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://estes.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=7588,Congressman Estes Announces New Communications Director,2026-09-17,2026,2026-09,Republican,House,KS,Ron Estes,E000298,estes.house.gov,estes,https://estes.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27,scraper,"U.S. Representative Ron Estes (R-Kansas) has hired Jackson Baker as communications director, replacing Natalie Turner. Baker will be based in Rep. Estes’ Washington, D.C., office.

Baker most recently served as communications director for Congressman David Schweikert (R-Arizona), where he led press, digital, and member communications and developed messaging on Ways and Means, Joint Economic Committee, and oversight priorities. Before joining Schweikert’s senior staff, he served as deputy communications director for the Republican Party of Arizona. He is a graduate of the University of Missouri, where he earned a Bachelor of Arts in journalism with an emphasis in strategic communications.

“I’m glad to welcome Jackson to Team Estes as we continue delivering results for Kansans throughout the 4th District,” Congressman Estes said. “His experience communicating tax, trade, and retirement-security issues will help us keep constituents informed about the work we are doing in Congress and at home.”",1,2026-09-18T09:27:43Z,2026-09-18T09:29:09Z
https://estes.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=7590,Estes Introduces Bill to Update US International Tax Rules,2026-09-17,2026,2026-09,Republican,House,KS,Ron Estes,E000298,estes.house.gov,estes,https://estes.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27,scraper,"Rep. Ron Estes (R-Kansas) on Wednesday introduced the U.S. Innovation and Global Competitiveness Act of 2026, which would improve the international tax rules for companies that operate both in the U.S. and overseas. It will ensure that America remains the most innovative country in the world for decades to come.

The bill builds on the international tax system created by the 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act and made permanent by the Working Families Tax Cuts. The 2017 law created the base erosion and anti-abuse tax, known as BEAT, along with global intangible low-taxed income and foreign-derived intangible income. The Working Families Tax Cuts made BEAT permanent, along with updated versions of the other two provisions, now called net controlled foreign corporation tested income, or NCTI, and foreign-derived deduction eligible income, or FDDEI.

Rep. Estes' bill would narrow when BEAT applies to payments made overseas, reduce double taxation on U.S. companies' foreign earnings and make it easier for companies to bring intellectual property back to the United States.

""When it comes to international taxes, American businesses and workers should come first,"" Estes said. “Here in the Air Capital of the World, we know that aerospace and a host of other industries compete in the global marketplace. The Tax Cuts and Jobs Act and the Working Families Tax Cuts made the United States the best place in the world to build a business and invest in our communities. Our international tax system should support that, not penalize American companies for growing around the world. This bill keeps our protections against profit shifting in place while making sure U.S. job creators aren't hit with double taxation or penalized for routine business payments that don't erode our tax base. It also makes clear that digital services taxes or other discriminatory taxes that target American companies are still treated as base eroding. This legislation is the first step in laying out the House Republican vision for the future of international tax policy.""

Background

The U.S. Innovation and Global Competitiveness Act would:

● Exclude payments already subject to U.S. tax from BEAT, allow general business credits to count against BEAT liability and keep domestic tax credits from increasing a company's BEAT bill. The bill also creates a high-tax exception for payments to related foreign companies that pay an effective tax rate of at least 18.9%, or 90% of the U.S. corporate rate. The exception would not apply to countries that impose digital services taxes or other discriminatory taxes on U.S. companies.

● Eliminate the 10% reduction in foreign tax credits for NCTI, allow NCTI losses to be carried forward for up to five years and allow those foreign tax credits to be carried forward and back like other business credits. The bill also reduces the number of foreign tax credit categories from four to two and gives the Treasury Department more flexibility on foreign tax redeterminations.

● Raise the FDDEI deduction to 40% from 33.34%, remove the taxable income limit on the deduction and add a look-through rule for certain interest payments from foreign subsidiaries.

● Allow U.S. companies, for a limited time, to transfer intellectual property held by their foreign subsidiaries back to the United States without additional tax.

● Make other changes to the international tax code, including provisions related to Subpart F income, business interest deductions and the research credit.

Rep. Estes intends the bill as a starting point for the next round of international tax changes and a list of options for future tax legislation. He plans to gather additional feedback on the proposals through the rest of the year and into the 120th Congress.

View the full text of the bill here.",1,2026-09-18T09:27:43Z,2026-09-18T09:29:09Z
https://schmidt.house.gov/media/press-releases/reps-derek-schmidt-sharice-davids-take-kansas-grown-childrens-savings,"Reps. Derek Schmidt, Sharice Davids Take Kansas-Grown Children's Savings Initiative Nationwide",2026-09-17,2026,2026-09,Republican,House,KS,Derek Schmidt,S001228,schmidt.house.gov,schmidt,https://schmidt.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – A program now being implemented in Kansas to help families learn about savings and investment opportunities for their children could soon be expanded nationwide.

Today, U.S. Representatives Derek Schmidt (KS-02) and Sharice Davids (KS-03) introduced the bipartisan Born to Invest Act, legislation to help parents and legal guardians learn about tax-favored savings and investment accounts available for their children.

“Every child deserves the opportunity to build a strong financial foundation, and parents should have clear information about the tools available to help them do that,” said Rep. Derek Schmidt. “The Born to Invest Act will help connect families with information about accounts that can help them save and invest for their children’s future, while giving states a practical framework for making that information available from the beginning of a child’s life.”

Kansas recently enacted the Born to Invest Act at the state level, creating a framework for connecting families with information about Trump Accounts, 529 college savings plans, and ABLE accounts. The federal Born to Invest Act would build on this Kansas approach by creating a nationwide framework to help families access information about these savings tools.

The Born to Invest Act would require the Treasury Department, working with the Department of Health and Human Services, to create guidance for states on how to help parents and guardians learn about savings options for their children, including Trump accounts, ABLE accounts, and 529 college savings plans.

The legislation would also encourage coordination between state treasurers and state health departments regarding information on live births, helping state treasurers carry out efforts to share information about these savings and investment options with families.

""As someone who worked my way through college, I know how life-changing it is when a family can start saving early for a child's future,” said Rep. Sharice Davids. “But right now, too many new parents miss out on savings programs simply because no one tells them that they exist. This bipartisan bill fixes that. By delivering clear, actionable information to parents the moment a child is born, Representative Schmidt and I are helping Kansas families build real financial security from day one.""

“Building a strong financial foundation early in life gives children greater confidence and opportunity as they grow,” said Kansas State Treasurer Steven Johnson. “With several tax-advantaged savings options available, parents and caregivers have more ways than ever to help prepare their children for the future. Born to Invest is designed to help families understand these savings plans, learn about available financial incentives, and recognize the important role investing can play in building long-term financial security. By providing this information early in a child’s life, we can help parents and caregivers choose the option that works best for their family and understand the lasting benefits of starting to save early. I appreciate the bipartisan leadership of Kansas Representatives Schmidt and Davids and their commitment to strengthening the financial well-being of families.”

“Kansas has been leading the way in connecting people with disabilities and their families to tools like ABLE accounts that help them save, invest, and build financial security,” said Sara Hart Weir, Executive Director of the Kansas Council on Developmental Disabilities. “I’m thrilled to see Congressman Schmidt and Congresswoman Davids take this Kansas-grown idea national through the Born to Invest Act. For too long, Americans with disabilities have been told what they cannot earn, save, or own. This legislation helps change that trajectory from day one — ensuring children with disabilities are included in America’s growing culture of saving, investing, and building wealth.”

Trump Accounts are a new type of tax-preferred account designed to help families save and invest for their children’s future. Eligible children born between 2025 and 2028 can receive a one-time $1,000 contribution from the U.S. Treasury, which is invested in the child’s account. Parents, family members, employers, and other eligible contributors can also add money to the account, allowing it to grow as the child grows. Federal law sets specific rules for these accounts while a child is growing up, and the Treasury Department and IRS have provided guidance on how they can be established and managed.

The Born to Invest Act would build on these existing federal savings tools by helping ensure families receive information about available options.

###",1,2026-09-18T09:27:43Z,2026-09-18T09:29:09Z
https://schmidt.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-derek-schmidt-joins-effort-crack-down-ebt-fraud,Rep. Derek Schmidt Joins Effort to Crack Down on EBT Fraud,2026-09-15,2026,2026-09,Republican,House,KS,Derek Schmidt,S001228,schmidt.house.gov,schmidt,https://schmidt.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Derek Schmidt (KS-02) announced that he is cosponsoring the SKIM Act, legislation to crack down on rampant EBT card and identity fraud and protect government benefits from criminals.

The SKIM Act strengthens coordination among federal, state, and local law enforcement, increases prison sentences for criminals using fake cards, and establishes best practices to help identify and prevent future fraud.

“Americans who receive government benefits shouldn’t have to worry about criminals stealing the help they rely on, and taxpayers need to know their hard-earned tax dollars are not being stolen from government programs,” said Congressman Schmidt. “We need to protect taxpayers, safeguard benefits, and hold those who commit fraud accountable.”

The problem is significant: USDA reported that more than $220 million in SNAP benefits were stolen through EBT card skimming, cloning, and similar methods during fiscal years 2023 and 2024, with those benefits subsequently replaced using federal funds.

The SKIM Act builds on Congressman Schmidt’s ongoing effort to fight fraud, protect Americans from scams, and safeguard taxpayer dollars. Rep. Schmidt has previously cosponsored legislation including:

H.R. 7548 — SCAM Act, which takes aim at fraudulent and deceptive commercial advertisements online.

H.R. 3469 — Tax Relief for Victims of Crimes, Scams, and Disasters Act, which would provide tax relief to victims who suffer losses from crimes, scams, and disasters.

H.R. 8601 — Veterans Protection from Fraud Act, which strengthens protections for veterans from fraud.

H.R. 2978 — GUARD Act, which works to protect aging retirees from deception and financial exploitation.

H.R. 6425 — National Strategy for Combating Scams Act, which would establish a national strategy to combat scams. Rep. Schmidt is a co-lead of the bill.

H.R. 6426 — STOP Scams Against Seniors Act, which would strengthen efforts to combat scams targeting seniors.

Protecting taxpayers and fighting fraud has been a top priority throughout Schmidt’s public service. As Kansas Attorney General, he recovered more than $1.5 billion for Kansas consumers and taxpayers, including over $660 million in consumer protection and antitrust cases, $120 million in Medicaid fraud recoveries, and millions more in insurance, securities, and criminal fraud enforcement.

###",1,2026-09-16T09:43:13Z,2026-09-16T09:44:22Z
https://estes.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=7587,Rep. Estes Introduces Legislation to Prevent Fraudulent IRS Returns,2026-09-14,2026,2026-09,Republican,House,KS,Ron Estes,E000298,estes.house.gov,estes,https://estes.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27,scraper,"U.S. Representatives Ron Estes (R-Kansas) and Jimmy Panetta (D-California) introduced legislation on Thursday to help prevent the submission of fraudulent IRS returns before they are filed. The legislation verifies that Electronic Filing Identification Numbers (EFIN), which identify who submitted the return to the IRS, are active and authorized in the software before e-file functionality is enabled.

“The EFIN Verification Act of 2026 will reduce the risk of fraudsters using stolen or compromised EFIN numbers to file IRS returns,” said Rep. Estes. “By preventing fraudulent IRS returns from being filed with EFIN verification, this legislation will maintain the integrity of our tax system, prevent scams before they happen, and codify an already-existing IRS program into law.”

“Tax preparation firms play an important role in helping working Americans file their tax returns electronically, but the IRS currently lacks the tools to authenticate their Electronic Filing Identification Numbers. This security gap leaves those numbers vulnerable to theft and misuse by online scammers,” said Rep. Panetta. “I’m proud to co-lead this bipartisan legislation with Rep. Estes to require the IRS to establish an EFIN verification system that will strengthen security, reduce fraud, and protect taxpayers’ hard-earned money.”",1,2026-09-15T09:50:21Z,2026-09-15T09:52:05Z
https://estes.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=7558,Rep. Estes Highlights Deep Community Engagement Across Kansas During August,2026-09-01,2026,2026-09,Republican,House,KS,Ron Estes,E000298,estes.house.gov,estes,https://estes.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27,scraper,"U.S. Representative Ron Estes (R-Kansas) concludes the August working period today. Rep. Estes maintained a relentless schedule focused on listening directly to the concerns of his Kansas constituents with 32 events. Including August, Rep. Estes has attended, hosted, or visited 192 businesses, schools, local events, and constituent meetings across Kansas throughout the 119th Congress. Throughout his visits, conversations have focused on lower taxes, cutting red tape for local businesses, supporting Kansas agriculture, and standing up for Kansas workers and families.

""Hearing directly from the people of south-central Kansas is the most important part of my job,"" said Rep. Estes. ""Whether visiting a family farm, touring a local manufacturing floor, or talking with teachers, every meeting gives me valuable insight into how federal decisions impact our community.""

In addition, thanks to great constituent services, Kansans have now been connected with $24,738,288.29 due to them in government payments through Congressional casework in the 119th Congress.",1,2026-09-05T08:49:07Z,2026-09-05T08:50:44Z
https://mann.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-mann-presses-atf-clarity-following-suppressor-regulations,Rep. Mann Presses ATF For Clarity Following Suppressor Regulations,2026-08-27,2026,2026-08,Republican,House,KS,Tracey Mann,M000871,mann.house.gov,mann,https://mann.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Representative Tracey Mann (KS-01) sent a letter to Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) Director Robert Cekada requesting clear and timely guidance for law-abiding firearm owners, manufacturers, and federally licensed firearms dealers following the August federal court ruling in Silencer Shop Foundation v. ATF.

The ruling affects federal suppressor registration requirements under the National Firearms Act (NFA) and has created uncertainty regarding existing and pending applications, Form 4 approvals, and the requirements that remain in effect. In his letter, Rep. Mann urged ATF to promptly explain how it will implement the ruling and provide clear direction to Americans and businesses seeking to comply with federal law.

“Law-abiding gun owners and businesses should not be left guessing about what federal law requires of them,” said Rep. Mann. “The Second Amendment is a fundamental constitutional right, and the federal government has a responsibility to provide clear, transparent guidance when a court ruling changes how firearm regulations are enforced. Without clear guidance from ATF, law-abiding Americans and businesses are being left to determine for themselves how this ruling affects their rights, responsibilities, and livelihoods. ATF should work directly with Congress and the firearms community to provide answers and restore certainty as quickly as possible.”

Rep. Mann specifically requested information from ATF regarding:

Steps the agency has taken to implement the Silencer Shop Foundation v. ATF ruling

How the ruling will affect the Form 4 application and approval process

Which federal NFA registration requirements will remain in effect

How ATF will handle existing and pending applications

What procedures firearm owners, manufacturers, and dealers should follow going forward

When ATF intends to publish official, finalized guidance

Rep. Mann is a staunch defender of the Second Amendment. In January 2025, Rep. Mann introduced the RIFLE Act of 2025. Rep. Mann also penned a letter to former ATF Director Steven Dettelbach in January of 2024, pushing back against President Biden's zero-tolerance policy. In June 2023, Rep. Mann voted to block ATF’s rule to reclassify pistols with stabilizing braces as short-barreled rifles and shotguns. Rep. Mann opposed the Biden Administration’s overreaching executive orders that made it harder for law-abiding citizens to own firearms and voted against legislation to establish an unconstitutional assault weapons ban.",1,2026-08-28T17:11:49Z,2026-08-28T17:13:14Z
https://schmidt.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-derek-schmidt-announces-service-academy-nomination-applications,Congressman Derek Schmidt Announces Service Academy Nomination Applications Now Open,2026-08-03,2026,2026-08,Republican,House,KS,Derek Schmidt,S001228,schmidt.house.gov,schmidt,https://schmidt.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"TOPEKA - Congressman Derek Schmidt is now accepting applications for Kansas Second District students seeking a congressional nomination to attend one of the nation's prestigious U.S. Service Academies.

""One of the greatest honors I have as a member of Congress is nominating outstanding young men and women from the Second District to our nation's service academies,"" Congressman Schmidt said. ""These institutions develop the next generation of military leaders who are committed to serving our country with honor, integrity, and excellence. I encourage every eligible student who has a passion for leadership and a desire to serve our nation to apply.""

Members of Congress may nominate candidates to the following U.S. Service Academies:

U.S. Military Academy at West Point, New York

U.S. Naval Academy in Annapolis, Maryland

U.S. Air Force Academy in Colorado Springs, Colorado

U.S. Merchant Marine Academy in Kings Point, New York

To be eligible for a nomination, applicants must, as of July 1 of the year of admission:

Be at least 17 years old but not yet 23.

Be a United States citizen.

Be unmarried with no legal obligation to support a child or dependent.

Be a legal resident of Kansas' Second Congressional District.

Completed nomination application materials must be submitted by 11:59 p.m. CT on October 15, 2026. Required materials include an online application, essay, recent photograph, résumé, official transcripts, standardized test score verification, and three letters of recommendation.

Applicants who submit a complete nomination file and meet all eligibility requirements will be invited to interview before Congressman Schmidt's independent, nonpartisan Service Academy Nomination Board on Saturday, November 7, 2026.

Click here for more information about the application process.

###",1,2026-08-04T07:35:49Z,2026-08-04T07:37:27Z
https://mann.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-mann-votes-support-american-troops-strengthen-national-security,"Rep. Mann Votes to Support American Troops, Strengthen National Security",2026-07-23,2026,2026-07,Republican,House,KS,Tracey Mann,M000871,mann.house.gov,mann,https://mann.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Representative Tracey Mann (KS-01) voted to advance H.R. 8800, theNational Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2027(NDAA). The annual bill provides critical resources for U.S. national defense, military readiness, and support for the nation’s service members. Rep. Mann released the following statement after the vote.

“Freedom is not free, and we have a duty to support the brave men and women who put their lives on the line to defend it,” said Rep. Mann. “This year’s NDAA advances peace through strength by building a ready, capable, and lethal fighting force and codifying key elements of President Trump’s America First defense agenda. I was proud to support the men and women serving at Fort Riley and around the globe by voting to give servicemembers a pay raise, revitalize our defense industrial base, rebuild depleted stockpiles, restore our warfighting capabilities, and strengthen deterrence against adversaries like China, Russia, Iran, and North Korea. I am proud to stand with our military. God bless our troops.”

The National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2027:

Expedites the production and acquisition of munitions, rebuilding our depleted stockpiles.

Strengthens American nuclear deterrence and invests in innovative missile defense systems.

Provides all servicemembers with a pay raise while improving housing, education, and access to childcare for all military families.

Advances 65 of President Trump's executive orders and Legislative Proposals to efficiently build a ready, capable, and lethal fighting force.

Streamlines Department of War operations and cuts nearly $30 billion in wasteful programs.

###",1,2026-07-24T07:30:11Z,2026-07-24T07:31:13Z
https://estes.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=7527,"Rep. Estes Votes to Pass National Defense Authorization Act, Securing Key Authorization for 184th Wing at McConnell AFB",2026-07-22,2026,2026-07,Republican,House,KS,Ron Estes,E000298,estes.house.gov,estes,https://estes.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27,scraper,"U.S. Representative Ron Estes (KS-04) released the following statement after voting in favor of the House passage of H.R. 8800, the Fiscal Year 2027 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA):

“Providing for a strong national defense and ensuring our service members have the tools they need to protect our homeland is one of Congress’s most critical constitutional duties.

This year’s NDAA delivers on rebuilding the arsenal of freedom, including provisions to bolster readiness, strengthen quality of life and military families, restore lethality, reinvigorate our defense industrial base, and reinforce American military deterrence. The bill directly supports the crucial role that Kansas airmen and soldiers play in protecting our nation.

It is especially significant that this legislation includes a $10 million authorization for the Point Defense Battle Lab (PDBL) mission. The 184th Wing at McConnell Air Force Base is the only National Guard Wing supporting this mission, and the 184th Wing is uniquely positioned to leverage Kansas’s world-class aviation expertise, workforce, and research institutions like Wichita State University’s National Institute for Aviation Research (NIAR).

Advancing our Counter-small Unmanned Aircraft Systems (C-sUAS) capabilities and hardening our military installations is an urgent operational necessity in today’s evolving threat landscape. While the NDAA is an authorization bill rather than a funding bill, securing this authorization is an important step toward equipping the 184th Wing with the infrastructure and equipment needed to execute this critical national security mission,” Rep. Ron Estes said.

Point Defense Battle Lab Background:

Along with the 319th Reconnaissance Wing out of Grand Forks Air Force Base, the Point Defense Battle Lab (PDBL) initiative focuses on validating tactics, techniques, and procedures for countering a wide range of airborne threats. Ultimately, the PDBL aims to safeguard installations and protect critical Department of War assets. The 184th Wing at McConnell Air Force Base in Wichita was designated by Air Combat Command (ACC) to support the Air Force’s PBDL mission, the only National Guard Wing supporting this mission.

Representative Estes previously advocated for the selection of the 184th Wing to be designated as a partner unit for the PDBL mission, as it presents a unique opportunity for the DoW to leverage south central Kansas’s expertise, industry, and capabilities.

###",1,2026-07-24T07:30:11Z,2026-07-24T07:31:13Z
https://schmidt.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-derek-schmidt-joins-bipartisan-effort-expand-able-savings-americans,Rep. Derek Schmidt Joins Bipartisan Effort to Expand ABLE Savings for Americans with Disabilities,2026-07-21,2026,2026-07,Republican,House,KS,Derek Schmidt,S001228,schmidt.house.gov,schmidt,https://schmidt.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Derek Schmidt (KS-02) today announced he has joined Congresswoman Debbie Dingell (MI-06) as a co-lead of the bipartisan ABLE MATCH (Making Able a Tool to Combat Hardship) Act, legislation to help more Americans with disabilities build financial security through Achieving a Better Life Experience (ABLE) savings accounts.

The legislation would establish a federal matching contribution for eligible low- and moderate-income individuals who save in ABLE accounts, allowing beneficiaries to receive up to a 100 percent federal match on the first $2,000 they contribute annually, subject to income limits. The federal matching funds would be deposited directly into the beneficiary's ABLE account, helping individuals save for disability-related expenses without jeopardizing eligibility for critical benefits.

""ABLE accounts have provided many individuals with disabilities and their families an important tool to save for the future, but too many people still struggle to set aside money because of financial pressures,"" Congressman Schmidt said. ""This bipartisan legislation helps make those savings go further by strengthening and expanding this successful program. Every Kansan deserves the opportunity to build greater financial security.”

""Financial independence shouldn’t be out of reach for individuals with disabilities,” Rep. Dingell said. “By reintroducing the ABLE MATCH Act, we are taking a crucial step toward economic security by matching the hard-earned savings of ABLE account beneficiaries through a refundable tax credit.""

""I want to thank Congressman Derek Schmidt and Congresswoman Debbie Dingell for their bipartisan leadership in championing the ABLE MATCH Act,” said Sara Hart Weir, Executive Director for Kansas Council on Developmental Disabilities (KCDD). Kansas has shown that when states make a meaningful investment in ABLE outreach and partner across agencies, families respond. Through our statewide collaboration with the Kansas State Treasurer's Office, we've demonstrated that connecting people to ABLE accounts early and intentionally can transform lives. The ABLE MATCH Act will build on that success by ensuring that low- and moderate-income Kansans with disabilities don't just have access to an ABLE account—they have the financial incentive to start saving and building long-term independence. This legislation has the potential to dramatically scale ABLE participation in Kansas and across the nation.""

“Beginning in 2027, the federal government will offer a powerful savings incentive designed to help millions of hard-working Americans save for retirement,” Kansas State Treasurer Steven Johnson said. “For disabled Americans who rely on an ABLE account for building wealth, the incentive funds offered by the Saver’s Match cannot be deposited into an ABLE account. As administrator of the Kansas ABLE Savings Plan, I applaud Congressman Schmidt and Congresswoman Dingell for working to address this savings disparity and giving ABLE account owners access to a powerful wealth-building incentive.”

ABLE accounts allow eligible individuals with disabilities to save money in tax-advantaged accounts to pay for qualified disability-related expenses without losing eligibility for programs such as Supplemental Security Income (SSI) or Medicaid.

More than 223,000 ABLE accounts were open nationwide as of September 2025, with an average account balance of approximately $12,863. People with disabilities continue to experience significantly higher rates of poverty and often face substantially higher costs of daily living.

U.S. Senator Jerry Moran (R-KS) introduced the Senate version of the bill.

The ABLE MATCH Act would apply to taxable years beginning after December 31, 2026. It has been referred to the House Committee on Ways and Means.",1,2026-07-22T07:34:13Z,2026-07-22T07:35:16Z
https://schmidt.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-derek-schmidt-proposes-new-world-war-ii-education-initiative,Congressman Derek Schmidt Proposes New World War II Education Initiative in Memory of Senator Bob Dole,2026-07-20,2026,2026-07,Republican,House,KS,Derek Schmidt,S001228,schmidt.house.gov,schmidt,https://schmidt.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Derek Schmidt (KS-02) today introduced bipartisan legislation with Congresswoman Julie Johnson (TX-32) to create the Senator Robert J. Dole Greatest Generation Education Program, a new initiative dedicated to preserving the legacy of the Americans who served and sacrificed to win World War II.

The bill, which was developed in collaboration with Friends of the National World War II Memorial, would direct the Department of Defense to create a comprehensive educational program designed to increase public awareness and understanding of the achievements, sacrifices, and enduring lessons of the Greatest Generation. The proposal authorizes grants to nonprofit organizations and state and local governments supporting educational activities, public programming, and intergenerational engagement for World War II history and remembrance across the country.

“As the number of living World War II veterans continues to decline, our responsibility to preserve their stories and pass their lessons to future generations becomes even more important,"" Rep. Schmidt said. ""This legislation will help young Americans learn about the courage, sacrifice, unity, and determination that won World War II, and it will appropriately honor Senator Dole's legacy.""

“The sacrifice that the Greatest Generation made for our country during World War II is one that we must continue to celebrate and revere,” Rep. Johnson said. “By promoting these high-quality, educational opportunities, we are ensuring that future generations understand one of the consequential periods of our history.”

A combat-wounded veteran of World War II whose lifelong public service consistently supported World War II veterans, Senator Bob Dole of Kansas was a driving force behind the construction of the World War II Memorial on the National Mall in Washington, D.C. Dole died in 2021 at age 98, but his legacy is still closely associated with the World War II generation.

The legislation emphasizes using the lessons of World War II to strengthen connections between generations, encourage patriotism, and demonstrate how Americans can overcome extraordinary challenges when united by a common purpose.

“As an organization dedicated to educating the public about the Greatest Generation, the Friends of the National World War II Memorial commends Congressman Schmidt for introducing the Robert J. Dole Greatest Generation Education Program,” said Holly Rotondi, Friends of the National World War II Memorial Executive Director. “The sacrifices of the Greatest Generation remain an enduring source of patriotism, pride, and national unity, and their stories offer timeless lessons for current and future generations. As fewer World War II veterans remain with us, it is essential that their service be preserved, taught, and remembered. Education about World War II can inspire young Americans, bridge generational divides, and show how a united nation can overcome great challenges and build a better future. Congressman Schmidt’s leadership on this issue is greatly appreciated.”

Schmidt also has amended the bill into the House of Representatives version of the National Defense Authorization Act for fiscal year 2027, which is expected to be voted on in the House this week.",1,2026-07-21T07:32:02Z,2026-07-21T07:33:33Z
https://schmidt.house.gov/media/press-releases/reps-derek-schmidt-brad-finstad-bill-would-permanently-strengthen-federal,"Reps. Derek Schmidt, Brad Finstad Bill Would Permanently Strengthen Federal Fraud Enforcement",2026-07-02,2026,2026-07,Republican,House,KS,Derek Schmidt,S001228,schmidt.house.gov,schmidt,https://schmidt.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Derek Schmidt is co-sponsoring legislation introduced by Congressman Brad Finstad (MN-01) to permanently establish the National Fraud Enforcement Division within the U.S. Department of Justice, ensuring the federal government maintains a coordinated effort to combat fraud and protect taxpayer dollars across future administrations.

The legislation would codify the National Fraud Enforcement Division, which was established under President Donald Trump, making it a permanent office under the Attorney General.

""Fraud against the federal government and American taxpayers costs billions of dollars each year,"" said Rep. Derek Schmidt. ""By making this division permanent, we can strengthen the Department of Justice's ability to investigate and prosecute complex fraud schemes, protect taxpayer-funded programs, and ensure those who steal from the American people are held accountable.""

“In Minnesota, we’ve seen real accountability come as a result of the numerous federal fraud investigations underway by the DOJ. I’m grateful for the Trump administration’s continued efforts to put an end to the fraud and abuse within our federally funded programs,” said Rep. Finstad. “I’m proud to introduce this important legislation with Rep. Schmidt, which will centralize fraud prevention efforts within federal law enforcement and give the DOJ greater ability to fully investigate and prosecute the fraudsters responsible for stealing Americans’ hard-earned taxpayer dollars.”

The National Fraud Enforcement Division would lead the Department of Justice's nationwide anti-fraud efforts by coordinating major investigations, working with federal agencies to dismantle organized fraud schemes, and recommending reforms to prevent future abuse.

###",1,2026-07-03T08:00:00Z,2026-07-03T08:01:30Z
https://mann.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-mann-hosts-america-250-call-prayer-event-center-contiguous-us,Rep. Mann Hosts America 250 Call to Prayer Event at Center of Contiguous U.S.,2026-06-29,2026,2026-06,Republican,House,KS,Tracey Mann,M000871,mann.house.gov,mann,https://mann.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"LEBANON, KS – U.S. Representative Tracey Mann (KS-01) hosted an America 250 Call to Prayer event on Friday at the geographic center of the contiguous United States, the U.S. Center Chapel in Lebanon, Kansas. The event brought together Kansans two weeks before America's 250th birthday to pray for the nation, reflect on American liberty, and honor the faith, families, and values that have sustained the United States for two and a half centuries.

“There is no better place to gather and pray for our country than right here, in the heart of America,” said Rep. Mann. “As we prepare to celebrate 250 years of independence, we should do so with reflection, humility, gratitude, and prayer. America’s strength has never come from Washington, D.C.; it comes from families who pray together, parents who teach their children our shared values, and communities that look out for one another. Standing at the center of the country, my prayer is that America remembers who we are as a nation, keeps faith and family at the center of American life, and remains one nation under God for the next 250 years and beyond.”

Lebanon, Kansas is home to the geographic center of the contiguous United States and sits in Kansas’ First Congressional District. Participants of today's program included former Kansas Governor Jeff Colyer, Kansas House Chaplain Doug Henkle, Retired Marine Corps veteran and Pastor Phil Taylor of Salina Presbyterian Church, Allen Seaman of Lebanon, and Dr. John Walker, Superintendent of Central Christian School in Hutchinson.",1,2026-06-30T06:29:10Z,2026-06-30T06:30:42Z
https://schmidt.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-derek-schmidt-congratulates-congressional-art-competition-winner-leo,Rep. Derek Schmidt Congratulates Congressional Art Competition Winner Leo Norman,2026-06-25,2026,2026-06,Republican,House,KS,Derek Schmidt,S001228,schmidt.house.gov,schmidt,https://schmidt.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Derek Schmidt recently met with Leo Norman, the winner of this year’s Congressional Art Competition for Kansas’s Second District and a recent graduate of Pittsburg High School.

The Congressional Art Competition is an annual nationwide competition that recognizes and encourages the artistic talents of high school students from across the United States. Winning artwork from each congressional district is displayed in the U.S. Capitol for one year, showcasing the creativity and achievements of young artists from every corner of the country.

Leo’s award-winning artwork was selected to represent Kansas’s Second District and will be exhibited in the U.S. Capitol over the next year.

“It was a pleasure to meet Leo and congratulate him on this outstanding achievement,” said Rep. Schmidt. “The Congressional Art Competition highlights the remarkable talent of students across our nation, and Leo’s work is a source of pride for Kansas’s Second District. I look forward to seeing his artwork every day in the Capitol.”

Click here to read more about the Congressional Art Competition.

###",1,2026-06-27T21:44:12Z,2026-06-27T22:11:26Z
https://schmidt.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-derek-schmidt-led-bill-strengthen-small-business-competition-passes-house,Rep. Derek Schmidt-Led Bill to Strengthen Small Business Competition Passes House,2026-06-23,2026,2026-06,Republican,House,KS,Derek Schmidt,S001228,schmidt.house.gov,schmidt,https://schmidt.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – The U.S. House of Representatives today passed the Main Street Competes Act, bipartisan legislation introduced by U.S. Representatives Derek Schmidt (KS-02) and Hillary Scholten (MI-03). The bill would help level the playing field for small businesses. The bill would require federal agencies to report to Congress each year on how antitrust laws are working, how they are helping small businesses compete, and what changes in antitrust law or policy could better support small business growth.

“Many small businesses find themselves competing against national or global corporations that have far more resources, influence, and market power,"" Congressman Schmidt said. ""This bill is about making sure policymakers have the information needed to promote fair, competitive markets that help entrepreneurs succeed. The House passing this bipartisan effort sends a strong statement of support for Main Street small businesses, and I look forward to working with my Senate colleagues to keep it moving forward.”

“Small businesses are truly the foundation of our economy, but too often they are left to unfairly compete against a handful of large corporations,” said Congresswoman Scholten. “I’m so proud that the House passed our bipartisan Main Street Competes Act, which will help close the gap in our federal laws that make it easier for larger businesses to evade accountability for illegal activity. I came to Congress to make the federal government work better for the people it serves, and this legislation does exactly that.”

The Main Street Competes Act previously passed unanimously out of the House Small Business Committee, and with today's House passage, now heads to the Senate for consideration.",1,2026-06-27T21:44:12Z,2026-06-27T22:11:26Z
https://schmidt.house.gov/media/press-releases/reps-derek-schmidt-sharice-davids-introduce-legislation-keep-usda-offices-open,"Reps. Derek Schmidt, Sharice Davids Introduce Legislation to Keep USDA Offices Open for Kansas Farmers and Ranchers",2026-06-17,2026,2026-06,Republican,House,KS,Derek Schmidt,S001228,schmidt.house.gov,schmidt,https://schmidt.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Representative Derek Schmidt (KS-02) and Representative Sharice Davids (KS-03) introduced the USDA Field Office Stability Act, bipartisan legislation to prevent the closure or relocation of critical U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) field offices that serve farmers, ranchers, and rural communities across Kansas and the nation.

The USDA Field Office Stability Act would prohibit the closure or relocation of county offices and service centers operated by the Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS), Farm Service Agency (FSA), and USDA Rural Development, with limited exceptions for offices located within 20 miles of another USDA office or routine relocations within the same county. The legislation would also require USDA to maintain staffing levels sufficient to keep local service centers open and accessible during normal business hours.

The legislation was introduced in response to constituent concerns regarding delays in application processing, payments, and contract certifications – challenges that have particularly affected conservation programs and the FSA loan program.

""Farmers, ranchers, and rural communities depend on local USDA offices to access the programs and services they need,"" said Congressman Derek Schmidt. ""Whether it's disaster assistance, conservation programs, farm loans, or technical support, Kansans deserve reliable, in-person access to USDA resources. Yet many small offices are staffed by only one or two people, which means a reduction in staffing can leave the office unable to function. Our bipartisan bill helps ensure USDA remains accessible to the people it serves and that rural communities are not left behind.""

“Farmers and rural communities shouldn’t have to worry about whether the USDA office they depend on will still be there or properly staffed when they need help,” said Rep. Davids. “Kansas has already lost more than 500 USDA employees since last year, and when offices are understaffed or disappearing, it makes it harder for rural communities to access basic services they’ve earned and deliver food more cheaply. Rep. Schmidt and I agree that all Kansas communities deserve dependable access to farm support.”

“County-level USDA staffing shortages have impeded program implementation for multiple administrations,” said Donn Teske, President, Kansas Farmers Union. “Cuts to the Farm Service Agency (FSA), Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) and other USDA agencies have been detrimental to rural America and to the agencies' ability to fulfill their mission. Kansas Farmers Union opposes county office downsizing, consolidation, relocation, and/or closures. We call on USDA to increase funding, hiring, training, and pay for its staff so they can continue to provide quality service to the agriculture community. We thank Representatives Davids and Schmidt for leading this effort in a bipartisan manner, and we look forward to working with them and other key policymakers and stakeholders on this priority.”

In April, Congressman Schmidt joined 14 colleagues in sending a letter to the U.S. Department of Agriculture urging immediate action to address staffing shortages at local Farm Service Agency and Natural Resources Conservation Service offices.

USDA field offices provide critical support to agricultural producers and rural residents, helping administer farm programs, conservation initiatives, rural development assistance, and emergency response efforts. In many rural areas, these offices serve as the primary point of contact between producers and the federal government.",1,2026-06-27T21:44:12Z,2026-06-27T22:11:26Z
https://mann.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-mann-real-estate-caucus-co-chairs-increase-american-home-building,"Rep. Mann, Real Estate Caucus Co-Chairs Increase American Home Building Efficiency",2026-06-08,2026,2026-06,Republican,House,KS,Tracey Mann,M000871,mann.house.gov,mann,https://mann.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Representative Tracey Mann (KS-01), alongside Real Estate Caucus Co-Chairs Reps. Mark Alford (MO-04) and Lou Correa (CA-46), as well as Reps. Brad Finstad (MN-01) and Johnny Olszewski (MD-02), introduced the Build American Efficiency Act, legislation to help home builders and manufacturers more easily comply with Build America, Buy America requirements and build American homes faster.

“America needs more homes, not Washington red tape,” said Rep. Mann. “The Build American Efficiency Act is a commonsense bill that will help builders, manufacturers, and housing providers navigate complicated federal compliance requirements without sacrificing our commitment to American-made products. By allowing HUD to recognize auditable and verifiable systems that identify BABA-compliant materials, this bill will reduce unnecessary delays, cut down on waiver requests, and help get more homes built across the country.""

“I’m proud to join our Real Estate Caucus Co-Chairs in introducing the Build American Efficiency Act,” said Rep. Alford. ""This commonsense bill will reduce regulatory burdens by making Buy America, Build America compliance easier for our home builders and manufacturers. This bill clarifies that HUD can recognize auditable, verifiable databases — like the Make It American Process Standard — to help document compliant American-made products. It does not mandate any database, but simply gives builders better tools so we can build more American homes faster with American products.”

“I am pleased to join my colleagues in introducing this bipartisan bill to speed up the building of new homes,” said Rep. Correa. “By cutting red tape, this bill helps builders comply with federal requirements to use American-made construction materials. It will increase our housing supply and make it easier for Southern Californians and others across the nation to afford the American Dream.”

“Determining compliance in the Build America, Buy America (BABA) program often wastes valuable time submitting waivers and trying to determine approvals,"" said Rep. Finstad. ""The Build American Efficiency Act streamlines this process for our nation’s home builders and manufacturers, reducing costly delays, boosting efficiency, and helping build American homes faster. I’m proud to join Congressman Tracey Mannas an original cosponsor on this important legislation for our housing industry and those who build the spaces we call home.""

“We need commonsense solutions to tackle our nation’s housing shortage and bring costs down for working families,” said Rep. Johnny Olszewski. “The bipartisan Build American Efficiency Act will make it easier for builders and manufacturers to comply with federal requirements, reducing unnecessary delays and helping to build more homes, faster. This is a practical solution that uplifts American-made products and American workers.”

The Build American Efficiency Act would:

Clarify that the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development has the authority to recognize auditable and verifiable systems that document products that comply with Build America, Buy America domestic content requirements

Allow HUD to treat documentation generated under the Make It American Process Standard, or similar standards that provide an auditable and verifiable certification process, as sufficient evidence for domestic content certification

Help manufacturers, builders, and funding recipients more easily determine which products comply with BABA requirements

Reduce time spent navigating waiver requests, duplicative paperwork, and uncertainty over which products have or have not been approved

Preserve flexibility by ensuring the bill does not mandate the use of any one database or prohibit recipients from using other lawful methods to certify compliance.

The Build American Efficiency Act is supported by ABB, Associated General Contractors, Eaton, National Association of Electrical Distributors, National Association of Realtors, National Electrical Contractors Association, National Electrical Manufacturers Association, Prysmian, Schneider, Siemens, and Southwire.

""In line with ABB’s local-for-local strategy, we applaud NEMA's Make It American™ program and its commitment to providing credible, transparent compliance with the Build America, Buy America Act, allowing agencies to authorize infrastructure projects faster,"" said Deni Miller, ABB Electrification Business Leader, U.S. ""Representative Mann's legislation highlights the strength of U.S. manufacturing and accelerates the adoption of American-made solutions that meet the highest standards for reliability and quality while bolstering our nation's critical infrastructure.""

""We commend Congressman Mann for introducing the Build American Efficiency Act,"" said Wes Smith, President and CEO of the National Association of Electrical Distributors. ""The bill provides a commonsense approach to Build America, Buy America compliance by recognizing NEMA’s trusted, third-party certification process that manufacturers can use to demonstrate domestic content compliance for HUD-funded projects. Greater consistency and transparency in compliance requirements will help manufacturers, distributors, and contractors reduce administrative burdens, support domestic manufacturing, strengthen supply chains, and ensure federally funded projects can move forward more efficiently while continuing to prioritize American-made products.""

""With nearly $200 billion invested in domestic manufacturing since 2018, the U.S. electroindustry is leading the charge on reshoring manufacturing — and the Make It AmericanTM certification program reflects that commitment in action. Through rigorous, independent third-party audits, NEMA’s Make It American program gives U.S. manufacturers a credible, government-recognized pathway to demonstrate compliance with the Build America, Buy America Act's domestic content requirements for federally funded projects,"" said NEMA Senior Vice President of Strategic Growth and Membership Alexa Burr. ""The Federal Highway Administration has already designated Make It American as an official compliance resource for federal-aid highway projects. Rep. Mann's Build American Efficiency Act builds on that precedent by extending the same recognition to HUD-funded construction. By recognizing NEMA's Make It American Process Standard and certification offerings — covering company, facility, and product-level verification — as sufficient evidence of BABA compliance, this legislation gives manufacturers a clear path forward, empowers contractors and project owners to identify qualifying products through the NEMA BABA Registry, and ensures American tax dollars are invested in American communities through American-made materials. We commend Rep. Mann for taking this step and look forward to working with Congress to continue expanding recognition of the Make It American program across every corner of federal funding and procurement.""

“Siemens is a proud participant of NEMA’s Make It AmericanTM program, which offers a transparent framework for companies to document compliance with Buy America Preference requirements and ensures accountability in the manufacturing process,” said Barry Powell, President, Siemens Smart Infrastructure Electrical Products North America, and Vice Chair, NEMA Board of Directors. “Representative Mann’s legislation marks a critical step in expanding recognition of the Make It American certification among federal agencies—and would help accelerate U.S. electrical manufacturing investment across the United States.”",1,2026-06-27T21:44:12Z,2026-06-27T22:11:26Z
https://estes.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=7481,Rep. Estes Introduces Bipartisan Digital Services Tax Resolution,2026-06-05,2026,2026-06,Republican,House,KS,Ron Estes,E000298,estes.house.gov,estes,https://estes.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27,scraper,"U.S. Representative Ron Estes (KS-04) introduced a bipartisan resolution, H.Res. 1340, expressing strong opposition to Digital Services Taxes (DSTs) and other extraterritorial tax measures levied by foreign nations that unfairly target and discriminate against American companies and workers.

The resolution highlights that several countries - including France, Italy, Spain, Turkey, Austria, and the United Kingdom, have already implemented DSTs, while others such as Poland and Belgium are actively considering them. These taxes deviate from established international income tax systems by targeting a company’s gross revenue rather than its net income, regardless of whether the business has a physical presence in that country.

Congressman Estes Resolution is co-led by Rep. Suzan DelBene (WA-01) and co-sponsored by Reps. LaHood (IL-16), Panetta (CA-19), Moran (TX-01), and Schneider (IL-10).

“Free and fair trade relies on international cooperation, mutual respect, and legal certainty,” Rep. Estes said. “DSTs are designed to unfairly penalize American innovation, creating a hostile environment of double taxation and market distortion that harms not just our premier tech companies, but also the U.S. small businesses and consumers who rely on them. This resolution sends a clear message: the United States will use every trade and tax tool at our disposal to protect our workers and businesses from discriminatory foreign overreach.”

“The U.S. should be rule makers, not rule takers, in the growing global digital economy. Digital trade is far more than just a technology issue. It is fundamental to our modern economy, supporting millions of American jobs and growing Washington state’s technology, agriculture, and manufacturing sectors,” Rep. DelBene said. “This resolution urges the U.S. to oppose digital service taxes that undermine the competitiveness of our digital sector and defend the high-quality jobs it supports.”

“I’m proud to join my colleagues on this resolution to show strong bipartisan support for multilateral engagement to address the rise of digital services taxes and other similar taxes that blatantly target U.S. companies,” Rep. Schneider said. “We must stand together as members of the Ways and Means Committee to work with our global partners and ensure a fair playing field for U.S. companies.”

“As co-chair of the Digital Trade Caucus, I have witnessed firsthand how fair and effective digital trade rules directly correlates to the success of manufacturers, farmers, and small businesses across Illinois’ 16th District,” Rep. LaHood said. “We must remain aggressive in using the necessary tools to combat unfair foreign digital trade policies that are in direct contradiction to our values and seek to undermine American businesses.”

“Multiple reports have made clear that other countries' digital service taxes unfairly discriminate against the United States, violating principles of free and fair trade and undermining existing international agreements,” Rep. Panetta said. “I’m proud to join a bipartisan group of colleagues in strong opposition to these harmful taxes that target American digital businesses and hurt their customers. We must build an international consensus against these taxes which undermine fundamental tax principles and fairness.”

""Foreign governments that single out American companies for discriminatory taxation are undermining free and fair trade. This resolution puts Congress on record demanding they stop,” Rep. Moran said. “I'm proud to join Representatives Estes, LaHood, DelBene, Panetta, and Schneider in sending that message clearly and with one bipartisan voice.""

This resolution aligns with past investigations conducted by the Office of the U.S. Trade Representative (USTR) under Section 301 of the Trade Act of 1974. Those investigations concluded that DSTs are explicitly structured to discriminate against U.S. digital companies, are unusually burdensome due to retroactive applications, and violate prevailing international tax and trade agreements.

Congressman Estes’ resolution emphasizes that while sustained U.S. trade engagement has previously compelled some trading partners to withdraw or rethink these taxes, continuous vigilance and a united legislative front are required to safeguard the competitiveness of the United States economy.",1,2026-06-06T06:16:30Z,2026-06-06T06:17:47Z
https://mann.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-mann-supports-kansas-producers-funds-critical-agricultural-programs,"Rep. Mann Supports Kansas Producers, Funds Critical Agricultural Programs",2026-06-04,2026,2026-06,Republican,House,KS,Tracey Mann,M000871,mann.house.gov,mann,https://mann.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Representative Tracey Mann (KS-01), Chairman of the House Agriculture Committee Livestock, Dairy, and Poultry Subcommittee, voted to pass the Agriculture, Rural Development, Food and Drug Administration, and Related Agency Appropriations Act, 2027in the U.S. House of Representatives. This legislation supports America’s farmers, ranchers, agricultural producers, and rural communities while refocusing federal spending on core priorities. Rep. Mann released the following statement after the vote.

“American farmers and ranchers feed, fuel, and clothe the world, and Congress should be doing everything we can to give them the tools they need to succeed,” said Rep. Mann. “This appropriations bill supports agricultural research, strengthens animal health programs, invests in rural communities, and reins in burdensome regulations that hurt our livestock and poultry producers. I also worked to secure funding for Food for Peace, which expands markets for American-grown commodities while feeding hungry people around the world. I was proud to support this legislation and will keep fighting to make sure Kansas producers have a strong voice in Washington.”

Many of Rep. Mann's submitted priorities were included in the FY2027 Agriculture Appropriations Act:

Long-term funding for the Food for Peace program, which uses American-grown commodities to feed hungry people worldwide

Language prioritizing Food for Peace grants through public-private partnerships

Support for the McGovern-Dole International Food for Education and Child Nutrition Program

Investments in agricultural research that keep U.S. agriculture on the cutting edge

Funding for Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) research

Support for USDA’s Center for Veterinary Biologics and language to promote efficiency and modernization within the center

During Secretary Brooke Rollins’ hearing today before the House Agriculture Committee, Rep. Mann asked her about USDA’s successful administration of the Food for Peace program and the importance of keeping American-grown commodities at the center of international food assistance. He also spoke on the House floor earlier this week in support of the bill, emphasizing the importance of Food for Peace for American farmers and hungry people around the world.

###",1,2026-06-27T21:44:12Z,2026-06-27T22:11:26Z
https://estes.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=7473,Rep. Estes Leads Letter to Reissue the Protect Life Rule,2026-06-01,2026,2026-06,Republican,House,KS,Ron Estes,E000298,estes.house.gov,estes,https://estes.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27,scraper,"U.S. Representative Ron Estes (KS-04) led a letter alongside U.S. Senator Cindy Hyde-Smith and Rep. Virginia Foxx (R-NC) urging Health and Human Services (HHS) Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. to reissue the Protect Life Rule to restore crucial safeguards to the Title X Family Planning Program.

Reissuing the Protect Life Rule, which previously eliminated abortion referral mandates and separated Title X funding from abortion activities, the goal is to reverse Biden-era policies and ensure taxpayer dollars do not fund the abortion industry.

During the first Trump Administration, the organization withdrew from the program to avoid complying with the rule. Although the Biden Administration later rescinded the Protect Life Rule – permitting clinic co-location and requiring abortion referrals – the Trump Administration's Spring 2025 Unified Agenda signals intent to reinstate the Protect Life Rule.

Congressman Ron Estes previously led a letter in 2018 on the Protect Life Rule.

“For too long, the Biden administration forced a deeply flawed mandate on the Title X program, forcing hard-working Americans to effectively subsidize the abortion industry through their tax dollars. Leading this letter is about restoring basic program integrity,” Congressman Ron Estes said. “By reissuing the Protect Life Rule, the Trump Administration will once again draw a bright, undeniable line of physical and financial separation between actual family planning services and elective abortion activities. We must ensure our federal resources protect innocent life rather than funding its destruction.”

“We’re counting on the Trump administration to restore this policy and ensure that Title X funds cannot be used to perform or support abortions. The Biden administration flagrantly disregarded both the letter of the law and congressional intent, illegally mandating that abortion and abortion services be actively promoted through this program,” U.S. Senator Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-Miss.), chair of the Senate Pro-Life Caucus said. “With this bicameral letter, we’re sending a clear, unified message that it’s time to do right by the law, the American taxpayers, and unborn children.”

“The Protect Life Rule cements the fundamental directive that the federal government is never to be involved in the business of abortion either directly or indirectly. For the majority of Americans who are fundamentally opposed to this barbaric and entirely demeaning practice, the Protect Life Rule remains an ironclad safeguard for the sanctity of human life,” Congresswoman Virginia Foxx said. “The tax dollars of hardworking Americans must be given the due deference they deserve – not a single cent should be used to fund Title X programs where abortion is deliberately misconstrued and interpreted as a method of family planning.”

You may click HERE to read Congressman Estes’ full letter to President Trump and Secretary Kennedy.

Supporting organizations of this letter include: SBA Pro-Life America, National Right to Life, March for Life Action, Family Research Council, Students for Life Action, Concerned Women for America, Ethics and Religious Liberty Commission, and Catholic Vote.",1,2026-06-02T06:40:38Z,2026-06-02T06:42:17Z
https://mann.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-mann-hosts-usda-under-secretary-lindberg-big-first,Rep. Mann Hosts USDA Under Secretary Lindberg in the Big First,2026-05-27,2026,2026-05,Republican,House,KS,Tracey Mann,M000871,mann.house.gov,mann,https://mann.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"MANHATTAN, KS – Today, U.S. Representative Tracey Mann (KS-01) hosted Luke J. Lindberg, USDA Under Secretary for Trade and Foreign Agricultural Affairs, in the Big First District of Kansas. During their time in Manhattan, Rep. Mann and Under Secretary Lindberg toured the Kansas State Milling Science facilities and International Grains Program, visited the Kansas Wheat Innovation Center, and participated in a global food security lunch with Kansas agricultural leaders, commodity groups, and industry stakeholders. In addition to the Manhattan visits, Rep. Mann and Under Secretary Lindberg toured the Dwight D. Eisenhower Presidential Library and ADM Milling in Abilene.

As USDA Under Secretary for Trade and Foreign Agricultural Affairs, Lindberg has successfully implemented programs Rep. Mann has long-championed in Congress, including continued investment in the Market Access Program, Foreign Market Development cooperator program, and now Food for Peace, America’s flagship international food assistance program. Under Secretary Lindberg recently oversaw the reassignment of Food for Peace back to its rightful home at USDA after Rep. Mann introduced legislation in the House to move the program, which was recently included in the 2026 Farm Bill.

“The Big First District is home to farmers, ranchers, producers, researchers, and agricultural leaders who help feed, fuel, and clothe the world,” said Rep. Mann. “I was grateful to host Under Secretary Lindberg in the Big First today to show him firsthand how Kansas State University and our hardworking producers are strengthening America’s food supply and expanding our ability to meet the needs of a hungry world. Food security is national security, and Kansas producers are at the center of making sure American-grown commodities remain at the heart of our global food aid programs like Food for Peace.”

“Kansas is at the epicenter of feeding the world,” said Under Secretary Lindberg. “Not only is it an exporting powerhouse for beef, wheat, corn, soybeans, sorghum, and other agricultural products that the world has come to enjoy; it's also the home to the American generosity of the global food security movement. I am thankful to Representative Mann and Senator Moran for showcasing the best of Kansas to me this week.”

“We were excited to have Under Secretary Lindberg, Senator Moran, and Congressman Mann visit the Kansas Wheat Innovation Center for an opportunity to talk about the importance of trade with leaders from Kansas commodities,” said Justin Gilpin, Kansas Wheat CEO. “He has a unique understanding of why producers need to be able to sell our products around the world to consistent buyers, especially in these times when there’s so much volatility and geopolitical uncertainty.”

Food for Peace began with an idea from Cheyenne County farmer Peter O’Brien, whose proposal to use surplus American commodities to feed hungry nations was adopted by Kansas Farm Bureau, sponsored in Congress by Kansas Senator Andy Schoeppel, and signed into law by President Dwight D. Eisenhower on July 10, 1954. More than 70 years later, Kansas continues to lead in the work of feeding the world and strengthening American agriculture through global food assistance.

Luke Lindberg was recently nominated by President Trump to serve as the American candidate to be the next Executive Director of the World Food Programme, the largest humanitarian organization in the world, utilizing American agriculture as a tool with American leadership often at its helm.",1,2026-06-27T21:44:12Z,2026-06-27T22:21:02Z
https://mann.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-mann-votes-rural-infrastructure-investment-five-year-reauthorization,"Rep. Mann Votes for Rural Infrastructure Investment, Five-Year Reauthorization of Highway Bill",2026-05-22,2026,2026-05,Republican,House,KS,Tracey Mann,M000871,mann.house.gov,mann,https://mann.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Representative Tracey Mann (KS-01) voted to advance the BUILD America 250 Act out of the Transportation & Infrastructure Committee by a vote of 62 to 2. The bipartisan bill reauthorizes and invests in America's most critical Surface Transportation programs and infrastructure projects for the next five years.

“Strong roads, bridges, rail, and freight infrastructure are essential to keeping people and goods moving safely and efficiently across our country,” said Rep. Mann. “The BUILD America 250 Act focuses on the basics by investing in the core infrastructure Americans rely on every day, cutting red tape so projects can be completed faster, giving states the flexibility to meet their unique transportation needs, and strengthening the Highway Trust Fund. The Big First has more bridges than any congressional district in the country, so I am proud that this bill makes the largest investment in American bridges in our nation’s history while supporting the industries that power our state. Seventy years after President Eisenhower signed the Federal-Aid Highway Act into law, this legislation honors his legacy by keeping America moving.”

The Build America 250 Act:

Cuts red tape and speeds up permitting timelines to deliver projects more quickly and reliably

Strengthens the Highway Trust Fund by ensuring all users, including EVs, pay their fair share

Provides the largest investment ever in American bridges

Ensures funding flexibility for states, recognizing they know best how to address their transportation needs

Improves highway safety by supporting law enforcement and consolidating federal safety programs for easier administration

Rep. Mann spoke in favor of the legislation on the House floor, asking his colleagues to honor President Eisenhower's legacy and vote for this investment in America's surface infrastructure.

###",1,2026-06-27T21:44:12Z,2026-06-27T22:21:02Z
https://schmidt.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-derek-schmidts-main-street-competes-act-passes-out-small-business,Rep. Derek Schmidt's Main Street Competes Act Passes Out of Small Business Committee,2026-05-21,2026,2026-05,Republican,House,KS,Derek Schmidt,S001228,schmidt.house.gov,schmidt,https://schmidt.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – This week, the Main Street Competes Act, bipartisan legislation introduced by U.S. Representatives Derek Schmidt (R-KS-02) and Hillary Scholten (D-MI-03), passed unanimously out of the House Small Business Committee (SBC). The legislation would help protect small businesses from unfair competition by requiring the Department of Justice and the Federal Trade Commission to work with the Small Business Administration to submit an annual report to Congress on the impact of anti-trust laws, the agencies’ ability to assist small businesses, and relevant policy recommendations.

“Small businesses are the backbone of Kansas communities and our economy, and they deserve a fair opportunity to compete and grow,” said Congressman Derek Schmidt. “This bipartisan legislation will help ensure federal agencies are paying attention to how antitrust laws impact Main Street businesses, not just the largest corporations. Greater transparency and accountability will help protect competition, strengthen entrepreneurship, and support the small businesses that create jobs across Kansas and the country.”

“Helping small businesses thrive in the modern economy is exactly the kind of thing I came to Congress to do,” said Congresswoman Scholten. “There’s currently a major gap in our federal laws that make it easier for larger businesses and corporations to evade accountability for illegal activity. Our Main Street Competes Act would fix that and strengthen federal agencies’ muscle to protect small businesses from unfair competition.”

""Thousands of independent sellers, from mom-and-pop shops to multimillion-dollar businesses, have made e-commerce one of the fastest growing, most dynamic sectors of the American economy. However, when major platforms misuse their power over sellers, they can stifle this dynamism and harm both sellers and consumers,"" said Amanda Lewis, Co-Founder and Director of U.S. Competition Policy at the Responsible Online Commerce Coalition. ""By empowering the Small Business Administration to address anticompetitive conduct, these sellers get another strong cop on the beat to take on monopoly power and ensure a fair and robust online marketplace where sellers of all sizes have an opportunity to grow and thrive.""

###",1,2026-06-27T21:44:12Z,2026-06-27T22:21:02Z
https://mann.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-mann-real-estate-caucus-co-chairs-applaud-passage-bipartisan-affordable,"Rep. Mann, Real Estate Caucus Co-Chairs Applaud Passage of Bipartisan Affordable Housing Bill",2026-05-20,2026,2026-05,Republican,House,KS,Tracey Mann,M000871,mann.house.gov,mann,https://mann.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, the Co-Chairs of the bipartisan Congressional Real Estate Caucus, Reps. Tracey Mann (KS-01), Mark Alford (MO-04), Lou Correa (CA-46), and Brittany Pettersen (CO-04), celebrated the House Amendment to the 21st Century ROAD to Housing Act passing the U.S. House of Representatives with overwhelming bipartisan support.

The House version of the 21st Century ROAD to Housing Act expands homeownership and makes housing more affordable by focusing the efforts of local, state, and federal governments on reforming housing programs, removing unnecessary barriers to housing development, expanding financing, providing new protections for renters, and preventing large institutional investors from pricing families out of the market.

“Homeownership is central to the American Dream, but for too many Kansas families, that dream feels further out of reach every year,” said Rep. Mann. “The best way to bring down housing costs is to increase supply, cut through red tape, and support policies that allow more homes to be built. As Co-Chair of the Congressional Real Estate Caucus, I was proud to work with my colleagues to improve this legislation and remove provisions that would have lowered our housing supply. The House-passed 21st Century ROAD to Housing Act takes a commonsense, bipartisan approach to expanding access to affordable housing and helping more Americans achieve the dream of owning a home.”

“I hear from hardworking Missouri families every single day about how the skyrocketing cost of housing is crushing their budgets,” said Congressman Alford. “Today, Congress is finally doing something about it. I was proud to support this commonsense legislation to expand homeownership, lower costs, and increase supply. We’re one step closer to saving the American Dream, and I urge my colleagues in the Senate to swiftly pass this amended bill to send it to President Trump’s desk.”

“The housing affordability crisis hit people across Orange County particularly hard, with skyrocketing home prices shutting out too many people from owning their own home, a core component of the American Dream,” said Rep. Correa. “I am pleased that this bipartisan legislation would make housing more affordable and encourage the building of new homes. This will benefit not only families in Southern California, but across the country.”

In April, the Real Estate Caucus Co-Chairs led a letter signed by 76 Members of Congress urging House leadership to strip or revise provisions to ban Build-to-Rent homebuilding from the Senate’s ROAD to Housing Act before any package came to the House floor.

The House Amendment successfully addresses those concerns, which is why the Real Estate Caucus officially endorsed the updated legislation last week.

###",1,2026-06-27T21:44:12Z,2026-06-27T22:21:02Z
https://mann.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-mann-votes-support-kansas-farmers-give-americans-choice-pump,"Rep. Mann Votes to Support Kansas Farmers, Give Americans Choice at the Pump",2026-05-13,2026,2026-05,Republican,House,KS,Tracey Mann,M000871,mann.house.gov,mann,https://mann.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Representative Tracey Mann (KS-01) voted to pass the Nationwide Consumer and Fuel Retailer Choice Act, legislation he cosponsors, in the U.S. House of Representatives by a vote of 218 to 203. The bill allows E15 fuel to be sold year-round nationwide by removing burdensome federal restrictions that currently limit sales to the summer months.

“Year-round E15 is a major win for Kansas agriculture, American energy, and families looking for more choices at the pump,” said Rep. Mann. “Kansas farmers help feed, fuel, and clothe the world, and this commonsense legislation strengthens markets for our producers, supports domestic energy production, and reduces unnecessary regulatory barriers. As a member of the Rural Domestic Energy Council, I have worked directly with producers, refiners, and energy stakeholders to craft this legislation, and I look forward to getting it across the finish line.”

The Nationwide Consumer and Fuel Retailer Choice Act:

Allows E15 fuel to be sold year-round nationwide by removing seasonal federal restrictions on its sale

Strengthens markets for agricultural producers by increasing demand for ethanol-based fuels

Expands consumer choice at the pump by making higher-ethanol fuel blends permanently available, but not required

Supports domestic energy production by allowing more American-grown biofuels to reach consumers

Adds more than 100,000 rural jobs at refineries nationwide

Reduces unnecessary regulatory barriers that increase costs

During debate on the legislation, Rep. Mann emphasized how both American families and agricultural producers will benefit from this policy.

###",1,2026-06-27T21:44:12Z,2026-06-27T22:21:02Z
https://schmidt.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-derek-schmidt-bill-strengthen-police-background-checks-passes,Congressman Derek Schmidt Bill To Strengthen Police Background Checks Passes House,2026-05-12,2026,2026-05,Republican,House,KS,Derek Schmidt,S001228,schmidt.house.gov,schmidt,https://schmidt.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Bipartisan legislation to strengthen background checks for law enforcement officers, led by Republican Congressman Derek Schmidt (KS-02) and Democrat Congresswoman Deborah Ross (NC-02), was passed today by the House of Representatives with strong bipartisan support.

The Criminal History Access Act would explicitly authorize the exchange of criminal history record information between the Federal Bureau of Investigation and state Peace Officer Standards and Training (POST) agencies. State POST agencies are responsible for setting standards for the hiring, training, certification, and ethical conduct of law enforcement officers. POSTs need access to criminal history information to properly screen and certify officers and enforce prohibitions against persons with certain criminal histories serving as officers.

“It's just common sense that agencies tasked with enforcing laws that prohibit people with certain criminal histories from serving as law enforcement officers must have access to criminal history record information as part of the vetting process,"" Congressman Schmidt said. “But that has not been the case and instead POSTs have had to rely on individual law enforcement agencies to check the records themselves. By passing the Criminal History Access Act, the House is helping POSTs do their job of maintaining professionalism and public confidence in law enforcement by preventing unqualified individuals from serving as officers.""

“It’s essential that we give police and sheriff’s departments in North Carolina and across the country the tools and resources they need to hire qualified, trusted officers,” said Congresswoman Ross. “This bipartisan legislation will ensure local law enforcement can access critical data when vetting and hiring new officers. I’m grateful that the House has passed this commonsense solution and urge the Senate to act quickly.”

The Criminal History Access Act is supported by the International Association of Directors of Law Enforcement Standards and Training. Rep. Schmidt has worked with the Kansas Commission on Peace Officer Standards and Training, based in Reno County, in developing and advancing the legislation.

The measure now goes to the Senate for consideration.

Schmidt's floor remarks in support of the bill can be viewed HERE.

###",1,2026-06-27T21:44:12Z,2026-06-27T22:21:02Z
https://mann.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-mann-votes-passage-2026-farm-bill,Rep. Mann Votes for Passage of 2026 Farm Bill,2026-04-30,2026,2026-04,Republican,House,KS,Tracey Mann,M000871,mann.house.gov,mann,https://mann.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Representative Tracey Mann (KS-01), Chairman of the Livestock, Dairy, and Poultry Subcommittee, voted to pass H.R. 7567, the Farm, Food, and National Security Act of 2026 in the U.S. House of Representatives. This legislation, which passed by a vote of 224-200, authorizes vital farm programs across all 12 titles for the next five years. Rep. Mann released the following statement after the vote.

“Passing the Farm, Food, and National Security Act of 2026 is a win for the American farmer, rancher, and consumer,” said Rep. Mann. “Under Chairman Thompson’s strong leadership, we secured a Farm Bill that provides stability and certainty for agriculture while strengthening rural communities and keeping America’s food supply secure. This legislation follows years of bipartisan work and listening sessions around the country, hearing from producers like those in the Big First about the challenges they face every day. It builds on the foundation we laid in the Working Families Tax Cuts and finishes the job by reauthorizing key farm bill programs, expanding market access, improving access to credit, and investing in rural infrastructure like broadband, health care, and water systems. I am especially proud that this bill includes my legislation to permanently move the Kansas-born Food for Peace program to USDA, its rightful home, ensuring American-grown commodities remain the focus of the program and increasing accountability of taxpayer dollars. This is a commonsense bill that supports our farmers and ranchers who feed, fuel, and clothe the world and helps ensure American agriculture remains the greatest in the world.""

The Farm, Food, and National Security Act of 2026:

Builds on the historic agricultural investments included in the Working Families Tax Cuts

Completes overdue reauthorization of key farm bill programs across conservation, rural development, research, trade, energy, and specialty crops

Permanently moves Food for Peace to USDA, prioritizing American-grown commodities and cutting unnecessary bureaucracy

Expands market access for U.S. agriculture by strengthening export promotion programs and reducing trade barriers

Improves access to credit for farmers and ranchers while supporting young and beginning producers

Invests in rural communities through stronger broadband, rural health care access, water infrastructure, and workforce development

Promotes precision agriculture, research, and innovation to keep American producers competitive

Supports voluntary, locally led conservation programs that protect working lands without adding unnecessary regulations

During debate for the legislation, Rep. Mann shared the farm economy's need for the Farm, Food, and National Security Act of 2026, which delivers the certainty farmers and ranchers depend on, strengthens national security, and invests in rural America.

###",1,2026-06-27T21:44:12Z,2026-06-27T22:19:40Z
https://schmidt.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-derek-schmidt-applauds-house-passage-farm-bill,Rep. Derek Schmidt Applauds House Passage of Farm Bill,2026-04-30,2026,2026-04,Republican,House,KS,Derek Schmidt,S001228,schmidt.house.gov,schmidt,https://schmidt.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Derek Schmidt (KS-02) today applauded House passage of the Farm Bill, highlighting its strong support for farmers, ranchers, and rural communities across Kansas.

The legislation expands investment in rural America, lowers energy costs, improves producers’ access to credit, and strengthens conservation programs for working lands - helping ensure long-term stability and growth across the agricultural economy.

“The Farm Bill will deliver meaningful support for Kansas farmers and ranchers,” said Congressman Schmidt. “It strengthens our food system, bolsters rural communities, and provides the certainty producers need to plan for the future.”

Schmidt also secured inclusion of his amendment to promote domestic production of crops used in natural color additives.

The amendment directs the U.S. Department of Agriculture and the Department of Health and Human Services to coordinate research aimed at expanding the ability of American producers to grow crops used in natural food colorings—an emerging market driven by increasing consumer demand.

“This amendment is about creating new opportunities for American agriculture while supporting innovation in our food system,” Schmidt said. “By investing in research, we can help farmers diversify, strengthen domestic supply chains, and meet growing demand for natural ingredients.”

Under the provision, USDA and HHS will establish formal interagency agreements within one year of enactment and implement a competitive, merit-based research process. The effort encourages collaboration among federal agencies, universities, nonprofit organizations, and private-sector partners.

The amendment also supports research infrastructure, workforce development, and public-private partnerships to position American agriculture for long-term success in this growing sector.

###",1,2026-06-27T21:44:12Z,2026-06-27T22:19:40Z
https://schmidt.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-derek-schmidt-asks-usda-address-staffing-shortages-local-offices,Congressman Derek Schmidt Asks USDA to Address Staffing Shortages at Local Offices,2026-04-23,2026,2026-04,Republican,House,KS,Derek Schmidt,S001228,schmidt.house.gov,schmidt,https://schmidt.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Derek Schmidt (KS-02) has joined in a letter to the U.S. Department of Agriculture urging immediate action to address staffing shortages at local Farm Service Agency and Natural Resources Conservation Service offices.

The letter raises concerns from constituents about delays in application processing, payments, and contract certifications - challenges that have particularly disrupted conservation programs and the FSA loan program. Lawmakers warned that if staffing shortages persist, disruptions could spread across all USDA programs within the Farm Production and Conservation mission area.

While acknowledging USDA’s recent efforts to temporarily deploy staff to underserved county offices, the letter emphasized that short-term measures are insufficient to meet long-term demand.

“To deliver on the promises made to American agriculture, USDA must ensure local offices are staffed and equipped,” Congressman Schmidt said. “These programs are essential to managing risk, supporting conservation, and keeping operations running. Reliable, timely service is critical to the success of producers and rural communities across Kansas and the country.”

The letter has been signed by 14 other members of Congress, including Reps. Dan Newhouse (R-WA), Austin Scott (R-GA), Kat Cammack (R-FL), Michael Baumgartner (R-WA), David Valadao (R-CA), Scott Franklin (R-FL), James Baird (R-IN), Laurel Lee (R-FL), Ben Cline (R-VA), Zach Nunn (R-IA), Don Bacon (R-NE), Lauren Boebert (R-CO), David Rouzer (R-NC), and Mike Flood (R-NE).",1,2026-06-27T21:44:12Z,2026-06-27T22:19:40Z
https://mann.house.gov/media/press-releases/reps-mann-pappas-introduce-distracted-driving-awareness-month-resolution,"Reps. Mann, Pappas Introduce Distracted Driving Awareness Month Resolution",2026-04-20,2026,2026-04,Republican,House,KS,Tracey Mann,M000871,mann.house.gov,mann,https://mann.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Representatives Tracey Mann (KS-01) and Chris Pappas (NH-01) led their colleagues Reps. Tom Barrett (MI-07), Kathy Castor (FL-14), Mike Carey (OH-15), Brian Fitzpatrick (PA-08), Scott Franklin (FL-18), Kimberlyn King-Hinds (CNMI), Darin LaHood (IL-16), Mike Lawler (NY-17), John Moolenaar (MI-02), James Moylan (GU), Kevin Mullin (CA-15), Derek Schmidt (KS-02), Tom Souzzi (NY-03), and Dina Titus (NV-03) in introducing a resolution to designate April 2026 as Distracted Driving Awareness Month.

“Distracted driving is one of the most preventable dangers on our roads, yet it continues to take thousands of lives every year,” said Rep. Mann. ""In the Big First District, with almost 84,000 miles of roadway, car travel is a part of our daily life. This resolution recognizes the work of law enforcement and transportation leaders while making clear that more must be done to keep drivers focused and families safe. Every time someone picks up their phone behind the wheel or becomes inattentive, they are putting lives at risk. This month and every month, we must recommit to keeping our eyes on the road and protecting our communities.”

“Distracted driving kills over 3,000 people every year, and injures more than 300,000,” said Rep. Pappas. “These losses are preventable, and it’s up to all of us to make sure everyone traveling on our roads makes it to their destination safely “I’m proud to partner with Representative Mann to mark Distracted Driving Awareness Month, and our resolution is a reminder that when we get behind the wheel, the only thing that deserves our full attention is the road.”

“Distracted driving is entirely preventable, yet it continues to take thousands of lives every year,” said Rep. King-Hinds. “By co-signing this resolution for Distracted Driving Awareness Month, I’m urging drivers in the Northern Mariana Islands and across our nation to stay focused, put the phone down, and make safety their top priority. A moment of attention can save a lifetime.”

“Each year, there are thousands of preventable deaths happening on America’s roads and hundreds of thousands more people are injured because of distracted driving,"" said Rep. Mullin. ""While federal, state and local agencies must continue to help deter distracted driving through policies, infrastructure improvements and law enforcement, every single person also plays a vital role in keeping our roads safe. Distracted Driving Month is an important time to remember that losing focus while behind the wheel for even a moment – whether looking at your phone, a touch screen in your car, or anything else causing you to be distracted – can have dire consequences for you and others.""

Click here for the text of the resolution.

This resolution is supported by Governors Highway Safety Association (GHSA), LifeSaver Mobile, MADD, National Safety Council, Safety and Advocacy for Empowerment (SAFE), and stopdistractions.org.

“GHSA commends Congressman Mann for recognizing April as Distracted Driving Awareness Month and for shining a much-needed spotlight on one of the most pervasive and preventable threats on our roads,” said Jonathan Adkins, CEO of GHSA. “Distracted driving claims thousands of lives each year and forever changes countless families. This resolution reinforces an urgent need to change driver behavior, strengthen education and enforcement, and remind every road user that attention behind the wheel saves lives.”

“Distracted driving remains one of the most preventable causes of roadway fatalities in the United States,” said Ted Chen, Co-Founder & CEO of LifeSaver Mobile. ""As Congress recognizes Distracted Driving Awareness Month, LifeSaver Mobile supports practical, technology-driven solutions that help drivers stay focused and save lives, even as constant mobile notifications increasingly compete for drivers’ attention behind the wheel.”

""Distracted driving is one of the most persistent and preventable threats on our roadways, taking an average of nine lives each day in 2024,"" said Lorraine Martin, CEO of the National Safety Council. ""The National Safety Council applauds Congressman Mann for spearheading this resolution to promote efforts that address distracted driving and save lives. This month, and every month, NSC calls on all drivers to just drive — by making distraction-free driving the norm, not the exception.""

“Whether it’s a phone in hand or alcohol in the system, distraction behind the wheel leads to the same tragic outcome: preventable crashes,"" said Brandy Nannini, board member of SAFE. ""This Distracted Driving Awareness Month is a timely call to action for policymakers and motorists alike to eradicate all forms of dangerous distraction, including those caused by alcohol impairment.”

Each year, over 3,000 people are killed in crashes involving distracted driving. On March 13, 2023, a distracted truck driver struck and killed 16-year-old Cassy Linder on a highway in Garden City, Kansas. Her life was taken prematurely in an entirely preventable tragedy. Her story is a painful reminder of the importance of combating this issue through continued advocacy, raising awareness, and sound policy at the local, state, and federal levels.

""We appreciate the awareness of a problem that exists not only in Kansas, but throughout the United States,"" said the Linder family. ""Our daughter, sister, and friend Cassy Kay should be here to grow up like the rest of us, but is not due to the selfishness of a distracted driver.""

Cassy Linder

As a member of the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee, Rep. Mann has been committed to finding bipartisan solutions to improve roadway safety. Last April, Rep. Mann reintroduced the End DWI Act, which would create a national ignition interlock standard for first-time offenders. In December, Rep. Mann introduced the Roadway Safety Modernization Act, which would use predictive analytics to proactively identify and address transportation safety issues.

###",1,2026-06-27T21:44:12Z,2026-06-27T22:19:40Z
https://schmidt.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-derek-schmidt-introduces-bipartisan-bill-strengthen-police-background,Rep. Derek Schmidt Introduces Bipartisan Bill to Strengthen Police Background Checks,2026-04-20,2026,2026-04,Republican,House,KS,Derek Schmidt,S001228,schmidt.house.gov,schmidt,https://schmidt.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Derek Schmidt (KS-02) and Representative Deborah Ross (NC-02) introduced the Criminal History Access Act, bipartisan legislation to ensure that state law enforcement training and certification agencies can access the criminal history information they need to properly screen and approve officers.

The Criminal History Access Act clarifies existing federal law to explicitly authorize the exchange of criminal history record information between the Federal Bureau of Investigation and state Peace Officer Standards and Training agencies. These agencies are responsible for setting standards for the hiring, training, certification, and ethical conduct of law enforcement officers.

“Public trust in law enforcement begins with accountability and high standards,” said Rep. Schmidt. “This legislation ensures that the agencies responsible for certifying officers have access to the information they need to make informed decisions and prevent individuals with disqualifying criminal histories from serving in positions of authority.”

“It’s essential that we give police departments in North Carolina and across the country the tools and resources they need to hire qualified, trusted officers,” said Congresswoman Ross. “This bipartisan legislation will ensure local law enforcement can access critical data when vetting and hiring new officers. This bill is a commonsense solution that will prevent bad actors from gaining employment and strengthen trust between our local communities and law enforcement.”

This legislation is an updated version of a bill Rep. Schmidt introduced last year, H.R. 5211.

The Criminal History Access Act is expected to be considered by the House Judiciary Committee this week, with a potential floor vote during National Police Week in May.

The bill is supported by the International Association of Directors of Law Enforcement Standards and Training.",1,2026-06-27T21:44:12Z,2026-06-27T22:19:40Z
https://estes.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=7443,Rep. Estes Votes in Favor of ALERT Act,2026-04-15,2026,2026-04,Republican,House,KS,Ron Estes,E000298,estes.house.gov,estes,https://estes.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27,scraper,"Rep. Ron Estes (R-Kansas) voted in favor of the Airspace Location and Enhanced Risk Transparency (ALERT) Act, comprehensive bipartisan aviation safety legislation following the tragic mid-air collision between an Army Black Hawk helicopter and a passenger aircraft in January 2025. The bill was approved by the Transportation and Infrastructure Committee unanimously and passed on the House floor overwhelmingly, by a vote of 396-10.

“I’m grateful for the comprehensive and collaborative work of Chairman Graves and the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee on the ALERT Act, in collaboration with the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB),” Rep. Estes said. “The NTSB’s investigation of the accident uncovered systemic failures in our aviation system, and the ALERT Act addresses the issues raised by the NTSB in a detailed, bipartisan manner for civil and military aviation.

This collision involved an Army Black Hawk helicopter and an American Airlines flight that originated from my hometown of Wichita. This tragedy has left our community shocked, and I am heartbroken that several Kansans were among the victims. No family should ever have to endure such heartbreak.

It is imperative that we in Congress work to ensure tragedies like this never happen again, and there is always more that can and should be done to enhance aviation safety. The ALERT Act takes critical steps to do just that. I look forward to continuing this important work with my colleagues in the House and Senate on a final legislative product to ensure that our skies remain safest in the world.”

###",1,2026-04-16T05:48:36Z,2026-04-16T05:50:08Z
https://estes.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=7409,Rep. Estes Announces 2026 Congressional Art Competition Winners,2026-04-14,2026,2026-04,Republican,House,KS,Ron Estes,E000298,estes.house.gov,estes,https://estes.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27,scraper,"The office of Congressman Ron Estes (R-Kansas) announced the winners of this year's Congressional Art Competition Saturday, April 10, during a reception and awards program at Mark Arts in Wichita. Each year, the U.S. House of Representatives hosts a nationwide competition for talented high school students. Competitions take place in each congressional district with each winner having their artwork on display in the U.S. Capitol in Washington, D.C., for about one year, in addition to other prizes. Because of his support for young artists in the 4th Congressional District of Kansas, Congressman Ron Estes also hosts an art exhibit in the district to display and celebrate the talent of all of the participants. This year, the competition contains 214 pieces of art from 170 students representing 18 different high schools in five different counties.

“It’s a yearly highlight to witness the incredible talent and passion that Kansas’ young artists bring to their work,” said Rep. Estes of this year's art show and reception. “I’m excited to see Melian’s pastel drawing in the Capitol complex and appreciate all the students, faculty and family who participated and encouraged the students in this year’s competition.”

The winner Melian Miller, a Wichita High School East student, received a cash prize courtesy of Marc and Erin Mason. Second and third place winners also received cash prizes courtesy of Craig and Dalene Nelson. Nine other students received Honorable mentions, and six students were named best in their medium.

Winners were chosen by a jury of local artists and community leaders – Tarah Clark, painter; Jim Clements, painter; and Steve Rasmussen, photographer. We thank them for their time, talent and commitment to art in south central Kansas.

You may view the artwork and learn more at estes.house.gov/art.

2026 Congressional Art Competition – Final Results

1st Place – Melian Miller, “The Thing With Feathers,” Pastel, Wichita High School East

2nd Place – Macy Mitchell, “Fresh Picked Cherries,” Colored Pencil, Berean Academy

3rd Place – Samuel Pletcher, “Wipe Out,” Watercolor, Central Christian Academy

Best in Category:

Computer-generated Art – Ashley Swingler, “Musical Sunflower,” Belle Plaine High School

Photography – Reghan Eck, “Bet On Black,” Wichita Collegiate High School

Mixed Media – Jayden Dexter, “La Famille,” Maize High School

Colored Pencil – Macy Mitchell, “Fresh Picked Cherries,” Berean Academy

Watercolor – Samuel Pletcher, “Wipe Out,” Central Christian Academy

Pastel – Melian Miller, “From Me to You,” Wichita High School East

Honorable Mentions:

Zoe Mclntrye, “What Even Is True?,” Belle Plaine High School

Charlie Ling, “Concrete Jungle,” Wichita Collegiate High School

Cortevion Buckles, “Feel Again,” Wichita Heights High School

Adam Garcia, “Sakura in the wind,” Attica High School

Ashley Carpenter, “Tiger,” Central Christian Academy

Norah Bouhouch, “The Lioness,” Wichita Northeast Magnet High School

Phung Dinh, “Blooming,” Wichita High School East

Syssy Bailon, “Internal Sin,” Wichita Heights High School

Emme Strickland, “Hydrodynamic,” Wichita Collegiate High School

###",1,2026-04-15T05:46:42Z,2026-04-15T05:48:27Z
https://mann.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-mann-votes-passage-comprehensive-aviation-safety-reform,Rep. Mann Votes for Passage of Comprehensive Aviation Safety Reform,2026-04-14,2026,2026-04,Republican,House,KS,Tracey Mann,M000871,mann.house.gov,mann,https://mann.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Representative Tracey Mann (KS-01) voted to advance H.R. 7613, the ALERT Act. This legislation, which Rep. Mann cosponsors, is the most comprehensive modernization to aviation safety in decades and directly addresses the probable causes and contributing factors of the January 29, 2025 DCA collision. The bill was passed in the U.S. House of Representatives by a vote of 396 to 10. Rep. Mann released the following statement after the vote.

""For Kansans, this legislation is deeply personal,” said Rep. Mann. “American Eagle Flight 5342 originated in Wichita, and our state will never forget the lives lost, the families forever changed, or the grief felt across our state. The ALERT Act is a comprehensive, bipartisan response that addresses the root causes identified by the NTSB and strengthens safety across our airspace to ensure no families have to experience that tragedy again. This legislation will modernize safety systems, improve airspace coordination, and enhance oversight to better protect the flying public going forward.”

The ALERT Act:

Implements all 50 safety recommendations from the NTSB to address the root causes of the DCA collision and strengthen aviation safety nationwide

Requires advanced collision avoidance technology, including ADS-B In and next-generation ACAS Xa systems, to enhance pilot awareness and prevent midair collisions

Improves coordination across the national airspace by strengthening communication and situational awareness for pilots and air traffic controllers

Enhances air traffic control training, procedures, and oversight to promote a stronger safety culture and reduce risk

Increases transparency and accountability by establishing new data tracking systems, a public safety dashboard, and improved FAA oversight mechanisms

Rep. Mann emphasized how important this legislation is to Kansans during the bill's debate on the House floor. In March, Rep. Mann supported its passage during the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee bill markup.

H.R. 7613 will now go to the U.S. Senate for further consideration.

###",1,2026-06-27T21:44:12Z,2026-06-27T22:19:40Z
https://schmidt.house.gov/media/press-releases/kansas-city-area-lawmakers-introduce-bill-designating-quindaro-townsite,Kansas City-area Lawmakers Introduce Bill Designating Quindaro Townsite as National Historic Landmark,2026-04-14,2026,2026-04,Republican,House,KS,Derek Schmidt,S001228,schmidt.house.gov,schmidt,https://schmidt.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congressman Derek Schmidt (KS-2), Congresswoman Sharice Davids (KS-3), and Congressman Emanuel Cleaver (MO-5) introduced the Quindaro Townsite National Historic Landmark Act to designate the Quindaro Townsite in Kansas City, Kansas, as a National Historic Landmark. The site served as a critical entry point for anti-slavery settlers and a sanctuary for those escaping bondage via the Underground Railroad prior to and during the U.S. Civil War.

National Historic Landmarks are designated through the National Park Service System Advisory Board or an official act of Congress. Last May, the National Historic Landmarks Committee unanimously recommended Quindaro Townsite for designation as a National Historic Landmark, however the administrative process has since stalled. This bill would bypass the administrative process and designate the site by congressional action.

“Quindaro holds an important place in the history of our region and nation,” said Congressman Schmidt, whose district includes the site. “Designating the site as a National Historic Landmark would ensure its legacy is properly preserved and recognized for generations to come. I’m honored to lead this bill and join Representatives Davids and Cleaver in supporting Quindaro.”

“Quindaro was a place of courage, hope, and resilience — a sanctuary for those risking everything for freedom. Designating this site as a National Historic Landmark has been long overdue and would ensure future generations can learn from the sacrifices and triumphs of those who came before us. I’m proud to join Representatives Schmidt and Cleaver in this bipartisan effort to protect our Kansas City history and honor Quindaro’s legacy,” said Congresswoman Davids.

“The Quindaro Townsite is an important piece of the regional history in eastern Kansas and western Missouri – and its legacy must be preserved for the generations still to come,” said Congressman Cleaver. “By designating Quindaro as a National Historic Landmark, we can ensure the story of those who resided on these grounds lives on through the locals and tourists who visit every day, spreading the inspiring story of Americans who fought to ensure the United States lives up to its highest ideals. I’m proud to introduce this bipartisan legislation with Reps. Schmidt and Davids, and I look forward to working with them to ensure it is passed into law.”

Bill text is available here.

BACKGROUND

Founded in 1857, Quindaro emerged as a beacon for Free-State advocates during the turbulent “Bleeding Kansas” era. Strategically located along the Missouri River, it served as a critical entry point for anti-slavery settlers and a sanctuary for those escaping bondage via the Underground Railroad. The town’s establishment was a collaborative effort among the Wyandot Nation, New England abolitionists, and African American settlers, exemplifying a unique and harmonious multicultural alliance during a period marked by division and conflict.

Beyond its pivotal role in the anti-slavery movement, Quindaro became a nucleus for post-Civil War African American advancement. The establishment of the Quindaro Freedman’s School, later known as Western University, marked a significant milestone as the first Black school west of the Mississippi River. Institutions like Douglass Hospital further underscored the town’s commitment to education and healthcare within the African American community.

Archaeological excavations have unveiled a wealth of artifacts, offering invaluable insights into the daily lives of Quindaro’s diverse inhabitants. The site’s preserved foundations and structures provide a tangible connection to this rich history. Recognized on the National Register of Historic Places since 2002, Quindaro’s significance has been further acknowledged through its designation as a National Commemorative Site in 2019.",1,2026-06-27T21:44:12Z,2026-06-27T22:19:40Z
https://estes.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=7377,Rep. Estes Introduces Resolution Celebrating American Cowboy Cattle Trails,2026-04-02,2026,2026-04,Republican,House,KS,Ron Estes,E000298,estes.house.gov,estes,https://estes.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27,scraper,"Today, Congressman Ron Estes (R-Kansas) and Rep. Lloyd Doggett (D-Texas) introduced a House resolution to recognize and celebrate the monumental contributions of the American cowboy and historic cattle trails to the United States. As the nation prepares to celebrate its 250th anniversary on July 4, this resolution honors the spirit of independence and the economic foundation laid by the cattle industry in the post-Civil War era.

The resolution highlights the critical role of historic routes such as the Chisholm, Shawnee, Western, and Goodnight-Loving trails. These pathways were the lifelines of the post-Civil War economy, moving millions of Texas longhorns to markets in the north and providing the breeding stock that established the modern American beef industry.

This resolution is supported by Texas Chisholm Trail Association, International Chisholm Trail Association. Historic Cattle Trails Coalition, National Cattleman’s Beef Association, Kansas Livestock Association, Western Wordsmiths, Colorado Cattlemen’s Association, Nebraska Cattlemen, North Dakota Stockman’s Association, New Mexico Cattle Growers’ Association, Oklahoma Cattlemen’s Association, and South Dakota Cattlemen’s Association.

""The American cowboy is more than just a figure of our past; it is a global symbol of the courage, determination, and independence that define the American spirit,"" said Rep. Estes. ""From the Chisholm Trail to the Great Western Trail, these routes through Kansas and the heartland didn't just move cattle, they rebuilt the American economy and fed a growing nation. As we celebrate our 250th year, it is only fitting that we honor the group of individuals who shaped our frontier and our national identity.""

“The great cattle drives didn't just move longhorns across the plains—they helped stitch a divided nation back together and built the foundation of a modern American economy. Those herds crossed the Colorado River on the Chisholm Trail through Travis County, driven by cowboys of every background,” said Rep. Lloyd Doggett. “As we mark 250 years of American history, the House should honor that legacy and the full, diverse story behind it.”

“Kansas heritage has long been connected to cattle and cowboys—from the days when historic trails like the Chisholm carried herds to market, to the ranchers who continue that legacy today,” said Kansas Livestock Association Chief Executive Officer Matt Teagarden. “This resolution recognizes not only the enduring impact of those early cattle drives, but also the generations of cattlemen and cattlewomen who have built upon that foundation to sustain a vital industry and way of life. We appreciate Rep. Estes’ leadership on this important recognition.”

“We applaud Congressman Estes and Congressman Doggett for introducing this resolution to honor cowboy history as part of America 250,” said Carrie Murdoch, CEO of the Chisholm Trail Outdoor Museum in Cleburne, Texas and President of the Texas Chisholm Trail Association. “Our museum sits proudly along the Chisholm Trail where the cowboys and historic cattle drives helped shape the history of our nation.”

“Thanks to these Congressmen for taking the lead on recognizing cowboy history as part of America 250,” said Dennis Katzenmeier of Ellsworth, Kansas, president of the International Chisholm Trail Association. “As we celebrate America’s 250th birthday, it is an ideal time to honor the American cowboy who has become an international symbol of strength, courage, and independence.”

“Generations of American farmers and ranchers have been feeding our country and managing millions of acres of range and pastureland for the last 250 years. From the early settlers raising cattle at the Jamestown colony in the 1600s to the iconic cattle drives across the West in the 19th century, cattle production is a major part of American history. NCBA is proud to celebrate America 250, reflecting on how far our industry has come while continuing to innovate and preserve our heritage for future generations,” NCBA President and Virginia Cattleman Gene Copenhaver said.

You may click HERE to read the full resolution.",1,2026-04-03T05:34:17Z,2026-04-06T21:06:43Z
https://estes.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=7371,"Rep. Estes, Sen. Capito Introduce Bill to Unleash Domestic Investments for U.S. Companies",2026-03-26,2026,2026-03,Republican,House,KS,Ron Estes,E000298,estes.house.gov,estes,https://estes.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27,scraper,"Today, U.S. Rep. Ron Estes (R-Kan.) introduced the Ensuring Better Interest Treatment and Deductibility (EBITDA) Act. The legislation builds on the Working Families Tax Cuts Act’s—also known as the One Big Beautiful Bill—pro-growth policy by restoring globally competitive interest deductibility standards and unleashing domestic investment for U.S.-headquartered companies. Companion legislation is being introduced in the U.S. Senate by Senator Shelley Moore Capito (R-W. Va.).

“As it currently stands, our tax code is penalizing American businesses for growing — when a manufacturer borrows money in the United States to expand their global business, they shouldn’t be slammed with a surprise tax bill because they’re investing in their operations,” Rep. Estes said. “This commonsense solution restores the post-TCJA landscape that encourages investment and makes it easier for job creators to innovate, increase opportunities, and keep America competitive on a global stage.”

“U.S. based companies are at a disadvantage when competing in global markets for leveraged acquisitions, as foreign-headquartered rivals often benefit from more favorable interest deductibility rules and can therefore finance transactions more efficiently,” Senator Capito said. “This bill will help ensure pro-growth policy by increasing globally competitive interest deductibility standards and will help unleash domestic investments for U.S. companies.”

The legislation is supported by: the National Association of Manufacturers (NAM), U.S. Chamber of Commerce, Celanese, Asurion, Dell Technologies, Illinois Tool Works, and the American Chemistry Council.

“H.R. 1 was the investment of a generation in America’s manufacturers. Thanks to the leadership of President Trump and this Congress, the U.S. tax code is now set up to drive manufacturing investment and job creation. A critical component of H.R. 1’s pro-manufacturing agenda was the restoration of a pro-growth interest deductibility standard, a longtime NAM priority given debt financing’s importance for capital-intensive sectors like manufacturing,” Connor Rabb, Senior Director for Tax Policy for NAM, said. “The Ensuring Better Interest Treatment and Deductibility (EBITDA) Act from Sen. Capito and Rep. Estes would build on this progress, setting the stage for job-creating investments across the industry. Manufacturers strongly support the EBITDA Act, and we commend Sen. Capito and Rep. Estes for their leadership in making America the best place in the world to make things.”

“The Ensuring Better Treatment and Deductibility Act is an important step toward preserving a competitive, pro-growth tax environment for American companies. Restoring a more balanced approach to interest deductibility – consistent with longstanding standards – will help businesses invest in long-term growth and compete globally. Asurion applauds Senators Capito, Cornyn, Blackburn, and Husted for introducing this important legislation,” Asurion said.

“Dell Technologies supports the Ensuring Better Interest Treatment and Deductibility Act (EBITA) because it enhances financing flexibility for U.S. businesses. We appreciate Senator Capito, Representative Estes and their colleagues for working to advance this legislation,” Tom Vallone, Senior Vice President of Taxes at Dell Technologies, said”

“Senator Capito’s leadership recognizes that tax policy plays a critical role in U.S. competitiveness and in keeping the United States the world’s most attractive place to invest and borrow. Modernizing Section 163(j) will help strengthen American competitiveness by lowering financing costs for capital‑intensive manufacturers and encouraging more investment, innovation, and job creation here at home,” the American Chemistry Council said.

BACKGROUND:

In July, President Trump signed into law the Working Families Tax Cuts Act, which provides major business tax benefits, including making the 20% Qualified Business Income (QBI) deduction permanent, restoring 100% bonus depreciation for investments, and increasing the Sec. 179 deduction cap to $2.5 million and increasing limits on business interest deductibility. Because of the hard work of President Trump and Congress, the U.S. tax code has finally put American businesses first and will help increase U.S. manufacturing. However, U.S. businesses are prevented from including global income (Subpart F income, GILTI inclusions, and Section 78 gross-up amounts) from their Adjusted Tax Income (ATI), which undercuts the restoration of the EBITDA standard. This anti-competitive provision shrinks the ATI base and reduces allowable interest deductions, even when such global income is fully subject to U.S. tax. This limitation undercuts the key pro-growth outcome in the Working Families Tax Cuts Act.

The Ensuring Better Interest Treatment and Deductibility Act (EBITDA) would build upon the pro-U.S. business policies in OBBB by repealing the ATI limitation exclusion of global income, allowing U.S. companies to remain competitive on the world stage.

Full text of the EBITDA Act can be found here.

# # #",1,2026-04-04T05:28:40Z,2026-04-06T21:05:58Z
https://estes.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=7356,Rep. Estes Leads Resolution on Law Enforcement Torch Run for Special Olympics,2026-03-05,2026,2026-03,Republican,House,KS,Ron Estes,E000298,estes.house.gov,estes,https://estes.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27,scraper,"Rep. Ron Estes (R-Kansas) introduced a resolution, H. CON. RES. 76, that recognizes the visionary leadership of Chief Richard LaMunyon and the profound global impact of the Law Enforcement Torch Run for Special Olympics.

In 1979, Wichita Police Chief Richard LaMunyon was inspired by a heartfelt encounter with a Special Olympics athlete to champion the cause. Looking to eliminate financial barriers for participants, Chief and his officers created the Law Enforcement Torch Run (LETR) in 1981. After demonstrating the program’s powerful impact on athletes to founder Eunice Kennedy Shriver, LaMunyon received her blessing to take the initiative global. With the 1983 endorsement of the International Association of Chiefs of Police (IACP), the movement expanded rapidly. Now, the LETR spans all 50 states and over 25 countries, involving more than 150,000 officers, known honorably as “Guardians of the Flame,” annually. Today, LETR stands as the largest grassroots movement for Special Olympics, fostering community and stability for athletes everywhere. From a modest $300 raised during the first run in Wichita, the movement has now raised over $1.1 billion to support those with intellectual disabilities worldwide.",1,2026-04-04T05:28:40Z,2026-04-06T21:05:58Z
https://schmidt.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-derek-schmidt-statement-military-operations-iran,Rep. Derek Schmidt statement on military operations in Iran,2026-03-05,2026,2026-03,Republican,House,KS,Derek Schmidt,S001228,schmidt.house.gov,schmidt,https://schmidt.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. - Congressman Derek Schmidt (KS-2) released the following statement:

""Since U.S. combat operations in Iran began, I have expressed support for our servicemembers in harm’s way but have taken care not to rush to judgment. Engaging American military forces in combat is a matter of enormous consequence. Every person in a position of public responsibility should assess his or her duty with serious mind and with only the best interests of our country for a guide.

Therefore, I have studied the public reports, consulted with congressional leadership, sought the opinion of Kansans experienced in U.S. military engagement in the Middle East, listened to the input of my constituents, and received a briefing on the situation from Secretaries Rubio and Hegseth, General Caine, and Director Ratcliffe. As a member of the House Armed Services Committee, I continue to receive updates including an additional briefing earlier today. I will continue to listen carefully as this military operation proceeds.

Based on the information gathered to date, I have formed the following views:

First, after nearly half a century of Iran waging war against America, our country is fighting back with overwhelming force and precision. Since seizing power in 1979, the Islamist fundamentalists in Tehran have murdered more than 1,000 Americans and maimed or kidnapped countless more. The death toll includes 241 U.S. Marines in Beirut in 1983, 19 U.S. airmen in Riyadh in 1996, more than 600 U.S. servicemembers in Iraq from 2003 through 2011, 46 U.S. civilians in Gaza in 2023, and 3 U.S. soldiers in Jordan as recently as 2024. They have maimed or kidnapped hundreds more Americans while hijacking airplanes, bombing cafes and bus stops, and planting roadside bombs. They have bombed our embassies. They have killed U.S. diplomats and sought to assassinate our country’s national security adviser, secretary of state, and president. They thought they could continually attack us without consequence by hiding behind proxies. They expected a lack of American resolve.

Second, the Tehran regime remained determined to carry on its fight against America and our allies into the future. It refused to abandon nuclear-weapon ambitions even after the United States destroyed the regime’s principal weapons facilities last year, continued to develop missile and drone delivery systems with expanding range, and smuggled likely terror cells into our country across our once-open southern border. This is not a war of choice for America; only the time and place of our fighting back were of our choosing.

Third, now that the fight is joined we must stand with our troops and succeed. The Trump administration and our U.S. forces abroad and law enforcement here at home have my full support. Today I voted against cutting off support for our dedicated troops in combat, against stopping short of completing their mission underway in Iran, and once again in favor of funding the Department of Homeland Security so it remains vigilant against the terror threat here at home. The U.S. military mission in Iran is to protect America by degrading to the point of elimination the Tehran regime’s warfighting abilities—notably its abilities to build a nuclear bomb; to project power through its navy, missiles and drones; and to equip and support terror networks. In my view, we must remain focused on that America First mission and guard against mission creep. Kansans do not favor another protracted involvement in a foreign war.

Fourth, I am convinced the president had ample legal authority to join this fight. Although engaging Congress sooner might have been prudent, Congress is now engaged. My vote today supports our troops in combat. We did not seek this fight but speaking with one voice, we must support our warfighters as they finish their mission.

I take no joy in our country finding itself in this position. Like all Kansans, I mourn the six Americans killed in action as of this date. And I pray for the safety of all our troops, for the full recovery of those wounded, for the American civilians still trapped in the theater of operations, and for the families who love and support them. God bless them all.""",1,2026-06-27T21:44:12Z,2026-06-27T22:18:47Z
https://mann.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-mann-advances-farm-bill-out-committee,Rep. Mann Advances Farm Bill Out of Committee,2026-03-04,2026,2026-03,Republican,House,KS,Tracey Mann,M000871,mann.house.gov,mann,https://mann.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Representative Tracey Mann (KS-01) voted to advance the Farm, Food, and National Security Act of 2026 out of the House Agriculture Committee. This legislation, which passed in the committee by a vote of 34-17, authorizes farm programs for the next five years. Rep. Mann released the following statement after the vote.

“The Farm, Food, and National Security Act of 2026 is about supporting American agriculture and the rural communities that power it,"" said Rep. Mann. ""After strengthening the farm safety net last year in the Working Families Tax Cuts, this legislation builds on our progress by investing in rural development, expanding market access, lowering energy costs, and ensuring producers have the tools they need to stay competitive. I am especially proud that this bill permanently moves the Kansas-born Food for Peace program to USDA, prioritizing American-grown commodities and restoring the program to its original mission. Kansas farmers and ranchers feed, fuel, and clothe the world, and this Farm Bill brings much-needed certainty to the producers who keep America's food supply strong.""

The Farm, Food, and National Security Act of 2026:

Builds on the historic agricultural investments included in the Working Families Tax Cuts

Completes overdue reauthorization of key farm bill programs across conservation, rural development, research, trade, energy, and specialty crops

Permanently moves Food for Peace to USDA, prioritizing American-grown commodities and cutting unnecessary bureaucracy

Expands market access for U.S. agriculture by strengthening export promotion programs and reducing trade barriers

Improves access to credit for farmers and ranchers while supporting young and beginning producers

Invests in rural communities through stronger broadband, rural health care access, water infrastructure, and workforce development

Promotes precision agriculture, research, and innovation to keep American producers competitive

Supports voluntary, locally led conservation programs that protect working lands without adding unnecessary regulations

During his opening remarks, Rep. Mann emphasized the need for the Farm, Food, and National Security Act of 2026, which delivers the certainty farmers and ranchers depend on, strengthens national security, and invests in rural America.

The bill now awaits consideration from the full U.S. House of Representatives.

###",1,2026-06-27T21:44:12Z,2026-06-27T22:18:47Z
https://estes.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=7347,Rep. Estes Statement on Lesser Prairie Chicken Regulations Removed,2026-02-26,2026,2026-02,Republican,House,KS,Ron Estes,E000298,estes.house.gov,estes,https://estes.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27,scraper,"Rep. Ron Estes (R-Kansas) released the following statement today after the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS) officially finalized the removal of the lesser prairie-chicken from the Federal List of Endangered and Threatened Wildlife.

“Today is a massive win for common sense, for Kansas, for the hardworking farmers and ranchers who have been the true stewards of our land for generations, the energy producers, and our community partners,” said Rep. Estes. “For too long, D.C. bureaucrats attempted to weaponize the Endangered Species Act to implement a hostile land grab, ignoring the stable population data and the successful voluntary conservation efforts already in place.

By officially stripping these overreaching protections, we are liberating Kansans from an unscientific and burdensome mandate that threatened our local economies and American energy independence. I have fought this battle in Congress since I came into office, and I am proud to see the Trump administration follow through on restoring local control and protecting private property rights. We have proven that we can protect our natural resources without the heavy hand of the federal government crushing the very people who feed and fuel this country.”",1,2026-04-04T05:28:40Z,2026-04-06T21:03:58Z
https://schmidt.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-derek-schmidt-introduces-bill-strengthen-state-and-federal-cooperation,"Rep. Derek Schmidt introduces bill to strengthen state and federal cooperation, streamline deportation of criminal aliens",2026-02-26,2026,2026-02,Republican,House,KS,Derek Schmidt,S001228,schmidt.house.gov,schmidt,https://schmidt.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – (February 26, 2026) – Earlier this week, Congressman Derek Schmidt (KS-2) introduced H.R. 7664 – the State Partnerships to Enhance Removal of Criminal Aliens Act – that would strengthen state cooperation with federal immigration enforcement for criminal aliens.

“This bill focuses on what most Kansans agree should be the top priority for immigration enforcement – swift deportation of illegal aliens who also commit crimes while present in the United States,"" Schmidt said. ""Public safety is best served when there is common sense cooperation among federal, state and local law enforcement authorities.""

The bill would authorize the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to enter into voluntary agreements with state and local prosecutors to represent DHS in removal proceedings before immigration courts, streamlining the process to obtain removal orders for aliens convicted of crimes in state courts.

“The vast majority of crimes in Kansas and across the country are prosecuted in state courts by capable state and local prosecutors,” Schmidt said. “It only makes sense to empower those prosecutors – who are already conversant in the facts of the case – to obtain the federal removal order soon after the state criminal conviction. This will help ensure that once criminal aliens have completed their incarceration in state prisons or jails, they can be immediately deported without waiting for the federal immigration bureaucracy to catch up.”

In addition, H.R. 7664 closes dangerous loopholes by expanding current law’s “aggravated felony” definition to include all alien felons and clarifies that aliens who are convicted felons are ineligible for admission or asylum in the United States.",1,2026-06-26T06:29:35Z,2026-06-26T06:31:46Z
https://estes.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=7343,Rep. Estes Statement on POTUS State of the Union Address,2026-02-25,2026,2026-02,Republican,House,KS,Ron Estes,E000298,estes.house.gov,estes,https://estes.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27,scraper,"Rep. Ron Estes (R-Kansas) released the following statement following President Trump’s State of the Union Address on Tuesday night:

“Throughout the course of the last year, Republicans have united to put America First, leading with results both in the administration and here in Congress. The President is right to be optimistic – we have accomplished a great deal, but there is still more work to be done,” Rep. Estes said. “Because of the Working Families Tax Cuts we passed in July, Americans and Kansans alike aren’t just hearing about tax cuts; they’re seeing them right on their kitchen table. These savings exemplify the hard work being put forth to provide real money for real families nationwide. Additionally, this year marks the United States’ 250th Birthday – which is a huge celebration across our country to see how far we have come as a nation. It was my honor to be here to listen to President Trump talk about our victories and see how much we can accomplish when we are unified to put Americans First. I will always fight for the best interest of Kansans in Congress.”",1,2026-04-04T05:28:40Z,2026-04-06T21:03:58Z
https://estes.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=7342,Rep. Estes Votes in Favor of ROTOR Act,2026-02-24,2026,2026-02,Republican,House,KS,Ron Estes,E000298,estes.house.gov,estes,https://estes.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27,scraper,"Rep. Ron Estes (R-Kansas) voted in favor of the ROTOR Act, aviation safety legislation following the tragic mid-air collision between an Army Black Hawk helicopter and a passenger aircraft in January 2025.

“I’m grateful for the work of the NTSB and the Senate, and realize there is always more that can and should be done to enhance aviation safety. There are 50 recommendations from the NTSB in their final report and many more findings that warrant legislative consideration, which should be similarly prioritized and considered as quickly as possible.

This collision involved an Army Black Hawk helicopter and an American Airlines flight that originated from my hometown of Wichita. This tragedy has left our community shocked, and I am heartbroken that several Kansans were among the victims. No family should ever have to endure such heartbreak.",1,2026-04-04T05:28:40Z,2026-04-06T21:03:58Z
https://mann.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-mann-ffa-caucus-honors-national-ffa-week,"Rep. Mann, FFA Caucus Honors National FFA Week",2026-02-23,2026,2026-02,Republican,House,KS,Tracey Mann,M000871,mann.house.gov,mann,https://mann.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Representatives Tracey Mann (KS-01) and Jimmy Panetta (CA-19), co-chairs of the Congressional FFA Caucus, led 58 of their colleagues in introducing a resolution to designate February 21-28 as National FFA Week. U.S. Senators Todd Young (R-IN) and Chris Coons (D-DE) introduced companion legislation in the U.S. Senate.

""Happy National FFA Week,” said Rep. Mann. ""This week, more than one million FFA members will reflect on the impact of the National FFA Organization and its role in shaping the next generation of leaders in food and agriculture. Those of us who have had the honor of wearing the blue jacket understand the lasting impact FFA has on molding and equipping young leaders to succeed. Across the country, FFA members will fulfill our motto—‘Learning to Do, Doing to Learn, Earning to Live, and Living to Serve’— through service projects, educational showcases, and engagement in their communities. As a past chapter FFA officer from Quinter, Kansas, proud FFA alumnus, and founder of the Congressional FFA Caucus, I'm honored to introduce this resolution.""

""Our nation is yearning and ready for the next generation of young farmers, ranchers, and producers to continue the United States' agricultural leadership,"" said Rep. Panetta. ""This bipartisan resolution recognizes the vital contributions of the National FFA Organization in training leaders who are ready to bolster both American food security and innovation. I am proud to once again work with my FFA Caucus co-chair, Representative Mann, to support the men and women who proudly wear the blue jacket so that they can help move our agriculture and our country forward.""

“Thanks to FFA, more young people have opportunities to pursue careers in agriculture and related fields,” said Chairman Thompson. “Agriculture provides the food, fiber, and fuel that keeps America going, but it will be nothing without the next generation. I am proud to celebrate FFA and all it does to inspire and encourage our youth.”

“I am proud to once again cosponsor the National FFA Week resolution, which recognizes the vital role this education and leadership play in shaping the next generation of agriculture leaders,” said Rep. Issa. “California is home to more than a million Future Farmers of America students, and they are demonstrating the energy and enthusiasm to safeguard our nation’s lands and preserve them for years to come.”

“Montana is home to nearly 6,700 FFA members across more than 100 chapters and plays a vital role in fostering the next generation of Montana’s agricultural community,"" said Rep. Downing. ""As a proud member of the FFA caucus, I’m pleased to join 58 of my colleagues in officially recognizing February 21st through 28th as National FFA Week.”

“Since 1928, Nebraska FFA has helped shape our state’s next generation of agricultural leaders, equipping young people with the skills, experience, and passion needed to feed and fuel our world,” said Rep. Smith. ""I am proud to cosponsor this year’s National FFA Week resolution and join members across the country in celebrating the extraordinary work of the National FFA Organization. With dedicated young leaders like these stepping forward, I have no doubt the future of American agriculture is bright.""

“Future Farmers of America plays an essential role in developing the next generation of farmers and leaders, ensuring our local agricultural industry can continue to thrive,” said Rep. Valadao. “As a former FFA member, I understand firsthand how valuable this organization is to our community, and I’m proud to honor and recognize their efforts this National FFA Week.”

“FFA made a big impact on my life, instilling leadership skills while I was in high school that I carry with me to this day,” said Chairman Graves. ""FFA continues to provide high quality agriculture education, as well as valuable lessons in leadership and personal growth for the next generation and I’m proud to celebrate National FFA Week.”

“I’m proud to cosponsor the National FFA Week resolution and to recognize the extraordinary young leaders who are shaping the future of American agriculture,” said Rep. Cleaver. “During National FFA Week, we celebrate the students who rise before dawn to tend to livestock, who study science and technology in the classroom, and who serve their communities with integrity and grit. FFA is more than an organization, it’s a pathway to leadership, innovation, and opportunity in rural and urban communities alike. As we honor National FFA week, we recommit to supporting the next generation of farmers, ranchers, scientists, and agricultural entrepreneurs who keep our nation fed, fueled, and thriving.”

""Supporting and uplifting our young farmers is key to ensuring we revitalize and strengthen American agriculture,"" said Rep. Budzinski. ""Future Farmers of America is a vital piece of that puzzle, and National FFA week recognizes the contributions they have made to countless rural communities. Across central and southern Illinois, I've had the privilege of meeting the farmers of tomorrow who participate in FFA, and I am confident the future of food and agriculture is in good hands.""

“As we recognize National FFA Week, we celebrate the young men and women who represent the very best of rural America,"" said Rep. Moore. ""These students aren’t just learning how to farm - they’re learning leadership, responsibility, and the value of hard work. In Alabama’s First Congressional District and across our nation, these future farmers are carrying forward a proud agricultural heritage that feeds and fuels America. I’m grateful for their dedication, their teachers and mentors, and the families who support them. Investing in FFA is investing in the future of American agriculture.”

“National FFA Week is a time to recognize the young men and women who are stepping up to lead the future of American agriculture,” said Rep. Aderholt. “Across Alabama and the nation, FFA members are gaining the skills, character, and work ethic that will strengthen our farms, our communities, and our economy for generations to come. I’m proud to support this resolution honoring the National FFA Organization and the important role it plays in developing the next generation of agricultural leaders.”

“Future Farmers of America has equipped the next generation of agricultural leaders and passing the legacy of farming down to the next generation,” said Rep. Cline. “For nearly a century, students have relied on FFA to gain hands-on experiences in and out of the classroom that prepare them for success in agriculture and beyond. I am proud to recognize National FFA Week and the organization’s vital contributions to rural America through its hundreds of local chapters. From leadership development to technical training and community service, FFA continues to strengthen our communities and invest in the future of agriculture.”

“I am delighted to join Reps. Mann and Panetta in designating this week as National FFA Week to celebrate our future farmers and agricultural leaders,” said Rep. Newhouse. ""As a former member of the FFA, I know firsthand how this program helps educate the next generation of agricultural leaders, not only in Central Washington, but around the country. Our Nation’s future depends on young Americans being engaged with and knowledgeable about farming and agricultural sciences, and the FFA does just that through prioritizing knowledge required to address problems faced by rural communities.”

“I’m honored to join my colleagues for this resolution that recognizes FFA students nationwide,” said Rep. Estes. “In my district, and all of Kansas, this program is incredibly important and successful to teach the practices of agriculture from a young age that shapes the next generation of leaders.”

“FFA is raising up the next generation of ag and community leaders here in Nebraska and all across the country,"" said Rep. Flood. ""Their work is making a huge difference. This week, Congress salutes the FFA chapters in every corner of America that are teaching young leaders the skills they need to be civically engaged and to take the great paying jobs available in our ag economy.""

“I am proud to cosponsor this resolution marking February 21-28 as National FFA Week,” said Rep. Scott. ""During this time, we reflect on the impact that the FFA National Organization has had on our agriculture community. The FFA helps to produce the next generation of agricultural leaders for our nation and cultivates future generations of the best growers and producers America has to offer. When you see FFA on a resume, you know that you are hiring a combination of talent and character, that is ready to take on the challenges and lead our country in the future. Happy National FFA Week.“

“The FFA has a long, proud tradition of engaging young Americans eager to grow the crops and livestock which keep our pantries full,” said Rep. Hageman. ""The world-class personal and professional development programs of this key organization are curriculums to be admired by every industry. Wyoming’s nearly 5,000 members are the farmers and ranchers of tomorrow carrying the cowboy legacy of grit and determination to feed their neighbors. Recognizing the work of the FFA is critical to cultivating the next generation who will carry on our agricultural heritage as the global breadbasket.”

“National FFA Week is a time when we showcase the collective impact of FFA nationwide,” said National FFA Advisor, Dr. Travis Park. ""Throughout FFA, we see our members stepping up as leaders, innovators, and advocates for agriculture. We know this happens, thanks to the dedication of agricultural teachers, FFA Alumni & Supporters, and our many partners. This week, National FFA Week, is when we celebrate the collective agricultural education ecosystem.""

""It is an exciting week for Kansas FFA members, advisors, alumni, and supporters,"" said Kansas FFA State President Lillian Hulse. ""During National FFA Week, everyone that has been impacted by the organization comes together to reflect on experiences and opportunities they have had in the blue corduroy jacket. The week is commemorated by highlighting the future of agriculture, chapters hosting events, members and alumni sharing memories, and continuing growth of career and leadership development.""

Click here for the text of the resolution.

The National FFA Organization is a congressionally chartered school-based national youth leadership organization of more than 1,042,245 student members as part of 9,400 local FFA chapters in all 50 states, Puerto Rico, Washington DC, and the U.S. Virgin Islands.

Reps. Mann and Panetta are co-chairs the Congressional FFA Caucus, with more than 60 members. Reps. Mann and Panetta originally launched the Congressional FFA Caucus in December 2021. The caucus serves to raise the profile of school-based agricultural education and FFA and to develop relationships between Congress and the next generation of leaders in food and agriculture.

###

For more information on Rep. Mann visit www.mann.house.gov",1,2026-06-09T06:27:37Z,2026-06-09T06:30:10Z
https://estes.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=7341,Rep. Estes Introduces Legislation to Delay Efficiency Adjustment; Benefiting Kansas Doctors,2026-02-12,2026,2026-02,Republican,House,KS,Ron Estes,E000298,estes.house.gov,estes,https://estes.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27,scraper,"Congressman Ron Estes (R-Kansas) introduced legislation, H.R. 7520, that addresses the efficiency adjustment in the Medicare Physician Fee Schedule by delaying the adjustment to ensure it is more targeted and thoughtful. Currently, the CY 2026 Medicare Physician Fee Schedule Final Rule introduced a new “efficiency adjustment” policy, and this mandate assumes perpetual efficiency gains in physician services, leading to recurring reimbursement reductions.

The policy reduces work Relative Value Units (RVUs) and intra-service time for all non-time-based codes by 2.5% in 2026, with additional cuts every three years. CMS assumes services are becoming faster, yet studies show 90% of procedures had the same or longer operative times in 2023 compared to 2019.

Additionally, the 2.5% cut is a flat rate based on general economy-wide labor productivity rather than actual clinical work or direct patient complexity. Because many physician employment contracts use work RVUs to calculate pay, these cuts will decrease compensation and threaten patient access.

Lastly, this cut occurs as practice operational costs have increased 59% since 2001, resulting in a 33% decline in inflation-adjusted physician pay.

Rep. Estes legislation addresses concerns voiced by Kansas Doctors and National Doctors groups regarding this efficiency adjustment which calls for a delay while we work through how to ensure the adjustment is targeted and thoughtful to physicians nationwide.

“Paying physicians properly is one of the only ways to ensure continued access and quality care for patients nationwide. As your representative in Congress, it is my duty to respond to concerns and fight for our Kansas Doctors such as the concerns raised with this efficiency adjustment,” Rep. Estes said. “Our physicians in Kansas and across our country are committed to the health and wellbeing of all Americans, and I will continue to fight in their best interest in Washington.”

“Doctors are overwhelmed as it is. They’re suffering from record rates of burnout while spending more time filling out paperwork than with their patients. Asking them to work even faster without properly understanding what actually affects procedure times doesn’t make sense,” Rep. Tom Suozzi said. “This bipartisan bill delays an unvetted and potentially harmful policy from taking effect too haphazardly. Let’s take care of the people who take care of us and make sure they have the time, tools, and support to provide quality care for their patients.""

“The 2.5% reduction to work Relative Value Units (RVUs) that went into effect on January 1 is detrimental to surgeons’ ability to provide quality care. Recent research shows that operative times have increased on average by 3% since 2019 as patient complexity has risen. This critical legislation will put a stop to the flawed across-the-board reduction until CMS is able to provide data on why it is necessary to do such an adjustment.

At a time when too many patients are seeing access to essential medical care delayed, we cannot allow another reduction in the structure of physician payments to drive even more physicians out of medical practice. We must stabilize payments to enable surgeons and physicians to keep their practices open so that they can continue to serve their patients.

Congress must step in immediately and stop the implementation of this flawed plan that will negatively impact surgeons and will limit access to care for millions of vulnerable patients. We thank Congressman Estes and Congressman Suozzi for their leadership on this critical issue,” Patricia L. Turner, MD, MBA FACS, Executive Director and CEO of the American College of Surgeons said.

""As healthcare professionals, we all strive to provide timely, well-organized care to patients,"" Michael L. Parks, MD, FAAOS, Second Vice President of the American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons said. ""The assumption from CMS that all services become more efficient over time, however, goes against established research and surgeons' firsthand experience. By ensuring that all codes are valued accurately, The Efficiency Adjustment Delay Act safeguards access to care by reducing financial strain for patients and physicians.""

“The Efficiency Adjustment Delay Act builds on Congress’ recognition that cuts fuel consolidation to the detriment of physicians and their patients,” Alexander A. Khalessi, MD, MBA, Chair of the AANS/CNS Washington Committee for Neurological Surgery said. “It helps ensure any future changes to work RVUs are grounded in empirical evidence and stakeholder input. We applaud Representatives Estes and Suozzi for their leadership and urge Congress to advance this legislation.”

You may click HERE to read the full legislation.

You may click HERE to read a letter from over 30 organizations supporting this legislation.

###",1,2026-04-04T05:28:40Z,2026-04-06T21:03:58Z
https://estes.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=7331,Rep. Estes Announces 2026 Annual High School Art Competition Dates,2026-02-10,2026,2026-02,Republican,House,KS,Ron Estes,E000298,estes.house.gov,estes,https://estes.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27,scraper,"Rep. Ron Estes (R-Kansas) has announced the annual Congressional Art Competition dates.

“Each year talented young artists have the chance to enter their best work in a fun and competitive event,” said Rep. Estes. “About 200 students from across the district enter their artwork in the Congressional Art Competition annually, and it's incredible to see the talent and skills young Kansans bring to life through their creativity. I encourage all high school students in our district to enter and be part of this fun and unique competition. I’m looking forward to once again hosting this event and seeing the work that will represent the Sunflower State in the United States Capitol in Washington, D.C.""

High school students in Kansas' 4th District may submit up to two art pieces for the competition. The deadline to submit artwork is Tuesday, March 31, 2026. All artwork submissions that meet the competition criteria will be displayed at Mark Arts in Wichita April 10 to May 2, with a reception Saturday, April 21, at 2 p.m. The winning artwork will be framed and shipped to Washington, D.C., to be displayed in the U.S. Capitol for one year along with other winners from around the country. Prizes may be awarded.

Students and high school art teachers interested in learning more about the Congressional Art Competition should visit estes.house.gov/art.

###",1,2026-04-04T05:28:40Z,2026-04-06T21:03:58Z
https://mann.house.gov/media/press-releases/reps-mann-alford-correa-barrett-empower-first-time-homebuyers,"Reps. Mann, Alford, Correa, Barrett Empower First-Time Homebuyers",2026-02-10,2026,2026-02,Republican,House,KS,Tracey Mann,M000871,mann.house.gov,mann,https://mann.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Representative Tracey Mann (KS-01), alongside Reps. Mark Alford (MO-04), Lou Correa (CA-46), and Tom Barrett (MI-07) introduced the First-Time Homebuyer Empowerment Act. This bill would allow first-time homebuyers to use leftover 529 plan funds tax-free to buy or build their first home, giving buyers more options to use their tax-advantaged savings. This legislation aims to remove barriers first-time homebuyers face in putting up a down payment and increase access to the housing market for future homeowners.

“Homeownership is the heart of the American Dream,"" said Rep. Mann. ""The ability to provide a safe, stable place to raise a family is so important for the future of our country. Today, too many young Americans feel that owning a home continues to become more and more out of reach. Our legislation gives people more flexibility on how to use their savings, opening up pathways for more Americans to own equity in their homes.""

“Every American deserves a fair shot at owning a home,"" said Rep. Alford. ""Too many first-time buyers are working hard and saving yet still can’t reach the down payment. This commonsense bill gives families more flexibility to use their existing savings in tax advantaged accounts, opening the door to the American Dream.”

“This bill would give hard-working American taxpayers on Main Street greater flexibility to put the money they’ve earnestly saved toward one of the largest investments they can make—buying a home,” said Rep. Correa. “In Orange County and across our state, housing has only become more unaffordable. This would mark an important step toward giving aspiring home-owners across the country the tools they need to build and sustain financial stability—for themselves and their children.”

“Too many families can’t afford homes that work for them, plain and simple,” said Rep. Barrett. “An easy first step towards changing that reality is to let homebuyers tap into unused college savings in their 529 accounts and put them towards purchasing their first home. I’m proud to join my colleagues on this legislation to incentivize saving for the future and help the next generation achieve homeownership.”

The First-Time Homebuyer Empowerment Act is supported by the National Association of Realtors, National Association of Homebuilders, Mortgage Bankers Association, Institute of Real Estate Management, Kansas Association of Realtors, Missouri Realtors, Iowa Association of Realtors, Michigan Association of Realtors, and California Association of Realtors.

“NAHB commends Reps. Mann, Alford and Correa for introducing the First Time Home Buyer Enhancement Act, legislation that would allow first-time home buyers to use funds from their 529 savings accounts to buy their first home,"" said Buddy Hughes, Chairman of National Association of Home Builders. ""Saving for a downpayment is a major barrier for first-time home buyers and this bill would help hard-working families to get a toe hold on the homeownership ladder.”

""Downpayment hurdles continue to block many families from owning a home,"" said Bill Killmer, Senior Vice President of Legislative & Political Affairs at Mortgage Bankers Association. ""The First-Time Home Buyer Empowerment Act provides a common-sense solution that empowers first-time buyers to use their own savings—at no cost to taxpayers. MBA looks forward to supporting this and other efforts in Congress to expand sustainable homeownership.”

###",1,2026-06-05T06:35:23Z,2026-06-05T06:36:42Z
https://schmidt.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-derek-schmidt-new-us-india-trade-framework-includes-key-agricultural-trade,Rep. Derek Schmidt: New U.S.–India Trade Framework includes Key Agricultural Trade Provisions for Kansas,2026-02-09,2026,2026-02,Republican,House,KS,Derek Schmidt,S001228,schmidt.house.gov,schmidt,https://schmidt.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – (February 9, 2026) – The new U.S.–India trade framework announced last week by the two countries includes provisions designed to expand Kansas agricultural exports that Congressman Derek Schmidt (KS-2) advocated.

On May 20 and May 29 of last year, Schmidt asked the U.S. Trade Representative to prioritize agricultural exports and specifically sorghum, dried distillers’ grains (DDGs), and soybean products in the negotiations with India. The new framework includes all three.

""The Indian market potential is enormous and is vital to Kansas agriculture exporters as the dynamics with China continue to evolve,"" Schmidt said. ""I am grateful to the Trump administration for prioritizing Kansas agricultural exports in this new framework and will continue to work closely with our trade officials to make sure Kansas producers and agribusinesses see the benefits.""

Kansas produces more grain sorghum than any other state, and is a major producer of DDGs. The Second Congressional District in particular produces significant amounts of soybean oil at facilities in Cherryvale and Emporia.",1,2026-06-24T06:25:30Z,2026-06-24T06:26:49Z
https://schmidt.house.gov/media/press-releases/schmidt-votes-reopen-federal-government,Schmidt Votes to Reopen Federal Government,2026-02-03,2026,2026-02,Republican,House,KS,Derek Schmidt,S001228,schmidt.house.gov,schmidt,https://schmidt.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – (February 3, 2026) – Congressman Derek Schmidt (KS-2) today voted in favor of legislation to fund the Departments of Defense, Labor, Health and Human Services, Education, Transportation, Housing and Urban Development, Treasury, State, and related agencies.

Today’s passage of H.R. 7148, which includes five appropriation bills funding those agencies, will reopen those parts of the federal government that have been shut down since January 31. The House of Representatives today voted 217–214 after the Senate passed the House bill, as amended, last Friday, 71–29. The bill was signed into law by President Trump earlier this afternoon.

Congress has now passed 11 of the 12 annual appropriation bills that fund operations of the federal government. That is the most individual appropriation bills enacted in a single year since the 1990s. The one remaining bill under congressional consideration includes funding for the Department of Homeland Security.

“I ran for Congress to help get Washington, D.C., working again as it is supposed to, and part of that means enacting the annual spending bills rather than enormous omnibus spending measures,” Schmidt said. “Today’s action is a big step in the right direction. While far from perfect, the eleven appropriation bills enacted so far move overall spending down not up, establish America First priorities rather than Biden-era priorities, and fund vital services like military pay raises, airport security, and national defense.”",1,2026-06-18T06:41:00Z,2026-06-18T06:43:25Z
https://schmidt.house.gov/media/press-releases/schmidt-backed-human-trafficking-bill-signed-law,Schmidt-backed Human Trafficking Bill Signed into Law,2026-02-02,2026,2026-02,Republican,House,KS,Derek Schmidt,S001228,schmidt.house.gov,schmidt,https://schmidt.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – (February 2, 2026) – Congressman Derek Schmidt (KS-2) today applauded the signing of the Trafficking Survivors Relief Act (H.R. 4323) into law, marking a significant victory for survivors of human trafficking and an important step toward restoring justice for those who were coerced into committing non-violent crimes because of their exploitation. Schmidt is a cosponsor of the legislation, continuing the strong anti-human-trafficking framework he advanced as Kansas attorney general.

“This bill ensures meaningful relief for survivors who were forced into committing crimes by their traffickers,” said Schmidt. “I am proud to be in the fight not only to hold accountable those who exploit others, but also to provide survivors a real opportunity to return to a sense of normalcy in their lives. I am grateful to President Trump for signing this critical legislation into law.”

The Trafficking Survivors Relief Act establishes an affirmative defense allowing survivors of human trafficking to defend against charges that arose directly from their victimization. The law also provides critical post-conviction relief for survivors by authorizing vacatur of certain convictions, expungement of arrest records, and sentencing mitigation when offenses were committed as a direct result of trafficking.

Under the bill, a court may grant a motion to vacate a conviction or expunge an arrest if the defendant demonstrates by a preponderance of the evidence that the offense was committed as a direct result of having been a victim of trafficking. The defendant must also establish, by clear and convincing evidence, that they were a victim of human trafficking at the time the offense was committed.

The legislation limits eligibility for relief to non-violent offenses directly tied to trafficking victimization and explicitly excludes offenses involving a child as a victim.

Schmidt’s support of this legislation reflects his continued commitment to strengthening protections for trafficking survivors and ensuring that victims are treated with fairness, dignity, and compassion under the law.",1,2026-05-22T06:27:39Z,2026-05-22T06:29:18Z
https://mann.house.gov/media/press-releases/reps-mann-davids-introduce-bill-increase-motor-carrier-safety,"Reps. Mann, Davids Introduce Bill to Increase Motor Carrier Safety",2026-01-29,2026,2026-01,Republican,House,KS,Tracey Mann,M000871,mann.house.gov,mann,https://mann.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Representatives Tracey Mann (KS-01) and Sharice Davids (KS-03) introduced the Motor Carrier Safety Screening Modernization Act. If passed and signed into law, thislegislation would improve motor carrier safety by expanding access to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration’s (FMCSA) voluntary safety data screening program for both prospective and current drivers. The bill also modernizes the process for drivers and carriers to challenge inaccurate data on their records.

“The men and women who keep our supply chain efficient play a critical role in feeding, fueling, and clothing the world,” said Rep. Mann. “This commonsense legislation makes our roadways safer, gives trucking companies the tools they need to strengthen driver training and safety programs, and improves the efficiency of our supply chain. By cutting unnecessary red tape and ensuring accuracy in driver safety records, we can better support both our nation’s truckers and the businesses that rely on them every day.”

“Keeping Kansans safe on our roads while supporting the workers who keep our economy moving should never be a partisan issue,"" said Rep. Davids. ""This bipartisan effort is about using common-sense tools to prevent crashes, protect drivers, and make sure safety records are fair and accurate. I’m proud to work with Representative Mann to deliver a Kansas-driven solution that puts people first, strengthens our supply chain, and shows that when it comes to safety and fairness, we can work together to get things done.”

Since 2009, FMCSA’s Pre-Employment Screening Program (PSP) has provided motor carriers access to data on serious driver-related safety violations during the hiring process. Studies show that carriers using PSP have seen an eight percent reduction in crashes and a 17 percent reduction in out-of-service events. However, current law prohibits motor carriers from accessing those same records after a driver is hired. This legislation updates the PSP to allow for continuous access, helping companies identify safety issues early, expand training, and reduce future roadway crashes.

The bill would improve highway safety and transparency by:

Expanding access to FMCSA’s Pre-Employment Screening Program, allowing motor carriers to review safety records for both prospective and current drivers.

Enhancing driver training and safety programs by enabling carriers to identify safety issues earlier and provide ongoing professional development.

Protecting driver privacy and rights by maintaining the voluntary nature of the PSP, requiring driver consent for record access, and preserving protections under the Fair Credit Reporting Act.

Promoting fairness and accountability by ensuring data challenges are adjudicated by someone other than the original issuing officer, improving due process and confidence in safety data accuracy.

The Motor Carrier Safety Screening Modernization Act is supported by the American Busing Association, American Trucking Association, Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance, Driver Employer Council of America, National Safety Council, Owner-Operator Independent Drivers Association (OOIDA), Specialized Carriers and Rigging Association, Transportation Workers Union, Truckload Carriers Association, and Women in Trucking.

“One of the trucking industry’s top priorities is to ensure that only the highest quality drivers are behind the wheels of commercial motor vehicles,” said American Trucking Associations SVP of Legislative Affairs Alex Rosen. “FMCSA’s Pre-employment Screening Program is a critical tool that helps achieve this safety goal; however, red tape currently restricts employers’ ability to proactively catch violations and root out risky drivers. We appreciate Representatives Mann and Davids and Senator Moran for leading the bipartisan effort to fix this issue and empower motor carriers to conduct regular audits of their drivers’ safety records.”

###",1,2026-05-28T06:29:45Z,2026-05-28T06:31:18Z
https://estes.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=7319,ICYMI: Estes Questions Health Insurance CEOs at Ways & Means Hearing,2026-01-23,2026,2026-01,Republican,House,KS,Ron Estes,E000298,estes.house.gov,estes,https://estes.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27,scraper,"U.S. Congressman Ron Estes (R-Kansas), a member of the House Ways and Means Committee, joined a full committee hearing to question health insurance CEOs on the economic reality facing American families, and why the “efficiencies” of modern health care don’t translate into affordability for patients nationwide.

You may click HERE or on the image above to watch Rep. Estes’ full remarks.

Highlights from Rep. Estes’ remarks include:

“You’d think vertical integration and scale would result in lower prices and a better patient experience. Yet for the people of Kansas, the 2026 health care market is characterized as a physical and financial desert.”

“Families in my district are facing finalized gross premium hikes of 26.6% with benchmark deductibles as high as $6,000 for individuals and $12,000 for families.”

“When we talk about consolidation, we aren't just talking about companies. We're talking about the loss of local options. In 2026, 14 Kansas counties now have only one single insurer left available to them. When a local hospital in a community like Derby, Kansas, closes – it isn't just a business failure, it's a new, permanent expense for every patient in that town. A routine checkup has turned into an all-day event, including lost wages and travel costs that weren't covered by insurance.”

“I hope you can help me understand why American taxpayers who contribute the bulk of your revenue, particularly for what seems to be the Unaffordable Care Act, are seeing a diminishing return in the form of high denial rates and soaring out-of-pocket costs that are utterly unfair to them.”

“You own an insurer, you own a PBM, often own some physician practices – those should be designed to drive efficiencies and lower costs. However, your own data shows that the multi-billion dollar investments in integration, you still have an increase in health care spending. Naturally, it's up $5.6 trillion in 2025, and health care costs outpaced inflation by 300%, and insurance-owned specialty drugs now cost patients three times more than they did a decade ago.”

“Let's be clear, we have 15 years of the Democrats’ Unaffordable Care Act, and this has been the result. Americans cannot afford their health care, and the Democrats’ only solution is to cut another blank check to the insurance to paper over the inflationary prices.”",1,2026-04-04T05:28:40Z,2026-04-06T21:01:44Z
https://estes.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=7314,Rep. Estes Reintroduces Legislation Benefiting Nursing Homes In-House CNA Programs,2026-01-21,2026,2026-01,Republican,House,KS,Ron Estes,E000298,estes.house.gov,estes,https://estes.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27,scraper,"WASHINGTON - Ron Estes (R-Kan.) and Rep. Josh Harder (D-Calif.) reintroduced the Ensuring Seniors’ Access to Quality Care Act. This bill allows nursing homes to continue operating their in-house CNA training program even if they incur fines above a certain amount, so long as the fines are issued for reasons unrelated to direct resident care.

“This common sense, bipartisan bill accounts for the current workforce challenges nursing homes face without compromising on a commitment to quality care for residents.” said Rep. Estes. “This bill ensures nursing homes continue to meet high standards without losing the staffing levels needed to provide high-quality care.”

Rep. Estes said, “The Seniors’ Access to Quality Care Act prevents an in-house CNA education program from facing suspension due to non-care related clerical violations.” “That’s a commonsense solution to help keep CNA education programs operational and assist nursing homes across the country with staffing levels.”

""We should be doing everything we can to rebuild our workforce and make sure seniors get the consistent, high-quality care they deserve,"" said Rep. Harder. ""This bill will help grow the pipeline of caregivers. I’m grateful to Congressman Estes for his leadership on this issue.""

“We applaud Congressmen Estes and Harder for reintroducing the Ensuring Seniors’ Access to Quality Care Act to help develop more certified nursing assistants. As America’s population ages and demand for long term care grows, we strongly support this legislation and its goals to expand training pipelines and workforce capacity so that we can continue delivering high-quality, person-centered care. Addressing a key legislative priority of our Caregivers for Tomorrow initiative, this commonsense legislation represents the type of practical, collaborative policy solutions needed to support our caregivers and the people they serve,” Michael Bassett, Senior Vice President of Government Relations for American Health Care Association said.

Background

Today, current surveys show about 94-96% of nursing facilities are still actively hiring or struggling to fill roles, and rural areas have reported having to limit admissions to their facilities close to 50% their full capacity due to these challenges. We are pleased that we were able to roll back the Biden administration’s nursing home staffing mandate which would have worsened workforce shortages across the country and required nursing homes nationwide already struggling to find staff to hire more than 100,000 additional nurses and nurse aides. One estimate suggested nearly 300,000 residents would lose access to care – more than one-fourth of all residents – as nursing homes slow admissions to comply with the mandate. Rep. Estes wrote about this rule and his CNA bill in a November 2023 op-ed in The Hill.

Under current law, Medicare prevents nursing homes from operating a Certified Nurse Aide (CNA) training program for two years if the facility is fined a certain amount. In making the decision to prohibit the training program, Medicare does not account for the seriousness of the underlying deficiency or activity the fine was related to. For example, a nursing home could be fined for a deficiency unrelated to direct resident care, like having expired crackers in a food pantry, yet would still be prohibited from operating a CNA training program for two years. While current law contains a waiver, it is seldom used and has proven inadequate. Rep. Estes' legislation addresses this issue.",1,2026-04-04T05:28:40Z,2026-04-06T21:01:44Z
https://schmidt.house.gov/media/press-releases/schmidt-announces-funds-2nd-district-communities,Schmidt Announces Funds for 2nd District Communities,2026-01-15,2026,2026-01,Republican,House,KS,Derek Schmidt,S001228,schmidt.house.gov,schmidt,https://schmidt.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – (January 15, 2026) – With today’s final passage of three more appropriation bills, Congressman Derek Schmidt (KS-2) has now secured more than $14 million for priorities in seven Kansas communities including drinking water, university research, healthcare, and public safety, his office announced.

The Senate today gave final approval to H.R. 6938, which the House previously passed and now will go to President Trump who is expected to sign it into law. With today’s passage, Congress has now completed six of the 12 annual government-funding bills – the most in many years – and the House has passed three more that remain pending in the Senate.

Overall, the enacted bills lower federal spending and reset funding priorities to more closely align with America First priorities set during the Trump administration rather than priorities set during the administration of President Biden. All of the appropriation bills to date have passed with bipartisan support.

“My goal in the congressional appropriations process is to reduce overall federal spending as much as possible because of the urgent need to slow the explosive growth of the federal government,” Schmidt said. “Once we have agreement on how much spending is possible to reduce and still pass the funding bills, then my focus becomes fighting hard to make sure priorities in our 2nd District communities are fully considered within those limits.”

So far in this Congress, Schmidt has secured funding for the following district priorities:

Secured in appropriations for Commerce, Justice, Science, and Related Agencies (H.R. 6938):

Crawford County: $5.1 million for research and commercialization at Pittsburg State University, including $1.5 million for the Center for Graphene, $1.5 million for the Center for Commercialization, and $2.1 million for the Kansas Cyber Security Institute.

Shawnee County: $750,000 for expanded mental health services for the Shawnee County Department of Corrections

Secured in appropriations for Interior, Environment, and Related Agencies (H.R. 6938):

Leavenworth County: $1.25 million for water distribution system improvements for Leavenworth Waterworks

Montgomery County: $4.0 million for water distribution system improvements for Caney. Schmidt secured this funding in close cooperation with Senator Jerry Moran (R-Kan.).

Secured in appropriations for Agriculture, Rural Development, Food and Drug Administration (H.R. 5371, passed and signed into law in November):

Labette County: $2.3 million for public safety modernization for Parsons

Marion County: $600,000 for fire station modernization for Hillsboro

Neosho County: $668,975 for medical imaging equipment and department modernization and related community health needs for the Neosho Memorial Regional Medical Center

Funding for other 2nd District community priorities is pending in the remaining appropriation bills that have not yet passed.",1,2026-05-13T06:12:22Z,2026-05-13T06:13:52Z
https://mann.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-mann-sen-moran-applaud-decision-move-food-peace-usda,"Rep. Mann, Sen. Moran Applaud Decision to Move Food for Peace to USDA",2026-01-13,2026,2026-01,Republican,House,KS,Tracey Mann,M000871,mann.house.gov,mann,https://mann.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Representative Tracey Mann (KS-01) and Senator Jerry Moran (R-KS) applauded the interagency agreement between the U.S. Department of State and the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) to temporarily allow USDA to administer the Food for Peace program. For nearly a year, Rep. Mann and Senator Moran have led Congressional efforts to move the Food for Peace Program to USDA.

“For 70 years, Kansas and American farmers have played an active role in sending their commodities to feed malnourished and starving populations around the world,” said Rep. Mann. “This free gift from the American people is more than food, it’s diplomacy that feeds the most vulnerable communities while helping them recognize the freedom, prosperity, and good America can establish across the globe. Allowing USDA to administer the Food for Peace program equips American producers to serve hungry people while providing more transparency and efficiency as to how taxpayer dollars are stewarded. I was proud to lead efforts in Congress to move the program and I applaud the Trump Administration for supporting these efforts. I will continue to fight for Food for Peace to be permanently placed under USDA so that America can continue to be the beacon of hope and freedom we are to the rest of the world.”

“Kansas has a long history of providing food to the hungry, and for the past 70 years, American farmers have helped combat international hunger through Food for Peace, feeding more than 4 billion people in more than 150 countries,” said Sen. Moran. “Last year, I joined my colleagues in introducing legislation to move Food for Peace to USDA, and the administration is temporarily enacting this policy which will bring the program closer to the farmers and producers who grow the crops that feed hungry people across the globe. This is a good step, and I will continue working to permanently transfer Food for Peace to USDA to bolster national security, maintain an important market for U.S. producers and advance efforts to combat world hunger.”

In February, Rep. Mann and Sen. Moran introduced legislation to move administration of Food for Peace to USDA. The bill was supported by the Kansas Association of Wheat Growers, Kansas Sorghum Producers Association, National Sorghum Producers and American Soybean Association. During a House Agriculture Committee hearing in June, Rep. Mann underscored the importance of the Food for Peace program and its long-term sustainability to U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke Rollins.

###",1,2026-05-22T06:27:39Z,2026-05-22T06:29:18Z
https://schmidt.house.gov/media/press-releases/house-passes-schmidt-backed-crime-victim-support-bill,House passes Schmidt-backed Crime Victim-Support Bill,2026-01-12,2026,2026-01,Republican,House,KS,Derek Schmidt,S001228,schmidt.house.gov,schmidt,https://schmidt.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – (January 12, 2026) – The House of Representatives today passed legislation Congressman Derek Schmidt (KS-02) helped lead to shore up support for victims of violent crime.

The Crime Victims Fund Stabilization Act (H.R. 909) redirects unobligated funds collected through the False Claims Act to the Crime Victims Fund (CVF) through fiscal year (FY) 2029, stabilizing the CVF that has experienced falling revenues. Schmidt joined five colleagues in both political parties introducing the bill in February of last year.

“When I served as Kansas attorney general, I oversaw critical support services for victims and their families,” Schmidt said. “Redirecting money from those who attempted to misuse funds to restore the Crime Victims Fund is a practical and responsible way to address the CVF’s current funding gap. I thank the diligent work of my House colleagues and hope for a similar outcome in the Senate to get this bill on the President’s desk.”

On Monday, Schmidt spoke in favor of H.R. 909 on the House floor. His remarks can be found here.

BACKGROUND

The CVF was created as a part of the Victims of Crime Act of 1984 to provide funding for victim assistance programs in all fifty states. This funding supports thousands of victim assistance programs, including child advocacy centers, domestic violence agencies, and rape crisis centers, serving an average of 3.7 million victims of crime per year.

The CVF is not funded by taxpayer dollars; rather, it is funded through fines, settlements, bonds, and monetary penalties associated with federal criminal prosecutions. While deposits into the CVF fluctuate annually depending on the cases prosecuted by the Department of Justice, the fund’s balance has seen a drastic drop of 83% since fiscal FY 2017. This shortfall is forcing programs that support victims of child abuse, domestic violence, and sexual assault to either triage their services or close their doors entirely.",1,2026-05-01T06:06:26Z,2026-05-01T06:08:22Z
https://estes.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=7302,Estes Joins Colleagues to Introduce Bipartisan Budget Deficit Reduction Measure,2026-01-09,2026,2026-01,Republican,House,KS,Ron Estes,E000298,estes.house.gov,estes,https://estes.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27,scraper,"WASHINGTON – This week, Congressman Ron Estes (R-Kansas) joined Bipartisan Fiscal Forum (BFF) Co-Chairs Bill Huizenga (R-Michigan) and Scott Peters (D-California), in addition to Reps. Lloyd Smucker (R-Pennsylvania), and Mike Quigley (D-Illinois), to introduce House Resolution 981 establishing a clear fiscal goal – reduce the federal budget deficit to 3% of gross domestic product (GDP) or lower. Known as the “3% Resolution,” this measure establishes growing bipartisan agreement that Congress must adopt a concrete, achievable target to begin restoring fiscal discipline and confronting the nation’s escalating debt crisis.

With the federal deficit hovering around 6% of GDP in Fiscal Year 2025 and the national debt at historic levels, the 3% Resolution boldly calls for a straightforward, no-nonsense framework for action to put the nation on a more sustainable fiscal path and protect future generations from severe economic consequences.

You may read the text here. In addition to Rep. Estes and the two cochairs, the 3% Resolution is also cosponsored by the entire BFF Steering Committee, including Reps. Ed Case (D-Hawaii), Steve Womack (R-Arkansas), Jimmy Panetta (D-California), Erin Houchin (R-Indiana), Marie Gluesenkamp Perez (D-Washington), Blake Moore (R-Utah), Chrissy Houlahan (D-Pennsylvania), Dusty Johnson (R-South Dakota), and Jared Golden (D-Maine), as well as House Budget Chairman and BFF Co-Chair Emeritus Jodey Arrington (R-Texas).

In addition to the entire BFF Steering Committee cosponsoring the legislation, the 3% Resolution has gained significant support right out of the gate.

“Reining in the deficit is essential for protecting taxpayers and preserving economic opportunity. This bipartisan resolution by Reps. Bill Huizenga and Scott Peters establishing a 3% deficit-to-GDP goal over five years provides a meaningful benchmark for getting our fiscal house in order. The best way to meet this target is for Congress to pursue thoughtful, long-term spending reforms and tax policies that encourage investment, work, and innovation. The resolution also gives the Congressional Budget Office an important role in assessing how major legislation would affect progress toward meeting these deficit-reduction goals, helping to keep lawmakers on track,” said Demian Brady, Vice President of Research, National Taxpayers Union Foundation.

“Only Congress can fix federal finances. That’s why it’s good to see an emerging new framework from Representatives Huizenga, Peters, Smucker, and Quigley: reduce the deficit to 3% of GDP through an effective congressional budget process with credible backstops. Building consensus on the goals can open the door to serious conversations about how to get there,” said Kurt Couchman, Senior Fellow in Fiscal Policy, Americans for Prosperity.

###",1,2026-04-02T05:33:17Z,2026-04-06T21:01:44Z
https://mann.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-mann-invests-american-energy-dominance-national-security,"Rep. Mann Invests in American Energy Dominance, National Security",2026-01-08,2026,2026-01,Republican,House,KS,Tracey Mann,M000871,mann.house.gov,mann,https://mann.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Representative Tracey Mann (KS-01) voted to advance H.R. 6938, the Commerce, Justice, Science; Energy and Water Development; and Interior and Environment Appropriations Act, 2026. The three-bill package appropriates funding for their respective agencies while enacting House Republicans' and President Trump's legislative priorities. Rep. Mann released the following statement after the vote:

“Kansans sent me to Washington to steward taxpayer dollars and ensure fiscal responsibility in Congress,” said Rep. Mann. “House Republicans, working with President Trump, have worked hard to ensure that we are cutting wasteful spending through the appropriations process while fighting for conservative wins. These bills strengthen our law enforcement agencies, promote our national security, protect our Second Amendment rights, support reliable, affordable energy production, and invest in the future of water infrastructure, all while spending less than we would under another continuing resolution.""

The Commerce, Justice, Science; Energy and Water Development; and Interior and Environment Appropriations Act, 2026:

Bolsters U.S. national security by investing in critical and emerging technologies

Restores American energy dominance through nuclear energy and critical mineral investments

Safeguards taxpayer dollars by eliminating bureaucratic red tape that abused government funding

Champions American nuclear deterrence programs through strategic infrastructure initiatives

H.R. 6938 will now go to the U.S. Senate for further consideration.

###",1,2026-05-21T06:28:16Z,2026-05-21T06:29:43Z
https://estes.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=7300,Congressman Estes Releases Statement on International Tax Side-by-Side Agreement,2026-01-05,2026,2026-01,Republican,House,KS,Ron Estes,E000298,estes.house.gov,estes,https://estes.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27,scraper,"WASHINGTON - Congressman Ron Estes (R-Kansas), a member of the House Ways and Means Committee, released the following statement following the international tax side-by-side agreement that was made:

“I cannot overstate the importance of this development for protecting U.S. tax sovereignty, American workers, and U.S. businesses competing globally. Under this side-by-side agreement, U.S. companies continue to be governed by U.S. tax law, while OECD Pillar Two rules are adjusted to ensure they do not unfairly apply to U.S.-parented companies. From the outset, the objective has been clear – to prevent double taxation and discriminatory treatment of U.S. firms.

I’m grateful to the U.S. Department of the Treasury and its negotiating team for engaging constructively with G7 and OECD partners and for advancing a framework that respects U.S. tax law while allowing for international engagement. I also thank Ways and Means Committee Chairman Jason Smith for setting clear congressional expectations and for his leadership in ensuring that any agreement protects U.S. competitiveness and Congress’ taxing authority. Additionally, thank you to Senate Finance Committee Chairman Mike Crapo for reinforcing congressional oversight, insisting on fairness for U.S. taxpayers, and coordinating with Treasury and international partners to achieve this outcome.

This agreement reflects clear and meaningful progress. As always, however, we must trust but verify. Congress can welcome this development while maintaining strong and vigilant oversight. Verification is essential to ensure that other countries fully implement their commitments through real-world compliance, not just written assurances.

I remain committed to robust congressional oversight of the agreement’s implementation, including close monitoring to ensure that U.S. companies are protected from the Undertaxed Profits Rule (UTPR) and similar mechanisms.

This side-by-side agreement represents a step in the right direction for U.S. tax policy. I will continue working to ensure it delivers on its promises and keeps American workers and businesses first.”

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T21:01:44Z
https://estes.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=7301,Federal Aviation Administration Announces Multiple Grants Awarded to Kansas’ Fourth District Airports,2026-01-05,2026,2026-01,Republican,House,KS,Ron Estes,E000298,estes.house.gov,estes,https://estes.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27,scraper,"WASHINGTON – Congressman Ron Estes (R-Kansas) is pleased to share that the Federal Aviation Administration has awarded over two million dollars in federal grants from the FAA Airport Improvement Program (AIP) Grants to airports across Kansas’ 4th Congressional District. The AIP funds airport infrastructure projects, such as runway construction, taxiway rehabilitation, airport signage, airport lighting, and airport markings. These grants strengthen our nation’s aviation infrastructure and enhance safety and capacity.

“Kansas’ 4th Congressional District is home to the Air Capital of the World,” Congressman Estes said. “I’m thrilled to see these grants being awarded to airports across south central Kansas so our airports can undertake critical infrastructure rehabilitation, construction and safety projects.”

The grants awarded include:

Location: El Dorado, Kan. (El Dorado / Captain Jack Thomas Memorial Airport)

Project description: Rehabilitates 4,000 feet of existing concrete runway to maintain its structural integrity and minimize foreign object debris to extend its useful life.

Amount awarded: $320,633

Location: Wichita, Kan. (Colonel James Jabara Airport)

Project description: Reconstructs 550 feet of existing paved taxiway pavement that has reached the end of its useful life.

Amount awarded: $636,503

Location: Medicine Lodge, Kan. (Medicine Lodge Airport)

Project description: Reconstructs existing airport drainage that has reached the end of its useful life.

Amount awarded: $192,950

Location: Anthony, Kan. (Anthony Municipal Airport)

Project description: Constructs a new 640-foot taxi lane to provide airfield access to a non-exclusive hangar development area to bring the airport into conformity with current standards.

Amount awarded: $292,055

Location: Newton, Kan. (Newton City/County Airport)

Project description: Reconstructs 3,501 feet of existing paved runway that has reached the end of its useful life.

Amount awarded: $282,000

Location: Pratt, Kan. (Pratt Regional Airport)

Project description: Reseals 5,500 feet of existing runway pavement and joints to extend its useful life.

Amount awarded: $375,250

Location: Kingman, Kan. (Kingman/Clyde Cessna Field)

Project description: Extends existing taxiway by an additional 1,700 feet in length to bring the airport into conformity with current standards.

Amount awarded: $536,750

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T21:01:44Z
https://estes.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=7299,Congressman Estes Releases Statement on Funding to Kansas Strengthening Rural Health Care,2025-12-30,2025,2025-12,Republican,House,KS,Ron Estes,E000298,estes.house.gov,estes,https://estes.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27,scraper,"WASHINGTON - Congressman Ron Estes (R-Kansas) released the following statement following the Trump administration’s announcement that gives nearly $222 million to Kansas as part of the Rural Health Transformation Program:

“As a member of the House Ways and Means Committee I was proud to be involved in the conversations that led to including these investments into the One Big Beautiful Bill, and I’m thrilled to see this funding being given to rural health care nationwide, and particularly the $222 million being given to Kansas,” Congressman Estes said. “Rural health care is one of the largest challenges that Kansas faces, and this investment will make a significant difference across the board. Your zip code should never determine your access to reliable and quality health care. I’m pleased to see this historic initiative and look forward to seeing the differences that these funds make in Kansas.”

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://estes.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=7291,Congressman Estes Releases Statement on House Passage of Lower Health Care Premiums for All Americans Act,2025-12-29,2025,2025-12,Republican,House,KS,Ron Estes,E000298,estes.house.gov,estes,https://estes.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27,scraper,"WASHINGTON – Congressman Ron Estes (R-Kansas), a member of the House Ways and Means Committee and the House Budget Committee, released the following statement after House Republicans passed the Lower Health Care Premiums for All Americans Act – a package of reforms that would lower premium costs for all Americans, expand access to affordable coverage, and increase transparency to drive down prices across the health care system.

“I voted for this legislation knowing that House Republicans are choosing the right and most sensical way – decreasing health care premiums by 11%. Republicans are addressing the health care crisis in America that Democrats themselves created through Obamacare,” Congressman Estes said. “The law Democrats passed that they insisted would make health care affordable couldn’t be more untrue. The Unaffordable Care Act led to doubled premiums and deductibles, and choices decreased for Americans nationwide. Republicans are committed to solving this crisis, and I’m honored to vote for this legislation alongside my colleagues.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://schmidt.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-derek-schmidt-welcomes-kansas-city-chiefs-kansas,Rep. Derek Schmidt Welcomes the Kansas City Chiefs to Kansas,2025-12-22,2025,2025-12,Republican,House,KS,Derek Schmidt,S001228,schmidt.house.gov,schmidt,https://schmidt.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – (December 22, 2025) – Congressman Derek Schmidt (KS-02) released the following statement regarding the Kansas City Chiefs announcement today to move to Kansas:

""Keeping the Chiefs in Kansas City is a victory for our region that will reward generations to come. Welcome to Kansas! Go Chiefs!""",1,2026-04-25T05:38:36Z,2026-04-25T05:40:21Z
https://mann.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-mann-introduces-bill-leverage-predictive-analytics-modernize-roadway,Rep. Mann Introduces Bill to Leverage Predictive Analytics to Modernize Roadway Safety,2025-12-19,2025,2025-12,Republican,House,KS,Tracey Mann,M000871,mann.house.gov,mann,https://mann.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Representatives Tracey Mann (KS-01) and Sharice Davids (KS-03) introduced the Roadway Safety Modernization Act, legislation to improve roadway safety and strengthen America’s supply chain by expanding eligibility for the Highway Safety Improvement Program, National Highway Freight Program, and the National Priority Safety Program. The bill aims to use predictive analytics, data-driven interventions and the adoption of innovative safety technologies to proactively identify and address transportation safety issues.

“For too long, our transportation network has relied on systems to evaluate road safety after tragic accidents happen,” said Rep. Mann. “The Roadway Safety Modernization Act allows states and local communities to take a proactive, not reactive, posture by leveraging modern, data-driven tools to spot risks early on and make our roads safer. This is a practical, commonsense way to improve roadway safety, protect families, and strengthen the reliability of our transportation network without an additional dollar of federal spending.”

“Too many families know the heartbreak that comes after a crash, and too often our transportation system only reacts once tragedy has already happened,"" said Rep. Davids. ""This bipartisan bill helps states use better data and modern technology to identify dangerous roadways before lives are lost. I’m grateful to work alongside Representative Mann on this commonsense effort to protect families and make sure people and goods can move safely and reliably across our country.”

The Roadway Safety Modernization Act would improve roadway safety by:

Modernizing America’s Federal-Aid Highway Safety Programs by incorporating new tools and systems, including predictive analysis platforms, telematics, and other proven methodologies to address safety risks proactively.

Promoting Better Accountability, Transparency and Measurable Performance by directing the Secretary of Transportation to ensure that states maximize the efficacy of new safety investments and interventions.

Protecting Consumer Data Privacy by ensuring tools and platforms rely on validated methods that protect personally identifiable information while leveraging insightful, anonymized data.

The Roadway Safety Modernization Act is supported by the Modern Analytics for Roadway Safety Coalition, the Safe Routes Partnership, the National Safety Council, the Kiefer Foundation, the Governors Highway Safety Association, the Association of Transportation Safety Information Professionals, StopDistractions.org, and BikeWalkKC.

“The Roadway Safety Modernization Act represents the paradigm shift we’ve been waiting for—turning our reactive transportation system into a proactive one,” said Andrew Rogers, Executive Director of the Modern Analytics for Roadway Safety (MARS) Coalition. “By using data analytics and AI to see risk before it becomes loss, this legislation gives communities the tools to make their roads smarter and safer for everyone.”

“Safe Routes Partnership applauds Senators Boozman and Padilla and Representatives Mann and Davids for introducing the bipartisan Roadway Safety Modernization Act,” said Marisa Jones, Managing Director of the Safe Routes Partnership. “Safe Routes to School is an evidence-based strategy proven to reduce roadway injuries and fatalities, and this legislation brings that same data-driven approach into the next generation. By enabling communities to use AI-powered predictive risk technology to identify and prevent crashes before they occur, Congress can help ensure every child can walk, bike, and roll to school safely. We’re proud to support forward-thinking solutions that will make school zones and neighborhoods safer nationwide.”

""The National Safety Council commends the efforts of Senators Boozman and Padilla and Reps. Mann and Davids to address the daily tragedy of death and serious injury on our roadways,"" said Lorraine Martin, CEO of the National Safety Council. ""By harnessing the power of technology, including lifesaving telematics, the Roadway Safety Modernization Act will enable states to prevent devastating traffic crashes through data-driven driver intervention programs and improved infrastructure design.""

“The Kiefer Foundation applauds Senators Boozman and Padilla and Reps. Mann and Davids for their leadership in prioritizing roadway safety,” said Melissa Hamrick, Executive Director of The Kiefer Foundation. “By enabling policymakers and transportation decision-makers to take a proactive, data-driven approach to road design by leveraging technologies such as telematics, analytics, and artificial intelligence, the Roadway Safety Modernization Act is a major step towards ending distracted driving and other associated traffic deaths that impact thousands of families nationwide. The passage of this bill is essential to making America’s roads safer.”

“The Governors Highway Safety Association strongly supports the Roadway Safety Modernization Act, which will help states harness the power of advanced data analytics to save lives,"" said Jonathan Adkins, Chief Executive Officer, GHSA. ""By modernizing how we collect, share, and analyze crash and roadway data, this legislation would empower state highway safety offices to better identify risk factors, target resources, and implement evidence-based strategies that prevent crashes and reduce serious injuries on our nation’s roads.”

“The Association of Transportation Safety Information Professionals (ATSIP) recognizes the need for the introduction of the bipartisan Roadway Safety Modernization Act – a major step forward in adopting a proactive, data-driven approach to roadway planning,” said Tara Casanova Powell, Chief Executive Officer of ATSIP. “By equipping transportation decision-makers with predictive technologies, insightful tools, and anonymized data, states can utilize these novel data systems in conjunction with traditional traffic records data to pave the way for safer, smarter roads.”

“StopDistractions.org is proud to support the Roadway Safety Modernization Act of 2025 as a critical step toward a smarter, safer future on our roads,"" said Jennifer Smith, CEO, StopDistractions.org. ""As a coalition led by families who’ve suffered unimaginable loss due to distracted driving, we know firsthand the urgent need to move from reactive to proactive safety strategies. This bill recognizes that innovation and compassion can coexist by empowering agencies to use real-time data, predictive analytics, and AI technologies to identify and address risk before tragedies occur. We urge Congress to advance this bold, bipartisan legislation without delay.”

“By equipping transportation decision-makers with modern tools, the Roadway Safety Modernization Act will enable Greater Kansas City and communities nationwide to proactively design safer streets, sidewalks, and bike paths–preventing crashes before they happen,” said Eric Rogers, Executive Director, BikeWalkKC. “This forward-thinking initiative will make travel safer for everyone, regardless of their mode of transportation. BikeWalkKC applauds the leadership of Senators Boozman and Padilla and Representatives Mann and Davids for introducing this smart bipartisan legislation.”

###",1,2026-05-14T06:11:37Z,2026-05-14T06:12:56Z
https://schmidt.house.gov/media/press-releases/congress-passes-schmidt-backed-public-safety-bills,Congress Passes Schmidt-backed Public Safety Bills,2025-12-18,2025,2025-12,Republican,House,KS,Derek Schmidt,S001228,schmidt.house.gov,schmidt,https://schmidt.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – (December 18, 2025) – Congressman Derek Schmidt (KS-02) today announced three public-safety bills he cosponsored have passed Congress and are expected to become law.

“Public safety is a core function of government,” Schmidt said. “I’ve joined in cosponsoring these three public safety bills to better protect children and to support law enforcement officers and firefighters, and I appreciate Congress approving all three and sending them to President Trump to be signed into law.”

The three Schmidt-backed public safety bills approved this week are:

Protect Our Children Reauthorization Act of 2025 (H.R. 1274) reauthorizes and strengthens the Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) Task Force Program. This legislation authorizes increased funding for ICACs and updates the national strategy to prevent child exploitation and strengthen ICAC task forces.

Chief Herbert D. Proffitt Act of 2025 (H.R. 1236) expands the Public Safety Officers’ Benefits program to include retired officers who are killed or permanently disabled in targeted attacks due to their prior service.

Honoring Our Fallen Heroes Act (H.R. 1269) ensures the death or permanent disability of a public safety officer due to an exposure-related cancer is presumed a personal injury sustained in the line of duty under the Public Service Officer Benefits program if certain conditions are met.",1,2026-04-21T05:46:59Z,2026-04-21T05:48:34Z
https://schmidt.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-derek-schmidt-passage-annual-defense-bill-secures-key-peace-through,Rep. Derek Schmidt: Passage of Annual Defense Bill Secures Key ‘Peace through Strength’ Initiatives for Kansas,2025-12-17,2025,2025-12,Republican,House,KS,Derek Schmidt,S001228,schmidt.house.gov,schmidt,https://schmidt.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – (December 17, 2025) – Several priorities important to Kansas are included in the final National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for Fiscal Year 2026 (S. 1071) that today received final approval from Congress and is headed to the President for his signature, Congressman Derek Schmidt (KS-02) said.

“Congress must ensure America’s Armed Forces are well-equipped with the tools necessary to keep our country safe,” Schmidt said. “I was pleased to join my House and Senate colleagues in supporting this year’s NDAA to maintain the Trump Administration’s peace through strength agenda and support our servicemembers.”

The final version of the bill, which passed the House last week on a 312-112 bipartisan vote and a 77-20 bipartisan vote today in the Senate, includes H.R. 5977, a bill Schmidt introduced to streamline the process for small businesses to become suppliers for the Pentagon. That measure became part of a broader effort to cut red tape so smaller, innovative companies can help supply America’s defense needs.

The bill also includes H.R. 6595, a bill led by Schmidt and Senator Jerry Moran (R-Kan.) to improve veterans’ access to healthcare and protect against downsizing of Department of Defense medical facilities, including Irwin Army Community Hospital at Fort Riley. Schmidt also helped lead H.R. 6745, a bipartisan bill in the NDAA to improve retention of quality Army and Air Force National Guard officers by eliminating a penalty for breaks in service.

Other provisions important for Kansas that Schmidt supported in the final NDAA include:

Authorizing a 3.8% pay raise for military personnel;

Authorizing more than $490 million to design and build new childcare centers;

Improving assistance to service members and families receiving orders to relocate;

Preventing cancellation of the Air Force’s E-7 Wedgetail aircraft acquisition, protecting Kansas jobs;

Increasing the number of air refueling tankers over time to remain capable and ready;

Limiting the Pentagon’s ability to further reduce U.S. force posture in Europe;

Establishing more test corridors for hypersonic and long-range weapons; and

Establishing an Advanced Nuclear Transition Working Group to coordinate the deployment of advanced nuclear technologies on military installations.

“I sought a seat on the House Armed Services Committee to strengthen our ability to advocate for America’s military strength, the needs of our Kansas military communities, and the thousands of Kansans in our Second Congressional District who serve in the Armed Forces or support those who do,” Schmidt said. “In that role, I’m working toward those priorities and am encouraged by the progress we made this year.”

During House Armed Services Committee consideration of the NDAA earlier this year, Schmidt also secured a directive that the National Simulation Center at Ft. Leavenworth remain in operation.

The Second District of Kansas is home to numerous military interests including the U.S. Army’s 1st Infantry Division at Fort Riley, the U.S. Army’s Combined Arms Center and 35th Infantry Division at Fort Leavenworth, the 190th Air Refueling Wing of the Kansas National Guard at Forbes Field in Topeka, and both the Kansas Army National Guard and Kansas Air National Guard Headquarters with authority over nearly 7,000 Kansas soldiers and airmen. It also is home to many private-sector businesses that manufacture products used by the military and employ thousands of Kansans.",1,2026-04-15T05:46:42Z,2026-04-15T05:48:27Z
https://estes.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=7289,Congressman Estes Announces Staff Changes,2025-12-15,2025,2025-12,Republican,House,KS,Ron Estes,E000298,estes.house.gov,estes,https://estes.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27,scraper,"U.S. Representative Ron Estes (R-Kansas) has hired Natalie Turner as Communications Director to replace Roman Rodriguez, who is now District Director and Senior Communications Advisor. Rodriguez took over the position on May 1. He has been in a communications role with Rep. Estes since October 2017, working out of his Wichita district office.

Turner is a Kansas native who recently served as a Public Affairs Specialist with the Kansas Bureau of Investigation, and before that as Deputy Press Secretary for U.S. Senator Roger Marshall (R-Kansas). In this new capacity as Communications Director, she will be based out of Rep. Estes’ D.C. office.

“I’m excited about these staff changes on our team and look forward to Team Estes’ collaboration to continue working to deliver results for Kansans across the entire 4th District,” Congressman Estes said.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://estes.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=7290,Congressman Estes Reintroduces CBO Reform Bill,2025-12-15,2025,2025-12,Republican,House,KS,Ron Estes,E000298,estes.house.gov,estes,https://estes.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27,scraper,"Last week, U.S. Rep. Ron Estes (R-Kansas) reintroduced the Executive Action Cost Transparency Act. This bill would mandate that the Congressional Budget Office (CBO) provide a comprehensive and centralized list of final administrative actions in order to increase transparency and streamline information flow, providing lawmakers with needed information on spending. This would include proposed rules, final rules, executive orders, memoranda, and judicial actions since the last baseline and would further require CBO to provide updated estimates for scores that meet a threshold of $50 billion over 10 years.

This common sense reform would ensure that the CBO, the designated scorekeepers of legislation, provide lawmakers with accurate and timely information on the spending of the executive branch, regardless of who is in the White House.

“This common sense legislation takes steps to change course on the debt crisis that no American taxpayer wants to see from the federal government. Providing transparency on these costs is what the American people deserve,” Rep. Estes said. “Improving the information that CBO provides to Congress and the public is one crucial step that will help ensure we know the true cost of D.C. spending.”

Congress has a duty to ensure the CBO is fulfilling its mission of providing lawmakers with accurate and timely information and analysis on legislation and the economy.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://estes.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=7282,Congressman Estes Publishes Op-Ed on Rural Healthcare,2025-12-11,2025,2025-12,Republican,House,KS,Ron Estes,E000298,estes.house.gov,estes,https://estes.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27,scraper,"Yesterday, Congressman Ron Estes (R-Kansas) published an op-ed in The Washington Times discussing air ambulances and the lifesaving impacts it makes on rural health care.

You may scroll below to see excerpts from the op-ed. You may click HERE or on the image above to read the full op-ed.

“Living in rural America comes with great benefits – a simpler way of life in picturesque countrysides where neighbors can be miles away physically but deeply close personally.

“It also means more miles between conveniences.”

“Growing up on my family farm in rural Kansas where my mom still lives today, we were just a few miles outside our town of 2,500, but we were 40 miles from the big city of Topeka, which back then had a population just shy of 80,000.”

“Air ambulances have been providing lifesaving services for decades. I’ve visited with the pilots and EMTs; they are dedicated professionals who fly into sometimes dangerous situations to give emergency treatment and transport our friends and neighbors to doctors and nurses tens or hundreds of miles away.”

“And it’s not just for folks living in rural parts of the country, but those traveling through those regions as well. One pilot shared with me a story involving a bad accident in rural Kansas. It was dark, and the air ambulance had to land near power lines. The pilot and flight medics took a risk to save the life of someone badly injured driving through our state, and those selfless men and women are ready to do it again today.”

“Ensuring that this critical service is available to all Americans is why I reintroduced bipartisan, bicameral legislation the Protecting Air Ambulance Services for Americans Act.”

“While the medical tools and aircraft have all advanced over the years, the Medicare reimbursement rate has not changed since the fee schedule was established in 2002, leaving some air ambulances running in the red. And with nearly 40% of all air medical transports being Medicare patients, it’s easy to see why the reimbursement must reflect today’s realities. Sadly, this and other factors have forced closures across the country.”

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://mann.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-mann-celebrates-four-big-first-high-school-championships-football,Rep. Mann Celebrates Four Big First High School Championships in Football,2025-12-11,2025,2025-12,Republican,House,KS,Tracey Mann,M000871,mann.house.gov,mann,https://mann.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Representative Tracey Mann (KS-01) spoke on the floor of the U.S. House of Representatives to celebrate four high schools in the Big First who won state championships in football for the 2025 season. Hanover High School, Manhattan High School, Salina Central High School, and Sterling High School brought home state championships in the 8-man division II, 6A, 5A, and 1A divisions.

Rep. Mann’s Remarks as Prepared:

Mr. Speaker, today I rise to recognize four remarkable high school football programs from the Big First District that brought home state championships this season. In Kansas, high school football is more than a sport. It teaches discipline, teamwork, perseverance, and the importance of community. More importantly, it connects us all through a common good while making memories that will last a lifetime.

As a kid from Western Kansas, I grew up listening to K-State football on the radio. Like so many young people across our state, those Saturday broadcasts shaped my love of the game. I later had the privilege of playing on a state championship team myself at Quinter High School, and I remember the feeling of being a part of something bigger than myself. That is what these young men experienced this season.

This year, four schools from the Big First reached the top of their divisions. In 6A, Manhattan High School claimed the title with a decisive 27 to 0 win over Olathe Northwest. Their players, coaches, and staff worked hard all season to earn an achievement that will be remembered in the Manhattan community forever.

In 5A, my hometown of Salina is celebrating a very special moment. The Salina Central Mustangs brought home the state championship with a 51 to 34 victory over Basehor-Linwood. For the students, families, and alumni who have longed for another state championship for the last 20 years, congratulations on bringing your title home. You all deserve it, and we are all so proud!

In the 1A division, Sterling football defeated Rossville 35 to 34 in one of the closest and most competitive games of the season. Games like this reflect the best of high school athletics: determination, sportsmanship, and communities rallying behind their teams.

And in 8-man Division II, Hanover earned a 28 to 20 win over Victoria to secure another championship for their school. Eight-man football has deep roots in rural Kansas, and Hanover’s success highlights the strength of programs that represent some of our smallest but proudest communities.

Mr. Speaker, four state championships in one year from schools in the Big First District is quite an accomplishment. I would be remiss if I didn’t acknowledge the strong communities, dedicated coaches, supportive families, and student-athletes who put in the work day after day to bring these championships home.

I ask my colleagues to join me in congratulating these young men, their schools, and their hometowns. They have represented Kansas with pride, and they have bright futures ahead.",1,2026-04-21T05:46:59Z,2026-04-21T05:48:34Z
https://mann.house.gov/media/press-releases/reps-mann-flood-davids-and-carter-introduce-bipartisan-bill-boost-sustainable,"Reps. Mann, Flood, Davids, and Carter Introduce Bipartisan Bill to Boost Sustainable Aviation, Support Farmers, Grow American Jobs",2025-12-11,2025,2025-12,Republican,House,KS,Tracey Mann,M000871,mann.house.gov,mann,https://mann.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Representatives Tracey Mann (KS-01), Mike Flood (NE-01), Sharice Davids (KS-03), and Troy Carter (LA-02) introduced the Securing America’s Fuels (SAF) Act, bipartisan legislation that strengthens the sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) industry, creates economic opportunities for farmers, and reduces emissions in the transportation sector.

“Sustainable aviation fuel is a worthwhile investment for American agriculture and for American energy dominance,” said Rep. Mann. “The Securing America’s Fuels Act gives Kansas farmers the certainty they need to plan, invest, and keep supplying fuel to the country and our aviation sector. I will always support legislation that supports rural communities and helps the United States continue to lead the world in producing the fuels of tomorrow.”

“America is on the cusp of the next great biofuels revolution,” said Rep Flood. “The Securing America’s Fuels Act is yet another way Congress can grow our bio economy and encourage innovation that creates great jobs across rural America. Sustainable aviation fuel will help lower emissions while expanding domestic markets for our nation’s farmers, ensuring that our ag economy thrives for generations to come. I want to thank Congresswoman Davids for introducing this much-needed bill and look forward to working together to advance this commonsense, bipartisan bill through Congress.”

“Investing in sustainable aviation fuel isn’t just good for the environment — it’s good for Kansas farmers, our communities, and our economy,” said Rep.Davids. “The SAF Act ensures that clean fuel production incentives are strong and long-term so businesses, farmers, and innovators can plan for the future with confidence. The bipartisan support shows the incredible potential we have to build a healthier, stronger, and more prosperous future for generations to come.”

""Without coordinated action between government and industry, greenhouse gas emissions will continue to increase as more people and goods fly through our skies,” said Rep Carter. “Sustainable aviation fuel is an exciting, new green fuel that’s creating jobs in Louisiana and driving demand for American agricultural products. I’m proud to introduce this bipartisan legislation to ensure America is on track to meet the growing demand for cleaner transportation and healthier communities.”

The sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) industry currently relies on the 45Z Clean Fuel Production Tax Credit to make production economically viable. While recent legislation extended the credit for all clean fuels, it eliminated the SAF-specific bonus. To address this challenge, the SAF Act would:

Reinstate the SAF bonus credit eliminated under the recent federal budget, allowing qualifying SAF producers to receive up to $0.35 or $1.75 per gallon.

Extend the 45Z Clean Fuel Production Tax Credit for all clean fuels through 2033, providing long-term stability for the growing clean fuels industry.

SAF is a game-changer for local communities, agriculture, and the transportation industry. Scaling SAF to meet U.S. goals could generate 33,000 construction jobs over five years, sustain 4,500 permanent operations jobs, and support 60,000 jobs in agriculture and logistics by 2030. SAF can also reduce lifecycle greenhouse gas emissions by up to 80 percent, delivering major environmental benefits while using existing aviation infrastructure.

The bipartisan legislation is endorsed by major industry and agricultural groups, including National Corn Growers Association, SAF Coalition, Airlines for America, Kansas Farm Bureau, Renew Kansas, Kansas Corn, Kansas Soybean Association, Greater New Orleans Inc., Nebraska Corn Growers Association, Nebraska Soybean Association, Nebraska Farm Bureau, Twelve, Darling Ingredients, Louisiana Farm Bureau Foundation, Advanced Biofuels Association, Global Business Travel Association, and American Sugarcane League.

“Delta applauds Reps. Flood, Davids, Mann, and Carter for their leadership in introducing the Securing America's Fuels Act, which will ensure 45Z reaches its full potential and provides the critical investment certainty necessary to bring additional SAF production facilities online to meet our industry's unprecedented demand for cost-competitive, homegrown fuels,"" said Cherie Wilson, Vice President, Government Affairs - Sustainability, Delta Air Lines.

“U.S. airlines are grateful to Representatives Flood, Davids, Carter, and Mann for introducing legislation that would restore and extend the full 45Z tax credit,” said Airlines for America. “This will stimulate private sector investment in SAF while also bolstering American energy dominance. This credit is a win-win for both the aviation and agriculture industries, supporting U.S. job growth across the country.”

“The Clean Fuel Production Credit is an extremely valuable economic support policy for the rural economy, and we are pleased to see Kansas taking the lead in extending and expanding it,” said Kaleb Little, Kansas Soybean Association CEO. “We thank Representative Davids and Representative Mann for co-sponsoring this bi-partisan legislation. Biomass-based diesel production supports approximately 10 percent of the value of every bushel of soybeans grown in the United States, or an additional $149 million for Kansas farmers in 2024. Farmers and fuel producers have made tremendous investments to build a biodiesel, renewable diesel and sustainable aviation fuel industry that can help meet America’s energy needs.”

###

For more information on Rep. Mann visit www.mann.house.gov",1,2026-05-01T06:06:26Z,2026-05-01T06:08:22Z
https://mann.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-mann-promotes-us-peace-through-strength,Rep. Mann Promotes U.S. Peace Through Strength,2025-12-10,2025,2025-12,Republican,House,KS,Tracey Mann,M000871,mann.house.gov,mann,https://mann.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Representative Tracey Mann (KS-01) voted to advance S. 1071, the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2026(NDAA). The annual bill provides critical resources for national defense, military readiness, and support for the nation’s service members. Rep. Mann released the following statement after the vote.

“Every day, our U.S. service members put their lives on the line to protect our freedoms,” said Rep. Mann. “I was proud to support our men and women in uniform at Fort Riley and around the globe by voting to give them a 4% pay raise, rebuild our defense industrial base, and restore merit-based standards in our military. More importantly, the NDAA better positions us to promote U.S. peace through strength while codifying several of President Trump’s executive orders that have put our military first again. I am forever grateful for the sacrifice our military and their families make every day, and this NDAA makes them a priority while restoring military lethality and morale for troops.”

The National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2026:

Provides enlisted service members with a 4% pay raise.

Expands U.S. counter-drone defenses and new technologies.

Advances the Golden Dome and enhances America’s nuclear deterrence and new nuclear power technologies.

Fully supports the deployment of National Guard and active-duty troops at the southwest border to intercept illegal immigrants and drugs.

Enhances U.S. defense initiatives in the Indo-Pacific to bolster Taiwan’s defense and support Indo-Pacific allies.

Revitalizes American shipbuilding and expands the Maritime Industrial Base.

Accelerates the development and delivery of space capabilities to counter Chinese and Russian nuclear arsenals and space surveillance.

Restores merit-based promotions and admissions to service academies.

Counters antisemitism and eliminates programs that discourage military readiness, like CRT and climate initiatives.

###",1,2026-04-15T05:46:42Z,2026-04-15T05:48:27Z
https://schmidt.house.gov/media/press-releases/sen-moran-rep-schmidt-secure-kansas-priority-annual-defense-authorization,"Sen. Moran, Rep. Schmidt Secure Kansas Priority in Annual Defense Authorization Legislation",2025-12-09,2025,2025-12,Republican,House,KS,Derek Schmidt,S001228,schmidt.house.gov,schmidt,https://schmidt.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – (December 9, 2025) – U.S. Senator Jerry Moran (R-Kan.) – chairman of the Senate Committee on Veterans’ Affairs – and U.S. Representative Derek Schmidt (R-KS-02) – a member of the House Committee on Armed Services – applauded the inclusion of their amendment, which would strengthen access to medical care for veterans, in the conferenced text of the FY2026 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA).

This provision will support Defense Health Agency (DHA) military medical treatment facilities (MTF), such as Irwin Army Community Hospital at Fort Riley, by requiring that DHA and the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) create action plans to support greater utilization of military hospitals by veterans and servicemembers. These action plans will expand veteran access to MTF services while also enhancing resource sharing between DHA and VA. Sen. Moran helped secure passage of the amendment in the Senate in October. Based on a provision Rep. Schmidt secured during House Armed Services Committee consideration in July, the FY2026 NDAA also imposes additional requirements before an MTF is downgraded in the scope of services it provides.

“America’s veterans have sacrificed much to serve our nation and protect our freedom,” said Sen. Moran. “I’m pleased that the final text of the annual National Defense Authorization Act includes our provision to expand medical access for veterans and support the longevity of Irwin Army Community Hospital and other military treatment facilities across the country. I urge my colleagues to support the swift passage of this legislation to make certain that our troops have the resources needed to fulfill their mission during military service that our veterans have the access to care and the tools to succeed after service.”

“The men and women who serve America in our armed forces deserve top-notch access to healthcare both while serving and when they later enter the veterans healthcare system,” said Rep. Schmidt. “It has been a pleasure working with Senator Moran to expand options for veterans healthcare while also strengthening Irwin Army Community Hospital and other important healthcare facilities on military bases throughout our country.”

The Senate and the U.S. House of Representatives passed separate legislation, but the final FY2026 NDAA was negotiated by leadership of the Senate and House Armed Services committees. It now heads to the full House and Senate for approval.",1,2026-04-04T05:28:40Z,2026-04-04T05:30:10Z
https://mann.house.gov/media/press-releases/icymi-rep-mann-applauds-president-trumps-aid-american-farmers,ICYMI: Rep. Mann Applauds President Trump's Aid to American Farmers,2025-12-08,2025,2025-12,Republican,House,KS,Tracey Mann,M000871,mann.house.gov,mann,https://mann.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"SALINA, KS – Today, U.S. Representative Tracey Mann joined Meet the Press Now to applaud the Trump Administration's announcement that they will provide $12 billion in bridge aid to American agricultural producers.

Rep. Mann released the following statement after the announcement:

""American agriculture has no stronger champion than President Trump,"" said Rep. Mann. ""After four years of President Biden being asleep at the wheel with no trade deals, no positive news for farmers, and a Department of Agriculture hyper focused on Green New Deal policies, our farm economy struggled with record-high input costs and warped global markets. President Trump is bridging the gap from four years of chaos into a new golden age for American agriculture. Thank you, President Trump, for standing with our nation's farmers and for giving them much-needed relief as they plan for the year ahead.""

CLICK HERE to watch Rep. Mann's full interview

In case you missed it...

[On President Biden being asleep at the wheel]: Without question the Biden Administration was asleep at the wheel for four years when it comes to ag trade. When President Trump ended his first term there was an ag trade surplus of $6 billion. When Biden ended his term there was a deficit of $40 billion. So we went years without new trade deals, no positive news for farmers as far as trade goes. President Trump has come in and he is righting the ship and that takes a while. When you run a ship into an iceberg you have to stop the ship, bail the water, repair the ship, and pick a different direction. That's exactly what we're seeing happening. These deals are getting done.

[On getting fair trade deals]: Our farmers want trade, not aid. We have to get better, fair, trade deals. The two crops that have been impacted the most by trade talks this year are soybeans and sorghum. We are seeing China make announcements that they are buying soybeans and sorghum. The President said today, he's been very adamant about requiring China to live up to their deals. Beyond that, we have got to continue to open new markets and that is where Biden failed for years in doing no new trade deals, opening up no new relationships. When there is a level, fair playing field, our American farmers can compete around the world. We have to get these trade deals done. Unfortunately, the Trump administration was handed the baton way behind and now they're working to try to catch up.

###",1,2026-04-04T05:28:40Z,2026-04-04T05:30:10Z
https://schmidt.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-derek-schmidt-introduces-bill-coordinate-federal-response-scams,Rep. Derek Schmidt Introduces Bill to Coordinate Federal Response to Scams,2025-12-05,2025,2025-12,Republican,House,KS,Derek Schmidt,S001228,schmidt.house.gov,schmidt,https://schmidt.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – (December 5, 2025) – Congressman Derek Schmidt (KS-2) this week joined in leading a bipartisan group of Senators and Representatives to introduce legislation requiring the federal government to better coordinate its work to fight scams and protect consumers, particularly seniors.

The National Strategy for Combating Scams Act would require coordination among the numerous federal agencies that have jurisdiction over different aspects of fraud and scams. The bill also would require federal agencies to improve anti-scam coordination with state and local authorities.

Each year, Americans lose billions of dollars to scams and fraud. While all Americans can be targets, scammers often disproportionately target seniors and may be particularly aggressive during the holiday season.

""As a former Kansas attorney general, nothing makes my blood boil more than crooks and scam artists who ripoff billions of dollars each year from Americans, particularly preying on our seniors,” Schmidt said. “Too often, the alphabet soup bureaucracy of federal agencies assigned to protect Americans from scammers get stuck in their individual silos of responsibility and jurisdiction. Our bill is aimed at coordinating the federal response to scams and improving the cooperation among the authorities who are supposed to stop them and protect Kansans.”

The National Strategy for Combating Scams Act (H.R. 6425) would establish a federal working group led by the Federal Bureau of Investigation to coordinate the efforts of more than a dozen federal agencies in combating scams. The working group would also be tasked with increasing coordination with Federal, State, local and Tribal governments. Schmidt is the Republican co-lead on the bill, introduced yesterday together with Congressman Gabe Amo (D-RI-1). Companion legislation was introduced in the U.S. Senate by Senators Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY), Rick Scott (R-FL), Mark Kelly (D-AZ), and Ashley Moody (R-FL).

“Too many Rhode Islanders have been taken for a ride by scammers skimming their pockets and stealing their hard-earned money, leaving many devastated and destitute,” Amo said. “I’m proud to introduce these bipartisan measures, one of which is also bicameral, to ensure we are addressing the rising scam threat in a coordinated and strategic manner. I look forward to working with my colleagues in the House and the Senate as the national strategy is developed to keep fighting scammers and keep Rhode Islanders’ money where it belongs, in their pockets.""

In addition to the National Strategy for Combating Scams Act, Schmidt has cosponsored the STOP Scams Against Seniors Act (H.R. 6426) which would authorize the use of federal grant funds to establish and support Elder Justice Task Forces to help local, state, and federal agencies work together to investigate and prosecute illegal scammers. Schmidt also cosponsored a resolution (H.Res. 931) supporting the designation of December 4 as “National Scam Prevention Day.”

During his prior service as Kansas attorney general, that office recovered a record-setting amount of money from scammers and returned it to Kansas consumers. Schmidt also previously chaired the national consumer protection committee of the National Association of Attorneys General.",1,2026-04-04T05:28:40Z,2026-04-04T05:30:10Z
https://schmidt.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-derek-schmidt-backs-legislation-fight-child-exploitation,Rep. Derek Schmidt Backs Legislation to Fight Child Exploitation,2025-11-25,2025,2025-11,Republican,House,KS,Derek Schmidt,S001228,schmidt.house.gov,schmidt,https://schmidt.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – (November 25, 2025) – Congressman Derek Schmidt is cosponsoring three bipartisan bills to strengthen federal work combating the exploitation of children, his office announced today.

“When I served as Kansas attorney general, we made fighting crimes against children a top priority for our state,” Schmidt said. “As a member of Congress, I now serve in a position to support those who are carrying on the front-line work of protecting children from abuse and exploitation each and every day.”

Last week, Schmidt cosponsored the ENFORCE Act (H.R. 4831) to close loopholes in the federal obscenity statute that currently leaves offenders less accountable when they create child sexual abuse material using Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools. Schmidt also recently cosponsored the STOP CSAM Act (H.R. 3921), which strengthens federal laws requiring online platforms to assist in combating child sexual abuse materials on their platforms. He also has cosponsored the PROTECT Our Children Reauthorization Act (H.R. 1274), which would reauthorize and strengthen the Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) Task Force Program. The legislation proposes to increase funding for ICACs and to update the national strategy to prevent child exploitation and to strengthen ICAC task forces.

“The ways in which sex offenders can exploit children are multiplying as fast as online technology is evolving,” Schmidt said. “We need to redouble our efforts for the law to keep pace.”

In addition to the three bills to strengthen enforcement, Schmidt is backing other measures to support crime victims, including victims of child exploitation. Schmidt is a lead cosponsor of the Crime Victims Fund Stabilization Act, a bipartisan bill to shore up funding for crime victim support grants, including those supporting child victims (H.R. 909). He also is also a cosponsor of the Trafficking Survivors Relief Act (H.R. 4323), which would vacate convictions for certain crimes committed by victims while being trafficked.

For several years, Schmidt served on the law enforcement advisory committee of the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children. As a Kansas state senator, he was a principal author of the Kansas version of Jessica’s Law, which imposes life prison sentences for violent sex offenders who prey on children. And as Kansas attorney general, he led that office while it sent more child abusers to prison for life than any prior administration and also helped lead the multi-year effort to overhaul and strengthen Kansas state laws against human trafficking.

“Sadly, protecting children from abuse and exploitation requires a sustained effort by people of goodwill at every level of government and throughout civil society,” Schmidt said. “We are committed to continuing to do our part to protect our kids.”",1,2026-04-04T05:28:40Z,2026-04-04T05:30:10Z
https://mann.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-mann-celebrates-national-rural-health-day,Rep. Mann Celebrates National Rural Health Day,2025-11-21,2025,2025-11,Republican,House,KS,Tracey Mann,M000871,mann.house.gov,mann,https://mann.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"CLICK HERE to download Rep. Mann’s remarks.

CLICK HERE to watch Rep. Mann’s remarks on YouTube.

WASHINGTON, D.C. – In honor of National Rural Health Day, Rep. Tracey Mann (KS-01) took to the floor of the U.S. House of Representatives to recognize rural health care workers, hospitals, service providers, clinics, community health centers, and all those who contribute to rural health in the Big First District. Rep. Mann also touted Congressional Republicans and President Trump's historic $50 billion investment into Rural Health Transformation Program and the life changing impact the program will have on Americans in rural communities.

Rep. Mann's congressional district consists of 60 primarily rural counties in Kansas and has more critical access hospitals than any other district in the country.

Rep. Mann’s Remarks as Prepared:

Mr. Speaker, this Thursday, America will celebrate National Rural Health Day. As the representative of 60 primarily rural counties, and the congressional district with more critical access hospitals than any other district in the country, I understand full well the importance of adequate, quality health care for all communities.

Earlier this year, I proudly supported the Working Families Tax Cuts which established the Rural Health Transformation Program. This legislation made the single largest investment into rural health care in nearly two decades and will be life changing for the men and women who call rural communities like the ones I represent home. The $50 billion in the Rural Health Transformation Program will better position rural health care facilities to embrace innovative technologies while improving the way health care is delivered, strengthening health outcomes, and ensuring the health of rural Americans reaches its full potential. The quality of care that Americans receive should not and cannot depend on their zip code.

By investing in the Rural Health Transformation Program and putting safeguards around the Medicaid program to guarantee it serves the vulnerable patients it was intended to serve, this Republican majority has taken historic strides to strengthen rural health care. Rural communities are the backbone of America, and I am proud to have supported this legislation to ensure they have access to the highest quality care.

This National Rural Health Month, I recognize and thank the dedicated rural health care workers, hospitals, service providers, clinics, and community health centers that serve as pillars in providing health services and lifesaving care to Kansans in rural America and work to ensure they receive the care they deserve.

Keep up the hard work and thank you again for all you do for our neighbors in rural America. Happy National Rural Health Month.

###",1,2026-04-04T05:28:40Z,2026-04-04T05:30:10Z
https://mann.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-mann-honors-sergeant-scott-william-heimann-house-floor,Rep. Mann Honors Sergeant Scott William Heimann on the House Floor,2025-11-21,2025,2025-11,Republican,House,KS,Tracey Mann,M000871,mann.house.gov,mann,https://mann.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"CLICK HERE to download Rep. Mann’s remarks.

CLICK HERE to watch Rep. Mann’s remarks on YouTube.

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Representative Tracey Mann (KS-01) spoke on the floor of the U.S. House of Representatives to honor the life of Sergeant Scott William Heimann. For nine years, Sergeant Heimann served as a member of the Hays Police Department. He passed on September 28, 2025.

Rep. Mann’s Remarks as Prepared:

Mr. Speaker, I rise today in honor of Sergeant Scott William Heimann. A loyal husband, a devoted father, a beloved son, and an invaluable member of the Hays, Kansas community, Scott paid the ultimate sacrifice protecting the community that he loved and served. On Sunday, September 28, 2025, Scott’s watch ended far too soon when he was shot and killed while responding to a domestic violence call. On behalf of Kansans in the Big First District, I would like to say thank you for your service.

Scott served with the Hays Police Department for nine years. Throughout his time, he served on the Special Situation Response Team, High-Tech Crime Unit, Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force, and the Honor Guard. Scott took pride in wearing the Hays Police Department uniform. He was never above serving the community he lived in whether his task was reading books to students at the library or responding to the most dangerous threats that posed a risk to his neighbors. There was no task too big or too small in his eyes.

Audrey and I mourn with the Hays community and continue to pray for them as they come to terms with this tragedy. We especially pray for Scott’s wife, Beth, his beautiful children, Victoria and Patrick, and all his loved ones who he left behind.

The Bible tells us in Psalm 34 that the Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit. As the reality of Scott’s untimely passing sets in, I ask that the Lord would be close to his family, wrap His arms around this grieving community, and provide comfort.

Well done, Sergeant Heimann. May your soul rest in peace.

###",1,2026-04-04T05:28:40Z,2026-04-04T05:30:10Z
https://estes.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=7272,ICYMI: Estes Questions CBO Director About Agency Transparency at Budget Hearing,2025-11-19,2025,2025-11,Republican,House,KS,Ron Estes,E000298,estes.house.gov,estes,https://estes.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27,scraper,"U.S. Congressman Ron Estes (R-Kansas) questioned Congressional Budget Office (CBO) Director Dr. Phillip Swagel at a Budget Committee hearing titled “Oversight of the Congressional Budget Office” on Tuesday, Nov. 18, 2025. Read his remarks below and watch here.

Remarks as Delivered

Dr. Swagel, thank you for being here. I know it’s maybe sometimes positive and negative in terms of talking about the things you do and our things we want to celebrate, [or] things we want to criticize or complain about.

I know a lot of our discussion today is about transparency, and I think it’s very important as we talk about the agency and the existence for the last 50 years and how important a role the CBO plays in the legislative process.

As the designated scorekeepers, it’s important that your reports [and] analysis are available. They have a dramatic impact on bills that come through the House and the Senate – as well as the public perception of what we pass and decisions we make regarding legislation.

We need to make sure that CBO works to improve scores, to actually make sure that they align with reality. Like any estimate, there’s going to be some variation. Ideally, you want to minimize that variation up or down within closest tolerance as possible.

Unfortunately, as we’ve talked about previously in the committee room, CBO sometimes falls short of making those good estimates that help us make decisions. The biggest example I guess, most current, is that the Congressional Budget Office estimated the score for major pieces of legislation like the Democrats’ Inflation Act.

The Energy and Climate provisions in that bill were estimated by CBO at $391 billion, but estimates by Credit Suisse were double at $800 billion, and Goldman Sachs came out with $1.2 trillion. I will note that shortly after the vote was passed, CBO did revise its estimates up through that process.

My struggle, and I think a lot of our struggle, is that we’re literally making trillion-dollar decisions based on this information, so we want to make sure it’s the best possible.

There [are] other examples we could talk about in terms of inflation estimates or budget deficit estimates. We need to make sure that we are as accurate as possible.

One of the things … I think we’ve talked about in other conversations and hearings is some of the executive actions and some of the decisions around executive actions. I know that was a big description that was used in the trillion-dollar myths a year ago, with some of the discussions around that.

At the end of the day, we really want to make sure we’re transparent in these things. As I’ve talked about before, working on legislation that would actually require CBO to calculate through the baseline or include in the baseline an update on separate tables detailing some of those judicial or executive actions that have been issued since the last publication that would have a momentous amount – $50 billion or more. Looking at, how do we finalize executive orders and the impacts through that? I know there’s a whole bunch of things that we talk about, and you’ve been hit with a lot of things, ranging from health care and other issues and talking about estimates for economic growth.

In my work on Ways and Means, I pushed a lot on research and development and how R&D and other innovative ideas help grow the economy. How can we work moving forward?

I want to give you an opportunity to at least have some comments on maybe proposals around executive actions or other things. How do we narrow down the estimates to more closely react and be able to refine that process?",1,2026-04-07T15:39:47Z,2026-04-07T20:18:39Z
https://mann.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-mann-applauds-wotus-proposal,Rep. Mann Applauds WOTUS Proposal,2025-11-19,2025,2025-11,Republican,House,KS,Tracey Mann,M000871,mann.house.gov,mann,https://mann.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Representative Tracey Mann (KS-01) applauded the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and U.S. Department of the Army's proposed rule to clarify the definition of “waters of the United States” (WOTUS). Rep. Mann released the following statement after the announcement.

“America’s farmers, ranchers, and agricultural producers always have been and always will be the original conservationists of the land,” said Rep. Mann. ""While Washington bureaucrats would love to regulate every pond, ditch, and puddle from east to west, the Trump Administration's proposed WOTUS rule is a return to common sense. When government shrinks, freedom expands. This clear definition is a win for Kansas agriculture and private landowners and will restore certainty where it is long overdue.""

Upon publication in the Federal Register, the proposed rule will be open for a 45-day public comment period.

Earlier this year, Rep. Mann commended the Trump Administration for their decision to revise WOTUS in a clear, simplified direction.

Rep. Mann has consistently fought against the abuse of the WOTUS rule. In December 2022, Rep. Mann blasted the Biden Administration’s definition of WOTUS that expanded water to include ponds and streams. In January 2023, Rep. Mann led efforts to pressure the Biden Administration to rescind their premature WOTUS rule ahead of the Supreme Court’s decision in Sackett v. EPA. In March 2023, Rep. Mann voted to advance a Congressional Review Act to overturn the Biden Administration’s rule. After President Biden vetoed the bill, Rep. Mann voted to override that veto and defend America’s farmers, ranchers, and agricultural producers.

Following the Supreme Court’s May 2023 ruling in Sackett v. EPA, Rep. Mann applauded the Court’s unanimous decision to restrict EPA’s overreach. In August 2023, Rep. Mann fired back at the Biden Administration’s revised WOTUS rule that removed the “significant nexus” standard for determining whether wetlands or waters are covered by the Clean Water Act. Rep. Mann also introduced legislation to establish an advisory committee at the U.S. Department of Agriculture to examine the impact of the WOTUS rule and overreaching regulations on agriculture production and the food supply chain.

###",1,2026-04-04T05:28:40Z,2026-04-04T05:30:10Z
https://estes.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=7269,Estes Reacts to Proposed WOTUS Rule,2025-11-18,2025,2025-11,Republican,House,KS,Ron Estes,E000298,estes.house.gov,estes,https://estes.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27,scraper,"U.S. Congressman Ron Estes (R-Kansas) released the following statement after the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) proposed a new Waters of the United States (WOTUS) rule.

""For too long, overzealous bureaucrats in Washington have tried to micromanage the ponds and puddles in Kansas without regard for the conservation work of the men and women who care for the land each and every day,"" said Rep. Estes. ""The newly proposed WOTUS rule promotes clean water without inhibiting ag and energy producers and landowners. It upholds the Supreme Court's Sackett decision and works with Kansas farmers and ranchers, not against them, to be good stewards of our natural resources – something they've been doing for generations.""

Background:

March 2025 – Rep. Estes Applauds EPA Announcement

November 2023 – Rep. Ron Estes Praises Restrictions to WOTUS, Limits on Lesser Prairie-Chicken Listing in Appropriations Bill

August 2023 – Rep. Estes Condemns Revised WOTUS Rule

May 2023 – Rep. Estes Celebrates WOTUS Win for Kansas

March 2023 – Rep. Estes Votes to End Disastrous WOTUS Rule

December 2022 – Rep. Estes Denounces New WOTUS Rule",1,2026-04-07T15:39:47Z,2026-04-07T20:18:39Z
https://estes.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=7270,"Estes Votes for Transparency, Protecting Victims in Epstein Files",2025-11-18,2025,2025-11,Republican,House,KS,Ron Estes,E000298,estes.house.gov,estes,https://estes.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27,scraper,"U.S. Congressman Ron Estes (R-Kansas) released the following statement after voting in favor of providing greater transparency into the Epstein files while urging the Department of Justice to exercise extreme sensitivity regarding victims.

""Americans rightfully have a lot of questions surrounding the despicable Jeffrey Epstein, which is why I've supported the Oversight Committee's work to release tens of thousands of documents into the public already and why I voted to support today's resolution to instruct the Department of Justice to release files related to the investigation,"" said Rep. Estes. ""This is a vital step to restoring the foundational principle of transparency at all levels of government and a statement that abuse of any kind cannot be tolerated or excused. The responsibility of transparency also carries a responsibility of profound sensitivity regarding innocent victims, which is why I urge the DOJ to avoid the release of potentially graphic evidence that would only compound the trauma these individuals have already endured. Our commitment to justice requires both disclosure of critical facts and protection of innocent victims.""",1,2026-04-07T15:39:47Z,2026-04-07T20:18:39Z
https://estes.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=7263,Estes Releases Statement After End of Democrat Shutdown,2025-11-12,2025,2025-11,Republican,House,KS,Ron Estes,E000298,estes.house.gov,estes,https://estes.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27,scraper,"U.S. Congressman Ron Estes (R-Kansas) released the following statement after the Democrat shutdown, led by Senator Chuck Schumer, ended. Rep. Estes voted alongside his House Republican colleagues to fund the government on Sept. 19, but Senate Democrats kept the government closed for six weeks.

“For 43 painful days, Senate Democrats held our government hostage and demanded we give in to their radical political agenda, causing the longest government shutdown in American history,” said Rep. Estes. “Tonight, I voted with my House Republican colleagues on the final passage of the funding bill. With the government back open, Congressional Republicans are ready to enact President Trump’s priorities and continue delivering wins for Kansans and the American people.”",1,2026-04-07T15:39:47Z,2026-04-07T20:18:39Z
https://mann.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-mann-votes-end-longest-shutdown-us-history,Rep. Mann Votes to End Longest Shutdown in U.S. History,2025-11-12,2025,2025-11,Republican,House,KS,Tracey Mann,M000871,mann.house.gov,mann,https://mann.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Representative Tracey Mann (KS-01) voted to advance H.R. 5371, the Continuing Appropriations and Extensions Act, 2026, and reopen the federal government. H.R. 5371 passed in the U.S. House of Representatives by a vote of 222-209. Rep. Mann released a statement after the vote.

“For 43 days, Washington Democrats have kept the federal government closed as they threw a temper tantrum and demanded that Congress adopt radical policy proposals like taxpayer-funded health care for illegal immigrants,” said Rep. Mann. “Everyday Americans paid the price for Democrats’ political theatre with delayed government benefits, missed paychecks, and chaos across our nation’s airports. I proudly voted to bring this shutdown to an end once and for all. The hardworking men and women who are the backbone of our country should not have their lives upended in exchange for Democrats’ pandering to their leftist base. I’m hopeful Congress can put Americans first and get back to passing the agenda that House Republicans were elected to deliver on.""

On September 19, 2025, Rep. Mann supported the House continuing resolution to fund the federal government. Shortly after the federal government closed, Rep. Mann published an op-ed underscoring the toll the shutdown put on American families.

The Continuing Appropriations and Extensions Act will now go to President Trump’s desk to be signed into law.

###",1,2026-04-04T05:28:40Z,2026-04-04T05:30:10Z
https://schmidt.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-derek-schmidt-statement-house-vote-reopen-federal-government,Rep. Derek Schmidt statement on House vote to reopen the federal government,2025-11-12,2025,2025-11,Republican,House,KS,Derek Schmidt,S001228,schmidt.house.gov,schmidt,https://schmidt.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – (November 12, 2025) – Congressman Derek Schmidt (KS-02) tonight issued the following statement on the House’s vote to reopen the federal government:

“This long, unnecessary, and harmful federal government shutdown is finally about to end. On September 19, I voted to keep our government open, and tonight—after nearly two months of wrangling in the United States Senate–I voted to reopen it so our troops, people who rely on nutrition assistance, federal employees and contractors, the flying public, and many other Kansans whose lives have been disrupted can begin returning to normal. As I have said many times, this shutdown should have never happened. I appreciate the eight Senate Democrats who finally were willing to break with their party so that much-needed government functions and services resume.

“The bill that we sent to President Trump tonight will not only temporarily fund the government through January, but also funds key programs for Kansas for the entire 2026 fiscal year. That includes fully funding veterans’ services, farm programs and nutrition assistance that now have full-year certainty and stability. I am particularly pleased that we were able to increase total funding for the Department of Veterans Affairs by $38 billion over last year’s funding level.

“I am hopeful Congress will now use the next two months to proceed under the regular order of finalizing full-year funding for the remaining government agencies and programs. No more hostage-taking, no more demands for backroom deals. Just line-by-line scrutiny of the federal budget and a continued focus on restraining the unsustainable spending growth that has put us $38 trillion in debt and fueled the out-of-control inflation of the past four years. The American people deserve far better than these past two months.”",1,2026-04-04T05:28:40Z,2026-04-04T05:30:10Z
https://estes.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=7256,ICYMI: Estes Joins Mornings with Maria,2025-11-04,2025,2025-11,Republican,House,KS,Ron Estes,E000298,estes.house.gov,estes,https://estes.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27,scraper,"U.S. Congressman Ron Estes (R-Kansas) joined Mornings with Maria to discuss the ongoing Schumer Shutdown, France’s decision to double their digital services tax, and more. Watch the interview on YouTube and Rumble.

“Well, I do expect that the Democrats at some point in time are gonna have to come to their senses and realize what damage they're causing. You look at the … 93,000 Kansans who are suffering because of food stamps, and so many TSA agents and law enforcement, border patrol, folks that are actually working to protect us, that aren't getting paid and having to figure that out.

“The Democrats continue to do the filibuster and [are] trying to say that they want to keep these COVID bailouts on the Obamacare [enhanced tax subsidies] and, unfortunately, I do think the election is … one of those reasons why they were trying to hold this leverage, through the election, to help them on the elections across so many of the states in the country. But now they've got to come down and … focus on what it takes to operate the government.”

On what the outcomes of the off-year elections could mean for the crumbling Democratic party:

“I do think it'll have an impact. The problem is, you could argue which way it goes. I mean, if you end up having the governorship split between New Jersey and Virginia, then what's the Democrats' talking points after that? … I don't know … how they're gonna get themselves out of the corner they've backed themselves into. It really is problematic what they've created and done.”

On France’s discriminatory tax against American companies:

“It really is discriminatory against U.S. companies. We've been focusing, and the U.S. Treasury has been working really well with OECD, to fix some of the problems with this Pillar Two global minimum tax they've had out there.

“And so now France is coming back and doubling their digital services tax, trying to attack any company that uses electronics. And they specifically … doubled it, but they also changed the definition of who would be liable for it.

“So basically, it's targeting U.S.-based companies because of the size of the company. And it's inappropriate. It's actually a direct attack on the United States and U.S.-based businesses. I've been a vocal critic through that.

“President Trump has some tools like Section 301 and even Section 891 as ways to help out. I mean, we're more than willing in Congress, a lot of us in terms of being able to stand up for U.S. businesses. We can pass additional legislation to help address this.

“This is just the wrong direction for us to go, for the world to go, as we're working at how do we maintain good trade and [a] good global economy?”",1,2026-04-07T15:39:47Z,2026-04-07T20:18:39Z
https://estes.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=7248,ICYMI: Estes Joins Capitol Report,2025-11-03,2025,2025-11,Republican,House,KS,Ron Estes,E000298,estes.house.gov,estes,https://estes.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27,scraper,"On China’s rare earth export restrictions:

“It really was a disruptive thing when China said that several weeks ago … When we look at how critical rare earth minerals are for all the things we want to do going forward, it's so important that we have … all countries, including China, follow free and fair trade practices. I mean that's kind of the point that's made our economic engine in the world grow and continue to grow and continue to help individuals.”

On what talks with Xi Jinping should look like:

“... Looking at President Trump's discussions with President Xi is looking at … how can we help make the economic ties between the United States and China stronger? How can we make sure that China practices and follows those fair trade trade practices that we've talked about? And I also would hope that he would look and talk about fentanyl and some of the drug issues that are so devastating for so many of our American citizens.”

On the progress of stopping fentanyl and other drugs from China from coming across our borders:

“I think the biggest improvement that we've seen so far is just the enforcement that President Trump's been putting on the border in terms of making sure that … we don't have more people crossing the border illegally. And as a result, there's less fentanyl coming into the country through those means. But the overall practice that China has in providing those precursors and or maybe providing fentanyl itself to actually use in the smuggling trade is not characteristic of what you would expect of a good trading partner.”

On what Congressman Estes hopes to see come out of a trade deal with the United States and China:

“I am hopeful that as part of these discussions that China is willing to to be engaged and say that it's important enough to the Chinese economy that they actually act like a fair trading partner so that we can address those issues and make sure that we minimize those negative consequences of things like [drug] smuggling.”

On China’s human rights abuses:

“China has a long history of human rights abuses, whether it's related to Christians, whether it's to the Falun Gong, or whether it's to the Uyghurs. But also just from a standpoint of slave trade practices and using that in their economy … In the past … a lot of leadership, whether it's the United States or in other countries around the world, have backed away because China objected to bringing up commentary about their human rights abuses. President Trump hasn't done that.

“He's been willing to stand up and say, ‘We need to make sure that good practices are followed’ and [he’s] been willing to push forward some of his tariffs and some of his other leading points on trade to actually make sure that some of these unfair practices are addressed.”

On potential outcomes of President Trump’s meeting with Xi Jinping:

“I look forward to having some good dialogue when they meet and, ultimately, I do think it'll take a long time because some of these things, I think, are built into the Chinese economy and they may have to figure out that in their own self-best interest is to agree, to head in a right direction, and act the same way that we would expect our trade partners to react if we want to have trade partners that are considered most favored nation status.”

On what may transpire after President Trump’s meeting with Xi Jinping:

“President Trump's knows there's going to be heat, I mean just like other presidents knew there were going to be heat, but they didn't address it, whereas President Trump's been willing … to take the slings and arrows, if you would, in terms of the criticisms that would come at him, but he was willing to address and and focus on what's what's the right thing to do.”",1,2026-04-07T15:39:47Z,2026-04-07T20:18:39Z
https://estes.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=7254,ICYMI: Estes Joins Voice of Reason with Andy Hooser,2025-11-03,2025,2025-11,Republican,House,KS,Ron Estes,E000298,estes.house.gov,estes,https://estes.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27,scraper,"On the ongoing Schumer Shutdown:

“It's just another Schumer Shutdown that basically [the Democrats] don't want to talk about funding the government. And the bad part about it is, that this particular funding bill was something that they've already voted on, basically, 13 times when we were under President Biden when he was in office.

“As recently as this last spring, they voted for the basic, same funding levels. So, the whole purpose there is that they're focusing on … trying to make it a story about healthcare and a distraction from really what their responsibility is: to fund the government. All of these Democrats that are voting to not fund the government [are] causing real pain for real people. And now, at least the Democrats are saying that they recognize it's causing pain for people, but they're using it as a political leverage point. And that's a sad way for people being in a leadership role, an American leadership role, to treat American citizens.”

On Democrats playing leverage games instead of working to fund the government:

“It is just a political game that they're playing instead of trying to focus on doing their job, doing their responsibility, which is funding the government. And yeah, there's going to be differences and debate about how much our total appropriations should be for 2026 [and] going forward. But let's keep the government open while we're having that discussion and finalizing that.

“And that's why we created this CR, this continuing resolution, until November 21st. When we voted on it back in September, it was to actually be able to have some time for the appropriations committees to sit through and come up with … How much are we going to spend on Health and Human Services? How much are we going to spend on defense? How much are we going to spend for the Agriculture department? And with the shutdown, those discussions aren't happening.”

On reopening the government and how to fund it into next year:

“The bill that the Republicans passed out of the House of Representatives sets November 21st as the deadline for the continuing resolution to move forward. The Democrats in the Senate are filibustering it and have voted it down, voted to keep the government closed. So, obviously, if it was going to take six or seven weeks for the appropriations folks to work through the process, then that date would have to be changed to some degree.

“The Democrats are going to have to come to the table and stop the filibuster, and vote to open the government, whether it's on November 21st, or whether it moves it to a date in January or something, that actually provides enough time for these discussions to be happening.”

On the negative impacts of the Schumer Shutdown on Americans and the economy:

“Well, if you look at the number of workers that are operating under the federal government, there's a little over two million civilian workers, and roughly the same number if you add up the military and the postal service. The reason I break those out is just because of the way they're funded.

“So we're talking about the salaries for those four million people. Now, there's 100 million other people that are working in the economy and actually going about their daily business, doing their jobs … It has a little bit of an impact … But the bigger issue is going to be that starting last week, there's no paycheck at all for any of those workers.

“That's going to become particularly burdensome … for those individuals. Whether they're trying to pay their mortgage or pay their car payment or go to the grocery store or the drugstore to get medicine for their kids. And that's a piece that's going to be very painful for these individuals that are involved in this. It's really sad that the Democrats are continuing to filibuster and use this as a political leverage point.”

On working to achieve a balanced budget:

“Well, we've slowly made some progress. We've got so much more to do. I mean, the problem is, one out of [every] five dollars that the federal government spends is being borrowed, which means we've got a big problem we've got to work on and address and sort through.

“... You start to get complaints from the government workers who actually run a program, you get complaints from the advocates who cheer on a particular program, and then you get complaints from the people that get paid through a particular program. So you have a lot of folks that are complaining that they want to keep their program. It's a delicate balance as we go through this.

“A lot of things, some things you can stop right away, but a lot of things you kind of need to phase down through that process. And unfortunately, as Ronald Reagan said, a federal government program is the closest thing to eternal life because it just wants to keep going.”

On enforcing work requirements to be eligible for government programs:

“It's one of the things we highlighted in the Big Beautiful Bill, that we worked on for the Working Families Tax Cuts Act this summer … American people are generous people, and we're going to continue to be generous to help folks that need a hand up. But there's also some expectations that if you're an able-bodied adult and you're receiving, say, Medicaid, which is what we talked about with the One Big Beautiful Bill, was that you're able-bodied, you don't have children, you ought to be working.”

“Even if it's twenty hours a week, or if not working, then go working on [an] education or doing volunteer work in order to get this free healthcare that American taxpayers are paying for you.”

On Democrats attempting to justify their ongoing government shutdown:

“They're just making up different stories as they walk along, trying to find something to justify what they're doing. It's just a political game that they want to play, which is kind of sad because it, I mean, even now they're starting to admit it's hurting everyday people.

“When we talk about the folks in the district … whether they're needing support from a food stamp program or whether they're … trying to buy a house, and if it's in a flood zone, they can't get flood insurance because that was part of the CR that was going to be extended, the flood insurance program. And … it's a sad way to treat your fellow American citizens, [which] is what they're doing.”

On Democrats’ demands in the government funding bill and hypocrisy on the expiring Obamacare enhanced tax credits:

“The demands they're making are that they take $50 billion away from rural hospitals and that they go out and make sure that the illegal aliens keep their free Medicaid and health care.

“I think a lot of this is built around the whole concept that Obamacare is failing, and they're seeing it. They covered it up with the COVID bailout and now the COVID bailout's ending the way they structured it.

“It was the Democrats that chose to end this on December of 2025 because they thought that was enough for them to cover it. And it's getting worse and worse. Premiums are going up, taxpayers are paying more, and this goes back to the basic Obamacare that's going to be struggling without the COVID bailout.”

On when the government will open:

“I don't have a good solid crystal ball. I think they're going to play around with this until after the elections next week because they don't want to disrupt the . . .Virginia and New Jersey governor elections. I just don't think it's going to work out well for them, and it's American people who are suffering because of what the Democrats are doing.”",1,2026-04-07T15:39:47Z,2026-04-07T20:18:39Z
https://mann.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-mann-hosts-fifth-annual-military-academy-nomination-day,Rep. Mann Hosts Fifth Annual Military Academy Nomination Day,2025-10-31,2025,2025-10,Republican,House,KS,Tracey Mann,M000871,mann.house.gov,mann,https://mann.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"ABILENE, KS – Today, U.S. Representative Tracey Mann (KS-01) hosted his fifth annual Congressional Military Academy Nomination Day. As the Representative for the Big First District in Congress, Rep. Mann has the privilege of offering military academy nominations to four of the five U.S. service academies for students in the district. The interviews took place in President Dwight D. Eisenhower's hometown of Abilene, Kansas.

""One of my greatest honors in Congress is nominating students from the Big First to attend our nation’s service academies,” said Rep. Mann. “The students interviewed today represent the best of Kansas, and we are lucky to have such bright minds with a desire to serve our country and grow into the next generation of military leaders. It is a real honor to host the military academy selection committee in the childhood hometown of five-star U.S. Army General and son of Kansas, President Dwight D. Eisenhower. I am grateful to the panel for lending their expertise and unique perspectives to the selection process. We look forward to seeing these ambitious and thoughtful students’ success in the years to come.”

Rep. Mann appointed a panel of distinguished Kansans from the Big First District with extensive public service or U.S. military experience to assist in the nomination process. The four-person panel included:

Mary Eisenhower: granddaughter of President Eisenhower and Chairman Emeritus of People to People International

Craig Bowser: retired U.S. Army Reserve Officer, Kansas State Senator for the 1st District

SFC (Ret.) Bobby Cox: commander of VFW Post 2715, former Kansas State VFW Commander

Michael Utz: retired Garden City Police Chief and U.S. Air Force Veteran, Finney County Commissioner

Eight students in the district applied for a military academy nomination through Rep. Mann's office. In the coming weeks, the panel will notify the students whom they have chosen to receive these competitive nominations.

Rep. Mann is a former member of the House Committee on Veterans Affairs and a strong supporter of America’s U.S. military service members.

###",1,2026-04-04T05:28:40Z,2026-04-04T05:30:10Z
https://estes.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=7246,Estes Releases Statement on Arrest of Third Murder Suspect of Intern Eric Tarpinian-Jachym,2025-10-30,2025,2025-10,Republican,House,KS,Ron Estes,E000298,estes.house.gov,estes,https://estes.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27,scraper,"U.S. Congressman Ron Estes (R-Kansas) released a statement on the arrest announcement of a third suspect tied to the murder of Eric Tarpinian-Jachym, an intern in Rep. Estes’ Washington, D.C., office. Tarpinian-Jachym interned during the Summer 2025 term and was murdered in Washington, D.C., on June 30, 2025.

“The announcement of a third arrest tied to the murder of my intern Eric Tarpinian-Jachym is another step closer to bringing closure to this tragedy,” said Rep. Estes. “Thanks to the work of U.S. Attorney Pirro, the detectives at Metropolitan Police Department, and others who have worked diligently to bring these suspects in, this case is closer to being solved. Eric’s life was cut short far too quickly. He will never be forgotten by those who loved and knew him. My prayers are with his family as they process this new development.”

Background:

September 2025 – Estes Releases Statement on Arrests for the Murder of Intern Eric Tarpinian-Jachym

September 2025 – Estes and Colleagues Host Press Conference on the D.C. Crime Crackdown

July 2025 – ICYMI: Estes Joins Fox & Friends

July 2025 – Rep. Estes Expresses Condolences To Family Of Intern Eric Tarpinian-Jachym",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T15:10:06Z
https://schmidt.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-derek-schmidt-announces-members-service-academy-selection-board,Rep. Derek Schmidt Announces Members of Service Academy Selection Board,2025-10-29,2025,2025-10,Republican,House,KS,Derek Schmidt,S001228,schmidt.house.gov,schmidt,https://schmidt.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – (October 29, 2025) – Congressman Derek Schmidt (KS-02) today announced the members of his 2025 Service Academy Selection Board. This weekend, the Selection Board will conduct interviews of Kansas students seeking nominations to attend the United States military service academies for the Class of 2030.

“One of the greatest honors I have as a member of Congress is nominating young Kansans to attend our nation’s military academies,” Schmidt said. “I appreciate the distinguished Kansans who have agreed to assist in the selection process this year and look forward to receiving their recommendations.”

The members of the Selection Board are:

Maj. Gen. Vic Braden (Ret.), U.S. Army and Kansas Army National Guard veteran, former Kansas Deputy Attorney General (Sawyer, Kansas)

Capt. David Buehler (Ret.), U.S. Navy veteran, Kansas State Representative District 40 (Lansing, Kansas)

Brenda Dietrich, former superintendent of Auburn–Washburn USD 437, Kansas State Senator District 20 (Topeka, Kansas)

Col. Pat Proctor (Ret.), U.S. Army veteran, Kansas State Representative District 41 (Leavenworth, Kansas)

Coffey County Undersheriff Eric Smith, former Kansas State Representative District 76 (Burlington, Kansas)

Lt. Col. Dave Young (Ret.), U.S. Air Force and Kansas Air National Guard veteran, Kansas Deputy Homeland Security Advisor (Topeka, Kansas)",1,2026-04-04T05:28:40Z,2026-04-04T05:30:10Z
https://estes.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=7245,ICYMI: Estes Joins Inside the Beltway,2025-10-28,2025,2025-10,Republican,House,KS,Ron Estes,E000298,estes.house.gov,estes,https://estes.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27,scraper,"On the ongoing government shutdown, triggered by Senator Chuck Schumer (D-NY) and Senate Democrats:

“It's unfortunate that we're at this point in time, 23 days now, with no funding on the government. The Democrats are continuing to filibuster and the disappointing thing about it is that they're filibustering on a clean continuing resolution that they've actually voted on before.

“I mean, these exact same spending levels [from] last spring and last fall, as well. So it's disappointing we're here. My understanding is that today or tomorrow, the Senate will have a slightly different motion to talk about making sure that we paid the military and that we pay the folks that are working, the border patrol agents, the TSA agents, the air traffic controllers, the folks that are actually having to work through this process and we'll see whether that passes or not. But, in the meantime, it's just sad that we are where we are. The counter proposal that the Democrats are holding the funding the government hostage on is really a non-starter.

“They talk about taking money away from rural hospitals and giving it to illegal aliens and using it to spend for electric vehicles and other programs in other countries. I think we ought to be focused on how do we make sure that we support Americans first.”

On the COVID-era Obamacare enhanced tax credits expiring:

“Well, the problem is the Obamacare has subsidies built into it. I mean, that base level of Obamacare has subsidies built into it. During COVID, it was decided when the Democrats were in the majority in the House and the Senate and President Biden was in office. They decided to add additional subsidies tied to that. And that's what they set the expiration date of December of this year, and now that it's expiring, they're realizing how bad Obamacare really is … It's one of those things that we've got to address: the problems with Obamacare.

“It was promised to lower premiums. It was promised that people could keep their doctor, keep their insurance. And it did provide some insurance for some folks that were previously in low-risk pools or in high-risk pools or other areas, or did not have insurance. But we've seen premiums continue to increase, and we can't keep going forward like this.

“But the distraction from funding the government is the talk about the problems with Obamacare. I mean, we need to focus on getting the government open so that we can address all the issues that we have to address as a country and make sure that we're moving forward.”

On how the Affordable Care Act was never really affordable, a fact the Washington Post admitted:

“At that point in time, you don't have an insurance program that provides you good health care. I mean, if you're spending $27,000 a year in combination of premiums, and then you add the deductibles on top of that, you're spending thousands of dollars whether you're on a private plan or whether you're on one of the subsidized Obamacare plans. It's thousands of dollars out of your pocket before you actually get any benefit from that insurance.

“And so there's a major problem with the so-called Affordable Care Act. As you said, it's no longer affordable. It never was really affordable. It's just gotten worse. And through that process, it didn't improve care any. It didn't increase the number of doctors or didn't increase the number of people that could keep their old good insurance that they liked.”

On the provisions included in the One Big, Beautiful Bill and the work House Republicans put into making it possible:

“Obviously, as you talked about the One Big, Beautiful Bill or the Working Families Tax Cuts Act that we focused on, we wanted to make sure that we helped the economy grow. I mean, we saw after 2017, the economy took off. And, you know, instead of the old “new normal” process that President Obama talked about and economist when President Obama was in office, we looked at how do we grow the economy?

“A lot of the things that we put into One Big, Beautiful Bill, we made permanent because we saw the positive things after 2017. And so a lot of those are in place moving forward, whether it's the corporate rates and the individual rates, whether it's looking at things like, how do you deduct research and development costs in the year that you incur them so that we can continue to be the biggest innovation in our country. We did so much. I mean, there are some things that we continue to look at.”

On addressing international tax issues in the One Big, Beautiful Bill:

“One of the things we did with the One Big, Beautiful Bill was push back on the international tax scheme that had been developed with the Biden administration and the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development and basically it was creating a tax that would be on primarily US businesses and increase their costs. What we recognized there was that that wasn't going to work. The process that we started when President Trump came into office was the administration's been very active in negotiating. How do we address this moving forward?

“There's continued work on that international tax aspect. I've had several meetings in the last couple of weeks talking with folks not just U.S. businesses, but also from the European Commission and as well as from Global Business Alliance, and the individuals that are that are affected by some of those provisions, and I think we all agree that there's there's a whole host of problems with this Pillar 2 international tax scheme that they'd come up with. We've got to address that and we're going to continue to focus on that, making sure that we look at and utilize the American tax code to be a level playing field for a business, whether you're based in America or whether you're based in another country and you have operations in America. And we're going to continue on that.

On the Congressman’s priorities for the rest of 2025:

“There are some other provisions for the year end of 2025. Chairman Jason Smith, on the Ways and Means Committee, talks a lot and wants to do a bipartisan tax bill. There's some smaller provisions … tied to production costs for the entertainment industry for one of the things that I led [which] was helping songwriters be able to write off their demo cost, but that expires at the end of this year. There's several other different provisions at the end of the year that we want to address. And then there's probably an opportunity, although it may go into next year, of looking at, okay, what's the next thing that we do? What do we focus on in terms of how we make sure we keep good economic growth?”

On addressing the future of Social Security and potential insolvency:

“One of the things that was set up 40 years ago, when they saw Social Security was running out of money at that point in time, and the projections into the future were pretty dire, when you were looking at the baby boomers who were entering the workforce and recognizing that when they retired, there would be a large number of retirees.

“There were some provisions and changes made in the eighties to actually build up the trust fund a little bit while baby boomers were working. And now as we look to the future, we're seeing that trust fund run down, like it was designed to do, as the baby boomers [have] retired. We've got to come back and do a very similar process to look at what we do for the future. You know, the Social Security program is designed to help all Americans. But what it's designed to do is that it only pays out in benefits what the trust fund has in income.

“And so on any given year, as individuals have lived longer and as innovative ideas and new technologies have made it easier for workers, the same or fewer workers to actually produce the same economic output, we've seen fewer workers per retiree. It's down to less than three now workers per retiree where it was over six or seven decades ago. And so there's obviously less money going into the trust fund as retirees are pulling it out. So we've got to address that.

“Obviously it's a great program that people really value as retirees in terms of supporting them. And for folks that are your age, one of the things I do want to remind everybody is that a percentage will still be paid out to anybody. It's just that when the trust fund runs down in … less than eight years, it will have only be a percentage of what the current calculation is.

“So, right now that percentage is about 77 cents on the dollar. So, everybody will receive less money, which makes it pretty imperative that we start working now to be able to address that so that we can we can protect not just the current retirees, but also folks into the future, whether they're in their forties or fifties or whether they're in their twenties and thirties as well.”

On representing the fourth district of Kansas:

“It's South Central Kansas, centered around the city of Wichita, and it includes of course the big urban areas in Wichita, but also a lot of rural areas as well.

“We call ourselves the Air Capital of the World because of the amount of aviation footprint that we have there … roughly sixty percent of the planes that are flying today have, if not made completely in Wichita, have huge components that come out of Wichita.

“Particularly when you look at general aviation and a lot of the commercial aviation. Every 737 starts in Wichita with the cockpit and fuselage made there. And then it's sent out to Washington to have the wings and the wheels added onto that. Textron, Beechcraft, Cessna, Bombardier, Spirit AeroSystems are all located in Wichita and make a lot of aircraft every year that we all use and value around the world.

“The other thing in my district is we have a good footprint of oil and gas, in terms of production. Kansas does produce a fair amount of oil and gas, but it's very low volume producers. You don't get the big gushers like you see in the movies that come out of a well.

“So, obviously being able to produce energy, whether it's hydrocarbons, we have a lot of wind farms as well in our state and actually produce much more wind energy than we utilize in the state and about half of what we produce is shipped out of state.

“On an agricultural footprint, we have a lot of farmers that focus on making wheat, making corn, soy beans, ethanol, and a big support for not just Americans, but around the world as well to make sure that people have food to eat as well as energy from ethanol and being able to use that.

“I really focus a lot within my district on how we make sure that we support our rural areas, support rural hospitals, make sure that we support the property rights for land owners, and making sure that bad regulation doesn't come out of Washington, whether it's regarding use of water. Because that's a big thing in Kansas, particularly in my district in the western part of the state, in terms of making sure that we have sustainable water now and for the future.

“And also making sure that we're smart on things like the Endangered Species Act. I mean, we've had some issues over the last few years, starting back with the Obama administration in terms of looking at some species like lesser-prairie chicken, where they wanted to list it as endangered because they counted the number of prairie-chicken the year after a drought came through.

“In Kansas, it rains more some years than it does others. And you have to just take that into account and figure out what's the long-term trend and how do we make sure that we have sustainable habitat ongoing into the future.”

On why the Congressman got involved in politics and his desire to represent Kansas in Congress:

“It's kind of a passion for both my wife and I. We actually met at a Young Republican National Convention and she's currently serving as a state representative in the Kansas legislature. We focus[ed] on, not only early in our marital life, we helped a lot of other people run for office.

“And I wanted to get more involved in helping run for office as well. So, I first ran for a county treasurer and then for state treasurer. I served six years as Kansas State Treasurer. One of the things I saw when I was state treasurer was that there was a lot of bad policy, bad legislation coming out of Washington that we actually spent a lot of time as treasurers being able to talk about, instead of focusing on how do we do best practices within our offices, is how do we how do we adjust to what's coming out of the federal office?

“It kind of motivated me to run for Congress and actually focus on how do we come up with good policy, good legislation that helps not just make government processes run smoothly at the federal level or the state or local level, but also helps make individuals, whether you're Kansans or whether you live somewhere else in the United States, we want to make sure that there's good policy out there, that we actually approach and help folks live the lives that they want to live without an overbearing big government that's focusing and directing and mandating that they do a lot of things. So it kind of incentivizes me to come out and look at how we come up with some of those best practices?”

On Democrat hysteria over White House construction and the history of White House construction:

“I think it's a distraction from the Democrats not focusing on funding the government and not being willing to vote for that. There is not a big ballroom on the White House grounds. I mean, there's not a big room in there.

“My wife and I have been to the White House for Christmas parties. If you invite all of Congress, House and the Senate, obviously everybody doesn't go, but even if you have events like that or state dinners or state events, it's just not a huge facility to do that. So, being able to build a ballroom which is being funded by private donations. It's not taxpayer money that's going into it. I think it's a good addition to the White House.

“If you look over the years, a lot of presidents have done remodeling and improvements and enhancements. Whether it's actually the West Wing was added as part of an enhancement into the White House. Whether you look at [President Franklin Delano Roosevelt], whether you look at President Truman or President Carter or even during President Obama and President Clinton's term[s], there were changes made to the White House and adjustments.

“I think this is one of those things that you take a snapshot which I've seen on some of the memes out there of some of the construction activity and and it makes it looks like a like a bad picture, but in reality, I think it's going to be a very positive thing for the White House to be able to to have a facility and a venue there that they can use for state dinners and other events.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T15:10:06Z
https://schmidt.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-derek-schmidt-continue-food-assistance-despite-government-shutdown,Rep. Derek Schmidt: Continue food assistance despite government shutdown,2025-10-28,2025,2025-10,Republican,House,KS,Derek Schmidt,S001228,schmidt.house.gov,schmidt,https://schmidt.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – (October 28, 2025) – Congressman Derek Schmidt (KS-02) today announced he will cosponsor legislation to maintain food assistance for Kansans in need if the federal government shutdown continues.

“This shutdown has been unnecessary from the beginning and hurts many Kansans,” Schmidt said. “It should not have happened, it has made reaching bipartisan agreement on many important funding priorities for the coming year harder not easier, and it needs to end. In my view, the right thing to do is to reopen the entire government and resume negotiations on full-year funding bills, but if a minority of U.S. Senators keeps refusing that approach then reopening critical parts of the government like food assistance is better than nothing at all.”

Funding for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) food assistance program is expected to run out after November 1 if the government remains shut. The bill Schmidt will cosponsor, H.R. 5822, would continue SNAP funding for Kansans in need.

More than a month ago, the House of Representatives voted to temporarily continue funding all government operations while bipartisan negotiations for full-year funding priorities continue. A bipartisan majority of U.S. Senators agrees with keeping the government open during negotiations, but a minority of senators has repeatedly refused and under Senate rules that minority is able to block funding bills.

Schmidt has voted in favor of every government-funding bill that has come to the House floor this year. On September 19, he voted for the clean, short-term continuing resolution to maintain government operations for seven more weeks while bipartisan negotiations on annual funding bills continue. He also voted for full-year funding for the Department of Defense, Department of Energy, and Department of Veterans Affairs and other agencies including the Army Corps of Engineers when those funding bills came before the House of Representatives.

Since the shutdown began, Schmidt has cosponsored several targeted bills intended to resume funding for specific federal services. In addition to the SNAP funding bill he cosponsored today, Schmidt has cosponsored standalone legislation to pay U.S. troops (H.R. 5401) and air traffic controllers (H.R. 5455).

In the absence of congressional action, Schmidt has favored actions by the Trump Administration to reallocate funding within the limits of the law to meet urgent priorities. Actions by the administration so far include paying U.S. troops and law enforcement officers, temporarily extending funding for the Women, Infants and Children nutrition program, and reopening Farm Service Agency offices.

Schmidt also has cosponsored legislation to prevent future government shutdowns by continuing current funding levels whenever Congress allows annual appropriations to lapse (H.R. 5130 and H.R. 5552).

“This chaotic shutdown approach is no way to run the government of a great country,” Schmidt said.

Schmidt has also cosponsored a Constitutional Amendment that would prohibit Members of Congress from receiving pay during a government shutdown (H.J.Res. 128).",1,2026-04-04T05:28:40Z,2026-04-04T05:30:10Z
https://estes.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=7243,ICYMI: Estes Joins National Report,2025-10-27,2025,2025-10,Republican,House,KS,Ron Estes,E000298,estes.house.gov,estes,https://estes.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27,scraper,"On Canada’s deceptive ad on tariffs featuring Ronald Reagan:

“In terms of particularly as deceptive as that as the ad was … President Reagan, as we know, was for free and fair trade and he was for standing up for America. And we want to continue that.

“When you look at that ad, in general, it was deceptive the way Canada produced that ad and tried to highlight that. But that's not the first time they've really taken that approach.

“When we were negotiating the original USMCA, they were actually … dragging their feet and slow-walking it. It finally came to a point where the United States and Mexico were going to go forward with just a two-country agreement. And that's when Canada came back to the table and said, ‘We want to be engaged.’

“We want to make sure that we have good free and fair trade opportunities. We want to make sure that we support America, American businesses, and help make sure that there's not abuse by any country out there. And that's what President Trump wants to stand for, is how do we support that? And members in Congress want to do that as well. [We] want to make sure that we help make sure that we support businesses in America, support workers, support families and consumers.”

On negotiating trade with Canada and the USMCA agreement:

“It really is. I mean, when you look at … this whole process that Canada has followed in terms of … dragging their feet on things … I mean, there's been ongoing disputes with Canada on things like dairy and lumber and hardwood … That was part of the whole process of USMCA was to make sure that when those disputes arose, there was an opportunity to address them and work through that. And we still have some ongoing things that we need to work through.

“That's kind of one of the reasons why when USMCA was set up, there's a checkpoint next year to actually see what's working and what's not working. So, as we move forward, that's going to be one of those issues: how do we make sure that the United States, Mexico, and Canada [are] all working on making sure that we have free and fair trade that's good for all three countries?”

On the ongoing Democrat-induced government shutdown:

“We're now seeing, starting last week, federal employees, whether you're military or whether you're civilian employees, paychecks have run out of money, in terms of that. And so people are starting to be affected by that.

“It's really sad because when we passed this continuing resolution to November21, it was really just to allow time to actually do the Fiscal [Year] 2026 appropriations [bills] for the entire budget for the federal government. And, you know, this is something that actually Democrats voted on 13 times basically when President Biden was in office as recently as this past March.

“And so it was kind of one of these things, there's not gimmicks in it but they've been playing games around it. Actually, Senator Schumer said that … every day gets better for them through that process. The Democrat Whip in the House, Katherine Clark, she went out and said, ‘We know families are hurting through this but this is a leverage point’ for them. I just think that's the wrong way for American leadership to actually punish American families going through these.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T15:10:06Z
https://estes.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=7239,"Estes Affirms National Deficit Decrease, Highlights Further Need for Fiscal Sanity in Government",2025-10-20,2025,2025-10,Republican,House,KS,Ron Estes,E000298,estes.house.gov,estes,https://estes.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27,scraper,"U.S. Congressman Ron Estes (R-Kansas), a member of the Joint Economic Committee (JEC), issued the following statement recognizing the positive economic news regarding the decrease of the United States’ annual deficit. Per the JEC, the nation ended the fiscal year with a $1.78 trillion deficit, which is $50 billion, or 2.8%, less than FY2024. The main driver in reducing the deficit came from tariff collections put in place by President Donald Trump earlier this year. These collections totaled to $195 billion for FY2025.

“As a member of the Ways and Means Committee, I’m encouraged by the fiscal update from the Joint Economic Committee that shows the deficit has made a downward trend. This is positive news as President Trump and Congress work toward restoring fiscal sanity in Washington, D.C.,” said Rep. Estes. “We must build on this momentum with responsible fiscal policies – curbing wasteful spending, prioritizing pro-growth tax reforms, and examining mandatory spending programs that have contributed to deficit increases. Fiscal sanity set by a government that lives within its means is good for Kansans and Americans.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T15:10:06Z
https://estes.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=7237,Estes Applauds Kansas Air National Guard’s 184th Wing’s Selection for Prestigious Point Defense Task Force,2025-10-17,2025,2025-10,Republican,House,KS,Ron Estes,E000298,estes.house.gov,estes,https://estes.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27,scraper,"U.S. Congressman Ron Estes (R-Kansas) issued the following statement after the 184th Wing of the Kansas Air National Guard was selected to host the Air Force Point Defense Battle Laboratory, reflecting Kansas’ important role in national security. The 184th Wing is located at McConnell Air Force Base in Wichita, Kansas.

The Point Defense Battle Lab is the Air Force’s innovative solution to rapidly advance counter-Unmanned Aircraft Systems (cUAS) and point defense capabilities, complementing the work already being done by the Airmen at the 184th Wing. This designation will also enable the Air Force to leverage the unique assets in South Central Kansas, such as Wichita State University’s National Institute for Aviation Research (NIAR).",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T15:10:06Z
https://estes.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=7236,ICYMI: Estes Joins Washington Watch with Tony Perkins,2025-10-15,2025,2025-10,Republican,House,KS,Ron Estes,E000298,estes.house.gov,estes,https://estes.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27,scraper,"U.S. Congressman Ron Estes (R-Kansas) joined Washington Watch with Tony Perkins with guest host Jody Hice to discuss President Trump’s monumental peace plan for ending the Israel-Hamas war and the ongoing government shutdown caused by the Democrats. Watch the interview on YouTube and Rumble.

On President Trump’s peace plan to end the Israel-Hamas war and taking steps to achieve peace in the Middle East:

“Give all glory to God, but it is fairly significant what President Trump's done. He's shown from his first term, when he instituted the Abraham Accords and got the agreements to actually start to make … what we hope will turn into lasting peace in the Middle East, and being able to do the work as a leader that he's been able to do on an international stage to bring countries like Qatar and Turkey and Egypt together to help in this effort to bring Hamas to support a peace plan. And Israel's wanted to do this for a long period of time. This week is the two-year anniversary of the brutal invasion [by Hamas] into Israel and the attacks on Israeli citizens.

“It's great to see with this peace plan that's being brought forth that we'll be able to see the remaining hostages, the ones that are alive, and unfortunately, as well, the ones that have passed away, being returned to their loved ones. And that we can go forward, and hopefully it'll ultimately end up being better lives for the citizens in Gaza. That they won't have the terror of Hamas hanging over their heads as they try to go about their daily lives and being able to have a peaceful solution to move forward.

“It was 20 years ago this year where Israel pulled out of Gaza with the intention of it becoming an area where they could have a peaceful development, and unfortunately, Hamas took it over. Now we need to move forward, and let's have peace in the Middle East. Let's make sure that it works well, that it's monitored as we go forward. Obviously, there's lots of organizations, lots of individuals that … some of them want it to fail. So it has to be monitored, and we'll have to have some ongoing effort to make sure that this turns out to be a success.”

On Democrats keeping the government closed and holding the country hostage:

“It really is sad for our country that the Democrats are holding our country hostage. You know, several weeks ago, the House Republicans passed a continuing resolution, which basically means we'll continue to fund the government at the current levels until November 21st, while the appropriations process for the entire fiscal year of 2026 is set up. We didn't want any gimmicks in it….

“Actually these funding levels had been voted on by Democrats earlier this year. It's not like it's a new issue for them. Unfortunately, what we've seen, since then, is that the Democrats would rather shut down the government because they want to make outrageous and unreasonable demands for additional spending. We've seen time and time again, over the last 10 days, that they're willing to hold the country hostage.

“Senator Schumer, as part of his effort in leading this Schumer Democrat Shutdown, said yesterday that every day gets better for them. I think he's referring to their campaigns in their Democrat primaries. I think they're more worried about them losing the primaries than they are worrying about what's the right thing for the country. I think they all should look forward to, how do we help the country? How do we make what's best for America?

“What we've seen are some of the consequences … about the reduction in force (RIF) efforts that's having to take place. People that are workers in the federal government are actually starting to lose their jobs, not just furloughed and not just without pay, but actually losing their job because of this.

“It's terrible consequences for the folks that have been working without pay, whether you're our military folks, whether our border patrol folks, the air traffic controllers, and the TSA agents … folks that are protecting ourselves. The first paychecks were missed today for the Capitol Police that actually protect the members of Congress.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T15:10:06Z
https://estes.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=7232,Estes Joins the John Whitmer Show,2025-10-07,2025,2025-10,Republican,House,KS,Ron Estes,E000298,estes.house.gov,estes,https://estes.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27,scraper,"On House Republicans funding the government and what the appropriations process should look like:

“We did our job several weeks ago, we –the House Republicans – voted to fund the government. [We] funded it till November 21st … The problem stems back to we haven't been doing regular order for a long time.

“There's 12 appropriation bills that fund the different departments in the government and … the fiscal year runs from October 1st to September 30th and it's been since 1997 since all 12 of those have been done, completed, signed into law by September 30th.

“The House Appropriation Committee has passed all 12 out of the Appropriations Committee, but unfortunately, the clock ran out on September 30, with all the other things we've been working on with DOGE and with the One Big, Beautiful Bill, the Working Families Tax Cuts, and other things, appropriations just didn't get done in time.

“We've passed some of them out of the house. What the Speaker proposed and what we voted on several weeks ago was, ‘Let's keep funding the government at the current levels until November 21st, allow the appropriations process to work out, pass it through the House, pass it through the Senate, and whatever conference committee work gets done by passing those provisions.’ And the Democrats said, ‘No, we're not going to do that.’ … Even though they voted for these exact same funding levels in the appropriations last spring.”

On Democrats refusing to vote for the same funding bill they voted for 13 times during the Biden administration:

“It's just a continuing resolution, which basically means you spend at the current levels. You don't start new programs, you don't change or improve programs or redirect that. It's just keeping the government open, keeping it funded so that we can continue to pay our military, continue to pay our Customs and Border Patrol agents, continue to pay the TSA agents at the airport and air traffic controllers, all the things that a great nation has and should have.

“The Democrats came back with an irrational proposal that says, ‘Well, just to fund it ‘til November 21st, we need to spend an extra 1.5 trillion dollars and do things like … give free health care to illegal aliens, and take money away from rural hospitals.’ I mean, that's what they're proposing to do in order to fund the government until November 21st.”

On Democrats’ posturing to control the media narrative:

“They're hoping to get the media on their side, which they have. I mean, the Democrat media is kind of redundant … and being able to talk about this message and make sure that there's enough angst out there.

“The facts aren't on their side. I mean, Speaker Johnson pointed out on page 57 [of the government funding bill], ‘Here's right where you said you're not going to fund the government for every operation unless you give free health care to illegal aliens.’”

On continued government payments during the Schumer Shutdown:

“This is really focused on the discretionary spending, which is about 25% of the total spending of the government. So many other things are continuing to happen.

“We're still sending out Social Security checks, still making Medicare and Medicaid payments, because those are … sometimes called mandatory programs or sometimes called entitlements. I call them automatic programs because they're set in law to happen based on the provisions that somebody's in, whether it's income or whether they've paid into Social Security or Medicare. But it gets back to the basics of the responsibility is to fund the government and make sure that we defend the country. Those are the two main responsibilities of the federal government.”

On Democrats choosing to continue receiving their salaries during the shutdown they caused:

“Yeah, it really is a bad thought process that [Senator Ruben Gallego]'s going through from the standpoint of saying he's voting to shut down the government, just like all but one House Democrat voted to shut down the government, including Kansas Democrat, only Democrat, Sharice Davids.

“[Sharice Davids] voted to shut down the government. She voted not to fund the government, which in effect shut us down. So all of these people, all the military folks, all of the Customs and Border Patrol agents, all the air traffic controllers and TSA agents are not getting paid, but you have this senator who's said the quiet thing out loud.

“The Democrats still want to get paid. Even though their staff, their own staff's not going to get paid. But for Senator Gallego to say that he wants to still get his paycheck regardless of what his staff's getting paid or the responsibilities he has to oversee the government. That's just irresponsible, particularly when he voted against funding the government.”

On Democrat hypocrisy of shutting down the government:

“I think this is a political position they're taking and it's as you said, the position they take depends on what politics and what political angle they want to play. When I pulled up, I was looking at some pictures of my phone from 2018, the last time we really had a Schumer Shutdown, and had a big picture of a sign out there of … let's stop the Schumer Shutdown and here we go again having another Schumer Shutdown just because the Democrats don't want to fund the government.

“They don't want to step up and say, ‘Okay, we know we need to negotiate and have appropriation bills passed to fund the government,’ but instead of actually doing that or instead of allowing time to finish that work between the House and the Senate, they're saying, ‘Well, let's shut the government down’ so that they can inflict pain on the American people.”

On predicting how long the Democrats will keep the government shut down:

“Well, it's really in the Democrats' court. I mean, they have backed themselves into a corner by saying they're not going to fund the government unless they spend this extra one and a half trillion dollars, and it's just irrational from that standpoint.

“So I'd like to think that they will have thought through this over the weekend, now that we've been shut down for almost a week, and look at an approach of saying, ‘Okay, so let's open up the government. Let's continue the discussions.’

“They still get input on the appropriation process. I mean, it's still going to take 60 votes in the Senate to overcome a filibuster to pass a bipartisan agreement on appropriations for the next fiscal year.”

On Congressman Estes’ concerns for Social Security:

“I chose to take the role of Chairman of the Social Security Subcommittee, which is part of one of our subcommittees on Ways and Means. It's been in place [for] 90 years. Ninety years ago was when the law was passed to implement Social Security … When it was put in place, average life expectancy was 63. And so it was set up to say if you've lived beyond that and you get to 65, then the program that you pay into, the insurance program that you pay into as a worker, you get a little assistance back from the credit that you've earned in doing that work. It was set up there as to help out with … reducing the poverty level in the senior citizens and helping them with the end of their life, for those folks that actually have lived longer than the average life expectancy.

“The average lifespan at birth is about 74. The average lifespan for somebody that reaches age 65 is about 84. And so, we need to look at some of those things about how do we adjust that? We actually have fewer workers now, partly because of technology, but we have fewer workers per retiree. So, we've got to get in and make those hard decisions …

“In 1983 they made some changes so that the baby boomers, when they were working, built up the trust fund so that it would be there when the baby boomers were retiring. Well, now we're in the midst of that retirement of the baby boomers. We're seeing that fund's going to run out in 2032. We've got to address that. We've got to get serious. We've got to be adults in the room and say, ‘This is a program that has worked and we want to make sure that it continues to work for the next 90 years.’”

On addressing the insolvency issue of Social Security:

“You can't ask a millennial or a Gen Z or Gen X to think they're going to get anything out of Social Security. And the problem is that the trust fund only gets so much money based on what's put in by workers. So when we have fewer workers per retiree, in 2032, it's not like there'll be zero dollars. It'll be about 77-76 cents on the dollar. So people that are currently getting it will get a haircut and the people that aren't getting it will get less than what they expected. So we've got to like I said, we've got to be adults. We've got to address this. The sooner we address it, the easier it'll be to solve.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T15:10:06Z