url,title,date,year,month,party,chamber,state,member_name,bioguide_id,domain,scraper,source,date_source,text,has_text,collected_at,updated_at https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=2911,"Bacon, Slotkin, Britt, DeLauro Introduce Bipartisan, Bicameral Legislation to Modernize Ovarian Cancer Prevention and Care",2026-09-29,2026,2026-09,Republican,House,NE,Don Bacon,B001298,bacon.house.gov,bacon,https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Representatives Don Bacon (R-NE) and Rosa DeLauro (D-CT) along with Senators Elissa Slotkin (D-MI) and Katie Britt (R-AL) introduced the Ovarian Cancer Improving and Modernizing Prevention, Access, Care, and Testing (IMPACT) Act, bipartisan, bicameral legislation to expand access to genetic testing, hereditary cancer risk assessment, and specialty care for patients and families affected by ovarian cancer. Ovarian cancer is the fifth-leading cause of cancer deaths among women in the United States, and roughly 80 percent of cases are detected only after the disease has reached an advanced stage. If caught early, the five-year survival rate exceeds 90 percent. However, there remains no reliable screening test for the disease. This means that genetic counseling, hereditary risk assessment, and provider awareness are critical tools for prevention and early detection. “Ovarian cancer affects thousands of women and families every year, including some of my closest friends, and too many cases are not caught until the disease has reached an advanced stage,” said Rep. Bacon. “Knowing the warning signs and having access to genetic counseling, testing and quality care can make a real difference. I’m pleased to join my colleagues on the bipartisan, bicameral Ovarian Cancer IMPACT Act to improve awareness, expand access to specialized care, including in rural communities, and help more women get the care they need sooner.” “I am a survivor of ovarian cancer by the grace of God and biomedical research,” said Rep. DeLauro. “I am proud to stand with my colleagues in introducing bipartisan, bicameral legislation that would strengthen ovarian cancer research, medical services, and outreach to women to ensure screening and good health. This Ovarian Cancer Month, I am committed to fighting for improved health outcomes for all women, so more and more women survive this deadly disease.” “No family should have to fight both a cancer diagnosis and their insurance company at the same time,” said Sen. Slotkin. “Women, especially in rural communities like Michigan, should be able to get the genetic testing and specialty care they need to catch this disease early or prevent it altogether. Our bill tackles this issue from every angle — awareness, outreach and access to care and testing — and I thank my colleagues from across the aisle as we all work to save lives.” “Too many women receive an ovarian cancer diagnosis only after the disease has advanced, when treatment options are limited and outcomes are far worse,” said Sen. Britt. “Knowledge is one of the most powerful tools we have, and every woman with a family history of ovarian cancer deserves to know her risk and have access to the screening and counseling that can help her make informed decisions about her health. I’m proud to join Senator Slotkin in this bipartisan effort to reauthorize Johanna’s Law, expand outreach to rural and underserved communities, and ensure genetic screening is covered for the women who need it most. Alabama has already shown national leadership in preventing gynecologic cancers, and this legislation builds on that progress so that where a woman lives or what her insurance plan covers doesn’t determine whether she can catch this disease early.” The Ovarian Cancer IMPACT Act would: Expand Insurance Coverage for Genetic and Genomic Testing: Require group and individual health plans, including grandfathered plans, to cover genetic counseling and testing (germline multi-gene panel testing, targeted testing, and tumor genomic profiling) for patients with a history of ovarian cancer, guideline-eligible endometrial cancer, or a family history of hereditary cancer syndromes. Cover Risk-Reducing Interventions: Ensure coverage for evidence-based risk-reducing surgeries and other risk management interventions for individuals identified as being at elevated hereditary risk, regardless of a personal cancer history. Reauthorize and Strengthen Johanna’s Law: Reauthorize the CDC’s national gynecologic cancer education campaign and authorize $20 million annually from FY2027–FY2031 to expand education and outreach on hereditary cancer risk, genetic counseling and testing, and evidence-based ovarian cancer prevention, including opportunistic salpingectomy, or fallopian tube removal. Expand Rural and Telehealth Access: Expands existing HRSA programs to include ovarian cancer and helps rural providers access ovarian cancer training and specialty expertise. Fund Demonstration Projects: Prioritize grants for outreach and education strategies in rural, underserved, and high-risk communities. Ensure Accountability: Require HHS to deliver an implementation roadmap to Congress within 180 days of enactment and comprehensive impact reports every three years through FY2032. The bill is introduced alongside a companion resolution to recognize September as National Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month. “We have an evidence-based strategy to reduce ovarian cancer risk and save lives with salpingectomy but need solutions to remove barriers to this care. Every patient considering pelvic surgery deserves a conversation with their physician about whether risk-reducing salpingectomy is appropriate for them and aligns with their health, values, and goals. We urge health systems and insurers to actively remove barriers to implementation of this care. ACOG is proud to endorse the Ovarian Cancer IMPACT Act, which would expand awareness of and access to evidence-based prevention strategies, helping spare more patients and families from the devastating burden of ovarian cancer,” said Sandra E. Brooks, MD, MBA, FACOG, chief executive officer of the American College of Obstetricians & Gynecologists. “The introduction of the Ovarian Cancer IMPACT Act is an important step forward for people affected by gynecologic cancers,” said Audra Moran, President and CEO of Ovarian Cancer Research Alliance. “We are incredibly grateful to Senators Slotkin and Britt and Representatives DeLauro and Bacon for their bipartisan leadership and commitment to advancing policies that will improve prevention, expand access to care in rural and underserved communities, and give patients and families more opportunities to understand and manage their cancer risk.” “FORCE applauds the introduction of this important legislation, which has the potential to save lives while reducing long-term healthcare costs,” said Lisa Schlager, BRCA1 mutation carrier and Vice President, Public Policy at FORCE: Facing Our Risk of Cancer Empowered. “Up to 20% of ovarian cancers and 15% of endometrial cancers are linked to inherited gene mutations. National medical guidelines recommend that everyone diagnosed with these cancers be offered genetic counseling and testing. While hereditary cancers represent only a subset of all cancer diagnoses, identifying individuals who have—or are predisposed to—these cancers is critical. They are the poster children for prevention, early detection, and targeted treatments.” See full text of the bill here. ###",1,2026-09-30T10:57:52Z,2026-09-30T10:59:04Z https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases/smith-leads-bicameral-effort-expand-educational-opportunities,Smith Leads Bicameral Effort to Expand Educational Opportunities,2026-09-17,2026,2026-09,Republican,House,NE,Adrian Smith,S001172,adriansmith.house.gov,adriansmith,https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Congressman Adrian Smith (R-NE-03), a senior member of the House Ways and Means Committee, led a bicameral group of his colleagues in introducing the Educational Opportunities Expansion Package, two bills to strengthen his Federal Scholarship Tax Credit, a key provision of the Working Families Tax Cuts. The package aims to expand educational opportunities for students nationwide by removing the current state opt-in requirement and ensuring that scholarship donors are not restricted in their giving based on their marital status. ""My Federal Scholarship Tax Credit marked a critical victory for educational freedom nationwide. However, I know our work is not done. This is why I introduced my Educational Opportunities Expansion Package to ensure students nationwide can reap the full benefits of these scholarships, while also protecting benefactors from penalties based on their marital status. I am grateful for the strong bicameral support of my colleagues, and I look forward to working together to build on our success,” said Smith. In addition to Smith, the legislation is co-led by U.S. Representatives Tim Walberg (R-MI-05) and Burgess Owens (R-UT-04). U.S. Senator Bill Cassidy (R-LA) introduced companion legislation in the Senate. ""Last year, Republicans' Working Families Tax Cuts became law, delivering the largest expansion of school choice in history. I support giving every family the opportunity to benefit, providing parents with greater flexibility to choose the educational environment that best supports their child’s needs. All children deserve access to an education that helps them achieve the American Dream, no matter their background or address,”said Chairman Walberg. “Parents know what is right for their kids much better than any bureaucrat. I’m grateful for this legislation that strengthens school choice policies which puts parents in the driver’s seat of their child’s education and ensures the student can receive the education they deserve,”said Owens. “As parents, we know our children better than anyone. When we put parents in charge of their child’s education, we give children the best opportunity to thrive,”said Dr. Cassidy. “Another win for School Choice!” The Educational Opportunities Expansion Package is supported by the American Federation for Children, Invest in Education Coalition, Federal Scholarship Tax Credit Coalition Steering Committee, Ed Choice, and Agudath Israel of America. ""The Federal Scholarship Tax Credit has created an unprecedented opportunity to open the doors of education to nearly 52 million children nationwide. We are grateful to Rep. Adrian Smith for his tireless work in passing the Federal Scholarship Tax Credit last year and are pleased to support the Educational Opportunities Expansion Package which makes targeted, common-sense improvements that will allow more children and families to be served in all 50 states. We look forward to continuing to work with Rep. Smith on ways to bring resources to families through this historic new opportunity,” said American Federation for Children Director of Federal Affairs Ashling Preston. “Thank you, Congressman Adrian Smith, for your leadership in introducing the Educational Opportunities Expansion Package to expand access to the Federal Scholarship Tax Credit program. These two bills will help make this program accessible to all students in public and non-public schools across the country while opening the door for more private dollars to be invested in the program. This historic program has the potential to provide life-changing scholarships to families who need them most, helping ensure more children have access to the educational opportunities and resources they need to succeed. We are grateful for Congressman Smith’s leadership in working to expand the reach and impact of this important program,”said Invest in Education Coalition Chairman Tony de Nicola. ""The 50 State Federal Scholarship Tax Credit Coalition is grateful to Rep. Adrian Smith (R-NE) for his leadership on the Federal Scholarship Tax Credit. As the House sponsor of this legislation, Congressman Smith helped shepherd this policy into the Working Families Tax Cut Act. Today, we support Congressman Smith’s Educational Opportunities Expansion Package to ensure married couples filing jointly can both give to scholarship granting organizations and to remove the onerous 'opt-in' provision. These changes will greatly improve the tax credit, allowing significantly more K-12 students to benefit,”said Federal Scholarship Tax Credit Coalition Steering Committee Members Jim Blew and John Schilling. “Ed Choice, the legacy foundation of Milton and Rose Friedman, is thrilled that Rep. Adrian Smith (R-NE) has put forward a proposal to greatly improve the federal scholarship tax credit program. By proposing to remove the burdensome ‘opt-in’ provision and allow couples filing jointly to both support scholarship granting organizations, more kids will be served, and the program will become stronger than ever. As one of the nation’s most respected voices for universal choice, we believe that all children should be free to use all educational options with all the resources available to them. This bill gets us closer to that goal,”said Ed Choice President & CEO Robert Enlow. “Agudath Israel of America thanks Rep. Adrian Smith (R - NE) for sponsoring a pair of bills that make the Federal Scholarship Tax Credit included in the One Big Beautiful Bill even better. Requiring states to opt in to the federal scholarship credit was added at the last minute and never envisioned by Congress. While we are hopeful that every state will ultimately opt in so that their students can benefit from the billions of dollars in new scholarship opportunities, Rep. Smith's proposal removes unnecessary state entanglement in a federal benefit. The second bill clarifies that married couples who share a passion for helping students and each donate $1700 to a scholarship organization will not be penalized simply because they file a shared tax return. Agudath Israel of America urges Congress to advance both important pieces of legislation,”said Agudath Israel of America National Director of Government Affairs Rabbi A.D. Motzen. BACKGROUND: The Educational Opportunities Expansion Package includes two bills aimed at expanding access to the Federal Scholarship Tax Credit and restoring Congressional intent following changes made during the Senate parliamentarian’s review of the 2025 reconciliation. H.R. 10412: Would repeal the state opt-in requirement for the Federal Scholarship Tax Credit, ensuring that every student has access to its scholarship opportunities regardless of their zip code. Click here to read the full text of H.R. 10412. HR 10413: Would ensure that married taxpayers are not at a disadvantage by allowing them to claim the tax credit up to an amount that is double the cap for individual filers. Click here to read the full text of H.R. 10413.",1,2026-09-18T09:27:43Z,2026-09-18T09:29:09Z https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=2910,"Bacon, Walkinshaw, Landsman, Fitzpatrick Introduce Bipartisan Bill to Rescue Ukrainian Children Abducted by Russia",2026-09-17,2026,2026-09,Republican,House,NE,Don Bacon,B001298,bacon.house.gov,bacon,https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx,scraper,"The Justice for Ukrainian Children Act would fund efforts to locate and return abducted children, mandate sanctions on those responsible, and counter Kremlin propaganda Washington, D.C. – This week, U.S. Representatives Don Bacon (NE-02), James R. Walkinshaw (VA-11), Greg Landsman (OH-01), and Brian Fitzpatrick(PA-01) introduced the bipartisan Justice for Ukrainian Children Act, legislation to strengthen efforts to locate and return Ukrainian children abducted by Russia, hold those responsible accountable, and reunite families. According to the Ukrainian government, Russia has abducted at least 20,000 Ukrainian children since the start of its full-scale invasion. Just over 2,100 have come home. Those still held have been separated from their families, subjected to political indoctrination and militarization, and stripped of their Ukrainian identity. “Russia has taken thousands of Ukrainian children from their families and tried to strip them of their identity and homeland,” said Congressman Bacon. “We cannot sit by while parents, grandparents and siblings wait for their children to come home. The Justice for Ukrainian Children Act will strengthen efforts to find these children, return them to their families and hold those responsible accountable. I’m pleased to join Reps. Walkinshaw, Landsman and Fitzpatrick on this bipartisan legislation.” ""Russia is running a deliberate campaign to erase these children's identity and steal Ukraine's future,"" said Congressman Walkinshaw. ""As a father, I cannot imagine the anguish of having your child taken and indoctrinated by a foreign government. The United States cannot look away. This bipartisan bill will help find these children, bring them home, and hold the perpetrators accountable."" “Russia’s abduction of Ukrainian children is among the most unconscionable crimes of this war,” said Congressman Fitzpatrick. “Thousands of children have been taken from their parents, separated from their communities, and forced to endure horrors no child should ever have to face. Our responsibility is clear: find them, bring them home, and hold accountable those responsible. This legislation ensures that responsibility remains central to our strategy—and that the fate of Ukraine’s children is inseparable from the pursuit of accountability and a just and durable peace.” ""Tens of thousands of children from Ukraine are being brainwashed and hidden in Russia's adoption system. We have to do everything to bring these children home and reunite them with their families, where they belong,” said Congressman Landsman. The Justice for Ukrainian Children Act would: Authorize $15 million a year of existing national security funding, through 2032, toward finding these children, getting them home, and helping them recover. Maintain a secure database to preserve evidence of Russia's crimes, and share it with Europol, Ukraine's Ministry of Justice, and the groups working to bring children home. Require the President to freeze assets and revoke visas for anyone who takes part in abducting, deporting, indoctrinating, or militarizing Ukrainian children. Authorize $10 million for Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty and Voice of America broadcasts into Ukraine and the region, and toward technology that defeats Russian jamming. Make it United States policy to veto any Russian-led U.N. Security Council resolution that would shield Russia from accountability. Require the State Department to report to Congress every year for five years on what it is doing to bring these children home, including in any talks to end the war. Russia's abduction of Ukrainian children has been widely documented and condemned by the international community. In March of this year, a United Nations commission of inquiry concluded that Russian authorities committed crimes against humanity in deporting and forcibly transferring Ukrainian children and in making them disappear. The International Criminal Court issued arrest warrants in 2023 for Russian President Vladimir Putin and Russian Commissioner for Children's Rights Maria Lvova-Belova over their alleged responsibility for those crimes. U.S. Representatives Brendan F. Boyle (PA-02), André Carson (IN-07), Yvette D. Clarke (NY-09), Jim Costa (CA-21), Madeleine Dean (PA-04), Sylvia R. Garcia (TX-29), Dan Goldman (NY-10), Val T. Hoyle (O-04), Tom Kean, Jr. (NJ-07), Bill Keating (MA-09), George Latimer (NY-16), Stephen Lynch (MA-08), Sarah McBride (DE), Jennifer McClellan (VA-04), Jim McGovern (MA-02), Eleanor Holmes Norton (DC), Ilhan Omar (MN-05), Speaker Emerita Nancy Pelosi (CA-11), Mike Quigley (IL-05), Delia Ramirez (IL-03), Emily Randall (WA-06), Jamie Raskin (MD-08), Deborah Ross (NC-02), Norma J. Torres (CA-35), Debbie Wasserman Schultz (FL-25), and Joe Wilson (SC-02) are original cosponsors of this legislation. This bill is endorsed by Human Rights Watch, Razom for Ukraine, FDD Action, and the American Coalition for Ukraine. The full text of the legislation is available here. ###",1,2026-09-18T09:27:43Z,2026-09-18T09:29:09Z https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-flood-celebrates-house-passage-ratepayer-protection-act,Congressman Flood Celebrates House Passage of the Ratepayer Protection Act,2026-09-17,2026,2026-09,Republican,House,NE,Mike Flood,F000474,flood.house.gov,flood,https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Mike Flood released the following statement celebrating the House passage of the bipartisan Ratepayer Protection Act. Congressman Flood is a co-sponsor the bill, which helps prevent data center energy costs from being pass along to consumers. “Congress has a responsibility to ensure consumers have commonsense protections from artificial intelligence without putting the brakes on American innovation. I’m happy to cosponsor the bipartisan Ratepayer Protection Act, and I am glad to see it pass the House,” said Congressman Flood. “This legislation will protect our energy grid and address the growing costs data centers can place on hardworking families and small businesses. No Nebraska ratepayer should subsidize a Big Tech company's expansion.”",1,2026-09-18T09:27:43Z,2026-09-18T09:29:09Z https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-flood-nebraska-delegation-mark-another-successful-year-nebraska,"Congressman Flood, Nebraska Delegation Mark Another Successful Year of the Nebraska Breakfast in D.C.",2026-09-16,2026,2026-09,Republican,House,NE,Mike Flood,F000474,flood.house.gov,flood,https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congressman Mike Flood marked the conclusion of the 2026 Nebraska Breakfast, celebrating the 83-year tradition that brings Nebraskans and the federal delegation together in Washington, D.C. “In its 83rd year, the Nebraska Breakfast brought a little slice of Nebraska Nice to our nation’s capital,” said Congressman Flood. “Held on Wednesdays when both the House and Senate were in session, this tradition gives all Nebraskans visiting Washington, D.C. a chance to stop by, spend time with their federal delegation, and hear firsthand about our priorities and what’s happening on Capitol Hill. I want to thank everyone who stopped by one of our breakfasts this year and helped keep this great Nebraska tradition alive and well.” Photos of the last Nebraska Breakfast of 2026 can be found by clicking here. The Nebraska Breakfast is open to all Nebraskans visiting Washington and provides a unique opportunity to hear directly from the entire Nebraska delegation. The tradition was started by Senator Hugh Butler in 1943 and has continued for more than eight decades. This year, Congressman Flood’s office hosted the Nebraska Breakfast, continuing a longstanding tradition in which offices in Nebraska’s federal delegation alternate hosting responsibilities every year. Congressman Flood included Nebraska trivia questions at each Breakfast, celebrating communities, innovators, and accomplishments across the state.",1,2026-09-17T09:52:05Z,2026-09-17T09:53:00Z https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases/smith-announces-upcoming-mobile-office-hour-chase-county,Smith Announces Upcoming Mobile Office Hour for Chase County,2026-09-10,2026,2026-09,Republican,House,NE,Adrian Smith,S001172,adriansmith.house.gov,adriansmith,https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Congressman Adrian Smith (NE-03) announced today that his staff will hold a mobile office hour for constituents in Chase County on Tuesday, September 22, 2026. This office hour is an opportunity for constituents to meet directly with a member of Smith's staff about federal issues, receive assistance with a federal agency, or take advantage of the services available through his office. Smith, who has offices in Grand Island, Scottsbluff, and Nebraska City, will provide a staff member at the following times and locations: Tuesday, September 22, 2026 Chase County Courthouse 921 Broadway Imperial, NE 69033 12:00 pm - 1:00 pm MT For more information, please contact Smith’s Grand Island office at (308) 384-3900, his Scottsbluff office at (308) 633-6333, or his Nebraska City office at (402) 874-6050.",1,2026-09-12T09:02:30Z,2026-09-12T09:03:27Z https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases/smith-announces-upcoming-mobile-office-hour-dundy-county,Smith Announces Upcoming Mobile Office Hour for Dundy County,2026-09-10,2026,2026-09,Republican,House,NE,Adrian Smith,S001172,adriansmith.house.gov,adriansmith,https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Congressman Adrian Smith (NE-03) announced today that his staff will hold a mobile office hour for constituents in Dundy County on Monday, September 21, 2026. This office hour is an opportunity for constituents to meet directly with a member of Smith's staff about federal issues, receive assistance with a federal agency, or take advantage of the services available through his office. Smith, who has offices in Grand Island, Scottsbluff, and Nebraska City, will provide a staff member at the following times and locations: Monday, September 21, 2026 Dundy County Courthouse 112 W. 7th Avenue Benkleman, NE 69021 12:00 pm - 1:00 pm MT For more information, please contact Smith’s Grand Island office at (308) 384-3900, his Scottsbluff office at (308) 633-6333, or his Nebraska City office at (402) 874-6050.",1,2026-09-12T09:02:30Z,2026-09-12T09:03:27Z https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=2909,"Bacon, Carbajal Visit Philippines to Strengthen U.S.-Philippines Alliance, Honor Shared History",2026-09-04,2026,2026-09,Republican,House,NE,Don Bacon,B001298,bacon.house.gov,bacon,https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – Representatives Don Bacon (NE-02) and Salud Carbajal (CA-24), members of the House Armed Services Committee, recently participated in a bipartisan Congressional Delegation visit to the Philippines focused on strengthening U.S.-Philippines defense cooperation, improving deterrence and interoperability in the South China Sea and expanding cyber capabilities. During the visit, Reps. Bacon and Carbajal met with Philippine National Security Adviser Eduardo S.L. Oban Jr., Department of National Defense Undersecretary for Information Systems and Cybersecurity Fabian Pedregosa and U.S. Embassy Deputy Chief of Mission Bridgette Walker. They also met with rotational U.S. servicemembers supporting forward presence and deterrence in the region, visited key readiness facilities at Subic Bay and saw U.S. Navy presence in and near the South China Sea. Discussions with Philippine leaders focused on the People’s Republic of China’s aggressive military actions in the South China Sea, including around the Spratly Islands, as well as Philippine defense modernization, cybersecurity and strengthening the longstanding alliance between the two countries. “The Philippines is a vital ally, and our visit reinforced how important this partnership is to our national security,” said Rep. Bacon. “The PRC’s aggressive military actions in the South China Sea are forcing the Philippines to increase its military capabilities, and our soldiers, Marines and sailors are doing exceptional work providing deterrence, reassuring our allies and improving interoperability. I was also grateful to finally see the Balangiga Bells in Balangiga. Their return was intended to help complete reconciliation and strengthen trust between our countries, and eight years later, it is working.” “As the People’s Republic of China escalates its aggressive posture in the South China Sea, strengthening key U.S. alliances across the Indo-Pacific is essential to regional security,” said Rep. Carbajal. “I welcomed the opportunity to meet with Filipino leaders to advance our shared priorities and deepen the long-standing defense cooperation between our two nations.” At the U.S. Embassy in Manila, Walker hosted Reps. Bacon and Carbajal for discussions on strengthening deterrence and joint capabilities. The lawmakers also saw the same flagpole that stood at the embassy during World War II, which still bears bullet holes from the war. The visit also brought Reps. Bacon and Carbajal to the town of Balangiga, where Rep. Bacon saw the three Balangiga Bells eight years after leading legislation that allowed their return to the Philippines. The bells were taken by U.S. forces as war trophies in 1901 and remained in the United States for more than a century. After then-Bellevue Mayor Rita Sanders and members of the Filipino community in Nebraska raised the issue with Rep. Bacon, he helped advance legislation through the 2018 National Defense Authorization Act allowing the Secretary of Defense to approve their return. The bells were returned to Balangiga in December 2018. During last week’s visit, Reps. Bacon and Carbajal met with the mayor, priest and members of the local community. Rep. Bacon reflected on the significance of their return while in Balangiga, saying it was “a way of trying to provide that reconciliation and strengthen friendship.” Reps. Bacon and Carbajal also paid their respects at the Manila American Cemetery, the largest American military cemetery overseas and the final resting place of more than 17,000 American and allied war dead from World War II. While at the cemetery, Rep. Bacon located the graves of two Nebraskans, Col Irvin R. Schimmelpfennig, who grew up in Humphrey and was killed during the Battle of Manila in 1945, and Pfc Clemens E. Gabrielson, a Nebraska servicemember who died in 1942. Rep. Bacon also visited the Walls of the Missing, where Lt Col Harold William Bauer is memorialized. Bauer grew up in Alma, Nebraska, became a Marine fighter pilot and was posthumously awarded the Medal of Honor after being lost near Guadalcanal in 1942. His remains were never recovered. Photos from the congressional visit are available here. Photo Credit: Office of Congressman Don Bacon. https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fo/axh3fb71jjz27fagnzh2j/AKfQiN2yL1M_yoU0m6o0WWE?rlkey=5s8m9y00s9ylk0q0nt4fqng8b&st=ww3b9srn&dl=0 Additional background on Rep. Bacon’s work to return the Balangiga Bells is available in his 2018 release: https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=295 Rep. Bacon’s 2019 Congressional Record remarks on the history and significance of their return are available here: https://www.congress.gov/116/crec/2019/04/03/modified/CREC-2019-04-03-pt1-PgE394-3.htm ###",1,2026-09-12T09:02:30Z,2026-09-12T09:03:27Z https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases/smith-moran-lead-letter-urging-admin-expand-markets-americas-ranchers,"Smith, Moran Lead Letter Urging Admin to Expand Markets for America’s Ranchers",2026-09-02,2026,2026-09,Republican,House,NE,Adrian Smith,S001172,adriansmith.house.gov,adriansmith,https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Today, U.S. Representative Adrian Smith (NE-03), Chair of the House Ways and Means Subcommittee on Trade, and U.S. Senator Jerry Moran (R-KS), a member of the Senate Agriculture Committee, led 51 of their colleagues in urging President Trump to prioritize policies that expand trade market access and provide certainty for American cattle producers. This comes after the president’s recent proclamation to increase the “other countries” quota for lean beef trimmings by 300,000 metric tons for 90 days beginning on September 1, 2026, and indicating that such imports will be sold at 25 percent below market price. “American ranchers work diligently to do more with less, weather volatile markets, and provide a safe food supply,” the lawmakers wrote. “Cattle markets are cyclical, and ranchers use the upswings to prepare for the inevitable downturn. Any intervention in the natural system, especially at a time when producers are making marketing decisions, threatens to pick winners and losers and undermine the long-term viability of family-owned cattle operations throughout the supply chain. “As you consider policy changes which could impact American livestock producers, we urge you to prioritize proposals which deliver long-term market stability and confidence while consulting closely with impacted stakeholders,”concluded the lawmakers. “We are eager to work together to deliver certainty for American cattle producers while continuing to deliver safe, affordable, and high-quality American beef.” In addition to Smith and Moran, the letter was signed by U.S. Senators Kevin Cramer (R-ND), Chuck Grassley (R-IA), Pete Ricketts (R-NE), Bill Cassidy (R-LA), Deb Fischer (R-NE), Jim Justice (R-WV), Steve Daines (R-MT), and John Hoven (R-ND), and U.S. Representatives Dusty Johnson (R-SD-AL), Randy Feenstra (R-IA-04), Ann Wagner (R-MO-02), Max Miller (R-OH-07), Ashley Hinson (R-IA-02), Derek Schmidt (R-KS-02), Dan Newhouse (R-WA-04), Greg Steube (R-FL-17), Mike Carey (R-OH-15), Michelle Fischbach (R-MN-07), Blake Moore (R-UT-01), Tracey Mann (R-KS-01), Mike Flood (R-NE-01), Mike Bost (R-IL-12), Jeff Hurd (R-CO-03), Zach Nunn (R-IA-03), Warren Davidson (R-OH-08), Gabe Evans (R-CO-08), Mark Alford (R-MO-04), Mariannette Miller-Meeks (R-IA-02), French Hill (R-AR-02), Morgan Griffith (R-VA-09), Brad Finstad (R-MN-01), Greg Murphy (R-NC-03), Frank Lucas (R-OK-03), Andy Barr (R-KY-06), John Rose (R-TN-06), Troy Downing (R-MT-02), Cliff Bentz (R-OR-02), Julie Fedorchak (R-ND-AL), Tim Moore (R-NC-14), Bruce Westerman (R-AR-04), Ron Estes (R-KS-04), Rob Wittman (R-VA-01), Scott Franklin (R-FL-18), Austin Scott (R-GA-08), Mary Miller (R-IL-15), Celeste Maloy (R-UT-02), August Pfluger (R-TX-11), John McGuire III (R-VA-05), Darin LaHood (R-IL-18), Tim Cole (R-OK-04), and Mark Harris (R-NC-08). Read the full letter here or below: President Trump, As you know, the cattle industry is facing 75-year low inventory yet continues to efficiently raise cattle and produce beef that is unmatched in quality anywhere in the world. This does not happen by accident. American ranchers work diligently to do more with less, weather volatile markets, and provide a safe food supply. Cattle markets are cyclical, and ranchers use the upswings to prepare for the inevitable downturn. Any intervention in the natural system, especially at a time when producers are making marketing decisions, threatens to pick winners and losers and undermine the long-term viability of family-owned cattle operations throughout the supply chain. Long term certainty can be delivered by fostering existing domestic demand and continuing efforts to expand overseas markets for American beef products, building on the successful trade deals you have already secured. As proven through the deals you struck with the United Kingdom and Australia, there is significant opportunity for advancing market access for American beef around the world. These trade deals, coupled with the significant benefits of the Working Families Tax Cuts, will drive long-term confidence in the market and create a natural incentive for ranchers to rebuild and expand their herds. Additionally, your support for a modernized Farm Bill would strengthen access to capital and expand flexibility within grazing and conservation programs, providing producers with the tools they need to strengthen and expand the cattle herd. As you consider policy changes which could impact American livestock producers, we urge you to prioritize proposals which deliver long-term market stability and confidence while consulting closely with impacted stakeholders. We are eager to work together to deliver certainty for American cattle producers while continuing to deliver safe, affordable, and high-quality American beef.",1,2026-09-03T09:29:33Z,2026-09-03T09:31:32Z https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=2908,"Bacon, Jacobs Introduce Bipartisan Bill to Protect Press Access at the Pentagon",2026-08-31,2026,2026-08,Republican,House,NE,Don Bacon,B001298,bacon.house.gov,bacon,https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx,scraper,"Washington, D.C. — Representatives Don Bacon (NE-02) and Sara Jacobs (CA-51) today introduced bipartisan legislation to restore and protect press access at the Pentagon, reversing months of Secretary Hegseth’s efforts to restrict independent reporting. “A free press makes our country better, and the new Pentagon media restrictions are not wise. I was stationed at the Pentagon twice and saw firsthand that credentialed reporters had access to hallways, cafeterias and designated press areas, not offices or classified areas with sensitive national security information. I’m joining Rep. Jacobs on this bipartisan legislation to restore reasonable press access, protect an independent credentialing process and ensure future changes receive appropriate congressional oversight,” said Rep. Bacon. “Muzzling the Pentagon’s independent press corps blinds Congress and the American people to what’s happening in our name and with our money. Asking our military leaders tough questions and holding them accountable – especially during times of conflict – is a basic, but critical part of our democracy. Without transparency, the American people can’t trust they’re getting the truth, not propaganda, or that the military is following the rule of law. Our bipartisan bill will help restore press access at the Pentagon, so we can maintain transparency, accountability, and oversight,” said Rep. Sara Jacobs. The legislation would: Restore press access to areas of the Pentagon that were accessible prior to the 2025 restrictions, including the “Correspondents’ Corridor” Renew unescorted press access to areas of the Pentagon that were accessible without an escort prior to the 2025 restrictions Require the Secretary to ensure the integrity of the process to issue to reporters a Pentagon credential, ensuring the security review process is conducted by career officials in the Pentagon Force Protection Agency without unnecessary delays or political influence Prohibit any changes to press access at the Pentagon, including the designation of press workspaces, access areas, and press credentials, without prior congressional consultation",1,2026-09-01T09:48:49Z,2026-09-01T09:49:51Z https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases/smith-urges-admin-support-americas-ranchers,Smith Urges Admin to Support America's Ranchers,2026-08-26,2026,2026-08,Republican,House,NE,Adrian Smith,S001172,adriansmith.house.gov,adriansmith,https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Today, Congressman Adrian Smith (R-NE), a senior member of the House Ways and Means Committee and Chair of the Subcommittee on Trade, released the following statement in response to the Trump Administration’s move to increase foreign beef imports: “As Nebraska’s ranchers continue to recover from the historic wildfires this spring—amid an ongoing drought—they need market certainty. With cattle inventory at 75-year lows, we must focus on policies which empower ranchers to rebuild our domestic herd. While I acknowledge the administration’s efforts to address consumers’ concerns, providing certainty for America’s hardworking ranchers is essential. Moving forward, I will continue to encourage the administration to pursue policies that give America’s ranchers the assurance they need to make long-term decisions for their operations.”",1,2026-08-27T16:10:01Z,2026-08-27T16:10:50Z https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases/smith-announces-upcoming-mobile-office-hour-johnson-county,Smith Announces Upcoming Mobile Office Hour for Johnson County,2026-08-24,2026,2026-08,Republican,House,NE,Adrian Smith,S001172,adriansmith.house.gov,adriansmith,https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Congressman Adrian Smith (NE-03) announced today that his staff will hold a mobile office hour for constituents in Johnson County on Tuesday, September 8, 2026. This office hour is an opportunity for constituents to meet directly with a member of Smith's staff about federal issues, receive assistance with a federal agency, or take advantage of the services available through his office. Smith, who has offices in Grand Island, Scottsbluff, and Nebraska City, will provide a staff member at the following times and locations: Tuesday, September 8, 2026 Johnson County Courthouse, Top Floor 351 Broadway Street Tecumseh, NE 68450 11:00 am - 12:00pm CT For more information, please contact Smith’s Grand Island office at (308) 384-3900, his Scottsbluff office at (308) 633-6333, or his Nebraska City office at (402) 874-6050.",1,2026-08-25T05:31:37Z,2026-08-25T05:33:09Z https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases/smith-announces-upcoming-mobile-office-hour-nemaha-county,Smith Announces Upcoming Mobile Office Hour for Nemaha County,2026-08-24,2026,2026-08,Republican,House,NE,Adrian Smith,S001172,adriansmith.house.gov,adriansmith,https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Congressman Adrian Smith (NE-03) announced today that his staff will hold a mobile office hour for constituents in Nemaha County on Wednesday, September 2, 2026. This office hour is an opportunity for constituents to meet directly with a member of Smith's staff about federal issues, receive assistance with a federal agency, or take advantage of the services available through his office. Smith, who has offices in Grand Island, Scottsbluff, and Nebraska City, will provide a staff member at the following times and locations: Wednesday, September 2, 2026 Nemaha County Courthouse 1824 N Street Auburn, NE 68305 12:00 pm - 1:00 pm CT For more information, please contact Smith’s Grand Island office at (308) 384-3900, his Scottsbluff office at (308) 633-6333, or his Nebraska City office at (402) 874-6050.",1,2026-08-25T05:31:37Z,2026-08-25T05:33:09Z https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases/smith-announces-upcoming-mobile-office-hour-washington-county,Smith Announces Upcoming Mobile Office Hour for Washington County,2026-08-24,2026,2026-08,Republican,House,NE,Adrian Smith,S001172,adriansmith.house.gov,adriansmith,https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Congressman Adrian Smith (NE-03) announced today that his staff will hold a mobile office hour for constituents in Washington County on Tuesday, September 1, 2026. This office hour is an opportunity for constituents to meet directly with a member of Smith's staff about federal issues, receive assistance with a federal agency, or take advantage of the services available through his office. Smith, who has offices in Grand Island, Scottsbluff, and Nebraska City, will provide a staff member at the following times and locations: Tuesday, September 1, 2026 Washington County Courthouse 1555 Colfax Street Blair, NE 68008 12:00 pm - 1:00 pm CT For more information, please contact Smith’s Grand Island office at (308) 384-3900, his Scottsbluff office at (308) 633-6333, or his Nebraska City office at (402) 874-6050.",1,2026-08-25T05:31:37Z,2026-08-25T05:33:09Z https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases/smith-announces-upcoming-mobile-office-hours-richardson-and-pawnee-counties,Smith Announces Upcoming Mobile Office Hours for Richardson and Pawnee Counties,2026-08-24,2026,2026-08,Republican,House,NE,Adrian Smith,S001172,adriansmith.house.gov,adriansmith,https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Congressman Adrian Smith (NE-03) announced today that his staff will hold mobile office hours for constituents in Pawnee and Richardson Counties on Thursday, September 3, 2026. These office hours are an opportunity for constituents to meet directly with a member of Smith's staff about federal issues, receive assistance with a federal agency, or take advantage of the services available through his office. Smith, who has offices in Grand Island, Scottsbluff, and Nebraska City, will provide a staff member at the following times and locations: Thursday, September 3, 2026 Richardson County Courthouse 1700 Stone Street Falls City, NE 68355 11:00 am - 12:00 pm CT Pawnee County Courthouse, First Floor 625 6th Street Pawnee City, NE 68420 1:00 pm - 2:00 pm CT For more information, please contact Smith’s Grand Island office at (308) 384-3900, his Scottsbluff office at (308) 633-6333, or his Nebraska City office at (402) 874-6050.",1,2026-08-25T05:31:37Z,2026-08-25T05:33:09Z https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-flood-accepting-applications-2027-spring-internship-program,"Congressman Flood Accepting Applications for 2027 Spring Internship Program in Washington, D.C.",2026-08-24,2026,2026-08,Republican,House,NE,Mike Flood,F000474,flood.house.gov,flood,https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"LINCOLN, NEBRASKA – Today, U.S. Congressman Mike Flood announced that his office is accepting applications for the spring internship program in his Washington, D.C. office. “Interns play an important role in our office,” said Congressman Flood. “This experience is about more than learning how Congress works. Our program is an opportunity to contribute to the work of our office, engage directly with Nebraskans, and gain firsthand experience in public service. I encourage you and anyone you know to apply to my Washington, D.C. Office’s spring 2027 internship program to see Congress at work.” Congressional interns in the Office of Congressman Flood will have the opportunity to work alongside each team within the office. The internship curriculum is designed to provide interns with a well-rounded understanding of how a congressional office operates, including constituent services, communications, legislative efforts, office operations, and committee work. Additionally, interns will have the opportunity to attend policy briefings, unique tours, congressional hearings, guest speaker events, networking opportunities, and other activities on Capitol Hill. The deadline to apply for the spring internship is October 2, 2026. The internship will run from January 25 – May 14.",1,2026-08-31T11:22:56Z,2026-08-31T11:24:00Z https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases/smith-announces-upcoming-mobile-office-hour-valley-county,Smith Announces Upcoming Mobile Office Hour for Valley County,2026-08-12,2026,2026-08,Republican,House,NE,Adrian Smith,S001172,adriansmith.house.gov,adriansmith,https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Congressman Adrian Smith (NE-03) announced today that his staff will hold a mobile office hour for constituents in Valley County on Tuesday, August 25, 2026. This office hour is an opportunity for constituents to meet directly with a member of Smith's staff about federal issues, receive assistance with a federal agency, or take advantage of the services available through his office. Smith, who has offices in Grand Island, Scottsbluff, and Nebraska City, will provide a staff member at the following time and location: Tuesday, August 25, 2026 Valley County Courthouse 125 S. 15th Street Ord, NE 68862 11:30 am - 12:30 pm CT",1,2026-08-13T06:17:16Z,2026-08-13T06:18:13Z https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases/smith-announces-upcoming-mobile-office-hours-boyd-and-cherry-counties,Smith Announces Upcoming Mobile Office Hours for Boyd and Cherry Counties,2026-08-12,2026,2026-08,Republican,House,NE,Adrian Smith,S001172,adriansmith.house.gov,adriansmith,https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Congressman Adrian Smith (NE-03) announced today that his staff will hold a mobile office hour for constituents in Boyd and Cherry Counties on Tuesday, August 25, 2026. These office hours are an opportunity for constituents to meet directly with a member of Smith's staff about federal issues, receive assistance with a federal agency, or take advantage of the services available through his office. Smith, who has offices in Grand Island, Scottsbluff, and Nebraska City, will provide a staff member at the following times and locations: Tuesday, August 25, 2026 Boyd County Courthouse 401 Thayer Street Butte, NE 68722 9:00 am - 10:00 am CT Cherry County Courthouse 365 N. Main Street Valentine, NE 69201 12:40 pm - 1:40 pm CT For more information, please contact Smith’s Grand Island office at (308) 384-3900, his Scottsbluff office at (308) 633-6333, or his Nebraska City office at (402) 874-6050.",1,2026-08-13T06:17:16Z,2026-08-13T06:18:13Z https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases/smith-announces-upcoming-mobile-office-hours-franklin-and-nuckolls-counties,Smith Announces Upcoming Mobile Office Hours for Franklin and Nuckolls Counties,2026-08-12,2026,2026-08,Republican,House,NE,Adrian Smith,S001172,adriansmith.house.gov,adriansmith,https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Congressman Adrian Smith (NE-03) announced today that his staff will hold a mobile office hour for constituents in Franklin and Nuckolls Counties on Tuesday, August 25, 2026. These office hours are an opportunity for constituents to meet directly with a member of Smith's staff about federal issues, receive assistance with a federal agency, or take advantage of the services available through his office. Smith, who has offices in Grand Island, Scottsbluff, and Nebraska City, will provide a staff member at the following times and locations: Tuesday, August 25, 2026 Village of Hildreth Office 248 Commercial Avenue Hildreth, NE 68947 11:00 am - 12:00 pm CT Nuckolls County Courthouse 150 Main Street Nelson, NE 68961 1:00 pm - 2:00 pm CT For more information, please contact Smith’s Grand Island office at (308) 384-3900, his Scottsbluff office at (308) 633-6333, or his Nebraska City office at (402) 874-6050.",1,2026-08-13T06:17:16Z,2026-08-13T06:18:13Z https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases/smith-announces-upcoming-mobile-office-hours-gage-thayer-and-york-counties,"Smith Announces Upcoming Mobile Office Hours for Gage, Thayer, and York Counties",2026-08-12,2026,2026-08,Republican,House,NE,Adrian Smith,S001172,adriansmith.house.gov,adriansmith,https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Congressman Adrian Smith (NE-03) announced today that his staff will hold a mobile office hour for constituents in Gage, Thayer, and York Counties on Monday, August 24, 2026. These office hours are an opportunity for constituents to meet directly with a member of Smith's staff about federal issues, receive assistance with a federal agency, or take advantage of the services available through his office. Smith, who has offices in Grand Island, Scottsbluff, and Nebraska City, will provide a staff member at the following times and locations: Monday, August 24, 2026 Gage Development Coalition 215 N. 5th Street Beatrice, NE 68310 10:00 am - 11:00 am CT Thayer County Courthouse Commissioner's Room 225 N. 4th Street Hebron, NE 68370 12:15 pm - 1:15 pm CT Kilgore Memorial Library 520 Nebraska Avenue York, NE 68467 2:30 pm - 3:30 pm CT For more information, please contact Smith’s Grand Island office at (308) 384-3900, his Scottsbluff office at (308) 633-6333, or his Nebraska City office at (402) 874-6050.",1,2026-08-13T06:17:16Z,2026-08-13T06:18:13Z https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases/smith-announces-upcoming-mobile-office-hours-webster-kearney-and-buffalo,"Smith Announces Upcoming Mobile Office Hours for Webster, Kearney, and Buffalo Counties",2026-08-12,2026,2026-08,Republican,House,NE,Adrian Smith,S001172,adriansmith.house.gov,adriansmith,https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Congressman Adrian Smith (NE-03) announced today that his staff will hold a mobile office hour for constituents in Webster, Kearney, and Buffalo Counties on Wednesday, August 26, 2026. These office hours are an opportunity for constituents to meet directly with a member of Smith's staff about federal issues, receive assistance with a federal agency, or take advantage of the services available through his office. Smith, who has offices in Grand Island, Scottsbluff, and Nebraska City, will provide a staff member at the following times and locations: Wednesday, August 26, 2026 Webster County Courthouse 2621 N. Cedar Street Red Cloud, NE 68970 11:00 am - 12:00 pm CT Kearney County Courthouse 424 N. Colorado Avenue Minden, NE 68959 1:15 pm - 2:15 pm CT Ravenna Economic Development Corporation 318 Grand Avenue Ravenna, NE 68869 3:15 pm - 4:15 pm CT For more information, please contact Smith’s Grand Island office at (308) 384-3900, his Scottsbluff office at (308) 633-6333, or his Nebraska City office at (402) 874-6050.",1,2026-08-13T06:17:16Z,2026-08-13T06:18:13Z https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-flood-leads-bicameral-bill-cracking-down-excessive-trucking,Congressman Flood Leads Bicameral Bill Cracking Down on Excessive Trucking Lawsuits,2026-08-11,2026,2026-08,Republican,House,NE,Mike Flood,F000474,flood.house.gov,flood,https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"LINCOLN, NEBRASKA – Today, U.S. Congressman Mike Flood (NE), along with Congressmen Jake Ellzey (TX), Jay Obernolte (CA), and David Rouzer (NC) introduced the Uniform Vehicle Safety Standards Act. U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (NE) introduced companion legislation in the Senate. The legislation aims to address the recent spike in lawsuits paying out damages for standards set by states rather than federal standards. “In recent years, we’ve seen a sharp rise in lawsuits awarding damages based on state standards instead of the federal safety standards trucking companies are already required to meet,” said Congressman Flood (NE). “Americans deserve one clear set of rules instead of a patchwork of state regulations that drive up costs and create uncertainty for businesses that already follow the law. I’m grateful to Congressmen Ellzey, Obernolte, and Rouzer as well as to Senator Fischer for joining me in this effort addressing this growing problem and helping ensure our safety laws are fair, consistent, and work for the American people.” “Federal motor vehicle safety standards provide manufacturers with clear and consistent requirements that apply nationwide,” said Congressman Obernolte (CA). “When manufacturers comply with those standards, they should not face costly lawsuits simply for failing to exceed them. Lawsuit abuse raises costs across the supply chain, threatens American jobs and ultimately leaves consumers paying the price. The Uniform Vehicle Safety Standards Act will restore certainty for manufacturers while ensuring vehicle safety requirements remain grounded in consistent federal standards.” “Frivolous lawsuits put unnecessary pressure on American businesses, driving up shipping costs and higher prices for consumers. When businesses adhere to federal safety standards, they shouldn’t face excessive liability based on inconsistent court decisions. I’m proud to support legislation that provides greater certainty for law-abiding businesses to help keep costs down for American families,” said Congressman Rouzer (NC). A one-pager of the Uniform Vehicle Safety Standards Act can be found by clicking here. Full text of the Uniform Vehicle Safety Standards Act can be found by clicking here. This legislation comes amid an increase in civil lawsuits where juries awarded damages for accidents based on state standards even when the vehicles in question were in full compliance with federal standards. The result of these cases have seen increased insurance costs, trucking faced with steep payments even when meeting federal standards, and the trucking industry facing regulatory uncertainty. The Uniform Vehicle Safety Standards Act ensures that the federal standards set by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration are the nationwide standard, providing greater certainty to trucking while also upholding federalism. Support for the Uniform Vehicle Safety Standards Act: This legislation is endorsed by major industry and trucking groups, including Alliance for Automotive Innovation, American Bus Association, American Property Casualty Insurance Association, American Trucking Associations, International Foodservice Distributors Association, National Association of Mutual Insurance Companies, National Association of Trailer Manufacturers, National Motor Freight Traffic Association, National Tank Truck Carriers, Nebraska Trucking Association, Timpte, Truck Renting and Leasing Association, Truck Trailer Manufacturers Association, Truckload Carriers Association, and Werner. “When NHTSA establishes a federal safety standard, manufacturers and motor carriers should be able to rely on that determination. Allowing lawsuits to effectively impose equipment mandates that diverge from federal requirements creates uncertainty, drives up costs, and threatens the uniformity that keeps our nation's supply chain moving safely and efficiently,” said American Trucking Associations SVP of Legislative Affairs Alex Rosen. “The trucking industry applauds Reps. Flood, Obernolte, Rouzer, and Ellzey for introducing this commonsense legislation to affirm NHTSA’s role as the nation's expert regulator for motor vehicle safety standards. If NHTSA, after evaluating the available evidence through its rulemaking process, determines that a particular standard strikes the appropriate balance to maximize motor vehicle safety, that expert determination should carry greater weight than the hindsight judgments advanced by profit-seeking trial attorneys in individual courtrooms.” ""By establishing a uniform standard, this legislation shields carriers from frivolous lawsuits while ensuring motor vehicle manufacturing upholds established, federally mandated safety requirements for all drivers,"" said Nathan Meisgeier, President and Chief Legal Officer, Werner Enterprises, Inc. “Nebraska’s trucking industry plays a vital role in supporting agriculture, manufacturing, retail, construction, and virtually every sector of our state’s economy. Legal predictability and fairness are essential to maintaining a strong transportation network and ensuring that carriers can continue investing in the people, equipment, and technologies that improve roadway safety,” said Nebraska Trucking Association President & CEO Kent Grisham. “Congressman Flood knows that when manufacturers and operators have demonstrably adhered to all applicable laws, regulations, and recognized safety practices, they should not face unreasonable liability based on hindsight or inconsistent standards imposed after the fact. His willingness to lead the way in passing legislation that will establish safeguards against such nonsense in our courts makes him a true hero to trucking.” ""NTTC strongly supports the Uniform Vehicle Safety Standards Act, and commends Senator Fischer and Representative Flood for their leadership to provide much needed relief to the commercial trucking industry - the backbone of the American economy. The American motoring public rightfully expects truck manufacturers to be built to high federal safety standards, but it is unreasonable to hold any industry accountable to 50 standards created through 50 state courts. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration produces world-leading safety regulations, and state suits should not be allowed to supplant federal standards,” said Ryan Streblow, NTTC President and CEO. “TRALA strongly supports the Uniform Vehicle Safety Standards Act, which will protect truck rental and leasing companies from unreasonable lawsuits involving vehicles that fully comply with federal safety standards. This legislation will preserve a consistent national framework, reduce costly litigation, and prevent optional safety equipment from being treated as mandatory through state-by-state court decisions,” said TRALA President & CEO Jake Jacoby. “The Truckload Carriers Association and its membership proudly support the Uniform Vehicle Safety Standards Act, as it reinforces the principle that there should be one national standard for vehicle safety. Motor carriers that comply with federally established safety requirements should not be subjected to inconsistent lawsuits seeking to impose standards beyond those adopted by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Recent litigation in the trucking industry has demonstrated the importance of protecting companies that comply with federal safety regulations, providing greater certainty for businesses operating across state lines. By reducing unnecessary litigation costs and preventing conflicting court decisions, this legislation strengthens interstate commerce while preserving the integrity of the federal vehicle safety framework. The truckload industry believes safety is best advanced through clear, uniform federal standards that apply consistently nationwide, rather than through a patchwork of differing legal expectations imposed through litigation,” said TCA President Jim Mullen. “Motorcoaches are interstate by nature, and our industry depends on clear, consistent federal vehicle safety standards,"" said Fred Ferguson, President and CEO of the American Bus Association. ""Operators and manufacturers should be held to the rigorous safety requirements established by NHTSA, but they should not face a patchwork of after-the-fact lawsuits that effectively impose different vehicle equipment standards from one state to the next. The Uniform Vehicle Safety Standards Act provides needed certainty while preserving NHTSA’s central role in establishing and updating vehicle safety standards. The American Bus Association thanks Congressman Flood and Senator Fischer for their leadership and is proud to support this commonsense legislation.” “Legal system abuse, including excessive litigation and nuclear verdicts, is making things more expensive across the economy for every American. NAMIC applauds Congressman Flood and Senator Fischer for leading on this important issue to provide much needed legal certainty for truckers, insurers, and the consumers who rely on them,” said NAMIC’s Jimi Grande, SVP – Federal & Political Affairs “We are pleased to support this bill which will close this loophole and ensure that standards are set at the federal level, providing much-needed certainty and enhancing safety,” said Chris Burroughs, President & CEO of the Transportation Intermediaries Association. “Certainty is essential to keeping America’s roads safe, and under the current legal framework, motor vehicle manufacturers remain exposed to civil liability at the state level even if they have met the applicable federal safety standards.” “IFDA thanks Senator Fischer and Representative Flood for introducing the Uniform Vehicle Safety Standards Act. Foodservice distributors operate some of the largest commercial fleets in the country and invest heavily to ensure federal motor vehicle safety requirements are met,” said Mala Parker, Senior Vice President of Government & Public Affairs at the International Foodservice Distributors Association. “This bill gives our industry much needed legal certainty by creating uniformity among safety requirements while keeping our nation’s roads safe.”",1,2026-08-12T06:18:38Z,2026-08-12T06:20:33Z https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases/smith-announces-upcoming-mobile-office-hours-phelps-sherman-and-howard,"Smith Announces Upcoming Mobile Office Hours for Phelps, Sherman, and Howard Counties",2026-08-10,2026,2026-08,Republican,House,NE,Adrian Smith,S001172,adriansmith.house.gov,adriansmith,https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Congressman Adrian Smith (NE-03) announced today that his staff will hold a mobile office hour for constituents in Phelps, Sherman, and Howard Counties on Monday, August 17, 2026. These office hours are an opportunity for constituents to meet directly with a member of Smith's staff about federal issues, receive assistance with a federal agency, or take advantage of the services available through his office. Smith, who has offices in Grand Island, Scottsbluff, and Nebraska City, will provide a staff member at the following times and locations: Monday, August 17, 2026 Phelps County Development Corporation 502 East Avenue Holdrege, NE 68949 10:30 am - 11:30 am CT Sherman County Economic Development 652 N Street Loup City, NE 68853 1:00 pm - 2:00 pm CT Howard County Courthouse 612 Indian Street St. Paul, NE 68873 4:00 pm - 5:00 pm CT",1,2026-08-11T05:54:29Z,2026-08-11T05:56:25Z https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=2907,"Bacon, McCaul, Hoyer, Colleagues Introduce the Lindsey O. Graham Sanctioning Russia and Iran Act of 2026",2026-08-10,2026,2026-08,Republican,House,NE,Don Bacon,B001298,bacon.house.gov,bacon,https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx,scraper,"Bacon, McCaul, Hoyer, Colleagues Introduce Lindsey O. Graham Sanctioning Russia and Iran Act of 2026 Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. Representatives Don Bacon (NE-02), House Foreign Affairs Committee Chairman Emeritus Michael McCaul (TX-10) and Congressman Steny Hoyer (MD-05) introduced the bipartisan Lindsey O. Graham Sanctioning Russia and Iran Act of 2026 alongside 15 of their colleagues. This legislation — which honors the late Senator Lindsey Graham, who worked on the bill for more than a year and secured the White House’s support — will hold major purchasers of Russian oil and gas accountable for supporting Russia’s war against Ukraine and extend sanctions that restrict funding for Iran’s energy and weapons sectors. “Putin’s illegal war is failing, but he will not choose peace until the cost becomes too high for Russia and those helping fund his brutality,” said Rep. Bacon, Co-Chair of the House Baltic Caucus. “Senator Lindsey Graham was one of Congress’s clearest voices for Ukraine, understood that Putin only responds to strength, and worked until his final days to advance the toughest sanctions package yet against Russia’s war machine. The Lindsey O. Graham Sanctioning Russia Act would impose crippling pressure on Russia and those enabling Putin’s aggression, honor Sen. Graham’s commitment to Ukraine’s fight for freedom, and make clear that America stands with Ukraine.” “Senator Graham was a national security giant, a statesman of unmatched conviction, and a personal friend and mentor. We shared a fundamental worldview: America is strongest at home when it projects strength abroad. That’s why he fought so hard for this bill, which I promised him months ago I would introduce in the House,” said Rep. McCaul. “As President Zelensky told me last month when I visited Ukraine, he is ready for a ceasefire — ready to negotiate, as he has been for years. Putin, on the other hand, consistently defies President Trump and the international community by refusing to come to the table. I can think of no better way to honor Senator Graham’s life and legacy than by passing these tough sanctions, which will help force Putin into negotiations and bring us closer to securing Lindsey’s vision of enduring peace in two critical regions of the world.” “Democracy is presently under threat from despotism, and Congress must act to defend democracy and help Ukraine defeat Vladimir Putin’s effort to extinguish its liberty and sovereignty. Our legislation goes after multiple sources of Russian war funding, including its oil and gas sectors, shadow fleet, and financial institutions. I’m encouraged that the Senate passed the companion legislation last week with overwhelming support, and I thank former Chairman McCaul for partnering with me to facilitate action by the House. This action has been delayed too long and will, hopefully, accelerate Ukraine’s success and the ending of this war, one that was initiated illegally by Putin and that has resulted in tens of thousands of deaths of Russians and Ukrainians. I hope that we can secure bipartisan consensus in the House and enact a sanctions package that will stem the flow of money to Russia’s war machine and contribute to a Ukrainian victory,"" said Rep. Hoyer. Earlier this month, an overwhelming bipartisan majority in the Senate voted to pass companion legislation, by a vote of 86-11, led by Sens. Darline Graham (R-S.C.), Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.), Katie Britt (R-Ala.), Ranking Member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee Jeanne Shaheen (D-N.H.), Chair of the Senate Armed Services Committee Roger Wicker (R-Miss.), and Chair of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee Jim Risch (R-Idaho). The text of the House bill is identical to the text that passed the Senate. “This legislation was deeply important to my brother, Lindsey, and I’m grateful that it has achieved such a wide coalition of support. Lindsey was committed to achieving a peaceful resolution to this war, and I’m confident that these sanctions will pave the way,” said Sen. Darline Graham. “I’m grateful to Rep. McCaul for leading this effort in the House. The Senate came together in a strong, bipartisan fashion to pass the Lindsey O. Graham Sanctioning Russia and Iran Act of 2026, and I hope the House of Representatives will do the same. Russia has waged war against Ukraine for far too long, and this bill assists President Trump in his noble efforts to bring it to a close.” “Representatives McCaul, Hoyer, Wilson, Kaptur, and Fitzpatrick are longtime champions of Ukraine’s cause and I am glad to have them leading our legislation in the House of Representatives. After a massive bipartisan vote in the Senate, we are eager to turn to the House as we fight to get this legislation across the finish line. There is immense urgency in getting this done – July set a record for Russia’s use of ballistic missiles, killing and wounding dozens of Ukrainians, including many children. Cutting off the source of funding – profits from oil and gas – for these deadly weapons and Russia’s war machine is essential to ending the bloodshed,” said Sen. Blumenthal. Joining Bacon, McCaul and Hoyer in introducing the legislation are Co-Chair of the Congressional Ukraine Caucus Rep. Joe Wilson (SC-02); Co-Founder and Co-Chair of the Congressional Ukraine Caucus Rep. Marcy Kaptur (OH-09); Rep. Jake Auchincloss (MA-04); House Armed Services Committee Chairman Mike Rogers (AL-03); Reps. Jill Tokuda (HI-02), Mike Turner (OH-10), Gabe Vasquez (NM-02), Ann Wagner (MO-02), Josh Gottheimer (NJ-05), Andy Barr (KY-06) and Ed Case (HI-01); Co-Chair of the Congressional Ukraine Caucus Rep. Brian Fitzpatrick (PA-01); and Reps. Eugene Vindman (VA-07), Nathaniel Moran (TX-01) and Chrissy Houlahan (PA-06). ""Senator Lindsey Graham and I shared the belief that opposing dictators in defense of freedom and liberty is always the right thing to do. War criminal Putin is losing his invasion of sovereign Ukraine and the threat to humanity posed by the Iranian regime is dire. It is time for Congress to give President Trump the strongest tools available to choke off Russia's war machine for the good of mankind and cripple the ability of Tehran to continue sowing chaos in the region and beyond. My friend and colleague worked tirelessly in championing these critical initiatives, and I am grateful to help advance them across the finish line in the House,” said Rep. Wilson. “Dictator Vladimir Putin’s illegal invasion of Ukraine is failing—Ukraine is battering Russian war infrastructure and the Kremlin is losing tens of thousands of troops each month. Now is the time to intensify pressure on Putin through crippling sanctions while surging support for our Ukrainian allies,” said Rep. Kaptur. “Putin will not make peace until he is forced to. I have been a supporter of every bipartisan sanctions bill on the table to pressure Russia to end its illegal full-scale invasion, and I am confident that the Lindsey O. Graham Sanctioning Russia and Iran Act of 2026 will accomplish that mission. Designed to protect our allies who aid Ukraine while squeezing Putin and the countries that enable his invasion, the sweeping sanctions and targeted tariffs in this bill are the best chance we have to get bipartisan legislation signed into law to hold Russia accountable and achieve peace.” “Since 2022, I have called on both Biden and Trump to empower Ukraine to win this war through both strikes and sanctions on Russian oil infrastructure. The strikes are finally happening, and with this bill the sanctions are coming,” said Rep. Auchincloss. ""I am proud to join in introducing this legislation to sanction Vladimir Putin and his thugs as well as the Iran and its terrorist regime,” said Rep. Rogers. “Every dollar denied to Vladimir Putin weakens his war machine. By choking off the oil and gas revenue fueling Russia's aggression, this legislation gives President Trump powerful leverage to force Putin into serious negotiations that deliver a truly lasting peace. Including additional sanctions on Iran is equally critical given the terrorist regime’s continued threats to freedom of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz and its role in enabling Russia’s war against Ukraine. This legislation strengthens America’s hand against adversaries who threaten American security, our allies, and global stability.” ""It is long past time for Congress to impose tougher consequences on Russia and those financing its illegal war against Ukraine. I'm proud to support this updated legislation, which targets major purchasers of Russian oil and gas that continue to fund the Kremlin's aggression. This war has resulted in an estimated 2 million casualties, including more than half a million deaths. The United States must continue standing with the Ukrainian people and keep the pressure on Russia to agree to a just and lasting peace that preserves a free, sovereign, and independent Ukraine,” said Rep. Tokuda. “For more than four years, the Ukrainian people have fought courageously to defend their sovereignty, and their resolve is paying off. Lindsey Graham understood that standing with nations fighting for freedom strengthens America’s own security, and until his final days, he was pressing for stronger sanctions against Russia,” said Rep. Turner. “This legislation honors that legacy, sends a clear message to Vladimir Putin that he cannot outlast Ukraine or the free world, and gives President Trump another powerful tool to pressure Russia, bring Putin to the negotiating table, and help restore peace to the region.” “To end Russia’s unprovoked and deadly invasion of Ukraine, we must enact maximum financial pain on Vladimir Putin and his cronies. I will not stand idly by while countless people are killed due to Putin’s doomed quest to reconstitute the Soviet Union. I am beyond proud to join my colleagues in introducing this sweeping sanctions legislation that will enact severe financial penalties against Putin, his allies, and those who choose to do business with him. The largest war in Europe since World War II must come to an end, and I am confident these measures will accelerate that process. I am also pleased this bill extends the Iran Sanctions Act to ensure all available measures are available to cripple the terrorist Iranian regime. These necessary sanctions are a fitting legacy to honor the late Senator Lindsey Graham, a friend and colleague who continually fought for freedom, democracy, and against tyrannical regimes like Russia and Iran,” said Rep. Wagner. ""Vladimir Putin and the regime in Tehran are two of the gravest threats to America and our allies. For far too long, they've bankrolled their aggression by selling oil and gas to whoever will buy it,” said Rep. Gottheimer. ""This bipartisan legislation cuts off those funding streams: holding accountable anyone who fills Putin's war chest as he wages his brutal, illegal war against Ukraine, and choking off the money that fuels Iran's weapons programs and its terror proxies. I was proud to see the Senate pass this bill with an overwhelming, bipartisan majority, and now it's on the House to finish the job. I can think of no better tribute to Senator Lindsey Graham — a national security champion — than enacting the tough sanctions he fought so hard for. Standing up to tyrants isn't a Democratic or Republican issue; it's an American one."" “By targeting the energy revenues and financial networks that fuel Putin’s war machine and enable the Iranian regime’s terrorist activities, this bipartisan legislation strengthens America’s ability to impose real economic consequences on our adversaries,” said Rep. Barr. “Senator Graham understood that harnessing America’s full strength from our financial system to our military is essential to deterring aggression, defending our allies, and advancing peace. I’m proud to join my colleagues to help carry forward that legacy.” “Senator Graham believed, as I do, that American strength remains the surest guardian of peace,” said Rep. Fitzpatrick. “That conviction guided our work together on this legislation. Putin’s war machine runs on oil, money, and the willingness of others to look the other way—and the Lindsey O. Graham Sanctioning Russia and Iran Act of 2026 attacks all three. It isolates Russia’s banks, shuts down the networks financing its aggression, and forces every government and company enabling this war to make a choice. By increasing the cost of Putin’s war and reducing his ability to sustain it, this legislation strengthens the path to a just and lasting peace—one determined by Ukraine, not imposed by Moscow. The most fitting tribute Congress can offer Lindsey is to finish the work he began, carry forward the cause of freedom he championed, and make clear that America’s resolve will endure until that peace is secured.” “Supporting a strong, free Ukraine is imperative for the national security of our communities here at home. Sanctioning Russia and Putin sends a direct message to the world: the United States will not sit by while brutal regimes bankroll aggression against democratic nations,” said Rep. Vindman. “I am proud to be a co-sponsor of this essential legislation. We must continue to escalate the economic pressure on the Kremlin and strengthen our resolve for the Ukrainian people as they fight for their freedom, sovereignty, and security.” ""Russia is perpetrating a war of aggression, and we must keep the pressure on Vladimir Putin. This action is long overdue, but we are finally moving forward with the resolve this moment demands. These sanctions will erode Russia's war machine by cutting off the revenue that funds it. We must hold those who are fueling this war accountable. These sanctions focus on Russia but will also target dangerous Chinese entities which support the Russian defense industrial base. Peace is the goal, and these mechanisms give the President the tools to achieve that goal,” said Rep. Moran. “For more than four years, Ukrainians have courageously defended their freedom against Putin’s brutal invasion. The Lindsey O. Graham Sanctioning Russia and Iran Act would increase pressure on the Kremlin, hold those supporting its war accountable, and strengthen Ukraine’s position in pursuit of a just peace,"" said Rep. Houlahan. “The bill also extends longstanding sanctions against Iran. Sanctions cannot replace a clear strategy or the President’s obligation to seek congressional authorization for war, but they remain an important diplomatic tool. I am proud to cosponsor this legislation.” Click here to read full text of the legislation. ###",1,2026-08-19T05:29:02Z,2026-08-19T05:30:24Z https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases/smith-announces-upcoming-mobile-office-hours-furnas-and-gosper-counties,Smith Announces Upcoming Mobile Office Hours for Furnas and Gosper Counties,2026-08-04,2026,2026-08,Republican,House,NE,Adrian Smith,S001172,adriansmith.house.gov,adriansmith,https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Congressman Adrian Smith (NE-03) announced today that his staff will hold a mobile office hour for constituents in Furnas and Gosper Counties on Tuesday, August 11, 2026. These office hours are an opportunity for constituents to meet directly with a member of Smith's staff about federal issues, receive assistance with a federal agency, or take advantage of the services available through his office. Smith, who has offices in Grand Island, Scottsbluff, and Nebraska City, will provide a staff member at the following times and locations: Tuesday, August 11, 2026 Furnas County Courthouse 912 R Street Beaver City, NE 68926 11:00 am - 12:00 pm CT Gosper County Courthouse 507 Smith Avenue Elwood, NE 68937 1:00 pm - 2:00 pm CT",1,2026-08-05T07:37:37Z,2026-08-05T07:38:44Z https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-flood-announces-flyover-fintech-panel-payments-technology-small,Congressman Flood Announces Flyover Fintech Panel on Payments Technology for Small Businesses and Startups,2026-07-31,2026,2026-07,Republican,House,NE,Mike Flood,F000474,flood.house.gov,flood,https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"LINCOLN, NEBRASKA – U.S. Congressman Mike Flood announced today that Flyover Fintech will feature a panel on payments technology for small businesses and startups, bringing together industry leaders from Shopify, Mastercard, Visa, and Stripe to discuss how new payment tools are helping small businesses compete, cut costs, and access capital. The panel will take place at Flyover Fintech in Lincoln, Nebraska on August 4, 2026. “Small businesses and startups are the engine of American innovation, and payments technology is one of the key tools helping them succeed,” said Congressman Mike Flood. “As new innovations make it easier for entrepreneurs to accept payments, manage cash flow, and access capital, they're leveling the playing field for the businesses driving growth in Nebraska and across the country. I'm looking forward to hosting voices from across the payments industry to talk about how these innovations are helping entrepreneurs compete and succeed.” Jonathan Bydlak is Senior Lead, Government and Public Affairs at Shopify, the world's leading commerce platform powering 14% of all online commerce in the U.S. and millions of businesses around the world. Jonathan works to advocate for rules that make it easier for American entrepreneurs to start, grow and scale businesses across every state. He previously was the Director of the Governance program at the R Street Institute, where he also served as a senior fellow and oversaw a portfolio of scholars working on issues ranging from budgetary to electoral policy. Earlier, Jonathan was the president and founder of the Institute for Spending Reform, a non-profit organization that conducted research on fiscal policy. Jimmy Chow is Director of Community Relations at Mastercard. In this capacity, he advances financial empowerment and equity by promoting financial literacy, providing resources, and improving access to electronic payment technologies through the Master Your Card community empowerment initiative. Through Master Your Card, Jimmy collaborates with local governments and community organizations to deliver tailored financial education programs. The initiative also supports small business owners in enhancing operational efficiency, leveraging technology, protecting against cybersecurity risks, and strengthening their digital footprint. Since joining Mastercard in 2016 as Manager of Global Talent Development, Jimmy has been responsible for designing and deploying learning opportunities for all employees and people managers. Mike Nunes is Vice President and Head of Policy Advisory, Global Government Affairs at Visa. He leads a global team that analyzes emerging policy and regulatory developments and advises Visa on issues shaping the future of commerce and payments. His work focuses on a broad range of topics, including artificial intelligence, digital assets and stablecoins, cybersecurity, data governance, financial regulation, and emerging payment technologies. Working across policy, legal, product, and business teams, Mike helps translate complex regulatory developments into strategies that support innovation, economic growth, and secure digital commerce. Mike has played a leading role in Visa's engagement on emerging technologies, helping policymakers, industry stakeholders, and business leaders better understand the opportunities and challenges associated with AI, digital assets, and next-generation payment systems. Prior to joining Visa, Mike held leadership roles spanning corporate affairs, international business development, and trade policy at Hewlett Packard Enterprise, Boeing Commercial Airplanes, the Telecommunications Industry Association, and the U.S. International Trade Commission. Christopher Ortner is a senior business leader with over two decades of experience driving revenue growth, building high-performance teams, and scaling partnerships across the global payments ecosystem — from startups to Fortune 500s. At Stripe, Chris leads Go-To-Market for the Enterprise Portfolio, partnering with high-growth and established businesses across the Western U.S. Prior to Stripe, he spent 16 years at PayPal, where he led a $350M portfolio and scaled a customer success organization through a pivotal period of company growth. He began his career in business development at TSL International. Chris holds an MBA from Bellevue University, dual bachelor's degrees in Communication Studies and Psychology from the University of Nebraska, and a Six Sigma Green Belt from Villanova University. He has taught as an Adjunct Professor at Bellevue University's College of Business since 2009. A lifelong Nebraskan, Chris is based in Omaha. Photos of the panelists can be found here. Flyover Fintech conferences feature a wide variety of speakers, ranging from members of the House Financial Services Committee to leading voices in the fintech industry. Congressman Flood has previously announced that U.S. Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) Chairman Michael Selig will address this year's conference. More speakers and panelists for Flyover Fintech 2026 will be announced in the coming days. Registration for the conference is open at www.flyoverfintech.com. Additional details about the location and information about hotels and travel are also available there.",1,2026-08-01T07:27:26Z,2026-08-01T07:28:22Z https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-flood-announces-flyover-fintech-panel-consumer-payment-tech,Congressman Flood Announces Flyover Fintech Panel on Consumer Payment Tech,2026-07-30,2026,2026-07,Republican,House,NE,Mike Flood,F000474,flood.house.gov,flood,https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"LINCOLN, NEBRASKA – U.S. Congressman Mike Flood announced today that Flyover Fintech will feature a panel on consumer payment technology, bringing together industry leaders from Cash App, Zelle, and Amazon to discuss the future of digital payments and what it means for consumers. The panel will take place at Flyover Fintech in Lincoln, Nebraska on August 4, 2026. “New consumer payment technologies are changing how Americans save, spend, and move their money, and that shift is raising real questions for consumers and regulators alike,"" said Congressman Mike Flood. ""I'm looking forward to hosting voices from across the payments industry to discuss where this technology is headed and what safeguards should come with it. Flyover Fintech is right around the corner, and I encourage everyone to register today!"" Michael Duane is Head of Banking Product at Cash App, where he leads product development for Cash App's banking offerings, including Cash App Card, the fourth largest debit card program in the United States. Michael is responsible for driving innovation and growth for products used by more than 25 million customers, with a focus on making everyday financial services simpler and more accessible. He has spent seven years at Cash App building its card and banking products from the ground up. Michael earned his BA in Economics from Dartmouth College. Ryan Riveland leads partnership and market development efforts for the Zelle Network® and Certos® at Early Warning. Ryan collaborates with financial institutions, market leaders and tech partners to influence and deliver new solutions to the payments and risk space. Shortly after joining Early Warning in 2015, Ryan became a central contributor in the launch of the Zelle Network and he continues to drive new use-case expansion across products at Early Warning. He is a member of USFPC, an active supporter of industry associations and has over 25 years of experience in the financial industry across various disciplines including payments, fraud, analytics, digital wallets and card issuing. Brendan Woodbury leads Amazon's Payments Policy work in the U.S. Before Amazon, he worked on Capitol Hill for over a decade, including serving as committee staff on the Dodd-Frank Act and as Chief of Staff to Former Rep. Denny Heck. Photos of the panelists can be found here. Flyover Fintech conferences feature a wide variety of speakers, ranging from members of the House Financial Services Committee to leading voices in the fintech industry. Congressman Flood has previously announced that U.S. Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) Chairman Michael Selig will address this year’s conference. More speakers and panelists for Flyover Fintech 2026 will be announced in the coming days. Registration for the conference is open at www.flyoverfintech.com. Additional details about the location and information about hotels and travel are also available there.",1,2026-08-01T07:27:26Z,2026-08-01T07:28:22Z https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-flood-introduces-bill-prevent-covid-era-religious-restrictions,Congressman Flood Introduces Bill to Prevent COVID-Era Religious Restrictions at Hospitals,2026-07-24,2026,2026-07,Republican,House,NE,Mike Flood,F000474,flood.house.gov,flood,https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"LINCOLN, NEBRASKA – This week, U.S. Congressman Mike Flood introduced the Protecting Access to Spiritual Treatment and Organized Religion (PASTOR) Act. The legislation ensures that patients are able to receive the spiritual care they request during times of crisis, serious illness, or at the end of life while hospitalized. “During the COVID-19 Pandemic, we saw members of the clergy turned away from hospitals even when patients requested their presence,” said Congressman Flood. “This bill ensures that never happens again. If signed into law, it would codify CMS policy requiring hospitals to allow members of the clergy to provide spiritual care, so long as they comply with necessary protective measures.” Inspired by a clergyman who raised concerns directly to Congressman Flood about access to hospitals during the COVID-19 pandemic, this bill codifies the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services' (CMS) guidance requiring healthcare facilities to accommodate clergy visitation. Those protections were broadly waived during the COVID-19 pandemic. The PASTOR Act ensures these protections remain in place and cannot be reversed by future administrations, public health emergencies, or regulatory changes. A one-pager of the PASTOR Act can be found by clicking here. Full text of the PASTOR Act can be found by clicking here.",1,2026-07-25T07:13:44Z,2026-07-25T07:15:09Z https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases/smith-leads-effort-address-brazils-discriminatory-digital-regulations,Smith Leads Effort to Address Brazil’s Discriminatory Digital Regulations,2026-07-23,2026,2026-07,Republican,House,NE,Adrian Smith,S001172,adriansmith.house.gov,adriansmith,https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Today, Congressman Adrian Smith (R-NE-03), chair of the Ways and Means Subcommittee on Trade, led a letter with Judiciary Chairman Jim Jordan (R-OH-04) and 18 of their Republican colleagues urging the Trump Administration to address Brazil’s discriminatory actions against American companies. In their letter to U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer, lawmakers raised concerns about Brazil’s legislative framework, which would create special designations for digital companies based on thresholds that unfairly target American firms. The lawmakers emphasized that the proposal could allow regulators to force changes to business models, require companies to forgo revenue, mandate access to proprietary technology, and compel platforms to open their services to third parties—potentially undermining innovation and American competitiveness abroad. The lawmakers write: “In light of these priorities, we are concerned with Brazil’s proposed Fair Competition Act for Digital Markets (Bill No. 4675/2025), which would intentionally replicate the provisions of the European Union’s Digital Markets Act (DMA) by targeting successful U.S. digital companies with an onerous new regulatory regime. If passed, this law would empower foreign bureaucrats to dictate changes to the business model of our leading companies, and potentially force them to relinquish valuable intellectual property, resulting in billions in costs and undermining America’s global technological leadership by limiting the ability of U.S. innovators to invest and compete.” In addition to Smith and Jordan, the letter was signed by U.S. Representatives Aaron Bean (R-FL-04), Claudia Tenney (R-NY-24), Randy Feenstra (R-IA-04), Vern Buchanan (R-FL-16), Beth Van Duyne (R-TX-24), Michelle Fischbach (R-MN-07), Scott Fitzgerald (R-WI-05), David Schweikert (R-AZ-01), Nathaniel Moran (R-TX-01), Darin LaHood (R-IL-18), Gregory Steube (R-FL-17), Kevin Hern (R-OK-01), Ron Estes (R-KS-04), Rudy Yakym (R-IL-02), Gregory Murphy (R-NC-03), Lloyd Smucker (R-PA-11), Carol Miller (R-WV-01), and Troy Nehls (R-TX-22). Read the full letter here or below: Dear Ambassador Greer: Thank you for your continued commitment to advancing American technological leadership and defending innovative U.S. firms from discriminatory foreign acts, policies, and practices. This administration’s policies, including the 2025 Memorandum on Defending American Companies and Innovators From Overseas Extortion and Unfair Fines and Penalties, make clear that the United States will stand behind its innovators and ensure they can compete on a level playing field abroad. In light of these priorities, we are concerned with Brazil’s proposed Fair Competition Act for Digital Markets (Bill No. 4675/2025), which would intentionally replicate the provisions of the European Union’s Digital Markets Act (DMA) by targeting successful U.S. digital companies with an onerous new regulatory regime. If passed, this law would empower foreign bureaucrats to dictate changes to the business model of our leading companies, and potentially force them to relinquish valuable intellectual property, resulting in billions in costs and undermining America’s global technological leadership by limiting the ability of U.S. innovators to invest and compete. USTR’s recently finalized Section 301 investigation into Brazil’s unfair trading practices highlighted several current policies in Brazil that undermine the competitiveness of U.S. companies engaged in digital trade, including fines and suspension orders on digital platforms and unfair market advantages granted to state-owned providers of digital payment services. It is particularly concerning that, at precisely the moment when actions related to this investigation are being finalized, Brazil is looking to expand its discriminatory policies rather than consulting with the United States to resolve concerns. Should this measure advance, it would compound existing barriers to U.S. digital businesses operating in Brazil, and continue a disturbing trend in the proliferation of DMA-like measures that are blatantly discriminatory and in direct conflict with U.S. interests. While this bill is the latest component of Brazil’s broader strategy of digital trade discrimination, we recognize that these issues are a growing threat around the world. We appreciate your efforts to address these global issues through negotiations of Agreements on Reciprocal Trade, the Joint Review of USMCA, and Section 301 investigations. As you continue this work, we urge you to ensure the Fair Competition Act for Digital Markets is addressed in any trade discussions with Brazil. We stand ready to support your Administration in its continued efforts to ensure fair treatment and open markets for American service providers, innovators, and digital creators.",1,2026-07-24T07:30:11Z,2026-07-24T07:31:13Z https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-flood-announces-flyover-fintech-panel-prediction-markets,Congressman Flood Announces Flyover Fintech Panel on Prediction Markets,2026-07-23,2026,2026-07,Republican,House,NE,Mike Flood,F000474,flood.house.gov,flood,https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"LINCOLN, NEBRASKA – Today, U.S. Congressman Mike Flood announced Flyover Fintech will feature a panel on Prediction Markets. The panel, featuring voices from both the prediction market industry and ​proponents for states to have greater authority over prediction markets, will take place at the Congressman's Flyover Fintech Conference in Lincoln on August 4th, 2026. ""Prediction markets are creating new ways for Americans to engage with information and ideas, but as prediction markets have grown in size, they have also become the subject of spirited public debate,"" said Congressman Mike Flood. ""I'm looking forward to hosting voices from both the prediction markets industry and those advocating for states to have greater authority over prediction markets. I look forward to a thoughtful conversation on where this policy debate stands. Flyover Fintech is approaching soon, and I encourage everyone to register today. Neal Kumar is Chief Legal Officer at Polymarket, where he leads legal strategy for one of the most prominent platforms operating at the intersection of prediction markets and digital assets. He brings deep experience in derivatives and commodities law, with a practice spanning regulatory compliance, enforcement defense, and transactional advisory for financial institutions, trading firms, and investment funds. Neal’s perspective is shaped by both private- and public-sector experience. Earlier in his career, he served as Counsel in the Office of the General Counsel at the U.S. Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC), where he worked on matters central to the oversight of U.S. derivatives markets. This experience provides him with a practical understanding of regulatory priorities, enforcement dynamics, and the evolving policy landscape affecting innovative financial products. In private practice, Neal co-headed the Commodities and Derivatives practice at a major international law firm. He advised firms in high-stakes investigations and enforcement actions, offering strategic guidance to navigate regulatory scrutiny. At Polymarket, Neal applies this background to emerging questions around prediction markets, making him a key voice in the development of a nascent industry. He leads the company’s legal, regulatory, and strategic initiatives across a wide range of matters, including exchange and clearinghouse regulation, commercial partnerships, corporate governance, litigation strategy, and public policy. His work sits at the intersection of financial markets, emerging technology, and blockchain infrastructure. Mary Beth Thomas is the executive director of the Tennessee Sports Wagering Council, which is the state agency responsible for licensing sportsbooks and ensuring compliance with Tennessee's sports betting laws. Mary Beth previously served as general counsel to the Tennessee Secretary of State for eight years and spent eight years in private practice as a litigator for Waller Lansden Dortch and Davis in Nashville (now Holland & Knight). Mary Beth is a graduate of the University of Tennessee (B.S., Finance) and the University of Tennessee College of Law (J.D.). She is currently the Vice President of the North American Gaming Regulators Association and has previously served on the boards of the Nashville Sports Council and the Sports Betting Regulators Association. Photos of the panelists can be found here. Flyover Fintech conferences feature a wide variety of speakers, ranging from members of the House Financial Services Committee to leading voices in the fintech industry. Congressman Flood has previously announced that U.S. Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) Chairman Michael Selig will address this year’s conference. Additional speakers and panelists for Flyover Fintech 2026 will be announced in the coming days. Registration for the conference is now open at www.flyoverfintech.com. Additional details about the location and information about hotels and travel are also available there. The deadline to register is July 25, 2026.",1,2026-07-24T07:30:11Z,2026-07-24T07:31:13Z https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressmen-flood-r-ne-and-sorensen-d-il-launch-caucus-focused-weather,Congressmen Flood (R-NE) and Sorensen (D-IL) Launch Caucus Focused on Weather Industry,2026-07-22,2026,2026-07,Republican,House,NE,Mike Flood,F000474,flood.house.gov,flood,https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Congressman Mike Flood (R-NE) and Congressman Eric Sorensen (D-IL), launched the Weather Enterprise Caucus for the 119th Congress. This bipartisan caucus aims to educate Members of Congress about all things weather forecasting and research — focusing on the economic, societal, and national security value of the United States Weather Enterprise. “Our nation’s ability to sustain and improve the accuracy of weather forecasts has a direct impact on communities and businesses across the country,” said Congressman Flood. “From hailstorms and wildfires in Nebraska to hurricanes and flooding in Florida, every community benefits from a stronger, more resilient Weather Enterprise. I am glad to help launch the first Weather Enterprise Caucus in congressional history and look forward to the opportunities this will create to strengthen the Weather Enterprise through greater investment and innovation. I thank Congressman Sorensen for joining me as co-chair of this important effort.” “When severe weather strikes, every second matters,” said Congressman Eric Sorensen. “Accurate forecasts and timely warnings save lives, protect our communities, and help our nation prepare for the challenges ahead. The Weather Enterprise Caucus was created to make sure Congress continues to recognize the importance of weather science, innovation, and the work being done every day to keep Americans safe."" Photos of the caucus launch can be found by clicking here. Guest speakers at the caucus launch included: Congressman Mike Flood (R-NE) Congressman Eric Sorensen (D-IL) Taylor Jordan, NOAA Assistant Secretary of Commerce for Environmental Observation and Prediction Ken Graham, Director, NOAA’s National Weather Service Doug Hilderbrand, Executive Director, American Weather Enterprise Association Amanda Staudt, Executive Director, American Meteorological Society The Weather Enterprise Caucus is a bipartisan group of Members of Congress dedicated to advancing the 'Weather Enterprise’ — the industries surrounding weather forecasting, research, weatherization efforts, and related sectors. The caucus's founding co-chairs both have backgrounds in the broadcast industry. By educating their congressional colleagues and advocating for policies that strengthen the broader Weather Enterprise, the caucus seeks to encourage investment, innovation, and continued support for this crucial sector.",1,2026-07-23T07:31:02Z,2026-07-23T07:32:26Z https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-flood-announces-flyover-fintech-panel-tackling-payments-fraud,Congressman Flood Announces Flyover Fintech Panel on Tackling Payments Fraud,2026-07-21,2026,2026-07,Republican,House,NE,Mike Flood,F000474,flood.house.gov,flood,https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"LINCOLN, NEBRASKA – Today, U.S. Congressman Mike Flood announced Flyover Fintech will feature a panel on “Tackling Payments Fraud.” The panel, featuring industry leaders from Citi, Fiserv, FICO, and Plaid, will take place at the Congressman’s Flyover Fintech Conference in Lincoln on August 4th, 2026. ""Technology is ushering in exciting new payment options, but with that innovation comes new risk for small businesses and consumers,"" said Congressman Mike Flood. ""I'm looking forward to welcoming leaders from the payments and fintech sectors for an important conversation on how we protect consumers from payments fraud. With Flyover Fintech just two weeks away, I encourage everyone to register today."" Brian Dammeir leads Plaid's Payments and Financial Management businesses, where he runs product and strategy across Plaid's account funding, bill pay, pay-by-bank, risk, and financial data capabilities. His teams build the infrastructure that underpins how millions of consumers move money and manage their finances across the largest fintechs, banks, and platforms in the US and Europe. Brian previously focused on trust, safety, and risk at Google and Airbnb before spending nearly a decade at Adyen in a series of roles, including Head of Product, President of North America, and Global Head of Unified Commerce. At Adyen, he helped drive the company's expansion across payments, platforms, and embedded financial products, with operating experience spanning Europe, APAC, MENA and the Americas. Adam Davies heads FICO's Fraud and Identity Product teams, bringing 30 years of extensive expertise in fraud, security, and financial crime prevention to his role. Throughout his tenure at FICO, he has established himself as an enterprise fraud thought leader with global experience gained through consulting engagements and solution implementations across more than 90 countries. Adam possesses a proven track record of guiding clients toward best practices in minimizing fraud exposure, centralizing fraud intelligence systems, and implementing customer-level fraud management strategies. Leveraging his comprehensive background, he drives innovation in FICO's product development, continuously enhancing capabilities for the company's global customer base while pioneering transformative applications of Generative AI for managing the fraud trends of tomorrow. Charlotte Ritonya is Vice President, Head of Risk and Fraud, North America at Fiserv. She leads the Credit Risk and Fraud product organizations and oversees Fiserv’s Fraud Managed Services business, supporting approximately 3,000 card issuers. She collaborates with Fiserv Issuers to enable secure portfolio growth by strengthening fraud prevention and credit risk decisioning, while safeguarding consumer trust across the end-to-end card experience. With 30+ years at Fiserv, Charlotte has held key product development, consulting, and leadership roles. Chris Zavala is responsible for Global Fraud Prevention for Services, Banking and Wealth at Citi. He is also responsible for Digital Fraud Prevention across all products and businesses. In this role, he is responsible for fraud policies, practices, and prevention capabilities which incorporate client experience, revenue generation and loss mitigation to ensure balanced risk management. Chris has spent the last 16 years within the Fraud Organization managing U.S. Fraud Operations, Global Fraud Policy, Digital Fraud Prevention, and Global Fraud Prevention and Policy. Beginning his career with Citi in December 1990, Chris has managed diverse functions including Customer Service, Collections, Credit Risk, Student Loans, Merchant Fraud, Acquisitions (Consumer, Commercial, and Merchant), Commercial Lending, Dispute Investigations and Fraud Prevention. Photos of the panelists can be found here. Flyover Fintech conferences feature a wide variety of speakers, ranging from members of the House Financial Services Committee to leading voices in the fintech industry. Congressman Flood has previously announced that U.S. Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) Chairman Michael Selig will address this year’s conference. Additional speakers and panelists for Flyover Fintech 2026 will be announced in the coming days. Registration for the conference is now open at www.flyoverfintech.com. Additional details about the location and information about hotels and travel are also available there. The deadline to register is July 25, 2026.",1,2026-07-22T07:34:13Z,2026-07-22T07:35:16Z https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases/telcoin-ceo-paul-neuner-address-flyover-fintech-lincoln-nebraska-aug-4th,"Telcoin CEO Paul Neuner to Address Flyover Fintech in Lincoln, Nebraska on Aug. 4th",2026-07-17,2026,2026-07,Republican,House,NE,Mike Flood,F000474,flood.house.gov,flood,https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"LINCOLN, NEBRASKA – Today, U.S. Rep. Mike Flood announced that Telcoin CEO Paul Neuner will address his upcoming Flyover Fintech Conference in Lincoln, Nebraska on August 4, 2026. ""I am thrilled to announce that Telcoin Digital Asset Bank Founder and CEO Paul Neuner will address Flyover Fintech this August,"" said Congressman Flood. ""Paul is a pioneer in digital asset innovation, and Telcoin Digital Asset Bank's effort to become the first Digital Asset Depository Institution chartered under Nebraska's Financial Innovation Act shows why our state is leading the way on responsible fintech policy. I’m excited for Paul to share his insight on building trusted financial infrastructure for the future of digital assets. Flyover Fintech has become a must-attend event for anyone following the future of finance and fintech, and I encourage anyone interested to register soon to reserve their spot."" Paul Neuner is the founder and CEO of Telcoin and Telcoin Digital Asset Bank which became the first Digital Asset Depository Institution chartered by the Nebraska Department of Banking and Finance under the Nebraska Financial Innovation Act. Before Telcoin Digital Asset Bank, he was an entrepreneur in cybersecurity and telecom fraud management, including as founder and CEO of Mobius Wireless Solutions, which built revenue assurance and fraud management solutions for mobile network operators globally. Paul also previously founded the Internet application development department of Ernst & Young Technologies. Flyover Fintech conferences feature a wide variety of speakers, ranging from members of the House Financial Services Committee to leading voices in the fintech industry. Additional speakers and panelists for Flyover Fintech 2026 will be announced in in the coming weeks. Registration for the conference is now open at www.flyoverfintech.com. Additional details about the location and information about hotels and travel are also available there.",1,2026-07-18T06:58:50Z,2026-07-18T07:00:34Z https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=2906,Bacon Announces $5.5 Million FAA Grant Supporting Eppley Airfield Expansion,2026-07-16,2026,2026-07,Republican,House,NE,Don Bacon,B001298,bacon.house.gov,bacon,https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx,scraper,"Funding Brings Federal Support Bacon Has Helped Secure for Eppley to More Than $120 Million Washington, D.C. – Rep. Don Bacon (NE-02) announced today that Eppley Airfield received a $5,520,462 Fiscal Year 2026 Airport Improvement Program grant from the Federal Aviation Administration to support infrastructure improvements tied to the airport’s ongoing expansion. The funding will support reconstruction of the existing Locust Street Pump Station, including electrifying the pump motors and upgrading the control system to bring the airport into conformity with current standards. Throughout his ten years in Congress, Rep. Bacon has made improvements to Eppley Airfield one of his top priorities, helping secure more than $120 million through the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, Congressionally Directed Spending, Airport Improvement Program grants and other funding sources. These investments are supporting Eppley’s ongoing modernization, improving airport infrastructure, expanding capacity and strengthening Omaha’s connection to the rest of the country and the world. “It has been thrilling to see construction on the airport expansion take place and realize how much this will add to Omaha’s entrance,” said Rep. Bacon. “This latest grant builds on more than $120 million we have helped secure for Eppley Airfield and will support important infrastructure upgrades as the airport continues its transformation. This expansion will enable Eppley to meet the travel needs of the growing metropolitan Omaha area and welcome international flights. It will shape our region’s future for many decades to come and be vital for Omaha’s economy. I’m pleased to work with the leaders at Eppley and Sen. Fischer in creating what will become the best airport in the Midwest.” “This is fantastic news for Eppley Airport and the millions of travelers who rely on it. These continued federal investments are helping improve the capacity, safety, and efficiency of the airport. I am proud of the work Rep. Bacon and I have done to direct federal resources to Eppley over the years, and we will continue to do so in the future,” said Sen. Fischer. “The Omaha Airport Authority was pleased to be notified by Congressman Bacon’s office that Eppley Airfield will be receiving a Federal Aviation Administration grant from the Airport Improvement Program for upgrades to utility infrastructure at Eppley Airfield,” said Dave Roth, Chief Executive Officer of the Omaha Airport Authority. “The funds will support resilience of critical systems including upgrades to the primary storm water pumping station for the airfield and terminal areas.” The Locust Street Pump Station project will replace and enhance existing diesel-fueled pump equipment with electric drive motors, rehabilitate stormwater pumps, upgrade controls and support related electrical improvements. The grant funds a portion of the project and is associated with a Congressionally Directed Spending grant that funds the remaining eligible portion. ###",1,2026-07-17T07:15:58Z,2026-07-17T07:17:05Z https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-flood-host-lincoln-town-hall-july-28th,Congressman Flood to Host Lincoln Town Hall on July 28th,2026-07-16,2026,2026-07,Republican,House,NE,Mike Flood,F000474,flood.house.gov,flood,https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"LINCOLN, NEBRASKA – Today, U.S. Congressman Mike Flood announced he will hold a town hall in Lincoln, Nebraska on Tuesday, July 28, 2026. The town hall will be hosted at Nebraska Wesleyan University. During the town hall, Congressman Flood will provide an update on the work he is doing for Lincoln and Nebraska’s First Congressional District. There will be a question-and-answer period. Congressman Flood’s Lincoln Town Hall Tuesday, July 28th 5:00PM – 6:00PM CT Vance D. Rogers Center for Fine Arts | Nebraska Wesleyan University 5040 Huntington Ave, Lincoln, NE 68504 Note: Doors open at 4:15pm No signs, backpacks, or large bags are permitted in the venue. A clear bag policy will be in place. This event is open to the public. For questions about the town hall, please contact Congressman Flood’s Lincoln Office at 402-438-1598.",1,2026-07-17T07:15:58Z,2026-07-17T07:17:05Z https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases/housing-insurance-chairman-flood-new-housing-law-legislation-american-people,Housing & Insurance Chairman Flood on New Housing Law: 'This Is Legislation That the American People Can Be Proud of.',2026-07-11,2026,2026-07,Republican,House,NE,Mike Flood,F000474,flood.house.gov,flood,https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"LINCOLN, NEBRASKA – Today, U.S. Congressman Mike Flood, Chairman of the Housing & Insurance Subcommittee, released a statement following the signing of the 21st Century ROAD to Housing Act into law. He also attended a press conference in Maumelle, Arkansas, hosted by House Financial Services Committee Chairman French Hill. The housing package includes several provisions introduced and championed by Congressman Flood. The bill marks the first major housing legislation enacted by Congress in decades. “I am thrilled that the '21st Century ROAD to Housing Act' is now officially law,” said Congressman Flood. “While the journey was long and, at times, delicate, we arrived at the right outcome with a meaningful bipartisan housing bill that slashes red tape, lowers housing costs, and helps put the American dream of homeownership within reach for more hardworking families. Simply put: This is legislation that the American people can be proud of.” Congressman Flood also spoke at House Financial Services Committee Chairman French Hill’s press conference in Maumelle celebrating the new law, “[A home is more than an asset.] It’s the place where you bring your newborn home to and give her a bath under the sink. It’s the place where you tuck your seven-year-old little boy in, and you say, ‘I’m doing my part to make sure he’s living in a safe, sound home.’” Video of Congressman Flood’s full remarks can be found by clicking here, while the full presser can found be found here. News outlets are welcome to use the footage for reporting purposes. The text of the “21st Century ROAD to Housing Act” can be found here. In addition to serving as Chairman of the Housing & Insurance Subcommittee, Congressman Flood is the Chairman of the Republican Main Street Caucus. Legislation Congressman Flood previously introduced that are included in the amended version of the housing bill are detailed below: The HOME Reform Act “America is in the midst of a housing crisis as families struggle to live the American dream due to the shortage of millions of homes,” said Congressman Flood. “The HOME program is a federal program that builds housing supply, but it has previously been weighed down by regulatory burdens that make it hard to build housing. The reforms in this legislation will result in more homebuilding across the country as we work to tackle our nation’s housing shortage. From Columbus, Nebraska to Columbus, Ohio and beyond, local communities will have an unprecedented opportunity to build affordable homes and directly address the housing crisis gripping our nation.” The ""HOME Reform Act"" modernizes the HOME Investment Partnership Program by exempting projects from NEPA and provides relief from Build America, Buy America requirements as well as establishing a “small project” exemption under Section 3 of the HUD Act of 1968. The bill raises income eligibility to 100% of area median income, extends the time communities have to commit funds, updates definitions of affordable single and multifamily housing, as well as allows funds to be used for infrastructure tied directly to new housing, such as sidewalks, sewers, and utility connections. Read the initial press release on the ""HOME Reform Act"" here. The bill was co-introduced by Housing & Insurance Subcommittee Ranking Member Emanuel Cleaver (D-MO). Unlocking Housing Supply Through Streamlined and Modernized Reviews Act “The Unlocking Supply Through Streamlined and Modernized Reviews Act is an important step towards increasing housingsupply in America,” said Congressman Flood. “Environmental reviews can slow housing projects by months- or even years. Currently, those reviews are not properly tailored to the size and scale of housing projects. This legislation is a meaningful step towards fixing that problem.” The ""Unlocking Housing Supply Through Streamlined and Modernized Reviews Act"" streamlines the environmental review process for a range of Department of Housing and Urban Development building activities. Read the initial press release on the ""Unlocking Housing Supply Through Streamlined and Modernized Reviews Act"" here. The bill was co-introduced by Congressman Sam Liccardo (D-CA). The Housing Supply Frameworks Act “The rising cost of housing is putting the American Dream out of reach for working families across our country,” said Congressman Flood. “We need an all-of-the-above approach to addressing America’s housing crisis. To this end, the Housing Supply Frameworks Act helps establish suggested best practices for state and local governments across the country who want to break down barriers holding back development and innovation in housing and construction.” The ""Housing Supply Frameworks Act” requires HUD to publish best practices and guidelines to assist communities in maintaining modern local and state zoning frameworks that support the production of adequate housing options at every income level. Read the initial press release on the ""Housing Supply Frameworks Act"" here. The bill was co-introduced by Congresswoman Brittany Pettersen (D-CO). The UNLOCK Act “The CDBG program has long been an important tool for Nebraska cities to fund important local projects,” said Congressman Flood. “This targeted legislation would give communities across the state the flexibility to use CDBG dollars to directly address housing supply needs.” The “UNLOCK Act” allows grantees to use CDBG funding for housing developments. Read more on the “UNLOCK Act"" here. The bill was co-introduced by Congressman Sam Liccardo (D-CA). The Rural Regulatory Relief Act The ""Rural Housing Regulatory Relief Act"" streamlines environmental review requirements for housing developments built on previously developed infill sites. The legislation reduces duplicative NEPA review processes for projects on land that has already been developed, helping to eliminate unnecessary federal delays and costs. This legislation will help lower construction costs, accelerate housing development, and expand access to affordable housing in rural communities. More information on the “Rural Regulatory Relief Act” can be found here. The bill was co-introduced by Congressmen Troy Downing (R-MT), Eugene Vindman (D-VA), and Vicente Gonzalez (D-TX). The BUILD Housing Act The “BUILD Housing Act” updates the NEPA process for housing developments by expanding collaboration between HUD, states, and localities. Specifically, the legislation gives HUD the ability to delegate and coordinate certain environmental reviews for HUD grant programs to state and localities. This bill additionally allows HUD to designate certain housingassistance as “special project funds.” By streamlining reviews and reducing administrative burdens, this legislation would help accelerate housing development and improve the delivery of federal housing assistance.",1,2026-07-12T07:28:31Z,2026-07-12T07:30:18Z https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases/smith-statement-death-doug-leafgreen,Smith Statement on Death of Doug Leafgreen,2026-07-07,2026,2026-07,Republican,House,NE,Adrian Smith,S001172,adriansmith.house.gov,adriansmith,https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Congressman Adrian Smith (NE-03) released the following statement after learning of the death of Doug Leafgreen, former Mayor of Gering and Nebraska Highway Commissioner. “An avid outdoorsman and servant leader, Doug will be deeply missed by all who knew him. I am grateful to have called him a friend. He will be remembered for his strong faith, his leadership in local government, and his dedicated service as a Nebraska Highway Commissioner. Please join Andrea and I, in extending our heartfelt condolences to his wife, Melody, their children, grandchildren, and the entire Leafgreen family.”",1,2026-07-08T07:27:19Z,2026-07-08T07:28:28Z https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases/smith-announces-upcoming-mobile-office-hour-banner-county,Smith Announces Upcoming Mobile Office Hour for Banner County,2026-07-06,2026,2026-07,Republican,House,NE,Adrian Smith,S001172,adriansmith.house.gov,adriansmith,https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Congressman Adrian Smith (NE-03) announced today that his staff will hold a mobile office hour for constituents in Banner County on Tuesday, July 21, 2026. This office hour is an opportunity for constituents to meet directly with a member of Smith's staff about federal issues, receive assistance with a federal agency, or take advantage of the services available through his office. Smith, who has offices in Grand Island, Scottsbluff, and Nebraska City, will provide a staff member at the following time and location: Tuesday, July 21, 2026 Banner County Courthouse 2204 State Street Harrisburg, NE 69345 10:00 am - 11:00 am MT",1,2026-07-07T08:20:12Z,2026-07-07T08:22:09Z https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases/smith-announces-upcoming-mobile-office-hour-hitchcock-county,Smith Announces Upcoming Mobile Office Hour for Hitchcock County,2026-07-06,2026,2026-07,Republican,House,NE,Adrian Smith,S001172,adriansmith.house.gov,adriansmith,https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Congressman Adrian Smith (NE-03) announced today that his staff will hold a mobile office hour for constituents in Hitchcock County on Monday, July 20, 2026. This office hour is an opportunity for constituents to meet directly with a member of Smith's staff about federal issues, receive assistance with a federal agency, or take advantage of the services available through his office. Smith, who has offices in Grand Island, Scottsbluff, and Nebraska City, will provide a staff member at the following time and location: Monday, July 20, 2026 Hitchcock County Courthouse 229 East D Street Trenton, NE 69044 12:00 pm - 1:00 pm CT",1,2026-07-07T08:20:12Z,2026-07-07T08:22:09Z https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases/smith-usmca-renewal-pause-path-stronger-enforcement,Smith: USMCA Renewal Pause Is a Path to Stronger Enforcement,2026-07-01,2026,2026-07,Republican,House,NE,Adrian Smith,S001172,adriansmith.house.gov,adriansmith,https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Today, Congressman Adrian Smith (NE-03), a senior member of the House Ways and Means Committee and chair of the Subcommittee on Trade, released the following statement regarding the United States-Mexico-Canada (USMCA) Joint Review. “Since its creation, USMCA has been the gold standard for modern trade agreements, delivering meaningful benefits to the United States and our North American partners. But any agreement is only as strong as its enforcement. Unfortunately, over the past six years, our trading partners have repeatedly failed to fully uphold their commitments. With that in mind, President Trump’s decision not to renew is not a termination—it is an opportunity to strengthen enforcement, so the agreement functions as intended. I look forward to continuing my work with Ambassador Greer to secure the strongest possible deal, level the playing field, and reinforce supply chains for America’s agriculture producers and manufacturers."" BACKGROUND: Smith has been a leading advocate for strong enforcement of the USMCA agreement—particularly on issues affecting American agriculture, manufacturing, and digital services. Representing the nation’s largest agriculture-producing district, Smith has emphasized the importance of a strong, enforceable USMCA for America’s farmers, ranchers, and manufacturers. He continues to support strengthening the agreement ahead of its scheduled expiration on July 1, 2036. In December 2020, after Mexico issued a presidential decree banning imports of U.S. biotech corn for human consumption in violation of its USMCA commitments, Smith pressed the Biden Administration to act. Sending multiple letters to U.S. Trade Representative Ambassador Katherine Tai and U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Tom Vilsack urging the launch of a formal dispute. In December 2024, following sustained pressure from Smith, a USMCA dispute panel ruled in the United States’ favor, ending Mexico’s ban on U.S.-grown biotech corn. In March 2022, Smith joined his colleagues in sending a letter to the Biden Administration raising concerns about Mexico’s discrimination towards American energy companies and urging the administration to pursue a formal USMCA dispute settlement. In December 2023, Smith joined his colleagues in sending a letter to the Biden Administration expressing their disappointment in the administration’s failure to hold Canada accountable for their discrimination against American dairy products. In December 2025, he joined a group of his colleagues urging the Trump Administration to finally address these concerns ahead of the Joint Review. In September 2024, following several concerning Mexican Constitutional reforms, Smith led a group of his colleagues in sending a letter urging the Biden Administration to work with Mexican officials to ensure that these proposed reforms did not violate the USMCA agreement. Smith has also raised concerns about Canada’s emerging digital trade barriers. In May 2024, he joined a bipartisan group urging the Biden Administration to address trade implications of Canada’s Online Streaming Act. In July 2025, he and his colleagues called on Canadian officials to rescind discriminatory digital policies ahead of the 2026 Joint Review and urged the Trump Administration to prioritize resolving these barriers in future negotiations. In May 2026, Smith led a letter with 19 Republican colleagues to U.S. Trade Representative Ambassador Jamieson Greer and U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent raising concerns regarding recent actions by Mexico’s Servicio de Administración Tributaria (SAT) that unfairly target American companies operating in Mexico. Ahead of the July 2026 Joint Review, Smith led a bipartisan congressional delegation to Mexico City to meet with Mexican officials during the first round of bilateral negotiations. Most recently, in June 2026, Smith led a bipartisan letter with his Agriculture Trade Caucus co-chairs and 13 colleagues urging the Trump Administration to address Mexico’s non-tariff barriers affecting U.S. grain exports.",1,2026-07-02T06:20:02Z,2026-07-02T06:21:32Z https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=2905,"Bacon, Kaptur, Fitzpatrick, Quigley, McCaul, Costa Introduce Bipartisan Strategic Unmanned Systems Partnership Act to Increase Security Cooperation and Strengthen Defense Capabilities Between the United States and Ukraine",2026-06-30,2026,2026-06,Republican,House,NE,Don Bacon,B001298,bacon.house.gov,bacon,https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx,scraper,"Washington, DC – Chairman of the House Armed Services Subcommittee on Cyber, Information Technologies, and Innovation Congressman Don Bacon (NE-02) and Co-Founder and Co-Chair of the Congressional Ukraine Caucus Congresswoman Marcy Kaptur (OH-09) today introduced the bipartisan Strategic Unmanned Systems Partnership Act to increase security cooperation and strengthen defense capabilities between the United States and Ukraine. Co-Leads of the legislation include Co-Chair of the Congressional Ukraine Caucus Congressman Brian Fitzpatrick (PA-01), Co-Chair of the Congressional Ukraine Caucus Congressman Mike Quigley (IL-05), Chairman Emeritus of the House Foreign Affairs Committee Congressman Michael McCaul (TX-10), and Ranking Member of the Transatlantic Legislators’ Dialogue Congressman Jim Costa (CA-21). This bipartisan legislation will create a working group between the Department of Defense, the Armed Forces of Ukraine, and other relevant stakeholders to enable the US to co-develop, co-produce, and rapidly acquire cost-effective Ukrainian-designed unmanned systems such as drones and surface vehicles, as well as the capabilities to counter unmanned systems. Bicameral companion legislation was introduced in the Senate by Senator Jacky Rosen (D-NV) and Senator Mike Rounds (R-SD). “Ukraine’s fight against Russia has shown the world that unmanned systems are changing the future of warfare,” said Congressman Don Bacon (NE-02), Chairman of the House Armed Services Subcommittee on Cyber, Information Technologies, and Innovation. “The Strategic Unmanned Systems Partnership Act strengthens US-Ukraine defense cooperation by creating a working group to co-develop, co-produce, and rapidly field cost-effective unmanned systems and counter-drone technologies. This partnership will help ensure the United States and our allies remain at the forefront of battlefield innovation while enhancing military readiness to meet evolving threats. I’m pleased to work with Rep. Kaptur and our bipartisan colleagues on this effort to strengthen defense cooperation and keep our forces ahead of emerging threats.” ""The innovative use of unmanned systems in Ukraine has permanently changed the face of warfare. By working with our Ukrainian allies we stand the best chance of protecting American servicemembers and the American homeland,"" said Congresswoman Marcy Kaptur (OH-09), Co-Founder and Co-Chair of the Congressional Ukraine Caucus. ""We must never forget that when Iranian drones honed against Ukrainians targeted Americans in the Middle East, it was Ukraine that came to our defense and aid. By forging an ironclad pact with our Ukrainian allies, we can repay that debt, and create a manufacturing partnership that will benefit communities across America."" “Ukraine’s defense has shown the world a defining reality of modern warfare: the nations that innovate, adapt, and produce at speed will hold the advantage. The Strategic Unmanned Systems Partnership Act advances that lesson in a practical and strategic way by enabling the United States to work shoulder-to-shoulder with our Ukrainian partners to identify battlefield-tested unmanned and counter-unmanned capabilities, accelerate co-development and co-production, and strengthen our defense industrial base here at home,” said Congressman Brian Fitzpatrick (PA-01), Co-Chair of the Congressional Ukraine Caucus. “This is how we support Ukraine, improve American readiness, and ensure that peace through strength is matched by the capabilities required to sustain it.” “The United States is a key force in keeping Vladimir Putin from taking Ukraine and invading the rest of Eastern Europe. Ukraine has been able to fend off Russian attacks during this war because of our technology and our weapons,” said Congressman Mike Quigley (IL-05), Co-Chair of the Congressional Ukraine Caucus. “The development and production of unmanned systems like drones and surface vehicles supported by this bill will help Ukraine protect themselves and safeguard democracy worldwide.” ""Four years into the war that many predicted would end in four days, the Ukrainians continue to rapidly innovate and push the frontiers of modern warfare — operating as a laboratory for drones and other unmanned systems,” said Congressman Michael McCaul (TX-10), Chairman Emeritus of the House Foreign Affairs Committee. “I’m proud to support this legislation to bolster defense cooperation between our nations and ensure the United States is prepared to build, deploy, and counter the drone technology that will define the future of warfare."" ""Ukrainians are some of the most innovative people in the world. They are testing modern warfare technologies on the battlefield in real time,"" said Congressman Jim Costa (CA-21) Ranking Member of the Transatlantic Legislators’ Dialogue. ""We have the opportunity to apply lessons learned by the Ukrainians to benefit the US military to make our warfighters more effective. This bill would enhance US-Ukraine defense cooperation, benefiting both nations."" Today's introduction of the bipartisan Strategic Unmanned Systems Partnership Act follows yesterday's announcement of $1.1 Billion in Pentagon investment in American manufacturing of Ukrainian Drone Technology including $18.4 Million of investment in Northwest Ohio. You can read more about yesterday's announcement by clicking here. A full copy of the bill text can be found by clicking here. ###",1,2026-07-01T06:34:07Z,2026-07-01T06:35:35Z https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=2904,Bacon Announces Opening of 2026 Congressional App Challenge,2026-06-29,2026,2026-06,Republican,House,NE,Don Bacon,B001298,bacon.house.gov,bacon,https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – Rep. Don Bacon (NE-02) today announced that his office is accepting submissions for the 2026 Congressional App Challenge, a nationwide competition that encourages middle and high school students to explore coding, computer science, and careers in STEM fields. Students who live in or attend school in Nebraska’s 2nd Congressional District are eligible to participate individually or in teams of up to four. The challenge is open to students of all skill levels, regardless of coding experience. Students may create an app using any programming language and for any platform, including desktop, web, mobile, Raspberry Pi, video games, or code used to power robots. The Congressional App Challenge was established to encourage students to learn to code and pursue careers in STEM. The competition helps students build computer science skills, encourages innovation, and recognizes young people for their work in technology. Last year’s first-place winner from Nebraska’s 2nd Congressional District was Gavin Vernon, a junior at Brownell Talbot, who partnered with Michael Zhang of Colorado’s 6th Congressional District to develop Youth Policy Pulse, a civic-engagement web application that helps young people understand and participate in the policymaking process. “There is a growing need to fill high-paying jobs in STEM fields, and the Congressional App Challenge is a fun and engaging way to show students they can play a real role in shaping the future through innovation and technology,” said Rep. Bacon. “I strongly encourage students from across Nebraska’s 2nd Congressional District to participate, learn new skills, and put their creativity to work.” The submission portal for the 2026 Congressional App Challenge is now open. Students must register and submit their applications by 12:00 p.m. ET on October 26, 2026. Winners will be selected by a panel of judges from the local community and honored by Rep. Bacon. Winning apps may also be featured in the U.S. Capitol, on House.gov, and on the Congressional App Challenge website. For questions, please contact Shannon Howard at Shannon.Howard@mail.house.gov or (402) 938-0300. For more information about the Congressional App Challenge, including rules and registration, please visit www.CongressionalAppChallenge.us. ###",1,2026-06-30T06:29:10Z,2026-06-30T06:30:42Z https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases/house-passes-congressman-floods-terrorism-risk-insurance-reauthorization-bill,House Passes Congressman Flood’s Terrorism Risk Insurance Reauthorization Bill,2026-06-29,2026,2026-06,Republican,House,NE,Mike Flood,F000474,flood.house.gov,flood,https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Congressman Mike Flood (R-NE) released the following statement after the House of Representatives passed the bipartisan TRIA Program Reauthorization Act. Congressman Flood is the original sponsor of the bill, which extends the authorization of the Terrorism Risk Insurance Program through 2034. “Reauthorizing TRIA is one of the must-pass measures of this Congress,” said Congressman Flood. “Created in the aftermath of the September 11, 2001, terrorist attacks, this program has provided a vital guarantee of stability in the insurance market. While the program has fortunately never had to pay a claim, extending it provides businesses nationwide with certainty and stability. I am pleased to see this bipartisan effort pass the House of Representatives and look forward to the Senate taking up this measure quickly.” TRIA Program Reauthorization Act makes several adjustments to the program, notably updating the damages threshold for a claim to keep in line with inflation, clarifying deadlines for the Department of Treasury to certify an event an “act of terrorism” for TRIA purposes, and more. Video of Congressman Flood’s remarks during floor debate is available here. News outlets are welcome to use the footage for reporting purposes. Congressman Andrew Garbarino (R-NY) is a co-lead of the TRIA Program Reauthorization Act.",1,2026-06-30T06:29:10Z,2026-06-30T06:30:42Z https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-flood-host-bellevue-town-hall-july-7th,Rep. Flood to Host Bellevue Town Hall on July 7th,2026-06-26,2026,2026-06,Republican,House,NE,Mike Flood,F000474,flood.house.gov,flood,https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"BELLEVUE, NEBRASKA – Today, U.S. Congressman Mike Flood announced he will hold a town hall in Bellevue, Nebraska on Tuesday, July 7, 2026. The town hall will be hosted at Bellevue West High School. During the town hall, Congressman Flood will provide an update on the work he is doing for Bellevue and Nebraska’s First Congressional District. There will be a question-and-answer period. Congressman Flood’s Bellevue Town Hall Tuesday, July 7th 5:00PM – 6:00PM CT Bellevue West High School: 1501 Thurston Ave, Bellevue, NE 68123 Note: Doors open at 4:15pm. No signs, backpacks, or large bags are permitted in the venue. A clear bag policy will be in place. This event is open to the public. For questions about the town hall, please contact Congressman Flood’s Lincoln Office at 402-438-1598.",1,2026-06-27T21:44:12Z,2026-06-27T22:11:26Z https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-flood-host-bellevue-town-hall-july-7th,Congressman Flood to Host Bellevue Town Hall on July 7th,2026-06-26,2026,2026-06,Republican,House,NE,Mike Flood,F000474,flood.house.gov,flood,https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"BELLEVUE, NEBRASKA – Today, U.S. Congressman Mike Flood announced he will hold a town hall in Bellevue, Nebraska on Tuesday, July 7, 2026. The town hall will be hosted at Bellevue West High School. During the town hall, Congressman Flood will provide an update on the work he is doing for Bellevue and Nebraska’s First Congressional District. There will be a question-and-answer period. Congressman Flood’s Bellevue Town Hall Tuesday, July 7th 5:00PM – 6:00PM CT Bellevue West High School: 1501 Thurston Ave, Bellevue, NE 68123 Note: Doors open at 4:15pm. No signs, backpacks, or large bags are permitted in the venue. A clear bag policy will be in place. This event is open to the public. For questions about the town hall, please contact Congressman Flood’s Lincoln Office at 402-438-1598.",1,2026-06-30T06:29:10Z,2026-06-30T06:30:42Z https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=2903,"Bacon, Panetta Introduce Bipartisan Bill to Waive Overtime Pay Cap and Protect Federal Firefighters",2026-06-25,2026,2026-06,Republican,House,NE,Don Bacon,B001298,bacon.house.gov,bacon,https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – Representative Don Bacon (NE-02) joined Representative Jimmy Panetta (CA-19) today to introduce the Support Our Firefighters Act. This bipartisan legislation would waive the overtime cap for federal wildland firefighters and ensure they receive mandatory rest and recuperation time. The bill is also co-led by Reps. Jack Bergman (MI-01), Rob Bresnahan (PA-08), Josh Harder (CA-09), and Joe Neguse (CO-02). Federal wildland firefighters are subject to an annual compensation cap, which includes base pay, overtime, and premium pay. During peak fire season, many federal wildland firefighters work extensive hours while assigned to an incident. This arbitrary cap often forces firefighters to fight fires and protect communities without getting paid, and exacerbates retention issues. To help address this issue, the Support Our Firefighters Act would permanently waive the pay cap for federal wildland firefighters so that they are fairly compensated for their lifesaving work. The bill would also ensure federal wildland firefighters receive three days of paid rest and recuperation leave after a 14-day period and four days of rest and recuperation following a 21-day period. “Our wildland firefighters put their lives on the line to protect our communities from devastating fires,” said Rep. Bacon. “As a member of the Congressional Fire Services Caucus, I’m pleased to co-lead the bipartisan Support Our Firefighters Act to ensure these heroes receive the rest, support and resources they need after difficult deployments.” “With wildfires raging across the country, Congress must ensure we can properly recruit and retain our federal wildland firefighters,” said Rep. Panetta. “The unreasonable current overtime pay cap and unsustainable lack of rest and recuperation time undermines these selfless professionals’ ability to best protect families, homes, and businesses and risks pushing them to jobs with better pay and conditions. That’s why our bipartisan bill would permanently lift this arbitrary compensation cap while also providing mandatory rest for federal firefighters. It’s this type of bipartisan, commonsense solution that can address the wildfire crisis and strengthen our federal firefighting workforce.” “Our first responders, including our wildland firefighters, are willing to put everything on the line to keep our communities safe,” said Rep. Bresnahan. “Wildfires are unpredictable, and we cannot afford to limit their annual pay or force these brave men and women to choose between serving their communities and providing for their families. The Support Our Firefighters Act helps retain experienced firefighters, strengthens wildfire response, and ensures firefighters receive the pay they have earned and the rest time they need.” “When wildland firefighters answer the call of duty, they put their lives on pause — leaving behind their lives and families for months at a time, working an average of 16-hour daily shifts, sleeping in the dirt, with incredibly limited time off to reset and reconnect with loved ones. Their service is an incredible sacrifice, and we must do everything we can to support the brave individuals that make up this workforce. That’s why I’m proud to join Congressman Panetta in introducing the Support Our Firefighters Act, a bill that expands upon our efforts to increase firefighter pay by permanently waiving the overtime pay cap and ensuring folks are provided an adequate rest and recuperation leave. It’s up to us to make sure these courageous heroes are well compensated for their selfless dedication,” said Rep. Neguse. “Wildland firefighters shouldn’t be punished for taking a breather after spending weeks on the frontlines of severe megafires,” said Rep. Harder. “Our firefighters are already being pushed to the brink by this year-round crisis, and they need relief. This bill keeps our promise to those who stand between our communities and fire disaster by guaranteeing the rest, pay, and support they've earned.” “From the forests of Northern Michigan and the Upper Peninsula to those out West, our federal wildland firefighters put their lives on the line every fire season – and we’re losing good people to attrition because the workforce system hasn’t kept pace with the support our firefighters need and deserve,” said Rep. Bergman. “The Support Our Firefighters Act guarantees real recovery time, fixes the overtime pay cap waiver, and protects the pay continuity these crews depend on, and I’m proud to help co-lead this bipartisan effort with my colleagues.” “Federal wildland firefighters perform grueling, complex work while defending American communities from the wildfire crisis. It is critical that these men and women have time to recover after deployments and that they are fairly compensated for their incredible duties. NFFE is proud to endorse this legislation to guarantee rest periods for the dedicated public servants on the front lines, in addition to lifting overtime pay limitations for hours worked on fire assignments. Addressing both issues will help ensure the workforce is adequately equipped to carry out its important mission. Thank you to Representative Panetta and the original cosponsors for their leadership in supporting federal wildland firefighters,” said NFFE National President Randy Erwin. Despite risking their lives and traveling cross-country for months at a time to protect American communities and forests from wildfires, many of the more than 18,000 federal wildland firefighters live paycheck to paycheck, sometimes working overtime without fair pay. Wildland firefighters are required to work long hours in challenging and changing conditions, such as high temperatures and steep terrain. Federal agencies have continuously experienced difficulty with retention due to the nature of their work and compensation. Full text of the bill is available here. ###",1,2026-06-26T06:29:35Z,2026-06-26T06:31:46Z https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases/smith-washington-times-handshake-hard-work-and-healthcare-access,"Smith in Washington Times: A Handshake, Hard Work, and Healthcare Access",2026-06-25,2026,2026-06,Republican,House,NE,Adrian Smith,S001172,adriansmith.house.gov,adriansmith,https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Today, Congressman Adrian Smith (NE-03) penned an op-ed in the Washington Times urging his colleagues in Congress to help cut through the bureaucratic barriers that are preventing seniors in rural and underserved areas from getting the prompt, expert care they deserve by passing his Main Street Pharmacy Access Act. Click here to read the full op-ed or read an excerpt below: Pharmacists are the most accessible healthcare professionals in America. Nearly nine in ten Americans live within five miles of a pharmacy. In rural communities, pharmacists often serve as the first point of care. They fill gaps in our healthcare system every day, offering trusted advice, quick testing and timely treatment. But here is the problem: A person might get tested and treated for several common respiratory illnesses by their community pharmacist their entire life. But the day that person turns 65 and enrolls in Medicare, they can no longer go to the pharmacist for those services — Medicare doesn’t cover those services when provided by a pharmacist. Private insurance covers it. Medicaid covers it. Medicare does not. Sadly, many seniors find out about this lack of coverage when they are sick at the pharmacist’s counter, forced to go somewhere else to receive care. This is not just illogical. It also leaves seniors in rural America with fewer options and longer drives for basic care. Fortunately, I introduced the Main Street Pharmacy Access Act to solve this discrepancy. My bill takes a practical, targeted approach to fixing a real problem. It allows Medicare to reimburse pharmacists for testing and treating common respiratory illnesses — just as private insurance and Medicaid already do. Importantly, it does not change scope of practice. States remain fully in control of what pharmacists are allowed to do. My bill just says this: If a state allows pharmacists to provide these services, Medicare should cover them. This is about access. This is about fairness. This is about making life easier for seniors who have spent their lives contributing to our communities.",1,2026-06-27T21:44:12Z,2026-06-27T22:11:26Z https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=2902,"Bacon, Kelly Lead Bill to Award Artemis II Crew the Congressional Gold Medal",2026-06-24,2026,2026-06,Republican,House,NE,Don Bacon,B001298,bacon.house.gov,bacon,https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx,scraper,"Read in USA TODAY: New effort in Congress would grant Artemis II astronauts rare honor Washington, D.C. – Representative Don Bacon (R-NE-02) and retired NASA astronaut and Senator Mark Kelly (D-AZ) today introduced the Artemis II Congressional Gold Medal Act to honor the four crewmembers of the historic Artemis II mission around the Moon. Cosponsors of the bill include Representatives George Whitesides (D-CA-27), Gabe Evans (R-CO-08), and Glenn Ivey (D-MD-04) and Senators Pete Ricketts (R-NE), Jerry Moran (R-KS), Chris Van Hollen (D-MD), Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), Deb Fischer (R-NE), and Tim Sheehy (R-MT). On April 1, 2026, NASA astronauts Reid Wiseman, Victor Glover, Christina Koch, and Canadian Space Agency astronaut Jeremy Hansen embarked on a historic 9-day mission as the first crewed Artemis flight, taking a key step toward a return to the Moon and future missions to Mars. The four astronauts flew farther from Earth than any humans in history. “From Apollo to Artemis, America’s pioneering spirit has long defined our leadership in space exploration,” said Rep. Bacon. “Commander Reid Wiseman, Pilot Victor Glover, and Mission Specialists Christina Koch and Jeremy Hansen carried that legacy farther than any humans have ever traveled from Earth, setting a new record of approximately 252,756 miles and marking the first crewed mission beyond low Earth orbit and around the Moon in 53 years. The Artemis II Congressional Gold Medal Act is a bipartisan, bicameral effort to honor this historic mission with the highest civilian honor Congress can bestow. I am grateful to our friends at Space for Humanity for bringing this idea to us, and to Sen. Kelly and our co-leads for working together to recognize these extraordinary astronauts.” “Reid, Victor, Christina, and Jeremy carried human space exploration farther than it has ever gone before,” said Sen. Kelly. “I’ve flown on four missions to space and I know how hard that crew and the teams on the ground worked. They made something incredibly complex and difficult look easy. They reminded Americans what we’re capable of when we work together. They inspired the next generation of scientists, explorers, and engineers. For pushing the boundaries of human achievement, the Artemis II crew deserves this honor.” “Few missions have captured our imagination the way Artemis II has. Its crew became the first humans in more than 50 years to experience the lunar Overview Effect — a perspective from which our world floats distantly in the darkness of space,” said Antonio Peronace, Executive Director of Space for Humanity. “We are at an important inflection point for our species. Space has the ability to bring people together, shape perspectives, and inspire us all. Artemis II's record-shattering mission could not have happened at a better time. The images, experiences, and perspectives these remarkable explorers shared remind us that while we may come from different nations, backgrounds, and beliefs, we all live on the same fragile planet. We are all crewmembers on Spaceship Earth. Artemis proves our greatest achievements are the ones we accomplish together. That’s why this mission was not only a success for NASA and the United States, but a gift to all humanity. For these reasons and more, the Congressional Gold Medal is a fitting recognition for the inspirational crew of Artemis II.” “Artemis II marked a bold new chapter in American space exploration, with a groundbreaking crew that set records for the farthest humans have ever traveled from our planet. Their incredible accomplishments represent the very best of us and brought the country together in a collective moment of awe. I'm proud to pay tribute to their journey with the Artemis II Congressional Gold Medal Act which bestows the crew with Congress’ highest civilian honor,” said Rep. Whitesides. ""The Artemis II mission represents the very best of America: courage, innovation, and a willingness to push beyond the horizon in pursuit of something greater than ourselves. As an Army veteran, I have tremendous respect for the dedication, discipline, and sacrifice required to undertake a mission of this magnitude. Commander Reid Wiseman, Pilot Victor Glover, and Mission Specialists Christina Koch and Jeremy Hansen carried forward a proud legacy of exploration while inspiring the next generation of scientists, engineers, service members, and explorers. Awarding the Congressional Gold Medal is a fitting tribute to their historic achievement and reaffirms America's leadership in space exploration,” said Rep. Evans. “Artemis represents the next great chapter in American leadership in space exploration, and communities like ours that support the nation’s spaceflight missions are proud to help send astronauts farther than humanity has ever traveled before. The Congressional Gold Medal Act is a fitting tribute to the courage, skill, and dedication of the Artemis II crew, whose service will inspire a new generation of scientists, engineers, and explorers across our nation. I am proud to honor these outstanding astronauts as an original co-sponsor of this bill,” said Rep. Ivey. “The Artemis II mission was a historic achievement for American space dominance,” said Sen. Ricketts. “This is a fitting honor for the crew and all those who aided in the mission’s success. This includes the General Dynamics team in Lincoln who manufactured several components for the spacecraft, including the oxygen tanks.” “Earlier this year, Artemis II made history and showed the world that our greatest days of discovery are still ahead,” said Sen. Moran. “As we celebrate the mission’s success, we honor the Artemis II crew – Reid Wiseman, Victor Glover, Christina Koch and Jeremy Hansen – alongside the NASA workforce whose contributions helped set new records in space exploration. America’s leadership in space would not be possible without the innovation, courage and dedication of the men and women who made this mission possible.” “The Artemis II mission took humanity further away from Earth than we have ever been before. This historic effort was built on contributions from NASA centers across the country – including the dedicated workforce at Goddard Space Flight Center – to send four brave astronauts around the moon. Artemis II will be remembered for the teamwork, dedication, and spirit that Pilot Victor Glover, Mission Specialist Christina Koch, Mission Specialist Jeremy Hansen, and Commander Reid Wiseman from our great state of Maryland shared with the world. This resolution marks their contributions and the contributions of all of those who made the Artemis II mission a success and an inspiration to us all,” said Sen. Van Hollen. “The brave Artemis II crew broke new frontiers for space exploration and proved to the next generation of young scientists that anything is possible,” said Sen. Duckworth. “Astronauts Reid Wiseman, Victor Glover, Christina Koch and Jeremy Hansen and everyone behind the scenes at NASA that made this incredible mission possible deserve the highest praise, and I’m glad to join my colleagues in honoring their achievement.” “This crew did what no human has ever done, and their mission puts us one step closer to a sustained presence on the moon. I applaud their bravery and am proud to recognize the path they paved for the future of space exploration,” said Sen. Fischer. “The Artemis II mission demonstrated what Americans can achieve when we combine courage, innovation, and an unwavering commitment to exploration. As the first crew to travel farther from Earth than any humans in history, these astronauts inspired our nation and strengthened America’s leadership in space. I’m proud to support awarding the Congressional Gold Medal to recognize their extraordinary achievement and the generations of explorers they will inspire,” said Sen. Sheehy. Background The Congressional Gold Medal is one of the highest civilian honors awarded by Congress. Since the American Revolution, Congress has used the medal to recognize individuals and groups whose achievements have had a lasting impact on American history and national life. The last astronauts to be awarded the Congressional Gold Medal were the Apollo 11 Crew in 2009. No other NASA mission crew has received the honor, reserving it for missions of extraordinary historic significance. Click here to read the full text of the bill. ###",1,2026-06-25T06:30:03Z,2026-06-25T06:31:21Z https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases/smith-house-floor-bill-expedite-wildfire-disaster-assistance-heads-presidents,Smith on House Floor: Bill to Expedite Wildfire Disaster Assistance Heads to President’s Desk,2026-06-23,2026,2026-06,Republican,House,NE,Adrian Smith,S001172,adriansmith.house.gov,adriansmith,https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Today, Congressman Adrian Smith (NE-03) took to the House Floor to celebrate the House passage of the Emergency Conservation Program Improvement Act (S.629)and it being sent to President Trump’s desk. As Nebraska’s agriculture producers work to rebuild following this year’s devastating wildfires, this legislation would help expedite access to critical federal disaster assistance when it is needed most. With Smith’s support, the bill is led by Senator Deb Fischer (R-NE) and Congresswoman Julia Letlow (LA-05). Image Click the image above to watch a video of Smith’s remarks Click here to download audio Click here to download video",1,2026-06-27T21:44:12Z,2026-06-27T22:11:26Z https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases/housing-insurance-chairman-flood-final-passage-housing-bill-game-changer,Housing & Insurance Chairman Flood on Final Passage of Housing Bill: 'This Is a Game Changer.',2026-06-23,2026,2026-06,Republican,House,NE,Mike Flood,F000474,flood.house.gov,flood,https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Congressman Mike Flood, who serves as Chairman of the Housing & Insurance Subcommittee, released a statement following final passage of the “21st Century ROAD to Housing Act.” The bill features several measures introduced and backed by Congressman Flood. This legislation is the first major housing legislation passed by Congress in decades. “The 21st Century ROAD to Housing Act is a game changer,” said Congressman Flood. “For too long, working families have been priced out of the American Dream by skyrocketing housing costs and burdensome red tape. This bill will build more homes, cut unnecessary regulations, and make homeownership a reality for many hardworking Americans. I’m grateful to Chairman French Hill, House leadership, Ranking Members Maxine Waters and Emanuel Cleaver, and President Trump for helping deliver this major win for families, communities, and the future of American homeownership.” In addition to serving as Chairman of the Housing & Insurance Subcommittee, Congressman Flood is the Chairman of the Republican Main Street Caucus. The text of the “21st Century ROAD to Housing Act” can be found here. Legislation Congressman Flood previously introduced that are included in the amended version of the housing bill are detailed below: The HOME Reform Act “America is in the midst of a housing crisis as families struggle to live the American dream due to the shortage of millions of homes,” said Congressman Flood. “The HOME program is a federal program that builds housing supply, but it has previously been weighed down by regulatory burdens that make it hard to build housing. The reforms in this legislation will result in more homebuilding across the country as we work to tackle our nation’s housing shortage. From Columbus, Nebraska to Columbus, Ohio and beyond, local communities will have an unprecedented opportunity to build affordable homes and directly address the housing crisis gripping our nation.” The ""HOME Reform Act"" modernizes the HOME Investment Partnership Program by exempting projects from NEPA and provides relief from Build America, Buy America requirements as well as establishing a “small project” exemption under Section 3 of the HUD Act of 1968. The bill raises income eligibility to 100% of area median income, extends the time communities have to commit funds, updates definitions of affordable single and multifamily housing, as well as allows funds to be used for infrastructure tied directly to new housing, such as sidewalks, sewers, and utility connections. Read the initial press release on the ""HOME Reform Act"" here. The bill was co-introduced by Housing & Insurance Subcommittee Ranking Member Emanuel Cleaver (D-MO). Unlocking Housing Supply Through Streamlined and Modernized Reviews Act “The Unlocking Supply Through Streamlined and Modernized Reviews Act is an important step towards increasing housingsupply in America,” said Congressman Flood. “Environmental reviews can slow housing projects by months- or even years. Currently, those reviews are not properly tailored to the size and scale of housing projects. This legislation is a meaningful step towards fixing that problem.” The ""Unlocking Housing Supply Through Streamlined and Modernized Reviews Act"" streamlines the environmental review process for a range of Department of Housing and Urban Development building activities. Read the initial press release on the ""Unlocking Housing Supply Through Streamlined and Modernized Reviews Act"" here. The bill was co-introduced by Congressman Sam Liccardo (D-CA). The Housing Supply Frameworks Act “The rising cost of housing is putting the American Dream out of reach for working families across our country,” said Congressman Flood. “We need an all-of-the-above approach to addressing America’s housing crisis. To this end, the Housing Supply Frameworks Act helps establish suggested best practices for state and local governments across the country who want to break down barriers holding back development and innovation in housing and construction.” The ""Housing Supply Frameworks Act” requires HUD to publish best practices and guidelines to assist communities in maintaining modern local and state zoning frameworks that support the production of adequate housing options at every income level. Read the initial press release on the ""Housing Supply Frameworks Act"" here. The bill was co-introduced by Congresswoman Brittany Pettersen (D-CO). The UNLOCK Act “The CDBG program has long been an important tool for Nebraska cities to fund important local projects,” said Congressman Flood. “This targeted legislation would give communities across the state the flexibility to use CDBG dollars to directly address housing supply needs.” The “UNLOCK Act” allows grantees to use CDBG funding for housing developments. Read the more on the “UNLOCK Act"" here. The bill was co-introduced by Congressman Sam Liccardo (D-CA). The Rural Regulatory Relief Act The ""Rural Housing Regulatory Relief Act"" streamlines environmental review requirements for housing developments built on previously developed infill sites. The legislation reduces duplicative NEPA review processes for projects on land that has already been developed, helping to eliminate unnecessary federal delays and costs. This legislation will help lower construction costs, accelerate housing development, and expand access to affordable housing in rural communities. More information on the “Rural Regulatory Relief Act” can be found here. The bill was co-introduced by Congressmen Troy Downing (R-MT), Eugene Vindman (D-VA), and Vicente Gonzalez (D-TX). The BUILD Housing Act The “BUILD Housing Act” updates the NEPA process for housing developments by expanding collaboration between HUD, states, and localities. Specifically, the legislation gives HUD the ability to delegate and coordinate certain environmental reviews for HUD grant programs to state and localities. This bill additionally allows HUD to designate certain housingassistance as “special project funds.” By streamlining reviews and reducing administrative burdens, this legislation would help accelerate housing development and improve the delivery of federal housing assistance.",1,2026-06-27T21:44:12Z,2026-06-27T22:11:26Z https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-flood-announces-start-2026-congressional-app-challenge-middle-and,Congressman Flood Announces the Start of the 2026 Congressional App Challenge for Middle and High School Coders,2026-06-18,2026,2026-06,Republican,House,NE,Mike Flood,F000474,flood.house.gov,flood,https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"LINCOLN, NEBRASKA – Today, U.S. Congressman Mike Flood announced the start of the 2026 Congressional App Challenge for Nebraska First Congressional District. The Congressional App Challenge is a nationwide competition that encourages middle and high school students to learn coding, develop technical skills, and explore careers in computer science. “Nebraska’s 'Silicon Prairie' spirit is driven by innovation, entrepreneurship, and a talented next generation,” said Congressman Flood. “I encourage students throughout Nebraska’s First District to take part in this year’s Congressional App Challenge and put their coding skills to work. I look forward to seeing the creative solutions and groundbreaking ideas they bring to this year’s challenge.” Registration is currently open for the 2026 Congressional App Challenge. The deadline for submissions is October 26th, 2026.",1,2026-07-23T07:31:02Z,2026-07-23T07:32:26Z https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-flood-receives-2026-democracy-award-best-constituent,Congressman Flood Receives 2026 Democracy Award for Best of Constituent Correspondence & Engagement,2026-06-17,2026,2026-06,Republican,House,NE,Mike Flood,F000474,flood.house.gov,flood,https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"LINCOLN, NEBRASKA – The office of U.S. Congressman Mike Flood has been named a '2026 Democracy Award' recipient by the Congressional Management Foundation (CMF) for Best of Constituent Correspondence & Engagement. The award recognizes a representative’s sustained excellence in constituent communication and engagement across their district. Specifically, the 'Best of Constituent Correspondence & Engagement' category recognizes offices that excel in constituent communication through letters, email, social media, outreach, and ongoing dialogue with the communities they serve. “Representative government only works if people can reach their elected officials,” said Congressman Flood. ""That’s been a priority of my office since day one. Winning the award for 'Best of Constituent Correspondence and Engagement' reflects the work my office has done to make sure people in Nebraska's First District can always reach their government — whether through town halls, newsletters, or just picking up the phone and getting them a real answer. I'm incredibly proud of my team and am grateful for how hard they work to ensure people across our First District have a voice in Washington.” “In an era when many Americans feel disconnected from their government, Rep. Flood’s office made constituent communication a clear priority. Effective constituent engagement doesn’t happen by accident, it requires intentional leadership, strong systems, and a commitment to treating communication as a core responsibility of representation. By building a culture of responsiveness and ensuring constituents felt heard and informed, the office created a model that strengthens the connection between citizens and Congress.” said Jen Daulby, CEO of the Congressional Management Foundation. The Congressional Management Foundation is the premier bipartisan foundation dedicated to strengthening the first branch of government. The Democracy Awards are CMF’s signature program recognizing the best in congressional non-legislative achievements.",1,2026-06-27T21:44:12Z,2026-06-27T22:11:26Z https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases/housing-insurance-chairman-flood-celebrates-bicameral-agreement-reached,Housing & Insurance Chairman Flood Celebrates Bicameral Agreement Reached on Landmark Housing Legislation,2026-06-16,2026,2026-06,Republican,House,NE,Mike Flood,F000474,flood.house.gov,flood,https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"LINCOLN, NEBRASKA – Today, U.S. Congressman Mike Flood, who serves as Chairman of the Housing & Insurance Subcommittee, released a statement following the announcement of an agreement between the House and Senate finalizing the “21st Century ROAD to Housing Act.” The agreement includes various provisions introduced and backed by Congressman Flood. It is set to be the first major housing legislation passed by Congress in decades. “I am happy that the House and Senate were able to reach a compromise and clear the way for final passage of the ‘21st Century ROAD to Housing Act,’” said Congressman Flood.“The work done by both chambers reflects how the Founders intended Congress to operate: the House and Senate came together, made compromises, and found common ground to move this much-needed legislation forward. Working families across the country need relief from the high cost of housing, and I am confident that once this agreement passes both chambers and is signed into law by President Trump, more families will be able to achieve the American dream of homeownership."" In addition to serving as Chairman of the Housing & Insurance Subcommittee, Congressman Flood is the Chairman of the Republican Main Street Caucus. The text of the House-Senate agreement on the ""21st Century ROAD to Housing Act” can be found here. Legislation Congressman Flood previously introduced that are included in the amended version of the housing bill are detailed below: The HOME Reform Act “America is in the midst of a housing crisis as families struggle to live the American dream due to the shortage of millions of homes,” said Congressman Flood. “The HOME program is a federal program that builds housing supply, but it has previously been weighed down by regulatory burdens that make it hard to build housing. The reforms in this legislation will result in more homebuilding across the country as we work to tackle our nation’s housing shortage. From Columbus, Nebraska to Columbus, Ohio and beyond, local communities will have an unprecedented opportunity to build affordable homes and directly address the housing crisis gripping our nation.” The ""HOME Reform Act"" modernizes the HOME Investment Partnership Program by exempting projects from NEPA and provides relief from Build America, Buy America requirements as well as establishing a “small project” exemption under Section 3 of the HUD Act of 1968. The bill raises income eligibility to 100% of area median income, extends the time communities have to commit funds, updates definitions of affordable single and multifamily housing, as well as allows funds to be used for infrastructure tied directly to new housing, such as sidewalks, sewers, and utility connections. Read the initial press release on the ""HOME Reform Act"" here. The bill was co-introduced by Housing & Insurance Subcommittee Ranking Member Emanuel Cleaver (D-MO). Unlocking Housing Supply Through Streamlined and Modernized Reviews Act “The Unlocking Supply Through Streamlined and Modernized Reviews Act is an important step towards increasing housing supply in America,” said Congressman Flood. “Environmental reviews can slow housing projects by months- or even years. Currently, those reviews are not properly tailored to the size and scale of housing projects. This legislation is a meaningful step towards fixing that problem.” The ""Unlocking Housing Supply Through Streamlined and Modernized Reviews Act"" streamlines the environmental review process for a range of Department of Housing and Urban Development building activities. Read the initial press release on the ""Unlocking Housing Supply Through Streamlined and Modernized Reviews Act"" here. The bill was co-introduced by Congressman Sam Liccardo (D-CA). The Housing Supply Frameworks Act “The rising cost of housing is putting the American Dream out of reach for working families across our country,” said Congressman Flood. “We need an all-of-the-above approach to addressing America’s housing crisis. To this end, the Housing Supply Frameworks Act helps establish suggested best practices for state and local governments across the country who want to break down barriers holding back development and innovation in housing and construction.” The ""Housing Supply Frameworks Act” requires HUD to publish best practices and guidelines to assist communities in maintaining modern local and state zoning frameworks that support the production of adequate housing options at every income level. Read the initial press release on the ""Housing Supply Frameworks Act"" here. The bill was co-introduced by Congresswoman Brittany Pettersen (D-CO). The UNLOCK Act “The CDBG program has long been an important tool for Nebraska cities to fund important local projects,” said Congressman Flood. “This targeted legislation would give communities across the state the flexibility to use CDBG dollars to directly address housing supply needs.” The “UNLOCK Act” allows grantees to use CDBG funding for housing developments. Read the more on the “UNLOCK Act"" here. The bill was co-introduced by Congressman Sam Liccardo (D-CA). The Rural Regulatory Relief Act The ""Rural Housing Regulatory Relief Act"" streamlines environmental review requirements for housing developments built on previously developed infill sites. The legislation reduces duplicative NEPA review processes for projects on land that has already been developed, helping to eliminate unnecessary federal delays and costs. This legislation will help lower construction costs, accelerate housing development, and expand access to affordable housing in rural communities. More information on the “Rural Regulatory Relief Act” can be found here. The bill was co-introduced by Congressmen Troy Downing (R-MT), Eugene Vindman (D-VA), and Vicente Gonzalez (D-TX). The BUILD Housing Act The “BUILD Housing Act” updates the NEPA process for housing developments by expanding collaboration between HUD, states, and localities. Specifically, the legislation gives HUD the ability to delegate and coordinate certain environmental reviews for HUD grant programs to state and localities. This bill additionally allows HUD to designate certain housing assistance as “special project funds.” By streamlining reviews and reducing administrative burdens, this legislation would help accelerate housing development and improve the delivery of federal housing assistance.",1,2026-06-27T21:44:12Z,2026-06-27T22:11:26Z https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases/reps-flood-r-ne-and-goodlander-d-nh-introduce-build-housing-affordably-act,Reps. Flood (R-NE) and Goodlander (D-NH) Introduce the Build Housing Affordably Act,2026-06-15,2026,2026-06,Republican,House,NE,Mike Flood,F000474,flood.house.gov,flood,https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"LINCOLN, NE – Today, U.S. Congressman Mike Flood (R-NE), Chairman of the Housing and Insurance Subcommittee, and U.S. Congresswoman Maggie Goodlander (D-NH) introduced H.R. 9311, the bipartisan “Build Housing Affordably Act.” The bill provides immediate relief to affordable housing developers from Build America, Buy America (BABA) requirements that are freezing important housing projects across the country. “Across the country, and especially in Nebraska, the shortage of affordable housing options is making life more expensive for families,” said Congressman Flood (R-NE). “Our bipartisan Build Housing Affordably Act cuts the government red tape and bureaucracy standing in the way of building homes American families can afford. Congress is making real progress on addressing the rising cost of home ownership, and this bill keeps us moving toward a future where an affordable home is once again within reach for every family.” “New Hampshire is in a full-blown housing crisis, and hardworking people are paying the price every month in higher rents and home prices they cannot afford,” said Congresswoman Goodlander (D-NH). “Right now, a single federal rule is senselessly jacking up costs and adding massive delays to the urgent mission before us: building the tens of thousands of homes the people of New Hampshire urgently need. Our bipartisan Build Housing Affordably Act cuts needless red tape that is standing in our way and paves the way for affordable homes, built much sooner, at a lower cost to the Granite Staters who need them.” Click here for the full text of the bill. Click here for one-pager on the bill. Click here for a detailed section-by-section of the bill. Background: After passage of the ""Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act"" in 2021, Build America, Buy America requirements—which require iron, steel, manufactured products and construction materials for federally assisted infrastructure projects to be domestically produced—have been applied to the construction, rehabilitation and repair of affordable housing projects. While well-intentioned, BABA has proven to be a top regulatory barrier to building more affordable housing supply using federal programs like the HOME Investment Partnership Program. Congressman Flood has highlighted the effects of BABA on affordable housing projects at past congressional hearings this Congress, including: Full Committee Hearing with HUD Secretary Turner in January, 2026. Summary: The Build Housing Affordably Act streamlines BABA implementation to strike a better balance between promoting domestic production and continuing the development of affordable housing projects across the country. The bill would: Require the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) to conduct a study of the effects on BABA on affordable housing development and the BABA waiver process. Following the completion of this study, HUD must present its findings in a report to Congress. Halt implementation of BABA for covered affordable housing projects until 60 days after the report is delivered to Congress. Institute a 90-day timeline for reviewing BABA waivers for affordable housing projects. If waivers are not processed within 90 days, the waiver shall be deemed to have been granted. The following groups support the Build Housing Affordably Act: Affordable Housing Tax Credit Coalition, American Institute of Architects (AIA), Bipartisan Policy Center Action, Corporation for Supportive Housing (CSH), Council for Affordable and Rural Housing (CARH), Council of Large Public Housing Authorities (CLPHA), Council of State Community Development Associations (COSCDA), Enterprise Community Partners, Habitat for Humanity International, Housing Advisory Group, Housing Partnership Network (HPN), Local Initiatives Support Corporation (LISC), Mortgage Bankers Association (MBA), National Affordable Housing Management Association, National Apartment Association (NAA), National Association of Home Builders (NAHB), National Association of Housing and Redevelopment Officials (NAHRO), National Association of Latino Community Asset Builders (NALCAB), National Association of Local Housing Finance Agencies (NALHFA), National Association of REALTORS (NAR), National Association of State and Local Equity Funds (NASLEF), National Community Development Association (NCDA), National Council of State Housing Agencies (NCSHA), National Housing & Rehabilitation Association (NH&RA), National Housing Trust, National Low Income Housing Coalition, National Multifamily Housing Council (NMHC), National NeighborWorks Association, Novogradac, Public Housing Authority Directors Association (PHADA), Stewards of Affordable Housing for the Future (SAHF), and Up for Growth Action. Congressman Flood serves as Chairman of the Housing & Insurance Subcommittee, Chair of the Republican Main Street Caucus, and is a Member of the Financial Services Committee.",1,2026-06-27T21:44:12Z,2026-06-27T22:11:26Z https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases/smith-house-floor-celebrating-80-years-scottsbluffs-midwest-theater,Smith on House Floor: Celebrating 80 Years of Scottsbluff’s Midwest Theater,2026-06-12,2026,2026-06,Republican,House,NE,Adrian Smith,S001172,adriansmith.house.gov,adriansmith,https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"This week, Congressman Adrian Smith (NE-03) took to the House Floor to congratulate Scottsbluff’s Midwest Theater on 80 years of business. During his remarks, Smith highlighted the theater’s significance to Scottsbluff and surrounding communities while recognizing the countless number of volunteers who have made the theater a place to gather for the past eight decades. Image Click the image above to watch a video of Smith’s remarks Click here to download audio Click here to download video",1,2026-06-27T21:44:12Z,2026-06-27T22:11:26Z https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases/smith-announces-upcoming-mobile-office-hour-frontier-county,Smith Announces Upcoming Mobile Office Hour for Frontier County,2026-06-11,2026,2026-06,Republican,House,NE,Adrian Smith,S001172,adriansmith.house.gov,adriansmith,https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Congressman Adrian Smith (NE-03) announced today that his staff will hold a mobile office hour for constituents in Frontier County on Wednesday, June 24, 2026. This office hour is an opportunity for constituents to meet directly with a member of Smith's staff about federal issues, receive assistance with a federal agency, or take advantage of the services available through his office. Smith, who has offices in Grand Island, Scottsbluff, and Nebraska City, will provide a staff member at the following time and location: Wednesday, June 24, 2026 Frontier County Courthouse 1 Wellington Street Stockville, NE 69042 12:00 pm - 1:00 pm CT",1,2026-06-27T21:44:12Z,2026-06-27T22:11:26Z https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases/smith-leads-bipartisan-effort-address-mexicos-non-tariff-trade-barriers,Smith Leads Bipartisan Effort to Address Mexico’s Non-Tariff Trade Barriers,2026-06-11,2026,2026-06,Republican,House,NE,Adrian Smith,S001172,adriansmith.house.gov,adriansmith,https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Today, Congressman Adrian Smith (R-NE-03), chair of the Ways and Means Subcommittee on Trade, led a bipartisan letter with his Agriculture Trade Caucus co-chairs U.S. Representatives Jim Costa (D-CA-21), Dusty Johnson (R-SD-AL), Jimmy Panetta (D-CA-19), and 13 of their colleagues urging the Trump Administration to address Mexico’s burdensome non-tariff barriers affecting U.S. grain exports during the ongoing review of the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA). In a letter to U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer and U.S. Department of Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins, lawmakers raised concerns about Mexico’s National Service for Agrifood Health, Safety, and Quality subjecting U.S. grain shipments to duplicative inspections despite those shipments already meeting established phytosanitary requirements. The lawmakers emphasized that U.S. grain exports to Mexico are routinely inspected by the Federal Grain Inspection Service (FGIS) or its designated agencies, which verify shipment quality and compliance with Mexico’s import standards. Nevertheless, Mexican authorities continue to stop and reinspect grain shipments at the border under a zero-tolerance soil standard that differs significantly from U.S. practices. The lawmakers write: “In 2025, Mexico alone purchased more than $12 billion in U.S. grain and oilseed products. Currently, U.S. grain moving to Mexico is officially inspected by the Federal Grain Inspection Service (FGIS) or one of its designated agencies. These inspections confirm the grade and quality of shipments and compliance with Mexico’s phytosanitary requirements. Despite this, Mexico’s National Service for Agrifood Health, Safety, and Quality stops shuttle trains at the border and reinspects them under a zero-tolerance standard for soil, which differs significantly from U.S. practice. This has real consequences. Reinspection delays trains, increases transportation costs, and often triggers fumigation orders that can cost shippers up to $70,000 per train. Rail carriers may send cars back empty rather than risk delays, and grain companies must purchase additional train capacity to keep supply chains running. These are onerous and duplicative procedures - not science-based protections.” In addition to Smith and his Agriculture Trade Caucus Co-Chairs, the letter was signed by U.S. Representatives Jim Baird (R-IN-04), Mariannette Miller-Meeks (R-IA-01), Michelle Fischbach (R-MN-07), Derrick Van Orden (R-WI-03), Darin LaHood (R-IL-16), Derek Schmidt (R-KS-02), Tracey Mann (R-KS-01), Mark Messmer (R-IN-08), John Rose (R-TN-06), Mike Flood (R-NE-01), Julie Fedorchak (R-ND-AL), Mike Bost (R-IL-12), and Dan Newhouse (R-WA-04). Read the full letter here or below: Dear Ambassador Greer and Secretary Rollins: Since its adoption, the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) has generated numerous benefits for the U.S. food and agriculture sector. We recognize the value of the Agreement’s six-year Joint Review to ensure proper oversight, implementation, and enforcement, and urge you to work closely with Congress and stakeholders throughout the process. We see meaningful opportunities to strengthen market access within USMCA, particularly in addressing non-tariff trade barriers related to sanitary and phytosanitary standards and agricultural biotechnology. Ensuring this trade remains seamless, predictable, and science-based is essential to America’s farmers, grain handlers, feed manufacturers, exporters, and transportation partners. Mexico and Canada are two of the most important export markets for U.S. corn, soybeans, wheat, and other commodities. In 2025, Mexico alone purchased more than $12 billion in U.S. grain and oilseed products. Currently, U.S. grain moving to Mexico is officially inspected by the Federal Grain Inspection Service (FGIS) or one of its designated agencies. These inspections confirm the grade and quality of shipments and compliance with Mexico’s phytosanitary requirements. Despite this, Mexico’s National Service for Agrifood Health, Safety, and Quality stops shuttle trains at the border and reinspects them under a zero-tolerance standard for soil, which differs significantly from U.S. practice. This has real consequences. Reinspection delays trains, increases transportation costs, and often triggers fumigation orders that can cost shippers up to $70,000 per train. Rail carriers may send cars back empty rather than risk delays, and grain companies must purchase additional train capacity to keep supply chains running. These are onerous and duplicative procedures - not science-based protections. We believe USMCA provides an opportunity to harmonize these inspection procedures to eliminate technical barriers that slow trade and raise costs for both countries. Additionally, USMCA includes forward-leaning provisions that recognize the importance of innovation and require the parties to manage low-level presence, or LLP, of biotech traits in a predictable and science-based way. While these provisions were a significant step forward, LLP policies have not yet been implemented, and this gap continues to create risk for cross-border grain trade. We strongly encourage USTR, through the Joint Review process, to work with its Canadian and Mexican counterparts to activate the agricultural biotechnology working group established in USMCA, develop and implement clear LLP procedures, and ensure transparent, science-based regulatory processes for both existing and emerging technologies. USMCA has been an unquestionable success for the U.S. grain and oilseed industry. It has strengthened supply chains, enhanced competitiveness, expanded export opportunities, and contributed meaningfully to economic growth across the continent. We stand ready to support efforts to strengthen USMCA and provide certainty through fully enforcing the existing terms, curbing unfair practices, and addressing outstanding trade barriers that disadvantage American agriculture.",1,2026-06-27T21:44:12Z,2026-06-27T22:11:26Z https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=2900,Bacon Lauds Progress on FY27 Defense Policy Bill,2026-06-09,2026,2026-06,Republican,House,NE,Don Bacon,B001298,bacon.house.gov,bacon,https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx,scraper,"Bacon Lauds Progress on FY27 Defense Policy Bill Washington, D.C. – Rep. Don Bacon (NE-02), Chairman of the House Armed Services Committee’s (HASC) Cyber, Information Technologies, and Innovation Subcommittee (CITI), voted in favor of advancing H.R. 8800, the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2027 (FY27 NDAA). The bill was reported out of committee on June 5 by a vote of 44-12. The annual legislation, which contains 33 amendments and provisions authored by Rep. Bacon, authorizes defense spending and sets the policy and priorities for the Armed Forces. “Once again, the House Armed Services Committee has shown why it remains one of the most bipartisan and productive committees in Congress,” saidChairman Bacon after completing his tenth and final full-committee markup of the NDAA. “At a time when restoring American deterrence requires serious investment, this year’s bill makes clear that Congress is committed to providing for the common defense. In my final NDAA markup, our office delivered our strongest result yet, securing 33 provisions and amendments in this year’s bill. We are running through the finish line and continuing to deliver serious wins for military readiness, nuclear command and control, cyber defense, defense innovation, and support for our servicemembers and military families. I am grateful to my hardworking team and colleagues on the committee for months of work that made this possible. I look forward to advancing this important legislation through the House.” Highlights from the committee’s FY 2027 bill include: Raises all servicemembers’ pay by 5 to 7% and improves housing, education, and access to childcare for military families Restores defense spending to 4.5% of GDP, the level needed to deter conflict and ensure America leads by example as our allies increase their own defense spending Expands U.S. production capacity, unleashes private sector investment, opens the door to new and innovative entrants, reduces needless regulations, and creates thousands of skilled jobs for Americans Rebuilds depleted stockpiles by providing the authorities and resources required to expedite the production and acquisition of munitions and key warfighting capabilities Invests in the capabilities needed to maintain a strong U.S. posture. It strengthens nuclear deterrence, expands missile defense, and provides resources and authorities to counter adversaries like China, Russia, Iran, and North Korea Ensures our warfighters have the capabilities they need to prevail in future conflicts by accelerating innovation and prioritizing cutting-edge technologies like hypersonics and autonomous systems Streamlines DoD operations and cuts billions in wasteful programs by standing up a new task force and providing necessary resources to achieve a full and clean audit within 24 months In addition, the committee’s bill contains 33 Bacon-backed legislative proposals, amendments, and funding priorities, including: Requiring the Air Force to provide the timing and requirements for selection of Looking Glass-Next, including the feasibility and affordability of a business jet solution, platform dependencies, and a recommended acquisition strategy and multi-year funding profile Authorizing $2.2 billion in funding for the Survivable Airborne Operations Center Authorizing $660 million in funding for three EA-37B Compass Call aircraft Directing the Department to examine the feasibility and advisability of establishing a pilot program to deploy an advanced nuclear microreactor or small modular reactor to provide primary and redundant power to mission-critical facilities of U.S. Strategic Command Providing $175 million for the Baltic Security Initiative Directing the Army to report on the feasibility of establishing dedicated Army Prepositioned Stocks in each Baltic state and Romania Directing U.S. European Command to assess integrated air and missile defense in the Baltic region, including efforts to enhance Baltic IAMD in coordination with NATO allies and partners Directing U.S. European Command to assess the feasibility and requirements for expanding training ranges and live-fire opportunities in Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania Requiring the Department to carry out a program providing for long-range aerial transport of individuals infected with high-consequence infectious diseases Requiring a policy to guide the development and acquisition of quantum computing systems for the Department of Defense Directing the Department to provide a plan to transition hypersonic weapon technologies from science and technology, prototyping, and middle-tier acquisition efforts into major acquisition capabilities Providing $15 million in funding for the Pathfinder Additional Bacon-backed priorities include provisions to advance physics-based alternative positioning, navigation, and timing capabilities; keep adversary AI companies excluded from Department of Defense systems and devices; develop emerging cryptographic capabilities faster to protect defense networks; provide Department research, development, test, and evaluation teams a dashboard to monitor construction projects; examine temporary facilities needed to support the next-generation airborne nuclear command and control aircraft; establish a Pentagon liaison for Medal of Honor recipients; assess medical response plans related to chemical, biological, and radiological weapons; continue traumatic brain injury research; provide recommendations on restoring Gen. John D. Lavelle’s rank; recognize Maj. Robert A. Lodge’s valor with a Medal of Honor; provide for an independent review of the Air Force missile community cancer study; assess bone marrow radiation shielding for nuclear survivability; expand digital engineering, including digital twins and digital threads, for construction and sustainment; establish the United States-Israel Defense Technology Cooperation Initiative; establish the Military Service Academy Panel on Athletics; report on the Space Force Continuous Fitness Assessment study; enhance American commercial remote sensing support to U.S. border operations; assess active and passive protection systems on aerial refueling tankers; include the National Guard Relief Foundation as a military welfare society; and report on interoperable multi-cloud solutions across the defense enterprise. Watch Rep. Bacon's markup remarks here and see full remarks as delivered below: Thank you Mr. Chairman, I’d like to thank the members of the subcommittee for their collaboration in putting together a strong Cyber, IT, and Innovation subcommittee print for the FY27 NDAA. I’d also like to thank my friend and Ranking Member Congressman Ro Khanna for his partnership in this effort. This mark affects several crucial areas of our national defense and takes ambitious strides to maintain our dominance in cyber, IT, and science and technology. The print supports the DOD’s incredible innovation enterprise, leverages the boundless potential of artificial intelligence, and strengthens and secures our IT networks. Most importantly, it focuses on rapidly delivering these improvements to the warfighter. Taking meaningful steps to bridge the valley of death, this print amends Defense Innovation Unit authorities to require more formal collaboration between the DIU and the military services, speeding up the timeline by which cutting edge technology gets into the hands of the warfighter. In addition, the print expands the geographical footprint of our nation’s test and evaluation enterprise and promotes better coordination between the Department and the T&E community. Moreover, this portion of the NDAA sets the course for quantum computing by requiring the lessons learned from DARPA’s Quantum Benchmarking Initiative to inform development and acquisition of future DOD quantum computing systems. The CITI print also streamlines adoption of new AI tools by directing the Chief Data and Artificial Intelligence Officer to establish a framework to enable rapid adoption and governance of AI systems across the DOD. It also directs the Department to update its policies governing autonomous weapon systems, creating risk-informed requirements for approval, oversight, testing, human involvement, and eventual operational use of such systems. Additionally, in a time where cyber warfare is more prevalent than ever, this print takes steps to unencumber our cyber defense forces from bureaucracy by requiring a review of DOD’s cybersecurity, IT, network defense, and defensive cyber operations in order to reduce redundancy and create direct accountability in this crucial area of national security. And, once again, the FY27 NDAA continues the great work of the Quality of Life Panel to deliver quality of life improvements to our servicemembers and their families. Thank you to everyone who contributed to the compilation of this subcommittee print. And with that Mr. Chairman I yield back. ###",1,2026-06-10T06:36:00Z,2026-06-10T06:37:32Z https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases/smith-statement-house-passage-secure-america-act,Smith Statement on House Passage of Secure America Act,2026-06-09,2026,2026-06,Republican,House,NE,Adrian Smith,S001172,adriansmith.house.gov,adriansmith,https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Today, Congressman Adrian Smith (NE-03) released the following statement after the House passage of the Secure America Act: “I supported the Secure America Act to ensure that our brave federal law enforcement officers have the resources they need to keep Americans safe. This legislation provides long-overdue funding and prevents Democrats from derailing continued efforts to keep our border secure. I look forward to seeing President Trump sign it into law as we continue to work together to defend our nation from the threats we face.”",1,2026-06-27T21:44:12Z,2026-06-27T22:11:26Z https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-flood-votes-fully-fund-border-patrol-and-immigration-enforcement,Congressman Flood Votes to Fully Fund Border Patrol and Immigration Enforcement,2026-06-09,2026,2026-06,Republican,House,NE,Mike Flood,F000474,flood.house.gov,flood,https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Congressman Mike Flood released a statement after the U.S. House of Representatives passed the “Secure America Act,” which ends the Democrats’ blockade of funding for Customs and Border Protection and Immigration and Customs Enforcement. “After months of Democrats trying to defund law enforcement and return to the Biden administration’s open-border policies, I voted to fund Border Patrol and immigration enforcement,” said Congressman Flood. “Nebraskans are safer when our southern border is secure and criminals who are here illegally are removed from our streets. This legislation fully funds the Border Patrol and immigration enforcement through the remainder of President Trump’s term, eliminating any uncertainty about the paychecks of the men and women who help keep our communities safe.”",1,2026-06-27T21:44:12Z,2026-06-27T22:11:26Z https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=2899,"Bacon, Valadao, Bonamici, Lead Effort to Provide Greater Access to Substance Use Disorder Treatment and Services",2026-06-05,2026,2026-06,Republican,House,NE,Don Bacon,B001298,bacon.house.gov,bacon,https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx,scraper,"WASHINGTON – Rep. Don Bacon (NE-02) joined Reps. David Valadao (CA-22), and Suzanne Bonamici (OR-01) to reintroduce the Connections to Health Infrastructure and Emergency Recovery Services (CHIERS) Act. This bipartisan bill would create a grant program to provide transportation for people in need of overdose prevention services, substance use disorder treatment, detoxification, and other related supportive services. “Everyone deserves a second chance,” said Rep. Bacon. “The CHIERS Act will improve access to developing services that provide individuals with transportation to and from substance use disorder treatments or support services. This program will help thousands of citizens get the help they need, and I’m grateful to work with Rep. Bonamici on this important effort.” “In the Central Valley, we’ve seen firsthand the devastating impact of the opioid epidemic,” said Rep. Valadao. “Too often, people seeking treatment in our communities face long travel times, high transportation costs, and difficulty receiving timely care. We should be doing everything we can to make it easier for people suffering from substance use disorder to get the help they need and break the cycle of addiction. I’m proud to help introduce the bipartisan CHIERS Act to remove barriers to treatment and expand access to timely, life-saving care.” “People shouldn’t be held back from getting the care they need because they do not have a way to get there,” said Rep. Bonamici. “For years people in Portland benefitted from the CHIERS van, which helped transport people in need to sobering centers. I’m working with my bipartisan colleagues to expand on this model and make rides to treatment available to more people across the country who are intoxicated or at risk.” The CHIERS Act would: Create a grant program with funding that could be used to train staff, purchase vehicles, and contract with ridesharing services to cover transportation. Direct the Secretary of Health and Human Services (HHS) and the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) to award grants to eligible entities, including community health centers; Continuum of Care Program participants; opioid recovery centers; state, Tribal, and local governments; and nonprofit organizations. Background: Individuals seeking Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT) often must travel long distances to reach care, relying on friends or family members for transportation or forgoing treatment altogether due to cost and accessibility challenges. With only eight substance treatment centers serving the three-county region, many residents struggle to receive timely, life-saving services. Expanding grant support for affordable transportation options can help connect residents to critical treatment services—reducing barriers to recovery and improving public health outcomes. Read the full bill here. ###",1,2026-06-06T06:16:30Z,2026-06-06T06:17:47Z https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=2898,"Bacon, Meeks, Hoyer, Fitzpatrick, Kaptur, Keating, and Kiley Issue Statements on Passage of Bipartisan Ukraine Support Act",2026-06-04,2026,2026-06,Republican,House,NE,Don Bacon,B001298,bacon.house.gov,bacon,https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – Representatives Don Bacon (NE-02), Gregory W. Meeks, Ranking Member of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, Steny H. Hoyer (MD-05), Brian Fitzpatrick (PA-01) and Marcy Kaptur (OH-09), Co-Chairs of the Congressional Ukraine Caucus, Bill Keating (MA-09), Ranking Member of the Europe Subcommittee, and Kevin Kiley (CA-03) today issued the following statements on the passage of Ranking Member Meeks' bipartisan Ukraine Support Act, the first comprehensive legislation to support Ukraine and impose sanctions on Russia to pass the House in the 119th Congress. You can watch Rep. Bacon’s remarks on the House floor here. “Tonight, the House faced a Churchill vs. Chamberlain moment. Stand on the side of freedom and democracy, or show weakness to an invading thug who wants to restore Russian domination over a free people. Tonight, we chose Churchill,” said Rep. Bacon. “In 2024, I visited Ukraine and witnessed firsthand the devastation and cruelty that Russia has inflicted on the Ukrainian people. That trip and the courage of the Ukrainians have bolstered my belief that America must continue to support Ukraine’s fight against Russia’s brutal invasion, and the bipartisan vote this evening proves that support still exists here in Congress. I strongly urge the Senate to take up and pass this legislation without delay to provide Ukraine the military aid it needs to win and impose tough sanctions that further isolate and punish Putin.” “Inaction on Ukraine ends now. Today’s bipartisan vote to pass the Ukraine Support Act demonstrates that the House stands with the Ukrainian people and that we will hold the criminal Russian regime accountable for its illegal war. I thank my Democratic colleagues and my Republican colleagues who’ve co-sponsored this bill, without whom this vote would not have been possible. And I especially thank the Ukrainian American community and all those Americans standing with Ukraine, for their tireless efforts to see this bill move forward. Now the Senate must follow suit, and work with our bipartisan group in the House to deliver the most comprehensive package possible to the President’s desk for his immediate signature,” said Ranking Member Meeks. “Today’s vote was a victory for Ukraine, for the United States, for freedom, and for international law. It was made possible because Democrats and Republicans came together behind an effort that is bigger than partisan politics – it’s about whether our nation will hold firm to its ideals and stand up for democracy, and I thank my Republican colleagues who joined us. The people of Ukraine are demonstrating that they have what it takes to win this war and outlast what Vladimir Putin can throw at them. But they cannot do it alone. Europe has stepped up, and America has been a critical partner – but we have not approved a major Ukraine-assistance package since 2024. It’s time for the Senate to follow the House and act quickly on this $8 billion in security assistance and broad, sweeping sanctions so Ukrainians can continue to push ahead toward victory,” said Rep. Hoyer. “Putin is counting on America to grow tired, divided, and distracted. Today, with a historic bipartisan vote, the House sent the opposite message,” said Fitzpatrick, Co-Chair of the Congressional Ukraine Caucus. “Ukraine is fighting for its sovereignty and survival, but the stakes do not stop at Ukraine’s borders. Standing with Ukraine is a matter of American security, allied strength, and moral clarity—and it tells the world that aggression will not be met with hesitation or retreat. From the start of Russia’s illegal war of terror, I have worked to ensure America’s policy is rooted in peace through strength: equipping Ukraine to win, holding Putin accountable, and ensuring brutality never becomes leverage. This legislation gives force to that principle, and I am grateful to my colleagues in the House who stood with us on the side of freedom. Now, the Senate must do the same.” “The Ukraine Support Act which the House passed today with Democratic, Republican, and Independent support was a choice between Liberty and Tyranny. Our Free World must stand tall against tyrants, not mollycoddle them. Liberty is not negotiable, It is fundamental,"" said Congresswoman Marcy Kaptur (OH-09), Co-Founder and Co-Chair of the Congressional Ukraine Caucus. ""The war-torn people of Ukraine are not asking for charity, they’re asking for US partnership with that of our closest allies in the European Union. Today we said loud and clear: we stand with Ukraine, we need sanctions on Russia, and we will always stand by our allies. I urge the Senate to take up this legislation with haste and help us reassure our allies around the world of American’s unwavering commitment to Liberty loving people everywhere. If we do not, the next strategic reality we will face is defending our interests against an emboldened armed, expansionist Russia at a much, much higher cost.” “The importance of Ukraine’s success against Russia’s war of aggression cannot be overstated. We should be assisting them because it is the right thing to do, but at the very least, we are obligated to do it in accordance with the Budapest Memorandum. Passage of the Ukraine Support Act would demonstrate the House’s continued support for Ukraine and condemnation of Russia. Critically, this bill includes billions in additional military assistance and comprehensive Russia sanctions,” said Ranking Member Keating. “I am proud to have co-led the introduction of this legislation and greatly appreciate the strong bipartisan support this bill received from Democratic and Republican members of the House. I urge the Senate to take it up so the United States can continue to support our ally Ukraine in their defense against Russian aggression.” “I provided the decisive signature to force a vote on the Ukraine Support Act because the time for Congress to act is now. Today, in a bipartisan way, we made it clear that the United States will continue to stand with the Ukrainian people and provide the material support necessary for their self-defense. We made it equally clear that Russia will pay a severe price for its unprovoked aggression and ongoing violence. This is the leverage needed for constructive negations to end this conflict. This is what is required for peace,” said Rep. Kiley. ###",1,2026-06-05T06:35:23Z,2026-06-05T06:36:42Z https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-flood-recognizes-papillion-area-officers-house-floor-after-recent,Congressman Flood Recognizes Papillion-Area Officers on the House Floor After Recent Shooting,2026-06-03,2026,2026-06,Republican,House,NE,Mike Flood,F000474,flood.house.gov,flood,https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Congressman Mike Flood took to the House floor to recognize the heroic actions of law enforcement officers during Friday’s officer-involved shooting in Papillion. On May 29, officers from Papillion, La Vista, and the Sarpy County Sheriff's Office responded to a report of shots fired in Papillion's Tara Plaza area. After a pursuit ending at the nearby Home Depot parking lot, the suspect opened fire and officers returned fire. Officers neutralized the threat and prevented any injuries to the public or law enforcement. Video of Congressman Flood’s remarks can be found here while text of Congressman Flood’s remarks is provided below. News outlets are welcome to use the footage for their reporting purposes. Madam Speaker, I rise to recognize the heroes of Nebraska law enforcement. Last Friday, as I was participating in the annual 'La Vista Days' celebration, the Papillion Police Department responded to an active shooter at a shopping center just down the road. Officers located the suspect and began a pursuit that ended in a busy parking lot nearby, where officers opened fire. The threat was neutralized, and any injuries to the public or law enforcement did not happen. When the community faced an armed gunman, the men and women of the Papillion Police Department, La Vista Police Department, and the Sarpy County Sheriff's Office ran towards danger. Because of their bravery, everybody went home safe. Their courage is a testament to the sacrifices law enforcement officers make every day when they put on the uniform. I am proud to back the blue, and I thank those serving in law enforcement for keeping us safe. Thank you, and I yield back.",1,2026-06-27T21:44:12Z,2026-06-27T22:11:26Z https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=2897,"Bacon, Pappas, Blumenthal Introduce New Comprehensive Legislation to Crack Down on Claim Sharks Scamming Veterans",2026-06-02,2026,2026-06,Republican,House,NE,Don Bacon,B001298,bacon.house.gov,bacon,https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – Today U.S. Representatives Don Bacon (NE-02) and Chris Pappas (NH-01) Ranking Member of the Subcommittee on Economic Opportunity of the House Veterans' Affairs Committee, and Senate Veterans’ Affairs Committee Ranking Member Richard Blumenthal (CT) announced their new comprehensive legislation to hold claims sharks and other predatory actors accountable for exploiting veterans and survivors’ earned Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) benefits. The lawmakers’ Stopping Abuse, Fraud, and Exploitation by Governing Unaccredited Representatives Defrauding (SAFEGUARD) Veterans Act would make explicit that only VA-accredited individuals can assist veterans with VA benefit claims and reinstate criminal penalties for unaccredited agents who charge veterans extortionate fees for assistance with VA disability claims—a service provided for free by VA and accredited nonprofits. While current law prohibits this activity, predatory actors have used loopholes to avoid prosecution and federal agencies are limited in their ability to enforce the law without criminal penalties. “In recent years, numerous complaints have been raised about benefit‑assistance companies that target veterans with aggressive marketing practices, charge unauthorized or excessive fees, and provide misleading information about VA benefits. No veteran should be taken advantage of while trying to access the benefits they earned serving our country,” said Congressman Bacon. “These concerns underscore the urgent need for stronger protections and real accountability for bad actors. Predatory claim sharks undermine trust in the VA process and can leave veterans paying unauthorized fees for help they should be able to receive from accredited representatives. I’m grateful to work with Rep. Pappas on the SAFEGUARD Veterans Act to strengthen consumer protections, restore real consequences for bad actors, and make sure veterans know where to turn for trusted help.” “Veterans seeking to access their benefits should not face another battle to do so. Unaccredited, for-profit companies are scamming veterans of their earned benefits under the guise of helping them and they must be stopped,” said Congressman Pappas. “This legislation is about transparency for veterans so they know the resources and help available to them when they apply for benefits, and accountability for for-profit claim sharks that are breaking the law and exploiting legal loopholes to defraud them. I’m glad to be working with Senator Blumenthal, veterans, veterans’ service organizations, and colleagues on both sides of the aisle on this issue. I won’t stop fighting to reinstate criminal penalties on these illegal business practices and safeguard the benefits veterans have earned.” “Veterans need protection against claims sharks and other predatory scammers who are stealing millions in hard-earned benefits,” said Senator Blumenthal. “Our legislation will close loopholes and impose strict criminal penalties— deterring as well as punishing bad actors. There should be zero tolerance for exploitive tactics robbing veterans of funds they well deserve and need to live. I hope this measure will have bipartisan backing.” The SAFEGUARD Veterans Act would: Reestablish criminal penalties for unaccredited claims representatives scamming veterans; Prohibit VA accreditation of any person found guilty of unauthorized solicitation, charging, or receiving compensation for assisting with VA benefit claims; Close loopholes exploited by unaccredited actors to skirt federal prohibitions on unaccredited agents assisting veterans with VA benefit claims; Prohibit the use of robocall technology to obtain VA claims information—targeting claim sharks who spam VA call centers to gain unauthorized access to veterans’ claims information; Require VA to establish a system to track accredited agents and where veterans can report scammers; and Increase warnings to veterans about claim sharks and other predatory practices of unaccredited agents. ""Our veterans sacrificed so much to defend us and our freedoms – the least we can do is protect the benefits they earned and deserve,"" said Congresswoman Bynum. “I am proud to introduce the bipartisan SAFEGUARD Veterans Act to crack down on claim sharks preying on veterans and taking their benefits. Let's pass this bill and ensure our heroes in need of assistance can access it without the risk of being scammed.” “We must reinstate strong criminal penalties for bad actors who illegally charge veterans for VA claims, while requiring accredited or supervised representation, strengthening enforcement, and expanding outreach so veterans can access free, trusted assistance. Veterans who served our country should never be charged unauthorized fees or misled by companies seeking to profit off the benefits they earned,” said Congressman Lawler. The lawmakers’ legislation builds on bipartisan efforts to hold unaccredited entities accountable and a NPR investigation that revealed private companies continue to make millions by extorting veterans, despite knowing their actions are likely illegal. It also comes on the heels of a U.S. District Court for the Middle District of North Carolina summary judgement ruling that unaccredited companies are considered agents and are subject to the federal ban on charging veterans for assistance with preparation, presentation, and prosecution of claims for VA benefits. Some states have passed legislation authorizing the practice of charging for assistance with VA claims. The SAFEGUARD Veterans Act includes state laws preemption regarding recognition, fee agreements, or authority to charge for assistance with the preparation, presentation, or prosecution of VA benefit claims. In the House, Bacon was joined by Reps. Chris Pappas (NH-01), Janelle Bynum (OR-05), Mike Lawler (NY-17), Eleanor Holmes Norton (DC-AL), Nikki Budzinski (IL-13), Bill Keating (MA-08), Dina Titus (NV-03), Vindman (VA-08), and Jimmy Panetta (CA-19). In the Senate, the SAFEGUARD Veterans Act is co-sponsored by U.S. Senators Angus King (I-ME), Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), Tammy Baldwin (D-WI), Ben Ray Lujan (D-NM), Michael Bennet (D-CO), Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI), Bernard Sanders (I-VT), Ruben Gallego (D-AZ), Jacky Rosen (D-NM), Mark Kelly (D-AZ), Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), and Peter Welch (D-VT). The legislation is also supported by National Association of County Veterans Service Officers (NACVSO), Military Officers Association of America (MOAA), the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW), Disabled American Veterans (DAV), and The American Legion. “NACVSO supports the SAFEGUARD Veterans Act of 2026 and its efforts to restore integrity within the VA claims process,” said NACVSO President Andrew Tangen. “VA-accredited representatives operate under federal oversight, training requirements, and ethical standards designed to protect veterans, while unaccredited claims agents have increasingly exploited enforcement gaps while profiting from veteran injuries and illnesses. This legislation takes bad profit incentives away from unscrupulous claims agents by restoring criminal penalties for unauthorized assistance, improving transparency, modernizing accreditation oversight, and increasing awareness of predatory practices. No veteran should ever have to pay for initial claim services and those who have illegally profited must be held accountable.” “For too long, unaccredited claims consultants have exploited veterans and survivors by charging excessive, unlawful fees for assistance they are not authorized to provide. The SAFEGUARD Veterans Act restores accountability, strengthens protections for veterans navigating the VA claims process, and reinforces the critical role of accredited veterans service organizations, attorneys, and claims agents who are held to rigorous standards,"" said MOAA President and CEO Lt. Gen. Brian T. Kelly, USAF (Ret). ""MOAA applauds lawmakers for introducing this important legislation to preserve the integrity of the VA benefits system and ensure veterans are not targeted by predatory actors seeking to profit off of service-earned benefits.” “DAV strongly supports the SAFEGUARD Veterans Act to help combat a serious and ongoing threat: unethical individuals who prey on veterans navigating the complex VA claims process and charge fees for help that should be free and accredited. By reinstating criminal penalties for unaccredited claims assistance, streamlining the accreditation process, and making public those who have been barred from VA accreditation, this bill puts teeth back into protections that veterans need, deserve, and have earned. Passage of this legislation would demonstrate our nation’s unwavering commitment to honor and protect all who have served because every veteran deserves strong, honest advocacy when seeking earned benefits—not opportunists seeking to profit,” said DAV National Service Director Scott Hope. Background Unaccredited claims representatives, or claim sharks, are not subject to VA standards. They strategically advertise their services to avoid regulatory oversight and as a result, may engage in predatory and unethical practices that target veterans and rob them of their VA benefits. Federal laws and regulations prohibit anyone from assisting a veteran in the preparation, presentation, or prosecution of a VA benefit claim, or charging a fee for this assistance, without accreditation from VA. However, VA and other federal agencies are limited in their ability to enforce existing law because explicit criminal penalties were stripped from statute nearly two decades ago. This has contributed to the proliferation of unaccredited claims representatives in recent years. ###",1,2026-06-03T06:40:39Z,2026-06-03T06:42:22Z https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases/smith-announces-upcoming-mobile-office-hour-red-willow-and-hayes-counties,Smith Announces Upcoming Mobile Office Hour for Red Willow and Hayes Counties,2026-06-01,2026,2026-06,Republican,House,NE,Adrian Smith,S001172,adriansmith.house.gov,adriansmith,https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Congressman Adrian Smith (NE-03) announced today that his staff will hold a mobile office hour for constituents in Red Willow County on Monday, June 8, 2026, and Hayes County on Tuesday, June 9, 2026. These office hours are an opportunity for constituents to meet directly with a member of Smith's staff about federal issues, receive assistance with a federal agency, or take advantage of the services available through his office. Smith, who has offices in Grand Island, Scottsbluff, and Nebraska City, will provide a staff member at the following time and location: Monday, June 8, 2026 Red Willow County Courthouse, 3rd Floor 502 Norris Avenue McCook, NE 68920 10:00 am - 11:00 am CT Tuesday, June 9, 2026 Hayes County Courthouse 502 Troth Street Hayes Center, NE 69032 11:00 am - 12:00 pm CT",1,2026-06-27T21:44:12Z,2026-06-27T22:11:26Z https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases/smith-leads-letter-urging-ustr-and-treasury-hold-mexico-accountable-ahead,Smith Leads Letter Urging USTR and Treasury to Hold Mexico Accountable Ahead of USMCA Joint Review,2026-05-22,2026,2026-05,Republican,House,NE,Adrian Smith,S001172,adriansmith.house.gov,adriansmith,https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Congressman Adrian Smith (NE-03), Chair of the Ways and Means Subcommittee on Trade, led a letter with 19 of his Republican colleagues to U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer and U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, urging them to hold Mexico accountable ahead of the six-year joint review of the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA). In the letter, the lawmakers expressed concern over recent actions by Mexico’s Servicio de Administración Tributaria (SAT), warning that new interpretations and enforcement practices could unfairly target American companies operating in Mexico. They urged Ambassador Greer and Secretary Bessent to work with Mexican officials to ensure tax and customs policies are implemented fairly, transparently, and consistent with Mexico’s commitments under USMCA. The lawmakers write: “Among these issues is the onerous and irregular enforcement practices currently being implemented by Mexico’s Servicio de Administración Tributaria (SAT), which are placing retroactive and unprecedented burdens on U.S. companies. Mexico should not be allowed to right its budget imbalances on the back of American companies, particularly given its commitments under USMCA. In particular, we are concerned that Mexico is reinterpreting tax provisions, conducting retroactive and capricious audits, and employing aggressive ‘pay-to-play’ appeal requirements.” In addition to Smith, the letter was signed by U.S. Representatives Aaron Bean (FL-04), Ron Estes (KS-04), Mike Carey (OH-15), Michelle Fischbach (MN-07), Kevin Hern (OK-01), Darin LaHood (IL-18), Tracey Mann (KS- 01), Carol Miller (WV-01), Max Miller (OH-01), Mariannette Miller-Meeks (IA-01), Blake Moore (UT-01), Nathaniel Moran (TX-01), Greg Steube (FL-17), Beth Van Duyne (TX-24), Rudy Yakym (IN-02), Derek Schmidt (KS-02), Randy Feenstra (IA-04), Jodey Arrington (TX-17), and Brad Finstad (MN-01). Read the full letter here or below: Dear Ambassador Greer and Secretary Bessent, Thank you for your continued engagement with our trading partners to advance trade agreements and level the playing field for American industry. As you conduct the first ever six-year “joint review” of the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), full enforcement of the deal and resolution of outstanding irritants must be high priorities. Among these issues is the onerous and irregular enforcement practices currently being implemented by Mexico’s Servicio de Administración Tributaria (SAT), which are placing retroactive and unprecedented burdens on U.S. companies. Mexico should not be allowed to right its budget imbalances on the back of American companies, particularly given its commitments under USMCA. In particular, we are concerned that Mexico is reinterpreting tax provisions, conducting retroactive and capricious audits, and employing aggressive “pay-to-play” appeal requirements. Mexico has applied new interpretations and documentation requirements for value-added taxes (VAT) levied on U.S. products, including agricultural ingredients such as animal protein meals and feed additives. We understand this change is in contrast to previous SAT rulings affirming these products should be VAT-exempt, resulting in an additional 16 percent VAT in some cases. Retroactive application of this tax acutely impacts companies as they are unable to adjust past pricing decisions. These changes make U.S. exporters less competitive, as the VAT is not applied to domestic sources of these ingredients. We are concerned that this disparity fails to uphold the central USMCA principle of national treatment. Further, we understand that U.S. companies are facing sudden demands for repayment of credits and denials of deductions, accompanied by fines for previously unannounced violations. Across all such practices, recent amendments to Mexico’s federal tax code have eliminated the exemption for guaranteeing tax interest when filing an appeal with the tax authority. This requires U.S. companies to post a deposit equal to the full disputed assessment, in addition to surcharges and fines, if they choose to dispute the findings. To maintain strong supply chains and cooperation throughout North America, businesses need certainty, level treatment, and transparent regulations. We urge you to work with Mexico to ensure new SAT interpretations and provisions are not implemented in a discriminatory or overly burdensome manner and stand ready to assist in strengthening USMCA.",1,2026-06-27T21:44:12Z,2026-06-27T22:21:02Z https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases/passed-ways-and-means-committee-smiths-bill-expand-seniors-healthcare-options,Passed by Ways and Means Committee: Smith’s Bill to Expand Seniors’ Healthcare Options,2026-05-21,2026,2026-05,Republican,House,NE,Adrian Smith,S001172,adriansmith.house.gov,adriansmith,https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Today, Congressman Adrian Smith’s (NE-03) legislation to expand healthcare access for America’s seniors passed out of the Ways and Means Committee. The Main Street Pharmacy Access Act now awaits consideration on the House floor. If signed into law, the Main Street Pharmacy Access Act would empower local pharmacists to play a more active role in community health by allowing Medicare Part B reimbursement for testing and treating common respiratory illnesses. In accordance with existing state laws, this change would make it easier for seniors and other Medicare beneficiaries to receive timely care right at their neighborhood pharmacy. “Nine out of ten Americans live within five miles of a pharmacy, making pharmacists among the most accessible healthcare professionals in our communities, especially in rural areas. Yet outdated bureaucratic barriers keep seniors from getting the prompt, expert care pharmacists are trained to provide close-to-home. My Main Street Pharmacy Access Act is a practical, bipartisan fix to ensure that patients can access the care they need—when and where they need it. I am grateful a bipartisan group of my colleagues voted yes on this legislation, and I look forward to its passage on the House Floor,”said Smith. Image Click the image above to listen to Smith’s remarks at today’s hearing Click here to download audio Click here to download video",1,2026-06-27T21:44:12Z,2026-06-27T22:21:02Z https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases/what-they-are-saying-smiths-main-street-pharmacy-access-act-clears-ways-and,WHAT THEY ARE SAYING: Smith's Main Street Pharmacy Access Act Clears Ways and Means Committee,2026-05-21,2026,2026-05,Republican,House,NE,Adrian Smith,S001172,adriansmith.house.gov,adriansmith,https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Today, Congressman Adrian Smith’s (NE-03) Main Street Pharmacy Access Act, which would empower local pharmacists to play a more active role in community health by allowing Medicare Part B reimbursement for testing and treating common respiratory illnesses, is one step closer to the finish line following its passage by the Ways and Means Committee. Over 190 organizations support Smith’s Main Street Pharmacy Access Act, including senior and rural advocacy groups, physician and provider groups, patient advocacy organizations, pharmacists, health systems, and many others. Here is what they are saying: “This bill is a commonsense, creative solution to address the barriers to health care access that rural and underserved communities suffer every day. I want to thank Representative Adrian Smith for championing this bill for the benefit of Nebraskans and communities across this country so that seniors will gain access to more primary care conveniently from their local pharmacist,”said Ways and Means Committee Chairman Jason Smith (MO-08). “Congressman Adrian Smith continues to demonstrate strong leadership for patients in Nebraska and across the country. By advancing his legislation, Rep. Smith is helping ensure Medicare beneficiaries, particularly seniors in rural communities, can access timely testing, treatment, and preventive services from pharmacists they know and trust,”said APhA Executive Vice President and CEO Michael D. Hogue, PharmD, FAPhA, FNAP, FFIP. “Nebraska patients rely on their local pharmacies as a frontline source of care. Congressman Smith understands the realities facing rural communities, and his leadership on this legislation will help ensure Nebraska’s seniors can receive high-quality, accessible care close to home,” said NPA CEO Haley Pertzborn, PharmD, RPh. “Today, we applaud the House Ways and Means Committee’s passage of the Main Street Pharmacy Access Act, which takes a major step forward in safeguarding access to pharmacist care for seniors. ASHP calls for swift passage by the House and Senate of this important legislation,”said ASHP Executive Vice President and CEO Samuel V. Calabrese, MBA, RPh, CPEL, FASHP. ""It is simply common sense: seniors in Medicare should be able to access pharmacist-provided care that their own states already allow. With a pharmacy within five miles of 90 percent of Americans — and 91 percent of seniors saying pharmacy care is easy to access — the Main Street Pharmacy Access Act closes an outdated gap in federal law, improving access to timely, cost-effective care for seniors, particularly in rural and underserved communities. NACDS commends Chairman Jason Smith and Rep. Adrian Smith, and Ranking Member Richard Neal and Rep. Brad Schneider, for championing this legislation and looks forward to working with Congress to advance this pragmatic, bipartisan bill,”said National Association of Chain Drug Stores President and CEO Steven C. Anderson. ""Public health in America is about to get stronger thanks to the Main Street Pharmacy Access Act. By expanding access to treat-and-treat services through pharmacists - the most accessible healthcare providers - we are creating avenues to keep older adults and those living with disabilities healthy and thriving. I applaud Congressman Adrian Smith for his ongoing dedication to increasing access to care for older Americans and those living with disabilities through this legislation and his ongoing work leading the House Ways & Means Committee,”said American Society of Consultant Pharmacists CEO Chad Worz, PharmD, BCGP, FASCP. ""The Future of Pharmacy Care Coalition thanks the Ways and Means Committee for advancing this legislation, and thanks Rep. Adrian Smith, Rep. Brad Schneider, and Senate Majority Leader John Thune for their leadership. We urge Congress to advance this commonsense, bipartisan legislation that can improve access to quality and cost-effective care for seniors,”said Future of Pharmacy Care Coalition Executive Director Bob Siggins. “We commend the House Ways and Means Committee for advancing thoughtful improvements to the Medicare program that recognize the critical role pharmacists play on the front lines of care. This legislation would provide Medicare beneficiary coverage for certain pharmacist services,” said CVS Health Chief Pharmacy Officer Lucille Accetta. “Kroger commends the leadership of Chairman Jason Smith, as well as Rep. Adrian Smith and Rep. Schneider for advancing H.R. 3164, the Main Street Pharmacy Access Act through the House Ways and Means Committee. This vital legislation will expand access to testing and treatment for seniors living in rural areas — managing common respiratory conditions before they become life-threatening. Kroger celebrates this progress and urges quick passage of this bill,” said Kroger Health President Colleen Lindholz. “Our team at McKesson supports the Main Street Pharmacy Access Act (H.R. 3164) and commends the House Ways & Means Committee for advancing it. Independent pharmacies are reliable points of care, and this bipartisan legislation helps Medicare beneficiaries receive timely testing and treatment from pharmacists. We appreciate the leadership of Chairman Jason Smith and Representative Adrian Smith in advancing this effort and look forward to its continued progress toward enactment,”said Health Mart Pharmacy President Crystal Lennartz. “As a trusted technology partner to more than half of pharmacies in the country, XiFin supports access to pharmacy care where and when it makes sense. The Main Street Pharmacy Access Act ensures seniors access to clinical services, while supporting the viability of pharmacies in healthcare deserts so they can continue serving their communities. Thank you to the Members of the House Ways and Means Committee for moving this bill forward,”said XiFin Inc. Chief Pharmacy Officer David Pope. Stakeholder letters of support: American Pharmacists Association (APhA), American Society of Health-System Pharmacists (ASHP), National Association of Chain Drug Stores (NACDS), American Society of Consultant Pharmacists (ASCP), Future of Pharmacy Care Coalition (FPCC), CVS Health, Kroger Health,Walmart, and Academy of Managed Care Pharmacy (AMCP).",1,2026-06-27T21:44:12Z,2026-06-27T22:21:02Z https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-flood-co-leads-bill-extending-key-rural-community-hospital-program,Congressman Flood Co-Leads Bill Extending Key Rural Community Hospital Program,2026-05-21,2026,2026-05,Republican,House,NE,Mike Flood,F000474,flood.house.gov,flood,https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Representatives Mike Flood (R-NE), Randy Feenstra (R-IA), Jared Golden (D-ME), and Janelle Bynum (D-OR) introduced the “Rural Community Hospital Demonstration Reauthorization Act” as co-leads, with Representatives Adrian Smith (R-NE) and Tracey Mann (R-KS) joining as original cosponsors. The bill extends the Rural Community Hospital Demonstration (RCHD) program for an additional five years and allows facilities that previously cycled out of the program, as well as those set to cycle out in 2026, to rejoin. “Rural community hospitals are critical lifelines for families across the country,” said Congressman Flood (R-NE). “The RCHD program is a much-needed tool with an outstanding track record of helping rural community hospitals deliver high-quality care to patients. This program is vital to many Nebraskans, and I am pleased to join Congressman Feenstra in extending this impactful program for another five years as a co-lead.” “By reauthorizing the Rural Community Hospital Demonstration, we are ensuring rural hospitals have the support they need to keep their doors open and continue providing the essential services that keep Iowa’s economy strong, families healthy, and communities thriving,” said Congressman Feenstra (R-IA). “With a proven track record, this program provides rural hospitals with the financial stability needed to sustain health care services in our communities and ensure patients continue to have access to quality care close to home. I am honored to help lead this legislation in the House and strengthen support for Iowa’s rural hospitals.” ""The goal of keeping our rural hospitals and the critical services they provide open and accessible demands collaboration from lawmakers, providers, and local communities. It also requires the utilization of innovative models to sustain rural health care services. That is why the NHA is grateful to Congressman Flood for supporting the RCHD program. The loss of this program would threaten hospital stability, leading to service line cuts or closures. Participation in the RCHD keeps certain rural hospitals from falling through the cracks, helping them remain open to serve rural beneficiaries,” said President and CEO of the Nebraska Hospital Association Jeremy Nordquist. “The Rural Community Hospital Demonstration has been essential to the sustainability of Columbus Community Hospital and the care we provide across our region. Over the past 20 years, the inpatient cost-based reimbursement model has enabled us to maintain critical services, recruit providers, and invest in modern facilities and technology. It has also allowed us to expand access to advanced care—including the development of local cancer services—so patients can receive treatment close to home. Without the demonstration, many of these services would not be financially viable in a rural setting,” said President and CEO of Columbus Community Hospital Michael T. Hansen. Established in 2003, the RCHD program has included participation of over 50 hospitals across 17 states. The RCHD program allows Medicare to test innovative payment models supporting rural hospitals, boosting rural hospitals that are too large to be critical access hospitals but too small to benefit from Medicare’s hospital inpatient prospective payment system. RCHD hospitals have been found to significantly improve their Medicare margins, make higher capital investments resulting in stronger financial conditions, and improve staff retention. The RCHD program has been reauthorized three times since 2003.",1,2026-06-27T21:44:12Z,2026-06-27T22:21:02Z https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases/housing-insurance-chairman-flood-applauds-house-passage-updated-21st-century,Housing & Insurance Chairman Flood Applauds House Passage of Updated 21st Century ROAD to Housing Act as Landmark Housing Reform,2026-05-20,2026,2026-05,Republican,House,NE,Mike Flood,F000474,flood.house.gov,flood,https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Congressman Mike Flood, who serves as Chairman of the Housing & Insurance Subcommittee, released a statement following House passage of the amended text to the “21st Century ROAD to Housing Act.” The amendment includes several provisions introduced and backed by Congressman Flood and represents a bipartisan, bicameral effort to lower housing costs. “The '21st Century ROAD to Housing Act,' as amended by the House, is landmark legislation that will benefit renters, homeowners and families hoping to buy a home across the country,” said Congressman Flood. ""The leadership of Chairman Hill and Ranking Member Waters has been instrumental in making this a reality, along with the leadership of President Trump. I hope the Senate takes up the bill without delay so we can make this bill law as soon as possible.” Congressman Flood delivered remarks on the House floor outlining his support for the updated “21st Century ROAD to Housing Act.” Video of his remarks can be found by clicking here. News outlets are welcome to use the footage for reporting purposes. In addition to serving as Chairman of the Housing & Insurance Subcommittee, Congressman Flood is the Chairman of the Republican Main Street Caucus. The amended text of the ""21st Century ROAD to Housing Act” can be found here. Legislation Congressman Flood previously introduced that are included in the amended version of the housing bill are detailed below: The HOME Reform Act “America is in the midst of a housing crisis as families struggle to live the American dream due to the shortage of millions of homes,” said Congressman Flood. “The HOME program is a federal program that builds housing supply, but it has previously been weighed down by regulatory burdens that make it hard to build housing. The reforms in this legislation will result in more homebuilding across the country as we work to tackle our nation’s housing shortage. From Columbus, Nebraska to Columbus, Ohio and beyond, local communities will have an unprecedented opportunity to build affordable homes and directly address the housing crisis gripping our nation.” The ""HOME Reform Act"" modernizes the HOME Investment Partnership Program by exempting projects from NEPA and provides relief from Build America, Buy America requirements as well as establishing a “small project” exemption under Section 3 of the HUD Act of 1968. The bill raises income eligibility to 100% of area median income, extends the time communities have to commit funds, updates definitions of affordable single and multifamily housing, as well as allows funds to be used for infrastructure tied directly to new housing, such as sidewalks, sewers, and utility connections. Read the initial press release on the ""HOME Reform Act"" here. The bill was co-introduced by Housing & Insurance Subcommittee Ranking Member Emanuel Cleaver (D-MO). The Streamlining Manufactured Housing Standards Act “America has been grappling with a housing crisis and cutting red tape is one of the key tools to helping home builders create more housing,” said Congressman Flood. “Manufactured homes have historically been built to a HUD code, and in order to make manufactured homes a cost-effective option for consumers we must ensure that HUD has primary authority over all manufactured housing standards.” The ""Streamlining Manufactured Housing Standards Act"" clarifies that the Department of Housing and Urban Development is the primary regulator as it relates to all manufactured housing building standards. Read the initial press release on the ""Streamlining Manufactured Housing Starts Act"" here. The bill was co-introduced by Housing & Insurance Subcommittee Ranking Member Emanuel Cleaver (D-MO). Unlocking Housing Supply Through Streamlined and Modernized Reviews Act “The Unlocking Supply Through Streamlined and Modernized Reviews Act is an important step towards increasing housing supply in America,” said Congressman Flood. “Environmental reviews can slow housing projects by months- or even years. Currently, those reviews are not properly tailored to the size and scale of housing projects. This legislation is a meaningful step towards fixing that problem.” The ""Unlocking Housing Supply Through Streamlined and Modernized Reviews Act"" streamlines the environmental review process for a range of Department of Housing and Urban Development building activities. Read the initial press release on the ""Unlocking Housing Supply Through Streamlined and Modernized Reviews Act"" here. The bill was co-introduced by Congressman Sam Liccardo (D-CA). The Housing Supply Frameworks Act “The rising cost of housing is putting the American Dream out of reach for working families across our country,” said Congressman Flood. “We need an all-of-the-above approach to addressing America’s housing crisis. To this end, the Housing Supply Frameworks Act helps establish suggested best practices for state and local governments across the country who want to break down barriers holding back development and innovation in housing and construction."" The ""House Supply Frameworks Act” requires HUD to publish best practices and guidelines to assist communities in maintaining modern local and state zoning frameworks that support the production of adequate housing options at every income level. Read the initial press release on the Housing Supply Frameworks Act here. The bill was co-introduced by Congresswoman Brittany Pettersen (D-CO). Least Cost Exception Act",1,2026-06-27T21:44:12Z,2026-06-27T22:21:02Z https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases/smith-applauds-2026-congressional-art-competition-winners,Smith Applauds 2026 Congressional Art Competition Winners,2026-05-19,2026,2026-05,Republican,House,NE,Adrian Smith,S001172,adriansmith.house.gov,adriansmith,https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Congressman Adrian Smith (NE-03) announced the top five finishers of the 2026 Congressional Art Competition for Nebraska's Third District. The first-place finisher’s artwork will be displayed in the U.S. Capitol alongside other Congressional Art Competition winners from across the country. The four remaining finishers will have their art displayed in Smith's Washington, D.C., Grand Island, Scottsbluff, and Nebraska City offices. “Every year, I am amazed by the level of talent displayed across Nebraska’s Third District during the Congressional Art Competition. It is an honor to showcase the top five finishers' artwork in the halls of Congress and in my offices across our state. Congratulations to this year’s winners of the 2026 Congressional Art Competition, and thank you to all the students who participated,” said Smith. First Place: Ava Paitz, Litchfield Public School. ""Waiving Patriotism"" will be displayed in the U.S. Capitol Building. Second Place: Ariah Michelle Perez, Kearney High School. ""Chill in the Night"" will be displayed in Smith's Washington, D.C., office. Third Place: Conrad Lichtenberger, Litchfield Public Schools. ""Echoes of the Herd"" will be displayed in Smith's Grand Island office. Fourth Place: Aubrey Matzen, Hastings St. Cecilia High School. ""Jaguar - Henry Doorly Zoo"" will be displayed in Smith's Scottsbluff office. Fifth Place: Jenna Holm, Litchfield Public School. ""The Golden Harvest"" will be displayed in Smith's Nebraska City office. Click here to view the winning artworks.",1,2026-06-26T06:29:35Z,2026-06-26T06:31:46Z https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-flood-host-norfolk-town-hall-may-26th,Rep. Flood to Host Norfolk Town Hall on May 26th,2026-05-19,2026,2026-05,Republican,House,NE,Mike Flood,F000474,flood.house.gov,flood,https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"NORFOLK, NEBRASKA – Today, U.S. Congressman Mike Flood announced he will hold a town hall in Norfolk, Nebraska on Tuesday, May 26, 2026. The town hall will be hosted at the Johnny Carson Theater at Norfolk Senior High School. During the town hall, Congressman Flood will provide an update on the work he is doing for Norfolk and Nebraska’s First Congressional District. There will be a question-and-answer period. Congressman Flood’s Norfolk Town Hall Tuesday, May 26th 5:00PM – 6:30PM CT Johnny Carson Theater 801 Riverside Blvd, Norfolk, NE 68701 Note: Doors open at 4:30pm. Attendees should enter through the main doors of the Johnny Carson Theater on the east side of the building. A map can be found HERE. No signs or backpacks are permitted in the venue. A clear bag policy will be in place. This event is open to the public. For questions about the town hall, please contact Congressman Flood’s Lincoln Office at 402-438-1598.",1,2026-06-27T21:44:12Z,2026-06-27T22:21:02Z https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases/smith-announces-upcoming-mobile-office-hour-harlan-county,Smith Announces Upcoming Mobile Office Hour for Harlan County,2026-05-18,2026,2026-05,Republican,House,NE,Adrian Smith,S001172,adriansmith.house.gov,adriansmith,https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Congressman Adrian Smith (NE-03) announced today that his staff will hold a mobile office hour for constituents in Harlan County on Tuesday, May 19, 2026. This office hour is an opportunity for constituents to meet directly with a member of Smith's staff about federal issues, receive assistance with a federal agency, or take advantage of the services available through his office. Smith, who has offices in Grand Island, Scottsbluff, and Nebraska City, will provide a staff member at the following time and location: Tuesday, May 19, 2026 Harlan County Courthouse 706 2nd Street Alma, NE 68920 11:00 am - 12:00 pm CT",1,2026-06-24T06:25:30Z,2026-06-24T06:26:49Z https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases/cftc-chairman-selig-address-flyover-fintech-lincoln-nebraska-aug-4th,"CFTC Chairman Selig to Address Flyover Fintech in Lincoln, Nebraska on Aug. 4th",2026-05-18,2026,2026-05,Republican,House,NE,Mike Flood,F000474,flood.house.gov,flood,https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"LINCOLN, NEBRASKA – Today, U.S. Rep. Mike Flood announced that U.S. Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) Chairman Michael Selig will address his upcoming Flyover Fintech Conference in Lincoln, Nebraska on August 4, 2026. Chairman Selig was sworn into office on December 22, 2025 and most recently served as chief counsel of the Securities and Exchange Commission’s (SEC) Crypto Task Force as well as senior advisor to SEC Chairman Paul S. Atkins. “I am thrilled to announce that CFTC Chairman Michael Selig will address Flyover Fintech this August,” said Congressman Flood. “Chairman Selig has been a staunch advocate for digital asset innovation, playing an instrumental role in developing regulatory frameworks at the SEC and the CFTC, as well as contributing to President Trump’s Working Group on Digital Asset Markets and other key initiatives. At this conference, Chairman Selig is expected to share the latest developments in digital asset markets, prediction markets and the derivatives and commodity futures markets. Flyover Fintech is one of the premier events for hearing from key public officials in the worlds of finance and fintech, and I encourage anyone interested to register soon to reserve their spot.” Chairman Selig most recently served as chief counsel of the Securities and Exchange Commission’s Crypto Task Force and senior advisor to SEC Chairman Paul S. Atkins. In this role, Chairman Selig helped to develop a clear regulatory framework for digital asset securities markets, harmonize the SEC and CFTC regulatory regimes, modernize the agency’s rules to reflect new and emerging technologies, and put an end to regulation by enforcement. He also participated in the President’s Working Group on Digital Asset Markets and contributed to its report on “Strengthening American Leadership in Digital Financial Technology.” Prior to government service, Chairman Selig was a partner at an international law firm, focusing on derivatives and securities regulatory matters. During his years in private practice, he represented a broad range of clients subject to regulation by the CFTC, including commercial end users, futures commission merchants, commodity trading advisors, swap dealers, designated contract markets, derivatives clearing organizations, and digital asset firms. Flyover Fintech conferences feature a wide variety of speakers, ranging from members of the House Financial Services Committee to leading voices in the fintech industry. Additional speakers and panelists for Flyover Fintech 2026 will be announced in the coming months. Registration for the conference is now open at www.flyoverfintech.com. Additional details about the location and information about hotels and travel are also available there. Questions about the conference can be directed to Will Coup at will.coup@mail.house.gov.",1,2026-06-27T06:16:17Z,2026-06-27T06:17:30Z https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases/smith-house-floor-e15-winning-solution,Smith on the House Floor: E15 is the Winning Solution,2026-05-14,2026,2026-05,Republican,House,NE,Adrian Smith,S001172,adriansmith.house.gov,adriansmith,https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"To my colleagues in Congress, I urge you to stand with America’s consumers, America’s farmers, and America’s energy future by making nationwide, year-round E15 a reality. Together, we can finally deliver the certainty, affordability, and energy independence the American people deserve. Today, Congressman Adrian Smith (NE-03), co-chair of the Biofuels Caucus, took to the House Floor to urge his colleagues to cement America’s energy independence by passing his Nationwide Consumer and Fuel Retailer Choice Act. During his remarks, Smith highlighted how a vote for nationwide, year-round E15 is a vote for America’s consumers, America’s farmers, and America’s energy future. By making nationwide, year-round E15 a reality, Congress would provide immediate relief for consumers at the pump, deliver much-needed market certainty for farmers, and achieve President Trump’s goal of American energy independence. Image Click the image above to watch a video of Smith’s remarks Click here to download audio Click here to download video",1,2026-06-13T06:32:19Z,2026-06-13T06:34:27Z https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases/housing-insurance-chairman-flood-calls-passage-bipartisan-amendment-21st,Housing & Insurance Chairman Flood Calls for Passage of Bipartisan Amendment to the 21st Century ROAD to Housing Act,2026-05-14,2026,2026-05,Republican,House,NE,Mike Flood,F000474,flood.house.gov,flood,https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Congressman Mike Flood, who serves as Chairman of the Housing & Insurance Subcommittee, released a statement following the announcement of amended text to the “21st Century ROAD to Housing Act.” The amendment, posted by House Leadership last night, includes several of Congressman Flood’s bills and housing priorities. “The strong, bipartisan work reflected in this amended housing bill delivers on President Trump’s goal of making housing affordable again,” said Congressman Flood. “The commonsense, pro-growth measures included in the amended version of the '21st Century ROAD to Housing Act' not only prevent large institutional investors from undermining working families’ ability to own a home but also cut barriers so we can unleash our nation’s homebuilders. It’s time to pass this amended housing bill, which reflects meaningful bicameral input, so it can be signed by President Trump and deliver relief for families.” In addition to serving as Chairman of the Housing & Insurance Subcommittee, Congressman Flood is the Chairman of the Republican Main Street Caucus. The amended text of the ""21st Century ROAD to Housing Act” can be found here. Legislation Congressman Flood previously introduced that are included in the amended version of the housing bill are detailed below: The HOME Reform Act “America is in the midst of a housing crisis as families struggle to live the American dream due to the shortage of millions of homes,” said Congressman Flood. “The HOME program is a federal program that builds housing supply, but it has previously been weighed down by regulatory burdens that make it hard to build housing. The reforms in this legislation will result in more homebuilding across the country as we work to tackle our nation’s housing shortage. From Columbus, Nebraska to Columbus, Ohio and beyond, local communities will have an unprecedented opportunity to build affordable homes and directly address the housing crisis gripping our nation.” The ""HOME Reform Act"" modernizes the HOME Investment Partnership Program by exempting projects from NEPA and Build America, Buy America requirements as well as establishing a “small project” exemption under Section 3 of the HUD Act of 1968. The bill raises income eligibility to 100% of area median income, extends the time communities have to commit funds, updates definitions of affordable single and multifamily housing, as well as allows funds to be used for infrastructure tied directly to new housing, such as sidewalks, sewers, and utility connections. Read the initial press release on the ""HOME Reform Act"" here. The bill was co-introduced by Housing & Insurance Subcommittee Ranking Member Emanuel Cleaver (D-MO). The Streamlining Manufactured Housing Standards Act “America has been grappling with a housing crisis and cutting red tape is one of the key tools to helping home builders create more housing,” said Congressman Flood. “Manufactured homes have historically been built to a HUD code, and in order to make manufactured homes a cost-effective option for consumers we must ensure that HUD has primary authority over all manufactured housing standards.” The ""Streamlining Manufactured Housing Standards Act"" clarifies that the Department of Housing and Urban Development is the primary regulator as it relates to all manufactured housing building standards. Read the initial press release on the ""Streamlining Manufactured Housing Starts Act"" here. The bill was co-introduced by Housing & Insurance Subcommittee Ranking Member Emanuel Cleaver (D-MO). Unlocking Housing Supply Through Streamlined and Modernized Reviews Act “The Unlocking Supply Through Streamlined and Modernized Reviews Act is an important step towards increasing housing supply in America,” said Congressman Flood. “Environmental reviews can slow housing projects by months- or even years. Currently, those reviews are not properly tailored to the size and scale of housing projects. This legislation is a meaningful step towards fixing that problem.” The ""Unlocking Housing Supply Through Streamlined and Modernized Reviews Act"" streamlines the environmental review process for a range of Department of Housing and Urban Development building activities. Read the initial press release on the ""Unlocking Housing Supply Through Streamlined and Modernized Reviews Act"" here. The bill was co-introduced by Congressman Sam Liccardo (D-CA). Least Cost Exception Act",1,2026-06-24T06:25:30Z,2026-06-24T06:26:49Z https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases/smith-celebrates-house-passage-his-nationwide-year-round-e15-legislation,"Smith Celebrates House Passage of His Nationwide, Year-Round E15 Legislation",2026-05-13,2026,2026-05,Republican,House,NE,Adrian Smith,S001172,adriansmith.house.gov,adriansmith,https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Today, Congressman Adrian Smith (NE-03), co-chair of the Biofuels Caucus, released the following statement after his Nationwide Consumer and Fuel Retailer Choice Act passed the U.S. House of Representatives with bipartisan support: “Today’s House passage of my Nationwide Consumer and Fuel Retailer Choice Act marks a historic win for America’s consumers, farmers, and energy independence. For over a decade, I have championed nationwide, year-round E15 to end years of patchwork regulations and expand much-needed market access for Nebraska’s biofuels producers. While I am grateful for the bipartisan support of my colleagues today, I know there is still more work to do. I urge the Senate to take up this bill and send it to President Trump’s desk so he can sign it into law and make nationwide, year-round E15 a reality once and for all.” Background: Smith has championed year-round E15 since 2015, when he first introduced a bill to allow year-round E15 during the 114th Congress. Over the past decade, Smith has been leading the charge to bring agriculture, biofuel, and petroleum stakeholders together in order to deliver regulatory relief and certainty. In 2025, he introduced the Nationwide Consumer and Fuel Retailer Choice Act of 2025 to break down the remaining barriers and unlock the full potential of nationwide year-round E15, further advancing America’s energy independence. In the U.S. Senate, Senator Deb Fischer (R-NE) introduced companion legislation. After falling short in January, Smith led the charge to secure the House passage of nationwide, year-round E15, and will continue to work with his colleagues in the Senate to send his legislation to President Trump’s desk, where he will sign it into law. In addition to Smith, the Nationwide Consumer and Fuel Retailer Choice Act was championed by U.S. Representatives Angie Craig (D-MN), Dusty Johnson (R-SD), Nikki Budzinski (D-IL), Mariannette Miller-Meeks (R-IA), Sharice Davids (D-KS), Mike Flood (R-NE), Mike Bost (R-IL), Max Miller (R-OH), Mary Miller (R-IL), Brad Finstad (R-MN), Ron Estes (R-KS), Darin LaHood (R- IL), Derrick Van Orden (R- WI), Zach Nunn (R-IA), Eric Sorensen (D-IL), Robin Kelly (D-IL), Mark Alford (R-MO), Dave Taylor (R-OH), Randy Feenstra (R-IA), Tracey Mann (R-KS), Ashley Hinson (R-IA), Michelle Fischbach (R-MN), Don Bacon (R-NE), Derek Schmidt (R-KS), Michael Guest (R-MS), Emanuel Cleaver (D-MO), Kristen McDonald Rivet (D-MI), and Don Davis (D-NC).",1,2026-06-12T06:37:16Z,2026-06-12T06:39:00Z https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=2896,"During National Police Week, Bacon and Gottheimer Introduce Bipartisan “Stop the Doxx Act” to Protect Law Enforcement Officers and their Families",2026-05-13,2026,2026-05,Republican,House,NE,Don Bacon,B001298,bacon.house.gov,bacon,https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – To mark National Police Week, U.S. Representative Don Bacon (NE-02) alongside Representatives Josh Gottheimer (NJ-05) and Congresswoman Elise Stefanik (NY-21) introduced a bipartisan federal bill to protect law enforcement officers and their families from doxxing — the publishing of personal information online to threaten, intimidate, or facilitate violence — and the Police Athletic/Activities League (PAL) Reauthorization Act. “Those who protect our communities and uphold the rule of law deserve protection from threats, intimidation, and violence,” said Rep. Bacon. “The Stop the Doxx Act makes clear that weaponizing personal information against law enforcement, prosecutors, judges, or their families is unacceptable and must carry real consequences. With threats and intimidation against these public servants continuing to rise, this legislation is needed now. I look forward to working with Rep. Gottheimer to get this bipartisan legislation signed into law.” “You can’t protect our communities if you can’t protect the people who sacrifice so much for us,” said Rep. Gottheimer. “Doxxing isn’t harmless online behavior. It is targeted intimidation against the people who keep our families safe, and the law has simply not kept up with the threat. We must always get the backs of those who risk their lives every day to protect us, and that means making sure they and their families are safe both on the job and at home.”",1,2026-05-14T06:11:37Z,2026-05-14T06:12:56Z https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-flood-house-passage-year-round-e-15-supports-farmers-families-and,"Congressman Flood: ‘House-Passage of Year-Round E-15 Supports Farmers, Families, and Rural America'",2026-05-13,2026,2026-05,Republican,House,NE,Mike Flood,F000474,flood.house.gov,flood,https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Congressman Mike Flood issued a statement following house-passage of H.R. 1346, also known as the “Nationwide Consumer and Fuel Retailer Choice Act.” Congressman Flood is a cosponsor of the legislation, which lifts restrictions on the sale of 10 to 15 percent ethanol nationwide. “For years, corn growers, working families, and President Trump have pushed for E15 to compete fairly as a nationwide fuel option,” said Congressman Flood. “Today, the House finally took action and passed this commonsense answer to lower costs at the pump and expand domestic markets for our producers. Nationwide sale of E-15 supports farmers, families, and rural America and is set to be a boon for Nebraska. I look forward to Senate passage and President Trump’s signature so families can finally have more choice and support our farmers at the pump.” Congressman Flood delivered remarks ahead of votes, which can be found by clicking here. News outlets are welcomed to use the recordings for their reporting purposes.",1,2026-06-18T06:41:00Z,2026-06-18T06:43:25Z https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases/ne-delegation-urges-major-disaster-declaration-wildfires-letter-trump,NE Delegation Urges Major Disaster Declaration for Wildfires in Letter to Trump,2026-05-12,2026,2026-05,Republican,House,NE,Adrian Smith,S001172,adriansmith.house.gov,adriansmith,https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Today, U.S. Senators Deb Fischer (R-NE) and Pete Ricketts (R-NE), and U.S. Representatives Mike Flood (NE-01), Don Bacon (NE-02), and Adrian Smith (NE-03) sent a letter to President Donald Trump supporting Nebraska Governor Jim Pillen’s request for a major disaster declaration following wildfires across the state. Read the letter below: Dear Mr. President: We write in support of Governor Jim Pillen’s request for a major disaster declaration, which followed wildfires that have broken out and forced evacuations, for the Nebraska counties of Arthur, Garden, Grant, Lincoln and Morrill Counties over periods during March and April of 2026. The Morrill, Cottonwood, Ashby, and Minor Fires collectively burned over 800,000 acres across Nebraska, with the Morrill Fire alone burning over 640,000 acres, a Nebraska record. Extreme drought combined with high winds and low humidity led to unpredictable behavior and mass destruction. We know our Nebraskan communities will prove their resilience as they continue to recover from this hardship, as they have exhibited many times in previous years. We encourage the federal government to join with the state in their ongoing efforts to contain these wildfires and provide assistance where it is needed. We stand ready and willing to assist in any way possible to ensure prompt evaluation of this request. Please do not hesitate to contact our offices with any questions. Click here to view a copy of the transmitted letter.",1,2026-06-10T06:36:00Z,2026-06-10T06:37:32Z https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases/smith-sets-record-straight-nationwide-year-round-e15,"Smith Sets the Record Straight on Nationwide, Year-Round E15",2026-05-12,2026,2026-05,Republican,House,NE,Adrian Smith,S001172,adriansmith.house.gov,adriansmith,https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Today, Congressman Adrian Smith (NE-03), co-chair of the biofuels caucus, joined a bipartisan group of his colleagues at a press conference urging Congress to lower prices at the pump for consumers and increase much-needed market access for ag producers by passing his Nationwide Consumer and Fuel Retailer Choice Act. During his remarks, Smith set the record straight by debunking E15 opponents' false claims while encouraging his colleagues to support commonsense policy as opposed to political gamesmanship. Smith was joined by National Corn Growers Association President Jed Bower, along with U.S. Representatives Nikki Budzinski (IL-13), Michelle Fischbach (MN-07), and Shontel Brown (OH-11). Image Click the image above to watch a video of Smith’s remarks Click here to download audio Click here to download video",1,2026-06-12T06:37:16Z,2026-06-12T06:39:00Z https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=2895,"Bacon, Raskin and Dexter Introduce Bipartisan Legislation to Protect Pension Payments for NOAA Corps, U.S. Public Health Service Commissioned Corps",2026-05-12,2026,2026-05,Republican,House,NE,Don Bacon,B001298,bacon.house.gov,bacon,https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx,scraper,"“NOAA Corps and U.S. Public Health Service Commissioned Corps officers serve our nation in moments of crisis, from hurricane response and environmental disasters to disease outbreaks at home and overseas,” said Rep. Bacon. “These uniformed officers have answered the call in national emergencies and times of war, and they deserve a retirement structure that recognizes that service. I’m pleased to co-lead the bipartisan Pensions for Uniformed Services Retirees Act with Rep. Raskin to ensure all members of the uniformed services are treated fairly.” “NOAA Corps officers and USPHS Commissioned Corps officers have made immeasurable sacrifices for the health and safety of our people over decades of public service,” said Rep. Raskin. “Our bipartisan legislation will mean these patriots will get the pensions they earned so they don’t go hungry or struggle to pay their rent or mortgage during a government shutdown.” “The Commissioned Officers Association is pleased to endorse this important legislation, which would provide a stable and reliable financial foundation for retirement pay for members of the U.S. Public Health Service Commissioned Corps and the NOAA Commissioned Officer Corps,” said CAPT. Jacqueline Rychnovsky, USN (Ret.), Executive Director of the Commissioned Officers Association of the United States Public Health Service. “Transitioning from annual discretionary appropriations to the Department of Defense Military Retirement Fund — which currently supports retirement pay for the other six uniformed services — would help ensure that USPHS and NOAA Corps retirees are never again at risk of missing a paycheck during a government shutdown.” “All who serve our nation in uniform have earned their benefits, to include consistent and reliable retirement payments,"" said Lt. Gen. Brian Kelly, USAF (Ret.), President and CEO of the Military Officers Association of America. ""MOAA strongly supports this legislation, which takes an important step toward ensuring parity across all uniformed services by aligning retirement funding for the USPHS and NOAA commissioned officer retirees with the existing Military Retirement Fund.” Established upon the outbreak of World War I, NOAA Corps Officers command ships and aircraft and support emergency response efforts, including hurricane response and oil spill mitigation. They lead a fleet of vessels and aircraft used for everything from deep ocean research to flying into hurricanes, and they can be brought into the armed services whenever the President requires their expertise. The U.S. Public Health Service Commissioned Corps was established in 1889 to root out smallpox and yellow fever and is now the largest public health program in the world. Driven by a passion for public service, the Commissioned Corps officers respond to public health crises and national emergencies such as natural disasters, disease outbreaks, and terrorist attacks, both at home and overseas. The Pensions for Retired Uniformed Servicemembers Act is endorsed by the Military Officers Association of America and the Commissioned Officers Association. Read the full legislation here.",1,2026-05-13T06:12:22Z,2026-05-13T06:13:52Z https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-flood-celebrates-2026-congressional-art-competition-winners,Congressman Flood Celebrates 2026 Congressional Art Competition Winners,2026-05-11,2026,2026-05,Republican,House,NE,Mike Flood,F000474,flood.house.gov,flood,https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"LINCOLN, NEBRASKA – Today, U.S. Congressman Mike Flood announced the winner and three honorees of the 2026 Congressional Art Competition for Nebraska’s First Congressional District. The winner’s artwork will be displayed in the U.S. Capitol alongside other Congressional Art Competition winners from across the country. The three honorees’ pieces will be displayed in Congressman Flood’s Washington, D.C. office as well as in his District Office in Lincoln, NE. Winner: Janiyah Willis, Bellevue West. “Crash Landing” will be displayed in the U.S. Capitol Building. Honorable Mention: Ethan Webb, Lincoln North Star. “Apple Island” will be displayed in the Washington, D.C. office. Honorable Mention: Kara Meyer, Bancroft Rosalie High School. “Day Dream” will be displayed in the District Office. Honorable Mention: Lannie McDowell, Elmwood-Murdock High School. “Key to My Heart"" will be displayed in the District Office. “Year after year, I am impressed by the artwork created by students across the First District,” said Congressman Flood. “Congratulations to this year’s honorable mentions, as well as to Art Competition winner Janiyah Willis for her captivating first-place painting. I am beyond glad to display the work of our talented artists in the U.S. Capitol and in our congressional offices.” “All submissions were reviewed and evaluated by an independent panel of art professionals. I want to extend my sincerest gratitude to each of them for generously donating their time, expertise, and dedication to this competition.""",1,2026-06-17T06:49:24Z,2026-06-17T06:50:53Z https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=2894,"Bacon Office, State Department to Host Passport Fair in Omaha",2026-05-06,2026,2026-05,Republican,House,NE,Don Bacon,B001298,bacon.house.gov,bacon,https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx,scraper,"Omaha, Neb. – The office of U.S. Representative Don Bacon (NE-02), in partnership with the U.S. Department of State, will host a passport fair on Tuesday, May 19, 2026, from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. CT at Mutual First Credit Union to help constituents complete and submit passport applications. The fair will be staffed by district office personnel and a team of U.S. Department of State consular specialists. Because the House of Representatives will be in session, Rep. Bacon will be in Washington, D.C. and not be in attendance. The passport fair is open to the public and aims to make the application process more accessible for those seeking new or renewed passports. A team of nine consular officials will be on-site and expects to assist approximately 180 constituents through scheduled appointments. Passport fees still apply. Payment must be made by credit card, and applicants are encouraged to bring a passport photo along with their application materials. The fair is intended to streamline the application process and provide in-person assistance. Appointments are required and must be scheduled at the following link: https://www.jotform.com/build/261205947101045 Event Details Date: Tuesday, May 19, 2026 Time: 9:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. CT (Last appointment slot at 2:30 p.m.) Location: Mutual First Credit Union 14510 F St., Suite 101 Omaha, NE 68137 Directions The event will be held in the basement of the building. Upon arrival, take the elevators down to the basement level, make a left, and proceed to the end of the hall. ###",1,2026-05-07T13:38:59Z,2026-05-07T13:40:28Z https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases/smith-house-floor-honoring-life-bob-busch,Smith on House Floor: Honoring the Life of Bob Busch,2026-05-01,2026,2026-05,Republican,House,NE,Adrian Smith,S001172,adriansmith.house.gov,adriansmith,https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"This week, Congressman Adrian Smith (NE-03) took to the House Floor to pay tribute to Robert “Bob” Busch, charter board member of Western Sugar Cooperative. Image Click the image above to watch a video of Smith’s remarks Click here to download audio Click here to download video",1,2026-06-02T06:40:38Z,2026-06-02T06:42:17Z https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-flood-co-leads-bipartisan-bicameral-effort-establish-transparent,"Congressman Flood Co-Leads Bipartisan, Bicameral Effort to Establish Transparent Labeling of Fake Meat",2026-05-01,2026,2026-05,Republican,House,NE,Mike Flood,F000474,flood.house.gov,flood,https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Yesterday, U.S. Congressman Mike Flood (NE-01) joined Congressmen Mark Alford (MO-04) and Buddy Carter (GA-01) along with Senators Pete Ricketts (R-NE) and John Fetterman (D-PA) in introducing the ""Fair and Accurate Ingredient Representation on Labels Act,"" also known as the ""FAIR Labels Act."" The bill formalizes the labeling of plant-based and cell-cultivated (lab-grown) protein products so consumers can have accurate information when making purchasing decisions. “Nebraska is the Beef State and raising livestock has long been part of Nebraska’s identity,” said Congressman Flood (NE-01). “Families deserve to know exactly what they are putting on their tables, not to be confused by deceptive labeling and marketing tricks. Meanwhile, our farmers and ranchers continue to be undercut by the fake meat industry’s labeling. Thank you to Congressman Alford for his leadership in introducing this commonsense bill, which will finally bring about honest labeling of fake meat products and better inform consumers when making choices at the grocery store.” ""American families deserve to know exactly what they’re eating,” said Congressman Alford (MO-04). “Real meat from hardworking ranchers should be clearly labeled, not hidden behind misleading plant-based or lab-grown alternatives. Our farmers and ranchers work from dawn to dusk raising nutritious meat. They deserve a fair playing field. That’s why I’m proud to introduce the FAIR Labels Act of 2026. Missouri led the nation on honest labeling. Now we’re taking that fight to Washington.” ""The FAIR Labels Act ensures that Americans know what they are purchasing and feeding to themselves and their families. This is about transparency and consistency,"" said Congressman Buddy Carter (GA-01). ""Plant-based and lab-grown meat needs to be clearly labeled so consumers can make informed decisions at the grocery store.” “Deceptive labeling of plant-based protein products hurts American farmers and ranchers. It also degrades consumer trust,” said Senator Ricketts (R-NE). “By enhancing oversight and enforcing stricter labeling regulations, we can protect Nebraska beef. The FAIR Labels Act is common-sense: Americans should know exactly what they’re putting in their grocery cart.” ""The hardworking farmers in Pennsylvania and across our country that feed all of us with real ingredients have to unfairly compete with misleading labels of alternative meats,"" said Senator Fetterman (D-PA). ""Folks can be in the pro-bio slop caucus, but I’m in the pro-ribeye one. I'm proud to support the FAIR Labels Act to protect our farmers and all consumers who buy their great products."" The ""Fair Labels Act"" establishes definitions for “Cell-Cultivated” and “Plant-Based Alternative” protein products, with oversight and inspection standards being conducted by the U.S. Department of Agriculture and the Food and Drug Administration. The labels themselves will have a clear disclaimer if the product does not contain meat or poultry, along with terms like “cell-cultivated,” “plant-based,” or other similar descriptors being used.",1,2026-06-16T06:53:21Z,2026-06-16T06:55:02Z https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-flood-celebrates-farm-bills-house-passage-farm-bill-not-only,"Congressman Flood Celebrates Farm Bill’s House Passage: 'The Farm Bill Not Only Modernizes Key Ag Programs, it Also Invests in the Future of Our Ag Economy’",2026-04-30,2026,2026-04,Republican,House,NE,Mike Flood,F000474,flood.house.gov,flood,https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Congressman Mike Flood (NE-01) issued a statement following House passage of H.R. 7567, the “Farm, Food, and National Security Act,” also known as the “Farm Bill.” “It has been nearly eight years since the last time a new Farm Bill framework was passed. This new Farm Bill framework not only modernizes key ag programs to better serve our farmers and ranchers today, but it also invests in the future of our agricultural economy. Importantly, the 2026 Farm Bill supports ag research while protecting and expanding key programs such as crop insurance, market access and USDA Rural Development. The legislation includes investments in rural broadband; expanded rural healthcare and rural childcare access; support for new, young, beginning, and veteran farmers transitioning to farming; incentives for innovation and technology, including investments in precision agriculture; and more. I look forward to this much-needed framework moving to the Senate and ultimately reaching President Trump’s desk,” said Congressman Flood. Ten of Congressman Flood’s–supported bills, including ones he signed on as a cosponsor or co-lead, were included in the 2026 Farm Bill: H.R. 575 (Baird, R-IN) – Increased TSP Access Act of 2023 – original cosponsor H.R. 1207 (Mann, R-KS) – To Transfer the Authorities of the Food for Peace Act from the U.S. Agency for International Development to the Department of Agriculture – cosponsor H.R. 5459 (Flood, R-NE) – Precision Agriculture Workforce Training and Development Act – sponsor H.R. 5468 (T. Kelly, R-MS) – Community College Agriculture Advancement Act of 2025 – cosponsor H.R. 5854 (Neguse, D-CO) – Sustainable Agriculture Research Act – co-lead H.R. 4764 (Miller-Meeks, R-IA) – Biochar Research Network Act of 2025 – sponsor H.R. 1719 (Miller, R-OH) – Farm to Fly Act of 2025 – co-lead H.R. 4832 (Alford, R-MO) – Biomanufacturing and Jobs Act of 2025 – cosponsor H.R 4673 (Hinson, R-IA) – Save Our Bacon Act – original cosponsor H.R. 1995 (Hinson, R-IA) – Securing American Agriculture Act – cosponsor",1,2026-06-13T06:32:19Z,2026-06-13T06:34:27Z https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=2893,"Bacon, Nunn, Moore Introduce Bipartisan Package to Keep Foster Siblings Together",2026-04-29,2026,2026-04,Republican,House,NE,Don Bacon,B001298,bacon.house.gov,bacon,https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – U.S. Representatives Don Bacon (NE-02), Zach Nunn (IA-03), and Gwen Moore (WI-04), Co-Chairs of the Congressional Caucus on Foster Youth, today introduced the Protecting Sibling Relationships in Foster Care Act and a resolution recognizing April as National Foster Sibling Connections Month, a bipartisan package to help keep foster siblings together. The Protecting Sibling Relationships in Foster Care Act would authorize $10 million in federal appropriations over a five-year period and direct the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) to establish a competitive pilot grant program supporting specialized foster care models designed for large sibling groups, siblings with wide age ranges, or those with complex needs. Eligible state, tribal, local, faith-based, and nonprofit entities could receive one of up to five grants to develop or expand models that increase the likelihood that siblings are placed together and remain together while in care. Grantees would collect and report placement data and outcomes to inform federal and state child welfare practice. The bipartisan resolution recognizes April as National Foster Sibling Connections Month and highlights the importance of sibling bonds for youth in foster care. By calling on federal, state, tribal, and local agencies to prioritize joint placements and improve data collection, the resolution seeks to reduce trauma and ensure emotional stability for youth both during and after their time in care. “Keeping siblings together in the foster care system significantly increases their chance of having positive life outcomes,” said Rep. Bacon, Congressional Caucus on Foster Youth Co-Chair. “As a foster-to-adoptive parent of a sibling group, this bipartisan foster care package helps address the unique challenges faced by families caring for sibling groups with large numbers, wide age ranges, and complex needs. We have a responsibility to support children in foster care with stable, loving homes that keep families connected.” “When brothers and sisters enter foster care, staying together can be the difference between stability and a traumatic disruption in a young life. Kelly and I experienced this personally, adopting two daughters, two siblings, who had each other as they made a very difficult transition,” said Rep. Nunn, Congressional Caucus on Foster Youth Co-Chair. “I've worked with families navigating this system — and the biggest barrier to keeping siblings together isn't willingness, it's capacity. This bill funds the foster care models that can actually keep siblings together, and our resolution makes clear that Congress sees this as a priority.” “The sibling bond is so important, and the foster care system must work to maintain it. But when siblings become separated in the foster care system, it can create more distress and pain for children and families,” said Rep. Moore, Congressional Caucus on Foster Youth Co-Chair. “Our bipartisan legislation would help develop better tools to successfully keep siblings together, especially in complex situations. I am proud to join my fellow Congressional Caucus on Foster Youth (CCFY) co-chairs in introducing this bipartisan legislation.” Background The federal foster care system strives to place siblings together whenever possible, yet many children in care are separated from one or more of their brothers or sisters due to logistical challenges, varying ages, behavioral health needs, or limited placement capacity. Strong sibling relationships are widely recognized as a critical source of emotional support and stability for children navigating the trauma of family separation, but current federal law’s “reasonable efforts” requirement does not ensure specialized infrastructure or funding to support placement of large sibling groups, siblings with wide age ranges, or those with complex needs. According to the Government Accountability Office (GAO), states face significant barriers to placing siblings together, particularly when sibling groups are large, span wide age ranges, or require specialized care. Some reports estimate that as many as 75% of foster children are placed apart from one or more of their siblings. This foster care package aims to help address those gaps by supporting foster care models better equipped to serve sibling groups. The full text of the Protecting Sibling Relationships in Foster Care Act is available here, and the resolution recognizing April as National Foster Sibling Connections Month is available here. ###",1,2026-04-30T06:05:15Z,2026-04-30T06:07:09Z https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases/smith-matsui-introduce-bipartisan-bill-expand-access-life-saving-ivig,"Smith, Matsui Introduce Bipartisan Bill to Expand Access to Life-Saving IVIG Treatment",2026-04-27,2026,2026-04,Republican,House,NE,Adrian Smith,S001172,adriansmith.house.gov,adriansmith,https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Today, U.S. Representatives Adrian Smith (R-NE-03) and Doris Matsui (D-CA-07) introduced the PI Post Acute Access Act to expand access to life-saving care for individuals with primary immunodeficiencies (PI). Their bipartisan legislation would create a dedicated payment within Medicare for Skilled Nursing Facilities (SNF) to provide intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG) treatments onsite. This would prevent dangerous treatment delays, reduce avoidable hospitalizations, and ensure vulnerable patients get the care they need when and where they need it. ""Outdated billing measures should not prevent vulnerable patients from receiving lifesaving care when and where they need it. I am proud to join Congresswoman Matsui in introducing our bipartisan PI Post Acute Access Act to cut red tape and ensure that PI patients have access to the critical care they need,” said Smith. “Patients living with primary immunodeficiencies should not have to fight through red tape to get the care they need to stay healthy and safe. For many families, timely access to IVIG treatment can mean the difference between stability and a serious medical crisis. I have long worked to protect access to these life-saving therapies, and the PI Post Acute Access Act builds on that commitment by helping ensure Medicare beneficiaries can continue receiving essential treatment in nursing facilities. No one should be left behind simply because of where they are receiving care,” said Matsui. ""For Medicare beneficiaries living with primary immunodeficiency, access to life-saving IVIG therapy should never depend on where they receive care. This bill ensures that patients who need skilled nursing services are not forced to choose between essential care and the medication they need to survive. By creating a targeted payment solution, Congress can protect a vulnerable group and uphold the promise of equitable access for all patients, including those living with a rare condition,”said Jorey Berry, President & CEO of the Immune Deficiency Foundation. Click here to read the full text of the bill.",1,2026-05-23T06:08:46Z,2026-05-23T06:10:20Z https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressmen-flood-and-neguse-re-introduce-bill-supporting-precision-ag,Congressmen Flood and Neguse Re-Introduce Bill Supporting Precision Ag Research,2026-04-27,2026,2026-04,Republican,House,NE,Mike Flood,F000474,flood.house.gov,flood,https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Congressman Mike Flood (R-NE) and Congressman Joe Neguse (D-CO) re-introduced the “Precision Agriculture Workforce Training and Development Act.” This bipartisan legislation encourages the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) to invest in hands-on, precision agriculture programs for students. “Nebraska continues to be at the forefront of precision ag research,” said Congressman Flood. “As universities and colleges expand these programs, the USDA should be there to support this growing field. Thank you to Rep. Neguse for joining this effort to modernize our ag economy and better train the next generation of farmers and ranchers nationwide.” The Precision Ag Workforce Development Act will add “Precision Agriculture Workforce Development” to the USDA’s high priority research areas. Additionally, the bill provides special consideration for institutions that offer cooperative education programs under the Agriculture and Food Research Initiative (AFRI).",1,2026-06-04T06:38:12Z,2026-06-04T06:39:44Z https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-flood-co-leads-bipartisan-resolution-designating-april-18th,Congressman Flood Co-Leads Bipartisan Resolution Designating April 18th 'National Lineman Appreciation Day',2026-04-24,2026,2026-04,Republican,House,NE,Mike Flood,F000474,flood.house.gov,flood,https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – This week, U.S. Congressman Mike Flood (R-NE) joined Congressman David Rouzer (R-NC), Congresswoman Deborah Ross (D-NC), and Congresswoman Marie Gluesenkamp Perez (D-WA) in introducing a bipartisan resolution designating April 18, 2026, as “National Lineman Appreciation Day,” honoring the more than 115,000 linemen working across the country. The resolution commends the remarkable contributions of linemen to communities across the nation. Cosponsored by 57 Members of Congress, this resolution underscores the essential role linemen play in maintaining a safe and reliable power supply – especially in the wake of natural disasters. “Across the country, linemen play a crucial role in driving economic growth and ensuring that the lights stay on,” said Congressman Flood. “I am glad to support this resolution recognizing their hard work, as linemen often operate high above the ground, through severe weather, and in other extreme conditions to maintain infrastructure critical for our communities. Thank you to Reps. Rouzer, Ross, and Gluesenkamp Perez for leading this effort and recognizing their tireless work.” “Our nation’s linemen step up without hesitation, often operating in dangerous conditions to restore power and help communities recover from natural disasters,” said Congressman Rouzer. “These dedicated men and women work tirelessly to keep the power on and their service deserves our gratitude and deepest respect. What would we do without them?!” “Rain or shine, dedicated lineworkers make sure North Carolinians have power all year round,” said Congresswoman Ross. “During natural disasters and record storms, lineworkers have been among the first people on the ground, getting electricity back up and running. Their commitment is what keeps the lights on across our communities and helps us stay connected. I’m proud to join this bipartisan resolution to express our appreciation for the tough and often thankless work that linemen do every day.” “When things go right, no one thinks to thank linemen – and when things get rough, most think it’s magic – it’s our skilled, tough linemen we owe our gratitude. Their work is core to keeping our public power system reliable and affordable in Southwest Washington,” said Congresswoman Gluesenkamp Perez. “Linemen work around the clock in tough weather with backbreaking aerobics and masterful skill – and I’m so proud of their work and to fight on their team.” “The lineman profession is a large organization, but it operates like a small family,” said Karen Bosch, Managing Director for National Association of Journeymen Linemen and Bill Bosch, Northwest Lineman College (Founders of National Lineman's Appreciation Day). “Linemen put others before themselves every day, and they are some of the most dedicated and remarkable people I know.”",1,2026-05-22T06:27:39Z,2026-05-22T06:29:18Z https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=2889,"Bacon Joins Bipartisan, Bicameral Legislation to Combat Russia’s Attack on Religious Freedom",2026-04-23,2026,2026-04,Republican,House,NE,Don Bacon,B001298,bacon.house.gov,bacon,https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – U.S. Representative Don Bacon (R-NE) joined Helsinki Commission Chairman Representative Joe Wilson (R-SC), Helsinki Commission Ranking Member Representative Steve Cohen (D-TN), and Representatives Brian Fitzpatrick (R-PA), Marcy Kaptur (D-OH), and Mike Quigley (D-IL) to introduce Countering Russia’s War On Faith Act. Companion legislation was introduced in the Senate by Senators John Kennedy (R-LA) and Sheldon Whitehouse, Ranking Member of the U.S. Helsinki Commission (D-RI). This bipartisan legislation requires the Secretaries of State and Defense to jointly report on Russian efforts to persecute, suppress, and violate the religious freedoms of faith communities in Ukraine and Russian-occupied territories. It also directs the President to impose sanctions on foreign individuals found to have engaged in these actions. “Putin’s brutal invasion of Ukraine is not only an attack on a country that seeks democracy, free markets, and alignment with the West, but also includes a deliberate campaign to suppress and persecute religious communities,” said Rep. Bacon. “The Countering Russia’s War on Faith Act will ensure we fully document these abuses and hold those responsible accountable through sanctions. I’m pleased to join Rep. Wilson and my colleagues in this bipartisan effort to stand up for religious liberty and the Ukrainian people.” “Russia targets and kills persons of faith as a matter of policy wherever it invades. War criminal Putin seeks to prevent free worship of all believers and crushes any faith not subservient to its state-run church and corrupt former KGB agent Patriarch Kirill or otherwise submit itself to repressive state control,” said Rep. Wilson, Co-Chair of the Congressional Ukraine Caucus. “Believers in the temporarily occupied territories of Ukraine are targeted with particular ferocity. It is critical that we counter Russia’s War on Faith.” “Putin is a war criminal conducting genocide in Ukraine. He is also attempting to erase expressions of Ukrainian identity, including religious freedoms. This legislation makes plain that these human rights violations will be a focus of our foreign policy and that the United States will always defend religious liberty,” said Rep. Cohen. “Russia’s war in Ukraine is not only an assault on sovereignty—it is a calculated, systemic assault on religious freedom. For Americans, the freedom to worship is among our most fundamental liberties, and we do not stand by when it is crushed by force. This legislation ensures these crimes are documented, perpetrators are identified, and real consequences follow. Peace through strength requires accountability, and the persecution of people of faith cannot be met with silence,” said Rep. Fitzpatrick. “Russia's widespread religious persecution in Ukraine dates back centuries, and is a horrific reminder that this new war of occupation was never just about land, but about forcible Russification and the erasure of Ukraine's pluralistic and free way of life,"" said Rep. Kaptur, Co-Founder and Co-Chair of the Congressional Ukraine Caucus. “This important legislation calls out the abuses committed by the Russian state and its agents against Ukrainian Christians, Jews, Muslims, and other faiths. Russia perversely portrays Ukraine as a persecutor of Christians, when it is Moscow that has destroyed over 600 churches, synagogues, mosques, and places of worship in Ukraine throughout this war. These new attacks are a shameful reminder of Russian pogroms and attacks on religious communities dating back centuries. The United States must hold these war criminals accountable and defend religious freedom and the right of all Ukrainians to worship as they choose.” “Vladimir Putin's brutal war on Ukraine is not just about violating its sovereignty, but erasing the democratic values Ukraine has embraced. He seeks to erase freedom of religion in Ukraine by disproportionately targeting places of worship and practitioners of any religion other than his own,"" said Rep. Quigley. ""I am proud to cosponsor Rep. Wilson's Countering Russia’s War on Faith Act to make it clear that those who burn churches, persecute religious communities, and try to erase religious diversity will be held accountable. The United States must lead with moral clarity by defending religious freedom and confronting Putin’s abuses.” “Religious liberty is not a suggestion in America – it’s one of our founding promises protected by the Constitution and lived out every day by generations of freedom-loving Americans. Anyone with a brain larger than a single cell organism knows that Vladimir Putin does not respect nor share that view. The Countering Russia’s War on Faith Act shines a bright light on Putin’s religious persecution and responds with real consequences,” said Sen. Kennedy. “Putin’s murderous regime has repeatedly bombed places of worship, murdered clergy members, and persecuted Ukrainian communities not aligned with the Putin-allied Russian Orthodox Church. It’s time for the U.S. to take a stand for religious freedom and explore sanctions against individuals engaging in these brutal human rights abuses in Ukraine,” said Sen. Whitehouse. Background Since Russia’s full-scale invasion in 2022, over 600 churches, synagogues, mosques, and other religious sites have been damaged or destroyed, and more than 50 Ukrainian clergy have been killed. Protestant, Catholic, Crimean Tatar, and Orthodox Christian communities not aligned with the Russian Orthodox Church have faced raids, forced re-registration, and criminal prosecution. The Russian Orthodox Church, led by Patriarch Kirill of Moscow, has publicly described the invasion as a “holy war,” providing ideological justification for systematic religious suppression in occupied territories. The full text of HR-8433 (S-4379) is available here. ###",1,2026-04-24T05:51:25Z,2026-04-24T05:53:00Z https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases/smith-washington-times-unleashing-americas-energy-independence,Smith in Washington Times: Unleashing America’s Energy Independence,2026-04-22,2026,2026-04,Republican,House,NE,Adrian Smith,S001172,adriansmith.house.gov,adriansmith,https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Today, Congressman Adrian Smith (NE-03) penned an op-ed in the Washington Times urging his colleagues in Congress to join him in unleashing America’s energy independence by passing his Nationwide Consumer and Fuel Retailer Choice Act, making nationwide, year-round E15 a reality. Click here to read the op-ed in full or read an excerpt below: We already know E15 works. It is compatible with 97% of vehicles on the road today and can be delivered through existing infrastructure. Summertime waivers have demonstrated its success, but we cannot continue to substitute temporary fixes for permanent solutions. The question is no longer whether E15 makes sense; it does. The question is whether my colleagues in Congress will join me and do the right thing. Nationwide, year-round E15 is not just an energy policy; it is a practical step toward a stronger, more secure, and affordable future. With unprecedented support from the administration and leadership across Washington, the opportunity is here. It’s time for bad actors to get out of the way so Congress can cement America’s energy independence by making nationwide, year-round E15 a reality once and for all.",1,2026-05-22T06:27:39Z,2026-05-22T06:29:18Z https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=2888,"Bacon, Tran Celebrate Bipartisan Small Business Legislation Signed into Law",2026-04-21,2026,2026-04,Republican,House,NE,Don Bacon,B001298,bacon.house.gov,bacon,https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx,scraper,"Washington – U.S. Representatives Don Bacon (NE-02) and Derek Tran (CA-45) are celebrating their bipartisan legislation to continue intellectual property protections for small businesses being signed into law. The Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Foreign Interference Safeguard Act will extend small businesses' due diligence programs that identify and mitigate the risk of intellectual property theft by foreign entities like the Chinese Communist Party (CCP). It was signed into law on April 13 as part of the Small Business Innovation and Economic Security Act. The SBIR Foreign Interference Safeguard Act will reauthorize the Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) and Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) Due Diligence programs for five years. This extension gives agencies more time to strengthen their programs, assess risks, and collect additional data for Congress to determine the best security strategies for small businesses. “Protecting American innovation from foreign adversaries such as the Chinese Communist Party remains one of our most critical national security challenges,” said Rep. Bacon. “After the CCP hacked into my own email accounts, I know firsthand how aggressive these operations can be. That’s why I’m pleased to see our SBIR Foreign Interference Safeguard Act signed into law. This legislation strengthens due diligence programs and helps prevent adversaries from exploiting SBIR-funded technologies. I’m grateful to work with Rep. Tran on this bipartisan effort.” “Small businesses are at the forefront of American innovation. Congress must ensure that these groundbreaking technologies are protected and best positioned to benefit American consumers,” said Rep. Tran. “I’m so proud to have passed this common-sense, bipartisan legislation to extend the SBIR Due Diligence Program and give our agencies the resources they need to safeguard American technologies from malign actors like the Chinese Communist Party. This legislation will strengthen our national security, ensuring that Orange County’s small businesses can continue driving innovation for generations to come.” The SBIR program provides funding to small businesses developing innovative technologies, fast-tracking these life-changing technologies so that they can reach consumers more quickly. Because of the sensitivity of many of these innovations, foreign malign actors like the CCP exploit cybersecurity gaps and other vulnerabilities to steal technology and slow the progress of American innovation. The Due Diligence Program helps small businesses guard against such exploitation. The Due Diligence Program was established in the SBIR/STTR Extension Act of 2022 to require agencies to assess security risks for all small businesses applying for SBIR or STTR grants – specifically risks regarding cybersecurity, intellectual property, and foreign ownership. Agencies set up these systems throughout 2023, and they have only been in full effect for one solicitation cycle thus far. By extending the program, small businesses can continue to receive critical support for innovative technologies while mitigating the risk of intellectual property theft. ###",1,2026-04-22T05:46:42Z,2026-04-22T05:48:06Z https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases/smith-introduces-bill-secure-strong-financial-start-future-generations,Smith Introduces Bill to Secure a Strong Financial Start for Future Generations,2026-04-15,2026,2026-04,Republican,House,NE,Adrian Smith,S001172,adriansmith.house.gov,adriansmith,https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Today, Congressman Adrian Smith (NE-03) led his colleagues in introducing the Trump Accounts for All Generations Act to permanently extend the Trump Accounts contribution pilot program, created by the Working Families Tax Cuts, which is set to expire at the end of 2028. Smith’s legislation would ensure that every future American newborn can receive the $1,000 investment when opening a Trump Account while also indexing the $1,000 investment to inflation beginning in 2029. The legislation is also co-led by U.S. Representatives Blake Moore (UT-01) and Brian Jack (GA-03). ""The Trump Account contribution pilot program opened the door for parents to provide their children with a strong financial foundation from day one. But this historic investment is at risk of disappearing after President Trump leaves office. I introduced the Trump Accounts for All Generations Act to ensure that every future generation of Americans can have a strong financial start in life,”said Smith. “One of the most significant policies we enacted in the Working Families Tax Cuts was the creation of investment accounts for every American child. Trump Accounts will set our children up for financial stability and the $1,000 federal contribution for newborns will jumpstart their savings. I was proud to lead the original legislation that launched the program and I’m excited to introduce the Trump Accounts for All Generations Act to make this federal investment permanent for generations to come,” said Moore. “On Independence Day 2025, President Trump enacted one of the most significant laws in American history: the Working Families Tax Cuts, delivering the largest tax cut in American history and establishing the foundation for Trump Accounts. I am proud to support the Trump Accounts for All Generations Act, which would make these tax-advantaged savings accounts permanent and ensure the next generation of Americans has the tools to build wealth, pursue opportunity, and create a better future for themselves and their families. I commend President Trump for his leadership, and I look forward to advocating for this legislation throughout the Congressional process,” said Jack. BACKGROUND: Under the Working Families Tax Cuts, Republicans created an opportunity for parents, guardians, and other authorized individuals to establish a new tax-advantaged savings account for their children, called Trump Accounts, with the ability to contribute up to $5,000 annually. In addition to creating the Trump Accounts, Republicans authorized a pilot program contribution of $1,000 for any child who is a U.S. citizen with a valid Social Security number born between January 1, 2025, and December 31, 2028. The Trump Accounts for All Generations Act would make the $1,000 Trump Account contribution permanent and index the investment to inflation starting in 2029. Click here to read the full text of the bill.",1,2026-05-22T06:27:39Z,2026-05-22T06:29:18Z https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=2887,Bacon and Kaptur Introduce Bipartisan BLOCK PUTIN Act to Hold Hungarian Government Enablers of Russia Accountable,2026-04-10,2026,2026-04,Republican,House,NE,Don Bacon,B001298,bacon.house.gov,bacon,https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx,scraper,"This legislation comes amid troubling news that top officials in the Hungarian government, including Hungarian Foreign Minister Péter Szijjártó, have coordinated with the Russian government to obstruct European support for Ukraine, protect Russian oligarchs from sanctions, and create a significant vulnerability for Hungary by deepening its dependence on Russian energy. Concerningly, it has also been reported that Hungarian officials signed a secret pact with the Kremlin to deepen Hungary’s reliance on Russia and drift farther from its transatlantic allies. ""As someone with Hungarian roots, I have deep respect for Hungary’s history as a freedom-loving nation that stood up to Soviet oppression in 1956. But today, under Prime Minister Orbán, Hungary has become the most unreliable country in NATO and undermined Ukraine and our allies from within,” said Congressman Don Bacon (NE-02), member of the Congressional Hungarian Caucus. “The BLOCK PUTIN Act makes clear there will be consequences for blocking support to Ukraine, deepening reliance on Russian energy, and reinforces our commitment to our allies. I’m pleased to co-lead this bipartisan effort with Rep. Kaptur and grateful to Sens. Tillis and Shaheen for their leadership in the Senate."" “As Co-Chair of the Congressional Hungarian Caucus and a strong advocate for Ohio’s national guard partnership with the nation of Hungary, I share the commitment of the Hungarian and American people who bled for the cause of Democracy and Liberty,” said Congresswoman Marcy Kaptur (OH-09), Co-Chair of the Congressional Hungarian Caucus. “When Moscow sent tanks to crush the people of Hungary in their Revolution of 1956, the world again saw the cruelty of the Kremlin’s dictatorship. When we listen to these phone calls between top Russian and Hungarian officials, we hear a shocking betrayal of Hungary’s independence and democracy in support of Dictator Vladimir Putin’s ambition to dominate Europe. My colleagues including myself and Congressman Bacon in our Hungarian Caucus affirm the right of the Hungarian people for their hard-fought freedom. Hungarians should know they will always have friends here in America ready to help them combat Putin’s schemes to control their country and extinguish their Liberty.”",1,2026-04-11T05:33:44Z,2026-04-11T05:34:52Z https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=2885,Planetary Science Caucus Co-Chairs Bacon & Chu Issue Statement on White House’s Proposed Budget Cuts to NASA Science,2026-04-09,2026,2026-04,Republican,House,NE,Don Bacon,B001298,bacon.house.gov,bacon,https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx,scraper,"WASHINGTON – Last week, President Trump’s Office of Management and Budget (OMB) released the Administration’s Fiscal Year 2027 (FY27) budget request, which proposes to cut NASA’s overall budget by 23% and cut NASA’s Science Mission Directorate (SMD) by 47%. This request would also terminate more than 40 space missions, including the Mars Sample Return mission led by Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL), a first-of-its-kind mission to return samples from Mars to Earth and unlock groundbreaking insights into the planet’s history and the potential for past life. Reps. Don Bacon (NE-02) and Judy Chu (CA-28), who co-Chair the bipartisan Congressional Planetary Science Caucus, released the following joint statement in response: “We are deeply alarmed that the Administration is once again proposing significant budget cuts to NASA and its science programs. NASA Science supports thousands of jobs and is essential to U.S. national security and leadership in space exploration, scientific discovery, and technological innovation. These drastic cuts would create enormous chaos and uncertainty for critical missions, the scientific workforce, and long-term research planning. At the same time, current funding for NASA Science has not kept pace with inflation, underscoring the need for more investment, not less. That is why, just weeks ago, we led over 100 bipartisan House Members in a letter to appropriators urging increased funding for NASA Science, and we will continue working on a bipartisan basis to ensure NASA receives the full, sustained funding it needs to lead the world in discovery and exploration.” ###",1,2026-04-10T05:46:57Z,2026-04-10T05:48:19Z https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=2886,"Bacon, Panetta Introduce the Bipartisan Stop Global Tariffs Act",2026-04-09,2026,2026-04,Republican,House,NE,Don Bacon,B001298,bacon.house.gov,bacon,https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx,scraper,"“Article One, Section Eight, Clause One of the Constitution gives Congress authority over tariffs and trade, and it’s time Congress stands on its own two feet and does its job,” said Rep. Bacon. “I’m pleased to co-lead the Stopping Global Tariffs Act as a step toward restoring Congress’s role, providing relief to American businesses and consumers, and preventing the misuse of outdated authorities to impose sweeping tariffs. Across-the-board tariffs like these raise costs for families and create unnecessary economic uncertainty.” “American consumers and businesses have shouldered the consequences of President Trump’s illegal and incoherent tariff policy,” said Rep. Panetta. “My legislation would lift the most recent across-the-board tariffs under Section 122 and make whole those who have been harmed. Although Congress abdicated its Constitutional obligations for trade policy over the past few decades, it’s past time for us to reclaim our authority from the executive branch not just with lawsuits, but with legislation.” “President Trump’s new 10% global tariffs are a clear attempt to sidestep Congress and reimpose his failed tariffs after the Supreme Court struck them down,” said Rep. Sánchez. “I am proud to co-lead the Stopping Global Tariffs Act to strike down these new tariffs and give needed relief to the American families who have suffered from higher prices as a result of Trump’s tariff regime.” President Trump’s most recent tariffs were improperly imposed under Section 122 of the Trade Act of 1974. Section 122 allows for the President to impose a 15 percent tariff for balance of payments, which was created when the U.S. dollar was on the gold standard. Following the Supreme court’s ruling in February negating his use of the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA) to levy tariffs, the Trump Administration has imposed a 10 percent tariff on all imports to address “balance of payments.” Since the U.S. no longer operates on the Gold Standard, there is no legal justification for using this authority. The Stop Global Tariffs Act is cosponsored by: Representatives Don Beyer (VA-08), Brendan Boyle (PA-02), Suzan DelBene (WA-01), Steven Horsford (NV-04), Brad Schneider (IL-10), Terri Sewell (AL-07), and Tom Suozzi (NY-03). Full text of the bill is available here. ###",1,2026-04-10T05:46:57Z,2026-04-10T05:48:19Z https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-flood-accepting-applications-fall-internship-program-washington-1,"Congressman Flood Accepting Applications for Fall Internship Program in Washington, D.C.",2026-04-03,2026,2026-04,Republican,House,NE,Mike Flood,F000474,flood.house.gov,flood,https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"LINCOLN, NEBRASKA – Today, U.S. Congressman Mike Flood announced that his office is accepting applications for the fall internship program in his Washington, D.C. office. “My team is now accepting applications for the fall internship program in our nation’s capital,” said Congressman Flood. “Interns will work alongside our legislative team, constituent services efforts, communications team, and more. This truly is a unique opportunity to get a firsthand look at Congress in action.” Congressional interns at the Office of Congressman Flood will collaborate with each team of the office’s staff. The internship curriculum is designed to leave interns with an understanding of how a congressional office administers constituent services, produces communications, its operations, legislative efforts, as well as how it conducts committee work. Additionally, interns will have the opportunity to attend policy briefings, unique tours, congressional hearings, guest speaker events, networking opportunities, and more on Capitol Hill. The deadline to apply for the fall internship is May 8, 2026. The internship will run from August 31–December 18.",1,2026-05-21T06:28:16Z,2026-05-21T06:29:43Z https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases/smith-announces-upcoming-caseworker-your-community-events-chase-and-dundy,Smith Announces Upcoming Caseworker in Your Community Events for Chase and Dundy Counties,2026-03-30,2026,2026-03,Republican,House,NE,Adrian Smith,S001172,adriansmith.house.gov,adriansmith,https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Congressman Adrian Smith (NE-03) announced today that his staff will host a caseworker-in-your-community event for constituents in Chase and Dundy Counties on Tuesday, April 14, 2026. This event is an opportunity for constituents to meet directly with one of Smith’s congressional caseworkers, who may be able to assist those with disaster recovery concerns as well as with federal agencies such as the USDA, FEMA, VA, Social Security, Medicare, USCIS, or the IRS. Smith, who has offices in Grand Island, Scottsbluff, and Nebraska City, will provide a staff member at the following time and location: Tuesday, April 14, 2026 Lied Imperial Library 718 Broadway Street Imperial, NE 69033 11:00 am - 12:00 pm MT Dundy County Library 106 E 6th Avenue Benkelman, NE 69021 1:00 pm - 2:00 pm MT",1,2026-05-19T06:31:01Z,2026-05-19T06:32:40Z