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139 rows where party = "Republican", state = "NE" and year = 2021 sorted by date descending

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  • 2021 · 139 ✖

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url title date ▲ year month party chamber state member_name bioguide_id domain scraper source date_source text has_text collected_at updated_at
https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=836 BACON STATEMENT AFTER FY22 NDAA SIGNED INTO LAW 2021-12-28 2021 2021-12 Republican House NE Don Bacon B001298 bacon.house.gov bacon https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx scraper WASINGTON, DC – Rep. Don Bacon (NE-02), member of the House Armed Services Committee, released the following statement after the FY22 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) was signed into law: “It was good for America’s national security that the President signed the FY22 NDAA into law, a major milestone that restores our military readiness, strengthens relations with our allies, and provides the necessary assistance and support to our military and their family members. While we have made tremendous strides, this is just the beginning. Our allies and enemies are watching our every move, and our national security strategy is being tested. As we look to 2022, we need to remain vigilant. I will continue to work diligently on both sides of the aisle and with both Chambers to keep crafting defense legislation that ensures our Armed Forces can deter aggression and dominate in every domain.” A summary of the FY22 NDAA can be found here. ### 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:37:48Z
https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases/smith-announces-upcoming-staff-mobile-offices Smith Announces Upcoming Staff Mobile Offices 2021-12-27 2021 2021-12 Republican House NE Adrian Smith S001172 adriansmith.house.gov adriansmith https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases scraper Washington, D.C. – Constituents of Third District Congressman Adrian Smith (R-NE) are invited to meet with a representative of his office at an upcoming Mobile Offices in Harrison, Alliance, Rushville, and Chadron. At mobile offices, Third District residents can meet directly with one of Smith's staff members about federal issues and take advantage of the services available through his office. Smith, who has offices in Grand Island and Scottsbluff, will provide his mobile office and a staff member at the following times and locations: Monday, January 3rd Sioux County Courthouse 325 Main Street, Harrison 2:00pm to 3:00pm MT Wednesday, January 5th Box Butte County Courthouse 515 Box Butte Avenue, Alliance 11:00am to 12:00pm MT Tuesday, January 18th Sheridan County Courthouse 303 East 2nd Street, Rushville 11:30am to 12:30pm MT Tuesday, January 25th Dawes County Courthouse 451 Main Street, Chadron 10:00am to 11:00am MT 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:37:48Z
https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=835 Bacon Votes No to Increasing Debt Limit 2021-12-15 2021 2021-12 Republican House NE Don Bacon B001298 bacon.house.gov bacon https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx scraper Washington, D.C. – Rep Don Bacon (NE-02) issued the following statement after voting no to increase the debt ceiling: “Our country is already nearly $29 trillion in debt, and we cannot continue to increase it without a long-term plan to address our country’s out of control spending. Additionally, Speaker Pelosi and Majority Leader Schumer clearly want to use this to ram through President Biden’s ‘Build Back Broke’ act that, according to the CBO, costs closer to $5 trillion when the budget gimmicks are removed. Using the CBO scores, the Democrat leadership is trying to push a total of $7 trillion in spending without a single GOP vote. Our country is facing a debt crisis and it is triggering out-of-control inflation that is hurting American families.” ### 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:37:48Z
https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=834 Bacon Introduces Bill to Ease Backlog in SNAP 2021-12-09 2021 2021-12 Republican House NE Don Bacon B001298 bacon.house.gov bacon https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx scraper Washington, D.C. - Rep. Bacon today introduced H.R. 6203, the Emergency Snap Staffing Flexibility Act of 2021 to allow contractors to determine the eligibility of Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) recipients: “States need more flexibility in the process for determining eligibility for SNAP programs, which provide food to those who are in need. There is an extended backlog in the review of SNAP applications and this legislation will allow States to work with contractors to process the applications in a quicker and more efficient manner.” ### 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:37:48Z
https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases/smith-sponsored-bills-pass-house Smith Sponsored Bills Pass House 2021-12-08 2021 2021-12 Republican House NE Adrian Smith S001172 adriansmith.house.gov adriansmith https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases scraper Washington, DC – Congressman Adrian Smith (R-NE) released the following statement after the House of Representatives passed the Ocean Shipping Reform Act of 2021 (H.R. 4996) and Cattle Contract Library Act of 2021 (H.R. 5609) today. Smith championed both pieces of legislation. "The Ocean Shipping Reform Act and Cattle Contract Library Act are crucial to farmers, ranchers, and consumers all across Nebraska," said Smith. "I applaud the passage of both bills today as they will benefit not only the Third District, but the agriculture industry, and its exports, nationwide. I encourage swift passage as the bills move to the Senate." The Cattle Contract Library Act of 2021 offers more transparency to the complex beef market by establishing a library for cattle contracts within the U.S. Department of Agriculture's Agricultural Marketing Service. Similar to the existing Swine Contract Library, this library would provide cattle producers with useful information from meat packers. Following the letter Congressman Smith led to the Federal Maritime Commission (FMC) in March that raised the alarm about foreign ocean carriers leaving U.S. ports with empty containers, the Ocean Shipping Reform Act of 2021 would update regulations enforced by the FMC and prohibit ocean carriers from "unreasonably" refusing U.S. exports. 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:37:48Z
https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=832 BACON APPLAUDS PASSAGE OF 2022 NDAA 2021-12-08 2021 2021-12 Republican House NE Don Bacon B001298 bacon.house.gov bacon https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx scraper Washington, D.C. –Rep. Don Bacon (NE-02) joined his House colleagues in voting for the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2022. The bill passed by an overwhelming majority of 363 to 70. “Political gridlock should never stand between the American people and the security of the United States,” said Bacon. “For the 61st consecutive year, Congress has prioritized our national security interests by modernizing our conventional and nuclear deterrence capabilities, supporting Gold Star families, and bolstering our national strategy to combat any aggression or threats from foreign adversaries. I applaud my colleagues in the House and Senate for their bipartisanship commitment to get this bill across the finish line.” “Rep. Bacon has been an effective leader on the House Armed Services Committee. As a veteran, he has been laser focused on ensuring that our servicemembers have the funding and tools they need to be prepared for conflict. The NDAA is critical for our national security – which is why it has always enjoyed bipartisan and bicameral support. I thank Rep. Bacon for his work on this incredibly important piece of legislation,” said Ranking Member Mike Rogers (R-AL). The 2022 NDAA: Authorizes $768 billion for national defense including significant investments in the defense workforce and critical technologies including artificial intelligence, space, autonomous systems, and hypersonic weapons. This funding level includes an increase of $25 billion above the original amount requested by President Biden which members of the House and Senate Armed Services Committees believed was insufficient. Fully funds modernization of the nuclear weapons enterprise to replace aging systems and reverse the dangerous decline in the effectiveness and reliability of America’s nuclear deterrent. Authorizes a 2.7% pay increase, establishes a basic needs allowance for servicemembers, and requires actions to improve childcare and support for military families with special needs. Establishes an independent commission… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:37:48Z
https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases/smith-opposes-partisan-short-term-spending-bill Smith Opposes Partisan Short-Term Spending Bill 2021-12-02 2021 2021-12 Republican House NE Adrian Smith S001172 adriansmith.house.gov adriansmith https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases scraper Washington, DC – Congressman Adrian Smith (R-NE) released the following statement after opposing Democrats' short-term federal spending bill, which passed the House on a 221-212 vote: "This resolution is a symptom of two major problems: Democrats' singular focus on their social spending package and Democrats' unwillingness to stand down from extreme policy proposals like unlimited taxpayer funding of abortion. 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:37:48Z
https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases/smith-announces-upcoming-staff-mobile-office Smith Announces Upcoming Staff Mobile Office 2021-11-29 2021 2021-11 Republican House NE Adrian Smith S001172 adriansmith.house.gov adriansmith https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases scraper Washington, D.C. – Constituents of Third District Congressman Adrian Smith (R-NE) are invited to meet with a representative of his office at an upcoming Mobile Office in Beatrice. At mobile offices, Third District residents can meet directly with one of Smith's staff members about federal issues and take advantage of the services available through his office. Smith, who has offices in Grand Island and Scottsbluff, will provide his mobile office and a staff member at the following time and location: Wednesday, December 8 Beatrice Area Chamber of Commerce & Tourism Board Room 218 North 5th Street, Beatrice 11:00am to 12:00pm CT 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:30:49Z
https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=830 BACON 2021 THANKSGIVING PROCLAMATION 2021-11-25 2021 2021-11 Republican House NE Don Bacon B001298 bacon.house.gov bacon https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx scraper Omaha, Neb.— Today, Rep. Don Bacon (NE-02) issued the following statement in observance of Thanksgiving Day, which will be celebrated on November 25, 2021: “On this Thanksgiving Day, I reflect on our many blessings and freedoms. I’m thankful to our Heavenly Father for the love and mercy He gives us. I am thankful to Him that we live in the greatest country in the world where we are free, have equality under the law and the opportunity to achieve our dreams. No matter where you reside or who you are with this holiday season, our family, faith, and freedoms remain intact, thanks to the thousands of U.S. service members here at home and abroad. It is because of them that we are able to sleep at night, knowing our rights and liberties are protected from those who don’t agree with us. “Let us also remember the thousands of servicemembers who paid the ultimate price, including Corporal Daegen Page from Omaha, who was one of the 13 service men and women we lost during the Afghanistan withdrawal. Freedom is not free, and each generation has had heroes who defend our great land. I salute and thank the thousands of service members who are currently deployed, and who faithfully served our country as well as the many first responders who protect us all this Thanksgiving.” ### 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:30:49Z
https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases/smith-costa-lead-over-70-lawmakers-urging-biden-administration-hold-mexico Smith, Costa Lead Over 70 Lawmakers in Urging Biden Administration to hold Mexico Accountable on Biotech Policies 2021-11-19 2021 2021-11 Republican House NE Adrian Smith S001172 adriansmith.house.gov adriansmith https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases scraper Washington, DC – Congressmen Adrian Smith (R-NE) and Jim Costa (D-CA) led a bipartisan group of more than 70 members in sending a letter to President Biden urging him to seek assurances from Mexican President López Obrador that Mexico will abide by the biotech provisions established in the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA). Since 2018, biotech application approvals by Mexico have come to a standstill, impacting corn, apples, canola, cotton, soybeans, and potatoes. President López Obrador also announced the intent to phase out certain agricultural technologies, including biotech corn for human consumption, by 2024. In addition to the uncertainty caused by these policies for American farmers and the agriculture sector, these actions violate the biotechnology provisions in the USMCA. The letter stresses the importance of the Biden Administration holding Mexico accountable using enforcement tools established by the USMCA. Read the full letter here. "Mexico is a critical market for Nebraska and American agriculture products alike," said Smith. "Our farmers rely on biotech traits to increase yields, improve soil health, and improve input efficiency. We must reaffirm Mexico's commitment to the biotech provisions in the USMCA and ensure President López Obrador's policies to ban certain biotechnology does not come to fruition. The Biden Administration cannot allow for such requirements to be ignored by such an important trading partner. Nebraska corn and soybean farmers depend on it." "Biotechnology has a significant role in food security," said Costa. "Changing climate conditions, the economic impacts of the pandemic and growing populations are straining our food system. Integrating new technologies into agriculture is one way that we can prepare for change. We must do all we can to remove trade barriers and advocate for innovation toward more sustainable agriculture." "Nebraska's corn farmers are thankful for Reps. Adrian Smith and Jim Costa, along with many congressional leaders, in organizing a letter… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:30:49Z
https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases/smith-opposes-partisan-social-spending-package Smith Opposes Partisan Social Spending Package 2021-11-19 2021 2021-11 Republican House NE Adrian Smith S001172 adriansmith.house.gov adriansmith https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases scraper Washington, DC – Congressman Adrian Smith (R-NE) spoke on the floor of the House of Representatives opposing Democrats' $1.7 trillion partisan social spending package, the Build Back Better Act. The bill passed the House 220-213 on a party line vote. "Our nation is in the midst of a workforce crisis, an inflation crisis, a supply chain crisis, and a border crisis," said Smith. "Rather than govern and confront these challenges head on with policies that get Americans back to work, Democrats have pushed through new spending that makes these problems worse, especially for the individuals who can afford it the least." Note: Watch Congressman Smith's floor speech here. Image Remarks as prepared for delivery: Mr. Speaker, I rise in opposition. It seems the majority has seen everything Americans are angry about, and they are doubling down instead of addressing those problems. Americans are angry about proposed million-dollar payments to illegal immigrants. This bill would give them amnesty and pay them even more money. Americans are angry they can't get the IRS to answer the telephone. This bill spends 45 billion dollars to further weaponize the IRS. Americans are angry store shelves are empty and prices are rising because of worker shortages. This bill pays people to stay home. Americans can't get necessities like cars. In my district farm equipment sits unfinished because of chip shortages. 163N and the corporate minimum tax will make it harder for companies to reinvest in needed domestic supply chains. Our economy is burning. We need to get Americans back to work. This bill is only going to make life harder and more expensive for the people you claim you are trying to help. I urge a no vote. 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:30:49Z
https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=818 BACON RECEIVES ISEA DISTINGUISHED SERVICE AWARD 2021-11-17 2021 2021-11 Republican House NE Don Bacon B001298 bacon.house.gov bacon https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx scraper Washington, D.C. – Rep. Don Bacon (NE-02) today was recognized by the International Safety Equipment Association (ISEA) as one of the recipients of the 2021 Robert B. Hurley Distinguished Service Award. This award was established by the association to recognize those whose efforts have had a positive impact on workplace safety. Other recipients of the award are Representative Paul Tonko (NY-20) and Representative Jim Langevin (RI-02). ISEA is the national trade association for personal protective equipment. It’s members, including Valley, NE based 3M, design, manufacture, and supply equipment that saves lives, prevents injuries, and preserves health for workers around the world. "I am extremely grateful to accept this year's Distinguished Service Award from ISEA,” said Rep. Bacon. “Reps. Tonko, Langevin, and I worked together on the Health Care Workforce Protection Act of 2019 which proved to be vital during COVID-19, granting quicker manufacturing of respiratory protective devices for healthcare workers and first responders. Whether in a pandemic or not, it is important we always advocate for our manufacture workers and remove production obstacles to safeguard the health of those serving in the medical field." ISEA’s news release can be found here. ### 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:30:49Z
https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=819 BACON OPPOSES BUILD BACK BETTER ACT, URGES COLLEAGUES TO DO THE SAME 2021-11-17 2021 2021-11 Republican House NE Don Bacon B001298 bacon.house.gov bacon https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx scraper Washington, D.C. – Rep. Don Bacon (NE-02) today announced on the House floor that he will be voting against H.R. 5376, the Build Back Better Act. A full clip of the video can be found here and some key quotes are below: President Biden, Leader Schumer, Speaker Pelosi and Chairman Sanders have made it clear they want to transform America using Reconciliation and the so-called Build Back Better Act. They’re trying to do this with a 50-50 Senate, a 3-seat majority in the House out of 435 members, and a President that won by just two states. Our nation does not desire to be a giant welfare state with ‘cradle to grave’ government oversight controlling our lives. The authors of this legislation have either misjudged or ignored where the country is at on these issues. ### Related News Bacon Votes to Reopen the Government and End the Democrat Leadership Shutdown November 12, 2025 | Posted in Press Releases Busting the Myths About Taxes in the OBBB August 8, 2025 | Posted in eNewsletter LPS interim superintendent updates Rotary on federal funding, leadership search August 5, 2025 | Posted in In the News Bacon Votes Yes on One Big Beautiful Bill July 3, 2025 | Posted in Press Releases How they voted: Nebraska, Iowa representatives send Trump his ‘Big Beautiful Bill’ July 3, 2025 | Posted in Articles 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:30:49Z
https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=822 BACON VOTES AGAINST CENSURE, WARNS FUTURE POLITICAL GRIDLOCK 2021-11-17 2021 2021-11 Republican House NE Don Bacon B001298 bacon.house.gov bacon https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx scraper Washington, D.C. – Rep. Don Bacon (NE-02) today released the following statement after voting against H. Res. 789, Censuring and Committee Removal of Representative Paul Gosar: “Going back to 1789, the majority in the House has never kicked members of the minority off of committees—and Speaker Pelosi has made history by doing it four times this year. I denounce all forms of threats, violence, or perceived violence against Members, no matter the party. I could’ve voted to censure but kicking people off their committee sets a terrible precedent that will come back to haunt the Democrats in 2023. This new precedence will become the normal, will damage the institution, and will exacerbate the hyper-partisan dysfunction in Washington. There is already a process in place for these instances and that is to refer it to the House Ethics Committee. They should review the case and determine the proper consequences.” 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:30:49Z
https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=806 BACON VOTES FOR BIPARTISAN INFRASTRUCTURE BILL 2021-11-05 2021 2021-11 Republican House NE Don Bacon B001298 bacon.house.gov bacon https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx scraper Washington, D.C. – Rep. Don Bacon (NE-02) today released the following statement after voting for the bipartisan, hard infrastructure bill: “For months, I have expressed my support for the hard infrastructure bill that is supported by 70 percent of our district. Senators Fischer and Grassley also voted for this bipartisan bill which will fix our highways, seaports, and locks, and will provide more access to rural broadband. Further, most of the hard infrastructure bill is paid for by unspent COVID money that was already appropriated by Congress. This bill makes our nation stronger and more competitive for years to come. “Make no mistake. This is not the Bernie Sanders’ Socialist Budget Busting Bill, which would’ve cost American taxpayers their hard-earned money. When that bill does come to the floor for a vote, I will be a hard ‘NO.’ Congress holds the purse, and we owe it to our constituents to remain fiscally conservative with our federal spending. They are the ones who will pick up the tab, and I believe they deserve better.” 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:30:49Z
https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=805 BACON URGES DEMOCRATS TO PROTECT AMERICANS’ POCKETS 2021-11-04 2021 2021-11 Republican House NE Don Bacon B001298 bacon.house.gov bacon https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx scraper Washington, D.C. – Rep. Don Bacon (NE-02) today attended a press conference asking his Democratic colleagues in both the House and Senate to urge Speaker Pelosi and Leader Hoyer to postpone any vote on the reconciliation bill until CBO has scored and released a full analysis of the final text. A letter was signed by almost every Republican in the U.S. House of Representatives, including Republican Leader Kevin McCarthy, Whip Steve Scalise, Conference Chairwoman Elise Stefanik, and House Budget Committee Ranking Member Jason Smith. “President Biden promised he would work with both Republicans and Democrats to get things done in D.C., but he has broken that promise. We are more divided than ever as we blindly vote on bills without knowing the cost,” said Rep. Bacon. “I thank the few Democrat colleagues of mine who have asked for the dollar amount, and I urge them to stay strong and stand up against Speaker Pelosi’s effort to break the rules, costing American taxpayers their hard-earned money. Congress holds the purse, and we owe it to our constituents to remain fiscally conservative with our federal spending.” Photos from today’s press conference can be found here. ### 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:30:49Z
https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases/smith-seeks-answers-about-plan-pay-illegal-immigrants Smith Seeks Answers About Plan to Pay Illegal Immigrants 2021-11-03 2021 2021-11 Republican House NE Adrian Smith S001172 adriansmith.house.gov adriansmith https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases scraper Washington, D.C. – Congressman Adrian Smith (R-NE) joined over 70 of his colleagues in sending a letter to Attorney General Merrick Garland, Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas, and Health and Human Services Secretary Xavier Becerra amid reports the Biden Administration is considering paying $450,000 per person to families who illegally crossed the southern border in 2018. "There is a serious crisis at our southern border," said Smith. "We cannot be encouraging more illegal immigrants to come into our country unlawfully by providing payouts to those who came in 2018. I am deeply concerned by these reports." These reports come from a Wall Street Journal exclusive article titled, "U.S. in Talks to Pay Hundreds of Millions to Families Separated at Border." Read the full letter here or below: Dear Secretary Mayorkas, Attorney General Garland, and Secretary Becerra: According to an October 28th Wall Street Journal article, the Biden administration is considering offering almost $1 million per family to those who were taken into custody and separated after illegally crossing our southern border. If finalized, the total settlement could reach $1 billion or more. Unfortunately, this is just the latest in a litany of issues created by extreme policy changes that have led to the ongoing, persistent, and preventable historic humanitarian crisis at our border. These changes have signaled to human traffickers and drug cartels that the United States southern border is open for business, so long as you are not entering legally. While immigration has been a bedrock of the United States since its founding, we should not be creating policy that encourages individuals to illegally enter our country by traveling thousands of miles through some of the most dangerous parts of the world organized by international criminal syndicates responsible for thousands of murders throughout Mexico and the U.S. – all during a global pandemic. Furthermore, it is ironic that this administration would focus on the well-being of illeg… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:30:49Z
https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=794 BACON CONGRATULATES YOUNGKIN, SEARS, MIYARES ON DECISIVE WINS 2021-11-02 2021 2021-11 Republican House NE Don Bacon B001298 bacon.house.gov bacon https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx scraper “Congratulations to Glenn Youngkin, Winsome Sears and Jason Miyares on their respective elections in Virginia, a state that went for Joe Biden by 10% just 12 months ago. Glenn ran a positive campaign focused on improving state services, getting businesses fully opened again, and improving the local schools. More importantly, this election largely reflects what the nation is seeing and what they are concerned about: a growing ‘Bernie Sanders styled’ welfare state that has huge taxes, rising inflation, and control of our everyday lives. It is clear tonight that Virginians feel the same way and tonight they shot across the bow of Joe Biden, Nancy Pelosi and Chuck Schumer to start governing from the center and to stop trying to transform our country with a 50/50 Senate and 3-seat majority in the House.” 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:30:49Z
https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=790 BACON INTRODUCES BIPARTISAN CYBER SECURITY LEGISLATION 2021-10-22 2021 2021-10 Republican House NE Don Bacon B001298 bacon.house.gov bacon https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx scraper Washington, D.C. – Rep. Don Bacon (NE-02) introduced H.R. 5658, the DHS Roles and Responsibilities in Cyber Space Act, which would require the Secretary of Homeland Security to assess its cyber incident response plans and procedures. “Americans are alarmed at the dramatic increase in cyber-attacks on private companies, including the recent ransomware attacks on Colonial Pipeline and the JBS meatpacking facility in Nebraska,” said Bacon. “The federal response to these cyber incidents was inadequate and exposed gaps and confusion in how we defend our critical infrastructure.” The May 2021 attack on Colonial Pipeline was the largest cyberattack on energy infrastructure in American history causing significant disruptions to gasoline and aviation fuel delivery throughout the Southeast. Days later JBS, the world’s largest meat supplier, was forced to suspend operations at nine processing facilities in the United States following a similar ransomware attack. “It’s clear that our cyber incident response framework must evolve to match the threat,” added Bacon. “This bill will set the conditions for improvements in our national cyber defenses by requiring the Secretary of Homeland Security to conduct a thorough review of its cyber incident response plans, including how it works with private sector entities, and provide recommendations for improvement.” Original co-sponsors of H.R. 5658 include three members of the House Committee on Homeland Security: Committee Vice Chairman Rep. Ritchie Torres (D-NY); Ranking Committee Republican Rep. John Katko (R-NY); and Ranking Republican of the Cybersecurity, Infrastructure Protection, and Innovation Subcommittee Rep. Andrew Garbarino (R-NY). Bacon previously served on the Committee from 2017-2019. ### 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:24:51Z
https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases/smith-introduces-bill-establish-cattle-contract-library Smith Introduces Bill to Establish Cattle Contract Library 2021-10-21 2021 2021-10 Republican House NE Adrian Smith S001172 adriansmith.house.gov adriansmith https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases scraper Washington, D.C. – This week, Congressmen Adrian Smith (R-NE), Dusty Johnson (R-SD) and Henry Cuellar (D-TX) introduced the Cattle Contract Library Act of 2021. This bipartisan legislation aims to provide more transparency in the market by creating a library for cattle contracts within the U.S. Department of Agriculture's (USDA's) Agriculture Marketing Service Department. Learn more about the Cattle Contract Library Act of 2021 (H.R. 5609) here. "I am glad to introduce the bipartisan Cattle Contract Library Act today to provide support for Nebraska's cattle industry," said Smith. "Establishing a library for cattle contracts, similar to the pork contract library already in effect, will enhance transparency and leverage opportunities for the small producers who are critical to feeding the nation." Industry leaders representing cattle country issued statements in support of the Cattle Contract Library Act of 2021: "Cattle markets are complex. There is no single silver bullet solution to address the many challenges present within the fed cattle marketing arena at this point," said William H. Rhea, III – President, Nebraska Cattlemen. "We appreciate the support of Representative Smith and others towards additional transparency in the fed cattle market, but we cannot stop here." "For far too long, farmers and ranchers have operated under uncertainty in the beef markets, forced to accept rock bottom payments while the cost of beef goes up at the grocery store," said American Farm Bureau Federation President Zippy Duvall. "The Cattle Contract Library Act of 2021 would provide critical information regarding how cattle are contracted and sold. We appreciate Congressman Dusty Johnson for working to provide tools to America's farmers and ranchers as they ensure healthy, affordable beef is on dinner tables across the country." "Greater competition, price discovery, and transparency are desperately needed in cattle markets," said Rob Larew, President of National Farmers Union (NFU). "NFU thanks Representative Johnson for… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:24:51Z
https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=788 Bacon Statement on Bannon Vote 2021-10-21 2021 2021-10 Republican House NE Don Bacon B001298 bacon.house.gov bacon https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx scraper Washington, D.C. – Rep. Don Bacon (NE-02) issued the following statement after voting against holding Steve Bannon in contempt of Congress: “I supported a bipartisan commission to investigate what January 6 and warned that the alternative was a partisan select committee where Speaker Pelosi would veto Republican members from being on the committee. And it happened. For the first time in the history of Congress, the Speaker vetoed minority members who were nominated by their party. By doing so, she delegitimized this select committee by her partisanship and I won’t facilitate her behavior.” ### 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:24:51Z
https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases/smiths-office-announces-upcoming-staff-mobile-office-hours Smith’s Office Announces Upcoming Staff Mobile Office Hours 2021-10-20 2021 2021-10 Republican House NE Adrian Smith S001172 adriansmith.house.gov adriansmith https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases scraper Washington, D.C. – Constituents of Third District Congressman Adrian Smith (R-NE) are invited to meet with a representative of his office at mobile offices throughout the month of October and November in Rushville, Kearney, Wayne, South Sioux City, Sidney, York, and Hastings. At mobile offices, Third District residents can meet directly with one of Smith's staff members about federal issues and take advantage of the services available through his office. Smith, who has offices in Grand Island and Scottsbluff, will provide his mobile office and a staff member at the following times and locations: Tuesday, October 26 Sheridan County Courthouse 303 East 2nd Street, Rushville 11:00am to 12:00pm MT Kearney Chamber of Commerce 1007 2nd Avenue, Kearney 4:00pm – 5:00pm CT Thursday, October 28 Wayne Area Economic Development – The Max 109 Main Street, Wayne 11:30am – 12:45pm CT South Sioux City, City Hall 1615 1st Avenue, South Sioux City 1:30pm – 2:30pm CT Monday, November 1 Cheyenne County Courthouse 1000 10th Avenue, Sidney 9:00am to 10:00am MT York Chamber of Commerce 603 North Lincoln Avenue, York 10:00am to 12:00pm CT Hastings Area Chamber of Commerce 301 S. Burlington Avenue, Hastings 1:30pm – 2:30pm CT 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:24:51Z
https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=787 Bacon Re-introduces Orozco Legislation 2021-10-20 2021 2021-10 Republican House NE Don Bacon B001298 bacon.house.gov bacon https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx scraper Washington, D.C. – Rep. Don Bacon (NE-02) today re-introduced H.R. 5636, the Kerrie Orozco First Responders Act, which allows the immediate relatives of first responders who die in the line of duty to continue to process their immigration application in a timely manner despite the death of their loved one. Under current law, the surviving family members of first responders who have pending immigration applications face delays in the naturalization process. The legislation, named after Omaha Police Officer and mother Kerrie Orozco who was slain by a gang member in the line of duty on May 20, 2015 passed the House on September 25, 2018, with a voice vote. However, it was not introduced in the Senate. “I am not going to lose sight of the loss suffered by Officer Orozco’s husband Hector and their daughter, and the fact that as a single parent he has an enormous responsibility,” said Bacon. “Every day, our first responders put their personal lives and safety at risk while protecting our communities. This legislation honors those first responders.” “I want to thank Orozco family attorney Kristin Fearnow for her diligent work, as well as former Congressman Brad Ashford who introduced similar legislation in 2016 named after Officer Orozco,”added Bacon. “I introduced this in 2018 and 2019 and believe we can hit a home run with it this session.” ### 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:24:51Z
https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases/smith-hosts-consul-mexico-nebraska-agriculture-tour Smith Hosts the Consul of Mexico in Nebraska for Agriculture Tour 2021-10-15 2021 2021-10 Republican House NE Adrian Smith S001172 adriansmith.house.gov adriansmith https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases scraper Washington, D.C. – Congressman Adrian Smith (R-NE), a senior member of the Ways and Means Committee, welcomed the Consul of Mexico of Omaha, Guadalupe Sanchez, to Nebraska's Third District on Wednesday, October 6th for an agriculture tour of York County Photo available for download here 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:24:51Z
https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases/smith-introduces-bill-protect-telehealth-flexibility-after-covid-19 Smith Introduces Bill to Protect Telehealth Flexibility After COVID-19 2021-10-01 2021 2021-10 Republican House NE Adrian Smith S001172 adriansmith.house.gov adriansmith https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases scraper Washington, D.C. – Congressmen Adrian Smith (R-NE), Tom O'Halleran (D-AZ), David B. McKinley (R-WV), and Ron Kind (D-WI) introduced the Protecting Telehealth Access Act this week. The bipartisan legislation ensures rural health providers will be able to continue operating and treating patients by making telehealth flexibilities implemented during the COVID-19 pandemic permanent. Roughly 60 million people—nearly one in five Americans—live in rural areas and depend on these rural health providers for care. Across the U.S., 136 rural hospitals have closed since 2010, with 20 closing in 2020 alone, a record year for closures. Rural Americans on average are older and have high rates of chronic health conditions. "Rural health providers have effectively demonstrated how successful the current temporary telehealth authorizations can be in improving rural access to care," said Smith. "By making these rules permanent we can build on that success to further enhance health access in rural communities." "Arizona's First Congressional District is rich in history, diversity of cultures, and stunning, sweeping landscapes, and is one of the most rural districts in the country," said O'Halleran. "Regulatory burdens loosened to accommodate COVID changes should be made permanent so rural residents can more easily and affordably access quality health care options including telehealth and audio-only telehealth. I'm proud to introduce this bipartisan bill." 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:24:51Z
https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=774 Bacon Issues Statement on Biden’s Blank Check 2021-09-29 2021 2021-09 Republican House NE Don Bacon B001298 bacon.house.gov bacon https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx scraper Washington, D.C. – Rep. Don Bacon (NE-02) issued the following statement after voting no to raise the debt ceiling: “I share the concern of most Nebraskans that our country’s debt continues to grow, and that Speaker Pelosi and House Democrats just signed a blank check for President Biden. Today’s vote gives President Biden the green light to spend without restriction through December 16, 2022. It is irresponsible to not place a specific amount and allow this Administration to go on a shopping spree. Further, the Dems are trying to spend $6.2 trillion without a single GOP vote but don’t want to be candid on how high they want to raise the debt limit.” ### 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:17:01Z
https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=772 BACON READY TO LISTEN TO TESTIMONY, HEAR FROM DOD LEADERSHIP AT HASC HEARING 2021-09-28 2021 2021-09 Republican House NE Don Bacon B001298 bacon.house.gov bacon https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx scraper Washington, D.C. – Rep. Don Bacon (NE-02) issued the following statement ahead of the House Armed Services Committee hearing on “Ending the U.S. Military Mission in Afghanistan.” The committee will receive testimony from Department of Defense leadership on the issues surrounding the decision to withdraw forces from Afghanistan and the consequences of the President’s actions. “I look forward to Secretary Austin, General Milley, and General McKenzie’s testimony at tomorrow’s HASC hearing. We need answers on how the President’s decision to withdraw forces from Afghanistan has become the worst national security debacle in a generation and why we left behind fellow Americans and Afghan allies. I served in the Air Force for nearly 30 years and unquestionably know that we should never leave Americans and allies behind. Now, our enemies are emboldened, and our nation is vulnerable to future attacks.” ### 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:17:01Z
https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=770 BACON APPLAUDS PASSAGE OF 2022 NDAA, READY TO CONFRONT EMERGING THREATS 2021-09-24 2021 2021-09 Republican House NE Don Bacon B001298 bacon.house.gov bacon https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx scraper Washington, D.C. – Rep. Don Bacon (NE-02) issued the following statement regarding the passage of H.R. 4350, the FY2022 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) in the House: “Once again, the House of Representatives has fulfilled its Constitutional responsibility by passing a defense authorization for the 61st consecutive year. Working closely with my colleagues on the House Armed Services Committee, we have crafted a comprehensive defense bill that advances national security and supports our service members and military families. I am especially pleased that this legislation includes a bi-partisan agreement to reverse the Administration’s proposed funding reductions and keeps our defense budget level with inflation. “The recent debacle in Afghanistan has emboldened our adversaries, weakened our alliances, and left us vulnerable to future attacks. With our allies and enemies now questioning America’s resolve, I am determined that we remain ready to confront threats with strength. This bill delivers on this promise. I look forward to the Senate completing work on its defense bill and sending legislation to the President’s desk later this year.” In addition to Rep. Bacon’s 21 amendments adopted by the Committee, H.R. 4350 also includes dozens of his proposals and priorities including: Authorizes $778 billion for national defense programs, an amount that keeps defense spending level with inflation Provides our troops a 2.7 percent pay raise and supports their families with the pay and benefits they deserve Ensures robust funding to modernize America’s nuclear deterrent forces including the B-21 bomber, Columbia-Class submarine, and the Ground Based Strategic Deterrent ballistic missile replacement programs Authorizes an increase of $20 million for USSTRATCOM’s Rapid Engineering Architecture Collaboration Hub (REACH) nuclear command, control & communications (NC3) modernization initiative Provides $15 million to continue a pilot program advancing civilian-military partnerships to enhance national medical su… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:17:01Z
https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=771 Bacon Statement on Support for Life and Vote Against Taxpayer Funded Abortions and Late-Term Abortions 2021-09-24 2021 2021-09 Republican House NE Don Bacon B001298 bacon.house.gov bacon https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx scraper Washington, D.C. – Rep. Don Bacon (NE-02) today released the following statement after voting to defend life: “I stand with life and voted against the extreme federal pro-abortion bill today. It would have led to taxpayer funding of abortions and would remove late term abortion bans among other adopted pro-life laws in place by various states, including overturning Nebraska’s ban on dismemberment abortions which has wide support in our state. I’m grateful for the pro-life women in Nebraska like Deb Fischer and Jean Stothert, as well as those in Congress who spoke out for life today.” ### 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:17:01Z
https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases/smith-and-biofuels-caucus-co-chairs-call-out-president-biden-failed-rfs Smith and Biofuels Caucus Co-Chairs Call Out President Biden on Failed RFS Promises 2021-09-22 2021 2021-09 Republican House NE Adrian Smith S001172 adriansmith.house.gov adriansmith https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases scraper Washington, D.C. –Today, Congressmen Adrian Smith (R-NE), Dusty Johnson (R-S.D.), and Rodney Davis (R-IL), Co-Chairs of the House Biofuels Caucus, sent a letter urging President Biden to uphold campaign promises he made regarding the Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS). Recent reports indicate the Biden Administration is taking steps to weaken Renewable Volume Obligations (RVOs) which would reduce the demand for biofuels, an action President Biden strongly condemned under the Trump Administration. "If your Administration makes the unprecedented move to reopen the finalized 2020 RVO, and strip the demand for billions of gallons, the industry will certainly be devastated," said the members. "As you stated, "Lip service won't make up for nearly four years of retroactive damage that's decimated our trade economy and forced ethanol plants to shutter." If these rumors are correct, demand for over 5 billion gallons of renewable, clean fuels will be lost." In June, members of the Biofuels Caucus raised concerns about rumored plans to circumvent RFS in favor of the oil industry. Read the full letter here or below: President Joseph R. Biden The White House 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue NW Washington, DC 20500 Dear President Biden, We are deeply disappointed by the rumors that indicate your Administration is reversing course on its promises as it relates to upholding the Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS). During your campaign, just over a year ago, you said that former President Donald J. Trump "could have made explicit his imperative to stand with American farmers by reversing harmful waivers and setting strong levels for 2021i," and yet, we understand that the forthcoming Renewable Volumes Obligation (RVO) will cut the demand for more combined gallons of ethanol than all gallons cut due to Small Refinery Exemptions (SREs) issued by the prior Administration. If your Administration makes the unprecedented move to reopen the finalized 2020 RVO, and strip the demand for billions of gallons, the industry will certainly be devastat… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:17:01Z
https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=765 BACON RECEIVES AEM’S FIRST-EVER “CHAMPION OF THE INDUSTRY AWARD” 2021-09-22 2021 2021-09 Republican House NE Don Bacon B001298 bacon.house.gov bacon https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx scraper WASHINGTON, D.C. – The Association of Equipment Manufacturers (AEM) presented their first-ever AEM Champion of the Industry Award this week to U.S. Representative Don Bacon (R-Neb.), alongside Representative Cheri Bustos (D-Ill.), U.S. Senator Joni Ernst (R-Iowa), and U.S. Senator Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.). The AEM Champion of the Industry Award recognizes members of Congress from both sides of the aisle for their outstanding support for the equipment manufacturing industry and their efforts to advance bipartisan, commonsense solutions to the country’s toughest challenges. The AEM Champion of the Industry, AEM’s most prestigious recognition, is reserved for one Democrat and one Republican from each chamber who have championed legislation important to equipment manufacturers and have demonstrated a commitment to work across the aisle in support of common objectives. Candidates are considered and approved by the AEM Government and Public Affairs Committee. “I am humbled to be one of the first ever recipients of the AEM Champion of the Industry award and thank them for the recognition,” said Rep. Bacon. “America’s equipment manufacturers provide good stable jobs for nearly three million Americans and legislative policies that support the growth of the industry are paramount to its success.” “We are proud to recognize Senators Joni Ernst and Amy Klobuchar and Representatives Don Bacon and Cheri Bustos who earned this distinction for being steadfast champions of our industry and tireless advocates for the issues that are critical to the long-term success of equipment manufacturing in America,” said Kip Eideberg, AEM senior vice president of government and industry relations. “Throughout their time in Congress, these lawmakers have consistently recognized the important contributions of equipment manufacturers and worked to encourage a strong and vibrant industry.” AEM is the North American-based international trade group representing off-road equipment manufacturers and suppliers, with more than 1,000 companies and m… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:17:01Z
https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=762 Bacon Announces First Win in Passing CHIP IN Reauthorization 2021-09-21 2021 2021-09 Republican House NE Don Bacon B001298 bacon.house.gov bacon https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx scraper Washington, D.C. – Rep. Don Bacon (R-Nebr.) today celebrated the news that his legislation H.R. 3888, which reauthorizes the CHIP IN for Vets Act for an additional five years was included as part of an annual extenders bill that was passed in the House. The legislation allows local communities across the country to assist with the planning and construction of Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) health care facilities. Bacon, a member of the House Armed Services Committee, had introduced the bipartisan bicameral legislation in the House with Rep. Conor Lamb (D-Penn), while U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-Neb.) introduced the companion legislation in the Senate. “Nebraska’s 2nd district benefitted from the original CHIP IN Act championed by my friend, former Congressman Brad Ashford, that resulted in the building of Omaha’s new VA Ambulatory Care Clinic. Our veterans deserve high quality and modern health services and this extension of the CHIP IN Act will allow communities to invest in and help create these facilities. This is a win for our veterans across the country who will benefit from these public-private partnerships. The next step is the Senate where I know Sen. Fischer will lead the charge to see this to its full completion,” said Bacon. “It is very difficult to pass meaningful legislation in this Congress. The CHIP IN for Veterans Act that passed in 2016 has resulted in our new medical facility in Omaha and a new Project in Tulsa. Congressman Bacon forged a bipartisan coalition to pass the legislation that gives it new life so our Veterans can continue to benefit from public private partnerships authorized under the Act,” said Brad Ashford, former Congressman of Nebraska’s 2nd District. More information: The original CHIP IN for Vets Act passed Congress in 2016 and authorizes the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to allow local communities to manage construction of VA projects. The VA has already appropriated millions of dollars to construction projects that remain unfinished or have not yet begun, and this p… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:17:01Z
https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=763 Bacon Votes to Protect Americans’ Wallets 2021-09-21 2021 2021-09 Republican House NE Don Bacon B001298 bacon.house.gov bacon https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx scraper Washington, D.C. - Rep. Don Bacon (NE-02) today protected the pockets of hard-working Americans and stood with our ally Israel by voting against H.R. 5305, a short-term Continuing Resolution (CR) that totally removes the debt ceiling allowing for unlimited spending over the next 15 months. “By voting to remove the debt ceiling until December 2022, Speaker Pelosi and the progressive Democrats just gave the green light to pass the President’s $5 trillion goody bag full of socialist giveaways and any additional spending they pass over next 15 months. These cradle-to-grave programs create dependence on Washington DC and will become permanent. “Further, this CR strips $1 billion in funding for Israel to replenish Iron Dome rocket interceptors. Iron Dome fills an urgent need to protect Israeli citizens from regular rocket fire perpetrated by radical terrorists, like Hamas and Hezbollah. We need to stand with our close ally and friend to ensure their safety.” ### 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:17:01Z
https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=759 Bacon Issues Statement Recognizing One Year Anniversary of Abraham Accords 2021-09-16 2021 2021-09 Republican House NE Don Bacon B001298 bacon.house.gov bacon https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx scraper Omaha, Neb. – Rep. Don Bacon (NE-02) issued the following statement on the one-year anniversary of the signing of the Abraham Accords: “On this one-year anniversary of the signing of the Abraham Accords, I am pleased the current Administration has embraced the full measure of its impact in forging the most significant advancement in Middle East peace in decades. The bold diplomacy shown last year by the US, Israel, United Arab Emirates and Bahrain provides a vision for a more peaceful and prosperous future for all.” For reference: https://www.timesofisrael.com/blinken-to-honor-abraham-accords-with-israel-uae-bahrain-and-morocco-ministers/ ### 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:17:01Z
https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=753 Bacon Slams Incomplete, Partisan, and Unvetted Budget Reconciliation Package Pushed Through by House Dems 2021-09-14 2021 2021-09 Republican House NE Don Bacon B001298 bacon.house.gov bacon https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx scraper Washington, D.C. – Rep. Don Bacon (NE-02) issued the following statement after Democrats on the House Agriculture Committee pushed through a $66 billion incomplete, partisan, and unvetted budget reconciliation package. “It is disappointing that House Democrats passed this bill which includes pet projects and doesn’t dedicate a dime to programs such as the commodity safety net, crop insurance, rural broadband, or disaster assistance. The AG Dems didn’t accept a single GOP amendment in over 10.5 hours of deliberations. They didn’t seek our input nor want our support. It is clear they are in full support of Speaker Pelosi’s $3.5T spending spree and $3T tax increases, which leave America’s farmers and ranchers in the dust and will cripple our economy. “The HAC has a long history of bipartisanship, but there was no evidence of it this past week. Democrats should’ve looked to how the Republican Committee Leadership reached both sides of the aisle for the 2018 Farm Bill by hosting more than 100 public events to better understand the needs of our farmers and ranchers.” ### 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:17:01Z
https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=755 BACON FIGHTS FOR FAMILY FARMS IN NEBRASKA 2021-09-14 2021 2021-09 Republican House NE Don Bacon B001298 bacon.house.gov bacon https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx scraper Omaha, Neb. – Rep. Don Bacon (NE-02) today released the following statement after attending a press conference with the Nebraska Farm Bureau at Husker Harvest Days. “During my time in Congress, I have met countless farmers, ranchers, and producers in Nebraska that have helped our state thrive and strengthened our local economy. However, many family farms that have been operating for generations will suffer under the proposed tax hikes and federal overreach proposed by House Democrats. “Speaker Pelosi and Chuck Schumer are willing to let Nebraska family farms wilt, to pay for their $3.5 trillion partisan wish list. Further, trying to reinstate Waters of the U.S. (WOTUS) will add onerous red tape and restrictions on farmers and ranchers. Since his inauguration, the President has made zero effort to expand trade opportunities for our agriculture. “As a member of the House Ag Committee, I am defending these hard-working Americans from the Administration that treats Nebraska agriculture as simply ‘fly-over country.’ I will always advocate for legislation that protects stepped up basis; makes crop insurance more affordable; keeps WOTUS off the backs of farmers and ranchers; and expands trade.” Rep. Don Bacon (NE-02) speaks at Husker Harvest Days. ### 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:17:01Z
https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=750 Bacon’s Statement on Biden’s Proposed Mandates 2021-09-10 2021 2021-09 Republican House NE Don Bacon B001298 bacon.house.gov bacon https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx scraper OMAHA, NEB. - Rep. Don Bacon (NE – 02) issued the following statement in regard to the President’s announced plan to enact vaccine mandates: “Earlier this year I received the vaccine because I believed that it was the right choice and I encouraged others to do the same. While we should encourage vaccine use through transparency and communication of scientific data, we should not force vaccines on citizens without considering their individual medical and personal circumstances. We can prevail through decency and trust. In contrast, President Biden used shaming and demonization, which further divides our country and is counterproductive to our recovery. “Finally, nothing in the Constitution gives the President the legal authority to put mandates concerning personal health decisions on the private sector.” ### 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:17:01Z
https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=747 Major Disaster Declaration Approved for Nebraska 2021-09-07 2021 2021-09 Republican House NE Don Bacon B001298 bacon.house.gov bacon https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx scraper LINCOLN, NEB. – Following requests by Governor Pete Ricketts and the Nebraska congressional delegation, President Joe Biden yesterday issued a major disaster declaration for the state of Nebraska. The declaration will allow for federal funds to begin flowing to portions of the state impacted by severe thunderstorms between July 9 and July 10. “Nebraska communities devasted by July’s heavy thunderstorms and hail will soon begin receiving critical federal relief. We supported Governor Ricketts in his request for this aid and were glad to see the administration act quickly in response. This disaster declaration will provide Nebraskans with the resources to rebuild and recover,” said the delegation. The counties included in the declaration are Box Butte, Cass, Clay, Douglas, Fillmore, Grant, Hall, Hamilton, Madison, Sarpy, Saunders, Sheridan, Washington, and York. Last month, Representatives Don Bacon (NE-02), Jeff Fortenberry (NE-01), and Adrian Smith (NE-03), and U.S. Senators Deb Fischer (R-Neb.) and Ben Sasse (R-Neb.) wrote a letter to President Biden echoing their support of Governor Ricketts’s request for a Major Disaster Declaration for Nebraska. A copy of the Nebraska congressional delegation’s August letter to President Biden is available here. # # # 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:17:01Z
https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=741 HOUSE ARMED SERVICES COMMITTEE COMPLETES CONSIDERATION OF 2022 DEFENSE BILL 2021-09-03 2021 2021-09 Republican House NE Don Bacon B001298 bacon.house.gov bacon https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx scraper Defense Committee Unanimously Adopts 21 of Bacon’s Amendments Washington, D.C. – Rep. Don Bacon (NE-02), member of the House Armed Services Committee (HASC), voted Thursday morning in favor of advancing H.R. 4350, the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for Fiscal Year (FY) 2022. The bill was reported out of committee by a vote of 57 to 2. This annual legislation, which contains multiple amendments and provisions authored by Bacon, authorizes defense spending and sets the policy and priorities for our military. Overall, the bill authorizes a total of $778 billion for national defense. “I am proud of the bi-partisan work of the House Armed Services Committee in crafting comprehensive legislation to advance our national security and support our servicemembers and military families,” said Rep. Bacon. “I was especially pleased with the bi-partisan decision to reverse the White House cuts and to restore funding to keep our defense budget level with inflation. The recent debacle in Afghanistan has emboldened our adversaries, weakened our alliances, and left us vulnerable to future attacks. It is critical that we remain vigilant and ready to confront these threats.” Highlights from Committee’s FY 2022 NDAA include: Establishes a national commission on Afghanistan Authorizes 2.7 percent pay increase for all members of the armed forces Fully funds the modernization of America’s aging nuclear deterrent forces including the B-21 long range bomber, the Columbia Class ballistic missile submarine, and the Ground Based Strategic Deterrent intercontinental ballistic missile replacement program Authorizes mission upgrades to RC-135, WC-135 and E-4B aircraft based at Offutt Air Force Base In addition, the committee’s bill contains numerous legislative proposals sponsored by Bacon, including: Authorizes an increase of $20 million for USSTRATCOM’s Rapid Engineering Architecture Collaboration Hub (REACH) nuclear command, control & communications (NC3) modernization imitative Authorizes $15 million to continue a pilot … 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:17:01Z
https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=738 House Baltic Caucus Co-Chairs Bacon and Gallego Announce First-Ever Authorization for Baltic Security Initiative in FY2022 NDAA 2021-09-01 2021 2021-09 Republican House NE Don Bacon B001298 bacon.house.gov bacon https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx scraper WASHINGTON, DC–Rep. Don Bacon (R-NE) and Rep. Ruben Gallego (D-AZ), Co-Chairmen of the House Baltic Caucus, announced the first-ever authorization of the Baltic Security Initiative in the Fiscal Year 2022 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA). The $175 million authorization will go toward ensuring the security of the Baltic nations of Latvia, Lithuania, and Estonia, which are critical to the security of the NATO alliance. “As Co-Chairs of the House Baltic Caucus, Rep. Gallego and I support our NATO allies and are always working to strengthen and advance the security and prosperity of all NATO member countries,” said Rep. Don Bacon, House Baltic Caucus Co-Chairman. “Our security initiative needs to be included in this year’s NDAA so that we can continue deterring Russian aggression, bolster air and naval defense capabilities, and expand special forces operations in the Baltic region. The partnership and friendship between the U.S. and Baltic states must be maintained for years, and our provision achieves that.” “With the growing threat of Russia and the need to ensure the United States’ national security interests, it is critical we stand strong and support our Baltic allies of Latvia, Lithuania, and Estonia,” said Rep. Ruben Gallego, House Baltic Caucus Co-Chairman. “The Baltic Security Initiative is a crucial part of keeping Putin in check, and NDAA authorization of this program sends a message to the Kremlin that we are standing strong with our Baltic and NATO allies. I’m proud to have led the charge for the inclusion of this Initiative with my House Baltic Caucus co-chair, Congressman Bacon, and will continue working through my roles in the caucus and on the Armed Services Committee to stand up for our NATO allies.” Reps. Bacon and Gallego have long advocated for robust assistance and cooperation with the Baltic states, to deter Russian aggression and protect U.S. and allied national security interests. The Baltic Security Initiative would provide funds for assistance with respect to air defense; mariti… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:17:01Z
https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=737 Bacon Cosponsors McClain’s Bill to Award Congressional Gold Medals to Fallen Servicemembers 2021-08-31 2021 2021-08 Republican House NE Don Bacon B001298 bacon.house.gov bacon https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx scraper WASHINGTON, D.C. – Rep. Don Bacon (R-NE) and 157 other cosponsors have joined Rep. Lisa McClain (R-MI) to introduce legislation posthumously awarding the Congressional Gold Medal to the 13 U.S. military servicemembers who were killed in Afghanistan last week. The legislation will award the Congressional Gold Medal to Staff Sgt. Darin Taylor Hoover, Sgt. Johanny Rosario Pichardo, Sgt. Nicole Gee, Cpl. Hunter Lopez, Cpl. Daegan Page, Cpl. Humberto Sanchez, Cpl. David Lee Espinoza, Lance Cpl. Jared Schmitz, Lance Cpl. Rylee McCollum, Lance Cpl. Dylan Merola, Lance Cpl. Kareem Nikoui, Hospitalman Maxton Soviak and Staff Sgt. Ryan Knauss. “These 13 heroes gave the ultimate measure of sacrifice for our country and no words can fill the heartbreak felt by their families,” said Rep. Bacon. “The least we can do is honor them with the highest award Congress can give.” “These heroic men and women are gone far too soon, and we must honor them for their bravery in helping U.S. citizens and Afghan allies safely evacuate Afghanistan,” said Rep. McClain. “My heart aches for the families and loved ones of our servicemembers. We will always remember their service and pay tribute to their sacrifice.” Reps. Don Bacon (R-NE), Jim Banks (R-IN), Stephanie Bice (R-OK), Andy Biggs (R-AZ), Larry Buschon (R-IN), Ken Calvert (R-CA), Andre Carson (D-IN), Madison Cawthorn (R-NC), Steve Chabot (R-OH), Rick Crawford (R-AR), Warren Davidson (R-OH), Jeff Fortenberry (R-NE), Russ Fulcher (R-IN), Andrew Garbarino (R-NY), Bob Gibbs (R-OH), Carlos Gimenez (R-FL), Bob Good (R-VA), Lance Gooden (R-TX), Marjorie Taylor Greene (R-GA), Morgan Griffith (R-VA), Brett Guthrie (R-KY), Diana Harshbarger (R-TN), Yvette Herrell (R-NM), Jody Hice (R-GA), Ashley Hinson (R-IA), Richard Hudson (R-NC), Bill Huizenga (R-MI), Sara Jacobs (D-CA), Dave Joyce (R-OH), Mike Kelly (R-PA), Doug Lamborn (R-CO), Bob Latta (R-OH), Nicole Malliotakis (R-NY) Tom McClintock (R-CA), David McKinley (R-WV), Peter Meijer (R-MI), Carol Miller (R-WV), Blake Moore (R-UT), Seth Moulton… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:11:17Z
https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases/smith-buchanan-and-wenstrup-introduce-bill-protect-medicare-patients-and Smith, Buchanan, and Wenstrup Introduce Bill to Protect Medicare Patients and Providers 2021-08-30 2021 2021-08 Republican House NE Adrian Smith S001172 adriansmith.house.gov adriansmith https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases scraper Washington, D.C. – Congressmen Adrian Smith (R-NE), Vern Buchanan (R-FL), and Brad Wenstrup (R-OH) recently introduced H.R. 5125, the Strengthening Innovation in Medicare and Medicaid Act. This legislation aims to restore accountability for the Center for Medicare and Medicaid Innovation (CMMI) through commonsense guardrails. "The current framework of CMMI is poorly defined, and because of this it frequently fails to provide necessary transparency," said Smith. "This is why I have reintroduced my legislation to minimize uncertainty throughout the health care marketplace. We must provide appropriate oversight of CMMI so that innovation and improvements in health care can continue to develop without unintentionally harming patients and providers." "As Congressman for one of the largest senior populations in America, I believe it is essential that Congress oversee any changes to how Medicare pays health care providers for their services," said Buchanan. "Unfortunately, Obamacare created a little-known agency called the Center for Medicare and Medicaid Innovation (CMMI) that is not subject to Congressional oversight. As a result, our nation's seniors could face unbridled government overreach with no means of transparency. This legislation puts Congress back in the driver's seat instead of unaccountable bureaucrats." "As a physician, I believe that encouraging innovation is key to moving our health care system from one that rewards volume of care to one that rewards value of care," said Wenstrup. "Innovative payment models will help us get there, but to make them work, we need increased transparency, guardrails, and efficiency. This legislation would enact key protections for patients and health care providers while empowering Congress with much needed oversight over CMMI." CMMI was created to rapidly test new methods of payment or patient care intending to lower costs and improve patient outcomes. However, CMMI was given overly broad exemptions from existing regulations and judicial review, allowing these models … 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:11:17Z
https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=735 BACON RESPONDS TO COMPLETION OF AFGHANISTAN WITHDRAWAL 2021-08-30 2021 2021-08 Republican House NE Don Bacon B001298 bacon.house.gov bacon https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx scraper Washington, D.C. – Rep. Don Bacon (NE-02), member of the House Armed Services Committee, today released the following statement after the Pentagon announced the completion of the Afghanistan withdrawal: “My heart is heavy today, knowing the Biden Administration has left behind thousands of Afghan allies and hundreds of U.S. citizens in Afghanistan, including constituents from the 2nd district. This was completely avoidable, and the disgraceful actions by this Administration are on full display and they should be ashamed. This is the worst display of incompetence and weakness I’ve seen from any Administration in my lifetime. Our national honor is tarnished, our credibility with our allies is in tatters, and our country is more vulnerable to potential attacks than at any time since 2001. China, Russia, and Iran are emboldened, and the strategic repercussions will be felt for years to come.” 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:11:17Z
https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases/smith-statement-attacks-kabul Smith Statement on Attacks in Kabul 2021-08-27 2021 2021-08 Republican House NE Adrian Smith S001172 adriansmith.house.gov adriansmith https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases scraper Washington, D.C. – Congressman Adrian Smith (R-NE) released the below statement following the terror attacks in Kabul. "President Biden's failure as commander-in-chief is causing chaos on the world stage. We cannot stand by while the lives of American citizens, our Afghan allies, and our military are still at risk. For this reason, I support H.R. 5071 to prohibit President Biden from fully withdrawing our troops from Afghanistan until all Americans have been safely evacuated. If we allow the administration to set an arbitrary deadline, there will be little hope for the Americans left behind. We cannot stand by while the President of the United States creates an American hostage situation in Afghanistan." 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:11:17Z
https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=727 Bacon Offers Condolences to Family of Omaha Native, U.S. Marine Killed in Afghanistan 2021-08-27 2021 2021-08 Republican House NE Don Bacon B001298 bacon.house.gov bacon https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx scraper Omaha, Neb. – Rep. Don Bacon (NE-02) today released the following statement after learning Corporal Daegan William-Tyeler Page, one of the U.S. Marines killed in Afghanistan this week, was an Omaha native and Millard South graduate: “I am heartbroken to learn of the death of Corporal Page, one of the U.S. Marines killed in Afghanistan. He was from Nebraska’s 2nd district and graduated from Millard South. No words can express the devastation, frustration, and sorrow his family is experiencing right now. I pray for the healing and comfort of his family and friends during this difficult time. Corporal Page is an American hero who gave the last full measure of devotion. He served his country honorably, and his service will never be in vain.” 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:11:17Z
https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=723 BACON, PROBLEM SOLVERS CAUCUS URGE BIDEN TO EXTEND EVACUATION DEADLINE 2021-08-26 2021 2021-08 Republican House NE Don Bacon B001298 bacon.house.gov bacon https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx scraper Omaha, Neb. – Rep. Don Bacon (NE-02) and his Problem Solvers Caucus colleagues released the following statement, urging President Biden to extend the evacuation deadline in order to rescue as many U.S. citizens and Afghan allies as possible: “As Democrats and Republicans, we stand united in our commitment to protecting U.S. citizens, diplomats, intelligence officers, and our foreign partners who are currently attempting to flee Afghanistan. In this time of tremendous danger, politics must be put aside to advance our common goals. From this week’s bipartisan Member briefing, it is apparent that the Administration’s set date for departure from Afghanistan on August 31st does not provide enough time to evacuate all American citizens and our partners. We respectfully call on the Administration to reconsider its timeline and provide a clear plan to Congress that will result in the completion of our shared national objectives.” Read the full release here. 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:11:17Z
https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=724 Bacon Issues Statement on Kabul 2021-08-26 2021 2021-08 Republican House NE Don Bacon B001298 bacon.house.gov bacon https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx scraper Omaha, Neb. – The most recent statement from Rep. Don Bacon (NE-02) on the situation in Kabul: “Our nation’s prayers go out to those who were injured and to the families of the reported 12 U.S. Servicemen killed in this horrific attack. We also pray for the safety of our troops as we finish carrying out this mission, and for the stranded American citizens and our Afghan allies who are still in the area desperately trying to escape. “The flawed retreat and withdrawal from Afghanistan has shown the utter ineptness in the White House. The results have put our troops in a very vulnerable position at the Kabul Airport while we have thousands of American citizens at risk of being stranded and made hostages. “This disaster will be remembered as one of the worst foreign policy fiascos in our nation’s history and the repercussions will be felt for a decade.” Older statements can be found on social media accounts and at bacon.house.gov. ### 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:11:17Z
https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=726 BACON RESPONDS TO PRESIDENT BIDEN, CALLS FOR A COMPLETE EVACUATION 2021-08-26 2021 2021-08 Republican House NE Don Bacon B001298 bacon.house.gov bacon https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx scraper Omaha, Neb. – Rep. Don Bacon (NE-02) released the following statement in response to President Biden’s recent address on Afghanistan: “While I appreciate the President finally addressing the nation and his commitment to hunt down ISIS members responsible for killing American service members today, it is imperative that we complete the evacuation mission now. Make no mistake, terrorists will track down, hold captive, and kill American citizens and Afghan allies left behind. We must complete our evacuation of all American citizens.” 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:11:17Z
https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=722 Bacon Responds to Final Message from State Dept. to Americans in Afghanistan 2021-08-25 2021 2021-08 Republican House NE Don Bacon B001298 bacon.house.gov bacon https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx scraper Washington, D.C. – Rep. Don Bacon (NE-02) issued the following statement about a State Department “last call” notice for American citizens in Afghanistan, received by a constituent and shared with Bacon’s office: “Our administration is leaving potentially thousands of citizens to be held hostage, trapped and even murdered in less than six days. Their “Final Message’ as they call it, for American citizens to be at a certain location by midnight tonight with their spouse and children under 21 is more like a ‘last call for their lives.’ We have heard from many citizens that they are not able to travel the streets of Kabul to get to the secure location listed in the memo. How are we going to guarantee their safety? “This has been a colossal failure of epic proportions brought on by the Administration. The President was warned by Dept. of Defense leaders and others that the Taliban would quickly act. Why did they wait until the last minute to make plans to get our citizens out? He should have ordered the State Department to quickly start processing SIV’s earlier this year. Plans should have been made to get our citizens and those with passports, safely out of the country. The Administration based their strategy on hopes, but hope is not a strategy. “My heart aches for those who are wondering if they will get out in time to save the lives of their spouse and children. My heart aches for those who faithfully worked with our troops during the war, with the promise of a better life in America. My heart aches for those in America waiting to hear about the status of their families…wondering if they are able to escape the Taliban. “The Administration must be held accountable for this travesty.” ### **Email, date, time, and location have been redacted for security purposes. From: (Email redacted) Sent: Tuesday, August 24, 2021 11:45 AM To: (Email redacted) Subject: 8/25 Emergency Message for U.S. Citizens from U.S. Embassy in Afghanistan U.S. Embassy in Afghanistan AMERICAN CITIZENS ONLY THIS IS THE FINAL MESSAGE… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:11:17Z
https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases/smith-statement-democrats-partisan-bills Smith Statement on Democrats’ Partisan Bills 2021-08-24 2021 2021-08 Republican House NE Adrian Smith S001172 adriansmith.house.gov adriansmith https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases scraper Washington, D.C. – Congressman Adrian Smith (R-NE) released the below statement today opposing the Democrats' resolution which enacted a budget authorizing $3.5 trillion government expansion while bypassing all opportunities for debate or amendment. "Speaker Pelosi paved the way for Democrats to push through their multi-trillion-dollar social spending package today by using a procedural gimmick to deem their budget resolution passed. This is a clear last-ditch effort to ram it through in the least accountable fashion possible. This tactic shows how unpopular the resolution is with the Speaker's own caucus, let alone the American people. "Our ongoing inflation and workforce crises are a direct result of President Biden's failed economic plan, and this budget doubles down on their failing agenda. "Now more than ever, our priority in Congress must be empowering small businesses to reopen and hire workers, not penalize job creation, incentivize Americans to stay home, and continue to grow inflation. To say I am incredibly disappointed by Speaker Pelosi and House Democrats' continued manipulation of the legislative process to cater to their own agenda is an understatement." Smith, a senior of the Ways and Means Committee and lead Republican on the Select Revenue Subcommittee, has been leading efforts to stop President Biden's proposed tax increases, including provisions that would repeal stepped up basis and raise taxes on America's small businesses as they struggle to reopen. 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:11:17Z
https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases/icymi-smith-welcomed-us-house-agriculture-committee-ranking-republican ICYMI: Smith Welcomed U.S. House Agriculture Committee Ranking Republican Thompson in Nebraska 2021-08-23 2021 2021-08 Republican House NE Adrian Smith S001172 adriansmith.house.gov adriansmith https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases scraper Washington, D.C. – Congressman Adrian Smith (R-NE) recently welcomed House Agriculture Committee Ranking Republican, Congressman G.T Thompson (R-PA) to Nebraska's Third District, the number one Congressional district for agriculture production. During the trip, Smith and Thompson visited the United States Meat Animal Research Center (USMARC), near Clay Center, and Nebraska's first dry mill ethanol plant, Chief Ethanol Fuels near Hastings. Former United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Under Secretary Greg Ibach, Nebraska Farm Bureau President Mark McHargue and representatives from the USDA and the University of Nebraska participated in the visit. The trip provided an opportunity for representatives to visit with Smith and Thompson on the importance of federal agriculture policy to Nebraska's Third District. In particular, the discussion focused on the significance of livestock regulations and the direction of federal policy concerning liquid fuels like ethanol. 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:11:17Z
https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=713 Bacon Awarded AMVETS Silver Helmet Award 2021-08-20 2021 2021-08 Republican House NE Don Bacon B001298 bacon.house.gov bacon https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx scraper Omaha, Neb. – Rep. Don Bacon (NE-02) has been awarded the AMVETS Silver Helmet Award for exceptional service as a Member of Congress to the American people, principally veterans. AMVETS is a veteran’s service organization that has been representing veterans for more than 75 years. “After national defense, I believe that Congress has no greater duty than to ensure that U.S. veterans and their families receive the care and benefits they have earned,” said Bacon. “I am humbled to be recognized with this award for my work on defense and veteran related legislation.” Nominations for the Silver Helmet Awards originate with individual AMVETS members and AMVETS posts‚ and are endorsed by the respective state AMVETS honors and awards committees prior to the AMVETS national convention. Past notable honorees include Gus Bilirakis in 2014 and Bob Dole in 1982 for their congressional leadership; and Norman Schwartzkopf in 1992 and Colin Powell in 1991 for their leadership in defense. ### 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:11:17Z
https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=712 Bacon Named Democracy Awards Winner 2021-08-19 2021 2021-08 Republican House NE Don Bacon B001298 bacon.house.gov bacon https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx scraper Congressional Management Foundation Recognizes Bacon for Outstanding Achievement in Constituent Services WASHINGTON, D.C., The Congressional Management Foundation (CMF) announced this week that Rep. Don Bacon (NE-02) is a winner of a Democracy Award, CMF’s honor recognizing non-legislative achievement and performance in congressional offices. Rep. Bacon was selected for outstanding achievement for the category of Constituent Service. The Constituent Service category honors offices for their outstanding practices or achievements acting as ombudsmen with the federal government or responding to constituent requests and inquiries. “As a Democracy Award winner, Rep. Bacon’s office is clearly one of the best in Congress,” said Bradford Fitch, President and CEO of the Congressional Management Foundation. “This designation demonstrates that Rep. Bacon has made a significant commitment to being the best public servant for his constituents in Nebraska. Rep. Bacon and his staff are to be congratulated for not only being a model for his colleagues in Congress, but for helping to restore trust and faith that our democratic institutions can work.” “Constituent services are one of the most important things we do, and we approach it with a whole-person overview,” said Rep. Bacon “Our team is humbled to be selected for this award, but we don’t do it for that. We do it because it is the right thing to do.” Eight House and Senate offices were honored as winners in four categories: Constituent Service; Innovation and Modernization; Transparency and Accountability; and "Life in Congress"-Workplace Environment. Representative and Senate personal offices nominated themselves using an online questionnaire for the four office categories. CMF followed up with offices as necessary to gather documentation and assess the office's adherence to the established criteria. The winners were selected by a selection committee primarily comprised of former Members of Congress and congressional staff. The winners will be honored at a ceremony to b… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:11:17Z
https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases/smith-announces-2021-2022-youth-advisory-council-members Smith Announces 2021-2022 Youth Advisory Council Members 2021-08-18 2021 2021-08 Republican House NE Adrian Smith S001172 adriansmith.house.gov adriansmith https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases scraper Washington, D.C. – Congressman Adrian Smith (R-NE) met last week with the Third District high school students who will serve on his Youth Advisory Council for the 2021-2022 academic school year. 2021-2022 Youth Advisory Council members include: Piper Fernau, York High School; Bowdie Fox, Grand Island Central Catholic High School; James Heirigs, North Platte St. Patrick High School; Jeremy Hunter, Aurora High School; Lawrence Hunter Miller, Bayard High School; Thomas Kaus, Chadron Public School; Faith King, Summerland Public School; William Krondak, North Platte St. Patrick High School; Cheve Lutz, Dundy County Stratton Public School; Abigail Nielsen, McCook High School; Austin Phinney, York High School; Turner Plugge, Kearney Catholic High School; Taya Schmaderer, Stuart Public Schools; Violet Schwager, West Holt Public Schools; Jenason Spady, Garden County High School; And Tucker Stagemeyer, O'Neill Public Schools. Smith's Youth Advisory Council is a forum for high school students to discuss opinions, thoughts, and concerns about local and federal issues with Smith throughout the school year. Through in-person meetings and other contacts, the Council provides students an opportunity for involvement and insight into their government and communities. 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:11:17Z
https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=711 Bacon Has Long Warned of a Flawed Afghanistan Withdrawal 2021-08-18 2021 2021-08 Republican House NE Don Bacon B001298 bacon.house.gov bacon https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx scraper Points to Poor Execution by Biden and Disregard of Bi-Partisan Concerns in Congress Omaha, Neb. – Since 2019, Rep. Don Bacon (NE-02) and other members of the House Armed Services Committee (HASC) have expressed concerns regarding a quick withdraw from Afghanistan and negotiations with the Taliban, especially since the Afghanistan government was not a party to these negotiations. In 2020, a bipartisan group of HASC Members decided that legislative guardrails had to be put in place to help prevent the disastrous events we are now watching unfold. During last year’s National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) markup, Bacon supported and voted for an amendment offered by Democratic Congressman and fellow veteran Rep. Jason Crow’s (CO-06) placing limits on how far the withdraw could proceed subject to the Administration providing additional certifications and consultations with Congress (See attached roll call vote record). The amendment passed and ultimately was incorporated as Section 1215 of the FY21 NDAA. This provision was later cited by President Trump as a basis of his decision to veto the FY21 defense bill, an action that Congress later overrode by a wide bi-partisan margin. “We were so concerned about the path being taken to withdraw our troops that we wrote and passed a law to limit the Executive Branch’s actions,” said Bacon. “This provision received broad bi-partisan support both in committee and in conference. The narrative that members ‘did nothing’ or were silent about Trump’s policy is complete nonsense. What I actually did was THE MOST any member of Congress can do which is to pass a LAW to limit executive branch actions.” Section 1215 prohibited the use of funds to withdraw forces below certain levels until the Administration, either Trump or Biden, could certify the following: An assessment that the withdrawal will not impede our counterterrorism mission against ISIS, al-Qaeda, and associated forces, or endanger our national security. An assessment of the risk the withdrawal poses to United Stat… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:11:17Z
https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=707 Bacon Issues Statement on the President’s Address 2021-08-16 2021 2021-08 Republican House NE Don Bacon B001298 bacon.house.gov bacon https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx scraper Omaha, Neb. – Rep. Don Bacon (NE-02), a nearly 30-year veteran and retired brigadier general who was deployed four times to the Middle East, issued the following statement on Pres. Biden’s address concerning Afghanistan: “We have to address what the president didn’t say. “Number one, President Biden didn’t take responsibility for the disaster that is happening before our eyes. He’s been passing the buck, the opposite of President Truman; “Two, the President didn’t acknowledge that we only had 2500 troops there in non-combat roles, and we’ve not had a combat fatality in almost a year and a half in Afghanistan; “Three, the President didn’t recognize that the air power we provided to the Afghanistan Military was greatly diminished when we retreated, the main reason for the collapse of Afghan military; “Four, the President pulled the contractors that were doing maintenance on the Afghan aircraft, so they are not able to fly them; and “Five, President Biden conveniently forgets how he intends to conduct US counter terrorism operations with the closure of our embassy and complete withdraw of all US personnel. Now even more critical with the release of 5000 hardened terrorists, Al Qaida operatives among them from the Parwan detention facility. “In all, our credibility has been greatly stained in the world due to the ineptness of the White House. The Chinese and Iranians will be emboldened by the Administration’s perceived weakness. This is a failure. “We must focus on getting all refugees with US Visa’s to safety, including those who have applications in. Next, we need to focus on legislation in the upcoming NDAA* to address security for our country and support for those who assisted us in Afghanistan. Finally, we have to show support for our Gold Star families who wonder if the lives of their loved ones were lost in vain and working with veterans who are asking the same question.” *NDAA = National Defense Authorization Act ### 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:11:17Z
https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=703 Bacon Furious Over President Biden’s “Cut and Run” Retreat and Abandonment of the Afghan Interpreters 2021-08-13 2021 2021-08 Republican House NE Don Bacon B001298 bacon.house.gov bacon https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx scraper Omaha, Neb.— Rep. Don Bacon (NE-02) has released the following statement, expressing his outrage regarding the Biden Administration’s disastrous retreat and the rapidly deteriorating situation in Afghanistan: “President Biden’s reckless decision to continue the withdrawal from Afghanistan has set up the potential takeover of Kabul by the Taliban. Our national security interests are compromised, our credibility in the region is undermined, and our allies in Afghanistan, such as the interpreters, now have their lives in danger. The Taliban now controls over 70% of Afghanistan and conquered the second and third largest cities on Thursday. Afghan friends of Americans are being executed wherever they’re found by the Taliban. "This is catastrophic and humiliating to our nation, and it is a result of very flawed planning and execution of the withdrawal of our small force we had remaining. The forces we had in Afghanistan prior to Biden’s ‘cut and run’ strategy were non-combat forces and largely in garrison. We were suffering the lowest number of casualties seen in two decades. The diminished airpower capability as a result of this withdrawal is the primary reason we’re seeing the Afghan forces fold. “Further, the interpreters and translators, including women, children, teachers, doctors, and government employees, have aided and protected our military and government civilians for decades, yet this Administration had no plan when they announced their rapid retreat out of Afghanistan. This is a broken promise to those who sacrificed everything to help us. “As a retired Brigadier General and Air Force officer who served in this region numerous times, I am outraged at the incompetence and disastrous policy put in place. There is still time for the President to change his policy and protect our national security interests and friends in Afghanistan.” 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:11:17Z
https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=696 Bacon, Fischer Applaud Pentagon’s Increased Focus on Electromagnetic Spectrum Operations, STRATCOM 2021-08-06 2021 2021-08 Republican House NE Don Bacon B001298 bacon.house.gov bacon https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx scraper WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Representative Don Bacon (R-Neb.), a member of the House Armed Services Committee and a leader on this area in the Tactical Air and Land Forces Subcommittee, and U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-Neb.), a senior member of the Senate Armed Services Committee and top Republican on the Strategic Forces Subcommittee, today welcomed an announcement that the Pentagon has established an office to oversee electromagnetic spectrum operations at U.S. Strategic Command (STRATCOM) in Nebraska. "Previously, no one was in charge of U.S. electromagnetic spectrum operations, which resulted in a rudderless operation falling behind China. As Co-Chair of the Congressional Electromagnetic Warfare Working Group and a former EW officer in the Air Force, I have made the restoration of U.S. electronic warfare a top legislative priority. Continuing to ensure the Defense Secretary and Joint Chiefs of Staff make this a top priority helps us regain our competitive edge. Today's announcement of these operations being headquartered at U.S. Strategic Command and Offutt Air Force Base is a win for the Omaha community, Nebraska, and even a bigger win for national defense to regain our dominance against peer competitors like China and Russia,” said Rep. Don Bacon. “I’m happy to see the Department of Defense building on the talented workforce at STRATCOM as well as the greater focus on the broader mission of electromagnetic spectrum operations. The establishment of this new office is welcome news, but its success will require sustained investment and commitment. I look forward to learning more about DoD plans to ensure the necessary personnel and resources are available to support this important work,” said Senator Fischer. "USSTRATCOM is proud to be the operational lead for the EMS Enterprise and EMS-dependent capabilities. We are excited to be part of a department-wide implementation plan for the EMS Superiority Strategy and EMS-dependent capabilities. USSTRATCOM personnel have been fully involved in drafting the implementat… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:11:17Z
https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases/smith-brady-host-ways-and-means-meeting-discuss-impact-democrats-tax-proposals Smith, Brady Host Ways and Means Meeting to Discuss Impact of Democrats’ Tax Proposals 2021-08-05 2021 2021-08 Republican House NE Adrian Smith S001172 adriansmith.house.gov adriansmith https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases scraper August 5, 2021 Washington, D.C. – President Biden's crippling tax hikes on America's middle class and Main Street will reverse the gains from the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act, according to key witnesses at a Ways and Means Republican Meeting this week. Representatives Adrian Smith (R-NE), Ranking Republican on the Select Revenue Subcommittee, and Republican Leader of the Ways and Means Committee, Kevin Brady (R-TX) hosted the meeting. Ways and Means Republicans were joined by witnesses former Senator Phil Gramm (R-TX) and Larry Kudlow, former Director of the National Economic Council. Rep. Smith said: "(TCJA) led to good, solid economic growth. Not a sugar high for our economy, but steady growth that added to wages, added to economic growth, and added to a prosperous future for so many Americans." "I am seriously concerned about what Democrats' proposed tax increases would do to state economies across the country, and particularly about the harm faced by our farmers, ranchers, and small businesses." Rep. Brady said: "The Tax Cuts and Jobs Act lifted millions of Americans out of poverty and gave hope to so many the old tax code had left behind." "Democrats' socialist agenda pushes companies to countries with lower tax rates—including Communist China. President Biden's global minimum tax will make it better to be a foreign company and a foreign worker than an American one." "Repealing the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act is a tax increase on the middle class. Even liberals agree that under the President's tax plan, working families will see their taxes go up." Former Senator Phil Gramm (R-TX) said: "If you want to destroy the American economy, destroy small business, destroy family business. There are very few family businesses that can survive these kinds of taxes [that the Democrats want]… Up to 80 or 90 percent of all family businesses would be destroyed in one generation under that tax. And under two generations, there'd be none left. What kind of family farm or ranch of any size or magnitude can survive that kind of … 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:11:17Z
https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases/smith-host-agriculture-summit Smith to Host Agriculture Summit 2021-08-04 2021 2021-08 Republican House NE Adrian Smith S001172 adriansmith.house.gov adriansmith https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases scraper Washington, D.C. – Congressman Adrian Smith (R-NE) will host an Agriculture Summit on Wednesday, August 11, in Kearney, Nebraska. The summit will begin at 8:00 a.m. CT. The summit provides Third District constituents an opportunity to visit with Smith, ask questions, and share their thoughts on the future of agriculture policy. Joining Congressman Smith to discuss disaster relief and the direction of federal agriculture policy will be Mark Slupek, USDA Foreign Ag Service Deputy Administrator for Global Programs, Jordan Schlake, Nebraska Department of Agriculture Trade Representative, John McCoy, Orthman Manufacturing CEO, and Norm Krug, Preferred Popcorn CEO. "Sound agriculture and trade policies are a crucial part of ensuring Nebraska's agricultural industry can compete in a global economy," said Smith. "I look forward to direct engagement from Third District producers on the challenges they face. Getting these policies right will better position our producers to remain amongst the top-producing in the country." 2021 Agriculture Summit Wednesday, August 11, 2021 Younes Conference Center South Ruby Room 6 416 West Talmadge Street Kearney, NE 68845 8:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m. CT Pre-registration for in person attendance is encouraged. Please contact Smith's Grand Island office at (308) 384-3900 to pre-register. If you cannot attend the summit in person, you are welcome to attend virtually. Please use this registration link to do so: https://bit.ly/3xkAnOc For questions about these events, please contact Smith's Grand Island office at (308) 384-3900. 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:11:17Z
https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases/smith-kuster-thune-and-cardin-reintroduce-legislation-increase-telehealth Smith, Kuster, Thune, and Cardin Reintroduce Legislation to Increase Telehealth Services in Nursing Facilities 2021-07-30 2021 2021-07 Republican House NE Adrian Smith S001172 adriansmith.house.gov adriansmith https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases scraper Washington, D.C. — U.S. Reps. Adrian Smith (R-NE) and Ann Kuster (D-NH), along with U.S. Sens. John Thune (R-SD) and Ben Cardin (D-MD), today reintroduced companion versions of the Reducing Unnecessary Senior Hospitalizations (RUSH) Act of 2021, bipartisan, bicameral legislation to facilitate greater use of telehealth in skilled nursing facilities. "In the past year, we have been reminded how crucial telehealth services are for rural communities," said Smith. "The RUSH Act will help transform rural health care for seniors by allowing the use of new technologies and improved connectivity in skilled nursing facilities to enable appropriate treatment in place and eliminate unnecessary hospital transfers." "Throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, telehealth services have been a lifeline for patients by eliminating the risk of transmission and preventing unnecessary hospital stays which can place a significant financial burden on providers and senior patients alike," said Kuster. "The RUSH Act will reduce this burden, cut down on costs, and expand access to care in our rural communities through telehealth options — all while reducing the risk of patients contracting an infection in a hospital. I'm pleased to join my colleagues to reintroduce this common-sense, bipartisan legislation and I will continue working to improve health care delivery across the Granite State." "Following an unprecedented year of telehealth usage, it's clear how essential this service is, especially in nursing facilities," said Thune. "South Dakota has led the way in utilization of telehealth, and the RUSH Act acknowledges the success we have seen from using technology to coordinate care for seniors in nursing facilities." "The COVID-19 pandemic led to increased and successful use of telehealth in health care settings of all varieties," said Cardin. "Continued use and expansion of telehealth in skilled nursing facilities will benefit patients and doctors, while reducing expensive and unnecessary hospital visits where inappropriate. I'm proud to b… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:03:51Z
https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=695 Bacon Joins Senate and House Colleagues to Support National Guard, Capitol Police, and Afghan Partners 2021-07-29 2021 2021-07 Republican House NE Don Bacon B001298 bacon.house.gov bacon https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx scraper Washington, DC – Rep. Don Bacon (NE-02) today voted for emergency appropriations for the National Guard, U.S. Capitol Security, assistance for Afghan partners, and other funding needs. Not only does this legislation reimburse the agencies who responded to the events on January 6 at the U.S. Capitol, it aids our partners in Afghanistan who worked alongside our military as translators and in other roles. “Our national defenders and first responders answered the call to protect our Capitol and we must in turn answer the call to make sure they are reimbursed so that critical operations are not canceled,” said Bacon. “This bill is straight-forward and addresses what is needed, without unnecessary additions and items that have zero relation to the matter at hand.” The bill fully reimburses the National Guard $521 million for costs incurred during the deployment at the Capitol, $106 million to the U.S. Capitol Police for operations, and $300 million to upgrade some security measures with the Capitol complex. It also provides funding to assist Afghan partners who assisted our military by providing funds for transportation, temporary housing, and transitional services. “This nation owes a debt of gratitude to our Afghan partners who worked alongside our military during operations to secure freedom in their home county and this funding will ensure their safety,” said Bacon. Not only does this bill support our National Guard, Capitol Police and Afghan partners, it is more fiscally responsible. “This clean legislation refunds the budgets of those agencies who protected our capitol and supports those who have aided our country, without bankrupting America’s wallets like the bill previously passed by the House,” added Bacon. ### 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:03:51Z
https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases/smith-host-mobile-office-hooker-county Smith to Host Mobile Office in Hooker County 2021-07-22 2021 2021-07 Republican House NE Adrian Smith S001172 adriansmith.house.gov adriansmith https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases scraper Washington, D.C. – Congressman Adrian Smith (R-NE) will meet with Third District constituents during a mobile office on Tuesday, August 3, in Mullen, Nebraska. A mobile office allows constituents to meet directly with Congressman Smith about federal issues and take advantage of the constituent services available through his office, such as assisting individuals with challenges they face while working with a federal agency, ordering flags flown over the U.S. Capitol, and booking tours in Washington, D.C. Smith, who has offices in Grand Island and Scottsbluff, will hold the mobile office at the following time and location: HOOKER COUNTY MOBILE OFFICE Tuesday, August 3, 2021 2:45 p.m. - 3:45 p.m. MT Hooker County Courthouse 303 NW 1st Street, Mullen For additional information, please contact Congressman Smith's Grand Island office at (308) 384-3900 or Scottsbluff office at (308) 633-6333. 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:03:51Z
https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases/reps-smith-craig-lead-biofuels-caucus-co-chairs-introducing-legislation-allow Reps. Smith, Craig Lead Biofuels Caucus Co-Chairs in Introducing Legislation to Allow Year-Round E15 Sales 2021-07-14 2021 2021-07 Republican House NE Adrian Smith S001172 adriansmith.house.gov adriansmith https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases scraper Washington, D.C. – Representatives Adrian Smith (R-NE) and Angie Craig (D-MN) today led their Co-Chairs of the Congressional Biofuels Caucus, Representatives Dusty Johnson (R- SD), Cindy Axne (D-IA), Rodney Davis (R-IL), and Mark Pocan (D-WI), in introducing the Year-Round Fuel Choice Act. This bipartisan legislation would ensure the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) can grant waivers to allow E15 and higher blend fuels to be sold at retailers year-round. Smith and Craig introduced the legislation after a federal appeals court struck down an EPA rule that lifted restrictions on the year-round sale of certain corn ethanol fuel blends. The legislation would provide key stability and predictability for family farmers and biofuels producers across the country. "I have long championed the uninterrupted sale of E15 to provide consumers consistency in their fuel tank and farmers consistency in their production," said Smith. "Time after time I've introduced legislation to emphasize and reinforce EPA's authority to allow the year-round sale of E15. With the recent D.C. Circuit Court ruling to roll back RVP waivers, it's imperative we clarify congressional intent once and for all: there is no reason E15 should not have the same regulatory relief as E10." "E15 and higher blend biofuels expand markets for family farmers, support economic growth in rural America and cut down on dangerous pollutants released into the air we breathe," said Rep. Craig. "It's long past time that the year-round sale of these renewable fuels was made permanent, expanding the market for lower-cost, lower-carbon fuel choices all across America. I'm proud to work with Representative Smith on this critical legislation to support our biofuels producers and family farmers, while expanding options at the pump for consumers across the country." Earlier this month, the D.C. Circuit Court of Appeals reversed an EPA rule that allowed retailers to sell E15 blends of ethanol year-round by granting a waiver from Reid Vapor Pressure (RVP) requirements. The… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:03:51Z
https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=686 Bacon Introduces Legislation to Encourage the Development of Specialized Foster Care Programs for Siblings 2021-07-09 2021 2021-07 Republican House NE Don Bacon B001298 bacon.house.gov bacon https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx scraper Washington, DC - On Friday, Rep. Don Bacon (NE - 02) and Reps. Karen Bass (CA-37), Jim Langevin (RI-02) and Brenda Lawrence (MI-14) today introduced the Protecting Sibling Relationships in Foster Care Act, to authorize the Department of Health & Human Services (HHS) to establish a competitive grant pilot program to encourage the development of specialized foster care programs designed specifically for sibling groups with a large number, a wide age range, and complex needs. The idea is inspired by a 2018 intern from the Congressional Coalition on Adoption Institute (CCAI), Brittney Barros, who seeks to improve sibling relations. While current federal law requires states to make a “reasonable effort” to place siblings together in the foster care system, a majority of siblings in the foster system are separated. Some reports identify as many as 75% of foster children are placed apart from one or more of their siblings. This is a serious problem that is preventable. According to the Government Accountability Office (GAO) there are three major barriers that states face in placing siblings together: sibling groups with a large number, a wide age range, and complex needs. The bill authorizes $10 million over a 5-year period for this demonstration program that will be awarded to five applicants. “Keeping siblings together in the foster care system significantly increases their chance of having positive life outcomes. As a foster to adoptive parent of a sibling group, I believe this bill will go a long way towards helping address the unique challenges faced by sibling groups with large numbers, wide age ranges, and complex needs,” said Rep. Bacon. “We have a responsibility to empower our Nation’s children by guaranteeing them a stable, loving home, surrounded by their siblings, and I appreciate working with Brittney Barros and the Foster Youth Caucus on developing this bill." “When a child is placed into the child welfare system, they become the responsibility of the government. It should be our responsibility to work… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:03:51Z
https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases/smith-host-mobile-office-sioux-county Smith to Host Mobile Office in Sioux County 2021-07-07 2021 2021-07 Republican House NE Adrian Smith S001172 adriansmith.house.gov adriansmith https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases scraper Washington, D.C. – Congressman Adrian Smith (R-NE) will meet with constituents of the Third District during a mobile office on Thursday, July 15, in Harrison, Nebraska. A mobile office allows constituents to meet directly with Congressman Smith about federal issues and take advantage of the constituent services available through his office, such as assisting individuals with challenges they face while working with a federal agency, ordering flags flown over the U.S. Capitol, and booking tours in Washington, D.C. Smith, who has offices in Grand Island and Scottsbluff, will hold the mobile office at the following time and location: Sioux County Mobile Office Thursday, July 15, 2021 10:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m. MT Sioux County Courthouse 325 Main Street, Harrison For additional information, please contact Congressman Smith's Grand Island office at (308) 384-3900 or Scottsbluff office at (308) 633-6333. 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:03:51Z
https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases/smith-responds-dc-circuit-court-decision-blocking-year-round-e15 Smith Responds to D.C. Circuit Court Decision Blocking Year-Round E15 2021-07-02 2021 2021-07 Republican House NE Adrian Smith S001172 adriansmith.house.gov adriansmith https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases scraper Washington, D.C. – Congressman Adrian Smith (R-NE) released the below statement today in response to the U.S. Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia ruling against the Environmental Protection Agency's (EPA) 2019 rule waiving Reid Vapor Pressure (RVP) requirements to allow the sale of ethanol blends in gasoline of 15%, or E15, year-round. "I am deeply disappointed by the D.C. Circuit Court's ruling today to roll back the previous administration's expansion of the RVP waiver for E15," said Smith. "It defies logic that the EPA could not use its statutory authority to provide a waiver for E10, but not provide one for E15, which has a lower PSI than E10." Prior to the 2019 rulemaking by EPA, Smith introduced legislation intended to clarify EPA's authority to provide a RVP waiver for E15 by requiring the agency to do so. 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:03:51Z
https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=682 Bacon, Bass, Langevin and Mullin Introduce Legislation to Offer Stability to Foster Youth 2021-07-01 2021 2021-07 Republican House NE Don Bacon B001298 bacon.house.gov bacon https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx scraper Washington, DC - Reps. Don Bacon (NE-02) Karen Bass (CA-37), Jim Langevin (RI-2) and Markwayne Mullin (OK-02) today introduced the Foster Care Stabilization Act, which seeks to improve pre-placement services for children placed in foster care, especially those in emergency situations that may lack basic supplies, like clothing or other incidentals. All four representatives are co-chairs of the bipartisan Congressional Caucus on Foster Youth. Reports have shown that some social workers are placing children in homes out of desperation so those children will not end up sleeping in the child welfare offices. Unfortunately, some children also end up in shelters for a long period of time. For those children in the foster care system, there is an urgent need for a stronger quality of care. For example, additional quality clothing, food, and the necessary equipment to sleep and live day-to-day are needed in systems. It is important to ensure all children needing placement services have access to these items to reduce trauma in the younger generation. The Foster Care Stabilization Act ensures children in the foster care system have their basic needs and supplies. The bill authorizes $3,000,000 total for the HHS to award three demonstration grants for three years to foster care stabilization agencies. Funding would specifically be used to hire more personnel necessary to provide emergency relief to foster care youth. Additionally, it would be used to purchase clothing and other necessities a foster youth would need. It would support and prevent occurrences of child abuse and neglect and promote any other emergency assistance needed for safety and self-sufficiency of foster youth. It is modeled after a successful program in Nebraska between the Foster CARE Closet and NE DHHS, who created the Intake CARE Center. “Children who are sent into the foster care system do not get to make their own choice and it’s unfortunate there are so many children who have gone to unstable homes,” said Rep. Bacon. “The Foster Care Stabilizat… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:03:51Z
https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases/smith-hosts-ways-and-means-meeting-opposing-stepped-basis-repeal Smith Hosts Ways and Means Meeting Opposing Stepped-up Basis Repeal 2021-06-29 2021 2021-06 Republican House NE Adrian Smith S001172 adriansmith.house.gov adriansmith https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases scraper Washington, D.C. – Representatives Adrian Smith (R-NE), Ranking Republican on the Select Revenue Subcommittee, and Republican Leader of the Ways and Means Committee, Kevin Brady (R-TX), hosted a meeting today titled "Democrats' Supercharged Death Tax Targets Family-Owned Businesses and Farms, Costing 1 Million Jobs." The meeting provided committee members an opportunity to hear from agriculture producers and small businesses about the real negative impact the Biden Administration's proposal to repeal stepped-up basis would have on the next generation of farmers, ranchers, and manufacturers. Don Batie, a Third District farmer from Dawson County, spoke to the toll repealing stepped-up basis would have on passing his farm, which has been in his family since an initial Homestead Act claim was made in the 1870s, to the next generation. To see Batie's testimony, click here. "Stepped-up basis ensures family-owned farms, ranches, and small businesses carry on to the next generation, creating jobs and economic opportunity everywhere, particularly in rural America," said Smith. "I appreciate Don taking time today to share his story with our committee, illustrating the importance of this part of the tax code to families across our state who have farmed and ranched for generations." 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T19:57:00Z
https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=678 Bacon Submits Legislation to Name Benson Post Office After Charles Jackson French 2021-06-29 2021 2021-06 Republican House NE Don Bacon B001298 bacon.house.gov bacon https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx scraper Washington, DC -On Friday, Rep. Don Bacon (NE - 02) and Reps. Jeff Fortenberry (NE-01) and Adrian Smith (NE-03) introduced H.R. 4168 to name the U.S. Post Office in Omaha’s Benson area, 6223 Maple St., after Petty Officer First Class Charles Jackson French, a World War II hero with ties to Omaha, who rescued fifteen of his injured shipmates by swimming for hours through shark-infested waters off the coast of the Guadalcanal. Petty Officer French served as a mess attendant on the USS Gregory, when the military was racially segregated. However, this did not stop him from rescuing fifteen of his injured fellow sailors when their ship was attacked and sunk by Japanese gunfire. French helped his crewmates into a life raft and tied it to himself, swimming for nearly eight hours through nightfall and swarming sharks until they were finally identified and rescued. Despite his extraordinary display of valor, French and his family received little recognition that his service and sacrifice deserve. Honoring the legacy of an American hero like Charles Jackson French is long overdue. “French’s bravery and sacrifice to save his injured mates off the coast of the Guadalcanal are truly admirable. His story of devotion and service is one that we all should know and learn from. As a three-decade veteran, I am inspired by French’s decision to put his own life on the line for his fellow sailors, especially in the face of such grave danger,”said Rep. Bacon. “Naming a U.S. Post Office in the Omaha area after Charles Jackson French, a hero with ties to our community is the first step we can take to honor French and his family with the recognition they deserve.” Petty Officer French demonstrated unbelievable selflessness in the face of unconscionable danger. I am proud to sponsor this bill that honors his bravery by naming a United States Post Office after him in Omaha,”said Smith.“French became a true hero during World War II when he put the lives of injured sailors above his own, and it is time we pay tribute to his legacy and cem… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T19:57:00Z
https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases/smith-announces-2021-congressional-art-competition-winners Smith Announces 2021 Congressional Art Competition Winners 2021-06-28 2021 2021-06 Republican House NE Adrian Smith S001172 adriansmith.house.gov adriansmith https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases scraper Washington, D.C. – Congressman Adrian Smith (R-NE) today announced the winners of the 2021 Congressional Art Competition for the Third District of Nebraska. "Congratulations to the winners of this year's Congressional Art Competition and to all of the students who submitted their work," said Smith. "The impressive art submitted this year is a testament to the talent of Third District students and their teachers." Artwork by the first-place winner will be displayed in the U.S. Capitol. The runners-up will have their art displayed in Congressman Smith's Washington, D.C., Grand Island, and Scottsbluff offices. Smith worked with the Nebraska Art Teachers Association to coordinate the competition. First Place: "My Best Friend" by Libby Macklin of Blue Hill Blue Hill Public Schools Libby's work will be displayed in the U.S. Capitol for one year. Second Place: "A Girl and Her Horse" by Abigail Boatright of Falls City Falls City Public Schools Abigail's work will be displayed in Smith's Washington, D.C. office. Third Place: "All Dogs go to Heaven" by Elizabeth Meyers of Oxford Southern Valley Schools Elizabeth's work will be displayed in Smith's Grand Island office. 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T19:57:00Z
https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases/house-biofuels-caucus-statement-supreme-courts-renewable-fuel-standard House Biofuels Caucus Statement on Supreme Court’s Renewable Fuel Standard Decision and the Future Integrity of the RFS 2021-06-25 2021 2021-06 Republican House NE Adrian Smith S001172 adriansmith.house.gov adriansmith https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases scraper Washington, DC – Today, the co-chairs of the bipartisan House Biofuels Caucus—Rep. Adrian Smith (NE-03), Rep. Rodney Davis (IL-13), Rep. Dusty Johnson (SD-AL), Rep. Cindy Axne (IA-03), Rep. Angie Craig (MN-02), and Rep. Mark Pocan (WI-02)—released the following statement after the Supreme Court weakened the RFS at the expense of family farmers and biofuels producers in rural America in HollyFrontier Cheyenne Refining, LLC v. Renewable Fuels Association: "We are concerned with the potential consequences of today's Supreme Court's decision, which could have a devastating impact on farmers and producers who are still fighting to recover from the volatile markets, unpredictable weather, and trade instability of the past several years. However, we are encouraged that the Environmental Protection Agency had reversed its position on small refinery exemptions prior to the Supreme Court's final opinion, and we urge the Administration to apply the same logic in deciding not to grant future waivers. Today's decision underscores the importance of the RFS Integrity Act; we will continue to fight for the enactment of this legislation to support family farmers and the clean biofuels industry." The Renewable Fuel Standard is a federal program that requires transportation fuel sold in the United States to contain a minimum volume of renewable fuels by mandating that oil refiners blend billions of gallons of ethanol and other biofuels into their fuel each year or buy credits from those that do. Under the previous Administration, the EPA greatly expanded the number of small refinery waivers that were issued while undermining transparency and accountability in the SRE process. By issuing dozens of waivers between 2016 and 2020, the EPA saved the oil industry hundreds of millions of dollars while threatening rural economies and harming the biofuels industry at large. 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T19:57:00Z
https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=675 Bacon Leads House Colleagues on Legislation to Study Antifa Involvement in National Riots 2021-06-24 2021 2021-06 Republican House NE Don Bacon B001298 bacon.house.gov bacon https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx scraper Washington, DC – Rep. Don Bacon (R-NE-02) along with Reps. Rodney Davis (Ill-13), Tony Gonzales (TX-23), David Joyce (OH-14), Nancy Mace (SC-01), Maria Elvira Salazar (FL-27), and Rep. VanTaylor (TX-03) today introduced H.R. 4117 to establish the National Commission on Domestic Terrorist Attacks on the United States; to investigate the involvement of Antifa in the nation-wide riots of 2020. The independent bipartisan commission is structured like the 9/11 commission and mirrors the proposed Jan. 6 Commission formed in H.R. 3233, which was passed by the House on May 19, 2021, with a vote of 252-175. “While the majority of participants in demonstrations across the country in 2020 were peaceful, the events themselves became destructive due to organized pushes for violence by Antifa,” said Rep. Bacon. “Many cities were burned, and businesses destroyed. Retired police officer David Dorn was shot and killed while protecting a business. People were harassed while simply eating at outside restaurants, and Americans across the nation feared for their lives. We’re still seeing violence in Portland in recent weeks. Just as with the Jan. 6 attack on the Capitol, we must learn the truth about who is behind the violence and who is pushing the narrative to try and weaken our country and scare people into submission.” “Last year, I watched in horror as the violence and destruction wrought by Antifa drowned out the voices of Americans who were exercising their Constitutional right to peacefully protest and petition their government for change,” said Rep. Joyce. “Destruction of property is unacceptable no matter if it’s a small business, a place of worship, or the United States Capitol. Violence is unacceptable, no matter the political affiliation of who commits it. I’m proud to join my colleagues in introducing this bill and urge the Speaker to allow the House to vote on it. By understanding Antifa’s involvement in last year’s nation-wide riots, we can help preserve the First Amendment rights of law-abiding Americans and resto… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T19:57:00Z
https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=672 BACON RECEIVES CHAMBER OF COMMERCE LEADERSHIP AWARD 2021-06-18 2021 2021-06 Republican House NE Don Bacon B001298 bacon.house.gov bacon https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx scraper Washington, DC – Rep. Don Bacon (NE-02) was today recognized by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce with the Abraham Lincoln Leadership Award for 2021, for demonstrating leadership critical to advancing policies supportive of America’s free enterprise system. The award is presented to the top 20 members of Congress who have demonstrated through their actions, the leadership critical to advancing policies that support America’s free enterprise system. Rep. Bacon was the highest-ranked Republican in the House with a score of 100 percent. “During my time in Congress, I’ve made it a priority of mine to work across party lines and find bipartisan, common-sense solutions to our country’s biggest issues,” said Rep. Bacon. “We need to continue introducing and passing legislation that strengthens our economy, supports small businesses and American innovation, and puts hard-earned money back into the hands of American workers. Thank you to the U.S. Chamber of Commerce for recognizing my efforts to help advance the spirit of enterprise and our free-market system.” “These awards recognize members of Congress based on their co-sponsorship of legislation important to the business community,” said U.S. Chamber of Commerce President and CEO Suzanne Clark. “The Chamber appreciates Rep. Bacon’s support of policies that create jobs and support economic growth.” “Congress needs leaders who focus on job creation and economic growth and are willing to build strong partnerships. The NE Chamber appreciates Congressman Don Bacon’s steadfast commitment to these principles and his work on behalf of the business community,” said Bryan Slone, president, Nebraska Çhamber. "We applaud the U.S. Chamber of Commerce for their work in recognizing exemplary leaders who routinely support the remarkable work of our free-enterprise system. Today, we join many in celebrating the 20 recipients of this prestigious award, including Nebraska’s own Don Bacon. We are grateful for your commitment to economic growth, thriving communities and the people who work h… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T19:57:00Z
https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases/smith-bill-would-provide-seniors-additional-options-claiming-social-security Smith Bill Would Provide Seniors Additional Options for Claiming Social Security Benefits 2021-06-17 2021 2021-06 Republican House NE Adrian Smith S001172 adriansmith.house.gov adriansmith https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases scraper Washington, D.C. – Congressman Adrian Smith (R-NE) introduced the Providing Choice for Social Security Retirees Act (H.R. 3899) this week. The bill would provide seniors who choose to delay claiming Social Security benefits beyond their full retirement age the opportunity to receive 25% of their earned credit as an upfront lump sum payment. "Nebraska seniors want more options for accessing their Social Security benefits and Nebraska employers need workers, including seniors who want to stay in the workforce," said Smith. "Providing new options for claiming benefits within the existing structure of Social Security is good for workers, good for employers, and good for our economy. Under current law, Social Security-eligible workers who delay claiming benefits until after their full retirement age can earn an additional 8% in monthly Social Security benefits for every year they delay claiming, up to age 70. Smith's bill would allow seniors who delay claiming Social Security to receive a 6% monthly increase for every year of delay, plus an upfront bonus based on the other 25% of their monthly increase and average life expectancy. 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T19:57:00Z
https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=671 BACON VOTES TO MAKE JUNETEENTH A FEDERAL HOLIDAY 2021-06-17 2021 2021-06 Republican House NE Don Bacon B001298 bacon.house.gov bacon https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx scraper Washington, DC – Rep. Don Bacon (NE-02) yesterday voted in favor of S. 475, the Juneteenth National Independence Day Act, which designates Juneteenth (June 19) a federal holiday. The vote passed 415-14. Juneteenth, also known as Freedom Day, Liberation Day, and Emancipation Day, marks the day when federal troops arrived in Galveston, Texas, on June 19, 1865, to ensure African American slaves were freed, despite the Emancipation Proclamation being signed two years prior. Union Army Gen. Gordon Granger arrived in Galveston to deliver the address and declare that “all persons held as salves within any States, or designated part of the State, the people whereof shall be in rebellion against the United States, shall be then, thenceforward, and forever free." “I voted to make Juneteenth a holiday because we need to remember the slaves who were not freed until June 19, 1865, two years after the Emancipation Proclamation was signed,” said Rep. Bacon.“For many of our ancestral Americans, this was their Independence Day. The dream of America is that ‘all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the Pursuit of Happiness.’ Juneteenth is a historic milestone for America in living up to this dream.” “The Omaha Branch of the NAACP commends Congressman Bacon for his vote and support of the Juneteenth bill. The fight for social justice and civil rights; the freedom for all continues,” said Vickie R. Young, president, Omaha Branch-NAACP. “This is just the catalyst towards addressing justice reform, economic equality, and opportunities for all,” added Rep. Bacon. Rep. Bacon has worked on the following legislative items to enhance racial equity: Introduced the Eliminating a Quantifiably Unjust Application of the Law (EQUAL) Act. The bipartisan legislation would eliminate the federal crack and powder cocaine sentencing disparity and retroactively apply it to those already convicted or sentenced. 81% of individuals convicted of crack coc… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T19:57:00Z
https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases/smith-leads-letter-japan-ambassador-proposed-trips-waiver Smith Leads Letter to Japan Ambassador on Proposed TRIPS Waiver 2021-06-16 2021 2021-06 Republican House NE Adrian Smith S001172 adriansmith.house.gov adriansmith https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases scraper Washington, D.C. – Congressman Adrian Smith (R-NE) led a letter today alongside seventeen of his Republican colleagues on the U.S.-Japan Caucus to Ambassador Koji Tomita, the Ambassador of Japan to the United States. The letter expresses concerns regarding a recent proposal to waive intellectual property (IP) protections related to COVID-19 vaccines under the World Trade Organization's Trade Related Aspects of IP Rights (TRIPS) agreement and thanks the Government of Japan for their leadership in defending strong IP protections. The recent TRIPS waiver proposal before the World Trade Organization (WTO) does little to address challenges within vaccine production and delivery processes, while offering no solutions to technical and manufacturing obstacles. The letter stresses the importance of supporting efforts to vaccinate the global population without weakening IP rights. Read the full letter here. Full letter text below Dear Ambassador Tomita: We are writing to you regarding a recent proposal before the World Trade Organization (WTO) to waive intellectual property (IP) protections related to COVID-19 technologies under the WTO Agreement on Trade-Related Aspects of Intellectual Property Rights (TRIPS). We are deeply concerned about the potential negative impacts of this waiver for fighting both this and future health crises and greatly appreciate the Government of Japan's leadership in supporting life sciences innovation by defending strong intellectual property protections at the WTO. We are united in committing to fight the coronavirus pandemic by addressing the challenges of increasing global vaccine production and distribution. However, as you know, a TRIPS waiver on COVID-19-related technologies is not the silver bullet that some claim it to be. Vaccine production and delivery is a complex process requiring specialized expertise and equipment and adherence to essential safety and other regulatory measures. Industry already is partnering voluntarily with facilities around the world – including facilities… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T19:57:00Z
https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases/reps-smith-and-spartz-introduce-bill-improve-federal-child-care-programs Reps. Smith and Spartz Introduce Bill to Improve Federal Child Care Programs 2021-06-11 2021 2021-06 Republican House NE Adrian Smith S001172 adriansmith.house.gov adriansmith https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases scraper Washington, D.C. – Congressman Adrian Smith (R-NE) and Congresswoman Victoria Spartz (R-IN) introduced the Increasing Access to Safe Child Care Facilities Act of 2021, which will give states greater flexibility to utilize available funds to improve and increase the availability of safe child care facilities, especially in rural areas. This bill streamlines the uses of child care stabilization funds, ensuring more children have access to safe child care facilities, more facilities are able to offer services at non-traditional hours, and child care facilities will be equipped with new resources to serve infants and children with disabilities. Parents will also have more options for child care, allowing them to return to work and drive our economy forward. "Access to child care in rural areas presents a major impediment to connecting working parents with jobs that need to be filled," said Rep. Smith. "I am glad to introduce this legislation that eliminates barriers and allows for the dedication of federal funds to expand the availability of child care to best meet communities' unique needs, especially across rural Nebraska." "As a working mom of two young girls, I understand the importance of child care, especially when it comes to engaging more women in the workforce. This is a very important issue for our state given the significant labor shortages that are impacting businesses," said Rep. Spartz. "Many federal government programs come with extensive strings, which make them very expensive and inefficient. This bill allows more flexibility to the states to improve effectiveness and provide a greater benefit to Hoosiers." The bill is one of several child care proposals introduced as part of a joint collaboration between Ways and Means Committee and Education and Labor Committee Republicans. 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T19:57:00Z
https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases/smith-calls-angels-adoption-nominations-3 Smith Calls for Angels in Adoption Nominations 2021-06-11 2021 2021-06 Republican House NE Adrian Smith S001172 adriansmith.house.gov adriansmith https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases scraper Washington, D.C. – Congressman Adrian Smith (R-NE) opened nominations this week for the 2021 Angels in Adoption Award for Nebraska's Third District. Angels in Adoption, a project of the Congressional Coalition on Adoption Institute, provides Members of Congress the opportunity to honor an individual or entity from their districts for extraordinary contributions on behalf of children in need of homes. "Many organizations, families, and individuals across the Third District deserve recognition for their commitment to providing a safe home to children in need," said Rep. Smith. "The purpose of the Angels in Adoption Award is to highlight those serving our community and the love they provide to youth in need of adoption and foster care. I look forward to reviewing the nominations." To make a nomination, please visit AdrianSmith.house.gov/AngelsinAdoption. Nominations must be received by Friday, July 9th. For more information on Angels in Adoption, please contact Smith's Grand Island office at (308) 384-3900. 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T19:57:00Z
https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases/smith-hold-virtual-mobile-offices-1 Smith to Hold Virtual Mobile Offices 2021-06-04 2021 2021-06 Republican House NE Adrian Smith S001172 adriansmith.house.gov adriansmith https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases scraper Washington, D.C. – Congressman Adrian Smith (R-NE) will hold virtual mobile offices to meet with constituents of the Third District on Wednesday, June 9. In order to ensure sufficient capacity, Congressman Smith is offering two Virtual Mobile Office sessions. Those interested in attending must pre-register for the session of their choice via the links provided below. A mobile office allows constituents to meet directly with Congressman Smith about federal issues and take advantage of the constituent services available through his office, such as assisting individuals with challenges they face while working with a federal agency, ordering flags flown over the U.S. Capitol, and booking future tours in Washington, D.C. Smith, who has offices in Grand Island and Scottsbluff, will hold these virtual mobile offices on Wednesday, June 9, at the following times: Virtual Mobile Office - Session 1 Wednesday, June 9 12:00 p.m. MDT / 1:00 p.m. CDT Registration link: https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_ncoi7uB9Rn2RULzhEqZKQA Virtual Mobile Office - Session 2 Wednesday, June 9 4:00 p.m. MDT / 5:00 p.m. CDT Registration link: https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_-Nq8Tg-ZTKOJT6J6Qm3L0A For additional information, please contact Congressman Smith's Scottsbluff office at (308) 633-6333 or Grand Island office at (308) 384-3900. 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T19:57:00Z
https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases/reps-smith-sewell-lead-bipartisan-push-increase-cmmi-transparency-and-public Reps. Smith, Sewell Lead Bipartisan Push to Increase CMMI Transparency and Public Engagement 2021-06-03 2021 2021-06 Republican House NE Adrian Smith S001172 adriansmith.house.gov adriansmith https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases scraper Washington, D.C. – Representatives Adrian Smith (R-NE) and Terri Sewell (D-AL), led a bipartisan group of 24 Members of Congress in a letter urging the Center for Medicare and Medicaid Innovation (CMMI) to increase transparency and public engagement, especially in the scope and duration of demonstration projects. The letter's goal is to ensure that CMMI is reaching its full potential in reducing health care costs, addressing health disparities, and improving the quality of care delivered for beneficiaries, while remaining accountable to patients and providers. "Innovation is key in health care, and CMMI has an important role in improving health care delivery for the future," said Rep. Smith. "However, for such innovation to take place we also need transparency and accountability from CMMI, which is why this letter urges CMMI to increase public engagement and participation and provide more detailed plans to enhance its models." "The Innovation Center is a critical tool in improving the quality and efficiency of our health care system, especially for rural and underserved communities where innovation is made more difficult by limited resources," said Rep. Sewell. "I am proud to lead this bipartisan push to increase the Innovation Center's transparency and public engagement and ensure that it is delivering on its promise of value-based health care focused on positive outcomes." CMMI, also known as the "Innovation Center," was created under the Affordable Care Act and is tasked with designing, testing, and implementing new health care delivery systems and payment models that lower costs and improve outcomes in the Medicare, Medicaid, and Children's Health Insurance Programs (CHIP). The CMMI model development process has, at times, been opaque to Congress and stakeholders. Its statutory requirement to gather input from interested parties has not always been observed and CMMI demonstrations are less effective than they could be given the lack of this external expertise. The letter requests that CMMI increase transp… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T19:57:00Z
https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=650 Bacon, Johnson and Stivers Introduce Bill to Protect Federal Judges, Law Enforcement and Public Safety Officers 2021-05-11 2021 2021-05 Republican House NE Don Bacon B001298 bacon.house.gov bacon https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx scraper Washington – Reps. Don Bacon (NE-02), Bill Johnson (OH-06), and Steve Stivers (OH-15), today introduced the Back the Blue Act, which seeks to ensure that those who risk their lives to protect others are afforded greater protections. Sen. John Cornyn (R-TX) is introducing similar legislation in the Senate. This bicameral bill creates new criminal provisions regarding the killing of, or attempting, or conspiring to kill federal law enforcement officers, U.S. judges, and federally funded public safety officers. This includes firefighters, chaplains, and members of a rescue squad or ambulance crew. It carries a mandatory minimum sentence of 30 years if a death occurs, and the offender would be subject to the death penalty. Otherwise, the offender would face a minimum sentence of 10 years. In addition, the legislation creates a new federal crime with escalating penalties, including mandatory minimums for assaulting a federally funded law enforcement officer, based on the extent of any injury and the use of a dangerous weapon. An offender who attempted to flee from justice to avoid prosecution would be subject to a mandatory minimum sentence of 10 years. Finally, it creates a specific aggravating factor for federal death penalty prosecutions; expands self-defense and Second Amendment rights for law enforcement officers; and opens grant funding to strengthen relationships between police and communities. “Those who protect our communities – whether it’s on the beat, from the bench, behind a hose, or performing CPR – deserve extra protection from violence directed at them, including assault, intent to kill, or conspiracy to kill,” said Bacon. “The anger and violence have risen against these community guardians and this legislation is needed now. I am looking forward to working with Sen. Cornyn and Reps. Johnson and Stivers to get this long-overdue legislation passed into law.” “This legislation creates new - long overdue, and unfortunately necessary - criminal provisions to protect federal law enforcement officers, f… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T19:49:40Z
https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases/smith-encourages-third-district-students-apply-youth-advisory-council-3 Smith Encourages Third District Students to Apply for Youth Advisory Council 2021-05-10 2021 2021-05 Republican House NE Adrian Smith S001172 adriansmith.house.gov adriansmith https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases scraper Washington, D.C. – Congressman Adrian Smith (R-NE) is currently accepting applications for the 2021-2022 Third District Youth Advisory Council and encourages high school sophomores, juniors, and seniors to submit their applications by July 15th. The Third District Youth Advisory Council is a forum for students to share opinions, thoughts, and concerns with Congressman Smith about local and federal issues throughout the school year. This group provides students the opportunity to discuss the concerns of young Nebraskans and give their input on issues facing our country. "I always enjoy meeting with the Youth Advisory Council because it is an opportunity to connect with young Nebraskans directly," said Rep. Smith. "Today's students are the leaders of tomorrow's Nebraska, and emphasizing the importance of community awareness and civic engagement is vital." Members must be able to serve from August 2021 – May 2022. For more information, and to download the application, please visit AdrianSmith.House.Gov/Services/Youth-Advisory-Council To learn more about the Youth Advisory Council, interested students and educators can contact Smith's Grand Island office at 308-384-3900 or his Scottsbluff office at 308-633-6333. 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T19:49:40Z
https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=647 Bacon Ranked 15th in Final Lugar Center Bipartisan Index Scores for 116th Congress 2021-05-06 2021 2021-05 Republican House NE Don Bacon B001298 bacon.house.gov bacon https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx scraper Omaha, Neb. – Rep. Don Bacon (NE-02) has been ranked 15th, or top 3.4 percent, in the House of Representatives for the 116th Congress in the Bipartisan Index rankings compiled by the Lugar Center and the McCourt School of Public Policy at Georgetown University. This non-partisan tool measures the degree to which Senators and Representatives work across party lines on legislation. The Speaker of the House and Minority Leader are excluded from the rankings. Bacon was previously ranked in the top 7 percent. “In this time of hyper-partisanship, Congress must come together and work on areas of consensus to pass meaningful legislation instead of pushing through personal interest agendas that typically favor a small group,” said Rep. Bacon. “As a Member of some bipartisan caucuses, I have found many opportunities to sponsor and introduce legislation that has widespread bipartisan support instead of just one party and one or two from the other. Lugar is the best-known index on rating bipartisanship in Congress and I’m thankful they see the value in sharing this information. I’m proud to seek consensus across the aisle, while not compromising on my principles and the promises I have made to the citizens of the second district.” Data from all Congresses since 1993 are incorporated in the Bipartisan Index, and it looks at when a member of Congress introduces bills that succeed in attracting co-sponsors from members of the other party. It also looks at how often they in turn co-sponsor a bill introduced from across the aisle. The Index does exclude non-binding resolutions and ceremonial bills and is based on a formula applied uniformly to all members. It does not make any subjective statements or judgements about individual members or bills. The full rankings can be found here. About the Lugar Center: Founded by former U.S. Senator Richard Lugar, the non-profit Lugar Center is a platform for informed debate and analysis of global issues, including nonproliferation of weapons of mass destruction, global food security, fo… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T19:49:40Z
https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases/smith-fischbach-lead-over-130-house-colleagues-opposing-stepped-basis-repeal Smith, Fischbach Lead Over 130 House Colleagues In Opposing Stepped-Up Basis Repeal and Capital Gains Death Tax 2021-05-05 2021 2021-05 Republican House NE Adrian Smith S001172 adriansmith.house.gov adriansmith https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases scraper Washington, D.C. – Representatives Adrian Smith (R-NE) and Michelle Fischbach (R-MN) today led more than 130 of their House of Representatives colleagues in sending a letter to Speaker Nancy Pelosi and Republican Leader Kevin McCarthy opposing the Biden Administration's proposal to repeal stepped-up basis from the tax code and require payment of capital gains taxes at death. Read the full letter here. "Small businesses, farms, and ranches are the lifeblood of America, creating jobs and economic opportunity across our country," said Rep. Smith. "Protecting stepped-up basis across generations and ensuring capital gains taxes are only collected upon the sale of an asset are vital to ensuring local, family-owned businesses remain local, family-owned businesses, supporting and creating jobs in their home communities. Our focus should be on tax policies which encourage small businesses to create jobs; not on punitive taxes which could force families out of business." "President Biden's plan to eliminate stepped-up basis and assess capital gains taxes at death would be devastating for the agricultural economy and would have a disproportionate effect on rural districts like the one I represent," said Rep. Fischbach. "Without a step-up in basis, the next generation of farmers and ranchers will absorb massive tax increases just to continue their family farm. I cannot and will not support a tax plan that pads the federal coffers at the expense of America's farmers, and I urge President Biden and House Democrats to reconsider his proposal." "America's farmers and ranchers rely on the stepped-up basis tax provision to pass their farms on to their children," said Zippy Duvall, President of the American Farm Bureau Federation. "Eliminating it could force families to take out costly loans or sell their land bit by bit just to pay the taxes. We urge Congress to leave the stepped-up basis tax provision untouched to ensure a lifetime of hard work and sacrifice helps the next generation of farmers to thrive." "Nebraska's farm a… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T19:49:40Z
https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=646 UNMC/Nebraska Medicine Selected as A Federal Partner Site for All-Hazard Medical Response Program 2021-05-05 2021 2021-05 Republican House NE Don Bacon B001298 bacon.house.gov bacon https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx scraper Omaha, Neb. — The Nebraska congressional delegation today welcomed notice of the selection of Omaha, home to the University of Nebraska Medical Center (UNMC) and Nebraska Medicine, as a key pilot site designated to develop a federal program that will improve the nation’s ability to respond to future catastrophic events such as pandemics, natural disasters, or a direct attack on the homeland. Rep. Don Bacon (NE-02), who recently received a letter from the Acting Undersecretary of Defense informing him of the decision, worked closely with Sen. Deb Fischer on authorizing language in the fiscal year 2020 and 2021 National Defense Authorization Acts through the House and Senate Armed Services Committees. Rep. Jeff Fortenberry (NE-01) took lead in securing initial funding for the pilot project through the House Appropriations Committee. The multi-federal department pilot program will be led by the Department of Defense in coordination with the Department of Health and Human Services to improve the National Disaster Medical System (NDMS) and to improve medical surge capability in the nation. Other partner agencies include the Veterans Administration, Department of Homeland Security, and Department of Transportation. The letter states that Omaha was chosen because of the medical center’s leadership in meeting surge capacity, infectious disease control, readiness training and education as a key partner in the nation’s effort to improve overall health security and medical preparedness. “As we work to bring an end to the current pandemic, it is absolutely critical that we simultaneously ensure the nation is medically prepared for whatever comes next,” said Bacon, a member of the House Armed Services Committee.“I am pleased with the decision and grateful for the teamwork of the Congressional delegation and the University of Nebraska that delivered this result.” “The Department of Defense made the right move in selecting Omaha, the home of a world-class university and medical facility, as a site for this surge capacity re… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T19:49:40Z
https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=645 BACON, COLLEAGUES REINTRODUCE BIPARTISAN MILITARY SPOUSE HIRING ACT 2021-05-03 2021 2021-05 Republican House NE Don Bacon B001298 bacon.house.gov bacon https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx scraper Washington, D.C. – Rep. Don Bacon (NE-02), along with Reps. Antonio Delgado (NY-19), Jimmy Panetta (CA-20), Don Beyer (VA-08), Mike Kelly (PA-16), and Cathy McMorris Rodgers (WA-05) reintroduced the Military Spouse Hiring Act, bipartisan legislation that incentivizes employers to hire spouses of members of the United States Armed Forces. Research from the Department of Defense and the Hiring Our Heroes Foundation has found that unemployment rates for military spouses far exceed that of the national average. This bill would help close the gap by expanding the Work Opportunity Tax Credit to include the hiring of qualified military spouses, allowing employers to claim a tax credit equal to a portion of the wages paid to those spouses. “Frequent military moves make it very challenging for military spouses to find work and use the licenses they’ve earned in other states,” said Rep. Bacon. “As a nearly 30-year Air Force veteran who has deployed and moved multiple times, I understand the many sacrifices made by military families and spouses and supporting them is a top priority of mine. This legislation addresses the military spouse’s unemployment and underemployment crisis, ensuring spouses can find work and encouraging employers to hire them. This is the right thing to do, and I thank my co-leads for helping carry out this mission.” “Military families make immense sacrifices for our country, yet military spouses experience an unemployment rate of nearly 30%,” said Rep. Delgado. “I’m proud to reintroduce bipartisan legislation to address the military spouse unemployment crisis and empower thousands of families in upstate New York and across the country. As we recover from COVID-19 and rebuild, we must invest in our military families. I thank my co-leads on both sides of the aisle for joining me to reintroduce the Military Spouse Hiring Act today.” “We are so grateful to Congressman Antonio Delgado and the other congressional members for their continued support of military spouses as well as their work to remove obst… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T19:49:40Z
https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases/smith-responds-president-bidens-joint-address Smith Responds to President Biden’s Joint Address 2021-04-29 2021 2021-04 Republican House NE Adrian Smith S001172 adriansmith.house.gov adriansmith https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases scraper Washington, D.C. – Congressman Adrian Smith (R-NE) released the following statement in response to President Joe Biden's Joint Address to Congress: "While I appreciate President Biden making his first address to Congress, I am disappointed his message was one of larger, more controlling government, and that his vision for bringing America together seems to be imploring Republicans to support his far left agenda. "Our focus right now must be on continuing our bipartisan success in defeating the COVID-19 virus so we can reopen the rest of our schools, reopen the rest of our businesses, and get Americans who are still unemployed off the sidelines. Our economy was strong before the pandemic because of tax reform, regulatory relief, and our efforts to connect workers and employers. It is critical we get back to creating that same economic opportunity." 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T19:42:19Z
https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=638 BACON ISSUES STATEMENT ON BIDEN REMARKS 2021-04-29 2021 2021-04 Republican House NE Don Bacon B001298 bacon.house.gov bacon https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx scraper Omaha, Neb. – Rep. Don Bacon (NE-02) issued the following statement after listening to the President’s remarks last night: “When President Biden took office in January, he pledged to work in a bipartisan manner, and he has done just the opposite. Instead, he has largely embraced the progressive democrat agenda to push through massive government spending, with no regard for the impact to our children’s wallets. He has redefined infrastructure to the point that he is now proposing the government takeover of the family. He wants to double federal spending and pass enormous tax hikes that will cost millions of American jobs to overseas competitors.” ### 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T19:42:19Z
https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=642 Bacon Announces 2021 Congressional Art Competition Winners 2021-04-29 2021 2021-04 Republican House NE Don Bacon B001298 bacon.house.gov bacon https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx scraper Omaha, Neb.– Rep. Don Bacon (NE-02) today announced the winning artists from Nebraska’s 2ndCongressional District for the 2021 Congressional Art Competition.Bacon served as national co-chair for this year’s competition. Judging was conducted by the Nebraska Art Teachers Association. The guest speakers for the event were Dr.Deborah BowersKippley, Chief Creative Officer and Co-founder of the Papillion La VistaArts Network, and Jeremy Caniglia, an art teacher at Omaha Creighton Prep High School whose work has been displayed at the JoslynArtMuseum and Iowa State University, as well as in the Washington Post and on CNN. “Our competition featured a variety of styles and I am thrilled we are able to showcase the work of these students," said Rep. Bacon.“Congratulations to this year’s winners. I appreciate their participation and I thank them for sharing their artwork with the community.” The top three pieces of artwork will be featured on Lamar billboards at various places in Omaha for the month of May. Locations include I-80 and 84thStreet and the southwest corner of 44thand Dodge; locations will be on a rotating basis. The first-place artwork will be displayed in the U.S. Capitol in Washington, D.C., and the runners-up will be displayed in Rep. Bacon’s Washington,D.C.and Omaha offices. In addition, the first-place winnerwill be invited to attend an award ceremony in Washington, D.C. honoring the winning artists from all over the country. First Place: “Smudge” by Ellie Kripal of Omaha Marian High School. It will be displayed in the U.S. Capitol. Second Place: “Under Water” by Ashly Chavez of Omaha South High School It will be displayed in Bacon’s Washington, D.C. office. Third Place: “Peeping” by Trisha Rajaram of Duchesne Academy It will be displayed in Bacon’s Omaha office. Honorable Mentions: “Forever Remembered” byBrocEvitchfromCreighton Prep High School “Watch the Hands’ byHelbluHtoofromOmaha Northwest High School “My GiftToYou” by SulemaNungarayfromMercy High School “Why?” by Frank Rosales fromOmah… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T19:42:19Z
https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases/smith-announces-transportation-and-appropriations-member-requests Smith Announces Transportation and Appropriations Member Requests 2021-04-27 2021 2021-04 Republican House NE Adrian Smith S001172 adriansmith.house.gov adriansmith https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases scraper Washington, D.C. – Congressman Adrian Smith (R-NE) today announced he has submitted the following member designated project requests to the House Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure and the House Committee on Appropriations. Transporation and Infrastructure Project Name: Heartland Expressway Phase III Location: Minatare to Alliance, Nebraska Project Sponsor: Nebraska Department of Transportation Requested Funding: $10 million Congressman Smith's Ethics Statement can be found here. Appropriations Project Name: South Sioux City Water Treatment Plant Location: South Sioux City, Nebraska Project Sponsor: City of South Sioux City Requested Funding: $7 million Congressman Smith's Ethics Statement can be found here. ### 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T19:42:19Z
https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases/reps-smith-and-chu-introduce-bipartisan-peers-act-bolster-mental-health-care Reps. Smith and Chu Introduce Bipartisan PEERS Act to Bolster Mental Health Care 2021-04-23 2021 2021-04 Republican House NE Adrian Smith S001172 adriansmith.house.gov adriansmith https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases scraper Washington, D.C. – Representatives Adrian Smith (R-NE) and Judy Chu (D-CA) today introduced the PEERS in Medicare Act to expand access to peer support specialists by clarifying that they can participate as part of a team that provides behavioral health integration (BHI) services for Medicare beneficiaries. A peer support specialist is a person with lived experience who has been trained to support those who struggle with mental health, psychological trauma, or substance use. Their personal experience with these challenges allows peer support specialists the expertise to help patients along their road to recovery as a supplemental partner in a larger care team. "Mental health services are critically important in rural America, and COVID-19 has made the need for mental health care even more prevalent," said Rep. Smith. "Peer support therapy provides an opportunity for those with mental illnesses or who are recovering from substance abuse disorders to find support and assistance during their recovery. I am glad to sponsor this legislation once again and continue working on bettering mental health in our country." "As one of the only psychologists in Congress, I know that mental health and support is essential to our overall health, especially after the last year," said Rep. Chu. "In addition to the ongoing opioid epidemic, the pandemic, recession, and rising hate crimes have all contributed to families, teachers, front line workers, and children reporting increased anxiety, depression, and trauma, all of which can be helped with access to Peer support specialists. Peer support specialists do not take the place of mental health practitioners like a physician, psychologist or social worker. Instead, they supplement these professionals as part of the care team to help someone struggling with substance abuse or mental health disorders on the road to recovery. That is why I am leading this bill once again, because I want to help bolster the recovery care workforce in our country." 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T19:42:19Z
https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=634 BACON HONORS CONSTITUTION, VOTES AGAINST D.C. STATEHOOD 2021-04-22 2021 2021-04 Republican House NE Don Bacon B001298 bacon.house.gov bacon https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx scraper Washington, D.C.—Rep. Don Bacon (NE-02) today released the following statement after voting against H.R. 51, the D.C. Admission Act, which would grant statehood to the District of Columbia: “H.R. 51 is unconstitutional as it does not rescind the 23rd Amendment, which give the areas known as ‘The District constituting the seat of Government of the United States” a number of electors of President equal to if it were a state. If this bill becomes law, the new state will have three Presidential electors and the Federal areas that has the White House and the Capitol will have three additional Presidential electors. Further, Article 1, Section 8, Clause 17 gives Congress the authority over Washington, D.C. and H.R. 51 violates this intent. The reality is this is a liberal political power grab with the goal of adding two more Democrats to the Senate.” 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T19:42:19Z
https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=629 BACON JOINS STEFANIK, COSPONSORS WAGE EQUITY ACT 2021-04-15 2021 2021-04 Republican House NE Don Bacon B001298 bacon.house.gov bacon https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx scraper Washington – Today, Rep. Don Bacon (NE-02) became an original cosponsor of Rep. Elise Stefanik’s (NY-21) Wage Equity Act to ensure women receive equal pay for equal work. Modeled after bipartisan legislation that has been signed into law in states across the country, the bill encourages employers to proactively evaluate their pay practices and eliminate pay disparities in their workplaces, while empowering employees to negotiate pay based on their qualifications and merit. The Wage Equity Act comes ahead of the Democrats’ proposal, which benefits trial lawyers over working women; limits the rights of prospective employees in the hiring process; and impedes American job creators with millions of dollars in compliance costs. “Equal work deserves equal pay. Addressing pay discrimination in the workplace must be a priority,” said Bacon. “H.R. 7, the so-called “Paycheck Fairness Act” introduced by my Democrat colleagues, offers no new protections, threatens workers’ privacy, and drags hardworking women through never-ending legal proceedings and lawsuits.” “The Wage Equity Act is a practical, 21st century solution to achieve equal pay for equal work once and for all by empowering businesses and employees to work together in pursuit of this common goal,” said Stefanik. “The Democrats’ alternative legislation would pave the way for frivolous lawsuits and unnecessary burdens on businesses, including those owned and operated by women themselves.” Rep. Virginia Foxx (NC-05), Republican Leader of the Education and Labor Committee, added, “Rep. Stefanik’s bill helps working women unlike the Democrats’ so-called Paycheck Fairness Act, which will unfairly punish business owners and reward trial lawyers rather than workers. H.R. 7 is a disingenuous effort on behalf of Democrats to signal ‘progress’ without affecting any change. If Democrats are truly interested in supporting working women, then Rep. Stefanik’s bill—which among other provisions encourages employers to evaluate their pay practices, ensures pay differences amon… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T19:42:19Z
https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=630 BACON NAMED TO TOP 20% OF MOST EFFECTIVE LAWMAKERS 2021-04-15 2021 2021-04 Republican House NE Don Bacon B001298 bacon.house.gov bacon https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx scraper Washington – Rep. Don Bacon (NE-02) has been ranked in the top 20% of Republicans for legislative effectiveness in the 116th Congress. The Center for Effective Lawmaking bases the scores on 15 metrics regarding the bills that each member of Congress sponsors, how substantial their policy proposals are, and how far they move through the lawmaking process. “I have found that by working across the aisle and seeking areas of consensus, I can make a positive difference on key issues facing our country and in the everyday lives of hard-working Americans,” said Rep. Bacon. Bacon was also recently named as one of six recipients of Bipartisan Legislative Action Awards in the House of Representatives. ### 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T19:42:19Z
https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=628 BACON URGES BIDEN TO MAINTAIN SMALL MILITARY PRESENCE IN AFGHANISTAN 2021-04-14 2021 2021-04 Republican House NE Don Bacon B001298 bacon.house.gov bacon https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx scraper Washington, D.C. – Rep. Don Bacon (NE-02), member of the House Armed Services Committee, released the following statement after President Joe Biden announced he will be withdrawing all troops from Afghanistan by September 11, 2021: "I deployed multiple times to Afghanistan and Iraq after the 9/11 attacks and have seen first-hand the effectiveness of our counter-terrorism operations. After nearly 20 years of combat operations, we now have a very small presence of about 2,500 soldiers that are succeeding in keeping the Taliban out of power, and these troops are not in combat roles. “The President’s misguided decision to withdraw troops will result in the Taliban eventually regaining power, end any hope of a peace deal, and impose unacceptable costs to the U.S. when we inevitably must return to eliminate renewed terror threats from Al Qaida, ISIS and other violent extremists who are now allied with the Taliban and who are determined to attack the homeland. This decision epitomizes the “penny wise, pound foolish” adage. “President Obama made the same disastrous mistake with ISIS in Iraq, and we must learn from this tragic history. A small long-term presence is far cheaper in lives and treasure rather than returning to fight another large-scale war. We want to bring our troops home, but must base these decisions on operational conditions, not the calendar. I urge the President to reconsider his decision." ### 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T19:42:19Z
https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=622 Bacon, Spanberger Reintroduce Michael Lecik Military Firefighters Protection Act to Recognize Long-Term Risks of Military Firefighting, Strengthen VA Benefits for Veteran Firefighters 2021-04-06 2021 2021-04 Republican House NE Don Bacon B001298 bacon.house.gov bacon https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx scraper WASHINGTON, D.C. — Reps. Don Bacon (R-NE-02) and Abigail Spanberger (D-VA-07) introduced l the Michael Lecik Military Firefighters Protection Act, which provides veteran firefighters with the fair compensation, healthcare, and retirement benefits they’ve earned through their service. The bipartisan legislation is named after Powhatan County, Virginia resident Michael Lecik, a former U.S. Air Force firefighter who was twice deployed to the Middle East. Following his military service, Lecik became a civilian firefighter and then became chief fire inspector at U.S. Army Garrison Fort Lee — and he also volunteered as a firefighter with the Huguenot Volunteer Fire Department. In February 2019, Lecik was diagnosed with multiple myeloma — a condition tied to the high-risk, carcinogenic workplace conditions that come with being a military firefighter. Lecik passed away last month. The Veterans Health Administration does not currently cover treatment costs related to diseases like Lecik’s, as the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) — in many cases — does not recognize the direct service connection between military firefighting and cancer as a service-connected disability beyond one year following active duty. Spanberger’s Michael Lecik Military Firefighters Protection Act would create the presumption that veteran firefighters who become disabled by serious diseases — including heart disease, lung disease, and certain cancers — contracted the illness due to their service in the military. Additionally, it would extend the window of time for veteran military firefighters with certain diseases to claim presumptive service-connection to 15 years. By creating this presumption, the VA would be able to provide equitable disability benefits and treatment cost coverage to veteran firefighters like Lecik. Bacon, a nearly 30-year U.S. Air Force veteran, and Spanberger first introducedthe legislation in January 2020. “After nearly 30 years in the Air Force, I’ve witnessed hundreds of heroic military firefighters who put thei… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T19:42:19Z
https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases/smith-hold-virtual-mobile-offices-0 Smith to Hold Virtual Mobile Offices 2021-04-05 2021 2021-04 Republican House NE Adrian Smith S001172 adriansmith.house.gov adriansmith https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases scraper Washington, D.C. – Congressman Adrian Smith (R-NE) will hold virtual mobile offices this week to meet with constituents of the Third District. In order to ensure sufficient capacity and provide greater opportunity for constituents to join, Smith will hold both morning and midday events on Wednesday, April 7. Those interested in attending must pre-register at the links provided below. A mobile office allows constituents to meet directly with Congressman Smith about federal issues and take advantage of the constituent services available through his office, such as assisting individuals with challenges they face while working with a federal agency, ordering flags flown over the U.S. Capitol, and booking future tours in Washington, D.C. Smith, who has offices in Grand Island and Scottsbluff, will hold the mobile offices online on Wednesday, April 7 at the following times and links: Morning Virtual Mobile Office Wednesday, April 7 9:00 AM CDT/8:00 AM MDT Registration link: https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_ZL8074KWTPSUylGHoMsNbQ Midday Virtual Mobile Office Wednesday, April 7 12:00 PM CDT/11:00 AM MDT Registration link: https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_LViVydJhTeWEZH_cxsyNqw For additional information, please contact Congressman Smith's Scottsbluff office at (308) 633-6333 or Grand Island office at (308) 384-3900. 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T19:42:19Z
https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=620 BACON, PROBLEM SOLVERS CAUCUS URGE LEADERSHIP TO RETURN TO REGULAR ORDER 2021-03-29 2021 2021-03 Republican House NE Don Bacon B001298 bacon.house.gov bacon https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx scraper WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, Congressman Don Bacon (NE-02) joined his Problem Solvers Caucus colleagues by urging Congressional leadership to return to regular order in the House, allowing for open debate on the House floor, committee hearings, and amendments. In a letter officially endorsed by the 58-Member bipartisan Caucus, including 29 Democrats and 29 Republicans, the group called for adhering to a deliberative and open process that will produce legislation through committee hearings, markups, and floor amendments. Given the narrowly divided U.S. House and Senate, a more open, deliberative process is key to getting more legislation from Congress to the President’s desk. In recent weeks, many bills have been fast-tracked to the House floor, bypassing committees; this, coupled with many closed rules, has constrained Members’ ability to offer amendments and provide valuable input on legislation. The Problem Solvers Caucus cited narrow majorities in the House and Senate and the importance for bills to gain bipartisan support to pass both houses and ultimately be signed into law by the President. They indicate how the recent rushed process in the House, with a lack of transparency and Member input, greatly limits the potential for success for House-passed legislation to be passed by the Senate. “We believe a return to regular order can help build the necessary support from both parties to enact meaningful, bipartisan legislation that creates new possibilities for Americans and addresses many of the challenges impacting our country,” the Members of the Problem Solvers Caucus wrote in a letter to Speaker Pelosi and Minority Leader McCarthy this week. “The best way to do this is by having a deliberative and open process that promotes transparency and allows members to help shape legislation through committee hearings, markups, and floor amendments. We should not be afraid to deliberate and debate.” The Members closed by saying, “The opportunities are endless if we adhere to a process that reflects the best for all… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T19:33:37Z
https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases/smith-fischer-sasse-announce-virtual-third-district-service-academy-open-house Smith, Fischer, Sasse Announce Virtual Third District Service Academy Open House 2021-03-25 2021 2021-03 Republican House NE Adrian Smith S001172 adriansmith.house.gov adriansmith https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases scraper Washington, D.C. – Congressman Adrian Smith, in conjunction with the offices of U.S. Senators Deb Fischer and Ben Sasse, will host the 2021 Virtual Third District Service Academy Open House on Thursday April 8, 2021. This event is an opportunity for young people in Nebraska to learn more about the U.S. service academies and other opportunities for military service. High school and college students interested in military opportunities, as well as their families, are encouraged to attend. Virtual Third District Service Academy Open House Thursday April 8, 2021 5:00 – 7:00 pm CDT Registration link: PRE-REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_rbhHWHVRT8eBv2OmcSQ5kA Representatives of the U.S. Military Academy, U.S. Naval Academy, U.S. Air Force Academy, U.S. Merchant Marine Academy, U.S. Coast Guard Academy, and the U.S. Army ROTC will provide information and answer questions. Staff from the offices of Congressman Smith, Senator Fischer, and Senator Sasse will attend the event to answer questions about the service academy nomination process. For questions about the 2021 Virtual Third District Service Academy Open House or for assistance registering for the event, please contact Congressman Smith's Grand Island office at 308-384-3900. 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T19:33:37Z

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