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://www.braun.senate.gov/senator-braun-joins-governor-holcombs-covid-19-update-press-conference,Senator Braun joins Governor Holcomb's COVID-19 Update Press Conference,2020-12-30,2020,2020-12,Republican,House,IN,Mike Braun,B001310,www.braun.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Watch today's COVID-19 Update with Senator Braun WASHINGTON, D.C. - Senator Mike Braun joined Governor Eric Holcomb's COVID-19 Update press conference Wednesday to discuss federal resources available to Hoosiers and Indiana small businesses in the COVID relief package. ""All along my priority has been how to target the most resources to the folks that actually need it,"" Senator Braun said of the COVID relief package, noting that Congress's dysfunction led to a federal spending bill filled with pork and wasteful spending attached to the targeted COVID relief bill. ""Sadly Congress does not manage its budget like we do back in Indiana, and has ended up with trillion dollar deficits because of it."" Senator Braun noted the COVID relief package includes important resources for farmers and schools, as well as $300 weekly additional federal unemployment and changes to the Paycheck Protection Program to help Hoosier small business owners and workers. Senator Braun encouraged Hoosiers to visit his website to read resource guides with information about how the federal funds and loans available to unemployed Hoosiers, small businesses, non-profits, farmers, and other organizations at:https://www.braun.senate.gov/contact-mike/coronavirus-assistance # # #",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.braun.senate.gov/senator-braun-releases-statement-support-president-trump-signing-covid-relief-bill-cutting-wasteful,"Senator Braun releases statement in support of President Trump signing COVID relief bill, cutting wasteful spending",2020-12-29,2020,2020-12,Republican,House,IN,Mike Braun,B001310,www.braun.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Tuesday, December 29, 2020 ""I want to thank President Trump for signing the COVID relief bill much needed by Main Street small businesses and their employees across the country, and I support his veto of the massive, unaudited NDAA and his call for Congress to address wasteful spending in the Omnibus spending bill. I am also calling on my colleagues in the US Senate to vote immediately to repeal Section 230 to hold Big Tech accountable and cut the pork in the Omnibus spending bill. We should not adjourn the 116th Congress with our final act being an override of President Trump's veto while ignoring these other urgent matters."" - Senator Mike Braun Issues",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://bucshon.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=4041,Dr. Bucshon’s Statement on the NDAA Veto Override,2020-12-28,2020,2020-12,Republican,House,IN,Larry Bucshon,B001275,bucshon.house.gov,,,legacy,"(Washington, D.C.) Congressman Larry Bucshon, M.D. (IN-08) released the following statement after voting to override President Trump's veto of the Fiscal Year 2021 National Defense Authorization Act: As nations like China and Russia continue working to try toimpose their might on the worldandundermine thenational security of theU.S. and our allies,it is paramount that we remain steadfast and ready for all threats. This National Defense Authorization Act(NDAA)is an important bill that is focused on ensuring that our men and women on the front lines have all the resources they needto carry out their mission and that our military can meet the threats our nation faces.Additionally, thisNDAAincludesimportant provisions to support our troops includingthe Military Family Readiness Act that authorizes a 3% pay raise for our troopsand provides much needed support for our military families, continued hazard pay for our troops in combat zones, and an ample supply of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) to protect our service members from COVID-19.It also includes support for national security programs and priorities that support Hoosier jobs at Crane and companies across Indiana. This is not the time to veto important legislation that was passed with broad bipartisan support in the House (338 yeas to 78 nays) and Senate (84 yeas to 13 nays), legislation that protects our nationand our troops including those currently serving on the frontlines in harm's way. That said, I do agree with President Trump that it is unacceptable for big tech to censor voicesthey disagree with, be it conservative or liberalvoices, under the protection of the federal government due to the immunity granted by Section 230 of the 1996 Communications Decency Act. The current structure ofSection 230is simply outdated in today's marketplace. In fact, the law was enacted before social media outlets even existed. It is time to revisit and modernize big tech's Section 230 protections to meet the demands of the 21stcentury. The NDAA is not the appropriate place to address Section 230 and the legislation should not have been vetoed because Section 230 reform wasn't included in the bill.Background COVID-19 Protections: The NDAA ensures service members have the diagnostic equipment, testing capabilities and PPE they need, along with providing medical surge capacity in certain healthcare facilities Hazardous Duty Pay: The NDAA includes the annual re-authorization of the extra pay owed to troops deployed in combat zones. Safe and Reliable Nuclear Deterrent: The NDAA authorizes DoD nuclear weapons modernization programs and National Nuclear Security Administration infrastructure and weapons programs absolutely required to replace aging systems with diminishing reliability and survivability concerns that undermine the safety, security and effectiveness of the nation's most important Defense capability the Nuclear Deterrent. Deterring Russia: The NDAA prohibits future administrations from implementing any activity that recognizes the sovereignty of Russia over Crimea and extends the limitation on military cooperation between the United States and Russia. Cybersecurity: The NDAA adopts 17 Cyber Solarium Commission recommendations that strengthen the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) and empowers the government to better protect against cyber-attack. Solidarity with Israel: The NDAA includes the United States-Israel Assistance Act.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://walorski.house.gov/hoosier-wins-covid-relief/,Walorski Applauds Wins for Hoosier Workers and Families After President Trump Signs Relief Bill,2020-12-28,2020,2020-12,Republican,House,IN,Jackie Walorski,W000813,walorski.house.gov,,,legacy,"Monday, December 28, 2020 Walorski Applauds Wins for Hoosier Workers and Families After President Trump Signs Relief Bill Bipartisan Legislation Renews PPP, Boosts Resources for Vulnerable Families, Supports Vaccine Distribution, Bans Surprise Medical Bills MISHAWAKA, Ind. U.S. Rep. Jackie Walorski (R-Ind.) today released the following statement after President Trump signed bipartisan legislation that includes COVID-19 relief and other key reforms for workers, families, and small businesses: Help is on the way for Hoosier workers, families, and small businesses to get through the coronavirus crisis and emerge stronger than ever. I'm relieved Congress and the president came together to renew PPP to save small businesses and jobs, ending months of partisan obstruction by Speaker Pelosi. Direct financial relief for workers and families, much-needed support for foster youth and at-risk parents and grandparents, and additional resources to distribute safe and effective vaccines and defeat COVID-19 will also make a real difference in people's lives. The bipartisan legislation includes additional key reforms like banning surprise medical bills and improving access to hospice care in rural communities. And it represents a major setback for Speaker Pelosi's radical agenda, blocking efforts to defund the police and bail out fiscally irresponsible cities and states. In signing this bill into law, President Trump is delivering on his promise to put the American people first. BACKGROUND The House and Senate last week passed H.R. 133, the Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2021, and President Trump signed the bill into law on Sunday evening. COVID-19 Relief for Workers, Families, and Small Businesses: Renews successful Paycheck Protection Program (PPP). Gives small businesses experiencing severe revenue reductions the opportunity to apply for a second forgivable loan, with $284 billion in funding. Simplifies the forgiveness process for loans under $150,000, and allows small businesses to deduct PPP loans. Increases loan amount for restaurants and hotels, and makes chambers of commerce and newspapers eligible. Walorski co-sponsored the Paycheck Protection Program Extension Act (H.R. 8265) and signed a discharge petition to bring it to the House floor after Speaker Pelosi repeatedly blocked a vote to renew PPP. Provides resources to defeat COVID-19. $20 billion to purchase vaccines, ensuring they are available to Americans at no cost. $8 billion to support distribution of safe and effective vaccines authorized by the FDA. $20 billion to assist states with testing and other measures to combat COVID-19. Supports foster youth and vulnerable families. Provides temporary additional funding to support older foster youth, kinship caregivers such as grandparents raising grandchildren, at-risk pregnant women and new parents, state courts, adoptive families, and foster care prevention services. Allows older youth to remain in foster care during the pandemic. Walorski introduced the bipartisan Supporting Foster Youth and Families through the Pandemic Act (H.R. 7947) with Ways and Means Subcommittee on Worker and Family Support Chairman Danny Davis (D-Ill.). Provides second round of direct payments to Americans. Builds on economic relief provided in the CARES Act, sending direct payments of $2,400 to a typical family of four up to $600 per individual ($1,200 per married couple) and $600 for each child under the age of 17. Full amount is available for individuals with income $75,000 ($112,500 for heads of household) and couples with income below $150,000. Rebate amount will be reduced by $5 for each $100 the income level exceeds these thresholds. Assists child care providers and schools in safely reopening. $10 billion in grants to child care centers to help care providers safely reopen. $82 billion to assist schools and universities with reopening for in-person learning. Temporarily extends enhanced unemployment benefits. Provides additional $300 per week in unemployment benefits through March 14, 2021. Extends and phases out federal unemployment benefits when state unemployment runs out and temporary benefits for self-employed and gig workers. Provides tax relief to teachers who purchase pandemic-related supplies. Clarifies that personal protective equipment (PPE) and other supplies used to prevent the spread of COVID-19 are eligible for the educator expense deduction. Walorski introduced the bipartisan Supporting Educators During COVID-19 Act (H.R.8520) with Rep. Stephanie Murphy (D-Fla.). Other Key Provisions in Year-End Legislation: Bans surprise medical bills. Protects patients from unexpected medical bills from out-of-network providers. Establishes a fair process to resolve payment disputes between insurers and health care providers. Empowers consumers by providing a true and honest cost estimate that describes which providers will treat them, the cost of the services, and provider network status. Prevents Medicare coverage gaps. Improves access to hospice care in rural communities. Allows patients entering hospice care to keep their doctor from a federally qualified health center or rural health center. Walorski introduced the bipartisan Rural Access to Hospice Act (H.R. 2594) with Rep. Ron Kind (D-Wis.). Addresses nationwide affordable housing crisis. Funds Community Health Centers. Extends funding for public health programs including Community Health Centers, National Health Service Corps, Teaching Health Centers, and Special Diabetes Programs for three years. Strengthens national defense and supports troops. Provides the military with the resources needed to defend our nation, including a 3 percent pay raise for servicemembers. Blocks radical left-wing wish list items. Prevents taxpayer-funded bailout of fiscally irresponsible city and state governments. Preserves pro-life protections, including prohibitions on taxpayer-funded abortion. Rejects efforts to defund the police. Prevents elimination of long-standing 2nd Amendment protections. Walorski represents the 2nd Congressional District of Indiana, serving as a member of the House Ways and Means Committee. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.young.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/video-young-wishes-hoosiers-a-merry-christmas-and-a-happy-holiday-season,VIDEO: Young Wishes Hoosiers a Merry Christmas and a Happy Holiday Season,2020-12-23,2020,2020-12,Republican,House,IN,Todd Young,Y000064,www.young.senate.gov,,,legacy,"December 23, 2020 VIDEO: Young Wishes Hoosiers a Merry Christmas and a Happy Holiday Season Click hereor on the image above for Senator Young'sfull remarks. WASHINGTON U.S. Senator Todd Young (R-Ind.) today released a video message to wish Hoosiers a Merry Christmas and a happy holiday season. From the healthcare heroes to the frontline workers. From the teachers to the scientists who developed a safe and effective vaccine in record time. The American spirit has prevailed during this difficult time. I'm proud of the strength and resiliency displayed by Hoosiers this year,said Senator Young. I've been moved by countless stories of Hoosiers stepping up to help their friends, and neighbors, and even people they've never met before. There is still a long road to recovery ahead of us but please know that I will never stop working for you. I wish all Hoosiers a very Merry Christmas. Stay safe, stay healthy and God bless. Click hereto watch Senator Young's full remarks. Full transcript of the video: Merry Christmas, Hoosiers. This holiday season our celebrations may look a little different. 2020 has been a year unlike any other and for many of us it has been full of challenges. Some families may be mourning a loved one this Christmas, or working overtime at the hospital, or serving our nation oversees. To every person who is missing their loved ones today, my heart is with you. This has been a trying year, which is why it's so important that we pause and reflect on our blessings this Christmas. We live in the greatest nation in the world where we are free to worship and live our lives as we see fit. We live in a nation where regardless of your background you can rise up and live your version of the American Dream. And as we have seen throughout 2020, we live in a nation full of helpers and doers who have risen to meet the challenges of this year head-on. From the healthcare heroes to the frontline workers. From the teachers to the scientists who developed a safe and effective vaccine in record time. The American spirit has prevailed during this difficult time. I'm proud of the strength and resiliency displayed by Hoosiers this year. I've been moved by countless stories of Hoosiers stepping up to help their friends, and neighbors, and even people they've never met before. There is still a long road to recovery ahead of us but please know that I will never stop working for you. I wish all Hoosiers a very Merry Christmas. Stay safe, stay healthy and God bless. ### Print Email Tweet Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://pence.house.gov/media/press-releases/greg-pence-votes-pass-bipartisan-covid-relief-deal,Greg Pence Votes to Pass Bipartisan COVID Relief Deal,2020-12-22,2020,2020-12,Republican,House,IN,Greg Pence,P000615,pence.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C. U.S. Congressman Greg Pence (IN-06) voted to pass the bipartisan, bicameral Omnibus and COVID-19 relief deal. Bolstered PPP for business owners, support for working families and students, and funding for transportation and infrastructure needs is good news for Americans coping with the COVID-19 pandemic. This package is a big step in the right direction in our efforts to fully reopen America and I look forward to President Trump swiftly signing it into law. It is frustrating, however, that extreme political partisanship from Democrat Leadership stopped this support from being delivered to suffering Americans much earlier. Relief for struggling American families is not a political issue. Congress needs to actually show up to work and put petty politics aside so we can put this pandemic behind us once and for all, said Congressman Pence. A summary of the agreement can be found here. ### Congressman Greg Pence represents Indiana's 6thDistrict. From Columbus, Indiana, Pence advocates for conservative Hoosier values as a member of the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee and House Foreign Affairs Committee.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://walorski.house.gov/covid-relief-ppp/,"Walorski Votes for COVID-19 Relief, Including PPP Renewal to Save Small Businesses and Jobs",2020-12-22,2020,2020-12,Republican,House,IN,Jackie Walorski,W000813,walorski.house.gov,,,legacy,"Tuesday, December 22, 2020 Walorski Votes for COVID-19 Relief, Including PPP Renewal to Save Small Businesses and Jobs Bipartisan Legislation Also Includes Second Round of Direct Payments, Support for Vulnerable Children and Families, Resources to Distribute Safe and Effective Vaccines WASHINGTON U.S. Rep. Jackie Walorski (R-Ind.) today released the following statement after the House passed a bipartisan, targeted relief package to help American workers, families, and small businesses get through the coronavirus crisis: Hoosier workers, families, and small businesses continue to face unprecedented challenges, but more help is on the way. Struggling small businesses and non-profits will be able to get a second round of PPP funds, a vital lifeline to help keep the lights on and save jobs. Workers and families will get direct economic relief. Child care providers and schools will get assistance to safely reopen and stay open. States will get additional resources to distribute safe and effective COVID-19 vaccines. And foster youth, at-risk mothers, and vulnerable families will get much-needed flexibility and support through bipartisan provisions I introduced. With two safe and effective vaccines now being distributed across the country, we are getting closer every day to defeating this invisible enemy and rebuilding our nation's economy. This commonsense bill will provide immediate relief to the American people so we can get to the other side of this crisis and emerge stronger than ever before. BACKGROUND The House on Monday passed H.R. 133, the Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2021, and the Senate followed suit. The bill now heads to President Trump to be signed into law. Key Provisions of the COVID-19 Relief Package: Renews successful Paycheck Protection Program (PPP). Gives small businesses experiencing severe revenue reductions the opportunity to apply for a second forgivable loan, with $284 billion in funding. Simplifies the forgiveness process for loans under $150,000, and allows small businesses to deduct PPP loans. Increases loan amount for restaurants and hotels, and makes chambers of commerce and newspapers eligible. Walorski co-sponsored the Paycheck Protection Program Extension Act (H.R. 8265) and signed a discharge petition to bring it to the House floor after Speaker Pelosi repeatedly blocked a vote to renew PPP. Provides resources to defeat COVID-19. $20 billion to purchase vaccines, ensuring they are available to Americans at no cost. $8 billion to support distribution of safe and effective vaccines authorized by the FDA. $20 billion to assist states with testing and other measures to combat COVID-19. Supports foster youth and vulnerable families. Provides temporary additional funding to support older foster youth, kinship caregivers such as grandparents raising grandchildren, at-risk pregnant women and new parents, state courts, adoptive families, and foster care prevention services. Allows older youth to remain in foster care during the pandemic. Walorski introduced the bipartisan Supporting Foster Youth and Families through the Pandemic Act (H.R. 7947) with Ways and Means Subcommittee on Worker and Family Support Chairman Danny Davis (D-Ill.). Provides second round of direct payments to Americans. Builds on economic relief provided in the CARES Act, sending direct payments of up to $600 per individual ($1,200 per married couple) and $600 for each child under the age of 17. Full amount is available for individuals with income $75,000 ($112,500 for heads of household) and couples with income below $150,000. Rebate amount will be reduced by $5 for each $100 the income level exceeds these thresholds. Assists child care providers and schools in safely reopening. $10 billion in grants to child care centers to help care providers safely reopen. $82 billion to assist schools and universities with reopening for in-person learning. Temporarily extends enhanced unemployment benefits. Provides additional $300 per week in unemployment benefits through March 14, 2021. Extends and phases out federal unemployment benefits when state unemployment runs out and temporary benefits for self-employed and gig workers. Provides tax relief to teachers who purchase pandemic-related supplies. Clarifies that personal protective equipment (PPE) and other supplies used to prevent the spread of COVID-19 are eligible for the educator expense deduction. Walorski introduced the bipartisan Supporting Educators During COVID-19 Act (H.R.8520) with Rep. Stephanie Murphy (D-Fla.). Addresses nationwide affordable housing crisis. Walorski represents the 2nd Congressional District of Indiana, serving as a member of the House Ways and Means Committee. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.braun.senate.gov/node/835,Senator Braun Statement on COVID Relief Package,2020-12-22,2020,2020-12,Republican,House,IN,Mike Braun,B001310,www.braun.senate.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, D.C. Today, U.S. Senator Mike Braun released the following statement on the coronavirus relief package: As a Main Street entrepreneur, I am proud to support additional funding that will help small business owners and working class Hoosiers survive in this final battle against the pandemic. The last week of eleventh hour negotiations and short-term spending bills reinforces what Hoosiers already know: Washington is broken. Main Street businesses and hard-working Hoosiers have been in desperate need of relief from Washington for months while D.C.politicians have been holding targeted relief hostage as they bicker over favors for special interests and how to spend more money we don't have. I also encourage all Hoosiers to visit my website or email CoronavirusHelp@braun.senate.gov if they need further assistance. Our national debt is now over $27 trillion and Congress needs to get serious about our spending problem because we have a massive debt crisis. - Senator Mike Braun",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.young.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/young-votes-to-pass-year-end-coronavirus-relief-and-government-funding-package,Young Votes to Pass Year-End Coronavirus Relief and Government Funding Package,2020-12-22,2020,2020-12,Republican,House,IN,Todd Young,Y000064,www.young.senate.gov,,,legacy,"December 22, 2020 Young Votes to Pass Year-End Coronavirus Relief and Government Funding Package WASHINGTONToday, U.S. Senator Todd Young (R-Ind.) voted in favor of H.R. 133, theConsolidated Appropriations Act 2021, a comprehensive year-end bill that includes coronavirus relief and funding for the federal government for the remainder of Fiscal Year 2021. The legislativepackage passed the Senate on a92-6 vote and now heads to the President's desk to be signed into law. Struggling Hoosier businesses, communities, frontline workers, and families have waited too long for this critically needed coronavirus relief package. While I wish we had reached agreement months ago, I'm glad this aid will finally be delivered to the American people, particularly to ensure the safe and efficient distribution of the COVID-19 vaccines that will be essential for overcoming this pandemic,said Senator Young.This package provides assistance to essential workers, small businesses, and unemployed Americans, and provides additional resources for testing and vaccinations. Italso funds the federal government, one of Congress' main responsibilities, and contains several of my priorities to bolster Indiana's health and economic security. The bill rescinds $429 billion in unusedCARES Actfunds to help pay for the additional coronavirus relief measures. In addition to coronavirus relief and all 12 appropriations bills, it also includes a three-year extension for miscellaneous expiring health programs and extensions of varying lengths for expiring tax provisions, reauthorization of the Water Resources Development Act, the Intelligence Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2021, and the Energy Act of 2020. Coronavirus relief highlights include: $325 billion for small business relief, including $284 billion for Paycheck Protection Program Second Draw Loans and enhanced relief for hard-hit industries like restaurants and venues. PPP Second Draw incorporates a number of tenets from Senator Young'sRESTART Act, including expansion of the number of allowable and forgivable costs to provide businesses with more flexibility and a requirement that businesses demonstrate need by meeting a 25 percent or more revenue decline test. Clarifies Congressional intent that business expenses paid using forgiven PPP funds are tax deductible, avoiding a significant unexpected burden on already struggling small businesses. Senator Young is a cosponsor of S., 3612,Small Business Expense Protection Act, and advocated for this clarification. $25 billion for rental assistance for struggling renters and a one month extension of the CDC eviction moratorium. Extends Federal Pandemic Unemployment Insurance benefit of $300/week through March 14, 2021. Direct payment of $600 to individuals and qualified child dependents (up to $2,400 for a family of four). $10 billion for child care, including direct support for child care providers for fixed costs and operation expenses, to help ensure working parents have access to child care so they can work or return to work. Senator Young cosponsored S. 4221, theBack to Work Child Care Grants Actand signed a letter requesting support for child care in COVID-19 relief. $29 billion for vaccine development and distribution. $22 billion for COVID-19 testing and related activities by states. $3 billion for the health care Provider Relief Fund. $250 million in funding for the FCC's COVID-19 Telehealth Program. $82 billion for education, including $54.3 billion for K-12 schools and $22.7 billion for higher education. Nearly $11.2 billion for COVID-related agriculture assistance, specifically allowing the Secretary to make payments to producers for losses incurred from depopulation of livestock and poultry due to processing disruptions. Senator Young cosponsored S. 4156,RELIEF for Producers Act. $45 billion for transportation assistance related to COVID-19 impacts. Includes $16 billion to extend the Aviation Workers Payroll Support Program which Senator Young has advocated for since August. Extends and enhances the Employee Retention Tax Credit through June 30, 2021. 12-month extension of the deadline to expend state and local funds from the Coronavirus Relief Fund to allow more flexibility to stretch out already obligated CARES funds. Other Young-led priorities in the bill: Water Resources Development Act Reauthorization:Important reauthorization forIndiana's inland waterways and the Great Lakes, includingimprovements and fundingof the Harbor Maintenance Trust Fund which is utilizedforGreat Lakes navigation projects. Senator Young is a cosponsor of S. 4654, theGreat Lakes Navigation Act, which would accomplish similar goals. Improvement to Low-Income Housing Tax Credit Rate:This package includes a key provision fromSenator Young'sAffordable Housing Credit Improvement Actto strengthen the Low-Income Housing Tax Credit and improve life outcomes for Hoosiers. Estimates show that inclusion of the 4percentcredit stabilization provision will produce130,000 housing units over the next ten years and generate 162,500 jobs. This key provision willfurther leverage the private sector to increase the stock of affordable housing for families in urban and rural communities and tackle the housing affordability crisis head on. Permanent Extension ofCraft Beverage Excise TaxRates:The package permanently extends provisions from theTax Cuts and Jobs Actthat reduced certain excise tax rates on beer, wine, and distilled spirits in order to ease the burden on smaller breweries, distilleries, and vineyards. Senator Young cosponsored S. 362, theCraft Beverage Modernization and Tax Reform Act, andsigned a letterto Senate leaders in support of making these rates permanent. Extension of Student Loan Payment Incentive for Employers:Extends for five years the allowance for employers to provide student loan repayment benefits (up to $5,250 annually) to employees on a tax-free basis. Senator Young is a an original cosponsor of S. 460, theEmployer Participation in Repayment Act. Providing Relief to Medicare Providers:Senator Young helped to secure provisions that would partially alleviate Medicare reimbursement cuts to specialists and other providers. This includes a payment increase to all Medicare providers in the physician fee schedule for 2021 as many of these providers continue to be on the front line of the pandemic. Providing Mental Health Services to Seniors Through Telehealth:Senator Young helped to secure a provision similar to hisMental and Behavioral Health Connectivity Actthat allows Medicare beneficiaries to access mental health services via telehealth from the comfort of their homes. Addressing Social Determinants of Health:Senator Young secured provisions ofhis legislationto empower states and local governments to improve health outcomes by addressing the economic and social conditions in which people live, learn, work, and play.Theprovisionwouldhelp states and localities to develop innovative strategies to address social determinants in their communities. Protecting Seniors fromMedicare Late Enrollment Penalties:Senator Young secured a provision to simplify complex Medicare enrollment rules. Senator Young'sBeneficiary Enrollment Notification and Eligibility Simplification (BENES) Acteliminates needless gaps in health care coverage and helps prevent lifetime, late-enrollment penalties.The Medicare Home Health Flexibility Act,legislation that ensures our seniors are quickly and comprehensively assessed in their homes in order to receive proper home health treatment,wasalsosecured by Senator Young. Ending Surprise Medical Bills:Alongside members of the bipartisan Senate Working Group, Senator Young helped secure a provision to protect patients from surprise medical bills. Senator Young'sSTOP Surprise Medical Bills Actprotects families from financial strain by establishing a process that keeps patients out of these billing disputes and enables them to focus on their health rather than unexpected medical bills. Addressing the High Cost of Prescription Drugs:Senator Young secured a provision to improve the accuracy of Medicare's payments and protect beneficiaries and taxpayers from paying higher prescription drug prices. Senator Young'sStrengthening Average Sales Price Reporting Act of 2019requires all manufacturers of drugs, biologicals, and biosimiliars paid under Medicare to report to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services their average sales price information. Expanding Coverage for Seniors' Kidney Transplant Drugs:Senator Young worked to securehis legislationto provide seniors who received kidney transplants with extended Medicare Part B to help cover lifesaving medication. This would ensure that individuals who received a kidney transplant paid for by Medicare do not have to worry about coverage for medications to protect their transplant. Higher Education Provisions:Senator Young supported multiple provisions included in the final bill, including FAFSA simplification, expansion of financial aid assistance to students in need, and restoration of Pell grants to the Second Chance population. In the Appropriations divisions of the bill, Senator Young supported funding for the following items: Federal research into congenital heart defects, which are the most common and deadliest form of birth defects. This funding will help to further implement the screening surveillance, research, and awareness activities authorized bythe Congenital Heart Futures Reauthorization Act, of which Senator Young is a champion. KidneyX, a public-private partnership to accelerate innovation in the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of kidney diseases. $173 million for FAA's Contract Tower Program. $2 billion for DOT's Capital Investment Grants. Increase of $50 million for the procurement of sonobuoysmanufactured by Ultra Electronics USSI in Columbia City, Indiana. Increase of $47 million for the procurement of Advanced Medium Mobile Power Sources (AMMPS) Generators manufactured by Cummins in Columbus, Indiana. Increase of $10 million for the Steel Performance Initiative supporting the work of Harrison Steel in Attica, Indiana. Increase of $8.2 million for Army research of electric transmissions in armored combat vehicles, which supports the innovative work being accomplished by Allison Transmission in Indianapolis. $330 million for the Great Lakes Restoration Initiative. Funding for Adult Education State Grant Program for literacy, numeracy, and digital education programs for adults without high school degrees. $90 million in grants for construction of states' veterans homes. $1.9 billion to support programs to reduce veteran homelessness, including: o$420 million for Supportive Services for Veterans Families o$270 million for Homeless Providers Grant and Per Diem Program. Robust funding for maternal and child health and nutrition assistance. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://baird.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=119,Congressman Baird Votes in Support of COVID Relief Bill,2020-12-21,2020,2020-12,Republican,House,IN,James Baird,B001307,baird.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, DC Congressman Jim Baird (R-IN) voted today in support of COVID-19 relief legislation, providing targeted relief to Hoosiers, farmers, small businesses, and those hardest hit by the COVID-19 pandemic. This legislation provides targeted relief to those still in need. Small businesses have been devastated through no fault of their own. New PPP funds will keep employees on their payroll and help keep businesses open. Families will receive direct cash payments to help cover bills, Congressman Baird said. In addition to funding the federal government, H.R. 133 which passed the House by overwhelming majority this evening included $900 billion in pandemic relief and stimulus. However, nearly two thirds of that cost were covered by funds recaptured from unspent funds allocated by the CARES Act passed into law earlier this year; with only $325 billion in new spending. Thanks to Operation Warp Speed a safe and effective vaccine was approved in record time, yet there still remains a lot of work that needs to be done. Today, we designated funds to purchase more vaccine doses and keep distribution on track across the country. I have faith that we will triumph and this COVID relief legislation will play a part in our success, Congressman Baird continued. Major provisions of H.R. 133 for COVID-19 relief include: Direct payments of $600 for adult taxpayers and $600 per each dependent child $300/week in expanded unemployment benefits extended for 10 weeks $325 billion aid to small businesses o Provides over $280 billion to expand and allow a second draw on the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) An additional $26 billion to the U.S. Department of Agriculture to ensure our food supply is secure o $13 billion to increase benefits for Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) participants for six months o $13 billion to farmers impacted by the pandemic $82 billion in assistance for schools o The Elementary and Secondary Schools Emergency Fund will receive $55 billion o The Higher Education Emergency Relief Fund will receive $23 billion $20 billion for the purchase of vaccines to ensure that vaccines are available to at no charge for anyone who needs it Pandemic relief funding was included in an end-of-the year omnibus spending package that funds the government through the end of the fiscal year and other provisions. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://bucshon.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=4040,Dr. Bucshon’s Statement on Year-End Funding and COVID Relief Legislation,2020-12-21,2020,2020-12,Republican,House,IN,Larry Bucshon,B001275,bucshon.house.gov,,,legacy,"(Washington, D.C.) Congressman Larry Bucshon, M.D. (IN-08) released the following statement after voting in support of thebipartisanand bicameralagreement to fund the government and provide much-needed COVID-19Relief: The funding of our government is set out in the Constitution asone of the basic responsibilities of Congress. While this deal is far from perfect,it keeps the federal government operating and includes pay raises for our troops, funding for border security, and other important priorities while maintaining all pro-life protections. Additionally,I am pleased that multipleprioritiesthat I have been working on throughout the 116thCongress will now be passed into lawas part of this legislation. These includea solution that addressesSurprise Medical Billingso that patients are protected while also ensuring that the solution is fair for both providers and health plans,afix to mitigate steep Medicare reimbursement cuts for physicians scheduled to take effect on January 1stso thatdoctors do not have their pay cut during this pandemic,legislation that will allow the Federal Trade Commission to betterprotectconsumersfrom scammers taking advantage of COVID-19, and legislation to spur the development of a national strategy around advance materials used in manufacturing. Furthermore, I am pleased to support additional COVID-19 relief funding that Hoosiers in Southwest and West Central, Indianadesperatelyneed to get through this health care and economic crisis.It is unfortunate that Speaker Pelosi and Washington Democrats chose politics over people and held out on agreeing to a COVID-19 relief package until after the election because they thought it was in their political best interests. The COVID-19 relief included in this deal could have been passed into law months ago, but Democrats in Congressblocked such legislation over 40 times.Included istargetedfunding for COVID-19 vaccines and vaccine distribution, help for Americans struggling with substance abuse and mental health, access to unused fundsfor small businessesin the successful Paycheck Protection Program, and temporarily extendingtheunemployment program set up by the CARES Act. With two vaccinesgranted anEmergency Use Authorizationby the Food and Drug Administration, I am hopeful this relief funding will get Americansthrough to the end of this health care crisisand better prepare Hoosiers to get back on their feet when the pandemic is behind us. Background Legislation included that Dr. Bucshon has worked on: COMPETE ACT - legislation that promotes a national strategy on the development and adoption of new advanced materials that are used throughout the U.S. economy, particularly in the manufacturing, research, and national defense sectors. COVID-19 Consumer Protection Act legislation that will strengthen the Federal Trade Commission's (FTC) enforcement powers to combat scammers who prey upon Americans with scams related to the treatment, cure, prevention, mitigation, diagnosis of COVID-19, or any government benefits related to COVID-19. Surprise Medical Billing legislation to protect patients from surprise medical bills. Holding Doctors Harmless from Medicare Cuts in 2021multiple policies to help ensure doctors don't have their pay drastically cut in the middle of a pandemic Key COVID Relief Provisions: Provides over $280 billion to reopen and strengthen the PPP program Nearly $20 billion for the production of vaccines and therapeutics, covering the cost for everyone who needs it $8.75 billion for distribution of vaccines. This includes cold chain, advance freezers, and supporting state efforts $20 billion to assist states with testing $3 billion for the national stockpile",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://carson.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-carson-votes-latest-covid-19-relief-bill-demands-further-action-hoosiers,"Rep. Carson Votes for Latest COVID-19 Relief Bill, Demands Further Action for Hoosiers and Americans",2020-12-21,2020,2020-12,Democrat,House,IN,André Carson,C001072,carson.house.gov,carson,https://carson.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, DC – Today, Congressman André Carson (IN-07) voted in support of the latest COVID-19 relief and omnibus package, which passed the House of Representatives. This bill delivers urgently needed funds to help save Hoosier lives and livelihoods as Indiana and the entire nation battle the deadliest wave yet of COVID-19. The bill also includes Rep. Carson's amendment to increase funding for Pancreatic Cancer research at the Department of Defense (DoD) to $15 million dollars. This increased funding will help researchers find ways to detect and treat this deadly disease earlier and help save lives. The bill includes a number of key provisions, including an additional round of direct payments to Americans, rental housing assistance, expanded nutrition assistance, plus additional funding for small and minority-owned businesses, including more Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) funds. The bill funds critical transportation and infrastructure priorities, including $14 billion for transit to help front line workers get to work, and more funding for passenger rail and aviation workers. This legislation also provides billions of dollars to support the distribution of the COVID-19 vaccines. Still, Rep. Carson stressed that much more must be done, and called on his Congressional colleagues to put partisanship aside to expedite help to those in need. ""I am encouraged that the House has passed this vital piece of legislation to protect lives and livelihoods. I'm particularly pleased that it includes my amendment to increase federal funding for Pancreatic Cancer research at DoD. However, the truth is, it should not have taken Congress this long to get an additional relief bill passed. The House passed a strong COVID-19 relief bill months ago called the Heroes Act, but Leader McConnell refused to bring it up for a vote in the Senate. ""Additionally, in this current bill, Democratic leaders fought hard to eliminate dangerous poison pills, including a GOP provision that could unjustly put the health of workers at risk and take away their legal recourse. I understand and respect the need for compromise, but I am extremely disappointed that my Republican colleagues have chosen to play this dangerous game of partisan politics for months as Americans suffered. Going forward, I urge them to change course and commit to working with Democrats in good faith to pass additional relief so that America can emerge from this crisis stronger and more united."" Additional information about Rep. Carson's provision is below: Increased funding for the fight against Pancreatic Cancer – The omnibus spending bill includes Rep. Carson's provision to increase Pancreatic Cancer research at the Department of Defense by $5 million, for a total of $15 million dollars for FY 2021. This will support research in early detection and treatment efforts, which can help more Americans survive this particularly deadly form of cancer. Click here for more details on the provisions included in the COVID-19 Relief bill.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-06-28T00:42:23Z https://walorski.house.gov/foster-youth-covid-relief/,"Walorski, Davis Applaud Inclusion of Foster Youth Support in COVID-19 Relief Bill",2020-12-21,2020,2020-12,Republican,House,IN,Jackie Walorski,W000813,walorski.house.gov,,,legacy,"Monday, December 21, 2020 Walorski, Davis Applaud Inclusion of Foster Youth Support in COVID-19 Relief Bill Bipartisan Provisions Will Assist Foster Youth, Grandparents Raising Grandchildren, Other Vulnerable Families WASHINGTON Ways and Means Worker and Family Support Subcommittee Ranking Member Jackie Walorski (R-Ind.) and Chairman Danny Davis (D-Ill.) today applauded the inclusion of the Supporting Foster Youth & Families through the Pandemic Act (H.R. 7947) in the Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2021. While the COVID-19 pandemic presents difficulties for all Americans, foster youth are particularly subject to instability given that they are typically without reliable adults and other supports in their lives. We know that nearly 20,000 youth age out of foster care each year, and youth who aged out of care during this national emergency have reported high rates of homelessness, food and economic insecurity, and are at risk of contracting and spreading the coronavirus. As a direct response to the COVID-19 crisis, Ranking Member Walorski and Chairman Davis introduced the bipartisan H.R. 7947 to provide emergency temporary supports and flexibilities for older foster youth, grandparents raising grandchildren and other kinship families, home visiting for at-risk pregnant and parenting families, foster care prevention services, and other child welfare services through the end of fiscal year 2021. This is a major victory for some of America's most vulnerable children and families, who will have additional support to get through the coronavirus crisis and build a stronger, more stable future, Ranking Member Walorski said. Foster youth and families, at-risk pregnant women and mothers, and kinship caregivers such as grandparents raising grandchildren already face unique challenges in normal times. The pandemic has only added to the obstacles they must overcome to achieve the American Dream but help will soon be on the way. I'm grateful to Chairman Davis for his partnership in building on past reforms with this targeted relief to help families thrive. I am especially proud of this bipartisan legislation, which will provide the necessary emergency resources and supports that foster youth and families need to weather this storm, Chairman Davis said. This bill was crafted in direct response to what foster youth in our communities have been telling us they need, right now, in order to be okay during the pandemic. The Supporting Foster Youth & Families through the Pandemic Act (H.R. 7947) has been endorsed by hundreds of national, state, and local organizations, including organizations representing current and former foster youth. The provisions are located in Division X of the Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2021, the section-by-section summary of which can be found HERE. A fact sheet on H.R. 7947 is available HERE. A list of groups that have endorsed H.R. 7947 can be found HERE. Walorski represents the 2nd Congressional District of Indiana, serving as a member of the House Ways and Means Committee. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://banks.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=1805,Rep. Jim Banks Announces Service Academy Nominees,2020-12-18,2020,2020-12,Republican,House,IN,Jim Banks,B001299,banks.house.gov,,,legacy,"FORT WAYNE Today, Rep. Jim Banksannounced he has nominated 8 students from Indiana's 3rdCongressional District for acceptance to U.S. Service Academies' Class of 2025. Banks said: Congratulations to these eight patriotic youngmen and women. They've already shown a remarkable commitment to their country, and I'm certain they will be excellent representatives for northeast Indiana. I wish each of them the best of luck in the final stage of the admissions process. BACKGROUND: Admission to a Service Academy is a two-tiered process. First, the applicant must directly apply to the Academy and meet the set minimum standards. These standards include, but are not limited to medical, physical, and academic qualifications. The second tier in pursuing admissionis the nominationprocess. Congressman Banks' U.S. Service Academy Advisory Board is responsible for interviewing and evaluating students seeking a nomination to U.S. Service Academies. A nomination does not guarantee admission to a service academy, but it is required to be considered. List of Indiana's Third District Nominees: Isaac Coohon Leo Junior/Senior High School Nominated to United States Air Force Academy Colby Fleming -Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology Nominated to United States Military Academy William Luker -Eastside Jr. Sr. High School in Angola Nominated to United States Military Academy, United States Naval Academy, United States Air Force Academy, and United States Merchant Marine Academy Jenna Lusk- Concordia Lutheran High School Nominated to United States Military Academy, United States Naval Academy, United States Air Force Academy, and United States Merchant Marine Academy Natalie Miles Jay County High School Nominated to United States Military Academy, United States Naval Academy, United States Air Force Academy, and United States Merchant Marine Academy Sarah Platt- DeKalb High School Nominated toUnited States Military Academy Isaiah Rusher -Concordia Lutheran High School Nominated to United States Military Academy, United States Naval Academy, United States Air Force Academy, and United States Merchant Marine Academy William Schneider -Illinois Institute of Technology Nominated to United States Military Academy, United States Naval Academy, and United States Air Force Academy ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://bucshon.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=4038,Dr. Bucshon’s Statement on Food and Drug Administration Decision to Grant Emergency Use Authorization for Moderna COVID-19 Vaccine,2020-12-18,2020,2020-12,Republican,House,IN,Larry Bucshon,B001275,bucshon.house.gov,,,legacy,"(Washington, D.C.) Congressman Larry Bucshon, M.D. (IN-08) released the following statement after the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) granted an emergency use authorization (EUA) to Moderna's COVID-19 vaccine: Science and innovation continue to lead the way in the fight against COVID-19. TheEUA granted by theFDAforModerna'svaccine is great news for the American peopleand yet another testament to the success of Operation Warp Speed. Thisvaccine approved and will increase our ability to more quickly vaccinate front line health care workers and the most vulnerable among us in an expedited fashion and more vaccines and therapeutics are on the horizon. I have confidence in the science behind this and the Pfizer vaccine to get Americaon its wayback tonormal. While states and the federal government coordinate to distributevaccineswith the help of our military, it is important to continue to practice guidelines issued by the CDC to prevent the spread of COVID-19. It has been a long road to get to this moment and it will take patience and perseverance to see this through the end but there is light at the end of the tunnel.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.young.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/young-booker-joint-bipartisan-statement-regarding-the-conflict-in-ethiopia,"Young, Booker Joint Bipartisan Statement Regarding the Conflict in Ethiopia",2020-12-18,2020,2020-12,Republican,House,IN,Todd Young,Y000064,www.young.senate.gov,,,legacy,"December 18, 2020 Young, Booker Joint Bipartisan Statement Regarding the Conflict in Ethiopia WASHINGTON, D.C. Today, U.S. Senators Todd Young (R-Ind.) and Cory Booker (D-N.J.),both members of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, released the following statement regarding the recent conflict in Ethiopia: The conflict in Ethiopia remains far from over, despite Prime Minister Abiy's claim that military operations are complete. We are deeply concerned by reports of Eritrean refugees in Tigray being killed, abducted and forcibly returned to Eritreaby Eritrean forces, as well as disturbing reports that some trying to reach safer areas are being prevented from leaving. The State Department has also reported that Eritrean soldiers are present in Tigray. The internationalization of this conflictposes a threat to U.S. interests in the strategic Red Sea region,andcould drive the Horn of Africa into a protracted crisis from which it could take many years to recover and needlessly take thousands of lives. We join others from the international community who have urged Ethiopia's federal government to abide by its commitment to grant security for humanitarian workers and full access to the 96,000 Eritrean refugees in Tigray,in addition to the over 2.3 million in children in need of humanitarian assistance. We also call for an independent investigation into these claims of forced return, and demand accountability for those who have violated international law. Refugees are among the most vulnerable populations on Earth the international community must be there to protect them in their time of need.Finally, we extend our sincere condolences to the families of the humanitarian workers from the International Rescue Committee and the Danish Refugee Council who were killed in this conflict. We are deeply saddened by the untold number of lives taken by this needless conflict. In the face of continued violence against civilians,we remind all parties of their obligation to protect civilians and civilian infrastructure by following international humanitarian law (IHL), andwe call on the Administration to engage the Government of Ethiopia, the Tigray People's Liberation Front, and the region to end the violence and further human suffering,and consider targeted sanctions on any political or military officials found responsible for violations. Print Email Tweet Next Article Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://walorski.house.gov/pastor-mark-beeson/,Walorski Statement on Passing of Pastor Mark Beeson,2020-12-17,2020,2020-12,Republican,House,IN,Jackie Walorski,W000813,walorski.house.gov,,,legacy,"Thursday, December 17, 2020 Walorski Statement on Passing of Pastor Mark Beeson WASHINGTON U.S. Rep. Jackie Walorski (R-Ind.) today released the following statement on the passing of Pastor Mark Beeson, founder of Granger Community Church: Pastor Mark Beeson showed us all how to serve the Lord and serve others. He shared the good news of Christ through the ministry he led, and he touched the lives of so many Hoosiers in need through Granger Community Church's annual food drive. I will be forever grateful to Mark for his friendship and his service to our community. Dean and I are keeping his wife Sheila and their family in our prayers. Walorski represents the 2nd Congressional District of Indiana, serving as a member of the House Ways and Means Committee. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.braun.senate.gov/braun-sinemas-consider-teachers-act-passes-senate,Braun & Sinemas 'Consider Teachers Act' Passes Senate,2020-12-17,2020,2020-12,Republican,House,IN,Mike Braun,B001310,www.braun.senate.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, D.C.- Senator Mike Braun and Senator KyrstenSinema'sConsider Teachers Acthas passed the Senate. The bill addresses problems with the TEACH Grant program, which saw many grants for teachers unfairly converted into loans. The TEACH Grant program provides grant assistance to students who serve four years as a full time teacher in high-need, often underserved communities. Often due to basic clerical mistakes, thousands of teachers have found their grants converted into loans that must be paid back with interest. TheConsider Teachers Actfixes this broken system permanently. ""The TEACH grant is an important program that incentivizesteachers to serve in neglected communities, but 12 years of poor government management has unfairly transferred grants into loans for thousands of teachers,""said Senator Braun. ""I'm proud this bill has passed the Senate to show our appreciation for theseteachers, and I implore the House to act quickly to pass it."" ArizonateachersuseTEACHgrants to servefamilies in low-income schools. The government made a promise to thoseteachers, and our commonsense, bipartisan bill ensures the government honors its obligation, said Senator Sinema. BACKGROUND: In 2007, the federal government created the TEACH Grant, providing grant assistance to students who serve four years as a full-time teacher in a high-need field. Under program terms, if service requirements are not met, grants are converted into loan obligations. While the program was well- intentioned, poor program administration has resulted in teachers unfairly having grant dollars converted into loansprompting many to refer to the converted grants as groans. The Consider Teachers Act addresses these challenges that are thwarting the program's intent. According to the Office of Management and Budget, the majority of TEACH Grants, 66%, are converted into Federal Direct Unsubsidized Stafford Loans which must be paid back with interest. Once converted, a loan cannot revert back to grant. 21,000 teachers have completed the program without a conversion, but 94,000 recipients have had their grants converted to loans. Small paperwork issues often triggered the conversions. For example, if teachers sent in their annual form one day late, or had other problems, such as a missing date or signature, the grant was converted.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.young.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/senator-youngs-office-helps-record-number-of-hoosiers-in-2020,Senator Young’s Office Helps Record Number of Hoosiers in 2020,2020-12-17,2020,2020-12,Republican,House,IN,Todd Young,Y000064,www.young.senate.gov,,,legacy,"December 17, 2020 Senator Young's Office Helps Record Number of Hoosiers in 2020 WASHINGTON U.S. Senator Todd Young and his staff set records for the number of constituents represented in cases before federal agencies this year, serving more than 2,000 Hoosiers and returning more than $4 million owed to Hoosiers by various government entities. Since assuming office in 2017, Senator Young has helped 5,131 Hoosiers recover $11,378,394 from federal agencies. This year alone, the office has resolved 2,014 cases, resulting in $4,169,730 returned to Hoosiers. The office saw a surge in cases this year, many regarding COVID-19 related issues. For example, the office helped repatriate at least 194 citizens, including 77 students, who were stuck in foreign countries when lock downs began. This includes a group of 20 students and 19 chaperones from Monrovia Middle and High School students who were in Poland when the country shut down all travel on March 13. Additionally, the office helped approximately 250 people who did not receive their stimulus payments from the CARES Act. Government should be at its best during emergencies like this global pandemic, but bureaucracy can often prevent aid from getting to the people that need it, said Senator Young. I'm happy that we were able to assist so many Hoosiers, and we will continue to make constituent services a priority. A core function of Senator Young's office is constituent services. The office is able to help Indiana residents who have problems with a federal agency. This often involves helping Hoosiers appeal when payments like veteran's disability benefits and Social Security benefits are improperly denied. More than $2.4 million of the total returned came from Veterans Administration benefits. The single largest payment was a retroactive payment of more than $310,000 for an Agent Orange claim. In addition to financial claims, Senator Young has helped facilitate eight international adoptions that became hung up in the child's home country. Hoosiers who think they may need help with a federal agency can visit young.senate.gov and click Help for Hoosiers. ### Print Email Tweet Next Article Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://banks.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=1802,Statement of Support for Jim Gfrerer,2020-12-16,2020,2020-12,Republican,House,IN,Jim Banks,B001299,banks.house.gov,,,legacy,"Statement of Support for Jim Gfrerer f t # e Washington, December 16, 2020 WASHINGTON--Today, Rep. Jim Banks (IN-03), Ranking Member of the Veterans' Affairs Subcommittee on Technology Modernization, issued the following statement recognizing information technology improvements at the Department of Veterans Affairs. I commend VA Chief Information Officer Jim Gfrerer for his achievements over the past two years, said Rep. Banks. Most visibly, he led the expansion of telework and telehealth capacity in response to the pandemicI have rarely seen the federal government take action so quickly and successfully. Behind the scenes, he has demonstrated a renewed commitment to the VAinformation technology workforce while instituting real performance measurements for the organization. From the Marine Corps to the Office of Information and Technology, Jim Gfrerer is an admirable public servant. f t # e",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://bucshon.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=4039,Dr. Bucshon Joins Fellow Congressional Doctors for Press Conference; Calls on Congressional Leadership to Stop Pay Cuts to Doctors During a Pandemic,2020-12-16,2020,2020-12,Republican,House,IN,Larry Bucshon,B001275,bucshon.house.gov,,,legacy,"Dr. Bucshon Joins Fellow Congressional Doctors for Press Conference; Calls on Congressional Leadership to Stop Pay Cuts to Doctors During a Pandemic f t # e Washington, December 16, 2020 (Washington, D.C.) Congressman Larry Bucshon, M.D. (IN-08) joinedseveralother doctors in Congressand other membersfor a press conferencewhere hediscussedthescheduled Medicare payment cuts to providersscheduled to take effect on January 1, 2021.Doctors aresome ofthe heroes keeping our families safe during these uncertain times. They are theamong theheroes that are beginning to vaccinate our country's most vulnerable so that we can mover ever closer to defeating this virus. All doctors should be met with a helping hand fromCongress at this time. That is what this country does for its heroes. Instead, our heroes performing surgeries are preparing for more than 10% pay cuts in some specialties starting January 1stunless Congress acts. ""That is why I'm calling on the Leadership in Congress to includemy legislation,the Holding Providers Harmless from Medicare Cuts during COVID-19 Act(H.R. 8702), in either the COVID-19 relief bill or the year-end spending bill. The legislation that I introduced with Representative Bera would hold doctors scheduled to receive a pay cut harmless while ensuring doctors scheduled to receive increase pay would keep their increases with no delay. See Full Press Conference HERE f t # e",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.young.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/youngs-bill-to-improve-maternal-health-and-close-the-digital-divide-passes-senate,Young’s Bill to Improve Maternal Health and Close the Digital Divide Passes Senate,2020-12-16,2020,2020-12,Republican,House,IN,Todd Young,Y000064,www.young.senate.gov,,,legacy,"December 16, 2020 Young's Bill to Improve Maternal Health and Close the Digital Divide Passes Senate Bipartisan bill uses telehealth to tackle Indiana's high maternal mortality rates WASHINGTON Yesterday, the Senate passedU.S.Senator Todd Young's (R-Ind.)Data Mapping to Save Moms' Lives Actto improve maternal health and address Indiana's high maternal mortality rates. The bipartisan legislation that would utilize data mapping to show where high rates of poor maternal health outcomes overlap with lack of access to broadband services in order to help identify where improved access to telehealth services can be most effective. Indiana has one of the worst maternal mortality rates in the country. Earlier this year, I introduced a bipartisan solution to identify where the high maternal mortality rates are occurring, and ensure they receive the life-saving telehealth they need,said Senator Young.I'm encouraged that myData Mapping to Save Moms' Lives Actis nowone step closer toimprovingthe lives of Hoosier mothers and families, especially during these uncertain times. In January,Senator Young introduced theData Mapping to Save Moms' Lives Actwith Senators Jacky Rosen (D-Nev.), Deb Fischer (R-Neb.), and Brian Schatz (D-Hawaii). Later that month, Senator Young unveiled the bill with Indiana State Health Commissioner Dr. Kris Box at Clark Memorial Health in Jeffersonville, Indiana. BACKGROUND:TheData Mapping to Save Moms' Lives Act(S. 3152) would require the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to map areas in the United States that have both internet service gaps and high rates of poor maternal health outcomes. Access to this critical information will help identify where improved access to telehealth services can be most effective, an issue of particular importance as U.S. women face startling statistics during pregnancy. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), severe complications related to pregnancy, known as severe maternal morbidity, impacts over 50,000 women in the U.S. each year. Print Email Tweet Next Article Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.young.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/-young-braun-vote-in-support-of-kirsch-for-seventh-circuit-court-of-appeals,"Young, Braun Vote in Support of Kirsch for Seventh Circuit Court of Appeals",2020-12-15,2020,2020-12,Republican,House,IN,Todd Young,Y000064,www.young.senate.gov,,,legacy,"December 15, 2020 Young, Braun Vote in Support of Kirsch for Seventh Circuit Court of Appeals Senate Confirms Hoosier nominee to fill seat previously held by Justice Amy Coney Barrett WASHINGTON Today, U.S. Senators Todd Young (R-Ind.) and Mike Braun (R-Ind.) voted to confirm Thomas Kirsch's nomination to the United States Court of Appeals for the Seventh Circuit, which passed the Senate on a51-44vote. Kirsch will fill the seat previously held by recently confirmed Supreme Court Associate Justice Amy Coney Barrett. Thomas Kirsch's qualifications, experience, and temperamentwill make him the kind of judge that every Hoosier can be proud of. Throughout this process, Kirsch has made it clear that he believes in the rule of law and he understands the role of a judge is to apply the law and Constitution as written. Today, the Senate agreed Thomas Kirsch is the right judge to fill the current vacancy on the United States Court of Appeals for the Seventh Circuit, and I trust he will serve with distinction for years to come,said Senator Young. Thomas Kirsch is a lifelong Hoosier, who has worked to take on public corruption in Indiana, and has led a diverse and exemplary career. I am proud the U.S. Senate has confirmed Mr. Kirsch for the United States Court of Appeals for the Seventh Circuit,said Senator Braun. Last month, Senator Youngintroduced Thomas Kirschduring his confirmation hearing before the Senate Committee on the Judiciary. In October, President Trumpannounced his intent to nominateKirsch, who currently serves as the United States Attorney for the Northern District of Indiana. The American Bar Association rated Mr. Kirsch as well qualified, the highest rating a federal judicial nominee can receive. Print Email Tweet Next Article Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.young.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/video-young-discusses-covid-relief-package-and-path-forward-toward-recovery,VIDEO: Young Discusses COVID Relief Package and Path Forward Toward Recovery,2020-12-15,2020,2020-12,Republican,House,IN,Todd Young,Y000064,www.young.senate.gov,,,legacy,"December 15, 2020 VIDEO: Young Discusses COVID Relief Package and Path Forward Toward Recovery WASHINGTONDuring today's Senate GOP leadership press conference, U.S. Senator Todd Young (R-Ind.) discussed the COVID vaccine beginning to be administered, the immediate need for Congress to pass a COVID relief package, and the path forward toward continued recovery. Clearly a win for the American people has been this rapid development and approval of Pfizer's coronavirus vaccine. Something to be celebrated it's really a testament to the ingenuity and determination of the American people that we were able to get this developed and approved in such rapid fashion and also a testament to Operation Warp Speed. This would not have happened but for Operation Warp Speed. We are now at a point where just yesterday there wasavaccine delivered to a hospital in Indiana so that our high risk healthcare, hardworking personnel on the front lines would have access to this groundbreaking, game changing vaccine,and in the coming week we are going to see this vaccine distributed to 50 additional hospitals around the State of Indiana so that our healthcare workers can be protected as we continue to do everything we can to control the symptoms of and to contain this deadly virus. The ball is sort of in our court now in Congress. The researchers have done their work, so many of the American people, our essential workers, are doing their part. Now it's time for Congress to do its part and pass this end-of-year coronavirus relief package so that we can make sure we get the vaccine out to more Americans as we head into next year and provide additional economic relief as so many of these Americans continue to suffer. We really need to put politics aside, it seems like we're getting very close to doing that and coming to terms on some difficult issues and I'm very pleased about that. The Electoral College submitted its vote. And I also think, as we look into next year, it is very important that each of us pledges to work with President-elect Biden and Vice President-elect Harris to ensure that we keep the American people safe and secure so that we get through this coronavirus period and we emerge very strongly on the back end of it,said Senator Young. Click hereto watch Senator Young's full remarks. Print Email Tweet Next Article Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.young.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/young-statement-on-pete-buttigiegs-nomination-to-be-secretary-of-transportation,Young Statement on Pete Buttigieg’s Nomination to be Secretary of Transportation,2020-12-15,2020,2020-12,Republican,House,IN,Todd Young,Y000064,www.young.senate.gov,,,legacy,"December 15, 2020 Young Statement on Pete Buttigieg's Nomination to be Secretary of Transportation WASHINGTON U.S. Senator Todd Young (R-Ind.) today issued the following statement regarding the former mayor of South Bend, Pete Buttigieg's recent nomination to be Secretary of the U.S. Department of Transportation. As a former city leader here in Indiana, Pete understands how critical infrastructure is to growth and opportunity. It will be good to have a Hoosier serving in this capacity. Print Email Tweet Next Article Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://walorski.house.gov/end-surprise-billing/,Walorski Applauds Bipartisan Agreement to End Surprise Billing,2020-12-14,2020,2020-12,Republican,House,IN,Jackie Walorski,W000813,walorski.house.gov,,,legacy,"Monday, December 14, 2020 Walorski Applauds Bipartisan Agreement to End Surprise Billing Legislation Would Protect Patients from Surprise Medical Bills, Create Fair Dispute Resolution Process for Providers and Insurers MISHAWAKA, Ind. U.S. Rep. Jackie Walorski (R-Ind.) today released the following statement after House and Senate committee leaders reached a bipartisan agreement Friday on legislation to protect patients from surprise medical bills: Americans should be able to get the health care they need without facing financially devastating surprise medical bills. This bipartisan agreement will protect patients and their families, establish a process that keeps them out of billing disputes between providers and insurers, and ensure continued access to lifesaving emergency services such as air ambulances. I'm pleased our committees worked across the aisle to reach an agreement based on delivering commonsense solutions for the American people. Congress should quickly send this bill to the president's desk so hardworking Americans who do everything right in both emergency and non-emergency situations never again find a costly, unexpected medical bill in their mailbox. BACKGROUND Leaders of several House and Senate committees, including the House Ways and Means Committee on which Walorski serves, reached an agreement on legislation to protect patients from unexpected medical bills from out-of-network providers and establish a fair process to resolve payment disputes between insurers and health care providers. The legislative package also includes a long-term extension of expiring public health programs, including Community Health Centers, National Health Service Corps, Teaching Health Centers, and Special Diabetes Programs. The bipartisan, bicameral legislation would: Hold patients harmless from surprise medical bills, including from air ambulance providers, by ensuring they are only responsible for their in-network cost-sharing amounts, including deductibles, in both emergency situations and certain non-emergency situations where patients do not have the ability to choose an in-network provider. Prohibit certain out-of-network providers from balance billing patients unless the provider gives the patient notice of their network status and an estimate of charges 72 hours prior to receiving out-of-network services and the patient provides consent to receive out-of-network care. Create a framework that takes patients out of the middle, and allows health care providers and insurers to resolve payment disputes without involving the patient. Under the agreement, insurers will make a payment to the provider that is determined either through negotiation between the parties or an independent dispute resolution (IDR) process. There is no minimum payment threshold to enter IDR, and claims may be batched together to ease administrative burdens. If the parties choose to utilize the IDR process, both parties would each submit an offer to the independent arbiter. When choosing between the two offers the arbiter is required to consider the median in-network rate, information related to the training and experience of the provider, the market share of the parties, previous contracting history between the parties, complexity of the services provided, and any other information submitted by the parties. Following an IDR process, the party that initiated the dispute may not take the same party to arbitration for the same item or service for 90-days following a determination by the arbitrator. However, all claims that occur during the 90-day period are eligible for IDR after the 90-days. Provide additional consumer protections when insurance companies change networks, including a transition of care for people with complex care needs and appeal rights for consumers Empowers consumers by providing a true and honest cost estimate that describes which providers will deliver their treatment, the cost of services, and provider network status. Text of the legislative is available here. Additional information is available here. Walorski represents the 2nd Congressional District of Indiana, serving as a member of the House Ways and Means Committee. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.braun.senate.gov/senator-braun-statement-electoral-college-vote,Senator Braun Statement on Electoral College Vote,2020-12-14,2020,2020-12,Republican,House,IN,Mike Braun,B001310,www.braun.senate.gov,,,legacy,"As I have said all along, neither the media nor the candidates decide who wins elections, it is our Constitution, and our Constitution clearly states that the Electoral College meets to determine who is the President-elect. Today, the Electoral College has cast their votes and selected Joe Biden as the President-elect. State Legislatures, State Courts, and the United States Supreme Court have not found enough evidence of voter fraud to overturn the results of the Electoral College vote. I, like many Hoosiers, am disappointed by the results of the Electoral College vote, but today marks a watershed moment where we must put aside politics and respect the constitutional process that determines the winner of our Presidential election. However, the results of the Electoral College should not diminish the need to continue a thorough investigation into the irregularities and credible allegations of fraud related to the unprecedented level of mail-in voting in the 2020 election. I will continue to call on State Governments, the Courts, and Congress to investigate the 2020 elections and take actions to restore integrity to the process so the American people can have faith in our democratic institutions. - SENATOR MIKE BRAUN",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://bucshon.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=4036,"Dr. Bucshon’s Statement on Bipartisan, Bicameral Agreement on Legislation to Stop Surprise Medical Bills",2020-12-11,2020,2020-12,Republican,House,IN,Larry Bucshon,B001275,bucshon.house.gov,,,legacy,"(Washington, D.C.) Congressman Larry Bucshon, M.D. (IN-08) released the following statement after an agreement was reached on a bipartisan basis by the leadership of the committees of jurisdiction in the House and the Senate to protect Americans from surprise medical bills: I applaud the leadership of the relevant House and Senate committees for finally all coming to the table to work to find common ground on legislation to end the practice of surprise medical billing. As a physician, I believe that any surprise medical billing legislation must protect patients from surprise medical bills while also being a balanced approach that works for both health plans and health care providers. While discussions continue around the final details, I am encouraged by the progress that has been madegoing from a proposed benchmark with no arbitration, to a product that eliminates the benchmark entirely and establishes an accessible and robust Independent Dispute Resolution process. I look forward to continuing my work with committee leadership in the coming days to ensure patients are protected from surprise bills and providers have the certainty they need to continue providing accessible and quality care to their patients."" Background In July 2019, the Energy in Commerce committee successfully adopted an amendment to H.R. 3630 offered by Congressman Ruiz (D-CA) and Congressman Bucshon that would establish an Independent Dispute Resolution process, allowing providers to appeal the payment rate to an independent arbiter.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://walorski.house.gov/covid-vaccine-eua/,Walorski Statement on FDA Approval of First COVID-19 Vaccine,2020-12-11,2020,2020-12,Republican,House,IN,Jackie Walorski,W000813,walorski.house.gov,,,legacy,"Friday, December 11, 2020 Walorski Statement on FDA Approval of First COVID-19 Vaccine Vaccine Found to Be Safe and More Than 90 Percent Effective After Extensive Clinical Trials, Comprehensive FDA Review WASHINGTON U.S. Rep. Jackie Walorski (R-Ind.) today released the following statement after the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) issued an emergency use authorization for the COVID-19 vaccine, developed by Pfizer and BioNTech: The approval of a safe and effective vaccine is a major step on the path to defeating coronavirus, restoring our way of life, and fully rebuilding our nation's economy. This historic breakthrough is a testament to America's innovative spirit and our determination to work together to find solutions when challenges confront us. I'm grateful to the scientists, health care workers, and trial volunteers who made this achievement possible, as well as to President Trump and his administration for their leadership to ensure vaccine doses will be distributed around the country without delay. The American people can be confident that this vaccine and any others approved by the FDA will be safe, effective, affordable, and widely available. I look forward to doing my part to end the pandemic by taking a vaccine once it is available to the public. Walorski represents the 2nd Congressional District of Indiana, serving as a member of the House Ways and Means Committee. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.young.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/young-votes-to-pass-final-defense-authorization-to-fund-indiana-and-national-priorities_,Young Votes to Pass Final Defense Authorization to Fund Indiana and National Priorities,2020-12-11,2020,2020-12,Republican,House,IN,Todd Young,Y000064,www.young.senate.gov,,,legacy,"December 11, 2020 Young Votes to Pass Final Defense Authorization to Fund Indiana and National Priorities NDAA will give troops a 3% pay raise, secure key Indiana priorities, keep Americans safe at home and abroad WASHINGTONToday, the Senate passed the Conference Report for the Fiscal Year (FY) 2021 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), which includes provisions U.S. Senator Todd Young (R-Ind.) worked to incorporate. The NDAA Conference Reportprovides our men and women in uniform with a three percent pay raise andsecures key Indiana priorities. Senator Young, a U.S. Naval Academy graduate and Marine who serves on the Senate Foreign Relations Committee,worked to ensure the bill would strengthen our military, whilekeepingAmericans safe amidst threats from coronavirus,the Chinese Communist Party, and the Taliban. Senator Young issued the following statement: Today, the Senate continued its 60-year-steak of passing a strong and bipartisan National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) that will keep America secure and cares for our men and women in uniform. This year's bill ensures a well-deserved three percent pay increase to those in uniform who make significant sacrifices to safeguard our nation. This legislation also includes a new initiative to deter the Chinese Communist Party's aggression known as thePacific Deterrence Initiative.This transformative new program will enhance budgetary transparency and oversight, while reassuring our allies and partners in the Indo-Pacific region. I've also worked hard to secure priorities with a direct impact on Indiana, including provisions that bolster innovation and put Indiana companies in a strong position to succeed. During this time of uncertainty, it's our job tofully fund our nation's defense to fight the global threats of coronavirus, deter China, and keep Americans safe.This is a bill that I am proud to support. Senator Youngalso voiced concern that hisamendment to preserve the Pentagon's Chief Management Officer (CMO) position was not includedinthe final version of the Senate-passed bill. In the pastyear alone, the CMOhas saved the Department of Defense $21 billion. Senator Young worked to secure provisions in theNDAAthat support the following Indiana projects: One-year Extension forAM General in Mishawaka: The NDAA secured a one-year extension requiring any HMMWVs (Humvees) that are transferred to foreign militaries from the United States Department of Defense must be new or like-new, ensuring that AM General in Mishawaka would be positioned to contribute to any future HMMWV transfers. This provision ensures that any transfer of HMMWVs to foreign allies and partners would, in the future, involve U.S. industry, and that the vehicles shipped to foreign allies and partners would be fully capable and operational. Naval equipment manufactured in Indiana: Anti-Submarine Warfare remains a core mission area of the U.S. Navy and our Allies around the world.Senator Young secured a commitment to increase the U.S. Navy's inventory of sonobuoys, which are a critical component of the Navy's ability to detect, localize, classify, and track non-allied submarines from airborne platforms.Sonobuoysare manufactured by Ultra Electronics - Undersea Sensor Systems, Inc. (USSI) in Columbia City, Indiana. As tensions with China, Russia, Iran, and North Korea, continue to rise, this equipment continues to become more important. Steel technology innovations taking place in Indiana: Senator Young also secured additional support for the Steel Performance Initiative (SPI), which supports the work being done by Harrison Steel Castings in Attica, Indiana. The purpose of the program is to create game-changing steel technology innovations that will enable higher performing defense systems and reduce acquisition costs. The most significant benefits of the program include increasing the availability of better material at lower costs for the Department of Defense and creating a more globally competitive domestic steel industry. Other key components of theNDAAinclude: Afghanistan Peace Process Oversight: Senator Young secured the inclusion ofhis comprehensive legislationto provide for congressional oversight of the comprehensive Afghanistan peace process. The bipartisan bill mandates congressional oversight requirements for U.S. diplomatic efforts to achieve a political solution to the conflict in Afghanistan and any agreement that emerges from that process. As the U.S. pursues negotiations with the Taliban and work to end our involvement, Congress will be a part of the process to ensure that our mission is brought to a responsible end. Creation of the Pacific Deterrence Initiative (PDI): The National Defense Strategy details the enormous threats the United States faces in the Indo-Pacific region; therefore, theNDAAestablishes a Pacific Deterrence Initiative (PDI) to send a strong signal to the Chinese Communist Party that America is deeply committed to defending our interests in the Indo-Pacific. PDI will enhance budgetary transparency and oversight, focus resources on key military capability gaps, reassure U.S. allies and partners, and bolster the credibility of American deterrence in the Indo-Pacific. The bill authorizes funding for missile defense, enhancing forward posture, and improving interoperability with allies and partners. Coronavirus response measures: TheNDAAsupports the health and readiness of our men and women in uniform during the COVID-19 pandemic. It implements a pilot program on civilian and military partnerships to enhance interoperability and medical surge capability and capacity of the National Disaster Medical System, which will provide training, expand capacity, and establish a framework for well-coordinated federal response to pandemics and other threats. It also creates an expert panel to review the performance of military medical services providers during the pandemic. Additionally, theNDAAprovides reserve retirement relief for service members affected by the COVID-19 stop movement order. PFAS Provisions: Senator Young helped secure provisions to prevent and address per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) contamination. The provisions address the adverse health effects tied to PFAS chemicals that have emerged as widespread contaminants to the drinking water sources of militarybases and firefighters. The provisions include a funding increase from $10 million to $15 million for an ongoing Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) study of the health consequences of PFAS and an evaluation of available firefighting technologies or substances to be adapted for use by DODto facilitate the phase-out of firefighting foam that contains PFAS chemicals. Senator Young and Senator Shaheenled a bipartisan letterurging for these provisions in October. Enable Development of Artificial Intelligence Technology: SenatorYoung helped secure forward-looking legislation to promote an enabling environment for the continued development of artificial intelligence (AI) technology. Thelegislationestablishes a federal advisory committee to examine economic opportunities of emerging AI technologies, and brings the federal government to the table to advance this technology. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://bucshon.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=4035,"Dr. Bucshon, House Republicans Call on House Democrats to Pass Relief for Businesses and Extend the Paycheck Protection Program",2020-12-10,2020,2020-12,Republican,House,IN,Larry Bucshon,B001275,bucshon.house.gov,,,legacy,"(Washington, D.C.) Congressman Larry Bucshon, M.D. (IN-08) released the following statement after House Republicans gathered on the steps of the Capitol to call on Congressional Democrats to immediately provide relief to small businesses struggling due to the COVID-19 pandemic by extending the Paycheck Protection Program: Throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, businesses particularly small businesses have struggled to keep their doors open. Far too many businesses have permanently closed their doors, and many others have managed to keep their heads above water only because of assistance like the Paycheck Protection Program provided in COVID-19 relief legislation passed earlier this year. Our economy has proven to be resilient in the face of the COVID-19 pandemic, but it is critical that we provide additional relief for businesses so that we can protect Main Street jobs and keep our economy going until the vaccines and therapeutics that are just around the corner are able to bring this pandemic to an end. On forty-one different occasions, Republicans in Congress have tried to bring up legislation that would provide the relief that businesses desperately need by simply extending the Paycheck Protection Program. This is an idea that enjoys bipartisan support, as twenty-three House Democrats have indicated they favor taking this course of action. Unfortunately, at every turn, Democrats in Congress have said no. Instead, their leaders have viewed relief for struggling businesses as leverage' to try and jam far-left socialist policies that have nothing to do with COVID-19 into law. It is unacceptable that Congressional Democrats continue to hold hostage the Paycheck Protection Program that helped millions of businesses across the nation during this national health care crisis. There is more than $138 billion left in this vital program that remains inaccessible because Democrats would rather play politics than help the American people. Small businesses are the backbone of our nation and they are closing at alarming ratessomething entirely avoidable if only Democrats would stop blocking the extension of the Paycheck Protection Program. Background: Dr. Bucshon is a cosponsor of H.R. 8265 authored by Rep. Steve Chabot (R-Ohio) that would free up $138 billion in unspent Paycheck Protection Program funds, extending the program until December 31, 2020 and allows businesses to take a second loan. He also signed the discharge bring this legislation to the floor.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.young.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/video-young-commends-hoosier-sharon-pierce-for-distinguished-career-serving-children-and-families,VIDEO: Young Commends Hoosier Sharon Pierce for Distinguished Career Serving Children and Families,2020-12-10,2020,2020-12,Republican,House,IN,Todd Young,Y000064,www.young.senate.gov,,,legacy,"December 10, 2020 VIDEO: Young Commends Hoosier Sharon Pierce for Distinguished Career Serving Children and Families Click hereor on the image above for Senator Young'sfull remarks. WASHINGTONToday, on the Senate floor, U.S. Senator Todd Young (R-Ind.) commended Hoosier Sharon Pierce for decades of service in Indiana's child and family welfare system. Pierce is retiring as president and CEO of The Villages of Indiana, a non-profit child and family services agency. Sharon will soon be retiring after a distinguished 47-year career of serving children and families. Sharon also happens to be my aunt, and I have seen firsthand her love and dedication to Indiana's children,said Senator Young. Her work has inspired countless others, including me and the policies I choose to focus on here in the Senate. I know my Aunt Sharon is looking forward to spending more time with her husband, children, and seven grandchildren, and she has more than earned this next chapter in her life. I offer my heartfelt thanks for her decades of service, and I wish her well in this next chapter. Click hereto watch Senator Young's full remarks. Full remarks as prepared for delivery: I rise today to commend an outstanding Hoosier whose work in Indiana's child and family welfare system has touched countless lives. Sharon Pierce, President and CEO of The Villages of Indiana, a non-profit child and family services agency, will soon be retiring after a distinguished 47-year career of serving children and families. Sharon also happens to be my aunt, and I have seen firsthand her love and dedication to Indiana's children. Her call to service started early. When she was young, Sharon's mother volunteered at a youth home in Fort Wayne. She and her siblings would help her mother with holiday parties, and it was there she first learned how important the family is to a child. A graduate of Ball State University, Sharon's entire career since then has been dedicated to public service. Prior to her work at The Villages, she worked for several youth advocacy programs in Illinois. She also served as a deputy director at the Indiana Division of Family and Children, which pre-dated today's Department of Child Services. While at the Division of Family and Children she helped create a 1-800 number to report suspected child abuse, and she established the Healthy Families Initiative, which provides resources to at-risk, first-time parents to help prevent abuse and neglect. In 1992, she became the President and CEO of The Villages where she has created a culture of compassion and a deep commitment to supporting families in need. At The Villages, children are enrolled in family and child support services with the goal of helping to keep family members together. The Villages also provides foster care, and offers support for relatives and family friends who are helping to raise a child, including education and child abuse prevention services. Even though The Villages is probably best known for high-quality foster care, the reality is we want to do anything we can to keep families together, Sharon has said. It's hard to imagine a mission more critical than this. I am not the only one to offer my praise for Sharon. Indiana's Governor Eric Holcomb said: Sharon's saintly efforts over the decades touched the lives of countless Hoosier children. She taught, inspired, led so many others over the years to invest in those who need it the most. Indiana Department of Child Services Director Terry Stigdon said: She exudes compassion and caring It's just innate to her being. Sharon has dedicated her life to ensuring children have a bright future, regardless of their circumstances. Her work has inspired countless others, including me and the policies I choose to focus on here in the Senate. I know my Aunt Sharon is looking forward to spending more time with her husband, children, and seven grandchildren, and she has more than earned this next chapter in her life. I offer my heartfelt thanks for her decades of service, and I wish her well in this next chapter. Thank you. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://walorski.house.gov/benes-act-passes-house/,"House Passes Walorski Bill to Protect Seniors from Medicare Penalties, Coverage Gaps",2020-12-09,2020,2020-12,Republican,House,IN,Jackie Walorski,W000813,walorski.house.gov,,,legacy,"Wednesday, December 9, 2020 House Passes Walorski Bill to Protect Seniors from Medicare Penalties, Coverage Gaps Bipartisan BENES Act Will Simplify Medicare Enrollment Process, Help Beneficiaries Avoid Costly Lifetime Penalties WASHINGTON U.S. Rep. Jackie Walorski (R-Ind.) today applauded House passage of her bipartisan legislation to simplify the Medicare enrollment process and protect seniors from lifetime late-enrollment penalties and coverage gaps. As more and more Americans reach Medicare age, it's clear the enrollment process is overly complex, with simple mistakes resulting in costly penalties, Congresswoman Walorski said. We need to simplify the process and improve education to ensure seniors have access to the quality, affordable health care they deserve. These commonsense reforms will protect Medicare beneficiaries from unnecessary late-enrollment penalties, gaps in coverage, and unexpected health care bills. I'm grateful to have worked across the aisle to pass this bipartisan bill, and I hope it reaches the president's desk soon. Video of Walorski speaking on the House floor in support of the legislation is available here. Last year, Walorski introduced the bipartisan, bicameral Beneficiary Enrollment Notification and Eligibility Simplification (BENES) Act (H.R. 2477) with U.S. Rep. Raul Ruiz, M.D. (D-Calif.), and U.S. Senators Todd Young (R-Ind.) and Bob Casey (D-Pa.). The BENES Act passed the House on Tuesday by unanimous voice vote. BACKGROUND Seniors who miss deadlines to enroll in Medicare face lifetime late-enrollment penalties of 10 percent for every year they are not enrolled in Part B. According to the Congressional Research Service, approximately 764,000 Americans are currently paying these late-enrollment penalties, increasing their Medicare Part B premiums by an average of nearly 30 percent. The BENES Act would ensure Americans approaching Medicare eligibility receive advance notice about basic Medicare enrollment rules. It would also eliminate needless multi-month coverage gaps in Medicare enrollment periods by requiring that Part B coverage begin during the first month after an individual enrolls, through either the initial enrollment period or general enrollment period. Walorski represents the 2nd Congressional District of Indiana, serving as a member of the House Ways and Means Committee. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.braun.senate.gov/sens-braun-coons-introduce-bipartisan-climate-legislation-support-global-trillion-trees-initiative,"Sens. Braun, Coons introduce bipartisan climate legislation to support global Trillion Trees initiative&combat deforestation",2020-12-09,2020,2020-12,Republican,House,IN,Mike Braun,B001310,www.braun.senate.gov,,,legacy,"TheTrillion Trees and Natural Carbon Storage Actwould boostU.S. and international efforts to capture carbon by promoting healthy forests and other lands WASHINGTON Today, U.S. Senators Mike Braun (R-Ind.) and Chris Coons (D-Del.), co-chairs of the bipartisan Senate Climate Solutions Caucus, introduced legislation to support U.S. leadershipin reducing carbon in the atmospherebyrestoring and conserving forests, grasslands, wetlands, and coastal habitats. Senators Todd Young (R-Ind.) and Angus King (I-Maine) cosponsored the bill. As a lifelong conservationist, I believe that Trillion Trees is a common sense proposal to help improve our land, water, soil, and air, without imposing onerous Washington regulations,said Senator Braun. I am proud to come together with my colleagues on this bipartisan solution to help advance a key objective that President Trump called for in his State of the Union Address. The wildfires and severe stormswe've experienced this yeararea devastating reminder of how climate change is impacting our lands and a clear signal that we need to act now to protect them for future generations,said Senator Coons. Removing carbon from the atmosphere is one of the many critical steps we should take to mitigate climate risks. I'mglad to work with this bipartisan group of senators to invest in a solution that will benefit the health of people and ecosystems around the world. I have long held the position that we can protect our environment without harming our economy, and this legislation is one example of the type of action we can take to reduce emissions and protect our natural resources while creating new economic opportunities,said Senator Young. We just lived through the hottest November on record; every year that carbon levels increase, temperatures increase and it gets harder to stabilize our planet's climate future,said Senator King. Without action, climate change's effects on our planet will grow more and more dangerous, fueling extreme weather events and endangering lives across the globe. Today's bipartisan proposal recognizes the immense value of our working forests in this climate fight, and is a commonsense step in the right direction, calling for our nation to lead in efforts to preserve ecosystems that remove carbon from the atmosphere. We can't delay any longer; we need to start working now, on a bipartisan basis, to address this crisis and protect our environment for future generations. In advanceof the UN Decade on Ecosystem Restoration from 2021 to 2030, the World Economic Forum launchedtheglobal One Trillion Trees initiative, 1t.org.The Trillion Trees and Natural Carbon Storage Act would allow theUnited States to take a leadership role in supporting this effortto store carbon, promote biodiversity, and end deforestation at home and abroad. Meeting the challenge of climate change demands a range of solutions. This bill signals the U.S. is ready to lead in marshaling a key part of the solution set -- the substantial power of natural and working lands,especially forests, to increase carbon sequestration. We're pleased to see this important first step. Lynn Scarlett, Chief External Affairs Officer, The Nature Conservancy Any serious proposal to act on climate must include natural solutions healthy forests, grasslands, wetlands, and coastal ecosystems that sequester carbon and bolster resilience through ecologically appropriate reforestation and restoration. We're proud to work with our good friends Senators Chris Coons, Mike Braun, Todd Young, and Angus King on this forward-thinking, bipartisan effort to help address climate change by tapping natural ecosystems and their ability to store carbon and make communities safer. Collin O'Mara, president and CEO of the National Wildlife Federation Sens. Braun (R-IN) and Coons' (D-DE)Trillion Trees and Natural Carbon Storage Actwould provide important innovative policies that advance conservation and ecological restoration while bolstering rural economies. The bill establishes science-based objectives for increasing the net carbon stock across U.S. forests, grasslands, wetlands, and coastal ecosystems. This legislation is a great bipartisan step in conserving and restoring our nation's forest and will help expand our natural carbon markets. Michele Stockwell, Executive Director, BPC Action ""Natural solutions are a crucial part of effective climatepolicy. TheTrillion Treesand Natural Carbon StorageActwill expand the carbon sequestration capacityof America's forests and grow the use of embodied carbon building materials. The American Conservation Coalition thanks SenatorsBraun,Coons,Young, and Kingfortheirstrong leadership on this important bill."" Quill Robinson, Vice President of Government Affairs, American Conservation Coalition The American Forest Foundation applauds Senator Braun and Senator Coons for legislative efforts to unlock the carbon potential on private forestland. Family forest holdings make up 36% of all U.S forests. Providing resources to enable family forest landowners to enter carbon markets will allow them to both improve their forests and sequester carbon at scale. Tom Martin, President and CEO of the American Forest Foundation While our forests provide a habitat for the birds we love, they do so much more for the survival of our planet. Trees, as well as other existing natural resources, provide some of the first lines of defense against pollution that contributes to climate change. By investing in our forests, we're also investing in our future. Michael Obeiter, senior director of federal climate strategy at the National Audubon Society It's critical for the U.S. to take a global leadership role in promoting sound land-use management and to encourage other donor nations to follow.Trillion Trees provides the basis for a foundational structure for extraordinary progress in the developing world in terms of trees for water, people, agriculture, industry, biodiversity, and demonstrable carbon offsets all of which will improve lives and livelihoods around the world. David H. Barron, Chairman, The ICCF Group WethankSenator Braun for his leadership,together with SenatorsCoons,Young, and Kingin recognizing the role of forests and forest products as a natural climate solution. As a private forest owner himself, Senator Braun's first-hand experience and leadership is vital to ensuring that policy supports healthy markets, working forests and forests products as three vital and interconnected parts toclimate mitigation, forest health and resilience. We look forward to working withthe Senatorsto advance this important objective. Dave Tenny, President & CEO ofthe National Alliance of Forest Owners On the heels of a record-breaking fire season at home and abroadand due to unrelenting deforestation around the worldthe plight of our forests has never been more dire. Conserving and restoring natural habitats such as forests, grasslands, and wetlands are critical to addressing the intertwined crises of climate change and nature loss and to ensuring forest-dependent communities and Indigenous peoples thrive. The Trillion Trees and Natural Carbon Storage Act provides a path for us to come together in a bipartisan manner to tackle these challenges. As the enormity of the climate crisis grows each day, it is imperative that we take a holistic view in our response and that the United States displays leadership on cutting carbon emissions at every level. Safeguarding our valuable lands and forests is an important part of the solution. As a new administration and Congress gear up to tackle a variety of environmental issues, acting on climate and protecting forests and nature are obvious priorities and opportunities. Kerry Cesareo, Senior Vice President, Forests, World Wildlife Fund Citizens for Responsible Energy Solutions (CRES) applauds the bipartisan efforts of Senators Mike Braun (R-IN), Chris Coons (D-DE), Todd Young (R-IN) and Angus King (I-ME) for introducing the Trillion Trees and Natural Carbon Solutions Act, legislation that supports sound forest management practices to reduce carbon in our atmosphere for generations to come. Reforestation and conservation are central to a clean environment and economic growth. So, too, are incentives that help landowners practice sustainable forestry and reduce and sequester carbon emissions. By encouraging international cooperation to conserve our global resources, the Trillion Trees and Natural Carbon Solutions Act asserts U.S. leadership in the fight to improve air quality and protect our forests and coastal habitats worldwide. CRES commends Sens. Braun, Coons and Young for championing this legislation in the Senate and for their work to bring forth commonsense solutions that will encourage a cleaner future for our nation and the world. CRES Executive Director Heather Reams The National Association of State Foresters (NASF) applauds the efforts of SenatorsMike Braun, Chris Coons, Todd Young, and Angus King on the introduction of the Trillion Trees And Natural Carbon Storage Act. This bill recognizes forests and forest carbon markets for what they are: sustainable solutions to climate change. Trees built America. They clean our water and air. They provide us with spaces to recreate and homes for millions of wildlife species to thrive. They also have the capacity to sequester tremendous volumes of carbon. Most (nearly two-thirds) of America's forests are privately owned. These private landowners need economic incentives to retain ownership of their forestland, as well as professional expertise to effectively manage their forests. This bill would create a federal loan guarantee program, providing the requisite access to established environmental marketplaces where forestland owners can sell the carbon credits they produce. As public land managers and the primary deliverers of assistance to private forestland owners, state forestry agencies need every tool available to actively manage public forests and address boundary-less forest threats like wildfire, pests, and disease. Forest carbon markets are one of these essential tools and should be included in any and all climate change solutions proposed by Congress. NASF looks forward to continuing its work with Senator Braun and other congressional leaders to develop bipartisan climate change solutions that enhance public benefits from all forests. NASF President and Arkansas State Forester Joe Fox TheTrillion Trees and Natural Carbon Storage Act: Creates the International Forest Foundation, a nonprofit organization, to encourage and accept donations in support of international reforestation, restoration, and deforestation prevention efforts. Authorizes $10 million for USDA Forest Nursery Revival programsto ensure that the supply of seeds and saplings allows for increased domestic planting. Engages America's allies in conservationby authorizing the Secretary of State and USAID to increase their forest management cooperation efforts with other nations in order to better promote reforestation and sustainable land use management abroad. Amends existing international conservation programsto explicitly include carbon sequestration and forest management among the list of approved technical assistance categories. Makes it easier for private landowners to participate in carbon credit marketsby authorizing USDA to provide loan guarantees for related projects. Requires that USDA establish objectives for increasing the net carbon stockof American forests, grasslands, wetlands, and coastal blue carbon habitats. This legislation is supported by The Nature Conservancy, National Wildlife Federation, Environmental Defense Fund,World Wildlife Fund,National Audubon Society, Bipartisan Policy Center, American Forest Foundation, American Conservation Coalition, National Association of State Foresters,Conservation International, and Citizens for Responsible Energy Solutions. Thebill textis availablehere, and asummaryof the bill ishere. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.young.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/young-and-braun-join-bipartisan-climate-legislation-to-support-global-trillion-trees-initiative,Young and Braun Join Bipartisan Climate Legislation to Support Global Trillion Trees Initiative,2020-12-09,2020,2020-12,Republican,House,IN,Todd Young,Y000064,www.young.senate.gov,,,legacy,"December 09, 2020 Young and Braun Join Bipartisan Climate Legislation to Support Global Trillion Trees Initiative The Trillion Trees and Natural Carbon Storage Act would boost U.S. and international efforts to capture carbon by promoting healthy forests and other lands WASHINGTON Today, U.S. Senator Todd Young (R-Ind.) joined Senators Mike Braun (R-Ind.), Chris Coons (D-Del.), and Angus King (I-Maine) to introduce legislation to support U.S. leadershipin reducing carbon in the atmospherebyrestoring and conserving forests, grasslands, wetlands, and coastal habitats. I have long held the position that we can protect our environment without harming our economy, and this legislation is one example of the type of action we can take to reduce emissions and protect our natural resources while creating new economic opportunities,said Senator Young. As a lifelong conservationist, I believe that Trillion Trees is a common sense proposal to help improve our land, water, soil, and air, without imposing onerous Washington regulations,said Senator Braun. I am proud to come together with my colleagues on this bipartisan solution to help advance a key objective that President Trump called for in his State of the Union Address. In advanceof the UN Decade on Ecosystem Restoration from 2021 to 2030, the World Economic Forum launchedtheglobal One Trillion Trees initiative, 1t.org.The Trillion Trees and Natural Carbon Storage Act would allow theUnited States to take a leadership role in supporting this effortto store carbon, promote biodiversity, and end deforestation at home and abroad. TheTrillion Trees and Natural Carbon Storage Act: Creates the International Forest Foundation, a nonprofit organization, to encourage and accept donations in support of international reforestation, restoration, and deforestation prevention efforts. Authorizes $10 million for USDA Forest Nursery Revival programsto ensure that the supply of seeds and saplings allows for increased domestic planting. Engages America's allies in conservationby authorizing the Secretary of State and USAID to increase their forest management cooperation efforts with other nations in order to better promote reforestation and sustainable land use management abroad. Amends existing international conservation programsto explicitly include carbon sequestration and forest management among the list of approved technical assistance categories. Makes it easier for private landowners to participate in carbon credit marketsby authorizing USDA to provide loan guarantees for related projects. Requires that USDA establish objectives for increasing the net carbon stockof American forests, grasslands, wetlands, and coastal blue carbon habitats. This legislation is supported by The Nature Conservancy, National Wildlife Federation, Environmental Defense Fund,World Wildlife Fund,National Audubon Society, Bipartisan Policy Center, American Forest Foundation, American Conservation Coalition, National Association of State Foresters,Conservation International, and Citizens for Responsible Energy Solutions. Thebill textis availablehere, and asummaryof the bill ishere. Print Email Tweet Next Article Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.young.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/young-statement-on-uae-military-equipment-sale,Young Statement on UAE Military Equipment Sale,2020-12-09,2020,2020-12,Republican,House,IN,Todd Young,Y000064,www.young.senate.gov,,,legacy,"December 09, 2020 Young Statement on UAE Military Equipment Sale WASHINGTON- U.S. Senator Todd Young (R-Ind.) today issued the following statement regarding his vote to allow the sale of the F-35 and other military equipment to the United Arab Emirates (UAE): This year's agreement between the UAE and Israel, the Abraham Accords, marks a historic step forward toward peace and stability in the Middle East.The next chapter of Middle East security is being written and today's Senate action to allow the sale of the F-35 and other advanced military equipment is a symbol of our deepening security relationship with our friends in the UAE.Sales like these are an important tool in our country's foreign policy, not just because we further interoperability between our armed forces, but we also advance American values. However, our foreign policy and our global security posture must be approached holistically. We must all remember that peace and stability is not achieved through military means alone.We must not on the one hand sell arms while simultaneously aiding terror recruitment efforts by imposing new aid restrictions and furthering food insecurity in Yemen. As we advance these sales to deter Iran and others who seek to destabilize the Middle East, we must also take action to provide humanitarian relief to the millions who are on the brink of famine in Yemen and continue fighting for our values around the globe. Print Email Tweet Next Article Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://pence.house.gov/media/press-releases/greg-pence-applauds-house-passage-bipartisan-wrda-bill,Greg Pence Applauds House Passage of Bipartisan WRDA Bill,2020-12-08,2020,2020-12,Republican,House,IN,Greg Pence,P000615,pence.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C. U.S. Congressman Greg Pence (IN-06) today applauded the House passage of the bipartisan Water Resources Development Act of 2020. Earlier this year, Pence urged the Chairman and Ranking Member of the Subcommittee on Water Resources and Environment to continue the Trump Administration's work to modernize our nation's water infrastructure. The passage of the bipartisan Water Resources Development Act of 2020 is a big win for Hoosiers as it will improve flood control, modernize wastewater systems and build more resilient water infrastructure, said Congressman Pence. Every community and industry can benefit from the reduction of red tape regulations that will expedite infrastructure development. Hoosier businesses, farmers, and local communities can be pleasedwith the bipartisan way in which Congress got this bill passed. WRDA 2020 (S. 1811) is bipartisan, bicameral legislation that includes projects of national, regional, and local significance that help strengthen the Nation's global competitiveness, grow the economy, move goods throughout the country and abroad, protect communities, and create jobs. S. 1811 represents an agreement between House and Senate committees on final WRDA language, based in part on H.R. 7575, which passed the House by voice vote in July 2020. Key reforms included in WRDA 2020 streamline flood risk reduction projects, provide local communities the tools to build their infrastructure back faster and more resilient after disasters, and take care of rural communities by providing additional support and resources in addressing flood risk needs. ### Congressman Greg Pence represents Indiana's 6thDistrict. From Columbus, Indiana, Pence advocates for conservative Hoosier values as a member of the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee and House Foreign Affairs Committee.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.young.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/young-whitehouse-introduce-bipartisan-bill-to-add-hydrogen-as-qualified-energy-resource-to-strengthen-economy,"Young, Whitehouse Introduce Bipartisan Bill to Add Hydrogen as Qualified Energy Resource to Strengthen Economy",2020-12-08,2020,2020-12,Republican,House,IN,Todd Young,Y000064,www.young.senate.gov,,,legacy,"December 08, 2020 Young, Whitehouse Introduce Bipartisan Bill to Add Hydrogen as Qualified Energy Resource to Strengthen Economy WASHINGTON U.S. Senators Todd Young (R-Ind.) and Sheldon Whitehouse (D-R.I) introduced theHydrogenUtilization and Sustainability(Hy USA)Actto includehydrogenamong the renewable resources eligible for the Renewable Electricity Production Tax Credit (PTC). The bipartisan bill would incentivize investment inhydrogen-based energy, a next-generation carbon alternative. As the most abundant element in the universe,hydrogenis an emerging energy source that we must seriously target today,said Senator Young. Our bipartisan bill would promote increased investment inhydrogento strengthen the American economy and build energy leadership abroad. We need to find alternative low-carbon fuels to power the economy,said Senator Whitehouse.Our bipartisanhydrogen-based energy incentive holds promise to open additional carbon-free pathways as we reassert America's global leadership on climate change. Hydrogenenergy has been billed as a promising energy alternative to carbon for years, yet has not seen national investment like other renewable energy sources. Proponents ofhydrogensee emerging use in a variety of industries, including transportation and electric vehicles as well as more general electricity production.Hydrogeninfrastructure has gained the support of over $100 billion in globalinvestments. It isestimated thathydrogeninfrastructure could generate 700,000 jobs in the next ten years. In December 2019, Senator Young signed a letter to express the importance of continued national investment inhydrogenproduction. View the letterhere. For the full bill text,click here. Print Email Tweet Next Article Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://pence.house.gov/media/press-releases/greg-pence-announces-indiana-receive-169-million-rural-broadband-funding-fcc,Greg Pence Announces Indiana to Receive $169 Million in Rural Broadband Funding from FCC,2020-12-07,2020,2020-12,Republican,House,IN,Greg Pence,P000615,pence.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C. U.S. Congressman Greg Pence (IN-06) announced today that Indiana will be the recipient of $169 million to improve access to high-speed internet service through the Rural Digital Opportunity Fund Phase I auction. The announcement today came via the Federal Communication Commission. Auction results released show that bidders won funding to deploy high-speed broadband to over 5.2 million unserved homes and businesses, almost 99% of the locations available in the auction. Counties in Indiana's Sixth District to receive the funding: Delaware, Randolph, Henry, Wayne, Hancock, Fayette, Union, Franklin, Shelby, Bartholomew, Decatur, Jennings, Ripley, Dearborn, Ohio, Switzerland, Jefferson and Scott. Without access to reliable, affordable telecommunications services, entire communities are being left behind. Hoosiers living in rural areas of Indiana's 6th District are disproportionally impacted by the economic distress caused by COVID-19, and need access to rural broadband to work and learn from home, said Congressman Pence. Access to safe, modern, and efficient infrastructure impacts nearly every rural community and industry in the nation, from agriculture to health care and medicine. Connecting our rural communities is one of my top priorities, and with this funding from the FCC, we are one step closer to closing the digital divide. Pence urged Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi to include robust support for rural communities in Indiana's Sixth District and across the nation as legislation to address the Coronavirus pandemic is considered. Pence has consistently fought for and supported measures to improve rural technology in his district and across the nation, advocating for America's rural communities and introducing legislation to improve broadband access. To address the infrastructure needs of rural residents, Pence urged support for the U.S. Department of Agriculture's Rural Utilities Service (RUS) Electric Program in both the Fiscal Year 2020 and 2021 federal spending packages. ### Congressman Greg Pence represents Indiana's 6thDistrict. From Columbus, Indiana, Pence advocates for conservative Hoosier values as a member of the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee and House Foreign Affairs Committee.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.braun.senate.gov/senator-braun-statement-xavier-becerra,Senator Braun statement on Xavier Becerra,2020-12-07,2020,2020-12,Republican,House,IN,Mike Braun,B001310,www.braun.senate.gov,,,legacy,"JASPER, IN U.S. Senator Mike Braun (R-IN) released the following statement regarding the news that, if elected, former Vice President Joe Biden will nominate Xavier Becerra as Secretary of Health and Human Services (HHS): As a Main Street entrepreneur who lowered the cost of healthcare for his own employees, I have serious concerns about Xavier Becerra's ability to lead Health and Human Services because he has accepted over $1,000,000 in donations from the big healthcare industry has a 100% rating from Planned Parenthood. While Democrats boycotted the hearing for President Trump's HHS nominee, I will meet with Xavier Becerra to ask how his political donations from insurance companies and his support for abortions and Medicare for All makes himqualified to serve as the Secretary of Health and Human Services. - Senator Mike Braun BACKGROUND On January 31, 2017, Senate Democrats delay the committee vote on President Trump's HHS Secretary.U.S. Senate Democrats on Tuesday postponed votes on several of President Donald Trump's Cabinet nominees, citing their responsibility to do a thorough vetting, while Republicans accused them of unreasonable delays in considering the picks. (Reuters, 01/31/17) On January 31, 2017, Senate Democrats boycotted President Trump's HHS nominee. In a surprise turn of events, Senate Democrats announced Tuesday morning that they are boycotting a committee vote on two of President Donald Trump's Cabinet nominees, drawing fury from Republicans across the aisle.The Senate Finance Committee was set to vote on the nominations of Rep. Tom Price to lead the Department of Health and Human Services and Steve Mnuchin for Treasury Secretary. (CNN, 01/31/17) According to Open Secrets, Xavier Becerra has accepted over $1,000,000from insurance companies and hospitals.(Open Secrets, Accessed 12/07/20)",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://bucshon.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=4033,"Dr. Bucshon’s Legislation to Rename Post Office in Dana, Indiana as the Ernest ‘Ernie’ T. Pyle Post Office Signed into Law by President Trump",2020-12-04,2020,2020-12,Republican,House,IN,Larry Bucshon,B001275,bucshon.house.gov,,,legacy,"Dr. Bucshon's Legislation to Rename Post Office in Dana, Indiana as the Ernest Ernie' T. Pyle Post Office Signed into Law by President Trump f t # e Washington, December 4, 2020 (Washington, D.C.) Congressman Larry Bucshon, M.D. (IN-08) released the following statement after legislation to honor Ernie Pyle a Pulitzer Prize winning journalist and Hoosier hero by designating the U.S. Post Office located in his hometown of Dana, Indiana as the Ernest Ernie' T. Pyle Post Office was signed into law by President Trump: I amhonoredto be part of this momentous occasion torename thePostOffice in Dana, Indiana as the Ernest Ernie' T. Pyle Post Office. This was made possible with the helpofthe entire Indiana Congressional Delegation andtheinput of Mr. Pyle's family. Ernie Pyle was a Hoosier hero that reportedfrom the front lineson the immense efforts of the fighting men and women of our armed forcesinduringWorld War II, ultimately giving his life in the Pacific theaterin that endeavor. May his memory live on and his contributions to our nation and those who served on the front lines to defend freedomneverbeforgotten. f t # e",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.young.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/12/03/2020/nfib-awards-senator-young-guardian-of-small-business-award,NFIB Awards Senator Young Guardian of Small Business Award,2020-12-03,2020,2020-12,Republican,House,IN,Todd Young,Y000064,www.young.senate.gov,,,legacy,"December 03, 2020 NFIB Awards Senator Young Guardian of Small Business Award WASHINGTON The National Federation of Independent Business (NFIB) awarded U.S. Senator Todd Young (R-Ind.) with their most prestigious legislative recognition, the NFIB Guardian of Small Business Award. As the son of a small business owner, I know how important small enterprises are to our economy. I will always fight to support Indiana's small businesses, especially during the difficult times they have faced this year due to the pandemic. As we continue working to combat the coronavirus pandemic, ensuring small businesses have the ability to stay in operation, and ultimately thrive once again, will be critical to our long-term economic recovery,said Senator Young. The NFIB Guardian of Small Business Award is awarded to lawmakers who small businesses can truly count on,saidKevin Kuhlman, NFIB Vice President of Federal Government Relations. These Members of the U.S. Senate are dedicated supporters of the key issues that our members are concerned about and have proven themselves to be real champions for small business. Our policy positions are driven by our members, and we report NFIB Key Votes back to our membership. We are proud to recognize the Senators from the 116th Congress who earned this distinction by taking pro-small business votes supporting financial assistance programs and opposing increased labor costs. Small business owners across the country need their support now more than ever during these unprecedented times, and we are grateful to these lawmakers for their leadership. NFIB's Guardian of Small Business Award is reserved for lawmakers who vote consistently with small business on the key issues identified by small business owners. Those who voted with small business on key issues 70 percent or more of the time during the 116th Congress earned the NFIB Guardian of Small Business Award. ### Print Email Tweet Next Article Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.young.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/senate-passes-youngs-third-annual-stomach-cancer-awareness-month-resolution-,Senate Passes Young’s Third Annual Stomach Cancer Awareness Month Resolution,2020-12-03,2020,2020-12,Republican,House,IN,Todd Young,Y000064,www.young.senate.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTONU.S. Senator Todd Young (R-Ind.)introduced abipartisan resolution marking November 2020as Stomach Cancer Awareness Month.The third annual resolutionwas first introduced in 2018in memory of Indy Star reporter and columnist Matthew Tullywholost his battle to stomach cancerthat year.Yesterday, the resolution,cosponsored by Senators Mike Braun (R-Ind.) and Ben Cardin (D-Md.),passed the Senate unanimously. Stomach cancer is the fifth most common type of cancer worldwide and one of the most difficult to detect in its early stages. The resolution expresses support for more education of patients and health care providers and more research into early diagnosis, screening, and treatment. In a year where so much of our health care conversationhas revolvedaround the current pandemic, it'salsoimportant tocontinue toraise awarenessaboutdiseases that have afflicted Americans for decades,said Senator Young.It is my hope that our third annual resolution will bring awareness to stomach cancer so that we can detect and treat this disease sooner and save more lives. The complete text of the resolution can be foundhere.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://bucshon.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=4032,Dr. Bucshon Congratulates Representative Cathy McMorris Rodgers on Selection as Next Ranking Member of the House Energy and Commerce Committee,2020-12-02,2020,2020-12,Republican,House,IN,Larry Bucshon,B001275,bucshon.house.gov,,,legacy,"Dr. Bucshon Congratulates Representative Cathy McMorris Rodgers on Selection as Next Ranking Member of the House Energy and Commerce Committee f t # e Washington, December 2, 2020 (Washington, D.C.) Congressman Larry Bucshon, M.D. (IN-08) released the following statement after the House Republican Steering Committee selected Representative Cathy McMorris Rodgers (R-WA) as the next Ranking Member of the House Energy and Commerce Committee: I want to congratulate Cathy McMorris Rodgers on her selection to be the next Ranking Member of the House Energy and Commerce Committee.I have had the honor of servingunderRep. McMorris Rodgers' leadershipon the Consumer Protection and Commerce subcommittee, where shewas effective and collaborative in her tenure as the Subcommittee's Ranking Member.As the full committee's Ranking Member, she will be a strong, conservative voice, pushing our Republican agenda.Cathy McMorris Rodgers will also be the first woman of either party to lead the House Energy and Commerce Committee.I look forward tocontinuing towork with her toadvancecommonsense, conservative policies that will help all Americans. f t # e",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.braun.senate.gov/senate-als-caucus-applauds-senate-passage-legislation-eliminate-ssdi-5-month-wait-period-als,Senate ALS Caucus applauds Senate passage of legislation to eliminate SSDI 5-month wait period for ALS patients,2020-12-02,2020,2020-12,Republican,House,IN,Mike Braun,B001310,www.braun.senate.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, D.C.U.S. Sens. Mike Braun (R-Ind.) and Chris Coons (D-Del.), co-chairs ofthe bipartisan Senate ALS Caucus,applaud Senate passage of S. 578, the ALS Disability Insurance Access Act of 2019,introduced by Sens. Sheldon Whitehouse(D-R.I.)and TomCotton(R-Ark.)both founding members of the Senate ALS Caucus. This landmark legislation represents a long overdue win for the ALS community. The bill removes barriers for ALS patients seeking access to the Social Security Disability Insurance benefits they earned. Specifically, the bill eliminates a mandatory five-month waiting period for patients with medically-determined ALS. While the statutory purpose of the waiting period is to allow temporary conditions to reverse, there is currently no cure or treatment to halt or undo the effects of ALS, and many ALS patients lose their fight with the disease before ever receiving benefits. S. 578 will help alleviate some of the financial hardship that accompanies an ALS diagnosis. Passing S. 578 has been a priority for the Senate ALS Caucus since its founding in January 2020. Today's win is about the patients and their families,said Senator Mike Braun, The financial burden of ALS is staggering and time is of the essence for those diagnosed with ALS. The ALS Disability Insurance Access Act is a step in the right direction toward providing timely access toSSDIbenefits to ALS patients. Today, we celebrate a bipartisan win for the ALS community. The Senate voted in favor of timely financial support for those facing a recent ALS diagnosis,said Senator Coons.Speedy access to support programs like SSDI after a diagnosis is essential andone of the priorities we set when we launched our bipartisan caucus earlier this year. We must continue to build on this progress to make life easier for ALS patients and their loved ones. Allowing Americans who face this difficult diagnosis to immediately receive the benefits they have earned is a simple act of humanity that will make life easier for ALS patients and their families, said Senator Whitehouse. I hope the House will act quickly so we can finally eliminate this bureaucratic obstacle. Americans suffering from ALS shouldn't have to wait for assistance, especially given their tragically short life expectancyand now they won't have to. By waiving the statutory disability benefits waiting period, our bill makes support available to those suffering from this terrible disease much faster. I'm grateful to my Senate colleagues for supporting this important legislation, and I strongly urge the House to do the same,"" saidSenator Cotton. ALS is a cruel disease that progresses fast, currently without a cure. Help can't come soon enough once someone is diagnosed and this bill recognizes that. It takes courage to be a true champion for patients and we are grateful to Senators Braun, Coons, Whitehouse and Cotton for driving this legislation forward, I AM ALS CEO Danielle Carnival said. To the thousands of advocates who drove this bill forward, you are our hope. You are changing history one step at a time. This passage in the Senate is in celebration of your efforts. ""The ALS Association and ALS community urges the House to immediately pass the ALS Disability Insurance Access Act, which just passed the Senate,"" said Calaneet Balas, President and CEO of The ALS Association. ""The legislation would make SSDI benefits accessible to people with ALS right away. Our community has worked tirelessly with congressional champions over the years laying the groundwork for this bill, educating lawmakers and the public about the rapid progression of ALS and the long delays in diagnosis. Over the course of a five-month waiting period, many people living with ALS will experience serious loss of ability and will have incurred significant expenses for care and treatment. They urgently need support. The Senate ALS Caucus is working to uphold its mission to advance policies that improve the quality of life patients with ALS, and S. 578 passing is an encouraging victory toward that mission. Passage of S. 578 follows Senate passage of S. Res. 588 earlier this year, which aimed to raise awareness of ALS by designating May 2020 as ALS Awareness Month. ABOUT ALS: Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, commonly known as ALS or Lou Gehrig's disease, is a neurodegenerative disease affecting the ability of the brain to control muscle movements. Individuals with ALS progressively lose the ability to speak, walk, and breathe. There is no effective treatment for the disease, no known cause, andcurrentlyno cure. ABOUT THE SENATE ALS CAUCUS: The Senate ALS Caucus founded in January 2020 by Senators Chris Coons, D-Delaware, and Mike Braun, R-Indiana. The Caucus brings together senators from both sides of the aisle who share a commitment to working collaboratively to advocate on behalf of ALS patients and their families to: raise awareness about the difficulties faced by ALS patients and their families; advance policies that improve the quality of life for ALS patients; expand the network of support for those suffering from ALS; and advocate for investments in research that will enhance our understanding of the causes of ALS, identify effective treatments, and eventually discover a cure.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.young.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/senator-young-announces-nominees-for-united-states-service-academies,Senator Young Announces Nominees for United States Service Academies,2020-12-02,2020,2020-12,Republican,House,IN,Todd Young,Y000064,www.young.senate.gov,,,legacy,"December 02, 2020 Senator Young Announces Nominees for United States Service Academies INDIANAPOLIS, Ind. Today, U.S. Senator Todd Young (R-Ind.) announced his nominations for U.S. service academy appointments. Applications were received from 160high school students, and a select group was interviewed by an advisory board chosen by Senator Young. Out of 70interviewed, 32 exemplary young men and women from across Indiana received a nomination from Senator Young. A nomination does not guarantee admission to a service academy, but is required in order to be considered. Nominees are chosen based on personal merit. Criteria considered include evidence of character, leadership, academic excellence, physical aptitude, and extracurricular activities. I had the privilege of recommending a talented group of Hoosiers for admission to the United States service academies this year,said Senator Young.These young men and women are highly qualified to serve our country and I'm very proud of their hard work. I wish them the best of luck in their application process. Senator Young's service academy nominees are listed below: United States Air Force Academy Alicia Drewes Chesteron Edie Ferguson Farmland Jackson Fleming Chesterton *Also nominated to the United States Naval Academy Timothy Godsil Plainfield Isaac Heim Jasper Kaylee Lane Akron Kieran McCauley Indianapolis *Also nominated to the United States Military Academy and the United States Naval Academy Caleb Pym Jeffersonville Joshua Pym Jeffersonville Isaiah Rusher Fort Wayne *Also nominated to the United States Merchant Marine Academy United States Merchant Marine Academy Alexander Johnson Carmel Karl Larson Munster William Luker Ashley Jenna Lusk Fort Wayne Carson Truesdale Fort Wayne United States Naval Academy Amelia Abdalla Fishers Lauren Bryant Elkhart Michael Chen West Lafayette Emma Herring Munster Kathryn Jackowski St. John Mitchell Lafferty Carmel Emma Lucchese Indianapolis Andrew Sanchez Carmel United States Military Academy Richard Block Versailles Colby Fleming Fort Wayne Ryan Henry Franklin Carter Highum Carmel Lydia Kittrell Jeffersonville Kathrine LaRue Carmel Taige Mummert Shelbyville Edward Reichert Fishers Eli Wright Chesterton ### Print Email Tweet Next Article Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.young.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/video-young-discusses-the-need-to-pass-critical-coronavirus-relief-for-hoosiers,VIDEO: Young Discusses the Need to Pass Critical Coronavirus Relief for Hoosiers,2020-12-01,2020,2020-12,Republican,House,IN,Todd Young,Y000064,www.young.senate.gov,,,legacy,"December 01, 2020 VIDEO: Young Discusses the Need to Pass Critical Coronavirus Relief for Hoosiers WASHINGTON During today's Senate GOP leadership press conference, U.S. Senator Todd Young (R-Ind.) discussed the need to pass targeted coronavirus relief to help Hoosier small businesses and schools and to bolster testing. It's of course December 1stand we still don't have a coronavirus relief package that has been passed, signed into law by the President, and is providing relief to the American people. Look, people are hurting. They are beyond frustrated with this whole exercise. Republicans have put forward a package that, as the Leader has emphasized, can actually be signed into law. One that provides assistance to schools and students, one that provides assistance to our hard-hit small businesses, one that provides additional resources for testing. Why don't we go ahead and pass what we can all agree upon? What we know can be signed into law? And then negotiate, and debate, and give further consideration to additional measures,said Senator Young. As it relates to small businesses, I'll tell you, Hoosier small businesses have been absolutely hammered, as have so many others around the country. A recent NFIB survey said that nationally 75 percent of their members would either consider or go ahead and apply for a second round of PPP assistance, the sort of assistance that is included in the Senate package. So whether it's PPP assistance or the inclusion of theRESTART Act, the legislation bicameral, bipartisan that I've put together with Senator Bennet of Colorado. It now has, incidentally, 58 cosponsors with the addition of Senator Perdue of Georgia 180 in the House of Representatives again, bipartisan. So, I am going to push on this small business front and on the other fronts I mentioned to provide much needed relief to the American people,Senator Young added. Click hereto watch Senator Young's full remarks. Print Email Tweet Next Article Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.young.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/video-young-issues-thanksgiving-message,VIDEO: Young Issues Thanksgiving Message,2020-11-25,2020,2020-11,Republican,House,IN,Todd Young,Y000064,www.young.senate.gov,,,legacy,"November 25, 2020 VIDEO: Young Issues Thanksgiving Message I ask that all Hoosiers join me in thanking our healthcare heroes, our teachers, and all the frontline workers who have faced a particularly challenging year. Our thoughts are with everyone who has been impacted by this public health crisis and those who remain on the front lines of the pandemic. - U.S. Senator Todd Young Click hereor on the image above for Senator Young'sfull remarks. WASHINGTON, D.C. U.S. Senator Todd Young (R-Ind.) today releasedavideomessagein advance oftheThanksgivingholiday. Our current Thanksgiving tradition can be traced to a fellow Hoosier, President Abraham Lincoln, who spent his formative years in our great state. President Lincoln issued a proclamation in 1863 inviting a national celebration of Thanksgiving on the last Thursday in November. This tradition has united our country for generations as a reminder to count our blessings and give thanks. This year, it is especially important to remember all that we are thankful for, even as we continue to fight a global pandemic that has reshaped how we live our lives. I ask that all Hoosiers join me in thanking our healthcare heroes, our teachers, and all the frontline workers who have faced a particularly challenging year. Our thoughts are with everyone who has been impacted by this public health crisis and those who remain on the front lines of the pandemic. We must also remember to give thanks for our servicemen and women who may be away from home this year. And let their families know that we appreciate their sacrifices on behalf of our nation. Their sacrifices allow us to remain safe and secure in our homes and communities. This Thanksgiving, I am grateful for my fellow Hoosiers who make our state great. I wish you and your loved ones a Happy Thanksgiving. Please stay safe and remain vigilant even during the holiday season. Thank you and God bless. Click hereto watch Senator Young's remarks. ### Print Email Tweet Next Article Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.braun.senate.gov/senator-braun-pens-letter-atf-doj-requesting-clarification-ar-styled-pistols-american-gun-owners,"Senator Braun pens letter to ATF, DOJ requesting clarification on AR-styled pistols for American gun-owners",2020-11-24,2020,2020-11,Republican,House,IN,Mike Braun,B001310,www.braun.senate.gov,,,legacy,"JASPER, IN - Senator Braun has penned a letter to Attorney General William Barr and ATF Acting Director Regina Lombardo to share his concern about the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives' (ATF) practice of relying on non-public standards in its regulation of the importation of ArmaLite Rifle (AR) styled pistols and pistol stabilizing braces. ""Gun-owners and manufacturers want to follow the law, and they can't when the standards are unclear and communicated through private opinions rather than formal rule-making,"" said Senator Braun. ""I wrote this letter because law-abiding gun owners shouldn't have any uncertainty over their Second Amendment rights."" In 2012, ATF issued guidance which stated the attachment of arm braces to large pistol platforms does not constitute the manufacture of a short-barreled rifle. That standard has been made less clear this year, as private letters to gun manufacturers have indicated ATF considers firearms with a ""length of pull"" of over 13-1/2 inches that are designed to be fired from the shoulder are short-barreled rifles. In some letters, ATF privately stated that even firearms which fall under the length standard can be classified as short-barreled rifles based on a collection of ""indicators,"" a list of which has yet to be published. This letter requests that ATF clearly and distinctly articulate its position on this matter, as aknow-it-when-you-see-it approach to firearms by the ATF can quickly become a slippery-slope for all legal American gun owners as well as government firearm regulation enforcement. Joining Senator Braun as co-signers of this letter are Senator James Risch, Senator Mike Lee, Senator Thom Tillis, Senator Steve Daines, Senator John Cornyn, Senator Todd Young, Senator Mike Rounds, Senator Kelly Loeffler, Senator James Inhofe, Senator Josh Hawley, Senator Ted Cruz, Senator David Perdue, Senator Chuck Grassley, Senator Tim Scott, and Senator Marsha Blackburn. Read the full letter here.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://banks.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=1798,Rep. Banks Calls on CDC to Give Teachers Early Access to COVID-19 Vaccine,2020-11-23,2020,2020-11,Republican,House,IN,Jim Banks,B001299,banks.house.gov,,,legacy,"Rep. Banks Calls on CDC to Give Teachers Early Access to COVID-19 Vaccine f t # e Washington, November 23, 2020 WASHINGTON Today, Rep. Jim Banks (IN-03), member of the House Education and Labor Committee called on the Center for Disease Control's (CDC) Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) to provide teachers with the option of early COVID-19 vaccination. ACIP convenes at 3:00 pmETtoday to discuss the phased allocation of COVID-19 vaccines. Schools in Kentucky, New York City, and across the United Statesare closingagain due to staffing shortages caused by exposure to COVID-19. When schools closed last spring, children lost educational gains and their mental and physical health suffered. Our kids are essential andso are their teachers,said Rep. Banks.The CDC must prioritize children's wellbeingwhich means doing everything possible to let teachers do theirirreplaceable worksafely and effectively. Congressman Banks has strongly advocated for in-person schooling since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic. In June, Rep. Banks and Rep. Tom Tiffany (WI-07)introducedtheReopen Our Schools Actthat incentivized schools to providein-person instruction. Rep. Banks outlinedthe shortcomings of remote learningin an Op-edfor Fox News. f t # e",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.young.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/young-leads-effort-to-defend-indiana-grown-salmon,Young Leads Effort to Defend Indiana-Grown Salmon,2020-11-23,2020,2020-11,Republican,House,IN,Todd Young,Y000064,www.young.senate.gov,,,legacy,"November 23, 2020 Young Leads Effort to Defend Indiana-Grown Salmon Provisions threaten to harm AquaBounty Technologies in Albany and put Hoosier jobs at risk WASHINGTON U.S. Senator Todd Young (R-Ind.) sent a letter with members of the Indiana delegation to the Appropriations Committees voicing concern against provisions and unnecessary regulatory requirements that unfairly target bioengineered salmon. The letter warns such action against Indiana-grown Salmon would harmthe state of Indiana and the future of biotechnology. Provisions unfairly targeting the bioengineered salmon due to reasons other than safety and efficacy are not based on science, sound policy, or law, and would impose undue regulatory burdens that ultimately waste taxpayer dollars without any benefit to the public,the letter states.Further, this action sends the wrong message to industries that are working to develop innovations in agricultural biotechnology and food security. Indiana plays a key role in the agricultural industry and strongly values the possibilities that aquaculture and biotechnology bring to our economy. Read the full letterhereand below. Dear Chairman Shelby, Vice Chairman Leahy, Chairwoman Lowey, and Ranking Member Granger: As you finalize government funding legislation for Fiscal Year 2021, we write today to express our deep concern with respect to any provision that unfairly targets bioengineered salmon, by imposing unnecessary regulatory requirements on the marketing or distribution of the product, as such an action would harm the state of Indiana and the future of biotechnology. Developed by AquaBounty Technologies, bioengineered salmon was approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in 2015 and since then the company has started production at a land-based contained facility in Albany, Indiana. As you know, FDA approved AquaBounty's bioengineered salmon in November 2015 after a rigorous and decades-long review process, determining that the salmon is as safe and nutritious to eat as traditional farm-raised Atlantic salmon. After subjection to several other regulatory hurdles, AquaBounty began production of its bioengineered salmon in Indiana in 2019. In addition to FDA review, the bioengineered salmon are subject to disclosure requirements implemented by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) under the National Bioengineered Food Disclosure Standard (the Disclosure Standard). Despite this, the FY2020 Further Consolidated Appropriations Act (P.L. 116-94) included Section 790, which unfairly targets bioengineered salmon by requiring a redundant and unnecessary labeling requirement for bioengineered salmon. By imposing an additional and different labeling requirement for bioengineered salmon, Section 790 conflicts with the Disclosure Standard, which was enacted to establish uniform disclosures for bioengineered foods. As such, Section 790 also undermines the regulatory authorities of the USDA and FDA and creates confusion for consumers. Previous appropriations riders targeting bioengineered salmon have interfered with the regulatory process by banning commercialization or imposing redundant regulatory requirements for the product, despite its approval by FDA and the applicable USDA disclosure requirements for the product. This has adversely impacted not only AquaBounty, but it also has had a chilling effect on innovation and investment across the bioengineered food industry, delaying research and development of new technologies in food and agriculture as well as job creation in places like Indiana. We are deeply concerned that a similar effort to include the same or a related provision will occur in the FY2021 Appropriations process. AquaBounty's investment has spurred much-needed economic vitality in a rural and underserved region of our state. Indiana boasts a booming aquaculture industry, which is a critical part of diversifying agriculture and providing more options for Midwest consumers. As Hoosiers, we take pride in creating an environment welcoming to job creators aligned with this mission. Continuing to place unnecessary restrictions on bioengineered salmon could hinder U.S.-based aquaculture, jeopardize investment in this industry, and threaten American jobs. It also perpetuates our country's reliance on imports from other countries, such as Chile and Norway, from where we currently import over 90% of the Atlantic salmon consumed in the U.S. Provisions unfairly targeting the bioengineered salmon due to reasons other than safety and efficacy are not based on science, sound policy, or law, and would impose undue regulatory burdens that ultimately waste taxpayer dollars without any benefit to the public. Further, this action sends the wrong message to industries that are working to develop innovations in agricultural biotechnology and food security. Indiana plays a key role in the agricultural industry and strongly values the possibilities that aquaculture and biotechnology bring to our economy. We therefore ask you to oppose any provision targeting bioengineered salmon because inclusion of such a provision will not only harm Hoosiers, it will endanger U.S. innovation and agriculture, and create a dangerous precedent that will undermine confidence in our domestic regulatory system. Sincerely, Print Email Tweet Next Article Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://banks.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=1797,Rep. Jim Banks Named Next Chairman of Republican Study Committee,2020-11-19,2020,2020-11,Republican,House,IN,Jim Banks,B001299,banks.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON Rep. Jim Banks (IN-03) was unanimously elected today by his peers to become the next chairman of the Republican Study Committee (RSC), the largest conservative caucus on Capitol Hill. After launching his bid for chairman in May, Banks was unanimously endorsed by the RSC Executive Committee, made up of the former chairmen of the caucus, in September. I am honored to be chosen by my colleagues to lead the Republican Study Committee in the 117th Congress, said Banks. As the heart and soul of the conservative movement in the House, RSC is stronger than ever as we lead the fight for conservative values and push back against the radical socialist wing that controls the Democrat Party today. We will have our work cut out for us, but I won't back down from the fight! The RSC has served as the conservative caucus of House Republicans and a leading influencer on the right since its original founding in 1973. It exists to bring like-minded House members together to promote a strong, principled legislative agenda that will limit government, strengthen our national defense, boost America's economy, preserve traditional values and balance our budget. It has been called the intellectual arsenal of conservatism in the House of Representatives, and its purpose is to steer a conservative legislative agenda. The RSC was previously chaired by notable conservative Representatives like Mike Pence, Jim Jordan and Steve Scalise. During the 116th Congress, there were 148 members of the Republican Study Committee, nearly 75% of the 199 total Republicans. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://carson.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-carson-statement-political-and-humanitarian-crisis-ethiopia,Rep. Carson Statement on Political and Humanitarian Crisis in Ethiopia,2020-11-19,2020,2020-11,Democrat,House,IN,André Carson,C001072,carson.house.gov,carson,https://carson.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, DC -- Congressman André Carson, the most senior Muslim Member of the United States Congress, released the following statement calling for a peaceful end to the growing political violence in Ethiopia: ""I am extremely concerned with the escalating conflict in Ethiopia, driven by the growing discord and violence between the government of Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed and the Tigray People's Liberation Front. Democracy is fragile in every nation, but particularly so in Ethiopia. The current unrest threatens not only the stability of this nation, but the entire Horn of Africa. The international community, as well as the Trump Administration and Congress, must do everything in our power to condemn the reported atrocities that have been committed, prevent future violence, and ensure a peaceful and productive dialogue between all involved in this conflict.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-06-28T00:39:51Z https://pence.house.gov/media/press-releases/greg-pence-honors-k9-diesel-fallen-officer-bartholomew-county,"Greg Pence Honors K9 Diesel, Fallen Officer of Bartholomew County",2020-11-19,2020,2020-11,Republican,House,IN,Greg Pence,P000615,pence.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C. U.S. Congressman Greg Pence (IN-06) today delivered a speech on the House floor in honor of K9 Officer Diesel of Bartholomew County who died in the line of duty. Rep. Pence is a vocal supporter of the Law Enforcement and K9 warrior community. He cosponsored the K9 Hero Act, a bill which would help nonprofit organizations take in retired working dogs following their years of service. He is keeping the Bartholomew County Sheriff's Office in his prayers. The speech is hyperlinked below. Facebook. Twitter. ### Congressman Greg Pence represents Indiana's 6thDistrict. From Columbus, Indiana, Pence advocates for conservative Hoosier values as a member of the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee and House Foreign Affairs Committee.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://banks.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=1796,Rep. Jim Banks appointed to NDAA Conference Committee to Fight for Hoosiers,2020-11-18,2020,2020-11,Republican,House,IN,Jim Banks,B001299,banks.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON Indiana Rep. Jim Banks has been named to the Fiscal Year 2021 (FY21) National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) Conference Committee, where he will play a leadership role in the passage of the National Defense Authorization Act for the third year in a row. The bipartisan, bicameral committee consists of 32 members and is responsible forreconciling differences between the current House NDAA and the Senate's version. Once complete, the committee will refer the amended bill to both chambers for a final vote. Upon passage, the FY21 NDAA will be presented to the president for signature to become law, authorizing next fiscal year's funding level for our military. Congressman Banks knows what the defense budget means for boots on the ground. He deployed to Afghanistan in 2014 and 2015. In the House Armed Services Committee NDAA markup this summer, Congressman Banks advocated for the following provisions: Rep. Banks advocated for the vital national security work of Hoosiers at companies like Ultra Electronics, AM General, Rolls-Royce, Raytheon, Lockheed Martin, General Dynamics, Cummins, Allision Transmission, GE, Hendrix International, BWXT, Gradient, PMI, and others. These companies both big and small, employ tens of thousands of Indiana residents and contribute significantly to securing our nation. The programs Rep Banks championed represent over $4 billion in authorized defense budget spending, funding everything from advanced research initiatives such as materials science, synthetic training environments, and next generation combat vehicles; to securing the authorization of major national defense procurements, such as the P-8 Poseidon aircraft, Stryker Tactical vehicles, F-15EX fighter jets, and state of the art sonobuoys. Rep. Banks passed several amendments unanimously, including language on the Future Tactical Unmanned Aerial System (FTUAS), cutting edge waterjet demilitarization disposal technology, hypersonic and high mach aircraft capabilities, RF and EMP protection technologies, and defensive support for partner nations like Taiwan. Said Banks,I am once again honored to join my colleagues on the NDAA conference committee. This will be the third time I'll serve as a conferee to fight for Hoosier defense priorities. As co-chair of the HASC Future of Defense Task Force over the past year, I've learned what the DoD and Indiana need to do to prepare our warfighters for an era of great power competition. I am proud of the work of Hoosiers throughout the state leading the way in key defense technologies and defense manufacturing. Said House Minority Leader Kevin McCarthy,Jim is a patriot who understands that freedom is a precious gift that we must work to pass on to the next generation. As a member of the China Task Force and Armed Services Committee, he led numerous efforts to end our dependence on China and strengthen our national defense. And like any good leader, he leads by example -- serving in the Naval Reserves and even taking a leave of absence to serve in Afghanistan. Jim is a natural fit to help get the NDAA signed into law and he will bring a close eye for detail and a firm determination to ensure the next century is an American century. Indiana Priorities and Key House NDAA National Security Provisions: SMART Program Amendment Rep. Banks' amendment utilities key principles from his standalone bill HR 6526, known as theSTEM Corps Act, and incorporated them into DOD scholarship programs. The program advocates for student financial assistance, close partnerships with industry, and competitive salaries for talented STEM graduates. These initiatives will help address critical STEM workforce demands and attract more STEM talent to government service. Protecting Sensitive University Research This amendment furthered Rep. Banks' efforts to protect our university research programs from nefarious foreign actors. The amendment sought to address concerns initially raised in a bill Rep. Banks introduced last year, theProtect Our Universities Act. Taking the lead on a heated markup floor debate, Rep. Banks was able to win bipartisan support to remove a loophole in the existing policy, allowing and directing the DOD to now be able to gather information on, and understand who exactly is working on DOD funded research programs that have direct national security interests. This opens the door to an open and transparent research and development program, permitting the DOD to identify potential adversarial threats earlier on in the process. Professional Military Education Amendment Rep. Banks was able to achieve unanimous support for the establishment of a new program to develop a Public-Private Consortium to Improve Professional Military Education. The consortium would advance the training and development of junior and senior warfighters. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://bucshon.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=4031,Dr. Bucshon Supports FDA’s Emergency Use Authorization for First at Home COVID-19 Test,2020-11-18,2020,2020-11,Republican,House,IN,Larry Bucshon,B001275,bucshon.house.gov,,,legacy,"(Washington, D.C.) Congressman Larry Bucshon, M.D. (IN-08) released the following statement after an announcement that the first COVID-19 diagnostic test for self-testing at home, which provides rapid results, has been issued an Emergency Use Authorization (EUA) by the FDA: This announcement is a tremendous moment in the fight against COVID-19. Since the beginning of this health care crisis, I have been advocating for increased accessed to testing for all Americans.In order to mitigate risk and continue safely reopening our economy, testing must remain a top priority.Now, instead of waiting in long lines and exposing health care workers, Americans can stay at home and test themselves with this FDA authorizedat-home,rapid testthat provides results in 30 minutes or less. I am greatly encouraged by the great work our scientists are doing in the fight against COVID-19. Background Larry Bucshon, M.D. introduced two pieces of bipartisan legislation back in May to increase diagnostic testing capabilities at public health laboratories and expand testing access to hospitals, physicians and other health service providers that were included in H.R. 14: Diagnostic Testing for Public Health Labs Act Rapid Testing for Communities Act",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.braun.senate.gov/senator-braun-applauds-customs-border-protection-change-gcia-enhance-opportunity-international,Senator Braun applauds Customs & Border Protection change for GCIA to enhance opportunity for international flights,2020-11-18,2020,2020-11,Republican,House,IN,Mike Braun,B001310,www.braun.senate.gov,,,legacy,"In October, Senator Braun and Congressman Visclosky penned a letter on behalf of the GCIA in support of it's effort to seek a 24-hour advance notice for international flights, with the intention of leading to full-time U.S. Customs and Border Protection agents in the airport. Now, Senator Braun, Congressman Visclosky, and Mayor Prince are happy to announce in conjunction with CBP Chicago Port Director Campbell that, effective immediately, the 48-72 hours customs clearing notice will be reduced to 24 hours. This reduction is projected to create an increased demand for private and corporate aviation landings at GCIA by nearly 400%, and will allow GCIA to begin the process of creating the sufficient traffic needed to become a fully staffed facility in the future. Thanks to the efforts of Congressman Visclosky, Gary's Mayor Prince, and CBP Chicago Port Director C. Shane Campbell, the Gary/Chicago International Airport has taken a big leap forward for economic development in the Gary region. This 24-hour Customs clearance change sets the stage for full-time U.S. Customs agents to serve in the airport and opens the door to GCIA becoming a fully-staffed facility with international flights, said Senator Mike Braun. I'm committed to working with stakeholders across the region to help create opportunity for economic development and new jobs, and I'm looking forward to seeing GCIA continue to grow for the citizens of Gary and all of Northwest Indiana. ""We're excited at the great progress Congressman Pete Visclosky and Sen. Mike Braun have made with Customs and Border Protection and DirectorCampbell in significantly reducing the amount of time our airport needs to respond to requests for an international customs agent. This is public service in action, and the increased responsiveness will draw more economic development to the Gary Chicago International Airport, the City of Gary and Northwest Indiana."" - Mayor Jerome A. Prince GCIA (Gary Chicago International Airport) is the cornerstone of a renewed economy in Gary, Indiana and is uniquely positioned near Lake Michigan and Downtown Chicago to leverage both its location and the surrounding transportation network to change the dynamic in the Region. Significant investments made by the federal government and State of Indiana - including the 2018 construction of a state-of-the-art Customs Facility - have allowed GCIA to market itself more effectively and remain competitive with similar facilities in the Midwest. A recent 4.2 million dollar FAA grant for Taxiway improvements to ensure viability for UPS operations will lead to the creation of 60 new jobs.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.young.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/video-young-discusses-covid-19-vaccines-and-the-need-to-pass-critical-relief-,VIDEO: Young Discusses COVID-19 Vaccines and the Need to Pass Critical Relief,2020-11-17,2020,2020-11,Republican,House,IN,Todd Young,Y000064,www.young.senate.gov,,,legacy,"November 17, 2020 VIDEO: Young Discusses COVID-19 Vaccines and the Need to Pass Critical Relief Click hereor on the image above for Senator Young'sfull remarks. WASHINGTON Today, U.S. Senator Todd Young (R-Ind.) discussed COVID-19 vaccine developments and reinforced the need to pass a targeted relief package for Hoosiers. I too want to celebrate American ingenuity and recognize the achievements of these two pharmaceutical companies that recently announced the development of, it appears, highly effective vaccines to the COVID-19 virus. They of course in the coming weeks will be seeking formal approval for emergency use from the FDA. And there are some other drugs online that are notable as well. Eli Lilly, out of Indianapolis, Indiana has a drug that is targeted towards those who are most at risk of contracting the COVID-19 virus and it's already been approved by the FDA. All of this is possiblebecause of our innovators, our frontline scientists, and our incredible university system. But the Trump administration is also to be commended for its Operation Warp Speed, finding a new way to do business, and Republicans in the U.S. Senate, led by Roy Blunt, who helped author this initiative in theCARES Act. So I'm very proud of my colleagues and we need to build on that success here in Washington,said Senator Young. we as legislators need to build on ourCARES Actsuccess by passing the next round of assistance. Small business assistance is especially important as we hundreds and thousands of businesses having permanently closed on account of this pandemic. They require additional help. I have been talking about this for months and I'll continue to talk about this,Senator Young continued. Click hereto watch Senator Young's full remarks. ### Print Email Tweet Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.young.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/young-peters-bill-to-update-great-lakes-environmental-sensitivity-index-maps-passes-senate,"Young, Peters Bill to Update Great Lakes Environmental Sensitivity Index Maps Passes Senate",2020-11-17,2020,2020-11,Republican,House,IN,Todd Young,Y000064,www.young.senate.gov,,,legacy,"November 17, 2020 Young, Peters Bill to Update Great Lakes Environmental Sensitivity Index Maps Passes Senate WASHINGTONU.S. Senators Todd Young (R-Ind.) and GaryPeters(D-Mich.) yesterday applauded Senate passage of their bipartisan legislation to update the Environmental Sensitivity Index (ESI) maps in the Great Lakes. The legislation would require the Great Lakes Region ESI maps to be updated for the first time in over two decades, joining maps for the East coast, West coast, and Gulf coast that have been updated more recently. It would additionally require periodic Great Lakesmappingupdates. These new maps will provide more accurate assessments of coastal resources that are at risk of severe damage or a natural disaster, including endangered and threatened species, sensitive shoreline habitats, and widely used community resources such as beaches, parks and boat ramps. The Great Lakes are one of America's greatest natural resources. Hoosier families treasure our coastline along Lake Michigan and our close proximity to all the Great Lakes and it's in all of our interests to robustly protect them,said Senator Young.I'm glad the Senate voted to pass our bipartisan bill to update the ESI maps, allowing us to better protect our natural resources and effectively respond to natural disasters. The Great Lakes are more than an economic engine and resource they are simply in our DNA as Michiganders. They must be protected for future generations,said Senator Peters.There's no reason Great Lakes maps shouldn't be updated just as frequently as East and West coast maps. I'm pleased to pass this legislation through the Senate, and I'll continue working with my House colleagues to advance this legislation and get it to the President's desk to be signed into law. In 2019, Senators Young and Petersreintroducedthe bipartisan, bicameral legislation to update the Environmental Sensitivity Index (ESI) maps in the Great Lakes. In July of that year, thebill passed out of the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science and Transportation. ESI maps, which are coordinated through the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), document the potential ecological impacts to natural and human-use resources from possible oil spills, natural disasters, and resource damage assessments. The maps are vital to disaster planning and recovery, research and restoration efforts. It is essential that ESI maps throughout the Great Lakes are regularly updated to provide an accurate representation of vulnerable locations and areas that need protection in the event of a disaster. Updates would also improve the accessibility of the ESI maps by making them available in searchable formats. Print Email Tweet Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://bucshon.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=4030,Dr. Bucshon Applauds Moderna’s Vaccine Development and Operation Warp Speed Under President Trump’s Leadership,2020-11-16,2020,2020-11,Republican,House,IN,Larry Bucshon,B001275,bucshon.house.gov,,,legacy,"Dr. Bucshon Applauds Moderna's Vaccine Development and Operation Warp Speed Under President Trump's Leadership f t # e Washington, November 16, 2020 (Washington, D.C.) Congressman Larry Bucshon, M.D. (IN-08) released the following statement applauding Moderna in the development of a vaccine for COVID-19 with an efficacy rate of 94% and the leadership of President Trump through this health care crisis: Moderna's data showing its vaccine has a 94% efficacy rate is great news in the fight against COVID-19! This vaccine is one of several vaccines and therapeutics being developed as part of Operation Warp Speed. Thanks to this successful public/private partnership, which is an unprecedentedeffort created by the Trump Administration, we are on the verge of delivering a safe and effective vaccine in less than a year. Operation Warp Speed will continue to show that success when it is time to distribute vaccines, ensuring that we can quickly distribute and administer a vaccine in record time. Until a vaccine is approved and widely available, it is important we keep up the fight against COVID-19 and follow CDC recommendations to wear masks, social distance, wash hands, and stay home if you are sick. f t # e",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.young.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/young-will-return-to-washington-after-two-negative-covid-19-tests,Young Will Return to Washington After Two Negative COVID-19 Tests,2020-11-16,2020,2020-11,Republican,House,IN,Todd Young,Y000064,www.young.senate.gov,,,legacy,"November 16, 2020 Young Will Return to Washington After Two Negative COVID-19 Tests INDIANAPOLIS, Ind. U.S. Senator Todd Young has been cleared by his doctor to return to Washington, D.C., tomorrow and resume Senate business after testing negative for COVID-19 twice. Senator Young self-quarantined out of an abundance of caution after meeting with a staff member who later tested positive for COVID-19. I appreciate all the kind messages I've received, and I look forward to returning to Washington to push for more relief for Hoosiers who are hurting as a result of this pandemic,Senator Young said. I encourage all Hoosiers to remain vigilant and continue to take this virus seriously. ### Print Email Tweet Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://banks.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=1795,Rep. Banks Applauds Ban on U.S. Investments in PLA-tied Firms,2020-11-12,2020,2020-11,Republican,House,IN,Jim Banks,B001299,banks.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON Today, House Armed Services Committee and China Task Force member, Rep. Jim Banks, applauded President Trump's executive order blocking U.S. investments in 31 firms identified by the U.S. as aiding China's military industrial base. In June, Rep. Banks introduced H.R. 7064, the Stop Funding the PLA Act,which is extremely similar to the president's executive order. It directs the executive branch to develop a list of firms closely tied to China's military and bars U.S. investors from funding those firms. Reps. Mike Gallagher and Doug LaMalfa joined as original co-sponsors. This is one of the wisest and most significant foreign policy decisions President Trump has made since he entered office. It's ridiculous that the U.S. ever allowed the funding of our chief global adversaries' rise, and it's a mistake we can't make again,said Rep. Jim Banks.Republicans and Democrats who care about national security must unite behind theStop Funding the PLA Actand makecontainment of China's military-industrial base a permanent aspect of U.S. foreign policy. Rep. Jim Banks first drew attention to the issue of U.S. investments in China's military in May 2019 when he introduced H.R. 2903, theBlocking Investment in Our Adversaries Act.That bill would prevent TSP savings from being invested in Chinese or Russian companies. In January, Rep. Banks alsoraised the alarmthat state pension funds like CalPERS were already investing heavily in Chinese companies affiliated with the Chinese military and connected to human rights abuses. Additional background on theStop Funding the PLA Act: The Treasury Department will work in consultation with the State Department, DOD, Intelligence Community and experts in the civilian sector to build a list of blacklisted companies with substantial ties to the People's Liberation Army and update that list annually. The list and a comprehensive report is due to the Senate and House Financial Services Committees. The bill would prevent U.S. individuals, entities, companies, banks and financial institutions from investing in blacklisted companies. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.young.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/young-leads-letter-to-dot-on-pilot-program-modeled-after-his-drive-safe-act,Young Leads Letter to DOT on Pilot Program Modeled After His DRIVE-Safe Act,2020-11-12,2020,2020-11,Republican,House,IN,Todd Young,Y000064,www.young.senate.gov,,,legacy,"November 12, 2020 Young Leads Letter to DOT on Pilot Program Modeled After His DRIVE-Safe Act WASHINGTON Today, U.S. Senator Todd Young (R-Ind.) led a letter to the U.S. Department of Transportation in support of the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration's (FMCSA) proposed pilot programmodeled afterSenator Young'sDeveloping Responsible Individuals for a Vibrant Economy (DRIVE-Safe) Act.TheDRIVE-Safe Actwould establish an apprenticeship program that would allow for the legal operation of commercial motor vehicles in interstate commerce by commercial driver's license holders under the age of 21. In the same vein as theDRIVE-Safe Act,DOT's proposed pilot program is also firmly based on transportation safety. Per the Department's regulation of commercial vehicles, safety is the primary purpose and goal, and the proposed program will take significant steps to ensure the safe and efficient movement of interstate commerce,the Senators wrote.Today, 49 states and the District of Columbia allow commercial drivers under the age of 21 to operate in intrastate commerce. As established by the new pilot program, the robust training regimen goes far beyond what is currently required for 18-to-20-year-old commercial driver's license holders. This will not only set the stage for improving safety on our roads, but will also lead to a highly trained, talented, and safety-focused workforce across the industry. The Senators added,Without question, the mobilization of the trucking industry in response to the COVID-19 pandemic has demonstrated how critical its workforce is to the economy and our emergency response supply chain. Turning to the future, we are hopeful that this pilot program will reinvigorate this essential workforce, ensuring that the trucking industry is well-equipped to confront the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic and any future health crisis. View the full letterHEREand below. The Honorable Elaine L. Chao Secretary U.S. Department of Transportation 1200 New Jersey Avenue, SE Washington, D.C. 20590 Dear Secretary Chao, We write to express our support for the U.S. Department of Transportation's (DOT) proposed pilot program to allow 18-, 19-, and 20-year-old drivers to operate commercial motor vehicles in interstate commerce (FMCSA-2018-0346). Similar to DOT's Military Commercial Driver Pilot Program, this new three-year program is a big leap towards improving the trucking industry and bolstering the sector's workforce while simultaneously improving transportation safety standards. As you are likely aware, the proposed pilot program closely resembles the DRIVE-Safe Act (S.569/H.R.1374), legislation that calls for the implementation of an apprenticeship program to train commercial drivers under the age of 21. Currently, the bill enjoys strong bipartisan support in both the House and the Senate, and we hope it will become law soon. Support for this pro-safety and pro-jobs legislation has been driven in part by the driver shortage first identified in the 1980s. Before the COVID-19 pandemic, the trucking industry was short an estimated 60,000 drivers, and it is estimated the industry will need to hire 1.1 million new drivers over the next decade to keep pace with growing demand and an aging workforce. If status quo is maintained, some estimates suggest the shortage could swell to 105,000 and 160,000 drivers in 2023 and 2028, respectively. Once the economy recovers from the fallout of the pandemic, companies across supply chains will likely face higher transportation costs, leading to increased prices for consumers on everything from household goods to food at the grocery store similar to the pre-pandemic environment. If successful, this pilot program would provide a direct means for the trucking industry to partially alleviate its workforce challenges, which in turn would strengthen our domestic supply chains. In the same vein as theDRIVE-Safe Act, DOT's proposed pilot program is also firmly based on transportation safety. Per the Department's regulation of commercial vehicles, safety is the primary purpose and goal, and the proposed program will take significant steps to ensure the safe and efficient movement of interstate commerce. Today, 49 states and the District of Columbia allow commercial drivers under the age of 21 to operate in intrastate commerce. As established by the new pilot program, the robust training regimen goes far beyond what is currently required for 18-to-20-year-old commercial driver's license holders. This will not only set the stage for improving safety on our roads, but will also lead to a highly trained, talented, and safety-focused workforce across the industry. Over the past few months, we have seen great levels of support from the Administration for our nation's freight industry, including various actions to relax certain trucking regulations. Without question, the mobilization of the trucking industry in response to the COVID-19 pandemic has demonstrated how critical its workforce is to the economy and our emergency response supply chain. Turning to the future, we are hopeful that this pilot program will reinvigorate this essential workforce, ensuring that the trucking industry is well-equipped to confront the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic and any future health crisis. Thank you for moving forward with this important pilot program. We look forward to working closely with you in this effort to bolster both transportation safety and our essential trucking workforce across the industry. Sincerely, Print Email Tweet Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.young.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/young-releases-veterans-day-video-message,Young Releases Veterans Day Video Message,2020-11-11,2020,2020-11,Republican,House,IN,Todd Young,Y000064,www.young.senate.gov,,,legacy,"November 11, 2020 Young Releases Veterans Day Video Message WASHINGTONToday, U.S. Senator Todd Young (R-Ind.) released a video message for Veterans Day. To watch the video statement,click here. Transcript: In the Marine Corps, our motto is Semper Fidelis, it means always faithful. Always faithful to our nation, and to the brave patriots who for years and years have served it. Today, this Veterans Day, I want to thank those veterans for their courage and for their dedication to protect our freedoms and to preserve our way of life. I ask all of you to join me in thanks to these veterans and to their families. Their service should be an example to all of us. They help keep us safe during times of uncertainty and during times of peace. So thank you, veterans. Thank you to your families. Might we all learn from your example. And might you inspire the next generation to continue to serve. God bless you and may God continue to bless America. Print Email Tweet Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://banks.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=1794,Rep. Banks Recognizes Whitley County’s Judge Fahl for Service to Nation,2020-11-10,2020,2020-11,Republican,House,IN,Jim Banks,B001299,banks.house.gov,,,legacy,"WHITLEY COUNTY, Ind. Congressman Jim Banks (IN-03) recognized Lt. Col. Douglas Fahl for becoming the first Indiana National Guard judge yesterday and presented him with a piece of the Congressional Record that praised Judge Fahl's public service as a judge and member of the National Guard. The congressman also recognized Judge Fahl for his tireless service on behalf of veterans in Whitley County. The text of the Congressional Record presented to Judge Fahl can be found below. Our men and women in uniform need great advocates like Judge Fahl who understand their experiences and can apply the law judiciously. I was glad to make sure Judge Fahl's service was recorded in U.S. history, so that his contributions to our nation will never be forgotten, said Banks. --- Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor the service of Whitley Superior Judge DouglasFahl. As a practicing attorney of nearly 25 years, JudgeFahl's record of public service is nothing short of exceptional. Having practiced law in the United States for over 20 years, JudgeFahlhas also been called upon to represent military law across the world, including Guantanamo Bay and Iraq. In Whitley County, JudgeFahlspearheaded a new veterans treatment court program. Through the program, jurisdictions serve a large segment of the veteran population involved in the criminal justice system. The program has long fostered a better understanding between judges and the issues with which veterans, often casualties of war, struggle. So successful in Whitley County was this program that two neighboring county's court systems now direct qualifying veterans to JudgeFahl. In September 2020, JudgeFahlwas appointed the Indiana National Guard's very first certified military judge. Few men were more qualified for such an appointment. Brig. Gen. Bobby L. Christine, National Guard adviser to the Judge Advocate General's Corps spoke in support of JudgeFahl'scredentials and stated, Lt. Col. DougFahl's selection to serve as military judge for the state of Indiana is proof positive that the rights of those who defend America will be safeguarded. No finer selection for judge could be made. JudgeFahlhas served northeast Indiana, and our Nation, with the highest honor and distinction. This record isatestament to his tireless commitment to the people which make our country great and ideals to which our Nation strive. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.young.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/young-cancels-in-person-activities-after-staff-member-tests-positive-for-covid-19,Young Cancels In-Person Activities After Staff Member Tests Positive for COVID-19,2020-11-09,2020,2020-11,Republican,House,IN,Todd Young,Y000064,www.young.senate.gov,,,legacy,"November 09, 2020 Young Cancels In-Person Activities After Staff Member Tests Positive for COVID-19 INDIANAPOLIS, Ind. U.S. Senator Todd Young will self-quarantine after meeting with a staff member last week in Indiana who has since tested positive for COVID-19. Senator Young is halting all in-person activities until further notice. Out of an abundance of caution, I have decided to self-quarantine to protect the health and safety of my fellow Hoosiers, Senate colleagues, and staff. I amfeeling healthy, working from home, andnot experiencing any symptoms, but I will be tested this week and halt all in-person activities until further notice. ### Print Email Tweet Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.braun.senate.gov/senator-braun-president-trump-right-hold-states-and-local-officials-accountable-their-own-laws,Senator Braun: President Trump is right to hold states and local officials accountable to their own laws,2020-11-05,2020,2020-11,Republican,House,IN,Mike Braun,B001310,www.braun.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Thursday, November 5, 2020 ""President Trump is right to hold states and local officials accountable to their own laws and make sure all legal ballots are counted. Fraudulent votes disenfranchise legal voters. We should all want a result that is fair and can be trusted by the American people."" - Senator Mike Braun Issues",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://walorski.house.gov/wabash-workforce-development/,Walorski Applauds $4 Million Workforce Development Grant for Wabash County,2020-11-04,2020,2020-11,Republican,House,IN,Jackie Walorski,W000813,walorski.house.gov,,,legacy,"Wednesday, November 4, 2020 Walorski Applauds $4 Million Workforce Development Grant for Wabash County U.S. Department of Commerce Investment in Heartland Career Center Will Expand Career Training in Health Care, Advanced Manufacturing MISHAWAKA, Ind. U.S. Rep. Jackie Walorski (R-Ind.) today applauded a $4 million grant from the U.S. Department of Commerce's Economic Development Administration (EDA) to expand the Heartland Career Center in Wabash County. The investment will establish a new facility to provide adult career training in health care and advanced manufacturing. Indiana is in a strong position to rebuild our economy because the Hoosier workforce is second to none, Congresswoman Walorski said. This investment in career training in Wabash County will open new opportunities in good-paying health care and advanced manufacturing jobs for Hoosier workers and drive new investment in our communities. I was honored to work with Heartland Career Center to ensure this grant was awarded where it will make a real difference in people's lives, and I look forward to continuing to work together to renew the American Dream. BACKGROUND According to the Commerce Department, which announced the grant on Monday, the funding will be matched with $1 million in local funds to help create or retain nearly 150 jobs and spur private investment in a nearby Opportunity Zone. Created under the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act, which Congress passed and President Trump signed into law in 2017, Opportunity Zones drive private investment toward economic development in economically-distressed communities nationwide. Walorski represents the 2nd Congressional District of Indiana, serving as a member of the House Ways and Means Committee. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://banks.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=1793,Rep. Jim Banks Honored With Friend of Farm Bureau Award,2020-11-03,2020,2020-11,Republican,House,IN,Jim Banks,B001299,banks.house.gov,,,legacy,"Rep. Jim Banks Honored With Friend of Farm Bureau Award f t # e Washington, November 3, 2020 WELLS COUNTY, Ind. Congressman Jim Banks (IN-03) was honored with the 116thCongress Friend of Farm Bureau Award from the American Farm Bureau yesterday evening in Wells County, Ind. The award is given to members of the Indiana congressional delegation who vote and work with the Indiana Farm Bureau on federal priorities with regard to agriculture. Here is a list of federal policies Rep. Jim Banks helped advance that directly benefited farmers in northeast Indiana: Congressman Banks supported and pressured House Democrats to pass President Trump's signature trade deal, the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement, which provided new market access for Indiana's agricultural products. Congressman Banks championed the 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act that alleviated the tax burden on Hoosier farmers across all farm sizes and commodity types. Congressman Banks authored a House-passed amendment to the 2018 farm bill to repeal the 2015 Waters of the United States rule. After Banks' efforts, the rule was later redefined and updated by the EPA. Voted for the 2018 Farm Bill, which provides financial security for our nation's food producers. Congressman Banks has urged Governor Holcomb to use coronavirus relief money to expand rural broadband so farmers have a strong internet connection. During negotiations for the coronavirus relief package, Congressman Banks worked to ensure it included Economic Injury Disaster Loans for Hoosier farmers, which provide up to $10,000 in relief to farms with less than 500 employees. Agriculture is the backbone of northeast Indiana's economy, and our farmers are at the forefront of keeping America great at home and abroad. I'm proud to fight for better trade deals, rural broadband, property rights and more for our farmers and am very grateful for this award! I will hang it on the wall right away,said Banks after receiving the award. ### f t # e",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://banks.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=1792,Rep. Jim Banks Officially Launches Podcast,2020-11-02,2020,2020-11,Republican,House,IN,Jim Banks,B001299,banks.house.gov,,,legacy,"Rep. Jim Banks Officially Launches Podcast f t # e Washington, November 2, 2020 FORT WAYNE, Ind. Congressman Jim Banks (IN-03) has officially launched his podcast, releasing Episode One on Spotify and wherever you listen to podcasts. Episode One features special guest Pastor Raymond Dix Jr. of Pilgrim Baptist Church of Fort Wayne. Together, they discuss reconciliation and issues related to race in America. In an era of 240 character tweets, fast-paced media segments and the 24-hour news cycle, podcasts have become an invaluable tool to slow down and consume longform content during a workout, a commute or at home relaxing. I hope that listeners will get to know more about my role as their representative, and I'd like to share with them the incredibly gifted people I get to work with in Indiana and beyond, said Banks. Podcasts by the Numbers*: 1 million and 30 million: There are more than 1 million active podcasts and more than 30 million podcast episodes worldwide. In 2018, these numbers stood at 550,000 and 18.5 million respectively. So, the figures are growing rapidly! Five: News and Politics' is among the top five most popular podcast genres. 24% and 37%:24% (approx. 68 million people) of the U.S. population listens to a podcast weekly; 37% (approx. 104 million people) listen to podcasts at least once a month (though many listen to one podcast or another much more frequently than that). 155 million people: 55% of the US population, or approximately 155 million people, have listened to a podcast. 67%: Podcasting is most popular among young people, with 67% of the total podcasting audience being between 18 to 44 years old. 6 hours, 39 minutes: Weekly podcast listeners spend an average of 6 hours and 39 minutes listening to podcasts per week. $659 million: Podcast ad revenue grew exponentially from 2015 ($69 million) to 2018 ($402 million), with the growth forecast predicting a revenue of $659 million in 2020. That's a jaw-dropping growth of nearly 1000% in just 5 years! *These data come Nielsen and Edison and Apple Inc.'s Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC). f t # e",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://bucshon.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=4028,Reps. Bera and Bucshon Introduce Bipartisan Legislation to Stop Physician Pay Cuts Under Medicare,2020-10-30,2020,2020-10,Republican,House,IN,Larry Bucshon,B001275,bucshon.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, DCU.S. Representatives Ami Bera, M.D. (D-CA) and Larry Bucshon, M.D. (R-IN), today introduced bipartisan legislation to provide critical relief to physicians responding to the COVID-19 pandemic who are scheduled to receive Medicare payment cuts next year. TheHolding Providers Harmless From Medicare Cuts During COVID-19 Act of 2020would ensure payments to these providers are kept stable at 2020 levels for the next two years. As an internal medicine doctor by training, I was glad the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services increased payments for the critical work primary care and other physicians do to keep patients healthy and manage their chronic conditions,said Rep. Ami Bera, M.D.But cutting payments for other physicians during the middle of a global pandemic will further strain our health care system and the ability for health care professionals to serve their patients. I'm introducing this bipartisan bill with my good friend Representative Bucshon to prevent these cuts during the COVID-19 pandemic. Doctors are the heroes keeping our families safe during these uncertain times. Cutting their pay now as they care for our loved ones is disheartening and not appropriate,said Rep. Larry Bucshon, M.D.No doctor should have to worry about large pay cuts while they work to get back on their feet as they continue caring for patients and battling COVID-19 on the front lines. I want to thank Representative Bera for working with me on this practical, commonsense legislation that will hold doctors harmless and stave off pay cuts as they continue to be the heroes we need during these challenging times. Also leading in this effort are U.S. Representatives Brendan F. Boyle (D-PA), George Holding (R-NC), Raul Ruiz, M.D. (D-CA), and Phil Roe, M.D. (R-TN). Background:Under the Medicare Physician Fee Schedule, if CMS proposes to significantly increase payments for some services, they need to offset elsewhere via a budget neutrality adjustment under law. CMS previously finalized important increases to office/outpatient evaluation and management services to begin in January 2021. In order to make this budget neutral, CMS is proposing to decrease reimbursements by more than 10% for other services. Bill:For those providers seeing a payment cut in 2021, this bill would provide a temporary additional payment in the amount of the difference between 2020 and 2021 for two years. Click here to view the legislation,Holding Providers Harmless From Medicare Cuts During COVID-19 Act of 2020 The ACS strongly supports the Holding Providers Harmless From Medicare Cuts During COVID-19 Act of 2020, which would provide a critical lifeline to surgeons who are facing drastic Medicare payment cuts,said American College of Surgeons Executive Director David B. Hoyt, MD, FACS.We are grateful to Reps. Bera and Bucshon for introducing this bipartisan legislation and applaud their leadership to ensure patients continue to have access to the surgical care they need. It is critical for Congress to stop these impending deep cuts to Medicare, which will impact patient access to care, especially those recovering from COVID who need physical therapy,said American Physical Therapy Association (APTA) President Sharon L. Dunn, PT, PhD.APTA is grateful to Rep. Bera and Rep. Bucshon for their leadership to prevent these cuts from being implemented on January 1, 2021, and their support of patients, therapy businesses, and providers during these challenging times. ""America's neurosurgeons appreciate the leadership and tireless efforts of Representatives Bera and Bucshon to prevent steep and harmful Medicare cuts from going into effect on Jan. 1, 2021,said John A. Wilson, MD, FAANS, President, American Association of Neurological Surgeons.These cuts will further strain a health care system already stressed by the pandemic, and the bipartisan Holding Providers Harmless From Medicare Cuts During COVID-19 Act is essential to halt these cuts and preserve Medicare beneficiaries' timely access to care. The American College of Radiology thanks Reps. Ami Bera, MD (D-CA) and Larry Bucshon, MD (R-IN) for leading introduction of the Holding Providers Harmless From Medicare Cuts During COVID-19 Act of 2020. This legislation offers a two-year reprieve from drastic reimbursement cuts that will help providers already financially reeling from the pandemic to remain open and preserve access to care for millions of Americans. We look forward to continued dialogue with Congressional leaders and the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) as we seek long-term, sensible reimbursement solutions and provide our patients the services they need,said Howard B. Fleishon, MD, MMM, FACR, Chair of the American College of Radiology (ACR) Board of Chancellors.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://bucshon.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=4029,Dr. Bucshon’s Statement on House Republicans’ Commitment to Defeat the Virus and Keep America Healthy Act,2020-10-30,2020,2020-10,Republican,House,IN,Larry Bucshon,B001275,bucshon.house.gov,,,legacy,"(Washington, D.C.) Congressman Larry Bucshon, M.D. (IN-08) released the following statement on introduction of the Commitment to Defeat the Virus and Keep America Healthy Act (H.R. 14), introduced by Rep. Richard Hudson (R-NC) and House Republican leadership to provide relief to the American people from COVID-19, which includes six bills authored and co-authored by Dr. Bucshon: While House Democrats led by Speaker Pelosi have continued to play politics with the livelihoods of Americanswith Speaker Pelosi's my way or the highway approach in negotiating a COVID-19 relief package,HouseRepublicans have been working on solutions to the many challenges COVID-19 has created. This legislation is a comprehensive package that brings together commonsense legislation from both sides of the aisle that has been worked on for almost a year now. Not only will this bill provide needed help, but it will set the stage to be prepared should another pandemic come to our shores. I am pleased that this comprehensive bill includes important legislation that I have been working on in a bipartisan manner that incorporates the need for increased rapid testing, access to an affordable COVID-19 vaccine, liability protection for doctors volunteering across state lines, and many other vital reforms neededto address the COVID-19 health crisis and use the lessons learned to be better prepared for a future pandemic. I urge Speaker Pelosi to bring the House of Representatives back to Washington immediatelyto get this bill passed for the American people. Background Bills authored by Dr. Bucshon included in H.R. 14 H.R.6283 - Good Samaritan Health Professionals Act of 2020 H.R.6231 - Ensuring Access to COVID-19 Preventive Care Act of 2020 H.R.7025 - Diagnostic Testing for Public Health Labs Act of 2020 H.R.7026 - Rapid Testing for Communities Act of 2020 H.R.4995 - Maternal Health Quality Improvement Act of 2020 H.R.4810 - Opioid Prescription Verification Act of 2019",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://carson.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-carson-introduces-bill-provide-additional-debt-relief-small-businesses,Rep. Carson Introduces Bill to Provide Additional Debt Relief for Small Businesses Harmed by COVID-19,2020-10-29,2020,2020-10,Democrat,House,IN,André Carson,C001072,carson.house.gov,carson,https://carson.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, DC – Congressman André Carson (IN-07) has introduced a bill to provide additional relief for small businesses harmed by the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. H.R.8686, the Small Business Debt Relief Extension Act, introduced this week, offers additional debt relief on SBA 7(a), 504, and microloans that were received as part of the CARES Act. The CARES Act's small business debt relief provision expired last month, making it imperative that Rep. Carson's bill is passed as soon as possible. This bill ensures that the entirety of the $17,000,000,000 appropriated to this loan program in the CARES Act be used for its intended purpose. The bill accomplishes this in two ways: 1. Businesses who are currently receiving, or have received, the subsidy be granted a 6-month extension for a total of 12 months of debt relief. 2. Businesses who do not currently have an SBA loan and that apply by March 30, 2021, can receive a 6-month subsidy. ""Since the COVID-19 pandemic began, I have heard from many Hoosier small business owners how vital the relief from the CARES Act has been for the survival of their businesses,"" Rep. Carson said. ""However, as our nation suffers a new, dramatic surge in COVID-19 cases, it's clear that more must be done to protect these lifelines of our economy. Small businesses remain at greatest risk during this pandemic, and my legislation will help them get through what is shaping up to be a particularly bleak winter. I urge Congress to pass this necessary measure as soon as possible.""",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-06-28T00:34:36Z https://www.young.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/bipartisan-letter-calls-for-sanctions-on-bangladeshi-battalion-for-extrajudicial-killings-enforced-disappearances-torture,"Bipartisan Letter Calls for Sanctions on Bangladeshi Battalion for Extrajudicial Killings, Enforced Disappearances, Torture",2020-10-29,2020,2020-10,Republican,House,IN,Todd Young,Y000064,www.young.senate.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON U.S. Senators Todd Young (R-Ind.) and Bob Menendez (D-N.J.),both members of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, today are leading eight of their Senate colleagues in calling on the Trump administration to impose sanctions on senior commanders of Bangladesh's Rapid Action Battalion (RAB), which has reportedly killed more than 400 people extrajudicially since 2015. In a bipartisan letter addressed to Secretary of State Mike Pompeo and Secretary of the Treasury Steven Mnuchin, the Senators urged the administration to impose targeted sanctions on senior RAB commanders under applicable authorities, including the Global Magnitsky Human Rights Accountability Act and Section 7031(c) of the FY 2020 Further Consolidated Appropriations Act. Extrajudicial killings by the RAB have reportedly spiked since the Government of Bangladesh began its war on drugs' in the months ahead of the December 2018 elections,the Senators wrote.UN experts including the Special Rapporteur on extrajudicial, summary or arbitrary execution wrote that the war on drugs' appears to be a deliberate policy of extrajudicial killings' and urged the Government to end it and respect the rule of law and human rights. However, the Government has failed to end these abuses and the RAB continues to commit extrajudicial killings with impunity. The Senators also expressed concerns that the RAB has been credibly implicated in human rights abuses beyond these extrajudicial killings. ""In addition to extrajudicial killings, UN experts, journalists, and human rights groups have documented cases of the RAB committing enforced disappearances and widespread torture, including the 2019 abduction and suspected torture by the RAB of three men whose employer had a dispute with a high-ranking Government of Bangladesh official,""the Senators added. These cases illustrate a pattern of gross human rights violations for which the Rapid Action Battalion and its senior leadership have faced no consequences. Joining Senators Young and Menendez in signing the letter were Ben Cardin (D-Md.), Cory Gardner (R-Colo.), Jeanne Shaheen (D-N.H.), Marco Rubio (R-Fla.), Chris Murphy (D-Conn.), Chris Coons (D-Del.), Jeff Merkley (D-Ore.) and Cory Booker (D-N.J.). A copy of the letter may be foundHEREand below. Dear Secretary Pompeo and Secretary Mnuchin: We write to express our serious concern about the ongoing human rights violations reportedly perpetrated by the Rapid Action Battalion (RAB) of the Bangladesh Police. Since 2015, the RAB has reportedly extrajudicially killed more than 400 people, and the RAB has been credibly implicated in many cases of enforced disappearances and torture. These violations appear to be part of a broader crackdown on dissent by the ruling Awami League, and the RAB has not been held to account. We urge you to impose targeted sanctions on senior RAB commanders responsible for these gross human rights violations under all applicable authorities, including the Global Magnitsky Human Rights Accountability Act and Section 7031(c) of the FY 2020 Further Consolidated Appropriations Act. Extrajudicial killings by the RAB have reportedly spiked since the Government of Bangladesh began its war on drugs' in the months ahead of the December 2018 elections. In a June 2018 communication to the Government of Bangladesh, UN experts including the Special Rapporteur on extrajudicial, summary or arbitrary execution wrote that the war on drugs' appears to be a deliberate policy of extrajudicial killings and urged the Government to end it and respect the rule of law and human rights.[1]However, the Government has failed to end these abuses and the RAB continues to commit extrajudicial killings with impunity. In nearly all cases, the RAB claims that such extrajudicial killings result from gunfights or crossfire, but documentation from reputable human rights organizations demonstrates that victims were often in RAB custody when they were killed, and many of their bodies show signs of death by execution, rather than a gunfight. Amnesty International has also documented alleged witnesses to RAB gunfights saying they did not witness any such thing and that they were coerced into providing fabricated statements.[2]In one well-known case, an audio recording of the killing of municipal councilor Ekramul Haque reveals RAB officers giving directions to stage a gunfight after they executed him. Directions from RAB officers included planting drugs and bullets in Mr. Haque's pockets, untying his hands, scattering empty bullet shells around the scene, and shooting at a nearby vehicle. In addition to extrajudicial killings, UN experts, journalists, and human rights groups have documented cases of the RAB committing enforced disappearances and widespread torture, including the 2019 abduction and suspected torture by the RAB of three men whose employer had a dispute with a high-ranking Government of Bangladesh official. One of those men is believed to have died of wounds incurred during the RAB torture.[3]Many victims of extrajudicial killing are also forcibly disappeared for days or months prior to being extrajudicially killed in gunfights. These cases illustrate a pattern of gross human rights violations for which the Rapid Action Battalion and its senior leadership have faced no consequences. U.S. law requires action in the face of gross violations of human rights. We urge you to respond strongly to the RAB's ongoing violations by using all applicable authorities to impose targeted sanctions on senior RAB commanders, including Global Magnitsky and Section 7031(c) sanctions. Sincerely,",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.young.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/young-celebrates-3546-million-in-federal-funding-for-west-lake-corridor-project,Young Celebrates $354.6 Million in Federal Funding for West Lake Corridor Project,2020-10-28,2020,2020-10,Republican,House,IN,Todd Young,Y000064,www.young.senate.gov,,,legacy,"October 28, 2020 Young Celebrates $354.6 Million in Federal Funding for West Lake Corridor Project $354.6 million in federal funding provided for commuter rail expansion INDIANAPOLIS, Ind. U.S. Senator Todd Young (R-Ind.) applauds announcement that $354.6 million in Federal funding will allow construction to begin on the state's largest public transit investment in Indiana history expanding commuter rail service from the West Lake Corridor to Chicago. The project expands the South Shore Line with a new eight-mile line extending from Hammond on the north to Dyer on the south. Working hand-in-hand with Governor Holcomb and Congressman Visclosky, today's announcement is the result of our efforts over the last several years to advance a crucial infrastructure project. The West Lake Corridor Project will bolster job creation and economic growth in Northwest Indiana. I'm extremely proud of what this commuter rail project will mean for Indiana, and I look forward to seeing its advancement in coming months,said Senator Young. By bringing commuter rail through the heart of Lake County, the West Lake Corridor project is a game changer for northwest Indiana and the entire state,said Governor Holcomb.This vital infrastructure project will immediately result in 1,000 well-paying construction jobs. Unprecedented economic development in the region will now be possible as we connect Hoosiers, while also attracting talent and business to lower taxes, better quality of life and great communities in Indiana. The project includes four new stations: a Gateway station in north Hammond, a station at 173rd street in Hammond, a station at Ridge Road in Munster and a station at the border of Munster and Dyer off of Main Street. Additionally, a new maintenance facility will be built in north Hammond.Click hereto see a map of the north-south line. Construction is expected to finish in late 2024 with passenger service starting in early 2025. Federal, state, regional and local officials joined today, both in person and virtually, for the signing of the Full Funding Grant Agreement with the Federal Transit Administration (FTA) and the Northern Indiana Commuter Transportation District (NICTD). This agreement finalizes the full federal funding for the project through the FTA's Capital Investment Grant (CIG). This $354.6 million federal infrastructure grant will better connect Northern Indiana residents to jobs, education, and critical services,said U.S. Transportation Secretary Elaine L. Chao. In total, the project, which is funded through a mix of federal, state and local dollars, is expected to cost nearly $945 million. I am grateful to Secretary Chao, Governors Daniels, Pence, and Holcomb, and also Senators Young and Braun, our state legislators, local leaders, and everyone at the RDA and NICTD for their perseverance and dedication for seeing this investment in the future of Northwest Indiana through to fruition. Further, I am forever thankful to Janet Moran for her foresight, as without her visionary action over three decades ago we would not be here today. The extension and improvements to the South Shore are about the future - a future filled with a growing population, robust economic growth, plentiful good-paying jobs that recognize the value of human labor, and a vastly enhanced quality of place. It is imperative that after today's well-earned celebration, we recognize that more work than has been done lies ahead, and we need to get about it with a sense of urgency and determination,said Representative Pete Visclosky. The West Lake Corridor project is a big win for Hoosiers in Northwest Indiana. This new rail line will encourage billions in private investment in the area, create great jobs for those in Hammond and Dyer and the surrounding counties, and create new opportunities for growth in the Northwest Indiana region,said Senator Braun. Receipt of this FFGA for West Lake is the culmination of the incredible vision and leadership that so many in this area exhibited for the past three decades. We look forward to our opening day of service in the spring of 2025, if not sooner,said NICTD President Mike Noland. Today we celebrate the beginning of the largest and most comprehensive economic development project in Indiana. This is the kind of success, positive momentum and strong leadership that creates confidence in our market. This is a clear recognition of the value of Indiana's gateway to Chicago and its future,said Bill Hanna, president and chief executive officer of the Northwest Indiana Regional Development Authority. Print Email Tweet Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.young.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/young-colleagues-introduce-connected-mom-act-to-improve-health-care-for-expectant-mothers,"Young, Colleagues Introduce Connected MOM Act to Improve Health Care for Expectant Mothers",2020-10-28,2020,2020-10,Republican,House,IN,Todd Young,Y000064,www.young.senate.gov,,,legacy,"October 28, 2020 Young, Colleagues Introduce Connected MOM Act to Improve Health Care for Expectant Mothers WASHINGTON U.S. Senators Todd Young (R-Ind.), Bill Cassidy, M.D. (R-La.), Maggie Hassan (D-N.H.), and Tom Carper (D-Del.) introduced bipartisan legislation aimed at improving health care for expectant mothers. The Connected Maternal Online Monitoring Services (MOM) Act requires the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid (CMS) to provide coverage recommendations for remote devices to check blood pressure, blood glucose and pulse rates. It also requires CMS to update state resources, such as state Medicaid telehealth toolkits, to correspond with the recommendations provided. The goal is to improve maternal and infant outcomes for pregnant and postpartum women. Indiana hashistorically hadone of the worst maternal mortality rates in the country, withminority communities sufferingthe most. I've long been working to tackle this crisisand am proud to helpintroduce theConnectedMOM Act, which aims to expand coverage for remote health monitoring devicesfor mothers enrolled inMedicaid,said SenatorYoung.Research indicates that roughly 60 percent of maternal deaths in the United States can be prevented through patient care, education, and timely interventions. TheConnected MOM Actwill help improve care and identify potential issues before they become life-threatening. Mothers and babies dying at the moment of birth are preventable and far too common in Louisiana. We hope this bill to bring the latest technology preserves the health of mothers and babies to truly make what should be a happy experience, a happy experience, said Dr. Cassidy. See full text of the MOM Act here. ### Print Email Tweet Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.young.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/young-grassley-finance-committee-members-continue-investigation-into-us-organ-transplant-system,"Young, Grassley, Finance Committee Members Continue Investigation into U.S. Organ Transplant System",2020-10-28,2020,2020-10,Republican,House,IN,Todd Young,Y000064,www.young.senate.gov,,,legacy,"October 28, 2020 Young, Grassley, Finance Committee Members Continue Investigation into U.S. Organ Transplant System The letter follows Senator Young's ongoing push for transparency in Organ Transplant System WASHINGTON U.S. Senators Todd Young (R-Ind.) and Chairman Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa), along with Ranking Member Ron Wyden (D-Ore.) and Ben Cardin (D-Md.), sent aletterto the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) concerning their oversight procedures for the organ procurement and transplantation system in the United States.This probe comes after numerous inspector general audits and news reports raised questions about the adequacy of patient safety standards, suggested thousands of available organs are not being used, and highlighted questionable financial practices of some organ procurement organizations (OPOs). The Department's own data suggests that thousands of lifesaving organs go unrecovered every year, and investigative reporting has highlighted significant lapses in quality control and patient safety, including a report last month about a patient who died after the organ procurement organization (OPO) responsible for the transplant incorrectly identified the donor's blood type,the senators wrote. Our concerns regarding the Department's role in overseeing our nation's organ procurement organizations (OPOs) stem from Inspector General audits/reports, whistleblower accounts, investigative reporting, and research. Additionally, our internal analysis has shed light on the gaps in the federal government's oversight, resulting in fraud, waste, and abuse of our nation's Medicare program and American taxpayer dollars. Full text of the letter to HHS Secretary Alex Azar can be foundHERE. This letter is part of the ongoing Finance Committee investigation into the conduct of the nation's organ donation and procurement system. In February, the members sent anexpansive requestfor information and data to the United Network for Organ Sharing (UNOS), which was contracted by Congress nearly four decades ago to oversee the U.S. Organ Procurement and Transplantation Network (OPTN). The response from UNOS can be foundHERE. Following the letter, Senator Youngintroduced theLost Opportunities to Supply Transplantable Organs(LOST Organs)Actto help prevent lifesaving organs from getting lost in transport. Last year, Senator Youngwrote a letter to Health and Human Services Acting Inspector General (HHS OIG) Joanne Chiedirequesting a comprehensive examination of the adequacy of the organ procurement and transplantation system in the United States. In July 2019, Senator Young introduced legislation to deliver more life-saving organs to patients by establishing clear, accountable metrics for organ procurement organizations (OPOs) and spoke about the billon the Senate floor.In an op-ed forThe Hill,Senator Young outlined the need for his legislation to bring greater transparency, oversight, and accountability to the nation's organ donation system. In December 2019,HHS announced proposed rulesto adopt performance measures similar to Senator Young's bill. In 2018, theWashington Postpublished a reporthighlighting Senator Young's efforts. Print Email Tweet Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://carson.house.gov/media/press-releases/reps-carson-eshoo-and-senator-whitehouse-introduce-bicameral-resolution-raise,"Reps. Carson, Eshoo and Senator Whitehouse Introduce Bicameral Resolution to Raise Pancreatic Cancer Awareness and Support Pancreatic Cancer Awareness Month for November 2020",2020-10-27,2020,2020-10,Democrat,House,IN,André Carson,C001072,carson.house.gov,carson,https://carson.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, DC – Representatives André Carson (IN-07) and Anna Eshoo (CA- 18), introduced a resolution today to raise awareness about pancreatic cancer and to support the designation of this November as Pancreatic Cancer Awareness Month. Senator Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI) also introduced a companion resolution in the Senate. This effort comes as the world continues to mourn the deaths of several iconic Americans from this very aggressive cancer, including Congressman John Lewis and Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg. Reps Carson and Eshoo, and Senator Whitehouse, hope that this effort will raise awareness for pancreatic cancer, result in greater research funding support from Congress, and ultimately help save lives. Accurately described as a silent killer, pancreatic cancer still does not have an early detection test. As a result, by year's end, pancreatic cancer will have killed an estimated 47,050 Americans and is the third largest cause of cancer-related death in our county. As COVID-19 continues to rob us of more than 220,000 of our fellow Americans, pancreatic cancer continues to devastate thousands of American families and communities. An additional 57,600 Americans will be diagnosed with pancreatic cancer this year. This resolution helps to raise awareness for pancreatic cancer by accomplishing three things: Supports the designation of ""Pancreatic Cancer Awareness Month"" Recognizes the critical importance of increasing funding for pancreatic cancer research at the Department of Defense (DoD) and the National Institutes of Health (NIH) to find early detection tests and effective treatments to combat this disease and reduce the disproportionate impact on communities of color. Supports the efforts of the many advocacy organizations to educate our communities about pancreatic cancer and the need for more research funding, early detection initiatives, diagnostic tests, and effective treatments. ""I am honored to partner with my colleague, Rep. Eshoo in the House, and Senator Whitehouse in the Senate, to help support this November as Pancreatic Cancer Awareness Month,"" Congressman Carson said. ""We have lost so many of our fellow Americans to this disease, and we need to take bold action to honor them and prevent future loss of life. This resolution also helps highlight pancreatic cancer's disproportionality deadly impact on communities of color. The incidence rate for pancreatic cancer among Black Americans is 20% higher than that of any other racial demographic, and the pancreatic cancer death rate is 17% higher for Black men than for white men. More awareness and research into this deadly disease can help reduce this disparity and save countless lives. I urge all my colleagues in both the House and Senate to support our resolution."" ""I'm proud to join Congressman Carson and Senator Whitehouse in introducing this resolution to support November as Pancreatic Cancer Awareness Month after we successfully worked together to increase federal funding for pancreatic cancer research earlier this year,"" Rep. Eshoo said. ""Our work must continue for the thousands of Americans suffering from pancreatic cancer as well as those who lost their lives to it."" ""I'm proud to join Representatives Eshoo and Carson to designate November as Pancreatic Cancer Awareness Month and to recognize the Rhode Islanders battling this heartbreaking disease,"" said Senator Whitehouse. ""This November, I hope people across the country will join the fight to find a cure for pancreatic cancer."" Diane Borrison of the Pancreatic Cancer Action Network, and a fourteen-year survivor and Silicon Valley affiliate volunteer, also added: ""As a 14-year survivor of pancreatic cancer, many thousands of Americans have perished from this terrible cancer since my diagnosis. I am grateful to Representatives Carson and Eshoo and Senator Whitehouse for this resolution, designating November 2020 as Pancreatic Cancer Awareness Month, as a means of raising awareness about the disease and the urgent need for additional research funding. The passing of Congressman John Lewis and Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg has brought this need into sharp focus. No early detection methods, too few treatment options, and for too many – no hope. We must do better. Designating November 2020 as Pancreatic Cancer Awareness Month is an important step in the right direction."" Earlier this year, Reps. Carson and Eshoo introduced an amendment that would invest an additional $15 million in funding for pancreatic cancer research at the Department of Defense. The House has passed this amendment, and the two lawmakers continue to urge the Senate to also vote in favor of this lifesaving measure. This resolution also had the following original cosponsors: Rep. Cynthia Axne Rep. Nanette Barragan Rep. Eddie Bernice Johnson Rep. Danny K. Davis Rep. G. K. Butterfield Rep. Eleanor Holmes Norton Rep. Sheila Jackson Lee Rep. Barbara Lee Rep. Gwen Moore Rep. Lucille Roybal-Allard",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-06-28T00:34:36Z https://www.young.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/young-braun-support-kirsch-for-seventh-circuit-court-of-appeals,"Young, Braun Support Kirsch for Seventh Circuit Court of Appeals",2020-10-27,2020,2020-10,Republican,House,IN,Todd Young,Y000064,www.young.senate.gov,,,legacy,"October 27, 2020 Young, Braun Support Kirsch for Seventh Circuit Court of Appeals WASHINGTON Today, U.S. Senators Todd Young (R-Ind.) and Mike Braun (R-Ind.) announced their support for the nomination of Thomas Kirsch to the United States Court of Appeals for the Seventh Circuit. Kirsch would fill the seat previously held by recently confirmed Supreme Court Associate Justice Amy Coney Barrett. President Trump announced his intent to nominate Kirsch, who currently serves as the United States Attorney for the Northern District of Indiana, last week. ""Thomas Kirsch has devoted his life to the pursuit of justice. As U.S. Attorney, he fearlessly took on public corruption, gang violence, and terrorist activity, and he served honorably in the U.S. Department of Justice for more than a decade. We fully support Mr. Kirsch's nomination to serve on the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Seventh Circuit, and look forward to a swift confirmation process,""Senators Young and Braun said in a joint statement. ### Print Email Tweet Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://walorski.house.gov/barrett-scotus-confirmation/,Walorski Statement on Justice Amy Coney Barrett,2020-10-26,2020,2020-10,Republican,House,IN,Jackie Walorski,W000813,walorski.house.gov,,,legacy,"Monday, October 26, 2020 Walorski Statement on Justice Amy Coney Barrett MISHAWAKA, Ind. U.S. Rep. Jackie Walorski (R-Ind.) today released the following statement on the confirmation and swearing-in of Amy Coney Barrett as an Associate Justice of the U.S. Supreme Court: I want to congratulate Justice Amy Coney Barrett, the newest member of our nation's highest court. Justice Barrett is a woman of strong faith, a dedicated mother of seven, an exceptional jurist, and a fellow Hoosier. I have no doubt she will faithfully uphold the rule of law, defend the Constitution, and protect the life and liberty of every American. Walorski represents the 2nd Congressional District of Indiana, serving as a member of the House Ways and Means Committee. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.braun.senate.gov/sen-mike-braun-amy-coney-barrett-will-protect-our-freedoms-founders-intended,Sen. Mike Braun: Amy Coney Barrett will protect our freedoms as the founders intended,2020-10-26,2020,2020-10,Republican,House,IN,Mike Braun,B001310,www.braun.senate.gov,,,legacy,"https://www.foxnews.com/opinion/amy-coney-barrett-freedoms-first-amendment-second-amendment-mike-braun Nearly two years ago, after Sens. Chuck Schumer, D-N.Y., Kamala Harris, D-Calif., and Senate Democrats launched a character assassination of then-Judge Brett Kavanaugh, Hoosiers sent me to Washington to confirm judges that uphold the Constitution, as the confirmation ofAmy Coney Barrettto the U. S. Supreme Court has just accomplished. WhileJustice Barrettwill be a positive role model to young girls across the country, she is also the only sitting justice who did not receive her law degree from Harvard or Yale and a motivational figure for everyone in middle America. Speaking of middle America, which liberals just think of as flyover country,Justice Barrettunderstands our values of faith, family, community and respect for the law and will be a strong advocate for religious liberty, which is one of the pillars of our great country. Throughout her nearly one hundred written opinions on the appellate court, I can promise you thatJustice Barretthas proven that she is a strong Constitutionalist who will not cut the American people out of their own government by treating the Supreme Court as a third policymaking chamber of Congress. This is especially important to those who believe in the First Amendment, which includes the right to religious liberty, freedom of speech, freedom of the press, freedom to assemble and to petition the government. I have full confidence Justice Barrett will protect these freedoms as the Founders intended. Additionally, law-abiding gun owners like myself can be confident that the new Supreme Court Justice will protect our Second Amendment right to bear arms, which is under threat from coastal elites like billionaire and former New York City Mayor Michael Bloomberg and liberal House Speaker Nancy Pelosi who are actively working on gun control legislation to strip Constitutional rights from law-abiding Americans. On the bench, Amy Coney Barrett's record of defending our Constitutional rights is beyond question, and that's why I was proud to be the first U.S. Senator to endorse her. Now with the presidential election just over one week away and liberals threatening to pack the Supreme Court, it's clearer than ever that we need to reelect Donald Trump and send my colleagues back to the U.S. Senate especially Joni Ernst in Iowa, Martha McSally in Arizona, and Thom Tillis in North Carolina. We need to do this so that liberals can't undo our work by winning the White House and having a Democratically-controlled Senate pack the Supreme Court with liberal, activist judges.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.young.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/10/26/2020/young-votes-to-confirm-supreme-court-nominee-judge-amy-coney-barrett,Young Votes to Confirm Supreme Court Nominee Judge Amy Coney Barrett,2020-10-26,2020,2020-10,Republican,House,IN,Todd Young,Y000064,www.young.senate.gov,,,legacy,"October 26, 2020 Young Votes to Confirm Supreme Court Nominee Judge Amy Coney Barrett WASHINGTON U.S. Senator Todd Young (R-Ind.) today voted to confirm Supreme Court nominee, Judge Amy Coney Barrett. Judge Barrett was confirmed ona 52-48vote. Tonight, I proudly cast my vote for Supreme Court nominee, and fellow Hoosier, Judge Amy Coney Barrett. Throughout the confirmation process, Judge Barrett has more than proven her credentials to sit on the highest courtin the land. This is a proud day for Indiana, as one of our own will soon be sworn in as the next Supreme CourtAssociate Justice. Prior to the vote, Senator Young spoke on the Senate floor to make his closing argument for the confirmation of Judge Barrett. Watch the speechhere. Print Email Tweet Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.young.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/young-speaks-in-support-of-judge-amy-coney-barrett-ahead-of-supreme-court-confirmation-vote,Young Speaks in Support of Judge Amy Coney Barrett Ahead of Supreme Court Confirmation Vote,2020-10-26,2020,2020-10,Republican,House,IN,Todd Young,Y000064,www.young.senate.gov,,,legacy,"October 26, 2020 Young Speaks in Support of Judge Amy Coney Barrett Ahead of Supreme Court Confirmation Vote ClickHEREor the image above to watch Senator Young's speech. WASHINGTONU.S. Senator Todd Young (R-Ind.) spoke on the Senate floor in support of Judge Amy Coney Barrett this morning ahead of today's Supreme Court confirmation vote. One month ago, Judge Amy Coney Barrett was selected by President Donald Trump to serve on the U.S. Supreme Court, filling the vacancy created by the passing of Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg. Since then, Judge Barrett has more than proven her qualifications for the job. A respected federal judge, educator, and public servant, Judge Barrett has conducted herself throughout this process with poise and integrity. She has demonstrated her intellect, legal acumen, and commitment to the Constitution. She is clearly a brilliant jurist who interprets the Constitution as written and carefully weighs the facts of a given case,said Senator Young.Despite Senate Democrats' repeated attempt to drag her into the political fray, Judge Barrett has proven that she will make her decisions based on the law rather than politics. Senator Young added, Hoosiers are extremely proud of Judge Amy Coney Barrett and the trail she has blazed for others. She is a role model for young women everywhere, including my young daughters. I am incredibly proud that our next Supreme Court Justice will hail from America's Heartland and the great state of Indiana. I urge my colleagues to come together and carry out the will of the American people by swiftly voting to confirm Judge Amy Coney Barrett to the Supreme Court of the United States. Senator Young's full remarks as prepared for delivery: One month ago, Judge Amy Coney Barrett was selected by President Donald Trump to serve on the U.S. Supreme Court, filling the vacancy created by the passing of Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg. Since then, Judge Barrett has more than proven her qualifications for the job. A respected federal judge, educator, and public servant, Judge Barrett has conducted herself throughout this process with poise and integrity. She has demonstrated her intellect, legal acumen, and commitment to the Constitution. She is clearly a brilliant jurist who interprets the Constitution as written and carefully weighs the facts of a given case. Despite Senate Democrats' repeated attempt to drag her into the political fray, Judge Barrett has proven that she will make her decisions based on the law rather than politics. When I met with Judge Barrett earlier this month, I was assured that she would be guided by the law and precedents, and be faithful to the Constitution. As Judge Barrett herself has said:A judge is obligated to apply the law as it is and not as she wishes it would be. She is obliged to follow the law even when her personal preferences cut the other way or when she will experience great public criticism for doing so.' As a fellow Hoosier, I've had the privilege of getting to know Judge Barrett and her family over the last several years, since she was nominated to fill a vacancy on the U.S. Court of Appeals for the 7thCircuit. When I met the then-Notre Dame Law School professor, itwas abundantly clear that she was a star. My colleague at the time, former Democratic Indiana Senator Joe Donnelly, agreed. A brilliant legal scholar, Judge Barrett was, and is, held in the highest regard by her peers in the legal world. Judge Barrett's qualifications outshone personal attacks and religious bigotry, and she was confirmed by a bipartisan majority to the U.S Court of Appeals for the 7thCircuit. As a judge, she has more than proven her legal credentials. She has heard more than 600 cases and authored nearly 100 opinions. And I should note she is the first woman from Indiana ever to serve on that esteemed court. As I said when I introduced Judge Barrett before the Senate Judiciary Committee earlier this month, I was proud to cast my vote for Judge Barrett in 2017, and I look forward to doing so again for Associate Justice of the Supreme Court. Three years ago, I did not hear a single credible criticism of Judge Barrett based on her legal qualifications. I have not heard one at any time throughoutthisconfirmation process either. Democrats have tried to make this process about anything other than Judge Barrett's qualifications. And they have made threats about what the consequences will be if we move forward. First, they have threatened to pack the Supreme Court if we confirm this nominee. But, we all know they were talking about doing this long before Justice Ginsburg's passing. My colleague from California, Senator Harris, said We are on the verge of a crisis of confidence in the Supreme Courtandeverythingis on the table.' That's a quote from March. Senator Harris isn't alone. She just happens to be the most prominent. According to the Washington Post, 11 Democratic presidential candidates five of whom were sitting Senators said they were in favor of, or open to, packing the court. Second, they have threatened to eliminate the legislative filibuster if we confirm this nominee. But, they wanted to get rid of the 60 vote threshold long before this vacancy on the Supreme Court. Again, Senator Harris's own words:I am prepared to get rid of the filibuster to pass a Green New Deal.'That was in Septemberof 2019. Eighteen Democrats who ran for President supported that move, including six sitting senators and two governors now running for Senate. Third, they have threatened to add states to the Union if we confirm this nominee. But that's been on the far-left wish list for years. These idle threats are not going to stop us from carrying out the will of the American people and confirming Judge Barrett. When we do confirm Judge Barrett this week, she will be the fifth woman, and the first mother of school-aged children, to serve as a Supreme Court Justice. She will also be the only current Justice to have received a law degree from an esteemed law school other than Harvard or Yale. Hoosiers are extremely proud of Judge Amy Coney Barrett and the trail she has blazed for others. She is a role model for young women everywhere, including my young daughters. I am incredibly proud that our next Supreme Court Justice will hail from America's Heartland and the great state of Indiana. I urge my colleagues to come together and carry out the will of the American people by swiftly voting to confirm Judge Amy Coney Barrett to the Supreme Court of the United States. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.young.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/young-votes-to-confirm-supreme-court-nominee-judge-amy-coney-barrett,Young Votes to Confirm Supreme Court Nominee Judge Amy Coney Barrett,2020-10-26,2020,2020-10,Republican,House,IN,Todd Young,Y000064,www.young.senate.gov,,,legacy,"October 26, 2020 Young Votes to Confirm Supreme Court Nominee Judge Amy Coney Barrett WASHINGTON U.S. Senator Todd Young (R-Ind.) today voted to confirm Supreme Court nominee, Judge Amy Coney Barrett. Judge Barrett was confirmed ona 52-48vote. Tonight, I proudly cast my vote for Supreme Court nominee, and fellow Hoosier, Judge Amy Coney Barrett. Throughout the confirmation process, Judge Barrett has more than proven her credentials to sit on the highest courtin the land. This is a proud day for Indiana, as one of our own will soon be sworn in as the next Supreme CourtAssociate Justice. Prior to the vote, Senator Young spoke on the Senate floor to make his closing argument for the confirmation of Judge Barrett. Watch the speechhere. ### Print Email Tweet Next Article Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://pence.house.gov/media/press-releases/greg-pence-resolution-honor-beirut-bombing-attack-highlighted-marine-corps,Greg Pence Resolution to Honor Beirut Bombing Attack Highlighted in Marine Corps Times,2020-10-23,2020,2020-10,Republican,House,IN,Greg Pence,P000615,pence.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, DC Marine Corps Times published a profile on U.S. Representative Greg Pence today highlighting his time in the U.S. Marine Corps and his Resolution to dedicate October 23rd as a National Day of Remembrance for the anniversary of the bombing of Marine barracks in Beirut in 1983. Excerpt below: The bombing killed 220 Marines, 18 sailors and three soldiers, and was the deadliest day the Marine Corps has seen since the fight for Iwo Jima, Japan, during World War II. Marine veteran and Indiana Republican Rep. Greg Pence on Oct. 16 introduced a resolution to the House of Representatives to designate Oct. 23, 2020, a national day of remembrance. Having the day of remembrance ... that's what Semper Fi is all about, Pence told Marine Corps Times in a Wednesday interview. Read full article here. Pence served in the Marines from 1979 to 1984 and was assigned to the 3rd Battalion, 3rd Marines. In 1983, his battalion was ordered to Beirut, Lebanon. Pence introduced H.Res. 1197, expressing support for the designation of October 23, 2020, as a National Day of Remembrance of the tragic terrorist bombing of the United States Marine Corps Barracks in Beirut, Lebanon in 1983. Cosponsors of this bipartisan legislation include fellow service-members Mike Gallagher (R-WI-08), Gil Cisneros (D-CA-39), and Salud Carbajal (D-CA-24). Background: In October 1983, an Iranian national drove a truck bomb into the U.S. Marine Barracks in Beirut, Lebanon. The devastating bombing killed 241 American service members, including 220 Marines. The attack was perpetrated by Hezbollah, a terror group founded, trained, and financially supported by the Iranian regime. ### Congressman Greg Pence represents Indiana's 6thDistrict. From Columbus, Indiana, Pence advocates for conservative Hoosier values as a member of the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee and House Foreign Affairs Committee.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.young.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/young-cotton-colleagues-introduce-resolution-honoring-beirut-bombing-victims,"Young, Cotton, Colleagues Introduce Resolution Honoring Beirut Bombing Victims",2020-10-23,2020,2020-10,Republican,House,IN,Todd Young,Y000064,www.young.senate.gov,,,legacy,"October 23, 2020 Young, Cotton, Colleagues Introduce Resolution Honoring Beirut Bombing Victims WASHINGTON U.S.Senators Todd Young (R-Indiana) and Tom Cotton (R-Ark.), along with 11 other Senators, introduced a resolution to designate today as a national day of remembrance for members of the United States Armed Forces who were killed or injured by the terrorist attack on the United States Marine Corps barracks in Beirut, Lebanon on October 23, 1983. Text of the resolution may be foundhere. The deadly barracks bombing in Beirut, Lebanon, on this day in 1983 took the lives of 220 Marines and 21 other military personnel serving on a mission of peace. Honoring the sacrifice of my fellow Marines, and all those who lost loved ones in the bombing, is the least we can do to pay tribute to these heroes. I'm proud to introduce this resolution to mark today as a national day of remembrance for the fearless members of the United States Armed Forces who fell for our country 37 years ago,said Senator Young. This fateful day in 1983 marks the deadliest day for the Marine Corps since the Battle of Iwo Jima. Iran's terrorist proxy Hezbollah killed 220 Marines, along with 21 other servicemembers across our Armed Forces. Our resolution makes certain that our nation remembers their sacrifice on the anniversary of their tragic deaths,said Senator Cotton. Background: On October 23, 1983, an Iranian national drove a truck bomb into the U.S. Marine Barracks in Beirut, Lebanon. The devastating bombing killed 220 Marines and dozens of other personnel. The attack was perpetrated by Hezbollah, a terror group founded, trained, and financially supported by the Iranian regime. Print Email Tweet Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.young.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/icymi-bloomberg-senators-ask-pope-francis-to-press-china-on-religious-freedoms,ICYMI: Bloomberg: Senators Ask Pope Francis to Press China on Religious Freedoms,2020-10-22,2020,2020-10,Republican,House,IN,Todd Young,Y000064,www.young.senate.gov,,,legacy,"October 22, 2020 ICYMI: Bloomberg: Senators Ask Pope Francis to Press China on Religious Freedoms WASHINGTONAs reported byBloomberg News, U.S. Senators Todd Young (R-Ind.) and Tim Kaine (D-Va.) this week sent a letter to Pope Francis concerning the treatment of ethnic and religious minorities in Xinjiang, China. The Chinese Communist Party has forced the Uyghur Muslim population into modern day slavery, subjected women to forced abortions and sterilization, and is utilizing forced labor as a tool for social control and economic progress. The Senators are calling on Pope Francis to condemn these human rights abuses. Read excerpts from the article below. Senators Ask Pope Francis to Press China on Religious Freedoms By: Daniel Flatley, Bloomberg News Monday, October 19, 2020 A bipartisan duo of U.S. senators are urging Pope Francis to confront the Chinese government over the treatment of Uighur Muslims in the Xinjiang province of China, bolstering a message delivered last month by the Trump administration. As the leader of the world's largest institution of faith, we respectfully request that Your Holiness do all that you can to protect the most basic human rights for all people, including Uyghurs in Xinjiang, Republican Todd Young and Democrat Tim Kaine wrote in a letter to be sent Monday. The letter comes as the Vatican begins negotiations with the Chinese Communist Party over renewing an agreement over the appointment of bishops in the country. President Donald Trump signed into law legislation this year that requires him to sanction officials found responsible for oppression of Uighurs and members of other Muslim minority groups. Read the full articleHERE. Print Email Tweet Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.young.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/young-calls-on-dni-to-brief-senators-regarding-attempted-election-interference-by-russia-and-iran-,Young Calls on DNI to Brief Senators Regarding Attempted Election Interference by Russia and Iran,2020-10-22,2020,2020-10,Republican,House,IN,Todd Young,Y000064,www.young.senate.gov,,,legacy,"October 22, 2020 Young Calls on DNI to Brief Senators Regarding Attempted Election Interference by Russia and Iran WASHINGTON U.S. Senator Todd Young (R-Ind.), a member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, sent a letter to Director of National Intelligence John Ratcliffe calling for an immediate classified briefing with all members of the United States Senate regarding yesterday's announcement that Russia and Iran are attempting to interfere in the upcoming U.S. election. I write to express my deep gratitude to you and the members of our intelligence community who are working tirelessly to safeguard our upcoming election. As someone who shares this desire, you will no doubt understand my significant concerns following your press conference on Wednesday, October 21, 2020,Senator Young wrote. Indeed, your announcement that both Russia and Iran have been able to successfully access voter databases and have used that data to deliver false information to voters should alarm all Americans. I know that you agree that actions of this nature demand a response from our government and for those found responsible to be held accountable. Senator Young added,These are serious matters and therefore a classified briefing with all members of the United States Senate without delay is appropriate. Upon receipt of this message, kindly affirm that this is your intention. I stand ready to work with my colleagues to ensure you have all of the resources necessary to combat this threat and protect our election. View the full letterHEREand below. The Honorable John Ratcliffe Director of National Intelligence Office of the Director of National Intelligence 1500 Tysons McLean Drive McLean, Virginia 22102 Director Ratcliffe: I write to express my deep gratitude to you and the members of our intelligence community who are working tirelessly to safeguard our upcoming election. As someone who shares this desire, you will no doubt understand my significant concerns following your press conference on Wednesday, October 21, 2020. Indeed, your announcement that both Russia and Iran have been able to successfully access voter databases and have used that data to deliver false information to voters should alarm all Americans. I know that you agree that actions of this nature demand a response from our government and for those found responsible to be held accountable. As a former Member of Congress, you undoubtedly agree that the American people's elected representatives must be afforded the opportunity to better understand the nature of these threats and the risks to voters across our country. With our election just 12 days away, I know you agree that we must be provided with the latest intelligence reporting and the actions being taken to safeguard our democratic processes. In these divided times, Americans must have the confidence in the outcome of this election and that is only possible when we are given a full picture of the current environment. As you know, the Intelligence Reform and Terrorism Prevention Act of 2004, which established the Office of the Director of National Intelligence (ODNI), requires that the Director of National Intelligence fully and currently inform Congress. Further, on August 7th, your office stated that The IC (Intelligence Community) also recognizes there will continue to be demand for more information as the election approaches. The IC has and will continue to provide classified election threat briefings to the presidential campaigns, political committees and all Members of Congress. These are serious matters and therefore a classified briefing with all members of the United States Senate without delay is appropriate. Upon receipt of this message, kindly affirm that this is your intention. I stand ready to work with my colleagues to ensure you have all of the resources necessary to combat this threat and protect our election. Print Email Tweet Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.young.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/young-statement-on-senate-democrats-voting-to-block-covid-relief,Young Statement on Senate Democrats Voting to Block COVID Relief,2020-10-21,2020,2020-10,Republican,House,IN,Todd Young,Y000064,www.young.senate.gov,,,legacy,"October 21, 2020 Young Statement on Senate Democrats Voting to Block COVID Relief WASHINGTON U.S. Senator Todd Young (R-Ind.) today issued the following statement regarding Senate Democrats once again voting to block COVID-19 relief: Today, Senate Republicans attempted once again to deliver critical assistance to the families, workers, schools, hospitals, and small businesses that are all struggling as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. The targeted package the Senate voted on today would help Americans safely get back to work and school, and would provide aid to millions of Americans in need. Sadly, Senate Democrats have once again blocked this much needed assistance, choosing instead to play political games. The American people need assistance now. Print Email Tweet Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.young.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/young-van-hollen-urge-administration-to-extend-new-start-to-constrain-russias-nuclear-forces,"Young, Van Hollen Urge Administration to Extend New START to Constrain Russia’s Nuclear Forces",2020-10-21,2020,2020-10,Republican,House,IN,Todd Young,Y000064,www.young.senate.gov,,,legacy,"October 21, 2020 Young, Van Hollen Urge Administration to Extend New START to Constrain Russia's Nuclear Forces WASHINGTONU.S. Senators Todd Young (R-Ind.) and Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.) sent a bipartisan letter to President Trump urging the Administration to extend the New Strategic Arms Reduction Treaty (New START) with Russia. Negotiations on the treaty's extension are currently underwayand this letter coincides with news that the two sides are potentiallynearing a deal.In their letter, the Senators underscore the vital need to preserve New START highlighting its importance to our national security and nuclear stability with Russia. We write to express our strong desire that your administration extend the New Strategic Arms Reduction Treaty (New START) with Russia before it expires in fewer than four months. Renewing this treaty the last standing arms control agreement limiting the U.S. and Russian nuclear arsenals will further our national security and that of our allies. We thus urge you to extend New START, which may be complemented by a mutual freeze on current warhead stockpiles, without delay,the Senators begin. The Senators go on to list a number of reasons behind the need to extend the treaty, including its caps on Russia's deployed strategic warheads and deployed and non-deployed long-range delivery vehicles and its verification regime for on-site inspections and data exchanges. The Senators also note that the treaty provides an environment in which the U.S. can continue to shape its own nuclear forces, while laying the groundwork for further arms control negotiations with Russia. The Senators draw on quotes from military officials supporting this effort, noting,It is not only our view that New START continues to underpin strategic stability with Russia. Top U.S. military officials, as well as our allies, agree. By containing the military capabilities of our adversaries, effective arms control helps lower the risk of nuclear conflict and avert costly arms races. We therefore urge you to take the necessary steps to extend New START and safeguard U.S. national security,they conclude. The full text of the letter is availablehereand below. Dear Mr. President: We write to express our strong desire that your administration extend the New Strategic Arms Reduction Treaty (New START) with Russia before it expires in fewer than four months. Renewing this treaty the last standing arms control agreement limiting the U.S. and Russian nuclear arsenals will further our national security and that of our allies. We thus urge you to extend New START, which may be complemented by a mutual freeze on current warhead stockpiles, without delay. The case for extending New START is overwhelming. First, the treaty imposes caps on Russia's deployed strategic warheads and deployed and non-deployed long-range delivery vehicles. Maintaining these caps is increasingly important as Russia nears completion of its current nuclear modernization cycle, enhancing its capacity to rapidly deploy nuclear forces that threaten the U.S. homeland. Second, New START establishes a verification regime of on-site inspections and data exchanges, which provides not only the means to verify Russian treaty compliance, but also critical insight into Russia's nuclear capabilities. Third, the treaty fosters a stable and predictable environment in which the U.S. can confidently shape and size its own nuclear forces. And because our nuclear modernization plans fall within the parameters of New START, the U.S. denies itself nothing by extending the treaty while continuing to enjoy the strategic benefits of the treaty. Finally, preserving New START will secure the breathing room needed to negotiate follow-on accords that achieve deeper cuts in strategic offensive arms and verifiably limit Russian systems not covered under New START limits. It is not only our view that New START continues to underpin strategic stability with Russia. Top U.S. military officials, as well as our allies, agree. Vice Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, General John Hyten, testified while serving as Commander of U.S. Strategic Command (STRATCOM): I am a big supporter of the New START agreement. Likewise, STRATCOM Commander Admiral CharlesRichard recently voiced support for the treaty, stating that the New START Treaty has been an important transparency mechanism for maintaining U.S.-Russian stability. As your State Department acknowledged in a July 2020 report to Congress, our allies and partners endorse renewing New START, viewing it as a boon to strategic stability. By containing the military capabilities of our adversaries, effective arms control helps lower the risk of nuclear conflict and avert costly arms races. We therefore urge you to take the necessary steps to extend New START and safeguard U.S. national security. Sincerely, Print Email Tweet Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.young.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/senators-young-hassan-introduce-american-innovation-and-jobs-act-,"Senators Young, Hassan Introduce American Innovation and Jobs Act",2020-10-20,2020,2020-10,Republican,House,IN,Todd Young,Y000064,www.young.senate.gov,,,legacy,"October 20, 2020 Senators Young, Hassan Introduce American Innovation and Jobs Act WASHINGTON U.S. Senators Todd Young (R-Ind.) and Maggie Hassan (D-N.H.), both members of the Senate Finance Committee, introduced the bipartisanAmerican Innovation and Jobs Actto support research and development (R&D) investments by innovativesmallbusinesses and startups. Companiesand startups can either deduct R&D investments or claim them as a tax credit, which helps them toinvest in developing new, innovative products that lead to additional job creation and a stronger economy.Senators Young and Hassan's billreverses a change in the 2017 tax law to ensure that companies can continue tofully deduct R&D investments each year. Italso doubles the refundable R&D tax credit and extends it to more small businesses. Startups and other small businesses are the engines of job creation in the U.S. and will be critical to our economic recovery as we emerge from the coronavirus pandemic,said Senator Young.The American Innovation and Jobs Act will ensure we are doing our part by making the R&D credit as accessible and useful as possible so employers can focus on growing their business, while helping to create jobs and boost our economy at the same time. ""Innovative businesses and startups will help drive our economic recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic,"" said Senator Hassan. ""By expanding and strengthening R&D tax incentives, this bipartisan bill willhelp support startups, boost economic opportunity, and fuel American innovation. I'm glad to be partnering with Senator Young on this bipartisan effort, and we'll keep pushing to build momentum and get this bill passed into law."" The bipartisanAmerican Innovation and Jobs Actsupports innovative businesses and helps create jobs by: Restoring incentives for long-term R&D investment by ensuring that companies can continue to fully deduct R&D expenses each year Immediately doubling andthenfurtherraisingthecap over time for therefundable R&D tax credit for small businesses and startups Expanding eligibility for the refundable R&D tax credit so that morestartups and new businesses can use it TheAmerican Innovation and Jobs Actis endorsed by the National Association of Manufacturers and the R&D Coalition.You can read a one-pager on the billhere, and the full bill text ishere. ### Print Email Tweet Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.young.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/video-young-discusses-coronavirus-relief-and-judge-barrett-confirmation_,VIDEO: Young Discusses Coronavirus Relief and Judge Barrett Confirmation,2020-10-20,2020,2020-10,Republican,House,IN,Todd Young,Y000064,www.young.senate.gov,,,legacy,"October 20, 2020 VIDEO: Young Discusses Coronavirus Relief and Judge Barrett Confirmation Click herefor Senator Young'sfull remarks. WASHINGTONToday, U.S. Senator Todd Young (R-Ind.) spoke about this week's Senate vote to deliver needed coronavirus relief to the American people. Senator Young also addressed the upcoming confirmation vote for Judge Amy Coney Barrett to the Supreme Court. Well evidently Speaker Pelosi and National Democrats believe that giving the American people, during a time of great need, nothing, is better than giving them something. I think she misreads the opinion of the American people as she makes that judgement. But, we here in the Republican controlled Senate will once again take a stab this week at much needed targeted relief to the American people,said Senator Young during the press stakeout.We will provide them relief so that their healthcare can be assured during this time, provide them relief so that they can safely return to work and to school. I'm hopeful that we might get some bipartisan assistance this go around but not particularly optimistic. In the meanwhile, we will continue discussions, we will continue to see if negotiations might lead to a broader break through when it comes to a package. It's my hope that that could happen but, I am not optimistic, once again, Nancy Pelosi seems to prefer nothing over something during a time of American's greatest need. On the positive front, the Senate Judiciary Committee just had an outstanding hearing last week and the American people were able to get a front row seat as they watched Judge Amy Coney Barrett from the great state of Indiana, demonstrate her knowledge of the law, demonstrate that she certainly has command of the facts of particular cases, that her means of jurisprudence is infused with great integrity. She is someone who doesn't intend to legislate from the bench, but instead to apply the law of the land to the facts of a given case. And along the way, the American people increasingly became supportive of her nomination and they support confirmation before the election. ... I think we'll find that this is one Hoosier for years to come, who will be serving this country with great honor and distinction,Senator Young added. Click hereto watch Senator Young's full remarks. Print Email Tweet Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://pence.house.gov/media/press-releases/greg-pence-introduces-resolution-establish-national-day-remembrance-1983-beirut,Greg Pence Introduces Resolution to Establish National Day of Remembrance Of 1983 Beirut Bombing Attack on U.S. Marines,2020-10-19,2020,2020-10,Republican,House,IN,Greg Pence,P000615,pence.house.gov,,,legacy,"1st Lieutenant Greg Pence with two of his fellow Marines. Washington, DC U.S. Representative Greg Pence (R-IN-06) introduced H.Res. 1197, expressing support for the designation of October 23, 2020, as a National Day of Remembrance of the tragic terrorist bombing of the United States Marine Corps Barracks in Beirut, Lebanon in 1983. Pence served in the Marines from 1979 to 1984 and was assigned to the 3rd Battalion, 3rd Marines. In 1983, his battalion was ordered to Beirut, Lebanon. ""This day will forever be ingrained in my heart. As a Beirut Veteran, I was shipped out of the Beirut barracks only days before this horrific attack,"" said Congressman Pence. ""I was able to come home to my wife, who was expecting our first child, and my family in Columbus. Unfortunately, so many of my friends and fellow Marines were not able to do so. I promised I would never forget them, and this is part of that promise. Cosponsors of this bipartisan legislation include fellow service-members Mike Gallagher (R-WI-08), Gil Cisneros (D-CA-39), and Salud Carbajal (D-CA-24), Background: In October 1983, an Iranian national drove a truck bomb into the U.S. Marine Barracks in Beirut, Lebanon. The devastating bombing killed 241 American service members, including 220 Marines. The attack was perpetrated by Hezbollah, a terror group founded, trained, and financially supported by the Iranian regime. ### Congressman Greg Pence represents Indiana's 6thDistrict. From Columbus, Indiana, Pence advocates for conservative Hoosier values as a member of the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee and House Foreign Affairs Committee.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.young.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/young-kaine-call-on-pope-francis-to-denounce-religious-persecution-and-human-rights-abuses-in-china,"Young, Kaine Call on Pope Francis to Denounce Religious Persecution and Human Rights Abuses in China",2020-10-19,2020,2020-10,Republican,House,IN,Todd Young,Y000064,www.young.senate.gov,,,legacy,"October 19, 2020 Young, Kaine Call on Pope Francis to Denounce Religious Persecution and Human Rights Abuses in China WASHINGTON U.S. Senators Todd Young (R-Ind.) and Tim Kaine (D-Va.) today sent a letter to Pope Francis concerning the treatment of ethnic and religious minorities in Xinjiang, China.The Chinese Communist Party (CCP) has systematically persecuted the Uyghur Muslim population of Xinjiang for years.The Vatican is currently in the process of negotiating a renewed agreement with the CCP concerning the Pope's role in the appointment of Chinese Bishops. The Senators are encouraging the Pope to use these negotiations to confront the CCP's treatment of religious minorities in China. We had the great privilege to hear your encouraging words to a Joint Session of Congress just over five years ago.In September 2015 you encouraged Senators and Representatives to use the voice of love' as a resource in the battle to eliminate new global forms of slavery.' Today, weare stillencountering slavery and oppression, and it is perhaps no place more extreme than what we are witnessing in Xinjiang andtheChinese Communist Party's (CCP) indefensible treatment of Uyghur Muslims,the Senators wrote. It is our understanding that the agreement the Vatican reachedwith the CCP leadership concerning Your Holiness's role in the appointment of Chinese bishops will soon expire and that you are making progress on a renewal.We support your desire to ensure the integrity and safety of the Catholic Church and your congregants in the PRC, and respect the challenging decisions you must make to accomplish these outcomes.We encourage you to use this mutually desired outcome to express to the CCP your concern about the treatment of religious minorities in Xinjiang and elsewhere.The CCP has much to gain from a continued agreement with Your Holiness, and as such we believe you possess a unique opportunity to make a positive difference in how all religions and practitioners are treated by the Chinese authoritiesespecially in Xinjiang,the Senators added. The full letter is availableHEREand below. His Holiness, Pope Francis Secretariat of State Apostolic Palace 00120 Vatican City Your Holiness, It is with great respect that we write to you regarding a matter of significant international concern: the treatment of ethnic and religious minoritiesin Xinjiang, China. We had the great privilege to hear your encouraging words to a Joint Session of Congress just over five years ago.In September 2015 you encouraged Senators and Representatives to use the voice of love as a resource in the battle to eliminate new global forms of slavery. Today, weare stillencountering slavery and oppression, and it is perhaps no place more extreme than what we are witnessing in Xinjiang andtheChinese Communist Party's (CCP) indefensible treatment of Uyghur Muslims. As you are undoubtedly aware, for years the CCP has waged a campaign of totalitarian terror against the Uyghur population ofXinjiang. More than one million Uyghurs have endured unspeakable human rights abuses in re-education camps while their relatives are left without answers or support.The CCP has subjected countlesswomento forced abortions, sterilization, or the involuntary use of contraceptives. Birthrates in Xinjiang fell by 24% last year, part of what experts are describing as a demographic genocide.As the international community seeks to eradicate slavery and forced labor, inXinjiang these practices are being used as tools for social control and economic progress.This systematic pattern of injustice and abuse has all occurred under the legal umbrella of laws that associate practices of faith and culture with extremism and terrorism.In short, the CCP is waging a war against the very ideas of expression, of culture, and of religious belief. The CCP's actions should not only shock or outrage us but also lead us to act. Every individual has a choice: to continue to turn a blind eye towards the ongoing abuses occurring in Xinjiang or to use whatever power we have to affect change.Those in positionsof authority have the option to create consequences for these assaults on life.As the leader of the world's largest institution of faith, we respectfully request that Your Holiness do all that you can to protect the most basic human rights for all people, including Uyghurs in Xinjiang. It is our understanding that the agreement the Vatican reached with the CCP leadership concerning Your Holiness's role in the appointment of Chinese bishops will soon expire and that you are making progress on a renewal.We support your desire to ensure the integrity and safety of the Catholic Church and your congregants in the PRC, and respect the challenging decisions you must make to accomplish these outcomes.We encourage you to use this mutually desired outcome to express to the CCP your concern about the treatment of religious minorities in Xinjiang and elsewhere.The CCP has much to gain from a continued agreement with Your Holiness, and as such we believe you possess a unique opportunity to make a positive difference in how all religions and practitioners are treated by the Chinese authoritiesespecially in Xinjiang. Throughout your papacy, you have repeatedly used your influential voice to raise awareness of social injustice, of economic inequality, and the idea that all people are made in the image of the Creator. Your lessons shape the beliefs of millions of Catholics, and they matter for countless others of all faiths and backgrounds. Today, the world is witnessing perhaps our young century's most devastating human rights disaster.We encourage Your Holiness to add your voice, with all its accompanying power and legitimacy, to those that have already called for change and justice in Xinjiang.We ask that Your Holiness challenge the leadership of the People's Republic of China, as you have challenged leaders around the globe.Just as you encouraged us five years ago, we encourage you to use your loud and formidable voice as a voice for love that encourages all the nations of the world to pursue peace and justice. We thank you for your leadership and for your consideration of our requests. ### Print Email Tweet Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.young.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/young-statement-on-announcement-of-national-strategy-for-critical-and-emerging-technologies,Young Statement on Announcement of National Strategy for Critical and Emerging Technologies,2020-10-16,2020,2020-10,Republican,House,IN,Todd Young,Y000064,www.young.senate.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON Today, U.S. Senator Todd Young (R-Ind.) released the following statement in response to the White House releasing their new National Strategy for Critical and Emerging Technologies, which outlines how the United States will promote and protect our competitive edge in fields such as artificial intelligence, energy, quantum information science, communication and networking technologies, semiconductors, military, and space technologies. The Administration's announcement today of a Critical and Emerging Technologies strategy is a positive step forward and something that is long overdue. Just as I laid out months ago in myEndlessFrontier Act, this new strategyidentifies critical technology areas and proposes mobilizing the federal government to focus significant resources on ensuring we remain the global leader in these fields. Combatting the influence of the Chinese Communist Party in these areas is vital for both our economic and national security. This new announcement lays the groundwork for myEndless Frontier Actwhich will provide the resources necessary for our country to act,said SenatorYoung. Senator Young hasbeen callingfor the federal government to provide more resources and making critical investments in research and development of emerging technologies. Senator Young has been working together with Senator Schumer and earlier this year unveiled a majorbipartisan proposal titled theEndless Frontier Act. Since introducing theEndless Frontier Act, Senators Young and Schumer have received praise from:",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://banks.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=1790,Rep. Banks Statement Following JHTO Announcement,2020-10-15,2020,2020-10,Republican,House,IN,Jim Banks,B001299,banks.house.gov,,,legacy,"FORT WAYNE, Ind.--Today, Rep. Banks, Rep. Bucshon, Sen. Young andGov. Holcomb met virtually withActing Deputy Under Secretary of Defense for Research and Engineering Dr. Mark Lewis, Joint Hypersonics Transition Office (JHTO) Director Dr. Gillian Bussey and federal, state and military officials to inaugurate the JHTO Systems Engineering Field Activity. Thirty engineers and program managers will be located on-site at Naval Surface Warfare Center Crane Division in Martin County, Indiana to support the program. Following the virtual event, Rep. Jim Banks released the following statement: I was proud to introduce the language in the NDAA that authorized theJoint Hypersonics Transition Office(JHTO),said Rep. Banks (IN-03).Hypersonics is critical to our national defense, andIndianain partnership with NSWCCraneareprime contenders to lead these efforts. As we continue to innovate and modernize our defense capabilities, there will be many more opportunities for Indiana to leadin hypersonics research and development. Banks continued:I also want to thank Governor Holcomb for his leadership in fighting for greater defense investments in our state, and I thank the full bipartisan Indiana delegation who fought to make this happen. As the sole Hoosier on the Armed Services Committee in the House or Senate, I look forward to more announcements like today's in the years to come. The new facility will allow the Department of Defense to develop and improve technologies and capabilities in hypersonics by utilizing NSWC Crane's strategic assets and growing network of government, industry and academic partners. The JHTO, which is headquartered at the Pentagon and overseen by the Office of the Under Secretary of Defense for Research and Engineering, will coordinate and integrate current and future hypersonic programs, develop strategies for transitioning hypersonic technologies into future capabilities, and establish a university consortium for hypersonics R&D and workforce development at its satellite activity office in Indiana. Hypersonics systems can travel at Mach 5 or higher, which is at least five times faster than the speed of sound. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.young.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/young-helps-secure-joint-hypersonics-transition-office-in-indiana-to-boost-national-security,Young Helps Secure Joint Hypersonics Transition Office in Indiana to Boost National Security,2020-10-15,2020,2020-10,Republican,House,IN,Todd Young,Y000064,www.young.senate.gov,,,legacy,"October 15, 2020 Young Helps Secure Joint Hypersonics Transition Office in Indiana to Boost National Security INDIANAPOLIS, Ind. U.S. Senator Todd Young (R-Ind.) today joined Governor Eric Holcomb, officials from the U.S. Department of Defense (DoD), and other Indiana leaders to announce the establishment of a Joint Hypersonics Transition Officein Indiana at Naval Surface Warfare Center Crane. The Department of Defense is realizing what so many around our state have long understood, that critical work occurring around Indiana is shaping the future of our national security. This is further evidenced by today's news that the DoD is locating the new JointHypersonicTransition Office right here in Indiana. While legislative language that we secured in last year's National Defense Authorization Act set the conditions for today's announcement, I am especially grateful to the hard working Hoosiers whose efforts brought this home. I look forward to working with our partners around the state as this office is established and Indiana's leadership role is solidified,said Senator Young. Senator Young secured language in the National Defense Authorization Act that directed the establishment of a Joint Hypersonics Transition Office and called for coordination between DoD and universities like Notre Dame, Purdue, and Indiana University that are focused on hypersonic research and development. This coordination will expedite the transition of hypersonic technologies from the lab to the battlefield, and help America outpace adversaries like China who are working to develop similar technologies. In the coming decades the challenge of securing and defending America will increase, and dangers that have long been in the distant future are now today's pacing threats. We no longer have the advantages of time, and the decisions we make today will establish the foundation for a successful national defense for years to come,Senator Young added.The development, production, and fielding of emerging technologies, including hypersonics, will be a long process that will better equip our men and women in uniform to match the capabilities of our strategic competitors. That's why the creation of a Joint Hypersonics Transition Office in Indiana is critical to America's national security. Print Email Tweet Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://carson.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-carson-introduces-legislation-increase-education-access-and-quality,"Rep. Carson Introduces Legislation to Increase Education Access and Quality, Support Students and Teachers",2020-10-14,2020,2020-10,Democrat,House,IN,André Carson,C001072,carson.house.gov,carson,https://carson.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, DC – Congressman André Carson (IN-07) recently introduced two new bills to improve American education that support students and teachers alike. The Students Helping Young Students Act (H.R. 8550) will invest in college students who support and mentor K-12 students in after school activities. Currently, after school activities are not considered a community service under the Federal Work-Study program. Rep. Carson's bill changes this by allowing college students to access Federal Work-Study funds for their participation in after school activities. Moreover, this legislation requires eligible schools to allocate federal funds to students who want to work with after-school programs. Through these changes, students who want to serve their community can be compensated for their important work, and the younger students will benefit from this mentorship, which has been shown to dramatically improve one's educational achievements. This legislation has been endorsed by MENTOR: the National Mentoring Partnership. The second bill, the Interstate Teaching Mobility Act (H.R. 8551) will create a new voluntary program at the Department of Education (DOE) to allow licensed teachers to use their licenses across state lines. Currently, there is a troubling shortage of teachers in America that is partially caused by inconsistent and often cumbersome state-by-state certification and assessment requirements. These obstacles prevent many from teaching, which negatively impacts countless schools and students, particularly in under-served communities. Rep. Carson's legislation will help America's education system catch up to our increasingly mobile society by allowing teachers to more easily take teaching positions across state lines and at schools that desperately need teachers. This legislation has been endorsed by the National Education Association (NEA) and Third Way. ""I am extremely pleased to introduce these two pieces of legislation that will help improve our education system,"" Congressman Carson said. ""The current COVID-19 crisis has further revealed the need to ensure our education system is adaptable and responsive to the challenges we face. However, even before this crisis hit, it was clear persistent inefficiencies and unnecessary obstacles were hurting teachers and students alike. It's long past time that we make the kind of changes I am proposing in these bills. Both will help to ensure a high-quality education and secure increased community support and engagement in education.""",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-06-28T00:34:36Z https://www.young.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/video-young-introduces-judge-amy-coney-barrett-at-supreme-court-confirmation-hearing-,VIDEO: Young Introduces Judge Amy Coney Barrett at Supreme Court Confirmation Hearing,2020-10-12,2020,2020-10,Republican,House,IN,Todd Young,Y000064,www.young.senate.gov,,,legacy,"October 12, 2020 VIDEO: Young Introduces Judge Amy Coney Barrett at Supreme Court Confirmation Hearing I am honored to appear before you to introduce Judge Amy Coney Barrett, a remarkable Hoosier poised to make her mark on our country. Click hereor the image above to watch Senator Young's opening statement. WASHINGTON Today, U.S. Senator Todd Young (R-Ind.) introduced Judge Amy Coney Barrett to the Senate Judiciary Committee during her Supreme Court confirmation hearing. Education. Faith. Family. Community. Equal justice under the law. These are all values that Midwesterners hold dear. Indeed, they are values that Americans hold dear. And they are all values embodied by Judge Barrett,said Senator Young. Senator Youngmet with Judge Barrettshortly after her Supreme Court nomination and spoke about her qualificationson the Senate floor. He also penned anop-edfor theIndy Starabout this week's confirmation hearing. In 2017,Senator Young previously introduced Judge Amy Coney Barrettto the Senate Judiciary Committee during her confirmation hearing for the 7thCircuit Court of Appeals. To watch the full video of Senator Young's opening statement,click here. Full remarks as prepared for delivery: Thank you, Chairman Graham, Ranking Member Feinstein, and members of the committee. Today, I join you in the shadow of Monument Circle in Indianapolis, Indiana. I am honored to appear before you to introduce Judge Amy Coney Barrett, a remarkable Hoosier poised to make her mark on our country. She truly is an American original. In 2017, when there was an opening on the U.S Court of Appeals for the 7th Circuit, my office began looking for an extraordinary American who would uphold the rule of law. In response, we received dozens of applications from many of the finest legal minds in the State of Indiana. My staff and I began researching in earnest to learn everything we could about each candidate to determine who among them would make the best judge, and I interviewed the best of the best. One of those was a Constitutional Law Professor from the University of Notre Dame by the name of Amy Coney Barrett. I first met with then-Professor Barrett in the Spring of 2017, and it was abundantly clear that she was a star. A brilliant legal scholar, she was and is held in the highest regard by her peers in the legal world. Her integrity and character are unimpeachable. She is a model of collegiality and fairness, and simply, she possessed all of the necessary qualities to be a great Appellate Court Judge then, and to be a great Supreme Court Justice now. My colleague, former Senator Joe Donnelly, and I approved of her nomination and a hearing was set. Unfortunately, some resorted to attacks on Judge Barrett's religious convictions. I can tell you that in Indiana and much of the country, faith is viewed as an asset in a public servant, not a liability. As Notre Dame President Father Jenkins reminded us then, being a person of faith does not interfere with one's ability to apply the law. Thankfully, Judge Barrett's qualifications outshone personal attacks, and she was confirmed by a bipartisan majority to the U.S Court of Appeals for the 7th Circuit. As a member of that Court, Judge Barrett has proven that she is a rather brilliant jurist who interprets the Constitution as written and carefully weighs the facts of a given case. She has heard more than 600 cases on the 7th Circuit and authored nearly 100 opinions. And I should note she is the first woman from Indiana ever to serve on that esteemed court. During that 7th Circuit interview back in 2017, it was obvious that Judge Barrett loved the law and the Constitution. Her love for her family her husband Jesse and her seven children was also clear. If confirmed, Judge Barrett will be the fifth woman, and the first mother of school-aged children to serve as a Supreme Court Justice. Being a parent does not qualify one to sit on the Supreme Court, but it does give us Hoosiers yet another reason to be proud of Amy Coney Barrett and the trail she has blazed leading her to this moment. Education. Faith. Family. Community. Equal justice under the law. These are all values that Midwesterners hold dear. Indeed, they are values that Americans hold dear. And they are all values embodied by Judge Barrett. Author Kurt Vonnegut, another American original from Indiana, once said, ""I don't know what it is about Hoosiers, but wherever you go there is always a Hoosier doing something very important."" Where Amy Coney Barrett has gone, she has always been doing something very important from raising a family, to educating the next generation of scholars, to administering justice on the Court of Appeals. It is my hope that this body will confirm Judge Barrett in a bipartisan fashion so that we will soon find another Hoosier doing something very important on the Supreme Court of the United States. Thank you. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.young.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/young-op-ed-judge-amy-coney-barrett-deserves-a-fair-hearing,Young Op-Ed: Judge Amy Coney Barrett Deserves a Fair Hearing,2020-10-11,2020,2020-10,Republican,House,IN,Todd Young,Y000064,www.young.senate.gov,,,legacy,"October 11, 2020 Young Op-Ed: Judge Amy Coney Barrett Deserves a Fair Hearing INDIANAPOLIS, Ind. Today, in anop-edfor theIndy Star, U.S. Senator Todd Young (R-Ind.) wrote about the upcoming confirmation hearing for Supreme Court nominee, Judge Amy Coney Barrett. The Senate Judiciary Committee begins its Supreme Court confirmation hearings for Judge Amy Coney Barrett this week. My hope is that they will be informative and productive, not unlike those thatledto Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg's bipartisan confirmation in 1993.Judge Barrett deserves no less,Senator Young writes.As a fellow Hoosier, I have had the privilege of getting to know Judge Barrett and her family over the last several years. She is an incredibly sharp legal mind, a woman of great integrity, and a dedicated mother of seven. Anyone who fairly evaluates her superb qualifications and temperamentwill agree thatJudgeAmy ConeyBarrett is the right person for the job. Read thefullop-edHEREand below. Indy Star: Todd Young: Judge Amy Coney Barrett deserves a fair hearing By U.S. Senator Todd Young October 11, 2020 https://www.indystar.com/story/opinion/2020/10/11/todd-young-judge-amy-coney-barrett-deserves-fair-hearing/5926182002/ The Senate Judiciary Committee begins its Supreme Court confirmation hearings for Judge Amy Coney Barrett this week. My hope is that they will be informative and productive, not unlike those thatledto Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg's bipartisan confirmation in 1993. Judge Barrett deserves no less. As a fellow Hoosier, I have had the privilege of getting to know Judge Barrett and her family over the last several years. She is an incredibly sharp legal mind, a woman of great integrity, and a dedicated mother of seven. Anyone who fairly evaluates her superb qualifications and temperamentwill agree thatJudgeAmy ConeyBarrett is the right person for the job. She held prestigious clerkships for Judge Laurence Silberman on the U.S. Court of Appeals for the D.C. Circuit and for the late Justice Antonin Scalia on the U.S. Supreme Court. She is a respected educator, having taught for nearly two decades at Notre DameLaw School, where she was named Distinguished Professor of the Year three times. In 2017, she was nominated to fill a vacancy on the U.S.Court of Appeals for the 7th Circuit and I was proud to vote for her confirmation. I was not alone in my esteem for Judge Barrett. Duringthatconfirmation process, studentsand colleagues former and current came forward with words of support and praise by the score. There was no credible criticism of Judge Barrett based on her legal qualifications then, and I do not anticipate any now. She will be guided by the law and precedents, and she will be faithful to the Constitution. As Judge Barrett herself has said: A judge is obligated to apply the law as it is and not as she wishes it would be. She is obliged to follow the law even when her personal preferences cut the other way or when she will experience great public criticism for doing so. It is important for Americans to understand Judge Barrett's qualifications for the Supreme Court and her fidelity to the Constitution. But they should also know a bit about her life away from the bench. When I met her, it was quite obvious that Judge Barrett was less interested in cataloguing her professional accomplishments and more inclined to discuss her family and the accomplishments of her children,whomshe clearly lovesvery much. Judge Barrett and her husband, Jesse, have been married for over 20 years now. Their family is a large one and a loving one: They are parents to seven children. Their youngest son has special needs, and they have twice adopted, both times from Haiti. This is why it is absurd to see her described as anti-health care. As the head of a large household, Judge Barrett knows full well, and better than most of her detractors, how important medical coverage is to every American's health.This includes coverage for those with pre-existing conditions, which Republicans have consistently committed to protect while working to make health care more affordable and more accessible. But we must remember, Judge Barrett has not been nominated to the Supreme Court to make policy. President Donald Trump selected her not only because of her sharp mind, and impressive qualifications, butalsobecause she won't legislate from the bench. If past is prologue, though, there will be some who focus not on Judge Barrett's judicial philosophy,but rather her religious beliefs. This will be done not out of any deep conviction, butratherout of desperation. They will argue that it is impossible to live a life of faith and uphold the law. They may create a caricature of Judge Barrett that has no relation to reality, and one that reflects their own intolerance, not hers. It is regrettable that in 2020 we must still repeat this refrain: We do not have a religious test for public service in the United States of America. Yes, Judge Barrett is a faithful Catholic. So too are five current Supreme Court justices. So too are millions of Americans. To argue that this prohibits her from sitting on the Supreme Court is nothing short of religious bigotry. We must not let this intolerance hold the day during this week's hearings. The American people are tired of the personal attacks levied against past nominees and would rather the Senate focus on the professional qualifications and judicial temperament of Judge Barrett. The Senate is constitutionally obligated to provide our advice and our consent to the president on his judicial nominees. We should fulfill that responsibility by holding hearings that are informative rather than destructive. If the Senate does this, and we objectively consider Judge Barrett's qualifications, I have no doubt she will be confirmed and subsequently serve with great honor and distinction. Both the high court and our country will be better for it. Todd Young is a Republican U.S. senator from Indiana",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z