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://quigley.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/quigley-enjoys-slew-end-year-wins-0,Quigley Enjoys Slew of End-of-Year Wins,2022-12-31,2022,2022-12,Democrat,House,IL,Mike Quigley,Q000023,quigley.house.gov,quigley,https://quigley.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"U.S. Representative Mike Quigley (IL-05) led several of his top priorities across the finish line in the closing weeks of 2022. On the final legislative day of the year, Quigley secured more than $16.5 million in funding for local community projects and saw President Joe Biden sign his bill the Access to Congressionally Mandated Reports Act into law as part of the National Defense Authorization Act. Earlier in December, Quigley's Big Cat Public Safety Act was passed by the Senate and was also signed into law by the President. ""I work hard every day for the people of my district and I am always proud to see some of my community's top priorities gain support in Congress. This year was particularly fulfilling as I saw the President approve more than $26.8 million in total for our district and more than six of my bills signed into law,"" said Quigley. ""In one of the most partisan periods in our nation's history, it is still possible to find common ground and make real progress for our nation. As we look ahead to the new year and a divided Congress, I am eager to get to work and have another successful session for my constituents."" These end-of-year successes capped a highly productive year for Quigley on behalf of Illinois' Fifth District. Quigley's 2022 accomplishments included:",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:32:05Z https://bost.house.gov/2022/12/bost-slams-biden-wptus,BOST SLAMS BIDEN WOTUS RULE,2022-12-30,2022,2022-12,Republican,House,IL,Mike Bost,B001295,bost.house.gov,bost,https://bost.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Representative Mike Bost (IL-12) released the following statement after the Environmental Protection Agency announced its final rule on the definition of “Waters of the United States” (WOTUS): “After two years of the EPA hemming and hawing over this rule, Biden’s bureaucrats did exactly what we expected them to do: cave to the demands of radical Green New Deal environmentalists. This is not about protecting our waters; it’s about exerting federal control over the American people in any way they can. It is insane to think that Biden is returning us to the type of Obama-era overregulation that nearly put our farmers and job creators out of business less than a decade ago.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:32:05Z https://krishnamoorthi.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-krishnamoorthi-applauds-irs-decision-delay-lowering-threshold-form,Congressman Krishnamoorthi Applauds IRS Decision to Delay Lowering of Threshold for Form 1099-K Reporting Following His Bipartisan Advocacy With Colleagues,2022-12-30,2022,2022-12,Democrat,House,IL,Raja Krishnamoorthi,K000391,krishnamoorthi.house.gov,krishnamoorthi,https://krishnamoorthi.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi issued the following statement in response to the decision by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) to delay lowering the threshold for Form 1099-K reporting by one year, an announcement which follows a bipartisan letter sent by Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi and colleagues on December 19th. ""I'm glad to see the IRS postpone the implementation of the new reporting requirements for Form 1099-K issuance,"" said Congressman Krishnamoorthi. ""Lowering the threshold from $20,000 to $600 would hurt millions of American taxpayers who participate in online marketplaces and other e-commerce platforms. While working families struggle with extreme price hikes and other economic challenges, the selling of used goods has become even more common, making this the worst possible time to create unnecessary confusion and stress for struggling Americans. Furthermore, the change would place an additional burden on the IRS as millions of new forms would have to be processed, even when no reportable income is generated. I look forward to continuing to work with the IRS in the coming weeks to identify a more permanent solution to lowering the reporting threshold in a way that doesn't increase the already difficult tax compliance burden faced by many American taxpayers.""",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:32:05Z https://marymiller.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-miller-issues-statement-biden-wotus-ruling,Rep. Miller Issues Statement on Biden WOTUS Ruling,2022-12-30,2022,2022-12,Republican,House,IL,Mary E. Miller,M001211,marymiller.house.gov,marymiller,https://marymiller.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Oakland, Ill. - Congresswoman Mary Miller (IL-15) issued the following statement on the new Biden WOTUS Ruling that puts American Farmers last: ""I join my fellow farmers and those in the agriculture industry in sharing our deep disappointment with the new Biden WOTUS rule that puts American Farmers last. Last year, I introduced the Define WOTUS Act in Congress to prevent President Biden’s radical cabinet secretaries from telling farmers and ranchers how to use and regulate their own land. We can look forward to House Republicans taking back the majority in 4 days, at which point we will stop the EPA from their reckless and unconstitutional attacks on the family farm.""",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:32:05Z https://foster.house.gov/media/press-releases/foster-priorities-signed-law-part-water-resources-development-act,Foster Priorities Signed into Law as part of Water Resources Development Act,2022-12-28,2022,2022-12,Democrat,House,IL,Bill Foster,F000454,foster.house.gov,foster,https://foster.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, DC – Today, Congressman Bill Foster (D-IL) announced that four of his requests were signed into law by President Biden as part of the Water Resources Development Act. These requests authorize crucial investments in the waterways and environmental infrastructure for Will County and the entire Great Lakes region. Foster’s requests include: Increased federal funding from 80 percent to 90 percent for the Brandon Road Ecosystem Project, which is the last line of defense for preventing invasive Asian Carp from reaching Lake Michigan and all of the tributaries and lakes in the Great Lakes basin. This increased funding will be used for the project’s remaining design, construction, operation, maintenance, repair, replacement, and rehabilitation. $30 million in federal funding to improve water and wastewater infrastructure, including stormwater management, in Will County, Illinois. A hydraulic evaluation of the upper Mississippi River and Illinois River to evaluate flow frequency probabilities and develop updated water surface profiles to help predict and prevent floods. Various ecosystem restoration projects for the Fox River, Illinois River, Chicago River, Calumet River, Grand Calumet River, Little Calumet River, and other waterways in the Chicago suburbs. “During my time in Congress, it’s always been one of my top priorities to give Illinois its fair share of federal resources,” said Foster. “These projects are critical to the ecosystems and environmental infrastructure in Will County and the entire Great Lakes region, and I’m proud this legislation invests in the water infrastructure that future generations deserve.” The Water Resources Development Act was included in the final version of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2023. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:32:05Z https://krishnamoorthi.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-krishnamoorthi-s-bipartisan-bill-rename-schaumburg-post-office,Congressman Krishnamoorthi’s Bipartisan Bill To Rename Schaumburg Post Office In Honor Of The Veterans Of The Iraq And Afghanistan Wars Signed Into Law,2022-12-27,2022,2022-12,Democrat,House,IL,Raja Krishnamoorthi,K000391,krishnamoorthi.house.gov,krishnamoorthi,https://krishnamoorthi.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – Today, President Biden signed into law Congressman Krishnamoorthi's bill, H.R. 6386, which renames the Schaumburg Post Office, located at 450 West Schaumburg Road, as the ‘Veterans of Iraq and Afghanistan Memorial Post Office Building.' ""I'm pleased that President Biden has signed into law my bipartisan legislation to rename the Schaumburg Post Office in honor of our brave veterans who served our nation with honor in Iraq and Afghanistan,"" said Congressman Krishnamoorthi. ""We can never fully repay our veterans for their sacrifices to our nation, but it is my hope that when members of our community visit the Veterans of Iraq and Afghanistan Memorial Post Office Building, they will be reminded of the debt of gratitude we owe the heroes of our nation's most recent conflicts."" Below are quotes from community leaders and veteran care organizations about the signing of H.R. 6386 into law. ""Schaumburg is proud to have Congressman Krishnamoorthi rename the Schaumburg post office in honor of our veterans. Naming the postal service facility in their honor will remind everyone about the sacrifices made by these brave men and women to ensure freedom here and around the world,"" - Tom Dailly, Mayor of Schaumburg. ""We, the Department of Illinois Veterans of Foreign Wars, are delighted to see the newly named ‘Veterans of Iraq and Afghanistan Memorial Post Office Building' go into effect. It is actions like these that continue to develop and foster a culture of public support and admiration for our fearless service members, and to ensure our country maintains a strong, volunteer military force for the foreseeable future. The United States Postal Service is one of the longstanding pillars of freedom in this country, and what better way to recognize that than to honor those who continue to fight, throughout the world, for the principles of freedom.""-Bobby Welch, Commander, Department of Illinois VFW ""Naming this Post Office for Veterans is a great example of honoring people who get the job done, regardless of obstacles or staffing."" -Board of Directors of the Coalition of Veterans Organizations. ""The National Association of American Veterans thanks Congressman Krishnamoorthi for his tremendous efforts and genuine commitment to Veterans across the country. The renaming of a local Illinois Post Office pays respect to the millions of Veterans who served our country in the Iraq and Afghanistan wars. We thank them for their service."" -Constance A. Burns, Founder, President and CEO, National Association of American Veterans, Inc. ""As a national organization that serves post-9/11 veterans, service members and their families, we always commend those who go above and beyond to thank military members and their families for their sacrifices and service,"" said Robin Kelleher, Co-founder and CEO for Hope For The Warriors. ""We understand how the entire military family serves— from multiple deployments, base moves and, for some, losing a loved one. We hope the renaming of the Schaumburg, Illinois Post Office is a daily reminder to the community of the sacrifices being made by military families serving around the world."" ""Thank you for honoring the military who fought and died in the Iraq and Afghanistan conflicts. The renaming of the Schaumburg Post Office to the ‘Veterans of Iraq and Afghanistan Memorial Post Office Building' is a positive step towards keeping alive their memory. As the Illinois Commander of the Military Order of the Purple Heart, we thank you, Congressman."" -Michael E. Lash, Military Order of the Purple Heart.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:32:05Z https://casten.house.gov/media/press-releases/casten-led-legislation-heads-president-bidens-desk-included-omnibus,"Casten-Led Legislation Heads to President Biden’s Desk, Included in Omnibus Appropriations Funding Package",2022-12-23,2022,2022-12,Democrat,House,IL,Sean Casten,C001117,casten.house.gov,casten,https://casten.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"***For Immediate Release*** Contact: Jacob.Vurpillat@mail.house.gov Casten-Led Legislation Heads to President Biden’s Desk, Included in Omnibus Appropriations Funding Package Washington, D.C. (December 23rd, 2022) — Today, several key priorities championed by U.S. Congressman Sean Casten (IL-06) passed the House as part of the FY 2023 government funding package. The omnibus bill’s transformative investments will help working families with the cost of living, create American jobs, and support underserved communities. “The investments in this package address some of our nation's biggest challenges while providing much-needed support to Illinois,” said Rep. Casten. “After many months spent advocating tirelessly for the priorities of my constituents, I am proud that the legislation President Biden will sign into law next will include my legislative initiatives to supercharge clean energy development in the Midwest and deliver nearly $16 million in Community Project Funding for Illinois' 6th District to make our community healthier, safer, stronger, and even more resilient. This is democracy in action.” This government funding legislation includes the following provisions Rep. Casten sought to secure: $685 million for industrial decarbonization technology R&D, including implementation of the Clean Industrial Technologies Act (CITA),Casten's bill to establish a crosscutting industrial emissions reduction technology development RDDC&A program, create a competitive grant program to help fund promising demonstration projects of decarbonization technologies, and launch a technical assistance program to help states, local governments, and other eligible entities to apply emissions reduction technologies $540 Million for battery storage technology R&D, including implementation of the Battery Energy Storage Technology (BEST) Act, Casten's bill to provide the Department of Energy (DOE) with the energy storage technologies necessary to decarbonize the electricity sector while providing access to affordable, reliable to energy for all Americans Rep. Casten’s EV Grid Act was included in the omnibus package, which directs the Department of Energy to conduct a study and develop a plan related to the ability of the electric system to meet the electricity demand of new electric vehicle charging infrastructure. $45 Million for renewable grid integration. $40 million for Urban and Community Forestry $50 million to modernize the National Tracing Center. This will permit more expeditious firearms tracing as well as increased staffing to support the increased volume of work. Report language to develop a High Voltage Direct Current converter station moonshot initiative to reduce the costs of HVDC technology and long-distance transmission, including for nascent superconducting technology. These cost reductions would allow for more “pick-up” and “drop-off'” stations, which would enable more local connections to the grid and expand benefits to communities along transmission In addition, the legislation will also: Protect Health Coverage for Illinois Children enrolled in Medicaid and CHIP. Enact the Pregnant Workers Fairness Act, cracking down on workplace discrimination, safeguarding Americans' economic security and upholding dignity on the job. Bolster Mental Health Services by expanding access to treatment and investing in Illinois’ mental health workforce. Enact the PREVENT Pandemics Act, using lessons learned from COVID-19 to improve Illinois’ preparedness for future public health emergencies. Strengthen Veterans' Health Care through $21 billion in new funding. Provide Illinois Kids with Healthy, Nutritious Food throughout the summer with a nationwide, permanent Summer EBT Program. Help Illinoisans Exercise Their Right to Organize on the Job through new funding for the National Labor Relations Board. Deliver Emergency Disaster Support to help hurricane and wildfire victims, address the water crisis in Jackson, Mississippi, and strengthen Puerto Rico’s electrical grid. Advance Justice for Americans Impacted by Terrorism with the Fairness for 9/11 Families Act. Rep. Casten also secured nearly $16 Million in funding for projects that will directly benefit Illinois' 6th district: $2,000,000 for the B.R. Ryall YMCA of Northwestern DuPage County This funding would be used to repurpose, modernize, and expand program spaces. Specifically, the funds will be used to increase affordable infant/toddler care; ADA accessibility; and teen-focused areas for STEAM learning, health and social programs. $1,000,000 for the Battery-electric Paratransit Pace Bus Fleet This funding would be used to buy five new battery-electric paratransit buses. $750,000 for the City of Wheaton Public Library Rehabilitation This funding would be used for the rehabilitation of the City of Wheaton's public library. The funding would rehabilitate the entrance of the library and expand it; allowing a greater number of outdoor events that provide additional opportunities for residents engage with and use services provided by the Wheaton Library. $1,000,000 for the DuPage County Health Department This funding will be used for the construction of a Central Receiving Center (CRC). The CRC will be an easily accessible location and single point of entry for law enforcement, emergency personnel or families to bring an individual experiencing a mental health crisis. Once at a CRC, individuals are assessed to identify the most appropriate level of treatment for their needs within 24 hours. $1,500,000 for the DuPage River Trail This request would fund preliminary engineering for a 4-mile section of the East Branch DuPage River Trail that will connect trail users (pedestrians, bicyclists, runners, etc.) from various communities and existing Illinois Prairie Path and Great Western Trails to local and regional attractions including downtowns, DuPage County Forest Preserves, parks, Morton Arboretum and ultimately to destinations in neighboring counties. $250,000 for the Glen Ellyn School District 41 This funding would be used to start up on-site after school mental health support access programs for students and families. $2,000,000 for the Kerr-McGee Superfund Remediation This funding will be used for remediation of the Kerr-McGee Superfund. The Kerr-McGee site is one of four Superfund National Priorities List sites in the West Chicago area that had been contaminated with radioactive thorium wastes. $54,000 for the Wayne Police Department Law Enforcement Equipment Upgrades This funding will be used to purchase new patrol radios and updated computers for department squad cars. This will help the department equip new patrol officers and aid in communication and delivery of police services. $750,000 for the Prairie Food Co-Op This funding will be used to create DuPage County’s first community owned grocery store, creating good-paying jobs and steady revenue streams for over 300 local urban, suburban and rural Illinois farmers and producers. $1,500,000 for the Village of Hawthorn Woods This funding will be used to fund a utilities extension to serve an underserved population currently on well and septic systems. $2,655,400 for the Wheaton Sanitary District for Secondary Clarifier Upgrades This funding will be used for Secondary Clarifier Upgrades that will include the installation of new mixed liquor piping (to alleviate hydraulic bottlenecking & flat watering), a new splitter structure, replacement of all clarifier mechanisms and components, and modifications to the sludge conveyance system to allow for increased return flows. $2,000,000 for the Willowbrook Wildlife Center Efficiency Improvements This funding will be used to help construct and increase the energy efficiency of a new, net-zero 27,000-square-foot wildlife rehabilitation clinic and visitor center that replaces the current 42-year-old Glen Ellyn building. $200,000 for the WINGS Program, Inc., Rolling Meadows, IL, for facilities and equipment The funding would be used for Capital Rehabilitation of WINGS Safe Houses. For 37 years, WINGS has been helping women, men and children to escape domestic violence. WINGS provides safe emergency shelter, housing, counseling, mentoring and other supportive services to ensure that the cycle of violence ends for each family. $144,800 for the Worry Free Community, Glendale Heights, IL for facilities and equipment This funding would be used to make capital improvements to support a larger spectrum of healthcare needs by hosting a community health worker call center and running programs to support data collection and community needs assessment for underserved, uninsured and new immigrant communities in IL District-06 and surrounding areas. A detailed summary of the legislation is available here. # # #",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:32:05Z https://casten.house.gov/media/press-releases/casten-secures-nearly-16-million-local-projects-6th-district,Casten Secures Nearly $16 Million For Local Projects in 6th District,2022-12-23,2022,2022-12,Democrat,House,IL,Sean Casten,C001117,casten.house.gov,casten,https://casten.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"***For Immediate Release*** Contact: Jacob.Vurpillat@mail.house.gov Casten Secures Nearly $16 Million For Local Projects in 6th District Washington, D.C. (December 23rd, 2022)– Today, U.S. Congressman Sean Casten (IL-06) announced $15,804,200 in Community Project Funding for the 6th District has passed the House and will be signed into law by President Biden. This funding responds directly to some of the most pressing needs throughout the 6thDistrict. “After an extremely competitive project submission process and many months spent advocating tirelessly for our community, I am proud to deliver over $15 Million in Community Project Funding for Illinois' 6th district,” said Rep. Casten. “From helping locals schools provide mental health support to students and modernizing community centers to speeding up our transition to clean energy and helping our police departments keep our community safe, this funding will make a significant impact in the 6th District.” See below quotes from funding recipients: “We are so thankful for the Community Project Funding secured by Representative Casten for the B.R. Ryall YMCA,” said Rob Wilkinson, CEO of the B.R. Ryall YMCA of Northwestern DuPage County. “This much-needed funding will enable our Y to respond to identified critical community needs, which include teen mental health, affordable child care and handicap accessibility in our facility. In addition, the funds will help us modernize, repurpose and expand program spaces—allowing our organization to be more responsive to changing community needs.” “We are grateful for Congressman Casten’s support of Pace’s funding request,” said Pace Executive Director Melinda J. Metzger. “As Pace continues to make progress towards our commitment to convert our entire fleet to zero-emissions vehicles by 2040, funding for these electric paratransit buses is a great step forward in that effort. I’m pleased that the Pace Board’s vision of a green energy future aligns with President Biden’s and Congressman Casten’s goals and we look forward to working with our federal partners on additional funding towards this effort in the years ahead.” ""This funding is crucial to our long-term vision for the Library,” said Betsy Adamowski, Executive Library Director at Wheaton Library. “With it, we can make much needed repairs to our west entrance and also convert it into a large public gathering space that overlooks the beautiful, historic Adams Park here in downtown Wheaton. We'll be able to bring youth programs outside, host new events like outdoor movies or concerts, and provide a more welcoming destination for any visitors stopping by to read a book. The Wheaton Public Library exists to connect the community to both knowledge and experiences. This project allows us to expand on that tradition in new ways, and we are very grateful for the opportunity to carry it out."" “We are thrilled with this announcement as the DuPage Central Receiving Center will effectively and compassionately reduce hospital emergency room visits and unnecessary incarcerations while providing accessible evaluation and treatment linkage for mental health and substance use crises,” said Karen Ayala, Executive Director of the DuPage County Health Department. “The funding and logistical problems faced treating substance use disorder and mental illness require a comprehensive multi-jurisdictional funding approach and the funds secured by Representative Casten is an important and necessary component.” “This funding package allows DuPage County’s Division of Transportation to advance preliminary engineering studies of the portion of the East Branch DuPage River Trail, from the Illinois Prairie Path south to Illinois Route 56 (Butterfield Road),” said Deborah Conroy, Chair of the DuPage County Board. “This north-south trail was first conceptualized in the 1990s as a path for runners, walkers, cyclists and nature lovers. It will connect forest preserves with parks, the Morton Arboretum, other natural areas and communities.” “The $250,000 funding that was recommended for Glen Ellyn School District 41 by Representative Sean Casten will provide an additional mechanism for our community to access mental health supports for their children,” said Dr. Melissa Kaczkowski, Superintendent of Glen Ellyn District 41. “Being able to provide mental health services directly to students in a familiar and safe setting, after school hours, will help students get what they need while maintaining their ability to participate in learning during the school day. District 41 is committed to leading the way in terms of providing wrap-around services to families and this funding will make an immediate impact on our families and community.” “The announcement of this funding is a significant moment for our City,” said West Chicago Mayor Ruben Pineda. “This site has afflicted West Chicago for decades, and through the development of this new park we can begin looking towards the future. Representative Casten and his team’s advocacy on our behalf has made a tremendous impact on our community, and the City of West Chicago is indebted to them for their continued support.” “On behalf of the Village of Wayne, and the entire staff at the Wayne, IL Police Department, we would like to sincerely thank U.S Representative Casten and the Appropriations Committee for their financial support through this grant opportunity,” said Timothy Roberts, Chief of Police at Wayne County Police Department. “We are a small Village and Police Department, and these funds make a huge impact on the ability to do our job. These valuable funds will allow the Police Department to purchase additional portable police radios, and in-car police computers, which will result in the efficient deployment of police services to the residents of our community. They will also help to keep our police officers safe while performing their duties, at a time when they are facing many challenges.” ""We are incredibly grateful for the support of Representative Casten in the securing of this funding, as our co-op will have a lasting, positive impact on our community here in Lombard and DuPage County,’ said Kathy Nash, President and cofounder of Prairie Food Co-op. ‘Our community-owned grocery store will revitalize the area in which it’s located, provide jobs, give families access to fresh and healthy food, keep money local, and give Illinois farmers and small businesses direct access to consumers to sell their products."" “The Village of Hawthorn Woods is extremely grateful to Representative Casten for facilitating our request to bring essential utilities to a section of Hawthorn Woods without water and sewer infrastructure,” said Pamela Newton, COO of Hawthorn Woods. “This grant will be the catalyst for new economic development opportunities in Lake County, putting more people to work in Illinois. Thank you, Representative Casten, for brining federal funding back home to assist the small communities in your district. “ “Clean streams, rivers, and waterways are important to every community and Wheaton Sanitary District takes pride is being able to support this in the communities we serve,” said Matthew Larson, Executive Director of Wheaton Sanitary District. “The Community Project Funding Rep. Casten secured for Wheaton Sanitary will go directly to providing wastewater treatment infrastructure that will be used to keep our streams, rivers, and waterways clean.” “Thank you to U.S. Representative Sean Casten for helping to secure community project funding for our Willowbrook Wildlife Center master plan project. We are proud to be incorporating renewable energy into the Wildlife Clinic and Visitor Center that will be open for all to enjoy,” said Forest Preserve District of DuPage County president Daniel Hebreard. “The center will be the District's first net-zero designed building, which means energy produced from renewable resources exceeds the energy consumed by the building. The center helps us care for local native wildlife and wild areas while increasing our District’s sustainability and helping to connect people with nature.” Rep. Casten championed funding for 14 projects that will directly benefit Illinois’s 6th District residents. These include: $2,000,000 for the B.R. Ryall YMCA of Northwestern DuPage County This funding would be used to repurpose, modernize, and expand program spaces. Specifically, the funds will be used to increase affordable infant/toddler care; ADA accessibility; and teen-focused areas for STEAM learning, health and social programs. $1,000,000 for the Battery-electric Paratransit Pace Bus Fleet This funding would be used to buy five new battery-electric paratransit buses. $750,000 for the City of Wheaton Public Library Rehabilitation This funding would be used for the rehabilitation of the City of Wheaton's public library. The funding would rehabilitate the entrance of the library and expand it; allowing a greater number of outdoor events that provide additional opportunities for residents engage with and use services provided by the Wheaton Library. $1,000,000 for the DuPage County Health Department This funding will be used for the construction of a Central Receiving Center (CRC). The CRC will be an easily accessible location and single point of entry for law enforcement, emergency personnel or families to bring an individual experiencing a mental health crisis. Once at a CRC, individuals are assessed to identify the most appropriate level of treatment for their needs within 24 hours. $1,500,000 for the DuPage River Trail This request would fund preliminary engineering for a 4-mile section of the East Branch DuPage River Trail that will connect trail users (pedestrians, bicyclists, runners, etc.) from various communities and existing Illinois Prairie Path and Great Western Trails to local and regional attractions including downtowns, DuPage County Forest Preserves, parks, Morton Arboretum and ultimately to destinations in neighboring counties. $250,000 for the Glen Ellyn School District 41 This funding would be used to start up on-site after school mental health support access programs for students and families. $2,000,000 for the Kerr-McGee Superfund Remediation This funding will be used for remediation of the Kerr-McGee Superfund. The Kerr-McGee site is one of four Superfund National Priorities List sites in the West Chicago area that had been contaminated with radioactive thorium wastes. $54,000 for the Wayne Police Department Law Enforcement Equipment Upgrades This funding will be used to purchase new patrol radios and updated computers for department squad cars. This will help the department equip new patrol officers and aid in communication and delivery of police services. $750,000 for the Prairie Food Co-Op This funding will be used to create DuPage County’s first community owned grocery store, creating good-paying jobs and steady revenue streams for over 300 local urban, suburban and rural Illinois farmers and producers. $1,500,000 for the Village of Hawthorn Woods This funding will be used to fund a utilities extension to serve an underserved population currently on well and septic systems. $2,655,400 for the Wheaton Sanitary District for Secondary Clarifier Upgrades This funding will be used for Secondary Clarifier Upgrades that will include the installation of new mixed liquor piping (to alleviate hydraulic bottlenecking & flat watering), a new splitter structure, replacement of all clarifier mechanisms and components, and modifications to the sludge conveyance system to allow for increased return flows. Rep. Casten toured Wheaton Sanitary District in August of 2021. You can find photos of his tour here. $2,000,000 for the Willowbrook Wildlife Center Efficiency Improvements This funding will be used to help construct and increase the energy efficiency of a new, net-zero 27,000-square-foot wildlife rehabilitation clinic and visitor center that replaces the current 42-year-old Glen Ellyn building. Rep. Casten toured the Willowbrook Wildlife Center in August of 2022 as part of his STEM Scholars program. You can find photos of his tour here. $200,000 for the WINGS Program, Inc., Rolling Meadows, IL, for facilities and equipment The funding would be used for Capital Rehabilitation of WINGS Safe Houses. For 37 years, WINGS has been helping women, men and children to escape domestic violence. WINGS provides safe emergency shelter, housing, counseling, mentoring and other supportive services to ensure that the cycle of violence ends for each family. Rep. Casten toured a WINGS facility in August of 2022. You can find photos of his tour here. $144,800 for the Worry Free Community, Glendale Heights, IL for facilities and equipment This funding would be used to make capital improvements to support a larger spectrum of healthcare needs by hosting a community health worker call center and running programs to support data collection and community needs assessment for underserved, uninsured and new immigrant communities in IL District-06 and surrounding areas. The legislation now heads to President Biden’s desk for his signature. A detailed summary of the bill is available here.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:32:05Z https://chuygarcia.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-garcia-delivers-a-record-27-million-for-community-project-funding-in-his-district,Congressman García Delivers a Record $27 million for Community Project Funding in his District,2022-12-23,2022,2022-12,Democrat,House,IL,"Jesús G. ""Chuy"" García",G000586,chuygarcia.house.gov,chuygarcia,https://chuygarcia.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC – Today, Congressman Jesús “Chuy” Garcia (IL-04) announced that he secured $27 million for 15 community projects for Illinois’ 4th Congressional District as part of the year-end government spending package. This sum represents a record amount of community project funding for the district. “I came to Washington to deliver for Chicago and the surrounding municipalities in my district, and I’m proud to be doing exactly that by securing a record amount of funding for these projects,” said Congressman García. “For too long, communities like the ones I represent have faced federal disinvestment. This year’s Community Project Funding marks another important departure from that legacy. From replacing lead pipes, to expanding healthcare access, improving public transit, and supporting small businesses, schools, and community centers, these federal dollars will immediately benefit working families across our district.” Congressman García delivered funding for 15 projects that will directly benefit residents in the 4th Congressional District of Illinois, investing in infrastructure, healthcare and economic development. These include: $5,000,000 for the Berwyn 34th Street Modernization and Stormwater Management Improvements Project to continue rehabilitating the roadway, sidewalks, and curb/gutter. This project will improve pedestrian and road safety in a community ravaged by pedestrian and roadway tragedies. $3,000,000 for the Alivio Medical Center to transform the health landscape for residents of Chicago’s Southwest Side by building a new community health care center in LeClaire Courts. $500,000 for the Association House of Chicago to expand workforce development training, doubling the center's training capacity from 140 to 280 participants. This expansion is estimated to create more than $12 million in new income generated in the Chicago region. $3,000,000 for the Chicago Puerto Rican Cultural Center-Business Incubation and Support Hub (BIS Hub) to expand resources for small businesses along the Paseo Boricua commercial corridor. This is part of a larger effort to create a state-designated “Puerto Rico Town, a cultural and commercial district in Chicago’s Northwest Side. $2,000,000 for the Cook County Environmental Infrastructure - Cicero Water Main Replacement to eliminate the potential lead contamination exposure from the public water supply and provide improved fire hydrant flow protection. Lead contamination has caused serious health issues in working-class communities like Cicero. This vital funding will expedite the replacement of lead main lines. $1,173,900 for the Erie Family Health Centers to expand an existing health care center and use the new space to turn an urgent care center into a holistic clinic that will serve 7,500 patients that live in some of Chicago’s most underserved neighborhoods on the West Side. $2,000,000 for Expanding Community-Owned Co-op Housing for the Pilsen Neighborhood to expand the Pilsen Housing Cooperative (PIHCO) helping neighbors secure a place to call home amidst gentrification, skyrocketing rents, and massive displacement of Latino communities. $500,000 to Maximize Year-Round Use of the Rauner Family YMCA by funding the purchase and installation of an air condition system at this Pilsen/Little Village facility, allowing for year-round summer activities like neighborhood soccer leagues, lessons, and summer camps. $840,000 for the Pace Bus - Harlem Ave. and Cermak Rd. Transit Signal Priority Project to shorten travel times for bus riders across Southwest Suburban Cook County by funding the implementation of Traffic Signal Prioritization (TSP) equipment that allows buses to communicate with traffic signals and prioritize buses over regular auto traffic. $500,000 for the PODER Headquarters to improve job training and workshop services at the new headquarters and include crucial amenities like free Wi-Fi, event space for community celebrations, shaded paths, and community green space for the Gage Park community and Southwest Chicago region. $2,000,000 for the Rehabilitation of Cicero Ave. Bridge over Sanitary and Ship Canal which will improve the bridge efficiency and the vital north/south truck route along Cicero Avenue. $2,000,000 for the Rudy Lozano Branch Library Renovation. Rudy Lozano was the pioneering leader of the labor and immigrant rights’ movements in Chicago until his untimely death. A major renovation of this library would greatly improve the facility's ability to not only honor the legacy of Rudy Lozano, but would also contribute to the cultural welfare of Pilsen, its residents, and all Chicagoans. $1,000,000 for the Saint Anthony Hospital for pre-construction activities at the new location serving the West and Southwest side of Chicago – the only major hospital on the Southwest side once completed. This project will expand health access to underserved communities and will play a central role as an economic and employment hub for the Black and Latino communities nearby. $3,200,000 for the Sanitary Sewer Lining Replacement in Northlake which will replace the lining of a more than 70 year-old clay tile sewer with new infrastructure. This will make our infrastructure more resilient by reducing inflow and infiltration and easing the burden on local sewage treatment plants. $350,000 for the The LeClaire Hearst Advisory Council (AMCLC) Project to improve the air circulation, cooling, and heating system in the LeClaire Field House serving Southwest Chicago. With this funding, seniors and families will now be able to safely use the space year-round for activities and events. This legislation will now go to the President for his signature as part of the FY 2023 Omnibus package.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:32:05Z https://chuygarcia.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-garcia-s-statement-on-government-funding-package,Congressman García’s Statement on Government Funding Package,2022-12-23,2022,2022-12,Democrat,House,IL,"Jesús G. ""Chuy"" García",G000586,chuygarcia.house.gov,chuygarcia,https://chuygarcia.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC — Congressman Jesús “Chuy” García (IL-04) issued the following statement after voting to approve the government funding package for Fiscal Year 2023. “I came to Washington to deliver for people in Chicago and across our district, and on top of the billions it would provide to the state of Illinois, this package includes a record $27 million in funding I helped secure for community projects across our districtthat address a long history of federal disinvestment in our communities. “This bill takes important steps to support working people across the country. It makes the government better equipped to fight corporate greed by strengthening antitrust law and bolsters worker organizing by increasing funding for the National Labor Relations Board for the first time in nearly 10 years. Finally, it includes a historic piece of legislation that requires employers to provide accommodations for pregnant workers. “The bill includes provisions that drive economic justice. It provides summer food assistance for low-income families, summer meals for rural and low-income schools, and increases the maximum Pell Grant for low-income college students by $500. It provides $27 billion for disaster relief across the country, allocating $1 billion to strengthen Puerto Rico’s electric grid, including assistance for low-income and vulnerable households to purchase and install renewable energy. The bill also funds the replacement of lead pipes across the country. Finally, it preserves Medicaid increases for US territories. These are crucial and overdue investments. “Still, this bill is far from perfect. It is regrettable that this funding package ignored the urgent need for a path to citizenship for immigrant youth, DACA recipients, farm workers, and other migrants who have been in our country sometimes for decades. Though I am happy this package includes $800 million in aidfor asylum seekers, immigrants and asylum seekers deserve better. “It’s unconscionable that we were able to allocate nearly a trillion dollars for a bloated defense budget, but we failed to make permanent several programs that provided stability and relief for working families, like the expanded monthly refundable Child Tax Credit (CTC) and Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC). The monthly expanded CTC payments reduced child poverty by 30 percent, and the expanded EITC helped an estimated 17 million workers. The failure to extend these expanded programs will leave families without critical economic support at a time when the cost of essential goods and services are near record highs. “I voted for this funding package because, on balance, it will help create a more equitable future for our country. But I want to make one point clear: there is no reason this Congress should end without a pathway to citizenship for DACA recipients or the reinstatement of the child tax credit. When we begin the next Congress in a matter of days, the fight for working people will continue.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:32:05Z https://chuygarcia.house.gov/media/press-releases/declaracion-del-congresista-garcia-sobre-el-paquete-de-financiamiento-del-gobierno,Declaración del Congresista García sobre el Paquete de Financiamiento del Gobierno,2022-12-23,2022,2022-12,Democrat,House,IL,"Jesús G. ""Chuy"" García",G000586,chuygarcia.house.gov,chuygarcia,https://chuygarcia.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC — El congresista Jesús “Chuy” García (IL-04) emitió la siguiente declaración luego de votar para aprobar el paquete de financiamiento del gobierno para el año fiscal 2023. “Vine a Washington para ayudar a las personas en Chicago y en todo nuestro distrito, y además de los miles de millones que proporcionará al estado de Illinois, este paquete incluye un financiamiento récord de $27 millones que ayudé a asegurar para proyectos comunitarios en todo nuestro distrito que ayudan a atender una larga historia de desinversión federal en nuestras comunidades. “Este proyecto de ley toma medidas importantes para apoyar a los trabajadores de todo el país. Equipa mejor al gobierno para luchar contra la codicia corporativa al fortalecer la ley antimonopolio y refuerza la organización de los trabajadores al aumentar los fondos para la Junta Nacional de Relaciones Laborales por primera vez en casi 10 años. Finalmente, incluye una legislación histórica que requiere que los empleadores proporcionen ajustes laborales a las empleadas embarazadas. “El proyecto de ley incluye disposiciones que impulsan la justicia económica. Brinda asistencia alimentaria de verano para familias de bajos ingresos, comidas durante el verano para escuelas rurales y de bajos ingresos, y aumenta la Beca Pell máxima para estudiantes universitarios de bajos ingresos en $500. Proporciona $27 mil millones para ayuda en casos de desastre en todo el país, asignando $1 mil millones para fortalecer la red eléctrica de Puerto Rico, incluida la asistencia para hogares vulnerables y de bajos ingresos para comprar e instalar energía renovable. El proyecto de ley también financia el reemplazo de tuberías de plomo en todo el país. Finalmente, conserva los aumentos de Medicaid para los territorios de EE. UU. Estas son inversiones cruciales y que debían haberse hecho hace tiempo. “Aún así, este proyecto de ley está lejos de ser perfecto. Es lamentable que este paquete de financiamiento haya ignorado la necesidad urgente de un camino hacia la ciudadanía para los jóvenes inmigrantes, los beneficiarios de DACA, los trabajadores agrícolas y otros inmigrantes que han estado en nuestro país a veces durante décadas. Aunque me complace que este paquete incluya $800 millones en ayuda para los solicitantes de asilo, los inmigrantes merecen algo mejor. “Es inconcebible que pudiéramos asignar casi un billón de dólares para un presupuesto de defensa inflado, pero no logramos hacer permanentes varios programas que brindaron estabilidad y alivio a las familias trabajadoras, como la expansión del Crédito Tributario por Hijos (CTC) reembolsable mensual y el Crédito Tributario por Ingresos del Trabajo (EITC). Los pagos mensuales ampliados de CTC redujeron la pobreza infantil en un 30 por ciento, y el EITC ampliado ayudó a unos 17 millones de trabajadores. El hecho de que no se extiendan estos programas ampliados dejará a las familias sin un apoyo económico crítico en un momento en que el costo de los bienes y servicios esenciales está cerca de niveles récord. “Voté por este paquete de financiamiento porque, en general, ayudará a crear un futuro más equitativo para nuestro país. Pero quiero dejar un punto en claro: no hay razón para que este Congreso termine sin un camino hacia la ciudadanía para los beneficiarios de DACA o el restablecimiento del crédito tributario por hijos. Cuando comencemos el próximo Congreso en cuestión de días, la lucha por el pueblo trabajador continuará”.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:32:05Z https://chuygarcia.house.gov/media/press-releases/el-congresista-garcia-logra-incluir-cifra-record-de-27-millones-para-el-financiamiento-de-proyectos-comunitarios-en-su-distrito,El Congresista García Logra Incluir Cifra Récord de $27 millones para el Financiamiento de Proyectos Comunitarios en su Distrito,2022-12-23,2022,2022-12,Democrat,House,IL,"Jesús G. ""Chuy"" García",G000586,chuygarcia.house.gov,chuygarcia,https://chuygarcia.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC – Hoy, el congresista Jesús “Chuy” García (IL-04) anunció que aseguró $27 millones para 15 proyectos comunitarios para el 4to Distrito Congresional de Illinois como parte del paquete de gastos gubernamentales de fin de año. Esta suma representa una cantidad récord de fondos para proyectos comunitarios en el distrito. “Vine a Washington para cumplir con Chicago y los municipios circundantes en mi distrito, y estoy orgulloso de hacer exactamente eso al asegurar una cantidad récord de fondos para estos proyectos”, dijo el Congresista García. “Las comunidades como las que represento han enfrentado desinversión federal por un largo tiempo. La Financiación de Proyectos Comunitarios de este año marca otro importante paso para terminar con ese legado. Desde el reemplazo de tuberías de plomo hasta la ampliación del acceso a la atención médica, la mejora del transporte público y el apoyo a pequeñas empresas, escuelas y centros comunitarios, estos dólares federales beneficiarán de inmediato a las familias trabajadoras de nuestro distrito”. El congresista García entregó fondos para 15 proyectos que beneficiarán directamente a los residentes del 4º Distrito Congresional de Illinois, invirtiendo en infraestructura, salud y desarrollo económico. Éstas incluyen: $5,000,000 para el Proyecto de Mejoras de Manejo de Aguas Pluviales y Modernización de la Calle 34th de Berwyn para continuar rehabilitando la calzada, las aceras y el bordillo/cuneta. Este proyecto mejorará la seguridad vial y peatonal en una comunidad devastada por tragedias viales y peatonales. $3,000,000 para el Centro Médico Alivio para transformar el acceso a servicios de salud para los residentes del lado suroeste de Chicago mediante la construcción de un nuevo centro de atención médica comunitaria en LeClaire Courts. $500,000 para Association House of Chicago para expandir la capacitación de desarrollo de la fuerza laboral, duplicando la capacidad de capacitación del centro de 140 a 280 participantes. Se estima que esta expansión generará más de $12 millones en nuevos ingresos generados en la región de Chicago. $3,000,000 para el Chicago Puerto Rican Cultural Center-Business Incubation and Support Hub (BIS Hub) para ampliar los recursos para las pequeñas empresas a lo largo del corredor comercial de Paseo Boricua. Esto es parte de un esfuerzo mayor para crear un ""Pueblo de Puerto Rico"" designado por el estado, un distrito cultural y comercial en el lado noroeste de Chicago. $2,000,000 para la Infraestructura Ambiental del Condado de Cook - Reemplazo de la tubería principal de agua de Cicero para eliminar la posible exposición a la contaminación por plomo del suministro público de agua y brindar una mejor protección del flujo de los hidrantes contra incendios. La contaminación por plomo ha causado serios problemas de salud en comunidades de clase trabajadora como Cicero. Esta financiación vital acelerará el reemplazo de las líneas principales de plomo. $1,173,900 para Erie Family Health Centers para expandir un centro de atención médica existente y usar el nuevo espacio para convertir un centro de atención de urgencia en una clínica holística que atenderá a 7,500 pacientes que viven en algunos de los vecindarios más desatendidos del lado Oeste de Chicago. $2,000,000 para la Expansión de Cooperativas de Viviendas de Propiedad Comunitaria para el Vecindario de Pilsen para expandir la Cooperativa de Vivienda de Pilsen (PIHCO) ayudando a asegurar que los vecinos tengan hogar en medio de la gentrificación, el aumento vertiginoso de los alquileres y el desplazamiento masivo de comunidades latinas. $500,000 para maximizar el uso durante todo el año de Rauner Family YMCA al financiar la compra e instalación de un sistema de aire acondicionado en esta instalación de Pilsen/Little Village, lo que permite actividades de verano durante todo el año, como ligas de fútbol del vecindario, lecciones y campamentos de verano. $840,000 para Pace Bus - Proyecto de Prioridad de Señales de Tránsito– Harlem Ave. y Cermak Rd. para acortar los tiempos de viaje para los pasajeros de autobús en toda la zona suroeste suburbana del Condado de Cook mediante la financiación de la implementación del equipo de Priorización de Señales de Tránsito (TSP) que permite que los autobuses se comuniquen con las señales de tráfico y prioricen los autobuses sobre el tráfico regular de automóviles. $500,000 para la sede de PODER para mejorar la capacitación laboral y los servicios de talleres en la nueva sede e incluir servicios cruciales como Wi-Fi gratis, espacio para eventos para celebraciones comunitarias, senderos sombreados y espacios verdes comunitarios para la comunidad de Gage Park y la región del suroeste de Chicago. $2,000,000 para la Rehabilitación del Puente de Cicero Ave. sobre el Canal Sanitario y de Navegación que mejorará la eficiencia del puente y la vital ruta de camiones norte/sur a lo largo de Cicero Avenue. $2,000,000 para la Renovación de la Sucursal Rudy Lozano de la Biblioteca Rudy Lozano fue el líder pionero de los movimientos de derechos laborales e inmigrantes en Chicago hasta su prematura muerte. Una renovación importante de esta biblioteca mejoraría en gran medida la capacidad de la instalación no solo para honrar el legado de Rudy Lozano, sino que también contribuiría al bienestar cultural de Pilsen, sus residentes y todos los habitantes de Chicago. $1,000,000 para el Hospital Saint Anthony para actividades previas a la construcción en la nueva ubicación que presta servicios al lado oeste y suroeste de Chicago, el único hospital importante en el lado suroeste una vez que esté terminado. Este proyecto ampliará el acceso a servicios de salud a las comunidades desatendidas y desempeñará un papel central como centro económico y de empleo para las comunidades latinas y afroamericanas cercanas. $3,200,000 para el Reemplazo del Revestimiento del Alcantarillado Sanitario en Northlake, que reemplazará el revestimiento de un alcantarillado de tejas de arcilla de más de 70 años con nueva infraestructura. Esto hará que nuestra infraestructura sea más resistente al reducir el flujo de entrada y la infiltración, y aliviar la carga de las plantas locales de tratamiento de aguas residuales. $350,000 para el Proyecto del Consejo Asesor de LeClaire Hearst (AMCLC) para mejorar la circulación de aire, el sistema de enfriamiento y calefacción en LeClaire Field House que sirve al suroeste de Chicago. Con esta financiación, las personas mayores y las familias ahora podrán usar el espacio de manera segura durante todo el año para actividades y eventos. Esta legislación ahora irá al presidente para su firma como parte del paquete ómnibus del año fiscal 2023.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:32:05Z https://foster.house.gov/media/press-releases/foster-announces-nearly-26-million-community-project-funding-11th-district,Foster Announces Nearly $26 Million in Community Project Funding for 11th District Secured in Year-End Omnibus Funding Legislation,2022-12-23,2022,2022-12,Democrat,House,IL,Bill Foster,F000454,foster.house.gov,foster,https://foster.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – Today, Congressman Bill Foster (D-IL) announced that all 15 Community Project Funding (CPF) requests he made on behalf of the 11th Congressional District of Illinois were included in the year-end omnibus spending bill for a total of $25,821,367. The package has passed both the Senate and the House. Under guidelines issued by the Appropriations Committee, each Representative could request funding for up to 15 projects in their community for Fiscal Year 2023. Projects are restricted to a limited number of federal funding streams, and only state and local governments and eligible non-profit entities are permitted to receive funding. Additional information and guidelines on Community Project Funding is available here. In compliance with House Rules and Committee requirements, Congressman Foster has certified that he and his immediate family have no financial interest in any of the projects selected. Links to these certification forms are available here. “I’m proud that we were able to deliver this important funding to the 11th District,” Foster said. “One of my constant priorities as Representative of the 11th District of Illinois is making sure our communities receive their fair share of federal resources, especially for important projects that serve so many people. We received many worthwhile submissions, and it was difficult to narrow it down to 15, but I am proud of the projects we selected and can’t wait to see them come to fruition.” The Omnibus appropriations bill will now be sent to President Biden to be signed into law. The 15 projects that will receive funding for the 11th Congressional District are: (Listed in no particular order) Marie Wilkinson Food Pantry 834 N. Highland Ave. Aurora, IL 60506 Amount funded: $1,800,000 Project description This enhanced response to food insecurity will be undertaken through formalized collaborations with service partners and novel education program development. The project includes purchase of property and use of that property for coordinated access to critical wrap-around services from community partners on food distribution days. Moreover, the expansion includes desperately needed renovations to the purchased site and the current food distribution center to improve safety, flow, access, and client dignity. -- DuPage Township Government 241 Canterbury Ln. Bolingbrook, IL 60440 Amount funded: $3,000,000 Project description The DuPage Township Food Pantry & Resource Center in Bolingbrook, Will County, will be a new, centrally-located building construction to house a food pantry and resource center for low-income residents of DuPage Township to address food insecurity and Social Determinants of Health. -- Fox Valley Park District 101 W. Illinois Ave. Aurora, IL 60606 Amount funded: $4,000,000 Project description This Project consists of final engineering and construction of a 780' long bicycle and pedestrian bridge spanning the Fox River. The project eliminates a major barrier to trail access. -- University of St. Francis 500 Wilcox St. Joliet, IL 60435 Amount funded: $500,000 Project description This project will provide accelerator funds and mentorship to businesses and entrepreneurs in under-served categories, offer community-based programming, and additional programs to close the gap for businesses founded by Minorities, Women and Veterans. -- United Way of Will County Mental Health Program K-12 54 N. Ottawa St. STE 300 Joliet, IL 60432 Amount funded: $884,000 Project description Funding will be used for launching the Resilient Youth program consisting of 22 training sessions for 529 teachers which will impact 26,186 students throughout Will County. This will be an ongoing program which will impact students in all grades K-12. -- Fox Valley Habitat for Humanity 1300 S. Broadway Rd. STE 101 Montgomery, IL 60538 Amount funded: $1,250,000 Project description The Fox Valley Habitat Green Freedom 17 home neighborhood is a breakthrough project for Habitat for Humanity’s mission to provide affordable homes for hard-working families of low to moderately low income. The funds requested will be used to provide the infrastructure for the neighborhood, including water and sewer lines, streets, sidewalks and stormwater mitigation. -- VNA Health Care 400 N. Highland Ave. Aurora, IL 60506 Amount funded: $500,000 Project description Funding will be used to support the construction of a new healthcare center in Joliet built on land already owned by VNA. It will support 24 examination rooms, a wellness kitchen, waiting areas, a lab, nursing stations, and a mental and behavioral health service department. -- City of Naperville 400 S. Eagle St. Naperville, IL 60540 Amount funded: $900,000 Project description This funding will support Naperville Riverwalk Eagle Street Gateway and Accessibility Improvements. -- Pace, the Suburban Bus Division of the Regional Transportation Authority 550 W. Algonquin Rd. Arlington Heights, IL 60005 Amount funded: $1,200,000 Project description Pace proposes to build (on the existing site) a building with public restrooms, vending machines, and signage with real-time bus departure information. The new facility would be fully accessible to people with disabilities and would offer a considerably more welcoming environment for transit riders who are currently exposed to heat and cold as they wait for a bus. Pace has successfully deployed indoor waiting areas at other park-n-rides along I-55 and seeks to bring a similar upgrade to Bolingbrook. -- Aurora University 347 S. Gladstone Ave. Aurora, IL 60506 Amount funded: $955,000 Project description Funding request for the Emerging Technologies Learning Lab is a one-time request to purchase technology and equipment to create three high-impact learning spaces within the Lab: Virtual Reality Classroom, Visualization Room, and Workplace Simulation. This innovative and dynamic center for student success will include experiential and immersive learning opportunities powered by emerging technologies such as virtual reality, mixed reality, and augmented reality. -- Association for Individual Development (AID) 309 W. New Indian Trail Ct. Aurora, IL 60506 Amount funded: $3,000,000 Project description AID, Hesed House, and The Neighbor Project have formed a partnership to purchase and renovate an existing apartment building in Aurora, IL into a mixed-use Permanent Supportive Housing (PSH) + Pathway to Homeownership residence. -- City of Aurora Public Safety Technology Project 44 E. Downer Pl. Aurora, IL 60505 Amount funded: $2,280,000 Project description The Aurora Police Department is in the process of upgrading the technology infrastructure to improve public safety. The project is taking a holistic approach that includes the 911 Public Safety Answering Point (PSAP), the camera/recording system in the interview rooms, and the phone system in the city’s 911 Dispatch center. The PSAP will improve the effective delivery of emergency communications to first responders. The backup 911 Dispatch center at Fire Station 8 and the main Aurora Police Department 911 Dispatch center will be modernized with new and advanced workstation consoles, enhanced innovative noise control solutions, and next-generation technologies/capabilities. -- City of Aurora ""Montgomery Rd/Hill Ave Intersection"" 44 E. Downer Pl. Aurora, IL 60505 Amount funded: $1,000,000 Project description The project consists of improving the intersection of Montgomery Road and Hill Avenue by modernizing traffic signals, reconstructing and widening the roadways to include additional travel (through) lanes & turn lanes, constructing bike paths and sidewalks, making ADA ramp improvements, making a right-of-way acquisition to do the improvements, working on drainage, and other pertinent improvements. The project will improve traffic capacity, safety, and traffic operations while minimizing environmental impacts. -- City of Joliet – Creation and Support of Regional Water Authority 150 W. Washington St. Joliet, IL 60432 Amount funded: $3,452,972 Project description This funding will be used to support the creation of a regional water authority and construction of the infrastructure to bring Lake Michigan water to Joliet and surrounding towns, pursuant to their local agreement, in order to reduce the overall burden of the cost of water on property owners in the region. -- Will County Project - Rt 53 Bike Path 17540 W. Laraway Rd. Joliet, IL 60433 Amount funded: $1,100,000 Project description Will County and the Forest Preserve District of Will County are working in tandem to establish safe pedestrian accommodations from the Route 53 corridor to the regional trail systems of Will County and beyond. This project is currently in the feasibility phase. The Forest Preserve has evaluated potential routes and determined that the proposed alignment utilizing the Commonwealth Eddison Utility corridor is the ideal route. The approximately 1.34 mile, 10’ wide asphalt trail would connect multiple residential developments along Route 53 to a school, regional trail systems, Midewin National Tallgrass Prairie, and local businesses. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:32:05Z https://krishnamoorthi.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-krishnamoorthi-hails-ban-tiktok-government-devices-step-forward,"Congressman Krishnamoorthi Hails Ban On TikTok For Government Devices As Step Forward, Calls For More Significant Security Measures To Counter Threat Posed By Chinese Communist Party Control Of App",2022-12-23,2022,2022-12,Democrat,House,IL,Raja Krishnamoorthi,K000391,krishnamoorthi.house.gov,krishnamoorthi,https://krishnamoorthi.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – In response to the passage of the omnibus government funding bill, which included a provision to ban the app TikTok from government devices, Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi issued the following statement: ""Today, we succeeded in passing a federal ban on TikTok for all government devices, following in the footsteps of the Pentagon and several other government agencies, in order to better protect ourselves against machinations of the People's Republic of China. While this is a major step forward for the security of our government, it's imperative that we take additional steps to protect individual American citizens from the threats posed by the Chinese Communist Party's control of TikTok. So long as TikTok remains under Beijing's direction, its capacity to track the real-world movements and online activities of Americans while potentially serving them curated propaganda poses too great of a threat to be ignored. I urge my colleagues to join us in support of this bipartisan legislation to ban TikTok unless its ownership and control are moved out of the reach of the Chinese Communist Party.""",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:32:05Z https://krishnamoorthi.house.gov/media/press-releases/house-passes-bipartisan-government-funding-bill-congressman-krishnamoorthi-s,"House Passes Bipartisan Government Funding Bill With Congressman Krishnamoorthi’s Provisions To Enforce Sanctions On Putin’s Allies, Improve Baby Food Safety, And Support Local Community Projects",2022-12-23,2022,2022-12,Democrat,House,IL,Raja Krishnamoorthi,K000391,krishnamoorthi.house.gov,krishnamoorthi,https://krishnamoorthi.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – Today, Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi joined his colleagues in voting to pass the twelve-bill omnibus package, funding the federal government through Fiscal Year 2023, averting a government shutdown, and advancing a range of provisions championed by the Congressman. As the bill has already passed the Senate, this legislation will go straight to President Biden's desk to be signed into law. ""I was proud to join my colleagues in passing this important legislation to fund our government and provide critical resources to communities across our country and in my district,"" said Congressman Krishnamoorthi. ""Beyond keeping our government running and strengthening critical programs, I'm also glad I was able to secure the inclusion of multiple provisions I championed to prevent distracted driving on our roads, support our national security, strengthen our economy, improve baby food safety, and provide crucial funding for community programs in my district."" Bipartisan provisions Congressman Krishnamoorthi secured in the legislative package included measures to support funding for distracted driving prevention, enforcing sanctions on foreign adversaries, and improving the safety of our food supply. The increase in funding for Section 405 of the National Priority Safety Program, which Congressman Krishnamoorthi's SAFE TO DRIVE Act reformed, will help curb distracted driving and save lives across the country through expanded education and enforcement grants. Congressman Krishnamoorthi also helped strengthen our national security by providing robust funding resources to continue Task Force KleptoCapture, an interagency law enforcement task force that enforces sweeping sanctions that the United States and its allies imposed in response to Russia's illegal military invasion of Ukraine. The bill also includes additional funding Congressman Krishnamoorthi helped secure for protecting our food supply by supporting programs to contain food outbreaks, improve animal food inspections, and reduce the levels of toxic heavy metals in baby food through the FDA's Closer To Zero program, which was created following the Congressman's groundbreaking investigation into neurotoxins in baby food. Beyond his policy provisions which were included in the government funding package, Congressman Krishnamoorthi secured more than $13.6 million in Community Project Funding for the 8th District of Illinois to address some of the most pressing needs of local communities. The 15 projects Congressman Krishnamoorthi championed the funding for are:",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:32:05Z https://quigley.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/quigley-brings-home-over-165-million-community-projects,Quigley Brings Home Over $16.5 Million for Community Projects,2022-12-23,2022,2022-12,Democrat,House,IL,Mike Quigley,Q000023,quigley.house.gov,quigley,https://quigley.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"Today, U.S. Representative Mike Quigley (IL-05), a member of the House Committee on Appropriations and Chair of the Financial Services and General Government Subcommittee, announced that he has secured more than $16.5 million in Community Project Funding in the Fiscal Year 2023 appropriations government funding package, which has now passed the House and Senate. The bill is headed to the President's desk for signature. This success builds on the ten projects Quigley secured funding for in the FY22 funding package, meaning he has now brought home more than $26.8 million dollars for local projects. ""I am proud to have secured more than $16.5 in Community Project Funding that I know meets long overdue community needs in Illinois's 5th District,"" said Quigley. ""This funding will not only impact the organizations directly involved but will have a ripple effect on everyone living in the 5th district. It will improve our schools and learning centers, help protect our law enforcement, upgrade our parks and trails, and expand access to physical and mental health services. I look forward to seeing this funding delivered and continuing to learn how I can help make our community a better place to live for all."" Quigley championed fifteen projects, securing a total of $16,532,425 in funding. A summary of the projects that have been passed by Congress, and their funding level, is available below: $1,440,000 for the 606 Trail Extension - Ashland Ave to Elston Ave ""Bicycle and pedestrian infrastructure like the 606 that appeals to people of all ages and abilities will encourage more people to walk and bike to work, to school or for recreation,"" said Cook County Board President Toni Preckwinkle. ""The Long Range Transportation Plan that guides Cook County's work prioritizes these forms of active transportation, along with transit, because of their health and environmental benefits. Through partnerships with the City of Chicago and other agencies, Cook County is committed to implementing key bicycle and pedestrian connections that enhance communities and provide new transportation options."" $250,000 for the AIDS Foundation of Chicago, Chicago, IL for training and services to better support seniors living with HIV ""Thankfully, people who are living with HIV and taking medication are living longer. HIV care providers and our supporting partners need training and education to meet the evolving and complex needs of people with HIV as they grow older,"" said John Peller, AIDS Foundation Chicago's President/CEO. ""Thanks to support from Congressman Quigley, we'll develop different levels of training to educate Chicago-area HIV providers about the challenges of aging. We're thankful that Congressman Quigley recognizes the importance of making these culturally responsive training options a reality."" $1,000,000 for the Black Ensemble Theater Cultural Center Building Improvements and Enhancements ""The funding will have a tremendous impact, helping to ensure the longevity and sustainability of our beautiful Black Ensemble Theater Cultural Center for decades – allowing us to update and replace many systems in the theater and enhancing different sections of the building itself. Through this funding, audiences and students will experience an outstanding state of the art, major cultural institution where diversity, equity and inclusion will thrive for many generations to come,"" said Jackie Taylor, Founder and CEO of Black Ensemble Theater. $2,000,000 for the California Park Multi-Use Trail Connection and $750,000 for the Lincoln Park Conservatory Renovations ""I'd like to thank Congressman Mike Quigley for supporting our parks and securing funds for trail development along the Chicago River and restoration work for the Lincoln Park Conservatory,"" said General Superintendent & CEO Rosa Escareño. ""The new multi-use trail will provide his constituents and the city with increased access to the riverfront while upgrades to the Conservatory will help preserve this historic gem for future generations. These investments reach beyond improving our parks and truly enhance recreational experiences for Chicago residents, particularly for our youth and their families."" $750,000 for the Capital Improvements for the Carole Robertson Center for Learning at Albany Park ""The Carole Robertson Center for Learning is a nonprofit early childhood and youth development provider in the Albany Park community. It is in our DNA to believe that the children and youth we serve through our high-quality programs are deserving of spaces that are not only safe and sound but also inspiring and conducive to learning and enrichment,"" said Bela Moté, President and CEO of the Carole Robertson Center for Learning. ""Economic Development Initiative funding would enable the Carole Robertson Center to initiate several critical infrastructure investments at our Albany Park site so it can continue to be a catalyst for our economy: families can work, go to school, or otherwise pursue their own economic mobility while their children are learning, growing and thriving to reach their potential."" $500,000 for the Chicago Public Schools, Chicago, IL for arts education, including equipment and supplies ""CPS is grateful to Congressman Mike Quigely for championing our families and students to provide resources to support our art programs in several schools,"" said Chicago Public Schools CEO Pedro Martinez. ""These funds support our commitment to making sure all students have access to art classes in the coming school year for a well-rounded education."" $3,200,000 for the City of Northlake for a Sanitary Sewer Lining Replacement Project ""Ensuring the integrity of Northlake's sanitary sewer system through the use of the CIP lining process will protect the environment and reduce the risk of basement flooding by the elimination of inflow and infiltration of ground and stormwater as well as outward migration of sewage,"" said Mayor of Northlake, Jeff Sherwin. $1,500,000 for the Field Museum Facilities Upgrade ""This project will reap real and measurable benefits for the environment and for the people of Chicago. We are grateful to Congressman Quigley for these funds, which will enable us to replace 50-year-old air handling systems in our century-old landmark building, significantly reducing the Field Museum's overall energy consumption, lowering its greenhouse gas emissions, and improving indoor air quality for our staff and more than one million annual visitors as well as storage conditions for our irreplaceable scientific collections,"" said Dr. Julian Siggers, Field Museum President and CEO. $540,000 for the Get Behind the Vest ""One bullet can change a police officer's life forever…56: The number of Chicago police officers shot in the line of duty and saved by bulletproof vests since 1980,"" said Philip Cline, Executive Director of the Chicago Police Memorial Foundation. ""One of the most important initiatives that the Chicago Police Memorial Foundation conducts is their Get Behind the Vest program. Each year, this program raises funds specifically to purchase ballistic vests which are provided free of charge to Chicago Police Officers whose vests are at or near their expiration date which is five years. Thanks to Congressman Quigley's grant request, we will be able to purchase ballistic vests and protect those who protect us."" $1,110,400 for the Howard Brown Health, Chicago, IL for facilities and equipment ""The award of $1.1 million to Howard Brown Health will help offset the costs of our future dental clinic on north Halsted. Scheduled to open in 2023, the clinic embeds oral health as part of Howard Brown's comprehensive model of affirming LGBTQ+ care. We are so grateful for the ongoing support from Congressman Quigley. This appropriation would greatly contribute to positive health outcomes for the communities we serve,"" said David Ernesto Munar, President and CEO of Howard Brown Health. $1,500,000 for the Lake View YMCA Aquatics Expansion ""Confidence and life-savings skills can begin in the Y pool, and funding for the Lake View YMCA Aquatics Expansion will help meet the growing needs for aquatics programming and water safety lessons,"" said Karen Dziagwa, Executive Director of the Lake View YMCA. ""The Lakeview neighborhood's close proximity to Lake Michigan makes it critical for children to learn to swim. The support of Congressman Quigley allows the Y to provide additional programs to keep people safe around water by providing swim lessons, swim team, open swim, lap swim and water exercise classes for years to come."" $1,022,000 for the Museum of Science and Industry, Chicago, IL for STEM education, including teacher stipends ""As a senior Member of the Appropriations Committee Congressman Quigley is in an important position to help close the education gap and provide greater opportunity for thousands of kids from backgrounds currently underrepresented in STEM fields. We are gratified that Mr. Quigley recognizes the important role the Museum of Science and Industry plays in providing K-8 science education in schools across Chicago,"" said Chevy Humphrey, President and CEO, Museum of Science and Industry, Chicago. ""The funding he has requested will allow us to expand the quality programs we offer to students and teachers, particularly in underserved areas of the City, inspiring more children to think and dream big and preparing them for careers that will allow them to accomplish great things."" $375,000 for the National Runaway Switchboard, Chicago, IL for the Teen Suicide Prevention Line to provide mental health services, including technology, public awareness, training, and equipment ""For the past few years, our team at the National Runaway Safeline (NRS) has been hearing from an alarming number of young people who are experiencing depression, anxiety, trauma, loneliness, fear and suicidality,"" said Susan Frankel, CEO of the Chicago-based organization. ""While we have been responding to their mental health needs with the available tools and resources we have had, we are truly grateful to Congressman Quigley and the federal government for appropriating funds for the Illinois Teen Suicide Prevention Line. This new service will enable us to provide more targeted interventions and potentially life-saving support for youth in crisis throughout the state."" $595,025 for the Shedd Aquarium, Chicago, IL for STEAM education ""As a beloved inland, urban aquarium and a leader in education, we are committed to connecting students in Chicago with the aquatic animal world,"" said Lisa Junkin Lopez, vice president of learning and community at Shedd Aquarium. ""Through the Pathways to Environmental Education Initiative, Shedd will advance equitable STEAM learning opportunities by addressing and dismantling persistent barriers while providing real-world experiences focused on expanding environmental and scientific literacy, developing critical transferable 21st-century skills, and building job readiness."" Overall, the twelve-bill government funding package will create good-paying American jobs, grow opportunity for the middle class and small businesses, and provide a lifeline for working families. Taken together, the funding for Illinois's 5th District and the funding increases for critical government programs will continue to reverse decades of disinvestment in our communities.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:32:05Z https://robinkelly.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-kelly-secures-critical-maternal-health-clinical-trial-diversity,"Rep. Kelly Secures Critical Maternal Health, Clinical Trial Diversity Provisions and Community Project Funding in Omnibus Legislation",2022-12-23,2022,2022-12,Democrat,House,IL,Robin L. Kelly,K000385,robinkelly.house.gov,robinkelly,https://robinkelly.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"Today, Representative Robin L. Kelly (IL-02) voted in favor of critical health care provisions and funded important community projects in the Second Congressional District as part of the fiscal year 2023 appropriations government funding package. “As our country continues to see troubling trends in the quality of maternal health care, I am happy that we were able to secure a permanent extension of the Medicaid postpartum coverage option. This policy has been a key priority of mine since I first introduced the MOMMA’s Act in 2018. While there is still room to improve this policy to benefit more mothers and babies, this provision is an essential step toward addressing the maternal mortality crisis that claims the lives of so many mothers, a disproportionate number of whom are Black and Indigenous,” said Representative Robin Kelly (IL-02), Chair of the CBC Health Braintrust. “I am proud that I was able to secure this critical policy win for mothers and continue to invest in the projects that the Second District needs to thrive. From creating jobs to increasing safety to tackling climate change, these projects will help to secure a brighter future for everyone in our communities. I enter my tenth year in Congress resolved to continue working for the people of the Second District with an eye toward safety, justice, and equality for all.” Congresswoman Kelly was instrumental in shaping two health care wins in the final 2023 government funding package: The current state option to extend Medicaid postpartum coverage from sixty days to one year will be made permanent. Congresswoman Kelly fought to get this provision included in the American Rescue Plan, but it was set to sunset in 2027. Congresswoman Kelly’s bipartisan bill, HR 3345, the Helping MOMS Act, made this provision permanent. States who have extended Medicaid postpartum coverage will continue to have it, and other states can take up the option, indefinitely. The FDA will now require pharmaceutical companies submitting new drug, device and, biologic applications to the FDA to submit a diversity action plan for their clinical trial. This provision and others included in the omnibus are based on the DEPICT Act that Congresswoman Kelly co-led with Rep. Anna Eshoo. Congresswoman Kelly will continue to push for similar practices to be applied to the NIH. Congresswoman Kelly also championed funding for 14 projects that will directly benefit Illinois’s 2nd District residents. More details about these projects can be found HERE. The twelve-bill government funding package will provide better health care, better jobs, and better opportunities for working families across America. The bill is currently headed to President Biden’s desk for his signature. A detailed summary of the bill is available here. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:32:05Z https://schakowsky.house.gov/media/press-releases/schakowsky-delivers-illinoisans-consumers-and-working-families-government,"Schakowsky Delivers for Illinoisans, Consumers, and Working Families in Government Funding Package",2022-12-23,2022,2022-12,Democrat,House,IL,Janice D. Schakowsky,S001145,schakowsky.house.gov,schakowsky,https://schakowsky.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON - Today, Congresswoman Jan Schakowsky (IL-09), a Senior Chief Deputy Whip and Chair of the Consumer Protection and Commerce Subcommittee of the House Energy and Commerce Committee, released the following statement after voting in favor of the twelve-bill government funding package, which invests millions of dollars in projects throughout Illinois’ 9th Congressional District, implements measures to keep Americans safe and healthy, and provides resources for social programs that support our families, workers, and communities: “Today, I voted in favor of the Fiscal Year 2023 government funding legislation. This monumental funding package will have major implications for generations to come. Not only does this omnibus package secure over $26 million in funds for Illinois’ 9th Congressional District, but it also protects American consumers and makes critical investments in American families and workers. “For years, we have seen many worthy projects in our community go underfunded. Whether it be school programs, community centers, or infrastructure needs, public funding has come up short or has been non-existent. I am proud to announce, thanks to the passage of this spending package, I will be bringing home $26,239,331 for 15 vital projects throughout Illinois’ 9th Congressional District. This will provide needed funding for our community. I will continue fighting every single day to ensure that all people in the 9th Congressional District have the resources they need and deserve. “I am privileged to serve as the Chairwoman of the Consumer Protection and Commerce Subcommittee, which has worked all Congress in a bipartisan manner to protect Americans and deliver lifesaving results. I am proud that many of the crucial bipartisan pieces of legislation we worked on are included in the omnibus. The INFORM Consumers Act will help curb the onslaught of dangerous, counterfeit, and stolen products available to Americans shopping on online marketplaces, the STURDY Act will keep dangerous furniture products that can injure and kill children off the market and out of our homes, and the RANSOMWARE Act will require the FTC to report cross-border complaints received that involve ransomware or other cyber-related attacks committed by certain foreign entities. “The funding package will also make needed investments in government agencies that have a direct impact on the well-being and safety of Americans. Over $1 billion will go to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration to keep Americans safer on our nation’s roads and highways. This comes as early estimates point to a record increase nationwide in fatalities from motor vehicle crashes. Last year, over 43,000 Americans died from motor vehicle crashes. The Federal Trade Commission, which protects American consumers from unfair, deceptive, or abusive acts or practices, will receive $430 million, which is an increase of more than $53 million and is enough for about 267 new full-time employees. For the first time in nearly a decade, the National Labor Relations board, which is the agency responsible for protecting workers’ right to organize, will see an increase in their budget. This will help the Biden administration deliver on its pro-union agenda. I am also thankful to see the robust, long-overdue investment in the Social Security Administration’s (SSA) operations, which is critical for constituents to access operational support at SSA, so that seniors, individuals living with disabilities, widows/widowers, and families are able to access the resources they need. “I am proud that the Lymphedema Treatment Act, which I have worked on for many years, was included in this package. It will expand access to medical compression garments and help up to three million Lymphedema patients on Medicare. I am also glad to see an extension and funding of the Money Follows the Person program and protection against spousal impoverishment for people who need home and community-based services. Additionally, I am thrilled that the Pregnant Workers Fairness Act and the PUMP Act, to protect pregnant workers and grant them reasonable accommodations in their places of employment, are included in the omnibus. “Furthermore, in the midst of a nationwide mental health crisis, I am pleased to see expanded access and investments in mental health services, including for children and seniors on Medicare. This, in addition to increased investments in nursing workforce programs, the Ryan White HIV/AIDS program, and federally qualified community health centers, will help millions of Americans across the country. “I was also grateful to see that this package includes: Critical funding that will go towards our continued fight against climate change, including an additional $40.6 billion in emergency funds for communities recently impacted by the increase in natural disasters and extreme weather events. Domestic funding that puts Americans and their families first by investing in our kids' education, expanding child care, early learning programs, access to nutritious foods Funding to increase access to housing “After more than 80 years, I was thrilled to see provisions included that would update our nation’s cosmetic laws - giving the Food and Drug Administration mandatory recall authority, further regulating added chemicals like PFAS, fragrance, and talc. However, I was disheartened to see that these new provisions will preempt states that have already implemented their own cosmetics laws and regulations. “While this bipartisan legislation includes several strong federal investments, I am disappointed that many problematic provisions were included, and numerous important measures were left out. Harmful and discriminatory restrictions on federal funding for abortions were once again included in the appropriations package and funding for family planning and sexual health programs under Title X was flat-funded. This comes just months after the rogue Supreme Court stripped away bodily autonomy from millions of Americans and in the midst of a reproductive health care crisis in our nation. “Despite being disappointed that the Department of Defense is receiving an unnecessary 10% increase, even more funds than President Biden asked for, over last year’s budget, I am glad to see that our service members will receive a pay increase, the basic needs of military families will be taken care of, and an additional $21 billion will go towards veterans’ health care. “One of the key components of this appropriations package is that it strengthens democracy at home and abroad. On Wednesday, I was honored to attend Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy's address to Congress. Over the last ten months, President Zelenskyy’s inspiring, heroic leadership has rallied his people and the world to fight back against Russia’s brutal, unlawful invasion of Ukraine. This package will provide another consequential round of security and humanitarian assistance to Ukraine. Domestically, the Electoral Count Act was included to thwart any future attempt to disrupt the peaceful transition of power. Renewing democracy around the globe begins by working hard to strengthen its foundations at home. “This funding package will change countless lives. I thank my dear friend, Appropriations Chairwoman Rosa DeLauro, for her steadfast leadership and hard work bringing this package to the floor for a vote. The appropriations package now heads to President Biden’s desk, where he will sign it into law.” ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:32:05Z https://schakowsky.house.gov/media/press-releases/schakowsky-secures-nearly-27-million-funds-illinois-9th-congressional-district,Schakowsky Secures Nearly $27 Million in Funds for Illinois' 9th Congressional District,2022-12-23,2022,2022-12,Democrat,House,IL,Janice D. Schakowsky,S001145,schakowsky.house.gov,schakowsky,https://schakowsky.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON - Today, Congresswoman Jan Schakowsky, a Senior Chief Deputy Whip and Chair of the Consumer Protection and Commerce Subcommittee of the House Energy and Commerce Committee, announced that she has secured $26,239,331 in FY2023 funding from the House Appropriations Committee for 15 projects across the 9th Congressional District. These funds are in addition to the millions in funding the Congresswoman secured earlier this year for community projects. “For years, we have seen many worthy projects in our community go underfunded. Whether it be school programs, community centers, or infrastructure needs, public funding has come up short or has been non-existent,"" said Congresswoman Jan Schakowsky. ""I am proud to announce, thanks to the passage of this spending package, I will be bringing home $26,239,331 for 15 vital projects throughout Illinois’ 9th Congressional District. This will provide needed funding for our community. I will continue fighting every single day to ensure that all people in the 9th Congressional District have the resources they need and deserve."" Congresswoman Schakowsky championed funding for 15 projects that will directly benefit Illinois' 9th District. These include: $300,000 for the Apna Ghar, Chicago, IL for a mobile mental health advocacy unit, including training $1,200,000 for the Black Ensemble Educational Outreach Studio Theater, Chicago, Illinois $2,000,000 for the Broadway Armory Natatorium Swimming Pool, Chicago, Illinois $333,000 for the Community Help Center DBA Muslim Women Resource Center, Chicago, IL for the purchase of equipment to help achieve self-sufficiency $2,000,000 for the Connections for the Homeless Hilda's Place Renovations, Evanston, Illinois $1,130,845 for the Family Focus ""Our Place"" Building Renovation, Evanston, Illinois $525,000 for the Hatzalah Chicago, Lincolnwood, IL for workforce training activities and equipment $625,000 for the Minority-Owned Business Dashboard $7,000,000 for the Rand Road/Kensington Road/Route 83 Intersection Improvement Project, Mount Prospect $546,859 for the RefugeeOne, Chicago, IL for mental health and recovery support services for refugee communities, including training $3,750,000 for the Renovation of the High Ridge YMCA Facility, Chicago, Illinois $2,417,127 for the River Trails Stormwater Project $1,761,500 for the Skokie Valley Trail Project, Skokie, IL $650,000 for the Turning Point Behavioral Health Care Center, Skokie, IL for the Living Room program to provide behavioral health crisis and supportive services $2,000,000 for the Village of Skokie for Lead Service Line Replacement Project The twelve-bill government funding package will create good-paying American jobs, grow opportunity for the middle class and small businesses, and provide a lifeline for working families. Taken together, the funding for Illinois’ 9th District and the funding increases for critical government programs will continue to reverse decades of disinvestment in our communities. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:32:05Z https://schneider.house.gov/media/press-releases/house-passes-bipartisan-funding-bill-including-local-projects-improvements,"House Passes Bipartisan Funding Bill Including Local Projects, Improvements to Retirement Security, Health Insurance, and Support for Innovative Medical Devices",2022-12-23,2022,2022-12,Democrat,House,IL,Bradley Scott Schneider,S001190,schneider.house.gov,schneider,https://schneider.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON— Today, Congressman Brad Schneider voted for the Fiscal Year (FY) 2023 Omnibus Funding Bill, which passed the House 225-201. The bill includes critical funding to protect children enrolled in Medicaid and CHIP and language to reform the Electoral Count Act. All 15 of Schneider’s Community Project Funding (CPF) submissions were included in the legislation, as were bills Schneider introduced to improve retirement security and a provision supporting telemedicine. The Omnibus also includes Rep. Schneider’s bill, the Innovative Technologies Impacted by COVID-19 Act, bipartisan legislation he introduced with Rep. LaHood that provides support for innovative medical devices that treat critical diseases, such as cancer. “Today’s bill clearly demonstrates the values and priorities of this 117th Congress: lowering costs for American families, ensuring healthcare coverage for our children, strengthening our communities and defending our democracy,” said Brad Schneider. “Essential projects across Illinois will be started, generating economic growth, improving access to mental health services, reducing flooding, and enhancing public safety. I am hopeful that we will quickly see this funding bill signed into law and we can get to work.” The below CPF projects in Illinois’s Tenth District will be funded per Congressman Schneider’s request. These projects – listed in alphabetical order by recipient – represent solutions to the district’s largest problems and were carefully chosen from a large field of applicants: Waukegan Water Works Improvement Project Wheeling School District Federally Qualified Health Center Community Partners for Affordable Housing’s (CPAH) Lake County Affordable Housing Development in Libertyville Josselyn Center Mental Health Expansion North Chicago Economic Redevelopment at Sheridan Crossing Cedar Lake Road Realignment and Downtown Round Lake Improvement Project Lake County Gun Violence Prevention Initiative Lake Bluff Downtown Flood Mitigation Project Nicasa Round Lake Behavioral Health and Telehealth Center Lake County Early Learning Center in North Chicago Zero Emissions Pace Bus Fleet PADS Lake County Homeless Shelter Beach Park Pedestrian and Bicycle Safety Project Chain O’Lakes Economic Development in Fox Lake Waukegan to College Onsite School Expansion Additionally, the bill secures a $21 billion increase for veterans’ health care – including supporting the VA as it implements the landmark PACT Act. Among its provisions, the bill provides for a variety of initiatives championed by Schneider, including: Two provisions of SECURE 2.0 on autoportability and the special needs trust. Schneider led both provisions. A section to avoid the telehealth cliff. The section extends through Calendar Year 2024 the flexibility to exempt telehealth services from the deductible in high-deductible health plans (HDHPs) that can be paired with a Health Savings Account (HSA). Schneider led the effort to extend this flexibility. The Innovative Technologies Impacted by COVID-19 Act (H.R. 9559), introduced by Schneider, which extends the transitional pass-through payment status on certain medical devices set to expire December 31, 2022, for a year starting on January 1, 2023. Language to rename the Grayslake Post Office for Fallen Afghanistan Army Specialist Joey Dimock. In November, the House passed Schneider’s standalone bill. Funding for Nuclear Closure Communities to help areas like Zion that shoulder the legacy of stranded nuclear waste. Significant funding to protect the Great Lakes, support the Great Lakes Restoration Initiative, and enhance federal protections against invasive species like Asian Carp. Federal research funding on Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) through the Departments of Defense, Transportation, and Energy to help scale up the SAF industry and incorporate SAF into federal flight operations. Legislation contains funding for the U.S. Capitol Complex to create a dedicated interfaith prayer space for use by staff and the public for prayer and meditation. Rep. Schneider led a letter requesting this space be established; currently there is an interfaith space for use by Members of Congress and Senators, but there is no such space for use by the public within the U.S. Capitol Complex.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:32:05Z https://underwood.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-underwood-secures-20-million-local-projects-government-funding-package,Rep. Underwood Secures $20 Million for Local Projects in Government Funding Package,2022-12-23,2022,2022-12,Democrat,House,IL,Lauren Underwood,U000040,underwood.house.gov,underwood,https://underwood.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"December 23, 2022 WASHINGTON – Today, Rep. Lauren Underwood (IL-14) announced that she has secured $20,090,613 in Community Project Funding for Illinois’ 14th district as part of the final 2023 government funding package. The package now heads to President Biden’s desk to be signed into law. “From my first day in Congress, I have been focused on bringing federal resources home to northern Illinois,” said Underwood. “I’m thrilled to secure more than $20 million in federal funding for the 14th District in this year’s funding package. By improving childcare, expanding access to health services, supporting local business owners, and keeping our neighborhoods safe, these resources will make sure our communities in the 14th are healthy, strong, and thriving.” Underwood, a member of the House Appropriations Committee, championed federal funding for 15 projects that will directly benefit Illinois’ 14th District residents. These include: $450,000 for Aunt Martha’s Health and Wellness to renovate Aunt Martha's clinic at Northwestern Medicine Woodstock Hospital and expand access to high-quality adolescent mental and behavioral health care. $121,000 for the Sandwich Police Department to purchase in-car cameras for each of the Department's seven squad cars to help improve transparency, accountability, and safety within the department and for the Sandwich community. $1,500,000 for Northern Illinois University to create a 4,200-square-foot microchip innovation and workforce development hub on NIU's campus that will be used for education, research and development, and small business incubation to drive innovation across northern Illinois and help address the global microchip shortage. $975,000 for the Hackmatack National Wildlife Refuge/Nippersink Creek Restoration Project to restore over 100 acres of wetlands and nearly 8,750 feet of headwater streams within the Tamarack Core area. $750,000 to renovate the new home of the Hinckley Public Library, a 6,000-square-foot building in the heart of downtown Hinckley that will serve as a stable long-term anchor in the community. $974,843 for the construction and development of the Huntley Shops on Main, which will support entrepreneurs with federal funding for retail space, revitalizing the community, and creating local jobs. $353,404 for the Joliet Junior College Entrepreneurial Development Center (EDC) to expand the center’s capacity to provide no-cost services to new and existing entrepreneurs through education, training, and resource identification to build their companies. $4,800,000 for a Kendall County Extension Environmental Impact Statement that will serve as the next step in extending the Metra commuter rail into Kendall County, which is currently not served by Metra despite being the fastest-growing county in Illinois. $1,800,000 for the Village of Oswego for Corrosion Studies to ensure residents have access to high-quality drinking water and mitigate potential lead exposure ahead of Oswego, Montgomery, and Yorkville switching water sources in the coming years. $3,000,000 for the relocation of the Batavia Interfaith Food Pantry and Clothes Closet, which has served the community for 40 years and will now have the capacity to store and offer more services, including healthy, fresh foods; clothing; and other necessities for residents. $1,125,000 to replace Perimeter Fencing at the DeKalb Taylor Municipal Airport (DKB), the first phase of a security upgrade crucial to making the Airport financially viable and maintaining it as a regional economic development engine. $2,500,000 for the Northern Moraine Wastewater Reclamation District to purchase sewer lines, manholes, and other needed infrastructure to connect 335 existing homes to a sanitary sewer. These upgrades will provide a healthier environment for the community and a safer source of drinking water for the entire region. $500,000 for VNA Health Care to build a new health center in Joliet that will provide access to critical health care services for a growing population, including primary care, obstetrics, pediatric services, and mental and behavioral health care. $666,366 for the YMCA of Metropolitan Chicago to support the expansion and enhancement of YMCA Safe 'N Sound (SNS) programming at three schools in Aurora West School District 129 and nine schools in Indian Prairie School District 204, supporting children in kindergarten through fifth grade with their academic and personal development, focusing on experiential learning, social and emotional development, and the promotion of healthy living. $575,000 for the YWCA Metropolitan Chicago to create and administer a childcare network for Illinois' 14th District, consisting of childcare centers and family childcare providers, that will strengthen small childcare businesses, expand childcare system capacity, and improve the quality of care for children in the community. Four of Underwood’s bills were also passed as part of the package: The PUMP for Nursing Mothers Act ensures that all nursing mothers have protections in the workplace by expanding protections to nearly 9 million workers not currently covered by existing law. The Improving DATA in Public Health Act will help the nation prepare for and respond to public health emergencies by strengthening our public health data infrastructure. The Protections for Student Veterans Act will ensure that veterans in every state can continue to use Department of Veterans Affairs education benefits without penalty if they are called to serve. The Continuing Systems of Care for Children Act would fund community-based mental health care programs and expand initiatives to provide support to young people at risk for substance use disorders. The package also makes historic strides in strengthening protections for working and pregnant women. The Pregnant Workers Fairness Act, included in the package, will protect the health and well-being of pregnant workers. A detailed summary of the funding package is available here. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:32:05Z https://schakowsky.house.gov/media/press-releases/schakowsky-garcia-introduce-legislation-promote-human-rights-protections,"Schakowsky, García Introduce Legislation to Promote Human Rights Protections at International Financial Institutions",2022-12-22,2022,2022-12,Democrat,House,IL,Janice D. Schakowsky,S001145,schakowsky.house.gov,schakowsky,https://schakowsky.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Text of bill (PDF) WASHINGTON - U.S. Representative Jan Schakowsky (IL-09), a Senior Chief Deputy Whip and member of the Tom Lantos Human Rights Commission, and U.S. Representative Jesús “Chuy” García (IL-04) introduced the Chixoy International Financial Institution Reparations Act of 2022. This bill would help create a recourse mechanism for victims of human rights violations associated with projects supported by International Financial Institutions (IFIs). This bill directs U.S. representatives at IFIs to consider human rights and corruption risks before agreeing to support a proposed project. The bill is named in memory of the Guatemalan Indigenous communities that were tortured, raped, murdered, and forcibly displaced when the World Bank and the Inter-American Development Bank financed construction of the Chixoy Hydroelectric Dam. “International Financial Institutions (IFIs) have an obligation to comply with international human rights law, yet we have seen these institutions fund projects like the Chixoy Hydroelectric Dam that have resulted in the murder, torture, rape, and displacement of indigenous people in Guatemala,” said Congresswoman Jan Schakowsky. “The Chixoy International Financial Institution Reparations Act will ensure U.S. representatives at IFIs do not support any activities that contribute to human rights abuses and that impacted communities may seek reparations for the harm IFI loans have caused. We must learn from our mistakes and confront our legacy of oppression. No entity, foreign or domestic, has the right to commit human rights abuses in the name of development.” “So-called ‘development’ should never come at the price of human rights violations. But despite their obligations under international law, IFIs have been repeatedly implicated, leaving impacted communities with no options for recourse or reparation. I’m introducing this bill as part of a larger discussion we need to have about preventing human rights abuses by development banks and creating independent recourse mechanisms to hold those institutions accountable,” said Congressman Jesús “Chuy” García. “For more than 40 years my people, Indigenous Mayans living in Guatemala have suffered violations of our human rights, environmental, cultural, social and economic rights,” said Juan de Dios García, Indigenous human rights leader. “The investments of the international financial entities are not all as intended, and the results have been disastrous. Today opens a beacon of hope for us with the introduction of the Chixoy International Financial Institution Reparations Act of 2022. It creates a path for us to find justice.” ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:32:05Z https://schakowsky.house.gov/media/press-releases/schakowsky-lahood-durbin-cassidy-applaud-passage-legislation-supporting,"Schakowsky, LaHood, Durbin, Cassidy Applaud Passage of Legislation Supporting Rehabilitation Hospitals",2022-12-22,2022,2022-12,Democrat,House,IL,Janice D. Schakowsky,S001145,schakowsky.house.gov,schakowsky,https://schakowsky.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHIGNTON - U.S. Representatives Jan Schakowsky (IL-09) and Darin LaHood (IL-18), along with U.S. Senators Dick Durbin (D-IL) and Bill Cassidy, M.D. (R-LA) applauded House passage of their bipartisan, bicameral legislation to support rehabilitation facilities that lead the nation in medical research and complex treatment. The Dr. Joanne Smith Memorial Rehabilitation Innovation Centers Act recognizes the unique role that a leading class of rehabilitation hospitals play in our health care system, by driving innovative research for the entire field, providing a high volume of medical training to students, and treating the highest need patients across the country. The bill is named after Dr. Joanne Smith, who was the President and Chief Executive Officer of the Shirley Ryan AbilityLab in Chicago—the nation’s top-ranked rehab hospital since 1991—until her passing last year. The bipartisan legislation passed the Senate two weeks ago and now heads to President Biden’s desk for signature. ""With the passage of the Dr. Joanne Smith Memorial Rehabilitation Innovation Centers Act of 2022, Congress has taken a major step to federally recognize Rehabilitation Innovation Centers across the country, ensuring that industry best practices and cutting-edge research is disseminated broadly to ensure the maximum number of patients can benefit,"" said Congresswoman Jan Schakowsky. “The Shirley Ryan AbilityLab in Chicago goes above and beyond to treat patients with the most complex rehabilitation needs. Whether it is a traumatic brain injury or a third-degree burn, patients receive world class care. I was proud to co-lead this bipartisan legislation with Senator Durbin, Senator Cassidy, and Congressman LaHood. Dr. Joanne Smith, the former President and CEO of the Shirley Ryan AbilityLab, devoted her entire career to helping patients, it is fitting that we honor her legacy with this legislation."" “In Illinois, we are proud to be home to a robust healthcare community, including inpatient rehabilitation specialists like the Shirley Ryan Ability Lab in Chicago, that is a national leader in advancing innovation, research, and technology,” said Congressman Darin LaHood. “Recognizing and identifying the unique recovery and rehabilitation needs of patients in both rural and urban communities in Illinois remains vital in keeping patients out of high cost and acute care settings. Our bipartisan bill, the Dr. Joanne Smith Memorial Rehab Act, will strengthen inpatient rehabilitation services and expand access and support for patients, families, and caregivers in Illinois. I am proud to see it become law.” “Dr. Joanne Smith was a passionate, visionary leader whose innovation propelled Shirley Ryan to be the gold standard in its field—providing hope to veterans with injuries, individuals with disabilities, children with birth defects, and many others,” said Senator Dick Durbin. “This legislation recognizes and supports the work of top rehab facilities nationwide focused on cutting-edge research, training new medical professionals, and providing quality care to patients with serious complex health condition. I’m thrilled our bill overwhelmingly passed the House and now heads to the President Biden’s desk to be signed into law. “Glad to see our legislation cross the finish line to support the doctors and researchers providing the best evidence-based treatments make a real difference in a patient’s recovery,” said Senator Bill Cassidy. “Supporting rehab facilities is a step towards returning patients to wholeness after complex injuries.” “We applaud Sen. Durbin, Sen. Cassidy, Rep. Schakowsky, Rep. LaHood, Rep. Davis, Rep. Brady, Rep. Graves and the many other senators, representatives and staffers who have helped make the Dr. Joanne Smith Memorial Rehabilitation Innovation Centers Act a reality,” said Nancy Paridy, President and Chief Administrative Officer, Shirley Ryan AbilityLab. “By formally designating a cohort of inpatient rehabilitation hospitals as industry leaders in research and teaching, these organizations will in turn advance innovation and technology, disseminating best practices broadly throughout the field to positively impact patients' recoveries. This effort was near and dear to our former president and CEO, Dr. Joanne C. Smith, and her legacy will continue to live on through it.” In the United States, there are more than 1,100 Medicare-certified inpatient rehabilitation facilities. Among these facilities are a small group of rehabilitation institutions that drive the future of rehabilitation care and medicine, as well as patient recovery. This unique category of inpatient rehabilitation institutions conducts innovative research to advance the field of rehabilitation care, train the next generation of doctors, and treat the most complex conditions, such as traumatic brain injury, stroke, spinal cord injury, childhood disease, burns, and wartime injuries. U.S. Representative Danny K. Davis (IL-07) and U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL) were original cosponsors of the legislation, alongside several other bipartisan members. Specifically, the Dr. Joanne Smith Memorial Rehabilitation Innovation Centers Act: Defines in statute “Rehabilitation Innovation Center” as a rehabilitation facility that provides care for patients with highly complex conditions, conducts multidisciplinary rehabilitation research, and educates a high number of medical residents. Directs the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) to disseminate best practices and lessons from these facilities and conduct a study on actions to preserve patient access to Rehabilitation Innovation Centers. As our federal health care system moves away from the fee-for-service payment model toward more value-based care, the study directed by this legislation will shape the future direction of post-acute care. Joanne C. Smith, MD, was a visionary leader and the driving force behind transforming the delivery of care in physical medicine and rehabilitation. Dr. Smith was President and Chief Executive Officer of Shirley Ryan AbilityLab (formerly Rehabilitation Institute of Chicago, or RIC) since 2006. She led the organization in its mission to provide the best patient outcomes through the highest-quality clinical care, translational research, scientific discovery, and education. In addition to her leadership at Shirley Ryan AbilityLab, Dr. Smith was a faculty member at the Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine and a member of several professional organizations. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:32:05Z https://chuygarcia.house.gov/media/press-releases/garcia-espaillat-norton-pressley-keating-applaud-inclusion-of-800-million-in-asylum-seeker-aid-in-2023-government-funding-bill,"García, Espaillat, Norton, Pressley, Keating, Applaud Inclusion of $800 Million in Asylum Seeker Aid in 2023 Government Funding Bill",2022-12-21,2022,2022-12,Democrat,House,IL,"Jesús G. ""Chuy"" García",G000586,chuygarcia.house.gov,chuygarcia,https://chuygarcia.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. -- Today, Congressman Adriano Espaillat (NY-13), along with Congressman Jesús “Chuy” García (IL-04), Congresswoman Eleanor Holmes Norton (D-DC), Congressman Bill Keating (MA-09), and Congresswoman Ayanna Pressley (MA-07) applaud House and Senate Appropriations leadership for including $800 million to provide shelter, food and supportive services to individuals and families experiencing hunger or homelessness, and allowing humanitarian assistance to migrant families and individuals encountered by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). The funds will aid in expanding shelter capacity, and provide mental health services, adequate food, and appropriate legal services that are critical in supporting asylum seekers with legal counsel and other necessary services to facilitate a smooth process. The new grant program is to be administered by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) as grants or cooperative agreements with state and local governments and NGOs, including up to $50 million for construction and expansion of shelter facilities. Most of the funds are to be made available through the existing FEMA Emergency Food and Shelter Program until transition to the new Shelter and Services grant program is complete. Since March of this year, safe haven cities such as Philadelphia, New York City, the District of Columbia, Chicago, and Boston have experienced increased demand for safe and secure shelter. These locations have experienced an influx of asylum seekers from Latin America, predominately from Venezuela, who are fleeing a government that has engaged in ""crimes against humanity,"" including the use of torture and sexual violence to repress dissent. “I am pleased to see increased funding for the FEMA Emergency Food and Shelter Program included in the government funding package,” said Congressman García. “My colleagues and I heavily advocated for these funds to urgently provide aid to families in need. Robust funding for this program will alleviate the pressures that community organizations have been facing for months. However, it is incumbent upon us as legislators, to address the root causes of migration and work on meaningful immigration reform. As we move into the 118th Congress, I strongly urge Republicans to stop playing political games with people’s lives and come to the table next year with humane immigration proposals that honor our values as a nation of immigrants.” ""The inclusion of $800 million in the omnibus federal funding package will help bolster our efforts to support local shelter cities and ensure municipalities have the capacity and bandwidth to support vulnerable individuals and families when they need our help the most,"" said Congressman Espaillat. ""Migration from Venezuela, Cuba, Nicaragua, and Colombia is a longstanding issue, and there is no question that Republicans have weaponized this issue. However, we have a moral obligation to answer this call to action, and this funding is part of our whole of government approach, from federal, city and state efforts to ensure asylum seekers have the support and resources needed during this critical time in their lives and for our nation."" ""I am pleased that the omnibus appropriations bill includes $800 million for FEMA's Emergency Food and Shelter Program for humanitarian assistance for vulnerable migrants,"" Congresswoman Norton said. ""After this year's series of cynical political stunts in which governors from across the country bused migrants to large cities, including D.C., this humanitarian assistance was badly needed."" ""Our communities have risen to the challenge by welcoming and supporting migrants, but this has come at a cost to state and local governments and local non-profits,"" said Congressman Bill Keating. ""This $800 million in funding for the Department of Homeland Security will ensure that migrants have access to the necessities and humanitarian assistance they need directly through DHS."" “Families fleeing humanitarian crises abroad deserve to be met with compassion and care,” said Congresswoman Pressley. “While Republican governors shamefully exploited vulnerable people, we have been head down advocating for the necessary federal resources to provide migrant families the shelter, food, medical care, legal services and trauma support needed to help them meet their most basic needs. I’m proud to help deliver these federal resources to help localities in Massachusetts and beyond do this essential work, and I won’t stop pressing to address the root causes of displacement and migration and transform our immigration system into one that centers peoples’ dignity and humanity.” Earlier this year, Rep. García along with Congresswoman Eleanor Holmes Norton (D-DC), Congressman Espaillat (NY-13), and Congresswoman Pressley (MA-07) sent a letter with 19 colleagues to the House Appropriations Committee requesting that the upcoming fiscal year 2023 continuing resolution provide an additional $50 million above the enacted fiscal year 2022 level to the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s Emergency Food and Shelter Program for humanitarian assistance to migrants. Earlier this year Members of Congress also sent a letter to Senate and House Appropriations Committee leadership urging the inclusion of $500 million to support the Emergency Food and Shelter Program. Today’s announcement exceeds their request and meets the demand on the ground.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:32:05Z https://chuygarcia.house.gov/media/press-releases/garcia-espaillat-norton-pressley-y-keating-aplauden-la-inclusion-de-800-millones-en-ayuda-para-solicitantes-de-asilo-en-el-proyecto-de-financiacion-del-gobierno-de-2023,"García, Espaillat, Norton, Pressley y Keating Aplauden la Inclusión de $800 Millones en Ayuda para Solicitantes de Asilo en el Proyecto de Financiación del Gobierno de 2023",2022-12-21,2022,2022-12,Democrat,House,IL,"Jesús G. ""Chuy"" García",G000586,chuygarcia.house.gov,chuygarcia,https://chuygarcia.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC– Hoy, el CongresistaJesús “Chuy” García (IL-04), junto con el Congresista Adriano Espaillat (NY-13), la Congresista Eleanor Holmes Norton (D-DC), el Congresista Bill Keating (MA-09), y la congresista Ayanna Pressley (MA-07) aplaudieron al liderazgo de asignaciones presupuestales de la Cámara y al Senado por asignar $800 millones para proporcionar alojamiento, alimentos y servicios de apoyo a personas y familias que pasan hambre o no tienen vivienda y permitir la asistencia humanitaria a las familias y personas migrantes encontradas por el Departamento de Seguridad Nacional (DHS). Los fondos ayudarán a expandir la capacidad de los albergues y brindarán servicios de salud mental, alimentación adecuada y servicios legales apropiados que son fundamentales para apoyar a los solicitantes de asilo con asesoría legal y otros servicios necesarios para facilitar un proceso sin complicaciones. El nuevo programa de subvenciones será administrado por la Agencia Federal para el Manejo de Emergencias (FEMA, por sus siglas en inglés) como subvenciones o acuerdos de cooperación con gobiernos estatales y locales y organizaciones comunitarias, incluidos hasta $50 millones para la construcción y expansión de instalaciones de refugio. La mayoría de los fondos estarán disponibles a través del Programa de Alimentos y Refugio en Emergencias de FEMA hasta que se complete la transición al nuevo Programa de Subvenciones de Servicios y Refugio. Desde marzo de este año, ciudades santuarios como Filadelfia, la ciudad de Nueva York, el Distrito de Columbia, Chicago y Boston han experimentado una mayor demanda de refugio seguro y protegido. Estos lugares han experimentado una afluencia de solicitantes de asilo de América Latina, predominantemente de Venezuela, que huyen de un gobierno que ha cometido ""crímenes de lesa humanidad"", incluido el uso de la tortura y la violencia sexual para reprimir la disidencia. “Me complace ver un aumento de los fondos para el Programa de Alimentos y Refugio en Emergencias de FEMA incluidos en el paquete de financiamiento del gobierno”, dijo el Congresista García. “Mis colegas y yo abogamos fuertemente por estos fondos para brindar ayuda urgente a las familias necesitadas. La financiación sólida para este programa aliviará las presiones que las organizaciones comunitarias han estado enfrentando durante meses. Sin embargo, nos corresponde a nosotros como legisladores abordar las causas fundamentales de la migración y trabajar en una reforma migratoria significativa. A medida que avanzamos hacia el 118º Congreso, insto encarecidamente a los republicanos a que dejen de jugar juegos políticos con la vida de las personas y se sienten a la mesa el próximo año con propuestas de inmigración humanas que honren nuestros valores como nación de inmigrantes”. ""La inclusión de $800 millones en el paquete general de financiamiento federal ayudará a reforzar nuestros esfuerzos para apoyar a las ciudades santuario locales y garantizar que los municipios tengan la capacidad y los recursos para apoyar a las personas y familias vulnerables cuando más necesitan nuestra ayuda"", dijo el Congresista Espaillat. ""La migración desde Venezuela, Cuba, Nicaragua y Colombia es un problema que data de tiempo atrás, y no hay duda de que los republicanos han convertido este problema en un arma política. Sin embargo, tenemos la obligación moral de responder a este llamado a la acción, y este financiamiento es parte de nuestro enfoque del gobierno en su conjunto, de los esfuerzos federales, locales y estatales para garantizar que los solicitantes de asilo tengan el apoyo y los recursos necesarios durante este momento crítico en sus vidas y para nuestra nación"". ""Me complace que el proyecto de ley de asignaciones presupuestarias generales incluye $800 millones para el Programa de Alimentos y Refugio en Emergencias de FEMA para asistencia humanitaria para migrantes vulnerables"", dijo la Congresista Norton. ""Después de la serie de acrobacias políticas cínicas de este año en las que los gobernadores del otro lado del país llevaron a los inmigrantes en autobuses a las grandes ciudades, incluido D.C., esta asistencia humanitaria era muy necesaria"". “Nuestras comunidades han estado a la altura del desafío dando la bienvenida y apoyando a los migrantes, pero esto ha tenido un costo para los gobiernos estatales y locales y las organizaciones locales sin fines de lucro”, dijo el Congresista Bill Keating. ""Estos $800 millones en fondos para el Departamento de Seguridad Nacional garantizarán que los migrantes tengan acceso a las necesidades y la asistencia humanitaria que necesitan directamente a través del DHS"". “Las familias que huyen de crisis humanitarias en el extranjero merecen ser recibidas con compasión y darles la debida atención”, dijo la Congresista Pressley. “Mientras los gobernadores republicanos explotaban vergonzosamente a las personas vulnerables, nosotros hemos estado abogando consistentemente por los recursos federales necesarios para proporcionar a las familias migrantes el refugio, los alimentos, la atención médica, los servicios legales y el apoyo para procesar el trauma que necesitan para ayudarlos a satisfacer sus necesidades más básicas. Estoy orgullosa de ayudar a entregar estos recursos federales para ayudar a las localidades de Massachusetts y más allá a hacer este trabajo esencial, y no dejaré de presionar para abordar las causas fundamentales del desplazamiento y la migración y transformar nuestro sistema de inmigración en uno que se centre en la dignidad de las personas y sea humano.” A principios de este año, los congresistas García, Espaillat, Holmes Norton, y Pressley (MA-07) junto con 19 colegas enviaron una carta al Comité de Asignaciones Presupuestales de la Cámara solicitando que la resolución continua del próximo año fiscal 2023 proporcionara $50 millones adicionales por encima del nivel promulgado para el año fiscal 2022 al Programa de Alimentos y Refugio en Emergencias de la Agencia Federal para el Manejo de Emergencias para asistencia humanitaria a los migrantes. A principios de este año, los miembros del Congreso también enviaron una carta a los líderes del Comité de Asignaciones Presupuestales del Senado y la Cámara instando a la inclusión de $500 millones para apoyar el Programa de Alimentos y Refugio en Emergencias. El anuncio de hoy supera su solicitud y satisface la demanda sobre el terreno.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:32:05Z https://quigley.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/quigley-appointed-escort-committee-zelenskyy-address-congress,Quigley Appointed to Escort Committee for Zelenskyy Address to Congress,2022-12-21,2022,2022-12,Democrat,House,IL,Mike Quigley,Q000023,quigley.house.gov,quigley,https://quigley.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"Today, U.S. Representative Mike Quigley (IL-05), Co-Chair of the Congressional Ukraine Caucus, was appointed by Speaker Nancy Pelosi to the escort committee for Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy's joint address to Congress. ""It's an honor to be appointed to the escort committee and represent my Ukrainian-American constituents in this moment of national, historical significance. I am also grateful to have the opportunity to speak with President Zelenskyy prior to his remarks. This is an opportunity for me to share the well wishes of my constituents and to emphasize our continued dedication to supporting Ukraine as they fight against an invading autocrat,"" said Quigley.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:32:05Z https://quigley.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/quigley-statement-ukrainian-president-zelenskyy-s-joint-address-0,Quigley Statement on Ukrainian President Zelenskyy’s Joint Address to Congress,2022-12-21,2022,2022-12,Democrat,House,IL,Mike Quigley,Q000023,quigley.house.gov,quigley,https://quigley.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"Today, U.S. Representative Mike Quigley, Co-Chair of the Congressional Ukraine Caucus, released the following statement after Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy delivered a joint address to Congress: ""I have been impressed by President Zelenskyy's unwavering leadership of his country during this incredibly difficult time. I maintain that his closest historical counterpart is Winston Churchill, leading the United Kingdom through the Blitz. That historical parallel was even sharper tonight. President Zelenskyy has remained on the ground in Kyiv during the most relentless bombings, he has visited the front lines, and comforted the victims of horrific war crimes. It has been an honor to have now met with him twice in person since the invasion and to have heard him speak tonight. ""Tonight, President Zelenskyy spoke directly to the American people outlining how his nation is fighting not just for their own freedom, but for the future of democracy everywhere. Millions have been moved by the determination in the face of the atrocities displayed by Ukrainians and that he described to us all tonight. ""I sincerely hope that all of my colleagues take his words to heart and continue to offer the United States' steadfast support for Ukraine. ""Slava Ukraini.""",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:32:05Z https://robinkelly.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-kelly-secures-17534241-local-projects-final-government-funding,"Rep. Kelly Secures $17,534,241 For Local Projects in Final Government Funding Package",2022-12-21,2022,2022-12,Democrat,House,IL,Robin L. Kelly,K000385,robinkelly.house.gov,robinkelly,https://robinkelly.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"Today, Representative Robin L. Kelly (IL-02) announced $17,534,241 in Community Project Funding that she previously secured for Illinois’s 2nd District in the House spending bills has been included in the final 2023 appropriations government funding package. This funding responds directly to some of the most pressing needs in the Second District. “I am proud to have secured $17,534,241 in Community Project Funding in this bill that I know meets long overdue community needs in Illinois’s 2nd District,” Rep. Kelly(IL-02) said. “These investments create jobs with better pay, make us safer, strengthen our communities, and start to tackle climate change. These projects will benefit every part of the Second District and will help our neighbors thrive whether they live in an urban center, a suburban neighborhood, or a rural community.” Rep. Kelly championed funding for 14 projects that will directly benefit Illinois’s 2nd District residents. These include: $750,000 for the Acquisition and Demolition of Blighted and Vacant buildings in Harvey, IL $4,000,000 for the Cook County, IL U.S. Army Corps projects $353,441 for the Family Christian Health Center, Harvey, IL for equipment and operational costs $626,000 for the Chatham Business Association ‘s Internee-to-Entrepreneur Program $844,800 for the Lake Calumet Trail $1,500,000 for the Pullman Museum Expansion and Community Economic Development Empowerment Project $120,000 for the Orchid Healing Circles for Victims of Gun Violence $1,000,000 for the Prairie State College, Chicago Heights, IL for a dental hygiene program, including enhancements and the installation of equipment $1,000,000 for the Riverside Medical Center, Kankakee, IL for facilities and equipment $100,000 for the Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) After School Programs for Park Forest, Chicago Heights, Ford Heights and Sauk Village $2,000,000 for the South Shore Homeownership Preservation in Chicago, IL $2,000,000 for the South Shore Hospital Corporation, Chicago, IL for facilities and equipment $1,740,000 for the Southland Career and Technical Education Center, Matteson, IL for classroom design and curricula for career and technical education programs $1,500,000 for the Streetlight Improvement for Enhanced Public Safety in Harvey, IL The twelve-bill government funding package will create good-paying American jobs, grow opportunities for the middle class and small businesses, and provide a lifeline for working families. Taken together, the funding for Illinois’s 2nd District and the funding increases for critical government programs will continue to reverse decades of disinvestment in our communities. Congresswoman Kelly had also requested $550,00 for a third-party design study of Chicago’s Promontory Point in FY23, but this study was funded by the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law to resolve issues concerning historic preservation. After the Senate passes this legislation, we will have the opportunity to vote for the package here in the House. It will then go to President Biden’s desk for his signature. A detailed summary of the bill is available here. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:32:05Z https://chuygarcia.house.gov/media/press-releases/los-representantes-garcia-y-schakowsky-presentan-legislacion-para-promover-la-proteccion-de-los-derechos-humanos-en-las-instituciones-financieras-internacionales,Los Representantes García y Schakowsky Presentan Legislación para Promover la Protección de los Derechos Humanos en las Instituciones Financieras Internacionales,2022-12-20,2022,2022-12,Democrat,House,IL,"Jesús G. ""Chuy"" García",G000586,chuygarcia.house.gov,chuygarcia,https://chuygarcia.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC— Hoy, los Congresistas Jesús “Chuy” García (IL-04) y Jan Schakowsky (IL-09), junto con sus colegas Ilhan Omar (MN-05), Mark Pocan (WI-02) y Raúl Grijalva (AZ-03), presentaron la Ley de Reparaciones de Instituciones Financieras Internacionales de Chixoy de 2022. Este proyecto de ley ayudaría a crear un mecanismo de recurso para las víctimas de violaciones de derechos humanos asociadas con proyectos respaldados por instituciones financieras internacionales (IFI), y ordena a los representantes de EE. UU. en las IFI que consideren los derechos humanos y los riesgos de corrupción antes de apoyar un proyecto propuesto. El proyecto de ley lleva el nombre de las comunidades indígenas guatemaltecas que fueron violadas, torturadas, asesinadas y desplazadas por la fuerza cuando el Banco Mundial y el Banco Interamericano de Desarrollo financiaron la construcción de la represa Chixoy. “El precio del llamado ‘desarrollo’ nunca debe ser las violaciones de los derechos humanos. Sin embargo, a pesar de sus obligaciones en virtud del derecho internacional, las IFI se han visto implicadas repetidamente, dejando a las comunidades afectadas sin opciones de recurso o reparación. He presentado este proyecto de ley como parte de una discusión más amplia que debemos tener sobre la prevención de abusos a los derechos humanos por parte de los bancos de desarrollo y la creación de mecanismos independientes para hacer que esas instituciones rindan cuentas”, dijo el Congresista García. “Las Instituciones Financieras Internacionales (IFI) tienen la obligación de cumplir con el derecho internacional de los derechos humanos, sin embargo, hemos visto que estas instituciones financian proyectos como la Represa Hidroeléctrica Chixoy que han resultado en el asesinato, tortura, violación y desplazamiento de indígenas en Guatemala, ” dijo la Congresista Jan Schakowsky. “La Ley de Reparaciones de Instituciones Financieras Internacionales de Chixoy garantizará que los representantes de EE. UU. en las IFI no apoyen ninguna actividad que contribuya a los abusos de los derechos humanos y que las comunidades afectadas puedan buscar reparaciones por el daño que han causado los préstamos de las IFI. Debemos aprender de nuestros errores y enfrentar nuestro legado de opresión. Ninguna entidad, extranjera o nacional, tiene derecho a cometer abusos contra los derechos humanos en nombre del desarrollo”. “Durante más de 40 años mi pueblo, los Indígenas Mayas que vivimos en Guatemala hemos sufrido violaciones a nuestros derechos humanos, y a nuestros derechos ambientales, culturales, sociales y económicos”, dijo el líder indígena de derechos humanos Juan de Dios García. “No todas las inversiones de las entidades financieras internacionales no son lo que intentaban ser y los resultados han sido desastrosos. Hoy se prende un faro de esperanza para nosotros con la introducción de la Ley de Reparaciones de Instituciones Financieras Internacionales Chixoy de 2022. Este proyecto de ley crea un camino para que encontremos justicia”. El texto completo del proyecto de ley traducido al español se encuentra aquí. Un resumen sección por sección en español se encuentra aquí.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:32:05Z https://chuygarcia.house.gov/media/press-releases/reps-garcia-schakowsky-introduce-legislation-to-promote-human-rights-protections-at-international-financial-institutions,"Reps. García, Schakowsky Introduce Legislation to Promote Human Rights Protections at International Financial Institutions",2022-12-20,2022,2022-12,Democrat,House,IL,"Jesús G. ""Chuy"" García",G000586,chuygarcia.house.gov,chuygarcia,https://chuygarcia.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC —Today, Representatives Jesús “Chuy” García (IL-04) and Jan Schakowsky (IL-09), joined by their colleagues Ilhan Omar (MN-05), Mark Pocan (WI-02), and Raúl Grijalva (AZ-03), introduced the Chixoy International Financial Institution Reparations Act of 2022. This bill would help create a recourse mechanism for victims of human rights violations associated with projects supported by international financial institutions (IFIs). This bill directs U.S. representatives at IFIs to consider human rights and corruption risks before agreeing to support a proposed project. The bill is named in memory of the Guatemalan Indigenous communities that were tortured, raped, murdered, and forcibly displaced when the World Bank and the Inter-American Development Bank financed construction of the Chixoy Dam. “So-called ‘development’ should never come at the price of human rights violations. But despite their obligations under international law, IFIs have been repeatedly implicated, leaving impacted communities with no options for recourse or reparation. I’m introducing this bill as part of a larger discussion we need to have about preventing human rights abuses by development banks and creating independent recourse mechanisms to hold those institutions accountable,” said Congressman García. “International Financial Institutions (IFIs) have an obligation to comply with international human rights law, yet we have seen these institutions fund projects like the Chixoy Hydroelectric Dam that have resulted in the murder, torture, rape, and displacement of indigenous people in Guatemala,” said Congresswoman Jan Schakowsky. “The Chixoy International Financial Institution Reparations Act will ensure U.S. representatives at IFIs do not support any activities that contribute to human rights abuses and that impacted communities may seek reparations for the harm IFI loans have caused. We must learn from our mistakes and confront our legacy of oppression. No entity, foreign or domestic, has the right to commit human rights abuses in the name of development.” “For more than 40 years my people, Indigenous Mayans living in Guatemala have suffered violations of our human rights, environmental, cultural, social and economic rights,” said Indigenous human rights leader Juan de Dios García. “The investments of the international financial entities are not all as intended, and the results have been disastrous. Today opens a beacon of hope for us with the introduction of the Chixoy International Financial Institution Reparations Act of 2022. It creates a path for us to find justice.” A copy of the bill text can be found here. A Spanish language translation of the bill can be found here. A section-by-section outline of the bill can be found in English here and in Spanish here.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:32:05Z https://quigley.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/quigley-big-cat-legislation-becomes-law,Quigley Big Cat Legislation Becomes Law,2022-12-20,2022,2022-12,Democrat,House,IL,Mike Quigley,Q000023,quigley.house.gov,quigley,https://quigley.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"Today U.S. Representative Mike Quigley (IL-05), the lead sponsor of the Big Cat Public Safety Act, released a statement after President Biden signed the legislation into law. The law will ban the private ownership of big cats and bring an end to the harmful cub petting industry in an effort to enhance the safety of our communities, protect first responders, and safeguard wild animals. ""Over four years of work have finally led to this moment. I am grateful to all those who have believed in the importance of this bill and who have been dedicated to seeing it become law. This legislation will not only help end the cruel and inhumane cub petting industry, it will also make our communities safer,"" said Quigley. ""The Big Cat Public Safety Act represents historic progress in protecting communities from dangerous exotic animals and safeguarding captive tigers, lions and other wild cats across the U.S.,"" said Carson Barylak, Campaigns Manager at the International Fund for Animal Welfare (IFAW). ""We applaud the bipartisan leaders in Congress who worked tirelessly to advance this measure to protect wildlife and people alike."" ""The Big Cat Public Safety Act enacts historic protections for captive big cats in the United States,"" said Kate Dylewsky, Senior Policy Advisor at the Animal Welfare Institute. ""At long last, we will see an end to the exploitative and dangerous trade in pet big cats, as well as the abusive public handling of cubs. This law protects animals from cruelty, and protects our communities from life-threatening encounters with these wild animals. A heartfelt thank you to President Biden for signing this bill into law, and to the tireless efforts of the bill's sponsors – Representatives Quigley and Fitzpatrick and Senators Blumenthal, Collins, Carper, and Burr – for passing this bill and advancing protections for captive big cats in the US."" ""President Biden signing the Big Cat Public Safety Act into law addresses a reckless cruelty that has festered for years. For too long tiger cubs have been exploited by ‘pay to play' operators like Joe Exotic and Doc Antle who profited from charging people for photo ops of their children holding these potentially dangerous wild animals. Since 1990, more than 400 incidents involving captive big cats have occurred in 46 states and the District of Columbia. Five children and 19 adults have been killed and hundreds of others injured, some losing limbs or suffering other traumatic injuries,"" said Sara Amundson, President of Humane Society Legislative Fund. ""The bill's enactment stops what was an endless cycle of exploiting and mistreating big cat cubs, who were dumped after they grew too large for photo ops. We thank Rep. Quigley for his leadership and thank President Biden for signing this bill. We look forward to working with the Administration to implement the necessary regulations needed to protect public safety and prevent this gross cruelty."" ""We have worked ceaselessly towards this victory for a decade and are delighted that future generations of big cats will be protected from suffering in the exploitative, dangerous pet trade and the cub petting industry. Today's long-fought win would not have been possible without the unrelenting determination of so many people, championed by Representatives Mike Quigley (D-IL) and Brian Fitzpatrick (R-PA), and Senators Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Susan Collins (R-ME), Tom Carper (D-DE), and Richard Burr (R-NC),"" said Angela Grimes, CEO of Born Free USA. ""Their indefatigable commitment to the protection of big cats and the public—alongside the voice of millions of Americans—pushed this bill across the finish line. No big cat belongs in a backyard and no newborn cub should be callously removed from their mother so that bad actors can profit from their misery. Those simple, obvious truths are now finally codified in federal law, making today a huge win for animal welfare and public safety in the United States."" Quigley previously introduced the Big Cat Public Safety Act in 2019. It successfully passed out of the House of Representatives in December 2020 but did not receive a vote in the Senate during that Congress. Quigley reintroduced in 2021, and both the House and Senate passed the legislation earlier this year.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:32:05Z https://quigley.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/schakowsky-quigley-fitzpatrick-crow-introduce-bipartisan-bill-support,"Schakowsky, Quigley, Fitzpatrick, Crow Introduce Bipartisan Bill to Support Access to Multidisciplinary ALS Care",2022-12-20,2022,2022-12,Democrat,House,IL,Mike Quigley,Q000023,quigley.house.gov,quigley,https://quigley.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"Today, U.S. Representatives Mike Quigley (IL-05), Jan Schakowsky (IL-09), Brian Fitzpatrick (PA-01), and Jason Crow (CO-06) introduced bipartisan legislation to ensure that ALS multidisciplinary clinics, which bring together teams of specially trained health care professionals who work to address the many needs of people living with ALS, can continue to provide quality, collaborative, life-extending treatment. The Medicare Payment Reform for People with ALS Act of 2022 extends Medicare reimbursement for ALS multidisciplinary clinics and the multifaceted care they provide. These clinics bring together teams of specially trained health care professionals who work to address the many needs of people living with ALS, allowing them to receive comprehensive care during a single visit. This includes occupational, respiratory, physical, and speech therapists, in addition to mental health providers, neurologists, social workers, nurses, and dietitians. ""During my time in Congress, I have had the privilege of meeting with leaders in the ALS community and developing a deeper understanding of the complexities of this disease. I've learned that for nearly all those diagnosed, ALS is a death sentence. I have committed to changing this grim reality by supporting solutions to develop improved treatments and ultimately find a cure for ALS,"" said Congressman Mike Quigley. ""This legislation is a part of that effort. People living with ALS should not be burdened by excessive healthcare costs when fighting this disease, and this bill will extend Medicare reimbursements to pay for types of treatment that are currently not covered. Many thanks to Congresswoman Schakowsky on her work to eliminate this unnecessary barrier to care."" ""Specialized multidisciplinary ALS clinics not only improve a patients' quality of life, but they also extend the lifespan of patients suffering from ALS. I watched as one of my dear friends suffered from this debilitating disease with little hope,"" said Congresswoman Jan Schakowsky. ""Our bill provides hope and ensures Medicare will reimburse these clinics so they can continue providing top-notch, comprehensive care to ALS patients."" ""It is crucial that the more than 30,000 Americans living with ALS and their families have the necessary resources and services they need,"" said Congressman Brian Fitzpatrick, Co-Chair of the ALS Caucus. ""The Medicare Payment Reform for People with ALS Act of 2022 would provide supplemental payments to facilities offering specialized care for ALS patients and establish consistent support for those who are battling this debilitating disease."" ""Those suffering with ALS deserve access to quality, innovative care. This critical legislation extends Medicare reimbursement to the ‘multidisciplinary' treatment many ALS patients need. As a co-chair of the ALS Caucus, I'm proud to deliver relief so these clinics and patients can focus on high-quality care instead of unnecessary red tape,"" said Congressman Jason Crow, Co-Chair of the ALS Caucus. The Medicare Payment Reform for People with ALS Act of 2022 would: Create a supplemental, facility-based payment to qualified facilities. Qualified facilities would be required to provide care in accordance with a multidisciplinary standard established by the Secretary of Health and Human Services. Direct the GAO to conduct a study on ALS-related services ordinarily provided and the cost of those services. Establish a baseline for the supplemental payment, which could be redetermined in 2025 based on the GAO study.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:32:05Z https://schakowsky.house.gov/media/press-releases/schakowsky-quigley-fitzpatrick-crow-introduce-bipartisan-bill-support-access,"Schakowsky, Quigley, Fitzpatrick, Crow Introduce Bipartisan Bill to Support Access to Multidisciplinary ALS Care",2022-12-20,2022,2022-12,Democrat,House,IL,Janice D. Schakowsky,S001145,schakowsky.house.gov,schakowsky,https://schakowsky.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Representatives Jan Schakowsky (IL-09), Mike Quigley (IL-05), Brian Fitzpatrick (PA-01), and Jason Crow (CO-06) introduced bipartisan legislation to ensure that ALS multidisciplinary clinics, which bring together teams of specially trained health care professionals who work to address the many needs of people living with ALS, can continue to provide quality, collaborative, life-extending treatment. The Medicare Payment Reform for People with ALS Act of 2022 extends Medicare reimbursement for ALS multidisciplinary clinics and the multifaceted care they provide. These clinics bring together teams of specially trained health care professionals who work to address the many needs of people living with ALS, allowing them to receive comprehensive care during a single visit. This includes occupational, respiratory, physical, and speech therapists, in addition to mental health providers, neurologists, social workers, nurses, and dietitians. “Specialized multidisciplinary ALS clinics not only improve a patients’ quality of life, but they also extend the lifespan of patients suffering from ALS. I watched as one of my dear friends suffered from this debilitating disease with little hope,” said Congresswoman Jan Schakowsky. “Our bill provides hope and ensures Medicare will reimburse these clinics so they can continue providing top-notch, comprehensive care to ALS patients.” “During my time in Congress, I have had the privilege of meeting with leaders in the ALS community and developing a deeper understanding of the complexities of this disease. I’ve learned that for nearly all those diagnosed, ALS is a death sentence. I have committed to changing this grim reality by supporting solutions to develop improved treatments and ultimately find a cure for ALS,” said Congressman Mike Quigley. “This legislation is a part of that effort. People living with ALS should not be burdened by excessive healthcare costs when fighting this disease, and this bill will extend Medicare reimbursements to pay for types of treatment that are currently not covered. Many thanks to Congresswoman Schakowsky on her work to eliminate this unnecessary barrier to care."" “It is crucial that the more than 30,000 Americans living with ALS and their families have the necessary resources and services they need,” said Congressman Brian Fitzpatrick, Co-Chair of the ALS Caucus. “The Medicare Payment Reform for People with ALS Act of 2022 would provide supplemental payments to facilities offering specialized care for ALS patients and establish consistent support for those who are battling this debilitating disease.” “Those suffering with ALS deserve access to quality, innovative care. This critical legislation extends Medicare reimbursement to the ‘multidisciplinary’ treatment many ALS patients need. As a co-chair of the ALS Caucus, I'm proud to deliver relief so these clinics and patients can focus on high-quality care instead of unnecessary red tape,” said Congressman Jason Crow, Co-Chair of the ALS Caucus. The Medicare Payment Reform for People with ALS Act of 2022 would: Create a supplemental, facility-based payment to qualified facilities. Qualified facilities would be required to provide care in accordance with a multidisciplinary standard established by the Secretary of Health and Human Services. Direct the GAO to conduct a study on ALS-related services ordinarily provided and the cost of those services. Establish a baseline for the supplemental payment, which could be redetermined in 2025 based on the GAO study. ""Access to high-quality multidisciplinary care in ALS has been shown to extend survival and improve quality of life. As an organization whose leadership includes people living with ALS, we understand on a personal level how greater access to equipment, coordinated care and support improves people’s experience with this terrible disease,” said Andrea Pauls Backman, MBA, Chief Executive Officer of the Les Turner ALS Foundation. “The Medicare Payment Reform for People with ALS Act of 2022 will provide vital resources to support ALS care teams and empower people to make informed choices about their treatment.” “Multidisciplinary care is one of the few evidence based practices that extends and improves the lives of people living with ALS,"" said Neil Thakur, Ph.D., Chief Mission Officer at The ALS Association. “The Association has certified a network of multidisciplinary ALS clinics across the country, and we are working ensure more Americans with ALS can access this highest standard of care. We thank Congresswoman Schakowsky for introducing the Medicare Payment Reform for People with ALS Act to address the needs of people living with ALS, their loved ones and their healthcare team.” “Multidisciplinary clinics are essential to providing coordinated care for many patients with complex conditions, including those with ALS, and it is essential that the functions of those clinics are appropriately supported” said Orly Avitzur, MD, MBA, FAAN, President of the American Academy of Neurology. “Without appropriate reimbursement, clinics will struggle to keep up with the needs of their patients. Rep. Schakowsky’s leadership on this issue is critical to ensure timely access to quality patient care.” Also known as Lou Gehrig’s disease, ALS is a debilitating and fatal disease that affects one in 300 people, approximately 30,000 Americans. Unfortunately, the average survival time after diagnosis is two to five years.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:32:05Z https://schakowsky.house.gov/media/press-releases/schakowsky-tonko-seek-answers-cpsc-and-epa-dangers-gas-stoves,"Schakowsky, Tonko Seek Answers from CPSC and EPA on Dangers of Gas Stoves",2022-12-20,2022,2022-12,Democrat,House,IL,Janice D. Schakowsky,S001145,schakowsky.house.gov,schakowsky,https://schakowsky.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Text of letter (PDF) WASHINGTON – Today, Congresswoman Jan Schakowsky (IL-09), Chair of the Consumer Protection and Commerce Subcommittee of the Energy and Commerce Committee, and Congressman Paul Tonko (NY-20), Chair of the Environment and Climate Change Subcommittee of the Energy and Commerce Committee, wrote to the Chairman of the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) and the Administrator of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) concerning the health and safety risks gas stoves pose to consumers. The Subcommittee leaders requested a briefing from the agencies on their efforts to curb harmful emissions from gas stoves. “When used without proper ventilation, gas stoves can emit dangerous levels of harmful pollutants such as nitrogen dioxide (NO2) and fine particulate matter (PM2.5). Prolonged exposure to these pollutants contributes to various adverse health conditions,” wrote the lawmakers. “Unfortunately, these health risks are disproportionately borne by underserved members of our communities, including Black and Latinx families, children, and low-income households.” The Consumer Product Safety Act grants the CPSC power to regulate products that pose a serious threat to consumers. Meanwhile, the EPA has the wherewithal to assess the health effects of gas stove emissions and potential solutions. With both agencies working together, this issue can be tackled head on. “We are encouraged that you are already working together on this issue through a joint taskforce aimed at developing a voluntary standard to have a standardized and repeatable way to test gas stove emissions,” continued the lawmakers. “We also recognize that to continue this work your agencies need additional funding and support.” The CPSC is also seeking public input on the hazards associated with gas stoves in the form of a Request for Information (RFI). “We urge the CPSC to work expeditiously in developing, issuing, and ultimately acting in response to the RFI,” concluded the lawmakers. “Throughout this process, we strongly encourage the Commission to leverage the technical proficiency and experience the EPA has in studying the health effects of indoor air pollution.” ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:32:05Z https://schneider.house.gov/media/press-releases/schneider-priorities-included-bipartisan-funding-bill-including-local-projects,"Schneider Priorities Included in Bipartisan Funding Bill Including Local Projects, Improvements to Retirement Security, Health Insurance, and Support for Innovative Medical Devices",2022-12-20,2022,2022-12,Democrat,House,IL,Bradley Scott Schneider,S001190,schneider.house.gov,schneider,https://schneider.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON— Today, Congress released the Fiscal Year (FY) 2023 Omnibus Funding Bill. The bill includes funding for 10th District projects, funding to protect children enrolled in Medicaid and CHIP, and language to reform the Electoral Count Act. All 15 of Congressman Brad Schneider’s Community Project Funding (CPF) submissions were included in the legislation, as were bills Schneider introduced to improve retirement security and a provision supporting telemedicine. The Omnibus also includes Rep. Schneider’s bill, the Innovative Technologies Impacted by COVID-19 Act, bipartisan legislation he introduced with Rep. LaHood that provides support for innovative medical devices that treat critical diseases, such as cancer. “Today’s bill clearly demonstrates the values and priorities of this 117th Congress: lowering costs for American families, ensuring healthcare coverage for our children, strengthening our communities and defending our democracy,” said Brad Schneider. “Essential projects across Illinois will be started, generating economic growth, improving access to mental health services, reducing flooding, and enhancing public safety. I am hopeful that we will quickly see this funding bill signed into law and we can get to work.” The below CPF projects in Illinois’s Tenth District will be funded per Congressman Schneider’s request. These projects – listed in alphabetical order by recipient – represent solutions to the district’s largest problems and were carefully chosen from a large field of applicants: Waukegan Water Works Improvement Project Wheeling School District Federally Qualified Health Center Community Partners for Affordable Housing’s (CPAH) Lake County Affordable Housing Development in Libertyville Josselyn Center Mental Health Expansion North Chicago Economic Redevelopment at Sheridan Crossing Cedar Lake Road Realignment and Downtown Round Lake Improvement Project Lake County Gun Violence Prevention Initiative Lake Bluff Downtown Flood Mitigation Project Nicasa Round Lake Behavioral Health and Telehealth Center Lake County Early Learning Center in North Chicago Zero Emissions Pace Bus Fleet PADS Lake County Homeless Shelter Beach Park Pedestrian and Bicycle Safety Project Chain O’Lakes Economic Development in Fox Lake Waukegan to College Onsite School Expansion Additionally, the bill secures a $21 billion increase for veterans’ health care – including supporting the VA as it implements the landmark PACT Act. Among its provisions, the bill provides for a variety of initiatives championed by Schneider, including: Two provisions of SECURE 2.0 on autoportability and the special needs trust. Schneider led both provisions. A section to avoid the telehealth cliff. The section extends through Calendar Year 2024 the flexibility to exempt telehealth services from the deductible in high-deductible health plans (HDHPs) that can be paired with a Health Savings Account (HSA). Schneider led the effort to extend this flexibility. The Innovative Technologies Impacted by COVID-19 Act (H.R. 9559), introduced by Schneider, which extends the transitional pass-through payment status on certain medical devices set to expire December 31, 2022, for a year starting on January 1, 2023. Language to rename the Grayslake Post Office for Fallen Afghanistan Army Specialist Joey Dimock. In November, the House passed Schneider’s standalone bill. Funding for Nuclear Closure Communities to help areas like Zion that shoulder the legacy of stranded nuclear waste. Significant funding to protect the Great Lakes, support the Great Lakes Restoration Initiative, and enhance federal protections against invasive species like Asian Carp. Federal research funding on Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) through the Departments of Defense, Transportation, and Energy to help scale up the SAF industry and incorporate SAF into federal flight operations. Legislation contains funding for the U.S. Capitol Complex to create a dedicated interfaith worship space for use by staff and the public for prayer and meditation. Rep. Schneider led a letter requesting this space be established; currently there is an interfaith space for use by Members of Congress and Senators, but there is no such space for use by the public within the U.S. Capitol Complex.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:32:05Z https://schneider.house.gov/media/press-releases/schneider-statement-vote-release-report-irss-review-mandatory-audit-policy,Schneider Statement on Vote to Release Report on IRS’s Review of the Mandatory Audit Policy for Presidents’ Tax Returns During the Previous Administration,2022-12-20,2022,2022-12,Democrat,House,IL,Bradley Scott Schneider,S001190,schneider.house.gov,schneider,https://schneider.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON — Congressman Brad Schneider (IL-10) – Member of the Ways and Means Committee – released the following statement: “Tonight I voted to send to the full House the Ways and Means report, including supporting documentation, demonstrating that the IRS policy of examining Presidents’ tax returns is woefully insufficient and requires a legislative fix. “I did not make this decision lightly. From our founding, the United States was established to be a nation ruled by laws, not kings. No one is above the law, including and especially the President. Americans need to be able to trust that the President pays taxes like anyone else. That is why in 1977 the IRS implemented a policy of mandatory examination (audit) of Presidential tax returns. “This Congress, the Ways and Means Committee conducted an investigation of the 1977 Mandatory Audit Policy and discovered that the policy was not well defined and poorly executed, to the point of being dormant. Today, the Committee deliberated on the report of the investigation in an hours long, closed door session. The Committee ultimately voted to release the report with supporting documentation—including several years of President’s Trumps returns— to the full House. I voted in favor in order to properly inform consideration of legislation to require the IRS to audit future President’s tax returns in a timely and comprehensive manner.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:32:05Z https://foster.house.gov/media/press-releases/foster-statement-january-6th-committee-criminal-referrals-against-former,Foster Statement on January 6th Committee Criminal Referrals Against Former President Trump,2022-12-19,2022,2022-12,Democrat,House,IL,Bill Foster,F000454,foster.house.gov,foster,https://foster.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, DC – Today, Congressman Bill Foster (D-IL) released the following statement after the Select Committee to Investigate the January 6th Attack on the United States Capitol issued criminal referrals against former President Trump: ""In a democracy no one is above the law, not even the President. The evidence uncovered by the January 6th Committee makes clear that the former President betrayed his oath of office to defend the Constitution and broke the law in an attempt to illegally stay in power. The criminal referrals announced today are no cause for celebration, but are an important and necessary step to make sure nothing like January 6, 2021 ever happens again. ""Now, it is the Department of Justice that will decide whether or not to pursue criminal charges against the former President. We must respect the independence of DOJ and trust they will make a determination solely based on the evidence and the rule of law. ""I thank the Members of the January 6th Committee, both Democrats and Republicans, for their tireless work to uncover the facts of what happened on that day."" ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:32:05Z https://schakowsky.house.gov/media/press-releases/schakowsky-colleagues-introduce-bipartisan-bicameral-legislation-increase,"Schakowsky, Colleagues Introduce Bipartisan, Bicameral Legislation to Increase Access to Mental Health Services for Older Americans",2022-12-16,2022,2022-12,Democrat,House,IL,Janice D. Schakowsky,S001145,schakowsky.house.gov,schakowsky,https://schakowsky.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Representative Jan Schakowsky (IL-09), a Senior Chief Deputy Whip and a Co-chair of the House Democratic Task Force on Aging and Families, U.S. Representatives Judy Chu (CA-24), Jason Smith (MO-08), and Markwayne Mullin (OK-2), alongside U.S. Senators Sherrod Brown (D-OH) and Susan Collins (R-ME), introduced bipartisan, bicameral legislation to help increase access to mental healthcare services for older Americans by ensuring Medicare beneficiaries have access to clinical psychologists across all settings of care. This legislation, the Increasing Mental Health Options Act of 2022, would update the Medicare program to ensure Medicare beneficiaries can access clinical psychologists directly for mental health services, regardless of the setting of care. Clinical psychologists are doctoral-level providers who play an important role in delivering mental health services to the Medicare population. However, the Medicare program does not currently recognize clinical psychologists as independent care providers across all settings of care. “The number of Americans diagnosed with mental health issues has skyrocketed since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic. The mental health crisis has especially impacted older Americans, who continue to bear the brunt of the consequences of the pandemic,” said Congresswoman Jan Schakowsky. “Unfortunately, current laws present a roadblock for seniors and people with disabilities to get the mental health care they need and deserve under Medicare. Our bipartisan bill will remove those barriers and make it easier for Medicare beneficiaries to access much-needed mental health care.” “Mental health care is as essential as physical health care, and yet despite the nationwide shortage of mental health providers, psychologists are limited in their ability to operate at their full scope of practice in the Medicare program” said Congresswoman Judy Chu. “As a psychologist myself, I know the benefit that psychologists can bring to their patients, which is why I am proud that our bill will allow these qualified providers to provide top-notch care to Medicare beneficiaries in various settings, from skilled nursing facilities to inpatient psychiatric facilities. I’m grateful for the bipartisan support of my colleagues and hope to see this bill’s consideration in the next congress.” “Ensuring access to mental health services in places like southern Missouri and other rural areas is so important for the people I represent,” said Congressman Jason Smith. “By allowing clinical psychologists to render services to Medicare recipients, we will ensure hardworking seniors have critical mental health resources available to them and bring care closer to home for so many folks I represent.” “Many Rural Americans have trouble accessing the quality health services they deserve,” said Congressman Markwayne Mullin. “This bill will remove unnecessary barriers that have kept psychologists, who are well-equipped to provide mental health care, from delivering care to seniors under Medicare. It will also modernize Medicare statutes to ensure independent practices, like the ones in my district, are covered. I’m proud to join my colleagues on this bipartisan effort to increase seniors’ access to essential care. “Access to mental health care is a growing need in America, and we should be prioritizing ways to ensure older Americans have access to the providers that best meet their needs,” said Senator Sherrod Brown. “Our bill gets us one step closer to meeting this gap in care.” “There is a growing need for mental health services among older Americans, but many Medicare beneficiaries face significant challenges accessing this care due to a lack of providers,” said Senator Susan Collins. “By better aligning Medicare’s policies with other major insurers, removing unnecessary barriers that can delay care, and incentivizing psychologists to see Medicare patients in rural and underserved areas, our bipartisan bill will improve seniors’ access to mental health treatment and help strengthen the overall wellbeing of older adults.” “Medicare requires patients in some settings to first obtain a physician’s approval before seeing a psychologist, creating an administrative barrier for necessary mental health care,” said Arthur C. Evans Jr., PhD, CEO of the American Psychological Association. “For decades, the Medicare statute has allowed clinical psychologists to practice independently most everywhere else, and the statute should be modernized to allow independent practice across the board, as is authorized under all state licensure laws. We’re extremely grateful to Senators Brown and Collins, and to Representatives Chu, Smith, Schakowsky, and Mullin for their leadership in removing an unnecessary barrier to prompt mental health treatment for Medicare patients.” Approximately one quarter of all Medicare beneficiaries have a mental illness, with the COVID-19 pandemic significantly increasing the level of psychological distress across all Americans. Serious mental illnesses, such as bipolar disorder or schizophrenia, are also prevalent among those Americans who are under the age of 65 and eligible for Medicare. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:32:05Z https://chuygarcia.house.gov/media/press-releases/declaracion-del-representante-garcia-sobre-la-aprobacion-de-la-ley-del-estatus-de-puerto-rico-en-la-camara-de-representantes,Declaración del Representante García sobre la Aprobación de la Ley del Estatus de Puerto Rico en la Cámara de Representantes,2022-12-15,2022,2022-12,Democrat,House,IL,"Jesús G. ""Chuy"" García",G000586,chuygarcia.house.gov,chuygarcia,https://chuygarcia.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC —El congresista Jesús “Chuy” García (IL-04) emitió la siguiente declaración luego de la aprobación de la Ley del Estatus de Puerto Rico, que autoriza un plebiscito patrocinado por el gobierno federal a través del cual el pueblo de Puerto Rico puede votar para decidir el estatus político de la isla: “Aunque este proyecto de ley es imperfecto, no podría votar en contra de un paso tan importante en el proceso de decolonización de Puerto Rico. Apoyo esta versión del proyecto de ley para dar voz a los más afectados por el legado del colonialismo en Puerto Rico. “Como miembro del Congreso que representa a una de las comunidades puertorriqueñas más grandes del país, no he tomado esta decisión a la ligera. Entiendo que mi voto de hoy generará respuestas sólidas y válidas desde varios puntos de vista. “El proyecto de ley ha mejorado desde que lo consideramos en el Comité de Recursos Naturales, abordando inquietudes que yo tenía en ese momento en dos frentes principales: ciudadanía y transparencia en el proceso electoral. El proyecto de ley ahora aclara y ofrece condiciones más inclusivas para la ciudadanía bajo los Artículos de Libre Asociación. También mejora la transparencia al crear procesos para que observadores nacionales e internacionales estén presentes en futuras elecciones. “Debemos enfrentar nuestra responsabilidad moral y política para acabar con más de 500 años de colonialismo en Puerto Rico. Hoy es un día histórico, pero hay más trabajo por hacer. Estoy comprometido a proteger el derecho a la libre determinación de los puertorriqueños para decidir su estatus a medida que avanza este importante proceso”.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:32:05Z https://chuygarcia.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-garcia-statement-on-house-passage-of-the-puerto-rico-status-act,Rep. García Statement on House Passage of the Puerto Rico Status Act,2022-12-15,2022,2022-12,Democrat,House,IL,"Jesús G. ""Chuy"" García",G000586,chuygarcia.house.gov,chuygarcia,https://chuygarcia.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC — Congressman Jesús “Chuy” García (IL-04) issued the following statement after passage of the Puerto Rico Status Act, which authorizes a federally sponsored plebiscite through which the people of Puerto Rico can vote to decide the island’s political status: “Though this bill is imperfect, I could not vote against such an important step in the decolonization process of Puerto Rico. I support this version of the bill to give a voice to those most impacted by the legacy of colonialism in Puerto Rico. “As a Member of Congress representing one of the largest Puerto Rican communities in the country, I do not take this decision lightly. I understand that my vote today will elicit strong—and valid—responses from various viewpoints. “The bill has improved since we considered it in the Natural Resources Committee, addressing concerns I had at that time on two main fronts: citizenship and transparency in the electoral process. The bill now clarifies and offers more inclusive conditions for citizenship under the Articles of Free Association. It also improves transparency by creating processes for national and international observers to be present at future elections.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:32:05Z https://foster.house.gov/media/press-releases/foster-feenstra-introduce-legislation-research-windstorms-mitigate-damage,"Foster, Feenstra Introduce Legislation to Research Windstorms, Mitigate Damage",2022-12-15,2022,2022-12,Democrat,House,IL,Bill Foster,F000454,foster.house.gov,foster,https://foster.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, DC – Today, Congressman Bill Foster (D-IL) and Congressman Randy Feenstra (R-IA) introduced the bipartisan National Windstorm Impact Reduction Program Reauthorization Act. This legislation reauthorizes the National Windstorm Impact Reduction Program through Fiscal Year 2026, providing critical funding for the program to continue its research into how to mitigate the injuries and property damage caused by windstorms. It also directs the program to develop and implement new standards to make housing and infrastructure more resilient, and to study the impacts of climate change on windstorms. “Illinois’ 11th District is no stranger to the threat of severe weather. Just last year, our Naperville and Woodridge communities suffered devastating damage from an EF-3 tornado,” said Rep. Foster. “I’m proud to introduce this legislation with Rep. Randy Feenstra to reauthorize the National Windstorm Impact Reduction Program, which will provide critical resources to continue the program’s research and ensure we are all safer the next time a windstorm strikes.” “In Iowa, tornadoes, derechos, and other powerful windstorms can wreak havoc on our families, farmers, and rural communities, and we know that the severity of these storms cannot be overlooked. In 2020 alone, Iowa suffered the worst derecho in years, which took the lives of four Iowans and caused $11.2 billion of dollars in damages, making it the costliest thunderstorm disaster in U.S. history,”said Rep. Feenstra. “I am proud to introduce the National Windstorm Impact Reduction Program Reauthorization Act with my Illinois colleague Rep. Bill Foster to monitor dangerous windstorms and help our rural communities better prepare for potentially devastating impacts. I’m confident that this vital legislation will help save lives, protect property, and use the latest technology to safeguard our communities.” The National Windstorm Impact Reduction Program is a research and implementation program that combines the efforts of the Federal Emergency Management Agency, the National Institute of Standards and Technology, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, and the National Science Foundation. The last formal authorization bill for the National Windstorm Impact Reduction Program expired in 2017. A copy of the bill can be found here. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:32:05Z https://lahood.house.gov/2022/12/lahood-statement-on-intel-gop-report-on-covid-19-origins,LaHood Statement on Intel GOP Report on COVID-19 Origins,2022-12-15,2022,2022-12,Republican,House,IL,Darin LaHood,L000585,lahood.house.gov,lahood,https://lahood.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"""Every American family has been impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic and they deserve answers on the origins of COVID-19. The HPSCI GOP report takes significant steps toward delivering answers. The report outlines the growing scope of culpability from the Chinese government, failures of relevant information sharing with the American people and their authorized representatives by the Intelligence Community, information that adds to the credibility of a lab leak incident, and potential ties to China's bioweapons research program. Transparency is vital, and I look forward to working in a House Republican majority to continue uncovering the facts and ensuring our country is never vulnerable to threats like this again."" The unclassified summary of the report can be read here. A one-page summary can be read here.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:32:05Z https://chuygarcia.house.gov/media/press-releases/representatives-garcia-bush-omar-schakowsky-bowman-introduce-resolution-to-affirm-rights-of-honduras-garifuna-people,"Representatives García, Bush, Omar, Schakowsky & Bowman Introduce Resolution to Affirm Rights of Honduras’ Garífuna People",2022-12-14,2022,2022-12,Democrat,House,IL,"Jesús G. ""Chuy"" García",G000586,chuygarcia.house.gov,chuygarcia,https://chuygarcia.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC– Representatives Jesus “Chuy” García (IL-04), Cori Bush (MO-01), Ilhan Omar (MN-05), Jan Schakowsky (IL-09), and Jamaal Bowman Ed.D. (NY-16) introduced a resolution that affirms the rights of the Afro-Indigenous Garífuna people in Honduras. The Inter-American Court of Human Rights and Inter-American Commission on Human Rights have determined that the Garífuna community’s rights have repeatedly been violated by the Honduran government, yet little has changed regarding their treatment. This resolution condemns the violence toward the Garífuna people while calling for accountability from the Honduran government and other international institutions for their role in these abuses. The lawmakers worked closely with partner organizations and the Garífuna community to author this resolution following a March 2021 congressional delegation trip to Honduras. For years, Garífuna community members and leaders have been threatened, arrested, abducted and murdered. Most notably, in July 2020, four Garífuna men were abducted at gunpoint by men wearing uniforms bearing the logo of a Honduran security forces unit. Instead of calling for an investigation into those responsible, the Honduran Attorney General has called for criminal proceedings against leaders of the Black Fraternal Organization of Honduras (OFRANEH). “The Garífuna people have long endured criminalization, forced disappearances, and violations of their centuries-old land rights. Today, international corporations and foreign nations continue to be granted development access to their ancestral land, bringing environmental destruction and displacing Garífuna people,” said Congressman García. “The U.S. must work with the Honduran government, international organizations, and global allies to condemn this violence and affirm the rights of the Garífuna people.” “When I came to Congress, I made a promise to advocate for the most marginalized communities who face systematic violence and oppression. My commitment is not limited to the confines of our borders,” said Congresswoman Bush. “Earlier this year, I had the honor of visiting with and meeting leaders of the Black Fraternal Organization of Honduras, including activist Miriam Miranda, and heard directly about the Garifuna peoples’ continued struggle. The Afro-Indigenous Garífuna people have faced, and continue to face, countless human rights abuses at the hands of the Honduran government - including unwarranted arrests, abductions, and even killings – and the United States has been complicit by funding state-sanctioned violence towards their communities. We have an obligation to put an end to this violence and oppression, advance policies that promote their human rights, and speak up for Black and Indigenous communities in the United States and across the world. My colleagues and I proudly introduce this resolution to condemn systemic violence on the Garífuna people and ensure that the Honduran government and other complicit international institutions are held accountable.” “When I traveled to Honduras earlier this year, I saw firsthand the impact corporate interests and foreign governments have played in destabilizing the region. The indigenous Garífuna community in particular has experienced significant violence, land appropriation, and human rights abuses. Given our own history in the region, the United States must take an active role in ensuring that the rights of the Garifuna are protected—and support full accountability for past human rights abuses,” said Congresswoman Omar. “The Garífuna people have lived in what is now known as Honduras since the 1600s and have since endured human rights abuses, displacement, and violence. Over the years, Garífuna community leaders have been threatened, arrested, abducted, and even murdered. These abhorrent abuses cannot be tolerated,” said Congresswoman Schakowsky. “Today, threats against their land and people persist. I am proud to co-lead this resolution that not only calls for the implementation of the 2015 Inter-American Court judgment restoring land rights to Garífuna communities, but also calls on the Biden Administration to engage with the Honduran government to safeguard the Garífuna people, their land, and their culture.” “When I visited the Garifuna territory in Honduras last Spring, I was disturbed to learn about how our country’s policies and business practices are worsening conditions for Indigenous communities in Latin America,” said Congressman Bowman Ed.D. “Corporations and US-funded governments are degrading their environment, displacing Garifuna communities, and stoking violence. This is exploitation at the hands of Afro-Indigenous communities, and it must stop. The United States has an obligation to right these wrongs and support the human rights of the Garifuna people, which is why I am proud to join this resolution.” A copy of this resolution can be found HERE. A one-pager for this legislation can be found HERE. Specifically, this resolution: Condemns violence against the Garífuna people and the illegal separation from their legitimate land rights, and calls for the implementation of a 2015 Inter-American Court ruling restoring those land rights; Calls for the full participation of an independent commission created by Garífuna communities in the investigation of the four Garífuna men abducted in July 2020; Calls for a Special Prosecutor for Enforced Disappearances in Honduras; Calls for a review of past projects by multilateral development banks that may have contributed to violating the rights of the Garífuna people, and compliance with human rights law before the approval of projects that affect Garífuna communities; and Calls on the U.S. government to engage with the Honduran government and international allies and organizations to promote the rights of Garífuna communities and to advocate for reparations for affected communities. The territory that stretches along the Caribbean coast of Honduras is the ancestral home of the majority of the world’s Garífuna. The presence of vibrant Garífuna immigrant communities in the United States has been recorded by oral history and scholarly research since the early 20th century. In 2001, UNESCO issued a proclamation declaring the Garífuna language and culture a “Masterpiece of the Oral and Intangible Heritage of Humanity.” This resolution is endorsed by: Black Fraternal Organization of Honduras (OFRANEH), Witness for Peace Solidarity Collective (WfP-SC), Institute for Policy Studies - Global Economy Program, School of the Americas Watch (SOAW), Committee in Solidarity with the People of El Salvador (CISPES), Network in Solidarity with the People of Guatemala (NISGUA), and Honduras Solidarity Network (HSN). “Concerned about this alarming situation that threatens the future survival of the Garífuna people, we have called for solidarity to the world, allied organizations, individuals, and institutions. Specifically, to the people of the United States, who have expressed their solidarity and their support through letters to government officials, visits to our territory, and, today through a great act of solidarity and advocacy, a significant number of members of Congress of the U.S. House of Representatives, are preparing to circulate, present and discuss a Resolution to take urgent action on the difficult situation where the Garífuna people currently live,” said Miriam Miranda, General Coordinator of OFRANEH. “The recent violent eviction of the Garífuna community of Punta Gorda by U.S.-backed security forces is a reminder that the United States remains complicit in efforts to violently dispossess Indigenous communities in Honduras. We hope that the United States will demonstrate its solidarity with the Garífuna people by not only passing this Resolution but also by taking concrete steps to implement its recommendations,” said Allison Lira, Director, Honduras Program for the Witness for Peace Solidarity Collective. “OFRANEH and Garífuna communities have bravely defended their ancestral territories from internationally financed projects while facing systematic violence and racism, including from U.S.-funded security forces. Most recently on November 7th, 2022, Punta Gorda was violently evicted and six land defenders were arrested. The repression must stop, and international court sentences must be respected,” said Karen Spring, Co-Coordinator, Honduras Solidarity Network.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:32:05Z https://robinkelly.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-robin-kelly-honors-memory-sandy-hook-victims-ten-years-after-26,"Rep. Robin Kelly Honors the Memory of Sandy Hook Victims Ten Years After 26 Lives Were Lost to Gun Violence in Newtown, CT",2022-12-14,2022,2022-12,Democrat,House,IL,Robin L. Kelly,K000385,robinkelly.house.gov,robinkelly,https://robinkelly.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"Today, ten years ago, 26 people, including 20 young children, were murdered in their classrooms at Sandy Hook Elementary School. On this day, we are obligated to take the time to remember the lives that were tragically cut short by gun violence in a place meant to nurture and grow young minds. This terrible day united parents, teachers, communities and advocates in grief and in outrage. So many were left asking: how many more children will die because of gun violence before our leaders take meaningful action? “I am overcome by pain and grief as I look back on the last ten years. Many families in Newtown, Connecticut are still left with empty chairs at the dinner table. Thoughts and prayers are not enough to honor the memory of those children who were slain in their classroom. Every person senselessly murdered by gun violence is a failure of our elected leaders who sit back and do nothing but offer thoughts and prayers while they cash checks from the NRA,”said Rep. Robin Kelly. “I am in this fight because of the strength and resiliency of the parents who turned their unspeakable grief into action. I will never, ever stop fighting for continued common sense gun reform that will saves thousands of lives.” This year, Congress finally took a small step toward change by passing the Bipartisan Safer Communities Act. The first of its kind in nearly three decades. This bill will prevent guns from falling into the hands of criminals, require enhanced background checks for buyers under 21, and support mental health programs that will help to keep schools safe. This Bipartisan Safer Communities Act was a step in the right direction, but it is nowhere near what our country needs to combat the scourge of gun violence that senselessly claims innocent lives every single day. Congresswoman Robin Kelly has worked for years alongside survivors, parents and activists to push for legislation in Congress that meaningfully addresses this crisis. The Congresswomen is also a Co-Chair of the Gun Violence Prevention Task Force. In the 117th Congress alone, Congresswoman Kelly has sponsored five pieces of legislation to address this ongoing crisis: H.R.6225 - Federal Firearm Licensee Act This bill would strengthen language and modernize the way gun dealers obtain a federal firearm license. H.R.2280 - Prevent Gun Trafficking Act This bill would specify the prohibition of straw purchasing of firearms, making straw purchasing a federal crime. Similar language to this legislation was included in the Bipartisan Safer Communities Act H.R.882 - Keeping Guns from High-Risk Individuals Act This bill prohibits firearm purchases from individuals convicted of a violent crime, misdemeanor or domestic violence incident. H.R.881 - To require the Surgeon General of the Public Health Service to submit to Congress an annual report on the effects of gun violence on public health. This bill would require the Surgeon General to submit to Congress an annual report on the effects of gun violence on the public’s health. H.R.880 - Firearm Safety Act of 2021 This bill would remove the exclusion of pistols, revolvers and other firearms from the Consumer Product Safety Commission’s (CPSC) definition of “consumer product.” Congress must treat gun violence like the public health crisis that it is. That means approaching the issue holistically and addressing root causes so that the people most affected have more opportunities to live better lives. Congresswoman Kelly has continually pushed for policy solutions that create hope in our communities, so that young people pick up coding and construction skills instead of guns and bullets. In other communities, particularly rural communities, decades of declining economic opportunity and a historic level of farm bankruptcies are driving a suicide crisis that's quietly claiming the lives of many Americans and worsened by easy access to firearms. The 26 lives lost at Sandy Hook is a stain on our nation. We can never replace the lives that were lost on that day, but we can continue to take action now to prevent even more lives from being taken by guns in this country. Congress must find the courage to act. Congresswoman Robin Kelly will hold the memory of the 26 Sandy Hook victims with her every day and she continues to fight tirelessly for meaningful gun violence prevention legislation. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:32:05Z https://schakowsky.house.gov/media/press-releases/schakowsky-jayapal-espaillat-panetta-introduce-legislation-protect-immigrant,"Schakowsky, Jayapal, Espaillat, Panetta Introduce Legislation to Protect Immigrant Survivors of Domestic Violence",2022-12-14,2022,2022-12,Democrat,House,IL,Janice D. Schakowsky,S001145,schakowsky.house.gov,schakowsky,https://schakowsky.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON - U.S. Representative Jan Schakowsky (IL-09), a Senior Chief Deputy Whip and member of the Tom Lantos Human Rights Commission, introduced the Working for Immigrant Safety and Empowerment (WISE) Act, alongside U.S. Representatives Pramila Jayapal (WA-07), Adriano Espaillat (NY-13), and Jimmy Panetta (CA-20), which will protect immigrant survivors of domestic violence, human trafficking, and gender-based violence. The bill would ensure that immigrants have access to protections intended by the bipartisan Violence Against Women Act (VAWA), the Trafficking Victim Protection Act (TVPA), and other federal and state laws. The bill would also move to ensure survivors pursuing relief are not detained or deported before their applications are fully adjudicated. “Immigrant women faced with domestic violence make up one of the most vulnerable populations in this country. These women should not feel forced to stay in violent, life-threatening intimate partner relationships because of their tenuous immigration status,” said Congresswoman Jan Schakowsky. “I am proud to co-lead the WISE Act to help ensure that all victims of domestic violence, regardless of immigration status, have access to the public resources and support they need to escape abuse.” “Protections for survivors of crime goes beyond immigration—this is about the safety and well-being of communities and families across the country. Survivors of gender-based violence, child abuse, human trafficking, and crime must be able to come forward without fear to seek safety and we must provide them with the necessary support to leave abusive situations. With this bill, we are reiterating our commitment to protect immigrant survivors, to empower them to seek help, and to ensure their safety is not tied up with their ability to stay in this country,” said Congresswoman Pramila Jayapal. “Immigrant victims of domestic violence, trafficking, and gender-based assaults deserve protections regardless of their immigration status,” said Congressman Adriano Espaillat. “Immigrant survivors are less likely to report a crime in fear of detention and deportation, which makes them even more vulnerable to abuse and exploitation. These crimes are dehumanizing and reprehensible. We must do what it takes to ensure protections are in place and victims feel empowered to seek assistance. I am proud to join my colleagues in this effort to reaffirm our commitment to victims of violence when they need our help the most.” “Victims of crimes, documented or undocumented, deserve justice. However, in order to ensure that our justice system works for all victims and to hold perpetrators of crimes accountable, victims need to trust our justice system, cooperate with the police and prosecutors, and be assured that there will be no further harm incurred to them, including the threat of deportation. U and T Visas provide undocumented victims with the security to stay here and the confidence to work with and trust law enforcement so that they receive the assistance and justice that they deserve,” said Congressman Jimmy Panetta. “My Immigrant Witness and Victim Protection Act would expand the protections and increase the number of U and T Visas, and, ultimately, the trust of undocumented victims. I’m proud that my bill is included in the WISE Act and look forward to working with Representatives Jayapal, Schakowsky, and Espaillat to push the bill to become law, protect undocumented victims, and promote their cooperation with law enforcement so that our system of justice works for everybody in our communities.” Immigrant women and children are particularly vulnerable to domestic violence, and immigrant women face intimate partner violence at three times the national average. And while domestic violence remains a widely underreported issue, immigrant survivors of crime are less likely to report a crime committed against them due to fear of detention and deportation. The WISE Act would strengthen protections for immigrant survivors by: Eliminating arbitrary caps on the U Visa and Special Immigrant Juvenile Status (SIJS). Expanding qualifying crimes for the U Visa to include hate crimes, child abuse, and elder abuse as well as grant protections for abused children, stepchildren, spouses, and parents of immigrant survivors. Granting work authorization to survivors while their applications are pending. Prohibiting detention and deportation of immigrant survivors while their cases are pending. Limiting the use or disclosure of information pertaining to a pending immigrant survivor’s VAWA, T, U, or SIJ applications. Limiting immigration enforcement at certain protected locations including any domestic violence shelter, rape crisis center, supervised visitation center, family justice center, or victim services providers, among other locations. Ensuring survivors have the support necessary to thrive and reduce reliance on abusers by providing access to certain assistance, including Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF), Supplemental Security Income (SSI), Social Services Block Grant (SSBG), and Medicaid. Additional cosponsors of the legislation include U.S. Representatives: Nanette Diaz Barragán (CA-44), Earl Blumenauer (OR-03), Judy Chu (CA-27), Jesús “Chuy” García (IL-04), Sheila Jackson Lee (TX-18), Henry C. “Hank” Johnson, Jr. (GA-04), Barbara Lee (CA-13), Andy Levin (MI-09), Carolyn B. Maloney (NY-12), James P. McGovern (MA-02), Grace Meng (NY-06), Gwen Moore (WI-04), Jerrold Nadler (NY-10), Grace F. Napolitano (CA-32), Eleanor Holmes Norton (DC), Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (NY-14), Ilhan Omar (MN-05), and Rashida Tlaib (MI-13). ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:32:05Z https://casten.house.gov/media/press-releases/casten-debuts-new-hot-ferc-summer-hit-tune-work-rihanna,Casten Debuts New Hot FERC Summer Hit to the Tune of “Work” by Rihanna,2022-12-13,2022,2022-12,Democrat,House,IL,Sean Casten,C001117,casten.house.gov,casten,https://casten.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. — Today, U.S. Congressman Sean Casten (IL-06) revived his viral Hot FERC Summer campaign and unveiled his latest hit – to the tune of Rihanna’s hit single “Work” – to emphasize the importance of a fully staffed FERC and warn of impending gridlock. With current FERC Chairman Richard Glick’s term set to expire at the end of the year, Rep. Casten’s speech highlighted the danger of a deadlocked FERC and urged the White House and the Senate to be ready to speedily confirm a 5th FERC Commissioner at the start of the new Congress if Chairman Glick cannot be reconfirmed. “And now we’re on the verge of freezing again. This time because the Senate has failed to act to reconfirm Chairman Glick. Just at the moment when we need to expedite transmission permitting reform, to ensure cheap, reliable energy and fix power markets,” said Rep. Casten. “To my colleagues in the Senate, the eyes of the nation, and of this chamber are on you. We will never, no never neglect you. We do not hold your past against you. But you need to get this done done done done done done,” Rep. Casten continued. You can watch his full speech by clicking here. In July 2021, Rep. Casten declared the start of ""Hot FERC Summer"" with speeches inspired by Megan Thee Stallion's Hot Girl Summer and later Fergie's Fergalicious--leading his colleagues in a viral campaign to raise public awareness of FERC's crucial role in transitioning to a clean energy economy and urge President Biden to nominate a climate-focused 5th FERC commissioner with the urgency the Climate Crisis demands. Following Casten's FERCalicious speech in August, President Biden announced his nomination of Willie Phillips, Chairman of the District of Columbia Public Service Commission to FERC—a move that tipped the Commission Democrat for the first time in years. Rep. Casten concluded the inaugural Hot FERC Summer with “FERCin’ 9 to 5”. A full transcript of Rep. Casten’s speech can be found below. I rise today in recognition of the… work… we did to pass the Inflation Reduction Act – the single largest investment in climate action in American history. Thanks to the IRA, not only will we see expanded access to lower energy costs, but we’ll also lower emissions and give our children a better shot at an inhabitable planet. But if we’re going to build all that clean generation and connect it to all those new loads, from electric vehicles to heat pumps… we’re going to have to enhance our electric grid. And that’s not going to happen without an independent, fully staffed Federal Energy Regulatory Commission – or ‘FERC’ as they say in the streets. Now you all remember that last year, as we worked on what became the Inflation Reduction Act, the White House hadn’t acted to fill a vacancy and FERC was frozen into inaction. We needed a Hot FERC Summer, and this chamber - along with Megan Thee Stallion, Fergie and Dolly Parton - delivered. And now we’re on the verge of freezing again. This time because the Senate has failed to act to reconfirm Chairman Glick. Just at the moment when we need to expedite transmission permitting reform, to ensure cheap, reliable energy and fix power markets… FERC is again on the brink of being deadlocked. And so, with a little help from Rihanna this time, [LIFT SIGN] it is my duty to once again remind the Legislative Branch of our desperate need to FERC, FERC, FERC, FERC, FERC, FERC. Climate change is urgent. Capital markets are mobilizing in response to the Inflation Reduction Act. There is no time to have us lurking. To be blunt, Madame Chair, I do nuh like it, and you know I’ve dealt with it the nicest… but this delay is nuh righteous… and now we’re in a crisis. A deadlocked FERC could eliminate up to 80% of the emissions reductions created by the IRA. We need them working now to ensure that we can rapidly bolster interregional grid connections, shorten interconnection queues, and reform the siting and cost allocation processes that doom so many projects today. Sing with me, Madame Chair. We gotta FERC, FERC, FERC, FERC, FERC, FERC. To my colleagues in the Senate, the eyes of the nation, and of this chamber are on you. We will never, no never neglect you. We do not hold your past against you. But you need to get this done done done done done done. Our utilities, our electricians, our consumers and our planet believed you when you said that failure to ensure comprehensive permitting reform was “not an option”. But now they are asking whether you really believed that. Did you really mean it when you said you’d give them something that they’d never seen? Or are they right now when they cry that this is just a dream of something that you’ve never been? It is time for the Senate to give our energy markets reasons to believe in all their dreams, their adoration. They don’t have much more patience. We need them to Con-firm, firm, firm, firm, firm firm. A person who will work, work, work, work, work, work. To ensure that we can FERC, FERC, FERC, FERC, FERC, FERC. Madame Speaker, what else can I say? I’m tryin’, babe. Thank you and I yield back. # # #",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:32:05Z https://casten.house.gov/media/press-releases/casten-meng-introduce-bill-expand-access-menstrual-products,"Casten, Meng Introduce Bill to Expand Access to Menstrual Products",2022-12-13,2022,2022-12,Democrat,House,IL,Sean Casten,C001117,casten.house.gov,casten,https://casten.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"**FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE** Contact: Clare.Jennings@mail.house.gov Casten, Meng Introduce Bill to Expand Access to Menstrual Products Washington, D.C. (December 13th, 2022) - Today, Congressman Sean Casten (IL-06) and Congresswoman Grace Meng (NY-06) introduced the Period PROUD (Providing Resources to Our Underserved and Disadvantaged) Act of 2022 to expand accessibility to menstrual products for those with limited access. Menstrual products are often considered a luxury, with the cost averaging $13.25 a month, forcing many women to make difficult decisions such as choosing between sanitary pads or food. The Period PROUD Act would provide funding through the Social Services Block Grant program to remove cost barriers to menstrual products and educate school officials on how to best communicate with students in need of these products. “No one should be forced to choose between paying their bills or buying menstrual products,” said Rep. Casten. “The Period PROUD Act removes that cost-barrier for the 22 million women living in poverty and ensures that a period will never have to prevent someone from going to school or showing up to work. Menstruation is a natural process and the products it requires should be freely accessible.” “Menstrual products are a health care right and a human right and no one should have to choose between buying food or buying basic needs like menstrual products. That is why I have led the fight in Congress to combat period poverty and ensure women and girls have safe and affordable access to menstrual products through my Menstrual Equity for All Act,” said Congresswoman Grace Meng. “Period products are often classified as luxury products making them more expensive and often inaccessible to low-income individuals. The Period PROUD Act would provide funding to help remove cost barriers to menstrual products and I am proud to partner with Congressman Casten in the fight to end period poverty.” “Menstruation products should be free for everyone regardless of status, income, or religion. The Period PROUD Act of 2022 is essential to making this a reality in the United States,” said Christian Nunes, President of the National Organization for Women. “Removing the cost barriers around menstruation products and increasing accessibility affects us all, especially low-income communities. Menstruation products should not be a luxury for some because they are a necessity for all. It’s time to enact a policy like the Period PROUD Act of 2022 to guarantee it."" “I Support the Girls (ISTG) is thrilled to see the Period P.R.O.U.D. (Providing Resources to Our Underserved and Disadvantaged) Act being introduced, sponsored by Representatives Casten and Meng. Menstrual equity is so often ignored, but it crosses racial, social, and regional divides,” said Dana Marlowe, Executive Director of ISTG. “I am so pleased to see that this Act will combat period poverty and promote equity for menstruating individuals, will ensure equal opportunity to attend school or not miss work due to one's period. Ample access to period products also reduces the potential for health complications. We support this legislation and are excited to see it move forward.” ""Menstrual equity does not only impact those who menstruate, but has an impact on the overall health and strength of entire communities,” said Meghan Freebeck, Chief Executive Officer of Simply the Basics. “When basic needs are more accessible, we create greater opportunities for people in their education, employability, and overall wellness. Simply the Basics is built on the foundation that all of our basic hygiene needs should be equitable and accessible, and for that reason we are proud to endorse Period PROUD."" “Girls should never miss school because they can't afford period products. This initiative will be an important step in improving health, education, and opportunities,"" said Dr Stephanie Hull, President and CEO of Girls Inc. Current endorsing organizations: The Period Collective, #HappyPeriod, I Support the Girls, National Organization for Women, American Association of University Women Naperville IL Chapter, Girls Inc., Simply the Basics.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:32:05Z https://krishnamoorthi.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-krishnamoorthi-denounces-people-s-republic-china-s-violation-indian,Congressman Krishnamoorthi Denounces People’s Republic Of China’s Violation Of Indian Territory And Resulting Clash At The Border,2022-12-13,2022,2022-12,Democrat,House,IL,Raja Krishnamoorthi,K000391,krishnamoorthi.house.gov,krishnamoorthi,https://krishnamoorthi.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi issued the following statement in response to a new report of a clash last week between Indian and People's Republic of China (PRC) forces near the contested frontier of the two nations resulting from the PRC forces encroaching on Indian territory near the Yangtze river: ""I'm disturbed to learn of the latest show of aggression by the Chinese Communist Party through its violation of Indian territory with its armed forces. While I'm grateful that this clash led to no serious casualties to Indian forces, it serves as another reminder of the growing belligerence of the Chinese Communist Party and the need for the United States to continue to work with India and all our security partners in the region to counter Beijing's aggression.""",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:32:05Z https://krishnamoorthi.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-raja-krishnamoorthi-hails-us-department-energy-announcement,Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi Hails U.S. Department Of Energy Announcement Of Historic Fusion Energy Breakthrough,2022-12-13,2022,2022-12,Democrat,House,IL,Raja Krishnamoorthi,K000391,krishnamoorthi.house.gov,krishnamoorthi,https://krishnamoorthi.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi, co-founder and co-chair of the bipartisan Congressional Solar Caucus and a member of the bipartisan Fusion Energy Caucus, issued the following statement in response to the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) announcing the first ever meaningful net energy gain from a human-controlled fusion ignition and fusion energy reaction in a December 5th experiment at Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory's (LLNL) National Ignition Facility: ""For the first time, human beings have succeeded in igniting a human-controlled fusion energy reaction while generating a meaningful net energy gain through this experiment. While an initial breakthrough, the achievement of the scientists at the Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory is a potentially momentous step in the long path toward using fusion reactions to provide virtually unlimited, clean, inexpensive energy without emissions and environmental risks. This achievement is a testament to what can be achieved when American ingenuity and resources are deployed against even the most difficult of problems. While enormous work remains, the success of this experiment sends a clear message to every branch of our government for the need to help scale up research and development support for such technologies to set us on a new course toward our clean energy future.""",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:32:05Z https://schakowsky.house.gov/media/press-releases/schakowsky-reacts-musks-dissolution-twitter-trust-and-safety-council,Schakowsky Reacts to Musk’s Dissolution of Twitter Trust and Safety Council,2022-12-13,2022,2022-12,Democrat,House,IL,Janice D. Schakowsky,S001145,schakowsky.house.gov,schakowsky,https://schakowsky.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – Today, Congresswoman Jan Schakowsky (IL-09), a Senior Chief Deputy Whip and Chair of the Consumer Protection and Commerce Subcommittee of the Energy and Commerce Committee, released the following statement after Elon Musk dissolved Twitter’s Trust and Safety Council: “When he acquired Twitter, Elon Musk promised to eliminate bots, build a subscription service, and strictly enforce Twitter’s standards for illegal content. After only two months at the helm, it is clear he has failed in all three areas. “Making matters worse, Elon Musk is not stopping hate or violence on Twitter; he is causing it. Last night, Musk dissolved Twitter’s Trust and Safety Council. This followed his doxing of Twitter’s own employees in a failed attempt to show biased decision-making at the company. The Twitter Files are a dud. What they have actually shown is committed, thoughtful employees grappling with hard decisions. Musk’s doxing of these employees is the type of harassment that leads to potential acts of real-world violence. Some of the former employees have fled their homes and been subjected to a flood of online hate. Like Alex Jones targeting the Sandy Hook parents, Musk is putting real people in harm's way. And like Jones, he should face the consequences of his illegal actions.” ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:32:05Z https://schakowsky.house.gov/media/press-releases/schakowsky-shaheen-collins-lead-bipartisan-bicameral-bill-prevent-and-respond,"Schakowsky, Shaheen, Collins Lead Bipartisan, Bicameral Bill to Prevent and Respond to Gender-Based Violence Worldwide",2022-12-13,2022,2022-12,Democrat,House,IL,Janice D. Schakowsky,S001145,schakowsky.house.gov,schakowsky,https://schakowsky.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Text of bill (PDF) WASHINGTON - Congresswoman Jan Schakowsky, a Senior Chief Deputy Whip and member of the Tom Lantos Human Rights Commission, reintroduced the International Violence Against Women Act (IVAWA) with U.S. Senator Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH) and U.S. Senator Susan Collins (R-ME), which is bipartisan and bicameral legislation to ensure combating gender-based violence around the world remains a top diplomatic and development priority for the United States. The bill leverages existing U.S. resources to combat and respond to gender-based violence, a critical step toward promoting the human rights and dignity of all individuals as well as regional and global stability. Congresswoman Schakowsky first introduced this legislation in 2012. ""The United States has a duty to lead in advancing progress toward a future with less gender-based violence and greater equality around the world. The International Violence Against Women Act would guarantee we have a Gender-Based Violence Strategy that puts victims and survivors first,"" said Congresswoman Jan Schakowsky. ""By integrating the work of the State Department and the United States Agency for International Development, this bill would make the eradication of violence against women a central piece of the U.S. foreign policy agenda and ensure that gender-based violence prevention and response are included in all our humanitarian efforts around the globe. Women and girls around the globe need our assistance, and with this legislation, we have the opportunity to deliver."" ""Around the globe, in peace and in conflict, women experience horrific gender-based violence. Prioritizing the rights of women and girls is not only a moral imperative; it is an investment in our own national security and in peace and stability throughout the world. I’m proud to lead the International Violence Against Women Act with Senator Collins and Congresswoman Schakowsky to send a unified message from Congress that the United States must make preventing and stopping gender-based violence a top foreign policy issue,” said Senator Jeanne Shaheen. “Our legislation will ensure that the U.S. continues to take a leadership role in combatting violence against women and girls around the world. In addition to being a pressing human rights issue, such violence contributes to inequality and political instability, making it a security issue as well as a moral issue for us all,” said Senator Susan Collins. “I am committed to continuing to work with my colleagues to end violence against women and girls and to provide the assistance and resources necessary to achieve this goal.” Specifically, the International Violence Against Women Act would: Permanently establish the Office of Global Women's Issues in the U.S. Department of State to develop and implement a cohesive, cross-agency effort to advance the status of women and girls globally. Codify the Obama administration's Gender-Based Violence Strategy to ensure that victims and survivors of gender-based violence and harmful traditional practices around the world have better access to services, protection, and the justice they deserve. Update and enhance emergency response mechanisms for outbreaks of violence against women and girls abroad. Ensure that gender-based violence prevention and response are included in all U.S. humanitarian efforts. Focus current resources more efficiently and effectively. Violence against women is a global epidemic. According to the World Health Organization, one in three women around the world has experienced physical and/or sexual violence during her life. There are no social, geographic, economic, religious, or cultural boundaries to violence against women and girls. Addressing violence against women and girls improves not only their health and wellbeing but also social and economic outcomes. Furthermore, the United Nations estimates that 339 million people worldwide are in need of humanitarian assistance. Only a year ago, it was 274 million people. Global conflicts, the climate crisis, and the COVID-19 pandemic are leading to growing hardship. Gender-based violence, particularly against women and girls, is greatly exacerbated in humanitarian emergencies. In the House, IVAWA has 113 original cosponsors. The legislation is also supported by over 50 civil society organizations. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:32:05Z https://schneider.house.gov/media/press-releases/libertyville-1st-grader-designs-congressman-schneiders-2022-holiday-card,Libertyville 1st Grader Designs Congressman Schneider’s 2022 Holiday Card,2022-12-13,2022,2022-12,Democrat,House,IL,Bradley Scott Schneider,S001190,schneider.house.gov,schneider,https://schneider.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"LINCOLNSHIRE, Ill. — Congressman Brad Schneider (IL-10) today announced that Anvi Gupta, a 1st grader at Oak Grove Elementary School in Libertyville, designed the winning artwork for his 2022 office holiday card. Schneider asked for holiday card submissions from Tenth District students illustrating the theme “Home for the Holidays.” “Anvi’s beautiful artwork will be keeping me cozy by the fire this winter. As a bookworm myself, I am thrilled that ‘home for the holidays’ still means picking up a book by the fire for Tenth District first graders. May Anvi’s art help bring health, happiness and peace this holiday season,” said Schneider. Schneider will meet with Anvi and her family next week to congratulate her. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:32:05Z https://schneider.house.gov/media/press-releases/schneider-introduces-bipartisan-legislation-expand-professional-development-0,Schneider Introduces Bipartisan Legislation to Expand Professional Development Opportunities for Teachers,2022-12-13,2022,2022-12,Democrat,House,IL,Bradley Scott Schneider,S001190,schneider.house.gov,schneider,https://schneider.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Today, Congressman Brad Schneider (D-IL) introduced the Teachers Are Leaders Act (H.R. 9498) to expand professional development and leadership growth opportunities for teachers. U.S. Representatives David Trone (D-MD), Chuck Flesichmann (R-TN), Lauren Underwood (D-IL), and Brian Fitzpatrick (R-PA) joined Schneider to introduce this bipartisan bill. Under current law, the federal Teacher Quality Partnership (TQP) grant connects local schools with nearby colleges and universities to create professional development programs for new teachers. However, there are not enough opportunities for established teachers to develop leadership and peer mentoring skills that help retain teachers and boost student achievement. The Teachers Are Leaders Act would expand TQP grants by making ""teacher leader"" programs focused on professional development for established teachers eligible for funding. These programs would focus on peer coaching, family and community engagement, curriculum development, and other ways to make full use of their experience as educators and leaders in their community. ""Experience is often the best teacher, and that's true for our educators as well. Empowering established educators to be leaders and mentors for new teachers is an effective and smart way to retain a high-quality teaching workforce,"" said Schneider. ""Our bipartisan bill would create more opportunities for experienced teachers to grow as leaders in their own community, including expanding opportunities for them to mentor and share their best practices with new teachers. I am grateful to have strong bipartisan support from my colleagues for this legislation to help our teachers – and in turn, our students – succeed."" ""Teachers are shaping our future every day in the classroom. We ought to invest in our teachers by providing development opportunities to help them thrive as leaders in our communities,"" said Trone. ""By supporting our teachers, we are supporting a better education and stronger outcomes for our students. I'm happy to help introduce this bipartisan legislation that stands squarely behind our teachers."" ""It is vital that we provide teachers with professional development opportunities to improve teacher retention and create an extended network of support,"" said Fleischmann. I am proud to be a co-sponsor on a bipartisan bill that works to strengthen the teaching profession in schools across our nation."" “When teachers thrive, so do our students and communities,” said Underwood. “I’m pleased to join this bipartisan effort to equip teachers with the resources they need to succeed in and out of the classroom. The Teachers Are Leaders Act will bring more opportunities for teachers to develop their leadership skills and use their voices to strengthen the learning environment in their schools, a critical and often overlooked part of improving teacher retention and addressing our nation's growing educator shortage.” “Learning is not something that ends when you graduate from school; it is something that must continue throughout one’s professional career, including for those who are educating our children and will educate generations to come,” said Fitzpatrick. “The Teachers Are Leaders Act will provide essential professional development resources and leadership opportunities for the educators in our communities. I am proud to join my colleagues today in leading this bipartisan effort and to always advocate for our nation’s teachers.” Endorsing organizations of the bill include Third Way, National Association of Elementary School Principals, and National Association of Secondary School Principals. “Investing in teacher leadership is an important strategy for helping to retain our best educators, enhance the practice of fellow teachers, and boost learning in schools. We appreciate the introduction of this bill to expand the existing Teacher Quality Partnership (TQP) grants to include professional development programs for teacher leadership. Leveraging the wisdom and experience of accomplished teachers willing to take on leadership roles in schools is a win-win situation for the individual, the staff, the students, and the school. We want to thank Representative Schneider and the cosponsors who introduced this legislation to help enhance the teaching profession,"" said by L. Earl Franks, NAESP Executive Director. Lanae Erickson, Senior Vice President for Social Policy, Education & Politics at ThirdWay said, “By connecting experienced teachers with high-quality professional development opportunities, the Teachers are Leaders Act will create clear leadership pathways that empower and help retain teachers, strengthen school districts, and improve student outcomes. ThirdWay is proud to support this investment in our nation’s teachers and the students they serve.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:32:05Z https://davis.house.gov/media/davis-docket/davis-speaks-new-eighteen-year-old-mayor-earle-arkansas,Davis speaks with new eighteen-year-old Mayor of Earle Arkansas,2022-12-12,2022,2022-12,Democrat,House,IL,Danny K. Davis,D000096,davis.house.gov,davis,https://davis.house.gov/media,scraper,"It was my pleasure to speak with Mayor Jaylen Smith the youngest elected mayor in the United States. I enjoyed interacting with him, we exchanged personal telephone numbers and agreed to stay in touch. I explained to him that I grew up in a small town (Parkdale) in Arkansas and I have a great deal of interest in the state and feel a great sense of pride in his accomplishment and if I can be of any help to him or his town, just give me a call.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:32:05Z https://foster.house.gov/media/press-releases/foster-leger-fernandez-introduce-legislation-bolster-research-covid-19,"Foster, Leger Fernández Introduce Legislation to Bolster Research into COVID-19, Emerging Biothreats",2022-12-12,2022,2022-12,Democrat,House,IL,Bill Foster,F000454,foster.house.gov,foster,https://foster.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, DC – Today, Congressman Bill Foster (D-IL) and Congresswoman Teresa Leger Fernández (D-NM), the Democratic Co-Chairs of the National Labs Caucus, introduced the National Laboratory Biotechnology Research Act. This legislation would codify the National Virtual Biotechnology Laboratory (NVBL) as a joint program between the Office of Science, the National Nuclear Security Administration (NNSA), and the other National Laboratories, with a mission to research and respond to remaining threats posed by COVID-19 and future biological threats. The National Laboratory Biotechnology Research Act authorizes an increase of $20 million in NVBL funding over five years, and also directs the Department of Energy (DOE) to release a NVBL strategic plan and progress evaluation every two years. Founded in March 2020 in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, the NVBL is a consortium of all seventeen DOE National Laboratories, including those under the Office of Science and NNSA. The NVBL was initially funded by the CARES Act, but no longer has an independent funding stream, meaning the NVBL and its participating labs are at risk of losing funding. “The COVID-19 pandemic taught us that we must do everything in our power to prepare for the next public health threat,” said Rep. Foster. “Since its creation in 2020, the NVBL has played an instrumental role in the research needed to protect Americans against COVID-19 and other biological threats. This legislation would be an important first step in ensuring the NVBL is equipped with the resources and funding it needs to continue this lifesaving research.” “When the COVID-19 pandemic arrived, the scientists, engineers, and staff at our National Laboratories in New Mexico and across the country responded with ingenuity and innovation to protect Americans through the National Virtual Biotechnology Laboratory. I’m proud to co-lead with Congressman Foster the National Laboratory Biotechnology Research Act to help make sure that our scientists continue this important work to safeguard Americans from current and future public health threats,” said Rep. Leger Fernández. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:32:05Z https://krishnamoorthi.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-raja-krishnamoorthi-requests-information-department-homeland,Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi Requests Information From The Department Of Homeland Security On Surge In Antisemitic Online Content In Wake Of Twitter Moderation Changes And The Mainstream Exposure Of Antisemitic Ideology Through Public Figures,2022-12-12,2022,2022-12,Democrat,House,IL,Raja Krishnamoorthi,K000391,krishnamoorthi.house.gov,krishnamoorthi,https://krishnamoorthi.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – On Friday, Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi wrote to Secretary of Homeland Security Mayorkas requesting information on the apparent recent surge in antisemitic online content and rhetoric, even after the Anti-Defamation League's annual review for 2021 reported the highest number of antisemitic incidents in a single year since the organization began tracking them. Citing additional research charting increasing antisemitic activity on the platform in the wake of Elon Musk's Twitter takeover, due to reduced content moderation and allowing harmful extremist organizations back on the platform, Congressman Krishnamoorthi requested information on the Department of Homeland Security's own tracking of such hateful online activity as well as its correlation to violent crimes. Furthermore, the Congressman, noted the potential mainstreaming impact of the public attention drawn to related ideologies by the widely reported dinner former President Trump hosted at his Mar-a-Lago estate with West and noted white supremacist and Holocaust denier Nick Fuentes. In response to the recent surge in antisemitism and related news coverage, Congressman Krishnamoorthi requested the following information from the Department of Homeland Security by December 23rd: What measures currently exist at DHS to monitor the prevalence of online and media hate speech based on religion, race, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, and other target categories? Has DHS observed any increase in such activities since October, when Ye West began making his antisemitic public declarations and Elon Musk began to change Twitter's account and content policies? Has DHS discerned any shifts in recent years in the connections between online antisemitism, extremism, and hate speech, preceding violent crimes? Has DHS identified any distinct causes for surges in online antisemitism, vandalism, and assault reported by the ADL over the last several years?",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:32:05Z https://schneider.house.gov/media/press-releases/schneider-steel-lee-lead-bipartisan-push-extension-expiring-telehealth,"Schneider, Steel, Lee Lead Bipartisan Push for an Extension of Expiring Telehealth Flexibilities in an End-of-Year Package",2022-12-12,2022,2022-12,Democrat,House,IL,Bradley Scott Schneider,S001190,schneider.house.gov,schneider,https://schneider.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – Today, Congressman Brad Schneider (IL-10), along with Congresswoman Michelle Steel (CA-48) and Congresswoman Susie Lee (NV-3), led a bipartisan group of 30 Members of Congress in a letter asking House leadership to extend critical telehealth flexibilities expiring on December 31, 2022 and include the Primary and Virtual Care Affordability Act(H.R. 5541) and the Telehealth Expansion Act(H.R. 5981) in an end-of-year package. Congress first passed reforms expanding access to telehealth services as part of the CARES Act in 2020. Before the CARES Act, Americans with high-deductible health plans coupled with health savings accounts (HDHP-HSAs) had to meet the minimum deductible before their health plan could cover telehealth services. Section 3701 of the CARES Act waived this requirement through December 31, 2021, enabling health plans to offer telehealth pre-deductible. The provision was subsequently extended through the Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2022 (CAA). As a result, many plans and employers began covering telehealth services for individuals with these plans pre-deductible, expanding access to a range of affordable virtual care services for millions of U.S. workers, giving families without a car or who live far from medical facilities greater access to critical care. This flexibility faces yet another cliff on December 31, 2022, when it is set to expire unless Congress acts. The Primary and Virtual Care Affordability Act, led by Congressman Schneider and Congressman Brad Wenstrup (OH-2), would extend the telehealth flexibility for HDHPs with HSAs while also allowing insurance providers to cover primary care services pre-deductible. The Telehealth Expansion Act, led by Congresswoman Steel and Congresswoman Lee, would make the telehealth flexibility permanent. Signing the letter were Reps. Schneider, Steel, Lee, Bacon, Bera, Blumenauer, Boyle, Carbajal, Cole, Cuellar, D. Davis, DelBene, Fitzpatrick, Gottheimer, Y. Kim, Kuster, LaTurner, Manning, Miller-Meeks, O’Halleran, Owens, Panetta, Peltola, Plaskett, Sánchez, Sewell, Adrian Smith, Suozzi, G. Thompson, Titus. The full text of the letter is included below: Dear Madame Speaker and Leader McCarthy: We write to you regarding the importance of passing legislation that expands access to health care for millions of Americans. Specifically, we request that you include the bipartisan provisions of the Primary and Virtual Care Affordability Act (H.R. 5541) and the Telehealth Expansion Act (H.R. 5981) in the end of year package currently under consideration. In 2020, when the COVID-19 public health emergency highlighted the strains placed on our public health system, Congress stepped up to pass long needed reforms that expanded access to high-quality virtual care across the country as part of the bipartisan Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act. Prior to the CARES Act, Americans with high-deductible health plans coupled with Health Savings Accounts (HDHP-HSAs) had to meet the minimum deductible as stipulated by statute before their health plan could cover telehealth services. Section 3701 of the CARES Act waived this requirement through December 31, 2021, enabling health plans to offer telehealth pre-deductible. The provision was subsequently extended through the Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2022 (CAA), but faces yet another cliff on December 31, 2022. Because of congressional action, more than 80% of health insurance providers began covering telehealth services in HDHPs with no deductible, expanding access to a range of affordable virtual care services for millions of U.S. workers. Currently, more than 20 percent of the U.S. workforce and over 32 million Americans are enrolled in an HSA-qualified HDHP and the telehealth safe harbor is a lifeline for many of them. Families without access to a car, or who live far from medical facilities, or who are at high-risk because of the ongoing pandemic can utilize telehealth as their best option for receiving immediate non-emergency care. Access to telehealth has also provided a significant portion of the U.S. workforce relief at a time when household costs are rising. Telehealth has allowed families to avoid taking time off from work to travel to and from appointments, and timely care has helped prevent costly visits to urgent care or the emergency room. Unfortunately, those with a high deductible may decide to skip critical preventative services – including primary care and behavioral health services – if the deductible is not waived, often leading to poor health outcomes and more costly care down the line. We also saw confusion and disconnected patient care with the lapse of coverage from January – March 2022. This was especially noticeable with behavioral and mental health services. With the HDHP/HSA telehealth safe harbor set to expire on December 31st of this year, we ask that you take immediate action to ensure that American families maintain access to critical health care services on a pre-deductible basis. H.R. 5981 would make the successful telehealth flexibility initially provided under Section 3701 of the CARES Act permanent. H.R. 5541 would extend the telehealth safe harbor and would also allow HDHP first-dollar coverage for in-person primary care services, which ultimately lowers the cost of health care by avoiding unnecessary hospital and emergency room visits, preventing disease progression, and properly managing chronic conditions. These policies are popular among patients and plan sponsors in the commercial market. For example, a 2021 AHIP survey of health plans found that the top services most likely to improve patient satisfaction if covered pre-deductible for individuals with an HDHP-HSA were primary care visits (81 percent) and the permanent ability to offer telehealth services (64 percent). Giving plans the flexibility to cover both telehealth and in-person primary care services pre-deductible empowers the patient and their treating clinician to determine the most appropriate modality of care. This helps to avoid duplication or unnecessary utilization of care, improves health outcomes, and can ultimately lead to lower health care costs. For these reasons, the extension of this authority through the inclusion of H.R. 5541 and H.R. 5981 in end of year legislation is critical. We appreciate your consideration of these important, bipartisan pieces of legislation and your continued commitment to managing the ongoing pandemic and increasing health care access for all Americans. Sincerely,",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:32:05Z https://chuygarcia.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-garcia-s-statement-on-the-national-defense-authorization-act,Congressman García’s Statement on the National Defense Authorization Act,2022-12-09,2022,2022-12,Democrat,House,IL,"Jesús G. ""Chuy"" García",G000586,chuygarcia.house.gov,chuygarcia,https://chuygarcia.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Representative Jesús ""Chuy"" García (IL-04) issued the following statement after voting against the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA): “Each year since I was sworn into this office, Congress has broken the previous year’s record for military spending. This year is no different: the House just passed nearly a trillion dollars for weapons and military programs, at least a third of which will go directly to military contractors. “This bill fails to repeal dangerously open-ended war authorizations and expands our nuclear arsenal while doing little to promote oversight, accountability, or peace. It is void of efforts to address pressing national security concerns, like the climate crisis and public health. “With that said, I made sure my Ukraine Comprehensive Debt Payment Relief Act was added to this bill as an amendment. This amendment directs the U.S. Treasury to pursue comprehensive debt relief for Ukraine and supports multilateral economic support for refugees from Ukraine, including those of African descent. “I also fought for improvements to the Water Resources Development Act, which was included in the NDAA. These improvements will clean up waterways in our district, such as Bubbly Creek. They fund projects across Chicagoland like ecosystem restoration for Brandon Road Lock and Dam complex and Chicago shoreline improvements. “I am also happy to see that the Dirty Deal permitting package has not been included in the NDAA. Progressives led the fight against this fossil fuel handout, and we won.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:32:05Z https://chuygarcia.house.gov/media/press-releases/garcia-correa-espaillat-ask-dhs-to-reject-measures-that-continue-to-violate-protections-for-refugees-and-asylum-seekers,"García, Correa, Espaillat Ask DHS to Reject Measures that Continue to Violate Protections for Refugees and Asylum Seekers",2022-12-09,2022,2022-12,Democrat,House,IL,"Jesús G. ""Chuy"" García",G000586,chuygarcia.house.gov,chuygarcia,https://chuygarcia.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC - Representatives Jesús “Chuy” García (IL-04), Lou Correa (CA-46) and Adriano Espaillat (NY-13), joined by 18 Members of Congress, sent a letter to U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas urging the administration to reject any measures that continue violating protections for refugees and asylum seekers after the Title 42 policy ends. Title 42 is a public health statute imposed by the Trump administration to expel migrants to Mexico or their home countries without letting them seek asylum. On November 15, a federal judge issued a decision ending the use of the Title 42 policy and ordered the restoration of normal immigration law at the border. This letter follows comments from Secretary Mayorkas during a Senate Homeland Security and Government Affairs committee hearing, stating that DHS continues to explore ways to block Venezuelan migrants seeking to enter the United States, pushing them back to Mexico, after Title 42 ends. The legislators also call DHS to shift resources towards humane processing and away from punitive measures such as expedited removals, lateral repatriation flights, and immigration-related prosecutions. A copy of the letter can be found here. “For almost three years, the US government used Title 42 as an excuse to expel migrants and refugee seekers at the border, even when the CDC, public health, and immigration experts repeatedly condemned its use,” said Rep. García (IL-04). “As this racist policy comes to an end, we must ensure that our immigration policies respect human rights and recognize the dignity of all human beings seeking refuge and asylum. We urge the Biden administration to act in good faith and reject alternatives that rely on punitive and failed deterrent programs.” “Title 42 is about a health issue, and not about immigration policy. Our country needs to reform the immigration system and treat all immigrants with equality, respect, and fairness. Title 42 must not be used as an immigration tool. We cannot allow any further continuation of this policy by expanding detention,” said Rep. Lou Correa (CA-46). “We are pleased that the administration has decided to end the use of Title 42, however, we simply cannot replace one ill will policy with another,” said Rep. Adriano Espaillat (NY-13). “Immigration reform is no easy feat, and how we move forward today matters more than ever. We must not remove protections for asylum seekers here in our nation-- period. Title 42 is an inexcusable violation of US asylum law and we cannot turn our back on these families who need our support more than ever.” The letter was also signed by the following Members: Nanette Barragán (CA-44), Cori Bush (MO-01), Jamaal Bowman (NY-16), Joaquin Castro (TX-20), Yvette Clarke (NY-9), Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick (FL-20), Dwight Evans (PA-03), Sheila Jackson Lee (TX-18), Barbara Lee (CA-13), Jim McGovern (MA-2), Grace Meng (NY-6), Eleanor Holmes Norton (DC), Mike Quigley (IL-5), Jan Schakowsky (IL-9), Rashida Tlaib (MI-13), Juan Vargas (CA-51), Bonnie Watson Coleman (NJ-12), Pramila Jayapal (WA-07). Organizations endorsing this letter include: National Immigrant Justice Center, Metropolitan Family Services, Mujeres Latinas en Acción.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:32:05Z https://chuygarcia.house.gov/media/press-releases/garcia-correa-espaillat-piden-al-dhs-que-rechace-medidas-que-continuan-violando-protecciones-para-refugiados-y-solicitantes-de-asilo,"García, Correa, Espaillat piden al DHS que Rechace Medidas que Continúan Violando Protecciones para Refugiados y Solicitantes de Asilo",2022-12-09,2022,2022-12,Democrat,House,IL,"Jesús G. ""Chuy"" García",G000586,chuygarcia.house.gov,chuygarcia,https://chuygarcia.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC - Los congresistas Jesús “Chuy” García (IL-04), Lou Correa (CA-46) y Adriano Espaillat (NY-13), junto con 18 miembros del Congreso, enviaron una carta al Secretario del Departamento de Seguridad Nacional de EE. UU. (DHS, por sus siglas en inglés) Alejandro Mayorkas instando a la administración a rechazar cualquier medida que continúe violando las protecciones para refugiados y solicitantes de asilo después de que finalice la política del Título 42. El Título 42 es un estatuto de salud pública impuesto por la administración Trump para expulsar a los migrantes a México o a sus países de origen sin permitirles solicitar asilo. El 15 de noviembre, un juez federal emitió una decisión que puso fin al uso de la política del Título 42 y ordenó el restablecimiento de la ley de inmigración normal en la frontera. Esta carta da seguimiento a los comentarios del secretario Mayorkas durante una audiencia del Comité de Asuntos Gubernamentales y Seguridad Nacional del Senado, indicando que el DHS continúa explorando formas de bloquear a los migrantes venezolanos que buscan ingresar a los Estados Unidos, empujándolos de regreso a México, después de que termine el Título 42. Los legisladores también piden al DHS que canalice los recursos hacia el procesamiento de personas y se aleje de las medidas punitivas, como las deportaciones aceleradas, los vuelos laterales de repatriación y los enjuiciamientos relacionados con la inmigración. Una copia de la carta se puede encontrar aquí. “Durante casi tres años, el gobierno de los EE. UU. utilizó el Título 42 como una excusa para expulsar a los migrantes y solicitantes de refugio en la frontera, incluso cuando los expertos de CDC, salud pública e inmigración condenaron repetidamente su uso”, dijo el Congresista García (IL-04). “A medida que esta política racista llega a su fin, debemos asegurarnos de que nuestras políticas de inmigración respeten los derechos humanos y reconozcan la dignidad de todos los seres humanos que buscan refugio y asilo. Instamos a la administración de Biden a que actúe de buena fe y rechace las alternativas basadas en programas de disuasión punitivos y fallidos”. “El Título 42 se trata de un problema de salud y no de una política de inmigración. Nuestro país necesita reformar el sistema de inmigración y tratar a todos los inmigrantes con igualdad, respeto y justicia. El Título 42 no debe usarse como una herramienta de inmigración. No podemos permitir la continuación de esta política ampliando la detención”, dijo el Congresista Lou Correa (CA-46). “Nos complace que la administración haya decidido poner fin al uso del Título 42, sin embargo, simplemente no podemos reemplazar una política de mala voluntad con otra”, dijo el Congresista Adriano Espaillat (NY-13). “La reforma migratoria no es tarea fácil, y cómo avanzamos hoy es más importante que nunca. No debemos eliminar las protecciones para los solicitantes de asilo aquí en nuestra nación, punto. El Título 42 es una violación inexcusable de la ley de asilo de EE. UU. y no podemos darle la espalda a estas familias que necesitan nuestro apoyo más que nunca”. Los siguientes congresistas también firmaron la carta: Nanette Barragán (CA-44), Cori Bush (MO-01), Jamaal Bowman (NY-16), Joaquin Castro (TX-20), Yvette Clarke (NY-9), Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick (FL-20), Dwight Evans (PA-03), Sheila Jackson Lee (TX-18), Barbara Lee (CA-13), Jim McGovern (MA-2), Grace Meng (NY-6), Eleanor Holmes Norton (DC), Mike Quigley (IL-5), Jan Schakowsky (IL-9), Rashida Tlaib (MI-13), Juan Vargas (CA-51), Bonnie Watson Coleman (NJ-12), Pramila Jayapal (WA-07). Las organizaciones que respaldan esta carta incluyen: National Immigrant Justice Center, Metropolitan Family Services, Mujeres Latinas en Acción.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:32:05Z https://bost.house.gov/2022/12/bost-votes-to-strengthen-national-security-rescind-military-covid-19-vaccine-mandate,"BOST VOTES TO STRENGTHEN NATIONAL SECURITY, RESCIND MILITARY COVID-19 VACCINE MANDATE",2022-12-08,2022,2022-12,Republican,House,IL,Mike Bost,B001295,bost.house.gov,bost,https://bost.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Representative Mike Bost (IL-12) today voted for a House-approved defense authorization bill that terminates the Biden administration’s COVID-19 vaccinate mandate for military personnel. The Fiscal Year 2023 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) includes a 4.6% pay increase for servicemembers, as well as provisions championed by Bost to fund several important projects at Scott Air Force Base. “As a Marine and the representative for over 22,000 men and women who live or work at Scott Air Force Base, it’s a top priority of mine to ensure that our military men and women have the resources they need to successfully complete their mission,” said Bost. “I was proud to vote to provide them with a well-deserved pay raise and help protect them from being turned away or discharged from their service because of their vaccination status.” Key Provisions in the NDAA: Rescinds Biden’s COVID-19 vaccine mandate on servicemembers Authorizes a 4.6% pay increase for servicemembers and provides an additional $500 million for housing allowances to counteract inflation Reverses Biden’s cuts to our national security, restoring cuts to procurement, missile defense, and military construction Includes language that prohibits funds from being used to retire C-40 aircraft maintained at Scott Air Force Base Includes significant funding for Scott Air Force Base, including $19.8 million for Child Development Center construction, $2.5 million for the Maintenance and Hanger Shops, and $52 million for family housing ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:32:05Z https://casten.house.gov/media/press-releases/casten-votes-strengthen-national-security-0,Casten Votes to Strengthen National Security,2022-12-08,2022,2022-12,Democrat,House,IL,Sean Casten,C001117,casten.house.gov,casten,https://casten.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. Congressman Sean Casten (IL-06) voted to pass the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2023, bipartisan defense legislation that strengthens America’s security and meets the needs of our servicemembers, veterans and military families. ""I am proud to have voted to pass the NDAA, which makes essential investments in our service members, innovation and technology, and allied partners,” said Rep. Sean Casten. “We must do everything we can to support our servicemembers and their families who make countless sacrifices so we can enjoy our freedoms.” “When we invest in what makes America strong – from our technology to our alliances to our men and women in uniform – we make our nation safer and stronger. I’m pleased that this year’s NDAA also recognizes the threat that climate change poses to our national security, and takes action to reduce greenhouse gas emissions from our military– including provisions from the bill I introduced alongside Senator Tammy Duckworth and Representative Jason Crow, the Depend on Domestic (DOD) Clean Energy Act. The security of our country should not be a partisan issue and I'm pleased we have passed this necessary National Defense Authorization."" Key Provisions in NDAA for FY 2023 Supporting our servicemembers: Raises basic military pay for servicemembers. Adds funds to Basic Allowance for Housing. Expands options for childcare for our military families. Builds on efforts to address sexual harassment and assault in our armed forces. Supports suicide prevention and mental health services. Building national security resilience to climate change: Establishes a pilot program to expand other transaction authority for use on military installations to experiment with architecture and design methods for facilities to mitigate the effects of climate change and advance toward the DoD’s net-zero emissions goal. Establishes a prototype and demonstration program that designates installations as Energy Resilience Testbeds for the purpose of spurring innovation in energy resilience technologies. Establishes a pilot program for the use of sustainable aviation fuel within the DoD. Establishes a pilot program for the development of innovative electric vehicle charging infrastructure. Requires transition of DoD non-tactical vehicle fleets to electric or zero-emission vehicles by 2035. Requires the DoD to develop a policy for the recycling of spent advanced batteries. Requires the DoD to develop a plan for minimizing the impacts of the heat island effect on military installations. Requires the DoD to amend its building codes to consider the use of solar roofing in a building’s planning and design for the promotion of energy resiliency and grid support during energy disruptions. Continues efforts to address contamination associated around military installations and formerly used defense sites Investing in critical alliances and partnerships: More than $11 billion in funding for the Pacific Deterrence Initiative to carry out prioritized activities to enhance the United States’ deterrence and defense posture in the IndoPacific region, assure allies and partners, and increase capability and readiness in the Indo-Pacific region. Over $6 billion for the European Deterrence Initiative. $800 million in funding for the Ukraine Security Assistance Initiative (USAI), which provides support and assistance to the Ukrainian Armed Forces and requires a comprehensive assessment of the oversight framework for U.S. assistance to Ukraine, and reaffirms the US commitment to the Ukrainian people and opposition to Russia’s continued invasion. Expresses congressional support for the U.S. defense relationship with Taiwan, requires additional measures to improve readiness related to Taiwan, and supports the use of joint military exercises with Taiwan. # # #",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:32:05Z https://chuygarcia.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-garcia-joins-seiu-airport-service-workers-on-good-jobs-for-good-airports-day-of-action,"Congressman García Joins SEIU, Airport Service Workers on Good Jobs for Good Airports Day of Action",2022-12-08,2022,2022-12,Democrat,House,IL,"Jesús G. ""Chuy"" García",G000586,chuygarcia.house.gov,chuygarcia,https://chuygarcia.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC– Today, Congressman Jesús “Chuy'' García (IL-04), member of the House Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure and co-founder of the Future of Transportation Caucus, joined Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY), Senators Ed Markey (D-MA) and Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Rep. Eleanor Holmes Norton (D-DC), SEIU International President Mary Kay Henry, SEIU 32BJ, airport service workers, and other allies on the U.S. Capitol grounds to demand action on the Good Jobs for Good Airports Act. Following is Congressman García’s statement: “As a former Teamsters myself, I understand the persistent and ongoing challenges unions face to attain the dignity and respect their members deserve. Because of this — 7 months ago, I introduced a bill along with Rep. Holmes Norton, Senator Markey and Senator Blumenthal to improve the job quality for hundreds of thousands of airport service workers. “This bill would prevent ANY - small, medium, and large hub airports from accessing federal funds unless airport service workers get the pay they deserve. It’s time to get up and speak out against corporate greed. And it’s time for Congress to legislate against it. “This legislation is nothing short of life-changing for airport workers. Working people are the engines of our economy and they are rising up to demand the dignity and compensation they deserve for their essential labor. “It’s the holiday season and millions of people will be going through airports on the way to see family and friends, and airport workers will be going the extra mile making sure we all travel safely. Yet, these workers, many of whom are Latino and Black, receive poverty wages and are barely making ends meet. “We need to make sure airport workers nationwide get the same benefits and wages that workers fought for and won at Chicago’s airports and a number of others across the country. “Improving wages and benefits for frontline aviation workers would address issues across the industry such as high turnover rates, high occupational fatigue and stress, and persistent high overtime rates as a result of understaffing. In addition, this legislation will stabilize air travel by fixing staffing shortages, reducing turnover, and ensuring there is ample, trained staff driving a safe and secure aviation system.” During the Good Jobs for Good Airports National Day of Action, workers who clean planes, handle baggage, assist wheelchair passengers and keep airports running held events and public activities at more than 15 airports across the country. Pictures of the event can be found here.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:32:05Z https://chuygarcia.house.gov/media/press-releases/garcia-espaillat-correa-statement-on-sinema-tillis-compromise,"García, Espaillat, Correa Statement on Sinema-Tillis Compromise",2022-12-08,2022,2022-12,Democrat,House,IL,"Jesús G. ""Chuy"" García",G000586,chuygarcia.house.gov,chuygarcia,https://chuygarcia.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Representatives Jesús ""Chuy"" García (IL-04), Adriano Espaillat (NY-13), and Jose Luis Correa (CA-46), released the following statement regarding the Sinema-Tillis framework. “We appreciate the ongoing Senate negotiations and recognition to act on behalf of the nearly 2 million who are DACA recipients or migrants eligible for the program counting on us to ensure protections for Dreamers,” said the members. “It’s time for Congress to stop playing political games and move forward with meaningful and common sense immigration reform. However, we are deeply troubled by the Sinema-Tillis framework’s continued assault on asylum seekers. “Our nation has the moral and legal obligation to guarantee the right to seek asylum to individuals who arrive at our borders. The proposed plan would reinstate the Title 42 expulsion policy while significantly increasing funding for border security. It bolsters a deal to further militarize the border and lacks necessary accountability measures that comprehensive immigration reform would have delivered. In addition to border security funding, the Sinema-Tillis framework would also further expand the use of detention centers, which remain rife with abuse. It would lead to longer jail periods and extended time with limited access to legal counsel or due process. This inhumane proposal would also bar TPS recipients from receiving green cards. Finally, the current proposal creates a lifetime bar for individuals and their families to receive any immigration benefit, including asylum, and harsh sanctions for individuals who fail to appear in court regardless of their fear of persecution.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:32:05Z https://foster.house.gov/media/press-releases/foster-johnson-introduce-legislation-research-safer-materials-processing,"Foster, Johnson Introduce Legislation to Research Safer Materials Processing Technologies, Bolster Domestic Battery Supply Chain",2022-12-08,2022,2022-12,Democrat,House,IL,Bill Foster,F000454,foster.house.gov,foster,https://foster.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, DC – Today, Congressman Bill Foster (D-IL) and Chairwoman Eddie Bernice Johnson (D-TX) introduced the Critical Materials Processing Technology Testbed Act, legislation that would allow the Department of Energy to create a testbed to pilot and study new, safer materials processing technologies needed to bolster our battery supply chain. This testbed would aim to kick-start a domestic materials processing industry in the United States with a focus on environmental sustainability, energy efficiency, and minimizing resource intensiveness. “Now more than ever, there’s an increased demand to process the critical materials that are needed for computers, electric car batteries, solar panels, and more,” said Foster. “Currently, these materials are often processed by foreign industries which lack proper regulations to protect the environment and human health. A testbed managed by the Department of Energy would allow us to trial new technologies to help create a materials processing industry in the United States that protects our workers and the environment.” This legislation was inspired by a hearing Foster chaired in the House Science Subcommittee on Investigations and Oversight, which found that materials processing constitutes a major impediment to strengthening the domestic battery supply chain. A copy of the bill is available here. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:32:05Z https://foster.house.gov/media/press-releases/foster-statement-final-passage-historic-respect-marriage-act,Foster Statement on Final Passage of Historic Respect for Marriage Act,2022-12-08,2022,2022-12,Democrat,House,IL,Bill Foster,F000454,foster.house.gov,foster,https://foster.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, DC – Today, Congressman Bill Foster (D-IL) issued the following statement after the U.S. House of Representatives passed the Respect for Marriage Act to ensure critical protections for same-sex and interracial couples: “In their opinion overturning Roe v. Wade, the Trump-packed Supreme Court made it clear that they will soon target the fundamental right to marriage equality. I’m proud that House members from both parties came together to reject this regressive vision for our nation and voted to ensure that all Americans can continue to marry whom they love without discrimination. “The Respect for Marriage Act will enshrine protections for same-sex and interracial marriage into federal law and repeal the discriminatory Defense of Marriage Act. This legislation will also ensure every state respects the marriages performed in other states regardless of the couple’s genders or races. “I’m grateful to the bipartisan group of Senators who worked together to get us to this historic moment, and I look forward to President Biden signing this legislation into law.” ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:32:05Z https://krishnamoorthi.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-krishnamoorthi-receives-infrastructure-investment-and-jobs-safety,Congressman Krishnamoorthi Receives Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Safety Act HERO Award For Leading Efforts in Congress to Increase Motor Vehicle Safety,2022-12-08,2022,2022-12,Democrat,House,IL,Raja Krishnamoorthi,K000391,krishnamoorthi.house.gov,krishnamoorthi,https://krishnamoorthi.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – On Tuesday, Advocates for Highway and Auto Safety President Cathy Chase presented Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi with the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act Safety HERO Award for his leadership and contributions to ""make our nation's roadways safer for all"" at a reception in Washington, D.C. Since 1989, Advocates has been a critical partner in the effort to reduce vehicle crashes, save lives, and reduce injuries by supporting increased road safety measures. While serving as Chairman of the Oversight Subcommittee on Economic and Consumer Policy, Congressman Krishnamoorthi has been one of the leading advocates for road safety, uncovering potentially lethal misrepresentations in the booster seat industry, introducing legislation to end those dangers through comprehensive labeling and safety testing, and authoring the States Afforded Funding Extensions To Oppose Driving Recklessly In Vehicular Engagements (SAFE TO DRIVE) Act, which is already providing grants to states to save lives by expanding their programs to combat distracted driving through education and enforcement. ""I want to thank Advocates for Highway and Auto Safety for honoring me with the HERO Award and for their leadership in helping improve motor vehicle safety and saving lives,"" said Congressman Krishnamoorthi. ""Even with the progress we've made in improving the safety of our vehicles, roads, and highways, there is still more progress to be made. I'm grateful to receive this recognition for my work to combat distracted driving and improve the safety of the booster seats our children depend on, and I look forward to continuing my important work with Advocates for Highway and Auto Safety in the future. Image",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:32:05Z https://krishnamoorthi.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-raja-krishnamoorthi-hails-passage-bipartisan-respect-marriage-act,Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi Hails Passage Of The Bipartisan Respect For Marriage Act,2022-12-08,2022,2022-12,Democrat,House,IL,Raja Krishnamoorthi,K000391,krishnamoorthi.house.gov,krishnamoorthi,https://krishnamoorthi.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – Today, Congressman Krishnamoorthi issued the following statement following the House passage of the Respect for Marriage Act: ""I was proud to join my colleagues from both parties today in voting to pass the Respect for Marriage Act and to reaffirm the fundamental right to marry, ensuring that LGBTQ+ and interracial couples will never again need to fear that their government may not recognize their marriage. I urge President Biden to sign this legislation into law without delay as we together work toward a more inclusive, more equal, more just, and more perfect union.""",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:32:05Z https://krishnamoorthi.house.gov/media/press-releases/us-house-passes-bipartisan-national-defense-authorization-act-and-intelligence,U.S. House Passes Bipartisan National Defense Authorization Act And Intelligence Authorization Act With Key Provisions Led By Congressman Krishnamoorthi,2022-12-08,2022,2022-12,Democrat,House,IL,Raja Krishnamoorthi,K000391,krishnamoorthi.house.gov,krishnamoorthi,https://krishnamoorthi.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – Today, the U.S. House of Representatives passed the bipartisan National Defense Authorization Act, including the Intelligence Authorization Act, which included key provisions led by Congressman Krishnamoorthi and which will help prepare our nation to confront the security challenges posed by hostile powers including Vladimir Putin and the People's Republic of China. In the two bills, which authorize funding for the Department of Defense and U.S. Intelligence Community, respectively, Congressman Krishnamoorthi secured the inclusion of legislation he championed to improve the oversight of military aid to Ukraine, strengthen the pipeline preparing workers to support our intelligence community, address the global food crisis created by Putin's invasion, analyze the Kremlin's assets in the ""gray zone"" between war and peace, and combat the security risks posed by the Chinese Communist Party's investments in international port infrastructure. ""I was proud to join my colleagues from both parties in voting to pass the bipartisan National Defense Authorization Act and the bipartisan Intelligence Authorization Act to ensure our nation's security against hostile state and nonstate actors,"" said Congressman Krishnamoorthi. ""This legislation will strengthen our readiness to identify and meet all the threats facing our nation through key commitments including a pay raise for our servicemembers, substantial increases in scientific research and development, and strengthened commitments to our military families and supplying our troops in the field. I was also proud to have spearheaded a number of provisions incorporated into the legislation including measures to improve the tracking and efficiency of aid provided to Ukraine, to assess Russia's gray zone capabilities, to counter the Chinese Communist Party's potentially dangerous influence over global port infrastructure, and to ensure we're developing the American talent in STEM fields upon which so much of our security depends in a 21st century world.""",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:32:05Z https://lahood.house.gov/2022/12/lahood-supports-fy2023-national-defense-authorization-act,LaHood Supports FY2023 National Defense Authorization Act,2022-12-08,2022,2022-12,Republican,House,IL,Darin LaHood,L000585,lahood.house.gov,lahood,https://lahood.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – Congressman Darin LaHood (R-IL), a member of the House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence, today voted in support of the Fiscal Year 2023 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), which funds and supports our military and their families and included key conservative victories protecting our national security. The bill authorizes $858 billion for national defense, $45 billion above President Biden’s request – to ensure our military preparedness. It includes provisions that counter the increasing China threat, strengthen our nuclear deterrence, invest in our brave servicemembers, and address the impact of inflation on military families. The NDAA also includes the Fiscal Year 2023 Intelligence Authorization Act, which authorizes funds to support our Intelligence Community, broaden Congressional oversight, counter hard targets, protect the U.S. from counterintelligence threats, and enhance the Intelligence Community’s recruitment and adoption of emerging technologies. “The FY23 NDAA will make America safer, give our men and women in uniform the resources they need and deserve, and send a clear message to our adversaries around the globe,” said Rep. LaHood. “Republicans secured key victories in this year's NDAA, including ending the COVID-19 vaccine mandate on our Armed Forces, increasing funding to combat threats from China, Iran, and North Korea, and ensuring the National Guard has what it needs to secure our southern border. We face ever-evolving 21st-century threats and this bill makes certain that our military personnel are prepared with the resources, equipment, and support at home they need. It is a privilege to continue to support our brave men and women protecting and defending freedom and I was proud to support this bill.” Background and Key Provision in FY23 NDAA: The FY23 NDAA ends the harmful DOD vaccine mandate for active duty, reserve, and national guard personnel, preserving our military’s readiness and ensuring our troops will not continue to be discharged for refusing the COVID-19 vaccine. Calls for fair treatment of servicemembers who have already been discharged for failure to comply with the vaccine mandate, including thorough consideration of requests for reinstatement and correction of military records. Addresses the border crisis by fully funding the account supporting the National Guard’s border deployment. Supports a 4.6% pay raise for servicemembers and expands eligibility for Basic Needs Allowance to low-income servicemembers supporting a family. Includes record investments in emerging technologies like artificial intelligence, biotechnology, and quantum computing. Authorizes $11 billion for the Pacific Deterrence Initiative to counter rising Chinese aggression. Establishes a National Hypersonic Initiative to accelerate the development of hypersonic missiles, better equipping the U.S. to compete against our adversaries. Funds the nuclear sea-launched cruise missile (SLCM-N) that President Biden tried to cancel and prohibits reduction in the number of intercontinental ballistic missiles (ICBMs) or retirement of low-yield nuclear warheads.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:32:05Z https://marymiller.house.gov/media/press-releases/miller-votes-end-covid-vaccine-mandate-defense-authorization,Miller Votes to End COVID Vaccine Mandate in Defense Authorization,2022-12-08,2022,2022-12,Republican,House,IL,Mary E. Miller,M001211,marymiller.house.gov,marymiller,https://marymiller.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON - Congresswoman Mary Miller (R-IL) released the following statement on her vote for the National Defense Authorization Act: ""Today, we can celebrate that the Biden COVID vaccine mandate for our troops will finally end thanks to the hard work of a small group of conservatives who held the line on behalf of our armed forces,"" Miller said. ""From the moment Joe Biden implemented this detrimental mandate, which devastated military recruitment and morale, I promised the service members in my district that I would fight for a full repeal and oppose the Defense Authorization bill until it ended the COVID vaccine mandate. Many argued that Congress did not have the power to end the COVID vaccine mandate through the NDAA, but I held firm, and today, we are vindicated. Congress must now demand that every service member discharged over the vaccine mandate has the right to reinstatement. The end of this vaccine mandate will lead to the end of every unconstitutional and unjust COVID mandate, and House Republicans must investigate the corruption at the CDC and FDA when we take the majority next month!""",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:32:05Z https://quigley.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/quigley-celebrates-passage-respect-marriage-act,Quigley Celebrates the Passage of the Respect for Marriage Act,2022-12-08,2022,2022-12,Democrat,House,IL,Mike Quigley,Q000023,quigley.house.gov,quigley,https://quigley.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"Today, U.S. Representative Mike Quigley (IL-05), Vice-Chair of the Congressional LGBTQ+ Equality Caucus, released the following statement celebrating the passage of H.R. 8404, the Respect for Marriage Act. The Respect for Marriage Act repeals the discriminatory Defense of Marriage Act, protects marriage equality for federal purposes, and provides additional protections at the state level: ""As an early champion of marriage equality and full and complete LGBTQ+ rights, I applaud the passage of the Respect for Marriage Act. This legislation will go a long way in protecting the safeguards formerly established by the Supreme Court - constitutional rights enjoyed by millions of LGBT citizens and that reflect the core values held dear by the vast majority of Americans. No person should be told who they can or cannot marry based on sex, gender identity, or race. As we witness continued attacks against the LGBTQ community, we must do everything in our power to protect the community and their hard-won rights and stop those intent on destroying and devaluing these loving relationships.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:32:05Z https://robinkelly.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-robin-kelly-votes-pass-respect-marriage-act,Rep. Robin Kelly Votes to Pass the ‘Respect For Marriage Act’,2022-12-08,2022,2022-12,Democrat,House,IL,Robin L. Kelly,K000385,robinkelly.house.gov,robinkelly,https://robinkelly.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"Today, Rep. Robin L. Kelly (IL-02) voted to pass the ‘Respect for Marriage Act,’ codifying the rights of same-sex couples to marry into federal law. The legislation now goes to President Biden’s desk for signature. After a series of decisions by the Supreme Court to roll back fundamental rights, especially the right to an abortion, Democrats acted swiftly to protect hard-fought freedoms. The right of all people, no matter who they love, to marry is under attack. Representative Robin Kelly has been a steadfast supporter of marriage equality and has continued to proudly support Congressional efforts to safeguard this right.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:32:05Z https://schakowsky.house.gov/media/press-releases/schakowsky-celebrates-passage-respect-marriage-act,Schakowsky Celebrates Passage of Respect for Marriage Act,2022-12-08,2022,2022-12,Democrat,House,IL,Janice D. Schakowsky,S001145,schakowsky.house.gov,schakowsky,https://schakowsky.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – Today, Congresswoman Jan Schakowsky (IL-09), a Senior Chief Deputy Whip and Chair of the Consumer Protection and Commerce Subcommittee of the Energy and Commerce Committee, released the following statement following House and Senate passage of the Respect for Marriage Act: “Seven years ago, love won. The Supreme Court of the United States ruled that the fundamental right to marriage is guaranteed to same-sex couples. “But, in recent years, this sacred right, along with many others, have come under attack by the extreme right-wing Justices of the Supreme Court. “Earlier this summer, the rogue Court broke long-standing precedent and stripped bodily autonomy away from millions of Americans with its disgraceful decision to overturn Roe v. Wade. In his concurring opinion, Justice Clarence Thomas said the court should reconsider marriage equality, putting in danger the millions of legal same-sex marriages across the country. “With today’s passage of the Respect for Marriage Act, states will be required to recognize same-sex marriages, so long as they are valid in the state where they were performed. It also repeals the harmful and disgraceful Defense of Marriage Act, which said that marriage should be between one man and one woman. “I am thrilled that the Respect for Marriage Act now heads to President Biden’s desk to be signed into law. “While we celebrate the passage of this momentous bill, we recognize that our work continues to ensure everyone in our LGBTQ+ communities can live authentically and free from hate and discrimination. As the proud grandmother of LGBTQ+ grandchildren, I will not stop fighting until everyone is accepted for who they are.” ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:32:05Z https://schakowsky.house.gov/media/press-releases/schakowsky-statement-voting-against-national-defense-authorization-act-fiscal,Schakowsky Statement on Voting Against the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2023,2022-12-08,2022,2022-12,Democrat,House,IL,Janice D. Schakowsky,S001145,schakowsky.house.gov,schakowsky,https://schakowsky.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – Today, Congresswoman Jan Schakowsky (IL-09), a Senior Chief Deputy Whip and Chair of the Consumer Protection and Commerce Subcommittee of the Energy and Commerce Committee, released the following statement after voting against H.R. 7776, the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2023: “Today, I voted against final passage of the Fiscal Year 2023 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA). While I supported several positive components of this legislation, I could not in good conscience vote for the bill in its entirety. The FY 2023 NDAA authorizes a historically high $847 billion in new defense spending – an increase of nearly $80 billion over last year’s authorization, $45 billion above what the Administration requested, and far higher than either the House Armed Services Committee or the Senate Armed Services Committee recommended earlier this year. “The FY 2023 NDAA also fails to suspend unnecessary and dangerous nuclear programs that the President explicitly rejected. It fails to curb the 1033 program, which provides military equipment to domestic law enforcement agencies at free or discounted rates, and it does not include critical provisions that reassert Congress’s constitutional authority over war and peace. It failed to repeal the 2002 Authorization for Use of Military Force against Iraq, despite having a majority of support to repeal in both the House and Senate. Finally, it failed to include my labor neutrality amendment that passed the House earlier this year, which would have given preference to DOD contractors that enter into neutrality agreements with unions. It is clearer than ever that this is needed as DOD just granted a huge cloud computing contract to Amazon, a company notorious for union-busting. “Unfortunately, this legislation does not reflect the best interests of our nation at this moment in time. Our greatest security threats have no military solutions, and it is time our budget reflects that. Instead of giving the Pentagon $45 billion it did not ask for, we should make the investments in health care, education, housing, public transit, and the environment that Americans deserve. That is why I ultimately could not support the FY 2023 NDAA’s passage.” ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:32:05Z https://schneider.house.gov/media/press-releases/schneider-combats-iranian-aggression-climate-crisis-national-defense,"Schneider Combats Iranian Aggression, Climate Crisis in National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA)",2022-12-08,2022,2022-12,Democrat,House,IL,Bradley Scott Schneider,S001190,schneider.house.gov,schneider,https://schneider.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON— Today, the U.S. House of Representatives passed the Fiscal Year 2023 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA). The bill included language from Schneider’s efforts to combat Iranian aggression and expanded the use of sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) within the Department of Defense (DOD) to reduce America’s carbon footprint. ""I was proud to help pass the 2023 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA). The NDAA demonstrates Congress's bipartisan commitment to national security and our servicemembers and their families who serve and sacrifice in defense of our country. The priorities encoded in the NDAA reflect the shared values of our nation, including promoting global security, fighting climate change, and supporting our servicemembers with a raise,"" Schneider said. Schneider introduced the DEFEND Act in June, 2022. The NDAA would establish an integrated strategy with allies and partners in the Middle East for developing the defense capabilities to avert Iranian missile and drone attacks, as outlined in the DEFEND Act. Schneider also introduced a bipartisan amendment with Rep. Chuck Fleischmann (TN-03) reaffirming Congress’s commitment to ensuring Iran will never acquire a nuclear weapon and condemning Iran’s lack of transparency and cooperation with the International Atomic Energy Agency, which safeguards nuclear material around the globe. The amendment was included in the final text of the NDAA. Schneider introduced the Sustainable Skies Act in May, 2021. The language was adopted in the Inflation Reduction Act. Now, the NDAA will establish a pilot program for the deployment of SAF at select DOD facilities around the country, which would exclusively use jet fuel blended with at least 10% SAF. DOD would then study the implementation and challenges of SAF at these facilities to develop broader use of SAF within the military. Schneider, along with Reps. Mike Quigley and Jan Schakowsky, also successfully secured the inclusion of Lake County as a “Section 219” geographic area within the Water Resources Development Act, which was legislation included within the NDAA. Including Lake County as a Sec. 219 geographic area expands the environmental infrastructure-related authorities and assistance that the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers can provide the community to better manage flooding, storm water, and other challenges. Additionally, this year’s NDAA gave a 4.6% pay raise for servicemembers, protected servicemembers’ right to travel to access legal abortion, and secured significant investments in clean energy through solar and electric technologies.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:32:05Z https://schneider.house.gov/media/press-releases/schneider-protects-marriage-equality-house-passes-respect-marriage-act,Schneider Protects Marriage Equality as House Passes Respect for Marriage Act,2022-12-08,2022,2022-12,Democrat,House,IL,Bradley Scott Schneider,S001190,schneider.house.gov,schneider,https://schneider.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON— Today, Congressman Brad Schneider (IL-10) voted to send the Respect for Marriage Act to President Biden’s desk. This landmark legislation takes several key steps to defend marriage equality: officially repealing the bigoted and unconstitutional “Defense of Marriage Act” (DOMA), upholding couples’ right to equal protection under federal law and requiring states to recognize valid out-of-state marriages. ""Simply put, the government has no business excluding certain couples from the protections afforded by marriage. Love is love, and the Respect for Marriage Act will codify protections for the marriages of LGBTQ+ couples that have been explicitly threatened by members of the Supreme Court.,"" Schneider said. The Respect for Marriage Act will take several steps to protect the inviolability of same-sex and interracial marriages: Repealing the “Defense of Marriage Act”: While the Supreme Court has effectively voided DOMA, this unconstitutional and discriminatory federal law still remains on the books. The Respect for Marriage Act will repeal this statute once and for all. Enshrining Marriage Equality Into Federal Law: This legislation will uphold married couples’ right to equal protection in all areas covered under federal law, such as Social Security, tax filings and veterans’ benefits. Barring Discrimination By State Officials: This legislation prohibits state officials from denying recognition of an out-of-state marriage on the basis of sex, race, ethnicity or national origin. Previously passed by the House earlier this year, the Respect for Marriage Act was amended and advanced by the Senate last week. With today’s vote in the House, the final bill now heads to the President’s desk for his signature. The Respect for Marriage Act is strongly supported by leading advocacy organizations, including the ACLU, Center for American Progress, Equality Federation, Family Equality, Freedom for All Americans, GLAD, Human Rights Campaign, Lambda Legal, National Black Justice Coalition, National Center for Lesbian Rights, National Women’s Law Center and PFLAG.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:32:05Z https://foster.house.gov/media/press-releases/foster-durbin-duckworth-applaud-final-passage-bill-rename-will-county-post,"Foster, Durbin, Duckworth Applaud Final Passage of Bill to Rename Will County Post Office in Honor of Larry Walsh, Sr.",2022-12-07,2022,2022-12,Democrat,House,IL,Bill Foster,F000454,foster.house.gov,foster,https://foster.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, DC – Today, Congressman Bill Foster (D-IL) and U.S. Senators Dick Durbin (D-IL) and Tammy Duckworth (D-IL) applauded last night’s Senate passage of H.R. 700, legislation to rename the U.S. Post Office facility located at 303 E. Mississippi Ave. in Elwood, Illinois, after former Will County Executive Lawrence M. “Larry” Walsh, Sr. The bill will now head to President Biden’s desk for his signature. A longtime farmer, Walsh began his political career in 1970, at the age of 21, when he was elected to the Elwood School Board. Three years later, he was elected as Jackson Township Supervisor and served in the position until December 2004. During his career, he also served on the Will County Board in 1974 and 1992, and in the Illinois State Senate from April 1997 to 2005. He finished out his tenure in public service as Will County Executive. “I was proud to get this legislation passed in the House, and I’m grateful to Senators Durbin and Duckworth for getting it passed in the Senate and sent to President Biden’s desk,” said Foster. “Larry Walsh’s passion for public service and dedication to his neighbors was apparent every time I met with him, and I know his legacy will serve as an inspiration to many. Simply put, Will County is a far better place today because of the decades of work Larry did to strengthen Will County communities. It is a fitting tribute to Larry that the post office in his hometown of Elwood will bear his name.” “Larry devoted 50 years of his life to serving ‘the folks’ back home. He was a bridge-builder with inexhaustible patience. No matter where he served, he was committed to finding common ground with his colleagues to make government work for the people,” said Durbin. “As a shining example of what a public servant should be, his legacy deserves to be honored. I’m looking forward to visiting the Larry Walsh Post Office in Elwood.” “Larry Walsh Sr. was a true public servant who selflessly served the people of Illinois for decades,” said Duckworth. “I'm glad this legislation passed and is heading to President Biden’s desk so we can finally memorialize Larry’s memory and commitment to Illinoisans.” ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:32:05Z https://krishnamoorthi.house.gov/media/press-releases/reps-krishnamoorthi-schiff-and-speier-house-intelligence-committee-request,"Reps. Krishnamoorthi, Schiff, and Speier Of The House Intelligence Committee Request Information From Twitter On Potential PRC Involvement in Platform Manipulation Campaign During Protests",2022-12-07,2022,2022-12,Democrat,House,IL,Raja Krishnamoorthi,K000391,krishnamoorthi.house.gov,krishnamoorthi,https://krishnamoorthi.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – Last night, Reps. Raja Krishnamoorthi (IL-08), Adam Schiff (CA-28), and Jackie Speier (CA-14) of the House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence wrote to Twitter CEO Elon Musk regarding the possibility that the People's Republic of China (PRC) may have used a network platform manipulation campaign on Twitter that restricted access to news about the protests in the PRC. Citing their concerns about the potential impacts of PRC's growing cyber capabilities, including foreign malign influence operations, on American national security interests at home and abroad, the members requested information regarding the recent malicious activity, include any indications whether this activity was directed by the PRC, as well as Twitter's own capabilities for detecting and identifying such activity. ""As you are aware, Chinese protestors took to the streets of several major cities and university campuses last week after a fire killed 10 people and injured nine in Urumqi, the capital of the Xinjiang region, on November 24,"" the Intelligence Committee members wrote. ""Thousands of protestors across China blamed the PRC's strict coronavirus lockdown measures for delaying the firefighters' arrival and called for an end to the restrictions. As the demonstrations spread to major cities and protestors began to demand political freedoms as well, CCP authorities violently cracked down on the protests, reportedly beating, dragging, and pushing protestors."" ""Video evidence of these confrontations, however, was suppressed online,"" they continued. ""CCP censors scrubbed them from the internet in China, and on Sunday, November 27, numerous Chinese-language accounts and bots spammed Twitter with links to escort services alongside city names in what researchers believe was an effort to suppress news regarding the widespread protests. For hours, searches on Twitter for information about the protests in the PRC were filled with spam and useless tweets, while Twitter's reduced staff reportedly worked to resolve the information campaign."" Citing the National Intelligence Council's recently declassified assessment on ""Cyber Operations Enabling Expansive Digital Authoritarianism"" which reported that ""China leads the world in using digital tools… to repress internal dissent"" and ""builds on its success at domestic repression when it conducts cyber operations in other countries,"" the three members requested answers to the following questions by December 31st in order to better understand the extent of the PRC's potential manipulation of Twitter and identify how recent changes at Twitter are affecting the threat of CCP foreign influence operations on social media: Has Twitter had any indication that the obstruction of access to Tweets on recent demonstrations in the People's Republic of China was state-led? Does Twitter have any evidence on its platform of efforts by the People's Republic of China or any other state actors to deliberately suppress access to information through the use of bots or other manipulations? Does Twitter currently have the capacity to identify largescale misinformation, disinformation, and information suppression on its platform as it occurs? Given Twitter's emphasis on free speech, what measures are in place or underway to block efforts to prevent access to information through the network?",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:32:05Z https://quigley.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/quigley-statement-senate-passage-big-cat-public-safety-act,Quigley Statement on Senate Passage of Big Cat Public Safety Act,2022-12-07,2022,2022-12,Democrat,House,IL,Mike Quigley,Q000023,quigley.house.gov,quigley,https://quigley.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"Today U.S. Representative Mike Quigley (IL-05), the lead sponsor of the Big Cat Public Safety Act, released a statement applauding the Senate's unanimous passage of the bipartisan legislation. ""This bill has been one of the most important projects during my time in Congress. Since 2019, we have been working on this legislation and last night, I was so proud to see the Senate push it across the finish line. I believe in this bill, as do countless animal rights groups and law enforcement agencies who will benefit from its passage,"" said Quigley. ""For too long, lax laws have allowed private citizens to own big cats. Big cats are wild creatures—they should not be subjected to a life of confinement, where they are used and abused for entertainment purposes. Additionally, the possibility of one of these cats escaping, will no longer loom over our communities and first responders. These cats will be safer, and so will we. I look forward to President Biden signing this bill into law."" ""Passage of the Big Cat Public Safety Act addresses a reckless cruelty that has festered for years. For too long tiger cubs have been exploited by ""pay to play"" operators like Joe Exotic and Doc Antle who profited from charging people for photo ops of their children holding these potentially dangerous wild animals. Since 1990, more than 400 incidents involving captive big cats have occurred in 46 states and the District of Columbia. Five children and 19 adults have been killed and hundreds of others injured, some losing limbs or suffering other traumatic injuries,"" said Sara Amundson, President of the Humane Society Legislative Fund. ""The bill's enactment stops what was an endless cycle of exploiting and mistreating big cat cubs, who were dumped after they grew too large for photo ops. The legislation's lead sponsors Sen. Richard Blumenthal, Sen. Susan Collins, Rep. Mike Quigley, and Rep. Brian Fitzpatrick rightly saw this as a public safety threat and a gross cruelty. We urge President Biden to sign the bill without delay."" ""Following the Senate's historic approval of the Big Cat Public Safety Act, this essential legislation is finally very close to becoming law,"" said Susan Millward, Executive Director of AWI. ""We must end the exploitative and dangerous trade in pet big cats, and ensure that no more cubs are ripped from their mothers at birth to be traumatized for profit. I thank the sponsors for their tireless work to pass this bill and advance protections for captive big cats in the United States."" ""This momentous success is thanks to a long-fought battle by numerous organizations, individual advocates, and tireless wildlife champions in the House and Senate. Born Free USA has been advocating for this bill since it was first introduced in 2012, and we have worked diligently since then to see it through the legislative process,"" said Angela Grimes, CEO of Born Free USA. ""We are immensely grateful to Sens. Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Susan Collins (R-ME), Tom Carper (D-DE), and Richard Burr (R-NC), as well as the House sponsors, Rep. Mike Quigley (D-IL) and Rep. Brian Fitzpatrick (R-PA), for their unshakeable commitment to protecting both future generations of big cats, as well as the public and first responders from the serious risk of injury these dangerous animals pose when kept irresponsibly in private hands. To say we are delighted with today's news is an understatement."" ""I would like to thank Representative Quigley and his staff for taking the lead on this bill and for their tireless work for years to get this bill passed into law. The law will save from mistreatment thousands of big cats who would have been born into the abusive cub petting trade and then would have ended up in miserable conditions in backyards. It will also avoid putting first responders put into danger because now they will at least know where big cats are kept in their communities,"" said Carole Baskin, CEO of Big Cat Rescue. Representative Quigley previously introduced the Big Cat Public Safety Act in 2019, and it successfully passed out of the House of Representatives in December 2020. Unfortunately, the legislation did not receive a vote in the Senate, prompting Rep. Quigley to reintroduce this bill once again during the 117th Congress. The bill then passed the full House earlier this year. The Big Cat Public Safety Act will now head to President Biden's desk for signature.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:32:05Z https://schakowsky.house.gov/media/press-releases/schakowsky-bipartisan-ec-leaders-voice-concern-over-ticketmasters-handling,"Schakowsky, Bipartisan E&C Leaders Voice Concern Over Ticketmaster's Handling of Ticket Sales for Taylor Swift's Upcoming Tour",2022-12-07,2022,2022-12,Democrat,House,IL,Janice D. Schakowsky,S001145,schakowsky.house.gov,schakowsky,https://schakowsky.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Text of letter (PDF) WASHINGTON - A bipartisan group of Energy and Commerce Committee leaders – including Congresswoman Jan Schakowsky, a Senior Chief Deputy Whip and Chair of the Consumer Protection and Commerce Subcommittee of the Energy and Commerce Committee – wrote to the CEO of Ticketmaster’s parent company Live Nation Entertainment, Inc. raising concerns about potentially unfair or deceptive practices in the live ticketing industry and the chaotic ticket pre-sale for Taylor Swift’s upcoming concert tour. The Committee leaders requested a staff briefing from the company on the key areas of concern. “The Energy and Commerce Committee has previously raised concerns about business practices in the live ticketing industry,” wrote the lawmakers. “The recent pre-sale ticketing process for Taylor Swift’s upcoming Eras tour – in which millions of fans endured delays, lockouts, and competition with aggressive scammers, scalpers, and bots – raises concerns over the potential unfair and deceptive practices that face consumers and eventgoers.” In addition to Schakowsky, the letter was signed by U.S. Reps. Frank Pallone, Jr. (D-NJ), Cathy McMorris Rodgers (R-WA), Diana DeGette (D-CO), Morgan Griffith (R-VA), and Gus Bilirakis (R-FL). In 2019, the Energy and Commerce Committee launched a bipartisan investigation into allegations of unfair and deceptive practices in the live event ticketing industry. In February 2020, the Committee held a hearing with industry leaders including then Ticketmaster North America President Amy Howe, where she testified, “[Ticketmaster] is thoroughly committed to business practices that promote transparency, deter deceptive practices, and provide customers with the ability to enjoy a concert, show, or game.” The Committee leaders noted that the circumstances surrounding ticket sales for Swift’s upcoming tour as well as other recent major tour ticket sales cast serious doubt on those commitments. “To better understand the obstacles consumers have recently faced and to hear an update on actions the company has taken to maximize the experiences of average consumers, we request a committee staff briefing with your company,” concluded the lawmakers. “This should include a discussion on additional fees, insider reserves, dynamic pricing, restrictions on transferability, limited ticket availability, speculative ticketing, verified fan program requirements, and scalping by bots and other scammers.” ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:32:05Z https://casten.house.gov/media/press-releases/casten-8-colleagues-call-funding-address-grid-transformer-shortages,"Casten, 8 Colleagues Call for Funding to Address Grid Transformer Shortages",2022-12-06,2022,2022-12,Democrat,House,IL,Sean Casten,C001117,casten.house.gov,casten,https://casten.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. — U.S. Congressman Sean Casten (IL-06) led 8 of his colleagues in a letter urging the Chairs and Ranking Members of the House and Senate Appropriation Committees to include $2.1 billion in Disaster Supplemental Funding to address the severe and ongoing supply shortage of electrical transformers and complementary grid security technologies through the Defense Production Act (DPA). “From our ability to protect against cyber-attacks, intentional electromagnetic pulse (EMP) attacks or a naturally occurring geomagnetic disturbance, to our capacity to respond to foreign supply-chain disruptions, the current shortage puts America’s national security at risk, weakens the resilience of our electrical grid, and jeopardizes our decarbonization goals,” the lawmakers wrote. In addition to Rep. Casten, the letter was signed by Reps. Connor Lamb (PA-17), Paul Tonko (NY-20), Bobby Rush (IL-01), Scott Peters (CA-52), Doris Matsui (CA-06), Mike Levin (CA-49), Jared Huffman (CA-02), and Susie Lee (NV-03). The full text of the letter can be found here.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:32:05Z https://schneider.house.gov/media/press-releases/reps-schneider-fitzpatrick-crow-reintroduce-bipartisan-legislation-enhance,"Reps. Schneider, Fitzpatrick, Crow Reintroduce Bipartisan Legislation to Enhance Cybersecurity of Small Businesses",2022-12-06,2022,2022-12,Democrat,House,IL,Bradley Scott Schneider,S001190,schneider.house.gov,schneider,https://schneider.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON— Today, U.S. Representatives Brad Schneider (D-IL), Brian Fitzpatrick (R-PA), and Jason Crow (D-CO) reintroduced legislation to better protect America's small businesses, and their operational and customer information, from cyberattack. The Small Business Cybersecurity Enhancement Act, creates a loan guarantee program that would allow small businesses to acquire cybersecurity technology and services. ""Small businesses face a real and growing danger from cyberattacks, and we need to do more to help them defend against these threats,"" said Schneider. ""Hacking and security breaches hurt not just the targeted businesses, but also put our personal information and data at risk. The bipartisan Small Business Cybersecurity Enhancement Act would help more small businesses take the necessary steps to protect themselves and their customers."" “As a former FBI Special Agent, I understand the significance of taking action to ensure we protect our nation’s small businesses,” said Fitzpatrick. “This bipartisan legislation is a crucial step toward ensuring small businesses in our communities have the tools and training to protect themselves, and their customers, from cyberattacks.” “Small businesses account for 99.5% of all businesses in Colorado. Cyberattacks are a huge risk to these businesses, and to our state economy. I’m proud to work with Reps. Schneider and Fitzpatrick in offering the Small Business Cybersecurity Enhancement Act to ensure every small business is protected,” said Crow. In their 2015 Year-End Economic Report, the National Small Business Association noted that ""42 percent of small businesses report they have been the victim of a cyber-attack."" The average loss to a business whose banking account was compromised by a cyberattack was more than $32,000. Under the legislation, small businesses are defined as those who have 100 or fewer employees The loan guarantee program would add no additional cost to the taxpayer.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:32:05Z https://krishnamoorthi.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-krishnamoorthi-requests-update-census-bureau-efforts-correct,Congressman Krishnamoorthi Requests Update From Census Bureau On Efforts To Correct Illinois Population Undercounts And Ensure State Receives Its Fair Share Of Federal Aid,2022-12-05,2022,2022-12,Democrat,House,IL,Raja Krishnamoorthi,K000391,krishnamoorthi.house.gov,krishnamoorthi,https://krishnamoorthi.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – Today, Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi wrote to U.S. Census Bureau Director Robert Santos regarding the agency's work to correct previous undercounting of the state's population to ensure the state receives its proper per-capita allocation of the $1.5 trillion-per-decade amount that is allocated based on Census Bureau data. Focusing on the finding of the Post-Enumeration Survey (PES) which was released in May, Congressman Krishnamoorthi's letter focuses on his request for the PES findings, which identified the undercounting of Illinois' population, to be incorporated into the Census Bureau's future population projections. The letter also inquires as to the state of that effort, as well as others, to prevent Illinois from being undercounted again. The Congressman's new letter to the Census Bureau follows his January 2022 letter to the director regarding the gap between the Bureau's annual population estimates and the 2020 Decennial Census as the latter revealed apparent undercounting of Illinois in the yearly reports over the preceding decade. In May, Congressman Krishnamoorthi and other members of the Illinois Congressional Delegation wrote to the Commerce Department and Census Bureau again, following the Bureau's release of its estimated overcount and undercount rates from the PES which concluded that 14 states had significant counting margins of error, including Illinois, which was likely undercounted by 1.97 percent. Beyond highlighting the 2020 Census' own undercounting of the state, the PES also thus revealed that the Bureau's annual population estimates undercounted Illinois' population by even larger margins than was previously known. These undercounts are of particular concern because the data from the Decennial Census and subsequent Bureau population estimates will direct the allocation of roughly $1.5 trillion in federal funding through roughly 100 programs, including Medicare, Medicaid, SNAP, and infrastructure funding. On June 16th, 2022, Census Director briefed members of the Illinois delegation on the PES data in response to their letters and also provided a letter with written responses to questions from the Members. In that response, while the Census Director explained that the 2020 Census results themselves will not be altered based under the PES, he wrote: ""the Census Bureau has established a team of experts tasked with researching the feasibility of taking coverage measures from the Demographic Analysis and Post-Enumeration Survey into account in the development of the official population estimates. The team is taking a phased approach to the research, beginning with an analysis of 2020 Census data and coverage measures. This first phase will extend into next year. The timeline for the availability of results and their potential incorporation into the official population estimates is still being determined."" Further, in response to being asked directly to ""commit to taking into account the PES projections in its yearly Population Estimates,"" Director Santo wrote: ""While too early to commit to incorporating PES into the population estimates, the Census Bureau is researching the feasibility of taking coverage measures from both the Demographic Analysis and Post-Enumeration Survey into account in the development of the official population estimates."" To assess the state of the Census Bureau's progress in incorporating the most recent findings into future population estimates and funding allocations, while identifying and eliminating the causes of the state's previous undercounting, Congressman Krishnamoorthi requested answers to the following question by December 19th, 2022: When will the Bureau's research into ""the feasibility of taking coverage measures from the Demographic Analysis and Post-Enumeration Survey into account in the development of the official population estimates"" be complete? What will be the timeline for the availability of results and their potential incorporation into the official population estimates to ensure proper funding allocation for Illinois? While you have previously noted general national factors for undercounting, what specific factors have contributed to undercounts in Illinois, both in the most recent decennial census and in previous ACS figures? What, if any, specific efforts are underway that would mitigate or eliminate this consistent undercounting of Illinois?",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:32:05Z https://underwood.house.gov/media/press-releases/passing-momnibus-end-year-package-americans-number-one-priority-poll-reveals,"Passing the Momnibus in End-of-Year Package is Americans’ Number One Priority, Poll Reveals",2022-12-05,2022,2022-12,Democrat,House,IL,Lauren Underwood,U000040,underwood.house.gov,underwood,https://underwood.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – 72% of Americans rank passing Congresswoman Lauren Underwood’s (IL-14) Black Maternal Health “Momnibus” Act as their number one priority for the end-of-year package. 85% of Democrats, 63% of Independents, and 59% of Republicans support its immediate passage, according to a new poll from Navigator Research. The Momnibus is Underwood’s signature legislation, and would save moms’ lives by comprehensively addressing the drivers of the nation’s maternal health crisis. “The people have spoken: Passing the Momnibus is Americans’ number one priority,” said Underwood. “With such an urgent need for action and such widespread support for this legislation, every day that goes by without its passage is a disservice to millions of mothers and families. We can and we must pass the Momnibus immediately.” America has the highest maternal mortality rate of any high-income country, and more than 80 percent of these deaths are preventable. Underwood, who serves as a co-founder and co-chair of the Black Maternal Health Caucus, wrote and re-introduced the Momnibus in 2021. The legislation makes critical investments to support community-based organizations, address social determinants of maternal health, grow and diversify the perinatal workforce, expand access to care for people with maternal mental health conditions and substance use disorders, and advance maternal health research. The Momnibus is gaining momentum. Underwood’s bipartisan Protecting Moms Who Served Act was signed into law by President Biden in 2021 and other provisions of the Momnibus have passed in the House of Representatives with broad support.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:32:05Z https://krishnamoorthi.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-krishnamoorthi-calls-members-congress-and-americans-all-parties,Congressman Krishnamoorthi Calls On Members Of Congress And Americans Of All Parties To Denounce Former President Trump’s Effort To Terminate The Constitution To Overturn The 2020 Election,2022-12-04,2022,2022-12,Democrat,House,IL,Raja Krishnamoorthi,K000391,krishnamoorthi.house.gov,krishnamoorthi,https://krishnamoorthi.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"ATLANTA, GA – On Saturday, former President Donald Trump posted on his Truth Social platform regarding his efforts to overturn the 2020 election, writing, ""do you throw the Presidential Election Results of 2020 OUT and declare the RIGHTFUL WINNER, or do you have a NEW ELECTION? A Massive Fraud of this type and magnitude allows for the termination of all rules, regulations, and articles, even those found in the Constitution. Our great ‘Founders' did not want, and would not condone, False & Fraudulent Elections!"" In response, Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi issued the following statement:",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:32:05Z https://schneider.house.gov/media/press-releases/schneider-and-former-senator-mark-kirk-working-together-relaunch-abuelitas,Schneider And Former Senator Mark Kirk Working Together To Relaunch The Abuelitas Program,2022-12-02,2022,2022-12,Democrat,House,IL,Bradley Scott Schneider,S001190,schneider.house.gov,schneider,https://schneider.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"LINCOLNSHIRE, Ill.—Today, Congressman Brad Schneider (IL-10) announced his partnership with former Senator Mark Kirk (R-IL) to relaunch the popular Abuelitas (grandmothers) program. Then-Representative Kirk launched the program around 2005 tohelp families navigate the complex visa process so their elderly relatives living in Mexico whom they hadn’t seen in many years could obtain short-term tourism visas to reunite with family in the Tenth District of Illinois. Upon his election to the Senate, Kirk expanded the Abuelitas program statewide, helping thousands of loved ones see each other again. Kirk and Schneider began discussing the popular and successful program this year, and Schneider’s team has been collaborating with the former Senator, Mexican social clubs, and other valued partners to update and relaunch the program. “My grandparents were profound influences in my life. The love and support we receive from our family members are unlike anything else—they help us grow, support our dreams and aspirations, and teach us the many traditions that we hold special in our cultures,” said Congressman Schneider. “Family is a value that we can all support, regardless of political affiliation. That’s why I’m proud to work with former Senator Kirk to help Mexican American families in my district navigate the complex and often expensive visa application process to reconnect with their loved ones from Mexico, many of whom they haven’t seen in as many as ten to twenty years.” “Many of our friends and neighbors who migrated from Mexico had been separated from their loved ones for decades, which is why we started the Abuelitas program to facilitate the process of bringing grandparents together with their children and grandchildren,” said Senator Kirk. “During my service in the Congress, it was an honor to share in the emotional reunification of families through the Abuelitas program. I applaud Congressman Schneider for relaunching the Abuelitas program and continuing its positive legacy of reconnecting families in the 10th District with their loved ones in Mexico.” By partnering with the American Embassy in Mexico, local Mexican governments, and Mexican social clubs such as the Club San Jose in Waukegan, the Abuelitas program will help elderly family members aged 55+ in Guanajuato, Mexico obtain short-term tourism visas at no cost to reunite with loved ones in the Tenth Congressional District as long as they commit to return to Mexico as required by the visas. More details on the Abuelitas program are to come.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:32:05Z https://bost.house.gov/2022/12/bost-announces-2022-congressional-app-challenge-winners,BOST ANNOUNCES 2022 CONGRESSIONAL APP CHALLENGE WINNERS,2022-12-01,2022,2022-12,Republican,House,IL,Mike Bost,B001295,bost.house.gov,bost,https://bost.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. –U.S. Representative Mike Bost (IL-12) today announced the winners of the 2022 Congressional App Challenge, Samuel Vancil, Isla Calderon, and Najjar Khalil from Du Quoin High School. Launched in 2015, the competition is a nationwide event intended to engage students’ creativity and encourage their participation in STEM fields. The team’s app, DHS Club Registry, would allow students to access important information about DHS clubs all in one place. “Congratulations to Samuel, Isla, and Najjar on winning this year’s competition,” said Bost. “They saw that there was confusion about the different club offerings at their school and created an app to help address the problem – showcasing their innovative and entrepreneurial spirit. Thank you to all of the Southern Illinois students who participated this year. Job well done!” ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:32:05Z https://foster.house.gov/media/press-releases/foster-underwood-durbin-duckworth-introduce-legislation-name-fermilab-research,"Foster, Underwood, Durbin, Duckworth Introduce Legislation to Name Fermilab Research Center After Renowned Physicist Dr. Helen Edwards",2022-12-01,2022,2022-12,Democrat,House,IL,Bill Foster,F000454,foster.house.gov,foster,https://foster.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, DC – Today, U.S. Representatives Bill Foster (D-IL-11) and Lauren Underwood (D-IL-14), and U.S. Senators Dick Durbin (D-IL) and Tammy Duckworth (D-IL) introduced legislation to rename Fermilab’s Integrated Engineering Research Center (IERC) after the late Dr. Helen Edwards, who worked at Fermilab as a particle physicist for 40 years. The newly-constructed IERC, which was recently authorized for official use, will be home to new office and lab space that will host an intersection of scientific disciplines. “Over its history, Fermilab's success has been built by the hard work of committed scientists. Helen Edwards was a scientific and technical leader of Fermilab from its earliest days, and she was a dear friend. Helen was also deeply committed to the accelerator research and engineering that will be carried out in the Integrated Engineering Research Center, and it is altogether fitting that it bears her name. I’m proud to be continuing this effort in the U.S. House to honor her memory,” said Foster. “Dr. Helen Edwards was an exceptional scientist who dedicated 40 years of her life to expanding our understanding of particle physics. Her pioneering work on the Tevatron earned her well-deserved national recognition and provided the foundation for the advanced particle physics research conducted at Fermilab today,” said Durbin. “I cannot think of a worthier namesake for Fermilab’s new IERC than Dr. Helen Edwards.” “Illinois’s own Fermilab is a crown jewel of American innovation at the forefront of cutting-edge science,” Duckworth said. “For years, hundreds of scientists and engineers at Fermilab have dedicated their expertise to scientific discovery and answering some of the world’s most complicated questions, including the late and brilliant Dr. Helen Edwards. Not only is renaming the Integrated Engineering Research Center after her well-deserved, I think it tells generations of girls interested in science that they belong at the table.” “Helen Edwards was an inspiring and passionate scientist who was dedicated and instrumental to the development of the Tevatron. I am pleased we can honor her by naming the Integrated Engineering Research Center after someone who embodied the spirit of Fermilab,” said Dr. Lia Merminga, Director of Fermilab. Dr. Edwards was a particle physicist best known for overseeing the design, construction, commissioning, and operation of the Tevatron, a machine which for 25 years served as the most powerful particle collider in the world. The Tevatron was used to find two of three fundamental particles discovered at Fermilab – the top quark in 1995 and the tau neutrino in 2000. Dr. Edwards’ work on the Tevatron earned her a MacArthur Genius Grant in 1988 and the National Medal of Technology in 1989. The Tevatron remained in use until 2011 when Fermilab moved to new accelerator projects like the Long Baseline Neutrino Facility, which relies heavily on the foundations built by Dr. Edwards. Dr. Edwards passed away in 2016. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:32:05Z https://jonathanjackson.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-elect-be-sworn-member-118th-congress,Congressman-Elect to be Sworn In as a Member of the 118th Congress,2022-12-01,2022,2022-12,Democrat,House,IL,Jonathan L. Jackson,J000309,jonathanjackson.house.gov,jonathanjackson,https://jonathanjackson.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Media Contact: Jennifer Haas, 202.225.4372 Chicago IL – December 1, 2022 – Jonathan Jackson - son of famed civil rights icon, the Rev. Jesse Jackson and social justice advocate, Jacqueline Jackson, will be sworn in as the new Congressman representing Illinois’ 1st Congressional District! Jonathan is the couple’s second son to be voted into the House of Representatives. Jackson won the coveted seat in the last month’s general election by a landslide, garnering more than 66% of the vote. The win was of great, historical significance as Jackson will replace Congressman Bobby Rush, who served for 30 years before announcing his retirement in January. In accepting the honor in front of hundreds of supporters, Jackson spoke about his mother and father’s influence on his life of servant leadership and public service, “I was blessed by my father to have been prayed over by Rev. Martin Luther King Jr., my godfather and of whom I share his middle name, ‘Luther’…I want to thank my mother and my father, Mrs. Jacqueline Jackson & Reverend Jesse Jackson for instilling in me a sense of service. No matter how high I go, I will always be looking up to you. My father has done so much, for so many, for so long. I've seen my father bring hostages home. I've watched my father create trade agreements and alliances with corporate America to bring our resources back. I've watched my father be a voice for the voiceless. I've watched my father – with just the faith that he's had and his belief in his God – try to make a better humanity,"" Jackson said. ""But on this day, I can watch my father see that I want to be just like him and carry his name and good works forward."" Jackson will be sworn in as a member of the 118th United States Congress on January 3, 2023 in Washington, DC. The ceremony will also be carried LIVE on C-Span. For media inquiries or interview requests, contact Jennifer Haas, 202.225.4372, jennifer.haas@mail.house.gov.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:32:05Z https://marymiller.house.gov/media/press-releases/icymi-biden-administration-confirms-it-wants-taxpayers-pay-sex-change,ICYMI: The Biden Administration Confirms It Wants Taxpayers To Pay For Sex-Change Operations On Minors,2022-12-01,2022,2022-12,Republican,House,IL,Mary E. Miller,M001211,marymiller.house.gov,marymiller,https://marymiller.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON - Congresswoman Mary Miller (R-IL) speaks out against the Biden Administration's recent confirmation that they want taxpayers to pay for sex-change operations on minors in a piece published by the Daily Caller. “Biden's HHS Secretary has now confirmed that the Biden Administration is using taxpayer dollars to push young children to have sex change operations and take dangerous chemicals that do permanent damage to their bodies,"" Miller said. ""The Biden Administration even supports allowing these procedures to occur without parental consent. American taxpayer dollars should never fund puberty blockers and sex change surgeries on minor children.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:32:05Z https://schakowsky.house.gov/media/press-releases/schakowsky-bilirakis-blumenthal-blackburn-introduce-resolution-celebrating-50,"Schakowsky, Bilirakis, Blumenthal, & Blackburn Introduce Resolution Celebrating 50 Years of CPSC Protecting Consumers",2022-12-01,2022,2022-12,Democrat,House,IL,Janice D. Schakowsky,S001145,schakowsky.house.gov,schakowsky,https://schakowsky.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON - Today, U.S. Representatives Jan Schakowsky (D-IL) and Gus Bilirakis (R-FL), Chair and Ranking Member of the Consumer Protection and Commerce Subcommittee of the House Energy and Commerce Committee, and U.S. Senators Richard Blumenthal (D-CT) and Marsha Blackburn (R-TN), Chair and Ranking Member of the Senate Commerce, Science, and Transportation Subcommittee on Consumer Protection, Product Safety, and Data Security, introduced a resolution to mark the 50th anniversary of the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC). “For 50 years, the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission has worked diligently to protect Americans from dangerous and deadly consumer products. Too many families have had their loved ones stolen from them because of unsafe products,” said Congresswoman Jan Schakowsky. “Thanks to the efforts of the Commission, and the outstanding leadership of the current CPSC Chair Alex Hoehn-Saric, the number of consumer product-related fatalities and injuries involving young children and adults has significantly decreased. There is more work to be done and more dangerous products to get off the shelves, but in the meantime, it is my honor to introduce this resolution to commemorate the CPSC’s work and success over the last half a century.” “The CPSC has spent half a century working with both consumer groups and industry to establish both uniform and voluntary product standards, while protecting consumers from dangerous products,” said Congressman Gus Bilirakis. “I applaud the work the CPSC has done and look forward to working with them as they begin the next 50 years of work for the American consumer.” “The CPSC plays a vital role in keeping consumers safe. With an increase of dangerous products in homes across the country over the holiday season, the importance of this small but mighty agency in protecting kids and adults alike is even more apparent,” said Senator Richard Blumenthal. “I am proud to introduce this resolution alongside my colleagues to recognize 50 years of CPSC’s service. I will continue advocating for additional authorities and resources for this critically essential agency to bolster product safety.” “For 50 years, the CPSC has made safety their number one priority, making strides to reduce injuries and deaths associated with consumer products. As Ranking Member of the Senate Subcommittee on Consumer Protection, Product Safety, and Data Security, I look forward to working alongside them to advance product safety in the years to come,” said Senator Marsha Blackburn. The lawmakers’ resolution celebrates the history of the CPSC and the work the agency does to protect consumers by developing product safety standards and removing dangerous products from the market. The Consumer Product Safety Act was enacted into law on October 27, 1972 and established the CPSC. In the 50 years since it was established, the CPSC’s efforts have resulted in lowering consumer product-related deaths and significantly reducing injuries involving young children and adults, including reducing or nearly eliminating refrigerator door entrapments, garage doors deaths, crib deaths, and pediatric poisonings. The full text of the House resolution can be found here. The Senate introduced a similar version of the resolution. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:32:05Z https://schakowsky.house.gov/media/press-releases/schakowsky-matsui-larson-davis-wild-lead-letter-support-strengthening-social,"Schakowsky, Matsui, Larson, Davis, Wild Lead Letter to Support Strengthening Social Security’s Customer Service in FY 2023",2022-12-01,2022,2022-12,Democrat,House,IL,Janice D. Schakowsky,S001145,schakowsky.house.gov,schakowsky,https://schakowsky.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Text of letter (PDF) WASHINGTON - Representative, Jan Schakowsky (D-IL), a Senior Chief Deputy Whip and a Co-chair of the House Democratic Task Force on Aging and Families, alongside Representatives Doris Matsui (D-CA), John B. Larson (D-CT), Danny K. Davis (D-IL), and Susan Wild (D-PA), led 65 of their colleagues in a letter to House appropriators in support of increased funding for the Social Security Administration (SSA) to improve customer service. A well-funded, well-staffed, and responsive SSA is critical to the health and well-being of the American people. The letter thanked House Appropriations Labor, Health and Human Services, and Related Agencies Subcommittee Chair Rosa L. DeLauro and Ranking Member Tom Cole for their leadership in providing a funding boost for the SSA in the current continuing resolution. “However, additional funds will be needed for the rest of the year: as President Biden has indicated, SSA needs a total increase of $800 million for fiscal year 2023 just to maintain services, and significantly more to make much-needed improvements. As you work to complete the fiscal year 2023 appropriations process, we urge you to support the highest amount possible for SSA’s operating budget, to improve customer service and reduce excessive, harmful delays for Americans trying to access their benefits,” wrote the lawmakers. The operating budget of the SSA has decreased by 14% since 2010, but since that same year, the number of Social Security and SSI beneficiaries has increased by 20%. The number of trained employees available to answer calls, take and process applications, and resolve problems is now at its lowest level in 25 years. “Today, this perfect storm of rising need and inadequate staffing and resources has led to growing backlogs, lengthy delays, and significant hardship for our constituents who are seeking to access SSA benefits and services,” continued the lawmakers. Democrats, led in part by the House Democratic Caucus Task Force on Aging & Families, have pushed to ensure America’s seniors enjoy a dignified, healthy, and secure retirement after a lifetime of hard work and sacrifice. Just this year, President Biden and the Democrats passed the Inflation Reduction Act to address the skyrocketing cost of prescription drugs and lower costs for those relying on Social Security and Medicare. Meanwhile, Republicans are planning to put these critical lifelines on the chopping block after five years. While Republicans do not think these programs are worth protecting, Democrats will always put seniors, people with disabilities, and caregivers first. “Social Security and SSI are essential to Americans, helping seniors, people with disabilities, survivors and their families to live with dignity and pay for food, housing, transportation, heating and cooling, out-of-pocket medical bills, and other basics,” concluded the lawmakers. “We urge you to support the highest amount possible for SSA’s operating budget in fiscal year 2023, so Americans can receive the benefits they are counting on.” The letter has been endorsed by: AARP; AFGE; AFL-CIO; Alliance for Retired Americans; American Federation of Teachers; California Alliance for Retired Americans; Campaign for America’s Future; Center for American Progress; Community Legal Services of Philadelphia; Consortium for Constituents with Disabilities Social Security Task Force; Generations United; International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers; International Federation of Professional and Technical Engineers; Justice in Aging; National Association of Disability Representatives; National Committee to Preserve Social Security and Medicare; National Disability Rights Network; National Organization of Social Security Claimants’ Representatives; Social Security Works; Strengthen Social Security Coalition; The Arc of the United States; and United Spinal Association. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:32:05Z https://schneider.house.gov/media/press-releases/bipartisan-group-congressional-members-launch-congressional-family-business,Bipartisan Group of Congressional Members Launch the Congressional Family Business Caucus,2022-12-01,2022,2022-12,Democrat,House,IL,Bradley Scott Schneider,S001190,schneider.house.gov,schneider,https://schneider.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Today, Representatives Brad Schneider (D-IL). Jodey Arrington (R-TX), Tom O’Halleran (D-AZ), and Claudia Tenney (R-NY) and launched the bipartisan Congressional Family Business Caucus. This is the first congressional caucus focused solely on the critical issues facing generational owned family businesses of all sizes and industries across the United States. Find the website for the bipartisan Congressional Family Business Caucus here. “Family businesses are the backbone of our economy, employing the majority of America’s private sector workforce and representing trillions of dollars of our economy each year. Yet, in speaking with family businesses from all parts of our country, they feel our current economic policies place them at a disadvantage, impede their capacity to grow, and put at risk their ability to pass on ownership of the business to the next generation. As such, it is time for Congress to take a closer look at and better understand the needs of America’s family businesses. Establishment of the Congressional Family Business Caucus – which is long overdue – will go a long way toward keeping our family businesses at the forefront of policymaking and foster an environment that helps them thrive for generations to come,” said Reps. O’Halleran, Tenney, Schneider, and Arrington. The Congressional Family Business Caucus will meet regularly and connect Members of Congress with America’s family businesses in Washington, D.C. and in their districts and home states. Caucus membership is open to all members of Congress seeking to learn more about generational owned family business issues, which employ 59 percent of the nation’s private workforce, or 83.3 million workers. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:32:05Z https://chuygarcia.house.gov/media/press-releases/congresista-garcia-vota-a-favor-de-los-trabajadores-ferroviarios,Congresista García Vota a Favor de los Trabajadores Ferroviarios,2022-11-30,2022,2022-11,Democrat,House,IL,"Jesús G. ""Chuy"" García",G000586,chuygarcia.house.gov,chuygarcia,https://chuygarcia.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC– Hoy, el congresista Jesús “Chuy” García (IL-04), el miembro de la delegación de Illinois más antiguo en el Comité de Transporte e Infraestructura de la Cámara de Representantes, cofundador del Caucus del Futuro del Transporte, y miembro del Caucus Progresista y Caucus del Trabajo del Congreso, emitió la siguiente declaración sobre la aprobación en la Cámara de Representantes de un acuerdo actualizado para evitar una huelga que garantiza siete días de licencia por enfermedad remunerada para los trabajadores ferroviarios. “Seamos claros: la votación de hoy representa lo mínimo que podemos hacer.“Los trabajadores ferroviarios, como todos nuestros trabajadores sindicalizados en todos los oficios, siempre cumplen con su trabajo. Ya sea bajo el increíble calor del sudoeste o en los fríos inviernos en ciudades como Chicago, nunca se detienen. Y si algo nos enseñó la pandemia es que no podemos seguir tratándolos como si fueran prescindibles. “Una huelga ferroviaria es insostenible y también lo es un mundo en el que los trabajadores ferroviarios se ven obligados a ir a trabajar enfermos o son penalizados si se toman un día libre cuando están enfermos. La licencia por enfermedad pagada debe ser un derecho, no algo negociable, “Las personas que represento y los residentes de Chicago viven y trabajan en el corazón y en el centro de la red ferroviaria de Estados Unidos. Esto no es un concepto abstracto para mí o mis vecinos. Vemos a estos hombres y mujeres que trabajan arduamente haciendo el trabajo así llueva, nieve o brille el sol. ""Los progresistas tomamos la iniciativa de garantizar la licencia por enfermedad por una simple razón: todos los trabajadores merecen ser tratados con dignidad y eso significa licencia por enfermedad pagada. Ahora que la Cámara aprobó esta legislación, espero que nuestros colegas del Senado hagan lo mismo”.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:24:37Z https://chuygarcia.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-garcia-votes-in-support-of-rail-workers,Congressman García Votes in Support of Rail Workers,2022-11-30,2022,2022-11,Democrat,House,IL,"Jesús G. ""Chuy"" García",G000586,chuygarcia.house.gov,chuygarcia,https://chuygarcia.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC – Today, Congressman Jesús “Chuy” García (IL-04), the senior-most member of the House Committee on Transportation & Infrastructure from the Illinois delegation, co-founder of the Future of Transportation Caucus, and member of the Congressional Progressive Caucus and the Labor Caucus, released the following statement on House passage of an updated agreement to avert a rail strike that guarantees seven days of paid sick leave for rail workers. “Let’s be clear: today’s vote represents the floor, not the ceiling. “Rail workers – like all our union workers across the trades – always get the job done. Whether it's the incredible heat of the southwest or the bitter cold winters in cities like Chicago – they never stop. And if there is one thing the pandemic taught us, it's that we can't keep treating them like they’re expendable. “A rail strike is untenable and so is a world where rail workers are forced to go to work sick or penalized if they take a day off when ill. Paid sick leave should be a right, not a negotiation chip. “Chicagoans live and work in the heart and center of America’s rail network. This isn’t abstract for me or my neighbors. We see these hard-working men and women getting the job done rain, shine, or snow. “Progressives took the lead to guarantee sick leave for a simple reason: all workers deserve to be treated with dignity and that means paid sick leave. Now that the House has passed this legislation, I hope our Senate colleagues will follow suit.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:24:37Z https://krishnamoorthi.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-krishnamoorthi-responds-report-new-people-s-republic-china-base,Congressman Krishnamoorthi Responds To Report Of New People’s Republic Of China Base Near Indian Border By Reaffirming Need For American Coordination With India And Other Security Partners,2022-11-30,2022,2022-11,Democrat,House,IL,Raja Krishnamoorthi,K000391,krishnamoorthi.house.gov,krishnamoorthi,https://krishnamoorthi.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – In response to a new report that the People's Liberation Army has constructed a military outpost at Pangong Tso, a lake extending across the Line of Actual Control between the People's Republic of China and India, Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi of the House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence issued the following statement: ""The report of a new People's Liberation Army outpost near the Line of Actual Control between Indian and the People's Republic of China is another disturbing sign of Beijing's growing regional aggression, reinforcing the need for the United States to reaffirm and strengthen joint efforts with India and other security partners. As the Chinese Communist Party's domestic repression, brutal persecution of Uyghurs, and online misinformation efforts continue to escalate, so too do the signs of its growing international military aggression stretching from India to the Taiwan Strait. In the face of these belligerent ambitions, it is imperative that the United States maintains and expands our security and intelligence cooperation with allies and partners to send the clear messages that the United States stands with India, Taiwan, and democracies across the region in the face of the Chinese Communist Party's rising aggression.""",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:24:37Z https://krishnamoorthi.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-krishnamoorthi-warns-chinese-communist-party-against-continued-use,Congressman Krishnamoorthi Warns Chinese Communist Party Against Continued Use Of Force Against Demonstrators,2022-11-30,2022,2022-11,Democrat,House,IL,Raja Krishnamoorthi,K000391,krishnamoorthi.house.gov,krishnamoorthi,https://krishnamoorthi.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – In response to the Chinese Communist Party's vow to ""resolutely crack down on infiltration and sabotage activities by hostile forces"" in the wake of the largest street demonstrations in the People's Republic of China in decades, Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi of the House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence issued the following statement: ""Despite the People's Republic of China's censorship, journalists are documenting the Chinese Communist Party's use of force, surveillance, and police brutality against the demonstrators. If the CCP does not de-escalate these violent crackdowns, it will face severe consequences from the international community.""",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:24:37Z https://lahood.house.gov/2022/11/lahood-votes-to-prevent-freight-rail-strike,LaHood Votes to Prevent Freight Rail Strike,2022-11-30,2022,2022-11,Republican,House,IL,Darin LaHood,L000585,lahood.house.gov,lahood,https://lahood.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – Congressman Darin LaHood (IL-18) today voted to support House Joint Resolution 100 to prevent a catastrophic freight rail strike after the Biden Administration failed to avert the crisis. The resolution adopts the terms of the Tentative Agreement reached in September, which is supported by the freight railroads, shippers, and eight of twelve labor unions. ""President Biden's failure to lead requires Congress to act to avert an economically dire rail stoppage. With our economy barreling towards a recession because of Democrats' failed economic agenda, a rail strike would be catastrophic for our nation – harming vital industries like Illinois agriculture and manufacturing, costing our economy $2 billion a day and worsening supply chain challenges. The White House's careless leadership has left Illinois families, farmers, and small businesses facing even greater uncertainty on top of record inflation and high costs. It should not have reached this point, but this resolution will provide certainty for families, farmers, small businesses, workers, and our supply chain.""",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:24:37Z https://marymiller.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-miller-statement-vote-avert-rail-strike,Rep. Miller Statement on Vote to Avert Rail Strike,2022-11-30,2022,2022-11,Republican,House,IL,Mary E. Miller,M001211,marymiller.house.gov,marymiller,https://marymiller.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Congresswoman Mary Miller (R-IL) released the below statement on her vote to avert a rail strike impacting the agriculture industry: ""Amtrak Joe” promised to be the railroad President, but he failed to bring both sides to an agreement to prevent a catastrophe. I voted today to prevent a railway stoppage that would bring the agriculture industry and the transportation of food in our country to a grinding halt. Farmers rely upon rail and are already suffering from the Biden Diesel Crisis and the Biden Supply Chain Crisis, they cannot face another crushing blow to their ability to operate their farms and provide food to the American people.""",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:24:37Z