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://mccollum.house.gov/media/press-releases/congresswoman-mccollum-condemns-trump-administrations-unconstitutional-action,Congresswoman McCollum Condemns Trump Administration’s Unconstitutional Action to Take Back $810 Million That Congress Invested in Health Care and Housing,2026-09-28,2026,2026-09,Democrat,House,MN,Betty McCollum,M001143,mccollum.house.gov,mccollum,https://mccollum.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"SAINT PAUL, Minn. — On Friday night, OMB Director Vought filed an illegal pocket rescission of Fiscal Year 2026 funds. This action follows the Trump administration’s illegal impoundment of nearly $5 billion in taxpayer dollars from Fiscal Year 2025. Congresswoman Betty McCollum, Ranking Member of the House Appropriations Subcommittee on Defense, released the following statement: “The Trump administration is again unlawfully taking funding away from Americans that was passed by a bipartisan vote in Congress and signed into law by President Trump. Their illegal budgetary manipulations are targeting our communities that are already struggling with increased costs because of Trump’s policies. Just last year, the Republican Big Beautiful Bill Act took away health care and food assistance for millions of Americans to pay in part for massive, permanent tax giveaways for their millionaire and billionaire donors. Trump’s reckless tariffs and unauthorized war with Iran are raising the cost of health care, housing, gas, groceries and more. The Trump administration is now illegally reversing a bipartisan vote to invest funding into communities across our country for better patients’ health care outcomes, provide housing counseling to Minnesotans, and support resettlement support for refugee families.",1,2026-10-01T11:23:28Z,2026-10-01T11:25:15Z https://craig.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-craig-cosponsors-bipartisan-legislation-reform-americas-immigration-system,"Rep. Craig Cosponsors Bipartisan Legislation to Reform America’s Immigration System, Hold ICE Accountable",2026-09-24,2026,2026-09,Democrat,House,MN,Angie Craig,C001119,craig.house.gov,craig,https://craig.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"EAGAN, MN – Today, U.S. Representative Angie Craig officially cosponsored bipartisan legislation that would make meaningful reforms to our country’s broken immigration system. The DIGNITY Act would grant legal status and protections to certain undocumented immigrants, reform the asylum screening process to provide legal options for asylum seekers, invest in border security and modernize ports of entry, create new regional processing centers for asylum seekers, mandate accountability for Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and provide a pathway to citizenship for our country’s Dreamers. The DIGNITY Act was originally introduced by Reps. Veronica Escobar (D-TX) and Maria Elvira Salazar (R-FL). “America is a country of immigrants, yet for too long, our broken immigration system has made it too hard for folks who come to this country looking for a better life to stay here,” said Rep. Craig. “It’s time to create a humane immigration system that actually works and provide a pathway to legal status for those who work, pay taxes and contribute to our economy. I’m proud to support this critical bill, which makes meaningful reforms to our immigration system without compromising our communities’ safety and security. It’s a win-win” Rep. Craig has always advocated for a legal pathway to citizenship for our nation’s Dreamers and Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) recipients. She has repeatedly cosponsored the bipartisan American Dream and Promise Act, which would provide a pathway to citizenship to Dreamers, recipients of Temporary Protected Status (TPS) and Deferred Enforced Departure (DED) beneficiaries. She is also a cosponsor of the America’s Children Act, which would provide a pathway to legal permanent residency for individuals who were brought to the U.S.as children and have since graduated from an institution of higher education. Rep. Craig has also been a fervent defender of the Temporary Protected Status (TPS) program in the face of President Trump’s repeated attacks on TPS holders. In July, she introduced the Temporary Protected Status Review Act, which would require the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to follow a clear, evidence-based process before terminating TPS and allow Congress to reverse TPS terminations under the Congressional Review Act. You can read the full text of the DIGNITY Act here. ###",1,2026-09-25T10:04:52Z,2026-09-25T10:05:46Z https://mccollum.house.gov/media/press-releases/congresswoman-mccollum-senator-tina-smith-secure-funding-local-water,"Congresswoman McCollum, Senator Tina Smith Secure Funding for Local Water Infrastructure",2026-09-24,2026,2026-09,Democrat,House,MN,Betty McCollum,M001143,mccollum.house.gov,mccollum,https://mccollum.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"On Thursday, the EPA awarded $1,092,000 to the City of Gem Lake. Congresswoman McCollum and Senator Tina Smith secured the funding for the Municipal Water Supply Community Project through the FY 2026 Consolidated Appropriations Act. Following the grant award, Congresswoman McCollum released the following statement: “In the East Metro, we understand just how vital safe drinking water is to the health of our community,” Congresswoman McCollum said. “This federal investment will help protect the health of Gem Lake residents by providing them with safe drinking water.” “Clean drinking water should be a basic standard in this country,” said Senator Tina Smith. “Gem Lake citizens have been rightfully concerned about carcinogens in their water supply, and this new system will give residents some peace of mind. I’m glad Rep. McCollum and I were able to secure this funding.” “Betty McCollum’s office was instrumental in helping us in all phases of grant application and processing. We are very grateful for the help and on-going professionalism” Gem Lake Mayor This funding would be used for the construction phase of a new water supply system to provide safe drinking water to residents. In FY 2024, Congresswoman McCollum secured $959,757 which was used to fund the design of the new water supply system. Sampling performed by the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (MPCA) and Minnesota Department of Health (MDH) detected 1,4-dioxane, a likely human carcinogen, in several private wells in Gem Lake. While the cause of the contamination has not been narrowed to one source, the residents of Gem Lake are not responsible for it, nor did they contribute to the issue. The MPCA has been providing residents with bottled water, a short-term solution.",1,2026-09-25T10:04:52Z,2026-09-25T10:05:46Z https://omar.house.gov/media/press-releases/icymi-rep-omar-speaks-oversight-and-government-reform-hearing-dhss-fatal,ICYMI: Rep. Omar Speaks in Oversight and Government Reform Hearing on DHS's Fatal Shootings,2026-09-22,2026,2026-09,Democrat,House,MN,Ilhan Omar,O000173,omar.house.gov,omar,https://omar.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON — Today, Congresswoman Ilhan Omar (D-MN) spoke in a hearing hosted by the House Oversight and Government Reform Committee and Senate Permanent Subcommittee on Investigations titled “Our Values at Stake (Part V): Deaths, Deception, and a Failure of Accountability at DHS.” Donna and Brent Ganger, mother and brother of Renée Good, and Stella Carlson, eyewitness to the murder of Alex Pretti, joined the Committees as witnesses. Rep. Omar questioned them on the aftermath of the fatal shootings by immigration officers in Minnesota, and across the country. She also asked them about the communities' needs as they seek justice for those murdered by DHS agents. You can watch the full video here. Below is a transcript of her opening remarks: ""For those who know me, I'm not known for being an emotional person, but representing Minnesota, representing the epicenter of where Operation Metro Surge took place, having two of my constituents assassinated in broad daylight - it was the most emotional I've ever been in my entire life. ""And, you know, even the last two hearings that I've participated in, even today, I had to walk out a few times because it is hard to hear people account for losing their daughter, for losing their son, for losing their father, for losing their neighbor, for losing a young dad -I was around his age when when my first daughter was around his daughter's age. ""And to know that it all happened in the hands of your own government. And for those of us who, like Rep. Garcia talked about, who are immigrants in this country, who fled countries where people are routinely killed in the hands of their government - and as Representative Crockett said, you know, we come to the United States as the land of free, the land of laws, there is an incredible constitution we all celebrate and take an oath to, not just when we become citizens, but when we do, end up serving that country to give back because we are enormously grateful for it - that you just never think that this country is going to be a country where its own government kills its own citizens and residents. ""And then that government turns around and continues this sort of insane thing that, you know, happens in other countries, where that government creates this propaganda to say that the victims somehow were responsible for their assassination. That they somehow invited their government to publicly execute them."" ###",1,2026-09-24T10:30:22Z,2026-09-24T10:31:42Z https://craig.house.gov/media/press-releases/reps-craig-omar-introduce-legislation-reimburse-minnesota-and-other-states,"Reps. Craig, Omar Introduce Legislation to Reimburse Minnesota and Other States for Damages Inflicted by ICE",2026-09-17,2026,2026-09,Democrat,House,MN,Angie Craig,C001119,craig.house.gov,craig,https://craig.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC – Today, U.S. Representatives Angie Craig (MN-02) and Ilhan Omar (MN-05) introduced legislation that would establish a federal grant program to reimburse states for costs incurred and damages caused by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). The Make ICE Pay Act would direct the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) to establish this grant program using $139,575,630,000 in federal funding previously appropriated to ICE and Customs and Border Protection (CBP). This funding would be available to states targeted by President Trump’s reckless and lawless immigration enforcement operations – including Minnesota, California, Illinois, Louisiana, Maine, North Carolina and Oregon – and would be distributed to impacted nonprofits and small businesses. The Make ICE Pay Act is co-sponsored by Reps. Chuy Garcia (IL-04), Rashida Tlaib (MI-12), Chellie Pingree (ME-01), Sydney Kamlager-Dove (CA-37) and Janelle Bynum (OR-05). The bill is endorsed by Bend the Arc: Jewish Action, the National Partnership for New Americans, Popular Democracy and the Black Alliance for Just Immigration. “The psychological and financial impacts of Operation Metro Surge will be generational,” said Rep. Craig. “As Minnesotans begin the long process of healing from the wounds that President Trump’s ICE inflicted, it’s important that we commit to holding this lawless and misguided administration accountable. There is much more work to be done, but this bill is a critical step toward making our communities whole.” Rep. Craig has taken the Trump Administration to task over its reckless and lawless immigration agenda and has fought to bring home Minnesotans wrongfully detained by ICE. This summer, she successfully secured the release of her constituent, Andrea Pedro-Francisco, who was held in ICE detention while suffering from an untreated ovarian cyst. In May, she traveled to El Paso, TX to visit Pedro-Francisco and conduct oversight of two ICE detention facilities—Camp East Montana and the El Paso Service Processing Center. Earlier this year, she conducted four oversight visits of the ICE processing center at the Bishop Henry Whipple Federal Building in Minneapolis. Following her third visit with Rep. Omar, she sent a letter to former DHS Secretary Kristi Noem expressing concern that no detainees were present during their visit despite reports that individuals were being held at Whipple and slamming Noem for previously denying them their constitutional right to conduct unannounced oversight visits. Rep. Craig also introduced articles of impeachment against former Secretary Noem in January before she was ultimately fired in March. She has vocally opposed the opening of any new ICE facilities in Minnesota, including a proposed ICE detention center in Shakopee, which she successfully quashed alongside state and local leaders. And this Congress, she helped introduce the Humanitarian Standards for Individuals in ICE and CBP Custody Act to establish standards of care for individuals held in Customs and Border Protection (CBP) and ICE custody. You can read the full text of the bill HERE. ###",1,2026-09-18T09:27:43Z,2026-09-18T09:29:09Z https://omar.house.gov/media/press-releases/congresswoman-ilhan-omar-introduces-legislation-redirect-ice-and-cbp-funding,Congresswoman Ilhan Omar Introduces Legislation to Redirect ICE and CBP Funding to States Targeted by Immigration Surges,2026-09-17,2026,2026-09,Democrat,House,MN,Ilhan Omar,O000173,omar.house.gov,omar,https://omar.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – Following the conclusion of “Operation Metro Surge” in Minnesota, Congresswoman Ilhan Omar (D-MN) introduced the Make ICE Pay Act to redirect the $140 billion allocated to Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and Customs and Border Patrol (CBP) through the “One, Big Beautiful Bill” Act (HR-1) and invest it into communities across the country that have been impacted by the Department of Homeland Security’s heinous operations. ""For over a year, ICE has been tearing through our nation, leading racist terror campaigns that have caused devastating damage to our cities, to our businesses, and to the lives of our constituents,"" said Rep. Omar. ""In Minneapolis, Operation Metro Surge cost our community nearly $700 million. We have a moral responsibility to end this abuse of power. Our bill will force ICE to pay the price for the damage they’ve left in their wake and ensure that these devastating operations can never be repeated."" “The psychological and financial impacts of Operation Metro Surge will be generational,” said Rep. Craig. “As Minnesotans begin the long process of healing from the wounds that President Trump’s ICE inflicted, it’s important that we commit to holding this lawless and misguided administration accountable. There is much more work to be done, but this bill is a critical step toward making our communities whole.” The Make ICE Pay Act would redirect nearly $140 billion towards local recovery efforts in states affected by ICE and CBP surges and named operations; including California, Minnesota (Operation Metro Surge), Illinois (Operation Midway Blitz), Louisiana (Operations Swamp Sweet and Catahoula Crunch), Maine (Operation Catch of the Day), North Carolina (Operation Charlotte’s Web), and Oregon (Operation Black Rose). The funding can be used by states, localities, non-profits and small businesses to provide economic relief, reimburse operational costs, support educational institutions, or deliver psychosocial support to the impacted. It may also be used for investigations, commissions of inquiry, truth telling, record-keeping, and memorialization to make sure that this devastation is accurately recorded, remembered, and can never be repeated. The legislation is cosponsored by Rep. Chuy Garcia (D-IL), Rep. Rashida Tlaib (D-MI), Rep. Chellie Pingree (D-ME), Rep. Sydney Kamlager-Dove (D-CA), Rep. Janelle Bynum (D-OR), Rep. Angie Craig (D-MN). The full text of the bill is available here. ###",1,2026-09-18T09:27:43Z,2026-09-18T09:29:09Z https://omar.house.gov/media/press-releases/congresswoman-ilhan-omar-introduces-make-ice-pay-act,Congresswoman Ilhan Omar Introduces Make ICE Pay Act,2026-09-17,2026,2026-09,Democrat,House,MN,Ilhan Omar,O000173,omar.house.gov,omar,https://omar.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – Following the conclusion of “Operation Metro Surge” in Minnesota, Congresswoman Ilhan Omar (D-MN) introduced the Make ICE Pay Act to redirect the $140 billion allocated to Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and Customs and Border Patrol (CBP) through the “One, Big Beautiful Bill” Act (HR-1) and invest it into communities across the country that have been impacted by the Department of Homeland Security’s heinous operations. ""For over a year, ICE has been tearing through our nation, leading racist terror campaigns that have caused devastating damage to our cities, to our businesses, and to the lives of our constituents,"" said Rep. Omar. ""In Minneapolis, Operation Metro Surge cost our community nearly $700 million. We have a moral responsibility to end this abuse of power. Our bill will force ICE to pay the price for the damage they’ve left in their wake and ensure that these devastating operations can never be repeated."" “The psychological and financial impacts of Operation Metro Surge will be generational,” said Rep. Craig. “As Minnesotans begin the long process of healing from the wounds that President Trump’s ICE inflicted, it’s important that we commit to holding this lawless and misguided administration accountable. There is much more work to be done, but this bill is a critical step toward making our communities whole.” The Make ICE Pay Act would redirect nearly $140 billion towards local recovery efforts in states affected by ICE and CBP surges and named operations; including California, Minnesota (Operation Metro Surge), Illinois (Operation Midway Blitz), Louisiana (Operations Swamp Sweet and Catahoula Crunch), Maine (Operation Catch of the Day), North Carolina (Operation Charlotte’s Web), and Oregon (Operation Black Rose). The funding can be used by states, localities, non-profits and small businesses to provide economic relief, reimburse operational costs, support educational institutions, or deliver psychosocial support to the impacted. It may also be used for investigations, commissions of inquiry, truth telling, record-keeping, and memorialization to make sure that this devastation is accurately recorded, remembered, and can never be repeated. The legislation is cosponsored by Rep. Chuy Garcia (D-IL), Rep. Rashida Tlaib (D-MI), Rep. Chellie Pingree (D-ME), Rep. Sydney Kamlager-Dove (D-CA), Rep. Janelle Bynum (D-OR), Rep. Angie Craig (D-MN). The full text of the bill is available here. ###",1,2026-09-23T09:45:16Z,2026-09-23T09:46:14Z https://mccollum.house.gov/media/press-releases/congresswoman-mccollum-votes-against-expanded-presidential-tariff-powers,Congresswoman McCollum Votes Against Expanded Presidential Tariff Powers,2026-09-16,2026,2026-09,Democrat,House,MN,Betty McCollum,M001143,mccollum.house.gov,mccollum,https://mccollum.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C.— Today, the House of Representatives voted on The Lindsey O. Graham Sanctioning Russia and Iran Act. Congresswoman McCollum voted against the legislation that would hand expanded tariff powers to President Trump. Following the vote, Congresswoman McCollum released the following statement: “This bill is a wolf in sheep’s clothing. While purporting to be a bill to sanction Russia, this bill is so broad that it passes tariff authority into law that could hit the majority of our trading partners. I refuse to give expanded tariff authority to a president that routinely wages reckless trade wars with our closest allies. “The U.S. must implement enforceable sanctions against Russia to bring an end to their illegal and devasting war against Ukraine. This bill fails to mandate those penalties for Russia’s aggression. Instead, this legislation only directs the president to put sanctions on Russia if he chooses. I want sanctions on Russia, period, and President Trump already has the power to do so without this bill. “For a president who says he supports Ukraine, he has inexplicably delayed release the $400 million dollars that Congress appropriated last spring to support Ukraine. President Trump must immediately release these funds that are so desperately needed to defend Ukraine from Russia’s aggression.”",1,2026-09-17T09:52:05Z,2026-09-17T09:53:00Z https://omar.house.gov/media/press-releases/house-passes-water-resources-development-act-includes-language-rep-omar,"House Passes Water Resources Development Act, Includes Language from Rep. Omar to Protect the Stability of the Mississippi River in Minneapolis",2026-09-16,2026,2026-09,Democrat,House,MN,Ilhan Omar,O000173,omar.house.gov,omar,https://omar.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – Today, the U.S. House of Representatives passed language from Rep. Ilhan Omar (D-MN) to protect the future of the Upper St. Anthony Falls Lock in the Water Resources Development Act (WRDA). This legislation provides authority for the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (Corps) to carry out water resources development projects and conduct studies to provide improvements to the nation's ports, inland waterways, locks, dams, flood protection, ecosystem restoration, and other water resources infrastructure. The language resolves a decades-long concern for local and state governments regarding a vital piece of abandoned infrastructure underneath the Mississippi River, just upstream of St. Anthony Falls. The cutoff wall was constructed by the Corps on an emergency basis in the 1870s in order to stabilize the bed of the Mississippi River after a failed attempt to create additional tunnels for hydro mills led to a rapid collapse of St. Anthony Falls. A recent study by the St. Anthony Falls Lab assessed the integrity of the cutoff wall, while highlighting that ongoing questions about ownership cast doubt on who would be responsible for maintenance and evaluation of this important piece of infrastructure. Rep. Omar’s language in this bill will clarify that the Corps owns the cutoff wall and is responsible for its maintenance. “I’m thrilled to see my language about the cutoff wall included in the House passage of the Water Resources Development Act,” said Rep. Omar. “This passage addresses longstanding concerns shared by the City of Minneapolis, Hennepin County, and the State of Minnesota about a piece of infrastructure that is vital to the stability of the river at the heart of the Twin Cities. It builds on our work to protect this historic segment of the Mississippi waterfront, and ensures this sacred site will be safe and stable for our future generations. I’m grateful for our community, local, state, and federal partners that made this victory possible.” ###",1,2026-09-17T09:52:05Z,2026-09-17T09:53:00Z https://mccollum.house.gov/media/press-releases/congresswoman-mccollum-votes-present-motion-table-trump-impeachment,Congresswoman McCollum Votes Present on Motion to Table Trump Impeachment,2026-09-15,2026,2026-09,Democrat,House,MN,Betty McCollum,M001143,mccollum.house.gov,mccollum,https://mccollum.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. — Congresswoman Betty McCollum, Dean of the Minnesota Congressional Delegation, issued the following statement after voting present on the motion to table an impeachment resolution introduced by Congressman Al Green (D-TX). “Impeaching a president elected by the American people is the most consequential action that Congress can take to defend the Constitution and protect the American people from a president who has betrayed his oath and engaged in illegal conduct. Today, I voted present because this resolution to impeach President Trump does not meet the high standard required by this responsibility. During the 116th Congress, the House followed a deliberate and methodical process to make the case to the American people of Trump’s high crimes and misdemeanors. I voted to impeach Trump twice, presiding over the impeachment for inciting an insurrection on January 6th, 2021. I believed he was unfit to serve in office then, as I still do now. “The House of Representatives has a duty under the Constitution to hold a president accountable for illegal conduct. This obligation begins with a transparent process of Congressional hearings, investigations, and subpoenas. However, the Republican majority controlling this Congress will not allow that work to move forward. A premature and poorly reasoned resolution like this hurts our ability to hold President Trump accountable. I will continue to hold Mr. Trump accountable in a manner that is fully transparent and clearly documents his malfeasance as the President of the United States.” ###",1,2026-09-16T09:43:13Z,2026-09-16T09:44:22Z https://mccollum.house.gov/media/press-releases/representatives-mccollum-and-van-epps-introduce-bipartisan-critical-materials,Representatives McCollum and Van Epps Introduce Bipartisan Critical Materials Future Act,2026-09-15,2026,2026-09,Democrat,House,MN,Betty McCollum,M001143,mccollum.house.gov,mccollum,https://mccollum.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C.—Today, Congresswoman Betty McCollum and Congressman Matt Van Epps (R-TN), introduced the Critical Materials Future Act. This bipartisan, bicameral legislation would establish a pilot program at the Department of Energy to financially support domestic critical material processing projects. “Securing a domestic critical mineral supply chain is essential for manufacturing clean energy technologies,” said Rep. McCollum. “For far too long, critical minerals extracted from our public lands have been shipped overseas for processing to be sold on the global market or bought back by American companies. That is not good stewardship of our natural resources, nor is it a good national security strategy. The Critical Materials Future Act will ensure that when we extract these resources, we also have the capacity to process them here at home.” ""Continuing to rely on foreign sources for our critical mineral supply is gambling with both our economic and national security. Today, China leads global processing of key critical minerals, refining more than 90% of graphite and nearly all gallium, which are essential to semiconductors and batteries. China also refines more than 90% of rare earth elements used in magnets for advanced defense technologies,” said Rep. Van Epps. “It is far past time for the United States to end this dangerous dependence. We can do this by paving the way for more critical mineral processing right here at home. That’s why I’m proud to co-lead the Critical Materials Future Act alongside Congresswoman McCollum. This bipartisan legislation establishes a pilot program to support companies committed to building critical mineral processing operations here in the United States. By strengthening our domestic supply chains, this legislation will reduce our dependence on foreign adversaries and move us one step closer to rebuilding the American defense industrial base."" The U.S. critical minerals list contains 50 minerals – including graphite, nickel, and cobalt – that are essential to our economy, infrastructure, and military capability. Critical minerals are used in smartphones, electric vehicle batteries, solar panels, wind turbines, and more. In December 2024, China announced that it would immediately block the export of three critical minerals — gallium, germanium, and antimony — to the U.S. China currently controls 90% of the global processing capacity for rare earth elements and over 80% of the processing for other critical minerals like cobalt, gallium, and graphite. Experts have become increasingly concerned with U.S. dependence on China for critical materials, arguing it poses a significant risk to national security. The Critical Materials Future Act supports critical material processing projects in the United States by granting the Secretary of Energy the authority and funding to deploy innovative financial mechanisms, such as contracts for differences and advanced market commitments, within this sector. The bill also requires the Secretary of Energy to conduct a comprehensive study on the impact of these financial tools on market dynamics and processing projects within the critical materials sector, and to provide recommendations for expanding their use to strengthen America's processing capabilities. The Senate companion, S. 596, was introduced by Sen. John Hickenlooper (D-CO) with Sens. Lindsey Graham (R-SC), Chris Coons (D-DE), and Todd Young (R-IN), and referred to the Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources. In the 118th Congress, Congresswoman McCollum introduced H.R. 5021, the Securing American Critical Minerals Act, a bill to prohibit the sale or transfer of critical minerals to our adversaries. The full text of the Critical Materials Future Act can be found here. ###",1,2026-09-16T09:43:13Z,2026-09-16T09:44:22Z https://omar.house.gov/media/press-releases/omar-scott-casar-introduce-legislation-protect-workers-hard-earned-wages,"Omar, Scott, Casar Introduce Legislation to Protect Workers’ Hard-Earned Wages from Medical Debt Collection",2026-09-14,2026,2026-09,Democrat,House,MN,Ilhan Omar,O000173,omar.house.gov,omar,https://omar.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON— Today, House Committee on Education and Workforce Ranking Member Robert C. “Bobby” Scott (VA-03), Subcommittee on Workforce Protections Ranking Member Rep. Ilhan Omar (MN-05), and Vice Ranking Member Rep. Greg Casar (TX-35), introduced the Protecting Workers’ Wages from Medical Debt Act. This bill would prohibit workers’ wages from being garnished to pay for medical debt. Right now, approximately 100 million Americans are trapped with $220 billion in medical debt. Looming unpaid medical bills can devastate working families, whether they have health insurance or not. Unfortunately, the medical debt crisis has become more dire as millions of Americans are being stripped of their health care due to President Trump and Congressional Republicans’ disastrous “Big, Ugly Bill.” Over the last several years, new reports of hospitals and debt collectors suing patients for outstanding bills and forcibly cutting their wages to repay the debt have highlighted the predatory nature of wage garnishments. Currently, federal law allows up to 25 percent of a worker’s take-home pay to be garnished each workweek. Over 30 states have taken action to better protect consumers and have added additional protections to prevent workers’ wages from being unnecessarily garnished. However, when workers are struggling, these constraints are not enough. The Protecting Workers’ Wages from Medical Debt Act protects workers, many of whom are struggling to make ends meet, by prohibiting wages from being garnished for the payment of medical debt. Specifically, the bill: Bans any amount of a worker’s wage from being subject to garnishment for medical debt, and Prohibits any state or court from issuing or enforcing a wage garnishment order for medical debt. “In the richest country in the world, medical debt should not be a threat to working people’s livelihood. The American people should not have to slash spending on necessities to pay for life-saving care and no one should be denied future health care because of unpaid medical bills. Unfortunately, that is the reality many Americans are facing right now,” said Ranking Member Scott. “I am proud to work with Reps. Omar and Casar on this commonsense legislation, which will ensure families are not thrown into further hardship simply because they got sick and needed care.” “In 45 states, some workers have a portion of their take-home pay forcibly cut to pay off medical debt,” said Subcommittee on Workforce Protections Ranking Member Omar. “I'm partnering with Ranking Member Bobby Scott (D-VA) and Rep. Greg Casar (D-TX) to ban this practice and ensure no worker is thrown into further financial hardship over often-predatory debt.” “Nobody should lose their wages because they got sick,” said Vice Ranking Member Greg Casar (D-TX). “Trump and Republicans ripped health care away from millions of Americans to pay for tax cuts for billionaires. Now families who get sick are being hit with bills they can't pay, and in most states a hospital or debt collector can take a cut of their paycheck before they ever see it. This needs to end, and our bill would stop it.” The Protecting Workers’ Wages from Medical Debt Act is endorsed by: American Federation of Teachers (AFT); Center for Health and Democracy; Families USA; Public Citizen; and Service Employees International Union (SEIU). To read a fact sheet on the Protecting Workers’ Wages from Medical Debt Act, click here. To read the bill text on the Protecting Workers’ Wages from Medical Debt Act, click here. ###",1,2026-09-15T09:50:21Z,2026-09-15T09:52:05Z https://mccollum.house.gov/media/press-releases/congresswoman-mccollum-reflects-25th-anniversary-september-11-2001,"Congresswoman McCollum Reflects on the 25th Anniversary of September 11, 2001",2026-09-11,2026,2026-09,Democrat,House,MN,Betty McCollum,M001143,mccollum.house.gov,mccollum,https://mccollum.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Congresswoman Betty McCollum, Dean of the Minnesota congressional delegation, released the following statement reflecting on the 25th anniversary of September 11, 2001. The Congresswoman, who was in Washington that day, is the only member of Minnesota’s 2001 delegation still serving today. “September 11, 2001: A beautiful blue morning sky being shattered by the horror of two airplanes steered into the World Trade Center towers. Evacuating with my staff from my Longworth House office building. Black smoke rising from the Pentagon across the Potomac River. Seeing a fourth plane crashed into a Pennsylvania field. Along with you, these tragic images are seared in my memory, despite the passage of 25 years. These scenes have become part of the American psyche, even for those who were not yet born to witness them firsthand. They still fill us with fear, anger, grief, and sadness. In a moment, nearly 3,000 Americans’ lives were ripped away from us. Loved ones who were left behind have endured 25 years without grandfathers, mothers, husbands, sisters, and sons. The pain of their loss does not go away. Today as a nation, we once again come together to mourn with the families. We remember the steadfast flight attendants, resolute pilots, and selfless passengers, including our fellow Minnesotan, Tom Burnett Jr., who helped lead the effort to retake the cockpit of United Flight 93 from hijackers, and prevented it from hitting its intended target in Washington, D.C. And of course, we will never forget the courageous First Responders rushed toward toppling buildings, who risked their lives in hope of saving others. We remember the thousands who have faced illness and death from exposure to toxic dust and smoke during the months of recovery. We still feel the loss, the very sad sense of tragedy and hurt that touched us all. For all of us, September 11, 2001 remains a day that changed us and changed our country. But let us not forget the spirit of unity that was forged in those ashes. We put aside differences and came together as Americans -- far more powerful, resilient, and righteous than the perpetrators of the attack. Our nation emerged stronger. The anniversary of September 11, 2001 is now a National Day of Service and Remembrance. We come together to give back to our communities across America. This year, volunteers in Saint Paul and cities across the country to help pack 18,000,000 meals that will feed Americans who depend on food assistance. The 25th anniversary falls during the 250th year of our American journey. From the beginning, America has been tested by events and adversaries, both foreign and domestic. The future of our country is up to each of us. Our nation endures because of the power of individuals uniting to create a more perfect union. During the long, difficult years since that beautiful, terrible morning, the most important lesson I can draw upon is the profound blessing I feel to be an American and to share this country, our values, and our freedoms with my fellow citizens. There are no guarantees that our future will be free from challenges. But if we continue to build from the unity we shared after 9/11, our nation will not only endure, we will be stronger.”",1,2026-09-12T09:02:30Z,2026-09-12T09:03:27Z https://craig.house.gov/media/press-releases/reps-craig-nunn-introduce-bill-withhold-retirement-benefits-members-congress,"Reps. Craig, Nunn Introduce Bill to Withhold Retirement Benefits from Members of Congress Who Violate their Oath of Office",2026-09-04,2026,2026-09,Democrat,House,MN,Angie Craig,C001119,craig.house.gov,craig,https://craig.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC – Today, U.S. Representatives Angie Craig (D-MN-02), Zach Nunn (IA-03) Chris Pappas (D-NH-01) and Young Kim (R-CA-40) introduced legislation to prevent Members of Congress who engage in misconduct from receiving taxpayer-funded retirement benefits. Their Congressional Pension Accountability Act would close loopholes that currently allow Members of Congress who have committed serious ethics violations to continue receiving a pension. Under current law, pension forfeiture is largely limited to Members who were convicted of crimes but does not apply to those who resign after the House Ethics Committee determines they committed an ethics violation. This bill would change that and ensure that the law applies consistently across all federal retirement systems available to Members of Congress, including the Civil Service Retirement System (CSRS), Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS), and the Thrift Savings Plan (TSP). “It’s past time we start holding Members of Congress accountable for violating their oath of office,” said Rep. Craig. “Minnesota taxpayers shouldn’t be paying disgraced Members of Congress even after they leave office. It’s just common sense. I’m proud to be partnering with Rep. Nunn on a bill that will help clean up Washington and restore trust in our government.” Since Rep. Craig came to Congress, she has been working to fix a broken Washington and hold Members of Congress accountable. She has repeatedly led legislation to ban Members of Congress from trading stocks and was one of seven Members who launched the End Corruption Now agenda in Congress – a package of six bills that would put power back in the hands of the American people. Last year, she reintroduced her NO STOCK Resolution, which would require every sitting member of the U.S. House of Representatives to immediately sell their individual stocks and refrain from future stock ownership while in Congress. And earlier this Congress, she reintroduced her Halt Unchecked Member Benefits with Lobbying Elimination (HUMBLE) Act – a broader package of reforms that would prevent Members of Congress from using their position to enrich themselves. ###",1,2026-09-05T08:49:07Z,2026-09-05T08:50:44Z https://mccollum.house.gov/media/press-releases/congresswoman-betty-mccollum-votes-temporary-funding-measure-keep-federal,Congresswoman Betty McCollum Votes for Temporary Funding Measure to Keep Federal Government Open,2026-09-04,2026,2026-09,Democrat,House,MN,Betty McCollum,M001143,mccollum.house.gov,mccollum,https://mccollum.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. — Congresswoman Betty McCollum (D, MN-04), the Ranking Member of the House Appropriations Subcommittee on Defense, issued the following statement on Tuesday upon passage of a continuing resolution to fund the federal government through December 11: “I voted for this bipartisan continuing resolution to keep the federal government operating through December 11th because Americans deserve certainty that the government services they rely on will be there for them. President Trump’s disastrous tariffs on allies like Canada and his unlawful war in Iran are continuing to drive up costs for the American people. Americans cannot afford a government shutdown on top of President Trump’s failure to address the rising cost of living. Senate Republican leadership has also let Americans down by failing to release and advance any of their Fiscal Year 2027 Appropriations bills. The House has done its job and advanced all twelve Appropriations bills through committee. I urge my colleagues in the Senate to complete their Appropriations work and then come to the negotiating table so that we can deliver a bipartisan funding package that truly invests in the needs of the American people.” View the text of the Continuing Appropriations and Extensions Act, 2027.",1,2026-09-05T08:49:07Z,2026-09-05T08:50:44Z https://craig.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-craig-introduces-bill-lower-cost-insulin,Rep. Craig Introduces Bill to Lower Cost of Insulin,2026-09-03,2026,2026-09,Democrat,House,MN,Angie Craig,C001119,craig.house.gov,craig,https://craig.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC – Today, U.S. Representative Angie Craig (MN-02) introduced legislation alongside Representatives Diana DeGette (CO-01), Mariannette Miller-Meeks (IA-01), Kim Schrier (WA-08) and Rob Bresnahan (PA-08) to lower the cost of insulin for insured Americans and expand access to resources for uninsured Americans living with diabetes. Their Improving Needed Safeguards for Users of Lifesaving InsulinNow (INSULIN) Act would build on the progress made through the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) by extending the $35 per month cap on insulin for seniors to all insured individuals. The bill also establishes an insulin resource center and hotline to connect uninsured diabetes patients with diabetes resources and programs. “Through the Inflation Reduction Act, we made great strides toward lowering the cost of prescription drugs by capping the cost of insulin for our nation’s seniors,” Rep. Craig said. “Now, it’s time to extend that benefit to all Americans. I’m proud to be joining my colleagues in introducing this critical bill that will ensure no Minnesotan has to choose between putting food on the table and picking up lifesaving medication.” Since entering Congress, Rep. Craig has been a leader in the fight to lower prescription drug prices with a specific focus on insulin. In 2022, the provision of Rep. Craig’s bill that capped insulin copays at $35/month for Medicare recipients was signed into law as part of the IRA. Earlier this Congress, she introduced theAffordable Insulin Now Act to help Americans with private insurance afford insulin. Last Congress, Rep. Craig also introduced the Emergency Access to Insulin Act to help Americans without health insurance afford insulin. This bill would expand emergency insulin access, lower costs for those without health insurance and take additional steps to hold drug companies accountable for price gouging Americans. During IRA negotiations, Rep. Craig stood with House progressives, refusing to support the bill until it included provisions to allow Medicare to negotiate drug prices. She is also cosponsor of the Lowering Drug Costs for American Families Act, which would expand Medicare drug price negotiation to lower the price of additional prescription drugs. You can read the full text of the bill HERE. ###",1,2026-09-04T09:19:37Z,2026-09-04T09:20:58Z https://omar.house.gov/media/press-releases/workforce-protections-ranking-member-omar-remarks-hearing-president-trumps,Workforce Protections Ranking Member Omar Remarks at Hearing on President Trump’s Deregulatory Agenda at the Department of Labor,2026-09-02,2026,2026-09,Democrat,House,MN,Ilhan Omar,O000173,omar.house.gov,omar,https://omar.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – Ranking Member Ilhan Omar (MN-05) delivered the following opening statement at today’s Workforce Protections Subcommittee hearing entitled, “Less Red Tape, More Opportunity: Unleashing American Workers and Job Creators.” “Thank you, Mr. Chairman, and thank you to our witnesses for joining us today. “My Republican colleagues love to talk about getting rid of red tape, but let’s look at what they actually want to get rid of: it is the light at a construction site; it is the respirator a worker wears to protect themselves from asbestos exposure; it is an inspector looking at a mine and simply asking a coal operator whether the roof is going to hold. “Every one of these commonsense rules is on the books because a worker was hurt or killed on the job. And this country decided it would not let it happen again. “But now the Trump Administration and Congressional Republicans are trying to repeal them. “They have also fired staff across the Department of Labor and weakened important safety agencies like the Occupational Safety and Health Administration. “The attacks on workplace protections have made it harder to hold bad employ[ers] accountable, and harder for workers to trust that someone has their back. “Now, 2025 was a very good year for President Trump personally. “According to his own federal disclosure forms, Trump received 2.2 billion dollars in income after returning to the White House. “Let me put that in perspective: the median American worker would have to work over forty-three thousand years to earn what President Trump made in a single year in office. Forty-three thousand years. “While working families were falling further behind on their bills, the man in the Oval Office is cashing in. And Congressional Republicans are just looking the other way. “Worse, they actually added red tape of their own to the very programs all of these families need to survive. “In the year since this Republican Congress passed the ‘Big Ugly Bill,’ more than eight million Americans have lost their health coverage and more than four million lost food assistance. “Republicans know they don’t have a good economic record to run on. But let’s be clear about the plan they are offering to the American people: it is more red tape [and] hardship for you, and less of it for their corporate beneficiaries. “Instead of crafting an agenda that helps working people with the cost of living, Committee Republicans have consistently chosen to take the wrong priorities. “They have chosen to make labor cheap. “That is what their bills would do: making it easier for an employer to treat a worker like an independent contractor instead of a full-time employee; letting employers off the hook for wage theft; and making overtime cheaper and worth less for the workers putting in the time. “And they have chosen to make jobs more dangerous. “Just last month, Committee Republicans voted to block OSHA from ever issuing any standard [protecting] workers from extreme heat – in one of the hottest summers in our country’s history. “Just as troubling is what they have chosen not to do. This Committee has held zero hearings on issues that working people in my district and across the country care about most: not one hearing on raising the minimum wage; not one hearing on addressing the violence in the workplace; and not one hearing on our child labor laws, even as this Administration announced a plan to weaken them for 14-year-olds. “Mr. Chair, every worker in America deserves to come home safe at the end of the day. That should be one of the most basic obligations we have to our constituents. “Working families are not asking for much. They are asking for a fair shot, an honest wage, and a safe workplace. “But this Congress, and this Administration, are failing to meet the moment. “Stripping away labor protections will not unleash anything good. “It will just move the cost of doing business onto the bodies and livelihoods of working-class people who do the real work that powers this economy. “Working Americans deserve a government that works for them, not corporate interests. “Thank you, and I yield back.” ###",1,2026-09-03T09:29:33Z,2026-09-03T09:31:32Z https://omar.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-omar-statement-one-year-anniversary-annunciation-catholic-school-shooting,Rep. Omar Statement on One Year Anniversary of the Annunciation Catholic School Shooting,2026-08-27,2026,2026-08,Democrat,House,MN,Ilhan Omar,O000173,omar.house.gov,omar,https://omar.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"MINNEAPOLIS – Today, Rep. Ilhan Omar (D-MN) released the following statement to commemorate the one year anniversary of the mass shooting at Annunciation Catholic School in her district. ""Today, our community gathers to remember Fletcher Merkel and Harper Moyski, honor the survivors, and stand with every child, family, educator, parishioner, and first responder whose life was forever changed by the tragedy at Annunciation one year ago. ""Fletcher and Harper were targeted while doing something so innocent: sitting in prayer at the first all-school Mass of the school year. As a mother, I cannot imagine the heartbreak their families have endured. As a Minneapolis resident and your representative, my heart remains utterly shattered. I refuse to accept that this is the reality our children must grow up in. ""Annunciation Church has been a fixture of our Southside community for more than 100 years. My district office is just 10 minutes away, and members of my staff have deep ties to this church. They have celebrated weddings, baptisms, and first communions there. This tragedy struck not only a school and a parish, but a community that we hold close to our hearts. ""At the heart of today is a simple belief: one meaningful way we can remember is by showing up for others and moving our feet. Through acts of service and generosity, we can carry forward the love, courage, and care that have surrounded the Annunciation community over the past year. But remembrance must also be coupled with action. ""Gun violence is the number one killer of children and teens. Our leaders at every level of government have an obligation to confront this crisis and keep our children safe. As a legislator, I continue to be ashamed by the lack of political will to act, even after Columbine, Parkland, Uvalde, and far too many other tragedies. We must do whatever is within our power to protect our kids. ""It should not be controversial to pass commonsense lifesaving measures, including banning assault weapons and high-capacity magazines. Our elected leaders should care more about the safety of our children than protecting access to weapons of war. ""We owe it to Fletcher and Harper, to the survivors, and to every single child who deserves to feel safe at school and in a house of worship to do everything in our power to prevent this from ever happening again."" ###",1,2026-08-27T16:10:01Z,2026-08-27T16:10:50Z https://mccollum.house.gov/media/press-releases/congresswoman-betty-mccollum-highlight-high-costs-reduced-coverage-minnesotans,"Congresswoman Betty McCollum to Highlight High Costs, Reduced Coverage for Minnesotans at Gillette Children’s Health Care Discussion",2026-08-25,2026,2026-08,Democrat,House,MN,Betty McCollum,M001143,mccollum.house.gov,mccollum,https://mccollum.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"SAINT PAUL, Minn. — Congresswoman Betty McCollum (D, MN-04) will host a health care roundtable at Gillette Children’s on Wednesday, bringing together patients, providers, and state health care leaders to highlight the high cost of care and reduced coverage Minnesotans are experiencing as a result of the Republican budget law known as the One Big Beautiful Bill Act. WHO: Congresswoman Betty McCollum; Gillette Children’s President & CEO Barbara Joers; Minnesota Senate Majority Leader Erin Murphy, Minnesota Medical Association President Dr. Lisa Mattson, Minnesota Hospital Association Director of State Government Relations Danny Ackert, MNsure CEO Libby Caulum, Metropolitan Area Agency on Aging Executive Director Dawn Simonson, State Medicaid Director & Minnesota Department of Human Services Temporary Commissioner John Connolly, an SEIU health care worker, and a Gillette Children’s patient and parent. WHAT: Health Care Roundtable WHERE: Gillette Children’s, 200 University Ave E, Saint Paul, MN 55101 WHEN: Wednesday, August 26th at 10:30-11:30 AM",1,2026-08-26T05:33:32Z,2026-08-26T05:34:56Z https://mccollum.house.gov/media/press-releases/congresswoman-betty-mccollum-commends-governor-walzs-executive-order-banning,Congresswoman Betty McCollum Commends Governor Walz’s Executive Order Banning Mining Near the Boundary Waters,2026-08-19,2026,2026-08,Democrat,House,MN,Betty McCollum,M001143,mccollum.house.gov,mccollum,https://mccollum.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"SAINT PAUL, Minn. — Congresswoman Betty McCollum (D), the Dean of the Minnesota Congressional Delegation, issued the following statement on Tuesday in response to Governor Tim Walz’s executive order banning mining near the Boundary Waters Canoe Area (BWCA): “I commend Governor Walz’s bold leadership in issuing this executive order that protects the pristine waters of the Boundary Waters and its watershed, and honors our Tribal treaty obligations for generations to come. Now Congress needs to act to pass my legislation, the Boundary Waters Wilderness Protection and Pollution Prevention Act (H.R. 588) to provide a permanent federal protection for this national treasure. The Boundary Waters holds 20% of all the fresh water in the U.S. National Forest System — water so clean you can drink it. The danger of copper mining to our clean water is clear and overwhelming: 100% of copper mines have failed, leading to polluted water. The wildfires that have raged in the BWCA this summer remind us just how vulnerable this area is. That’s why I’ve worked for two decades to defend this special place, our nation’s most-visited wilderness, just as we protect our nation’s most coveted national parks —Yosemite, Zion, Acadia, and Glacier.”",1,2026-08-20T05:28:41Z,2026-08-20T05:29:58Z https://mccollum.house.gov/media/press-releases/representatives-mccollum-and-thompson-reintroduce-resolution-recognize,Representatives McCollum and Thompson Reintroduce Resolution to Recognize National Nonprofit Day,2026-08-17,2026,2026-08,Democrat,House,MN,Betty McCollum,M001143,mccollum.house.gov,mccollum,https://mccollum.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. — Congresswoman Betty McCollum (D-MN) and Congressman Glenn “GT” Thompson (R-PA) introduced a bipartisan resolution on Monday to designate August 17 as National Nonprofit Day, recognizing the 1.3 million nonprofit organizations and 12 million nonprofit employees in the U.S. who serve local, national, and international needs. “Nonprofits are the backbone of our communities and our economy,” said Congresswoman McCollum. “They employ more than 12 million Americans — including 370,000 Minnesotans — and deliver the services families rely on every day, from food shelves to after-school programs to elder care. By officially recognizing National Nonprofit Day, we honor the people who show up for their neighbors and make sure this sector has the support it needs to keep doing that work.” “Pennsylvania’s nonprofit organizations make up more than 15% of the Commonwealth’s workforce, which translates into positive investments in our communities,” Rep. Thompson said. “We have joined together to designate August 17 as National Nonprofit Day in order to honor the generosity and service of these great organizations.” In addition to introducing this resolution recognizing National Nonprofit Day, Congresswoman McCollum has long worked in partnership with nonprofit organizations to strengthen the sector and its relationship with the federal government through the Nonprofit SEAT Act. The legislation is designed to facilitate mechanisms for nonprofits to have a more direct voice in policy decisions that affect their work and the communities they serve.",1,2026-08-18T05:27:41Z,2026-08-18T05:29:06Z https://mccollum.house.gov/media/press-releases/congresswoman-mccollum-statement-servicemembers-aboard-uss-abraham-lincoln,Congresswoman McCollum Statement on Servicemembers Aboard the U.S.S. Abraham Lincoln,2026-08-14,2026,2026-08,Democrat,House,MN,Betty McCollum,M001143,mccollum.house.gov,mccollum,https://mccollum.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"SAINT PAUL, Minn. — Congresswoman Betty McCollum, the Ranking Member of the House Appropriations Subcommittee on Defense, issued the following statement on Friday amid reports of poor living conditions on board the U.S.S. Abraham Lincoln because of the extended deployment of American servicemembers in the Arabian Sea. “I have been demanding answers from the Pentagon for weeks about the conditions not only on the U.S.S. Lincoln, but also the U.S.S. Ford,” said Ranking Member McCollum. “Once again, this week, I requested information from the Pentagon about the conditions aboard the U.S.S. Lincoln including how a food shortage, substandard sanitation, and no port time has led to low morale and a mental health crisis for some service members. “Secretary Hegseth’s leadership of the Department of Defense has been nonexistent, and President Trump’s rudderless foreign policy has set our nation back severely. President Trump’s reckless decision to withdraw from the JCPOA, negotiated by President Obama, had an immediate destabilizing effect on the Middle East. In his second term, President Trump has managed to turn a bad situation into a dangerous one by starting a war without a strategy and declaring victory prematurely. Servicemembers have died. The Trump Administration has spent billions of dollars. The strait of Hormuz was once open; it is now effectively closed by Iran. This is not a success story. It is a failure of leadership. “I am grateful for the service of all the women and men aboard the U.S.S. Lincoln, as well as all American servicemembers deployed in the Middle East and around the world, whether at sea or on land. Our great men and women in uniform make our nation proud.”",1,2026-08-15T05:23:20Z,2026-08-15T05:24:50Z https://omar.house.gov/media/press-releases/congresswoman-ilhan-omar-demands-answers-about-presence-undercover-hsi-agent,Congresswoman Ilhan Omar Demands Answers About the Presence of an Undercover HSI Agent Outside her Town Hall Meeting,2026-08-10,2026,2026-08,Democrat,House,MN,Ilhan Omar,O000173,omar.house.gov,omar,https://omar.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"MINNEAPOLIS – Congresswoman Ilhan Omar (D-MN) sent an oversight letter to Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) demanding a response as to why an undercover HSI agent was stationed outside of her monthly town hall meeting in Richfield. Following nationwide concerns about the Trump Administration’s use of ICE and DHS to intimidate Americans who oppose their political agenda, this action raises serious concerns about the purpose of HSI’s presence at the Congresswoman’s public event. It also raises concerns about practices at HSI and ICE more broadly. It calls into question the level of training agents are receiving before being sent out into the field, given the agent claimed to have been conducting an undercover criminal operation with no prior coordination with local law enforcement near the Congresswoman’s event. Importantly, it indicates that HSI is continuing to use mismatched license plates on vehicles, in violation of state law and in contradiction to earlier commitments HSI made to Rep. Omar. “HSI's actions yesterday evening put an entire community at risk,” said Rep. Omar. “Instead of monitoring the area for those who might wish harm to me and my constituents, Richfield Police were required to devote time to investigating why an HSI agent was outside of a Congressional event in a vehicle with mismatched plates. It also raises serious and uncomfortable questions about the purpose of HSI's presence outside of my event. At best, your agent was unable to assess that the parking lot of a community center hosting a Congressional event wasn’t the best place to conduct a drug operation. At worst, it emphasizes many Americans’ growing concern that the Trump administration uses ICE to surveil political opponents and may interfere with our democracy.” Congresswoman Omar is demanding answers to the following questions: Please explain why an agent was detailed to Richfield Community Center on the evening of Thursday, August 6, 2026. Please explain when and how the HSI agent and her supervisors became aware I was hosting a town hall at this location and what action that knowledge prompted. Please provide an overview of the training the agent had completed prior to her assignment at this location, as well as how long she has served as an HSI agent. Richfield Police Department reported that they had received no advance communication of an undercover operation from HSI that would have allowed them to ensure the safety of the officer and the community, as well as support HSI's broader work to combat drug trafficking. Please explain what steps you take to coordinate undercover criminal operations with local law enforcement, and why in this instance there was no prior coordination with Richfield Police Department. Please share details of any meetings or events I have hosted in my official capacity as a Member of Congress that HSI agents may have been assigned to observe and why. Please share whether HSI agents have observed any other activity being undertaken in an official capacity by any other local, state, or federal officials in Minnesota this year. You can find the full text of the oversight letter here. ###",1,2026-08-11T05:54:29Z,2026-08-11T05:56:25Z https://craig.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-craig-presses-trump-administration-lack-responsiveness-dept-ed-continued,"Rep. Craig Presses Trump Administration on Lack of Responsiveness from Dept. of Ed, Continued Confusion Surrounding Student Loan Repayments, Civil Rights Complaints",2026-08-03,2026,2026-08,Democrat,House,MN,Angie Craig,C001119,craig.house.gov,craig,https://craig.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"EAGAN, MN – Today, U.S. Representative Angie Craig pressed the Trump Administration on their continued lack of responsiveness to inquiries directed to the Office of Federal Student Aid (FSA) and the Office of Civil Rights (OCR) following the Department of Education’s (DoEd) decision to gut department staff and offload its responsibilities to other federal agencies. In a letter to Education Secretary Linda McMahon, Education Undersecretary Nicholas Kent and Assistant Secretary for Civil Rights Kimberly Richey, Rep. Craig cited a significant increase in constituent cases with FSA and OCR since President Trump took office, and expressed concern with the low number of cases that have been positively resolved. She also demanded answers from the Administration about why her office has experienced delays in communication, from FSA and OCR when submitting inquiries on behalf of her constituents. “Since the start of your tenures, I have seen an increase in DoEd inquiries, with 50 constituents seeking my office’s assistance with FSA or OCR services,” Rep. Craig wrote. “Only five of these cases (just 10%) received a positive resolution from FSA. 16 of these cases involve delays in student loan application statuses, buybacks and transfers, and 20% of all cases lacked any communication from DoEd or their student loan servicer.” “Ironically, your mission to dismantle DoEd and ‘Make Education Great Again’ has resulted in more bureaucratic red tape, an increase in unsolved or unanswered cases and wasted taxpayer dollars, all with the goal of fulfilling a political agenda that does not serve my constituents,” Rep. Craig continued. “Given the strong bipartisan opposition to your illegal actions and your continued failure to assist my constituents, I must remind you of your oaths of office and moral obligations of your public service, as well as Congress’ constitutional authority to call for your removal from office if deemed necessary,” Rep. Craig wrote. “I demand you support your remaining nonpartisan staff in their work to provide estimated PSLF processing and buyback timelines, directly respond to borrower and caseworker inquiries in a timely manner and provide proper public notice regarding PSLF Program buyback delays.” Rep. Craig has fought Republican efforts to dismantle the Department of Education from day one. This Congress, she co-sponsored the Department of Education Protection Act, which would prohibit Congressional funds from being used to fire agency workers or drastically alter the Education Department. She also led a joint resolution opposing cuts to the Department of Education and condemning any Congressional or Executive action that attempts to dismantle the Department. You can read the full text of her letterhere. ###",1,2026-08-04T07:35:49Z,2026-08-04T07:37:27Z https://mccollum.house.gov/media/press-releases/congresswoman-mccollum-statement-suspected-iranian-involvement-attack,Congresswoman McCollum Statement on Suspected Iranian Involvement in Attack on Minnesota’s Water Infrastructure,2026-07-30,2026,2026-07,Democrat,House,MN,Betty McCollum,M001143,mccollum.house.gov,mccollum,https://mccollum.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. — Congresswoman Betty McCollum, the Ranking Member of the House Appropriations Subcommittee on Defense, issued the following statement on Thursday in response to reporting from the New York Times indicating that investigators suspect that Iranian hackers were behind the cyberattacks on dozens of Minnesota’s municipal water systems earlier this week: “This incident demonstrates that Minnesota’s municipalities, businesses, and residents must be prepared not only to ward off cybersecurity threats from cybercriminals, but also from terrorist organizations and nation-states,” said Congresswoman McCollum. “It also shows the urgent need for the federal government to advance critical cybersecurity measures to protect small businesses, large enterprises, and local governments by providing state-of-the-art defensive measures to defend against malicious attacks by bad actors who intend to sow chaos and extract ransom. I have worked closely with the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) in partnership with Metro State University to ensure that our communities are prepared to protect themselves from these attacks, and I will continue to aggressively pursue funding and resources to support defensive measures for Minnesota’s businesses and municipalities.” “Cybersecurity is inseparable from public safety. Although no contamination or public health impacts have been reported, this attack demonstrates the risks posed when malicious actors gain access to the operational technology that supports essential water and wastewater services,” said Faisal Kaleem, Director and Professor of Cybersecurity, Metro State University. “Minnesota’s communities need trained cybersecurity professionals, secure systems, affordable continuous monitoring, and strong partnerships among federal, state, local, and educational institutions. Metro State University is committed to helping build that resilience through education, workforce development, and partnerships that strengthen the critical infrastructure Minnesotans depend on every day.” “As these attacks become increasingly common, leaders at every level of government are working tirelessly with academic and industry partners for our common defense in the cyber domain, improving information sharing, coordination and cyber talent development to detect and defend against elevated attacks,"" said Army Maj. Gen. Stefanie Horvath, Minnesota National Guard’s Assistant Adjutant General. ""A united approach is just as important in the cyber domain as it is in the physical domain to defend against attacks.” Congresswoman McCollum has worked to provide federal resources for cybersecurity initiatives since 2021, when she served as the Chair of the House Appropriations Subcommittee on Defense. She believes that Minnesota must continue to work to take advantage of the opportunities provided by this federal funding. These attacks show the necessity of developing a strong workforce that includes cybersecurity professionals who will be able to support efforts to prevent and defend against cyberattacks. Congresswoman McCollum has also worked closely with Metro State University in Saint Paul, which continues to be a key leader in this effort, and she has supported the expansion of Metro State’s cybersecurity education programs through Community Project Funding. Metro State University has also led the way in partnering with the Minnesota National Guard on cyber training initiatives, providing a model for how Minnesota’s public and private sectors can work with the cybersecurity professionals in the National Guard to defend our communities. Congresswoman McCollum will continue to support these efforts through her work in Congress to supply them with the resources required to protect Minnesotans.",1,2026-08-01T07:27:26Z,2026-08-01T07:28:22Z https://craig.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-craig-hosts-unsung-heroes-recognition-event-honor-cd2-labor-unions,Rep. Craig Hosts Unsung Heroes Recognition Event to Honor CD2 Labor Unions,2026-07-29,2026,2026-07,Democrat,House,MN,Angie Craig,C001119,craig.house.gov,craig,https://craig.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"BURNSVILLE, MN – Yesterday, U.S. Representative Angie Craig hosted her inaugural Unsung Heroes Recognition Event in Burnsville to honor union workers in Minnesota’s Second District. Rep. Craig was joined by Minnesota labor leaders to highlight their collective support for working class wins. “Labor is the backbone of Minnesota’s economy, but right now it’s under attack,” said Rep. Craig. “From terminating union contracts to blocking the right to organize, the Trump Administration has made union-busting a primary part of its agenda. That’s why I'm honored to host this event – to double down on my support for Minnesota labor and make sure their hard work doesn’t go unnoticed.” Rep. Craig was joined by Bernie Burnham, President, Minnesota AFL-CIO; Kim Nelson, Political Director, Northern Midwest Regional Council of Carpenters; Amanda Heiser, Northern Midwest Regional Council of Carpenters; John Burcaw, Director, Finishing Trades Institute; Laura Asklein, Political Organizer, AFSCME; Max Hall, External Relations and Planning Director, AFSCME; Rick Bartz, Business Manager and Financial Secretary, IBEW Local 949 and Denise White, President, AFGE Local 1969. Together, they recognized local union members for the following: Demonstrating a commitment to service and community engagement. Demonstrating tremendous leadership skills. Devoting 15+ years of service. Going above and beyond every day and showing tremendous pride in their work. Being assets to their unions, dedicating themselves to outstanding organizing and continuously going above and beyond in the recruiting process. Rep. Craig has stood with Minnesota’s labor unions and been a champion of organized labor since day one. She helped introduce the PRO Act, which protects workers’ right to organize and collectively bargain for higher wages, better benefits and safer working conditions. And she has penned her own legislation, like the Supporting Apprenticeship Colleges Act, which would help increase enrollment in registered apprenticeship programs. Rep. Craig also helped introduce the Faster Labor Contracts Act, which requires employers to begin negotiations with a newly certified union within 10 days of receiving a request, and the No Tax Breaks for Union Busting Act, which blocks large corporations who union bust from collecting tax breaks. Finally, she is a cosponsor of the Tax Fairness for Workers Act, which would create an “above-the-line” tax deduction for union dues and expenses. ###",1,2026-07-30T07:32:48Z,2026-07-30T07:34:08Z https://craig.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-angie-craig-helps-introduce-legislation-protect-tps-fight-trumps-attacks,"Rep. Angie Craig Helps Introduce Legislation to Protect TPS, Fight Trump’s Attacks on Immigrants",2026-07-27,2026,2026-07,Democrat,House,MN,Angie Craig,C001119,craig.house.gov,craig,https://craig.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"EAGAN, MN – U.S. Representative Angie Craig recently joined Rep. Debbie Wasserman Schultz (D-FL-25) in introducing legislation to protect Temporary Protected Statuses (TPS) and fight President Trump’s continued attacks on our nation’s immigrants. The Temporary Protected Status Review Act would require the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to follow a clear, evidence-based process before terminating TPS and allow Congress to reverse TPS terminations under the Congressional Review Act. Rep. Craig’s bill comes after last month’s Supreme Court decision in Mullin v. Doe, which ruled that the Administration’s termination of TPS for Haitians and Syrians cannot be reviewed by the courts. As a result, 1.3 million TPS recipients who fled violence, natural disasters or brutal political repression are at risk of losing their legal status and work authorization and could potentially face detention, family separation or deportation back to their home countries. “The Trump Administration has repeatedly targeted TPS and used those who have come to our country to flee some of the most horrific situations as political pawns,” said Rep. Craig. “Reversing TPS actively endangers the lives of TPS holders forced to return to the violence they fled. I’m proud help introduce this critical legislation to protect Minnesota’s TPS holders, take back control from this out-of-control president and combat his administration’s continued attacks on our immigrant neighbors.” Rep. Craig has repeatedly spoken out against President Trump's attacks on TPS, especially on behalf of Minnesota’s Somali community, for whom TPS was cancelled earlier this year. In April, Rep. Craig and her Democratic colleagues successfully forced a vote on legislation requiring the Trump Administration to reinstate TPS for Haitians. Earlier this year, she joined a group of 26 Senators and 157 House Members in filing an amicus brief challenging the Trump Administration’s illegal termination of TPS protections for Haiti and Syria in Trump v. Miot. Ultimately, the Supreme Court’s conservative-majority ruled TPS terminations could proceed lawfully. Rep. Craig is also an original cosponsor and longtime supporter of the American Dream and Promise Act, which would protect TPS holders and provide them with a path to lawful permanent residence. ###",1,2026-07-28T07:37:32Z,2026-07-28T07:38:50Z https://mccollum.house.gov/media/press-releases/congresswoman-betty-mccollum-introduces-bipartisan-disability-pride-month,CONGRESSWOMAN BETTY McCOLLUM INTRODUCES BIPARTISAN DISABILITY PRIDE MONTH RESOLUTION,2026-07-27,2026,2026-07,Democrat,House,MN,Betty McCollum,M001143,mccollum.house.gov,mccollum,https://mccollum.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. — Congresswoman Betty McCollum (D, MN-04), along with Rep. Glenn “GT” Thompson (R, PA-15), re-introduced a bipartisan resolution today recognizing July as Disability Pride Month. This resolution highlights the importance of inclusion and increased accessibility for the disability community. The introduction of this resolution coincides with the 35th anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) being signed into law, and serves as a reminder of the many accomplishments and contributions Americans with disabilities make to our country. “Every July, we celebrate the resilience, talent, and leadership of Americans with disabilities,” said Congresswoman McCollum. “Yet the federal government still hasn’t formally recognized Disability Pride Month. This resolution is a reminder that recognition matters — and that we still have work to do to break down barriers, expand accessibility, and ensure disability rights are fully realized in law and in practice.” This resolution was inspired by the advocacy of Gillette Children’s Hospital of Saint Paul, Minnesota and twenty national and state organizations, and was originally introduced by Congresswoman McCollum in 2022. “Disability Pride Month, celebrated every July, is an opportunity for us to celebrate the amazing contributions of individuals living with disabilities,” Rep. Thompson said. “Prior to serving in Congress, I spent 28 years as a therapist, rehabilitation services manager, and licensed nursing home administrator. I know firsthand the positive impacts those living with disabilities have in their communities, and I am proud to champion their accomplishments.” The resolution is co-sponsored by Rep. Glenn Thompson (R-PA), Rep. Nikki Budzinski (D-IL), Rep. Andre Carson (D-IN), Rep. Steve Cohen (D-TN), Rep. Madeleine Dean (D-PA), Rep. Adriano Espaillat (D-NY), Rep. Dwight Evans (D-PA), Rep. Steny H. Hoyer (D-MD), Rep. Henry C. “Hank” Johnson Jr. (D-GA), Rep. Timothy M. Kennedy (D-NY), Rep. Raja Krishnamoorthi (D-IL), Rep. Christian D. Menefee (D-TX), Rep. Robert Menendez (D-NJ), Rep. Seth Moulton (D-MA), Del. Eleanor Holmes Norton (D-DC), Rep. Emily Randall (D-WA), Rep. Mary Gay Scanlon (D-PA), Rep. Lateefah Simon (D-CA), Rep. Dina Titus (D-NV), Rep. Rashida Tlaib (D-MI), and Rep. Bonnie Watson Coleman (D-NJ).",1,2026-07-28T07:37:32Z,2026-07-28T07:38:50Z https://craig.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-craig-statement-vote-against-republicans-anti-democratic-reconciliation,Rep. Craig Statement on Vote Against Republicans’ Anti-Democratic Reconciliation Bill,2026-07-23,2026,2026-07,Democrat,House,MN,Angie Craig,C001119,craig.house.gov,craig,https://craig.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC – Today, U.S. Representative Angie Craig released the following statement on her vote against House Republicans’ disastrous and blatantly anti-democratic budget reconciliation package that does nothing to lower costs for Minnesotans. “Today, Congressional Republicans jammed through their third disastrous budget bill this Congress — a plan that includes an additional $73 billion in defense and surveillance spending and $10 billion to implement President Trump’s election-rigging legislation. “At a time when folks across this country are reeling from the impacts of President Trump’s short-sighted economic policies and his illegal war in Iran, the last thing we should be doing is allocating more money to an administration that clearly prioritizes the President’s own political and foreign policy objectives over the livelihoods of the American people. “I am disappointed in my Republican colleagues for yet again bending to President Trump by enabling his dangerous efforts to rig our nation’s elections. This budget plan is a threat to our democracy, our national security and to every Minnesotan already struggling to make ends meet.” ###",1,2026-07-24T07:30:11Z,2026-07-24T07:31:13Z https://mccollum.house.gov/media/press-releases/mccollum-statement-passage-iran-war-powers-resolution,McCollum Statement on Passage of Iran War Powers Resolution,2026-07-23,2026,2026-07,Democrat,House,MN,Betty McCollum,M001143,mccollum.house.gov,mccollum,https://mccollum.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"For the second time, the House of Representatives has rebuked President Trump and voted in a bipartisan fashion to end his unlawful war with Iran. The American people want this war to end now, and I stand with them.",1,2026-07-24T07:30:11Z,2026-07-24T07:31:13Z https://omar.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-omar-leads-progressive-members-congress-statement-condemning-trump-state,Rep. Omar Leads Progressive Members of Congress in Statement Condemning Trump State Department’s McCarthyite Attack on Americans’ Free Speech Rights and Collective Punishment of Cubans,2026-07-23,2026,2026-07,Democrat,House,MN,Ilhan Omar,O000173,omar.house.gov,omar,https://omar.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON - Congressional Progressive Caucus (CPC) Peace & Security Taskforce Chair Rep. Ilhan Omar and 10 other CPC members—Representatives Greg Casar, Maxine Dexter, Jesús ""Chuy"" García, Jonathan L. Jackson, Jim McGovern, Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, Mark Pocan, Delia C. Ramirez, Rashida Tlaib, and Nydia M. Velázquez—issued the following statement in response to the Trump State Department's release of the 100-page report, Cuba: Capital of 21st-Century Communism: “Trump appears hellbent on taking America back 70 years to the height of Cold War McCarthyism, when hawkish foreign policy was paired with unsubstantiated accusations of communist subversion and political repression against dissidents at home. “Trump has repeatedly threatened to take over Cuba and has deployed U.S. military ships to seize fuel vessels attempting to arrive on the island. And yet, in an Orwellian move, this administration now claims it is Cuba carrying out the ‘assault’ against the United States, by turning ‘Americans into instruments of their own nation's undoing.’ “We condemn this report’s attack on Americans’ constitutional rights to free speech and assembly. We denounce this administration’s irresponsible attacks against civil society organizations, activists, journalists, labor leaders, Members of Congress, elected officials, and private individuals based on their advocacy for peaceful foreign policy and social justice at home. “And we stand firmly against this report and other efforts by the Trump Administration to weaponize the federal government against dissent, which is a patriotic tradition. We commit to using our full oversight power as Members of Congress and elected officials to stop the persecution of Trump’s perceived political enemies. “Trump and Secretary Rubio are intensifying decades of economic war against the very people they say they want to help—all while attacking Americans who oppose the policy. The U.S. blockade deliberately deprives the entire island’s population of adequate food, fuel, and medicine. It is past time for Trump to obey the Constitution and end the dangerous, cruel and illegal naval blockade causing collective punishment against Cuba.” ###",1,2026-07-24T07:30:11Z,2026-07-24T07:31:13Z https://craig.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-angie-craig-introduces-comprehensive-regulatory-framework-hemp,Rep. Angie Craig Introduces Comprehensive Regulatory Framework for Hemp,2026-07-22,2026,2026-07,Democrat,House,MN,Angie Craig,C001119,craig.house.gov,craig,https://craig.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC – Today, U.S. Representative and Ranking Member of the House Agriculture Committee Angie Craig (D-MN-02) introduced legislation alongside Rep. Andy Barr (R-KY-06) to create a comprehensive regulatory framework for hemp and hemp-derived THC products, ensuring hemp remains safe and available for Minnesota’s farmers, processors, brewers, retailers and consumers. Rep. Craig’s Lawful Hemp Protection Act comes after House Republicans effectively repealed a 2018 law that allowed Minnesota and other states to legally produce hemp and sell hemp-derived products, such as hemp beverages and textiles. Since 2018, the hemp industry has grown into a roughly $300 million a year industry and provided a new income stream for local farmers, brewers and small businesses. As of 2023, the Minnesota hemp industry supported over 3,400 jobs. The state is home to 132 licensed grow operations, 96 processors and over 2,000 retailers. If Congress does not act by November 12, 2026, Minnesota’s legal hemp industry will effectively be shut down. “Minnesota became the model for responsible hemp regulation when it established a regulatory framework that complied with federal law and enabled local farmers and businesses to thrive,” said Rep. Craig. “My commonsense legislation will give regulatory clarity to Minnesota farmers, brewers and small business owners and provide an alternative to short-sighted federal policies that threaten Minnesota jobs and consumer choice. I am proud to have worked with Rep. Barr on a solution that protects our farmers and small businesses while also keeping our kids and communities safe.” “Kentucky farmers helped build America’s hemp industry and they deserve certainty,” said Rep. Andy Barr. “The Lawful Hemp Protection Act protects Kentucky agriculture, safeguards consumers, and establishes a commonsense regulatory framework that allows this important industry to continue to grow while ensuring products are safe and kept out of the hands of children. Kentucky has demonstrated that hemp can be successfully regulated while supporting farmers and protecting consumers. This legislation builds on that success by creating a national framework that rewards responsible producers, eliminates bad actors and ensures consumers have confidence in the products they purchase.” “We are dangerously close to one of Minnesota’s most promising small business industries being shut down,” said Bob Galligan, director of government and industry relations for the Minnesota Craft Brewers Guild. “Minnesotans proved that responsible regulation can lift businesses, strengthen economies and protect consumers. We now need Congress to do its job. We’re grateful for Rep. Craig for her continuous support and for now forging a path that reflects what our state has already shown: prohibition doesn’t work, but thoughtful, practical regulation does.” “The entire Minnesota hemp industry thanks both Reps. Angie Craig and Andy Barr for their leadership in bringing sensible regulation to this industry that is so important to so many,” said Kyle Markinovich, the founder and CEO of Northern Diversified Solutions in Burnsville, MN. “The farmers, brands, distributors, retailers, patients, and consumers are so grateful this amazing success story will continue to grow and thrive. As Minnesotans, we are particularly grateful to Rep. Craig who continues to serve hemp farmers and businesses so well in the Congress.” “Reps. Andy Barr and Angie Craig deserve tremendous credit for stepping forward with a serious, science-based and bipartisan solution at exactly the moment the hemp industry needs it most,” said Jonathan Miller, general counsel of the U.S. Hemp Roundtable. “Their leadership on the Lawful Hemp Protection Act reflects a clear-eyed recognition that prohibition is the wrong path, and that American farmers, small businesses, manufacturers, retailers and consumers deserve a workable federal framework built on responsible regulation. We are grateful for their willingness to engage stakeholders across the industry throughout the drafting process, and we look forward to continuing to work with them and their colleagues in Congress to advance a long-term federal solution.” ###",1,2026-07-23T07:31:02Z,2026-07-23T07:32:26Z https://craig.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-craig-statement-ahead-vote-against-national-defense-authorization-act,Rep. Craig Statement Ahead of Vote Against the National Defense Authorization Act,2026-07-22,2026,2026-07,Democrat,House,MN,Angie Craig,C001119,craig.house.gov,craig,https://craig.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC – Today, U.S. Representative Angie Craig released the following statement ahead of her vote against the Republican-led National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA). “While I appreciate that there are many important provisions in this legislation that I wholeheartedly support, like a pay raise for our troops and expanded support for military families, I simply cannot vote to authorize $1.15 trillion to President Trump and Secretary Pete Hegseth while they continue to seek supplemental funding for their dangerous and costly war in Iran. “I am also deeply concerned that this bill abandons our country's LGBTQ+ veterans and servicemembers, who have put their lives on the line to defend our freedoms. These provisions do not make our country safer, and in fact, they deter Americans willing and able to serve our country. Bottom line: this legislation does nothing to rein in Trump's executive power, end this war and take our troops out of harm’s way.” “I am grateful to my House Democratic colleagues who worked tirelessly to secure critical provisions that push for transparency and accountability from the Defense Department, authorize health care coverage for IVF and other reproductive technologies for military families and protect collective bargaining rights. These are provisions I support, but not at the expense of more American lives lost in the Middle East, skyrocketing prices for Minnesotans and a target on the backs of our LGBTQ+ servicemembers.” ###",1,2026-07-23T07:31:02Z,2026-07-23T07:32:26Z https://morrison.house.gov/media/press-releases/us-rep-kelly-morrison-grills-sba-how-trumps-new-50-tariffs-canada-will-affect,U.S. Rep. Kelly Morrison Grills SBA on How Trump’s New 50% Tariffs on Canada Will Affect Small Businesses,2026-07-22,2026,2026-07,Democrat,House,MN,Kelly Morrison,M001234,morrison.house.gov,morrison,https://morrison.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC – Today, after President Trump announced a new 50% tariff on Canadian imports, U.S. Representative Kelly Morrison (MN-03), a member of the House Small Business Committee, confronted Small Business Administration (SBA) Associate Administrator Paul Fitzpatrick on how these new sweeping tariffs will impact American small businesses. Canada is one of our nation’s closest allies and Minnesota’s largest trading partner. Minnesota imports more than $14 billion from Canada and exports more than $5 billion in goods to Canadaeach year. Trump’s new tariffs not only threaten the imports that many Minnesotan small businesses rely on, but raise the risk of retaliatory tariffs from Canada. This year, the Small Business Administration proposed eliminating 15 out of 16 federal entrepreneurial development programs, including the program that helps small businesses expand to international markets. This proposal, combined with the President’s new tariffs, pose a huge threat to Minnesota small businesses that rely on our trading partner to the north and have already been hit hard by tariffs over the last year. Representative Morrison asked SBA Associate Administrator Fitzpatrick to explain how small businesses will now be able to navigate trade with Canada given these changes. The Associate Administrator could not provide a clear plan on how to protect small businesses. Rep. Morrison, a member of the House Small Business Committee, has spent her first term in Congress fiercely advocating for small businesses, including by: Meeting with Minnesotan small businesses to understand how tariffs are affecting them Fighting to immediately exempt small businesses from tariffs Pressing Small Business Administrator Kelly Loeffler to exempt small businesses from tariffs Demanding the Trump Administration rescind tariffs on Canada Urging Speaker Mike Johnson to call the House to vote to end Trump’s tariff war Introducing and passing the Rural Small Business Resilience Act to help rural small businesses recover from natural disasters Strengthening research and development opportunities for small businesses Watch Rep. Morrison’s full exchange with Associate Administrator Fitzpatrick HERE. Image Read a transcript of Rep. Morrison’s testimony below: Rep. Morrison: Thank you, Chairman Williams and Ranking Member Velázquez, for holding this hearing. Thank you, Associate Administrator Fitzpatrick, for being here today. Not to beat a dead horse, but this is an issue that the small business community is really struggling with. The number one thing that I'm hearing about from small business owners in my district is the difficulty of navigating the uncertainty created by the President's tariffs. Many small business owners are facing shrinking profit margins, disrupted supply chains, and severe planning uncertainty because of these tariffs, jeopardizing the future of their businesses. The President's Fiscal Year 2027 Budget proposes eliminating 15 of the 16 entrepreneurial development programs, including the STEP program, which we've discussed some this morning, which assists small businesses in entering or expanding into international markets. One of the consequences of the President's tariffs have been retaliatory tariffs against the United States from other countries, causing even more uncertainty for small businesses interested in participating in foreign trade. Throughout last year, as the President placed tariffs on Canadian cars, aluminum, steel, and lumber, Canada responded with retaliatory tariffs against the United States, restricting exports to our neighbors to the north for Minnesotan small businesses. Now we wait to see how Canada will respond following the President's new 50% tariff on Canadian goods. Given the administration's interest in increasing U.S. exports and supposedly balancing trade deficits, I have to question the decision to eliminate the STEP program at a time when small businesses need more assistance navigating trade uncertainty, not less. So, how is the Office of Entrepreneurial Development helping small businesses in the international marketplace navigate retaliatory tariffs? Associate Administrator Fitzpatrick: Congresswoman, thank you for the question. As I've said, we support the administration's policies fighting for fair trade, which is fighting for small businesses. We have seen, as we go around the country, businesses that are adding shifts; they're getting contracts now before. I met with a business in Wisconsin that normally — Rep. Morrison: I'm sorry to interrupt you, but how does your office plan to continue to help small businesses increase their exports? How are you planning to help small businesses increase their exports amidst retaliatory tariffs if the STEP program goes away? Associate Administrator Fitzpatrick: Congresswoman, thank you for the question. We have limited resources, and we support, we will follow the law. We will disburse the funds as Congress appropriates them to us, and so if they go to the STEP program, we will certainly manage that program. ###",1,2026-07-23T07:31:02Z,2026-07-23T07:32:26Z https://omar.house.gov/media/press-releases/omar-pocan-co-chairs-defense-spending-reduction-caucus-slam-trumps-immoral,"Omar, Pocan, Co-Chairs of the Defense Spending Reduction Caucus Slam Trump's Immoral Defense Budget",2026-07-22,2026,2026-07,Democrat,House,MN,Ilhan Omar,O000173,omar.house.gov,omar,https://omar.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – Today, Rep. Ilhan Omar (D-MN) and Rep. Mark Pocan (D-WI), co-chairs of the Defense Spending Reduction Caucus, released the following statement on the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA): “Today, we voted NO on the National Defense Authorization Act because Congress cannot continue to write blank checks for endless wars. While millions of Americans are struggling to afford basic necessities, Congress is choosing to authorize over $1 trillion for the Pentagon, once again funneling billions of taxpayer dollars to defense contractors instead of investing in the needs of working people. The American people are sick and tired of funding atrocities abroad and want this war with Iran to end. Yet year after year, the Pentagon fails its audit with virtually no accountability, while Congress continues to increase military spending. We should be investing in affordable housing, healthcare, education, and good-paying jobs—not bankrolling defense contractors. “This bill also includes provisions that continue to fund and partner with Israel to develop weapons to further their campaign of terror. At a time when Americans are demanding an end to funding Netanyahu’s genocidal regime, Congress should not be quietly deepening our military entanglement. “For all of these reasons, we voted NO on this reckless defense bill.” ###",1,2026-07-23T07:31:02Z,2026-07-23T07:32:26Z https://mccollum.house.gov/media/press-releases/congresswoman-mccollum-votes-against-national-defense-authorization-act,Congresswoman McCollum Votes Against National Defense Authorization Act,2026-07-22,2026,2026-07,Democrat,House,MN,Betty McCollum,M001143,mccollum.house.gov,mccollum,https://mccollum.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. — Congresswoman Betty McCollum, the Ranking Member of the House Appropriations Subcommittee on Defense, issued the following statement on Wednesday evening upon voting against the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA): “Our service members and their families deserve a bipartisan NDAA that respects everyone’s service to our nation and does not contain right-wing culture war policy provisions. Unfortunately, that is not the type of NDAA House Republicans have advanced. In fact, Republicans are so desperate to pass the SAVE America Act — their bill that would make it more difficult for Americans to vote — that they attached it to this bill. This Republican NDAA also does nothing to rein in President Trump’s ongoing misuse of the military — chief among them, the president’s war of choice with Iran, which has never been authorized by Congress. I am also deeply concerned that this bill authorizes over a trillion dollars in funding for the Pentagon at a time when Republicans in Congress continue to make deep cuts to healthcare, education, nutrition assistance, and other programs that Americans depend on.”",1,2026-07-24T07:30:11Z,2026-07-24T07:31:13Z https://craig.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-angie-craig-demands-doj-and-sec-investigate-trumps-insider-trading,"Rep. Angie Craig Demands DOJ and SEC Investigate Trump's Insider Trading Subscription Service, “Truth API”",2026-07-21,2026,2026-07,Democrat,House,MN,Angie Craig,C001119,craig.house.gov,craig,https://craig.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC – Today, U.S. Representative Angie Craig demanded that the Department of Justice (DOJ) and Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) investigate President Trump’s media company, “Trump Media & Technology Group” (“TMTG”), for its latest plan to unveil a $100,000 insider trading subscription service. In a letter to Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche and SEC Chairman Paul Atkins, Rep. Craig pressed the Administration on its inaction following the announcement of “Truth API” – a blatant insider trading scheme that would enable the President to rake in personal profits by offering Wall Street billionaires inside information on the President’s social media platform, Truth Social. “I am deeply disturbed by your agencies’ inaction on the $100,000 per-month insider trading subscription service unveiled by the President’s social media company, Truth Social,” Rep. Craig wrote. “This is another blatant giveaway to billionaires so that the President can make a quick buck at the expense of ordinary Americans.” “Reuters reports that for high-frequency traders, a head start of just a few milliseconds can translate into hundreds of thousands of dollars on a single large trade,” she continued. “Every one of those dollars comes at the direct expense of the average investor who does not have $100,000 a month to spare to bribe President Trump.” Rep. Craig highlighted that President Trump owns approximately 41 percent of TMTG through his revocable trust, so every dollar of revenue going to Truth API will go directly into the President’s pocket. “A $100,000-a-month subscription may look like a drop in the bucket next to a $400 million plane from Qatar, but what is being sold here is worse than the price tag: it is a standing structural advantage over the American public in our own markets, handed to President Trump’s billionaire buddies on Wall Street,” Rep. Craig concluded. Rep. Craig has led the charge to hold the President and his family members accountable for using the White House to enrich themselves. In January, she introduced her Presidential Conflict of Interest Accountability Act to prevent the President and Vice President from financially benefitting from their positions and take on President Trump’s clear conflicts of interest. The bill would require the President and the Vice President to submit a disclosure of financial interests to Congress and the Director of Government Ethics no later than 30 days after assuming office. Under this legislation, the President and Vice President and their immediate family members would have to divest of any financial interest posing a potential conflict of interest by transferring it to a blind trust and selling it. You can read the full text of the letter here. ###",1,2026-07-22T07:34:13Z,2026-07-22T07:35:16Z https://omar.house.gov/media/press-releases/congresswoman-ilhan-omar-passes-bipartisan-bill-fight-medical-provider-fraud,Congresswoman Ilhan Omar Passes Bipartisan Bill to Fight Medical Provider Fraud,2026-07-21,2026,2026-07,Democrat,House,MN,Ilhan Omar,O000173,omar.house.gov,omar,https://omar.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – The House unanimously passed a bipartisan bill led by Rep. Ilhan Omar (D-MN) and Rep. Ryan Mackenzie (R-PA) to strengthen protections for injured federal workers against fraudulent medical providers and improve government accountability. The Putting Patients First by Strengthening Provider Accountability in FECA Act empowers the Department of Labor to suspend FECA payments to medical providers convicted of fraud, protecting both patients and taxpayers. This bill is a targeted fix to a well-documented problem that the Department of Labor Inspector General has been recommending for years. ""I am thrilled to see the House pass my bill with Rep. Mackenzie to protect injured federal workers from fraudulent medical providers,"" said Rep. Omar.“When a federal worker gets injured on the job, we have an obligation to make sure they get the care and benefits they have earned. For too long, gaps in the system have wasted taxpayer dollars while creating financial uncertainty for injured workers and their families. This bill will ensure injured federal workers receive the care they are owed, and the resources meant for their recovery are used responsibly and effectively – this is exactly what good government looks like.” You can find the text of the Putting Patients First by Strengthening Provider Accountability in FECA Acthere. ###",1,2026-07-22T07:34:13Z,2026-07-22T07:35:16Z https://craig.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-angie-craig-pushes-trump-administration-shut-down-notorious-ice-0,"Rep. Angie Craig Pushes Trump Administration to Shut Down Notorious ICE Processing Center Run by Private Prison Operator, CoreCivic",2026-07-16,2026,2026-07,Democrat,House,MN,Angie Craig,C001119,craig.house.gov,craig,https://craig.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC – Today, U.S. Representative Angie Craig joined 108 of her colleagues in pushing the Trump Administration to shut down the notorious Dilley Immigration Processing Center in South Texas run by private prison contractor, CoreCivic. In a letter to Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Secretary Markwayne Mullin, Rep. Craig and her colleagues blasted Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and CoreCivic for profiting off the detention of migrant families, including children. Dilley, where five-year old Liam Ramos was held after being picked up by ICE in Columbia Heights, MN, is the only ICE facility in the country dedicated to detaining families with children. Current and former detainees have been outspoken about the unacceptable and dehumanizing conditions at the facility, including food contaminated with worms and mold, a lack of adequate education for school-age children and delayed and denied medical care. Detainees blame both ICE and CoreCivic, a company in which President Trump owns stock. “Former and current detained families describe horrific conditions perpetuated by CoreCivic and Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) that are meant to strip them of their dignity and make them feel hopeless,” the Members wrote. “Americans have watched ICE’s brutality play out in their communities, but what happens behind the walls of the Dilley detention facility remains out of sight by design. DHS must stop imprisoning families, end this inhumanity, and close the Dilley detention facility.” The Members specifically called out CoreCivic for using President Trump’s mass deportation agenda to profit millions of dollars from its contract with ICE. “Patrick Swindle, President and CEO of CoreCivic, recently boasted that CoreCivic provides the most humane, most efficient, most compliant, and best value to the government,” the Members continued. “Here, ‘best value’ means maximizing profit through lack of trained personnel, inedible food, and insufficient medical care. CoreCivic cares about their bottom line, not about the people in their care.” “No child and family should be imprisoned for seeking safety by legitimately following United States immigration laws,” the Members concluded. Rep. Craig has taken the Trump Administration to task over its reckless and lawless immigration agenda and has fought to bring home Minnesotans wrongfully detained by ICE. Last month, she successfully secured the release of her constituent, Andrea Pedro-Francisco, who was held in ICE detention while suffering from an untreated ovarian cyst. In May, she traveled to El Paso, TX to visit Pedro-Francisco and conduct oversight of two ICE detention facilities—Camp East Montana and the El Paso Service Processing Center. Earlier this year, she conducted four oversight visits of the ICE processing center at the Bishop Henry Whipple Federal Building in Minneapolis. Following her third visit with Rep. Ilhan Omar (MN-05), she sent a letter to former DHS Secretary Kristi Noem expressing concern that no detainees were present during their visit despite reports that individuals were being held at Whipple and slamming Noem for previously denying them their constitutional right to conduct unannounced oversight visits. Rep. Craig also introduced articles of impeachment against former Secretary Noem in January before she was ultimately fired in March. She has vocally opposed the opening of any new ICE facilities in Minnesota, including a proposed ICE detention center in Shakopee, which she successfully quashed alongside state and local leaders. And this Congress, she helped introduce the Humanitarian Standards for Individuals in ICE and CBP Custody Act to establish standards of care for individuals held in Customs and Border Protection (CBP) and ICE custody. You can read the full text of the letter here. ###",1,2026-07-17T07:15:58Z,2026-07-17T07:17:05Z https://craig.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-angie-craig-pushes-trump-administration-shut-down-notorious-ice-processing,"Rep. Angie Craig Pushes Trump Administration to Shut Down Notorious ICE Processing Center Run by Private Prison Operator, CoreCivic",2026-07-16,2026,2026-07,Democrat,House,MN,Angie Craig,C001119,craig.house.gov,craig,https://craig.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC – Today, U.S. Representative Angie Craig joined 108 of her colleagues in pushing the Trump Administration to shut down the notorious Dilley Immigration Processing Center in South Texas run by private prison contractor, CoreCivic. In a letter to Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Secretary Markwayne Mullin, Rep. Craig and her colleagues blasted Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and CoreCivic for profiting off the detention of migrant families, including children. Dilley, where five-year old Liam Ramos was held after being picked up by ICE in Columbia Heights, MN, is the only ICE facility in the country dedicated to detaining families with children. Current and former detainees have been outspoken about the unacceptable and dehumanizing conditions at the facility, including food contaminated with worms and mold, a lack of adequate education for school-age children and delayed and denied medical care. Detainees blame both ICE and CoreCivic, a company in which President Trump owns stock. “Former and current detained families describe horrific conditions perpetuated by CoreCivic and Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) that are meant to strip them of their dignity and make them feel hopeless,” the Members wrote. “Americans have watched ICE’s brutality play out in their communities, but what happens behind the walls of the Dilley detention facility remains out of sight by design. DHS must stop imprisoning families, end this inhumanity, and close the Dilley detention facility.” The Members specifically called out CoreCivic for using President Trump’s mass deportation agenda to profit millions of dollars from its contract with ICE. “Patrick Swindle, President and CEO of CoreCivic, recently boasted that CoreCivic provides the most humane, most efficient, most compliant, and best value to the government,” the Members continued. “Here, ‘best value’ means maximizing profit through lack of trained personnel, inedible food, and insufficient medical care. CoreCivic cares about their bottom line, not about the people in their care.” “No child and family should be imprisoned for seeking safety by legitimately following United States immigration laws,” the Members concluded. Rep. Craig has taken the Trump Administration to task over its reckless and lawless immigration agenda and has fought to bring home Minnesotans wrongfully detained by ICE. Last month, she successfully secured the release of her constituent, Andrea Pedro-Francisco, who was held in ICE detention while suffering from an untreated ovarian cyst. In May, she traveled to El Paso, TX to visit Pedro-Francisco and conduct oversight of two ICE detention facilities—Camp East Montana and the El Paso Service Processing Center. Earlier this year, she conducted four oversight visits of the ICE processing center at the Bishop Henry Whipple Federal Building in Minneapolis. Following her third visit with Rep. Ilhan Omar (MN-05), she sent a letter to former DHS Secretary Kristi Noem expressing concern that no detainees were present during their visit despite reports that individuals were being held at Whipple and slamming Noem for previously denying them their constitutional right to conduct unannounced oversight visits. Rep. Craig also introduced articles of impeachment against former Secretary Noem in January before she was ultimately fired in March. She has vocally opposed the opening of any new ICE facilities in Minnesota, including a proposed ICE detention center in Shakopee, which she successfully quashed alongside state and local leaders. And this Congress, she helped introduce the Humanitarian Standards for Individuals in ICE and CBP Custody Act to establish standards of care for individuals held in Customs and Border Protection (CBP) and ICE custody. You can read the full text of the letter here. ###",1,2026-07-17T07:15:58Z,2026-07-17T07:17:05Z https://craig.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-angie-craig-introduces-legislation-create-public-option-lower-health,"Rep. Angie Craig Introduces Legislation to Create a Public Option, Lower Health Insurance Costs for Minnesotans",2026-07-15,2026,2026-07,Democrat,House,MN,Angie Craig,C001119,craig.house.gov,craig,https://craig.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC – Today, U.S. Representative Angie Craig introduced legislation to create a public option and lower health care costs for Minnesotans struggling to afford sky-high insurance premiums. Rep. Craig’s Medicare-X Choice Act builds on the Affordable Care Act (ACA) and Medicare frameworks to create a Medicare Exchange plan that would offer affordable health insurance options to families, individuals and small businesses and increase competition in the health insurance market. The bill would also permanently extend the ACA enhanced premium tax credits that Congressional Republicans allowed to expire at the end of 2025, codify the “family glitch” fix and provide funding for a national reinsurance program – policies that Rep. Craig has long championed. Americans are facing skyrocketing insurance premiums following the expiration of the ACA tax credits and the implementation of President Trump and Republicans’ One Big Beautiful Bill Act, which cut nearly $1 trillion from Medicaid last year. As a result, 17,000 Minnesotans have dropped their MNSure coverage – the health insurance plan they purchased through the state’s ACA marketplace – this year alone. “Even before Republicans made historic cuts to Medicaid and stripped the American people of the ACA tax credits they relied on to afford health coverage, it was too expensive to be sick in this country,” said Rep. Craig. “Now, thousands of Minnesotans have lost MNSure coverage and countless others are paying through the roof just to access the basic health care they need. But it doesn’t have to be this way. A public option will offer folks across this country lower premiums for quality care, and that’s why I’m proud to be introducing this common-sense legislation in the house – to actually lower health care costs and increase competition in the marketplace.” Since coming to Congress in 2019, Rep. Craig has worked to lower health care costs and make quality care accessible to every Minnesotan. In April, she introduced the Patient Refunds for Bad Denials Act to hold health insurance companies accountable for above-average denial rates and refund patients for medical payments that should have been covered by insurance. And in February, she introduced the Patient Debt Relief Act to ease the burden of medical debt on Minnesotans by protecting individuals from predatory debt collection practices and requiring hospitals to offer more manageable repayment options. In 2022, the provision of Rep. Craig’s bill that capped insulin copays at $35/month for Medicare recipients was signed into law as part of the Inflation Reduction Act. That same year, Rep. Craig successfully pushed the Biden Administration to close the “family glitch” – a move that lowered health care costs for an estimated 62,000 Minnesotans. In 2019, Rep. Craig introduced her first health care bill, the State Health Care Premium Reduction Act, which would provide funding for state reinsurance programs to directly lower premiums, out-of-pocket costs and deductibles, and make the ACA tax credits permanent. Senators Michael Bennett (D-CO) and Tim Kaine (D-VA) have introduced companion legislation in the Senate. Reps. Eleanor Holmes Norton (D-DC) and Mike Quigley (D-IL-05) are original co-sponsors in the House. Her bill is supported by Minnesota Senators Amy Klobuchar and Tina Smith. ###",1,2026-07-16T07:21:44Z,2026-07-16T07:23:13Z https://mccollum.house.gov/media/press-releases/congresswoman-mccollum-votes-present-massie-amendment,Congresswoman McCollum Votes Present on Massie Amendment,2026-07-15,2026,2026-07,Democrat,House,MN,Betty McCollum,M001143,mccollum.house.gov,mccollum,https://mccollum.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"ASHINGTON, D.C. — Congresswoman McCollum, the Ranking Member of the House Appropriations Subcommittee on Defense, issued the following statement after voting against the Massie amendment, which would strike all $3.3 billion in Foreign Military Financing to Israel. “I have long been a vocal opponent of the way the United States provides a blank check to the Netanyahu government. For the last nine years, I have carried a bill to put limits on how all US dollars to Israel may be used, which would ensure that not one penny of taxpayer dollars is used by Israel to violate the human rights of Palestinian children. I am also a cosponsor on legislation like the Block the Bombs Act, which also places limits on US assistance to Israel “However, I cannot support Mr. Massie’s amendment as I have serious concerns that with the way it is so broadly written. As drafted, other foreign assistance—including vital assistance to Palestinians—could be cut off as well. For many of my colleagues in the majority, this amendment is just another way for them to carry out President Trump’s isolationist agenda to limit and, in some cases completely cease, US foreign assistance.”",1,2026-07-16T07:21:44Z,2026-07-16T07:23:13Z https://omar.house.gov/media/press-releases/us-representative-ilhan-omar-introduces-resolution-urging-us-join,U.S. Representative Ilhan Omar Introduces Resolution Urging U.S. to Join International Criminal Court,2026-07-15,2026,2026-07,Democrat,House,MN,Ilhan Omar,O000173,omar.house.gov,omar,https://omar.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – Rep. Ilhan Omar (D-MN) introduced a resolution calling on the United States to become a full member of the International Criminal Court (ICC) and revoke sanctions and visa bans on ICC officials. The Congresswoman’s resolution comes days after U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio announced his intention to dismantle the ICC, an independent, credible tribunal built to prosecute the worst crimes known to man. This move would be antithetical not only to American values, but to global stability and international law. “I have seen firsthand that impunity breeds more violence,” said. Rep. Omar. “Failure to address atrocities entrenches divisions, prevents healing, and fuels cycles of insecurity. The ICC is a court of last resort, stepping in only when there is credible evidence of war crimes, genocide, or crimes against humanity and a country is unwilling or unable to prosecute those responsible. It is a crucial tool for justice in places where victims have nowhere else to turn. If we truly believe in human rights and the rule of law, we should strengthen international justice—not undermine it. The United States should lead by example and show that no one is above the law."" The resolution is cosponsored by Representatives André Carson (D-IN), Rashida Tlaib (D-MI), Jesús ""Chuy"" García (D-IL), and Nydia Velázquez (D-NY). The full text of the resolution is available here. ###",1,2026-07-16T07:21:44Z,2026-07-16T07:23:13Z https://craig.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-craig-statement-her-vote-against-massie-amendment,Rep. Craig Statement on Her Vote Against Massie Amendment,2026-07-15,2026,2026-07,Democrat,House,MN,Angie Craig,C001119,craig.house.gov,craig,https://craig.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC – Today, U.S. Representative Angie Craig released the following statement on her vote against Rep. Thomas Massie’s amendment to the National Security, Department of State, and Related Programs Appropriations Act regarding funding for Israel. “Today’s vote was an unserious attempt by Rep. Thomas Massie to implement sweeping and irresponsible changes to America’s foreign policy. “Let me be clear. Benjamin Netanyahu’s reckless policies and the humanitarian crisis he has created in Gaza have damaged Israel’s reputation on the world stage and therefore jeopardized any progress toward weakening Hamas and implementing a necessary two-state solution. Not to mention, President Trump and Netanyahu’s dangerous and illegal war with Iran has driven up costs and put American troops in harm’s way. I firmly believe that the best thing for the U.S.-Israel relationship is for Netanyahu to lose his next election. “That said, the U.S.’ longstanding partnership with Israel is critical for maintaining peace and stability in the Middle East and a blanket ban on all foreign aid, including humanitarian programs, would not only endanger the Israeli people, but also American troops and our allies in the region. “Attempting to litigate these complex foreign policy conversations through an amendment to the national security appropriations bill undermines the importance of our alliance with Israel and threatens to undercut ongoing efforts to restore peace in the Middle East.” ###",1,2026-07-17T07:15:58Z,2026-07-17T07:17:05Z https://morrison.house.gov/media/press-releases/us-rep-kelly-morrison-cosponsors-bill-block-iran-war-funding,U.S. Rep. Kelly Morrison Cosponsors Bill to Block Iran War Funding,2026-07-14,2026,2026-07,Democrat,House,MN,Kelly Morrison,M001234,morrison.house.gov,morrison,https://morrison.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC – Today, after Donald Trump escalated his war with Iran, U.S. Representative Kelly Morrison (MN-03) announced her cosponsorship of the No Funds for Iran War Act, which would prohibit any taxpayer dollars from being used for military action against Iran. Now, the Trump Administration is asking for billions more in taxpayer dollars to fund the war in Iran — even though the war is increasingly unpopular with the majority of Americans. The No Funds for Iran War Act was introduced by Representative Pat Ryan (NY-18), a combat veteran, and cosponsored by 37 House Democrats, including 14 veterans. Representative Morrison is a proud member of the House Veterans’ Affairs Committee. Under Article I, Section 8 of the United States Constitution, only Congress has the power to declare war. Since launching the first attack on Iran in February of this year, President Trump has neither sought nor received Congressional authorization for this war. Representative Morrison has been staunchly opposed to this illegal war and has voted for every War Powers Resolution to end the war. A member of the House Small Business Committee, Representative Morrison met with Minnesotan small business owners this spring who told her that rising prices due to the war in Iran pose an existential threat to their businesses. “Grocery prices are rising. Gas prices are rising. Half of Americans can’t afford health insurance. But instead of doing anything to address these problems or make life better for the American people, the President has dragged us into another costly, illegal, and foreign war and refuses to get us out of it,” said Congresswoman Kelly Morrison. “I’m cosponsoring the No Funds for Iran War Act to block the President from spending any more taxpayer dollars on this illegal war that’s deeply unpopular and increasingly reckless. Not one dollar more for this illegal war that the American people don’t want but are being forced to pay for.” Representative Morrison spoke on the House floor this morning, calling out Trump’s reckless actions that have dragged the United States into another costly, foreign war, costing taxpayers billions while doing nothing to make life more affordable for the American people. Watch Rep. Morrison’s full speech HERE. Image Read a transcript of Rep. Morrison’s remarks below: Madam Speaker, today I rise against the Trump Administration's reckless, costly, and illegal war in Iran. In just the last 24 hours, President Trump’s “deal” has collapsed yet again, tensions have escalated, blockades have been reinstated, and strikes have resumed. President Trump has informed the nation that we are once again at war with Iran – an illegal war that no one asked for, no one wanted, and yet every American is paying the price for. Donald Trump is backing the United States into a corner – and the worst part about it is that he has no plan to get us out. His strategy is to bomb first, think later. He’s sacrificing our economy… our security… our standing in the world – and for what? 1 in 2 Americans can’t afford health insurance. Food, housing, and child care costs are astronomical. Inflation is at a three-year high and the cost of gas, groceries, and everything in between is going up. President Trump was elected to office on the promise of lowering costs and ending unwinnable wars overseas. And yet here we are. And now he is demanding that taxpayers pay hundreds of billions of dollars to fund his new endless, costly, illegal war in Iran. The American people deserve so much better from their President. When Donald Trump first got us into this war, he said it would last about 4-6 weeks. Well now it’s been 20. Over the last five months, the Trump Administration has spent more than $100 billion dollars on their illegal war on the other side of the world. Do you know what $100 billion could fund here at home? Child care for 7 million children. Health care for 10 million people. Food assistance for 45 million Americans. These aren’t just arbitrary numbers. Trump’s actions have real impacts. And real costs. On real people’s lives. And let’s not forget, this comes as Trump made the single largest cut to health care and food assistance in our nation’s history last year. After millions of Americans have lost their health insurance and families are struggling to feed their children, President Trump is demanding that taxpayers send hundreds of billions of dollars to fight a foreign war overseas. Of course President Trump has literally told us time and time again that he does not care about the American people. Well he may not care – but the elected officials in this chamber should. It is literally our job to do what’s best for our constituents. We cannot stand by and watch President Trump drag us into yet another mess – especially when it’s at the expense of Americans every. Single. Time. And let’s just step back for a moment here and ask the question: why are we even in this war? This Administration still can’t give us a good answer. No explanation. No reason. No strategy. No endgame. As an American… as a patriot… as the wife of an Army combat veteran, I am outraged. When you make the decision to send American soldiers into harm's way, you better have a damn good reason for it and you better know what you’re doing. We have neither – and this Administration continues to recklessly put our troops’ lives on the line without care or cause. It’s shameful. That’s why I’m joining my colleague and combat veteran Representative Pat Ryan in fighting to end this reckless war and reassert our Congressional authority over war-making powers. Madam Speaker, we need to pass the No Funds for Iran War Act and stop any taxpayer dollars from being used for military action against Iran. Both chambers of Congress, which are Republican-controlled, I might add, have passed War Powers Resolutions to end the Iran War – but there needs to be more. President Trump thinks he’s above the law – but he is not. And it is up to the Republican majorities in Congress to stop him. It is their Constitutional duty. To put the American people, our national security, our economy, above a single president’s self-serving war of choice. To my Republican colleagues, I plead: What is your line? When will you put the American people first and stop this war? We are not powerless. We can end this war. I implore my colleagues on the other side of the aisle to listen to the American people, find their courage, and end this war. Madam Speaker, I yield back. ###",1,2026-07-15T07:12:08Z,2026-07-15T07:13:45Z https://omar.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-omar-statement-rubio-icc-announcement,Rep. Omar Statement on Rubio ICC Announcement,2026-07-13,2026,2026-07,Democrat,House,MN,Ilhan Omar,O000173,omar.house.gov,omar,https://omar.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – Rep. Ilhan Omar (D-MN) released the following statement in response to U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio's announcement on his intent to dismantle the International Criminal Court: “Secretary Rubio’s announcement that he will dismantle the International Criminal Court is reckless and dangerous. It undermines the rule of law, weakens global accountability, and turns America's back on the values we claim to champion. “The ICC is an independent international court created to ensure that perpetrators of the world's gravest crimes—genocide, war crimes, and crimes against humanity—cannot escape justice. “Secretary Rubio claims that the ICC poses ‘an intolerable threat to U.S. sovereignty’ and that American servicemembers could be prosecuted simply for serving our country. That is simply not true. The ICC is an international court of last resort, intended to prosecute only the most horrific crimes – war crimes, genocide, and crimes against humanity – when countries are unable or unwilling to do so themselves. The best way to avoid ICC scrutiny is simple: don't commit atrocity crimes, and if credible allegations arise, investigate them transparently and hold those responsible accountable. “The United States should lead by example, not exempt itself from the standards it expects everyone else to follow. In 2022, I introduced a resolution calling on the United States to join the ICC because I believe America should stand with victims of atrocities, defend human rights, and strengthen the international rule of law. I will reintroduce that resolution in the coming days, and I urge my colleagues who believe in justice and human rights to join me. “America is strongest when we lead with our values, not when we demand immunity from them. If we respect human rights, uphold the rule of law, and hold ourselves to the same standards we ask of others, we have nothing to fear from the ICC.” ###",1,2026-07-14T07:08:55Z,2026-07-14T07:10:52Z https://mccollum.house.gov/media/press-releases/statement-passing-us-senator-lindsey-graham,Statement on Passing of U.S. Senator Lindsey Graham,2026-07-12,2026,2026-07,Democrat,House,MN,Betty McCollum,M001143,mccollum.house.gov,mccollum,https://mccollum.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. — Congresswoman Betty McCollum issued the following statement on Sunday following the death of U.S. Senator Lindsey Graham of South Carolina: “I offer my sincere condolences to Senator Graham’s family, his colleagues, and his many friends. Though Senator Graham and I sat on different sides of the aisle, we found common ground in our shared commitment to our Ukrainian allies and their fight to defend their sovereignty against Russian aggression. As a House co-chair of the International Conservation Caucus, Senator Graham and I worked together in partnership with villages and governments across Africa to protect unique and threatened places both today and for future generations.” ###",1,2026-07-13T08:14:37Z,2026-07-13T08:15:42Z https://craig.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-craigs-office-puts-more-10-million-back-minnesotans-pockets-through,Rep. Craig's Office Puts More Than $10 Million Back into Minnesotans’ Pockets Through Constituent Services,2026-07-09,2026,2026-07,Democrat,House,MN,Angie Craig,C001119,craig.house.gov,craig,https://craig.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"EAGAN, MN – Today, U.S. Representative Angie Craig announced that her office has officially returned more than $10 million to constituents in Minnesota’s Second Congressional District. Through her office’s constituent services operation, Rep. Craig’s team has put $10,014,233 wrongfully withheld by the federal government back into the pockets of Minnesotans. Since Rep. Craig came to Congress in 2019, her office has completed 6,937 constituent cases. Her constituent services team has successfully completed 1,811 cases this Congress alone. “My number one priority in Congress is serving my constituents back in Minnesota’s Second Congressional District,” said Rep. Craig. “That means helping folks recoup their hard-earned money and ensuring that they get the benefits they are entitled to. I am so proud of the work my team has done to make Minnesotans whole, and we’ll keep working to put every penny we can back into the pockets of folks in CD2.” Last month, the Congressional Management Foundation awarded Rep. Craig’s office a “Certificate of Excellence in Constituent Service” for its exceptional work serving Minnesotans navigating issues with federal agencies. Earlier this year – during the height of Operation Metro Surge – Rep. Craig’s constituent services team secured the release of 12 constituents wrongfully detained by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). Rep. Craig's office has resolved cases involving the Social Security Administration (SSA), the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS), the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), the Department of State, the Department of Education, the U.S. Postal Service (USPS), the Internal Revenue Service (IRS), the Small Business Administration (SBA) and other federal agencies. Constituents seeking help with a federal agency can contact Rep. Craig's constituent services team via phone at (651) 846-2120 or email at RepCraigCasework@mail.house.gov. More information on Rep. Craig’s constituent services can be found at https://craig.house.gov/casework. ###",1,2026-07-10T08:20:04Z,2026-07-10T08:21:18Z https://morrison.house.gov/media/press-releases/us-rep-kelly-morrison-introduces-bill-support-ranked-choice-voting,U.S. Rep. Kelly Morrison Introduces Bill in Support of Ranked Choice Voting,2026-07-09,2026,2026-07,Democrat,House,MN,Kelly Morrison,M001234,morrison.house.gov,morrison,https://morrison.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC – Today, U.S. Representative Kelly Morrison (MN-03) introduced the Voter Choice Act, which makes it easier for states and local governments to implement ranked choice voting. Ranked choice voting has been proven to lower election costs, reduce polarization, and drive voter turnout across the country — and more and more cities, states, and counties are choosing ranked choice voting in their elections. In Minnesota, five cities (Bloomington, Minneapolis, Minnetonka, St. Louis Park, and St. Paul) have already implemented ranked choice voting for their elections, and have seen historic voter turnout since switching to ranked choice voting. Rep. Morrison’s Voter Choice Act will help incentivize more states and local governments to adopt ranked choice voting by providing $40 million in federal grants to governments who make the switch. The Voter Choice Act is endorsed by more than 30 voting rights advocacy and nonprofit organizations, including Better Ballot NC, Better Ballot SC, Black Voters Matter Fund, Clearinghouse on Women's Issues, Divided We Fall, FairVote Action, FairVote Illinois Action, FairVote Minnesota, Feminist Majority Foundation, Free Speech For People, Georgia Coalition for the Peoples Agenda, Indivisible Howard County, LatinoJustice PRLDEF, Muslim Public Affairs Council (MPAC), National Network for Arab American Communities (NNAAC), National Organization For Women, National Voter Corps, NETWORK Lobby for Catholic Social Justice, New Jersey Appleseed Public Interest Law Center, People Power United, Rank The Vote, Ranked Choice Voting Resource Center, Represent Women, Secure Elections Network, Task Force for Democracy, Texas Civil Rights Project, Third Way, Unitarian Universalists for Social Justice, Vote Nevada, Voter Choice Massachusetts, and VoterChoice NJ. “Over the years, we’ve seen concrete evidence that ranked choice voting is one of the best tools we have to increase voter turnout and give Americans more choice at the ballot box. In Minnesota, we’ve seen the historic voter turnout that ranked choice voting has spurred, and it’s clear that more and more voters across the country want to implement ranked choice voting,” said Congresswoman Kelly Morrison. “Should they choose to, the Voter Choice Act simplymakes it easier for state and local governments to switch to ranked choice voting. Especially as we face increased polarization in our country, ranked choice voting will help bridge divides and allow voters to focus on the issues that matter most to them — not partisan attacks.” “Ranked choice voting empowers voters and ensures elected officials are accountable to all of their constituents,” said Meredith Sumpter, President and CEO of FairVote, a nonpartisan organization seeking better elections. “At a time when so many have lost faith in our democratic system, Americans across the nation are working to make their elections and government better with ranked choice voting. The Voter Choice Act will help more cities, counties, and states on this path — toward more voter choice, majority-supported outcomes, and more responsive government with ranked choice voting.” “Ranked choice voting gives voters more choice, more voice, and more say in who represents them. It's a proven, cost-effective alternative to runoff elections that ensures winners have broad support and elections reflect the will of the majority. Federal support for election modernization should include innovations like Ranked Choice Voting that strengthen participation, representation, and confidence in our democracy. We are grateful to Representative Kelly Morrison for her leadership in introducing the Voter Choice Act and championing reforms that help our democracy better serve voters,” said Jeanne Massey, Executive Director of FairVote MN. Read the full text of the bill HERE. ###",1,2026-07-10T08:20:04Z,2026-07-10T08:21:18Z https://morrison.house.gov/media/press-releases/us-rep-kelly-morrison-leads-colleagues-demanding-trump-admin-reinstate,U.S. Rep. Kelly Morrison Leads Colleagues in Demanding Trump Admin Reinstate Canceled Teen Pregnancy Prevention Grants,2026-07-08,2026,2026-07,Democrat,House,MN,Kelly Morrison,M001234,morrison.house.gov,morrison,https://morrison.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC — U.S. Representative Kelly Morrison (MN-03) led nearly 80 members of the Democratic Women’s Caucus (DWC) and the Democratic Caucus in demanding the immediate reversal of the Trump Administration’s cancellation of 53 active Teen Pregnancy Prevention Program (TPP) grants, totaling $68 million in funding — including one awarded in Hennepin County, Minnesota. “As an OB-GYN, I’m deeply troubled that the Trump Administration is defunding programs that keep our kids safe,” said Congresswoman Kelly Morrison. “This program funds rigorously studied, evidence-based practices that have been proven to help prevent infections and disease, reduce risky behavior, decrease teen pregnancies, and save lives. Canceling this work is indefensible and dangerous. HHS must reverse these cancellations immediately.” The Teen Pregnancy Prevention (TPP) Program provides grants to organizations working to prevent teen pregnancy across the country. TPP has reached more than 1.4 million teens across the United States. Congress has long appropriated funds for this program in a bipartisan manner, recognizing the importance of helping young people make healthy decisions and sustaining a program that leads to reduced sexual risk behavior, decreased sexually transmitted infections (STIs), and fewer unintended teen pregnancies. In their letter to Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., the Members explain that TPP is critical to helping young people make health decisions that lead to reduced sexual risk, and highlight the impact this program has had on reducing teen birth rates in the U.S. and helping young people thrive: “The teen birth rate has fallen 81% since 1991 and 72% since 2007. The outcomes of this program save lives as teenage pregnancies are at high risk for health complications. Specifically, teenagers 16-19 years old face increased risk of preterm birth, and teens 15 years old and younger are even more vulnerable to health complications. Overall, the Teen Pregnancy Prevention Program has an established history of investing in community-driven strategies, identifying new curricula that work through rigorous evaluation, and supporting their implementation with fidelity.” The Members also emphasize the harm of removing and redirecting funds from TPP programs, which will undermine the program's ability to help young people and disrupt critical research: “Redirecting funding from the TPP program jeopardizes access to the high-quality health education, support, and resources that Congress intended. Abrupt and arbitrary disruptions on grounds unrelated to the core aims of the TPP program undermine the ability of the program to serve its congressionally intended purpose of giving young people the knowledge and tools needed to improve sexual and reproductive health outcomes and promote positive experiences, relationships, and environments that help our nation’s youth thrive.” In addition to reversing the cancellation of funds, the letter calls on HHS to provide the rationale behind each cancellation, justifications for canceling the grants, and explanations for redirecting the funding to programs not previously authorized by Congress. Read the full letter HERE and below: Dear Secretary Kennedy: We, as members of the Democratic Women’s Caucus and Democratic Caucus, are disturbed by the cancellation of 53 of the 66 active grants, approximately $68 million dollars of grant funding, in the Teen Pregnancy Prevention Program administered by the Department of Health and Human Services’ (HHS) Office of Population Affairs. We request an immediate reversal of the termination of these funds and responses to the inquiries included below. The HHS Office of Population Affairs (OPA) Teen Pregnancy Prevention (TPP) Program is a tiered, evidence-based program that provides competitive grants to diverse organizations working to prevent teen pregnancy across the United States and its territories. Millions of young people across the country have positively benefited from the programs funded by TPP funds. The teen birth rate has fallen 81% since 1991 and 72% since 2007. The outcomes of this program save lives as teenage pregnancies are at high risk for health complications. Specifically, teenagers 16-19 years old face increased risk of preterm birth, and teens 15 years old and younger are even more vulnerable to health complications. Overall, the Teen Pregnancy Prevention Program has an established history of investing in community-driven strategies, identifying new curricula that work through rigorous evaluation, and supporting their implementation with fidelity. Congress has long appropriated the funds for this program in a bipartisan manner recognizing the importance of helping young people make healthy decisions and sustaining a program that leads to reduced sexual risk behavior, decreased sexually transmitted infections (STIs), and fewer unintended teen pregnancies. Congress has specifically designated the majority of funds (Tier 1) to be appropriated for “replicating programs that have been proven effective through rigorous evaluation to reduce teenage pregnancy, behavioral risk factors underlying teenage pregnancy, or other associated risk factors.” A smaller percentage of funds (Tier 2) are dedicated to the development and testing of new programs. Together, Tier 1 and Tier 2 grantees have served millions of young people and expanded a growing body of evidence of what works to prevent teen pregnancy. In fact, the contributions of the TPP Program were also acknowledged in a September 2017 unanimously agreed-to report from the Bipartisan Commission on Evidence-Based Policymaking, who highlighted the TPP Program as an example of a federal program developing increasingly rigorous portfolios of evidence. Rigorous evaluation and evidence-based practices are essential to the continued success of teen pregnancy prevention efforts for which millions of dollars have already been invested. Most recently, Congress passed and the President signed into law H.R. 7148, the Consolidated Appropriations Act of 2026, on February 3, 2026, which reauthorized the funds for the TPP program and maintained the program’s focus on replicating programs that have been proven effective through rigorous evaluation, for research and demonstration grants to develop, replicate, refine, and test additional models and innovative strategies for preventing teenage pregnancy, and to carry out evaluations (including longitudinal evaluations) of teenage pregnancy prevention approaches. Redirecting funding from the TPP program jeopardizes access to the high-quality health education, support, and resources that Congress intended. Abrupt and arbitrary disruptions on grounds unrelated to the core aims of the TPP program undermine the ability of the program to serve its congressionally intended purpose of giving young people the knowledge and tools needed to improve sexual and reproductive health outcomes and promote positive experiences, relationships, and environments that help our nation’s youth thrive. We urge HHS to immediately reverse the grant terminations and request a response to the following inquiries by July 10, 2026. 1. Please explain the rationale for each of the 53 cancellations clarifying how each program ""no longer effectuates agency priorities."" 2. Please provide justification as to why each of the 53 terminated grants do not align with the direction given under the language appropriating these funds as outlined in the Consolidated Appropriations Act of 2026. 3. Please explain the rationale for issuing two new notices of funding opportunities (NOFOs) with intentions not outlined in the authority granted under law by under Division B, Title II of the Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2026. ###",1,2026-07-09T08:24:13Z,2026-07-09T08:26:05Z https://omar.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-omar-submits-9-amendments-national-defense-authorization-act-ndaa,Rep. Omar Submits 9 Amendments to the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA),2026-06-30,2026,2026-06,Democrat,House,MN,Ilhan Omar,O000173,omar.house.gov,omar,https://omar.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON–Rep. Ilhan Omar (D-MN) introduced nine amendments to the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA). The amendments aim to center human rights in the military and foreign policy; strengthen congressional oversight over the DoD’s use of artificial intelligence; support Sudanese civil society; and hold governments engaged in transnational repression accountable. The amendments introduced by Rep. Omar include: Omar #1151 – Bans arms sales to any country engaged in transnational repression against U.S. citizens. Omar #1152 – Repeals the Alien Enemies Act. Omar # 1155 – Requires a report on the United Arab Emirates' activities in Africa, including an assessment of whether U.S.-origin technology is being used to commit gross violations of human rights. Omar #1177 – Repeals the War Reserve Stockpile Authority for Israel. Omar #1273 – Expresses the sense of Congress that designation of a foreign terrorist organization does not constitute an authorization for the use of military force. Omar #1276 – Requires a strategy for providing direct support to Sudanese civil society, including the Emergency Response Rooms. Omar # 1302 – Clarifies that the Department of Defense's policy requiring human oversight of AI-enabled weapons applies to determining, tracking, engaging, and targeting decisions. Omar #1303 – Requires Department of Defense reporting on autonomous weapons systems to assess how the Department ensures meaningful human command over those systems. The full text of the amendments is available here. The amendments Representative Omar cosponsored can be found below. Pocan #673 – Reduces the total amount authorized by the FY27 NDAA by $150 billion. Prohibits reductions to accounts funding military personnel, the defense health program, and civilian pay and benefits.",1,2026-07-01T06:34:07Z,2026-07-01T06:35:35Z https://mccollum.house.gov/media/press-releases/republicans-advance-largest-pentagon-budget-history-while-cutting-billions,Republicans Advance Largest Pentagon Budget in History while Cutting Billions from Domestic Investments,2026-06-25,2026,2026-06,Democrat,House,MN,Betty McCollum,M001143,mccollum.house.gov,mccollum,https://mccollum.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON — Republicans on the House Appropriations Committee today advanced their 2027 funding bill during the full committee markup. The bill sets the Pentagon budget at more than $1 trillion – the largest in U.S. history and a $234 billion increase over 2026. The excessive increase in Defense spending comes as Republicans propose nearly $13 billion in cuts to domestic programs that support working people struggling with the cost-of-living crisis. The legislation: Abandons our allies and partners by failing to support Ukraine with funding for the Ukraine Security Assistance Initiative and allowing the Administration to cut forces in Europe. Allows Secretary Pete Hegseth to arbitrarily cut $1 billion from across the Department of Defense without consulting Congress, further ceding power to the Trump Administration under the false assumption of savings from the use of Artificial Intelligence tools. Undermines democracy at home and harms our military readiness by deploying National Guard to the District of Columbia for “beautification” activities and to other U.S. cities at the President’s will. “The American people overwhelmingly oppose President Trump’s war with Iran. Instead of listening to their concerns about the cost of living and holding President Trump accountable, this bill doubles down on the President’s war of choice by providing the Department of Defense with over a trillion dollars. It’s an unprecedented sum that comes at the cost of funding for our nation’s education, workforce training, and international diplomacy. Cutting funding for engineering, math, and science programs will hamstring our future national security workforce. Cuts to the Department of State will paralyze American diplomatic efforts at a time when threats to our nation are growing, not shrinking. Instead, Republicans have prioritized support for an unnecessary National Guard mobilization in Washington, D.C. and funding a battleship that has not even been designed yet.” Defense Appropriations Subcommittee Ranking Member Betty McCollum (D-MN-04) said. “My constituents sent me to Washington to stand against the war, invest in diplomacy, and deliver lower costs for working families. That is what I intend to do, and I will oppose this legislation until we can find a bipartisan consensus on our funding priorities.” Congresswoman McCollum’s opening remarks as prepared for delivery are here. “At a time when American families are begging for relief from high prices, the Trump administration is deaf to their pleas. Instead of providing relief, they are cutting domestic programs that support families who are struggling with the cost of living.” Appropriations Committee Ranking Member Rosa DeLauro (D-CT-03) said. “At the same time they proposing nearly $13 billion in cuts to domestic investments, they are proposing the most expensive military budget in American history. More than $1 trillion for the Pentagon, and the administration has come back to Congress with another request for even more funding. It is a $1.1 trillion floor, but who knows how high the ceiling will be. Despite the excessive increase in funding proposed in this bill, it does not include funding for the Ukraine Security Assistance Initiative. Our partners and allies deserve better than broken promises. I support a strong national defense. I support the courageous men and women who serve our country in uniform. And I understand the need to make investments accordingly. But we need not cut non-defense programs that lower costs and help families afford basic necessities like groceries, housing, childcare and health care. We ought to work together to provide relief for American families. That is what I intend to do as we continue our work on this committee.” Congresswoman DeLauro’s opening remarks as prepared for delivery are here. Republicans amended the bill to include a series of hyper-partisan, culture-war provisions that target LGBTQ+ servicemembers, restrict access to reproductive healthcare for servicemembers, and change the name of the Department of Defense to the Department of War which would cost taxpayers hundreds of millions of dollars. In contrast, Democrats offered amendments to: Rescind a proposed budget rule that would inject partisan politics into grant funding. Apply the same basic guardrails that the Appropriations Committee includes in their bills to money passed through reconciliation. Increase funding for the Ukraine Security Assistance Initiative by $400 million. Prevent the abrupt withdrawal of U.S. forces from Europe, abandoning our allies. Remove funding for President Trump’s Golden Dome vanity project. Remove funding for the continued deployment of National Guard troops in the District of Columbia. Prohibit the use of funds for war in Iran. Investigate potentially corrupt loans to companies with ties to the Trump family. Limit the Secretary of Defense’s travel budget by 25% until he provides justification for the removal of certain military officers. A summary of House Republicans’ 2027 Defense bill is here. A fact sheet of the bill is here. The full text of the bill is here. ###",1,2026-06-27T21:44:12Z,2026-06-27T22:11:26Z https://omar.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-omar-passes-two-bipartisan-bills-out-committee,Rep. Omar Passes Two Bipartisan Bills Out of Committee,2026-06-25,2026,2026-06,Democrat,House,MN,Ilhan Omar,O000173,omar.house.gov,omar,https://omar.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – The House Committee on Education and Workforce today passed two bipartisan bills led by Rep. Ilhan Omar (D-MN) and Rep. Ryan Mackenzie (R-PA) that will strengthen protections for injured federal workers and improve government accountability during today’s Education and Workforce Committee markup. H.R. 8822 authorizes agencies to share data to improve benefit calculations, helping workers avoid unexpected repayment obligations caused by government overpayments. H.R. 8823 empowers the Department of Labor to suspend FECA payments to medical providers convicted of fraud, protecting both patients and taxpayers. Together, these bills will help ensure injured federal workers receive accurate and timely benefits while preventing provider fraud. ""I am thrilled the committee passed two of my bills with Rep. Mackenzie to help injured workers,"" said Rep. Omar. “When a federal worker gets injured on the job, we have an obligation to make sure they get the care and benefits they have earned. Today, this committee took an important step to crack down on fraudulent providers and ensure benefits are paid accurately from the start. For too long, gaps in the system have wasted taxpayer dollars while creating financial uncertainty for injured workers and their families. These bills will help protect workers, strengthen accountability, and make government work better for the American people. That is exactly what good government should do, and I am thrilled to see these bills move forward.” For the text of the Federal Workers’ Compensation Integrity and Care Act (H.R. 8822), click here. For the text of the Putting Patients First by Strengthening Provider Accountability in FECA Act (H.R. 8823), click here. ###",1,2026-06-27T21:44:12Z,2026-06-27T22:11:26Z https://craig.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-angie-craig-helps-lead-legislation-codify-right-vote-safeguard-federal,"Rep. Angie Craig Helps Lead Legislation to Codify the Right to Vote, Safeguard Federal Elections",2026-06-24,2026,2026-06,Democrat,House,MN,Angie Craig,C001119,craig.house.gov,craig,https://craig.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC – Today, as part of her continued efforts to combat the Trump Administration’s attacks on our democracy, U.S. Representative Angie Craig helped introduce legislation alongside Senator Jon Ossoff (D-GA) and Rep. Summer Lee (D-PA) to officially codify the right to vote. The Right to Vote Act would protect American citizens’ fundamental right to vote by establishing a first-ever statutory right to vote in federal elections – protecting U.S. citizens from laws that make it harder to cast a ballot. The bill would allow Americans to legally challenge any policy that illegally restricts ballot access and would require states attempting to restrict voting access to meet a high bar to justify any policy that makes it harder for U.S. citizens to participate in federal elections. “President Trump has made it clear that if his party can’t win elections, they will steal them,"" said Rep. Craig. “We can't take any chances with this administration and that’s why it’s so important that we codify the right to vote once and for all. I’m proud to be helping lead legislation that will protect every American’s right to vote and safeguard our democracy against President Trump’s partisan attacks.” Earlier this month, Rep. Craig announced her pro-democracy agenda to combat the Trump Administration’s attacks on democracy and safeguard our nation’s elections for years to come. As part of this renewed push, she co-led the Hands Off Elections Act, which would prohibit officials from the executive branch from participating in election administration unless they are otherwise authorized to do so. You can read more about Rep. Craig’s pro-democracy agenda here. ###",1,2026-06-27T21:44:12Z,2026-06-27T22:11:26Z https://mccollum.house.gov/media/press-releases/minnesota-congressional-delegation-contributes-images-minnesota-2026,Minnesota Congressional Delegation Contributes Images of Minnesota in 2026 for Congressional Time Capsule in Celebration of America’s 250th Anniversary,2026-06-24,2026,2026-06,Democrat,House,MN,Betty McCollum,M001143,mccollum.house.gov,mccollum,https://mccollum.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. — On Wednesday afternoon, the Minnesota Congressional Delegation announced that it is contributing a collection of original images of Minnesota in 2026 for a Congressional Time Capsule in honor of America’s 250th Anniversary. The Minnesota collection includes photographs from across Minnesota’s eight Congressional Districts as well as accompanying letters from the delegation that explain their significance to their districts, state, and nation. The capsule will be dedicated at Emancipation Hall this afternoon and will be sealed in the U.S. Capitol Visitor Center to be opened on America’s 500th Anniversary on July 4, 2276. Click here to view a digital version of the Minnesota Delegation’s submission. “Minnesota has always been a place worth celebrating, and as our nation marks 250 years of freedom and democracy, there is no better time than now to highlight the places, people, and stories that make our state extraordinary in 2026,” said Congresswoman Betty McCollum, the Dean of the Minnesota Congressional delegation. “This time capsule is a contribution to future generations. It’s a record of Minnesota’s storied history, rich culture, remarkable diversity, and the natural wonders – the Mississippi River, Lake Superior, the Minnesota State Fair, and more – that define us. We are excited to offer future generations a glimpse of what it’s like to live in Minnesota in the year 2026.” “The 250th anniversary of the United States is an opportunity to honor the Minnesotans who have contributed to our nation’s history and those who will continue this legacy,” said Senator Amy Klobuchar. “For our Congressional Delegation time capsule, I included a picture of the Minnesota State Fair, which represents Minnesota at its best: creative, innovative, hardworking, and welcoming — values that our state will carry forward for the next 250 years.” “For the past 250 years, America promoted democracy, liberty and freedom at home and abroad,” said Senator Tina Smith. “We wouldn’t always get it right the first time, but we never gave up. That’s the true American spirit. We’re still working on creating that more perfect union, and I hope in another 250 years, we will be closer to achieving it. As the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. says, ‘The arc of the moral universe is long, but it bends toward justice.’” “Our Sixth Congressional District is full of patriotic Minnesotans who love our state and this country. In the 250th year of our nation, it's an honor to commemorate the great state of Minnesota and the people and places that make it so special,” said Congressman Tom Emmer. “One of those places is the Delano Area Sports Arena. For my family and countless others, the memories made at that rink will last for generations. It is my hope that 250 years from now, Minnesotans will still be building community and connection over a shared love of hockey.” “More than two hundred and forty years ago, the founding fathers identified the bald eagle as a symbol of the strength and independence promised in our new nation,” said Congressman Brad Finstad. “Since then, we have revered this majestic creature as the unquestionable icon of the United States. Southern Minnesota is the proud home of the National Eagle Center, our country’s only educational center dedicated to preserving the bald eagle and its historical and cultural significance. I was honored to introduce the legislation to officially recognize the bald eagle as our national bird and am proud to see its inclusion in our state’s contribution to the Semiquincentennial Congressional Time Capsule.” “As we come together to celebrate America’s 250th birthday, I couldn’t be prouder to represent Minnesota, a state whose rich culture, history and natural beauty are integral to the fabric of our great nation,” said Congresswoman Angie Craig. “I hope that this time capsule serves as a snapshot in time for generations of Minnesotans – a reminder of who we are today and of the traditions and places that will shape our state and our country for centuries to come.” “Minnesota’s natural beauty and the strength of our vibrant communities make it the best state to live in in the country,” said Congresswoman Kelly Morrison. “I submitted a picture that highlights the Third District’s unique lakes and our beloved state bird, the loon. I’m so proud to call Minnesota home and I know future generations will cherish this state as much as we have.” “Our office is honored to contribute to this time capsule alongside the Minnesota delegation that future Americans will open 250 years from now,” said Congresswoman Ilhan Omar. “We chose to include Prince’s iconic Purple Rain album because it embodies the creativity and enduring spirit of Minnesota. From the breathtaking beauty of the Boundary Waters to the global impact of artists like Prince, Minnesota has helped shape the American story in countless ways. We are proud to give future generations a glimpse into the incredible traditions, diversity, and values that define us as Minnesotans in 2026.” “As we look back on the first 250 years of American history, I am proud to represent the families of Minnesota's Seventh District. From hardworking crop and livestock producers to biofuel and advanced manufacturers, Western Minnesota is a leader in securing America’s food supply and energy future. While technology and policy will evolve, the character and grit of our rural communities will carry our great nation forward into the next 250 years,” said Congresswoman Michelle Fischbach. “Minnesota is truly a special place, and as our nation celebrates 250 years of American excellence, I am honored to participate in the Congressional Time Capsule to showcase the many places, people, and traditions that make Minnesota such an exceptional part of this great nation,” said Congressman Pete Stauber. “As the Representative of Minnesota’s 8th Congressional District, I am especially excited about my contribution to honor the majestic waters of Lake Superior and the vital role this natural resource plays in helping our region thrive. I have much optimism for the future, and I hope those who open this Time Capsule 250 years from now enjoy learning more about Minnesota’s story and the enduring spirit of the North Star State.” As part of Congress’s efforts to celebrate America's 250th birthday, the Semiquincentennial Congressional Time Capsule Act (P.L. 119-79) directs the Architect of the Capitol (AOC) to create and prepare a congressional time capsule to be sealed in the Capitol Visitor Center. The capsule is an opportunity for each state and territory delegation to provide a joint submission that provides a snapshot in time in 2026. The capsule will be opened on our nation's 500th anniversary, July 4, 2276. The Members of Minnesota’s Delegation to the United States Congress include Senator Amy Klobuchar (DFL), Senator Tina Smith (DFL), Congressman Brad Finstad (R, MN-01), Congresswoman Angie Craig (DFL, MN-02), Congresswoman Kelly Morrison (DFL, MN-03), Congresswoman Betty McCollum (DFL, MN-04), Congresswoman Ilhan Omar (DFL, MN-05), Congressman Tom Emmer (R, MN-06), Congresswoman Michelle Fischbach (R, MN-07), and Congressman Pete Stauber (R, MN-08).",1,2026-06-27T21:44:12Z,2026-06-27T22:11:26Z https://mccollum.house.gov/media/press-releases/ranking-member-betty-mccollum-statement-full-committee-markup-2027-defense,Ranking Member Betty McCollum Statement at the Full Committee Markup of the 2027 Defense Funding Bill,2026-06-24,2026,2026-06,Democrat,House,MN,Betty McCollum,M001143,mccollum.house.gov,mccollum,https://mccollum.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – Congresswoman Betty McCollum (D-MN-04), Ranking Member of the Defense Appropriations Subcommittee, delivered the following remarks at the full committee’s markup of its fiscal year 2027 bill: Thank you very much, Chairman Cole. I want to start by again thanking the majority and minority staff: Jennifer, Jason, and Ed on the minority side, and Taylor, Keri Lyn, Gina, Colleen, Max, Ariana, Jackie, Daniel, and both Adams. And, I would also like to thank my personal staff, Ben Peterson, and my Military Fellow from the United States Army, Robby, for their hard work on this. Each year, they are given a tremendous task, our staff, to put forward a challenging bill– and this year was no different. The Fiscal Year 2027 Defense Appropriations Act totals $1.072 trillion, it’s an unprecedented topline, equal to the President’s request. I will address some concerns I have with the bill shortly. But first I would like to say, Chairman Calvert, I thank you. I thank you for writing this bill that, as of now, only includes one partisan rider that the minority objects to, and I object to that basically on germaneness reasons, it doesn’t belong in the bill. And we, on the Democratic side, but I think every single one of us on the Committee, should all applaud the Chairman’s decision and the staff’s decision to do this, because at the end of this day and the end of every day, we want a bill that takes care of our warfighters, to do their missions to do them swiftly, successfully, and to come home to their families, and we want to also support the civilian employees who serve alongside them. I also want to applaud the Chairman’s decision to reduce the Department’s General Transfer Authority from $6 billion to $3 billion. If the Department and OMB have less leeway to move money around, they will be more inclined to provide us with the information we need to conduct oversight. That’s our responsibility under the Constitution. The majority has also worked to include a broad range of priorities that are important to many Members and their constituents. And I thank the Chairman for working with us in such a bipartisan fashion. But that is why I also have to say that I am disappointed that I’m unable to support this bill as written today. This bill provides the Department of Defense with over $1 Trillion – an unprecedented topline. And that comes at a cost of deep cuts to other Appropriations bills. For example, the Labor, Health, and Human Services and Education bill was cut by $19 Billion – a 9% reduction. The education and workforce programs were deeply impacted with these cuts. That includes an $8 billion cut to the Department of Education, and a $2 Billion cut to teacher training opportunities. I have said this before – cuts to education will have a negative downstream impact on our national security. Engineering, math, science, cyber, and computing programs. They will all be impacted by these cuts. These cuts undermine our future national security workforce, and the programs that we fund in the Defense bill will suffer because of it. The majority cut the State Department funding bill by a shocking 22 percent from last year’s level. That would diminish diplomatic and development efforts around the world at the same time when the threats to America are growing. Over $1 trillion in the Defense bill is not going to keep Americans safer if we have mortgaged our children’s future and our strategic diplomacy efforts to pay for it. Regarding the funding in this bill, there are several areas where I believe funding could be reduced or redirected. First, $605 Million for the National Guard mobilization unit in Washington, D.C. This operation has not reduced violent crime in Washington as the President claims. The only thing it has reduced is the readiness of these Soldiers. They have lost valuable training and exercise time that is necessary for them to be ready for a conflict with a peer adversary. Second, the bill includes $216 Million for the National Guard Reaction Force. The National Guard does not need new funding to develop law enforcement capabilities that are outside the scope of its jurisdiction. This is simply not the military’s job. Congress has rejected a similar idea during the previous administration after the January 6th Insurrection. The U.S. government has plenty of first responders at the federal, state, and local levels trained to handle criminal activity. Third, $1 billion in advanced procurement for a so-called battleship that has not even been designed yet. Reportedly, just one ship could cost upwards of $17 billion. I wanted to make sure I got that right. One ship, $17 billion. The subcommittee has spent years working to get shipbuilding back on track. The industrial base still has challenges, such as a backlog of 17 Virginia-class submarines or the recent cancellation of the Constellation-class frigate. We should not spend money on ships and boats that have not been designed yet. It’s simply financially irresponsible. Fourth, I’m disappointed that funding for Ukraine was not included in the bill particularly because the House just took a bipartisan vote in favor of continued assistance for Ukraine last month. Failing to include Ukraine sends the wrong signal both to Ukraine and to our European allies, especially as the President continues to reduce the military presence in Europe. I am also concerned about these troop reductions. President Trump is giving Putin the impression that the U.S. will not stand with our NATO allies in the event of future Russian aggression in Europe. America’s national security has always been tied to Europe, and NATO has been the cornerstone of peace for almost 80 years. We need only to look to the Arctic to see the threats to our own borders, and to secure them, we will need to work with our NATO allies. So, Mr. Chairman, I hope we can restore this funding. And finally, I am concerned that the bill includes a new provision which will indiscriminately cut $1 billion with no Congressional direction. We have seen this Administration use a full year CR and mandatory money in the reconciliation bill for the Department of Defense to circumvent Congressional direction. So why would we want to give more permission for the Department to make more indiscriminate cuts. If we provide them with this authority, we simply have no idea how they will use it. Separate from the base bill, I have real concerns about the Administration’s requests for defense funding outside of the annual appropriations process. First, we have been hearing rumors for months of a supplemental to cover the costs of large-scale military operations around the world. SOUTHCOM, Operation Southern Spear cost $600 million. And in CENTCOM, President Trump’s disastrous war in Iran has cost taxpayers over $31 billion so far. Neither of these operations have concluded or been authorized by Congress. We do not know when they will end, nor do we know what the full costs will be. If the Administration will request a supplemental, we need to see it as soon as possible, and not in the press. We must have a full and detailed accounting of these operational costs. Only then will we be informed enough to determine what additional funds the Department requires. Second, the Reconciliation process, as the Chair pointed out and I agree with him totally, is the wrong way to fund the Department of Defense, and we all know that here in this room. I am deeply concerned about the President’s proposal for $350 billion in mandatory funding for defense will have no appropriations input on the enactment. That’s not the right way to fund the Department of Defense. Because it took the Department ten months to explain to Congress how they were going to spend $150 billion in mandatory funding they received last year. It’s unacceptable, and I have no confidence that the Department will do a better job responding to us in the future. There is also no guarantee that a reconciliation bill will pass. If it does not pass, it will be nearly impossible to fix all the “broken glass” that could occur by forcing these priorities into the base budget. When the Department makes mandatory funding requests, and the authorizers fail to include it, the DoD looks to the appropriations process to solve their problems. And that means we must reopen the bill in conference, and then, yes, make cuts. That will put this Committee in a very difficult situation. But, Mr. Chairman, I am confident, I am more than hopeful, that we will have an opportunity to resolve these issues as this process moves forward. And, I want you to know, Mr. Chairman, you personally have my commitment to do that in a bipartisan way for the defense of our nation. As I said, I cannot support the bill as written. But I look forward to working with you to improve the bill. And, I yield back, Mr. Chair. A summary of the bill is here. A fact sheet is here. The text of the bill is here. Watch the full committee markup here.",1,2026-06-27T21:44:12Z,2026-06-27T22:11:26Z https://morrison.house.gov/media/press-releases/only-pro-choice-ob-gyn-congress-us-rep-kelly-morrison-introduces-safe-training,Only Pro-Choice OB-GYN in Congress U.S. Rep. Kelly Morrison Introduces SAFE Training for OB-GYNs Act,2026-06-24,2026,2026-06,Democrat,House,MN,Kelly Morrison,M001234,morrison.house.gov,morrison,https://morrison.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC – Today, U.S. Representative Kelly Morrison (MN-03) introduced the Safeguarding Access to Full-spectrum Education (SAFE) Training for OB-GYNs Act, which would support better access to clinical training opportunities, including abortion care, for OB-GYN residents training in states with abortion bans. Four years after the U.S. Supreme Court dismantled Roe v. Wade, one in three women in the United States now live under an abortion ban — and these bans are worsening doctor shortages across the country. When OB-GYNs are placed in states with abortion bans for their residency, they face significant barriers to accessing comprehensive training in abortion care — often having to travel out of state or rely on simulations to learn skills integral to abortions, ectopic pregnancies, and managing miscarriages. This could leave OB-GYNs unprepared to care for their patients and endanger the lives of women who need life-saving obstetric and gynecological care. Representative Morrison is the first and only pro-choice OB-GYN to ever serve in Congress. Her new legislation, the SAFE Training for OB-GYNs Act, would provide funding for programs training OB-GYN residents from abortion ban states and for travel expenses residents placed in abortion ban states may be responsible for in their pursuit of comprehensive abortion care training. “Every OB-GYN in the country should be trained in every aspect of obstetric and gynecological care,” said Congresswoman Kelly Morrison. “As the only pro-choice OB-GYN in Congress, I know how important it is for OB-GYNs to receive hands-on experience in providing abortion care. An abortion ban in even one state affects access to safe health care across the country. If doctors can’t receive proper training, lives will inevitably be put at risk. This bill will make it safer and easier for women to get the care they need, and will ensure that future generations of doctors are able to care for all of their patients.” This bill is co-led by Representatives Ami Bera (CA-06), Kim Schrier (WA-08), and Lizzie Fletcher (TX-07) and endorsed by the Reproductive Freedom Caucus, ACOG, PPFA, Society for Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Physicians for Reproductive Health, Power to Decide, Center for Reproductive Rights, ACLU, Unite for Reproductive and Gender Equity, Guttmacher Institute, Catholics for Choice, National Partnership for Women and Families, National Council of Jewish Women, Reproductive Freedom for All, National Women's Law Center, and National Abortion Federation “As a doctor, I know that a strong healthcare workforce starts with strong medical training,” said Congressman Ami Bera. “Since the Dobbs decision, abortion bans have made it harder for OB-GYN residents to receive the full reproductive health training required as part of their education. In many cases, these future physicians are being forced to travel to another state to gain the experience they need to provide comprehensive care to their patients. The SAFE Training for OB-GYNs Act helps ensure residents can complete that training by supporting graduate medical residency programs and covering the travel costs associated with it.” “In states like Texas where abortion is banned, OB-GYN residents cannot get the full training they need to care for their patients — and women across the country are paying the price,” said Congresswoman Lizzie Fletcher. “Restricted access to training is already driving a shortage of providers, making reproductive care harder to access even in states without bans. The SAFE Training for OB-GYNs Act gives residency programs the resources to train future OB-GYNs in the full range of reproductive healthcare their patients need and deserve. I am glad to join Congresswoman Morrison and Congressman Bera in this effort.” “Abortion training equips future ob-gyns with fundamental and life-saving procedural skills which are imperative to providing the full scope of ob-gyn care, including caring for patients experiencing pregnancy loss. Unfortunately, the Dobbs decision and resulting abortion bans have made it harder for OB-GYN residency programs to train residents in these critically important skills. ACOG is grateful to Rep. Kelly Morrison, MD, FACOG, for introducing the SAFE Training for OB-GYNs Act to ensure that all OB-GYN residents have access to the training they need to provide evidence-based care to our patients across the country,” said President of the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) Camille A. Clare, MD, MPH, CPE. “As physicians, we know that the lack of access to abortion training in medical school and residency harms the health and well-being of communities across the country. When abortion training is unavailable, full-spectrum pregnancy care is negatively impacted; whether a patient needs to end a pregnancy or is facing pregnancy loss, everyone should be able to get the care they need, where they live. Since Dobbs, we've seen a concerning decrease in care sites that are able to train physicians in care for pregnancy loss, and our communities are suffering as a result. We are thankful to Representative Morrison for advocating to protect and increase access to reproductive and sexual health care and abortion training.” said CEO of Physicians for Reproductive Health Dr. Jamila Perritt. “On the fourth anniversary of the Dobbs decision, people across the country have suffered and died as a result of restrictive anti-abortion laws that currently exist in 20 states. This decision has devastated patients’ access to essential care and denied comprehensive medical training for the next generation of providers. We are grateful for Rep. Morrison’s introduction of the SAFE Training for OBGYNs Act, important legislation to help address the barriers that are preventing future providers from getting the training they want and need to care for their patients,” said Legislative Affairs Director of Planned Parenthood for America Nina Esperanza Serrianne. “Abortion bans are forcing medical students and residents to seek training across state lines while worsening provider shortages in communities already struggling to care for patients. The SAFE Training for OB-GYNs Act will help ensure medical institutions can continue providing the clinical training needed to support the next generation of reproductive health care providers. We thank Congresswoman Morrison for her leadership on this bill,” said Reproductive Freedom for All President and CEO Mini Timmaraju. Read the full text of the bill HERE. ###",1,2026-06-27T21:44:12Z,2026-06-27T22:11:26Z https://morrison.house.gov/media/press-releases/us-house-unanimously-passes-rep-kelly-morrisons-native-american,U.S. House Unanimously Passes Rep. Kelly Morrison’s Native American Entrepreneurial Opportunity Act,2026-06-24,2026,2026-06,Democrat,House,MN,Kelly Morrison,M001234,morrison.house.gov,morrison,https://morrison.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC – The U.S. House of Representatives unanimously passed Congresswoman Kelly Morrison’s (D-MN-03) bipartisan Native American Entrepreneurial Opportunity Act. This bill will support Native Americans in establishing and expanding small businesses across the country. Native American-owned businesses contribute more than $90 billion dollars to the U.S. economy every year and employ 300,000 people across the country — but Native American communities are still often underserved and not given the same opportunities to start and grow small businesses. Rep. Morrison’s Native American Entrepreneurial Opportunity Act would codify the Office of Native American Affairs at the Small Business Administration (SBA) into federal law, protecting the office and making it a permanent part of the SBA. This would ensure that the Office of Native American Affairs continues to receive critical funding, increases SBA’s ability to offer tailored support to Native American entrepreneurs, and ensures that Congress can practice proper oversight of the office’s activities and effectiveness. The bill also establishes an Assistant Administrator position for the Office of Native American Affairs reporting directly to the SBA Administrator. In Minnesota, Native Americans and people of color own more businesses than ever before, and this bill will ensure that Native American small business owners have a seat at the table, equal opportunity, and resources and support for years to come. “Small businesses drive Minnesota’s economy – and we need to make sure Native American entrepreneurs have a level playing field to start and grow a small business. This bill will help create jobs, strengthen our economy, and help all of Minnesota thrive,” said Congresswoman Kelly Morrison “I am so proud to see that the bipartisan Native American Entrepreneurial Opportunity Act passed the House and I look forward to seeing it signed into law so that we can invest in and support our Native communities.” There are more than half a million small businesses in Minnesota, which represent 99.5% of all businesses in the state. Representative Morrison is a member of the U.S. House Small Business Committee and is dedicated to ensuring small businesses across the country have the resources they need to develop successful, flourishing businesses. The bipartisan Native American Entrepreneurial Opportunity Act was introduced by Rep. Sharice Davids (D-KS-03) and is co-led by Reps. Kelly Morrison (D-MN-03), Jake Ellzey (R-TX-06), and Elijah Crane (R-AZ-02). Read the full text of the bill HERE. ###",1,2026-06-27T21:44:12Z,2026-06-27T22:11:26Z https://omar.house.gov/media/press-releases/minnesota-congressional-delegation-contributes-images-minnesota-2026,Minnesota Congressional Delegation Contributes Images of Minnesota in 2026 for Congressional Time Capsule in Celebration of America’s 250th Anniversary,2026-06-24,2026,2026-06,Democrat,House,MN,Ilhan Omar,O000173,omar.house.gov,omar,https://omar.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. — On Wednesday afternoon, the Minnesota Congressional Delegation announced that it is contributing a collection of original images of Minnesota in 2026 for a Congressional Time Capsule in honor of America’s 250th Anniversary. The Minnesota collection includes photographs from across Minnesota’s eight Congressional Districts as well as accompanying letters from the delegation that explain their significance to their districts, state, and nation. The capsule will be dedicated at Emancipation Hall this afternoon and will be sealed in the U.S. Capitol Visitor Center to be opened on America’s 500th Anniversary on July 4, 2276. Click here to view a digital version of the Minnesota Delegation’s submission. “Minnesota has always been a place worth celebrating, and as our nation marks 250 years of freedom and democracy, there is no better time than now to highlight the places, people, and stories that make our state extraordinary in 2026,” said Congresswoman Betty McCollum, the Dean of the Minnesota Congressional delegation. “This time capsule is a contribution to future generations. It’s a record of Minnesota’s storied history, rich culture, remarkable diversity, and the natural wonders – the Mississippi River, Lake Superior, the Minnesota State Fair, and more – that define us. We are excited to offer future generations a glimpse of what it’s like to live in Minnesota in the year 2026.” “The 250th anniversary of the United States is an opportunity to honor the Minnesotans who have contributed to our nation’s history and those who will continue this legacy,” said Senator Klobuchar. “For our Congressional Delegation time capsule, I included a picture of the Minnesota State Fair, which represents Minnesota at its best: creative, innovative, hardworking, and welcoming — values that our state will carry forward for the next 250 years.” “For the past 250 years, America promoted democracy, liberty and freedom at home and abroad,” said Senator Tina Smith. “We wouldn’t always get it right the first time, but we never gave up. That’s the true American spirit. We’re still working on creating that more perfect union, and I hope in another 250 years, we will be closer to achieving it. As the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. says, ‘The arc of the moral universe is long, but it bends toward justice.’” “Our Sixth Congressional District is full of patriotic Minnesotans who love our state and this country. In the 250th year of our nation, it's an honor to commemorate the great state of Minnesota and the people and places that make it so special,” said Congressman Emmer. “One of those places is the Delano Area Sports Arena. For my family and countless others, the memories made at that rink will last for generations. It is my hope that 250 years from now, Minnesotans will still be building community and connection over a shared love of hockey.” “More than two hundred and forty years ago, the founding fathers identified the bald eagle as a symbol of the strength and independence promised in our new nation,” said Congressman Brad Finstad. “Since then, we have revered this majestic creature as the unquestionable icon of the United States. Southern Minnesota is the proud home of the National Eagle Center, our country’s only educational center dedicated to preserving the bald eagle and its historical and cultural significance. I was honored to introduce the legislation to officially recognize the bald eagle as our national bird and am proud to see its inclusion in our state’s contribution to the Semiquincentennial Congressional Time Capsule.” “As we come together to celebrate America’s 250th birthday, I couldn’t be prouder to represent Minnesota, a state whose rich culture, history and natural beauty are integral to the fabric of our great nation,” said Congresswoman Angie Craig. “I hope that this time capsule serves as a snapshot in time for generations of Minnesotans – a reminder of who we are today and of the traditions and places that will shape our state and our country for centuries to come.” “Minnesota’s natural beauty and the strength of our vibrant communities make it the best state to live in in the country,” said Congresswoman Kelly Morrison. “I submitted a picture that highlights the Third District’s unique lakes and our beloved state bird, the loon. I’m so proud to call Minnesota home and I know future generations will cherish this state as much as we have."" “Our office is honored to contribute to this time capsule alongside the Minnesota delegation that future Americans will open 250 years from now,” said Congresswoman Ilhan Omar. “We chose to include Prince’s iconic Purple Rain album because it embodies the creativity and enduring spirit of Minnesota. From the breathtaking beauty of the Boundary Waters to the global impact of artists like Prince, Minnesota has helped shape the American story in countless ways. We are proud to give future generations a glimpse into the incredible traditions, diversity, and values that define us as Minnesotans in 2026.” “As we look back on the first 250 years of American history, I am proud to represent the families of Minnesota's Seventh District. From hardworking crop and livestock producers to biofuel and advanced manufacturers, Western Minnesota is a leader in securing America’s food supply and energy future. While technology and policy will evolve, the character and grit of our rural communities will carry our great nation forward into the next 250 years,” said Congresswoman Michelle Fischbach. “Minnesota is truly a special place, and as our nation celebrates 250 years of American excellence, I am honored to participate in the Congressional Time Capsule to showcase the many places, people, and traditions that make Minnesota such an exceptional part of this great nation,” said Congressman Pete Stauber. “As the Representative of Minnesota’s 8th Congressional District, I am especially excited about my contribution to honor the majestic waters of Lake Superior and the vital role this natural resource plays in helping our region thrive. I have much optimism for the future, and I hope those who open this Time Capsule 250 years from now enjoy learning more about Minnesota’s story and the enduring spirit of the North Star State.” As part of Congress’s efforts to celebrate America's 250th birthday, the SemiquincentennialCongressional Time Capsule Act (P.L. 119-79) directs the Architect of the Capitol (AOC) to create and prepare a congressional time capsule to be sealed in the Capitol Visitor Center. The capsule is an opportunity for each state and territory delegation to provide a joint submission that provides a snapshot in time in 2026. The capsule will be opened on our nation's 500th anniversary, July 4, 2276. The Members of Minnesota’s Delegation to the United States Congress include Senator Amy Klobuchar (DFL), Senator Tina Smith (DFL), Congressman Brad Finstad (R, MN-01), Congresswoman Angie Craig (DFL, MN-02), Congresswoman Kelly Morrison (DFL, MN-03), Congresswoman Betty McCollum (DFL, MN-04), Congresswoman Ilhan Omar (DFL, MN-05), Congressman Tom Emmer (R, MN-06), Congresswoman Michelle Fischbach (R, MN-07), and Congressman Pete Stauber (R, MN-08). ###",1,2026-06-27T21:44:12Z,2026-06-27T22:11:26Z https://craig.house.gov/media/press-releases/monopoly-busters-caucus-co-chairs-press-uber-and-lyft-following-reports-ai,Monopoly Busters Caucus Co-Chairs Press Uber and Lyft Following Reports of AI-Driven Surveillance Pricing,2026-06-23,2026,2026-06,Democrat,House,MN,Angie Craig,C001119,craig.house.gov,craig,https://craig.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC – Today, Congressional Monopoly Busters Caucus co-chairs Representatives Angie Craig (MN-02), Pramila Jayapal (WA-07), Chris Deluzio (PA-17) and Pat Ryan (NY-18) pressed rideshare giants Uber and Lyft following reports that the companies employed artificial intelligence (AI) driven surveillance pricing to charge passengers different prices for the same route. Their efforts follow a recent investigation by Consumer Reports, which found that Uber and Lyft routinely charge different customers significantly different prices for rides ordered at roughly the same times. For example, a route in Minneapolis resulted in a price difference of 50% and another route in New York resulted in a price difference of 152%. Uber and Lyft control a combined 95 percent of the ride-hailing market. In a letter to Uber CEO Dara Khosrowshahi and Lyft CEO David Risher, the co-chairs blasted the companies for exploiting people’s personal data to price gouge passengers and demanded transparency about their use of AI-driven algorithms and dynamic pricing models. “This is not a functional, nor is it a fair marketplace,” the co-chairs wrote. “Many Americans depend on your services to go to work, purchase groceries or visit their loved ones. It is alarming that the two companies controlling approximately 95 percent of the ride-hailing market use surveillance, dynamic or personalized pricing to scam Americans.” “Big Tech’s weaponization of our data to maximize profit on essential services is, at best, a profound breach of trust, and at worst, illegal. The practice of charging our constituents secret, individualized prices for the same trip is unacceptable, especially when working families are being squeezed from every direction,” the co-chairs concluded. You can read the full text of the letter HERE. ###",1,2026-06-27T21:44:12Z,2026-06-27T22:11:26Z https://omar.house.gov/media/press-releases/labor-leaders-urge-dol-drop-proposed-rule-robs-workers-their-wages-and-shields,"Labor Leaders Urge DOL to Drop Proposed Rule that Robs Workers of their Wages, and Shields Corporations from Accountability",2026-06-22,2026,2026-06,Democrat,House,MN,Ilhan Omar,O000173,omar.house.gov,omar,https://omar.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON –Today, Ranking Member Robert C. “Bobby” Scott (VA-03), House Committee on Education and Workforce, and Ranking Member Ilhan Omar (MN-05), House Subcommittee on Workforce Protections, urged Department of Labor (DOL) Acting Secretary Keith Sonderling to withdraw its proposed rule on determining joint employer status. The Members warned that the proposal would undermine worker protections under the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA), Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA), and Migrant and Seasonal Agricultural Worker Protection Act (MSPA) by making it harder to hold employers accountable for labor law violations. In a letter to the Acting Secretary, the Members explained that the proposed rule conflicts with congressional intent and longstanding legal precedent by narrowing the standard for finding ‘joint employment’ liability. The proposal would limit workers' ability to recover unpaid wages and other remedies by shielding larger businesses that rely on subcontractors and staffing agencies from responsibility for violations of federal labor laws. “By limiting who an employee can hold responsible for federal labor law violations, the Department’s proposal would shield larger businesses whose business model relies on subcontracting with thinly capitalized subcontractors or farm labor contractors that cut corners on federal labor law compliance,” wrote the Members. “If the thinly capitalized subcontractor or farm labor contractor is unable to pay back wages or judgments owed, then workers would be unable to recover from any employer.” The Members further noted that the proposal closely mirrors a 2020 Trump Administration rule that a federal court found unlawful and warned that the new proposal threatens to go even further by applying its narrowed interpretation of joint employment to the FMLA and MSPA in addition to the FLSA. The Members also cited analysis estimating that a similar proposal would cost workers more than $1 billion annually in lost wages and argued that the rule could leave both workers and franchisees with fewer protections while allowing larger corporations to evade accountability. To read the full letter, click here. ###",1,2026-06-27T21:44:12Z,2026-06-27T22:11:26Z https://craig.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-craig-visits-mayo-clinic-discuss-mayo-clinic-transformation-innovative,"Rep. Craig Visits Mayo Clinic to Discuss Mayo Clinic Transformation, Innovative Technologies for Better Patient Outcomes",2026-06-18,2026,2026-06,Democrat,House,MN,Angie Craig,C001119,craig.house.gov,craig,https://craig.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"ROCHESTER, MN – Today, U.S. Representative Angie Craig visited Mayo Clinic in Rochester to meet with Mayo Clinic’s leadership team and receive a briefing on their Bold. Forward. strategy to cure, connect and transform healthcare for patients everywhere – including Bold. Forward. Unbound. in Rochester, which reimagines the downtown Rochester campus and introduces a combination of innovative care concepts, digital technologies and new facilities. During the visit, Rep. Craig had the opportunity to tour the Rochester campus transformation and discuss Mayo Clinic’s latest efforts across the enterprise to integrate cutting-edge technologies and deliver better outcomes for patients. Rep. Craig and Mayo Clinic leaders also discussed the significant economic and workforce opportunities Bold. Forward. Unbound. in Rochester will create and the lasting impacts of this historic investment in greater Minnesota and beyond. “Every year, more than a million people from across the globe, including countless Minnesotans from CD2, receive world-renowned care at Mayo Clinic – and that’s because they are on the cutting edge of modern medicine,” said Rep. Craig. “Mayo is constantly adapting to serve their patients, and Bold. Forward. Unbound. in Rochester is another critical step toward improving and expanding access to Mayo’s unmatched health care. This historic investment will not only improve patient outcomes but also create economic opportunities and good-paying jobs for generations of Minnesotans.” ###",1,2026-06-27T21:44:12Z,2026-06-27T22:11:26Z https://omar.house.gov/media/press-releases/labor-leaders-demand-eeoc-leadership-testify-and-turn-over-important-documents,Labor Leaders Demand EEOC Leadership Testify and Turn Over Important Documents Related to Workplace Demographic Reporting,2026-06-18,2026,2026-06,Democrat,House,MN,Ilhan Omar,O000173,omar.house.gov,omar,https://omar.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – Today, House Education and Workforce Committee Ranking Member Robert C. “Bobby” Scott (VA-03) and House Workforce Protections Subcommittee Ranking Member Ilhan Omar (MN-05) called for an immediate, long-overdue oversight hearing with the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) leadership to examine the EEOC’s budget request and the House Republicans’ proposed Fiscal Year 2027 (FY27) funding cut to the EEOC. The hearing would also explore the numerous actions the agency has taken over the past year that undermine the Agency’s mission, including the EEOC’s plan to roll back regulations requiring the collection of workplace demographic data, known as EEO-1. Since becoming Chair of the EEOC, Andrea Lucas has rescinded workplace harassment guidance, halted processing of claims alleging gender identity-based discrimination, and prompted bar complaints alleging that her actions constitute a refusal to follow established law. “We remain deeply concerned that, under Chair Lucas’ leadership, the EEOC has taken a number of actions that are contrary to the EEOC’s mission to ‘[p]revent and remedy unlawful employment discrimination and advance equal opportunity for all in the workplace,’” wrote the Ranking Members to Chairman Walberg. “It is important for Committee Members to hear directly from Chair Lucas about the full implications of House Republicans’ proposed FY27 funding cut to the EEOC.” In addition to urging Chairman Walberg to hold the first EEOC oversight hearing in four years, the Membersdemanded EEOC Chair Lucas turn over to the Committee all documents and information regarding the decision to drop the reporting requirements and its failure to announce the opening of the 2026 collection cycle, which would collect from employers the EEO-1 workplace demographic data from 2025. “For nearly sixty-one years, the EEOC has been the leading federal agency focused on ensuring equal opportunity in employment, working toward fulfillment of creating fair and just workplaces through its enforcement of our civil rights laws. Taken together, the proposal to rescind longstanding regulations and the failure to fulfill existing obligations under those regulations to conduct the 2026 EEO-1 Data Collection Cycle undermine the EEOC’s mission,” wrote the Ranking Members to EEOC Chair Andrea Lucas. Chair Lucas’s testimony and the documents related to EEOC’s above-mentioned decision regarding EEO-1 workplace data are critical to assessing whether the EEOC is fulfilling its statutory mission to prevent and remedy unlawful employment discrimination and advance equal opportunity for all in the workplace. To read the letter to Chairman Walberg requesting a hearing, click here. To read the letter to EEOC Chair Lucas requesting documents, click here. ###",1,2026-06-27T21:44:12Z,2026-06-27T22:11:26Z https://morrison.house.gov/media/press-releases/us-rep-kelly-morrison-raises-alarm-new-epa-proposal-would-allow-hundreds,U.S. Rep. Kelly Morrison Raises Alarm on New EPA Proposal That Would Allow Hundreds of Millions of Pounds of Toxic Pollutants into US Waterways,2026-06-17,2026,2026-06,Democrat,House,MN,Kelly Morrison,M001234,morrison.house.gov,morrison,https://morrison.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC – Today, U.S. Representative Kelly Morrison (MN-03) led more than 30 members of Congress in a letter to Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Administrator Lee Zeldin urging the EPA to protect American waterways and not weaken protections that keep toxic metals and other dangerous pollutants from leaching into rivers and our drinking water supply. In 2024, the EPA strengthened clean water protections by setting stricter limits on the discharge from coal plants, reducing the amount of toxic metals entering our nation’s waterways and protecting Americans from dangerous pollutants like arsenic, lead, and mercury that are linked to cancer, birth defects, neurological damage, and environmental degradation. But now, the EPA is proposing to weaken key protections and put millions of Americans’ clean drinking water at risk. A 2025 study found that the nation’s drinking water systems and wastewater systems are already concerningly below average (receiving a C- and D+ grade, respectively) — and this change in regulations will only make them more polluted. In the letter, Representative Morrison and her colleagues are urging the EPA to continue to protect clean water, hold a public hearing, and extend the comment period to allow the American people to have a say in the health of their waterways. “As a doctor, I am extremely concerned about what this regulation change means for our nation’s health. Millions of more pounds of dangerous and cancer-causing toxins in our drinking water is a public health disaster that can, and should, be avoided,” said Congresswoman Kelly Morrison. “The Environmental Protection Agency was created to ensure the health and safety of not just our natural resources, but the American people. Allowing coal plants to leach more toxic pollutants into our waterways is the exact opposite of what our EPA should be doing. The American people deserve to be able to have their voices heard on this dangerous threat to their health and well-being.” This letter is co-led by Representatives Valerie Foushee (NC-04), Jennifer McClellan (VA-04), and Chris Deluzio (PA-17). Read the full text of the letter HERE and below: Dear Administrator Zeldin and Assistant Administrator Kramer: We write to express grave concerns regarding EPA’s proposed revisions to the Steam Electric Power Generating Effluent Limitations Guidelines (ELGs) under the Clean Water Act. Given the national significance of the proposed rule, particularly its implications for wastewater management, drinking water safety, and river health, we urge EPA to hold a public hearing and extend the comment period by at least 30 days to ensure meaningful public participation. Steam electric power plants continue to discharge wastewater containing toxic metals and other pollutants that can adversely affect human health and aquatic ecosystems. Pollutants such as arsenic, lead, mercury, selenium, cadmium, boron, and bromides are linked to cancer, birth defects, neurological damage, and environmental degradation.1 In 2024, the EPA determined that coal plants released toxic chemicals into drinking water sources serving more than 30 million Americans. Under the 2024 Supplemental Steam Electric ELG Rule, EPA required more stringent Clean Water Act treatment requirements for the three largest waste streams of coal plant wastewater, which would significantly reduce the amount of harmful pollution that these plants are allowed to release into our waterways. The 2024 Rule was informed by over 15 years of scientific research, data collection, and technical analysis by the agency, as well as public and stakeholder engagement and advocacy. The rule received broad support from affected communities, drinking water providers, Tribal governments, and state agencies. The misguided revision would weaken key protections in the 2024 Rule that would have required coal plants to treat toxic “unmanaged” leachate wastewater. EPA’s own analysis shows the 2024 Rule would prevent between 660 and 672 million pounds of pollutants from entering U.S. waterways each year.2 A 30-day comment period is insufficient for stakeholders to review the technical support documents.3 According to the American Society of Civil Engineers’ 2025 Infrastructure Report Card, the nation’s drinking water systems received a grade of C- and wastewater systems received a D+, reflecting chronic underinvestment, aging infrastructure, and jeopardizing water quality.4 The grades point out an urgent need to reduce upstream pollution loads so that already-strained water systems are not forced to shoulder additional treatment burdens. Across the country, rivers are experiencing record-low flows and rising temperatures, reducing their capacity to dilute pollutants, and increasing the toxicity of discharges. Relaxing rather than reinforcing compliance standards will only make water treatment harder and more expensive for communities. From the Mississippi to the Potomac and the Columbia to the LA River, communities are grappling with contamination challenges. They deserve a transparent process and meaningful opportunity to be heard.5 To that end, we recommend the Agency withdraw this proposal and instead: Retain the important numeric limits for unmanaged leachate pollution; Strengthen wastewater monitoring and enforcement: Require robust, and in some cases continuous or near-continuous, monitoring of wastewater discharges from steam electric power plants, along with transparent public reporting and enforceable corrective actions to ensure compliance with effluent limits over time; and Accelerate wastewater compliance timelines: Establish clear compliance schedules for upgraded wastewater treatment standards, while reflecting the phased implementation structure of the 2024 rule, which requires reductions in toxic discharges but allows limited flexibility for plant-specific circumstances such as retirement plans or technology upgrades. For these reasons, we respectfully urge EPA to strengthen the rulemaking process by holding a public hearing and extending the comment period by at least 30 days. We look forward to your response detailing how the Agency will meet obligations under the Clean Water Act and ensure that its decisions align with its mission to safeguard clean water for all Americans. Thank you for your consideration. 1 University of Mississippi. (2026, April). Study links coal ash sites to elevated cancer risk nationwide. https://olemiss.edu/news/2026/04/study-links-coal-ash-sites-to-elevated-cancer-risk-nationwide/index.html 2 U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. (2024, May 9). Supplemental Effluent Limitations Guidelines and Standards for the Steam Electric Power Generating Point Source Category.https://www.federalregister.gov/d/2024-09185 3 Waterkeeper Alliance. (2024, April 18). Waterkeeper Alliance, partners sue to stop coal plants from poisoning our water. https://waterkeeper.org/news/waterkeeper-alliance-partners-sue-to-stop-coal-plants-from-poisoning-our-water/ 4 American Society of Civil Engineers. (2025, March 25). 2025 Report Card for America's Infrastructure.https://infrastructurereportcard.org/ 5 U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. (2025, January 23). EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin announces EPA’s Powering the Great American Comeback. https://www.epa.gov/newsreleases/epa-administrator-lee-zeldin-announces-epas-powering-great-american-comeback ###",1,2026-06-27T21:44:12Z,2026-06-27T22:11:26Z https://craig.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-craigs-office-recognized-exceptional-constituent-services,Rep. Craig's Office Recognized for Exceptional Constituent Services,2026-06-15,2026,2026-06,Democrat,House,MN,Angie Craig,C001119,craig.house.gov,craig,https://craig.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"EAGAN, MN – The Congressional Management Foundation awarded the office of U.S. Representative Angie Craig a “Certificate of Excellence in Constituent Service” for its exceptional work serving Minnesotans navigating issues with federal agencies. To date, Rep. Craig’s office has successfully returned $9.65 million from the federal government to Minnesotans. And earlier this year – during the height of Operation Metro Surge – Rep. Craig’s constituent services team secured the release of 12 constituents wrongfully detained by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). This year, more than 150 congressional offices from both sides of the aisle submitted applications for the Congressional Management Foundation's ""Democracy Awards.” Rep. Craig’s office was awarded a certificate of excellence for its commitment to public service and high-quality work on behalf of Minnesotans. “Folks in Minnesota's Second Congressional District elected me to serve them, and that is my number one priority in Congress,” said Rep. Craig. “From helping CD2-ers cut through red tape to reuniting families separated by ICE, I am so proud of the work that my team has done for Minnesotans over the years – and especially this year, as we navigated unprecedented challenges in our state.” Since Rep. Craig was elected to Congress in 2018, her office has completed 6,747 constituent cases. Her constituent services team has successfully completed 1,621 cases this Congress alone. Rep. Craig's office has resolved cases involving the Social Security Administration (SSA), the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS), the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), the Department of State, the Department of Education, the U.S. Postal Service (USPS), the Internal Revenue Service (IRS), the Small Business Administration (SBA) and other federal agencies. Constituents seeking help with a federal agency can contact Rep. Craig's constituent services team via phone at (651) 846-2120 or email at RepCraigCasework@mail.house.gov. More information on Rep. Craig’s constituent services can be found at https://craig.house.gov/casework.",1,2026-06-27T21:44:12Z,2026-06-27T22:11:26Z https://mccollum.house.gov/media/press-releases/congresswoman-mccollum-statement-ceasefire-extension-iran,Congresswoman McCollum Statement on Ceasefire Extension in Iran,2026-06-15,2026,2026-06,Democrat,House,MN,Betty McCollum,M001143,mccollum.house.gov,mccollum,https://mccollum.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"SAINT PAUL, Minn. — Congresswoman Betty McCollum, the Ranking Member of the House Appropriations Subcommittee on Defense, issued the following statement on Monday upon reports of a ceasefire extension between President Trump and Iranian negotiators: “President Trump’s reckless decision to take the United States to war with Iran without congressional authorization has been a disastrous failure. Not only has the president’s war of choice utterly failed to deliver on his own shifting military goals, but it has also cost the American people directly by increasing prices for necessities like groceries, housing, health care, utilities, gasoline, and more. Now, President Trump is attempting to negotiate with Iran to reopen the Strait of Hormuz, which was not closed prior to the start of the war. The war has left the U.S. in a precarious geopolitical position, and it has made the world a more dangerous place. “In the first hours of the war, President Trump spoke of eliminating the Iranian regime through U.S. military strikes and a popular uprising of the Iranian people. Not only did these objectives fail to materialize, but President Trump’s war has had the opposite effect on Iran. The Iranian regime is emboldened, and it is more tightly controlled by hardliners and the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps than it was prior to the war. This will make the prospects for long-term peace with Iran more difficult. “The president’s new agreement with Iran is just a tenuous sixty-day extension of the existing ceasefire. The framework announced by President Trump does nothing to resolve the most critical issues in this conflict, such as the status of the Iranian nuclear program, ballistic missile programs, frozen Iranian financial assets, or imposed U.S. sanctions. Nor does it ensure Israel will honor its ceasefire with Lebanon and cease and desist in its use of U.S. munitions in that conflict. Without a resolution to these issues, long-term peace and stability in the region will remain out of reach.” ###",1,2026-06-27T21:44:12Z,2026-06-27T22:11:26Z https://mccollum.house.gov/media/press-releases/statement-b-52-crash-edwards-air-force-base,Statement on B-52 Crash at Edwards Air Force Base,2026-06-15,2026,2026-06,Democrat,House,MN,Betty McCollum,M001143,mccollum.house.gov,mccollum,https://mccollum.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"SAINT PAUL, Minn. — Congresswoman Betty McCollum, the Ranking Member of the House Appropriations Subcommittee on Defense, issued the following statement on Monday evening: “Today, eight of our fellow Americans tragically lost their lives in service to our country following a B‑52 crash at Edwards Air Force Base in California. As our nation mourns this profound loss, I extend my heartfelt sympathies to their families, to their fellow service members stationed at Edwards Air Force Base, and to the entire U.S. military community.” ###",1,2026-06-27T21:44:12Z,2026-06-27T22:11:26Z https://craig.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-angie-craig-reveals-plan-combat-trumps-attacks-democracy-leads-legislation,Rep. Angie Craig Reveals Plan to Combat Trump's Attacks on Democracy; Leads Legislation to Prevent Interference in Federal Elections,2026-06-12,2026,2026-06,Democrat,House,MN,Angie Craig,C001119,craig.house.gov,craig,https://craig.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"June 12, 2026 The Hands Off Elections Act would prohibit Administration officials from meddling in federal elections EAGAN, MN – Today, U.S. Representative Angie Craig announced her pro-democracy agenda to combat the Trump Administration’s attacks on democracy and safeguard our nation’s elections for years to come. As part of this renewed push, she is co-leading the Hands Off Elections Act, which would prohibit officials from the executive branch from participating in election administration unless they are otherwise authorized to do so. “It is abundantly clear – President Trump’s leadership is an existential threat to our democracy,"" said Rep. Craig. “While congressional Republicans turn a blind eye to the President’s self-dealing and blatantly anti-democratic policies, Democrats need to push for sweeping reforms that will safeguard our Constitution, not just for the next two and a half years, but for generations to come. That’s what this five-point plan is all about: standing up to Trump and preserving American democracy for our kids and grandkids.” Rep. Craig’s comprehensive efforts to combat the President’s corruption and relentless attacks on democracy have informed the five main pillars of her agenda: combatting President Trump’s corruption, protecting free speech, safeguarding our elections, protecting against voter suppression and enacting campaign finance reform. Below is a non-exhaustive list of Rep. Craig’s work to protect American democracy during President Trump's second term. Combating President Trump’s corruption Rep. Craig introduced the Presidential Conflicts of Interest Accountability Act, which would require the President and Vice President and their immediate family members to divest of any financial interest posing a potential conflict of interest. She introduced the Termination of Reckless Unchecked Mandates from this President (TRUMP) Act, which would prohibit the President from using any federal funds to issue executive orders during a government shutdown. She helped lead the “End Corruption Now” legislative agenda – a package of bills that would confront political corruption and clean up Washington. She is an original cosponsor of the Presidential Immunity Constitutional Amendment, which would end absolute immunity for presidents. She is an original cosponsor of the Protecting Our Democracy Act, which would protect elections from foreign interference and prohibit the President from accepting payments from pardon recipients or presidential appointees. She is an original cosponsor of the CORRUPT Act,which would prevent a sitting president or their immediate family members from suing the Justice Department for personal compensation while in office. Protecting free speech She is an original cosponsor of the No Political Enemies (NOPE) Act, which would prevent the federal government from attacking individuals and organizations over political free speech or participation. She is an original cosponsor of the Supporting Free Speech Resolution, which condemns any attempts to use federal regulatory authority or litigation to suppress lawful free speech – particularly speech that is critical of a political party or any president. Safeguarding our elections Today, in response to President Trump’s efforts to nationalize elections, Rep. Craig helped introduce the Hands Off Elections Act to prohibit executive agency employees from participating in federal election administration unless they are otherwise authorized to do so. She is an original cosponsor of the Vote by Mail Tracking Act, which would require USPS to provide accessible ballot tracking services for absentee voters. She supports the Vote by Mail Protection Act, which would prevent any agency funds from being used to carry out President Trump’s executive order that allows DHS to interfere with voter rolls. Protecting against voter suppression Rep. Craig is an original cosponsor of the John Lewis Voting Rights Advancement Act, whichwould restore and modernize the protections of the Voting Rights Act. She is an original cosponsor of the CLEAN Elections Act, which would combat racial gerrymandering by requiring that states carrying out congressional redistricting use a plan developed by a nonpartisan independent redistricting commission. She is an original cosponsor of the Constitutional Amendment Establishing the Right to Vote, which would establish the right to vote as a Constitutional guarantee. She is an original cosponsor of the Election Mail Act, which would codify First-Class service standards for all election mail, ensure voters and election officials do not have to pay to return mail-in ballots and prevent the U.S. Postal Service from making operational changes within 120 days of an election that would restrict the prompt and reliable delivery of election mail. Enacting campaign finance reform She is an original cosponsor of the DISCLOSE Act, which would increase transparency in our elections by requiring super PACs, corporations and organizations that spend more than $10,000 in elections to disclose their donors. She supports the We the People Amendment, which would clarify that corporations and other entities do not have the same rights as individuals when it comes to political spending, reducing the power of wealthy donors and special interest groups in our elections. She also supports the Citizens Over Corporations Amendment, which would overturn the Citizens United Supreme Court decision via a Constitutional amendment — all of which have made it impossible to regulate billions in campaign spending. You can read more about Rep. Craig’s pro-democracy agenda here. Issues:Reforming Washington",1,2026-06-27T21:44:12Z,2026-06-27T22:11:26Z https://mccollum.house.gov/media/press-releases/ranking-member-mccollum-renews-call-president-trump-end-unlawful-war-iran,Ranking Member McCollum Renews Call for President Trump to End Unlawful War in Iran,2026-06-11,2026,2026-06,Democrat,House,MN,Betty McCollum,M001143,mccollum.house.gov,mccollum,https://mccollum.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. — Congresswoman Betty McCollum, the Ranking Member of the House Appropriations Subcommittee on Defense, issued the following statement on Thursday in response to President Trump’s assertion that the United States would hit Iran “very hard” tonight and take “total control” of Iran’s oil industry: “President Trump's war of choice with Iran was unconstitutional when he launched it on February 28th and it remains unconstitutional today. The House has already voted for an Iran War Powers Resolution directing President Trump to draw our troops down and end the conflict. There is no military solution that will solve the Iranian nuclear problem.",1,2026-06-27T21:44:12Z,2026-06-27T22:11:26Z https://mccollum.house.gov/media/press-releases/ranking-member-mccollum-statement-fisa-reauthorization,Ranking Member McCollum Statement on FISA Reauthorization,2026-06-11,2026,2026-06,Democrat,House,MN,Betty McCollum,M001143,mccollum.house.gov,mccollum,https://mccollum.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. — Congresswoman Betty McCollum, the Ranking Member of the House Appropriations Subcommittee on Defense, issued the following statement on Thursday: “The Republican majority has repeatedly refused to work with Democrats on a bipartisan reauthorization of the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act that keeps Americans safe and ensures that their Constitutional rights are respected and preserved. A bipartisan, bicameral solution is the only way forward. If FISA is not reauthorized, then the failure to move forward falls on President Trump and Speaker Johnson.”",1,2026-06-27T21:44:12Z,2026-06-27T22:11:26Z https://mccollum.house.gov/media/press-releases/congresswoman-mccollum-votes-no-republicans-blank-check-ice-and-cbp,Congresswoman McCollum Votes No on Republican's Blank Check for ICE and CBP,2026-06-10,2026,2026-06,Democrat,House,MN,Betty McCollum,M001143,mccollum.house.gov,mccollum,https://mccollum.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. — On Tuesday, the House of Representatives passed a budget bill (S.2) that provides another blank check for the Trump administration to continue to deploy ICE and Border Patrol agents across America without any oversight or accountability. Republicans’ budget bill increases the deficit by $70 billion to provide $38.5 billion to Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), $26.0 billion to Customs and Border Protection (CBP), and $5.0 billion to the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). The bill passed by a vote of 214–212. Congresswoman McCollum voted no. Upon passage of the legislation, Congresswoman McCollum issued the following statement: “For months, the Trump administration’s Operation Metro Surge subjected our community to racial profiling on a mass scale, assaults on our streets, and kidnappings from homes. Peaceful demonstrators were threatened and detained for exercising their First Amendment rights. Two American citizens – Renee Goode and Alex Pretti – were killed on our streets by federal agents. As we prepare to celebrate America’s 250th birthday, we deserve much better from our federal government. We deserve to have our constitutional rights protected. “This Republican bill gives another $70 billion in deficit spending to ICE and Border Patrol – on top of the $140 billion from the Republican Big Beautiful Bill just last year. Since President Trump directed the invasion and occupation of our state last winter, he and Congressional Republicans have blocked all efforts to reform ICE and Border Patrol’s operations and enforcement tactics. I cannot provide additional funding to ICE and Border Patrol without reforms that require them to follow the same standards as our state’s law enforcement. “Trump and Republicans in Congress refuse to help Americans burdened with the surging costs of fuel, groceries, health care, housing, and utilities, but they have no problem adding billions to the national debt to fuel Trump’s cruelty, chaos, and corruption. “Today, I honored my commitment to Minnesotans by voting NO on Republicans’ reckless blank check for the Trump administration to continue its abuses and violations of our constitutional rights. “In Minnesota, we remain Minnesota Strong, and we will continue to stand up for our rights!”",1,2026-06-27T21:44:12Z,2026-06-27T22:11:26Z https://mccollum.house.gov/media/press-releases/republicans-unveil-1-trillion-defense-funding-bill-largest-history-amid-steep,"Republicans Unveil $1 Trillion+ Defense Funding Bill, Largest in History, Amid Steep Domestic Program Cuts",2026-06-10,2026,2026-06,Democrat,House,MN,Betty McCollum,M001143,mccollum.house.gov,mccollum,https://mccollum.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON — House Appropriations Committee Republicans today released their 2027 Defense funding bill, which will be considered by the Defense subcommittee during a closed meeting tomorrow. The bill sets the Pentagon budget at more than $1 trillion – the largest in U.S. history and a $234 billion increase over 2026. The extravagant increase in Defense spending comes as Republicans propose steep cuts to domestic programs that support working people struggling with the cost-of-living crisis. For 2027, the bill provides $1,072,210,299,000 ($1.1 trillion), which is equal to the Administration’s request, and an increase of $234 billion compared to the 2026 enacted level. At the same time, Republicans are proposing nearly $13 billion in cuts to domestic programs that support working families struggling with the affordability crisis. The legislation: Abandons our allies and partners by failing to support Ukraine with funding for the Ukraine Security Assistance Initiative and allowing the Administration to cut forces in Europe. Allows Secretary Pete Hegseth to arbitrarily cut $1 billion from across the Department of Defense without consulting Congress, further ceding power to the Trump Administration under the false assumption of savings from the use of Artificial Intelligence tools. Undermines democracy at home and harms our military readiness by deploying National Guard to the District of Columbia for “beautification” activities and to other U.S. cities at the President’s will. “Each year, the House Appropriations Subcommittee on Defense has the solemn responsibility of producing a bill funding the Department of Defense to take care of our service members, their families, and the civilians who serve alongside them. This year, the majority has written a Defense Appropriations Act that provides the department with over a trillion dollars — an unprecedented sum,” Defense Appropriations Subcommittee Ranking Member Betty McCollum (D-MN-04) said. “But this level of defense spending comes at the cost of cuts to domestic investments like education and workforce training, as well as international diplomacy. Deep cuts to the Department of Education will harm the next generation of our national security workforce. Cuts to the Department of State will hamstring American diplomatic efforts at a time when threats to our nation are growing, not shrinking. The bottom line is this: Pouring over a trillion dollars into the Department of Defense will not keep Americans safe if it requires us to mortgage our nation’s students, our future workforce, and our strategic diplomatic efforts to pay for it.” “This is the largest Defense budget in the history of our country. Even with a $234 billion increase, it does not include the additional costs of Trump’s war of choice in Iran,” Appropriations Committee Ranking Member Rosa DeLauro (D-CT-03) said. “This bill includes exactly how much the Trump administration demanded. President Trump said, ‘Jump,’ and Republicans in Congress said, ‘How high?’ Meanwhile, Republicans are proposing nearly $13 billion in cuts to domestic programs that provide relief for working families struggling to stay afloat as costs keep rising. Even with all the additional money in this bill, it does not provide funding for the Ukraine Security Assistance Initiative, abandoning a key ally in their fight against Russian aggression. It also continues the deployment of National Guard troops to the District of Columbia for the so-called ‘beautification’ of the District. This is a gross misuse of military resources and a disservice to the Guards, whose time and energy would be much more wisely spent training, supporting legitimate operations, or responding to emergencies where their skills are needed. The American people are begging for relief from high prices, but the Trump administration and Republicans in Congress are deaf to their pleas. Democrats support significant defense investments to keep us safe, but not if it comes at the expense of domestic resources to help lower the cost of living. I will continue to work with my colleagues on the Appropriations Committee to meet the real needs of the American people.”",1,2026-06-27T21:44:12Z,2026-06-27T22:11:26Z https://morrison.house.gov/media/press-releases/us-rep-kelly-morrison-introduces-bipartisan-legislation-prevent-overdose,U.S. Rep. Kelly Morrison Introduces Bipartisan Legislation to Prevent Overdose Deaths in Schools,2026-06-10,2026,2026-06,Democrat,House,MN,Kelly Morrison,M001234,morrison.house.gov,morrison,https://morrison.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC – Today, U.S. Representative Kelly Morrison (MN-03) introduced the bipartisan School Access to Naloxone Act, which would help ensure access to naloxone and that school personnel are trained in administering lifesaving medication to students in the case of an opioid overdose. Every week, more than 20 adolescents die of an overdose in the United States — the equivalent of a high school classroom. Rep. Morrison’s School Access to Naloxone Act aims to prevent these deaths by incentivizing schools to carry supplies of naloxone (also known as Narcan), a lifesaving drug that reverses opioid overdoses, and training nurses and school personnel on how to administer naloxone. In her time in the Minnesota state legislature, Representative Morrison championed a bill to require naloxone in Minnesota schools and successfully passed it into law, making Minnesota one of only a dozen states that require public schools to carry doses of naloxone. This bill would encourage other states and local school districts to do the same by providing grant access to any state, locality, district or tribe that requires: Schools to stock naloxone Staff to be trained on its administration, and Civil liability protection for trained personnel who administer naloxone in a school setting This bipartisan, bicameral legislation is co-led in the House by U.S. Representative Dave Joyce (R-OH) and in the Senate by U.S. Senators Jeff Merkley (D-OR) and Rick Scott (R-FL). This bill is endorsed by the National Association of School Nurses, School-Based Health Alliance, and AASA, The School Superintendents Association. “As a doctor, I know having the right equipment and training on site can be the difference between life and death. Our nation is facing a youth mental health crisis, and we need to make sure we are tackling it from every direction. As we work to do everything we can to keep our kids safe, this is an easy, life-saving preventative measure we can all take. Our children’s health and safety is not a partisan issue. I am proud to introduce this bipartisan legislation to ensure our schools have the training and resources they need to save students’ lives,” said Congresswoman Kelly Morrison. “Far too many American students have been or know someone deeply affected by the opioid crisis,” said Congressman Dave Joyce. “Naloxone has proven to be a safe and effective opioid reversal medication, and expanding access to it could save countless lives. At a time when fentanyl is increasingly found in counterfeit pills and other illicit drugs, a single mistake can have deadly consequences. While I support prevention first and foremost, we should be making every effort to save our students' lives. Thank you to Congresswoman Morrison, Senator Merkley, and Senator Scott for their leadership on such a critical issue.” “Access to naloxone is a common-sense, life-saving measure for schools. Professional organizations including the National Association of School Nurses and the American Medical Association recommend naloxone access as an essential component of school emergency response. The School Access to Naloxone Act would help ensure school staff are trained, prepared and supported to respond quickly in the event of an opioid overdose. We appreciate Rep. Kelly Morrison’s leadership on this bipartisan legislation to strengthen school emergency readiness, protect students and improve health outcomes in our communities,” said Bloomington Public Schools Superintendent Eric Melbye. “School nurses know firsthand that access to emergency medication can save lives. No school community should be left unprepared for an opioid-related emergency. The National Association of School Nurses supports the School Access to Naloxone Act because schools need both access to opioid-overdose reversal medication and trained personnel ready to respond in an emergency. Expanding access to these medications in schools is a practical, evidence-informed step that protects students, supports school communities, and strengthens the ability of school nurses and trained personnel to respond when minutes matter,” said National Association of School Nurses President Lynn Nelson. Read the full text of the bill HERE. ###",1,2026-06-27T21:44:12Z,2026-06-27T22:11:26Z https://omar.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-omar-speaks-against-republicans-budget-reconciliation-bill-house-floor,Rep. Omar Speaks Against Republicans' Budget Reconciliation Bill on the House Floor,2026-06-09,2026,2026-06,Democrat,House,MN,Ilhan Omar,O000173,omar.house.gov,omar,https://omar.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON — Congresswoman Ilhan Omar (D-MN) spoke on the House Floor in opposition to Republicans' budget reconciliation bill, which would add $70 billion to ICE's slush fund. You can watch the full video here. Below is a transcript of her remarks: ""Thank you, Mr. Speaker. ""I rise in strong opposition to this reconciliation bill. ""Last year, Republicans handed ICE and CBP an eighty-five-billion-dollar slush fund. ""Today, they want 70 billion more – with no reforms and no accountability for the crimes they committed. ""And this is at a time when Americans can barely make ends meet. ""Let me tell you what that money could mean to working families: ""We could provide free childcare for over 1 million children for two years. ""We could expand and extend the ACA premium tax credits for at least a year. ""And we could cancel the medical debt for a third of Americans. ""Instead, Congressional Republicans want to hand more money to the same rogue agencies that have kidnapped and killed Americans across the country. ""We know who is really paying for this. When federal agents flooded Minneapolis, our city suffered $200 million dollars in economic damages – at least. ""Workers stayed home, small businesses shuttered, and tens of thousands of residents were suddenly thrown into food and housing insecurity. ""That is why I will be introducing a bill to redirect ICE’s slush fund to the very communities that the agency terrorized and harmed. ""That is who this money should be going to – everyday Americans who are just trying to survive in Trump’s disastrous economy. ""I won’t support another dollar for ICE and I urge my colleagues to vote with their conscious and oppose this bill. ""I yield back."" ###",1,2026-06-27T21:44:12Z,2026-06-27T22:11:26Z https://omar.house.gov/media/press-releases/workforce-protections-ranking-member-omar-opening-remarks-hearing,Workforce Protections Ranking Member Omar Opening Remarks at Hearing on Misclassifying Rural Health Care Providers,2026-06-09,2026,2026-06,Democrat,House,MN,Ilhan Omar,O000173,omar.house.gov,omar,https://omar.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – Workforce Protections Subcommittee Ranking Member Ilhan Omar (MN-05) delivered the following opening statement at today’s Workforce Protections Subcommittee hearing entitled, “On Call for America: Strengthening Access Through Locum Tenens Providers.” “Thank you, Mr. Chairman, and thank you to our witnesses for joining us today. “Today’s hearing is being presented as a discussion about expanding access to health care, particularly in rural communities. I think it’s fair to say that we all agree that rural America is facing serious and unique health care challenges. Too many communities struggle with provider shortages, hospital closures, and limited access to care. Those problems deserve serious discussion and real solutions. “However, misclassifying health care workers and stripping them of their worker protections and benefits will not solve any of those struggles. “Across the country, hospitals and health care businesses are increasingly looking for ways to cut labor costs by shifting away from direct employer-employee relationships. Instead, they are relying more heavily on outsourced subcontractors, temporary staffing arrangements, and workers [misclassified] as independent contractors. The result is often the same: employers reduce their responsibilities and their bottom line, while workers lose critical rights and protections. “My colleagues may argue that automatically classifying some physicians and advanced practice providers as independent contractors will increase flexibility and help address workforce shortages. But flexibility should not come at the expense of fundamental workplace safety and security. “When classified as independent contractors, worker[s] can lose access to overtime pay, unemployment insurance, workers’ compensation, and the right to collectively bargain for better working condition[s]. Those protections exist for a reason, even for highly educated professionals such as physicians and nurse practitioners. They help ensure that the people caring for our families can earn a living wage, work in safe environments, and have a voice on the job. And it’s important to recognize that these temporary staffing arrangements often create challenges for patient care. “Despite temporary staffing arrangements becoming increasingly more common, many workers report receiving little or no orientation before beginning assignments. They may not know where supplies are located, how to navigate patient record systems, or who to contact when problems arise. “The data shows that temporary nurses are assigned the most difficult units and are expected to perform without adequate support. Those conditions are difficult for workers and potentially hurt patients or reduce quality of care. “For the sake of the workers and the patients, Congress should not be promoting these types of temporary staffing arrangements in health care. “Unfortunately, H.R. 8347 would do just that. It would create a special carveout that allows employers to avoid responsibilities that apply in virtually every other workplace. And it would replace long-standing legal standards with a blanket rule that makes it easier to classify health care professionals as independent contractors, regardless of the realities of their working relationship. “We all agree that rural health care has unique needs. Rural hospitals often operate on thin margins and face persistent staffing shortages. And unfortunately, these challenges have been exacerbated by the cruel cuts of Medicaid and student loans included in H.R. 1. “The nearly $1 trillion cuts made to [Medicaid] threaten the financial stability of rural hospitals and clinics that already operate on razor-thin margins, increasing the risk of service reductions, workforce shortages, and even facility closings. “As people lose access to health coverage and federal funding declines, rural families may face longer travel times for care, fewer health care providers, and greater barriers to accessing essential services such as emergency care, maternity care, and behavioral health treatment. “Instead of weakening protections for the health care workforce, Congress should explore targeted investments, workforce development programs, provider training opportunities, loan repayment assistance, and other measures to help recruit and retain health care professionals in underserved communities. “The dedicated workforce we are talking about today is the backbone of our health care system. They deserve policies that value their contributions, protect their rights, and support high-quality patient care. “Thank you, and I yield back.” ###",1,2026-06-27T21:44:12Z,2026-06-27T22:11:26Z https://craig.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-angie-craig-statement-release-constituent-suffering-ovarian-cyst-ice,Rep. Angie Craig Statement on Release of Constituent Suffering from Ovarian Cyst from ICE Custody,2026-06-05,2026,2026-06,Democrat,House,MN,Angie Craig,C001119,craig.house.gov,craig,https://craig.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC – Today, U.S. Representative Angie Craig released the following statement on the release of her constituent Andrea Pedro-Francisco from Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) custody in El Paso, TX. “I am beyond happy and relieved to hear that Andrea has been released from ICE custody and will soon be home with her family and friends in Minnesota, where she belongs. Andrea didn’t deserve to be detained in the first place, and she certainly didn’t deserve to be denied the care that she desperately needed for months. Andrea’s perseverance and courage in the face of such inhumanity has inspired me — and so many in our community — to continue our work together to hold ICE accountable for their cruel and lawless enforcement operations in Minnesota. Her release is proof that when Minnesotans come together to resist this administration, we prevail.” Pedro-Francisco, a resident of Burnsville, MN was picked up by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) on her way to work on February 5th. She was scheduled to have surgery for an ovarian cyst on February 11th, but instead, was sent to El Paso, where she has been held without access to proper medical treatment since. Her request for humanitarian parole was denied early last month. Rep. Craig worked with Pedro-Francisco’s family, friends, lawyers and community advocates for months to facilitate her release and get her the medical care she needed. Last month, as part of those efforts, Rep. Craig traveled to El Paso, TX to visit Pedro-Francisco and conduct oversight of two ICE detention facilities. During her visit, Rep. Craig toured both the El Paso Service Processing Center and Camp East Montana, the country’s largest migrant detention facility, which has been mired with reports of inhumane conditions, abuse and a measles outbreak earlier this year. Rep. Craig also had the chance to speak with medical staff and meet with Pedro-Francisco to hear from her directly about her experience in detention. ###",1,2026-06-27T21:44:12Z,2026-06-27T22:11:26Z https://craig.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-angie-craig-introduces-legislation-hold-usps-accountable-unacceptable,Rep. Angie Craig Introduces Legislation to Hold USPS Accountable for Unacceptable Postal Performance,2026-06-04,2026,2026-06,Democrat,House,MN,Angie Craig,C001119,craig.house.gov,craig,https://craig.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC – Today, as the Minnesota-North Dakota region continues to rank in the bottom ten for postal performance across the nation, U.S. Representative Angie Craig (D-MN-02) re-introduced her bill to hold the U.S. Postal Service (USPS) accountable for unacceptable mail delivery service. Her Postal Delivery Accountability Act would require USPS to notify customers of undelivered and partially delivered routes by zip code, keeping Minnesotans informed of when they can expect their mail to be delivered or delayed. As Minnesotans continue to experience slow delivery, additional public reporting would help increase transparency and accountability for sub-par service from USPS. Senators Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), Tina Smith (D-MN), John Hoeven (R-ND) and Kevin Cramer (R-ND) introduced companion legislation in the Senate. “For years, Minnesotans have struggled with unacceptable mail delivery service – waiting weeks or longer to receive critical deliveries, like medications, paychecks, ballots and more,” said Rep. Craig. “It’s past time we hold USPS accountable for unacceptable postal performance in the Minnesota-North Dakota region and increase transparency for Minnesotans who deserve to know when they can expect their mail.” Rep. Craig has consistently spoken out against unacceptable USPS performance in the South Metro and has led the charge to improve mail service and protect USPS from privatization. Local letter carriers and others have also raised the alarm about leadership changes that are impacting morale and culture in Minnesota post offices. This Congress, Rep. Craig introduced her Deliver for Democracy Act, which would limit price increases on stamps until the USPS can achieve at least a 95% on-time delivery rate for periodicals and require the USPS to report annually to the U.S. Postal Regulatory Commission on its progress – including on-time delivery data for newspapers in its periodical service performance measurement. Rep. Craig successfully pushed USPS to launch an internal investigation into reports of delayed delivery of the New Prague Times. And last year, she led a resolution urging her Congressional colleagues to take all appropriate measures to reject the privatization of USPS. Following Rep. Craig’s bipartisan call for a statewide investigation, the USPS OIG announced an investigation into the entire MN-ND postal district. And in January 2023, she launched an online USPS survey to gauge the extent of postal issues in the Second District and received more than 3,300 responses from Minnesotans. Rep. Craig delivered those responses directly to former Postmaster General DeJoy’s office in Washington DC. ###",1,2026-06-27T21:44:12Z,2026-06-27T22:11:26Z https://morrison.house.gov/media/press-releases/us-rep-kelly-morrison-reads-letters-minnesotans-calling-gun-control-house,U.S. Rep. Kelly Morrison Reads Letters from Minnesotans Calling for Gun Control on House Floor,2026-06-04,2026,2026-06,Democrat,House,MN,Kelly Morrison,M001234,morrison.house.gov,morrison,https://morrison.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC – Today, U.S. Representative Kelly Morrison (MN-03) spoke on the House floor to recognize National Gun Violence Awareness Month and call out the Trump Administration for its refusal to act on gun violence. This June marks nine months since the Annunciation Catholic School shooting in Minnesota, which killed two children and injured dozens more. But as America faces hundreds of school shootings a year, the Trump Administration has enacted a historic rollback of gun regulations: reducing background checks, repealing bump stock regulations, and even proposing a new rule that would let people mail handguns, undermining protections against gun trafficking across the country. In her speech on the House Floor, Rep. Morrison read letters written from the hundreds of Minnesotans who attended her gun violence prevention town hall last fall in the wake of the Annunciation School shooting. The letters from Minnesotans demanded action on gun violence and called for common sense reforms. Watch Representative Morrison’s floor speech HERE. Image Read a transcript of Representative Morrison’s remarks below: Mr. Speaker, today I rise in recognition of June as National Gun Violence Awareness Month. As one Minnesotan wrote: “I’m standing up for children because we’re the adults, it’s our responsibility to make them feel safe.” I have a stack of notes here from hundreds of Minnesotans who came together after the mass shooting at Annunciation Catholic School demanding action… Calling for common sense reforms, Expressing their grief and their anger and their frustration, Begging for their elected leaders to do something. Anything to respond to the tragedy that left an 8 year old and a 10 year old dead… hundreds more forever traumatized… and a community reeling. What are we doing if we are not listening to the American people? Not protecting our children? We need to listen to the American people. We need to act to keep our children safe. We need to ban assault weapons, bump stocks, and high capacity magazine sales… Get weapons of war off our streets… Invest in addressing our nation’s mental health crisis… The list goes on. There won’t be one policy alone that will end this public health crisis, but what we can’t do is nothing. There are so many steps we could take immediately. Gun violence is an epidemic that has stained our country – and we are going in the wrong direction. As our country faces hundreds of mass shootings every year – more mass shootings than any country on the face of the planet – the Trump Administration is taking an ax to our nation’s gun safety laws and doing the dirty work of the big gun lobby. Rolling back dozens of federal safety regulations… Making it easier for criminals to buy and ship guns… Cutting funding and abandoning critical gun violence prevention programs that keep our communities safe… They are doubling down on the number one killer of children in the United States of America. Gun violence is preventable. Our children deserve to be our priority. They deserve to feel safe. And they deserve adults who will act. Every day we are here in Congress, we are creating the world our children will inherit. We should be creating a world where children feel safe at school. Where they can be healthy and thrive. Not where they live in fear and see adults refusing to protect them. Mr. Speaker, I want to share some examples of what Minnesotans wrote: “My students should not have to worry about being killed at school.” “I shouldn’t have to worry about if my kids are safe at their school and daycare.” “My grandchildren go to school every day and I worry they will be victims. I also am devastated they will live their school lives in fear.” This is tragic. This is heartbreaking. And this is preventable. It doesn’t need to be this way. We don’t have to live like this. We could choose to take steps to make our children and our communities safer. We could create a world with far less gun violence, where people don’t live in fear of it. If only Congress had the courage to act. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I yield back. ###",1,2026-06-27T21:44:12Z,2026-06-27T22:11:26Z https://mccollum.house.gov/media/press-releases/ranking-member-mccollum-commends-house-passage-resolution-directing-removal-us,Ranking Member McCollum Commends House Passage of Resolution Directing Removal of U.S. Forces from Iran War,2026-06-03,2026,2026-06,Democrat,House,MN,Betty McCollum,M001143,mccollum.house.gov,mccollum,https://mccollum.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. — Congresswoman Betty McCollum, the Ranking Member of the House Appropriations Subcommittee on Defense, issued the following statement on Wednesday evening following House passage of H.Con.Res. 86, directing the President to remove U.S. Armed Forces from hostilities with Iran: “This evening, I voted to stop President Trump’s unconstitutional Iran War for the fourth time. Democrats were finally joined by enough Republicans to assert Congress’s constitutional War Powers authority and direct President Trump to withdraw U.S. forces from direct conflict with Iran. The American people have made clear that they oppose the war with Iran. The President should work with the international community to negotiate a peaceful resolution to the Iran nuclear materials issue and open up the Strait of Hormuz. I call on the Senate to immediately take up and pass this resolution.”",1,2026-06-27T21:44:12Z,2026-06-27T22:11:26Z https://morrison.house.gov/media/press-releases/us-reps-morrison-finstad-introduce-veteran-burial-benefit-correction-act,"U.S. Reps. Morrison, Finstad Introduce the Veteran Burial Benefit Correction Act",2026-05-29,2026,2026-05,Democrat,House,MN,Kelly Morrison,M001234,morrison.house.gov,morrison,https://morrison.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC – Today, Congresswoman Kelly Morrison (MN-03) and Congressman Brad Finstad (MN-01) introduced the Veteran Burial Benefit Correction Act, legislation which increases and standardizes burial and funeral benefits for veterans who die from service-connected disabilities. To keep up with rising costs and ensure consistent coverage for eligible veterans’ families, this legislation raises the fixed burial and funeral expense payment from $2,000 to $3,000. Representative Morrison is a member of the House Veterans' Affairs Committee. “Every veteran who serves our country deserves to be laid to rest honorably. This bipartisan legislation would increase burial and funeral service benefits for the families of veterans who have passed from a service-connected disability. I’m proud to lead this bill and look forward to seeing it passed into law so our veterans can be honored appropriately without financially straining their loved ones,” said Congresswoman Kelly Morrison. “The families of our fallen servicemembers and veterans suffer greatly when losing a loved one due to injuries sustained in defense of our great nation,” said Congressman Brad Finstad. “I am proud to introduce legislation that helps their legacy live on by ensuring veterans’ families can cover the cost of funerals and burials for their loved ones who have died from service-connected disabilities.” Background: In 2020, Congress passed legislation to increase burial benefits for non-service-connected deaths, linking them to inflation. This resulted in the benefit amount for deaths unrelated to service being higher than that for service-connected deaths, which remains capped at $2,000. Companion legislation was introduced in the U.S. Senate by Senators James Risch (R-ID) and Angus King (I-ME). ###",1,2026-06-27T21:44:12Z,2026-06-27T22:21:02Z https://mccollum.house.gov/media/press-releases/cleaver-mccollum-introduce-celiac-safety-act-protect-americans-celiac-disease,"Cleaver, McCollum Introduce Celiac Safety Act to Protect Americans with Celiac Disease",2026-05-28,2026,2026-05,Democrat,House,MN,Betty McCollum,M001143,mccollum.house.gov,mccollum,https://mccollum.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"(Washington, D.C.) – Today, during Celiac Disease Awareness Month, U.S. Representatives Emanuel Cleaver, II (D-MO) and Betty McCollum (D-MN) introduced the Celiac Safety Act to strengthen food labeling law and protect the roughly 3 million Americans with Celiac Disease. The legislation is the first proposal in Congress to require the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to mandate the inclusion of “gluten-containing grains” as a major food allergen, ensuring manufacturers label the inclusion of all gluten-containing ingredients in products made available to the public. “More than three million Americans are impacted by Celiac Disease in the United States, forcing them to maintain a careful diet or face serious health challenges that come with the disease,” said Congressman Cleaver. “Current food labeling law does not account for all gluten-containing ingredients, like barley and rye, making the tedious task of avoiding these ingredients in public products extremely and unnecessarily challenging for many of our neighbors. By taking the simple step of requiring the FDA to include all gluten-containing grains as a major food allergen, we can help prevent unnecessary health struggles for millions across the country.” “All of us know someone with Celiac disease, and all of us have seen the suffering that can come with it. As co-chair of the Celiac Disease Caucus, I’m glad to co-lead the Celiac Safety Act with Congressman Cleaver. The United States is one of the only developed nations that doesn't require food manufacturers to list gluten as a major allergen. Our bill would change that, helping the nearly three million Americans with the disease to avoid gluten exposure and make informed choices about the food they consume,” said Congresswoman McCollum. ""Gluten-containing grains trigger a serious autoimmune response in celiac disease patients, yet current labeling laws fail to recognize that risk with the same clarity afforded to other ingredients listed as major allergens. Recategorizing gluten-containing grains as a major food allergen would strengthen transparency, reduce preventable medical harm, and help millions of Americans make safe food choices with confidence. The Celiac Disease Foundation applauds Representatives Cleaver and McCollum for introducing the Celiac Safety Act, and we urge members of Congress to pass this important legislation,"" said Marilyn G. Geller, CEO of Celiac Disease Foundation. Celiac Disease is an autoimmune disease that causes the immune system to attack the lining of the small intestine when individuals consume the protein gluten, which can be found in wheat, barley, and rye. There is no cure, and the only treatment is adherence to a strict gluten-free diet. While Australia, New Zealand, Canada, the United Kingdom, and all 27 member states of the European Union require manufacturers to list gluten as a major allergen, the United States only requires manufacturers to list wheat as a major allergen, which does not account for other gluten-containing grains like barley and rye. This makes it difficult for individuals with Celiac Disease to assess the risk of individual food products while managing their condition. The Celiac Safety Act will protect individuals with Celiac Disease by: Requiring any product containing wheat, barley, or rye to list “gluten-containing grains” as a major allergen. Provide an 18-month implementation window for the FDA and manufacturers. The Celiac Safety Act is endorsed by the Celiac Disease Foundation, American Gastroenterological Association, and Society for the Study of Celiac Disease. A one-pager for the Celiac Safety Act is available here.",1,2026-06-26T06:29:35Z,2026-06-26T06:31:46Z https://morrison.house.gov/media/press-releases/us-rep-kelly-morrison-introduces-bipartisan-legislation-end-veteran,U.S. Rep. Kelly Morrison Introduces Bipartisan Legislation to End Veteran Homelessness Nationwide,2026-05-27,2026,2026-05,Democrat,House,MN,Kelly Morrison,M001234,morrison.house.gov,morrison,https://morrison.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"BLOOMINGTON, MN — Today, U.S. Representative Kelly Morrison (MN-03) announced her legislation to end veteran homelessness, the Housing for All Veterans Act. 32,000 veterans across the United States are homeless — but Minnesota is on the cusp of eradicating veteran homelessness completely. Representative Morrison’s Housing for All Veterans Act will take Minnesota's success nationwide by guaranteeing housing vouchers to all low-income veterans to prevent and end homelessness. Representative Morrison is a member of the House Veterans’ Affairs Committee and is committed to ensuring veterans have the care and benefits they deserve — and have earned. The Housing for All Veterans Act is the U.S. House companion to U.S. Senator Tina Smith’s Senate bill of the same name. This bipartisan bill is co-led by Representative Mike Lawler (NY-17). “We owe it to our veterans to see that they get the support and care they deserve when they return home — including making sure every veteran has access to safe and stable housing,” said Congresswoman Morrison. “Here in Minnesota, we’re close to ending veteran homelessness, and it’s time to make sure that the rest of our country’s veterans have this support too. I’m proud to introduce this bipartisan legislation so we can keep our promise to our veterans.” “The men and women who served our country shouldn’t have to fight another battle when they come home, especially when it comes to keeping a roof over their heads. Here in New York and across the country, too many veterans are facing rising housing costs and financial pressures that put stability out of reach. This bipartisan legislation helps strengthen the safety net for veterans and their families, provides support before housing insecurity becomes a crisis, and honors our obligation to those who sacrificed for our nation. I’m proud to help lead this effort,” said Congressman Mike Lawler (NY-17). This bill is endorsed by the Minnesota Assistance Council for Veterans (MACV) and Disabled American Veterans of Minnesota (DAV MN). “This legislation addresses the root cause of housing affordability, providing our veterans with a long-term, sustainable solution to secure housing. By ensuring access to rental assistance and prohibiting income discrimination, we give our veterans the stability they deserve and the opportunity to thrive in their communities,” said Minnesota Assistance Council for Veterans (MACV) Chief Program Officer Nathaniel Saltz. “DAV Minnesota supports the Housing for All Veterans Act because stable housing is essential to a veteran’s health, dignity, and ability to thrive after service. This bill provides practical housing support for low-income veteran families before they fall deeper into crisis, while respecting the earned benefits and sacrifices of those who served. Veterans should not have to face housing instability alone, and DAV Minnesota appreciates Representative Morrison’s leadership in advancing a bill that strengthens housing stability for veterans who served our nation,” said Legislative Director of DAV MN Trent Dilks. Read the full text of the bill here. ###",1,2026-06-27T21:44:12Z,2026-06-27T22:21:02Z https://omar.house.gov/media/press-releases/us-representatives-ilhan-omar-chris-pappas-senator-shaheen-introduce-bill,"U.S. Representatives Ilhan Omar, Chris Pappas, Senator Shaheen Introduce Bill to Tackle Manufactured Housing Evictions",2026-05-22,2026,2026-05,Democrat,House,MN,Ilhan Omar,O000173,omar.house.gov,omar,https://omar.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Representative Ilhan Omar (D-MN) reintroduced the Frank Adelmann Manufactured Housing Community Sustainability Act, which would incentivize manufactured home park owners to sell the park to community residents or nonprofits, rather than another developer or landlord. Rep. Omar is joined by Congressman Chris Pappas (D-NH) in co-leading this legislation. Companion legislation is being introduced in the U.S. Senate by Senator Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH). “Manufactured homeowners deserve the same stability, dignity, and protection as any other homeowner,” said Congresswoman Omar. “Too many families who own their homes are still one rent increase or park closure away from losing everything because they do not own the land beneath them. I’m proud to introduce this legislation in honor of my constituent, Frank Adelmann, whose tragic death just days before the closure of the mobile home park he called home underscores the importance of this legislation.” “Housing has become even more unaffordable for families across the Granite State, and President Trump’s tariffs and war in Iran are only making things worse,” said Senator Shaheen. “I am committed to doing everything I can to lower the cost of housing for Granite Staters and make New Hampshire a more affordable place to live. By helping residents of manufactured housing communities buy their communities, they’ll be protected from predatory rent increases and get real relief from high costs.” “Granite Staters deserve affordable, safe, and secure housing. Manufactured housing is an affordable homeownership option but right now it can also leave families more vulnerable to displacement and predatory practices when they don’t own the land they live on. This legislation would incentivize manufactured home park owners selling their land to sell to current residents, keeping people in their homes and empowering families in the future,” said Congressman Pappas. “I’ll continue fighting to put homeownership back in reach for all.” Across the United States, over 20 million Americans live in manufactured homes. Congresswoman Omar's Frank Adelmann Manufactured Housing Community Sustainability Act would create a 75 percent federal tax credit offsetting capital gains if a manufactured housing community is sold to a resident-owned cooperative or nonprofit, rather than another landlord, developer or corporation. This would incentivize the sale of manufactured housing communities to the residents themselves or a non-profit—lowering costs and protecting access to affordable housing by shielding residents from excessive rent increases that could price them out of their homes. Joining Omar, Shaheen, and Pappas as cosponsors on this legislation are Representatives Suzanne Bonamici, Ro Khanna, Rashida Tlaib and Senators Angus King and Richard Blumenthal. The Frank Adelmann Manufactured Housing Community Sustainability Act is endorsed by Local Initiatives Support Corporation (LISC), Manufactured Home Owners Association of New Jersey, Minnesota Housing Partnership (MHP), National Consumer Law Center (on behalf of its low-income clients), National Manufactured Home Owners Association (NMHOA), National Low Income Housing Coalition (NLIHC), Oregon State Tenants Association, and Resident Owned Communities(ROC) USA. Read the bill here. ###",1,2026-06-27T21:44:12Z,2026-06-27T22:21:02Z https://omar.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-omar-honors-minnesota-state-representative-erin-koegel-house-floor,Rep. Omar Honors Minnesota State Representative Erin Koegel on the House Floor,2026-05-15,2026,2026-05,Democrat,House,MN,Ilhan Omar,O000173,omar.house.gov,omar,https://omar.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON — Congresswoman Ilhan Omar (D-MN) spoke on the House Floor in honor of State Representative Erin Koegel for a decade of service to the residents of Fridley, Columbia Heights, Spring Lake Park, and Hilltop in the Minnesota House of Representatives. You can watch the full video here. Below is a transcript of her remarks: ""Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Minnesota State Representative Erin Koegel for her incredible work serving in the Minnesota Legislature. ""I was fortunate to have had the opportunity to work with Rep. Koegel during my time serving in the Minnesota House of Representatives, and I quickly learned how thoughtful, dedicated, and strategic she is when it comes to serving her constituents. ""For a decade, Rep. Koegel has worked tirelessly to improve the lives of everyday people – passing landmark transportation legislation to invest in roads, bridges, and transit, and expanding worker protections for pregnant and breastfeeding Minnesotans. ""My belief in co-governance is made possible through my colleagues at the state and local level, and Rep. Koegel has been a great partner in this work. ""I look forward to seeing the positive impacts of her work for years to come! ""Thank you, and I yield back."" ###",1,2026-06-27T21:44:12Z,2026-06-27T22:21:02Z https://morrison.house.gov/media/press-releases/ob-gyn-and-us-rep-kelly-morrison-leads-colleagues-recognizing-american-college,OB-GYN and U.S. Rep. Kelly Morrison Leads Colleagues in Recognizing American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists’ 75th Anniversary,2026-05-14,2026,2026-05,Democrat,House,MN,Kelly Morrison,M001234,morrison.house.gov,morrison,https://morrison.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC – Today, U.S. Representative and OB-GYN for more than 20 years Kelly Morrison (MN-03) led the U.S. House of Representatives in commemorating the 75th anniversary of the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG). Over the last 75 years, ACOG has been dedicated to advancing women’s health: standardizing prenatal and cancer screenings, expanding reproductive healthcare, and serving as the standard bearer for information on contraception, cancer screening, STI screening and treatment, obstetric care, surgical advances, nutrition, abortion care, vaccines, menopause care, and everything in between. Rep. Morrison led almost two dozen of her colleagues in a resolution that honors ACOG’s decades of work and leadership in women’s healthcare and commits to investing in women’s health and strengthening obstetrical and gynecological care across the United States. This anniversary comes as threats escalate to restrict access to mifepristone, a safe and effective medication that has been used not only in abortion care but to manage miscarriages for decades, when maternal death rates in the U.S. continue to rise, and when abortion bans across the country are creating a critical doctor shortage. Representative Morrison is the first and only pro-choice OB-GYN in Congress and spent more than 20 years caring for patients in Minnesota. “ACOG is grateful for Rep. Kelly Morrison’s leadership in recognizing and honoring the 75th anniversary of our organization. For decades, ACOG has worked with members of Congress to advance policies that support the OB-GYN profession and importantly improve access to obstetric and gynecologic health care for all individuals in their communities. We thank Rep. Morrison for her work, both as an OB-GYN and a legislator, to expand access to care and her steadfast dedication to improving the health of the people she represents and women across the country,” said Camille A. Clare, MD, MPH, CPE, FACOG, president of the American College of Obstetricians & Gynecologists. Read Rep. Morrison’s full resolution recognizing ACOG here. Image Watch a video of Representative Morrison’s remarks on the House floor HERE and below. Read a transcript of Representative Morrison’s remarks below: This past Sunday millions celebrated the work, love, and support mothers give to their children and families across the country. There are so many ways, seen and unseen, that mothers show up for their families and care for their communities. I know that I am incredibly grateful to my beloved mother and for the privilege of getting to be the mother to my three wonderful children. Appropriately, Mother’s Day also marked the beginning of National Women’s Health week. This provides the opportunity to highlight women’s health, reflect on the progress we’ve made, the ongoing research we need and to commit to continued advancement of access, quality, and affordability in women’s health care. Advancing women’s health and delivering the best possible care requires a strong collaboration between the many care givers and entities that have built and continue the work of advancing women’s health care. One organization that has been an indispensable partner to all obstetrician gynecologists in their quest to provide the best evidence-based care to their patients over the past 75 years is the American College of Obstetrics and Gynecology. Over its 75-year legacy, ACOG has never wavered from its foundational mission of advancing the quality and consistency of care for women through guidance, education, and professional collaboration. In the early years of its existence, ACOG set out to create evidence-based standards and develop opportunities for clinicians to continue their education. Growing scientific progress and an expanding focus on women’s health opened doors for the organization to serve as a leading voice as the nation experienced historic advances like the FDA’s approval of the birth control pill and the Griswold v. Connecticut decision that established the right to privacy and therefore the right to use contraception, which had been illegal in Connecticut and many other states prior to this decision in 1965. As these events established the policy landscape for women’s health, ACOG continued its work standardizing prenatal and cancer screenings, introducing its own academic journal, and establishing the requirements to achieve high honors in the field of obstetrics and gynecology. The landmark Roe v. Wade decision, as well as the establishment of the Title X program, which was the first federal grant program in the United States dedicated to providing family planning and other preventative health services to low-income families, both elevated women’s health further and supported ACOG’s efforts to expand access to reproductive health care to all Americans regardless of their ability to pay. They also amplified the importance of understanding the causes of maternal mortality and working to decrease it. During this time ACOG was at the forefront of building reliable, trusted programs that helped standardize evidence-based medicine, integrate cultural competency, and strengthen policy partnerships. ACOG’s role in women’s health was also extended to helping protect the patient-physician relationship. From the critical influence in the Doe v. Bolton decision, which was the companion case to Roe v. Wade in which the Supreme Court struck down burdensome procedural requirements that effectively made abortion completely inaccessible in Georgia, even if the patient's life or health were threatened, to the mobilization needed in the aftermath of the Dobbs decision in 2022 which overturned Roe. ACOG serves as a trusted source for evidence-based guidance for care across the lifespan for patients and providers alike. Both turn to ACOG for information about critical topics ranging from contraception, cancer screening, STI screening and treatment, obstetric care, best surgical practices and advances, nutrition, abortion care, vaccines, menopause care, and everything in between. In its continued pursuit of advancing women’s health care, ACOG has championed work to understand and address the systemic issues vulnerable women and populations face. Through pioneering initiatives like the Committee on Health Care for Underserved Women and the recognition that health is deeply impacted by factors beyond biology and clinical care, ACOG was an early leader in establishing opportunities for communities´ lived experiences to be heard and incorporated into our understanding of disparities and how to address them. As ACOG expanded its focus on reviewing and understanding the impact of systemic inequities and disproportionate burdens of maternal mortality in minority communities, ACOG continued its work of building robust and responsive clinical guidance and programming that centers respectful care and quality improvements. During times of transformational advancements like the development and approval of the HPV vaccine, the Affordable Care Act, and historic investments in maternal death prevention efforts, ACOG has led and helped expand key collaborations and partnerships. The last few years have brought unprecedented challenges and rapid change. During the COVID 19 pandemic and in the wake of the Dobbs decision, ACOG held strong to the foundational mission that has driven its work for decades, strengthening equitable, accessible obstetric and gynecologic care. ACOG’s presence and leadership during these pivotal moments for women’s health and the profession they’ve represented over the last 75 years has helped translate the lifesaving scientific advances and give evidence-based guidance and stability to a profession that has, is, and will continue to be monumentally consequential to families across the country and in every Congressional district. Reflecting on the incredible progress of the last 75 years also brings to the forefront the importance of the work still left to build and expand. Despite the incredible advances in women’s health, challenges and obstacles to fully achieving the mission of equitable, accessible care remain. An estimated 36% of counties in the United States are maternity care deserts, meaning they do not have a hospital or birth center offering obstetric care or any obstetric providers. Two-thirds of these maternity care deserts are in rural areas that are also the most vulnerable to disruptions in services and hospital closures. Approximately 1.2 million women live in counties with only one OB-GYN. By 2035, the estimates are that 44 U.S. states are projected to not have enough OB-GYNs to meet those states' needs, with the most severe shortages in rural areas. Women in many communities are already traveling long distances to access prenatal care or to deliver safely in a hospital. In the wealthiest country in the world, in a country built on the principles of human dignity and freedom, these alarming statistics can and should lead to a unified bipartisan effort to address them. We’ve seen how the work and legacy of ACOG and its members have helped support historic achievements while upholding the core goals of access and quality of care. Facing and overcoming persistent challenges demands a commitment to science and evidence-based practices for: Setting the standards for OB-GYN care, For advocating for policies that advance the field, and Empowering physicians to provide patients with the care they need. All while building on each of those areas to inform continuing education opportunities, refine clinical guidelines, and continue the evolution of the field of obstetrics and gynecology. Beyond navigating increasing administrative burdens, burnout and workforce instability, OB-GYNs are having to deal with health and medical misinformation jeopardizing their work and their patients’ well-being. Patients are increasingly exposed to misinformation about contraception, fertility, pregnancy care, menopause, vaccines, and reproductive health. This creates fear and confusion, undermines trust, delays treatment, and poses real risks to patients and families. That is why trusted scientific leadership matters. ACOG and generations of physician-researchers have helped translate rigorous science into evidence-based care that improves outcomes for women across the lifespan. Throughout my career in medicine and public service, I’ve worked to support evidence-based approaches that deliver for families. From championing expanding Medicaid coverage to 12 months postpartum in Minnesota to advocating for the reauthorization of the Newborn Screening Saves Lives Act in Congress, I’ve advocated for advancing early intervention and prevention to save lives. Healthy mothers, healthy babies, and healthy families strengthen communities, reduce long-term healthcare expenditures, and improve the long-term resilience of our nation. I had the privilege of caring for patients as an OBGYN for more than 20 years, so I’ve seen firsthand the challenges patients face to afford and get the care they need. I’ve seen the impacts of some of the medical breakthroughs and improvements to care that have occurred over the decades. And I've seen how social determinants of health make it so difficult for many Americans to have good health. As an OBGYN, I’ve seen my patients directly benefit from practices that were built on decades of research, clinical trials, and the dedicated work of multiple generations of my fellow OB-GYNs. These advances were the result of hard-fought advocacy and awareness campaigns, committed work from researchers and physicians, and patient voices being centered and truly heard. One of the great privileges of my years in practice was caring for my patients across different stages of their life. OB-GYNs see patients from adolescence through adulthood to end of life. I have cared for patients that I delivered through their own pregnancies and I have cared for many through early adulthood, to mid-life, through perimenopause and menopause and beyond. ACOG has been there every step of the way to provide evidence-based recommendations to help guide my and my patients' decisionmaking. In the decades I’ve spent in this remarkable profession, it’s been my sincere honor and privilege to provide the care my patients needed, From prenatal care through labor and delivery, to contraception to hormone replacement therapy, from the exam room to the operating room, Helping patients through important life stage transitions, creating care plans through shared decision making with my patients, always working to meet patients where they are to meet their unique needs. ACOG has been a critical partner throughout my career and the careers of many thousands of OB-GYNs across the country. In a rapidly changing world that is marked by advances in technology and access to an avalanche of information, not all of which is accurate, it is difficult for many of us to fully understand how drastically circumstances have changed for women and how transformational historic moments were to women’s health and safety. Younger generations of Americans and even some older Americans may not be able to recall a United States without protected access to birth control or an HPV vaccine. My career as an obstetrician-gynecologist began at a time when foundational concepts in public health and clinical practice were better defined and elements critical to progress like the right to privacy and the ability of women to make their own independent health care decisions were protected. In the last decade, as women’s health, rights, and protections have been threatened and eroded, I’m thinking of my patients and of people across our country. I'm remembering my patients who disclosed, in some cases for the first time in their life, their traumatic experiences prior to the protections of Roe v. Wade. I'm thinking of my younger patients who worried about the possibility of losing protected access to abortion care as the Supreme Court ruled on the Dobbs case. And I'm thinking about the babies I delivered, protected by vaccines from preventable, life-threatening conditions and the mothers spared from complications because of comprehensive, evidence-based clinical guidelines and access to comprehensive care. And I’d be remiss if I didn’t take the opportunity to remind everyone in this moment when access to mifepristone is threatened: the research on mifepristone has not changed. It has been an FDA-approved medicine for a quarter of a century. It has been used safely and effectively by millions of women around the globe. For my entire 20 year-plus career as an OBGYN, mifepristone has been used to help women manage miscarriages and safely end pregnancies. Its safety record surpasses most over-the-counter medicines! What has changed is the people in power. People with no medical training who want to undermine access to health care, control women’s bodies, and ignore evidence-based science because of their own personal ideology. Putting their desire to control and restrict women, women whose lives they know nothing about and who they will never meet, over facts and research and safety. It sets a very dangerous precedent for us all. As we celebrate the milestones of the last 75 years of ACOG, we also have a responsibility to face future challenges head on, mindful of all that we have gained and conscious of is being lost, unwaveringly committed to improving the lives of all people seeking care, their families, and their communities. So I offer a heartfelt thank you to ACOG, for 75 years of always standing with patients and physicians, and for its ongoing work to improve health care and the health of our patients. Onward to the next 75. Mr. Speaker, I yield back. ###",1,2026-06-27T21:44:12Z,2026-06-27T22:21:02Z https://craig.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-angie-craig-joins-senators-co-chairs-monopoly-busters-caucus-introduce,"Rep. Angie Craig Joins Senators, Co-Chairs of Monopoly Busters Caucus to Introduce Legislation to Keep Private Equity Firms out of Youth Sports",2026-05-13,2026,2026-05,Democrat,House,MN,Angie Craig,C001119,craig.house.gov,craig,https://craig.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC – Today, U.S. Representative Angie Craig (D-MN-02) joined Senators Chris Murphy (D-CT), Cory Booker (D-NJ) and fellow co-chairs of the House Monopoly Busters Caucus Reps. Chris Deluzio (D-PA-17), Pramila Jayapal (D-WA-07) and Pat Ryan (D-NY-18) in a press conference to introduce their new legislation to combat private equity’s monopolization of youth sports. The Let Kids Play Act would hold private equity firms accountable for inflating the costs of youth sports and help protect access to sports for low-income families by banning both private equity vulture investors and the practices they use to rip people off. Specifically, the legislation would provide full refunds to families for any junk fees they incurred as the result of private equity’s predatory practices. Additionally, it would hold private equity vulture investors financially liable for any debts, legal judgements or law violations that occurred under their watch, and it would establish a youth sports fund using those financial penalties to provide scholarships, reduce costs and keep local fields open for free community use. Finally, if signed into law, the bill would give states and parents the legal right to sue private equity firms for damages. “As a mom, I know how important sports are for our kids – and for our families,” said Rep. Craig. “Not only are youth sports a way for kids to get active and build lifelong skills – they’re also a reprieve for working parents, who need those few extra hours after school to work, run errands, or just enjoy some time to themselves.” “That’s why I’m proud to be standing here in support of this critical legislation to protect access to youth sports and hold private equity firms accountable for exploiting parents and monetizing play.” Since private equity's takeover, youth sports has become a $40 billion industry. The cost to participate has risen 46 percent in five years, with many families paying more than $5000 per child each year. Thanks to private equity firms like Black Bear Sports Group, which owns over 40 ice rinks across the Midwest and the East Coast, families are facing rising fees for registration, equipment, travel and even paid streaming services, putting organized sports out of reach for millions of kids. Rep. Craig is a founding member of the House Monopoly Busters Caucus and has led the charge to take on corporate consolidation across industries – from health care to technology to agriculture – and lower costs for working Minnesotans. You can watch video of the press conference HERE.",1,2026-06-27T21:44:12Z,2026-06-27T22:21:02Z https://omar.house.gov/media/press-releases/news-sanders-omar-more-100-colleagues-introduce-legislation-end-child-hunger,"NEWS: Sanders, Omar, More Than 100 Colleagues Introduce Legislation to End Child Hunger Through Universal School Meals",2026-05-13,2026,2026-05,Democrat,House,MN,Ilhan Omar,O000173,omar.house.gov,omar,https://omar.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, May 13 – Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.) and Rep. Ilhan Omar (D-Minn.) today introduced legislation to end child hunger in the United States. The Universal School Meals Program Act of 2026 would offer free breakfast, lunch, dinner, and a snack to every student in America — regardless of income — and eliminate school meal debt while incentivizing local food in schools. “It is outrageous that, while the billionaire class has never had it so good, one in five children will go hungry in America this year,” Sanders said. “The United States is the richest country in the history of the world. Nobody should be going hungry. And what we learned during the pandemic is that a universal approach to school meals works and helps kids do better in school. States across the country continue to prove this every day. It is time for Congress to reinstate universal school meals at the national level to finally ensure no student goes hungry.” “No child should have to sit in a classroom hungry or worried about where their next meal will come from,” Omar said. “As a former nutrition educator and someone who experienced hunger firsthand, this fight is deeply personal to me. I have always believed you must feed kids’ bellies before you can feed their brains. That is why I am proud to partner again with Bernie Sanders to introduce the Universal School Meals Program Act, which would provide free breakfast, lunch, dinner, and snacks to students year-round. Universal school meals are not a luxury—they are a necessity.” ""School meals improve food security, health outcomes, and academic performance—simply put, they help kids succeed. Several states—including my home state of Massachusetts—have permanently implemented free universal school meals, helping expand access to breakfasts and lunches for all students. It has been hugely successful in increasing participation, reducing stigma, and making life a little easier and more affordable for families,” said Rep. Jim McGovern. “It is long past time we permanently implement universal school meals nationwide and increase reimbursement rates to ensure every student can go to school knowing they have two healthy meals to fuel their learning.” “Millions of families already face hunger in this country. But with Republicans cutting SNAP and families struggling with the high cost of living, it is even more urgent that we pass the Universal School Meals Program Act,” said Rep. Gwen Moore. Congress can and should help end child hunger, and I implore my colleagues to support this legislation.” The Universal School Meals Program Act of 2026 comes at a critical moment: the Trump administration and congressional Republicans have enacted the deepest cuts to federal nutrition programs in history, slashing the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) by $186 billion, imposing harsh new bureaucratic requirements that have stripped food assistance from millions of Americans, and refusing to fund SNAP during the federal government shutdown in fall 2025. Congress funded universal school meals during the COVID-19 pandemic, proving that the model increases school meal participation, reduces the stigma for students from low-income households and removes stress on families to secure healthy meals for their kids. While Congress let the universal model expire at the end of the 2021–2022 school year, nine states — Vermont, Minnesota, California, Colorado, Maine, Massachusetts, Michigan, New Mexico and New York — have passed laws to provide universal school meals. This legislation builds on this progress to return the model nationwide. According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s most recent food security report — which the Trump administration has now ended — 48 million Americans, including over 14 million children, are food insecure. Nearly 40% of SNAP recipients are 18 or younger. It is time to permanently make school meals free to all students, regardless of income, and finally address this crisis. Studies show time and again that students with free access to breakfast have improved attendance and better performance in school, and that free meals reduce financial stress for both students and families. Moreover, free and accessible school meals improve health outcomes, relieve the stigma associated with school meals and reduce behavioral incidents. Parents will not be forced to deal with paperwork or subjected to threats to have their children taken away. The Universal School Meals Program Act of 2026 provides the most cost-effective and inclusive model for students, families, teachers, public schools, childcare providers and communities by: Providing free breakfast, lunch, dinner and a snack to every student — regardless of income. Eliminating school meal debt for every public school student in America by reimbursing schools and ending harassment of parents and students over unpaid bills. In a 2025 survey, the School Nutrition Association found that nearly 1,400 school districts across the country hold a median of $6,000 in unpaid meal debt. Increasing the reimbursement rate for schools to get closer to the actual cost of producing meals. Incentivizing schools to buy from local farms, bringing food from nearby farms into schools while supporting local economies. Providing summer meals to all children and increased SUN Bucks (Summer EBT) to lower-income children. Currently, only communities where 50% of children are eligible for free or reduced-price lunch may operate a summer meals program. This bill makes all communities eligible, regardless of income. Strengthening and expanding the Child and Adult Care Food Program (CACFP) to allow three meals and a snack each day, eliminate the two-tiered reimbursement rate for CACFP, and allow childcare providers to receive the highest reimbursement rate regardless of income. Joining Sanders and Omar as cosponsors on this legislation are Reps. Jim McGovern, Gwen Moore, Pete Aguilar, Gabe Amo, Yassamin Ansari, Jake Auchincloss, Becca Balint, Nanette Barragan, Joyce Beatty, Wesley Bell, Suzanne Bonamici, Julia Brownley, Nikki Budzinski, André Carson, Troy Carter, Greg Casar, Sean Casten, Kathy Castor, Judy Chu, Steve Cohen, Angie Craig, Suzan DelBene, Mark DeSaulnier, Maxine Dexter, Debbie Dingell, Dwight Evans, Laura Friedman, Maxwell Frost, John Garamendi, Sylvia Garcia, Jesús “Chuy” García, Dan Goldman, Jimmy Gomez, Josh Gotteimer, Adelita Grijalva, Jared Huffman, Jonathan Jackson, Sara Jacobs, Pramila Jayapal, Henry C. “Hank” Johnson, Jr., Sydney Kamlager-Dove, Robin Kelly, Ro Khanna, Raja Krishnamoorthi, John Larson, Summer Lee, Stephen F. Lynch, Seth Magaziner, Doris Matsui, Lucy McBath, Betty McCollum, Morgan McGarvey, LaMonica McIver, Christian Menefee, Grace Meng, Joseph Morelle, Seth Moulton, Kevin Mullin, Jerry Nadler, Richard Neal, Donald Norcross, Eleanor Holmes Norton, Alexandria Ocasio Cortez, Frank Pallone, Jr., Brittany Pettersen, Chellie Pingree, Stacey Plaskett, Mark Pocan, Ayanna Pressley, Mike Quigley, Delia Ramirez, Jamie Raskin, Andrea Salinas, Linda Sanchez, Jan Schakowsky, Lateefah Simon, Adam Smith, Marilyn Strickland, Shri Thanedar, Rashida Tlaib, Paul Tonko, Juan Vargas, Nydia Velazquez, Bonnie Watson Coleman, Frederica Wilson and 19 Senators. The Universal School Meals Program Act of 2026 is endorsed by nearly 100 organizations, including the American Heart Association, Food Research & Action Center, Hunger Free America, Hunger Free Vermont, MAZON: A Jewish Response to Hunger, National Education Association (NEA), National Family Farm Coalition, Northeast Organic Farming Association of Vermont, Vermont Afterschool, Vermont Foodbank, Washington Anti-Hunger & Nutrition Coalition, and Washington School Nutrition Association. Read the bill here. Read a summary here. ###",1,2026-06-27T21:44:12Z,2026-06-27T22:21:02Z https://omar.house.gov/media/press-releases/workforce-protections-ranking-member-omar-opening-remarks-hearing-improving,Workforce Protections Ranking Member Omar Opening Remarks at Hearing on Improving Workplace Safety Research,2026-05-13,2026,2026-05,Democrat,House,MN,Ilhan Omar,O000173,omar.house.gov,omar,https://omar.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – Workforce Protections Subcommittee Ranking Member Ilhan Omar (MN-05) delivered the following opening statement at today’s subcommittee hearing entitled, “Building a Safer Future: Private-Sector Strategies for Emerging Safety Issues.” “Thank you, Mr. Chair, and thank you to our witnesses for joining us today. “All workers deserve to come home at the end of the day healthy, whole, and paid fairly for their labor. Thanks to agencies like the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) and the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH), workers benefit from standards based on sound science that have pushed companies to modernize and improve their workplaces. “Today’s hearing revolves around how the private sector has implemented certain programs to track and address workplace health and safety through the use of what they call ‘leading indicators.’ These leading indicators focus on whether an employer is taking proactive measures to prevent injury and illness on the job and identify weak spots where additional action may be needed to prevent worker harm. “We all want to prevent workplace injuries before they happen, and leading indicators could potentially help with that. But we must be realistic. Effectively tracking and responding to leading indicators will require a lot of investment and personnel, that small businesses are unlikely to have. Additionally, some leading indicators, when used improperly, could lead bad employers to blame their workers if an injury occurs, instead of taking the proper steps to correct a hazard in the first place. “We lack sufficient research and information to determine whether leading indicators can meaningfully improve workplace safety. Much of the research has been limited to private consultants, putting it out of reach for smaller employers. While I’m relieved that the National Safety Council has attempted to fill that gap with useful case studies, we still need comprehensive, open-sourced scientific research to evaluate these indicators. And this kind of public research would be best conducted by a well-funded and well-staffed NIOSH. “Unfortunately, the Trump Administration has made sweeping cuts to NIOSH’s staffing. While those cuts have been reversed, there is still significant concern that NIOSH has lost many valuable experts to attrition, and we do not know whether the agency is being allowed to replace them. This is yet another example of how the Trump Administration’s recklessness has come at the direct expense of protecting and prioritizing working Americans. “OSHA and NIOSH are our best, longstanding tools to stop workplace harm. It is vital that we fully fund and staff these agencies to identify and correct unsafe working conditions, because voluntary compliance programs or leading indicators alone will not be enough. “Finally, Mr. Chairman, I am grateful that we have made emerging safety and health issues an additional theme for this hearing. As we look ahead to the transition from spring to summer, I worry that the Trump Administration’s weakened OSHA enforcement program on heat stress will leave workers vulnerable. And in turn, the workers who are able to seek medical care for heat stress will be entrusted to our nation’s hardworking health care workers, who still face serious risks of workplace violence, another danger that the Trump Administration has chosen to ignore. “Our nation’s miners also deserve the same protections from deadly silica dust that other workers enjoy. That is why the Biden Administration published an [Mine Safety and Health Administration] standard, but the Trump Administration has refused to enforce it and instead seems ready to weaken the rule. And this is now happening at a time when [silicosis] is re-emerging outside of mining as a health crisis, particularly for workers who manufacture or install artificial stone countertops. And yet, Congressional Republicans are actively trying to pass legislation shutting down those workers’ ability to hold irresponsible companies accountable in court. These are sick workers and their families who are just trying to get compensation for lung transplants, cancer treatments, and funeral expenses. “Every worker deserves to come home safe; it should be one of the most basic obligations that we owe to all of our constituents. But this Congress and this Administration are failing to meet that. “Thank you, and I yield back.” ###",1,2026-06-27T21:44:12Z,2026-06-27T22:21:02Z https://craig.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-angie-craig-hosts-roundtable-state-rep-bierman-health-care-advocates,"Rep. Angie Craig Hosts Roundtable with State Rep. Bierman, Health Care Advocates, Minnesotans to Discuss Legislation to Hold Big Insurance Companies Accountable for High Denial Rates",2026-05-08,2026,2026-05,Democrat,House,MN,Angie Craig,C001119,craig.house.gov,craig,https://craig.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"INVER GROVE HEIGHTS, MN – Today, U.S. Representative Angie Craig hosted a roundtable in Inver Grove Heights with State Representative Robert Bierman, Trent Andersen from Protect Our Care and Bob Miller and Dan Spano, Minnesotans who have been impacted by our broken health care system. During the roundtable, the panelists discussed her new legislation to hold health insurance companies accountable for above average-denial rates and refund patients for health care costs that should have been covered by insurance. Rep. Craig’s Patient Refunds for Bad Denials Act would create financial penalties for health insurers that deny more than 25% of claims in a given year according to an annual audit by the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS). The penalty would total $10 million plus an additional $2 million for each percentage point above the 25% denial threshold. These penalties would be paid back to affected enrollees. “For too long, mega health insurance companies have raked in record profits while exploiting sick Americans. Well, my team and I have listened. And we say, enough is enough,” said Rep. Craig. “We live in the richest country in the world. Americans shouldn’t be struggling to pay for necessary health care, especially when they’re paying an arm and a leg already for health insurance. So that’s why we’re here today – to talk about the path forward toward a health care system that actually works for Minnesotans and how we’re going to work together to hold these players accountable.” In plan year 2024, the in-network denial rate for qualified health plans (QHPs) sold on HealthCare.gov ranged from three percent to 36 percent, with significant variation by insurer and by state. According to a January 2026 Kaiser Family Foundation (KFF) poll, two-thirds of insured adults believe delays and denials of health care services by health insurance companies are a “major problem"" and one-third of insured adults say they have had a health insurance company deny coverage for a service or medication prescribed by their doctor in the past two years. Nearly 40 percent of participants who reported having trouble paying medical bills said that denied claims contributed to their medical debt. ###",1,2026-06-27T21:44:12Z,2026-06-27T22:21:02Z https://craig.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-craig-conducts-congressional-oversight-ice-detention-centers-visits,"Rep. Craig Conducts Congressional Oversight of ICE Detention Centers, Visits Constituent Suffering from Ovarian Cyst Being Detained in Texas",2026-05-06,2026,2026-05,Democrat,House,MN,Angie Craig,C001119,craig.house.gov,craig,https://craig.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"EL PASO, TX – Today, as part of her continued efforts to get her constituent Andrea Pedro-Francisco released from ICE custody so that she can receive the care that she needs, U.S. Representative Angie Craig traveled to El Paso, TX to visit Pedro-Francisco and conduct oversight of two ICE detention facilities. Pedro-Francisco is currently being held at the El Paso Service Processing Center after having been detained at Camp East Montana. During her visit, Rep. Craig toured both the El Paso Service Processing Center and Camp East Montana, the country’s largest migrant detention facility, which has been mired with reports of inhumane conditions, abuse and a recent measles outbreak. Rep. Craig also had the chance to speak with medical staff and meet with Pedro-Francisco to hear from her directly about her experience in detention. Andrea is living in immense pain, and despite an ultrasound performed by ICE’s medical team last week, which confirmed the cyst, she has still not been given a treatment plan or adequate care. “We need [Andrea] to get the surgery that physicians in Minnesota, and now here, are saying that she needs,” said Rep Craig. “We prayed together, we talked about her hopes and her needs. She doesn't believe that physicians here are going to allow her to get the surgery. I refuse to accept that. I hope that the officials here will look at her most recent ultrasound, will review the massive amount of medical evidence that she needs the surgery and will allow her to get the care that she needs.” Pedro-Francisco, a resident of Burnsville, MN was picked up by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) on her way to work on February 5th. She was scheduled to have surgery for an ovarian cyst on February 11th, but instead, was sent to El Paso, where she has yet to receive adequate medical treatment. Her condition is worsening by the day and her petition for habeas corpus was recently denied. Despite repeated efforts by Rep. Craig’s office to facilitate her release or, at a minimum, ensure she receives the necessary treatment while in detention, ICE officials have failed to provide Andrea with the proper care prescribed by her doctors in Minnesota. Rep. Craig is calling for Andrea’s release through humanitarian parole. ###",1,2026-06-27T21:44:12Z,2026-06-27T22:21:02Z https://craig.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-craig-statement-farm-bill-amendment-rotisserie-chicken-snap-eligibility,Rep. Craig Statement on Farm Bill Amendment on Rotisserie Chicken SNAP Eligibility,2026-05-01,2026,2026-05,Democrat,House,MN,Angie Craig,C001119,craig.house.gov,craig,https://craig.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC – Today, U.S. Representative and Ranking Member of the House Agriculture Committee Angie Craig released the following statement on her vote against a farm bill amendment that would narrowly expand food options for Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) recipients to include rotisserie chicken. “As someone whose own family needed SNAP at times growing up, I know firsthand how important it is that our food assistance programs meet the needs of working families in this country. It’s why I’ve fought tooth and nail this Congress as the top Democrat on the House Agriculture Committee to defend SNAP against Republicans’ historic cuts to the program and restore benefits to working Americans. “Yesterday, the House passed an amendment to the farm bill that narrowly expands SNAP-eligible foods to include rotisserie chicken and effectively bans all other hot foods. Along with other members of Democratic leadership, I voted against it to send a message that the amendment does not go far enough to expand SNAP-eligibility, and we will continue to push the Senate to include a further expansion in the final version of the bill. “There is no question that SNAP recipients need access to more hot food options, but this amendment was pushed by big grocers and retailers and the chicken industry. We can do better. “On behalf of SNAP recipients across the nation, I will be fighting for the inclusion of the Hot Foods Act in the final farm bill, which would expand SNAP-eligible foods to include a wide array of hot food options, like soups, hot sandwiches and rotisserie chicken. This legislation has over 100 bipartisan House and Senate cosponsors, is supported by anti-hunger groups across our country and is the true path forward to ensuring that every American has access to a filling meal.” ###",1,2026-06-25T06:30:03Z,2026-06-25T06:31:21Z https://mccollum.house.gov/media/press-releases/congresswoman-mccollum-votes-no-2026-farm-bill,Congresswoman McCollum Votes No on 2026 Farm Bill,2026-04-30,2026,2026-04,Democrat,House,MN,Betty McCollum,M001143,mccollum.house.gov,mccollum,https://mccollum.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, the House of Representatives passed the Farm, Food, and National Security Act of 2026 by a vote of 224-200. Congresswoman McCollum voted against the legislation as it codifies cuts to SNAP nutrition assistance that Republicans first made in their budget law known as the One Big Beautiful Bill Act. Following the vote, Congresswoman McCollum issued the following statement: “This farm bill is three years late and still falls short for farmers and the American people. Last year the Republicans forced through their incredibly unpopular Big Ugly Bill, which has so far kicked 3.4 million people off SNAP. This farm bill could have restored those cuts to SNAP but instead continued them. “I’m also disappointed that the Republicans decided to advance legislation filled with partisan poison pills, like the Save Our Bacon Act, which preempts state level animal welfare regulations. Furthermore, this farm bill rubberstamps Trump’s illegal trade war, which is driving up fertilizer, machinery, and gas costs for all American farmers. “In 2018, the House of Representatives passed the farm bill with an overwhelming bipartisan vote of 369-47. Today, we came together in a bipartisan fashion to attempt to pass some important amendments, like Rep. Luna’s amendment which removed a liability shield for pesticide companies. In the end, this farm bill does not meet the moment. I hope we can continue working towards a farm bill that supports everyone.”",1,2026-06-25T06:30:03Z,2026-06-25T06:31:21Z https://omar.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-omar-submits-five-amendments-farm-bill,Rep. Omar Submits Five Amendments to the Farm Bill,2026-04-30,2026,2026-04,Democrat,House,MN,Ilhan Omar,O000173,omar.house.gov,omar,https://omar.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – Rep. Ilhan Omar (D-MN) introduced five amendments to the Farm, Food, and National Security Act of 2026. This bill fails to address the rapidly growing affordability crisis facing American workers, families, and farmers. This bill retains Republicans’ $187 billion cut to SNAP in last year’s reconciliation bill, leaving over 40 million Americans without the support they need to put food on the table. Congresswoman Omar’s amendments aim to combat hunger here in the United States and abroad, ensure workers’ safety in meat processing facilities, and invest in sustainable farming practices. “The Farm Bill that Republicans have put in front of us today completely misses the mark in addressing the needs of working people,” said Rep. Omar. “I introduced five amendments to reform our agriculture and nutrition policies to guarantee that no child goes hungry at school, prioritize workers’ safety in food processing industries, and ensure we’re doing all we can to end hunger here at home and end the global food crisis. It is shameful that Republicans completely abandoned vulnerable children and families in this bill. I will always put working families over big corporations looking to profit at the expense of the American people. I could not in good conscience vote for this bill.” The amendments introduced by Rep. Omar include: Omar #297 - Prohibits school lunch shaming. Omar #306 - Establishes a universal school meals program. Omar #340 - Categorizes controlled-environment agriculture, including vertical farming, as a high-priority research area. Omar #355 - Blocks two proposed rules that would raise line speed limits in poultry processing facilities and remove line speed limits in pork processing facilities entirely, and prohibits substantially similar rules in the future. Omar #366 - Doubles the funding for Food for Peace. The full text of the amendments is available here. ###",1,2026-06-26T06:29:35Z,2026-06-26T06:31:46Z https://morrison.house.gov/media/press-releases/us-rep-kelly-morrison-cosponsors-bill-ban-ice-warehouse-detention-facilities,U.S. Rep. Kelly Morrison Cosponsors Bill to Ban ICE Warehouse Detention Facilities,2026-04-30,2026,2026-04,Democrat,House,MN,Kelly Morrison,M001234,morrison.house.gov,morrison,https://morrison.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC – U.S. Representative Kelly Morrison (MN-03) is cosponsoring the Ban Warehouse Detention Act, which would ban Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) from converting industrial warehouses into immigration detention centers. The Trump Administration plans to spend almost $40 billion turning warehouses across the country into ICE detention facilities that could detain up to 100,000 people — including in Minnesota. This legislation would prevent this by prohibiting the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), including Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), from establishing, operating, expanding, converting, or renovating any warehouse or similar building or structure for the purposes of detaining people. Over the last several months, Representative Morrison has conducted oversight of the Whipple Federal Building in Minneapolis and the Camp East Montana Detention Facility in El Paso. Camp East Montana is the largest detention facility in the nation, and thousands of Minnesotans have been detained there by ICE. As a physician, Rep. Morrison has been especially concerned about reports of a dangerous lack of medical care and equipment at these ICE detention facilities, as well as overcrowding, shackling, denial of medical care, and other inhumane conditions. “What I witnessed at Whipple and Camp East Montana was cruel, disturbing, and should not be tolerated in the United States of America,” said Congresswoman Kelly Morrison. “We cannot allow the Trump Administration to use $40 billion taxpayer dollars to expand their cruel and inhumane mass encampments across the country. The Ban Warehouse Detention Act is about defending constitutional and human rights, as well as the moral compass of our nation. Minnesotans have fought back against these proposed detention centers and won. Now it’s time for Congress to act and put an end to this on a national level.” Minnesotans across the state have been outspoken in their opposition to ICE’s plans to turn warehouses into detention facilities and have successfully blocked plans in Woodbury and Shakopee — but the Trump Administration continues to expand its warehouse detention policy across the country. The Ban Warehouse Detention Act is led by Representative Jesús “Chuy” García (IL-04), Representative Rashida Tlaib (MI-12), and Representative Delia Ramirez (IL-03), and co-sponsored by Reps. Joaquin Castro (TX-20), Yvette Clarke (NY-09), Danny Davis (IL-07), Sylvia Garcia (TX-29), Dan Goldman (NY-10), Al Green (TX-09), Adelita Grijalva (AZ-07), Eleanor Holmes Norton (DC), April McClain Delaney (MD-06), Andrea Salinas (OR-06), and Shri Thanedar (MI-13). This legislation was drafted in partnership with Detention Watch Network and is endorsed by nearly 100 advocacy and rights groups, including: Acacia Center for Justice, Adhikaar for Human Rights & Social Justice, Alianza Nacional de Campesinos, American Friends Service Committee (AFSC), Angelica Village, Arab American Heritage Council (AAHC), Asian Americans Advancing Justice, Asian Americans Advancing Justice- Atlanta, Ayuda, Bend the Arc: Jewish Action, Borderlands Resource Initiative, Californians United for a Responsible Budget, Center for Constitutional Rights, Center for Gender & Refugee Studies, Center for Law and Social Policy, Center for Progressive Reform, Center for Victims of Torture, Church World Service, Climate Refugees, Climate Sanctuary, Coalition for Humane Immigrant Rights (CHIRLA), Coalition on Human Needs, the Coming Clean Network, Communities United for Status & Protection, Congregation B’nai Israel Tikkun Olam/Repair the World Committee, Democratic Socialist of America , El Refugio, Esperanza Cuautle, Families for Freedom, Flint Alliance for Immigrant Rights (FAIR), Florida Immigrant Coalition, Franklin County Continuing the Political Revolution, Freedom for Immigrants, Grantmakers Concerned with Immigrants and Refugees (GCIR), Grassroots Leadership, Haitian Bridge Alliance, Hindus for Human Rights Action, Human Rights First, Illinois Coalition for Immigrant and Refugee Rights, Immigrant Defenders Law Center (ImmDef), Immigrant Legal Resource Center, Immigrant Resource Center, Immigration Equality Action Fund, Indiana Undocumented Youth Alliance, Indivisible, Indivisible Mass Coalition-Immigration Justice Action Team, Innovation Law Lab, Jewish Activists for Immigration Justice, Jewish Activists for Immigration Justice of Western Mass, Just Detention International, Latin American Working Group, Louisiana Advocates for Immigrants in Detention, Metro Detroit DSA, Miami Valley Immigration Coalition, Migrant Support Collective, Minnesota Interfaith Coalition on Immigration, MN8, MoveOn, Muslim Advocates, Muslims for Just Futures, National Immigrant Justice Center, National Immigration Law Center, National Network for Arab American Communities, National Partnership for New Americans, Never Again Action, New Disabled South, New Mexico Dream Team, NM Comunidades En Accion Y de Fe (NM CAFe), No Concentration Camps US, No Detention Centers in Michigan, NorCal Resist, Oasis Legal Services, Organized Communities Against Deportations, Popular Democracy, Rise Up Western Mass Indivisible, SHUT DOWN ETOWAH, Sikh American Legal Defense and Education Fund (SALDEF), Southern NH Indivisible, State Wide Indivisible Michigan, The Sikh Coalition, Tsuru for Solidarity, UndocuBlack Network, United We Dream Network, Verta Institute of Justice, Voices for Utah Children, Voto Latino, We are CASA, Western Massachusetts Immigration Legislative Action Network (WMILAN), Wind of the Spirit, and Witness at the Border. Watch a video of Representative Morrison’s remarks on this bill HERE. Image Read a transcript of Representative Morrison’s remarks below: At the height of Operation Metro Surge, thousands of Minnesotans were being held at Camp East Montana, the largest detention facility in the country. I visited Camp East Montana last month and I have to tell you as a physician, what is happening there is appalling. Detainees are being denied medications, pregnant women are going without prenatal care, and people are crammed together in windowless rooms on metal bunkbeds, and only allowed outside for five hours a week. This has to stop, and that’s why I’m introducing a bill to ban these massive warehouse detention centers. Camp East Montana is only one, and these facilities are all over the country. There is no reason why ICE should be allowed to spend MORE taxpayer dollars to treat people inhumanely. The country is watching, and Congress needs to act. ###",1,2026-06-27T21:44:12Z,2026-06-27T22:19:40Z https://omar.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-omar-speaks-house-floor-oppose-70-billion-ice-and-border-patrol,Rep. Omar Speaks on the House Floor to Oppose $70 Billion for ICE and Border Patrol,2026-04-29,2026,2026-04,Democrat,House,MN,Ilhan Omar,O000173,omar.house.gov,omar,https://omar.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON — Congresswoman Ilhan Omar (D-MN) spoke on the House Floor in opposition to the inclusion of $70 billion in funding for ICE and Border Patrol in Republicans' budget resolution. You can watch the full video here. Below is a transcript of her remarks: ""Thank you, Mr. Speaker. ""I rise today in strong opposition to this Republican effort to funnel another 70 billion dollars to ICE and CBP to continue their inhumane, illegal and reprehensible actions. ""This effort is even more incomprehensible considering it comes after Trump and Congressional Republicans already created an 85 billion dollars slush fund for ICE during the last budget reconciliation process. ""In my district, ICE has used that money to terrorize Minnesotans, particularly our Black and Brown communities through “Operation Metro Surge.” ""We watched in horror as ICE agents murdered Renée Good and Alex Pretti, in broad daylight. ""We witnessed our neighbors being snatched off the street, pulled from their homes and cars, all without warrants. ""And with tears in our eyes, we saw dozens of children ripped away from their families, friends, and schools–shipped to detention centers out of state. ""Our communities are still recovering from the devastation caused by the federal occupation and the blatant trampling of the rights we, as Americans, hold dear. ""We cannot send this rogue and unaccountable agency another cent. ""I urge my colleagues to vote NO. ""Thank you, and I yield back."" ###",1,2026-06-25T06:30:03Z,2026-06-25T06:31:21Z https://mccollum.house.gov/media/press-releases/us-rep-betty-mccollum-republican-national-security-state-department-funding,"U.S. Rep. Betty McCollum: Republican National Security & State Department Funding Bill ""Continues Trump's Retreat from American Diplomacy""",2026-04-28,2026,2026-04,Democrat,House,MN,Betty McCollum,M001143,mccollum.house.gov,mccollum,https://mccollum.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. — The House Appropriations Committee passed the Fiscal Year 2027 National Security & Department of State funding bill on Tuesday by a vote of 35-27. Congresswoman Betty McCollum (D), the Ranking Member of the House Appropriations Subcommittee on Defense, voted no on the bill and spoke against what she called a “retreat from American diplomacy” during the committee hearing. Following the committee’s approval of the bill, Congresswoman McCollum issued the following statement: “It’s deeply unfortunate that this bill continues President Trump’s retreat from strong American diplomacy and support for development assistance. We know what happens when America retreats from the developing world: poverty, malnutrition, and disease take hold, transnational terrorism spreads, and our adversaries like Russia and China fill the void. This is a national security threat and a dark outlook for the world, and unfortunately Republicans’ bill embraces it. “Democrats and Republicans used to stand together and say: America saves lives, and we do it because it reflects our values. But this bill cuts $532 million from global health programs. Fewer mothers will survive childbirth in sub-Saharan Africa. Fewer children will be vaccinated against dangerous diseases like tuberculosis. HIV clinics in Zambia, Uganda, and the Philippines shut their doors. COVID-19 didn’t knock on our door and ask permission to enter the United States. The next pandemic won't either. “American diplomats used to walk into negotiations with credibility because the United States had a track record of showing up and keeping its word. Sadly, that has changed. This bill not only reflects that reality, it endorses it.”",1,2026-06-25T06:30:03Z,2026-06-25T06:31:21Z https://mccollum.house.gov/media/press-releases/congresswoman-mccollum-announces-winners-2026-congressional-art-competition,Congresswoman McCollum Announces Winners of the 2026 Congressional Art Competition,2026-04-24,2026,2026-04,Democrat,House,MN,Betty McCollum,M001143,mccollum.house.gov,mccollum,https://mccollum.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"SAINT PAUL, Minn. — Congresswoman Betty McCollum, Dean of the Minnesota Congressional Delegation, hosted a recognition evening and exhibit on Thursday night to announce the winners of the 2026 Congressional Art Competition in Minnesota’s Fourth Congressional District. The first-place winner for the 2026 Congressional Art Competition is Alyssa Wang of Woodbury, for her graphite piece entitled “Color Me Happy.” Saint Paul’s Rebecca Maas placed second for her oil painting entitled “While I Sleep In.” Lily Kroeger of North St. Paul took third place for her colored pencil piece entitled “Puppeteer My Own Limits.” “Over the weekend, more than 6,400 people took the opportunity to view the amazing talent and creativity of the more than sixty young artists from across the Fourth District who competed in the 2026 Congressional Art Competition,” said Congresswoman Betty McCollum. “I’m grateful to all the students who applied their time, effort, and creativity to submit a piece of artwork, and I commend them for showing the courage to showcase their talents to our community. Congratulations to Alyssa, Rebecca, and Lily! Wang’s first place work will be displayed in the U.S. Capitol alongside winners from across the United States. Maas’ work will be displayed in Congresswoman McCollum’s Washington, D.C. office, and Kroeger’s piece will hang in the Congresswoman’s Saint Paul office. The competition was open to all Fourth District high school students and attracted dozens of entries which were displayed at the Atrium Gallery of the Schmidt Artist Lofts as part of the 2026 Spring Saint Paul Art Crawl. A panel of Fourth Congressional District Resident Artists generously volunteered their time to judge the students’ art. The winners were announced during a recognition evening on Thursday, April 23rd, 2026, at the Schmidt Artist Lofts.",1,2026-06-17T06:49:24Z,2026-06-17T06:50:53Z https://mccollum.house.gov/media/press-releases/congresswoman-mccollum-offers-amendment-study-financial-impacts-operation,CONGRESSWOMAN McCOLLUM OFFERS AMENDMENT TO STUDY FINANCIAL IMPACTS OF OPERATION METRO SURGE ON MINNESOTA’S SMALL BUSINESSES,2026-04-23,2026,2026-04,Democrat,House,MN,Betty McCollum,M001143,mccollum.house.gov,mccollum,https://mccollum.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"This week, the U.S. House Appropriations Committee marked up the Fiscal Year 2027 Financial Services and General Government (FSGG) funding bill, ultimately passing the legislation by a party-line vote of 34-28. Congresswoman McCollum voted no on the bill because it cuts funding for the Small Business Administration and ends the IRS direct free file program – benefitting billionaires and large corporations at the expense of working families and small businesses struggling to keep up with rising costs. Republicans even rejected opportunities to improve the bill, voting down provisions to protect vote by mail, protect the free file program, and curtail the President’s demolition of history like the Wilbur J. Cohen building in Washington, D.C. — known as the Sistine Chapel of the New Deal. During the markup on Tuesday evening, the committee considered an amendment offered by Congresswoman McCollum that would study the financial impact of increased federal immigration enforcement on Minnesota’s small businesses. The amendment was defeated by a vote of 31-26. Visit Congresswoman McCollum’s YouTube Channel to watch her remarks on the amendment. Congresswoman Betty McCollum issued the following statement: “In Saint Paul, it’s estimated that businesses lost more than $16 million during each week of Operation Metro Surge. That’s a total of over $128 million in losses for the two months of Operation Metro Surge—just in the City of Saint Paul. In the Fourth District, small businesses anchor our main streets from Saint Paul to White Bear Lake and Stillwater. Small business owners and workers I’ve spoken to are seeking help to rebuild after Operation Metro Surge. Sadly, majority Republicans are choosing to ignore the lasting damage caused to our communities by the administration’s months-long invasion and occupation of our state.”",1,2026-06-16T06:53:21Z,2026-06-16T06:55:02Z https://craig.house.gov/media/press-releases/reps-craig-ryan-introduce-legislation-hold-health-insurance-companies,"Reps. Craig, Ryan Introduce Legislation to Hold Health Insurance Companies Accountable for Sky-High Denial Rates, Refund Patients for Unfair Health Care Costs",2026-04-22,2026,2026-04,Democrat,House,MN,Angie Craig,C001119,craig.house.gov,craig,https://craig.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC – Today, U.S. Representatives Angie Craig (MN-02) and Pat Ryan (NY-18) introduced their new bill to hold health insurance companies accountable for above-average denial rates and refund patients for medical payments that should have been covered by insurance. The Patient Refunds for Bad Denials Act would create financial penalties for health insurers that deny more than 25% of claims in a given year according to an annual audit by the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS). The penalty would total $10 million plus an additional $2 million for each percentage point above the 25% denial threshold. These penalties would be paid back to affected enrollees. In plan year 2024, the in-network denial rate for qualified health plans (QHPs) sold on HealthCare.gov ranged from three percent to 36 percent, with significant variation by insurer and by state. According to a January 2026 Kaiser Family Foundation (KFF) poll, two-thirds of insured adults believe delays and denials of health care services by health insurance companies are a “major problem"" and one-third of insured adults say they have had a health insurance company deny coverage for a service or medication prescribed by their doctor in the past two years. Nearly 40 percent of participants who reported having trouble paying medical bills said that denied claims contributed to their medical debt. “Every Minnesotan knows someone who has been burdened by medical debt, despite being covered by insurance,” said Rep. Craig. “That’s because for too long, massive health insurance companies have been allowed to exploit patients while raking in record profits. That stops now. My bill with Rep. Ryan will finally penalize health insurers for sky-high denial rates and – most importantly, it will put that money back into Minnesotans’ pockets. It’s time to hold Big Insurance accountable, and our legislation will do that.” “For too long, massive insurance companies have been allowed to exploit patients and deny coverage for life-saving care, all while raking in record-breaking profits. It’s a fundamental abuse of their power,” said Rep. Ryan. “This legislation finally holds greedy insurance companies accountable, fining them for their wrongful claim denial rates and returning hard-earned money back to patients across the Hudson Valley. With the Patient Refunds for Bad Denials Act, we’re making sure insurers can’t keep lining their pockets at your expense – because nobody should struggle to afford high quality care while billionaires in boardrooms get richer.” As founding members of the Congressional Monopoly Busters Caucus, Reps. Craig and Ryan have worked together in Congress to take on corporate greed, lower health care costs and expand access to care for folks in rural communities. You can read the full text of the Patient Refunds for Bad Denials Act HERE. ###",1,2026-06-24T06:25:30Z,2026-06-24T06:26:49Z https://craig.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-craigs-bill-expedite-high-speed-internet-connectivity-projects-federal,Rep. Craig's Bill to Expedite High-Speed Internet Connectivity Projects on Federal Lands Passes House,2026-04-21,2026,2026-04,Democrat,House,MN,Angie Craig,C001119,craig.house.gov,craig,https://craig.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC – Today, U.S. Representative Angie Craig’s bipartisan bill to expedite broadband infrastructure projects on federally-managed lands and connect more Minnesotans with high-speed internet passed the House of Representatives. The Expediting Federal Broadband Deployment Reviews Act, if passed by the Senate and signed into law, would help improve access to high-speed internet in rural and underserved communities, especially in states with large amounts of federal land. The state of Minnesota contains 3.4 million acres of federal land. The bill streamlines the permitting process for broadband projects on federally-managed lands by directing the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) to lead an interagency strike force with the Bureau of Land Management (BLM), U.S. Forest Service (USFS), U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) and the Department of the Interior to improve coordination, set review goals and hold agencies accountable. The United States faces a persistent digital divide. According to the Federal Communications Commission (FCC), approximately 5.8 million homes and businesses lack access to high-speed internet, while 31 percent of the geographic area of the United States lacks 4G LTE high-speed mobile broadband coverage. Many of these unserved locations are near property owned by the federal government. “From online classes to telehealth to remote work, the ability to get online is changing the way we learn, conduct business and take care of ourselves,” said Rep. Craig. ""That’s why it’s so important that folks across Minnesota, from urban and suburban to rural communities, have access to the online resources they need to succeed. We should be making it easier, not harder to expand broadband infrastructure, and that’s exactly what my bill will do. I’m proud to see the House pass this important legislation today and will keep working to get it passed in the Senate and signed into law.” As a co-chair of the Congressional Rural Broadband Caucus, Rep. Craig has led the effort to connect Minnesota’s rural communities to high-speed internet. Last June, Rep. Craig wrote a letter to Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick urging the Administration to follow through on its promise to deliver high-speed internet to rural communities through the Broadband Equity Access and Deployment (BEAD) program. Last Congress, Rep. Craig led a group of Members in urging Speaker Johnson to take action to extend funding for the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP), which provided 23 million American households – and over 244,000 Minnesota households – with access to affordable high-speed internet. She later introduced the Secure and Affordable Broadband Extension Act to increase funding for federal broadband accessibility programs like the ACP, which expired in June of 2024. In 2024, she secured a $1 million federal investment to improve internet access in Le Sueur County, Minnesota. The Expediting Federal Broadband Deployment Reviews Act was co-led by Rep. Gabe Evans (R-CO). You can read the full text of the bill HERE. ###",1,2026-06-19T06:50:32Z,2026-06-19T06:53:40Z