual increase in young adults ingesting the substance with suicidal intent. There is no recognized household or consumer use for high-concentration sodium nitrite, yet the sale of this dangerous substance by retailers remains unregulated, resulting in tragic consequences. “Too many young people are being put at risk by easy access to dangerous poisons,” said Senator Curtis. “I am proud to see our commonsense legislation to help protect vulnerable Americans, strengthen consumer safety, and prevent needless youth tragedies pass the Senate.” “High-concentration sodium nitrite is a textbook example of a deadly product that should never be sold to consumers—let alone to our kids,” said Senator Duckworth. “Every child’s life is precious. We must ensure that our laws protecting our kids are up to date to protect against emerging deadly hazards. Our bipartisan legislation would immediately take this lethal substance off the shelves—it’s a no-brainer that must be sent to the President’s desk swiftly to help us protect our children.” “I heard from a family who lost their daughter to this dangerous substance, and we have to do more to make sure no other American family suffers the same heartache,” said Senator Baldwin. “As new, deadly products like sodium nitrite become available to children, we must update our laws to keep these deadly chemicals out of the hands of our kids and prevent any further tragic deaths. I am proud to have worked with my Democratic and Republican colleagues to protect Wisconsin families, and I am glad that we are now one step closer to making our bill the law of the land.” Background: The Youth Poisoning Prevention Act w… | 1 | 2026-08-08T05:41:38Z | 2026-08-08T05:43:24Z |
| https://www.curtis.senate.gov/press-releases/committee-advances-curtis-priorities-to-strengthen-online-safety-for-children | Committee Advances Curtis Priorities to Strengthen Online Safety for Children | 2026-08-05 | 2026 | 2026-08 | Republican | Senate | UT | John R. Curtis | C001114 | www.curtis.senate.gov | curtis | https://www.curtis.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases | scraper | Video of the Senator’s Committee remarks can be found here, and a transcript is below. As we all know, the digital world is changing faster than parents can keep up with it. And our kids are growing up in an online environment that barely existed a few years ago. My wife and I raised six children, and we thought it was complicated when we raised them. And now I am expecting my 19th grandchild in a couple of weeks, and I can’t fathom what they have to navigate to get through this environment. The bills we advanced today are an important step toward giving families the tools and transparency they need to keep their kids safe. I want to thank the Chairman, Ranking Member Cantwell, and everyone who worked together in good faith to get us here. I’m especially proud to be a lead cosponsor of the CHATBOT Act with Chairman Cruz and Senators Schatz and Schiff. Chairman Cruz was collaborative throughout this process and incorporated several ideas Senator Schiff and I advanced in our SAFE KIDS Act. I’m also proud to partner with Senator Lee on the SCREEN Act and commit to work with him and my other colleagues to advance that to the Senate floor. We have to get this right. That means protecting children without stifling innovation, empowering parents without leaving them on their own, and writing laws that will still make sense years from now. But our work isn’t finished today. I’m continuing to push to advance bipartisan bills from my colleagues and me to hold platforms accountable for the harm their products create, help users distinguish authentic content from AI slop, and close loopholes that allow youth to access content they shouldn’t see. Parents shouldn’t have to carry this burden alone. Platforms have a responsibility, Congress has a responsibility, and we should keep working together to build a safer digital world for our kids. Today’s votes are meaningful progress, but they’re not the finish line. Background: The Committee passed the Kids Online Safety Act; Youth AI Privacy Act; CHATBOT Act; and Ch… | 1 | 2026-08-06T07:37:31Z | 2026-08-06T07:38:34Z |
| https://www.curtis.senate.gov/press-releases/curtis-kelly-propose-state-sponsored-visa-pilot-program | Curtis, Kelly Propose State-Sponsored Visa Pilot Program | 2026-08-03 | 2026 | 2026-08 | Republican | Senate | UT | John R. Curtis | C001114 | www.curtis.senate.gov | curtis | https://www.curtis.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases | scraper | Bipartisan legislation would empower states and address growing workforce demands in Utah WASHINGTON—U.S. Senators John Curtis (R-UT) and Mark Kelly (D-AZ) introduced the State Sponsored Visa Pilot Program Act of 2026, bipartisan legislation to create a new temporary visa program that allows states to address their unique workforce and economic development needs while maintaining strong federal oversight and immigration enforcement. “I’ve heard time and again from small business owners, farmers, and ranchers across Utah how difficult it has become to hire enough workers to meet growing market demands,” said Senator Curtis. “Our legislation would help fill the gap by creating a pilot program allowing states to sponsor visas tailored to their unique economies, without sacrificing rigorous federal vetting or accountability.” “States understand their own economic needs best, but federal rules currently determine who can live and work here,” said Senator Kelly. “Our bipartisan bill would let Arizona and other states choose the visas they need to fill labor gaps and strengthen their local economies.” Background: Despite having one of the strongest economies in the country, Utah faces a significant workforce shortage—particularly in agriculture, construction, and hospitality. A report published by the Sutherland Institute found that Utah “is experiencing one of the more severe workforce shortages among the states,” and “had a Worker Shortage Index of 0.72, meaning that there are 72 available workers for every 100 open jobs.” Under the legislation, states could voluntarily establish state-sponsored visa programs tailored to their labor market demands, subject to approval by the Department of Homeland Security. Participating states would determine which workers or investors they sponsor while remaining responsible for monitoring compliance with program requirements. The federal government would retain authority over security screening, visa issuance, and immigration enforcement. Every applicant would be required to … | 1 | 2026-08-04T07:35:49Z | 2026-08-04T07:37:27Z |
| https://www.lee.senate.gov/2026/8/lee-bill-fixes-loophole-for-adoptive-families | Lee Bill Fixes Loophole for Adoptees of American Families | 2026-08-03 | 2026 | 2026-08 | Republican | Senate | UT | Mike Lee | L000577 | www.lee.senate.gov | mikelee | https://www.lee.senate.gov/press-releases | scraper | WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Mike Lee (R-UT) introduced legislation with Senator Rick Scott (R-FL) closing burdensome loopholes for America’s adoptive families. The bill updates adoptee citizenship protocols in alignment with established law to grant citizenship for adopted children of American parents. “Established law provides America’s adopted kids with naturalization, but a loophole has excluded those who were over 18 when this policy was passed decades ago. This bill will fix this oversight to bring these adopted Americans into accordance with the law and close the loopholes afflicting established families,” said Senator Mike Lee. “Adoption is a wonderful thing. It gives children a loving family, opportunity, and hope for a better life. It often saves unborn lives. If you are adopted by American parents, grow up American, and love America, you are American. However, the law is not currently written to reflect that reality,” said Senator Rick Scott. “Adopted children of American parents should also be Americans, and there should be no legal hurdles to getting there. I’m proud to join Senator Lee in his effort to correct this issue.” The legislation is endorsed by eighteen organizations and individuals: Adoptee Advisory Committee, Adoptees for Children, Adoptees Supporting Adoptee Citizenship, Adoptive Parents for Citizenship, Advisory Committee for Intercounty Adoption, American Academy of Adoptions Attorneys (AAAA), Barker Foundation, Care for Children International, China Children Adoption International (CCAI), Dr. Ron Federici, Holt International, Hope Leads Home, Diane Kunz, Lifeline Children’s Services, National Center for Adoption Law & Policy, National Council for Adoption (NCFA), Pono Roots, and Mission to Promote Adoption in Korea (MPAK). "Holt International applauds Senator Lee for his leadership and determination to move adoptee citizenship legislation forward. His commitment to finding a path that can make meaningful progress in Congress is an important step for thousands of intercountry adoptees… | 1 | 2026-08-04T07:35:49Z | 2026-08-04T07:37:27Z |
| https://www.curtis.senate.gov/press-releases/curtis-kelly-introduce-bipartisan-bill-to-modernize-rural-road-mapping-improve-public-safety | Curtis, Kelly Introduce Bipartisan Bill to Modernize Rural Road Mapping, Improve Public Safety | 2026-07-31 | 2026 | 2026-07 | Republican | Senate | UT | John R. Curtis | C001114 | www.curtis.senate.gov | curtis | https://www.curtis.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases | scraper | WASHINGTON—U.S. Senators John Curtis (R-UT) and Mark Kelly (D-AZ) introduced the Modernizing Access to Public Roads (MAP Roads) Act, bipartisan legislation to help states and counties digitize local road networks, improve navigation, strengthen emergency response, and support rural commerce. “Too many county road maps still exist only on paper or in outdated systems. That creates unnecessary challenges for first responders, businesses, and families who rely on accurate navigation every day,” said Senator Curtis. “The MAP Roads Act modernizes local infrastructure, giving rural Utahns and recreationists the tools they need to improve public safety and support economic growth.” “Arizona has millions of acres of public land, but outdated paper maps make it harder and less safe to navigate them,” said Senator Kelly. “Arizonans rely on accurate road data every day, whether they’re traveling, running a business, or accessing essential services. Visitors also depend on it to safely explore our incredible public lands. This bipartisan bill brings these records into the 21st century, improving safety, access, and navigation for everyone.” “The lack of publicly accessible and accurate county road map information is a key barrier for hunters and anglers trying to access public lands,” said Joel Webster, Chief Conservation Officer, Theodore Roosevelt Conservation Partnership. “The bipartisan, bicameral MAP Roads Act will provide resources to address these mapping shortfalls and improve public access, resulting in reduced confusion for hunters and anglers trying to navigate rural road systems across America. TRCP applauds Senator Curtis and Senator Kelly for their leadership on this bill.” “Access is essential to conserving our hunting traditions and connecting people with the upland habitats that make those traditions possible,” said Ariel Wiegard, Vice President of Government Relations, Pheasants Forever and Quail Forever. “The bipartisan MAP Roads Act will modernize county road records, giving hunters greater confidence… | 1 | 2026-08-01T07:27:26Z | 2026-08-01T07:28:22Z |
| https://www.curtis.senate.gov/press-releases/opinion-i-wont-change-the-filibuster | Opinion: I Won’t Change the Filibuster | 2026-07-31 | 2026 | 2026-07 | Republican | Senate | UT | John R. Curtis | C001114 | www.curtis.senate.gov | curtis | https://www.curtis.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases | scraper | It protects the rights of the minority in the Senate—even when it’s a minority of one WASHINGTON—U.S. Senator John Curtis (R-UT) authored an opinion piece in The Wall Street Journal reaffirming his commitment to preserving the Senate filibuster, arguing that it ensures consistent, long-term policy making; protects the rights of the minority; and encourages consensus building rather than top-down rule. “…[The] question isn’t simply whether more legislation would pass. It is whether prudence would still be required in lawmaking, whether legislation passed in one Congress would remain law in the next,” Senator Curtis writes. “Under no circumstance will I support any effort to end or alter the filibuster, as any party that does so wouldn’t be guaranteed survival. Their agenda would be guaranteed death come the next majority.” In the piece, Senator Curtis explains that the filibuster is not merely a procedural rule, but a defining feature of the Senate’s role as a deliberative body. He argues that while the filibuster has evolved over time, its central purpose remains the same: ensuring legislation is durable, broadly supported, and the product of negotiation rather than fleeting political majorities. Senator Curtis is a cosponsor of the SAVE America Act and has previously voted in support of the legislation. His views on the filibuster are longstanding and are not tied to the passage of any specific legislation. | 1 | 2026-08-01T07:27:26Z | 2026-08-01T07:28:22Z |
| https://www.lee.senate.gov/2026/7/lee-introduces-ban-on-federal-funding-for-child-mutilation-studies | Lee Introduces Ban on Federal Funding for Child Mutilation Studies | 2026-07-31 | 2026 | 2026-07 | Republican | Senate | UT | Mike Lee | L000577 | www.lee.senate.gov | mikelee | https://www.lee.senate.gov/press-releases | scraper | WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Mike Lee (R-UT) introduced legislation to prohibit the use of federal funds for any research or publication promoting gender transitions for minors. The Protecting Our Kids from Harmful Research Act will shield American children from permanent medical and psychological damage, in line with President Trump’s agenda to keep tax dollars from child mutilation. The bill is cosponsored by Senators Ted Cruz (R-TX), Steve Daines (R-MT), James Lankford (R-OK), Marsha Blackburn (R-TN), and Cynthia Lummis (R-WY), and is endorsed by Students for Life Action and the American Principles Project. “Why is the federal bureaucracy in the child mutilation business?” said Senator Mike Lee. “Americans don’t want to pay millions for these disturbing studies where hundreds of kids are experimented on with puberty-blocking drugs. President Trump rightly halted this attack on America’s kids. Our bill will codify his agenda to keep federal dollars out of gender transition research involving minors.” “The Protecting Our Kids from Harmful Research Act takes the long-overdue step of prohibiting federal dollars from supporting procedures that involve dangerous, life-altering, and irreversible gender transition research on minors,” said Senator Ted Cruz. “I am proud to join Senator Lee in this effort, and I urge my colleagues to pass this commonsense legislation.” “It’s critical that taxpayer dollars are never used to experiment on our children,” said Senator Steve Daines. “Gender-transition procedures are irreversible, potentially life-threatening, and a form of child abuse. I’m proud to co-sponsor this bill with Senator Lee to keep our children safe from harm.” "God creates every child male or female in His perfect image,” said Senator James Lankford. “For too long, taxpayers have been forced to fund sex-rejecting studies on kids. The result has been irreversible physical harm, mental health crises, and families torn apart. President Trump has led the effort to shut down these grants across the federal governmen… | 1 | 2026-08-01T07:27:26Z | 2026-08-01T07:28:22Z |
| https://www.lee.senate.gov/2026/7/lee-kaine-paul-and-merkley-introduce-bipartisan-repeal-of-1957-authorization-of-military-force | Lee, Kaine, Paul, and Merkley Introduce Bipartisan Repeal of 1957 Authorization of Military Force | 2026-07-30 | 2026 | 2026-07 | Republican | Senate | UT | Mike Lee | L000577 | www.lee.senate.gov | mikelee | https://www.lee.senate.gov/press-releases | scraper | WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators Mike Lee (R-UT), Tim Kaine (D-VA), Rand Paul (R-KY), and Jeff Merkley (D-OR) today introduced bipartisan legislation to repeal an obsolete Authorization for Use of Military Force (AUMF) dating back to 1957 under the Eisenhower Administration. Also known as the Middle East Force Resolution, the AUMF provides broad authority to use military force against countries in the Middle East in order to combat the influence of the Soviet Union. It has never been invoked but remains the longest-active AUMF. “Outdated Congressional authorizations for military action should not sit on the books forever as a blank check; it is important to repeal the ones that have run their course,” said Senator Mike Lee. “Our bipartisan bill will clean the slate by repealing a Cold War-era AUMF in the Middle East that is no longer necessary.” “When I was Governor of Virginia, I saw firsthand the human toll and costs of war on Americans, particularly our military families. That’s why I’ve fought to restore Congress’ role in decisions of war and peace since I came into the Senate,” said Senator Tim Kaine. “The 1957 AUMF, which has never been invoked, serves no purpose and runs the risk of potential misuse. We must repeal this outdated and unnecessary law and reaffirm our most solemn constitutional responsibility of whether to send our nation’s sons and daughters into war.” "It is long past due for Congress to reclaim its constitutional duty regarding declarations of war,” said Senator Rand Paul. “This obsolete authorization for the use of military force dates back to 1957 and should be repealed to ensure deliberation and a vote before the men and women of the armed forces are placed in harm’s way.” “Congress must repeal this decades-old authorization to prevent its misuse and reduce the risk of another costly and unnecessary forever war,” said Senator Jeff Merkley. “It is essential to restore Congressional power on questions of war as our Founders envisioned.” Background Bipartisan legislation to repeal the 1957… | 1 | 2026-07-31T07:49:23Z | 2026-07-31T07:50:48Z |
| https://www.curtis.senate.gov/press-releases/curtis-introduces-bill-to-strengthen-ftc-governance-promote-regulatory-stability | Curtis Introduces Bill to Strengthen FTC Governance, Promote Regulatory Stability | 2026-07-28 | 2026 | 2026-07 | Republican | Senate | UT | John R. Curtis | C001114 | www.curtis.senate.gov | curtis | https://www.curtis.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases | scraper | Legislation would require a quorum of FTC Commissioners to undertake any major policymaking WASHINGTON—U.S. Senator John Curtis (R-UT) introduced the Federal Trade Commission Governance Reform Act, legislation to reinforce Congress’ original intent for the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) to function as a deliberative, multi-member agency by requiring a quorum of at least three commissioners before the agency can undertake rulemaking or establish broadly applicable policy. “When businesses are making long-term strategic decisions, they deserve confidence that major regulatory policy will be developed through a stable, collaborative process. This is why Congress designed the FTC to make major decisions through thoughtful deliberation, not by a single individual or a perpetually diminished Commission,” said Senator Curtis. “This legislation protects the governance structure Congress intended and strengthens confidence in the Commission’s decision making.” Background: Congress established the FTC as a five-member commission to ensure major competition and consumer protection policies are developed through collective deliberation. Under current law, the FTC can issue significant policy changes even when the Commission lacks a robust complement of sitting commissioners. The Federal Trade Commission Governance Reform Act reinforces Congress’ original intent by requiring at least three commissioners to participate in major policymaking decisions. By ensuring those decisions reflect the collective judgement of a Commission, the bill promotes regulatory predictability for businesses making long-term investment decisions. The legislation would require a quorum of three commissioners in order for the FTC to: Initiate, advance, rescind, or complete a rulemaking proceeding; Adopt, amend, or rescind a policy statement, interpretive rule, industry guide, or enforcement policy statement; or Take any other formal action establishing, revising, or rescinding generally applicable Commission policy. The quorum requirement wou… | 1 | 2026-07-29T07:41:48Z | 2026-07-29T07:42:57Z |
| https://www.curtis.senate.gov/press-releases/curtis-lauds-utah-selection-as-contender-for-nuclear-lifecycle-innovation-campus | Curtis Lauds Utah Selection as Contender for Nuclear Lifecycle Innovation Campus | 2026-07-28 | 2026 | 2026-07 | Republican | Senate | UT | John R. Curtis | C001114 | www.curtis.senate.gov | curtis | https://www.curtis.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases | scraper | WASHINGTON—U.S. Senator John Curtis (R-UT) today applauded the U.S. Department of Energy’s announcement selecting Utah as one of five states to advance as a potential host for a Nuclear Lifecycle Innovation Campus, a major initiative to strengthen America’s nuclear fuel supply chain, bolster energy security, and accelerate domestic nuclear innovation. “Utah has earned a reputation as one of the nation’s leaders in advanced energy innovation, and today’s announcement is another vote of confidence in our state’s future,” said Senator Curtis. “This is an incredible opportunity to strengthen American energydominance, bolster our domestic nuclear supply chain, and create new high-paying jobs right here in Utah. I thank President Trump, Secretary Wright, Governor Cox, and everyone who helped make Utah a leading contender for this transformational project.” Background: The Department of Energy selected Utah alongside Tennessee, Oklahoma, Louisiana, and Idaho after reviewing applications from 26 states. The proposed campuses are expected to support the full nuclear fuel lifecycle—from fuel production and enrichment to advanced reactor deployment and manufacturing—while attracting significant private investment and creating thousands of high-paying jobs. If selected, a Nuclear Lifecycle Innovation Campus could attract up to $50 billion in capital investment, generate as much as $10 billion in state and local tax revenue, and support nearly 25,000 jobs while advancing American nuclear capabilities. | 1 | 2026-07-29T07:41:48Z | 2026-07-29T07:42:57Z |
| https://www.curtis.senate.gov/press-releases/opinion-on-this-we-can-agree-lets-stop-wildfires | Opinion: On This We Can Agree: Let’s Stop Wildfires | 2026-07-27 | 2026 | 2026-07 | Republican | Senate | UT | John R. Curtis | C001114 | www.curtis.senate.gov | curtis | https://www.curtis.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases | scraper | Letter-to-the-Editor Submitted by U.S. Senator John Curtis (R-UT) WASHINGTON—In a letter responding to the Wall Street Journal editorial, “Trump and Bernie, Political Smokejumpers,” U.S. Senator John Curtis (R-UT) argued that while the editorial correctly identifies American forest management failures, it overlooks the bipartisan legislative solutions already moving through Congress, including the Senator’s Fix Our Forests Act and Wildfire Emissions Prevention Act. “We have neglected active forest management for far too long. Both parties share this blame. . . . But while you rightly criticize recent political finger-pointing, you fail to mention that bipartisan, turnkey solutions exist in this Congress,” Senator Curtis wrote. “Cleaner air begins with better-managed forests. The support for these solutions proves that isn’t a Republican or a Democratic idea—it’s common sense. Yet, by our own doing, Washington is suffocating in the consequences of our own inaction,” the piece concludes. Read the full letter to the editor here, and the original editorial here. Background: Utah fire seasons typically begin in July and end in October. Not even through the first month of the 2026 fire season, Utah has alreadyexperienced 651 total wildfires with over 380,000 acres burned in 2026—more than the past three years combined. | 1 | 2026-07-28T07:37:32Z | 2026-07-28T07:38:50Z |
| https://www.curtis.senate.gov/press-releases/curtis-kelly-introduce-bipartisan-legislation-to-improve-transit-funding-for-fast-growing-communities | Curtis, Kelly Introduce Bipartisan Legislation to Improve Transit Funding for Fast-Growing Communities | 2026-07-23 | 2026 | 2026-07 | Republican | Senate | UT | John R. Curtis | C001114 | www.curtis.senate.gov | curtis | https://www.curtis.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases | scraper | WASHINGTON—U.S. Senators John Curtis (R-UT) and Mark Kelly (D-AZ) introduced the Promoting Access to Transit in High-Growth Communities (PATH) Act, bipartisan legislation to modernize how the federal government evaluates transit projects seeking funding through the Federal Transit Administration’s (FTA) Capital Investment Grants (CIG) program. Companion legislation was introduced in the U.S. House of Representatives by Representatives Burgess Owens (R-UT), Mike Kennedy (R-UT), Dina Titus (D-NV), and Greg Stanton (D-AZ). “Communities across Utah are growing faster than ever, and our transportation planning needs to reflect where people are headed—not just where they live today,” said Senator Curtis. “The PATH Act gives fast-growing regions a fairer opportunity to compete for federal transit investments by recognizing future demand alongside current conditions. Better forecasting means better infrastructure decisions, less congestion, and stronger communities.” “Arizona is one of the fastest‑growing states, but federal transit funding ignores that reality. This bill changes that by making population growth a factor when federal dollars are awarded,” said Senator Kelly. “The PATH Act is a commonsense, bipartisan fix to a broken formula. For too long, federal transit dollars have gone to big cities that grew a century ago, funding the upkeep of infrastructure they already have, while fast-growing states like Utah were left fighting for scraps,” said Representative Owens. “This bill fixes that formula and levels the playing field. It ensures that states like ours, which have seen record growth and had the foresight to plan for it, can compete for limited federal dollars and put them to work on projects that will have long-lasting and meaningful impacts.” “I have the privilege of representing one of the fastest-growing districts in America, and our infrastructure needs are growing just as quickly,” said Representative Kennedy. “The PATH Act modernizes how we evaluate transit projects by recognizing population growt… | 1 | 2026-07-24T07:30:11Z | 2026-07-24T07:31:13Z |
| https://www.lee.senate.gov/2026/7/lee-introduces-protect-act-to-shield-kids-from-explicit-content | Lee Introduces PROTECT Act to Prevent Online Child Exploitation | 2026-07-23 | 2026 | 2026-07 | Republican | Senate | UT | Mike Lee | L000577 | www.lee.senate.gov | mikelee | https://www.lee.senate.gov/press-releases | scraper | WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Mike Lee (R-UT) introduced legislation to shield children and other victims of sexual abuse from exploitation online. The Preventing Rampant Online Technological and Criminal Trafficking (PROTECT) Act requires platforms with explicit material to take reasonable steps to verify the age and consent of individuals who upload or appear in the content, while remaining consistent with First Amendment jurisprudence. “Pornography sites need to do more to prevent the rampant child exploitation that is occurring on their platforms. The PROTECT Act is a step in that direction,” said Senator Mike Lee. “This bill will verify the ages and consent of the people appearing in explicit content – stopping abusive material from ever getting uploaded in the first place.” Background The online pornography market has quickly become one of the most lucrative industries, but much of the material in circulation is the product of sex trafficking and child exploitation. Though law enforcement diligently investigates and prosecutes individuals who distribute child sexual abuse material (CSAM), pornography platforms regularly fail to verify the age, identity, or consent of depicted individuals. This carelessness allows human traffickers and websites to profit from underage or non-consenting individuals forced or coerced to participate. Senator Lee advocates for greater accountability in the online pornography market by proposing legislation that requires platforms to vet the content they distribute. Each safeguard imposed by the PROTECT Act creates an additional barrier to the circulation of exploitative material, reducing online sexual exploitation and image-based sexual abuse. Why This Matters Existing security measures demonstrate the technological and operational feasibility of implementing safeguards. Federal statutes such as 18 U.S.C. § 2257 prevent minors from appearing in sexually explicit material by mandating age verification and recordkeeping. Additionally, pornography platforms have begun incorporat… | 1 | 2026-07-24T07:30:11Z | 2026-07-24T07:31:13Z |
| https://www.lee.senate.gov/2026/7/lee-latter-day-saint-colleagues-honor-pioneer-spirit-on-senate-floor | Lee, Latter-Day Saint Colleagues Honor Pioneer Spirit on Senate Floor | 2026-07-23 | 2026 | 2026-07 | Republican | Senate | UT | Mike Lee | L000577 | www.lee.senate.gov | mikelee | https://www.lee.senate.gov/press-releases | scraper | WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Mike Lee (R-UT) today joined his Latter-day Saint colleagues Sens. John Curtis (R-UT) and Mike Crapo (R-ID) to commemorate the arrival of the first company of Latter-day Saint pioneers into the Salt Lake Valley on July 24, 1847. In a resolution delivered on the Senate floor, the senators highlighted how the virtues demonstrated by early Latter-day Saint pioneers — including faith, sacrifice, resilience, and community — are universal American aspirations essential to addressing our nation’s modern challenges. The resolution reads as follows: This week, Utahns will celebrate Pioneer Day, which commemorates the arrival of the first company of Latter-day Saint pioneers into the Salt Lake Valley on July 24, 1847. For many outside of Utah, Pioneer Day may seem like a uniquely local observance. But the values it commemorates are profoundly American and can resonate with all of us. We recognize not only a historic journey, but the enduring pioneer spirit that helped shape the American West—and continues to shape our country today. The early members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints sought to actualize our first freedom, and something every American should cherish: religious liberty. Instead, they were driven from their homes, stripped of their property, and forced to flee into an uncertain wilderness. Thousands traveled more than 1,300 miles across plains, deserts, and mountains. My recent walk across the state spanned only 250miles, and our pioneers did not have the luxury of spare shoes and an RV to sleep in at night. Parents buried children. Children buried parents. Spouses buried their soulmates. Yet, they sang “All is well”—from a hymn still a favorite in our church buildings today—for they had a vision of a land “Far away in the West, Where none shall come to hurt or make afraid; [where] the Saints will be blessed.” When they finally reached that place, the Salt Lake Valley, they didn't dwell on what they had lost. They focused on what they could build. Within d… | 1 | 2026-07-24T07:30:11Z | 2026-07-24T07:31:13Z |
| https://www.lee.senate.gov/2026/7/we-don-t-worship-fauci-lee-bill-pulls-tax-dollars-from-schools-that-deny-religious-vaccine-exemptions | “We Don’t Worship Fauci” Lee Bill Pulls Tax Dollars from Schools that Deny Religious Vaccine Exemptions | 2026-07-23 | 2026 | 2026-07 | Republican | Senate | UT | Mike Lee | L000577 | www.lee.senate.gov | mikelee | https://www.lee.senate.gov/press-releases | scraper | WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Mike Lee (R-UT) today introduced legislation to keep federal tax dollars from schools that refuse to recognize religious exemptions for vaccinations. The Guaranteeing Religious Accommodation in Childhood Education (GRACE) Act protects religious freedom and parental rights by cutting federal funding from noncompliant schools, and prevents schools from targeting families with burdensome religious documentation requirements. The GRACE Act is cosponsored by Senator Tommy Tuberville (R-AL), was introduced in the House by Congressman Greg Steube (R-FL-17), and is endorsed by over fifty organizations. “Schools are discriminating against religious kids and targeting their families over vaccine exemptions,” said Senator Mike Lee. “Keeping a kindergartner out of class over a vaccine is cruel – and it’s unconstitutional when the reason is their family’s religion. The GRACE Act will keep federal tax dollars out of schools that refuse religious exemptions for vaccines, and will outlaw targeting families to prove their beliefs. These schools need to learn we don’t all worship Fauci.” “This is a free country and parents have every right to make personal decisions about what vaccines they choose to give their children,” said Senator Tommy Tuberville. “Last time I checked, parents are in charge of a child’s healthcare decisions, not the federal government. Taxpayer funded K-12 schools have no right to turn students away at the door because of their vaccination status – especially if they have a religious exemption. The GRACE Act is an incredibly important bill that protects religious liberty and puts parents back in charge.” “Freedom of speech and religion is the most sacred right guaranteed under our Constitution,” said Congressman Greg Steube. “No student or their family should ever be coerced into sacrificing their faith or jumping through loopholes to comply with a vaccine requirement. The GRACE Act reaffirms our country’s commitment to protecting religious freedom in the classroom.” The GRACE Ac… | 1 | 2026-07-24T07:30:11Z | 2026-07-24T07:31:13Z |
| https://www.curtis.senate.gov/press-releases/curtis-the-pioneer-spirit-is-the-american-spirit | Curtis: The Pioneer Spirit is the American Spirit | 2026-07-23 | 2026 | 2026-07 | Republican | Senate | UT | John R. Curtis | C001114 | www.curtis.senate.gov | curtis | https://www.curtis.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases | scraper | The full text of the resolution can be found here. Video of his remarks is available here and the full transcript as prepared for delivery is below. Mr. President, This week, Utahns will celebrate Pioneer Day, which commemorates the arrival of the first company of Latter-day Saint pioneers into the Salt Lake Valley on July 24, 1847. For many outside of Utah, Pioneer Day may seem like a uniquely local observance. But the values it commemorates are profoundly American and can resonate with all of us. We recognize not only a historic journey, but the enduring pioneer spirit that helped shape the American West—and continues to shape our country today. The early members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints sought to actualize our first freedom, and something every American should cherish: religious liberty. Instead, they were driven from their homes, stripped of their property, and forced to flee into an uncertain wilderness. Thousands traveled more than 1,300 miles across plains, deserts, and mountains. My recent walk across the state spanned only 250-miles, and our pioneers did not have the luxury of spare shoes and an RV to sleep in at night. Parents buried children. Children buried parents. Spouses buried their soulmates. Yet, they sang “All is well”—from a hymn still a favorite in our church buildings today—for they had a vision of a land “Far away in the West, Where none shall come to hurt or make afraid; [where] the Saints will be blessed.” When they finally reached that place, the Salt Lake Valley, they didn’t dwell on what they had lost. They focused on what they could build. Within days, they were planting crops, digging irrigation canals, laying out streets, and creating communities where none had existed before. Over the decades that followed, they established hundreds of settlements across the Mountain West, built roads and bridges, and helped countless other emigrants traveling west. That is the pioneer spirit. That is the American spirit. It is resilience in the face of hards… | 1 | 2026-07-25T07:13:44Z | 2026-07-25T07:15:09Z |
| https://www.curtis.senate.gov/press-releases/curtis-bill-to-support-next-generation-of-american-aviation-advances-out-of-committee | Curtis Bill to Support Next Generation of American Aviation Advances Out of Committee | 2026-07-22 | 2026 | 2026-07 | Republican | Senate | UT | John R. Curtis | C001114 | www.curtis.senate.gov | curtis | https://www.curtis.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases | scraper | WASHINGTON—U.S. Senator John Curtis (R-UT) today applauded the Senate Commerce, Science, and Transportation Committee passage of the bipartisan Aviation Innovation and Global Competitiveness Act, legislation that would improve the Federal Aviation Administration’s (FAA) type certification process for American Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) aircraft companies to help them succeed and cement the United States’ role as a global leader in aviation. The bill, cosponsored by Curtis, was introduced by Senators Peter Welch (D-VT) and Ted Budd (R-NC). “The Committee passage today brings us one step closer to modernizing the FAA certification process for the next generation of aviation,” said Senator Curtis. “This bipartisan bill will provide greater clarity and accountability, helping American Advanced Air Mobility companies innovate, compete, and lead the world in the future of flight. I’m pleased to see it advance and look forward to its passage by the full Senate.” “Building on generations of leadership in aviation, American companies are spearheading electric aircraft innovation. That includes companies like Vermont’s Beta Technologies, which completed its historic, first-ever electric flight last year in South Burlington. Ensuring the FAA certification process is safe, efficient, and more transparent for emerging AAM companies like Beta is critical to promoting aviation innovation,” said Senator Welch. “I’m thankful for the support of my colleagues on the Senate Commerce, Science, and Transportation Committee, including my bipartisan co-lead Senator Budd, in helping this bill fly through to the Senate Floor to support American ingenuity, good-paying jobs in Vermont, and our global leadership in aviation.” “By ensuring that the FAA prioritizes the certification of novel aircraft like eVTOLs, we can quickly incorporate innovative technology into the National Airspace System. I am glad that our common-sense efforts to usher in the next generation of advanced air mobility aircraft will soon be considered by the full Sena… | 1 | 2026-07-23T07:31:02Z | 2026-07-23T07:32:26Z |
| https://www.curtis.senate.gov/press-releases/curtis-leads-bipartisan-wildfire-emissions-prevention-act | Curtis Leads Bipartisan Wildfire Emissions Prevention Act | 2026-07-22 | 2026 | 2026-07 | Republican | Senate | UT | John R. Curtis | C001114 | www.curtis.senate.gov | curtis | https://www.curtis.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases | scraper | Bipartisan legislation removes regulatory burden on proactive forest management efforts to mitigate wildfires WASHINGTON—U.S. Senator John Curtis (R-UT), member of the Senate Environment and Public Works (EPW) Committee, led his EPW colleagues—including Committee Chair Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV) and Senators Jeff Merkley (D-OR), John Boozman (R-AR), Alex Padilla (D-CA), and Mark Kelly (D-AZ)—in introducing the Wildfire Emissions Prevention Act (WEPA). The bipartisan legislation would streamline states’ use of prescribed fires to prevent wildfire emissions, protect ecosystems and wildlife habitats, and make American forests and communities safer, healthier, and cleaner. It also promotes the efficient use of state air quality resources and provides certainty that states will not be penalized for taking action to prevent wildfires. “If we’re serious about reducing the size and severity of wildfires, we need to stop punishing local authorities for doing the right thing to improve forest health and remove hazardous fuels,” said Senator Curtis. “By removing unnecessary regulatory burdens on prescribed burns, our legislation helps ensure states and localities can take proactive measures to help keep our forests and communities safe from the threat of wildfires.” “I am very proud to cosponsor this legislation, which will help reduce the impact of wildfires on our land, our air, and our people,” said Chair Capito. “Wildfires have ravaged many parts of our country over the past several years, and change is necessary to ensure that states can successfully prevent the most dangerous and damaging fires. States should have the right to use known prevention practices, including prescribed fires, to mitigate potential catastrophes and care for their land. This bill gives states another tool in their toolbox, and will reduce barriers to successfully managing wildfires and protecting communities nationwide.” “When the 2020 Labor Day fires swept across Oregon, I drove over 600 miles and never once escaped the thick, dark smoke… | 1 | 2026-07-23T07:31:02Z | 2026-07-23T07:32:26Z |
| https://www.curtis.senate.gov/press-releases/curtis-padilla-tillis-schiff-press-congressional-leaders-to-pass-long-term-disaster-recovery-funding | Curtis, Padilla, Tillis, Schiff Press Congressional Leaders to Pass Long-Term Disaster Recovery Funding | 2026-07-22 | 2026 | 2026-07 | Republican | Senate | UT | John R. Curtis | C001114 | www.curtis.senate.gov | curtis | https://www.curtis.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases | scraper | WASHINGTON—U.S. Senators John Curtis (R-UT), Alex Padilla (D-CA), Thom Tillis (R-NC), and Adam Schiff (D-CA) urged Congressional leaders to include long-term disaster recovery funding in any supplemental appropriations package after the Administration’s recent emergency funding request did not include desperately needed resources for communities to rebuild and recover following catastrophic natural disasters. In a letter to Senate Committee on Appropriations Chair Susan Collins (R-ME) and Vice Chair Patty Murray (D-WA), the Senators identified natural disasters that have severely devastated communities across the country, specifically the wildfires across Utah. “This year alone, wildfires have already burned approximately 373,295 acres across 493 fires in Utah,” wrote the senators. “It is only the beginning of the peak dry season, with dangerous conditions persisting for months ahead, and Utah’s prevention and rebuilding efforts have barely begun as communities grapple with destroyed homes, damaged infrastructure, displaced families, and the looming threats of post-fire flooding, erosion, and watershed contamination. These devastating losses not only endanger lives and livelihoods but also impose enormous economic burdens through skyrocketing suppression costs, lost agricultural productivity, and long-term recovery needs. Immediate funding for wildfire protection, prevention, fuel reduction, and rebuilding are more critical than ever to safeguard the West before the season worsens further.” “These disasters have caused widespread damage across California, North Carolina, and Utah, affecting federal and state highways, critical public infrastructure, homes, and buildings,” the senators continued. “The scale and complexity of these events will require sustained federal support to help communities rebuild damaged infrastructure, restore essential services, and meet long term recovery needs. Therefore, we strongly urge you to include long-term disaster recovery funding, like the Community Development Block Grant D… | 1 | 2026-07-23T07:31:02Z | 2026-07-23T07:32:26Z |
| https://www.lee.senate.gov/2026/7/lee-asks-hhs-to-cut-red-tape-for-life-saving-diabetes-treatment | Lee Asks HHS to Cut Red Tape for Life-Saving Diabetes Treatment | 2026-07-21 | 2026 | 2026-07 | Republican | Senate | UT | Mike Lee | L000577 | www.lee.senate.gov | mikelee | https://www.lee.senate.gov/press-releases | scraper | WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Mike Lee (R-UT) called on the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) to cut red tape around life-saving diabetes treatment. Building on the framework of Senator Lee’s ISLET Act, the letter urges HHS to reclassify islets to facilitate their use in treatment for Americans with diabetes. “Americans living with diabetes have been kept from life-saving research by nonsensical red tape,” said Senator Mike Lee. “Other countries treat islet transplantation as standard care, but a miscategorization in our law regulates islets as drugs rather than organs. I’m asking HHS to rectify this issue and make critical care available to Americans living with Type 1 diabetes.” The letter is endorsed and championed by leading global type 1 diabetes research and advocacy organization Breakthrough T1D: “For decades, other countries have successfully treated eligible people with type 1 diabetes using deceased donor islet transplants. Yet a simple regulatory classification has kept such treatments relatively inaccessible to the U.S. T1D community. It is past time for that to change. Breakthrough T1D thanks Senator Lee for his leadership in calling on HHS to reclassify deceased donor islets as organs for transplantation. This one adjustment can bring life-changing relief to more people living with T1D in the U.S. while catalyzing the research that will ultimately cure us all. We urge Secretary Kennedy to quickly take up this much-needed policy change.” – Breakthrough T1D The letter reads as follows: Dear Secretary Kennedy, Re: Please Act to Reclassify Deceased Donor Islet Cells as Organs to Improve Diabetes Treatment Availability I write to urge HHS to take administrative action to improve access to deceased donor islet cell transplantation for individuals living with type 1 diabetes (T1D). Scientific progress has brought the 1.6 million Americans living with T1D closer to transformative and potentially curative therapies than ever before, but outdated regulatory classifications continue to limi… | 1 | 2026-07-22T07:34:13Z | 2026-07-22T07:35:16Z |
| https://www.lee.senate.gov/2026/7/lee-urges-doj-investigation-of-five-gruesome-dc-abortion-victims-with-rep-chris-smith | Lee Urges DOJ Investigation of Five Gruesome DC Abortion Victims with Rep. Chris Smith | 2026-07-21 | 2026 | 2026-07 | Republican | Senate | UT | Mike Lee | L000577 | www.lee.senate.gov | mikelee | https://www.lee.senate.gov/press-releases | scraper | WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Mike Lee (R-UT) and Congressman Chris Smith (R-NJ-04) led 55 of their Republican colleagues in a letter urging the U.S. Department of Justice to investigate five gruesome apparent late-term abortion victims discovered outside of a D.C. clinic in 2022. Known as the “D.C. Five,” these victims have yet to receive proper investigations, autopsies, or justice. The letter is endorsed by National Right to Life, SBA Pro-Life America, Family Research Council, and Students for Life Action. “Four years ago now, the bodies of five preborn children were found in D.C., apparently victims of infanticide or illegal partial-birth abortions. Those babies have still not received justice or proper investigations,” said Senator Mike Lee. “Americans cannot tolerate rogue abortion clinics performing gruesome murders and casting helpless victims aside like garbage, especially not in our Nation’s capital. This crime demands attention and prosecution to the fullest extent of the law. I urge the Department of Justice to give this alarming case the full investigation it deserves, and the victims the proper autopsies and burials they are owed.” “The Biden Administration’s deliberate and callous mishandling of the ‘D.C. Five’ case has been a stain on the Department of Justice for over four years now,” said Congressman Chris Smith. “These five beautiful, innocent babies—who were violently exterminated—deserve justice, accountability, and respect. All those involved and complicit in these children’s barbaric deaths must be held to account, and we are calling upon President Trump’s Department of Justice to ensure that these battered baby victims receive their day in court.” Background In the letter, first obtained by the Daily Wire, the 57 members of Congress explain that the desecrated bodies of these children — one of which bore deep lacerations and injuries consistent with illegal partial-birth abortion procedures — were “recovered by the Metropolitan Police Department in 2022, after they were allegedly aborted i… | 1 | 2026-07-22T07:34:13Z | 2026-07-22T07:35:16Z |
| https://www.curtis.senate.gov/press-releases/curtis-cosponsors-legislation-to-hold-purchasers-of-russian-oil-accountable | Curtis Cosponsors Legislation to Hold Purchasers of Russian Oil Accountable | 2026-07-17 | 2026 | 2026-07 | Republican | Senate | UT | John R. Curtis | C001114 | www.curtis.senate.gov | curtis | https://www.curtis.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases | scraper | WASHINGTON—U.S. Senator John Curtis (R-UT), member of the Foreign Relations Committee, cosponsored the Lindsey O. Graham Sanctioning Russia Act of 2026, bipartisan legislation to hold major purchasers of Russian oil and gas accountable for supporting Russia’s war in Ukraine. Originally championed by the late Senator Lindsey Graham (R-SC), the bill is led by Senators Richard Blumenthal (D-CT) and Darline Graham (R-SC) and is supported by more than 60 other senators. “As long as Vladimir Putin’s war machine is funded by countries willing to buy Russian oil and gas, the war in Ukraine will continue,”said Senator Curtis. “This bipartisan legislation gives a powerful tool to increase pressure on Russia, hold its enablers accountable, and ensure Russia does not win this war.” “Ukraine is at a critical crossroads—and we must meet this pivotal moment with a powerful sanctions bill. As Ukraine turns the tide on the battlefield, our Russia sanctions bill would be historically impactful in stopping Russia’s murderous slaughter,” said Senator Blumenthal. “When Senator Graham and I last spoke, he was absolutely exultant, calling from Kyiv with news that President Trump would support this bill to impose scorching tariffs and sanctions on purchasers of Russian oil and stop them from fueling Putin’s war machine. Now is the time to push Russia toward peace. Ukraine is gaining net territory and reaching deep into Russia with its drones and missiles. Sanctions provide a path toward peace. Our bill is the product of lengthy, detailed, difficult bipartisan work, and now has broad bipartisan support. Passing this legislation right now would be a fitting tribute to Senator Graham’s fierce support for Ukraine’s freedom.” “Until the very day he passed, Lindsey remained focused on passing the Russia sanctions bill. Passing this legislation would honor my brother’s steadfast commitment to our national security, and it would provide President Trump with additional leverage to bring this war to an end. I look forward to working with my co… | 1 | 2026-07-18T06:58:50Z | 2026-07-18T07:00:34Z |
| https://www.curtis.senate.gov/press-releases/curtis-kelly-introduce-bipartisan-bill-to-help-support-young-mens-community-involvement-mentorship | Curtis, Kelly Introduce Bipartisan Bill to Help Support Young Men’s Community Involvement, Mentorship | 2026-07-17 | 2026 | 2026-07 | Republican | Senate | UT | John R. Curtis | C001114 | www.curtis.senate.gov | curtis | https://www.curtis.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases | scraper | WASHINGTON—U.S. Senators John Curtis (R-UT) and Mark Kelly (D-AZ) introduced the Building Community in America Act, bipartisan legislation to expand pathways for Americans to serve as mentors, volunteers, and community leaders. The bill expands service participation among underrepresented populations, with a focus on men, in mentoring, coaching, youth development, and community-building activities. “At a time when too many young men feel lonely and isolated, we should be creating more opportunities to mentor, volunteer, and connect to a great purpose,” said Senator Curtis. “By helping connect more young men to meaningful service and mentorship programs, our legislation will make our communities healthier, more resilient, and more connected.” “Every kid deserves positive role models, and every community is stronger when more people step up to serve,” said Senator Kelly. “My years in the Navy taught me that service gives you purpose, responsibility and a stronger connection to your community. Right now, too many schools need teachers and too many mentoring programs need volunteers. We need more men to become teachers, mentors, and volunteers. When more people serve, our kids and our communities are better off.” Background: America’s communities are facing shortages of teachers, mentors, and volunteers at a time when many young people report feeling increasingly isolated and disconnected. Research shows volunteering strengthens social connections, improves mental and physical health, and increases civic engagement, yet men represent just 28 percent of AmeriCorps volunteers. Boys also face longer waitlists for mentors, and one in four boys and young men lacks an adult male mentor they can rely on. The legislation addresses declining community engagement and increasing concerns about loneliness and disconnection among young people. Men today make up just 23 percent of public-school teachers and 28 percent of AmeriCorps volunteers, despite the important role teachers, mentors, and volunteers play in young people’s… | 1 | 2026-07-18T06:58:50Z | 2026-07-18T07:00:34Z |
| https://www.curtis.senate.gov/press-releases/curtis-merkley-introduce-bipartisan-bill-to-enhance-aviation-safety-after-slackline-helicopter-tragedy | Curtis, Merkley Introduce Bipartisan Bill to Enhance Aviation Safety After Slackline-Helicopter Tragedy | 2026-07-17 | 2026 | 2026-07 | Republican | Senate | UT | John R. Curtis | C001114 | www.curtis.senate.gov | curtis | https://www.curtis.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases | scraper | WASHINGTON—U.S. Senators John Curtis (R-UT) and Jeff Merkley (D-OR) introduced the McCarty and Heideman Air Safety Enhancement Act, bipartisan legislation that would direct the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to address urgent aviation safety issues by reviewing and updating existing safeguards for temporary obstructions in the low-altitude airspace, such as slacklines. The bill is also cosponsored by Senators Ron Wyden (D-OR), Mark Kelly (D-AZ), and Ruben Gallego (D-AZ). “High-adventure activities in Utah, like slacklining, should not come at the cost of aviation safety, particularly for helicopter pilots who transport patients, fight wildfires, and support search and rescue missions,” said Senator Curtis. “Our bipartisan bill takes a practical look at where the FAA can modernize its policies, improve coordination, and reduce unnecessary risks so everyone sharing our airspace can do so more safely.” “Strengthening aviation safety is something that both Republicans and Democrats can get behind, especially following the tragic slackline collision that took the lives of four Oregonians earlier this year,” said Senator Merkley. “The FAA must do all it can to keep the flying public safe, and our bipartisan McCarty and Heideman Air Safety Enhancement Act directs the agency to prioritize aviation safety. We must move swiftly to reduce the risk of any similar tragedy in the future.” “Congress must act with urgency to ensure federal regulators are taking every possible step to prevent low-flying aircraft crashes with slacklines like the tragedy that cost the lives of four Oregonians earlier this year,” said Senator Wyden. “This bill would accomplish that goal by setting deadlines for the Federal Aviation Administration to update and improve its policies and regulations for low-altitude airspace safety.” “David, Katelyn, Rachel, and Faith lost their lives in an Arizona helicopter crash that never should have happened. I’ve met with their family. No one should have to go through what they’ve been through. This bi… | 1 | 2026-07-18T06:58:50Z | 2026-07-18T07:00:34Z |
| https://www.curtis.senate.gov/press-releases/curtis-secures-committee-approval-of-water-projects-for-utah-amid-intense-drought | Curtis Secures Committee Approval of Water Projects for Utah Amid Intense Drought | 2026-07-15 | 2026 | 2026-07 | Republican | Senate | UT | John R. Curtis | C001114 | www.curtis.senate.gov | curtis | https://www.curtis.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases | scraper | Video of the Senator’s Committee remarks can be found here, and a transcript is below. Utah is in a record drought. Everywhere I go, it’s “water, water, water, water.” And I think in many cases, as [there are] many pressing problems we have as a country and as a state, water still rises to the top. So, I’m very pleased, particularly for the communities of Ephraim and Centerville, who will benefit from this in their ability to bring clean water to the residents and otherwise would not be able to do it without this bill. So, I’d like to thank the Committee, the staff, [and] the Ranking Member yourself for making this possible. I’d also like to point out the Great Salt Lake and the impending needs there, and I look forward to furthering discussions with this Committee and other members to see how we can save a very, very important asset in the West. It’s an environmental issue. It’s a standard of living issue. On many, many levels this is important and a very important role. And what I’m pleased with the Great Salt Lake is that my state’s not just waiting for the federal government. I have philanthropic help. I have local community help. I have state government help. Everybody is leaning into this, and I’m grateful the federal government is willing to lean in as well. | 1 | 2026-07-16T07:21:44Z | 2026-07-16T07:23:13Z |
| https://www.lee.senate.gov/2026/7/lee-bill-authorizes-american-hackers-to-fight-foreign-cyber-attacks | Lee Bill Authorizes American Hackers to Fight Foreign Cyberattacks | 2026-07-15 | 2026 | 2026-07 | Republican | Senate | UT | Mike Lee | L000577 | www.lee.senate.gov | mikelee | https://www.lee.senate.gov/press-releases | scraper | WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Mike Lee (R-UT) today introduced legislation that would allow private American entities to prevent foreign cyberattacks against the United States. The Cyber Letters of Marque and Reprisal Act authorizes President Trump to issue letters of marque and reprisal to strategically deter and disrupt cyber operations against the U.S. The bill continues Senator Lee’s recent work to revive the use of traditional letters of marque and reprisal under the Constitution. Congressman Tim Burchett (R-TN-02) introduced the House version of this legislation. “Our legislation allows American digital privateers to raid cartels, cybercriminals, and foreign adversaries, disrupting their operations and seizing their assets,” said Senator Mike Lee. “This is the ultimate in white hat hacking: stealing from America’s enemies at the direction of the President, and splitting the profits with the federal government.” "Widespread cybercrime has become an existential threat to our national security," said Congressman Tim Burchett. "Allowing private operators to aid the federal government in combatting these crimes will strengthen our ability to defend the United States against terrorism." Background Article I, Section 8, Clause 11 of the Constitution authorizes Congress to “grant Letters of Marque and Reprisal.” Once a commonly used tool against piracy, letters of marque authorized private citizens to seize enemy vessels with their cargoes and crew. In December 2025, Senator Mike Lee introduced a bill authorizing President Trump to allow private citizens and groups to join in defending the United States from cartels on land and sea. Building on that legislation, the Cyber Letters of Marque and Reprisal Act will allow the President to arm America’s hackers with authority to combat foreign cyberattacks against the United States. The bill authorizes the President to issue cyber letters of marque and reprisal to strategically deter and disrupt cyber operations against the U.S. and Americans, facilitate the return of s… | 1 | 2026-07-16T07:21:44Z | 2026-07-16T07:23:13Z |
| https://www.lee.senate.gov/2026/7/lee-questions-rideshare-giants-uber-and-lyft-on-pricing-antitrust-concerns | Lee Questions Rideshare Giants Uber and Lyft on Pricing, Antitrust Concerns | 2026-07-15 | 2026 | 2026-07 | Republican | Senate | UT | Mike Lee | L000577 | www.lee.senate.gov | mikelee | https://www.lee.senate.gov/press-releases | scraper | WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Mike Lee (R-UT) questioned rideshare giants Uber and Lyft with antitrust concerns following recent reports regarding their pricing. Senator Lee, who serves as Chairman of the Senate Judiciary Subcommittee on Antitrust, Competition Policy, and Consumer Rights, questioned the companies on market power and concentration in the rideshare industry, transparency practices, information sharing, driver compensation, and the pricing of rides. In part, Senator Lee wrote: “As Chairman of the Senate Judiciary Subcommittee on Antitrust, Competition Policy, and Consumer Rights, I take seriously Congress’s responsibility to ensure that markets remain competitive and that American consumers benefit from that competition. Given the scale of your platforms, and the importance of rideshare services to the Americans who depend on them, I write regarding concerns about rideshare pricing, driver compensation, and your use of algorithmic systems in app-based rideshare markets. … “The Subcommittee intends to monitor these issues closely and may seek additional information.” Read the full text of the letter here. ### | 1 | 2026-07-16T07:21:44Z | 2026-07-16T07:23:13Z |
| https://www.curtis.senate.gov/press-releases/curtis-calls-for-countering-chinas-influence-in-western-hemisphere | Curtis Calls for Countering China’s Influence in Western Hemisphere | 2026-07-14 | 2026 | 2026-07 | Republican | Senate | UT | John R. Curtis | C001114 | www.curtis.senate.gov | curtis | https://www.curtis.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases | scraper | At the hearing, Curtis highlighted recent successes following Secretary of State Marco Rubio’s engagement with Panama, including Panama’s decision to withdraw from China’s Belt and Road Initiative and the transfer of key Panama Canal port assets from Hong Kong-based operators to a U.S.-led consortium. He also asked Ambassador Kozak how those developments could serve as a model for reducing China’s influence elsewhere in the hemisphere. Kozak emphasized that many countries have become increasingly aware of the risks associated with China’s Belt and Road Initiative, including predatory lending practices and strategic investments that undermine national sovereignty. Video of Senator Curtis’ opening remarks and line of questioning can be found here, and a transcript of his opening remarks and initial questioning is below: Opening remarks, as prepared: This hearing is to examine how the Trump Administration’s National Security Strategy prioritizes the Western Hemisphere. In other words, what is the “Trump Corollary to the Monroe Doctrine,” as it has been termed. For too long, American policy has treated our own neighborhood as an afterthought while our adversaries have treated it as an opportunity. The National Security Strategy makes a welcome correction by putting the Western Hemisphere near the center of American national security policy. It is right that the United States should focus first on the safety, security, and prosperity of the American people, and frequently that means focusing on the security of our region. That means securing our border, stopping deadly drugs before they enter our communities, strengthening supply chains closer to home, and ensuring that hostile powers cannot control strategic assets in our own hemisphere. In many ways, the real test of our Western Hemisphere strategy is whether it can blunt and roll back the presence of our global adversaries—China, Russia, and Iran—within our backyard. China has spent years building influence through ports, telecommunications, infrastructure, … | 1 | 2026-07-16T07:21:44Z | 2026-07-16T07:23:13Z |
| https://www.lee.senate.gov/2026/7/lee-applauds-trump-s-actions-reining-in-monument-overreach | Lee Applauds Trump’s Actions Reining in Monument Overreach | 2026-07-13 | 2026 | 2026-07 | Republican | Senate | UT | Mike Lee | L000577 | www.lee.senate.gov | mikelee | https://www.lee.senate.gov/press-releases | scraper | WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Senator Mike Lee (R-Utah), Chairman of the Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources, applauded President Donald J. Trump’s proclamation modifying the boundaries of Bears Ears and Grand Staircase–Escalante National Monuments. “Today’s proclamation shows that President Trump listens to Utahns and respects the limits Congress placed on the Antiquities Act,” said Chairman Mike Lee. “For too long, presidents have weaponized monument designations to lock up millions of acres, close roads, restrict grazing, and cut rural communities off from lands their families have lived on and worked for generations. I thank the President for correcting this abuse and keeping his promise to the people of Utah.” The proclamation reduces Bears Ears National Monument to approximately 121,000 acres and Grand Staircase–Escalante National Monument to approximately 182,000 acres. The revised boundaries will allow federal agencies to concentrate limited personnel and funding on the cultural, historic, and scientific objects identified within the proclamation. Lands outside the modified boundaries remain in federal ownership and continue to be protected under existing federal and state laws. The proclamation will provide greater access for recreation, preserve historic roads and trails, and give ranching families and rural communities greater certainty about the lands on which they depend. Congress enacted the Antiquities Act in 1906 to allow presidents to protect historic landmarks and other objects of historic or scientific interest. The law requires monument reservations to be confined to “the smallest area compatible with the proper care and management of the objects to be protected.” Previous designations placed approximately 3.2 million acres within the two monuments—more land than all seven of Utah’s other national monuments and all five of its national parks combined and about the combined size of the states of Rhode Island and Connecticut. Those sweeping boundaries strained federal staffing and l… | 1 | 2026-07-14T07:08:55Z | 2026-07-14T07:10:52Z |
| https://www.curtis.senate.gov/press-releases/curtis-visits-wildfire-site-urges-passage-of-fix-our-forests-act | Curtis Visits Wildfire Site, Urges Passage of Fix Our Forests Act | 2026-07-10 | 2026 | 2026-07 | Republican | Senate | UT | John R. Curtis | C001114 | www.curtis.senate.gov | curtis | https://www.curtis.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases | scraper | The full transcript is below, and video can be found here. I’m in Juab County today very near the city of Eureka, where we’ve just had two of our very big fires, and these are under control and doing well. I had a chance to be briefed by BLM, by wildland firefighters, by the Forest Service, and by the city itself. I’m telling you, one of the things that was just touching was to hear the mayor talk about how he thought his entire city was going to burn, and how they were able to bring resources in—a lot of federal resources—to protect the city and a lot of the resources in the county. It’s been very interesting. As you all know, we’ve got these severe fires across the entire state. I’m working really hard on a bill. It’s called Fix Our Forests. It dramatically changes the way we manage our federal lands and our forests—not just federal, but all of our forests—before the fires. It changes the way we fight the fires and then the way we deal with the aftermath. And I’m hoping we can get that bill across the finish line. It’s called Fix Our Forests. Follow it and follow us. Background: Utah is experiencing one of its most challenging wildfire seasons, underscoring the need for policies that reduce hazardous fuels, improve coordination across jurisdictions, and accelerate recovery efforts after fires are contained. The bipartisan Fix Our ForestsAct would reform how forests are managed before wildfires occur, improve the nation’s wildfire response, and strengthen post-fire restoration efforts. The legislation streamlines hazardous fuels reduction projects, expands cross-boundary collaboration, and helps federal land managers respond more quickly to growing wildfire threats. | 1 | 2026-07-11T07:10:48Z | 2026-07-11T07:14:29Z |
| https://www.curtis.senate.gov/press-releases/curtis-religious-liberty-relies-on-civility-mutual-respect | Curtis: Religious Liberty Relies on Civility, Mutual Respect | 2026-07-05 | 2026 | 2026-07 | Republican | Senate | UT | John R. Curtis | C001114 | www.curtis.senate.gov | curtis | https://www.curtis.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases | scraper | The Senator’s remarks were delivered prior to Fourth of July celebrations and his 250-mile walk to commemorate the United States’ semiquincentennial. Video can be found here, and the remarks as prepared for delivery can be found below: Almost two hundred and fifty years ago, fifty-six delegates to the Second Continental Congress affixed their signatures to the most influential document in the history of human rights—the American Declaration of Independence. Over succeeding generations, more than one hundred other nations would model their own declarations of independence with statements that followed the American pattern of 1776. It proclaimed liberty as an inalienable right, in what Walter Isaacson has called “the greatest sentence ever written.” Among our inalienable rights, the document declared, are life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. Defining “liberty,” giving definition, substance and legal guarantees of that right, has been one of America’s greatest ongoing commitments to the betterment of humanity. And at the forefront of that pantheon of liberties the Declaration affirms has been the right to believe and practice religion according to the sacred dictates of conscience. Four decades ago, 160 of 170 international constitutions were modeled, in whole or in part, on the American model. Freedom of religion is guaranteed—in principle if not in fact—in 97% of constitutions. When the first colonists arrived in the New World, religious freedom existed in theory (like that of John Locke) but not in political practice. Roger Williams founded Rhode Island on the principle of “soul conscience” in 1636, and 150 years later, in 1786, Thomas Jefferson authored the pioneering Virginia Statute for Religious Freedom. “Almighty God hath created the mind free,” he wrote, “and manifested his supreme will that free it shall remain.” The state legislation he proposed therefore decreed that no person “shall … suffer on account of his religious opinions or beliefs … But … all [persons] shall be free to profess … the… | 1 | 2026-07-06T08:59:18Z | 2026-07-06T09:01:25Z |
| https://www.curtis.senate.gov/press-releases/curtis-kaine-introduce-bipartisan-legislation-to-counter-china-secure-supply-chains | Curtis, Kaine Introduce Bipartisan Legislation to Counter China, Secure Supply Chains | 2026-06-29 | 2026 | 2026-06 | Republican | Senate | UT | John R. Curtis | C001114 | www.curtis.senate.gov | curtis | https://www.curtis.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases | scraper | WASHINGTON—U.S. Senators John Curtis (R-UT) and Tim Kaine (D-VA), members of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, introduced the Securing Partner Supply Chains Act, bipartisan legislation to secure supply chains and counter China’s growing influence. The legislation would help U.S. allies and partners build tools to protect critical infrastructure, supply chains, and sensitive sectors from malign foreign investment and strategic influence operations. “The Chinese Communist Party is using economic coercion to gain influence over critical industries and infrastructure around the world, and the United States cannot afford to confront these challenges alone,” said Senator Curtis. “Our bipartisan bill will help our allies and partners develop the tools they need to identify and stop malign foreign investment before it threatens economic security or other shared interests.” “It’s critical for U.S. national security that our partners and allies have safeguards in place to adequately screen foreign investments, especially as China continues to expand its global footprint,” said Senator Kaine. “This bipartisan legislation would help our partners and allies build their own capacity to screen foreign investments and protect their economies, and help ensure China isn’t able to control critical infrastructure and supply chains that the U.S. and our partners and allies rely on.” Background: There is a significant gap in ability among the U.S. and its partners, particularly in the Western Hemisphere, to adequately screen foreign investment into critical sectors. The lack of safeguards leaves supply chains, ports, and critical infrastructure open to strategic acquisition and exploitation by China and other adversaries. For example, Chinese state-owned enterprises operate port facilities in Mexico, Brazil, and Panama, and the Chinese government has invested heavily in critical mineral sectors in countries like Bolivia. The Securing Partner Supply Chains Act would: Establish a State Department-led Initiative on Foreign In… | 1 | 2026-06-30T06:29:10Z | 2026-06-30T06:30:42Z |
| https://www.curtis.senate.gov/press-releases/curtis-rosen-introduce-bipartisan-legislation-to-protect-patients-access-to-preferred-doctor-lower-drug-costs | Curtis, Rosen Introduce Bipartisan Legislation to Protect Patients’ Access to Preferred Doctor, Lower Drug Costs | 2026-06-29 | 2026 | 2026-06 | Republican | Senate | UT | John R. Curtis | C001114 | www.curtis.senate.gov | curtis | https://www.curtis.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases | scraper | WASHINGTON—U.S. Senators John Curtis (R-UT) and Jacky Rosen (D-NV) introduced the Protecting Patient Access Act, bipartisan legislation to protect patients’ access to their preferred doctors and lower out-of-pocket drug costs. The bill would allow patients to change insurance plans mid-year if their doctor or other medical provider is no longer in-network, or if their out-of-pocket drug cost increases during the year. This would apply to Medicare prescription drug plans, Medicare Advantage, and individual market plans for patients of all ages. “When a Part D plan makes significant changes between enrollment periods, seniors shouldn’t be forced to live with a plan they didn’t choose for the rest of the year,” said Senator Curtis. “By opening enrollment following a significant plan change, our commonsense, bipartisan legislation ensures American seniors are insulated from uncertainty and receive the care they need and have paid for.” “Under the current system, Nevadans can be caught off-guard by mid-year increases to prescription drug prices and changes to their in-network doctors. It’s just common sense to allow patients to change their medical insurance to continue seeing the doctors they trust and protect them from getting priced out from the life-saving medicine they need,” said Senator Rosen. “It is crucial that Nevadans have access to the best and most affordable health care options available, which is why I am proud to introduce this bipartisan bill. I promise to continue working across the aisle to ensure that everyone has access to the life-saving care that they need.” “The American Academy of Family Physicians strongly supports the Preserving Patient Access Act, which will help patients prioritize their health and ensure relationships are maintained with trusted physicians and that access to necessary medications go uninterrupted,” said Sarah C. Nosal, MD, FAAFP, President of the American Academy of Family Physicians. “This legislation will allow patients relying on Medicare to change plans when a phys… | 1 | 2026-06-30T06:29:10Z | 2026-06-30T06:30:42Z |
| https://www.curtis.senate.gov/press-releases/icymi-curtis-discusses-250-mile-walk-for-americas-250th-on-fox-news | ICYMI: Curtis Discusses 250-Mile Walk for America’s 250th on Fox News | 2026-06-29 | 2026 | 2026-06 | Republican | Senate | UT | John R. Curtis | C001114 | www.curtis.senate.gov | curtis | https://www.curtis.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases | scraper | The full transcript of the interview is below, and video can be found here. Trey Gowdy: Welcome back to Sunday Night, America. Americans are honoring the 250th anniversary of our independence. I’ll probably celebrate indoors because it’s 90 degrees in South Carolina, watching sports, but not Utah Senator John Curtis. He’s walking 250 miles across his beautiful state, a mile to celebrate each year, 30 miles a day, as he travels through communities across the Beehive State, and he wants you to join him on his journey. We caught up with Senator Curtis earlier today during his walk. Welcome, Senator. I got to be honest, I’m not sure my senior senator has walked 30 miles in his life, and you’re walking 30 miles a day. What are you seeing and hearing in your beautiful state? Senator Curtis: Well, first of all, Trey, you mentioned it’s too hot there this morning. I woke up to 44 degrees, and so heat is not a problem here, but I’ll tell you, I am seeing the most patriotic, hard-working, family-loving, faith-filled people. And it’s just been so inspiring for me to be on the road and to meet these people. Gowdy: You know, Senator, if I’m right, you were born in Utah, and you’ve been there your whole life, aside from your mission in Taiwan. Are you learning new things about your state and your country that maybe even you didn’t know as a long-time resident of Utah? Curtis: Well, you know what, you’re right, and that’s why I wish more of my colleagues could do this, because you really get to know people. And I’ll tell you what, I’ve met some of the best people, a lot of the walk thus far has been in really rural Utah, part of the country where my mother grew up, and these are hardworking people, and they’re good people. They’re people that care about their families, they care about the country. I haven’t met a single person who doesn’t love this country. Gowdy: You know, Senator, so much I think of what our viewers see just on a daily basis is negativity. They’re negative stories, it’s crime. I am thinking and hoping an… | 1 | 2026-06-30T06:29:10Z | 2026-06-30T06:30:42Z |
| https://www.curtis.senate.gov/press-releases/curtis-colleagues-introduce-legislation-to-protect-firefighters-from-harmful-chemicals | Curtis, Colleagues Introduce Legislation to Protect Firefighters from Harmful Chemicals | 2026-06-26 | 2026 | 2026-06 | Republican | Senate | UT | John R. Curtis | C001114 | www.curtis.senate.gov | curtis | https://www.curtis.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases | scraper | WASHINGTON—U.S. Senators John Curtis (R-UT), Martin Heinrich (D-NM), Deb Fischer (R-NE), and Peter Welch (D-VT) introduced the Protecting Firefighters and Advancing State-of-the-Art (PFAS) Alternatives Act of 2026, bipartisan legislation to support the development of next-generation, per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS)-free protective gear to better protect firefighters from the dangers of their work. “Utah’s firefighters shouldn’t have to worry that the gear designed to keep them safe could expose them to harmful chemicals,” said Senator Curtis. “This bipartisan legislation invests in the research needed to improve turnout gear, helping ensure firefighters have the proper protective equipment they deserve.” “Our first responders put their lives on the line every day to protect our communities, and too many suffer or lose their lives from cancers caused by toxic exposures on the job — including from harmful PFAS chemicals in their protective gear. Our firefighters shouldn’t have to worry that the gear designed to protect them is putting their health at risk,” said Senator Heinrich. “That’s why I’m leading legislation to invest in next-generation PFAS-free firefighting gear. Because we need to do more to protect the people who protect all of us.” “Our firefighters put everything on the line to keep us safe, and it’s our job to make sure they are taken care of,” said Senator Fischer. “This bill gives us the resources for producing next-generation protective gear, free of PFAS chemicals, to protect the health and safety of firefighters in Nebraska and across the nation.” “From Vermont to Idaho and everywhere in between, firefighters put their lives on the line every day to keep our communities safe. Their line of work is already hazardous enough without having to deal with toxic chemical exposure from the very gear meant to protect them,” said Senator Welch. “I’m proud to work across the aisle on this legislation to support investments into developing new, PFAS-free turnout gear that protects firefighters… | 1 | 2026-06-27T06:16:17Z | 2026-06-27T06:17:30Z |
| https://www.curtis.senate.gov/press-releases/curtis-colleagues-introduce-resolution-condemning-chinese-suppression-of-ethnic-minorities | Curtis, Colleagues Introduce Resolution Condemning Chinese Suppression of Ethnic Minorities | 2026-06-26 | 2026 | 2026-06 | Republican | Senate | UT | John R. Curtis | C001114 | www.curtis.senate.gov | curtis | https://www.curtis.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases | scraper | WASHINGTON—U.S. Senators John Curtis (R-UT), Jacky Rosen (D-NV), Jim Banks (R-IN), and Jeff Merkley (D-OR) introduced a bipartisan resolution that condemns a law passed by the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) that targets ethnic minorities. Once the law takes effect on July 1, it will erode the rights of minority groups in China through the targeting of language and culture in public settings. It also includes a clause allowing the government to target people and groups outside of China it deems accountable for undermining Chinese “ethnic unity,” threatening the sovereignty of nations around the world. “The CCP’s new ethnic conformity law signals an escalation in Beijing’s longstanding campaign to erase the cultural identities of Tibetans, Uyghurs, Mongolians, Christians, and other minorities—all while giving the CCP a pretext to intimidate critics far beyond China’s borders,”said Senator Curtis. “As leader of the free world, the United States must stand firmly with those facing persecution and make clear that the CCP’s efforts to export repression, silence those who speak out about its human rights abuses, and undermine our sovereignty will not be tolerated.” “The CCP continues to violate the rights of Tibetans, Uyghurs, and other minority groups in China with its horrendous attempts at cultural and religious erasure. This new law doesn’t only threaten those within China, but also those living outside its borders,” said Senator Rosen. “Our bipartisan resolution shows support from both sides of the aisle to call out the blatant suppression of minority rights and highlights the importance of protecting cultural and religious freedom everywhere.” “As long as the People’s Republic of China continues to bulldoze the human rights of Tibetans, Uyghurs, and other vulnerable groups, the United States must do everything we can to call out this systemic abuse, protect religious freedom, and defend the rights of China’s ethnic minorities,” said Senator Merkley. “Our bipartisan resolution rejects the PRC’s efforts both to co… | 1 | 2026-06-27T06:16:17Z | 2026-06-27T06:17:30Z |
| https://www.curtis.senate.gov/press-releases/curtis-schiff-press-cftc-on-reports-of-deceptive-marketing-by-prediction-market-operator | Curtis, Schiff Press CFTC on Reports of Deceptive Marketing by Prediction Market Operator | 2026-06-26 | 2026 | 2026-06 | Republican | Senate | UT | John R. Curtis | C001114 | www.curtis.senate.gov | curtis | https://www.curtis.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases | scraper | Letter requests information concerning Wall Street Journal reporting on Polymarket marketing tactics WASHINGTON—U.S. Senators John Curtis (R-UT) and Adam Schiff (D-CA) sent a letter to Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) Chairman Michael S. Selig requesting answers following recent reports that prediction market operator Polymarket used deceptive marketing tactics to promote gambling-style products to U.S. audiences. In their letter, the senators argue that the alleged conduct underscores growing concerns that prediction markets are functioning more like gambling than legitimate financial instruments. “The CFTC has repeatedly asserted regulatory authority over prediction markets and event contracts, including through its enforcement actions and its rules governing event contracts listed on CFTC-registered entities. Yet with content creators routinely portraying prediction markets as ‘free money,’ there is little basis for treating them differently from gambling. These contracts are not in the public interest and should not be treated as derivative products with hedging value. We remain concerned that the Commission is neither enforcing the law appropriately, nor is equipped to serve as a federal gambling regulator,” the senators wrote. “The public-facing behavior alleged here does not resemble a sober financial market designed for hedging or price discovery. Instead, it reflects clear regulatory arbitrage, where prediction markets can defy state and tribal gaming regulatory frameworks with ease. Traditional gaming operators are subject to state and tribal licensing, age restrictions, responsible-gaming requirements, advertising rules, integrity monitoring, and enforcement regimes designed to protect consumers and preserve lawful oversight. Prediction market operators should not be permitted to avoid those obligations by rebranding gambling products as federally regulated financial contracts. Nor should the CFTC allow companies to invoke the credibility of federal oversight while engaging in conduct tha… | 1 | 2026-06-27T06:16:17Z | 2026-06-27T06:17:30Z |
| https://www.curtis.senate.gov/press-releases/curtis-colleagues-introduce-bipartisan-legislation-to-remove-wildfire-fuel | Curtis, Colleagues Introduce Bipartisan Legislation to Remove Wildfire Fuel | 2026-06-25 | 2026 | 2026-06 | Republican | Senate | UT | John R. Curtis | C001114 | www.curtis.senate.gov | curtis | https://www.curtis.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases | scraper | WASHINGTON—U.S. Senators John Curtis (R-UT), Mark Kelly (D-AZ), Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-MS), Ben Ray Luján (D-NM), and Adam Schiff (D-CA) introduced the Hazardous Fuels Transportation Assistance Act, bipartisan legislation to help communities and forest managers remove byproducts of forest thinning operations that counterintuitively increase wildfire risk. “Across Utah and the West, we know that active forest management is essential to reducing wildfire risk and protecting communities. But when the cost of hauling woody biomass becomes a barrier, hazardous fuels can remain on the landscape and undermine the very restoration work designed to make forests safer,” said Senator Curtis. “Our commonsense, bipartisan bill helps get that material out of our forests, supports rural economies, and gives local partners the tools they need to better steward our public lands.” “Arizona communities know firsthand the toll of wildfires on natural habitats, the economy, and personal lives, especially after the fires at the Grand Canyon last year,” said Senator Kelly. “Thinning the forest is only half the job. This legislation will help get the material left behind out of the forest to prevent more wildfires and support the jobs, businesses, and forest restoration projects so many Arizona families depend on.” “For too long, effective management of our national forests has been hampered by litigation and regulatory obstacles, allowing hazardous fuels to accumulate and increase the risk of catastrophic wildfires, pests, and disease,” said Senator Hyde-Smith. “Making use of these hazardous fuels, like the storm-damaged trees in Mississippi’s national forest, would be made more affordable through this bipartisan legislation.” “New Mexico’s forests have become overcrowded with dead trees, brush, and other flammable debris that fuel catastrophic wildfires—and too often, the cost of hauling that material out is what stops the work from getting done,” said Senator Luján. “I’m proud to join Senator Kelly in introducing the Hazardous Fuels… | 1 | 2026-06-26T06:29:35Z | 2026-06-26T06:31:46Z |
| https://www.curtis.senate.gov/press-releases/curtis-schatz-warner-introduce-bipartisan-legislation-to-provide-transparency-on-ai-generated-content | Curtis, Schatz, Warner Introduce Bipartisan Legislation to Provide Transparency on AI-Generated Content | 2026-06-25 | 2026 | 2026-06 | Republican | Senate | UT | John R. Curtis | C001114 | www.curtis.senate.gov | curtis | https://www.curtis.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases | scraper | Bill would require clear labels on AI-made content WASHINGTON—U.S. Senators John Curtis (R-UT), Brian Schatz (D-HI), and Mark Warner (D-VA) introduced the AI Labeling Act, bipartisan legislation to provide transparency on digital content generated by artificial intelligence (AI). The bill will help ensure people know when they are viewing AI-made content or interacting with an AI chatbot by requiring clear labels and disclosures. “As AI-generated content becomes more refined and realistic, people deserve to know whether what they’re seeing is created by a human or generated by artificial intelligence,” said Senator Curtis. “Our bipartisan AI Labeling Act establishes clear, commonsense transparency standards that help consumers make informed decisions, promote trust in digital content, and discourage bad actors from using AI to deceive the public.” “People deserve to know whether the videos, photos, and content they see and read online are real or not,” said Senator Schatz. “Our bill is simple—if any digital content is made by AI, it should be labeled so that people are aware and aren’t fooled or scammed.” “Jurisdictions around the globe are moving to adopt commonsense rules around labeling AI-generated content—it’s time for the U.S. to catch up and in fact lead the world with a disclosure and anti-circumvention model that should be the global standard,” said Senator Warner. Background: In May 2023, an AI-generated photo of an explosion near the Pentagon went viral, triggering a dip in the stock market. Deepfake images of President Trump being arrested were viewed by millions on social media, demonstrating the types of manipulation users could see during elections. And fraudsters are already abusing AI systems to generate scam calls, impersonating a loved one’s voice, and scamming Americans out of their hard-earned money. As generative AI becomes increasingly convincing and widespread, it is critical that companies take steps to ensure that American consumers can identify AI-generated content. The AI Labeli… | 1 | 2026-06-26T06:29:35Z | 2026-06-26T06:31:46Z |
| https://www.lee.senate.gov/2026/6/lee-introduces-end-epa-abuse-act | Lee Introduces End EPA Abuse Act | 2026-06-25 | 2026 | 2026-06 | Republican | Senate | UT | Mike Lee | L000577 | www.lee.senate.gov | mikelee | https://www.lee.senate.gov/press-releases | scraper | WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Mike Lee (R-UT) introduced the End EPA Abuse Act to stop the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) from exercising undue authority to arbitrarily create and enforce policy decisions that rightly belong to Congress. The legislation is cosponsored by Senator Cynthia Lummis (R-WY), and its House version was introduced by Congressman Andrew Clyde (R-GA-09). The bill is endorsed by thirteen organizations and twenty Attorneys General from across the country. “The EPA has overstepped its authority as far as possible to put America’s energy producers in a chokehold,” said Senator Mike Lee. “They’ve exploited any power they can grab to push Biden and Obama’s climate psychosis at the expense of our energy security. They make up and enforce regulations to suffocate America’s energy producers and devastate major sectors of our economy. The End EPA Abuse Act will clarify once and for all that policymaking belongs to Congress, whom the American people have elected – not to the leftwing bureaucracy.” "The EPA has spent years using the Clean Air Act as a backdoor tool to wage war on fossil fuels and strip Americans of their energy choices,” said Senator Cynthia Lummis. “The End EPA Abuse Act puts Congress back in the driver's seat where we belong. That's why I'm proud to cosponsor this legislation and finally draw a clear line against an agency that has far exceeded the authority Congress ever intended to give it." “Under the Biden Administration, the EPA increasingly treated the Clean Air Act as a blank check to push de facto electric vehicle mandates, jeopardize reliable energy sources, and impose costly regulations on American consumers and businesses,” said Congressman Andrew Clyde. “Unelected Washington bureaucrats should never have the power to dictate what kind of car Americans drive or how our country produces electricity. The End EPA Abuse Act puts Congress back in the driver's seat where it belongs, preventing any future Democrat Administration from abusing the EPA’s regulatory authority to… | 1 | 2026-06-26T06:29:35Z | 2026-06-26T06:31:46Z |
| https://www.curtis.senate.gov/press-releases/curtis-cosponsors-bipartisan-legislation-to-protect-youth-from-targeted-gambling-ads | Curtis Cosponsors Bipartisan Legislation to Protect Youth from Targeted Gambling Ads | 2026-06-25 | 2026 | 2026-06 | Republican | Senate | UT | John R. Curtis | C001114 | www.curtis.senate.gov | curtis | https://www.curtis.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases | scraper | WASHINGTON—U.S. Senator John Curtis (R-UT) cosponsored bipartisan legislation introduced by Senators Katie Britt (R-AL) and Richard Blumenthal (D-CT) to combat the rapid and concerning rise in youth gambling. The Gaming Advertisement to Minors Enforcement (GAME) Act would prohibit social media companies and other advertising websites from targeting minors with sports betting through online advertising. “As online advertising becomes increasingly targeted and sophisticated, we need commonsense protections that keep gambling promotions away from our youth,” said Senator Curtis. “By prohibiting sports betting advertisers from targeting minors, our bipartisan legislation would help protect kids, support parents, and ensure technology is used responsibly.” “The rise in sports gambling among minors, particularly among young boys, is jarring,” said Senator Britt. “We know targeted advertising from gambling and prediction market websites can serve as the gateway to dangerous habits that too often become crippling addictions. Our legislation takes a critical step toward addressing this problem before it worsens. Our next generation is our greatest asset, and it’s our responsibility to take the necessary steps to protect them from online dangers whenever we can—which is exactly what this bill does.” “Sportsbooks and prediction markets are treating young people like a gold rush, flooding the internet with advertisements and promotions to hook them on gambling when they’re young,” said Senator Blumenthal. “High schoolers, even middle schoolers, are now gambling on their phones as never before, losing real money and creating life-altering addiction. The GAME Act would create a nationwide ban on targeted advertising of gambling to kids, backed with the force of punishing fines.” Background: A 2024 study found that individuals who begin gambling before the age of 18 are 50% more likely to develop a gambling problem, while 1 in 6 parents say they would not know if their child was gambling. Another recent study found that 45… | 1 | 2026-06-27T20:01:11Z | 2026-06-28T06:33:41Z |
| https://www.curtis.senate.gov/press-releases/curtis-schiff-introduce-bipartisan-legislation-to-protect-children-from-ai-chatbot-risks | Curtis, Schiff Introduce Bipartisan Legislation to Protect Children from AI Chatbot Risks | 2026-06-23 | 2026 | 2026-06 | Republican | Senate | UT | John R. Curtis | C001114 | www.curtis.senate.gov | curtis | https://www.curtis.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases | scraper | SAFE KIDS Act establishes a comprehensive federal framework to ensure chatbots prioritize child safety, privacy, and parental empowerment WASHINGTON—U.S. Senators John Curtis (R-UT) and Adam Schiff (D-CA) today introduced the Safeguarding AI Features to Ensure Kids’ Informed Digital Safety (SAFE KIDS) Act, bipartisan legislation to protect children from the risks and harms associated with the use of artificial intelligence (AI) chatbots. The commonsense framework addresses growing concerns about kids’ reliance on AI chatbots for emotional support and companionship. “Parents deserve confidence that AI tools are not exposing their children to harmful content, fostering unhealthy emotional dependence, or exploiting their personal information,” said Senator Curtis. “The SAFE KIDS Act puts commonsense guardrails in place to protect children online while preserving American leadership in innovation. We need clear standards for transparency, accountability, and child safety so families can navigate the opportunities and risks of emerging technologies with confidence.” “AI chatbots that promote companionship pose significant risks to young and developing minds. Already we have heard tragic stories of kids who have been influenced by the powerful, and still sometimes unpredictable, outputs of an AI chatbot,” said Senator Schiff. “These chatbots can represent the power of the entire internet in a humanlike form, and impressionable kids need to be protected from its worst impulses—and from seeing their data misused by the companies behind them. The SAFE KIDS Act represents a comprehensive bipartisan attempt to protect our children and ensure that their first experiences with this revolutionary technology are free from harm.” Background: AI chatbots are increasingly becoming a part of children’s daily lives. While these tools can provide educational benefits, they have already shown to expose children to harmful content, encourage unhealthy emotional dependence, and collect sensitive personal information if not properly… | 1 | 2026-06-24T06:25:30Z | 2026-06-24T06:26:49Z |
| https://www.lee.senate.gov/2026/6/lee-cotton-sound-alarm-on-chinese-thieves-in-american-labs | Lee, Cotton Sound Alarm on Chinese Thieves in American Labs | 2026-06-23 | 2026 | 2026-06 | Republican | Senate | UT | Mike Lee | L000577 | www.lee.senate.gov | mikelee | https://www.lee.senate.gov/press-releases | scraper | WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators Mike Lee (R-UT) and Tom Cotton (R-AR) today sent a letter to alert Department of Energy (DOE) Secretary Chris Wright of Chinese nationals’ access to American National Labs, where they are infiltrating sensitive research facilities to steal American intellectual property and technology to benefit Communist China. In January 2026, the Senators, along with nine of their colleagues, sent a letter to Secretary Wright urging him to address this issue. In March 2025, they introduced the Guarding American Technology from Exploitation (GATE) Act as a legislative solution. The bill is currently being blocked by Democrats on the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee. In part, the Senators wrote: “We write expressing serious concern regarding the Department of Energy’s (DOE) continued practice of permitting foreign nationals from China to access facilities across the National Laboratory complex and work alongside American scientists. Recent DOE data underscores that this practice puts the nation’s research enterprise at risk of foreign intelligence collection and technology transfers that will benefit our adversaries.” The letter reads as follows: Dear Secretary Wright: We write expressing serious concern regarding the Department of Energy’s (DOE) continued practice of permitting foreign nationals from China to access facilities across the National Laboratory complex and work alongside American scientists. Recent DOE data underscores that this practice puts the nation’s research enterprise at risk of foreign intelligence collection and technology transfers that will benefit our adversaries. According to DOE’s own data, Chinese nationals continue to occupy substantial roles across a variety of access types, including short term visits (approximately 1,900 in FY 2025), long term research assignments (approximately 1,300 in FY 2025), and even formal employment (approximately 2,100 in FY 2025). The Department further reports in FY 2025, on-site user facilities at the National Labs were a… | 1 | 2026-06-24T06:25:30Z | 2026-06-24T06:26:49Z |
| https://www.curtis.senate.gov/press-releases/curtis-applauds-senate-passage-of-housing-affordability-bill | Curtis Applauds Senate Passage of Housing Affordability Bill | 2026-06-22 | 2026 | 2026-06 | Republican | Senate | UT | John R. Curtis | C001114 | www.curtis.senate.gov | curtis | https://www.curtis.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases | scraper | Road to Housing Act would help increase housing supply amid significant demand, high prices WASHINGTON—U.S. Senator John Curtis (R-UT) issued the following statement regarding the Senate’s passage of the bipartisan, bicameral 21st Century Renewing Opportunity in the American Dream (ROAD) to Housing Act: “For decades, owning a home has been a core part of the American Dream, yet housing affordability has become one of the most difficult financial challenges that families face today. And with Utah being one of the fastest-growing states in the nation, our state is experiencing a serious supply crunch, which further puts homeownership out of reach. “But today, the Senate took a significant step toward delivering meaningful relief for those families by passing the ROAD to Housing Act. This legislation advances practical, commonsense solutions to increase housing supply and expand access to affordable housing and financing opportunities for families, making the dream of homeownership more attainable and the pressures of renting less burdensome. “Despite all the noise we see, passing this major piece of legislation demonstrates that bicameral cooperation and bipartisanship are alive in Congress and that we are working to address the issues the American people care about most. “I have been proud to support this effort and will continue working to influence and advance practical solutions that lower costs for families and keep the American Dream a reality.” Background: Due to travel delays caused by inclement weather, Senator Curtis was unable to attend the Senate’s final passage vote. He however supported the legislation in preceding votes. As one of the fastest-growing states in the nation, Utah has experienced significant housing demand in recent years, driving up both home prices and rent for families across the state. The 21st Century ROAD to Housing Act is a bipartisan, bicameral package designed to address these affordability challenges by increasing housing supply and reducing barriers that make it harder… | 1 | 2026-06-24T06:25:30Z | 2026-06-24T06:26:49Z |
| https://www.curtis.senate.gov/press-releases/curtis-cosponsors-bipartisan-legislation-to-secure-hazard-pay-for-wildland-firefighters | Curtis Cosponsors Bipartisan Legislation to Secure Hazard Pay for Wildland Firefighters | 2026-06-22 | 2026 | 2026-06 | Republican | Senate | UT | John R. Curtis | C001114 | www.curtis.senate.gov | curtis | https://www.curtis.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases | scraper | WASHINGTON—U.S. Senator John Curtis (R-UT) cosponsored the Wildland Firefighter Hazard Pay Correction Act, bipartisan legislation to provide hazard pay to wildland firefighters and smokejumpers for prescribed burns and training jumps, ensuring these brave first responders are recognized with fair compensation. “Prescribed burns are one of the many ways wildland firefighters put their lives on the line to prevent wildfires and manage our lands,” said Senator Curtis. “This bill ensures federal wildland firefighters and smokejumpers are fairly compensated for the risks they take to protect our forests, public lands, and communities.” The legislation was introduced by Senators Tim Sheehy (R-MT) and Alex Padilla (D-CA) and is also cosponsored by Senators Michael Bennet (D-CO) and John Hickenlooper (D-CO). “Our wildland firefighters and smoke jumpers face incredible risks to defend our communities, and for too long, they have done so without fair compensation. With the bulk of fire season on its way, this bipartisan bill ensures we pay these heroes what they deserve as they continue their dangerous work to protect families, communities, and property from the threat of catastrophic wildfire,” said Senator Sheehy. “Wildland firefighters put their lives on the line to keep our communities safe. As wildfires become more intense and frequent, we need to recruit and retain more firefighters to maintain strong crews on the frontlines. Our bill will ensure that our brave wildland firefighters receive hazard pay for a broader range of high-risk work – delivering a long-overdue raise,”said Senator Padilla. Background: Although firefighters receive hazard pay when responding to active wildfires, they don’t receive equivalent compensation when conducting prescribed burns, despite facing similar risks from fire, smoke, and rugged forest conditions. Likewise, hazard pay isn’t provided to smokejumpers conducting regular proficiency jumps needed to maintain readiness, even though parachuting into remote areas is inherently hazar… | 1 | 2026-06-24T06:25:30Z | 2026-06-24T06:26:49Z |
| https://www.lee.senate.gov/2026/6/lee-votes-to-protect-americans-from-government-overreach-calls-for-real-affordable-housing-solutions | Lee Votes to Protect Americans from Government Overreach, Calls for Real Affordable Housing Solutions | 2026-06-22 | 2026 | 2026-06 | Republican | Senate | UT | Mike Lee | L000577 | www.lee.senate.gov | mikelee | https://www.lee.senate.gov/press-releases | scraper | WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Mike Lee (R-UT) today voted against the flawed Road to Housing Act to protect Americans from federal overreach and stand for real affordable housing solutions. “Americans need more affordable housing. Unfortunately, this bill doesn’t do enough to provide it, instead increasing the federal government’s long-running and failed involvement in the U.S. housing market,” said Senator Mike Lee. “Notably, the bill does not do nearly enough to safeguard housing programs for American citizens only. Additionally, the bill includes only a temporary ban on a Central Bank Digital Currency (CBDC) rather than a permanent one, while failing to prohibit any future administration from trampling state and local authorities for social engineering like the Biden and Obama administrations. The process to fix this bill has been nonexistent, with no amendment votes in the Senate. We can do better. To truly improve housing affordability, we must drastically reduce the federal government’s footprint in housing policy, cut federal spending to reduce federal debt, which in turn can lower mortgage interest rates, and continue mass deportations of illegal aliens who are placing a significant burden on housing availability and affordability for American citizens.” ### | 1 | 2026-06-23T06:27:52Z | 2026-06-23T06:29:20Z |
| https://www.lee.senate.gov/2026/6/senator-lee-on-fox-news-debate-save-america-act-until-it-passes-trust-president-trump-on-iran | Senator Lee on FOX News: Debate SAVE America Act Until it Passes, Trust President Trump on Iran | 2026-06-22 | 2026 | 2026-06 | Republican | Senate | UT | Mike Lee | L000577 | www.lee.senate.gov | mikelee | https://www.lee.senate.gov/press-releases | scraper | WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Mike Lee (R-UT) joined FOX News Sunday with host Shannon Bream to outline a path to passage for the SAVE America Act, call on the Senate to skip vacation, and discuss President Trump’s America-First navigation of the conflict in Iran. Watch the full interview here. Watch Senator Lee outline the SAVE America Act's path to passage here. Senator Lee on the SAVE America Act’s Path to Passage: “It’s important to remember that the original SAVE America Act – the one that was passed by the House of Representatives – does have simple majority support in the Senate. While it’s true that we’re ten votes shy of cloture (forcing debate to a close), that doesn’t mean that we couldn’t pass it. “There are a couple ways to get there. “One would be nuking the filibuster, which appears unlikely to happen. But the other way is to exhaust the other side – to continue to debate the bill until it passes. This was a common procedure in the Senate for most of its existence; it needs to be used from time to time in situations like this one. “Look, the American people overwhelmingly support this – Republicans, Democrats alike. We’re talking about three out of four Americans – regardless of political party – want to make it easy to vote and hard to cheat. That’s what the House-passed SAVE America Act does, and the Senate needs to be willing to do that hard work to make sure that happens. “If we put it on the floor tomorrow, and we announce that we’re going to debate it until it passes, I’m confident that we can get there.” – Watch Senator Lee call on the Senate to stop vacationing and start working here. Senator Lee on the Senate Vacationing Instead of Voting: “Days or weeks can feel like months or years to United States senators who want to be doing other things. The truth is we haven't tried what I believe it takes to get the Save America Act passed, which is to put it on the floor and to say we're going to debate this for weeks. And we'll stay through weekends, we'll stay through previously scheduled… | 1 | 2026-06-23T06:27:52Z | 2026-06-23T06:29:20Z |
| https://www.curtis.senate.gov/press-releases/curtis-announces-250-mile-walk-for-americas-250th-anniversary | Curtis Announces 250-Mile Walk for America’s 250th Anniversary | 2026-06-18 | 2026 | 2026-06 | Republican | Senate | UT | John R. Curtis | C001114 | www.curtis.senate.gov | curtis | https://www.curtis.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases | scraper | Journey will honor values highlighted in America’s founding documents, Utah’s pioneer heritage PROVO, UT—U.S. Senator John Curtis (R-UT) today announced his plans to embark on a multi-day, 250-mile walk across Utah in honor of the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence. Averaging 30 miles of walking per day, the senator will start his journey near the northern border of Utah and end in his hometown of Provo on the Fourth of July. As previewed in an opinion piece published in the Deseret News, Senator Curtis will use the occasion to highlight the values enshrined in the United States’ founding documents—the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution—and those exhibited by Utah’s pioneer settlers. The Senator’s remarks as delivered can be found below. The video file can be downloaded here. As you all know, this year marks the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence—America’s semiquincentennial, if you will. We recognize some of the most consequential moments in human history: A citizens’ army of patriots winning their independence from the greatest empire of the 18th century. And while accomplishing that military miracle, they forged diverse peoples, interests, and cultures into a unified experiment in democracy. Guided by Providence, the cause of those patriots prevailed, and the American experiment thrives even 250 years later. This moment invites us to look beyond the partisan politics of our time and deeply reflect on the underlying principles and values enshrined in our founding documents that have shaped our nation for generations. I’ve long thought about how I can best honor this occasion as Utah’s United States Senator. So, I’m announcing that starting next week, I’m going to walk 250 miles starting near the northern border of our state and ending in Provo at the Stadium of Fire on the Fourth of July. Averaging about 30 miles per day, I will walk through our local communities, having Utahns join me along the way, to reflect on and promot… | 1 | 2026-06-19T06:50:32Z | 2026-06-19T06:53:40Z |
| https://www.curtis.senate.gov/press-releases/curtis-padilla-introduce-bipartisan-bill-to-strengthen-rural-water-infrastructure-and-wildfire-readiness | Curtis, Padilla Introduce Bipartisan Bill to Strengthen Rural Water Infrastructure and Wildfire Readiness | 2026-06-18 | 2026 | 2026-06 | Republican | Senate | UT | John R. Curtis | C001114 | www.curtis.senate.gov | curtis | https://www.curtis.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases | scraper | WASHINGTON—U.S. Senators John Curtis (R-UT) and Alex Padilla (D-CA), members of the Environment and Public Works Committee, introduced the FIRE SMART Act, bipartisan legislation to expand funding eligibility for projects with fire suppression benefits in high-risk rural areas. The legislation would help build rural communities’ resiliency by optimizing water infrastructure to provide the flow necessary for emergency responders to save lives and property during an active wildfire. The legislation amends the Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) Drinking Water State Revolving Funds to expand eligibility for water infrastructure projects that have both drinking water and wildfire suppression benefits, and are in communities at high risk for wildfires with fewer than 50,000 residents. “As wildfires continue to threaten Utah and the West, rural communities need access to the tools and infrastructure necessary to protect lives and property,” said Senator Curtis. “This bipartisan legislation makes targeted, commonsense reforms to allow certain drinking water projects that also strengthen wildfire resilience to qualify for federal support. By helping small, high-risk communities upgrade critical water infrastructure, we can improve public safety while maintaining the core mission of providing reliable drinking water.” “While we’ve made progress in wildfire mitigation and prevention, too many rural communities still lack the water infrastructure needed to effectively respond when disaster strikes,” said Senator Padilla. “The FIRE SMART Act changes that reality by strengthening water systems and giving rural communities the tools they need to keep homes and families safe. While we can’t predict when wildfires will strike, this commonsense legislation will help ensure rural communities are better prepared when they do.” The bill is also cosponsored by Senators Tim Sheehy (R-MT), Mark Kelly (D-AZ), John Boozman (R-AR), Adam Schiff (D-CA), Mike Crapo (R-ID), and Jeff Merkley (D-OR). The full text of the bill can be fou… | 1 | 2026-06-19T06:50:32Z | 2026-06-19T06:53:40Z |
| https://www.curtis.senate.gov/press-releases/curtis-questions-kari-lake-highlights-growing-ccp-influence-in-caribbean | Curtis Questions Kari Lake, Highlights Growing CCP Influence in Caribbean | 2026-06-18 | 2026 | 2026-06 | Republican | Senate | UT | John R. Curtis | C001114 | www.curtis.senate.gov | curtis | https://www.curtis.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases | scraper | During his questioning, Curtis, chair of the SFRC Western Hemisphere Subcommittee, cited recent statements from Chinese officials describing Jamaica as a “strategic partner” of China and pressed for greater scrutiny of Beijing’s objectives in the region. Curtis also highlighted concerns surrounding Chinese involvement in Jamaica’s port infrastructure and the expansion of Huawei telecommunications technology, noting the potential risks related to data security, supply chain visibility, and regional stability. The full transcript of the exchange is below, and video can be found here. Senator Curtis: Ms. Lake, as you know, I’ve enjoyed getting to know you better. If I’m honest, I knew you from your persona, and you and I had really never met. I’ve spent a lot of time trying to get to know the real Kari Lake, and I’m grateful for the visit you made to my office and for the chance that we’ve had to talk about a number of issues. So, I’m somewhat satisfied on all those questions and would like to turn my attention today to Jamaica, and particularly China. We’ve heard today about drugs and gangs, but also equally concerning to me is China and its relationship with Jamaica. The Chinese ambassador to Jamaica said in May that President Xi Jinping emphasized that Jamaica is a strategic partner of China. What’s your assessment of China’s strategic objectives in Jamaica, and really, what are their true motives there? Kari Lake: Thank you, Senator Curtis. And yes, thank you for the time that you afforded me in your office. I enjoyed getting to know you as well. I had never met you before, and I sometimes have to go and prove to people I don’t have horns growing out of my head because the media has done a number on me. So, thank you for giving me the chance. Curtis: I mentioned, as a Utahn, sometimes we have that same problem. Lake: The media’s tough there, too? Curtis: Well, people thinking we have horns. Lake: Well, we appreciate you, and you’re our neighbor, Utah. We love Utah. We have a lot of good friends who live … | 1 | 2026-06-19T06:50:32Z | 2026-06-19T06:53:40Z |
| https://www.lee.senate.gov/2026/6/lee-shaheen-introduce-bipartisan-bill-keeping-foreign-spies-out-of-american-waters | Lee, Shaheen Introduce Bipartisan Bill Keeping Foreign Spies Out of American Waters | 2026-06-15 | 2026 | 2026-06 | Republican | Senate | UT | Mike Lee | L000577 | www.lee.senate.gov | mikelee | https://www.lee.senate.gov/press-releases | scraper | WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators Mike Lee (R-UT) and Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH) introduced the Arctic Security and Diplomacy Act, a bipartisan bill to keep spy ships from adversarial nations such as China and Russia from conducting research and espionage operations in American waters. “The United States must not tolerate China’s increasing incursions into US waters under the guise of surveys and research,” said Senator Mike Lee. “This legislation shuts the door to foreign adversaries attempting to commit espionage and exercise influence at our doorstep in the Arctic, affirming the sole right of the American people to determine who may approach their shores, from the Aleutians to the Beaufort Sea.” “I recently returned from a bipartisan congressional delegation to Canada, Greenland, Norway and Iceland, where we heard firsthand how Russia and China are expanding their presence and influence across the Arctic,” said Senate Foreign Relations Committee Ranking Member Jeanne Shaheen. “As these adversaries deepen their cooperation in the region, the United States must deepen our own partnerships with Arctic allies to protect our waters, critical infrastructure and national security interests. This bipartisan legislation will help ensure that foreign vessels linked to China, Russia and other adversaries cannot exploit scientific research as a cover for espionage or intelligence-gathering activities in American waters, while strengthening our ability to identify and respond to emerging threats in the Arctic.” Background The Russian Federation and People’s Republic of China – allied adversaries of the United States – are colluding to enhance their competitive presence in the Arctic region. Russia controls approximately 53% of the arctic coastline, and has significantly expanded its military infrastructure in the region. Likewise, the U.S. Department of War reported “an unprecedented number of Chinese military and research vessels operated in or near U.S. Arctic waters” in 2025. The two nations have openly collaborated to establis… | 1 | 2026-06-16T06:53:21Z | 2026-06-16T06:55:02Z |
| https://www.curtis.senate.gov/press-releases/curtis-colleagues-introduce-bill-to-increase-second-amendment-protections-against-frivolous-lawsuits | Curtis, Colleagues Introduce Bill to Increase Second Amendment Protections Against Frivolous Lawsuits | 2026-06-12 | 2026 | 2026-06 | Republican | Senate | UT | John R. Curtis | C001114 | www.curtis.senate.gov | curtis | https://www.curtis.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases | scraper | WASHINGTON—U.S. Senator John Curtis (R-UT) joined Senator John Cornyn (R-TX), along with 14 of their Senate Republican colleagues, in introducing the Stopping Harmful and Outrageous Torts (SHOT) Act, which would strengthen the Protection of Lawful Commerce in Arms Act (PLCAA) to provide enhanced protections to the firearms industry from frivolous lawsuits brought by anti-gun bad actors. “For years, bad actors have frivolously litigated the firearms industry in ways that unnecessarily strain our court system and undermine Americans’ Second Amendment rights,” said Senator Curtis. “The SHOT Act helps ensure that lawful firearms manufacturers and sellers are not held liable for crimes committed by third parties, while closing loopholes and reinforcing existing legal protections.” “I am a proud supporter of the PLCAA, which protects our firearms industry from the constant onslaught of frivolous attacks by the Radical Left, progressive officials, and rogue activist judges,” said Senator Cornyn. “This legislation would strengthen the PLCAA to ensure it can continue to defend law-abiding Americans’ Second Amendment rights against anti-gun groups’ evolving tactics, and I urge the Senate to bring it to the floor for a vote as soon as possible.” The legislation is also cosponsored by Senators Marsha Blackburn (R-TN), Ted Budd (R-NC), Mike Crapo (R-ID), Steve Daines (R-MT), Chuck Grassley (R-IA), Jim Risch (R-ID), Tim Sheehy (R-MT), Lindsey Graham (R-SC), Tom Cotton (R-AR), Jim Justice (R-WV), Cynthia Lummis (R-WY), Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV), Pete Ricketts (R-NE), and Bill Cassidy (R-LA). U.S. Representative Derek Schmidt (R-KS) introduced companion legislation in the House of Representatives. “Radical leftists, Democrat politicians, and rogue judges are eroding our Second Amendment rights by supporting baseless lawsuits against law-abiding gun makers,” said Senator Blackburn. “The SHOT Act would put a stop to these harmful lawsuits and protect the firearms industry that is vital to upholding our constitutional right t… | 1 | 2026-06-13T06:32:19Z | 2026-06-13T06:34:27Z |
| https://www.lee.senate.gov/2026/6/lee-cosponsors-doubled-fines-for-illegal-immigrants-and-employers | Lee Cosponsors Doubled Fines for Illegal Immigrants and Employers | 2026-06-12 | 2026 | 2026-06 | Republican | Senate | UT | Mike Lee | L000577 | www.lee.senate.gov | mikelee | https://www.lee.senate.gov/press-releases | scraper | WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Mike Lee (R-UT) today cosponsored the Illegal Immigration Cost Recovery Act with Senator Rick Scott (R-FL) to double civil financial penalties for illegal aliens residing in the United States and their employers. “Americans are footing the bill for illegal immigrants who use public services, benefits, and schools intended for citizens,” said Senator Mike Lee. “The law has long required financial penalties for illegal immigrants, but no president other than Donald Trump has stood up for the American people by enforcing them. I’m proud to cosponsor Senator Rick Scott’s Illegal Immigration Cost Recovery Act to double civil financial penalties for illegal immigrants and claw back Americans’ hard-earned money.” “Illegal immigration is — in fact — illegal and has consequences,” said Senator Rick Scott. “President Trump is working hard to restore law and order, and we in Congress needs to do our part to help. Decades of open border policies have created an enormous and unfair cost burden on Americans that needs to be offset to make things right; meanwhile, those that entered our country illegally should face consequences for their actions. This commonsense bill enforces the law and ensures illegal aliens can’t keep ripping off our country and undermining the hardworking Americans who pay taxes and follow the rules.” Background While these penalties were signed into law nearly 40 years ago, President Trump is the first and only president to enforce monetary consequences for illegally entering the country. Under the Biden administration, Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) was specifically instructed not to issue these fines. ICE started issuing failure-to-depart fines again as of June 2025. Higher penalties will force illegal aliens to pay for the burden they have created for American citizens and impose penalties for breaking federal law. Specifically, this legislation increases penalties for those who: Enter or attempt to enter the United States unlawfully. Have a final order of … | 1 | 2026-06-13T06:32:19Z | 2026-06-13T06:34:27Z |
| https://www.curtis.senate.gov/press-releases/curtis-cosponsors-bipartisan-bill-to-better-protect-and-compensate-federal-firefighters | Curtis Cosponsors Bipartisan Bill to Better Protect and Compensate Federal Firefighters | 2026-06-11 | 2026 | 2026-06 | Republican | Senate | UT | John R. Curtis | C001114 | www.curtis.senate.gov | curtis | https://www.curtis.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases | scraper | WASHINGTON—U.S. Senator John Curtis (R-UT) cosponsored the Support Our Firefighters Act, bipartisan legislation to provide federal wildland firefighters dedicated rest and recuperation leave following extended deployments to major wildfire incidents. The bill aims to improve workforce well-being, reduce burnout, and help agencies retain the experienced personnel required to respond to increasingly complex wildfire threats. “As Utah and other Western states face increasingly challenging fire seasons, we need to ensure our dedicated firefighters have the support they deserve,” said Senator Curtis. “Providing time to rest and recover after extended deployments is a commonsense step that will help strengthen recruitment, retention, and readiness across the federal firefighting workforce.” Background: As wildfire seasons grow longer and more severe across the West, federal firefighters are increasingly spending weeks away from their families and communities while protecting lives, property, and public lands. The Support Our Firefighters Act would establish a formal rest and recuperation leave program for eligible wildland firefighters employed by the U.S. Forest Service and Department of the Interior after lengthy assignments on qualifying wildfire incidents. The legislation would: Establish paid rest and recuperation leave for eligible federal wildland firefighters following deployments to qualifying wildfire incidents. Direct the Departments of Agriculture and Interior to develop uniform policies governing the leave program. Help address workforce retention challenges by recognizing the physical and mental demands placed on firefighters during extended fire assignments. Preserve continuity in federal wildland firefighter compensation by providing additional transfer authority related to firefighter pay. Permanently extend existing waivers of overtime pay caps for federal wildland firefighters. The Support Our Firefighters Act was introduced by Senators Alex Padilla (D-CA) and Tim Sheehy (R-MT). | 1 | 2026-06-12T06:37:16Z | 2026-06-12T06:39:00Z |
| https://www.lee.senate.gov/2026/6/lee-introduces-america-first-bills-cutting-red-tape-for-supply-chain-ports | Lee Introduces America-First Bills Cutting Red Tape for Supply Chain Ports | 2026-06-11 | 2026 | 2026-06 | Republican | Senate | UT | Mike Lee | L000577 | www.lee.senate.gov | mikelee | https://www.lee.senate.gov/press-releases | scraper | WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Mike Lee (R-UT) today introduced a package of legislation to strengthen America’s supply chain by cutting red tape around dredging infrastructure. The four bills modernize dredging project and vessel policies to enable resource availability and ensure America remains economically competitive. “America’s supply chain relies on our ports, which are currently suffocating under century-old red tape,” said Senator Mike Lee. “These bills will free up essential infrastructure and modernize policies to secure America’s economic dominance and keep our ports competitive.” Background The Dredging to Ensure the Empowerment of Ports (DEEP) Act repeals the Foreign Dredge Act of 1906 and streamline key impediments in the Clean Water Act, as well as the Army Corps’ process for considering dredge projects at American ports. | Read the full bill text here. The Allied Partnership and Port Modernization Act supports more economic opportunities at our ports. It would amend the Foreign Dredge Act of 1906 to allow NATO-affiliated dredging vessels to operate in the United States. | Read the full bill text here. The Port Modernization and Supply Chain Protection Act repeals the Foreign Dredge Act of 1906’s cabotage requirements and allows all dredge vessels qualified under U.S. law to operate in the United States. | Read the full bill text here. The Incentivizing the Expansion of U.S. Ports Act amends the Foreign Dredge Act of 1906 to allow Americans to purchase foreign-built dredge vessels for operation in the United States, provided that they are crewed by Americans and flagged under U.S. law. | Read the full bill text here. ### | 1 | 2026-06-12T06:37:16Z | 2026-06-12T06:39:00Z |
| https://www.curtis.senate.gov/press-releases/utah-wyoming-senators-and-governors-meet-on-colorado-river-negotiations | Utah, Wyoming Senators and Governors Meet on Colorado River Negotiations | 2026-06-10 | 2026 | 2026-06 | Republican | Senate | UT | John R. Curtis | C001114 | www.curtis.senate.gov | curtis | https://www.curtis.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases | scraper | WASHINGTON—U.S. Senators John Curtis (R-UT); Mike Lee (R-UT), Chairman of the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee; John Barrasso (R-WY), Majority Whip; and Cynthia Lummis (R-WY) joined Utah Governor Spencer Cox (R-UT) and Wyoming Governor Mark Gordon (R-WY) for a meeting on Colorado River negotiations. They discussed the future of the Colorado River Basin and the long-term management of critical water resources, including Flaming Gorge Reservoir and Lake Powell. “Upper Basin states share a strong interest in ensuring the long-term sustainability of the Colorado River,” said Senator Curtis. “Meetings like today’s are important as we navigate practical, innovative, and bipartisan solutions to help address our water management challenges.” “The Colorado River is vital to the people, communities, and economies of the American West,” said Senator Lee. “As the Department of the Interior moves toward a post-2026 operating plan, it is essential that any solution respect existing law, recognize the realities facing the Upper Basin, and protect the ability of our states to develop and use the water to which they are entitled. I appreciate Governor Cox, Governor Gordon, and my colleagues for coming together to ensure the Upper Basin continues to speak with a united voice.” “Utah remains committed to a seven-basin-state solution that protects the long-term future of the Colorado River,” said Governor Cox. “Any durable agreement must recognize the realities facing the Upper Basin, where communities are already living with significant shortages and doing their part to conserve water. We believe the best path forward is a fair, negotiated solution that keeps all states at the table and avoids years of costly litigation.” “The Colorado River Basin is a lifeline for Wyoming families, farmers, ranchers, and our economy,” said Senator Barrasso. “Any management plan must address shortages from emergency withdrawals and drought, especially from Wyoming’s Flaming Gorge Reservoir. Wyoming and Utah will continue to fight f… | 1 | 2026-06-13T06:32:19Z | 2026-06-13T06:34:27Z |
| https://www.lee.senate.gov/2026/6/lee-tuberville-introduce-protections-for-homeopathic-medicine-with-fda-approval-framework | Lee, Tuberville Introduce Protections for Homeopathic Medicine with FDA Marketing Pathway Framework | 2026-06-05 | 2026 | 2026-06 | Republican | Senate | UT | Mike Lee | L000577 | www.lee.senate.gov | mikelee | https://www.lee.senate.gov/press-releases | scraper | WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators Mike Lee (R-UT) and Tommy Tuberville (R- AL) today introduced legislation building an FDA framework for homeopathic medicine to protect Americans’ access to natural health solutions. The Homeopathic Drug Product Safety, Quality, and Transparency Act will provide a pathway for homeopathic medicinal products to be lawfully marketed by the Food and Drug Administration without needlessly banning safe products that simply do not fit into the same legal categories as traditional pharmaceuticals. “Americans have a right to manage their own health and choose treatments that are right for them, including homeopathic methods,” said Senator Mike Lee. “The current federal regulatory framework is designed around traditional pharmaceuticals, but it is ill-equipped to review the safety and effectiveness of homeopathic products. So we are building a new one. Our legislation answers the concerns of thousands of families across the country who have been calling on Washington to find a better way.” “I’ve long been an advocate for homeopathic medicine,” said Senator Tommy Tuberville. “The reality is that too many Americans today are hooked on pharmaceuticals when they could be using homeopathic remedies, which are often cheaper and can yield miraculous results. There’s no reason why the FDA shouldn’t be reviewing and approving some of these remedies to help Americans live healthier lives.” – The Homeopathic Drug Product Safety, Quality, and Transparency Act is endorsed by Americans for Homeopathy Choice Action, MAHA Action, the CPAC Foundation, the National Health Federation, the Health Freedom Defense Fund, and the National Products Association. “Americans for Homeopathy Choice Action and the 120,000 consumers we represent are grateful to Sens. Tuberville and Lee for introducing this bill which, when enacted, will ensure continued access to homeopathy for millions of Americans who use it to restore and maintain their health. Homeopathic medicines are also an important nontoxic option for health pract… | 1 | 2026-06-06T06:16:30Z | 2026-06-09T06:30:10Z |
| https://www.curtis.senate.gov/press-releases/curtis-calls-for-infrastructure-funding-formula-reforms-to-support-utahs-rapid-growth | Curtis Calls for Infrastructure Funding Formula Reforms to Support Utah’s Rapid Growth | 2026-06-03 | 2026 | 2026-06 | Republican | Senate | UT | John R. Curtis | C001114 | www.curtis.senate.gov | curtis | https://www.curtis.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases | scraper | Near the end of the exchange, the Senator highlighted his bipartisan Build Housing, Unlock Benefits and Services (HUBS) Act, which he co-sponsored with Senator Lisa Blunt Rochester (D-DE), which makes several changes aimed at improving the usability of important infrastructure loan programs. The Senator ended his questioning by inviting Administrator McMaster to visit Utah to see the state’s projects firsthand. The full transcript of the exchange is below, and video can be found here. Senator Curtis: Thank you, Administrator, for being here. As you and I had a minute to talk before the meeting, we discussed the dynamic growth in Utah. And what I’d like to touch on just quickly, is the formula for funding that’s based upon static historical information and really doesn’t take into account a state like Utah’s rapid growth. And as you can imagine, that’s very problematic for Utah with the growth that we’re experiencing. So, I guess my question is as Congress considers the next surface transportation reauthorization, how should we think about incorporating projected population growth and travel demand in the formula? The Honorable Sean McMaster: Yeah, I know the formula is kind of a touchy topic. It hasn’t been adjusted dramatically for a little bit of time. We’d be happy to work closely with you. My understanding is, you know, population, you can kind of back into that a little bit in certain capacities, but I don’t think it directly associates itself with population growth. So, happy to work with you. Curtis: I would love to work with you. You being familiar with our situation, you can see how frustrating that is to have that rapid growth not taken into consideration as we’re getting funding. Some of my colleagues have talked about this permitting and state flexibility. As you know, Utah’s participated in the Federal Highway Administration’s NEPA Assignment Program and has demonstrated that states can successfully navigate this in a responsible way and do a good job. So, my question is, what other flexibilit… | 1 | 2026-06-06T06:16:30Z | 2026-06-06T06:17:47Z |
| https://www.curtis.senate.gov/press-releases/curtis-highlights-need-for-protection-of-olympic-sports-college-athletics-reform | Curtis Highlights Need for Protection of Olympic Sports, College Athletics Reform | 2026-06-03 | 2026 | 2026-06 | Republican | Senate | UT | John R. Curtis | C001114 | www.curtis.senate.gov | curtis | https://www.curtis.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases | scraper | Questioning University of Utah football player Lance Holtzclaw, Senator Curtis highlighted the challenges student-athletes face navigating a patchwork of state laws and institutional policies. Holtzclaw emphasized that a national framework would bring “standardization and regulation” while eliminating confusion and uncertainty for athletes. Senator Curtis also focused attention on the critical role college sports play in developing future Olympians, particularly as Utah prepares to host the 2034 Winter Olympic Games. Speaking with Notre Dame Athletic Director Pete Bevacqua, Curtis noted that many future Team USA athletes are currently training and competing through collegiate programs. Bevacqua agreed that federal legislation should include meaningful protections for Olympic sports, warning that without sustained university investment, the United States’ Olympic pipeline could suffer. The Senator concluded by discussing the broader purpose of college athletics with legendary coach Nick Saban. Referencing BYU Head Coach Kalani Sitake’s observation that the best part of coaching is developing leaders, Curtis stressed that college sports should remain focused on preparing young people for success beyond competition. The full transcript of the exchange is below, and video can be found here. Senator Curtis: Mr. Holtzclaw, my colleague alluded to the fact that you have played for a lot of different teams, and this wouldn’t be a good sports hearing without a little banter, so, I’m kind of curious: what is your favorite team? And just in case you need any help… *displays University of Utah cap* Lance Holtzclaw: I wouldn’t call any team my favorite, but I do represent the team I currently play for, which is the University of Utah. Curtis: You should be in politics. Chairman Ted Cruz: Okay, that’s damn diplomatic. Senator Curtis, you better be worried that he may file for election. Curtis: Oh, he looks far more comfortable in a uniform than he does in that suit, I’ll tell you that. So let me start with you and kind… | 1 | 2026-06-06T06:16:30Z | 2026-06-06T06:17:47Z |
| https://www.lee.senate.gov/2026/6/lee-cosponsors-bipartisan-email-privacy-act-to-protect-americans-from-warrantless-searches | Lee Cosponsors Bipartisan Email Privacy Act to Protect Americans from Warrantless Searches | 2026-06-03 | 2026 | 2026-06 | Republican | Senate | UT | Mike Lee | L000577 | www.lee.senate.gov | mikelee | https://www.lee.senate.gov/press-releases | scraper | WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Mike Lee (R-UT) cosponsored the bipartisan Email Privacy Act with Senator Ron Wyden (D-OR) to protect Americans from warrantless searches of their emails and other personalized digital records. The House version of this legislation was introduced by Representatives Warren Davidson (R-OH-08) and Suzan DelBene (D-WA-01). “Americans should not lose their Fourth Amendment protections simply because their private communications are stored with a third-party provider,” said Senator Mike Lee. “By eliminating the outdated 180-day rule and requiring the government to obtain a warrant for the contents of emails and other electronic communications, this legislation brings ECPA into line with the realities of the 21st century.” “Right now, the only thing standing between the government and warrantless access to all of the old emails in your inbox is a federal appeals court decision,” said Senator Ron Wyden. “That's not good enough when it comes to Fourth Amendment protections for one of the fundamental forms of communication right now. I’m proud to partner with a bipartisan coalition to put clear protections for Americans' rights into black-letter law.” “The Fourth Amendment is clear: the government must get a warrant before searching an individual’s private property, including written communications. As today’s world has grown increasingly digital, that principle should apply just as strongly to an email inbox as it does to a desk drawer or file cabinet,” said Congressman Warren Davidson. “That’s exactly why I’m proud to cosponsor the Email Privacy Act—to ensure our freedoms carry into the digital world and that all communications are protected as the Founders intended. Congress must pass this commonsense legislation so Americans’ rights are fully respected in the 21st century.” “The current law governing online privacy standards is egregiously out of date, leaving millions of Americans’ private communications and data vulnerable,” said Congresswoman Suzan DelBene. “Our laws must reflect the ca… | 1 | 2026-06-04T06:38:12Z | 2026-06-04T06:39:44Z |
| https://www.curtis.senate.gov/press-releases/curtis-calls-for-countering-prc-influence-strengthening-support-for-taiwan | Curtis Calls for Countering PRC Influence, Strengthening Support for Taiwan | 2026-06-02 | 2026 | 2026-06 | Republican | Senate | UT | John R. Curtis | C001114 | www.curtis.senate.gov | curtis | https://www.curtis.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases | scraper | The two discussed the State Department’s proposed $245 million Countering PRC Influence Fund and highlighted bipartisan legislation Curtis introduced with Senator Chris Van Hollen (D-MD) to dedicate a portion of those resources specifically toward strengthening Taiwan’s position and countering Chinese influence in the region. Read more about the legislation here. The Senator also underscored the importance of language proficiency among American diplomats, particularly regarding Uyghur language training. Referencing provisions from the Uyghur Policy Act, Curtis stressed that Foreign Service Officers serving in Asia and China should have the language skills necessary to communicate directly with affected populations and better understand ongoing human rights abuses against Uyghurs. Secretary Rubio reaffirmed the Department’s commitment to expanding language training capabilities and recruiting Foreign Service Officers with existing foreign language proficiency, noting the strategic importance of specialized languages such as Uyghur. The full transcript of the exchange is below, and video can be found here. Senator Curtis: Mr. Secretary, thank you for being here. I’m always truly impressed with your ability to navigate around the globe so articulately and explain the positions. Like you previously, I chair the Western Hemisphere Subcommittee. One of the focuses that I’ve had is on Taiwan and Taiwan’s relationship in the Western Hemisphere. We actually had our first Subcommittee hearing on Taiwan’s allies in the Western Hemisphere. And as you well know, Honduras switched diplomatic recognition away from Taiwan in 2023, in exchange for a lot of promises from China. No surprise—those promises have not been fulfilled. Their current president, during his campaign, talked about returning to Taiwan and restoring that relationship with Taiwan. In your budget, you have $245 million for the Countering PRC Influence Fund. And I’d like to note, Senator Van Hollen and I have a bill that would actually carve off a portion … | 1 | 2026-06-06T06:16:30Z | 2026-06-06T06:17:47Z |
| https://www.lee.senate.gov/2026/5/supreme-court-protects-separation-of-powers-following-lee-amicus-brief | Supreme Court Protects Separation of Powers Following Lee Amicus Brief | 2026-05-29 | 2026 | 2026-05 | Republican | Senate | UT | Mike Lee | L000577 | www.lee.senate.gov | mikelee | https://www.lee.senate.gov/press-releases | scraper | WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Mike Lee (R-UT) lauded the United States Supreme Court’s decision to maintain the separation of powers by keeping activist judges from coopting the role of Congress in the case of Daren K. Margolin, Director of the Executive Office for Immigration Review v. National Association of Immigration Judges. Following Senator Lee’s urging in an amicus curiae brief, the Supreme Court reversed a ruling by the Fourth Circuit that would have potentially undermined a policy requiring federal immigration judges to obtain approval before taking on speaking engagements in their official capacity. “I’m glad to see the Supreme Court maintain the separation of powers keeping rogue activist judges from undermining the work of the executive branch,” said Senator Mike Lee. “Our federal immigration judges should be focused on their jobs, not making themselves celebrities via unapproved speaking engagements targeted at undermining the very purpose of their work. When litigants seek to improperly challenge such approval policies in federal court, judges should also respect the administrative processes established by Congress for these types of claims. I’m proud to have spoken for Congress in an amicus curiae brief and pleased to see the Supreme Court listen.” Background The amicus brief argued that—contrary to the proceedings in this case—legal challenges to this approval policy should be channeled through the appropriate administrative process established by Congress. Justices Thomas and Barrett, in a separate writing, signaled agreement with this reasoning, stating that “[s]tatutes change only when Congress changes them, not when judges decide that they no longer vindicate Congress’s purposes." Read the full amicus curiae brief here. Read the Supreme Court’s decision here. ### | 1 | 2026-05-30T06:11:53Z | 2026-05-30T06:13:24Z |
| https://www.curtis.senate.gov/press-releases/curtis-colleagues-introduce-bipartisan-legislation-to-promote-geothermal-in-indo-pacific | Curtis, Colleagues Introduce Bipartisan Legislation to Promote Geothermal in Indo-Pacific | 2026-05-22 | 2026 | 2026-05 | Republican | Senate | UT | John R. Curtis | C001114 | www.curtis.senate.gov | curtis | https://www.curtis.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases | scraper | Pacific POWER Act seeks to cement U.S. position as global leader in geothermal energy WASHINGTON—U.S. Senator John Curtis (R-UT), member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, cosponsored the Pacific Promotion of Workable Energy Resources (POWER) Act, bipartisan legislation to promote geothermal exploration and production in the Indo-Pacific by leveraging the United States’ expertise as the world leader in geothermal electricity generation capacity. The bill was introduced by Senators Brian Schatz (D-HI) and Dave McCormick (R-PA) and is also cosponsored by Senator Chris Coons (D-DE). “America’s energy leadership is one of our greatest strategic advantages, and this legislation helps ensure we remain energy dominant in the Indo-Pacific for decades to come,” said Senator Curtis. “By advancing geothermal innovation and strengthening partnerships with our allies, we can bolster energy security, reduce dependence on adversarial supply chains, and create new economic opportunities here at home.” “With energy demand rising and countries experiencing shortages, we have an opportunity to extend our leadership in geothermal energy and help our allies and partners become more energy secure,” said Senator Schatz. “Our bill will harness the expertise, capabilities, and financial tools of the U.S. public and private sectors to promote geothermal research and deployment in the Indo-Pacific in ways that support our economic interests and national security.” “America has an opportunity to lead the world in the next generation of energy, and geothermal energy can play a major role in that future,” said Senator McCormick. “The Pacific POWER Act will help expand American energy technology and expertise in the Indo-Pacific, strengthen our partnerships abroad, and support more secure energy supply chains. At a time when China is working to expand its influence in the region, this bill helps ensure America remains at the forefront.” Background: Geothermal energy has the potential to meet a significant portion of the growth in… | 1 | 2026-05-23T06:08:46Z | 2026-05-23T06:10:20Z |
| https://www.curtis.senate.gov/press-releases/senate-passes-bipartisan-motorcycle-safety-awareness-month-resolution | Senate Passes Bipartisan Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month Resolution | 2026-05-22 | 2026 | 2026-05 | Republican | Senate | UT | John R. Curtis | C001114 | www.curtis.senate.gov | curtis | https://www.curtis.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases | scraper | WASHINGTON—The U.S. Senate passed a bipartisan resolution led by U.S. Senators John Curtis (R-UT), Gary Peters (D-MI), Joni Ernst (R-IA), and Angus King (I-ME) to designate May as “Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month.” The resolution promotes safe practices for the millions of motorcycle riders across America. “I know firsthand the freedom and enjoyment that comes with riding on America’s roads,” said Senator Curtis. “Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month is an important reminder that we must properly educate riders and that we all share responsibility for keeping our roads safe, especially heading into the summer months.” “As an avid motorcycle rider myself, I believe the best way to travel across Michigan is by motorcycle,” said Senator Peters. “Peak riding season is coming soon, which will bring more riders to roadways across the country. That’s why I’m proud the Senate has once again passed this bipartisan resolution that recognizes motorcyclists and brings awareness to safe roadway practices for riders and motorists.” “There is no better way to see the beauty of my home state than cruising up and down the rolling hills of southwest Iowa on a Harley,”said Senator Ernst. “Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month is the perfect opportunity for me to celebrate what I love about the freedom of being out on the open road while also highlighting the importance of safety and rider education.” “Motorcycles are a part of life for many Americans—and many Maine people—especially during the summer months,” said Senator King. “Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month is an important reminder that a little extra attention and caution can save lives. Whether you’re behind the handlebars or behind the wheel, we all share the responsibility of keeping our roads safe.” “The Senate resolution recognizing May as Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month is incredibly meaningful because it helps keep motorcyclists at the forefront of the minds of drivers, riders, and policymakers,” said Christy LaCurelle, President and CEO of the Motorcycle Industry Co… | 1 | 2026-05-23T06:08:46Z | 2026-05-23T06:10:20Z |
| https://www.curtis.senate.gov/press-releases/curtis-colleagues-statement-on-violent-protests-in-bolivia | Curtis, Colleagues’ Statement on Violent Protests in Bolivia | 2026-05-21 | 2026 | 2026-05 | Republican | Senate | UT | John R. Curtis | C001114 | www.curtis.senate.gov | curtis | https://www.curtis.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases | scraper | WASHINGTON—U.S. Senators John Curtis (R-UT), member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee (SFRC);Jim Risch (R-ID), SFRC Chairman; Bernie Moreno (R-OH); and Rick Scott (R-FL) released the following statement on the ongoing violent attempts to destabilize Bolivia: “We strongly condemn the ongoing violent attempts to undermine the democratically elected government in Bolivia, and the humanitarian crisis the violent protests have created. “The United States strongly supports the democratic institutions of Bolivia, including the democratically elected government of President Rodrigo Paz. It’s imperative the international community joins Bolivian efforts to stabilize its economy and promote economic prosperity. Finally, we urge the people of Bolivia to express themselves peacefully as their country takes serious steps to overcome two decades of failed socialist economic policies.” | 1 | 2026-05-23T06:08:46Z | 2026-05-23T06:10:20Z |
| https://www.curtis.senate.gov/press-releases/curtis-cramer-introduce-bill-expanding-access-to-dietary-supplements | Curtis, Cramer Introduce Bill Expanding Access to Dietary Supplements | 2026-05-21 | 2026 | 2026-05 | Republican | Senate | UT | John R. Curtis | C001114 | www.curtis.senate.gov | curtis | https://www.curtis.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases | scraper | WASHINGTON—U.S. Senators John Curtis (R-UT) and Kevin Cramer (R-ND) introduced the Dietary Supplements Access Act, which would allow dietary supplements to be purchased using Health Savings Accounts (HSAs), Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs), and Health Reimbursement Arrangements (HRAs). The measure would give families more flexibility to invest in preventive health solutions while helping reduce long-term healthcare costs. “Dietary supplements are an important part of many Utahns’ health and wellness routines, and are key to making America healthy again,” said Senator Curtis. “By expanding access to supplements through HSAs and FSAs, our legislation empowers individuals to take greater ownership of their health while helping reduce long-term healthcare costs.” “Nutritional supplements are a crucial form of preventive care, keeping people healthier in the long run and, ultimately, driving down healthcare costs,” said Senator Cramer. “But right now, the rules don’t fully reflect this reality. By modernizing how health savings accounts and flexible spending accounts can be used, this bill gives families more freedom, more choice, and more ability to invest in their own wellbeing.” Background: Utah is home to more than 300 nutraceutical companies, and dietary supplements are the state’s third-largest industry, behind just technology and tourism. Americans are more interested than ever in living healthy, fulfilling lives and are increasingly turning to dietary supplements for proactive health management. Supplements play an important role in Making America Healthy Again by helping to fill nutritional gaps, prevent deficiencies, and support overall health. Yet despite their widespread use and growing role in preventive care, federal law generally prevents Americans from freely using their own HSAs to purchase them. The bill amends the Internal Revenue Code to designate over-the-counter dietary supplements as qualified medical expenses. Under the proposal, individuals could use up to $250 annually from their healt… | 1 | 2026-05-22T06:27:39Z | 2026-05-22T06:29:18Z |
| https://www.lee.senate.gov/2026/5/lee-introduces-transparency-protections-for-military-servicemembers-unknowingly-using-restricted-supplements | Lee Introduces Transparency Protections for Military Servicemembers Unknowingly Using Restricted Supplements | 2026-05-21 | 2026 | 2026-05 | Republican | Senate | UT | Mike Lee | L000577 | www.lee.senate.gov | mikelee | https://www.lee.senate.gov/press-releases | scraper | WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Mike Lee (R-UT) today introduced legislation protecting military servicemembers from prosecution for accidental violations of ever-changing supplement ingredient rules. The Protecting Enlisted and Recruits from Excessive and Catastrophic Trials (PERFECT) Act institutes needed transparency by requiring the Secretary of War to publish a full list of prohibited ingredients every 90 days, and provides commanding officers flexibility to determine whether first-time violations were accidental and in good faith. This does not apply to dangerous or illicit drugs such as heroin or cocaine. Representative Warren Davidson (R-OH-08) introduced the House version of the bill. “Firing our upstanding military servicemembers for unknowingly taking the wrong supplement makes no sense, particularly when its ingredients are fully legal for civilians and likely even purchased on base,” said Senator Mike Lee. “The list of prohibited ingredients for servicemembers is very long, ever-changing, and difficult to access. Our troops need better transparency to avoid breaking these rules in the first place, and they deserve some flexibility for first offenses and honest mistakes. This bill will bring improved transparency to prevent violations, and allow commanding officers to judge good faith when it comes to their own troops.” “Our trained servicemembers should not be kicked out of the military for the honest mistake of taking the wrong legally available supplement they bought at GNC,” said Congressman Warren Davidson. “Treating an innocent oversight the same as possession of a Schedule I drug is disproportionate and wrong. The PERFECT Act gives COs the flexibility to handle first offenses in-unit and updates the confusing DOD portal that left servicemembers searching ingredient by ingredient and in the dark about newly banned supplements.” The PERFECT Act: Requires the Secretary of War to publish a full list of prohibited ingredients every 90 days, allowing servicemembers to view the full list rather than onl… | 1 | 2026-05-22T06:27:39Z | 2026-05-22T06:29:18Z |
| https://www.curtis.senate.gov/press-releases/curtis-raises-concerns-about-prediction-markets-gambling | Curtis Raises Concerns About Prediction Markets, Gambling | 2026-05-20 | 2026 | 2026-05 | Republican | Senate | UT | John R. Curtis | C001114 | www.curtis.senate.gov | curtis | https://www.curtis.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases | scraper | Senator Curtis also highlighted the Prediction Markets Are Gambling Act, bipartisan legislation he introduced that is aimed at preventing federally regulated exchanges from offering sports betting and casino-style contracts under the jurisdiction of the Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC). Read more about the legislation here. The full transcript of the exchange is below, and video can be found here. Senator Curtis: Mr. McHenry, I’m conflicted whether I call you Chairman, Congressman, Speaker. But I will tell you, it is a delight to see you again and I really enjoyed serving with you. If I’m honest, even a couple of months ago, I would not have been able to tell you what a prediction market was. Just in one sentence, to the man and woman back in Utah, what is a prediction market? The Honorable Patrick McHenry: It is an open exchange. It is under commodities regulation, called a “swap.” You have folks that have a contract. Some say “yes,” some say “no,” and they determine it. The marketplace, the consumers, and the participants determine what is the ratio on the contract, the likelihood of something happening. Curtis: What’s exactly happening when an event contract is purchased? McHenry: The easiest thing for me to explain is in the political setting. The political setting, ‘is John, Jane, or Joe going to win the election?’ And after the election, the contract is certified based off of information on whether or not that happened and then people are paid out based off the ratio of that final contract. Curtis: Okay. If I were hearing that back in Utah, I would say, “I think something might happen. I’m going to put money down on it, and I have the chance of either making more money or losing money on that.” Is that accurate? McHenry: Yes. And it’s an uncertain outcome, just like whether or not you’re going to have a crop that comes in this fall or not, based off of weather, unpredictable events along the way. Curtis: So, if I’m talking to these folks back home in the town hall meeting, they’re going t… | 1 | 2026-05-22T06:27:39Z | 2026-05-22T06:29:18Z |
| https://www.lee.senate.gov/2026/5/horrifying-misuse-of-american-tax-dollars-lee-calls-to-slash-un-agency-employing-hamas-terrorists-hiding-hostages-and-weapons | “Horrifying Misuse of American Tax Dollars” – Lee Calls to Slash UN Agency Employing Hamas Terrorists, Hiding Hostages and Weapons | 2026-05-19 | 2026 | 2026-05 | Republican | Senate | UT | Mike Lee | L000577 | www.lee.senate.gov | mikelee | https://www.lee.senate.gov/press-releases | scraper | WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Mike Lee (R-UT) joined Senator Tom Cotton (R-AR) and a large Senate Republican coalition urging President Trump to defund a United Nations (UN) agency employing and aiding Hamas terrorists. The United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA) employs several terrorists who participated in the initial attacks by Hamas on October 7th, as well as many others with ties to Hamas, and has repeatedly aided the terrorist organization by hiding hostages and weapons and teaching a pro-terrorism, antisemitic curriculum. “As if the UN were not already useless and expensive, it is now using American tax dollars to hide hostages and weapons for the Hamas terrorists it employs. Yes, really!” said Senator Mike Lee. “$70 million is funneled yearly from the United Nations to a group in Gaza employing multiple terrorists from the October 7th attacks and their friends. These American-paid employees have used our tax dollars to hide their hostages and weaponry and teach a pro-terrorism, antisemitic curriculum. Americans do not support this horrifying misuse of tax dollars – it must end now.” The letter reads as follows: Dear President Trump, We strongly support your administration’s efforts to preserve Israel’s long-term security and ensure that Gaza has a future free of Hamas’s terrorist influence. Your strong leadership has been instrumental in advancing a comprehensive 20-point peace plan that demands Hamas disarm and play no role in Gaza governance. Achieving stability in Gaza requires ridding Gaza of the military, social, and political infrastructure that fed Hamas’s power. The United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA) is one such structure that must be dismantled, not just in Gaza but across the region. Established in 1949 as a temporary relief agency, UNRWA operates across Gaza, Judea and Samaria, Jordan, Lebanon, and Syria. In defiance of its mission, extensive reports, investigations, and intelligence assessments… | 1 | 2026-05-20T06:27:31Z | 2026-05-20T06:28:54Z |
| https://www.lee.senate.gov/2026/5/lee-cosponsors-blue-act-with-protections-against-doxxing-police-officers | Lee Cosponsors BLUE Act with Protections Against Doxxing Police Officers | 2026-05-18 | 2026 | 2026-05 | Republican | Senate | UT | Mike Lee | L000577 | www.lee.senate.gov | mikelee | https://www.lee.senate.gov/press-releases | scraper | WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Mike Lee (R-UT) cosponsored the Blocking Leaks Undermining Law Enforcement (BLUE) Act during National Police Week with Senator Rick Scott (R-FL) to protect law enforcement officers from being doxxed. This legislation would shield federal law enforcement officers and their families from credible violent threats by prohibiting the sharing of their personal information and location with intent to obstruct, interfere with, or retaliate against their lawful duties. “Violent anti-police protestors are purposely endangering our law enforcement officers and their families with doxxing and threats,” said Senator Mike Lee. “To protect the patriots who keep us safe, the BLUE Act will outlaw sharing their personal information with the intention of obstructing or retaliating against their police work. As politicized threats against their lives increase, this change will provide the legal shield that our law enforcement officers and their families need to continue protecting Americans every day.” “It is despicable that radical left-wing protesters are routinely attacking federal law enforcement officers who risk their lives every day to protect Americans,” said Senator Rick Scott. “Democrats continue protecting criminal illegal aliens and their radical left-wing defenders instead of the law enforcement officers keeping our communities safe. Trump Derangement Syndrome and years of ‘defund the police’ rhetoric has gone too far, and the BLUE Act protects law enforcement officers doing their jobs and keeps their families’ identities safe. I proudly stand with federal law enforcement and against the lunatics putting public safety at risk.” The BLUE Act is cosponsored by U.S. Senators Marsha Blackburn (R-TN), Ted Budd (R-NC), James Lankford (R-OK), Tommy Tuberville (R-AL), and Mike Rounds (R-SD), and endorsed by the Federal Law Enforcement Officers Association (FLEOA). “It’s increasingly clear that the Radical Left doesn’t believe in law and order and will do anything to stop the law from being enforced… | 1 | 2026-05-19T06:31:01Z | 2026-05-19T06:32:40Z |
| https://www.curtis.senate.gov/press-releases/curtis-rosen-introduce-bipartisan-bill-to-help-protect-drinking-water-infrastructure-during-extreme-heat | Curtis, Rosen Introduce Bipartisan Bill to Help Protect Drinking Water Infrastructure During Extreme Heat | 2026-05-15 | 2026 | 2026-05 | Republican | Senate | UT | John R. Curtis | C001114 | www.curtis.senate.gov | curtis | https://www.curtis.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases | scraper | WASHINGTON—U.S. Senators John Curtis (R-UT) and Jacky Rosen (D-NV) introduced legislation to help protect drinking water infrastructure when faced with extreme heat or cold. The bipartisan Protecting America’s Drinking Water from Extreme Temperatures Act would make extreme temperatures, like extreme heat, an eligible condition for public water systems to apply for the Environmental Protection Agency’s Midsize and Large Drinking Water Infrastructure Resilience and Sustainability Program. This program is currently only available to bolster water infrastructure against extreme weather, natural disasters, and cybersecurity attacks. The bill would also reauthorize the program—which is set to expire this year—through 2032. The legislation is cosponsored by Senator Lisa Blunt Rochester (D-DE). “From prolonged heat to freezing winter conditions, extreme temperatures can threaten access to safe, reliable drinking water for communities across Utah and the West,” said Senator Curtis. “This bipartisan bill gives local water systems greater flexibility to strengthen infrastructure before emergencies happen and helps ensure families can continue to count on clean water no matter the weather.” “Nevada has seen some of the hottest summers ever recorded over the past few years—putting at risk our ability to access clean drinking water when we need it the most,” said Senator Rosen. “Extreme temperatures pose as much of a threat to our infrastructure as other weather events. That’s why I’m glad to introduce this bipartisan bill to ensure our communities can qualify for federal resources to strengthen public water systems.” “Americans count on their government to ensure they have access to clean water, especially during extreme heat and extreme cold,” said Senator Blunt Rochester. “We must properly invest in the resiliency of the infrastructure that makes it happen. I am proud to stand with Senators Rosen and Curtis to introduce the bipartisan Protecting Midsize and Large Drinking Water Systems from Extreme Temperature Act.” The… | 1 | 2026-05-16T06:05:00Z | 2026-05-16T06:06:37Z |
| https://www.lee.senate.gov/2026/5/lee-colleagues-demand-answers-from-brown-university-on-failure-to-prevent-tragedy | Lee, Colleagues Demand Answers from Brown University on Failure to Prevent On-Campus Killings | 2026-05-14 | 2026 | 2026-05 | Republican | Senate | UT | Mike Lee | L000577 | www.lee.senate.gov | mikelee | https://www.lee.senate.gov/press-releases | scraper | WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Mike Lee (R-UT), along with a coalition of his colleagues in the House and Senate, demanded answers from Brown University regarding the school's shocking negligence resulting in a recent on-campus killing. The university sacrificed safety equipment to pacify woke ideologues and adopted a blatantly anti-police posture, leaving students hopelessly vulnerable to an on-campus attack that killed two students and injured nine – all while Brown’s alert system lagged for a stunning and deadly seventeen minutes. “Brown University abandoned its students, choosing to virtue signal rather than protect them from being killed on their own campus,” said Senator Mike Lee. “In the last five years alone, Brown University has ignored attack threats, undermined their own campus police force, and apologized for using security cameras when woke activists called them a ‘tool of oppression’ – all while dorms were broken into and robbed year after year. This is shockingly ridiculous and abhorrently negligent. The tragic on-campus killings in December may have been averted had Brown not chosen optics over their students’ safety. I demand answers and accountability for these victims and their families.” Senators Katie Britt (R-AL), Marsha Blackburn (R-TN), Ted Cruz (R-TX), Tommy Tuberville (R-AL) and Representatives Elise Stefanik (R-NY), Robert Aderholt (R-AL), Mike Lawler (R-NY), Barry Moore (R-AL), Mike Rogers (R-AL), Dale Strong (R-AL), and Gary Palmer (R-AL) are the letter’s additional signees. “We write as concerned Members of the United States Congress to express profound outrage and demand accountability for the tragic and preventable murders that occurred on the Brown University campus on December 13, 2025. The deaths of Ella Cook, Mukhammad Aziz Umurzokov, and the wounding of nine others were not unforeseeable tragedies. Public reporting, sworn testimony, police union statements, Brown’s public records, and the assailant’s own words clearly establish that these deaths were made possible by more than a… | 1 | 2026-05-15T06:17:41Z | 2026-05-15T06:18:51Z |
| https://www.curtis.senate.gov/press-releases/curtis-bennet-lead-bipartisan-letter-affirming-u-s-commitments-to-taiwan | Curtis, Bennet Lead Bipartisan Letter Affirming U.S. Commitments to Taiwan | 2026-05-13 | 2026 | 2026-05 | Republican | Senate | UT | John R. Curtis | C001114 | www.curtis.senate.gov | curtis | https://www.curtis.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases | scraper | WASHINGTON—Ahead of President Donald Trump’s summit with China’s President Xi Jinping, U.S. Senators John Curtis (R-UT), member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, and Michael Bennet (D-CO), member of the Senate Select Committee on Intelligence, led 10 colleagues on a letter to U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio affirming congressional support for the Taiwan Relations Act (TRA) and asserting there should be no unilateral changes to this policy nor any new U.S. declaratory policy on Taiwan. In addition to Curtis and Bennet, the letter was signed by Senators Chris Coons (D-DE), Mitch McConnell (R-KY), Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), Thom Tillis (R-NC), Tim Kaine (D-VA), Andy Kim (D-NJ), Jeff Merkley (D-OR), Brian Schatz (D-HI), Elissa Slotkin (D-MI), and Chris Van Hollen (D-MD). “For nearly five decades, the TRA has been the cornerstone of U.S.-Taiwan ties, enabling a strong and mutually beneficial relationship. This bipartisan law requires the United States to provide Taiwan—a critical economic and technological partner, and a thriving democracy—defense articles and services necessary to maintain the island’s self-defense capability. The TRA further states that the United States would consider any attempt to determine Taiwan’s future by non-peaceful means to be ‘a threat to the peace and security of the Western Pacific,’ and of ‘grave concern,’” wrote the senators. “Our commitment to this legislation has long helped ensure peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait—which is essential to U.S. interests there and across the Indo-Pacific. Maintaining this commitment is necessary to ensure the credibility of U.S. security commitments to allies and partners in the region and beyond,” continued the senators. “In the spirit of longstanding bipartisan support for the U.S.-Taiwan relationship, we stand ready to work with your administration to further strengthen this partnership,” concluded the senators. The text of the letter is available here and below. Dear Secretary Rubio, We write to reaffirm congressional su… | 1 | 2026-05-15T06:17:41Z | 2026-05-15T06:18:51Z |
| https://www.curtis.senate.gov/press-releases/curtis-highlights-utahs-nuclear-leadership-calls-for-local-empowerment-in-federal-nuclear-policy | Curtis Highlights Utah’s Nuclear Leadership, Calls for Local Empowerment in Federal Nuclear Policy | 2026-05-13 | 2026 | 2026-05 | Republican | Senate | UT | John R. Curtis | C001114 | www.curtis.senate.gov | curtis | https://www.curtis.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases | scraper | The full transcript of the exchange is below, and video can be found here. Senator Curtis: Chairman Nieh, congratulations. Mayor Wright, thank you for your service and for your leadership during that period of time. Some of you will remember from previous hearings that we both share that title in common. Senator Whitehouse, all those lists of accomplishments that you mentioned, I would attribute to him having been a mayor. And if we could just make every member of the Senate a mayor, we would be in good shape. Utah, as many of you know, is known as the Beehive State. That’s a reminder that working together produces better outcomes. State and local leaders and industry partners often recognize the potential in their communities long before a federal agency thousands of miles away. That’s why I believe federal policy works best when it empowers states and communities instead of imposing a one-size-fits-all solution across the country. We also need to acknowledge the reality that comes up repeatedly in these hearings. Our permitting and regulatory processes are too slow, too duplicative, and too unpredictable. We should recognize the tremendous opportunity in front of us. America has the talent, resources, innovation, capacity to lead the world in next generation energy development and advanced technologies. But leadership requires a government that can move at the pace of innovation. So, let me start, Chairman Nieh, with a question about rulemaking. As you consider new rules, are you looking at anything for making uranium recovery as a plan for that? If so, maybe a timeline please. The Honorable Ho K. Nieh: Yes, Senator. The NRC’s efforts for these rulemakings started under the executive order, will cover the entire life cycle of nuclear from the front end to the back end. It’s important that we really look at our regulatory frameworks to make sure that we can enable the entire circle of life in nuclear. As you already know, America is too dependent on foreign uranium and enrichment, and we need to fix that.… | 1 | 2026-05-15T06:17:41Z | 2026-05-15T06:18:51Z |
| https://www.curtis.senate.gov/press-releases/curtis-hosts-small-business-expo-in-utah-highlights-innovation-and-national-competitiveness | Curtis Hosts Small Business Expo in Utah, Highlights Innovation and National Competitiveness | 2026-05-13 | 2026 | 2026-05 | Republican | Senate | UT | John R. Curtis | C001114 | www.curtis.senate.gov | curtis | https://www.curtis.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases | scraper | KAYSVILLE—This week, U.S. Senator John Curtis (R-UT), member of the Senate Small Business Committee, brought together entrepreneurs, manufacturers, educators, innovators, and community leaders from across Utah and the federal government for a small business and innovation expo hosted at Davis Technical College in Kaysville, Utah—emphasizing Utah’s leadership in entrepreneurship, advanced manufacturing, and technology innovation. “Our event highlighted the creativity, determination, and forward-thinking leadership that continue to make Utah one of the most attractive states in the country to do business,” said Senator Curtis following the event. “Our state’s economic success reflects its pioneer spirit: willingness to take risks and invest in our communities. By bringing together business leaders and federal agencies, we sparked new partnerships and meaningful conversations about the future of commerce in Utah.” During his opening remarks, Senator Curtis highlighted Utah’s strong entrepreneurial culture, noting that small businesses make up 99 percent of all companies in the state. Drawing from his own experience helping build Utah-based company Action Target, Curtis reflected on the challenges and rewards of growing a business from the ground up. Curtis also pointed to the growing importance of supply chain resilience, advanced manufacturing, energy security, and emerging technologies amid increasing global competition from adversarial nations like China. Find media resources here, details about the event here, and the Senator’s opening remarks here. The Senator also discussed recent congressional efforts to support innovation through the reauthorization of the Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) and Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) programs, commonly referred to as “America’s seed fund.” These programs help small businesses develop technologies that address federal priorities in areas such as defense and health care. Curtis additionally highlighted the RAMP for Innovators Act, bipartisan legi… | 1 | 2026-05-15T06:17:41Z | 2026-05-15T06:18:51Z |
| https://www.curtis.senate.gov/press-releases/curtis-shaheen-welcome-taiwan-legislative-yuan-approval-of-supplementary-defense-budget | Curtis, Shaheen Welcome Taiwan Legislative Yuan Approval of Supplementary Defense Budget | 2026-05-08 | 2026 | 2026-05 | Republican | Senate | UT | John R. Curtis | C001114 | www.curtis.senate.gov | curtis | https://www.curtis.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases | scraper | WASHINGTON—U.S. Senators John Curtis (R-UT), member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee (SFRC), and Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), SFRC Ranking Member, released the belowstatement welcoming the approval by Taiwan’s Legislative Yuan (LY) of a supplementary defense budget that will strengthen Taiwan’s deterrence capabilities against growing People’s Republic of China (PRC) aggression. The vote follows a visit to Taipei by the senators five weeks ago, in which they met LY leaders and urged support for the package. Following that visit, the senators sent abipartisan letter to LY Speaker Han and his colleagues noting support not only for the purchase of U.S. arms but also for investment in speedier domestic production of asymmetric capabilities in Taiwan. “Taiwan’s approval of this supplementary defense budget sends a strong signal of resolve at a critical moment for peace and stability across the Indo-Pacific. During our visit to Taipei in March, we urged Taiwan’s leaders to move quickly to approve a supplementary defense budget that would accelerate the procurement of critical U.S. defense equipment and strengthen Taiwan’s asymmetric capabilities. “This vote demonstrates that Taiwan is taking seriously the urgent need to strengthen its defenses in the face of Beijing’s growing military coercion and pressure campaigns. As the PRC continues to test the limits of what it can achieve through intimidation and aggression, Taiwan’s investment in its long-term deterrence makes clear the island’s unity and preparedness. We also look forward to additional steps by Taiwan’s leaders to further strengthen investments in asymmetric capabilities and domestic defense production, which remain essential to long-term deterrence. The United States’ partnership with the people of Taiwan remains rock solid and Congress will continue to support Taiwan’s ability to defend itself and preserve stability across the Taiwan Strait.” | 1 | 2026-05-12T06:07:57Z | 2026-05-12T06:09:10Z |
| https://www.curtis.senate.gov/press-releases/curtis-colleagues-introduce-bipartisan-resolution-highlighting-chinese-threat-to-american-strategic-interests | Curtis, Colleagues Introduce Bipartisan Resolution Highlighting Chinese Threat to American Strategic Interests | 2026-05-04 | 2026 | 2026-05 | Republican | Senate | UT | John R. Curtis | C001114 | www.curtis.senate.gov | curtis | https://www.curtis.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases | scraper | WASHINGTON—U.S. Senator John Curtis (R-UT), member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, joined a bipartisan resolution affirming concern over the growing threat China poses to America’s national security and economic prosperity at a pivotal moment for U.S.-China relations. The resolution calls for a continued and steady focus on strengthening deterrence in the Indo-Pacific, protecting American workers and businesses from unfair economic practices, maintaining leadership in artificial intelligence and other emerging technologies, supporting allies and partners, preserving peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait, and advancing human rights and democratic values. “At this pivotal moment in U.S.-China relations, we must approach the future with clear eyes and steady resolve,” said Senator Curtis. “China’s actions demand a coordinated and bipartisan response. This resolution reinforces our commitment to strengthening deterrence in the Indo-Pacific, standing with our allies, and ensuring American workers and innovators can compete on a level playing field. The United States must lead with both strength and principle to safeguard our security, our prosperity, and the values that define us.” The resolution was led by Senators Chris Coons (D-DE) and Pete Ricketts (R-NE). Joining Senator Curtis as cosponsors were Senators Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), Ted Cruz (R-TX), Tim Kaine (D-VA), Bernie Moreno (R-OH), Patty Murray (D-WA), Andy Kim (D-NJ), Dave McCormick (R-PA), Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), Jim Banks (R-IN), Elissa Slotkin (D-MI), Thom Tillis (R-NC), Todd Young (R-IN), and Roger Wicker (R-MS). “In the run-up to next month’s U.S.-China summit, the United States Senate is sending a clear message: remember who Xi Jinping and the PRC are,” said Senator Coons. “Beijing is trying to create a more aggressive, coercive, and lawless international landscape that harms the American people, and the United States cannot give away the store in negotiations in exchange for fig leaves. We must stand with our allies and partners and… | 1 | 2026-05-06T06:05:57Z | 2026-05-06T06:07:49Z |
| https://www.curtis.senate.gov/press-releases/curtis-colleagues-introduce-legislation-to-improve-education-transparency-at-community-colleges | Curtis, Colleagues Introduce Legislation to Improve Education Transparency at Community Colleges | 2026-05-04 | 2026 | 2026-05 | Republican | Senate | UT | John R. Curtis | C001114 | www.curtis.senate.gov | curtis | https://www.curtis.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases | scraper | WASHINGTON—U.S. Senator John Curtis (R-UT) cosponsored legislation that would improve education transparency by ensuring that reported graduation rates accurately reflect the success of community colleges. The Time for Completion Act requires colleges and universities to report graduation and completion rates for a broader range of students, including non-first-time and part-time students. The bill was introduced by Senator John Barrasso (R-WY), and is also co-sponsored by Senators Cynthia Lummis (R-WY) and Ted Budd (R-NC). “Often having to balance work, family, and school, many of Utah’s community and technical college students’ success frequently isn’t counted in current graduation metrics,” said Senator Curtis. “The Time for Completion Act brings greater transparency and fairness to our education system, giving students and families the tools they need to make good decisions while ensuring our institutions are recognized for the full impact they have on our workforce.” “Wyoming is fortunate to have eight wonderful community colleges. These schools represent the future of Wyoming’s workforce. They deserve to have all of their students accurately accounted for in graduation rates,” said Senator Barrasso. “Current reporting requirements do not reflect the unique background of community college students. The Time for Completion Act will make sure prospective students have the most accurate information about graduation rates so they can choose the best school for them.” “Wyoming’s colleges are training the next generation of skilled workers our state depends on, and they deserve credit for every student they help succeed,” said Senator Lummis. “Far too often the workers earning degrees and certificates while holding down jobs or raising families go uncounted, and that shortchanges both the institutions and the students themselves. This legislation offers a long overdue fix in federal reporting and gives prospective students the honest picture they need to plan for their future.” Background: Under current High… | 1 | 2026-05-06T06:05:57Z | 2026-05-06T06:07:49Z |
| https://www.curtis.senate.gov/press-releases/curtis-raises-alarm-on-undersea-cable-threats-pushes-for-stronger-u-s-action | Curtis Raises Alarm on Undersea Cable Threats, Pushes for Stronger U.S. Action | 2026-05-01 | 2026 | 2026-05 | Republican | Senate | UT | John R. Curtis | C001114 | www.curtis.senate.gov | curtis | https://www.curtis.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases | scraper | Curtis also highlighted bipartisan legislation he is leading with Senator Jacky Rosen, which would mandate the establishment of an initiative, led by the Secretary of State and in coordination with other agencies, to prioritize the protection and resilience of undersea cables near Taiwan. The full transcript of the exchange is below, and video can be found here. Senator Curtis: This Committee recently passed a bill that I have with Senator Rosen, the Critical Undersea Infrastructure Resiliency Act. The bill contains an initiative to harden and monitor Taiwan’s undersea cables and proposes new sanctions. I was in Taiwan with the Ranking Member just a couple of weeks ago. We visited one of the factories that actually produces the cable. We were all very curious about what they were doing to prevent breaks, whether it’s undersea monitoring or cameras, and what we found is zero motivation because they produce cables. Their answer was just lay more cables. And I’m curious what your experience is. Do we have a motivation problem here, and it just feels like there was very little effort to put in equipment that could monitor and see a problem coming before it got there. What’s your experience? Dr. Benjamin Schmitt: So, this is an energy security question for Taiwan as well as these cables connect to their offshore wind and can interconnect to their outlying islands. One of the things that is this is more from a physics standpoint. If you put a fiber optic cable on the seabed, you can start to monitor the vibro-acoustic environment, the vibrations of subsea vessels, sea surface vessels and things like this around it. And so, this is actually what happened in the case of the Chunghwa Telecoms line, when last year the Hong Thai 58, this vessel from China, cut the cable. The Taiwanese coast guard was alerted by Chunghwa Telecom right before that cable cut took place because they knew this vessel was sitting there. And then they acted just a few hours later when they got their armada together to seize this vessel. And … | 1 | 2026-05-02T05:53:08Z | 2026-05-02T05:54:44Z |
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